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Delta Assembly Speaker Guwor Directs Commissioner Nominees to Submit CVs for Screening

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Speaker Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has directed the six nominees for appointment as Commissioners and Members of the State Executive Council to submit 35 copies of their Curriculum Vitae before the end of work today Wednesday and appear for screening at 10 AM tomorrow Thursday.

Rt Hon Guwor had at Tuesday’s resumed plenary of the House, announced the names of the nominees as forwarded to his office by the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

Those nominated as Commissioners and Members of the Delta State Executive Council include, Barrister Val Areyenka, Hon Peter Uviejitobor, Barrister Trakiriowei Harry ThankGod, Chief Ebikeme Clark, Mr Sunday Tatàbuzogwu and Mr Okocha Nduka Benjamin.

Oborevwori in the letter as read by the Speaker, said the appointments was in line with constitutional provisions and the need to strengthen good governance in the state.

The Governor quoted section 192, sub section 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999 as amended), from where he derives the power to make such appointments.

Oborevwori pleaded with the Lawmakers for early legislative actions on the nominees to enable him effect the appointments in line with the Constitution

Similarly, Speaker, Delta State Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, at plenary on Tuesday, commended the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC for successfully organizing a free, fair and credible Local government elections on Saturday, 13 July, 2024.

Rt Hon Guwor, together with the Majority Leader of the House, Hon Emeka Nwaobi, congratulated the People’s Democratic Party, PDP and the newly sworn-in Local Government Chairmen of the 25 Council areas in the State for the victory.

They urged the Chairmen to put in efforts in ensuring that people at the grassroots get the dividends of democracy as well as promote the MORE agenda of the state government.

Guwor and Nwaobi also paid glowing tributes to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for driving the process that led to the glorious successes recorded last Saturday in the conduct of the local government councils election in the state.

Aniocha South LP Chairmanship Candidate Heads for Election Petition Tribunal, Citing Electoral Fraud

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In a major development following the recently concluded local government polls held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, Prince Ferdinand Obaugo Chukwudi, the Labour Party (LP) Chairmanship Candidate for Aniocha South, has decided to challenge the declaration of Pastor Jude Chukwunweike of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner. Prince Chukwudi is taking his case to the Delta State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal, citing various instances of electoral fraud.

Prince Chukwudi has outlined a series of grievances that he believes affected the integrity of the election process. Firstly, he alleges that there were no election materials available at the polling units, which raises concerns about the fairness and transparency of the voting process.

Furthermore, Prince Chukwudi claims that he, as a Chairmanship Candidate, was intentionally disenfranchised, suggesting a deliberate attempt to sideline him from participating in the electoral process.

Another issue raised by Prince Chukwudi is the alleged affiliation of all the DESEIC ad-hoc staff with the PDP. This raises suspicions of bias and questions the impartiality of the election officials.

Additionally, Prince Chukwudi points out that none of the Labour Party’s agents signed any result sheets, casting doubt on the accuracy and legitimacy of the declared election results.

Prince Chukwudi also accuses the security agents, particularly the police, of aiding the PDP in their alleged misconduct, further adding to his concerns about the fairness of the election.

In light of these grievances, Prince Chukwudi deems the declaration of Pastor Jude Chukwunweike as the PDP Chairmanship Candidate as not only foul but also criminal, asserting the need for a thorough investigation into the matter.

The election petition tribunal will now play a crucial role in examining the evidence presented by Prince Chukwudi and determining whether the alleged electoral fraud had a significant impact on the outcome of the election.

Speaker Guwor and Delegation Visit Chief Obielum to Mourn the Loss of Mrs. Victoria Ossai Obielum

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In a solemn display of compassion and solidarity, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, expressed his condolences to Chief Godswill Obielum on the passing of his mother, Mrs Victoria Ossai Obielum.

The Speaker, accompanied by Hon Prince Emeka Osamuta and Hon Marylyn Okowa-Daramola, visited Chief Obielum to offer his sympathies and support during this difficult time.

During the visit, Rt Hon Guwor conveyed his deep sadness upon receiving the news of Chief Obielum’s mother’s demise. He emphasized the significance of the visit, not only to commiserate with Chief Obielum personally but also to extend condolences to the entire Obielum family. The Speaker encouraged Chief Obielum to find solace in the knowledge that his late mother had lived a fulfilled life, leaving behind a legacy of positive impacts.

Expressing his own sorrow at the loss of a loved one, Rt Hon Guwor offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the late matriarch, Mrs Victoria Ossai Obielum. He also extended heartfelt prayers for Chief Obielum and the rest of the grieving family, asking for strength and fortitude to cope with the irreplaceable void left by their beloved mother.

In response, Chief Obielum expressed gratitude for the Speaker’s visit, appreciating the kindness, humility, and words of encouragement offered during this challenging period. He welcomed the Speaker and his delegation with open arms, acknowledging the significance of their presence and the comfort it brought to him and his family.

Amidst the sombre atmosphere, the visit served as a reminder of the power of empathy and unity during times of grief. As both Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor and Chief Godswill Obielum shared their heartfelt sentiments, their encounter exemplified the strength of the community coming together to support one another in times of loss and sorrow.

Chief Fidelis Tilijie Okenmor Highlights Progress in Governor Oborevwori’s Local Governance Initiatives

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In a recent development, the Delta State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilijie Okenmor, expressed his satisfaction with the fulfilment of Governor Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s promises.

The governor had assured that all twenty-five local government areas would be overseen by elected council personalities serving as chairmen and vice-chairmen. Chief Tilijie, speaking to journalists after the swearing-in ceremony of the local government council chairmen, conveyed his joy, likening the day to a momentous occasion in August.

Furthermore, Chief Tilijie highlighted the governor’s efforts to facilitate the smooth functioning of the council chairmen. He noted that the previous month’s allocation had already been disbursed, enabling the newly appointed chairmen to hit the ground running.

Chief Tilijie also expressed his delight regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. He stated that Delta State had already implemented local government autonomy during the previous administration.

Offering advice to the newly sworn-in local government chairmen, the finance commissioner emphasized the importance of prioritizing projects that would yield tangible benefits for the people. He urged them to focus on initiatives that would contribute to the expansion and realization of the MORE Agenda throughout every corner of Delta State.

When questioned about the financial independence of the local government councils and whether they would have sufficient funds to operate without state support, Chief Tilijie acknowledged that the major financial challenge faced by the local government was the substantial pension arrears. He revealed that upon assuming office, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori inherited a significant debt of approximately N56 billion in pension arrears within the local government confines. However, he assured that the governor had already paid off N40 billion of this debt, thereby alleviating the financial burden on the local government areas.

Additionally, Chief Tilijie mentioned that federal allocations had gradually increased and expressed confidence in their effective utilization for the overall development of the state. He stressed the need to prioritize projects that would contribute to the welfare and progress of the people.

Regarding allegations of electoral rigging made by other political parties, accusing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of securing all the seats in the 25 local government areas, Chief Tilijie responded by highlighting the absence of other political parties during the campaign period. He noted that while the PDP actively campaigned throughout Delta State, other parties were noticeably absent and, in some cases, did not even field candidates for the elections.

Oborevwori Advises LG Chairmen to Avoid Wasteful Spending and Focus on Community Needs

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged the newly-elected Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen of the state’s 25 local governments to focus on practical projects and maintain modesty and fiscal discipline.

During their swearing-in ceremony in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori stressed the importance of prudent management, careful allocation of resources, and excellent service delivery. He advised the new officials to avoid wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyles and to tackle issues such as insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and environmental decay.

Governor Oborevwori emphasized that chairmen should stay close to their communities by operating from their local headquarters and warned against managing local governments from distant locations like Asaba and Warri. Governor Oborevwori called on the chairmen to respond to the people’s needs and deliver good governance.

He urged them to work with sincerity, fairness, and justice, aligning their efforts with the MORE Agenda. He also highlighted the need to improve environmental sanitation and suggested implementing proper waste disposal measures and public education campaigns on good sanitation habits.

The governor reassured that the state government does not interfere with local government funds and welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. He noted that Delta State had practised local government autonomy since the previous administration. He revealed that he had already reduced a significant portion of the N56 billion debt in pension arrears inherited from the previous administration, paying off N40 billion.

Governor Oborevwori encouraged the chairmen to enhance their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) without overburdening the populace, especially during tough economic times. He advised them to work cooperatively with their vice-chairmen, legislative arms, and other stakeholders to ensure peace and stability in their areas.

The governor also commended the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for conducting free, fair, and credible elections and thanked security agencies for maintaining peace during the exercise.

Newly elected chairmen include Emmanuel Bazim Chinye (Aniocha North), Jude Chukwunkwike (Aniocha South), and others from different local government areas. On behalf of the new chairmen, Hon. Innocent Esewezie of Oshimili North expressed gratitude to the governor and the PDP leaders for the opportunity to serve and pledged to adhere to the MORE Agenda.

The event was attended by the governor’s wife, the deputy governor, the state assembly speaker, the state PDP chairman, and other top officials. The ceremony’s highlight was the administration of the oath of office by the governor.

Ukwuani’s New Chairman Ajede Pledges Immediate Action and Community Engagement, Outlines Vision for Future

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The newly sworn-in executive chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, Hon. Barr Promise Ajede, has pledged to meet the accountability standards set by Governor Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

In a recent press briefing following his inauguration ceremony in Asaba, Ajede assured reporters that he would provide a progress report soon.

Ajede emphasized that his administration quickly assembled a dedicated team to start work promptly. He expressed readiness to begin immediate action benefiting the people of Ukwuani as he resumes office tomorrow.

Outlining his plans, Ajede referred to Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda as his administration’s guiding principle. Ensuring security is a priority, focusing on enabling farmers to safely access their farms and improving community safety by addressing criminal activities. Additionally, Ajede pledged to establish rehabilitation programs for those willing to turn away from crime.

Recognizing the importance of agriculture in Ukwuani, where most residents are farmers, Ajede intends to use the DSIEC Ward structure to provide support at different levels. By leveraging existing government structures, he aims to effectively assist farmers with necessary resources for agricultural development.

Ajede highlighted the need to empower youth for national progress. He plans to create opportunities and establish a succession plan, ensuring capable youths are groomed and given leadership roles in the local government.

Women’s empowerment is another priority for Ajede’s administration. He emphasized aligning his administration’s goals with the people’s desires. To achieve this, he intends to hold town hall meetings, directly engaging with the community to understand their needs and incorporate them into his policies. Through this approach, he aims to deliver tangible results swiftly.

Confident in his team’s capabilities and dedication, Ajede assured the public they would remain steadfast in their pursuit of progress for Ukwuani Local Government.

With a comprehensive agenda encompassing security, agriculture, youth empowerment, and community engagement, the people of Ukwuani can anticipate a promising future under Hon. Barr Promise Ajede’s leadership.

Fayose Critiques Supreme Court Decision on Local Government Allocations

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In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose voiced concerns about a Supreme Court ruling affirming direct monthly allocations to local governments from the federation account. As a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Fayose highlighted potential obstacles to local government autonomy despite the court’s decision.

During the interview, Fayose underscored the governor’s pivotal role in appointing local government chairmen, stating that without gubernatorial support, no one could assume this position. He rejected the notion that the court and federal government could separate local government from state authority, bluntly stating, “Any contrary view is futile.”

Additionally, Fayose discussed the influence of state Houses of Assembly in overseeing local government activities, noting that non-political individuals managed local government funds during his tenure, with minimal gubernatorial oversight. He criticized state lawmakers and officials for impeding rather than supporting local government autonomy.

Fayose also expressed disappointment with the commitment levels of many local government workers, citing low meeting attendance and absenteeism. He claimed that efforts to enforce accountability often faced resistance, with unions and local government leaders frequently seeking leniency from the governor.

In conclusion, Fayose argued that state administrations outperform local governments in administrative efficiency, suggesting that local governance often prioritizes financial gains over effective governance. This assessment highlights the challenges in achieving genuine local government autonomy.

As debates on local government autonomy continue, the impact of Fayose’s concerns on the future of Nigerian governance remains uncertain.

Former President Donald Trump Injured in Shooting at Campaign Rally

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In a shocking turn of events, Former President Donald Trump was injured in a shooting incident during a campaign rally on Saturday at the Butler Farm Show Grounds.

The crowd had gathered to hear Trump speak about border crossings and his concerns with the current administration’s policies when the incident happened as reported by Al Jazeera.

At around 6:02 pm local time, gunshots interrupted Trump’s speech. Five shots rang out, causing panic among the attendees. Secret Service agents quickly surrounded Trump and evacuated him from the stage to ensure his safety.

Eyewitnesses reported that Trump initially took cover on the ground before being helped to his feet by the agents. Despite suffering an injury to his right ear, which left visible blood on his cheek, Trump pumped his fists and urged the crowd to “Fight!” before being driven away.

The US Secret Service later confirmed that the shots were fired from an elevated position outside the rally venue. Authorities neutralized the shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was found deceased at the scene. The FBI has classified the incident as an attempted assassination and has initiated an investigation.

Trump was taken to a nearby hospital for examination and treatment. Reports indicate that he is in good condition and has since been released. His campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, assured the public that the former president is doing well.

In a statement to his supporters, Trump declared, “I WILL NEVER SURRENDER!” This message highlights his determination to continue his political journey.

World leaders and prominent figures condemned the attack and expressed their support for Trump. US President Joe Biden swiftly denounced the violence, stating there is no place for such acts in America. Other leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, also condemned the shooting.

Preparations for the upcoming Republican National Convention (RNC), scheduled to begin in two days, continue as planned. Reince Priebus, the committee chair for the convention, confirmed that Trump is expected to attend.

This shooting incident targeting a former president is unprecedented in recent history, adding further intensity to an already contentious political climate. The nation awaits updates on the investigation and hopes for a swift recovery for Donald Trump.

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Engr Jerry Ehiwarior Expresses Confidence in Imminent Victory

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In a recent interaction with journalists after casting his vote in Ekuku-Agbor, Ika South LGA, Engr Jerry Ehiwarior, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for the Ika South Local Government Area, conveyed optimism and hope as he awaited the outcome of the local government council poll.

Despite challenging weather conditions, Ehiwarior expressed satisfaction with the voter turnout, attributing it to the effective campaign conducted within the LGA. He emphasized the strong reception his party received, noting that the PDP was the only party that actively engaged with the community during the campaign period.

Ehiwarior highlighted the significance of the heightened awareness and participation, which he believed reflected a collective desire for progress within the local government.

He also commended the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for their efforts in ensuring a peaceful and well-coordinated poll. He recognized the efficient logistics that facilitated the prompt arrival and departure of election materials to various polling units, emphasizing the importance of such measures in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

Addressing the voters, Ehiwarior urged them to continue exercising their civil responsibility and emphasized the impact their participation could have on the future of their community. He expressed gratitude for their commitment and reassured them that their voices would be heard and their expectations met.

Ehiwarior acknowledged the challenges typically associated with opposition in politics but remained undeterred, emphasizing his preparedness to navigate the political landscape. As a seasoned politician who has consistently remained close to the people, he expressed confidence in his ability to overcome any obstacles.

Highlighting his previous achievements as the Commissioner for Power and Energy, Ehiwarior mentioned the successful restoration of electricity to the Ekuku-Agbor Community after a decade-long blackout. The ongoing completion of the power situation in the substation and the imminent distribution of electricity to various sections of the community garnered support, further solidifying trust in his candidacy.

As the local government council poll approaches its conclusion, Engr Jerry Ehiwarior remains hopeful and optimistic regarding the outcome. The votes cast by the people reflect their collective desire for progress within the Ika South Local Government Area, and the results of this election will shape the future of the community.

Okowa Praises DSIEC for Smooth and Peaceful Local Government Election

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The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, after casting his vote in Ward 2, Unit 5 in the Ika North East Local Government Area, commended the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for conducting a smooth and peaceful local government council election.

Okowa noted that DSIEC had effectively facilitated a process where people could cast their votes without any issues. “What I see here in my voting centre is that everything is going very well and very peacefully, and I believe it’s going on in the same manner across the state,” he said.

He expressed confidence in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) emerging victorious in the election, citing the extensive campaign efforts over the past month. “I attended the rallies of the Ika North East and Ika South personally, and I’ve heard stories of how campaigns have been done across all the local governments in the state, which we rounded off with the state rally on Wednesday. I think we’ve done well with our campaigns,” Okowa added.

The former governor pointed out that most other political parties did not engage in extensive campaigning, with only “some skeletal campaigns on social media.” He believes the PDP’s comprehensive campaigning will be reflected in the election results.

Okowa expressed gratitude to the people of Delta State, especially those in the Ika area where he cast his vote, for their continued support for the PDP. He is confident that the newly elected local government council chairmen and councillors will work to improve the lives of the people and enhance infrastructure development in their respective areas.

Regarding the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy, Okowa supported the decision, stating that funds meant for local government councils should be allocated without interference. He noted that during his tenure as governor, the Delta State government ensured that local government funds were not tampered with and that additional support was provided to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities, including paying primary school teachers’ salaries.

APC Ughelli North Withdraws from LG Elections Over Allegations of DSIEC Partisanship

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In a surprising turn of events, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ughelli North Chapter in Delta State has decided to withdraw from the upcoming local government elections scheduled for July 13. Party leaders expressed their lack of confidence in the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC), claiming it is incapable of conducting free, fair, and credible elections.

In a press release issued and was seen by the Advocate NG revealed that after an emergency meeting at the party Secretariat on Kom. 27, Ughelli-Patani Road, Ughelli North APC leaders accused the electoral body of recruiting members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as ad-hoc staff for the election. They also alleged that all DSIEC board members are PDP card-carrying members, which they believe compromises the commission’s neutrality and independence.

The APC emphasized that free and fair elections are crucial for democratic processes, allowing citizens to choose leaders who will foster development and growth. However, they expressed concerns that DSIEC, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Francis Oborevwori and Dr. Jerry Agbaike, lacks the necessary qualities to ensure a transparent electoral process.

The party cited the constitution of the board and the recruitment of ad-hoc staff as evidence of interference by the Delta State PDP-led government in the independence of DSIEC. They recalled media reports accusing the governor and his associates of recruiting party members, as well as mistresses and girlfriends, to serve as electoral umpires. The APC viewed this as a situation where the judge becomes the accused.

The party outlined several key points to support their decision to boycott the election: All ad-hoc staff selected by DSIEC for the local government election are PDP card-carrying members. All current members of DSIEC are PDP card-carrying members, suggesting a lack of impartiality. The extant laws relating to the local government election have not been properly adhered to. DSIEC has not made any official announcements regarding the distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive materials to various local governments, wards, and units.

The APC leaders referred to the governor’s previous statement where he boasted that his government would not allow any room for opposition parties to secure even a single seat in the election, regardless of whether it takes place or not. These factors, combined with the aforementioned concerns, led the Ughelli North Chapter of APC to make the difficult decision to boycott the election entirely.

With this unexpected move, the political landscape of Ughelli North takes a twist as the APC refrains from participating in the local government elections, raising questions about the credibility and fairness of the electoral process. As the election day approaches, the focus now shifts to how this development will impact the overall outcome and the future political dynamics in Delta State.

Governor Oborevwori Confident in Delta’s Local Government Autonomy and PDP’s Victory in Polls

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Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed unwavering confidence in the state’s commitment to Local Government Autonomy and its position on the recent Supreme Court judgment. He assured the public that Delta State remains unaffected by the ruling, emphasizing the state’s dedication to autonomy and transparency.

Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed the government’s longstanding support for financial autonomy for the legislature and judiciary. He highlighted Delta State’s firm belief in granting autonomy to Local Governments, noting that Caretaker Committees were not formed at the end of the previous chairmen’s tenures. Instead, Heads of Personnel Management (HPMs) were appointed to ensure a smooth transition period of three months leading up to the current elections.

The governor emphasized that the Supreme Court judgment has no impact on Delta State, explaining that the state government has never interfered with local government funds. He pointed out that the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) ensures the transparency of these funds and that any outstanding debts owed by the Local Governments have been cleared.

Regarding the ongoing local government polls, Governor Oborevwori expressed satisfaction with the transparent and fair process. He recalled his own successful election through a similar process, despite facing opposition, and expressed confidence in the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) success in the polls.

Governor Oborevwori viewed the local government elections as a crucial litmus test for the future, particularly for the 2027 elections. He emphasized that the outcome of these polls would reflect the government’s commitment to its MORE Agenda. He assured the people of Delta State that the government is currently executing projects without resorting to borrowing funds, underscoring their dedication to the state’s welfare and progress.

In a final message, Governor Oborevwori encouraged the incoming local government chairmen to remain focused and committed to their responsibilities. He emphasized that, as the closest government representatives to the grassroots level, their dedication is crucial for effective governance and meeting the needs of the people.

Delta State can expect continued dedication and progress under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, as he remains committed to the principles of autonomy, transparency, and grassroots development.

Tensions Rise in Afiesere Community: Leaders Declares Hon. Akpovoka as Non-Indigene, See Reasons

The Afiesere community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State is facing tension due to Hon. Julius Efeni Akpovoka’s disruptive behaviour. Community leaders, led by President-General Richard Ovwreghederohwo Aduvie, accuse Akpovoka of causing trouble and intimidating residents.

According to the community, Akpovoka is not from the community and has been filing lawsuits and grabbing land. The community has asked him to leave peacefully, as they will not tolerate his behaviour. They have expressed their support for President General Aduvie, who has maintained peace and progress in the community.

The community wants Akpovoka to either coexist peacefully or return to his hometown, a decision that was reached during a community meeting held at the Afiesere town hall on Thursday, July 11, 2024, with community leaders, led by President-General Olorogun Hon as reported by SouthernVoiceNews.

Richard Ovwreghederohwo Aduvie accused Akpovoka of being a customary tenant and outsider intent on causing chaos. Aduvie, alongside executive members and community elders, emphasized that while Afiesere is known for its hospitality, it will not tolerate persistent litigation and disturbances from tenants.

He pointed out that the community’s governance is constitutionally driven and leadership rotates among its quarters, decided by the zoned families. “Hon. Julius Efeni Akpovoka is from Ovwiamuge Agbarho, not Afiesere. Our hospitality should not be exploited,” Aduvie declared.

Chief Dominic Denedo, the Okpako ‘Orere of Afiesere, stressed that if Akpovoka cannot coexist peacefully, he should leave the community. Denedo highlighted Akpovoka’s numerous court cases against Afiesere, despite not being a resident.

Chief J.E Akponana, the Orosevwohwo of Ughelli Kingdom, echoed this sentiment, urging Akpovoka to either integrate peacefully or return to Uvwiamuge. His actions, according to Akponana, have been disruptive and harmful to the community.

Supporting the leadership, Hon. Chief Ese Emuedo, an Afiesere opinion leader and committed PDP member, reaffirmed the community’s vote of confidence in President General Aduvie. Emuedo praised Aduvie’s leadership, dedication, and transparency for fostering peace and progress.

Even Akpovoka’s elder brother acknowledged his troubling behaviour, including land grabbing and false petitions. He urged the community to support peace-seekers and reject Akpovoka’s disruptive actions.

In conclusion, the Afiesere community has firmly stated that it will not tolerate Hon. Julius Efeni Akpovoka’s disruptive behaviour. They have endorsed President General Richard Ovwreghederohwo Aduvie for his exemplary leadership. As tensions mount, the community awaits Akpovoka’s response, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the dispute.

Man Caught Trying to Smuggle Over 100 Snakes in His Pants!

In a strange event, a daring person was caught by customs officials while trying to sneak a surprising number of live snakes into mainland China.

DM News reports say the unidentified traveller cleverly hid 104 snakes in six bags tucked inside his trousers. It was a bizarre attempt discovered when he passed through the “nothing to declare” gate at the border between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Customs officers, alert as always, decided to check the suspicious man and were shocked to find a collection of snakes in different shapes, sizes, and colors when they opened the bags. Chinese Customs released a video showing agents looking into transparent bags filled with live red, pink, and white snakes. This smuggler was clearly carrying more than just a few reptiles.

However, this bold attempt to bypass strict biosecurity laws did not go unnoticed. China strictly prohibits importing non-native species without permission, and those who break these rules face serious consequences. While the exact punishment for the man was not disclosed, authorities made it clear he would be held accountable under the law.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time people have tried to smuggle snakes in odd places. A few years ago at the same border, a woman was caught trying to bring in five snakes hidden in her bra. It seems snakes can be quite sneaky travel companions!

China, known for its efforts against wildlife trafficking, aims to protect its native species and tightly controls the entry of foreign animals. This incident reminds us that wildlife laws must always be respected, no matter how unusual the smuggling method. Trying to sneak snakes across borders is risky, and those caught face serious consequences.

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Delta Governor Oborevwori Confident PDP Will Win Upcoming Local Government Elections

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2024-07-10, Asaba, Delta State – The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori believes the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates will win the upcoming Local Government Council elections on July 13, 2024.

Governor Oborevwori made this prediction at a big PDP rally in Asaba on Wednesday. He praised the PDP candidates for campaigning hard, visiting communities, units, and wards across the state.

The Governor also campaigned for the PDP’s chairmanship and councilorship candidates. He criticized a former gubernatorial candidate who had claimed the election would be rigged, saying those who couldn’t win their polling units are now making such allegations.

Governor Oborevwori assured the public that the electoral body has measures in place to ensure free and fair elections. He urged voters to come out on Saturday with their Permanent Voters Cards to support all PDP candidates.

Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa also expressed confidence in a PDP victory across the state. The state PDP Chairman, Dr. Kingsley Esiso, celebrated the party’s preparedness and the people’s support.

Several prominent members of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) even defected to the ruling PDP during the rally, pledging their support.

The rally also featured messages of support from the State House of Assembly Speaker, a House of Representatives member, and other senior political figures.

Federal Government Announces Suspension of Import Duties for Food Items

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In a move aimed at boosting food security and ensuring affordable prices for consumers, the Federal Government has announced the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of certain food items through land and sea borders.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, made this announcement during a press conference held in Abuja. He revealed that a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window has been established for food commodities, including maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas.

Under this new arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) to maintain fair pricing for consumers. Minister Kyari emphasized that the government’s priority is to ensure the safety and quality of these imported food items, without compromising on standards.

To further enhance food supply, the Federal Government will also import 250,000 metric tons of wheat and 250,000 metric tons of maize. These imported food commodities, in their semi-processed state, will be directed towards small-scale processors and millers across the country.

This strategic move by the government aims to increase the availability of essential food items and stabilize their prices in the market. By providing a duty-free import window and importing food commodities directly, the government is actively addressing the current challenges faced by the agricultural sector.

This news comes as a relief to both consumers and farmers, as it will help bridge the gap between supply and demand, ensuring that Nigerians have access to an adequate and diverse food supply.

Pere S. P. Luke Celebrates 58th Birthday: Speaker Guwor Sends Best Wishes

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Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has felicitated with the 1st Vice Chairman, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and the Pere of Akugbene Mein Kingdom in Bomadi local government area of the state, Pere S. P. Luke, Kalanama VIII, on his 58th birthday celebration.

The Speaker in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Mr Nkem Nwaeke, described Pere S. P. Luke, Kalanama VIII, as a great asset not only to Delta State but Niger Delta region and beyond.

Rt Hon Guwor stated that he has always cherished and admired the statesmanship of the celebrant and his friendly disposition to people, stressing that the Akugbene Mein King, would remain a pride to the Ijaw nation.

The Speaker on behalf of the State Legislature and constituents wished Pere S. P. Luke, Kalanama VII, the best life can offer as he celebrates his 58th birthday anniversary.

He stated that the peace in his kingdom is a testament to the Pere’s dedication and selflessness, and stressed on the need for him to remain focused to attract greater development to the kingdom.

“Happy birthday to a revered monarch and a shining star of the Niger Delta Region. On behalf of the Honourable Members and staff of the Delta State House of Assembly, I congratulate you on this special day.

“I celebrate your leadership, which has brought prosperity and peace to your kingdom and the state. I commend your commitment to the well-being of your people.

“May this birthday be a celebration of many more years of good health and fulfillment, even as I pray that God Almighty grant you continued wisdom, strength, and guidance to reign”, Guwor stated.

Hon. Ferguson Onwo Extols Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s Leadership and Legacy

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The Member Representing Isoko South 2 and Chairman of, House Committee on Health, Hon (Chief) Ferguson Onwo, has said that legacies left behind by the immediate past Governor of the State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, would always be appreciated by Deltans.

Hon Okowa, while reacting to the 65th birthday anniversary of Dr Okowa, described him as a man with so much dignity and wisdom, saying that he made commendable impact as Governor of Delta State between 2015 to 2023.

The Lawmaker, a former Majority Leader of the State Assembly when Okowa was the Governor, stated that as someone who worked very closely with the celebrant, he can always attest to his sterling qualities and potentials as a great leader.

Onwo on behalf of the good people of Isoko nation, particularly Isoko South 2 constituency, congratulated Okowa on his 65th birthday anniversary and prayed that Almighty God will continue to project him and his family in the years ahead.

He said “Happy birthday to a distinguished leader and a statesman, His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa CON, immediate past Governor of Delta State.

“Your excellency on this auspicious day of your birth anniversary I and my family wishes you long life, good health, sound mind. Grace, favour and mercy of God shall always be with you.

“You shall continue to rise in fame and your good deeds shall outlive you. We are ever grateful to you for giving me a platform to excel politically in the state. God bless you and your entire family”.

Speaking further Onwo stated “I am indeed very happy to be part of millions of well wishers celebrating this your special day and I join in praying that the day brings forth more joy, peace, and celebration to you and your family.

“Your selfless service, vision, and dedication to the development of Delta State as Governor, will always be remembered and cherished.

“As a serving legislator, I will always appreciate the foundation you laid and the opportunities you created for our people.

“Wishing you many more years of wisdom, good health, and continued service to our state and the nation at large. Happy birthday sir and many more years ahead”.

DSIRS Chairman Ighrakpata Celebrates Dr. Okowa’s 65th Birthday

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Chairman, Delta State Internal Revenue Service, DSIRS, Hon (Chief) Solomon Ighrakpata, has felicitated with the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, CON, on his 65th birth anniversary.

Hon Ighrakpata, a former Deputy Chief Whip of the Delta State House of Assembly, who represented Uvwie Constituency in the 7th Assembly, described Dr Okowa as a complete gentleman and the epitome of a great leader.

The DSIRS Boss in his goodwill message to the immediate past Governor on his 65th birthday celebration, said the celebrant has distinguished himself as a statesman and a leader of great repute, as he wished him a happy birthday and many happy returns.

“Your Excellency, on behalf of my family, the great people of Uvwie and political associates, I extend warm congratulations to you on the occasion of your 65th birthday anniversary.

“We celebrate your life, achievements, and contributions to the development of our great state, Delta.

“Your visionary leadership and legacy continue to inspire most of us, and we are grateful for the foundation you laid during your tenure as Governor.

“I pray that God grants you many more years of good health, wisdom, and joy”, Ighrakpata stated.

The former lawmakers enjoined Dr Okowa to remain the good leader he is and sustained his support, commitment and confidence in the MORE administration of Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

Deputy Speaker Akpowowo Extends Warm Birthday Wishes to Former Governor Okowa

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Deputy Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo has congratulated the immediate past Governor of the state, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, on his 65th birthday celebration.

Rt Hon Akpowowo who represents Ethiope East Constituency in the House and a former Commissioner for Urban Renewal in the State, said Dr Okowa remains a Leader with a large heart and very passionate towards the development of Delta State.

The Deputy Speaker in a statement, on behalf of his family, constituents, friends and political associates, felicitated His Excellency, the former Governor on his 65th birthday and wished him many happy returns.

“Your Excellency, on behalf of my immediate family, other relatives, the people of Ethiope East, friends and political associates, we wish you a happy birthday anniversary and many happy returns.

“You are a Leader extraordinaire. All of us in Ethiope East are happy to be associated with you and your achievements in the state. Today is another moment of joy to celebrate your love and friendship and we are happy in it”, Rt Hon Akpowowo stated.

The Deputy Speaker prayed that God grant Dr Okowa continued wisdom, good health, and strength as he celebrates the milestone 65th birthday anniversary.

Akpowowo wished the Immediate past Governor Okowa great and remarkable successes in his future service to God and the nation, of Nigeria.

He said “As you mark this milestone, we pray that God grants you greater wisdom, good health, and strength to continue serving Him and humanity.

“Because you are a good man, goodness shall always find you and you will be blessed with many more years of happiness and opportunities in life”, the Deputy Speaker prayed.

Speaker Guwor Celebrates Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s 65th Birthday with Warm Wishes

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Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has prayed for more days of joy, peace and celebration for the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyichukwu Arthur Okowa CON, as he marks his 65th birth anniversary today, 8th July 2024.

Rt Hon Guwor in his congratulatory message to Dr Okowa on the glorious occasion of his birthday, said he has every reason to join hundreds of well wishers across nations to celebrate the immediate past Governor of the State in appreciation of his life of service.

The Speaker whose message is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nkem Nwaeke, pointed out that the legacy and contributions of the Celebrant to the development of Delta State and the nation at large is appreciated and commendable.

Rt Hon Guwor prayed to God that the 65th birth anniversary shall bring joy, peace, and many more celebrations to Dr Okowa, his immediate family and the state at large.

“On behalf of the Honourable Members, Management and Staff of the Delta State Assembly, Constituents of Warri South West, Friends and Associates, I extend warm congratulations to you, Your Excellency, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, CON, on the occasion of your 65th birth anniversary.

“We celebrate your life, achievements, and contributions to the development of Delta state and Nigeria.

“Your leadership and vision during your tenure as Governor laid a solid foundation for growth and progress in Delta State.

“We acknowledge your dedication, wisdom, and selfless service to our people.

“May this milestone birthday be a celebration of your remarkable life and a harbinger of many more years of good health, joy, and fulfillment.

“Congratulations and happy birthday anniversary,Your Excellency” Guwor stated.

Scandalous Revelations Unearthed in Anambra State as Ghost Workers Haunt Local Government Payroll

In a shocking turn of events, the Anambra State Local Government Service Commission has made a startling discovery that has sent shockwaves throughout the state. It has come to light that a staggering 59 deceased individuals are still receiving salaries from the 21 local government areas in Anambra State.

According to The Pond News, this revelation has exposed a massive fraud scheme, as the state grapples with the pervasive issue of “ghost workers” and endeavours to cleanse its public payroll.

In an interview held in Awka, Mr. Vin Ezeaka, the Chairman of the Commission and a distinguished lawyer, shared this alarming finding with the press. He revealed that the discovery was made during an extensive staff personnel audit, initiated to restore integrity to the local government system in the state.

Mr. Ezeaka disclosed that the audit revealed an astonishing number of 427 individuals who were inexplicably on the local government payroll without any trace of employment. Out of this staggering figure, 59 were deceased staff members of the Commission, who had been receiving salaries long after their passing. Additionally, 40 retired individuals were found to still draw salaries from the commission, while a perplexing 11 staff members living abroad had their names inexplicably retained on the government payroll.

The Chairman further revealed that among the ghost workers, some were associated with Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka and Nwafor Orizu College of Education in Nsugbe. This discovery has sent shockwaves through the educational institutions, raising questions about their internal processes and accountability.

Mr. Ezeaka asserted, “We discovered 59 deceased staff who are still receiving salaries, 40 retirees also receiving salaries, and above all, we discovered 222 workers on the payroll who nobody could identify as workers in any of the 21 LGAs, and we have many of them living abroad and still receiving salaries. So, we wrote to the Joint Account, JAC, to remove them from the payroll.”

The Chairman expressed his resolve to ensure that those involved in this illicit activity face the full consequences of their actions, in accordance with civil service regulations. He emphasized that the investigation would be thorough, and those caught in this unholy act would face the full force of the law.

In a related development, the Commission also uncovered a certificate racketeering cartel operating within the local government system. A committee was established to investigate individuals with suspicious certificates working in various local government areas of Anambra State. Subsequently, a screening committee was formed, which revealed numerous cases of fraudulent certification. Astonishingly, out of the 20 individuals who presented certificates from Imo State University, 14 were subjected to scrutiny, leading to the discovery that six of them held counterfeit credentials.

The Commission’s Chairman declared, “We must sanitize the system in line with the mandate given to us by Governor Chukwuma Soludo so that the genuine workers who sacrifice their time and energy can get value for their service, and not looters who do not contribute anything to the development of Anambra State.”

In a resolute move to address these issues, the Commission has not hesitated to take decisive action. Even senior local government staff, including Deputy Directors and Treasurers, have been dismissed for presenting fraudulent certificates.

The Chairman extended an amnesty period for those employees using forged certificates within the local government system. They were given an opportunity to voluntarily come forward and report themselves, lest they face termination when the amnesty expires.

The ongoing local government and certificate verification committees, as emphasized by the Chairman, are not motivated by witch-hunts but are purely aimed at purging the system of corruption and ensuring transparency and accountability.

As Anambra State grapples with these alarming revelations, it is clear that a formidable effort is underway to cleanse the local government system of fraudulent practices and pave the way for a more efficient and trustworthy administration. The people of Anambra State eagerly await the outcome of these investigations and the restoration of integrity to their governance.

Warri-Itakpe Train Services Suspended Due to Track Condition

In a recent development, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the suspension of Warri-Itakpe train services. The decision comes as a result of the poor condition of the track from Ujevwu in Delta State to Itakpe in Kogi State. The NRC issued a notice to customers, stating that train operations would be halted until Monday, July 8, 2024.

As reported by The Punch, the suspension, effective from Friday, was attributed to an obstruction on the track, causing concerns about the safety and efficiency of the train services. The NRC emphasized that the well-being of passengers and the smooth functioning of the railway system were of utmost importance.

“This is to officially notify our esteemed passengers that the Warri-Itakpe Train will not run today, Friday, 5th July 2024, due to the obstruction we have on our track. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and assure you that we are working diligently to address the issue,” the notice stated.

Passengers who had already booked their tickets online will be refunded, ensuring that their travel plans are not disrupted. The NRC is taking proactive measures to rectify the situation and resume normal train services promptly.

In a related incident, a coach of a train traveling from Itakpe to Ujevwu derailed near the Abraka rail station. The incident occurred around 7:15 pm on Thursday, sending shockwaves among the passengers. Witnesses reported that as the train approached Abraka in Delta State, the derailed coach caused the remaining coaches to be dragged along, creating a chaotic scene.

Fortunately, no casualties were reported in this incident, highlighting the importance of passenger safety and the swift response of railway authorities. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the derailment and prevent such occurrences in the future.

It is worth recalling that the Federal Government introduced e-ticketing services for the Lagos-Ibadan and Itakpe-Warri train routes in October of last year. The e-ticketing system aimed to revolutionize the way passengers book and pay for their train tickets, eliminating the need for physical tickets or cash transactions. This modernization initiative aimed to enhance efficiency, convenience, and customer satisfaction.

As the NRC works diligently to address the track condition and resume services, passengers are encouraged to stay updated through official channels for any further developments regarding the Warri-Itakpe train route.

Governor Oborevwori Forms Comprehensive Committee to Combat 2024 Flood Threats

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In a commendable move to proactively tackle the recurring issue of flooding in Delta State, the Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori has officially approved the constitution of the 2024 Flood Disaster Management Committee. This decisive action reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens and effectively addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters.

According to a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, the committee comprises a diverse group of individuals with expertise in various domains. Dr. Kingsley Emu, the SSG himself, has been appointed as the Chairman, while Hon. Ejiro Terry Etacherure, the Honourable Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, serves as the Co-Chairman.

The committee boasts an impressive lineup of professionals, including Mr. Ejiro Tommy Jamani, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, who will bring valuable insights to the table. Furthermore, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, will provide his expertise in dealing with potential health challenges arising from flood incidents. The committee also features other esteemed members such as Hon. Darlington Ijeh, the Honourable Commissioner for Culture & Tourism, and Mrs. Rose Ezewu, the Honourable Commissioner for Secondary Education, to name a few.

The committee’s primary responsibility is to propose appropriate measures for the prevention and management of flooding. This includes addressing the displacement of affected individuals and devising strategies for the efficient provision of relief materials to victims. Their recommendations will play a crucial role in guiding His Excellency, the Governor, in implementing effective measures to mitigate the impact of floods and protect the welfare of the people of Delta State.

This initiative clearly demonstrates the Governor’s dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the state’s residents. By assembling this capable committee, comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, Delta State is taking a significant stride towards enhancing its disaster management capabilities.

As the committee sets out on this important mission, the citizens of Delta State can rest assured that their concerns will be addressed comprehensively. The government’s commitment to proactive disaster management serves as a beacon of hope, assuring the people that their safety and welfare remain paramount.

With the formation of the 2024 Flood Disaster Management Committee, Delta State is poised to face flood-related challenges head-on, bolstering its resilience and ensuring a safer, more sustainable future for all.

Speaker Guwor Commends Deputy Speaker Akpowowo, Chief Whip for Constituency Engagements

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Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has commended the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo for his resilience in putting smiles on the faces of constituents.

Guwor who gave the commendation in his welcome address on resumption of plenary for the second session of the 8th Assembly, also praised the efforts of the Chief Whip of the House, Hon Perkins Umukoro in that regard.

The Deputy Speaker, Arthur Akpowowo, represents Ethiope East Constituency in the State Legislature, while the Chief Whip, Perkins Umukoro represents Sapele Constituency.

The two Legislators had embarked on Constituency briefings and massive empowerment programmes in their various Constituencies to commemorate the first year anniversary of their membership of the Delta State House of Assembly as they were sworn in along side twenty-seven others on 13th June 2023.

Reacting to the development, Speaker Emomotimi Guwor praised the efforts of the two Lawmakers, both Principal Officers of the House for the initiative to reach out to their constituents.

“Very importantly, I wish to commend the Deputy Speaker and the Chief Whip of the House for the constituencies engagements and empowerment programmes embarked upon during the break.

“Thank you for your kind gesture; you have set the ball rolling”, Guwor said.

The Speaker had while welcoming all to the first plenary of the Second Session of the 8th Assembly, expressed hope that the short break that preceded the resumption afforded them ample opportunities to meet and interact with constituents and to give account of their stewardship in the past one year of service as well as reflect on the lessons and experiences as Members of the Legislature.

“Dear colleagues, I believe we have rested, refreshed and reinvigorated to continue our legislative business. As we progress through the Second Session, we should bring to bear on the work the lessons learnt in the First Session.

“As representatives of the people in parliament, the people’s hope for good governance and dividend of democracy rest squarely on our shoulders”, Guwor stated.

Continuing the Speaker said “Collectively, we must serve with all passion, honour, integrity, cooperation and unity of purpose, in synergy with the Executive for the good of Deltans.

“Thankfully, the 8th Assembly Legislative Agenda is in tandem with the MORE AGENDA of His Excellency, Rt Hon (Elder) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, the Governor of the State.

“We will therefore continue to give legal backing to the policies and programmes of the Oborevwori’s administration in order to do more for our people”.

Guwor reminded his colleagues that the Local Government Councils election is a week and few days, and urged all Deltans and residents in the state to come out en-mass on Saturday, 13th July, 2024 to cast their votes peacefully.

He called for the support of the Lawmakers
as the House commenced on the new session of the 8th Assembly, stressing that their commitment and dedication towards legislative duties would always be appreciated.

“As you can see on the Order Paper and Business of the Week, there are very important Bills pending before the House for consideration and passage. I therefore implore all of us to brace up and ensure the passage of most of the Bills before the end of July.

“I wish to thank the management and staff of the Assembly for their support and cooperation with the leadership and Members of the House. I want to assure you that your welfare and continuous training for improved service delivery is highly regarded by the leadership of the House.

“In furtherance of this commitment, the 2024 training of staff of the Assembly and Commission has commenced on the 25th of June, 2024. The CONLESS issue is also being handled and will be resolved soon.

“Distinguished colleagues, let me reiterate that our collective effort and unity of purpose have accounted for the unparalleled successes recorded so far. And I am earnestly looking forward to more remarkable successes in this Second Session”, the Speaker said.

President Bola Tinubu Unveils Ambitious N2 Trillion Economic Stimulus Plan

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In a momentous announcement on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu revealed his government’s groundbreaking plan to inject a staggering N2 trillion into the economy within the next six months.

The declaration came during the inauguration of the highly anticipated Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), a visionary assembly comprising representatives from diverse sectors of society and the economy.

During the inauguration ceremony, President Tinubu shared the outcomes of his comprehensive assessment of the fast-tracked stabilization and progress plan. The nation’s leader expressed his unwavering commitment to revitalizing the economy and ensuring its resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Following the inauguration, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, held a session with reporters at the State House. With meticulous detail, he elucidated the sectors that will receive emergency funding under this audacious initiative. These sectors include Health, Agriculture, Energy/Power, as well as other vital areas critical to the nation’s well-being.

Mr. Edun highlighted, “The President has just inaugurated the Presidential Economic Coordination Council, a body comprising the President’s Economic Management Team, leaders of the National Assembly, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, and distinguished members of the private sector.”

He continued, “They were presented with the outcomes of Mr. President’s review of the accelerated stabilization and advancement plan, an emergency plan meticulously crafted by his Economic Management Team, the sub-nationals, and the private sector. The plan encompasses a N2 trillion package, with N350 billion allocated to Health and Social Welfare, N500 billion to Agriculture and Food Security, N500 billion to the Energy and Power sector, and a substantial N650 billion for general business support.”

In addition to these financial measures, the government will implement a range of policy and tax measures. Furthermore, President Tinubu has signed a series of executive orders, soon to be gazetted, aimed at streamlining the cost of doing business, providing much-needed relief to enterprises during these challenging times.

The N2 trillion economic stimulus plan is poised to propel Nigeria forward, fostering growth, stability, and prosperity. President Tinubu’s visionary approach, combined with the collaborative efforts of the PECC, promises to steer the nation towards a brighter future.

As the nation eagerly awaits the implementation of this bold initiative, optimism reverberates throughout the country, with citizens hopeful that this injection of funds will breathe new life into the economy and pave the way for a swift recovery.

Adeleke Inaugurates Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass, Lauds Oborevwori’s Leadership

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In a remarkable display of camaraderie and support, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, inaugurated the much-anticipated Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The event was marked by warm greetings and appreciation for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State.

Expressing his gratitude during the inauguration ceremony, Governor Adeleke lauded Governor Oborevwori’s outstanding performance, highlighting his dedication to the welfare of the people. He commended the Governor’s commitment to the “MORE Agenda,” emphasizing the importance of delivering more projects that would benefit the people of Delta State.

Governor Adeleke drew a parallel between his own endeavors in Osun State and Governor Oborevwori’s accomplishments, emphasizing their shared commitment to transforming their respective states. He expressed his conviction that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership would continue to bring positive change to Delta State, urging the people to lend their unwavering support.

“In Osun State, I have dedicated myself to turning the state into a construction site,” Governor Adeleke stated proudly. “Likewise, Governor Oborevwori is doing phenomenal work here in Delta. I applaud him for working tirelessly for the people who entrusted him with their mandate. I am here today to celebrate his achievements and inaugurate this road.”

Governor Oborevwori, in his address, assured the people of Delta State that the upcoming local government elections, scheduled for July 13, would be conducted with utmost fairness, transparency, and credibility. He urged all candidates, irrespective of their political affiliations, to engage in rigorous campaigns and showcase their capabilities to the electorate.

Addressing the candidates, Governor Oborevwori stressed the importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law. He warned against complacency, reminding them that the elections would be closely monitored to ensure a level playing field. He encouraged candidates to connect with the people, demonstrate their competence, and prove their worthiness for the positions they seek.

Furthermore, Governor Oborevwori assured the traditional rulers present that their requests, made during the inauguration ceremony, had been duly noted. He pledged to address their concerns and work towards meeting their expectations.

The Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass, constructed under the visionary initiative of former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and completed by Governor Oborevwori’s administration, was hailed as a significant development by the Obuzor of Ibusa, Obi Professor Louis Nwoboshi, and the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, Obi Michael Mbanefo. Both traditional rulers expressed their gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for fulfilling this long-awaited dream of the local government area.

While appreciating the completion of the Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass, the traditional rulers also appealed to Governor Oborevwori to consider linking Okpanam and Akwukwu-Igbo, as well as Okpanam and Ugbolu, to facilitate seamless navigation within the council area. They also requested the installation of proper lighting along the road to enhance safety and visibility.

The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, provided technical details of the 5.3km road, highlighting its purpose of mitigating flooding and improving transportation efficiency along the corridor.

As the people of Delta State celebrate the successful completion of the Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass, Governor Oborevwori’s administration remains committed to delivering more transformative projects and upholding the principles of democracy in the upcoming local government elections.

Horror in Delta: Community Leader Macheted to Death, Body Set on Fire

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The peaceful community of Obodougwa-Ogume in Ndokwa West Local Government Area has been engulfed in a cloud of tension and grief following the horrifying murder of Mr Anselm Oyibo, a highly regarded community leader and former Chairman of the Community Development Committee.

In a gruesome act of violence, Oyibo was mercilessly attacked and brutally macheted to death by unidentified gunmen. To add to the horror, his lifeless body was callously set ablaze along with his motorcycle. The shocking discovery of his charred remains took place at the Obodougwa Ogume Junction along the Kwale-Obiaruku Road on Wednesday, sending shockwaves throughout the community.

As reported by Ibom Focus, Residents, who have chosen to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the situation, recounted the events leading up to Oyibo’s tragic demise. It is reported that Oyibo left his residence in Kwale late in the evening, around 11:30 pm, after receiving an ominous phone call. However, he never returned home, leaving his loved ones in a state of worry and confusion.

One resident shared a chilling account, stating, “The deceased abruptly woke up from his slumber just before midnight, announcing that he had to go out. He started his motorcycle, answered a call on his phone, and it was assumed he was visiting his second wife, as he was married to two. But the next morning, when he failed to return, his second wife was contacted, only to discover he hadn’t spent the night with her.”

Frantic attempts to reach Oyibo by phone yielded no results, as the ringing eventually transformed into an unreachable line. Tragically, the community received devastating news that a man’s life had been violently snuffed out, his remains burned alongside his beloved motorcycle at the junction.

Confirmation of the victim’s identity soon followed, confirming that Anselm Oyibo had suffered a brutal machete attack before meeting a horrifying fate in the flames. His lifeless body has been transported to the mortuary, where it awaits further examination and investigation.

The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, has expressed the authorities’ commitment to unraveling the circumstances surrounding this heinous crime. “Efforts are ongoing to unravel the circumstances that led to his death,” he stated, assuring the community that justice will be sought.

As the investigation continues, the once-peaceful community of Obodougwa-Ogume finds itself grappling with the shock and sorrow of losing a revered leader. The residents stand united in their demand for answers, praying for justice to be served and peace to be restored to their grieving community.

Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu Impeached by Edo House of Assembly

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The Edo State House of Assembly has recently taken a decisive step towards impeaching Comrade Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor, amid escalating tensions with his superior, Governor Godwin Obaseki.

During the Assembly’s plenary session in Benin City, a long-standing political deadlock between Shaibu and Obaseki culminated in a seven-man committee tasked with probing allegations of misconduct against the deputy governor.

The committee presented its findings, leading to Shaibu’s impeachment on Monday. This development highlights the deep-seated rift within the state’s political landscape, signalling a significant shift in power dynamics.

Comedian AY Opens Up About Marriage Struggles in Lengthy Instagram Post

Ayo Makun, ace comedian, actor, and filmmaker commonly referred to as AY, has broken his silence on social media regarding the speculated discord in his marriage to Mabel Makun, which has been circulating online.

The couple’s twenty-year union is believed to be on the brink of collapse due to AY’s alleged infidelity, which resulted in Mabel’s vacating their marital home and dealing with various health issues.

In a candid post shared on his Instagram page on Sunday, April 7, 2024, he appeared to address the rumours and acknowledged his regrettable actions. While cautioning against misconceptions about strength and silence, AY highlighted the distinction between personal struggles and public scrutiny, asserting his right to privacy amidst personal challenges.

He emphasized the importance of shielding their adult daughter from distressing online content and expressed the pain of witnessing their decades-long relationship falter. He reflected on the complexities of assigning blame in a societal landscape that often favours one narrative over another.

Despite the prevalence of falsehoods circulating in the media, AY remains steadfast in his belief that truth will ultimately prevail over lies. He expressed that projecting a negative narrative against someone who is not struggling to defend himself does not mean that he is weak.

AY confirmed that he has reached a stage in his life where he cannot entertain the public with deep personal family issues, especially with a grown-up daughter who has access to social media. Her mental health needs to be protected from seeing things she cannot be proud of online.

He also noted that no one is completely innocent enough to cast stones and that it is one thing to watch a friendship/marriage of 20 years slip off his hands, but it is another thing for the parties involved to understand how to appropriate the blame in a space that is designed for most women to always play the victims and win.

AY stated that he loves the way that lies about him in all these blogs are travelling faster than the truth presently. However, he is confident that his painful truth will eventually beat away all the lies.

Lagos Court Detains Mother and Daughter Over Alleged Child Labour

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In a legal battle unfolding at the Federal High Court in Lagos, Nwobi Olubube Favour, aged 25, and her mother, Nwobi Ebele Angela, aged 55, find themselves at the center of accusations related to child labour.

Upon their plea of not guilty to charges of harbouring and using minors for domestic work, brought forth by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Justice Abimbola Awogboro ordered their remand.

The accused, residents of B 41, Abijoh GRA, Chois Garden Estate Lekki, Lagos State, are alleged to have engaged in these activities between May and November 2023.

According to prosecutor Uzunwa I. Egonu, the exploitative actions of the defendants had severe repercussions on the physical, social, and psychological well-being of the two underage girls involved.

Furthermore, NAPTIP levelled additional charges against the mother and daughter, accusing them of assaulting two agency officials, Ederibhalo Ajiegbe Elvis and Trust Oluwaseun Adekoye.

The alleged incident occurred during the officials’ performance of duties at the agency’s office in GRA, Ikeja, on March 12. It is claimed that the accused forcibly seized a laptop and an iPhone 8 from the officials during the altercation.

As proceedings unfolded, the prosecutor pushed for a trial date and advocated for the defendants’ remand in custody.

On the other side, the legal representative for Favour and Angela requested a brief adjournment to prepare and file bail applications on their behalf.

Consequently, Justice Awogboro scheduled the matter for further proceedings on May 7, allowing time for both sides to present their cases.

Press Under Attack: Journalists Beaten by Police and Vigilantes in Ughelli A’ Division

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Two journalists, Comrade Gabriel Oghenekaro Awodeha, who also is the publisher of The Periscope and Comrade Andrew Unutame from Galaxy Television, on Thursday, faced brutality at the hands of police officers and vigilantes at Ughelli A’ division in Delta State.

Recounting the incident, Comr. Gabriel Oghenekaro described how he and a motorcycle rider encountered police conducting stop-and-search. Despite urging the rider to comply, tensions escalated when the rider couldn’t produce his documents. This led to their detention and subsequent mistreatment by the officers and vigilantes.

According to Comr. Gabriel Oghenekaro, “I boarded a motorcycle, and as we were on our way the rider, on sighting the police on stop and search duty, wanted to turn back and run, that he did not have papers, that he left them at home. I then encouraged him not to run but to meet them, that if he is stopped, I’ll plead on his behalf, and I only said so because I was suspicious, I didn’t believe somebody would ride his motorcycle without a photocopy of his particulars.

“When the police stopped us and demanded his particulars and the man said he was not with them, one of the officers ordered us to alight and then drove the motorcycle to the police station. At this point, the rider was blaming me for allowing the police to hold him because I refused to plead for him. I then told him that if truly he had his papers at home, he should go home and bring them. Once it’s established that he has his papers I’m ready to go with him to the station to assist in securing the release of his motorcycle.

“When the man brought his papers, as promised, I called a colleague and we went to the station with him. We were then directed to a policewoman identified as, Corporal Ebi who said “The particulars are not authentic, that it could be forged. She asked us to bring N50,000. She now ordered us to leave her sight to go and look for the money when we tried to speak to her.

“At this point, we decided to leave and went to our vehicle. As we were about to go, she ran towards us and asked the bike man to give her the papers, that we were running away from. I was shocked when she said so. I asked the bike man to give her the particulars which he did.

“Immediately she started raining abuses on us, when I told her that the insults were uncalled for, she said who am I to challenge her, just as she was shouting another male officer, Inspector Erasmus Ikperinwa came and grabbed me on my trousers, cut my belt and started manhandling me before others around, but police and local vigilante joined in the beating.

“They handcuffed me and forced me to lay down on the floor, threatening that they’ll throw me inside the cell where I will rot. The woman corporal, Ebi stated that she is a lawyer who has been called to the Nigerian Bar and nothing will happen, you can call the IG of Police and if it is the case that you want, I will give you to the fullest.

”When my colleague saw what was happening and tried to intervene, they attacked him with wood and gave him the same beating. I only saw him runway towards the area commander’s section in the station. After that, the woman corporal identified as Ebi from Ughelli A’Division brought a paper that they forced me to write a statement and threw me inside the cell.

“It was at this point that my colleague who ran to the area commander’s section came with a policewoman on the instructions of the A.O. summoning us to the office to hear what had happened.

“We did not commit any crime other than trying to do a humanitarian service, so I don’t see why we should be manhandled in such a way. I think it is high time the Inspector General and Delta State Police Command do something about the excesses of the police in Ughelli A Division.

“Assault on journalists by officers and vigilantes attached to the division has been a routine, and must be stopped.”

Also, while recounting the incident, Comrade Andrew Unutame explained their intention to assist the distressed rider. However, when confronted with unreasonable demands by the police, they attempted to leave but were met with violence.

Unutame added that the situation escalated as they were subjected to physical assault and verbal abuse by the officers and vigilantes. Even after attempting to explain themselves, they were met with hostility.

He said “We came to see how we can be of assistance to the bike man because according to my colleague who called me to accompany him, the bike man told him he is new in Delta and has no one. When we got there we met the lady, she asked us to go and bring N50,000”.

“We don’t have that kind of money. And she was not ready to listen to any plea. At this point, we went back to our vehicle and wanted to go back, because my colleague said, he left his phone in the office, and that he wanted to call someone to do some clarifications.

“This was when one Erasmus Ikperinwa came on the scene and started manhandling my colleague. When I tried to intercede they attacked me” One of the vigilantes took a 2by2 wood to hit me on my back”.

“We then tried to explain to her that we were not running and besides we didn’t commit any crime too so who were we running away from? She started raining all manner of curses, she was not ready to stop, we told her that the fact that she is a police officer was not a license to defame or dehumanize lawful citizens”.

“When I saw that they were ready to kill me, I ran to the Area Commander’s office, that was when the A. O, tried to intervene in the matter.”

“For the timely intervention of the Ughelli Area Command, Admin Officer, A.O, we would have been dead or incarcerated by now.”

However, the journalists emphasized the need for accountability and an end to such acts of police brutality in Ughelli A division.

Tiwa Savage’s First Movie ‘Water And Garri’ to Debut Worldwide on Prime Video

Tiwa Savage, the renowned Nigerian singer, has excitedly announced the official release date for her much-anticipated debut movie, ‘Water And Garri.’

Taking to her social media platforms on April 4th, she confirmed that the film is set to premiere on May 10, 2024, exclusively on the global streaming platform, Prime Video.

Accompanied by a captivating promotional flyer, Tiwa expressed her enthusiasm, addressing her fans with the message: “My beautiful people, our movie @waterandgarrifilm has a date. See you May 10th @primevideo.”

It was gathered that early this year January, the songstress ventured into the Nigerian film industry as both an actress and a producer. Tiwa revealed that her debut movie, ‘Water and Garri,’ draws inspiration from her latest album of the same title, with herself as the lead actor.

Sharing a still from the movie’s scene, Tiwa expressed her excitement for the project, which has been in development for two years. She elaborated that ‘Water and Garri’ will be available for streaming on Prime Video, reaching audiences in over 240 countries worldwide.

In her announcement, Tiwa shared her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “This has been over two years in the making, and I must say this is probably one of the most adventurous, fulfilling things I’ve done. I feel blessed and honored to not only be making my debut as a lead actor but to have also executive produced this film.”

Tiwa expressed her eagerness to embark on this new phase of her career, extending appreciation to the film’s director, Mejialabi, and producer, Jadesanya, for their contributions to the project. She concluded with a message of love and excitement for the journey ahead, affirming that she’s just getting started in her artistic endeavors.

Nigerian Army Chief Calls for Media Support, Urges Responsible Reporting at Civil-Military Media Chat

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The Nigerian Army recently conducted a Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat in Asaba, Delta State, where Major-General Jamal Abdusalam represented Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja.

During the conference, Major-General Abdusalam emphasized the significance of collaborating with the media to improve national security efforts while tackling challenges. This underscores the importance of fostering partnerships between the military and the media, as well as promoting mutual understanding and collective action towards achieving national security goals.

Moreover, Abdusalam emphasized the significance of professionalism, accuracy, and impartiality in media reporting, as well as the complexity of the current security landscape, which necessitates adaptive strategies to address challenges effectively.

Abdusalam condemned the tragic loss of troops in Okuama, Delta State, and urged media restraint in amplifying the activities of terrorist groups. Despite obstacles, he reaffirmed the Army’s unwavering dedication to its constitutional duties and solicited continued public backing.

The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. Nosakhare Ugboin, explained that the purpose of the media chat was to elucidate military operations and foster collaboration.

He emphasized the significance of the military-media alliance in confronting security threats and providing clarity on operational impacts.

Dr. Ifeanyi Osuaza, Delta State Commissioner for Information, praised the initiative of the forum and highlighted the role of positive civil-military ties in nurturing societal harmony and safeguarding Nigeria’s borders.

He deplored the tragedy in Okuama and urged sustained cooperation for the military’s advancement.

Malam Jibrin Ndace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria, echoed the symbiotic relationship between the military and media in national security. He expressed hope that dialogue at the chat would fortify this partnership, contributing to Nigeria’s safety and prosperity.

Ndace emphasized the imperative of robust military-media collaboration to realize overarching security objectives.

Overall, the media chat was an essential opportunity for the military and media to converge and discuss issues surrounding national security, with a focus on promoting transparency, accuracy, and collaboration.

Senator Ned Nwoko Promises Comprehensive Development in Anioma Townhall Meeting

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Senator Ned Nwoko recently convened a Town Hall meeting with leaders and residents of Delta North, reaffirming his commitment to effective representation and governance excellence.

Addressing the audience in Asaba, the Senator outlined his three primary responsibilities encompassing legislative initiatives, project execution, and empowerment endeavours.

During the meeting, Senator Nwoko shared insights into his legislative achievements, which he attributed to his resounding electoral mandate. Notably, the Senator emphasized his efforts towards revitalizing the Okpai power plant to ensure adequate electricity supply for Delta North.

He also reiterated his commitment to completing the Ogwashi Uku Dam project to address the water and irrigation needs of the agrarian Anioma region.

The Senator further disclosed his initiation of a skill acquisition program benefiting 260 individuals, each receiving financial assistance of 150 thousand Naira. He pledged to expand such empowerment initiatives in the coming months.

Throughout the Town Hall meeting, various speakers, including esteemed personalities, youth representatives, and women advocates, lauded Senator Ned Nwoko for his unparalleled commitment to the welfare of Anioma and the nation. They acknowledged his remarkable achievements in the senate and pledged unwavering support for his continued endeavors.

Senator Ned Nwoko assured the community of his profound understanding of their challenges and aspirations, and he stressed his role as a senator for all constituents residing in Delta North, regardless of political affiliations.

The event’s highlight was the inauguration of the Senators’ liaison office on DBS Road, Asaba, a notable milestone and initiative.

2baba Praises Kizz Daniel as ‘African Music Genius’ and Acknowledges Burna Boy’s Iconic Status

Nigerian music legend 2baba recently showered praise on his colleague, Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, professionally known as Kizz Daniel.

Taking to his Instagram story, 2baba hailed the ‘Rich Till I Die’ singer as an African music genius, following his earlier commendation of Burna Boy.

Expressing his admiration, 2baba admitted his struggle to find adequate words to convey his appreciation for Kizz Daniel’s remarkable work.

He emphasized that what the world is witnessing in the Buga hit-maker’s artistry is nothing short of the emergence of a musical genius from Africa.

In his Instagram story, he wrote, “I no even know wetin to talk about Kizz Daniel. You guys are witnessing an African Music Genius.”

In another instance, 2baba was reported to have lauded Grammy-winning Nigerian musician Burna Boy, acknowledging him as one of the greatest music icons. He shared his sentiments on Instagram, recognizing Burna Boy’s ascent to the pinnacle of the music industry through sheer hard work.

Stating that whether people admire or criticize Burna Boy, it doesn’t change the fact that he has established himself as one of the greatest musicians, he wrote: “This young man [Burna Boy] has worked and proven and stamped himself as one of the greatest music icons. Hate him or love him, e no go change fact.”

Igbodo Community Elects New President-General

Igbodo Community in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State was on Saturday thrown into jubilation following the emergence of the new President General of Igbodo Development Union (IDU) Mr Godwin Oji and his executives elected to oversee the affairs of the community.

The election was the highlight of the Igbodo Annual Conference 2024, convened by His Royal Majesty, Barrister Ikechukwu Nkeobikwu Osedume I, The Ikukuoma of Igbodo Kingdom.

Newsmen gathered that the absence of executives had contributed to various issues in the community, occasioned by the previous administration.

But after a keenly contested poll spearheaded by an electoral committee constituted by the Obi-in-Council during the conference.

Delegates to the conference were drawn from branches of the Igbodo Development Union at home and in the diaspora, including representatives of all the organs of administration, representatives of the quarters as well as the Igbodo Youths Associations and other Stakeholders.

The election, which was argued to be a great improvement on previous experiences, was conducted most peacefully and transparently.

Announcing the results, the Electoral Committee Chairman, Mr Monday Ebenuwa said, Mr Godwin Oji, who was elected, was the popular choice of the Igbodo people as the only candidate nominated to oppose him voluntarily withdrew himself in favour of Mr Oji.

Speaking after the election, The Obi of Igbodo Kingdom, HRM, Obi (Barr) Ikechukwu Osedume 1, expressed his satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the election.

He charged the PG and newly-elected executives of the Igbodo Development Union (IDU) worldwide to work diligently towards the overall development of the community.

He advised them, to carry the entire community along in the discharge of their duties.

Congratulating the new executives, the Traditional Ruler urged them to ensure that the bonds of unity in Igbodo remained intact.

He said, with his antecedent as the President of the IDU Warri branch for six years, Mr. Oji is a tasted, committed, and patriotic Igbodo citizen. Hence, he was chosen by the people to serve at a higher level.

He explained that the community has, through the election, demonstrated their preparedness to commence the journey of more development in their homeland because most of the executives elected are well-experienced.

The Monarch described the election as critical given the strategic position of the community to the state, as the food basket of the nation.

“he said to the people of the community We are all interested in promoting development across all quarters in the communities, through the entrenchment of democratically-elected town union executives,” he added.

Appreciating the people of Igbodo for their cooperation in coming out en mass for the conference from every part of the world, Obi Osedume described the election as one of the most transparent conducted in the history of the Igbodo community, Urging the PG and his Executives to work effectively towards giving the community more facelifts.

The royal father also thanked the outgoing Interim Management Committee for the service they rendered to the community selflessly for the past five years.

A stakeholder in the community, and the Odogwu of Igbodo Kingdom, Chief Ifeoha Azikiwe commended the role of the Electoral Committee Chairman, Mr. Monday Ebenuwa, in ensuring that the election was successful and conducted transparently.

The new Igbodo PG, Oji, In his acceptance speech, described the election as divine just as he commended the Obi and the electoral committee for delivering a transparent and credible election to the Igbodo people.

Words “I am happy that I was elected, I promise my leadership and executives will accomplish every task assigned to us, just as we will work for greater achievements for the community,” he said.

He pledged to work with his Executives and all critical organs in Igbodo to bring about more transformation in the town.

“We are all very happy and grateful to God for making today a reality. The expectations of the great people of Igbodo will be met because our tenure will be as transparent as possible and focused on meeting the demands of our people.

“I will, in my address to Igbodo people soon, present a detailed development agenda for the community”
“Once again I thank God Almighty and congratulate our people to whom this victory primarily belongs and I extend my hand of fellowship to my colleagues in the executive and enjoin them to join me in this onerous task of uniting and rebuilding our dear kingdom Igbodo” he stressed.

Among the Executives include first vice general,
Mr Ikechukwu Okwudi second Vice General,
Mr Nwaeke Justin, Secretary General
Mr Abel Uzu, Assistant Secretary General Mrs Esther Uche Anyia, Financial Secretary Mr Charles Apkese, Treasurer
Mr Michael Uyanne, PRO Mr Ekene Uzoma, Director of Social and Culture Mr Chima Azi, First Provost Marshall Mr Ifeanyi Ofili, second Provost Marshall, Mr Chinoso Akaba, respectfully.

Journalist Vindicated: Expert Report Debunks Water Pollution Claims Against Coal Mining Firm In Aniocha North

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By Kenneth Orusi, Asaba

A renowned journalist and immediate past Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Patrick Ochei has said that he had been vindicated by the expert report of Delta State Government which exonerated MOSRA Energy Limited, a coal mining company operating at Ugboba community of Aniocha North local government area, Delta State from complexity in the water colouration of Ojeokpa stream within Ukwu-Nzu community.

He raised this concern amidst the tension that was building up when a group of people from Ukwu-Nzu began to flood online space with allegations of water pollution by a coal mining company in Ugboba, a neighbouring community to Ukwu-Nzu and Obomkpa.

It became imperative for an independent investigative report to be carried out in order to ascertain the veracity of the alleged water pollution made against MOSRA Energy Limited by some indigenes of Ukwu-Nzu and Obomkpa communities, which claimed that the activities of the coal mining company were polluting the Ojeokpa and Iyi-Odo rivers.

The journalist had carried out a discreet and comprehensive investigation at the coal mining site and environs to unravel the cause of the water colouration and other alleged sundry damages to the environment.

In his report where he cited an experiment with the Iyioku spring water directly opposite the coal site, he postulated that if the coal mining was actually polluting the rivers, how come the Iyioku stream water remained pure, odourless and hygienic for drinking as against the Ojeokpa river which was miles away.

In his interpretation, he posited that if the river that is very close to the coal mining site is not polluted, how could Ojeokpa and Iyi-Odo which are far away be so polluted by the activities of the coal mining firm. And of course, the coal mining firm does not generate waste as what they basically do is the open cast system of coal mining; and in this case, Lignite Coal and not the usual black coal.

He also noted that whilst he visited the coal site, he was without face mask and there was no adverse reaction on his skin to indicate that the mining was pollutant.

In his then analysis, he had posited that the water could have been coloured as a result of the erosion control done by NEWMAP which had a network of flood channelling drainages comprising Ukwu-Nzu, Ugboba and Obomkpa into the rivers that hitherto connect Ojeokpa river from the evacuation point.

He was not authoritative in his assumption as a layman, but was incisive having carefully studied the facts and evidence provided by his indepth investigation, including revealing the effort made by MOSRA Energy Limited to complete the drainage and road construction work to link up Ukwu-Nzu/Ugboba/Obomkpa from the NEWMAP erosion controlled terminals.

It was observed that the report had infuriated some persons within the other communities where mining activities are not taking place but appear to be bent on criminalizing MOSRA Energy Limited.

This group of people saw the report as an affront and began to call for the head of the journalist through various threats in the social media.

However, as God would have it, the Delta State Government through the Ministry of Environment, got wind of the situation through the independent report and counter report, as well as petitions from the aggrieved communities, and in order to forestall any breakdown of law and order, swung into action by carrying out on the spot inspection of the coal mining corridors and the rivers where samples were collected for analysis.

It was a thorough job, and to God be the glory, the result of the water analysis has revealed that the journalist (Comrade Patrick Ochei) never lied nor took the side of MOSRA Energy Limited in piecing his report together.

According to the report as first read by the Director General of Delta State Environmental Protection Agency (DELSEPA), Mr. Victor Okolie before the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Jamani Ejiro as reported by the Pointer Newspapers.

“The laboratory analysis has revealed that the water colouration at Ukwu-Nzu in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, is not connected with the coal mining activities of MOSRA Energy Limited, a coal mining firm in Ugboba”.

For Mr. Benedict Nwaokocha, Project Coordinator of Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), “Report revealed that the localised earth movement from the landslide caused the valley to cave in, hence, depositing itself on the sources of the stream, thereby changing its colour.

“The earth from the detached wall is what is being washed through one of the furrows into the stream”.

However, NEWMAP in exonerating itself from the expert point of view, debunked claims that the water colouration could have been caused by laterite used by it in its construction job.

It therefore stated authoritatively that, “with the discovery of the localised earth movement around the gully, it was imperative to state that the contamination of the water body should be attributed to natural causes”.

From the evidence above, it is important to note that the journalist who did an independent and professional report on the activities of MOSRA Energy Limited, did not take the side of the company nor any community involved in the dispute in his article.

According to him in an interview with some of his colleagues, he said, “I am vindicated by the expert report of DELSEPA and NEWMAP in conjunction with the Delta State Ministry of Environment, which is evident in the result of the water analysis carried out by them.

“In my capacity as a thoroughbred community journalist, I have always presented the facts of my reports in credible and balanced forms. I have never had any reason to use my journalistic advantage to weaken the voice of anybody, group or entity.

“Without sounding immodest, these communities trying to discredit me have all benefitted from my magnanimous projections in the past.

“Well, it is one of those things we face as journalists. My happiness now is that the truth had eventually come to the open. That alone gives me joy, not minding the threats against me”, Comrade Ochei narrated.

NDDC Neglect Sparks Outcry: Odidi Youths Gear Up for Major Protest

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Ijaw youths from the oil-rich Odidi community in OML 42, located in the Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, have declared their intent to lead a significant protest aimed at shutting down the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), should the current leadership under Dr. Samuel Ogbuku persist in neglecting their community.

In a statement issued by the community Chairman, Preye Okrikpa, and distributed to journalists in Warri over the weekend, it was revealed that the Odidi Federated Communities, representing the local youths, are fully prepared to stage a protest at the NDDC headquarters until their long-standing grievances regarding developmental neglect are addressed.

Expressing disappointment, Okrikpa highlighted that despite numerous appeals made to the Commission during previous administrations, including several letters written, there has been a consistent lack of attention towards Odidi’s concerns.

The statement emphasized that the need for protest arises due to the absence of basic amenities such as healthcare facilities, potable water, or educational institutions in Odidi, despite being an oil-producing community contributing significantly to Nigeria’s annual budget.

Calling upon the Federal Government, relevant agencies, and oil companies operating in the area, Okrikpa urged urgent action to address the community’s pressing needs.

Despite being a significant host to oil companies like the Nigeria Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) and Neconde in OML 42, Odidi community continues to grapple with severe poverty, as emphasized in the statement.

Okrikpa reiterated the community’s demand for inclusion in the NDDC’s 2024 projects and warned of escalated action, including protests at the NDDC offices in Port Harcourt and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), if their concerns remain unaddressed.

Outrage as 63-Year-Old Priest Marries 12-Year-Old Girl in Controversial Ceremony

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Controversy has erupted after a 63-year-old Ghanaian traditional priest, Nuumo Borketey Laweh Tsuru XXXIII, married a 12-year-old girl in a customary ceremony.

The event, held on Saturday, has stirred outrage, with community leaders denouncing the union as a violation of norms.

Despite criticism, leaders from the Nungua indigenous community, to which both parties belong, have defended the marriage, citing cultural traditions. However, public outcry has intensified, prompting calls for authorities to intervene and investigate Mr. Tsuru.

The girl is set to undergo a second customary ceremony to formalize her new role as the priest’s wife and prepare for marital duties, including childbearing.

While Ghana’s legal marriage age is 18, child marriage persists, with 19% of girls marrying before 18 and 5% before 15, according to Girls Not Brides. As the controversy unfolds, the government’s response to the situation remains awaited.

Senator Walks Out of TV Interview Over 2024 Budget Questions

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Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North in the National Assembly, sparked drama by abruptly ending a live TV interview when questioned about the 2024 budget on Sunday.

During the Arise News breakfast show, Senator Jarigbe expressed reluctance to discuss budget details, stating he hadn’t scrutinized it line by line.

When pressed by the anchor, who sought specifics for his senatorial district, Senator Jarigbe grew defensive, insisting it was his duty to serve his constituents rather than delve into budget minutiae. Frustrated, he threatened to walk away, citing potential backlash, before abruptly disconnecting.

The incident underscores tensions surrounding the 2024 budget, which faced integrity concerns following allegations of padding by Bauchi Central Senator Abdul Ningi. Despite denials from both the National Assembly and the Executive, Ningi’s suspension for three months further heightened scrutiny of budgetary processes.

Actress Charity Nnaji Advises Men to Seek DNA Test If Wives Support Mohbad’s Widow

Nigerian actress, Charity Nnaji has offered guidance to men whose wives stand by Omowunmi Aloba, the widow of the late Mohbad, in refusing to undergo a DNA test for her son, Liam Aloba.

Nnaji advises that if a man discovers his partner supports Wunmi’s decision against the paternity test, he should take his children for a DNA test at a medical facility.

Wunmi initially agreed to a DNA test for Liam, but later reversed her stance, asserting that only her late husband had the right to request such a test.

Reacting to this, Nnaji suggests that if Wunmi has nothing to hide, she should be open to the test. She warns men to act swiftly if they find their wives supporting Wunmi’s decision, urging them to ensure the paternity of their children.

On her Instagram page, Nnaji emphasizes the importance of clearing one’s conscience and avoiding public disgrace in such situations, urging men not to hesitate to verify the paternity of their children if suspicions arise.

Obi Asika Recognizes Eedris Abdulkareem’s Battle with 50 Cent as Advocacy for Nigerian Artists’ Rights

In a notable reflection, music executive Obi Asika has highlighted Eedris Abdulkareem’s clash with 50 Cent in 2004 as a pivotal moment in the trajectory of Nigerian artists, particularly those emerging in the Afrobeats scene.

The clash between 50 Cent and Eedris unfolded at a concert in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where both were slated to perform.

Allegedly, Eedris was subjected to assault by 50 Cent’s associates at Lagos airport following a disagreement over seating in the first-class section.

Eedris Abdulkareem later characterized the incident as a “beautiful sacrifice” during a February interview, underscoring its significance in clearing the path for the success of newer artists.

He recounted how 50 Cent’s entourage purportedly intimidated and ousted several Nigerian artists, including the notable duo Psquare.

In his perspective shared on HipTV, Obi Asika framed Eedris’ clash with 50 Cent as a bold stance akin to “taking a bullet” on behalf of subsequent artists.

Asika elaborated on the fallout, noting that the incident had severe repercussions for Eedris’ career, with event organizers branding him as a troublemaker.

According to Asika, Nigerian brands at the time undervalued local artists, fostering a culture of separation and disrespect.

Eedris’ attempt to assert his rights and engage with fellow artists was met with resistance, leading to his removal from the chartered plane meant for the performers.

Although 50 Cent was not directly involved in the altercation, the repercussions prompted him to forgo performing for the remainder of the event.

Asika emphasized that Eedris’ actions were aimed at challenging the status quo and advocating for fair treatment of Nigerian artists.

Amidst Challenges, Diddy Shares Adorable Instagram Photos of Daughter Love

Returning to Instagram after a tumultuous week, music mogul, Sean Diddy Combs posted a series of adorable Easter snapshots featuring his 17-month-old daughter, shared with Dana Tran.

In the heartwarming images, his youngest child, affectionately called Baby Love, dons vibrant ensembles, including a floral dress with matching accessories and a cute purple outfit with a tutu and plaid jacket.

The Easter post comes in the wake of raids on two of Diddy’s properties earlier in the week, amidst allegations of sex trafficking.

Diddy’s lawyer, Aaron Dyer, denounced the raids, citing excessive use of force and media sensationalism.

Asserting Diddy’s innocence, Dyer emphasized that no criminal or civil liability has been established. Diddy remains resolute in defending his reputation against what he deems as unfounded accusations.

Why Nigeria’s Oil in the South Belongs to the North: Dr Usman Bugaje Clarifies Controversial Remark

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Dr Usman Bugaje, the former presidential aide, has provided clarification on his recent controversial statement regarding the ownership of Nigeria’s oil in the southern region by the north.

Bugaje previously asserted that there are no oil-producing states, but rather the Nigerian state as a whole.

In an interview with Vanguard, he elaborated on his stance, explaining that the vast landmass of the North, comprising over 70%, contributed significantly to Nigeria’s maritime boundaries and offshore drilling rights.

Bugaje emphasized the role of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in determining maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones. He highlighted that the extent of a country’s maritime territory is influenced by its landmass.

Given that 78% of Nigeria’s landmass is in the North, Bugaje argued that a proportionate share of offshore resources could be claimed by the North.

He concluded by suggesting that any dissatisfaction with the current resource allocation should be addressed through constitutional amendments at the National Assembly.”

Revelation: Duncan Mighty Admits to Being Ex-Militant

Singer Duncan Mighty recently opened up about his past involvement in the Niger Delta crisis, admitting to being an ex-militant.

Recounting his experiences, he emphasized how God had saved his life numerous times during those tumultuous times. “I hail from Port Harcourt, not Lagos. I come from the South-South, from the war zone before the amnesty,” he shared in a recent interview with 3Music in Accra, Ghana.

Reflecting on his journey, Duncan Mighty highlighted his transition from being deeply involved in community activities related to protecting his people and oil interests to his current status as a renowned musician.

Additionally, he revealed his humble beginnings as a drummer for Christ Embassy in Port Harcourt before venturing into secular music.

Federal Government Commits N25 Billion to Enhance Healthcare Infrastructure Nationwide

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The Federal Government’s decision to allocate N25 billion through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) to bolster healthcare infrastructure at the state level signals a significant step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality across Nigeria.

Prof. Muhammed Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized this commitment during the sixth meeting of the BHCPF Ministerial Oversight Committee in Abuja on Friday.

He highlighted the allocation’s focus on direct facility financing and workforce incentives, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to improve healthcare outcomes, especially for women, children, and vulnerable populations.

The disbursement process will be facilitated through gateways such as the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), ensuring transparent and effective utilization of resources. Additionally, a dedicated reporting mechanism will be established to enable citizens to report any misuse or deviation from guidelines, fostering accountability and citizen engagement in healthcare governance.

Dr Oyebanji Filani, speaking on behalf of Commissioners for Health and Human Services, reiterated the states’ commitment to prioritizing the quality of care and strengthening public health units.

He emphasized collaboration with the federal government to enhance healthcare delivery nationwide and expressed optimism about the potential impact of these efforts.

Dr Muyi Aina, the Executive Director of NPHCDA, and Dr Kelechi Ohiri, Director-General of NHIA, highlighted initiatives aimed at ensuring accountability, transparency, and financial access to healthcare services for all Nigerians. Measures such as establishing a call line for whistleblowers and leveraging software technology for expenditure tracking demonstrate the government’s dedication to improving healthcare delivery and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for citizens.

Victor AD Unveils Debut Album ‘Realness Over Hype’ with Collaborations Galore

Nigerian Sensational music star, Victor AD’s debut album ‘Realness Over Hype’ has finally hit the airwaves, marking a significant milestone in the Nigerian singer’s career.

The announcement came on Friday via social media, where Victor AD shared his excitement about the album’s release. Describing it as a reflection of his raw emotions and life experiences, he invited listeners to embark on a journey through his reality.

With 14 tracks, the album boasts collaborations with industry heavyweights like 2Baba, Mayorkun, and others. Victor AD expressed particular gratitude to 2Baba for helping bring their collaborative track ‘See God’ to life, a song he had envisioned a decade ago.

Tracks such as ‘Realness Over Hype’, ‘Billion Dollar’, and ‘Your Heart’ showcase Victor AD’s versatility and depth as an artist. From introspective pieces like ‘Healer’ to upbeat anthems like ‘Celebrate’, the album offers a diverse range of sounds and themes.

Since his music debut in 2014, Victor AD has captivated audiences with hits like ‘Wetin We Gain’, earning him widespread recognition for his talent and authenticity. With ‘Realness Over Hype’, he continues to solidify his place in the Nigerian music scene and beyond.

Listen to Album:

Davido Champions Music Education: Launches Faculty at Ugandan University

The International University of East Africa in Uganda welcomed a significant addition to its academic offerings as Afrobeats sensation Davido unveiled a new music and arts faculty.

Through a series of Instagram posts, the award-winning singer shared glimpses of the inauguration ceremony held on March 28. Alongside establishing the faculty, Davido was also honoured with a dedicated hall bearing his name.

This venture marks Davido’s ongoing commitment to supporting music education across Africa. During his stay in Uganda, where he is scheduled to perform at the Kololo Independence Grounds, Davido’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering artistic growth shines through.

This initiative follows Davido’s philanthropic gesture in 2018, when he generously donated $5,000 to a music school in Rwanda. Reflecting on his visit, Davido expressed how the vibrant spirit and enthusiasm of the people he encountered inspired him to invest in their future. Through his continued efforts, Davido exemplifies a dedication to empowering aspiring musicians and artists across the continent.

Biden’s Declaration of Easter Sunday as ‘Trans Day of Visibility’ Sparks Outrage

President Joe Biden’s announcement that Easter Sunday would also be recognized as Transgender Day of Visibility has ignited controversy, with critics accusing him of disrespecting Christianity.

Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy questioned the timing of the decision, as Easter Sunday coincided with the transgender tribute day. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson condemned the move, stating it betrayed the essence of Easter. Despite March 31 being designated as Transgender Day of Visibility, Easter Sunday had not aligned with it for at least a decade.

Biden, a devout Catholic, defended his decision, emphasizing the inclusion of transgender Americans in the nation’s fabric. He criticized Republican efforts to enact laws targeting transgender individuals and highlighted the ongoing violence against transgender women and girls, particularly those of color.

Conservatives, including Senator Tom Cotton and Senator Tommy Tuberville, expressed outrage, with some labeling Democrats as a “Satanic cult” and calling the decision a disgrace. Republican Senate candidate Jim Banks and Georgia Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene also condemned Biden’s actions, accusing him of mocking faith.

Controversy further erupted over restrictions on religious imagery in submissions for the traditional Easter Egg Roll event, drawing criticism from those who felt the religious significance of Easter should be respected. Critics argued that Easter, a Christian holiday, should embrace religious symbols at the event. Conservative voices lamented what they saw as an attack on America’s heritage and Christian values.

Overall, Biden’s decision to recognize Transgender Day of Visibility on Easter Sunday and the limitations on religious symbols at the Easter Egg Roll event have sparked a heated debate over religious freedom and cultural traditions.

Ndokwa House: We Remain Grateful To Okowa, Gov Oborevwori, NNU PG Ndubuisi Affirms

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The President General of the pan Ndokwa nation socio-cultural organization, the Ndokwa Neku Union ( NNU), Brig Gen Mike Ndubuisi (rtd), has paid glowing tributes to immediate past Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, for taking up the construction of the Ndokwa house, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for sustaining the project to its present status of completion.

He equally placed on record the invaluable contributions of prominent Ndokwa sons such as Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, Engr Austin Avuru, and Mr Achi Okechukwu which led to the extra ten plots of land to extend the size of the premises of the Ndokwa house from the initial ten to the present, twenty plots. 

Speaking during the  2024 General Assembly of the Union at the Ndokwa house in Kwale, headquarters of Ndokwa West local government, on good Friday 29th March 2024, the NNU President General noted that the last general assembly of the socio-cultural body held in December 2020 under the auspices of a Caretaker committee which midwife the election of the current leadership led by him, but due to paucity of funds, it had not been possible to hold an AGM since then.

Gen Ndubisi (rtd) said the 2024 General Assembly with the theme: “Ndokwa Today and Tomorrow “, is aimed at self-assessment of the current standing of the Ndokwa nation in the scheme of things.

While noting that it is pertinent to interrogate her progress via where they ( Ndokwa) were yesterday, are today, and are expected to be tomorrow, the NNU PG also reeled out his scorecard to include the body, ‘s demand for an Ndokwa son to be considered as Deputy Governor which has materialized by the appointment of Sir Monday Onyeme, as well as other key positions in the state.

He urged Ndokwans to protect and uphold their cherished values and heritage, adding that he is optimistic about a glorious future for the Ndokwa nation, going forward.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the 2024 Ndokwa Neku Union General Assembly, Rear Admiral Mike Ojinika Onah (rtd), OON, sued for unity among the people of Ndokwa, stressing that divisive tendencies should not be allowed to take root if the development of the Ndokwa nation is to be guaranteed.

The keynote speaker, Engr Austin Avuru, while speaking on the theme “Ndokwa: Today and Tomorrow “, was unequivocal that education, entrepreneurship, political participation, as well as being each other, ‘s keeper, formed the four planks upon which the theme could be actualized in Ndokwa nation.

He tasked the Gen Ndubisi-led NNU leadership to leverage its achievements of dialoguing for what he described as the “best representation of Ndokwa today” which boasts of a Deputy Governor, MD of DESOPADEC, and Commissioner for Finance, among others.

In one of the goodwill messages, the representative of the Association of Ndokwa Professionals in Academia and Rector, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi uku, Bldr Professor Achuenu, assured NNU that the body, comprising over 40 Professors and more than 96 Doctorate holders, will collaborate with the apex socio-cultural body in the area of educational advancement and opportunities for Ndokwa students and aspiring one.

Achuenu also noted that with the recent Federal Government approval of a Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Ndokwa land, the best is yet to come for the people of the area.

2024 Ndokwa Neku General Assembly: Tlilje Honored with NNU Merit Award

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For his unwavering support to the Ndokwa nation and uncommon philanthropic gestures, the Delta State Commissioner for Finance, Sir Fidelis Okenmor Tilije, has earned a meritorious award of excellence from the pan socio-cultural body of the Ndokwa nation, the Ndokwa Neku Union ( NNU).

Sir Tilije received the prestigious merit award of excellence, during the 2024 Ndokwa Neku Union General Assembly held on Friday, March 29th, 2024, at the Ndokwa House, kwale, headquarters of Ndokwa West Local government area.

According to the NNU, the awardee has made his mark in all spheres of Ndokwa endeavour, from community development, attraction of infrastructure, support for the NNU and worthy causes of the Ndokwa nation, his legion acts of philanthropy, as well as being a worthy son of Ndokwa nation who has never been found wanting in the discharge of his duties as the Commissioner for Finance in the immediate past administration of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as the current one of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, till date.

Presenting the award to Sir Fidelis Tilije, the President General of Ndokwa Neku Union ( NNU), Brig Gen Mike Ndubisi ( rtd), commended the awardee for being a worthy son of Ndokwa land.

In his brief remarks, an elated Tilije said he was pleasantly surprised that his modest achievements were noticed by the apex body of Ndokwa nation, to deserve his being nominated for the award of excellence.

He said the recognition by Ndokwa Neku Union will spur him to do his utmost best for his people, going forward, adding that he is proud to be a Ndokwa man.

Green Light: Germany to Partially Legalize Cannabis Starting Monday

Germany is poised to take a significant step in cannabis legalization as Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government prepares to implement its flagship pledge.

Starting April 1, individuals will be allowed to carry up to 25 grams of dried cannabis for personal use, alongside provisions for home cultivation with a limit of three plants per adult and 50 grams of dried cannabis.

Despite these changes, accessing cannabis won’t be straightforward due to restrictions. Smoking will be prohibited within 100 meters of schools, kindergartens, playgrounds, and public sports facilities. Additionally, smoking will be banned in pedestrian zones between 7 am and 8 pm.

Looking ahead, Germany plans to establish regulated cannabis cultivation associations, known as “cannabis clubs,” by July 1. These clubs will have membership limits and sales quotas, aiming to offer legal avenues for obtaining the drug.

However, access will be restricted to residents who have lived in Germany for at least six months, shutting out tourists.

While the government hopes to address health risks associated with cannabis through legalization, the move faces criticism from medical associations and health groups. Regional authorities are also concerned about the bureaucratic burden of reversing past sentences and fines under the new law.

With opposition leader Friedrich Merz already threatening to repeal the law if his party regains power in 2025, Germany’s journey towards cannabis legalization appears to be fraught with challenges.

Enforcing Anti-Open Grazing Law Lacks Teeth In Delta

Delta State’s enactment of the Livestock, Rearing, and Marketing Regulation Law 2021 was intended to address the longstanding issue of open grazing. However, the glaring absence of effective enforcement has rendered the law virtually toothless, allowing herders to continue flouting its provisions with impunity.

Despite the clear stipulations of the law, such as the prohibition of livestock movement on foot and the requirement for transportation by vehicle during specified hours, the state has failed to establish a robust mechanism for monitoring compliance. As a result, herders persist in openly grazing their cattle within communities, disregarding the established regulations.

Moreover, the penalties outlined in the legislation for non-compliance are insufficient to deter offenders. A mere fine of N300,000 or six months’ imprisonment for a first offence, and N500,000 or one year’s imprisonment for subsequent offences, falls short of conveying the seriousness of the violation. Furthermore, the provision for impoundment of livestock lacks teeth, as the imposed fine of N100,000 per animal pales in comparison to the potential profits derived from illegal grazing practices.

The failure of the Delta State government to establish a dedicated task force tasked with enforcing the anti-open grazing law raises questions about its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the interests of its citizens. Without adequate enforcement measures in place, the law remains little more than a symbolic gesture, incapable of effecting meaningful change on the ground.

In light of these shortcomings, it is imperative that the Delta State government takes immediate and decisive action to bolster enforcement efforts. This may involve the allocation of resources to establish a specialized task force, equipped with the necessary authority and resources to monitor compliance and mete out appropriate penalties to violators.

Until such measures are implemented, the specter of open grazing will continue to loom large over Delta State, posing a threat to the livelihoods and safety of its residents. The time for rhetoric and empty promises has passed; what is needed now is tangible action to enforce the anti-open grazing law and restore the rule of law in the state.

Okuama Tragedy: Ewu Monarch Escorted to Abuja by Army After Surrendering to Police

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Following his surrender to the police in Asaba on Thursday, HRM Clement Ikolo, the Ovie of Ewu kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, was flown to Abuja by the Army.

Accompanied by senior military officers, including the Commanding Officer of the 63 Brigade, Nigeria Army, and the Delta State Police Commissioner.

The monarch was escorted to the Asaba International Airport. He boarded an Air Peace airline, and the plane departed from Asaba Airport at approximately 9:10 am bound for Abuja.

It was gathered that the Delta State Police Command handed over the king to the Army after he was declared wanted along with seven others by the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, March 28, 2024. They were wanted in connection with the killing of 17 soldiers at Okuama.

Oyede Traditional Council Partners DSCHC in a Historic Visit

Traditional rulers and other leaders in various communities have been called upon to key into the Programmes of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission to enable indigent persons in their locality, to enjoy free healthcare.

The Director General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr Isaac Akpoveta made the call in his office in Asaba, when he played host to the Oyede Traditional Rulers Council, from Isoko North Local Government Area.

Dr Akpoveta thanked the Royal Majesty, the Odio-Ologbo of Oyede kingdom and his entourage for the visit, describing it as historic, as he said it was the first time a traditional ruler was paying a courtesy visit on the Commission.

The Director General intimated his Royal Majesty and his entourage of the activities of the Commission since its establishment by the Okowa administration, adding that the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme has remained one of the foremost social health insurance, with a record of over 2 million enrollees.

He urged indigenes residing within and outside Oyede, including those in the diaspora to key into the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Programme of the commission, by buying and encouraging others to buy health insurance for indigent persons around them.

Dr. Akpoveta said rather than spending so much on burial, there was a need to focus more on sponsoring indigent and vulnerable persons to receive healthcare services in healthcare facilities nearest to them, to enable people to live longer and healthier.

While emphasizing the need for increased awareness, especially on the government health support for communities, he enjoined all to join hands and support the commission to enable it to achieve its mandate of quality and affordable healthcare delivery to residents of the state.

The Odio-Ologbo of Oyede kingdom, HRM Idiareh Joseph Emasibeta iv, commended the DG for his doggedness, passion and humanitarian disposition, saying that they were satisfied with his work so far.

The traditional ruler thanked the Governor of Delta State for appointing Olorogun Akpoveta as the DG of the commission, expressing confidence in his ability to effectively deliver on his mandate, given his antecedents and personality.

The event had in attendance, Directors in the Commission.

Newly wedded Wife Allegedly Bathes Her Husband with Boiling Water Over Phone Calls

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In Kontangora Local Government Area of Niger State, a newlywed couple’s bliss turned to horror when a disagreement over phone calls escalated into a violent confrontation. Amina Abashe, the newly wedded wife, allegedly injured her husband, Shehu Abdullahi, with boiling water during the altercation.

Abdullahi, speaking from his hospital bed at Kontagora General Hospital to Daily Trust, recounted the sequence of events. Their marriage, solemnized two months prior following Abdullahi’s previous spouse’s passing, took a dark turn due to Abashe’s refusal to move into their shared home.

Trouble brewed on a Tuesday evening when Abashe summoned Abdullahi to their residence, where she shockingly declared her intent to end the marriage, citing another suitor ready to repay Abdullahi’s dowry. Suspicions arose when Abdullahi claimed to have witnessed Abashe conversing with a man over the phone during their confrontation.

The confrontation escalated when Abdullahi attempted to retrieve the phone, prompting Abashe to brandish a knife in a threatening manner. Fortunately, Abdullahi managed to disarm her. However, Abashe resorted to a horrifying act of pouring boiling water on Abdullahi in a fit of rage.

Abdullahi’s account unveils a tumultuous tale of betrayal and violence, leaving him hospitalized and grappling with the emotional aftermath of the incident.

Solidstar Releases New Track ‘Depression’ Sharing Mental Health Journey

Nigerian music sensation, Solidstar, has unveiled his latest track titled ‘Depression’, where he candidly shares his battles with mental health struggles and how he emerged victorious.

Breaking the news via his social media platform on Friday, Solidstar poured his heart out, expressing gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support during his darkest moments.

In his heartfelt message, he acknowledged the rollercoaster of highs and lows in his journey, emphasizing the significance of his fans, friends, and family in pulling him through rough patches.

Solidstar didn’t shy away from offering a sincere apology to anyone he might have inadvertently hurt or offended, showcasing his commitment to growth, empathy, and understanding.

Looking ahead, he pledged to utilize his platform not just for music but also to advocate for mental health awareness, spreading positivity with every beat and lyric.

With love and appreciation, Solidstar, also known as Joshua Iniyezo, urged everyone to embrace imperfections, support each other, and stride towards a brighter future together.

Recall, in a preview of an upcoming Honest Bunch podcast episode, the renowned artist revealed his first encounter with “ice” in 2021, introduced to him by a group of young individuals.

Ice, known as crystal methamphetamine, acts as a stimulant, accelerating communication between the brain and body.

The artist described the detrimental effects of the drug, recounting how it influenced him negatively. He expressed that upon consuming it, he would hear a compelling voice prompting him not to pay for items, leading him to feel a sense of grandiosity.

Solidstar shared a harrowing experience of walking from Awoyaya in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, to the Oriental Hotel on Victoria Island, a journey spanning approximately seven hours, while under the influence of the drug.

Reflecting on the ordeal, he lamented, “A lot of things happened to me. A couple of young boys introduced me to this substance called ice. This was three years back. The thing affected me a lot.”

He continued, “Sometimes this substance will tell me you are king, you are this, you are that, make I no dey pay for stuff. Can you imagine say I waka from Awoyaya to Oriental Hotel?”

Serious Accusations: Daphne Joy Claims 50 Cent Assault and Rape Her

Daphne Joy, former partner of hip-hop icon Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, has leveled grave allegations against him, accusing him of assault and rape.

These allegations surfaced after 50 Cent commented on her involvement as a witness in court documents about a lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs.

In a detailed Instagram statement, Daphne recounted instances of physical assault she allegedly endured during her time with 50 Cent in New York. She expressed disappointment over his lack of participation in their son’s life and accused him of causing harm to their family.

However, 50 Cent promptly denied the accusations through his representative. He suggested that Daphne’s claims were a reaction to his decision to seek sole custody of their son. He stressed that his main concern is ensuring the safety and well-being of their son amid the legal proceedings involving Diddy.

50 Cent remains focused on creating a secure environment for their son, Sire, amidst the ongoing legal challenges.

Wanted Delta Monarch Surrenders: Handed Over to Military

The traditional ruler of Ewu-Urhobo, His Royal Majesty (HRM), Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, who had been declared wanted by the Nigerian army, Defence Headquarters on Thursday, March 28th, 2024, has been handed over to the army after he reported himself to the Delta State Police Command.

This development was confirmed by reliable sources.

Following his inclusion on the wanted list, the monarch voluntarily surrendered himself to the police on the same Thursday evening, aiming to clear his name regarding the unfortunate incident involving the murder of 17 soldiers near the Okuama community in the Ughelli south local government area of Delta State.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Edafe Bright, confirmed that the traditional ruler was subsequently handed over to the army. “Yes, I can confirm, he was handed over this morning,” stated the police spokesperson.

TheStoryng

Exclusive: Oxlade Opens Up About The Dark Side of Music Industry Politics

Oxlade, the Nigerian Afropop artist, has recently disclosed his victimization by senior musicians within the music industry, who attempted to blackmail him.

He further stated that certain influential individuals within the industry have tried to deter people from supporting him.

In a recent freestyle on Glitch Africa, Oxlade expressed his concerns regarding the replication of his musical style and slanderous remarks made about him by his peers. He questioned why he was the target of hostility, as many others have mimicked his style, yet only he has been subject to such treatment.

The artist claimed that he was being blackmailed with private videos before they were leaked and that the perpetrator had been extorting money from him. Consequently, Oxlade lost out on endorsement deals worth over N400 million, and brands withdrew their support.

The aftermath of the scandal affected Oxlade’s mental health, reputation, and brand. He was forced to seek rehabilitation in the United Kingdom for three months. The most significant impact of the scandal was when his grandmother cried due to the situation. Brands distanced themselves from him, citing his unfavourable influence on young people.

Oxlade’s experience highlights the prevalence of blackmail and the challenges faced by creatives in the music industry. The implications of such practices go beyond financial loss and have far-reaching effects on an individual’s mental health, well-being, and reputation.

Watch Oxlade at Glitch Africa:

Correctng

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema Argues N200k Salary in Nigeria Surpasses £2k in UK”

Allen Onyema, the CEO of Air Peace, has stirred controversy by suggesting that earning a monthly salary of N200,000 in Nigeria is more advantageous than earning £2,000 in the United Kingdom.

During his appearance on TVC’s Breakfast show, Onyema argued that despite Nigeria’s economic challenges, individuals earning N200,000 in the country are in a better financial position than those earning £2,000 in the UK.

Onyema challenged the conventional belief that the depreciation of the Naira is solely responsible for Nigeria’s economic woes, suggesting that the Nigerian currency holds more value than commonly perceived compared to foreign currencies.

He boldly stated, “In London, earning two thousand pounds a month equates to poverty. The purchasing power of two thousand pounds is equivalent to that of two thousand Naira in Nigeria. Therefore, someone earning two hundred thousand Naira in Nigeria is better off.”

Onyema further elaborated his argument by highlighting the lifestyle advantages that come with earning N200,000 in Nigeria, such as the ability to afford domestic help like maids and drivers, which may not be feasible with a £2,000 salary in the UK.

While his remarks have sparked debate, Onyema’s perspective challenges conventional wisdom regarding the comparison of salaries between Nigeria and the UK, prompting a reevaluation of the perceived value of earnings in both countries.

Watch the Video

Cynthia Morgan Calls for Ban on Poor Relationships

Renowned Dancehall and Reggae artiste, Cynthia Morgan, took to her Instagram story to voice her perspective on relationships, suggesting that it should be considered a criminal offence for financially struggling individuals to date each other.

In her post, she elaborated on the three categories of brokenness: financial, mental, and spiritual, emphasizing that while men are naturally inclined to provide, dating between two financially, spiritually, and mentally unstable individuals should be discouraged.

Morgan highlighted the importance of financial stability in relationships, acknowledging that finding a partner who accepts one’s financial situation is fortunate, but she expressed concerns about the compatibility of two financially destitute individuals.

Similarly, in a related development, former Big Brother Naija contestant, Ike Onyema, supports Morgan’s sentiments, urging financially stable individuals to steer clear of relationships with broke partners.

On his Instagram story, he listed five reasons to avoid dating financially challenged individuals, emphasizing their lack of support, gratitude, and sense of entitlement.

Onyema, known for his controversial viewpoints, questioned why anyone would settle for broke partners when there are numerous intelligent and hardworking individuals available for relationships. He emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and appreciative partners, advocating for healthy and mutually beneficial relationships.

Correctng

Outcry in Ughelli: Parents Condemn Alleged Extortion of Students by Police and Vigilante Group

The parents and guardians of the 16 students from Oharisi Basic Secondary School in Ughelli have expressed their strong disapproval regarding what they perceive as extortion by both the officers of the Nigerian Police Force and the Ughelli Vigilante Group.

The students were taken into custody on suspicion of involvement in the destruction of show glass stands and causing injury to an individual. The aforementioned individuals are deeply concerned about the alleged extortion, and their disapproval is based on the belief that the authorities failed to act in accordance with proper legal procedures.

They claim that authorities demanded a sum of N50,000 from each parent to secure the release of their children.

One parent, speaking anonymously, expressed dismay at the treatment of the students, whom they referred to as juveniles, emphasizing that they were unfairly targeted and innocent of the alleged offense.

Recalling the events, another parent asserted that the students were hastily handed over to the police and subjected to unjust treatment, despite the presence of the school principal during the incident. The parents allege that the authorities’ primary objective appeared to be extracting money from them, rather than addressing the situation fairly.

At the Ughelli ‘A’ Division police station, parents were informed that their children would remain in custody overnight to assess the damages caused and calculate the associated costs. However, upon returning the next day, they were shocked to learn that the authorities demanded an additional N50,000 per student for bail.

Parents expressed frustration, highlighting the financial strain imposed on families, particularly those with limited means. They criticized the lack of due process and fairness in handling the situation, emphasizing that many of the arrested students were innocent bystanders.

Furthermore, parents criticized the actions of the vigilantes, alleging that the arrested students were not directly involved in the incident and were unjustly targeted based solely on their school uniforms.

Amidst the ordeal, some parents resorted to individually securing bail for their children, while others faced challenges raising the required amount. Concerns were raised about the impact on the students’ education, with some parents considering withdrawing their children from the school due to the perceived injustice.

As of now, it remains unclear whether all students have been granted bail, and questions linger regarding the lack of evidence provided by claimants for damages allegedly inflicted by the students.

SouthernVoiceNews

Okuama Tragedy: Army Hunts Down Suspects, Declares Eight Persons Wanted

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In the aftermath of the devastating events in the Okuama community, Delta State, where 17 soldiers lost their lives, the Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

On Thursday, the Nigerian Army officially declared eight individuals wanted in connection with the heinous crime, as announced via its official channels.

The list of wanted persons comprises seven men and one woman, namely: Akevwru Daniel Omotegbono, Prof Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriki, Igoli Ebi (female), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe, and Reuben Baru.

From background of Okuama Tragedy, nvestigations suggest that the alleged mastermind behind the tragic incident, identified as a militant leader, along with his accomplices, is believed to be operating from Igbomotoru, a riverside community situated in the Southern-Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. Despite their fugitive status, efforts to apprehend the suspects have led the Nigerian Army as far as Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, resulting in the recent arrest of three individuals linked to the killings.

The search for the perpetrators has expanded beyond the confines of Delta State, encompassing neighboring states such as Bayelsa and Rivers, with indications of potential extension to other regions if necessary, according to reliable sources.

Speculations surrounding the motives behind the attack extend beyond a mere land dispute between Okuama and Okoloba in Bomadi Local Government Area. Insider accounts hint at underlying tensions related to illegal oil bunkering activities in the region.

Insights from Lt. Col Ali’s endeavors to curb oil theft within his operational jurisdiction further reinforce suspicions of a planned assault on military personnel, raising questions about the true intentions behind the tragedy.

Response from General Musa, CDS:
General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), has unequivocally directed military forces to apprehend the perpetrators, highlighting the connection between the incident and illicit oil activities.

His remarks underscore a determination to recover lost arms and ensure the prosecution of those responsible.

Moreover, the disclosure of a viral video confession by a militant leader implicating himself in the attack serves as a crucial lead in ongoing investigations, prompting calls for cooperation from state governments and local communities in identifying and apprehending the culprits.

The Army’s stance reflects a firm commitment to upholding justice and safeguarding national security, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in combating such acts of violence.

Recall, the funeral rites for the fallen soldiers, who tragically perished in Delta State on March 14, were solemnly observed on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. The poignant ceremony, held at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, paid tribute to the courageous servicemen who sacrificed their lives in service to their nation. With full military honours, they were laid to rest, their valour and dedication forever remembered and honoured.

Vangaurd

Delta State Health Insurance Scheme: Bridging Gaps Through Community-Based Initiatives

The Director General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr Isaac Akpoveta said the Health Insurance Scheme, during his tenure, has embarked on community-based initiatives like the Tertiary Institutions Student Health Insurance Program, the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Program and the Artisan Enrollee Inducement Initiative.

Dr Akpoveta outlined the various initiatives of the commission as well as updates on their progress and plans while interacting with journalists in Asaba recently.

During the interactive session, he gave an overview of the different categories of the programmes and how they are been designed to accommodate every resident in the state.

Outlining the different programmes, the DG said the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative aims to cover all residents of the state while the Artisan Enrollee Inducement Initiative aims to encourage the artisans in the state to be able to key into the scheme through a provision of soft loans that will be sponsored by banks to all artisans in the state.

The Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) aims to encourage the students in all the Tertiary institutions in the state to also have access to quality healthcare. Dr Akpoveta states that the TISHIP offers students the opportunity to receive healthcare services outside the school premises or anywhere within the state.

The Director General also mentioned that the commission has partnered with organizations and banks to improve the healthcare infrastructure and plans for future expansion.

He encouraged every well-to-do individual to assist their families and friends to subscribe to the scheme by helping them with the registration fee. Putting it that they can decide to pay for a certain number of persons in their community as a social responsibility to the community.

According to him “During the initial stages of implementation, our efforts were focused on improving maternal and child health outcomes, which were previously inadequate. Over time, we developed a legal framework, akin to an empire’s decree, to guide our actions.

This vision materialized into a tangible structure, symbolized by the tower erected in February 2016. As we began constructing this structure, it became evident that our government lacked a solid organizational framework. Despite this challenge, our registered hospitals were established across the region, and we commenced the transfer of patients for treatment and care.

“Today, we are proud to report significant progress with just Seven Thousand Naira. Just this week, we surpassed the milestone of providing healthcare services to over 2 million people for relief through our initiatives in the state.

“Our efforts have been recognized and validated, with social media serving as a platform to showcase our programs. We are particularly pleased to note the positive impact on university students, who now benefit from our services through their school fees. This transformation is evident in the increasing number of beneficiaries who have accessed healthcare without financial constraints.

“However, our work does not end here. We are committed to continuous improvement and innovation. To this end, we have initiated various programs, including the adoption of indigent individuals and support for artisans, to ensure equitable access to healthcare. Additionally, we have launched a health insurance scheme tailored for students, further expanding coverage and support.

“These initiatives reflect our dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality, with a focus on marginalized communities. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to positively impact lives and contribute to the well-being of our society. We are grateful for the support and collaboration of our partners and stakeholders, and we welcome any questions or feedback as we strive to achieve our goals. Thank you.”

Delta State’s N7,000 Healthcare Insurance Paves the Way for Quality Care

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The Director General of Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr Isaac Akpoveta said the state government has broken the barriers for healthcare care challenges after taking the bold step towards Universal Healthcare Access with just Seven Thousand Naira (N7,000) for Quality Care services delivery.

He said the state’s Inclusive Health Insurance Schemes are to empower communities with a holistic healthcare approach ranging from Maternal Care to Artisan Support and Student health insurance.

Dr Akpoveta outlined the various healthcare insurance schemes of the commission as well as updates on their progress and plans while interacting with journalists in Asaba recently.

During the interactive session, he gives an overview of the different categories of the programmes and how they are been designed to accommodate every resident in the state.

Outlining the different schemes, the DG said the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative aims to cover all indigenes of the state while the Artisan Enrollee Inducement Initiative aims to encourage the artisans in the state to be able to cue into the scheme through a provision of soft loans that will be sponsored by banks to all artisans in the state.

The Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) aimed to encourage the students in all the Tertiary institutions in the state to also have access to quality healthcare, Dr Akpoveta states that the TISHIP offers students the opportunity to receive healthcare services outside the school premises or anywhere within the state.

The Director General also mentioned that the commission has partnerships with organizations and banks, to improve the healthcare infrastructure and plans for future expansion.

He encouraged every well-to-do individual to assist their families and friends to subscribe to the scheme by helping them with the registration fee. Putting it that they can decide to pay for a certain number of persons in their community as a social responsibility to the community.

According to him “During the initial stages of implementation, our efforts were focused on improving maternal and child health outcomes, which were previously inadequate. Over time, we developed a legal framework, akin to an empire’s decree, to guide our actions.

This vision materialized into a tangible structure, symbolized by the tower erected in February 2016. As we began constructing this structure, it became evident that our government lacked a solid organizational framework. Despite this challenge, our registered hospitals were established across the region, and we commenced the transfer of patients for treatment and care.

“Today, we are proud to report significant progress with just Seven Thousand Naira. Just this week, we surpassed the milestone of providing healthcare services to over 2 million people for relief through our initiatives in the state.

“Our efforts have been recognized and validated, with social media serving as a platform to showcase our programs. We are particularly pleased to note the positive impact on university students, who now benefit from our services through their school fees. This transformation is evident in the increasing number of beneficiaries who have accessed healthcare without financial constraints.

“However, our work does not end here. We are committed to continuous improvement and innovation. To this end, we have initiated various programs, including the adoption of indigent individuals and support for artisans, to ensure equitable access to healthcare. Additionally, we have launched a health insurance scheme tailored for students, further expanding coverage and support.

“These initiatives reflect our dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality, with a focus on marginalized communities. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to positively impact lives and contribute to the well-being of our society. We are grateful for the support and collaboration of our partners and stakeholders, and we welcome any questions or feedback as we strive to achieve our goals. Thank you.”

Sheikh Gumi Under Fire: Government Challenges Banditry Comments

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Renowned Islamic cleric, Sheikh Gumi, finds himself under the scrutiny of the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, as they summon him to address his remarks regarding the activities of bandits in the country.

Minister of Information and Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a briefing at the State House in Abuja on Monday, emphasized that Gumi is subject to the law and warrants questioning, underscoring the government’s stance on maintaining order and security.

Gumi, known for his efforts to engage with bandits and negotiate for the release of hostages, drew attention to the need for a holistic approach to address the banditry crisis.

He likened the situation to the amnesty granted to militants in the Niger Delta region, suggesting that similar measures could be effective in pacifying the bandits. However, he also criticized the military’s aggressive tactics, stating that it has only fueled the conflict further.

Advocating for socio-economic strategies over purely militaristic ones, Gumi emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation with non-kinetic methods taking precedence. Drawing parallels to past conflicts, he highlighted the success of amnesty programs in quelling violence and restoring stability.

Despite his efforts to engage with bandits and seek peaceful resolutions, Gumi’s statements have sparked controversy and led to government intervention, reflecting the complexities of addressing insurgency and extremism in Nigeria.

Davido and Amaju Pinnick Resolve ‘Warri Again’ Dispute

After a period of legal dispute, an amicable resolution has been reached between David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and the Amaju Pinnick-led Brownhill Investment Company Limited.

In October 2023, reports emerged of a lawsuit filed against Davido by Brownhill Investments for alleged breach of contract regarding his performance at the ‘Warri Again’ concert. Despite being paid $94,600, Davido did not fulfill his obligations, prompting legal action seeking N2.3bn in damages.

To settle the matter outside of court, Davido agreed to pay the claimant N30 million within seven days, partially covering legal fees. Additionally, he committed to perform at the upcoming ‘Warri Again’ concert on October 4, 2024, with the $94,500 previously paid considered as payment for the event.

Both parties resolved miscommunication issues and agreed to publicly announce the settlement on social media. Furthermore, Davido’s team withdrew their appeal against the court ruling, solidifying the agreement.

In return, Brownhill Investments will provide a private jet, accommodations, and logistical support for Davido’s performance at the 2024 concert. These terms, once adopted by both parties’ counsel, will be binding and immediately effective.

Constitutional Clash: Rivers State Lawmakers Enacts Law Against Governor’s Wishes

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In a dramatic turn of events, the Rivers State House of Assembly clashed with Governor Siminalayi Fubara as they pushed forward a new legislation without his approval.

The contentious law, known as the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission Amendment Law, was championed by a majority of lawmakers aligned with Minister Nyesom Wike.

During an emergency session, House Majority Leader Hon Major Jack highlighted Governor Fubara’s failure to act on the bill within the stipulated 30-day period. Citing constitutional provisions, he urged the assembly to exercise its authority and override the governor’s inaction.

Speaker Martin Amaewhule called for a debate, leading to a decisive vote in favor of bypassing the governor’s assent. This marked the second instance where Pro-Wike lawmakers defied Governor Fubara’s stance.

The newly enacted law grants the House of Assembly enhanced powers, including the authority to appoint key personnel within the Assembly Service Commission. This move reinforces the assembly’s autonomy and underscores the ongoing power struggle between the legislative and executive branches of Rivers State government.

Nkechi Chukwura Leads Prayer Session for Delta’s Widows and Indigent Women, Alongside Donating Food Items

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As part of the celebration of International Women’s Day, the Executive Assistant To Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Women Mobilization, Hon. Nkechi Chukwurah, has doled out food items and gifts to widows and Indigent women of Delta State.

Also, following the recent unrest in the state occasioned by the killing of soldiers in Okuama axis and protest by okada riders in Asaba, the women also used the opportunity to cry to God in prayers, calling on him to bring peace, safeguard the governor and let his governance be fruitful.

Speaking during the empowerment programme that took place on tuesday in Government House, Asaba, the Governor aide, disclosed that the event was organized to support and encouraged women to invest in themselves and pray for the State.

According to her, the focus of the gathering was to pray for peace to reign in the state, starting with God’s protection over the governor, a fruitful reign, devoid of distraction and bloodbath of any sort.

It was an awesome experience of intercession for the peace and unity of Nigeria, as she urged the women not to relent on their struggles but channel more effort to invest in themselves.

The praise worship styled event anchored on lectures and teachings drawn from the Holy Bible and delivered by Sister Amaka Umeh, who admonished women to increase their prayer abilities and to be able to discern God’s true spirit and messages, saying that “to whom much is given, much is expected.”

The women who came in their numbers also took turn in praying for the MORE Agenda to excel just as they commit the Governor unto God’s hand asking God to direct him in piloting the affairs of the State.

She said, international Women’s day, is celebrated to draw attention to and enhance the focus on women in historical studies. It is a day when women are celebrated for their achievements, irrespective of national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic, or political differences.

” it is obvious that the globe is facing many crises, ranging from geopolitical conflicts to soaring poverty levels and the escalating impacts of climate change. These challenges according to reports, can only be addressed by solutions that empower women. By investing in women, we can spark change and speed the transition towards a healthier, safer, and more equal world for all.

She motivated the women saying,
we should develop a ‘war room’ using our resolve and powers to fight against all those fighting this present administration in order to usher in a truly egalitarian state we all yearn for. This pivotal step must be taken.

She said, the present situation of chaos, lawlessness and unrest being experienced in Nigeria can only be turned around through fervent prayers to God Almighty and faith in the Holy teachings.

While espousing on the significant role of women in the Holy Bible who sucessfully restored God’s presence in the lives of the people in order to safeguard the society, through dedicated and sustained prayers of faith to God, she advised women not to be complacent in exercising the motherhood.

“We’ve endured enough with the devil. Now is the time to defeat evil in our society.”

Also to make this enduring as well as bear the expected fruit, let us commence first by restructuring ourselves as a people. No matter how beautiful a policy appears, no matter how strong an institution tends to be, we always have deconstructionists who can undermine it. Bearing this in mind, our primary concern should be to work out modalities for instituting a reorientation plan that will erase the unpatriotic tendencies in us as well as usher in a robust state. she stressed.

The recipients expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the convener, appreciating her for remembering the women, most especially the Widows popularly called ‘Jesus wives’.

Speaking with one of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Wisdom Ekuruemu, she said, ” Our hearts are filled with joy as we did not expect the gesture. Receiving the cash gifts, Wisdom Ekuruemu was filled with tears of joy that he could not express fully his words of appreciation but thanked the convener for the timely intervention.

At the end of the section, she gave the women food items and other household items in commemoration of international women’s day adding that, another edition of the event will be communicated to the public.

IPC to Lead Discussion on Rebuilding Trust in Nigerian Electoral System

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The International Press Centre (IPC), based in Lagos, Nigeria, lead implementing partner of Component 4 (Support to Media) under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase 2 (EUSDGN II) project, announces its upcoming major forum.

Scheduled for Monday, March 25, 2024, this event will convene about 100 electoral stakeholders to address the critical theme of “Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Processes, Institutions and Elections.”

Following the success of the inaugural session held in Abuja, this subsequent edition of the media and civil society-driven forum aims to further stimulate meaningful discussions on how to reinforce commitments and approaches to multi-stakeholder collaboration for enhancing confidence in electoral processes. The initiative is also being embarked upon ahead of the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States later this year and preparatory activities towards the 2027 general elections.

The forum seeks to gather submissions and recommendations on how diverse stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Media, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Law Enforcement Agencies, Political Party Leaders, Youth, Women, and the Public, can effectively fulfil their roles and collaborate to enhance the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria.

Prof. Isaac Albert of the University of Ibadan will present the lead paper at the event, which will be chaired by Prof. Okey Ibeanu, a former INEC National Commissioner. The event will receive special remarks from the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and EU Ambassador Samuela Isopi, among others. The event shall also be moderated by renowned broadcaster, Mr. Ambrose Somide of Raypower FM.

Mr Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of IPC, in a statement, emphasised the importance of transparent elections in bolstering citizens’ trust in the electoral system, particularly in developing democracies like Nigeria. He highlighted the correlation between encountering obstacles during elections and reduced confidence in elected officials, often leading to participation in activities opposing the ruling regime.

In anticipation of the forthcoming collaboration with key election stakeholders, especially the media, Mr Arogundade reiterated the commitment to engaging in proposals and contributions aimed at enhancing public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system. This collaboration seeks to foster constructive discussions, address challenges, and work towards improving the overall integrity and transparency of elections in Nigeria.

Participation in the dialogue is also expected from various sectors, including the leadership of INEC, Political Parties represented by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), key institutions such as the National Orientation Agency and Security Agencies, as well as representatives from traditional and religious bodies, CSOs, the European Union (EU) Delegation, EUSDGN Partners, Labour Unions, and Community Leaders.

This initiative is supported by the European Union. For media inquiries or further information, please contact Olutoyin Ayoade, Communications Officer, IPC, tayoade@ipcng.org.

About IPC: The International Press Centre (IPC) is a non-governmental organization committed to promoting media freedom, democracy, and transparency in Nigeria.

About EUSDGN II: The European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase 2 (EUSDGN II) project aims to strengthen democratic governance, accountability, and electoral processes in Nigeria through various interventions and partnerships.

WhatsApp Improves Chat Accessibility: Users Can Now Pin Up to Three Messages for Swift Retrieval

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WhatsApp users are now empowered to enhance their conversations by pinning up to three crucial messages for durations spanning from 24 hours to 30 days.

These pinned messages transform prominent banners, ensuring effortless accessibility and heightened visibility.

According to the latest update, when multiple messages warrant pinning, the banner efficiently consolidates them, displaying the total count while prioritizing the most recent pin. Navigating through these pinned messages is simplified, with a mere tap on the banner revealing subsequent pinned content.

The pinning process varies across different devices. Android users utilize a long press followed by a selection from the ‘More options’ menu to specify the pin duration. Similarly, iPhone users execute a long press, navigate to ‘More options’, and select the desired pin duration. Meanwhile, Web and Desktop users locate the target message, access the menu, opt for ‘Pin message’, and designate the pin duration accordingly.

Unpinning messages is a straightforward task, requiring a simple tap followed by the selection of ‘Unpin’ to revert their status.

Within group settings, administrators wield authority to authorize members to pin messages. Through adjustments in group settings, admins can regulate who possesses the privilege of pinning messages within the group.

Upon pinning a message within a group chat, a system-generated message disseminates the pin event, notifying all participants of the pinned message and the identity of the individual responsible for its pinning.

Despite these advanced functionalities, certain limitations persist. Participants who join the group post-pinning, those who have cleared their chat history, or those who deleted the message before pinning will be unable to access the pinned content.

Rural Electrification Fund Boss, Doris Uboh Declares End to Failed Projects Era: Firm Action Ahead

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The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is set to turn the tide on past failures, assures Executive Director of Rural Electrification Fund (REF), Hon Engr Doris Uboh.

Addressing stakeholders in the power industry during an interactive session, Hon Engr Doris Uboh emphasized the importance of undertaking projects within one’s capacity and expertise.

Expressing readiness to collaborate with local stakeholders, Hon Uboh criticized the reliance on external solutions, advocating for Nigerian-led initiatives to address power sector challenges.

“I’m heartened by the shared passion among us to make Nigeria work,” she remarked, highlighting the detrimental effects of foreign interventions and the potential of Nigerian expertise to solve power issues.

Pointing to the widespread impact of power instability, Hon Uboh stressed the government’s commitment to resolving these issues promptly.

Highlighting the importance of upholding contractual agreements, Hon Uboh reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards project failures, promising support to developers facing challenges within REA’s jurisdiction.

“Efficiency and accountability are non-negotiable,” she asserted, warning against overcommitment and emphasizing the agency’s determination to ensure project success.

In attendance were notable stakeholders including Mr Alapa Hyacinth, Mr Oke Ogbaudu, Engr Canice Emeka Obi, Engr Donald Igudia, Dr Sunday Orishedere, Ms Laura Ogbareno Buwa-Udah, Pastor Norbert Akachukwu Sochukwudinma, and Gladys Agada.

Delta Assembly Calls for Statewide Styrofoam Ban

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Worried by the inherent health and environmental hazards associated with the Styrofoam also known as polystyrene, the Delta State House of Assembly, DTHA, has called for its ban in the State.

The House in a resolution adopted at plenary, presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor, called on the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to ban the use of the product in Delta State which they noted, is hazardous to human life as well as poses great danger to the environment.

The resolution was sequel to a motion to that effect, sponsored on the floor of the House by the Minority Leader and Member Representing Uvwie Constituency, Hon Edafe Emakpor.

Hon Emakpor in the motion, urged the house to call on the State Governor to direct the ministries of Health, Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources as well as other relevant government Agencies to immediately prohibit the usage of Styrofoam in the state.

The Lawmaker explained that the prohibition of styrofoam which is a petroleum based plastic, made from styrene monomer, and used as cups, plates and other form of packaging for food and beverages in homes, hotels, restaurants, fast foods outlets and social gatherings, will prevent an impending health and environmental disaster.

Emakpor in the motion further called for an engagement of manufacturers and distributors of styrofoam in the State to produce an alternative disposable paper cups and plates, even as he called for the constitution of a task force to monitor and enforce compliance.

He also stressed the need for the Ministry of Information and the Delta State Bureau for Orientation to sensitize and educate Deltans on the dangers associated with the use of styrofoam.

The Lawmaker added that it was the primary duty of government to ensure welfare and safety of the people as enshrined in Section 14 (2B) of the 1999 constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria as altered, emphasizing that the Delta Assembly must live up to expectations.

“The issue of public health must be given the attention it deserves. Styrofoam also known as polystyrene has scientifically proven to be hazardous in all manifestations.

“There is an urgent need for the State Governor, His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to direct ban of its use in Delta State.

“I therefore urge you my dear colleagues to support this motion, for this House to call on the Governor to prohibit the use of Styrofoam in the state to save lives as well as prevent impending environmental disaster”, Emakpor emphasized.

The Deputy Speaker, Arthur Akpowowo, Majority Leader, Emeka Nwaobi, Deputy Majority Leader, Festus Okoh, Chief Whip, Perkins Umukoro as well as members representing Okpe and Ndokwa West, James Augoye and Charles Emetulu, stressed on the negative implication of styrofoam on the overall well being of humans and environment.

Other Lawmakers who spoke including the Member Representing Isoko South 2, Ferguson Onwo, Oshimili North, Frank Ensenwa, Warri South 1, Austin Uroye, Warri South 2, Benson Obire and Ughelli North 2, Spencer Ohwofa, said the chemical contained in it poses cancerous substance, hence the need for its immediate ban to save lives.

Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, directed the Clerk of the House, Otto Aghoghophia as well as the Assembly Committee on Legisl Compliance to ensure compliance with the resolution.

Okuama/Okoloba: UPU Youth Wing And IYC Presidents Meet Calls For Caution And Restraint

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Activist Blessed Oghenero Ughere, National President of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Youth Wing Worldwide and Sir Johnathan Lokpobiri, Snr, National President of the Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, today met in Yenagoa in Bayelsa State in finding lasting peace and unity among the Urhobo and Ijaw Nations in Niger Delta region, called for caution and restraint.

The duo leaders regretted and condoled with the Nigeria Army and innocent citizens who loss their lives in the heinous crime and gruesome murdered of four army officers and thirteen soldiers, and civilians at Okuama community in Ughelli South LGA of Delta State.

They called for a total caution and restraint of the military reprisal on the two Urhobo and Ijaw communities, while manhunt for the suspects are collaboratively done.

Also, Activist Ughere and Sir Olokpobiri retaliated on the peaceful coexistence of the Urhobo and Ijaw Nations as aged long relationship and sue for a peaceful resolutions to the Okuama and Okoloba communities communal clash.

“There is no war between the Urhobo and the Ijaw nations in Delta State, although there is a little boundary misunderstanding between the Okuama and Okoloba communities but not in a war situation, that is the reason we are here to talk because it is only in Animal kingdom they war without talking to each other, we are here to engage ourselves on a peaceful talk to advance our friendship and promote genuine peace among our people, let join hands together to speak for caution and restraint to avoid more loss of lives and properties.

“It is appalling that, our society today is depending more on war welfare instrumentality than intellectual means of resolution.

“I remember when Warri was the oil business hub in the Niger Delta region, the Urhobos, Ijaws Itsekiri, Isokos were beneficials of the Oil boom before relocating to Lagos, so let work together for a genuine peace so that developments and investments can continue to strive in our region”, said Olokpobiri

On his part, Activist Blessed Oghenero Ughere he said, “the Urhobos and Ijaw have aged relationships and intermarried, it will interest you to know that 30% of the Okuama indigenes married to Okoloba same of Okoloba community too.

“Precious lives have been cut short in this avoidable crisis and collateral lost incurred, we must speak with one voice in unity to end this crisis and work together for the lasting peace of our region”.

Delta Lawmakers Push for Styrofoam Ban Amid Health Concerns

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Concerned about the health risks and environmental dangers posed by Styrofoam, also known as polystyrene, legislators in the Delta State House of Assembly have urged for its prohibition in the state.

During a session chaired by Speaker Rt. Hon Emomotimi Guwor, the assembly passed a resolution urging Governor Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to enforce a ban on Styrofoam, citing its detrimental effects on human health and the environment.

The motion, spearheaded by Minority Leader Hon Edafe Emakpor, emphasized the urgency of the matter and called for collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure compliance.

Emakpor highlighted the need for alternative packaging materials and proposed the formation of a task force to oversee the transition. He also stressed the importance of public education to raise awareness about the risks associated with Styrofoam usage.

Echoing Emakpor’s concerns, other lawmakers emphasized the government’s responsibility to safeguard public health and the environment. They underscored the carcinogenic properties of Styrofoam and urged swift action to mitigate its impact.

Speaker Guwor instructed the assembly clerk and the Legislative Compliance Committee to ensure the implementation of the resolution, signaling the assembly’s commitment to addressing this pressing issue.

Betrayal Unveiled: Married Woman Fakes Kidnapping, Allegedly Conspires and Shares Ransom with Secret Lover

In a shocking turn of events, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command recently apprehended a woman for orchestrating her kidnapping and extorting money from her husband, with whom she shares a secret lover.

Revealing the details, Commissioner of Police, Bennett Igweh, disclosed that the suspect, pregnant at the time of her arrest, was brought to their attention by her husband, Chiedozie Ubah.

According to Igweh, the husband reported to the police on March 11, stating that his wife had left for a hospital appointment but never returned home. Subsequently, the husband received a distressing call from his wife, claiming to have been kidnapped and demanding a ransom of N2 million for her release.

In desperation to secure his wife’s freedom, Mr. Ubah complied with the ransom demand, transferring the specified amount into his wife’s account as instructed. Upon reuniting with his wife, he escorted her to the police station to report the purported abduction.

However, during police interrogation, the truth emerged as the woman confessed to colluding with a man named Walter Ezeala, who resided in their neighborhood, to stage the fake kidnapping. Shockingly, it was revealed that the woman’s lover, Walter, had received N800,000 of the ransom money, while she pocketed the remaining N1.2 million.

The police statement further detailed the recovery of cash, ATM cards, and phones from the perpetrators, underscoring the extent of their deceit and betrayal.

This incident sheds light on the complexities of human relationships and the lengths some individuals are willing to go for personal gain, even at the expense of their loved ones’ trust and well-being.

Abia Schools Stripped of WAEC Privileges Due to Malpractice

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has recently taken measures to uphold academic integrity and improve educational standards by taking action against multiple secondary schools in Abia state that were found to be involved in examination malpractice.

The Commissioner for Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, conveyed this disconcerting news during a press briefing held in Umuahia, the state capital.

Professor Uche expressed concern over the situation and emphasized the importance of maintaining the state’s reputation and integrity in the education sector.

While the specifics surrounding the affected schools were not disclosed, it was noted that a significant portion of them were privately owned. The state reiterated its stance on deterring such misconduct by revoking the operational licenses of the implicated schools.

The commissioner also underlined the government’s support for WAEC’s decision, emphasizing its role in curbing unethical practices and safeguarding academic standards from the encroachment of unscrupulous individuals.

Prior to this development, the state has taken action against some of the erring schools, shutting them down due to their recurrent unethical behavior. Despite warnings, these institutions persisted in compromising academic integrity.

Moving forward, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed initiatives spearheaded by the state government to revitalize the education sector.

He said the Governor had authorized the immediate renovation of numerous primary and secondary schools across the state, aiming to create conducive learning environments. Adding that plans were underway to establish model schools in strategic locations, ensuring equitable access to quality education.

Recognizing the financial burdens faced by students, he added that the government also approved the disbursement of bursaries to law undergraduates, alleviating their educational expenses amidst economic challenges.

Detailing the renovation plan, the Commissioner for Education outlined comprehensive upgrades for the selected schools, including provisions for staff quarters and enhanced security measures. This initiative symbolized the administration’s commitment to education as a cornerstone of societal progress.

With a phased approach to school renovations, the state government reaffirmed its dedication to revitalizing the education sector, ensuring that all public schools receive the necessary facelift to foster a conducive learning environment for students across Abia state.

President Tinubu Bars Foreign Trips for Federal Employees Amid Economic Hardship

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recently implemented a temporary ban on foreign travels for public officials employed by the federal government, effective April 1, in response to the prevalent economic challenges facing the nation.

A memorandum titled “Presidential Directive to Suspend Public Funded Foreign Trips By Government Officials” was issued by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and addressed to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The memorandum emphasized the urgent need to address the economic realities confronting the country and stressed the importance of ensuring that government officials remain focused on their core responsibilities amidst these challenges.

The directive outlines the suspension of publicly funded international trips for a period of three months initially. The President expressed concerns over the escalating travel expenses incurred by government ministries, departments, and agencies, emphasizing the imperative of responsible fiscal management.

This move follows public outcry sparked by reports of government officials planning a workshop in the United Kingdom. Against the backdrop of Nigeria’s economic difficulties, exacerbated by rising prices and foreign exchange shortages, the government aims to implement cost-cutting measures while maintaining effective governance.

To ensure that such travels are deemed necessary for official duties, officials are now required to obtain presidential approval at least two weeks prior to any overseas trip funded by the government.

The memorandum concluded with a request for the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to disseminate the directive to all relevant government entities.

President Tinubu had previously reduced the size of his delegation and encouraged similar measures among his team. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to prudent fiscal management without compromising its functions.

Residents Fear Displacement as Military Moves to Establish Barracks in Okuama

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The residents of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, were taken aback as the Nigerian military intensified its efforts to clear houses in the area. With the arrival of three swamp buggies transported on barges from the Bomadi axis of River Forcados, the demolition process accelerated.

As reported by Vanguard, a community insider revealed that the machines brought in were swiftly deployed to clear nearly half of the community. However, amidst the demolition activities, rumors circulated that the military had plans to construct barracks on the land of Okuama community.

According to the source, it seemed inevitable that the army would establish barracks in Okuama, prompting the meticulous clearing and evacuation of debris from the area. The anticipation grew as whispers suggested that the Chief of Army Staff would soon visit Okuama to inaugurate the barracks project.

DNA Shock: Nigerian Man Discovers Son Not Biologically His Own

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A Nigerian man named Steven Opeyemi Moses recently shared his shocking discovery that his son was not biologically his own.

It was gathered that Moses appeared on a TV courtroom show in Nigeria to discuss how his son was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at the age of two.

Moses, who identified himself as the child’s father, explained that his genotype was AA while his spouse’s was AS. However, despite their genetic makeup, their son was found to be an SS carrier.

During the televised hearing, the judge, having ordered a DNA test, revealed the results which showed a 0% probability of paternity, indicating that Moses was not the biological father.

In an update shared by Moses on his social media account (@SteveMosoes), he expressed his disbelief at the situation. He recounted the timeline of his marriage and the birth of his son, highlighting the financial strain caused by the child’s illness.

Despite his confusion and efforts to understand how their genetic combination could lead to an SS child, Moses found himself at a loss. He described seeking advice from healthcare professionals and attempting to reconcile the situation through prayer and fasting.

However, Moses also revealed that his wife had refused to undergo a maternity test, adding further uncertainty to the situation. Despite the challenges, Moses remained determined to navigate the difficult circumstances surrounding his son’s health and parentage.

Naija News

Davido Fires Back: Issues Strong Warning to Industry Peers Amidst Criticism

The subject of this analysis is Davido, who recently shared a firm warning with his fellow artists, Burna Boy, Wizkid, and BNXN, on his verified Instagram account.

Davido’s statement was issued in response to recent criticism and clashes with his peers. After BNXN, previously known as Buju, challenged Davido’s musical abilities, tensions rose and eventually led Davido to unfollow BNXN and delete a tweet hinting at a collaboration. However, BNXN has apologized for the controversial comments.

Davido’s troubled relationship with Burna Boy, BNXN’s former boss, has been well-documented, with both artists publicly exchanging barbs. Despite this, Davido remains resolute, emphasizing his determination to rise above the negativity. Even fans of his industry rival, Wizkid, have added to the chorus of criticism over the years. However, Davido refuses to be deterred, maintaining his focus on his craft.

Davido finds solace in his faith and perseverance amidst the turmoil, acknowledging that despite concerted efforts to discredit him, he remains unwavering in his commitment to success. Looking ahead, Davido promises that 2024 will mark a turning point, declaring it the “YEAR OF THE BEAST.” With confidence and determination, he assures his fans of upcoming hit songs, urging them to “FIX UR SPEAKERS” in anticipation of his musical onslaught.

In his Instagram post, he wrote; “They all come together to discredit me … but God working overtime! THE 2024 YEAR OF THE BEAST!! 🔊🌎🔥 FIX UR SPEAKERS WE DEY COME!!”

Davido’s unwavering resolve serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to overcome obstacles in his path, reaffirming his status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. This demonstration of tenacity and perseverance in the face of adversity is inspiring and serves as a valuable lesson for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike.

Solidstar Claims ‘One In A Million’ Remix with 2baba Inspires PSquare’s ‘Possibility’

Renowned Nigerian artist, Solidstar, reflects on his profound impact on the music industry, attributing his 2009 hit song ‘One In A Million’ as a catalyst for a new era in Nigerian music.

In a candid conversation on the Honest Bunch podcast, the 35-year-old singer, Joshua Iniyezo, shared insights into his journey, acknowledging his role in shaping the musical landscape.

Despite grappling with personal challenges, including a battle with drug addiction, Solidstar’s musical legacy remains undeniable. He revealed that his distinctive style often led many to mistake him for Ghanaian, underscoring the uniqueness he brought to the scene.

Solidstar’s influence extended beyond accolades, as he unveiled the ripple effect of ‘One In A Million,’ citing its remix with Tubaba as the inspiration behind PSquare’s hit track ‘Possibility,’ featuring the same iconic artist.

Reflecting on his breakthrough, Solidstar remarked, “It was ‘One In A Million’ that paved the way for me in the music industry. I won the Best New Artist at the Nigerian Music Video Awards with the song. Many even thought I was Ghanaian, they didn’t know I’m Nigerian because my style then was different.”

He added, “The song changed the Nigerian music industry. It came with its unique style. I slowed the tempo down and everyone started copying that pattern.”

Solidstar’s narrative underscores not only his musical prowess but also his enduring influence as a trailblazer, inspiring a generation of artists and reshaping the sonic landscape of Nigerian music.

Watch the Podcast:

Blessing CEO Champions Polygamy: Defends Tradition and Honor

In a bold declaration, Blessing Okoro, also known as Blessing CEO, a stirring controversial figure and self-proclaimed relationship expert, expressed her staunch support for polygamy.

According to Blessing, polygamy carries with it a sense of dignity and honor, qualities that she finds admirable. She criticized women who oppose polygamy, labeling them as selfish and narrow-minded.

As a divorcee herself, Blessing made it clear that even if she were married, she would stand by her husband, even in the event of him having a child outside their marriage.

During a recent episode of her television program, “Moments With Blessing CEO,” she openly professed her admiration for actor Yul Edochie, a prominent advocate of polygamy. Blessing commended Edochie’s decision to marry multiple wives, viewing it as a sign of strength and virtue, referring to him as an “odogwu” (a term of respect in Igbo culture).

In her view, polygamy is not just acceptable but preferable, reflecting her unique perspective on relationships and marriage.

Delta State Claims Third Position at STI Expo 2024

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Delta State has recently celebrated a significant achievement at the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Expo 2024, where they secured the third position among several other states in Nigeria.

The achievement not only showcased the state’s commitment to innovation but also reflected Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s leadership and vision in promoting technological advancement in the state.

The delegation that represented Delta State at the STI Expo 2024 was carefully selected by the State Ministry of Science and Technology, under the guidance of the State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Odinigwe Daniel Odigie. The team presented a diverse range of innovative solutions, which were sourced from research institutions and tech hubs located across the state.

Dr Odigie expressed his appreciation for the dedication and ingenuity of the Delta State delegation and credited their success to Governor Oborevwori’s unwavering support for technological advancement.

He emphasized the significant role that the current administration has played in creating an environment that is conducive to innovation and development.

Odigie said the achievements at the STI Expo 2024 underscore Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to the MORE Agenda, putting it that the state will continue to lead in technological advancement while addressing the needs of the people and contributing to Delta State’s socio-economic growth.

However, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwurah, Director of Science and Technology Development in the Delta State Ministry, accepted the award on behalf of Commissioner Odigie.

In her acceptance speech, she highlighted the need for support for the commercialization of Delta’s inventions and advocated for an enabling environment to facilitate their growth. Adding that the STI Expo 2024 was a significant milestone for Delta State and a testament to its commitment to innovation and progress.

The STI Expo 2024 was held at Eagle Square in Abuja from March 11th to March 15th, 2024, where it brought together representatives from Ministries of Science and Technology nationwide, alongside leaders from science institutions and technology industries. The theme of the Expo was “STI: Solution to National Economic Challenges,” which aimed to showcase indigenous technology that drives progress in Nigeria.

Abia House of Assembly Takes Bold Step to Halt Pension Payments to Past Governors

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The Abia House of Assembly made a significant decision on Tuesday, passing a bill aimed at halting the payment of pensions to former governors and their deputies within the state.

The bill, titled “A Bill (H.A.B 11:) for a Law to Revoke The Abia State Governors and Deputy Governors Pensions Law No 4 of 2001 and for other Matters connected in addition to that,” was introduced by Mr. Uchanna Okoro, the Majority Leader representing Arochukwu State Constituency.

Following its first and second readings, consideration at the committee of the whole, and final reading during the day’s plenary, Speaker Mr. Emmanuel Emeruwa announced the passage of the bill.

Commending members on the decision, Emeruwa highlighted that the bill would curb the state’s expenditure on governance and redirect resources towards development initiatives.

Once assented to by the governor, the bill will be referred to as the “Abia State Governors and Deputy Governor’s (Repeal) Law 2024” and will come into effect immediately, as declared by the Speaker.

With the enactment of this bill, former governors and their deputies will no longer receive pension benefits upon the expiration of their tenures.

The move comes amidst ongoing controversies over the lavish lifestyles and perks enjoyed by former governors and deputies, with many questioning the necessity of such benefits.

While some states have taken steps to repeal similar laws, others have been slower to act, sparking debates over the need for reform in governance and pension policies.

Violent Okada Protest in Asaba: 8 Nabbed, 53 Bikes Confiscated by Police

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Police in Asaba have apprehended eight individuals and seized 53 motorcycles following a crackdown on defiant Okada riders who allegedly engaged in a violent protest on Monday.

The demonstration, sparked by perceived mistreatment from the State Taskforce enforcing restrictions on late-night motorcycle operations, led to chaos within Asaba’s streets.

It was gathered that the Okada riders took to the streets of Asaba in Delta State, to protest the deaths of their colleagues at the hands of the task force. Angered by the loss, the protesters blocked major roads and markets, venting their frustrations by damaging properties.

The demonstration, which commenced early on Monday, saw businesses in areas like the Midwifery Market in Okpanam and the Delta State Post Primary Education Board along Summit Road, Asaba, targeted by the protesters.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, confirmed that two motorcycle riders lost their lives on Sunday during enforcement actions by the State Task Force.

Acting swiftly, a team led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Department of Operations, ACP Efeizomor George, under the directive of Commissioner CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, intervened to restore peace.

Emphasizing the detrimental effects of such disturbances on the state’s economic progress, CP Abaniwonda urged the public to maintain calm and respect the law. Assuring the community of the Police Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, he underscored the importance of fostering a secure environment for all residents of Delta State.

Nigerian Army Raid Sparks Bloodshed in Bayelsa: Homes Torched, Lives Lost

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Nigerian Army troops launched a morning raid on the Igbomotoru community in Bayelsa State, setting ablaze several houses and reportedly causing the deaths of approximately 11 individuals.

The assault, conducted by soldiers arriving in five gunboats, targeted three residences suspected to harbor a militant leader linked to the recent killing of military personnel in Delta State.

Ayibakipreye Solomon Clarkson Suobo, a community leader, in a statement urgently appealed to President Bola Tinubu and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri for intervention. He stressed the disproportionate response, emphasizing that while condemning the prior attack on military personnel, the current military action unjustly targets innocent civilians in a community distant from the site of the prior incident.

Suobo implored all relevant authorities to safeguard lives and property in Igbomotoru 2, highlighting the community’s vulnerability to the ongoing siege. He called upon fellow Nigerians to support their cause and urged the military to adopt a more nuanced approach, emphasizing dialogue over aggression in dealing with unarmed civilians.

The statement reads “I am calling on all security chiefs in Nigeria to please kindly intervene to save lives and property in Igbomotoru 2 community which started about 8am this morning, information reaching me as the CTC member representing the good and peaceful of Igbomotoru ward 6 is very unpleasant. The military is a very trained organisation whose responsibility is to defend its citizens rather than destroy them.

“To buttress further, the news about the brutal killing of military personnel a few days in Delta State is a condemnable act but my current concern is however the intelligence reports are linked. There was need for a better approach rather than attacking and killing innocent indigent people of my community, Igbomotoru 2 that is situated thousands of miles away from Delta State where the gruesome murder of military personnel occurred.

“Please let all agencies of peace in Nigeria arise now to save my peolple now because my community Igbomotoru is under siege as at this moment. Please let all peace loving Nigerians come to our aid, we are being oppressed innocently without an explanation.

“Please I am appealing to the military to apply the carrot and stick approach which is the recommended practice world over when dealing with unarmed civilians.”

Recall that residents of Okuama in the Ughelli South local government area Delta State fled their homes on Friday as soldiers seized control of the area, reportedly setting some houses on fire in retaliation for the killing of 17 soldiers, including senior officers.

According to Channels Television’s report on Saturday, soldiers from the Joint Task Force, led by Major General Jamal Abdusalam, recovered 17 bodies of the soldiers in the Okuama community. Some of the corpses were found decapitated, while others had their stomachs ripped open, with vital organs missing.

The bodies of the commanding officer and two majors were discovered at the NDDC jetty in the community, while others were scattered along the riverbank and on land.

Oyibode Seeks Proper Utilisation Of Coal Deposits In Delta Community

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In a bid to ensure proper utilization of abundant coal deposits in the Ugboba community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode has visited the area, saying he is interested in seeing that the mining activities are done in an ecologically friendly manner while benefitting all stakeholders, including the host community.

Oyibode disclosed this on Monday during a working visit to a coal mining company in the Ugboba Community in Aniocha North Local Government Area in the state.

Oyibode during a stopover at the palace of the traditional ruler of Ugboba, HRM, Obi Ezedimbu III, urged the host community to take advantage of the ministry’s intermediary role whenever the need arises, just as he informed the people that the administration of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as a responsive government, is supportive of the aspirations of host communities for a mutually beneficial exploration of the mineral resources in their land.

Oyibode assured the mining company, Mosra Energy Limited of the state government’s supportive role in the industry, including the creation of peace and security and enhancing the Ease of Doing Business for both local and foreign investors in line with Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. Agenda.

Oyibode while inspecting the mining site, comprising the coal pit and other areas, wanted to know when the coal-powered power plant promised by the company will come on stream, as well as some indigenes of the host community at the management level and to what extent they have discharged their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the community.

The site manager, Mr. Ishola Emmanuel said that the power plant project will soon be up and running, while the Commissioner said they should feel free to ask for the ministry’s support where necessary.

On employment, Ishola said the high-ranking staff, including himself, were sent from the company’s corporate head office in Abuja, but that the existing vacancies for a medical doctor, nurse and lab scientist will be filled from within the community. Oyibode urged the company to keep to its word as the ministry is serious about the adoption of local content in recruitment.

Speaking on its CSR initiatives, Ishola said the company recently constructed a borehole in the community to ease water supply, among others insisting that it is not responsible for the poor state of the stream water, saying that “the company does not generate any wastes, besides, the mining site is far away from the river.”

Alongside the commissioner were the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Frank Omoko, Directors and staff of the Delta State Ministry of Oil and Gas.

It was gathered that Mosra Energy Limited has a coal mining license covering four communities, stretching 11.6 km of land, but is presently working at the Ugboba mining site.

The Honourable Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode (JP), the Permanent Secretary, Directors of the ministry and staff of Mosra Energy Limited at the coal mining site at Ugboba community.

Why l Moved Motion For Adoption of Innocent Esewezie For Second Term as Oshimili North Council Chair – Ndukwe

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The tangible developmental strides of the immediate past Chairman of Oshimili North local government council, Hon Innocent Esewezie, coupled with the zoning policy of the local government, have been adduced as the reasons behind the motion for his adoption for a second term in office, come the next council polls.

Making this clarification while speaking with newsmen in Asaba, a one-time Chairman of the local government, Hon Louis Ndukwe, said this clarification has become necessary given perceived misgivings over the morality of the adoption.

Ndukwe, who moved the motion for the adoption of Esewezie, when he paid a “thank you” visit to the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party ( PDP) led by Chief Nduka Ogude, recently, said Hon innocent Esewezie deserved to continue in office, judging by the far-reaching inroads he made in not only the area of infrastructure but also that of carefully thought out policies which have in no small measure brought sanity to the local government administration of Oshimili North.

Going further, the former Council Boss said, “By the zoning formula in the local government, since the House of Assembly position has gone to the North North axis, that is illah, it is only fair and equitable for the Council Chairmanship position to remain in abuse axis. Having seen what the man ( Esewezie) has done in the past three years at the saddle, the question, naturally, will be, do we continue to support him or halt him? The overwhelming response indicated that Esewezie deserves to continue his development strides”.

Hon Louis Ndukwe, who recently returned to the PDP, from the APC, where he contested for the Oshimili north state constituency House of Assembly seat at last year’s general elections, used the opportunity to calm frayed nerves, saying his decision to return to the PDP is borne out of the need to ensure Oshimili north gets her fair share of democratic dividends

He therefore urged all Oshimili northerners within the PDP family to join hands together to make the local government an envy of all, through the entrenchment of ideals that translate into peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and inclusive growth for all.

Delta Reads Riot Act To LPG Retailers In Warri

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DTSG Cautions LPG Against the Effects of Operating in Residential Areas

By Oreva Omojefe

Delta State Government has warned Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) retailers in Warri, the commercial nerve centre of the state to stop the sale of cooking gas in residential areas or have such outlets forcibly removed.


The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Frank Omoko who represented the Commissioner of Oil and Gas, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode, met with the operators recently in Warri. As part of the sensitization, a training programme was provided for the operators with the theme Safety: Hallmark of LGP Retailing in Delta State.

Speaking during the event at Government House Annex, Edjeba, Warri, Omoko said the ministry monitoring team will descend on those found culpable, while the operators were given some safety tips such as avoiding cylinder-to-cylinder refill, ensuring proper ventilation in and around LPG facilities, avoiding phone calls around LPG facilities, installation of fire extinguishers in LPG retail shops and homes, among others.

The Permanent Secretary said the warning became necessary to forestall gas explosions in the state, adding that past sensitizations helped to reduce cases of fire incidents in LPG retailing outlets in the state.

The state government embarked on this program for the safety of Deltans. We are continuously striving under the MORE agenda to create and maintain a conducive environment for oil and gas businesses to thrive, Omoko said.


The Managing Director of Ewosky Consult, Mr Ewoma Eberebor said they would partner with the state government to set up Micro Distributing Centers (MDCs) to expand their business, stating that it would help reduce the number of LPG outlets operating in residential areas.


Eberebor appealed to the government to put up initiatives to curb the problem of dirty forms of cooking in the state, adding that Delta State loses about 2700 women yearly as a result of using dirty fuel.


He said setting up MDCs would help LPG retailers detect expired cylinders, adding that it is dangerous to use expired cylinders and not safe.

Mrs Awotula Patricia, speaking on behalf of the operators, promised that they would adhere to the regulations. He said they are ready to partner with the state government to commence Micro Distributing Centers (MDCs) to reduce the number of LPG outlets.


The LPG operators at the event commended the state government for the initiative, saying they learnt a lot from the training.

Professor Builder Achuenu Advocates Standards at Nigeria Builders Day

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The Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi Uku, Professor Builder Emmanuel Achuenu, emphasized the pivotal role of builders in national development, stressing the importance of upholding standards in construction projects.

Addressing participants at the 2024 Nigeria Builders Day event held at Professor Chike Edozien’s Secretariat, Professor Builder Achuenu underscored the necessity for maintaining quality standards throughout the entire process of building structures.

Speaking on the theme “The Role of Builders in Sustainable Housing Delivery,” the esteemed building expert highlighted the significance of adhering to standard practices from the planning phase to the completion of construction projects.

Achuenu emphasized the critical need for thorough scrutiny of the Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and strict adherence to building regulations to ensure the integrity of building plans and prevent potential damages.

Highlighting the multifaceted nature of the building, Professor Achuenu described it as a discipline, a process, and a physical product, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of architects, structural engineers, and cost advisors in the construction process.

Also addressing the audience was Architect J. S. Apodor, the Director of Maintenance at Delta State Ministry of Housing, who discussed the impact of high building material costs on sustainable housing delivery.

Apodor stressed that the exorbitant prices of building materials pose a significant challenge to housing development, hindering the realization of government objectives to provide affordable housing for citizens.

He suggested government intervention measures such as lifting bans on imports and establishing new industries to manufacture building materials locally, thereby reducing costs and promoting sustainable housing development.

The Builders Day event in Delta State emphasized the importance of adhering to global best practices and committing to ethical standards in the construction industry.

Prominent figures in attendance comprised Housing Commissioner Hon Godknows Angele, Builder Roy Ononye, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Builders and Bldr Samuel Omiyi alongside other distinguished guests, showcasing a collective commitment to advancing the building sector in Delta State.

Delta State Allocates Over 2 Billion Naira for Warri Flyover Compensation to Affected Homeowners

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In a decisive move to advance the MORE Agenda, the Delta State government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has allocated over 2 billion naira for compensation to homeowners affected by the construction of the Warri flyovers.

The announcement came following a comprehensive post-executive briefing at the Government House in Asaba, on Wednesday, March 13th, 2024, as disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza.

Giving an explanation about the allocation, the Commissioner for Rural and Urban roads, Mr Charles Aniagwu emphasized that the compensation funds were meticulously assessed and approved by Governor Oborevwori to ensure the smooth progression of construction activities while minimizing cost implications.

Furthermore, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojame, provided insights into the state’s healthcare infrastructure development. He revealed that an extensive supply of equipment had been delivered to 20 general hospitals across the state, with an initial allocation of over 3 billion naira.

Dr. Onojame affirmed that plans for the second phase of equipment procurement were underway and would commence shortly.

The strategic allocation of funds underscores the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and the enhancement of healthcare services across Delta State. With meticulous planning and prudent financial management, these initiatives aim to foster sustainable progress and address the evolving needs of the populace.

Ekiti Court Stops Husband from Talking to Wife for Two Weeks

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A Chief Magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has issued a directive prohibiting a 43-year-old man, Chibike Nwakedi, from communicating with his wife, Blessing, for two weeks until their scheduled return to court.

The presiding Chief Magistrate, Dolamu Babalogbon, instructed the defendant to refrain from direct face-to-face or phone communication with his wife during this period, except through a third party, such as her lawyer.

During the arraignment, police prosecutor Inspector Sodiq Adeniyi informed the court that on March 3, at approximately 20:00 hours in Ado-Ekiti, the defendant, Chibike Nwakedi, assaulted his wife, Blessing Nwakedi, resulting in a dislocated right leg. Adeniyi asserted that the defendant’s conduct had the potential to cause a breach of peace.

The prosecutor cited Sections 186 and 181(D) of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State 2021 as the basis for the charges.

In response, the defendant’s counsel, Barrister Gbenga Ariyibi, appealed for bail, assuring the court that the defendant would not evade justice and would provide a reliable surety.

Chief Magistrate Dolamu Babalogbon granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in a similar amount. The case has been adjourned until March 28 for further proceedings.

Daily Post

Edo State Government Invests In 200 Women with N4m Grant and PoS Machines

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In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, has provided empowerment to 200 women. These women received a Point of Sale (PoS) machine along with a start-off grant of N4 million.

Osato Ekhator, the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, announced that 75 women received their PoS machines and grants on Friday, while an additional 125 are set to receive theirs during this week. Adding that the initiative aims to foster independence among women in the state.

Ekhator highlighted the collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, Wema Bank, and other dedicated partners in the pursuit of women’s empowerment.

“The Edo State Government has ensured that 200 women benefitted from this programme. Seventy-five got their POS machine on Friday with the N20,000 grant each while others will get theirs this week. Hopefully, it will help them become self-sufficient as they navigate this ever-changing world,” she stated.

Joel Zombu, the coordinator of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, expressed GIZ’s commitment to empowering women across various sectors and contributing to gender policies in collaboration with the ministry.

He highlighted GIZ’s 50-year collaboration with Nigeria, focusing on empowering MSMEs, youths, and women for enhanced business operations.

The Punch

Ningi’s Reversal: Hausa Interview Misconstrued on Tinubu and North, Says Senator

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Senator Abdul Ningi has reversed his previous statement, clarifying that he did not accuse President Bola Tinubu’s government of implementing two budgets or showing bias against the North during his interview with the Hausa Service of the BBC.

Ningi, who spoke with Senate correspondents explained that his Hausa interview was misinterpreted, especially by presidential media aide Mr Bayo Onanuga.

According to Ningi, the consultants investigating the N28.7 trillion could only link projects and expenditures to N25 trillion, leaving N3.7 trillion unaccounted for.

He emphasized that he did not accuse the president of marginalizing the North but criticized Tinubu’s predecessors for not addressing northern challenges. Regarding Tinubu, Ningi clarified that he held no blame for him, as northern leaders failed to secure commitments from him during his presidential campaign.

Recall on Monday, it was reported that the Senate is set to convene to address allegations made by Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central (PDP), who claims that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government is implementing an unauthorized budget.

Senator Ningi, representing the Northern Senators’ Forum, alleges discrepancies between the National Assembly-approved N25 trillion 2024 budget and the purported N28.7 trillion being implemented. Plans to meet President Tinubu for clarification have been disclosed.

According to The Punch, some senators are reportedly considering the suspension of Senator Ningi, viewing his statements as unfounded and potentially damaging to the Senate’s reputation.

Meetings among lawmakers have taken place to address the situation internally, with plans for a Press Conference by the northern bloc of the Senate to refute the allegations.

Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, has withdrawn his initial plan to address the issue publicly, stating that the Senate will internally handle the matter through legislative mechanisms on Tuesday.

Kizz Daniel Drops ‘Thankz Alot’ EP, Celebrate Ten Years with Fans

Renowned Nigerian singer Kizz Daniel has recently unveiled a highly anticipated extended play (EP) titled ‘Thanks A Lot,’ marking a significant milestone in his musical journey.

The announcement, made through a statement on Monday, has stirred excitement among his fanbase.

In the detailed statement, Daniel eloquently conveyed that ‘Thankz A lot’ goes beyond being a musical collection; it serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to his dedicated fans who have stood by him throughout his impressive ten-year career.

The EP, according to Daniel, is a deliberate effort to strengthen the profound connection he shares with his audience, intending to act as a sincere token of appreciation.

Notably, the singer provided insights into the EP’s composition, revealing that last December saw the release of two tracks, namely ‘Twe Twe’ and ‘Too Busy to Be Bae,’ both part of the four-track EP. Collaborating with Afrobeats sensation Davido in January for the remix of ‘Twe Twe’ added an extra layer of excitement for fans anticipating the project.

Delving further into the contents of ‘Thankz A lot,’ additional tracks like ‘Sooner’ and ‘Showa’ promise a diverse and captivating musical experience for the audience.

Expressing his gratitude, Kizz Daniel shared, “I am incredibly grateful for the love and support I have received from my fans throughout my career. ‘Thanks A lot’ is my way of expressing my appreciation and giving back to them for their unwavering support.” This statement not only emphasizes his gratitude but also underscores the personal connection he aims to establish through his music.

Listen to the EP:

Cost Surge As Nigerian Breweries Set to Increase Product Prices from March 15, 2024

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Nigerian Breweries has shared news of raising the prices of its products, effective from Friday, March 15, 2024.

The company pointed out that this increase is necessary due to the ongoing rise in input costs in the country.

In a statement, the company mentioned, “As previously mentioned, we will adjust some of our product prices starting Friday, March 15, 2024. This adjustment is needed due to the continuous increase in input costs and the need to reduce the impact.”

They clarified that all orders in their system at 00.00hrs on Friday, March 15, 2024, will be billed at the new prices. This price adjustment follows closely after a previous increase just a month ago, which became effective on Monday, February 19, 2024.

Senate in Crisis: 2024 Budget Controversy Sparks Suspension Talks for Bauchi Lawmaker

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The Senate is set to convene to address allegations made by Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central (PDP), who claims that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government is implementing an unauthorized budget.

Senator Ningi, representing the Northern Senators’ Forum, alleges discrepancies between the National Assembly-approved N25 trillion 2024 budget and the purported N28.7 trillion being implemented. Plans to meet President Tinubu for clarification have been disclosed.

The presidency, responding to the claims, dismisses them as baseless in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

According to The Punch, some senators are reportedly considering the suspension of Senator Ningi, viewing his statements as unfounded and potentially damaging to the Senate’s reputation.

Meetings among lawmakers have taken place to address the situation internally, with plans for a Press Conference by the northern bloc of the Senate to refute the allegations.

Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, has withdrawn his initial plan to address the issue publicly, stating that the Senate will internally handle the matter through legislative mechanisms on Tuesday.

Nigerian Music Producer Rexxie Detained in Uganda, Appeals for Help Amid Unexplained Arrest

Nigerian music producer Rexxie has disclosed on his Instagram page that he is currently under detainment by Ugandan immigration authorities.

He described the situation as “unfair,” while reaching out for assistance, stating, “I have been arrested at the Ugandan Immigration. Pls, I need help.”

Despite not providing details about the grounds for his arrest, Rexxie emphasized the urgency for support. This development follows closely after his recent announcement of engagement to his longtime partner, Chisom.

Abubakar Imam Airport in Minna Renamed After President Tinubu

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Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has officially renamed the Abubakar Imam International Airport in Minna after President Bola Tinubu, in recognition of the significant support extended by the President to the state.

The decision to rename the airport, which was initially dedicated to Abubakar Imam, a renowned Nigerian writer and journalist from Niger, was disclosed by Aminu Takuma, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment.

This revelation came during a press briefing at the Government House in Minna on Sunday.

According to Takuma, representing the governor, the renaming is a tribute to the substantial contributions and assistance Niger state has received from President Bola Tinubu.

The swift alteration of Minna Airport’s name in honor of Bola Tinubu has sparked debates, initiating discussions about the factors influencing such decisions.

Moreover, Governor Bago has extended a formal invitation to President Tinubu, who plans to journey to Minna on Monday for the initiation of an agro-processing zone and the commencement of diverse developmental initiatives in the state capital. As a component of the visit, Tinubu will partake in the foundation-laying ceremony for the new hajj terminal at the airport.

In the year 2023, the Nigerian government instructed the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to change the names of 15 federal airports in honor of distinguished Nigerians, among them former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Tragedy As Female Passenger Jumps Into Lagos Lagoon, Search Underway

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On Saturday night, a tragic incident occurred at Igando in Alimosho local government area of Lagos State. According to reports, a female passenger, identified as Nimotalahi Ishola, jumped into the lagoon from a ferry.

The incident took place around 9 pm, shortly after the boat had departed from Isuti Jetty in Igando and was heading towards Totowu in Ogun State. The circumstances leading to the passenger’s decision to jump into the lagoon are still unclear, but the incident has left the community in shock and mourning.

Ibomfocus reported that Nimotalahi, one of 12 passengers on the boat, unexpectedly removed her life jacket and leapt into the lagoon, suggesting a possible suicide. Among her belongings left behind in the boat, a plastic bottle of insecticide was discovered.

The authorities have conducted an inquiry at the site, and a dedicated search team is diligently engaged in retrieving her body. SP Benjamin Hundeyin, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), affirmed the incident, indicating that investigations are still in progress, with endeavors underway to reach out to her family.

Tinubu’s National Student Loan Programme to Launch This Thursday

During a recent appearance on TVC’s Politics, Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity, made an exciting announcement about the National Student Loan Programme, which is set to launch on Thursday.

The programme is a crucial step towards easing the financial strain faced by Nigerian families and young individuals, especially given the current economic climate.

Ngelale emphasized the significance of the scheme, stating that it would be a major boon for Nigerians during these trying times.

The National Student Loan Programme was established with the enactment of the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, which President Tinubu signed on June 12, 2023.

This legislation represents a significant stride towards providing interest-free loans to underprivileged students in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

As part of Tinubu’s commitment to liberalizing education funding, the Students Loan Law, also known as the Access to Higher Education Act, established the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which will be responsible for handling loan requests, grants, disbursements, and recoveries.

The scheme’s implementation was initially projected for September, but it was delayed. Nevertheless, President Tinubu has reiterated that the programme will commence in January 2024.

During the opening of the 29th session of the annual Nigeria Economic Summit on October 23, 2023, he declared, “By January 2024, the new Students Loan Programme must commence. ‘To the future of our children and students, we’re saying no more strikes!”

Tinubu has proposed a budget of N50 billion for the programme’s initiation in the 2024 budget presented to the National Assembly last November.

Onitsha Faces Another Building Tragedy as Five-Storey Structure Collapses

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In a tragic turn of events, a five-storey building under construction collapsed on Sunday in Fegge, Onitsha South local government area of Anambra state.

The incident came as a shock to the locals, who were still recovering from the tragic collapse of a two-storey building at Ochanja Market three weeks prior, which had claimed the lives of at least five individuals.

According to the eyewitnesses, the collapse was preceded by a loud crack and a sudden, thunderous noise, which caused panic and chaos in the area. Although it is not yet clear whether there were any workers present in the building at the time of the collapse, some residents reported seeing human activities beneath the structure just two hours before the incident.

The collapse has raised concerns about the safety of construction sites and buildings in the area, and the need for stricter safety measures to prevent such tragedies from happening again.

The Secretary of Onitsha South local government area, represented by Transition Committee Chairman Chief Emeka Joseph Orji, assured the public of emergency response efforts.

He said an emergency rescue team has been mobilized to conduct preliminary rescue activities, aided by security operatives in the area. He encouraged the public to remain calm, emphasizing that the Onitsha South local government is actively managing the situation.

As of now, efforts to rescue individuals affected by the incident are currently ongoing at the site. Unfortunately, the exact number of those who were injured or lost their lives is yet to be confirmed by authorities.

Arise Tv

Nigerian Student Receives N159 Million, Car, and MacBook from Oyinbo Samaritan

A heartwarming TikTok video has been making rounds on the internet, showcasing the remarkable change of fortune for a Nigerian international student named Kayode.

The video captures the struggles faced by Kayode, who was having a tough time paying his tuition and rent abroad.

The student’s story came to light when he was discovered by Zachery Dereniowski, an internet influencer, while studying in the library. Initially, Kayode had asked Zachery for food assistance, to which the kind-hearted influencer responded by giving him $1000.

However, that wasn’t the end of the story. Moved by the young student’s plight, Zachery’s compassion led him to surprise Kayode with truly life-changing gifts – a whopping N159 million, a brand new car, and a high-end MacBook laptop.

The video shows Kayode breaking down in tears of joy and gratitude, overwhelmed by the unexpected kindness of a stranger. The impact of such generosity is immeasurable, leaving an indelible mark on Kayode’s life.

Legit.ng

Tensions Rise in Senate as Northern Senators Forum Digs into N3 Trillion Budget Controversy

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The Northern Senators Forum, led by Senator Abdul Ningi, has recently announced that they plan to meet with President Bola Tinubu to discuss concerns regarding the alleged N3 trillion padding discovered in the 2024 budget.

Senator Ningi revealed during a recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service that consultants have been commissioned by the forum to thoroughly scrutinize the budget, with plans in place to confront Senate President Godswill Akpabio about their findings.

The forum’s primary objective is to present a detailed report to President Tinubu, conveying their dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the budget and seeking clarification on the alleged discrepancies.

During the same interview, Senator Abdul Ningi, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), shared his candid assessment of the present administration’s performance. He expressed his dissatisfaction with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s understanding of the country’s challenges and governance difficulties.

Senator Ningi, speaking from a Northern perspective, addressed the potential transfer of federal agencies to Lagos, predicting its likelihood based on past examples.

He highlighted the worsening conditions since Tinubu assumed leadership, discussing the neglect of crucial projects in the North, such as the Ajaokuta project, the Mambila power project, and the dredging of the River Niger. Additionally, he voiced his concerns about incomplete road constructions, particularly the Kano-Abuja route, and highlighted the challenges faced by the North.

Senator Ningi also delved into the dynamics of political processes, expressing his dissatisfaction with how leaders were “forced” onto the people. He criticized the use of religious and ethnic issues, stating that the North was not given leadership in the Senate opposition despite having significant representation.

The interview shed light on the difficulty of challenging the ruling party under the Northern Senators Forum’s umbrella while aiming for unity in the North.

Furthermore, Senator Ningi addressed the potential transfer of federal agencies to Lagos, predicting its likelihood based on past examples. He expressed disappointment with the lack of action from Northern leaders in finding solutions to such issues.

Additionally, he shared concerns about the ECOWAS decision impacting Nigeria’s relationship with Niger Republic. The interview highlighted the complexities of addressing regional challenges without letting politics interfere in finding effective solutions.

Finally, the interview touched upon the security challenges faced by the North, emphasizing incidents of abductions lasting several days. Senator Ningi expressed apprehension about the potential loss of states like Zamfara from the country due to ongoing security issues.

He urged proactive measures to address these challenges, revealing a deep concern for the future and the need for a stronger sense of unity and care for the region.

Heartbreak in Ikoyi: Nigeria’s Wealthiest Woman, Folorunsho Alakija, and Husband Separate

After more than three decades of marital harmony, Folorunsho Alakija, Nigeria’s wealthiest woman and former society matriarch turned gospel minister, is reportedly facing a significant marital crisis. Reliable sources close to THEWILL suggest that she has separated from her husband, Modupe.

The couple, residing in their upscale Ikoyi, Lagos home, allegedly experienced frequent conflicts leading to the wealthy woman seeking utmost privacy and her husband finding accommodation elsewhere within the same Ikoyi neighbourhood. Despite attempts to seek clarification from Modupe, calls and text messages remained unanswered.

The couple had reportedly maintained a united front due to societal expectations, but recent challenges, including health issues faced by Folorunsho Alakija, may have contributed to the unravelling of their marriage.

The Alakija family is known for their low-profile and discreet approach to personal matters. This was evident in the low-key wedding of one of their sons last year, where media coverage was strictly controlled, and the event was limited to a need-to-know basis. It is not surprising, therefore, that the family continues to maintain their privacy and avoid unnecessary attention.

Five months ago, THEWILL had reported about the health challenges of a prominent Nigerian business tycoon, Folorunso Alakija, which were primarily related to her eyes. This recent development, perhaps, is a follow-up to that report.

Music is Eternal: Wizkid Unveils Forever Commitment to His Art in Exclusive Interview

Wizkid, whose real name is Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is a celebrated Nigerian singer and songwriter with a plethora of awards to his name. Despite his career’s success, the 33-year-old artist shared in a recent BBC Radio 1Xtra interview that he considers his most significant achievements still ahead, viewing his musical journey as just beginning.

During the interview, Wizkid also hinted that he may never retire from music, saying that it’s a “forever thing” for him. This statement suggests that he is dedicated to his craft and passionate about continuing to create music for his fans.

Wizkid stands as one of the most commercially successful and influential African recording artists in the 21st century.

Initiating his musical journey at the age of 11, he collaborated with the Glorious Five (5), a group formed with church friends. Wizkid’s career took a significant turn in 2009 when he inked a record deal with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E). The spotlight found him with the release of “Holla at Your Boy,” the lead single from his debut studio album, Superstar (2011), which also featured hit singles like “Tease Me/Bad Guys” and “Don’t Dull.”

Controversial Statements: Dammy Krane Claims Portable More Relevant Than Wizkid in Bold Social Media Declaration

Dammy Krane has sparked controversy by asserting that Portable, his fellow artist, holds more relevance than Grammy-winning Wizkid.

This claim arose during a discussion on Portable’s recent collaboration with Skepta on the track ‘Tony Montana.’ The song, produced by JAE5, has ignited social media discussions about its impact on Nigerian music.

In an exaggerated comment on X, Dammy Krane boldly declared, “ATP, Portable is more relevant than Wizkid. God use Skepta do this one again.”

The history of discord between Dammy Krane and Wizkid dates back to 2016 when Dammy accused Wizkid of theft, leading to a heated confrontation at Quilox Club in Victoria Island.

This isn’t the first time Dammy Krane has engaged in social media confrontations. In 2023, he accused Davido of not compensating him for songwriting contributions and claimed that Davido had “ruined” his record label deal with Sony Music. He even collaborated with Portable to create a diss track aimed at Davido.

Dammy Krane, known for his hit single ‘My Dear,’ signed a record deal with Hypertek Digital and 960 Music Group in January 2012. The ongoing controversies add another chapter to the artist’s tumultuous interactions in the Nigerian music scene.

28 Abducted Students Escape in Kaduna, Governor Confirms

Over 28 students who were among the 200 abducted by gunmen in Kaduna days ago have managed to escape, providing a glimmer of hope amidst ongoing military search and rescue efforts.

Governor Uba Sani confirmed this development, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the method of their escape.

Governor Sani, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Kaduna Airport received the students’ parents.

Shettima assured the distressed parents that the government, led by President Bola Tinubu, is committed to the safe rescue of all abducted children.

He urged the media to exercise caution in reporting on the incident and commended their continuous support.

President Tinubu, deeply concerned about the situation, has directed security agencies to spare no effort until all the children are safely returned.

Governor Sani expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit and emphasized the collaborative efforts with local communities and security agencies. Cautioning against politicizing the incident, he stressed the focus on securing the safe return of the children and assured progress in undisclosed security measures.

Recall, on Thursday it was reported that gunmen suspected to be terrorists, locally known as bandits, have reportedly abducted approximately 232 students and teachers, including the headteacher, from LGEA Primary School, Kuriga (1), in Kuriga village, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Former Kaduna senator Shehu Sani confirmed the incident, highlighting the tragic parallel with a recent event where a school principal was killed and his wife kidnapped in the same village over a month ago.

Sani expressed optimism about securing the freedom of the kidnapped individuals. The junior and secondary schools had previously relocated to the Kuriga town due to security concerns, abandoning their former building outside the town.

Mansir Hassan (ASP), the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Command, confirmed the incident but stated that the exact number of victims abducted was yet to be ascertained. He reassured the public that all security agencies, including the police, military, and vigilantes, were collaborating to rescue the victims, with additional personnel deployed to address the situation.

Stray Bullet Shocks Ilorin: Inmate’s Violent Act Causes Havoc at Correctional Centre

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In Ilorin, Kwara State capital, chaos erupted at the Oke-Kura Correctional Centre when an inmate, Kazeem Adam, attempted to seize a prison officer’s rifle.

The rifle discharged during the struggle, striking Abdullah Ayinla, a vulcanizer, in the stomach.

Ayinla was promptly taken to the hospital, while the unruly inmate, Adam, was detained at the ‘C’ Division Police station in Isale-Ojo.

The incident unfolded at around 8 am during the transfer of inmates, with Adam causing damage to the tricycle and vehicle windscreens before the unfortunate turn of events.

Confirming the incident, Olumide Adegbulugbe, the spokesperson for the service, stated that Kazeem Adam from Ita-Ogunbo, Ilorin, armed with a knife and stones, vandalized tricycles and vehicle windscreens.

“Adam also damaged a correctional vehicle bus with registration number A247NC. In an attempt to apprehend the suspect, Ismail Kabir, who was on guard, and others were attacked. During the struggle, the suspect attempted to seize Kabir’s rifle, resulting in the officer being stabbed in the head and hand. Unfortunately, in the process, the rifle accidentally discharged, causing a bullet to hit Abdullah Ayinla from Isale Oja.”

Ibomfocus

DSPG Inducts 2567 Freshers in 22nd Matriculation

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Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, DSPG, marked its 22nd matriculation ceremony on Saturday.

The event commences at 11 AM in the Multi-purpose Hall of the polytechnic with a total of 2567 new students (Ordinary National/ Higher Diploma) participating in the ceremony and taking their matriculation oath.

During the event, Rector Bldr. Professor Emmanuel Achuenu conveyed congratulations to the matriculants, highlighting their fortune in securing admission among a considerable number of seekers.

He emphasized the challenges ahead and urged them to make necessary sacrifices for a successful academic journey.

In his welcome address, Prof Achuenu expressed joy in welcoming the fresh students to the 22nd Matriculation Ceremony. He explained the significance of matriculation as the formal entry into the Polytechnic and the administration of oath allegiances, symbolizing the culmination of the registration process.

Reflecting on the Polytechnic’s growth since its inception in 2003, Prof Achuenu noted its evolution from a temporary site with 200 students to a fully-fledged institution with over 34 departments and 62 accredited programs. He highlighted the institution’s achievements in academic excellence and sports.

Addressing the matriculants, Prof Achuenu emphasized the importance of developing their minds and aligning with the institution’s motto, ‘CREATIVITY FOR DEVELOPMENT.’

He underscored the need for active participation in lectures, practicals, continuous assessments, and examinations to achieve academic goals.

Discipline and good conduct were stressed as essential to the learning process, with a plea to avoid negative tendencies like cultism, examination malpractice, and indecent dressing.

Prof Achuenu assured parents and stakeholders of the institution’s commitment to nurturing future leaders.

Acknowledging the support from the Delta State Government, stakeholders, management, and dedicated staff, Prof Achuenu extended gratitude. He concluded with a prayer for guidance and protection upon the matriculants and their parents, offering heartfelt congratulations once more.

International Women’s Day: IPC Highlights Urgency of Elevating Women in Nigerian Politics

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The International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos, Nigeria aligns with the global community in advocating for increased female political representation at both national and subnational levels within Nigeria.

Reflecting on the United Nations theme for this year, “Invest in women—accelerate progress,” IPC emphasizes the importance of empowering and investing in women by promoting their active participation in political leadership and decision-making roles. This is seen as a crucial strategy to swiftly address the democratic challenges facing the nation.

IPC draws attention to the inadequate representation of women in political positions in Nigeria, despite constitutional provisions and international agreements advocating for their inclusion. Persistent systemic and societal barriers hinder women’s engagement in politics.

The concerning trend persisted during the 2023 elections in the country, resulting in adverse implications for women’s representation and impact within the government. Notably, the proportion of women in Nigeria’s National Assembly decreased by 19% compared to the previous assembly. Presently, women hold only 3% of Senate seats and 4% of seats in the House of Representatives.

In a statement, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of the IPC, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the significant perspectives and contributions that women offer to governance in Nigerian society.

He noted that empowering women in politics not only promotes fairness and equality but also enhances the overall effectiveness and legitimacy of governmental institutions.

“Through concerted efforts to address these disparities, by dismantling barriers and fostering inclusivity in political arenas, Nigeria can pave the way for a more inclusive and representative democracy that truly reflects the voices and needs of all its citizens”, he stressed.

He also noted that IPC’s initiatives in the realm of democracy have significantly contributed to enhancing the media’s pivotal role as a primary influencer in elections. These efforts have focused on enhancing the capabilities of both the media and female candidates nationwide, empowering them to effectively leverage the media’s influence in promoting democracy. Notably, these endeavours have yielded commendable results, with some beneficiaries, particularly female lawmakers, successfully securing seats in the States House of Assembly during the 2023 Elections.

To mitigate the high attrition rates of women in elections, Mr Arogundade emphasized the importance of key stakeholders advocating for gender-equitable policies, initiating voter education campaigns on gender equality, and addressing feminized poverty through economic equality initiatives.

Erisco Faces Legal Scrutiny After Allegedly Using MI’s Song Without Permission

A recent controversy has arisen after rapper MI accused a food company, Erisco, of using his song ‘Nobody’ without his permission.

This comes after Erisco was put under scrutiny since September last year, when a consumer named Chioma Egodi criticized their tomato paste product on social media, claiming it tasted sugary.

The company, in response, labelled the claim as false, leading to Egodi’s arrest based on a petition by the CEO. This has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some users calling for a boycott of Erisco products, citing the company’s poor handling of the situation.

The police, in a statement by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, have restated their intent to prosecute Egodi, which has only added to the controversy.

In response to the backlash, Erisco allegedly used MI’s song ‘Nobody’ as a background soundtrack in a now-deleted tweet attempting to reiterate the quality of its product.

However, MI was quick to react to the unauthorized use of his song, stating that using copyrighted material without permission is not legal, even for a social media ad.

He even shared a CHATGPT response emphasizing that such actions can lead to legal consequences for the brand.

This situation has raised concerns about the use of copyrighted material and has highlighted the importance of obtaining permission before using someone else’s work.

The controversy surrounding Erisco’s product and the subsequent unauthorized use of MI’s song have brought negative attention to the company and could have legal repercussions.

Knockout King: Anthony Joshua Floors Ngannou Twice in Spectacular Victory

On Saturday, the highly skilled British boxer, Anthony Joshua, showcased his exceptional boxing abilities in a stunning match against the former UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou.

The match was a true spectacle, with Joshua delivering an impressive second-round knockout victory over his opponent. The crowd erupted with cheers as Joshua expertly dodged Ngannou’s punches and landed some powerful blows of his own, ultimately ending the fight with a decisive knockout. It was a remarkable display of boxing prowess from Joshua and a testament to his skill as a fighter.

The bout, drawing attention from the sports world, underscored Joshua’s superior skills and experience in the ring compared to the MMA star.

With a professional record now at 28-3, including 25 KOs, Joshua floored Ngannou twice with devastating right hands, first in the opening round and then again in the second. The knockout punch, perfectly timed and unblocked, sealed the victory for Joshua as Ngannou was unable to recover following the second 10-count.

Despite showing courage and resilience, the 37-year-old Ngannou, in only his second professional boxing match, appeared visibly dazed and hurt. His transition from MMA to boxing, despite a commendable performance against Tyson Fury in a narrow split decision loss last October, revealed the significant gap in boxing-specific experience between the two fighters.

The match commenced with Joshua taking control, using his sharp jab to maintain distance, while Ngannou landed a few solid shots early on. However, Joshua’s power and precision turned the tide, culminating in a first-round knockdown and a decisive finish in the second.

This victory holds substantial significance for Joshua’s career, as he has been on a path to rebuild his reputation after consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022, leading to the relinquishment of three world heavyweight titles. The win against Ngannou solidifies Joshua’s position as a premier boxer in the heavyweight division and signals his preparedness for future high-stakes matchups.

In the world of boxing, all eyes are on Anthony Joshua as fans eagerly anticipate his next move. The air is rife with speculation about the potential matchups that could take place, each one presenting an opportunity for Joshua to cement his legacy in the sport. With his impressive track record and undeniable talent, there is no doubt that Joshua is poised to take the boxing world by storm once again.

Microsoft Faces Ongoing Threat as Russian Hackers, Midnight Blizzard, Persist in Targeting Source Code

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Microsoft announced on Friday that Russian government hackers, known as Midnight Blizzard, continue to infiltrate the company’s systems in an ongoing attack, targeting the company’s source code and internal systems.

According to the tech giant, the hackers are using information obtained from corporate email systems to gain unauthorized access.

Microsoft also disclosed these new findings in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday.

The intrusion follows Microsoft’s disclosure in January that Russian hackers breached the company’s systems in November of the previous year, focusing on corporate email accounts of senior leadership and employees in cybersecurity, legal, and other functions.

Midnight Blizzard, also known as APT29 or Cozy Bear, has been able to gain access to various secrets obtained through emails shared between Microsoft and its customers. The group has been seen escalating its attempts to brute force accounts, commonly known as “password spraying,” indicating a sustained and significant commitment of resources and focus.

Microsoft warns that Midnight Blizzard may be accumulating information to enhance its ability to target specific areas.

The hacking group is believed to work for Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), and it has targeted high-profile entities over the years, including the Democratic National Committee in 2016 and SolarWinds in 2019. This indicates that the group has been involved in cyber espionage activities for some time now and has been successful in carrying out its attacks.

Microsoft has urged its customers to remain vigilant and take the necessary steps to protect themselves from cyber threats. The company has also assured that it is working tirelessly to defend against the ongoing attacks and has taken appropriate measures to secure its systems.

Meeting Demands: Governor Oborevwori’s Vision for University Expansion In Delta

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori recently spoke to reporters about the urgent need for additional universities in the state.

He emphasized the importance of education in individual success and expressed the need to establish more campuses to cater to the educational demands of the populace.

During his visit to a school in Orerokpe, Governor Oborevwori revealed the government’s plans to set up the Faculty of Management Sciences at the University of Science and Technology, Ozoro. The faculty will commence operations at the Orerokpe Technical College in Okpe Local Government Area.

To ensure a smooth launch of the new faculty, the Ministry of Technical Education will transfer the facilities at Orerokpe Technical College to the Ministry of Higher Education.

The Governor highlighted the fact that Delta State University, Abraka, is not able to accommodate all qualified Delta residents seeking admission, and this has prompted the government to initiate the establishment of three additional universities simultaneously.

Governor Oborevwori expressed pride in the state’s four flourishing universities and acknowledged that more institutions were still needed to meet the growing demand for higher education.

In addition to this, Governor Oborevwori provided assurance that certain projects within the Orerokpe Campus of the University of Science and Technology would be completed before the end of October of the current year. This is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to the development of education in Delta State.

Ndokwa Vanguard

Crisis of Integrity: Olajengbesi Calls for Accountability in Buhari Administration’s Financial Transactions

Human rights advocate, Pelumi Olajengbesi has called for an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) audit of financial transactions involving all officials from the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The call comes after the revelations emerging from the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, who faces accusations of a $6.2 million fraud related to foreign observers in the previous election.

In a statement, Olajengbesi commends the EFCC for uncovering the alleged forgery of Buhari’s and ex-Secretary General of the Federation Boss Mustapha’s signatures by Emefiele.

Olajengbesi emphasizes the urgency of curbing the audacity and criminal influence of those in power, calling for a comprehensive audit to deter misconduct. He highlights the recent case of Ahmad Salihijo, the suspended Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency, as evidence of abuse of power by officials who served under Buhari.

Olajengbesi urges a thorough audit of Emefiele and all individuals associated with the Buhari administration, allowing them an opportunity to clear their names amid the perceived widespread corruption during that period.

Witnesses, including an EFCC official and forensic document examiner Bamaiyi Haruna, have testified against Emefiele, presenting evidence of forged documents used to release $6.2 million from the CBN in February 2023. Other witnesses, such as ex-SGF Mustapha and deputy director at the apex bank Onyeka Ogbu, further support claims of fraudulent activity.

The EFCC officially arraigned Emefiele on June 18, 2023, on 20 counts, accusing him of impersonating Mustapha to unlawfully transfer funds from the CBN vault. The charges allege Emefiele collaborated with Odoh Ocheme, currently evading authorities, to obtain $6.2 million from the CBN under the guise of a request by the SGF, as per a letter dated January 26, 2023, with reference number SGF.43/L.01/.

Olajengbesi’s call for a comprehensive audit of the financial transactions of officials from the Buhari administration is based on the perceived widespread corruption during that period. The recent revelations from the trial of Godwin Emefiele, former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, have raised concerns about the abuse of power and criminal influence of those in power.

Nigerian Tribune

‘Eye Clear’ – Victor AD and Bella Shmurda Join Forces In New Song, Sampling Oritsefemi’s Classic

Nigerian vocalist Victor AD has unleashed his latest track ‘Eye Clear,’ featuring Bella Shmurda.

Victor AD shared the news of the song’s release through his Instagram account.

This release represents Victor AD’s second musical offering this year, following his earlier single ‘Holy Water’ in January. In ‘Eye Clear,’ the duo incorporates elements from ‘Eye Don Clear,’ a popular track by Oritse Femi and The Junglist from the early 2000s.

The lyrics resonate with lines such as, “Tell dem say our vision has been clear since ’99, Seeking money has been my pursuit, Since ’99, I promise not to lower my guard.”

Having embarked on his musical journey in 2014, Victor AD has collaborated with a diverse range of music producers, including Kulboybeat, Kizzybeatz, ID Clef, and Mr Nolimitz. The artist from Delta state rose to fame with the 2018 release of ‘Wetin We Gain,’ catching the attention of Longitude Promotions, a management company.

His repertoire boasts additional chart-toppers like ‘No Idea,’ ‘Tire You,’ ‘Too Much Money,’ ‘Prayer Request,’ and ‘Why.’

Listen to the song.

BNXN Acknowledges Mistake, Extends Apology to Davido for Controversial Comment

Renowned singer Daniel Benson, popularly known as BNXN, has publicly apologized following a rebuke from his fellow artist Dremo for what was deemed as ‘disrespect’ toward Davido.

Earlier, BNXN had thrown a subtle jab at Davido in the X platform formal Twitter during an exchange with a fan of the DMW boss on Thursday night.

In response to a post about BNXN promoting a new artist, a Twitter user (@lifeofolaa) commented, “He’s mid abeg.” BNXN, reacting defensively, told the user he had no right to discuss anything related to music, given that he is a fan of Davido.

His retort included the phrase, “You be retard. Knowing your fave you no suppose dey speak on anything regarding music. Fem!”

After the tweet gained attention, Davido reportedly deleted a post teasing a collaboration with BNXN. Despite Davido’s reaction, BNXN insisted he would release the song without approval, emphasizing that he wrote everything and suggesting fans blew his tweet out of proportion.

However, former top rapper Dremo criticized BNXN for the disrespectful remark, highlighting that he should have been more cautious about posting something that could spark controversy.

Responding to Dremo’s criticism, BNXN issued a conciliatory tweet, stating, “No yawa. I’m sorry.”

Dame lgbrude Tasks Widows To Focus on God for wisdom To Do Common things, Uncommonly well

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As the world celebrates International Women’s day, the CEO Love Works Foundation International, Dame Minnie Igbrude, has urged widows to ask God for wisdom to do common things uncommonly well. Knowing that success is not final and widowhood is not fatal or a failure. But the ability to continue and forge ahead is what they require in order to succeed in life.

Speaking during the celebration in Asaba, Dame Igbrude said, the International Day for Women is observed to raise awareness about gender-based violence against women and promote women.

The theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ a focus on addressing economic empowerment, while the campaign theme for this year is ‘Inspire Inclusion.’ which highlights the significance of diversity and empowerment across all sectors of society.

“This is the time for widows to rise above their mental barriers, challenges and start looking cheerful and optimistic at all times. A woman’s journey to success begins from harnessing the power of her mind and hands,” she said.

According to her, International Women’s Day is a historical day that we can appreciate women, a day set aside to honour women in different sectors and empower women in general. It is important to remember the difficult journey they went through for the lives and gender equality we have now in the country.

She said, e should also take time to support and help most women especially widows who are not yet as fortunate as others and not be ignorant of the fact that many countries still do not have women’s rights and equality.

Encouraging women she said, “I want to enjoin women, especially in Delta State, to key into the M. O. R.E. Agenda of our Governor which is designed to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’ of the amiable, Wife of our Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, adding that, they should actively participate in all the activities that are associated with them that will lead to their self-development in the state. The past and present governments of Delta State are doing everything to help widows. They should explore such activities.’

She said every woman is a rare gem who can always excel in assignments because of the zeal and commitment they possess. She said women need to come out and avail themselves of the opportunities of becoming decision-makers by being more politically active.

According to her, Loveworks Foundation which is her pet project was founded several years ago, and primarily established to cater for widows, by empowering them financially and engaging them in poverty eradication activities and self-reliance. It is one outstanding Non-Governmental Organisation that is perfectly charting the way forward for interested widows in Delta State.

In her words, “The Foundation will go beyond alleviating poverty, but dealing with it from the root to make the women financially independent and remain in control of their various means of livelihood. In the Love Works Foundation we don’t only give them fish but teach them how to rear the fish and be able to eat.”

She emphasized that, women everyday in many communities experience great hardship after their husbands death.

She reiterated that, a lot of widows are passing through various challenges and maltreatment she however encouraged widows not to relent but improve themselves and rely more on God.

She observed that, majority of the widows who feel neglected are ignorant of some of the activities put in place for their welfare just like Delta State widows scheme that is taking care so many widows to alleviate their suffering

“They are seldom captured in statistics, unnoticed by researchers, often neglected by laws and development strategies making their situation invisible”,

Dame Igbrude enjoined the Federal government and state, to join the cause of widows by initiating programmes, policies and projects that are aimed at ameliorating their plights.

“There should be policies and programmes that will take care of the overall welfare of widows and other vulnerable groups in the society. There should be enlightenment programmes on issues relating to their health, as. most of these women die of dis.
eases , stress, loneliness and pain which could be averted by early detection.

The Federal government and states should put up more skill acquisition centers, where these women could undergo various training and harness their potentials. They should equally ensure that these programs and services actually get to the targeted audience. She stressed.

I wish women all over the world happy international women’s day celebration and more of Gods blessings. She said.

Apple Unveils the Latest Features iOS 17.4 and Installation Guide for iPhone Users

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Apple has recently announced the official release of the much-awaited iOS 17.4 update, which brings a host of significant improvements and new features to the iPhone operating system.

The update is expected to enhance the user experience and offer added functionality to iPhone users worldwide.

One of the standout features of iOS 17.4 is the new and improved set of emojis. The latest update includes new symbols like a mushroom, phoenix, lime, broken chain, and shaking heads. Additionally, 18 people and body emojis now come with the option to face them in either direction, providing users with more flexibility in expressing themselves.

Another exciting feature introduced in iOS 17.4 is the Apple Podcasts Transcripts. This new feature enables users to follow podcast episodes with synchronized text in English, Spanish, French, and German. The episode text can be read in full, searched for specific words or phrases, and tapped to play from a chosen point, with compatibility with accessibility features like Text Size, increased contrast, and VoiceOver.

The update also brings several other enhancements and bug fixes, including Music recognition, which enables users to add identified songs to Apple Music Playlists and Library, including Apple Music Classical. Siri introduces a new option to announce received messages in any supported language, enhancing the overall user experience.

In terms of security, iOS 17.4 offers enhanced protection for stolen devices, providing users with added security options globally. The update also introduces a Battery Health feature in Settings, which displays battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use for iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models.

The Call Identification feature now shows Apple-verified business names, logos, and department names when available, providing users with more reliable information. Business updates in Messages for Business deliver trusted information for various transactions, and Apple Cash virtual card numbers allow payments at merchants not yet supporting Apple Pay.

Lastly, the update addresses several issues, including blank contact pictures in Find My and resolving issues for Dual SIM users. It’s important to note that some features may vary in availability based on regions or Apple device compatibility. For detailed information on the security content of Apple software updates, visit the official Apple Security Updates website.

Elon Musk’s X Considering Removal of Like and Repost Counts Amidst Payment License Anticipation

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Elon Musk revealed on Wednesday that his social media platform X is on the verge of obtaining a money transmitter license in New York, bringing it closer to introducing payment features.

Speaking at the Morgan Stanley technology, media, and telecom conference, Musk mentioned the likelihood of X securing its license in California within the next month or so, while New York approval might take “a few months.”

Since Musk’s acquisition of the platform formerly known as Twitter in 2022, he has aimed to transform it into an “everything app,” similar to Tencent’s dominant WeChat app in China. This transformation includes features beyond social media, such as the capability to send money to other X users.

For X to provide services across the United States, experts assert that the platform needs a money transmitter license in each state. Musk has emphasized that obtaining approval in New York and California is particularly significant, given the states’ large populations and comparatively prolonged approval processes. Some states, including Pennsylvania and Utah, have already granted money transmitter licenses to X.

During the conference, Musk, who also leads Tesla and SpaceX, indicated that X is contemplating removing the visible count of likes and reposts on each post, citing concerns about visual clutter on the platform.

Reuters

Ambassador OVKINGS Launches 7th Edition of OVKINGS Youth Talent Boost Nigeria Show in Collaboration with POCACOV

Renowned Nigerian comedian and philanthropist, Ambassador OVKINGS, known for his unwavering commitment to youth welfare and addressing societal issues, has officially kicked off the 7th Edition of the OVKINGS Youth Talent Boost Nigeria Show.

Partnering with the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), this initiative aims to discover, empower, and mentor young talents across Nigeria.

Set for May, the event provides an inclusive platform for aspiring youths to exhibit their skills and talents, with waived registration fees. The project is dedicated to transforming the lives of six outstanding individuals, offering a generous financial reward of N1,000,000 to empower them in pursuing their dreams and contributing positively to society.

Supported by esteemed international media TV stations such as Silverbird Television, Hip TV, and others, the OVKINGS Youth Talent Boost Nigeria Show symbolizes hope and opportunity for Nigerian youth. Ambassador OVKINGS encourages all young individuals to seize this opportunity for personal and societal advancement.

For those interested in sponsoring or supporting this noble cause, inquiries can be directed to:
Email: ovkingsworldent@gmail.com
Contact: 08067378453.

Ambassador OVKINGS

Nollywood Actor Uzor Arukwe Reflects on a Defining Moment in His Pursuit of Success

Uzor Arukwe, a Nigerian actor, shared a significant moment from his early days in the film industry that ignited his determination to achieve success.

Recalling the experience, Arukwe mentioned being cast for a minor role with a call time of 9 am. Despite arriving promptly at 8 am, the lead actor caused a delay, pushing the shoot to commence only at 1 pm.

Arukwe detailed enduring prolonged waiting without being served food, while the lead actor, who arrived late, received immediate attention.

Frustrated by leaving around 11 pm without shooting his scene, Arukwe faced criticism from the production manager for departing on time.

The Nollywood star disclosed that his payment for the role was a modest N10,000, and he traveled from Lagos Island to FESTAC for the shoot with his last bit of money.

He shared this experience on the X platform in response to a media executive’s query about the weirdest experiences on a movie set that compelled individuals to think, “You must blow by fire by force.”

Expressing gratitude for the grace that guided him through such challenging times, Arukwe reflected on the defining moment that fueled his determination for success.

Arukwe entered the Nollywood scene in 2014 with his debut in the movie “Unspoken Truth,” but it was his performance in “Sergeant Tutu” that truly garnered attention.

His portrayal as a private investigator in the 2019 film “Code Wilo” further solidified his recognition in the industry. Arukwe’s contributions led to two nominations for ‘Best Actor in Comedy or Movie’ at the 2020 African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, acknowledging his roles in “Smash” and “Size 12.” Additionally, his role in “Yours Regardless” earned him a nomination for ‘Best Actor’ at the 2021 Best of Nollywood Awards.

Latimore Applauds Governor Oborevwori’s Prudent Governance Measures

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Barrister Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, the Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Orientation and Communications, commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his efforts in reducing the cost of governance.

Speaking during a media interaction in Asaba with the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel (ICC) of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Latimore praised the governor’s commitment to curbing wasteful spending.

Latimore emphasized that the high cost of governance is a significant factor affecting the local economy and hindering overall growth in the country. Governor Oborevwori, according to Latimore, has taken proactive measures to minimize extravagant expenses, including scrutinizing and slashing overpriced contracts before approval.

The Executive Assistant revealed that the governor has successfully managed the state’s finances without resorting to borrowing for projects. Instead, Governor Oborevwori has focused on meticulous management of resources generated within the state, alongside increasing the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by incorporating the informal sector.

Latimore assured the public of the imminent realization of the MORE Agenda, emphasizing that positive changes will become evident in the state by the end of the year.

Expressing gratitude to the press for their support during challenging times, Latimore urged journalists to prioritize factual reporting over speculations. He encouraged constructive criticisms and precision journalism, emphasizing the responsibility of journalists to provide accurate information without causing confusion among the public.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of ICC, Comrade Kenneth Orusi, appreciated Latimore for visiting and participating in the ICC MIRROR Platform. He assured the government of the chapel’s support while maintaining their commitment to addressing any areas of concern through constructive feedback.

International Women’s Day Ohaneze Women Leader Calls For Women Empowerment

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As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD), which draws attention to matters relating to women and girls, the National Women Leader Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Chief, Dame, Hon. Rita Daniels Chukwuji on behalf of the Ohaneze Ndigbo women worldwide, have called on women in Nigeria to continually up-skill themselves, network actively, and put themselves forward confidently for greater roles in society.

Hon Rita Daniels, who spoke with our correspondence also called on the first lady of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu to invest in more women and consider inclusion of more women in governance for economic development

According to her, there is need for women to be assured of more appointments and opportunities under the administration of her husband.

She said, international Women’s day is a day set aside to celebrate women, lift them up, mobilise, rehabilitate them, promote equality among them a for a brighter future.

The calls are in tandem with this year’s theme, Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ with a focus on addressing economic disempowerment, while the campaign theme for this year is ‘Inspire Inclusion.’ which highlights the significance of diversity and empowerment across all sectors of society.

“This is the time for women to rise above their mental barriers. A woman’s journey to success begins from harnessing the power of her mind,” she said.

Presently, the current economic realities validate the theme in almost every respect as women appear the worst hit in these hard times.

“The solution is not what the women are doing or what they are not doing. It’s a collective responsibility. Yes, Chief Daniels said, women should up-skill themselves, network actively, and should put themselves forward confidently and project themselves,”

Hon. Chukwuji explained that, women also need to know that they make up about 50 per cent of the population, and so, ideally, should be found in 50 per cent of the leadership positions.

“I see the gap as an opportunity for all of us to continually upscale ourselves, for us to put ourselves forward even for leadership positions and not to be discouraged if we don’t get it at all, first, try until we get there,” she said.

The women leader urged the Federal Government, to look into the critical issues affecting women in the society in giving them listening ears in view to move the nation forward.

“Invest in Women as a critical issue has never been more challenging for us. The prospect of growth for women in business and the labour force generally is already hampered by norms and stereotypes which form a big part of our culture today,” said Hon. Daniels.

“Organisations and countries, Chief Rita said, should set deliberate targets for inclusiveness because everybody loses when some are excluded.

“Nigeria cannot continue to underestimate the role women play in advancing our national interests and our country’s goals of peace, stability, and prosperity,”

“We recognise that what makes us diverse makes us strong and no nation can get ahead if about half its population is left behind,” she

“Nigeria has very poor records of gender-based violence, with many cases of exploitation, rape, and verbal and physical abuse of women and girls. Trafficking in women and girls for forced labour or prostitution is also on the rise”

In addition, young girls suffer from unhealthy traditional practices, such as female genital mutilation and early child marriage, which deprive them of their childhood and education and expose them to vesico vaginal fistula (VVF) as their frail bodies are poorly developed for marital ‘responsibilities’ like pregnancy.

The state recently passed a new law, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAP) Act, providing for life imprisonment without an option of fine for perpetrators of female genital mutilation (FGM) in the state. The Ohaneze Women leader said there are twice as many women below the poverty line than men and up to 19 times as many men in executive positions than women. In the corporate world, women struggle to be heard, as only a few make it to the boardrooms. They battle unequal payment, and in some cases, sexual harassment.

In politics, men generally dominate, even though women show up as candidates, voters, politicians, activists, and in most cases in Nigeria, as praise-singers. Again, women tend to be treated very differently from their male counterparts, and the results of every election year tell the story.

For instance, despite women constituting 49.5 percent of Nigeria’s population, according to National Population Commission (NPC) figures, no woman has emerged president or vice president in the country’s nearly 60-year history. Similarly, no woman has emerged governor in an election.j

“We definitely do not want to have women in politics just to meet the gender diversity requirement and these women end up as flower pots or showpieces in the political scenes; we need to have dynamic, tenacious, confident women,”

“Women with history of transformational leadership need to engage strategically in progressive politics. Gladly, Nigeria doesn’t lack women with these qualities,” she said.

She lamented that there are not enough women in politics in the country.

“We have a society that is predominantly patriarchal and also very gender-biased, where the women have been programmed into a mindset that they cannot aspire beyond a certain limit. Also, politics in this clime is very dangerous and it is all about money. These issues have boxed women into a corner,” She stressed.

“The solution is that women should be encouraged to step out boldly and more. Women should rise up to support aspiring women and not further castigate them because it takes a lot of boldness and courage for any woman to rise up in our society to say they want to run for any public office,” she said.

“Today many women were not coming out because of fear and because of the mindset that women belong to the kitchen.

“ some of them are already aligning with governance but their full potential is not being harvested. There are so many intelligent women out there with the tenacity to do something for their country but they are not being encouraged,” she said

“Violence is also another reason why women don’t put themselves forward. Politics can only be dirty if you make it dirty, so you can just do it the right way if you don’t want it to be dirty,” she said.

In their quest to sanitize randomly in all spheres, The Ohaneze women Leader went further to call on all mother’s to majorly take upon them selves the duty of calling out their children from the streets of negative influences by jeopardizing the peaceful coexistence enjoyed in the region .

Therefore she said, As dedicated mothers we are appealing to the Federal government to harken to our humble supplication.

More so, if there’s stability in the fair share of positions and privileges for women in the centre stage of power, I believe most women will feel the oneness and esteem sense of belonging as we are called to be one nation.

In engaging the women physically, mentally to politically, economically,and effectively participate in the limelight of leadership in various capacities in the country.

In other words, making a reliable chance of position for Empowerment to enable women become relevant in the society having known that an idle mind is a devil’s negative thoughts of dwelling. She said.

Nigerian Music Maestro Rexxie Takes the Plunge – Announces Engagement to Chisom

Celebrated Nigerian music producer, Rexxie, has exciting news to share as he revealed his engagement to his beloved Chisom.

The joyful announcement came through a series of heartwarming pictures from their engagement ceremony, posted on Rexxie’s Instagram account.

Expressing his happiness and love for Chisom in the caption, Rexxie announced, “She said YES🥰💍 We have a wedding to plan! 🎉🎉 #CHICHI2025 💕LOVE YOU @officiallychisom ❤️.”Fans and colleagues flooded the comment section with congratulatory messages for the newly engaged couple.

Known for creating the Zanku sound and producing hits like Naira Marley’s ‘Soapy’ and ‘Tesumole’, Rexxie unveiled his debut album, ‘A True Champion’, in 2021. The following year, he released the chart-topping track ‘Abracadabra’ featuring Naira Marley and Skiibii, later dropping a remix with none other than Wizkid.

Rexxie’s career soared to new heights when Burna Boy’s album ‘Twice As Tall’, which he contributed to, won the prestigious ‘Global Music Album’ category at the Grammy Awards in 2021.

In 2022, he earned further recognition for his involvement in Angelique Kidjo’s Grammy-winning track ‘Do Yourself’ from the album ‘Mother Nature’.Last year, Rexxie continued his musical journey by releasing his sophomore album ‘Big Time’, featuring collaborations with artists like Sarkodie, Lojay, and Zlatan.

The talented producer’s engagement marks a significant personal milestone alongside his remarkable achievements in the music industry.

Delta Assembly Targets Herders’ Disobedience, Aims to Enforce Anti-Open Grazing Law

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The Delta State House of Assembly has sounded the alarm regarding the ongoing violation of the state’s anti-grazing law by herders, even three years after its establishment.

In response, the Assembly, under the leadership of Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo and its Legislative Compliance Committee, has initiated a stakeholders’ meeting on Wednesday at the State Assembly Complex to tackle the issue.

Expressing deep concern, the committee observed that violators of the Anti-Open Grazing Law were operating freely on the streets, prompting a commitment to more stringent enforcement in collaboration with the Executive.

The meeting, attended by state security agencies and the Delta State Livestock Management Committee, shed light on disturbing incidents of killings, maiming, and rape perpetrated by herdsmen against farmers and residents.

Despite the existing law prohibiting open grazing, the Deputy Speaker emphasized the Assembly’s unwavering dedication to achieving full-scale compliance. He decried the persistent crisis caused by the unwholesome activities of certain herdsmen in the state, citing recent farmer killings in Uwheru and Abraka.

Rt. Hon. Akpowowo expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing situation and underscored the necessity for a resolute stance against herders’ activities. He urged security agencies to apprehend and prosecute offenders without exceptions, stressing the imperative of strict adherence to the law to address the challenges of food shortage.

The Committee, led by the Deputy Speaker, unveiled plans to convene another meeting involving critical stakeholders to devise lasting solutions to the enduring challenges posed by herders in the state. Other members of the committee include Emeka Nwaobi, Dafe Emakpor, Perkins Umukoro, Festus Okoh, Bernard Odior, and Hon Pereotu Oloye.

The Pond News

Electricity Chaos: Minister of Power Issues Stern Warning to DisCos Over Supply Failures

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The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has issued a stern warning that electricity distribution companies (DisCos) face potential licence revocation due to ongoing power shortages across the nation.

Despite generation companies (GenCos) increasing power output to 4,000MW, Adelabu expressed deep concern about certain DisCos failing to efficiently distribute the supplied power from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

In a Wednesday message on his X handle, the minister vowed to hold distribution companies accountable, emphasizing that severe consequences, including licence revocation, could be imposed for willful non-performance.

Adelabu also instructed TCN to prioritize repairing damaged transmission towers and power lines to enhance supply in affected regions. Additionally, steps are underway to clear debts owed to power generation and gas supply companies, aiming to alleviate financial burdens and boost power generation nationwide.

Inflationary Fallout: Finance Minister Points Finger at Buhari’s Naira Printing Legacy

The Finance Minister, Wale Edun, revealed on Wednesday that the economic downturn in the country can be attributed to a significant policy error during the past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

He said the policy involved freely printing Naira for eight years without a proportional increase in productive activities.

Speaking before the Senate Committee on Finance in Abuja, chaired by Senator Sani Musa, Edun emphasized that this approach led to inflationary pressures, contributing to the nation’s current economic challenges.

He commended the current administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for taking steps to stabilize the Naira against the dollar and implement a more transparent social welfare scheme.

Nigerian Tribune

Destalker’s Brave Confession: Navigating Life’s Challenges and Suicidal Thoughts

Comedian Destalker, also known as Oghenekowhoyan Onaibe Desmond, shared a glimpse into his challenging journey during a recent interview on the Afrobeats podcast with Adesope Olajide.

Despite graduating from university, he found himself working as a commercial motorcyclist due to the lack of lucrative job opportunities. The comedian revealed that the combination of life struggles and family frustrations led him to attempt suicide three times.

Reflecting on his hardships, Destalker emphasized the importance of having a clear vision for one’s future and expressed a belief that when facing suicidal thoughts, a breakthrough may be imminent, with challenges often intensifying as one approaches their destiny.

He also spoke about the impact of familial challenges on personal struggles, highlighting the saying that a man’s foes can be found within his own family.

In his words, he said “We talked about sacrifice. From school, public administration, no work, doing okada, but the truth is I already have it in my mind that I will not work for anybody. First of all, you must have a blueprint of what you want to become.”

“I was struggling, doing things on my own. It was not easy. There were a lot of distractions that it got to the point that I was suicidal. I attempted suicide three good times. That is when I know that even I cannot take my life.

“That is why I now believe that when you are suicidal your miracle is close, the devil does not just want you to attain it. The closer you are to your destiny, the more difficult the challenges.

“When the devil wants to frustrate you no be an outsider, but your immediate family. They say a man’s foes are the members of his family. Your biggest enemy is your family first.”

Night of Tribute: Wigwe’s Assistant’s Last-Minute Change of Plans Saves Him

During a night of tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe, the former Group Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank Plc, Olusola Faleye, his assistant, recounted an incident that prevented him from boarding the ill-fated helicopter that claimed the lives of his boss, Wigwe’s wife, son, and business associate, Abimbola Ogunbajo.

Faleye revealed that he had initially planned to travel with the group on the helicopter but decided to accompany their luggage by road instead since the luggage could not fit on the chopper.

He noted that his decision was motivated by his desire to ensure the safe delivery of the luggage to their destination.

Faleye explained that he had received a call from Ogunbajo, who expressed his interest in joining them on the trip. However, Faleye advised him against it, citing the unpredictability of Wigwe’s travel plans. Despite this, Ogunbajo insisted on waiting for their arrival, and they all proceeded with their trip.

During the flight, Faleye approached Wigwe and asked him about his experience flying a helicopter at night. Wigwe reassured him that the aircraft was equipped with navigation systems to facilitate safe nighttime flying. However, as they began loading the luggage, Faleye became concerned about the logistics of transporting the luggage separately from the passengers, particularly considering the lengthy wait time for the luggage’s arrival.

Faleye ultimately decided to travel by road with the luggage to ensure its safe arrival, leaving Wigwe, his wife, son, and Ogunbajo to board the helicopter. Faleye was en route to their destination when he attempted to contact them via phone, but to no avail. The ill-fated helicopter crashed, taking the lives of all onboard.

President Tinubu Unleashes Bold Policy Directives to Transform Nigeria’s Oil & Gas Sector

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a significant step towards oil and gas reforms, signing an Executive Order to position Nigeria as the top investment destination in Africa’s oil and gas sector.

The announcement, conveyed on Wednesday by the President’s Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, reveals that the President has initiated amendments to primary legislation. These changes aim to introduce fiscal incentives for oil and gas projects, reduce contracting costs and timelines, and enhance cost efficiency in local content requirements.

Acknowledging the urgency to boost investments in the sector, the President has directed the introduction of fiscal incentives for non-associated gas, midstream, and deepwater developments. Additionally, he has launched efforts to streamline the contracting process, aiming to compress the contracting cycle to a swift six months. Another crucial directive involves the application of local content requirements without impeding investments or cost competitiveness.

Ngelale emphasized that the detailed Policy Directives will be gazetted and communicated by the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation. He highlighted President Tinubu’s dedicated efforts to remove obstacles to investments, harness Nigeria’s resources, and diversify the economy for the benefit of all Nigerians.

These incentives were crafted in collaboration with key ministries and agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Justice, Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Ministry of Petroleum, and others. The President has entrusted his Special Adviser on Energy with continuing to coordinate these stakeholders to ensure the timely and effective implementation of the directives.

From Power Play to Professionalism: Nigerian Army’s Pledge for Change

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The Nigerian Army made a resolute statement on Tuesday, declaring an end to the era where soldiers, clad in uniforms, could act without accountability.

Maj-Gen Nosakhare Ugboh, Chief of Civil Military Affairs at the Nigerian Army Headquarters, delivered this message in Bauchi during a one-day human rights lecture and sensitization workshop for soldiers of the 33 Artillery Brigade, DailyPost reports.

Ubgoh emphasized the need for young soldiers to grasp their roles responsibly, dispelling any intent to victimize civilians.

The workshop aimed to enlighten them on professional conduct within the broader societal context, acknowledging a shift from the days when uniformed soldiers had unchecked authority.

The Chief of Civil Military Affairs highlighted that this workshop aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s commitment to transforming the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force for fulfilling constitutional responsibilities across the country. Addressing the inevitable interactions between soldiers and civilians, particularly in the context of widespread deployments to address security challenges, the emphasis was on professional behaviour.

Brig-Gen Emmanuel Egbe, the Brigade Commander of the 33 Artillery in Bauchi, stressed the importance of ethical standards and professional responsibilities in the roles soldiers play within society

Anthropic Unleashes Claude 3: A Game-Charger in AI Dominance

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AI company, Anthropic is introducing its new lineup of Claude 3 models, claiming superiority over Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT across various benchmarks.

The Claude 3 models includes Claude 3 Haiku, Sonnet, and Opus, each with distinct capabilities. Anthropic tout their multimodality, enhanced accuracy, contextual understanding, and speed as contributors to powerful performance.

Notably, the trio is designed to tackle tough questions, addressing the limitations of previous Claude versions. Opus stands out, exhibiting near-human comprehension for complex tasks, as tested through a “Needle In a Haystack” evaluation. Despite improved accuracy, hallucinations remain a concern, though reduced compared to Claude 2.1.

Opus, while excelling in certain areas, faces challenges in speed. Haiku and Sonnet cater to specific use cases, with Haiku offering quick replies and information retrieval and Sonnet designed for larger-scale tasks. Both Sonnet and Opus are available for purchase, while Haiku’s release is imminent.

The Claude 3 trio targets businesses automating workloads, especially in online chatbot applications. Amazon plans to integrate Anthropic’s AIs into AWS, providing a customizable solution for websites.

Nigerian Banks in Hot Water: Bank of Ghana’s Drastic Move on GTB and FBN FX Licenses

The Bank of Ghana has recently declared the suspension of foreign exchange trading licenses for two Nigerian-owned banks, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) and First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), effective from March 18, 2024, lasting for one month.

This decision follows the discovery of fraudulent documentation during their operations, violating various foreign exchange market regulations.

The Ghanaian apex bank announced on Monday that licenses may be reinstated at the suspension’s end, contingent on the banks implementing effective controls to ensure strict adherence to foreign exchange market regulations.

This development coincides with heightened volatility in Nigeria’s FX market and ongoing federal government efforts to restore stability.

The financial regulator emphasizes the need for FX market players to strictly adhere to applicable regulations and guidelines. Notably, on March 1, 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revoked the licenses of 4,173 Bureau de Change (BDC) operators for non-compliance with regulatory provisions.

Binance Discontinues Services In Nigeria, Delist NGN, Advises Users To Withdraw Assets

Binance, one of the world’s largest and most popular cryptocurrency exchanges, has recently announced that it will be discontinuing its services for Nigeria’s fiat currency, the naira, due to an ongoing regulatory conflict in the country. This move is expected to have a significant impact on Nigerian traders who have been using Binance to trade cryptocurrencies.

According to the announcement posted on the Binance website, the exchange will automatically convert naira balances to USDT starting from March 8 at 8:00 a.m. UTC. However, the exchange will cease support for NGN deposits after 14:00 UTC today, and withdrawals will become unsupported after March 8 at 6:00 a.m. UTC. Moreover, all spot trading pairs against the naira will be delisted on March 7 at 3:00 a.m. UTC, and open spot orders for these pairs will be automatically closed.

In addition, Binance Convert, Binance P2P, the exchange’s Auto Invest feature, and Binance Pay will also cease support for the naira at various dates and times. The conversion rate for automatic conversions will be 1 USDT per 1,515.13 naira.

This decision by Binance comes as a result of the ongoing regulatory conflict in Nigeria, which has been clamping down on cryptocurrency trading in the country. The move is expected to affect many Nigerian traders who will now have to find alternative ways to trade cryptocurrencies as Binance has been a popular choice for many in the country.

Social Media: Broda Shaggy Reveals Why He Don’t Like Big Weddings

Broda Shaggi, a popular Nigerian skit maker, whose real name is Samuel Perry, has opened up about his private life and why he prefers to keep it off social media.

In a recent interview with actress Iyabo Ojo, Broda Shaggi revealed that his personal life is very important to him, and he would do anything to protect it. Adding that he is not a fan of big weddings, as he prefers small ones.

He said he believes that having a private life is crucial to maintaining one’s sanity in the entertainment industry, where the public is always watching.

Despite being private about his personal life, Broda Shaggi is a firm believer in love, family, and raising children. He believes in the traditional one-man-one-woman type of love and intends to have his own family someday.

However, he advises people not to rush into marriage but to take their time and make sure they are making the right decision.

Broda Shaggi is a graduate of creative arts from the prestigious University of Lagos (UNILAG) and has become a household name in Nigeria and beyond, thanks to his hilarious comedy videos on social media.

He has been featured in several movies and TV shows. His hard work and dedication have earned him a massive following on social media, and he continues to inspire and entertain people around the world with his unique brand of comedy.

Jonzing World Unveils First Female Singer, Bagetti

Jonzing World, a music label founded by D’Prince, has announced its first female signee, Bagetti.

The label introduced the singer via a post on its Instagram page on Monday, sharing photos of Bagetti and D’Prince while expressing appreciation for its fans’ unwavering support.

According to the statement, Jonzing World’s vision for its “first lady is clear; to inspire and uplift, promote harmony and diversity, and to use the universal language of music to make a lasting impact.”

The statement reads: “Jonzing World is pleased to announce the addition of our first female artist, Bagetti, to the family. We are very proud of the growth and the unwavering support from you all. And now, with a fresher new perspective and a bolder outlook, Jonzing World is all set to introduce its first lady. Bagetti’s vision for the future is clear; to inspire and uplift, promote harmony and diversity, and to use the universal language of music to make a lasting impact. Her journey has just begun, and her inspiring melodies will continue to resonate and inspire change worldwide. So get ready to experience a whole new level with the latest industry revelation, as many more exciting events will unfold.”

Bagetti is the third artiste to join the label in recent months after Gdzilla and Glorious Boy.

Jonzing World was founded in 2019 by D’Prince, an affiliate of Mavin Records. The music company is also home to Rema, the Afrobeats star.

Ruger, who was previously signed to Jonzing World, recently left the label to unveil his record label named ‘Blown Boy Entertainment.’

Google Maps New Update Make It Easier To Track Destination Without Unlocking Phone App

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Google Maps has introduced a new feature for Android and iOS users that allows them to easily track their progress towards their destination without unlocking their phone or opening the Google Maps app.

This feature, called Glanceable Directions, displays navigation updates on your lock screen and can be turned on within the app’s settings. With this feature, you can view your position and estimated time of arrival on the map as you travel, and the data is updated to account for your travel speed and any alternative routes you take.

Despite being a useful travel upgrade, Google has silently rolled out this feature without any fanfare, and it has already been widely adopted by users in various regions. This feature was first spotted by Android Police and If you haven’t seen any changes to your app, you can simply update it on Android or iOS and follow the instructions to turn on Glanceable Directions in the Navigation Settings menu.

However, it’s important to note that enabling this feature may involve sharing some of your navigation data with Google to improve the accuracy of Maps for everyone. You can tap the “Learn more” button to find out more about how your data is being used.

I Once Stole Keke To Fund My Music – Bella Shmurda

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Nigerian street musician, Bella Shmurda, has recently revealed some of the shady activities he engaged in during his up-and-coming days.

The 28-year-old singer said he once stole a tricycle commonly known as keke napep and sold it to fund his music career. In a new documentary titled ‘Bella Shmurda: Tension in Ibadan 2024’ that was shared on X platform by WeTalkSound, he disclosed that he was too desperate for a record deal that he signed an agreement which didn’t end well.

Shmurda expressed regret over his hasty decision, saying, “I shouldn’t have rushed. We will never get to see the future. So everybody is rushing. I went into some things that didn’t later pay off. I went to sign a deal with rush which later was funny. I stole keke (tricycle) because of money but Alhamdulilah, I’m here today.”

The ‘CashApp’ hit maker also talked about how becoming a father has affected the kind of music he creates and visuals he puts out. He said, “Seeing my son inspires me. What’s on my head is, ‘Wetin this boy go see in the next 10 years?’ I don’t want him to see my old videos. I want him to see a new Bella.”

In other news, Bella Shmurda, whose real name is Akinbiyi Abiola Ahmed, popularly known as a street artiste, has revealed that he paid a staggering N20 million to free himself from the contract he signed with his former record label, One World Global Records.

He disclosed that he spent just a year out of his three-year contract and had to pay a huge sum of money to be an independent artist. According to the singer, he was being cheated by the label because they equally funded his music projects but took a larger percentage of the earnings.

He further explained that he would source for N500k as requested by the label, and they, in turn, would bring N500k for production, promotion, and other things that needed funding. However, when money started coming from shows, streaming, endorsement, and other areas, they would take 70 per cent and give him only 30 per cent.

Bella said he was not comfortable with that arrangement, so he hired a lawyer and bought himself out of One World Global Records.

How Governors Complicate Nation’s Economic Woes By Converting Allocations To Dollars

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A leading data mining and public relations executive, Idris Etanami Usman, has expressed concern over the endless shortage of dollar denominations in Nigeria, which has adversely affected genuine businesses.

He attributed the scarcity of dollars to the actions of some state governors who allegedly convert their monthly allocations to dollars. According to investigations conducted by his company, certain state governors are exacerbating the dire situation by prioritizing personal gain over the well-being of their constituents.

In a statement released to DailyPost in Abuja on Thursday, Usman lamented the crisis and insisted that the role of governors in economic policies must be redefined. He emphasized that the routine conversion undermines the stability of the nation’s currency, and urged the government to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

The statement further decried the lack of palliative distribution by some governors despite the huge financial support from the federal government. Usman noted that millions of Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet, and the failure of state governors to fulfil their obligations to the people is both reprehensible and inexcusable.

Usman called on anti-graft agencies to deepen their investigation into the financial activities of those governors to bring the culpable ones to book. He stressed the need for immediate action to rectify the damage caused by those who have betrayed the trust placed in them by the Nigerian people.

IPC Successful Trains Over 40 Journalists From Southeast/South-South On Effective Fact-checking Techniques, FOI

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The International Press Center (IPC) recently hosted a two-day workshop in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, aimed at equipping over 40 journalists from Southeast and South-South Nigeria with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilize Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, Fact-checking tools in their reporting, and deepening reportage of gender issues in post-election.

The workshop was a collaboration between IPC and the European Union (EU), specifically the support/funding to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGIN).

The workshop’s theme was “Post-election reporting: using FOI Act & other investigative methodologies to report democratic governance & electoral accountability issues.”

According to the Executive Director of IPC, Lanre Arogundade, Fact-checking is regarded as a crucial aspect of journalism, as it is a process that plays a vital role in dispelling suspicions and limiting the circulation of false information in society. Stressing that it involves verifying the accuracy and reliability of information before publishing it, which helps to maintain the credibility of journalism and ensures that the public receives accurate and trustworthy news.

He explained that with the rise of social media and the internet, false information has become more prevalent, and fact-checking has become even more important in combating misinformation.

During the training session, the participants had the privilege of listening to the Executive Director of Media Rights Agenda, Edetaen Ojo, who is a renowned journalist and a former editor of The Guardian Nigeria.

In his lectures, he highlighted the vital role of regular access to information and data in enhancing a journalist’s ability to meet professional standards. Edetaen Ojo emphasized the significance of staying up-to-date with the latest developments, facts, and figures to ensure that the news presented is accurate, unbiased, and informative.

He discussed the importance of ethical journalism and how access to information can help journalists uphold journalistic integrity while fulfilling their responsibility to the public.

He also highlighted how the Freedom of Information Act serves as a valuable tool for journalists interested in fact-checking and investigative reporting, as well as in holding government officials and institutions accountable.

In the aftermath of an election, gender issues tend to take a backseat in news coverage. Dr. Titilayo Remilekun Osuagwu, a lecturer in the Department of Broadcasting in the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, Nigeria, believes that this trend must be reversed.

She emphasizes the importance of delving deeper into the reportage of gender issues in the post-election period. By doing so, we can gain a more complete understanding of how gender intersects with politics and governance, and work towards greater gender equality and empowerment.

She maintained that the media should be deliberate in balancing their reporting to consciously reflect the view of everyone in the society including women and girls, and also to ensure equal representation of women and men in the coverage of election beats.

The training also featured practical sessions where participating journalists were divided into groups to learn how to draft an FOI and conduct a fact check. Overall, the workshop was a resounding success as the participants found the lectures insightful and informative, and they appreciated the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals.

DSPG Rector, Achuenu, Pledges Support For Akpoveta’s TISHIP Programme

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The Rector of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, Bldr. Professor Emmanuel Achuenu has assured that his institution will key into the Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme ( TISHIP), of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission ( DSCHC).

The Rector gave this assurance when he received in the audience, the Director General/ Chief Executive Officer of DSCHC, Dr Isaac Akpoveta, who paid the institution an advocacy visit recently.

According to Prof Achuenu, staff of the institution are already part of the programme, and as such, he is hopeful, that in no distant time, the Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) for students will be launched to cover the students of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku.

He commended Dr Akpoveta and his team for the giant strides they have recorded so far in increasing the number of enrollees under the programme in line with the health component of the MORE agenda of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting with the Rector, DSCHC Director General /CEO, Dr Isaac Akpoveta, disclosed that the essence of his advocacy visit was to ensure that students of the institution benefit from, and key into the state health insurance scheme under the TISHIP arrangement.

Akpoveta disclosed that so far, over one million eight hundred and sixty persons have been enrolled under the scheme, adding that Denis Osadebay University Asaba, University of Delta ( UNIDEL), Agbor have already been enrolled while Delta State Polytechnic Otefe in Oghara, and Delta Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku are next in line.

Akpoveta appealed to Deltans to key into the programme with a sum of seven thousand Naira and their health challenge be solved.

He said, “My appeal to Deltans, is to buy into the scheme as quickly as possible as the MORE Agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori says, we want to give MORE to Deltans, more good health”.

“Health is wealth, with only seven thousand Naira you buy the Health Insurance, you will receive treatment from basic in-health to surgery, to delivery and Cesarean section in the scheme”.

Ugoani Of Okpanam Speaks On Omu Martha Dunkwu’s Life Death and Burial

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Says we have a good relationship, I will Never wish Her Death

His Royal Majesty, Dr Mbanefo Micheal Ogbolu, the Ugoani of Okpanam has expressed serious sadness over the passage of Omu of Okpanam adding that she worked assiduously to promote our culture during her lifetime.

Speaking during the interview with news men at his Palace the royal father disclosed that the situation that led to her death was more tragic because the people of Okpanam didn’t hear of her illness before, only to hear of her sudden demise.

According to him, She was a mother to all, She made my coronation successful even encouraged me to relocate down to Okpanam from Lagos to rule the good people of my community.

“She was also among those in the forefront to ensure my enthronement as the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom was a success that is why her death was a huge loss to me ” he said

Speaking further the monarch said initially, we didn’t believe the story of her death but about 5:30 pm, 16th February 2024, a delegation of the Obi Dunkwu family encompassing. MSS, Ofulue Nwokocha, Ogbueshi Emeka Ijei, Oyekwere Dunkwu and the Omu”s son, Afamefuna Dunkwu came to break the news to the Ugoani in Council.

“At that time, Ugoani added, most chiefs and well wishers who got wind of the unfortunate death had gathered in my Palace requesting to know if it is true before the members of her family confirmed the sad news to us”

The royal father said, members of the Omu’s family came to the palace and explained the Council of Chiefs that the reverend Omu before her death left a standing instructions that her corpse should not be taken to the montuary and she should be buried within the period of 48 hours.

According to him, he promised them the full cooperation of the council and good people of Okpanam, provided, they do the needful and are prepared to fullfil all that is associated with her position as the Omu of Okpanam and they promised to comply to the fullest and made the necessary attornment to the palace and relevant quarters of Okpanam Kingdom.

His word, “When an Omu dies, we consult the gods to determine the circumstances of her death that is our tradition and it was successful done by our people”

“And, to give the Omu’s family maximum support as promised by the Ugoani in Council, I and the chiefs began to summon the necessary rites to perform the needful for her to be buried as requested. Special thanks to the Diopka of the people of Ogbeosagi for their cooperation to ensure that the deadline is met” The monarch added.

“let me appreciate the Ezedibia of Okpanam Kingdom, Chief Abua Ntoka, who did not sleep for the next 48 hours to ensure that all the rituals are performed accurately”

“Also, I want to thank Chiefs of Okpanam Kingdom, Ugoani in Council and members of the community who stood their ground and ensure that Omu goes home in a hitch free manner”

He added, Let me not forget to mention members of my family for their wonderful cooperation during this trial period, with a promise to carry everyone along when time is up to celebrate her life.

Expressing deep pain, the monarch urged the general public to disregard the rumour going round in and outside Okpanam, regarding her death adding that, it is the handwork of mischief makers because she has gone to rest and God will continue to grant her gentle soul eternal rest in his bossom, Amen.

Nigeria Customs Services Announces Distribution Of Seized Food Items To Alleviate Hardship

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has revealed its plan to distribute food items it has seized to help alleviate the prevalent hardships faced by Nigerians.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in a statement on Tuesday stated that the distribution of the food items will take place after undergoing certification to ensure their fitness for consumption.

According to Abdullahi Maiwada, the Customs National Public Relations Officer, the Nigeria Customs Service is committed to advancing President Bola Tinubu’s food security agenda. To this end, the NCS will facilitate the direct disposal of food items that have been forfeited to the Federal Government. These items will be certified fit for consumption by relevant agencies and made available to ordinary Nigerians nationwide through equitable distribution in the NCS’s Areas of Operations.

It is important to note that the statement did not specify the exact date for the commencement of the planned distribution.

Okay.ng

Ogwashi-Uku Poly Not Shut Down, No Armed Robbery Attack On The Institution – Rector Achuenu Says

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The management of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku has countered the widespread rumours that the institution is being closed down. The institution refutes any claims regarding its closure, as no official decision has been taken in this regard.

It is imperative to note that Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku remains operational and committed to providing quality education to its students. The institution urges all stakeholders to disregard these false and unfounded claims and continue to support its mission of academic excellence.

During a press briefing held on Tuesday, Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu, the Rector of the institution, confirmed that no attack had taken place within the school premises.

Prof Achuenu said the attack happened within some of the public hostels where students reside in the community, stating that the school hostels are intact and nothing like an attack occurred.

This is coming amid the fake news that has gone viral that the institution is been shut down based on the attack by robbers who killed some students, raped, and injured others.

He said the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku management is already familiar with the fake stories that are trending while clarifying that non of the students were killed or raped.

Achuenu said, “There has been a wave of insecurity all over the country and Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku is situated in the Ogwashi-Uku community of Delta State, Nigeria and we are part of the wave.”

“Unfortunately, there were some series of disturbances as regards the robbery issues that took place in other communities not only in Ogwashi-Uku. It is a similar case of insecurity that has been ravaging the country.”

“This particular incident happened in some of the residents where some of the students reside. It is that residence they are calling students’ hostels, not the ones inside the school premises that were attacked, and when they brought the information to my notice before I knew what was going on, I had received so many calls about Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku being attacked and I was shocked because nobody has attacked the institution.”

“People have decided not to separate an individual from an institution. They mix the community with the campus because the areas they mentioned that the robbers attacked were Mega Chi, Chelsea, and the back of the Africa House area. We have only two hostels in Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, one male and one female hostel is what we have on campus here and both are intact.”

“The hostels they are talking about are the ones in the community because the entire community is made up of global hostels. Those hostels are not related to us, we don’t even know them.”

“It was so painful when I heard the report that Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku is under sage that the school has been closed down on account of insecurity on campus. If the school is to be closed down, is it not the Rector that will give directives? I have not even given any directives like that because what we were doing at that time was to call every one of the stakeholders to ensure that the Ogwashi-Uku community was safe as long as our students were involved in the town, it’s not the institution that is under sage, it is some of the areas in the community where students reside in private hostels.”

“Just because people want to make trending news, they now linked the entire situation to Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku saying the school is under attack and some students have been killed while some were raped and others injured. Nowhere in this Polytechnic has been robbed? All the vicinities around the Polytechnic and some kilometres away from the Polytechnic non of them were affected. Some of the residences that these students are staying are far from here, they are not close to the school.”

“That fake news is painful, and it must reversed because the information that the Student Union President wrote came as a result of what he felt was right at that time. We did not ask him to issue a statement. This Polytechnic is safe and it is not under sage”, the Rector stated.

While giving a hint about some of the measures put in place to checkmate the incident and the decisions reached during a meeting held with the Aniocha South Local Government Council and the stakeholders of the community and the Polytechnic, the Rector stated that owners of hostels who want the school to note their presence ought to make it official to the management to be aware of their presence.

He said during their meeting with the Local Government Council, he suggested that anyone who builds a hostel in the community should ensure to provide security. Micro and macro security wherein the micro deals with the individual units while the macro security should be within those areas where the individual hostels are located and also general security for the whole community.

He also said there will be a consistent meeting between the hostel’s owners and the security architectures in the Local Government Area to discuss how to provide security for the entire community, adding that they suggested that there should be a security trust fund that will be used to checkmate or address the issues of security in the community.

Prof Achuenu added that the management of the school is still trying to get the perimeter fencing of the school done as a way of securing the institution so that anyone will not be entering the campus, adding that the Obi palace and the police have released a hotline to call whenever there is an attempt of any insecurity within the community.

Also speaking is the Dean of Student Affairs, Mr Agetue Franklin who said none of the incidents occurred in the institution nor did any students killed or raped as speculated, adding that the situation was magnified and blown out of proportion.

He added that the security of the school is intact and students are around stating that nothing of security threat is happening within the school premises.

Similarly, the Students Union President, Comrade Victor Anthony thanked the media for coming to clarify the fake news that is already trending while stating that the school was not shut down as speculated, adding that the students were the reason for the crisis.

Comrade Anthony said it was people who misquoted the content of the statement that was released by the SUG, according to him, the pressure and tension were much due to the fake news that had been circulated on social media.

He said the school management has been proactive about the situation that is happening within the community while also reaffirming that the school was never attacked by the robbers nor was it shut down as speculated.

Davido To Disburse N300M Among Orphanage Homes Across Nigeria

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Nigerian music sensation, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has once again demonstrated his philanthropic side by pledging a whopping sum of 300 million Naira to orphanages across Nigeria.

The singer made this announcement in a post he shared on his social media handle on Tuesday. He also stated that he would provide details of the donation’s disbursement on Wednesday.

It’s worth noting that Davido, through his David Adeleke Foundation, has been making generous donations to orphanages annually for some time now. The singer wrote in his post, “I and my foundation pledge the sum of 300 million Naira to orphanages around Nigeria… as my yearly contribution to the Nation. Details of disbursement tomorrow.”

This is not the first time Davido has shown support to orphanages in Nigeria. In 2021, on the occasion of his 29th birthday, Davido reportedly donated N250m to 292 orphanages across the country.

Similarly, in July 2023, the talented musician was also reported to have donated an unspecified amount to over 400 orphanages in Nigeria. Davido’s commitment to supporting orphanages in his home country is indeed commendable and serves as an inspiration to others to give back to society.

WhatsApp Working On New Interface For Status Updates Tray

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WhatsApp is reportedly working on an update that could introduce a revamped design for the Updates tab.

This tab is primarily meant for viewing the temporary photo and video posts, popularly known as ‘Stories’, that users post on the platform.

The new design would bring larger thumbnails of unseen Stories to the top of the Updates tab, along with a preview of the first one, making it easier for users to catch up with everything they haven’t seen yet. This would be particularly useful for users with a large number of friends and family posting updates.

The new design has been spotted in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android by WABetaInfo (via Android Authority). While it is not clear whether the feature will make its way to the stable version of WhatsApp, it is believed that the new interface could be optional or something that everyone gets, depending on the developers’ decision.

Currently, users can view new Stories from the individuals and channels they are connected to, regardless of whether they have interacted with them recently. They can create a new status update themselves from the same screen. Stories can also be accessed from the main chat tab, though it’s possible to miss updates if there are people further down the list that users haven’t chatted to recently.

All in all, the upcoming design change is expected to make it easier for users to catch up with their friends’ updates, without having to miss out on any of the latest posts.

Lion In Obafemi Awolowo University Kills Zookeeper During Feeding

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A tragic incident occurred on Monday at the Zoological Garden of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where a 9-year-old male lion killed the zookeeper, identified as Olabode Olawuyi, who had been in charge of the Zoological garden for over a decade. The deceased was feeding the wild cats in their den when the lion attacked him.

The Public Relations Officer of the university, Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Monday. He stated that other staff members who were present at the scene of the incident tried to rescue the deceased, but unfortunately, the wild cat had already caused severe harm.

The university management expressed condolences to the family of Mr Olawuyi and has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the incident. It is reported that Mr. Olawuyi had been taking care of the lions since they were born on campus about 9 years ago.

Upon hearing the sad news, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adebayo Bamire, and his team immediately ended their ongoing meeting for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation.

The Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre, Dr Tirimisiyu Olatunji, informed the Vice-Chancellor that all first aid and medical efforts to save the life of the victim proved abortive.

The University management has sent a delegation to the widow and children of the deceased, imploring them to take solace in God who gives life and also has the power to take life.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with working with wild animals and the need for proper safety measures to be put in place to avoid similar occurrences in the future.

ADUN Holds 6th Matriculation Ceremony, 352 New Students Take Oath

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The Admiralty University of Nigeria, (ADUN) Ibusa, Delta State, conducted its 6th matriculation ceremony on Saturday.

The event, which kicked off at 11 AM in the Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba (GSS) Multi-purpose Hall, saw the presentation of 352 fresh students who took their matriculation oath.

Matriculating students taking their Oath

The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Paul Omojo Omaji congratulated the students and encouraged them of the task ahead and the sacrifices they need to make to be able to graduate successfully.

Prof. Omaji in his address titled “Living Rightly Produce Great Results” said ADUN is destined for greatness, adding that the entire ideological framework that guides the university shows that it pursues very excellent standards.

He also added that the Admiralty University of Nigeria, being a global university is not just focused on producing graduates instead it prides itself more on producing luminary leaders.

Omaji maintained that it takes a quadripartite partnership or approach for the university to be able to achieve its vision of producing luminary leaders, stating that cooperation between the federal government, the university, parents, and students is needed as everyone needs to work together.

He assures the parents, guardians, and students that ADUN despite being a public university, will not go the same way as other public universities. According to him, the Nigerian Navy has a responsibility to maintain its imprint and its presence, and also to ensure that the principle which drives the Navy is what drives the university.

He said the university which has successfully lived over the years succeeded based on its mantra of doing things rightly, as he prayed and encouraged the students to always live rightly and ensure they do the right thing at the right time, and at the right place.

Prof Omaji called on parents and guidance to join hands with the management of the university to bring out the discipline of the students and also encouraged them to ensure that their kids’ needs are well-taken care of, stating that their feeding should not be compromised in any way. “When a child does not feed well, that child will not likely to learn well”, he said.

Also, in a paper presented by Dr Kingsley Emu on the Occasion of the 6th Matriculation Ceremony of the University, titled “Achieving Career Objectives in a Challenging Economy: The Role of Government & University in Partnership”, he advised the freshers that it is very important for them to understand their limitations when undertaking their courses, as it is the foundation of their career.

He encouraged the students to use their leisure time to acquire a skill instead of wasting it on things that are not useful.

Dr. Emu who said the state has a lot to do in terms of policy that will enable things to strive, advised the university management that they have a big role to play and they should try to make education functional, adding that functional education is very profitable.

In addition, the Group Executive Officer/Chief Executive Officer of Navy Holding Ltd, Rear Admiral Hol Kaoje who was represented by Rear Admiral Adetimi Kayode in his address stated that the Admiralty University of Nigeria is a product of the vision of the Nigerian Navy.

Kaoje added that its objects, among other ideals, are; to promote knowledge, skills and aptitudes in maritime arts, sciences and technology in furtherance of national security and development; to expand the frontiers of knowledge in various related and contemporary academic disciplines; to use university education as a veritable tool to drive critical human resource development, national development and nation- building; and to raise exemplary and luminary leaders who will serve humanity with purpose and distinction.

He encouraged the students to begin to see themselves as part of a unique community. A community of law and order; a community of decency and discipline; a community of unfettered initiative and creativity; as well as a community of excellence and distinction.

The Chief Executive Officer who encourages the Matriculating Students, uses the opportunity to congratulate them, firstly on their admission and secondly for the memorable experience of the matriculation, saying their academic journey just began.

Similarly, the Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori who was highly represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Tonukari Johnbull encouraged the students to take their studies seriously, stay focused and strive for excellence.

Oborevwori said the university has put in place a conducive environment for learning, advising students to take advantage of opportunities provided by the institution.

He added that the university is a place where students have a lot of freedom and such freedom usually comes with a lot of correspondencing obligations. Additionally, students should strive to protect their rights, privileges, and freedom, they must also ensure not to stumble over the rights, privileges, and freedom of others.

The Governor called on the Vice-Chancellor and the management of the institution to encourage the students to participate in extracurricular activities, community service, and initiatives, as well as entrepreneurial skills. According to him, such activities will help develop their leadership skills, broaden their horizons, and create lasting memories.

He said the Delta State encourages healthy debates and diverse ideas but the Government has a zero-tolerance policy towards cult activities and examination malpractices. Advising the matriculating students to always see themselves as the ambassadors of the institution by giving priority to their academics.

He added that the Admiralty University of Nigeria will continue to always receive encouragement and support from the Delta State Government.

Scandal: Timaya In Big Mess, Accused Of Song Theft

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Nigerian dancehall and reggae singer, Timaya, has been accused of intellectual property theft by a cultural music group called United Boys Culture.

According to the group, Timaya sampled their song titled ‘Dey Your Dey’ on his latest single of the same title without seeking their consent.

The group’s leader appeared in a video that has been circulating online, appealing to Timaya to stop stealing their intellectual properties. The group also claimed that Timaya had previously sampled another of their songs titled ‘As E Dey Sweet Us, E Dey Pain Dem’ without their permission.

The leader of the group, who is from Etche, Rivers State, called on the popular Nigerian musician to seek their permission if he ever intends to remix their song.

He begged Timaya to leave their songs alone and stop using them without their permission, saying, I want to use this opportunity to call on our brother, Mr. Timaya. I am the leader of United Boys Culture of Etche, Rivers State. We are the original owners of the song, ‘Dey Your Dey.’

“I want to plead with you, you know that the song has been trending since October last year. If you want to remix our song, you are supposed to seek our permission.

But you just went ahead to remake the song. That was how you remake ‘As E Dey Sweet Us, E Dey Pain Dem’ without our permission. Please, leave our songs. I am begging you, Mr. Timaya.”

Joeboy Drops ‘Osadebe’ His New Single

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Nigerian artist, Joeboy, has just launched his latest masterpiece guaranteed to get you moving and grooving, and it’s titled ‘Osadebe’.

The music star took to his Instagram page on Friday to announce the release of the song.

In ‘Osadebe’, Joeboy sings about living life on his own terms and staying in his lane.

The artiste, whose real name is Joseph Akinwale, gained popularity under emPawa Africa, a record label owned by Mr Eazi. He has won several awards and recognition for his craft, including the ‘Best Artiste in African Pop’ prize at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) in 2019 and the ‘Best Pop’ category at the Soundcity MVP Awards Festival in 2020.

Joeboy’s music has been well-received by audiences and critics alike. His 5-track extended play (EP) titled ‘Body, Soul & Spirit’ was released in November 2023. Earlier this month, he announced his departure from emPawa Africa and the launch of his own music label called ‘Young Legend’.

In ‘Osadebe’, Joeboy emphasizes his desire to remain true to himself and not be swayed by external influences. His lyrics express his determination to pursue his goals while staying in his own lane. The song’s catchy beat and lyrics make it a must-listen for fans of Nigerian music and Afro-pop.

Listen to the track:

Delta Govt To Domesticate Laws That Will Address Energy Generation, Distribution, Set up Committee – Festus Okubor

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The Delta State Government has established an inter-ministerial committee to create or domesticate laws that address energy generation, distribution, and revenue collection. This move follows the directive by the federal government for states to generate electricity.

Dr. Festus Okubor, the Chief Strategist to the State Governor, disclosed this during a media briefing at his office in Government House, Asaba, the state capital.

Dr Okubor highlighted that the committee’s primary objective is to formulate the legal framework for the State House of Assembly to pass it into law. He emphasized that the issue of electricity in the state is a top priority for the governor, and the committee will work towards achieving the goal of a sustainable and consistent power supply.

In addition, Dr Okubor acknowledged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent Supreme Court victory, stating that it is a testament to the grace of God. He emphasized that the governor’s administration would do all that God would have done for the state if He were the one administering it directly. He also noted that his role, as the Chief Strategist, is to assist the government in strategizing on political, economic, and other issues.

Okubor further mentioned that Warri, as a commercial hub of the state, requires attention and investment for its development. He explained that the government would focus on areas that require investment to impact society positively.

He also stated that the government’s policy on the revitalization of industries is to create an enabling environment for investors to invest and for businesses to thrive.

Dr. Okubor emphasized that facilities must be available to attract businesses and investors. He noted that before international companies could invest in Warri, the environment must be conducive, and the facilities must be available.

“The government must provide modern gadgets to treat patients in case of an emergency and build better stadiums to attract football games like Arsenal,” these are the policies that the Delta State Government would actualize to improve the quality of life for Deltans, the Chief Strategic to the Governor added.

OpenAI Launches Sora, A New AI Model That Generates Text Prompts To Videos

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Artificial Intelligence company, OpenAI, has recently launched Sora, an AI model that is designed to generate videos from text prompts.

This new tool is an addition to OpenAI’s repertoire of AI models, such as ChatGPT and DALL-E, which are great for generating text and images.

Sora is a text-to-video model that can create realistic videos up to 60 seconds in length with the help of descriptive text prompts. According to OpenAI, the tool can create videos while maintaining visual quality and accuracy to the user’s prompt. It can generate multiple characters, specific types of motion, and accurate details of the subject and background. The Sora website showcases various examples of videos created by the tool.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has also requested text prompts from his X followers and later replied to the users with AI-generated videos created by Sora based on their requests.

While Sora has promising capabilities, OpenAI acknowledges that the current model has weaknesses and may struggle to generate a few prompts. Therefore, the company will be working with experts to create strict guidelines for misinformation, hateful content, and bias. They are also working on developing safety measures before Sora is available to other OpenAI products. Sora will be made available to red teamers, visual artists, designers, and filmmakers to assess risk and provide feedback on improving or advancing the AI model.

Timini Says Nigerian Girls Living Abroad Have Better Dating Experiences Than Those Living In Nigeria

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Nollywood actor, Timini Egbuson has shared his thoughts on the dating experience of Nigerian men with Nigerian women abroad versus those at home.

The actor said that Nigerian men can have a better dating experience with Nigerian women living abroad rather than the ones in Nigeria.

Timini made this statement on the latest episode of the Menisms Podcast. He highlighted that Nigerian women living abroad have a better chance of finding love due to the stiff competition in the dating pool, which is more diverse than the ones in Nigeria.

He also mentioned that Nigerian women living abroad are the minority in the dating pool, which makes them more desirable to men who are looking for something different.

Timini also pointed out that Nigerian women living abroad are more willing to take care of their partners, as they have a limited number of options.

He stated that Nigerian men who share the same values as these women are deemed as the prize in their eyes.

On the other hand, Nigerian women in Nigeria have more options available to them, which makes them less likely to settle for less. They have access to a wide range of men to choose from, which could make it difficult for Nigerian men to find love in Nigeria.

In conclusion, Timini believes that Nigerian men can have a better dating experience with Nigerian women abroad than those in Nigeria due to the limited number of options available to women abroad.

Davido anticipates Joint EP with Kizz Daniel

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The Nigerian singer, Davido, has hinted at a possible joint extended play (EP) with his colleague, Kizz Daniel.

In a recent social media post, Davido disclosed that a joint project could be in the works after he releases his next album.

The announcement follows the success of their remix of Kizz Daniel’s hit song, ‘Twe Twe’. Before this, the duo had collaborated on Kizz Daniel’s 2018 hit, ‘One Ticket’. Both artists have attained considerable success, locally in Nigeria and on the global stage.

In March 2023, Davido rebranded his music label and launched a new era, DMW 2.0. He also announced the signing of Olori and Morravey to his record label. Last year, Davido received his first-ever nomination for the Grammy Awards in three categories, including ‘Best Global Album’ for his latest album, ‘Timeless’.

The other categories were ‘Best African Performance’ for his song ‘Unavailable’ and ‘Best Global Music Performance’ for his track ‘Feel’. However, he did not win in any of his categories at the just-concluded Grammy Awards.

On the other hand, Daniel gained fame in 2014 with his debut single, ‘Woju’, and has since released other chart-topping hits such as ‘Lie’, ‘Buga’, and ‘Mama’. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his music.

Young Chinese Women Prefer Having AI Boyfriend Than Real Man

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These women report that AI boyfriends are superior to human men in several ways, including their ability to listen without judgment, their consistent availability, and their lack of emotional baggage.

While the implications of this trend are not yet clear, it highlights the increasing influence of technology on human relationships and raises questions about the future of intimacy and companionship.

This is coming after a Chinese start-up, MiniMax has created an exceptional AI platform named Glow that offers human-robot free.

A 25-year-old Chinese office worker in Xi’an northern China who preferred to use a pseudonym rather than her real name says her boyfriend who is a Chatbot on an app called Glow, knows how to talk to women better than a real man.

She added that her AI Boyfriend comforts her when she has her period pain. “I confide in him about my problem at work. I feel like I’m in a romantic relationship”, she told AFP.

Also, Wang Xiuting, a 22-year-old student in Beijing told AFP that people have different personalities which often generates friction.

While humans may be set in their ways, artificial intelligence gradually adapts to the user’s personality — remembering what they say and adjusting its speech accordingly based on emotional support.

Wang said she has several “lovers” inspired by ancient China: long-haired immortals, princes and even wandering knights.

“I ask them questions,” she said when she is faced with stress from her classes or daily life, and “they will suggest ways to solve this problem”.

“It’s a lot of emotional support,” she said as her boyfriends all appeared on Wantalk, another app made by Chinese internet giant Baidu.

There are hundreds of characters available – from pop star CEOs and Knights – but can also customize their perfect lover according to age, values, identity, and hobbies.

“Everyone experiences complicated moments, loneliness, and is not necessarily lucky enough to have a friend or family nearby who can listen to them 24 hours a day,” Lu Yu, Wantalk’s head of product management and operations, told AFP that Artificial Intelligence can meet this need.

‘You’re cute’ – At a cafe in the eastern city of Nantong, a girl chats with her virtual lover.

“We can go on a picnic on the campus lawn,” she suggests to Xiaojiang, her Al companion on another app by Tencent called Weiban.

“I’d like to meet your best friend and her boyfriend,” he replies. “You are very cute.”

Long work hours can make it hard to see friends regularly and there is a lot of uncertainty: high youth unemployment and a struggling economy mean that many young Chinese worry about the future. That potentially makes an AI partner the perfect virtual shoulder to cry on.

Wang said, “If I can create a virtual character that meets my need exactly, I’m not going to choose a real person.”

ASAGBA OBI EDOZIEN WAS A REFINED, VOCAL MONARCH, SAYS ONISHE UBULU, CHIEF EMMA EJIOFOR

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In a condolence message made available to newsmen in Ubulu uku , the Onishe ( King maker ) , said Obi Chike Edozien was not only an astute gentleman who always stamps his presence by his highly cerebral viewpoints , but also faces issues dispassionately

While thanking God for the impactful life lived by the Asagba in the administration of his kingdom which is evidenced by the pervading peaceful coexistence among residents of Asaba , the Ubulu uku kingmaker also stated that the developmental strides recorded by successive administrations in the state capital, had been due largely to the departed Asagba,s style of leadership which encouraged mutual respect between government and the community

Chief Emma Ejiofor who also said the late Obi Professor Chike Edozien was a fair minded monarch who accommodated all view points but was always convinced in his views no matter whose ox is gored , said the Asaba monarch is endowed with a large accommodating heart towards all and sundry

Said the Onishe of Ubulu uku kingdom: ” Asagba Obi Professor Chike Edozien was very close to our departed Obi, Ofulue the 1st. A man of impeccable character, there is something enigmatic about him, an embodiment of knowledge , that leaves an indelible impression on whoever interacts with him. He took me as a son and friend , even with the age difference and l am proud to know him and benefit from his fountain of royal knowledge and regal bearing “

While commiserating with the Edozien family of Umuezei quarters , the Asaba community and Deltans in general , over the joining of his ancestors by Obi Edozien, the Ubulu uku king maker prayed for the repose of the soul of the respected Professor of medicine and centenarian monarch of Asaba

CHIEF EJlOFOR, ONISHE UBULU, MOURNS AKINUWA OF AGBOR, CAIRO OJOUGBOH, DESCRIBES HIM AS AN ORGANIZED GENTLEMAN

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Chief Emma Ejiofor, in a condolence message in Ubulu uku, Aniocha South, said as a politician, first a federal lawmaker representing his lka federal constituency, and as Akinuwa of Agbor Kingdom, excelled in his duties to the admiration of all and sundry.

While lamenting the unfortunate passing on of the one time Executive Director ( Projects), of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and All Progressive Congress ( APC) stalwart while watching the semi-final encounter between South Africa,s Bafana Bafana and Nigeria’s Super Eagles during the just concluded AFCON 2024 in Bouake, Cote D’lvoire, Chief Ejiofor said Deltans in particular, and Nigerians in general, have lost one of the most exceptionally cerebral and result oriented team players, whose exit spells the end of an era of unblemished service to fatherland.

Said the Onishe of Ubulu uku kingdom: “Words fail me to come to terms with this monumental passage of a thoroughbred quintessential gentleman, a loyal party man and team player, whose driving passion for service to his community Agbor and by extension, lka was the overall development and human capacity success of his people. As a federal lawmaker representing Ika, he excelled. As the Akinuwa of Agbor Kingdom, he was in close touch with his people, offering them his best, both in material and human endowment. He was a strong advocate of social justice and equality for the masses. We have lost a beacon of hope.”

While commiserating with the Ojougboh family, the Ika nation, Deltans and the APC family, Chief Ejiofor prayed to God to grant the deceased statesman eternal rest and peace profound.

Introducing Score, The New Dating App For People With Good To Excellent Credit

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Score, an app for prospective daters with good to excellent credit scores has been launched by a lifestyle finance platform, Neon Money Club.

The dating app seeks to help raise awareness about the importance of finances in relationships and enable its users to have at least a 675 credit score to use the new dating app.

In a blog post, Neon Money Club, CEO Luke Bailey stated that financial wellness often takes a backseat hence its mission is to inject financial awareness into the fabric of everyday life.

He added that to inject financial awareness into the fabric of everyday life, the company have to take the conversation to places where it isn’t normally discussed, adding that ‘Score’ aims to elevate the discussion around financial health which has remained stagnant for decades.

The CEO pointed out that if approved, prospective daters will gain access to a pool of financially like-minded individuals. He said Neon Money Club will offer resources to guide those who still work towards eligibility on their journey towards a healthy credit score and financial literacy.

According to Jackie Liao, CPO Neon Money Club, “Score is just one of the many rollouts we’re doing to bring financial wellness to the table because the table itself is boring and outdated. We’re beginning with love, and we’re in good company.’

“A recent Federal Reserve study recognized that individuals with high credit scores are more inclined to establish committed relationships”.

Instagram And Thread Will Stop Recommending Political Content From Accounts Users Don’t Follow

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Meta, the parent company to Instagram and Thread, announced that it’s expanding an existing Reels policy that limits political content from people you’re not following (including posts about social issues) from appearing in recommended feeds.

The technology company said it aimed to avoid making recommendations that could be about politics or political issues, in line with the approach of not recommending certain types of content to those who don’t wish to see it.

It stated that Users on Instagram and Threads can choose to opt back to see content related to laws, elections, and social topics in their recommended feeds, and they’ll still see accounts they follow.

In a blog post on Friday, the company highlighted that they want users to have a valuable experience when they use Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, which is why they use AI systems to personalize the content they see based on the choices they make.

“People have told us they want to see less political content, so we have spent the last few years refining our approach on Facebook to reduce the amount of political content – including from politicians’ accounts – you see in Feed, Reels, Watch, Groups You Should Join, and Pages You May Like. We’ve recently extended this approach in Reels, Explore and In-Feed Recommendations on Instagram and Threads, too, Meta says in the post.”

“At the same time, we’re preserving your ability to find and interact with political content that’s meaningful to you if that’s what you’re interested in on Facebook Feed. When ranking political content in our Facebook Feed, our AI systems consider personalized signals, like survey responses, that help us understand what is informative, meaningful, or worth your time.”

“We also consider how likely people are to provide us with negative feedback on posts about political issues when they appear in Facebook Feed. We’ve shifted away from ranking political content in Facebook Feed based on engagement signals – such as how likely you are to comment on or share content – since we’ve found that they are not reliable indicators that the content is valuable to someone.”

“In addition, users can personalize what they see on Facebook through customization tools. The company offers in their Feed Preferences and directly in places like their Feed. They can provide direct feedback on a post by selecting Show More or Show Less and using Reduce to adjust the degree to which we demote some content. If you don’t want AI systems to personalize your Feed at all, you can use the Feeds tab, which will rank posts chronologically. You can also add people to your Favorites list so you always see content from your favourite accounts.”

Logos Olori drops self-titled EP featuring Davido

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Fast-rising Nigerian singer, Olamilekan Emeka Taiwo, better known as Logos Olori has released his highly anticipated eponymous extended play (EP) featuring Davido, his boss.

The singer breaks the news of the release via his social media page on Friday with a photo showing the tracklist of the EP.

The 8-track EP, features Davido and Musa Keys with songs including: ‘Olori’, ‘Easy On Me’, ‘Push’, ‘My Darling’, ‘Apapa’, ‘Hmm Hmm’, and ‘Murder’.

Logos Olori broke into the music industry after he was featured on ‘Picasso’, a track of Davido’s ‘Timeless’ album.

In March 2023, he released his debut single ‘Jaye Lo’, accompanying it with a music video after Davido announced his signing alongside Morravey to DMW, his record label.

Download the EP:

Carter Efe reveals how Asake was chased off stage during his 02 Arena show

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Nigerian skit maker and artiste, Carter Efe, revealed how popular Afrobeats singer and Grammy Award nominee, Ahmed Ololade better known as Asake was chased off the stage during his concert last year at London’s O2 Arena.

He said the management of the arena turned off the lights after sending the YBNL signee off the stage.

The content creator made this revelation during a chat on the Spill With Phyna podcast while speaking about the unfair treatment meted out to Nigerian creatives by Western music executives and show promoters.

He frowns at the fact that his colleagues still go back to the foreign music executives despite being treated ‘anyhow’.

In his words; “The management of 02 Arena turned off the lights during Asake’s performance at the venue last year. Westerners treat us anyhow, and we still go back to them. They chased Asake off the stage. They put off the lights. I’m not lying.”

Phyna suggested that Nigerian artists should unite and organize concerts for fans in the country but he dismissed her suggestion, saying the country lacks the facilities to host events of such magnitude.

Oborevwori Approves N15.7 Billion For Phase-3 Of Flood Control Measures In Effurun, Warri, Environs

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Delta State Government has approved the sum of N15.7 billion for the third phase of flood control measures in Warri, Effurun, and environs in Warri South and Uvwie Local Government Areas of the state.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza immediately after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori on Thursday.

The Commissioner for Information said the third phase of the control measures will cover Airport Road, Ugborikoko, Bendel Estate, and Ugboroke and environs in Uvwie and Warri South Local Government Areas.

Dr Osuoza explained the flood control measures in Warri/Effurun and Environs Phase 3 is a major project that was approved to address some of these challenges.

“It is worth noting that phases 1 and 2 of this project were awarded a long time ago. Phase 1 is already completed, while Phase 2 is at 85 per cent completion. Phase 3, which requires an estimated sum of N15.7 billion, covers some critical areas in Uvwie and Warri South”, he added.

Osuoza also disclosed that the Council approved a counterpart fund of N600 million for the Sustainable Development Goals, SDG Conditional Grants Scheme for Delta State.

He specified that the Governor and the State Executive Council are familiar of the difficulty endured by Nigerians and Deltans, and have resolved to alleviate their plight.

Also speaking, the Director-General of Warri, Uvwie and Environs Development Agency (WUEDA), Prince Godwin Ejinyere, confirmed that the Agency is presently working on a total solution for flood control measures in the Warri Stadium area, adding that design work is ongoing around Enerhen Community, Igbudu, and Odibo Estate, among others area.

Jaro Egbo Explains How Delta Palliatives Were Distributed

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The Delta State Fuel Subsidy Palliatives Committee vice chairman, Olorogun Barrister Jaro Egbo, explained the method used to allocate the palliatives received from the federal government to help cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

He clarified that the maize received as palliative from the federal government was not healthy for consumption at the time they were received, so the committee decided to distribute them to farmers to use as feeds.

Barr Jaro who spoke with journalists in Asaba, the state capital, stated that the distribution of the maize was done among three different groups, poultry, pig, and fish farmers Associations within the state.

He explained that the committee did not engage itself with individuals rather it dealt directly with organizations, noting that physical verification was also conducted within the three groups of farmers association to ascertain the evidence tendered by the beneficiaries before the allocation.

The vice chairman who also doubled as the Special Adviser to the State Governor on Transport, frowns at the lackadaisical attitude of some farmers who were not members of the Farmers Association, stating that such a situation makes it difficult for them to be profiled by the committee.

He advised them to try and organize themselves together, stating that the committee adopted the approach of profiling the farmers based on the Association because it is easier to get across to the majority of them and also on the issue of transporting the items to the individual location.

In his explanation, Jaro said “For the maize, what we did was to look for those farmers who are not into big farming. We have three groups, poultry, fish, and pig farmers. Some of them have over 600 farmers in one group.

As for the poultry group, there are 564 farmers and what we did is that we told them that we were going to carry out a physical verification which is what we did within the three groups of farmers. Those who were not able to come were removed and as we speak, the chicken farmers have gotten theirs and on Monday we will handle the fish and piggery.

“The only protest we have is that some people want to say they don’t belong to this association but what we did is that we make sure that we follow due process. Some of them are not registered in the association hereby making it difficult to be profiled.”

“Before the distribution, we had a meeting with the leadership of the association three times within Government House and we asked them to go and aggregate their interest among themselves and when they came back we merged them and then sent people to go verify their samples.”

“What we did is to deal with an organization, not individuals but there are some persons that don’t belong to any group. We must deal with a group and when there are different groups we now merge them. If we deal with individuals there is no way we can afford it. People were taken from every part of the state.

“When we did the allocation, tons of grain were allocated to the group and 5 per cent was allocated to non-association members, those who are not in any association as a way of accommodating everyone.

“However, I will advise them that it is easier when they organize themselves together because when something of this nature occurs, it is very difficult to transport them to individuals but it is easier for a group. These are some of the things we considered before we adopted this format to share the Palliatives. They have to organize themselves for them to get it”, he added.

Ogwashi-Uku Poly Complies With State Assembly Directives, Reinstates Demoted Lecturer

The management of the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku has acted according to the directive issued by the State Assembly to reinstate one, Mrs Grace Adah, a lecturer who was demoted from lecturer 1 to non-academic staff in 2015 due to alleged corruption.

The Rector, Bldr. Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu made this known to journalists on Wednesday. He said the institution is not ready to flout any order in whatever way adding that the demoted lecturer had already been reinstated even before the 24-hour ultimatum issued by the lawmakers.

He also said the management has handed over the reinstated letter to the lecturer and she has signed her copy.

Achuenu said “We have already taken action, the good news is that we have taken action before appearing before the Assembly, it’s just that it has not been properly communicated. Thereafter, we handed over the letter to the candidate, and the action has been taken.”

“She has been reinstated before, it’s just an issue of nomenclature or maybe the assignment. The issue is about someone who has been pardoned from the origin, which is an issue of non-academic and moving her to academic is the one in contention because it is the Council that is handling it not even the school management.

“This matter we are talking about is not even before the management, it’s a council matter. I only saw the need from the management angle and quickly treated it but unfortunately, before the issue was dispensed we had that summon.

“This is an institution that has an interest in compliance, we don’t have any reasons to fail directives but the way it happens it looks as if we don’t want to comply. You know this is an institution and when you are doing something you must look in all directions so that whatever you are doing will not be faulted as well. If somebody gives you directives you must respond and when responding, you also have to look at the case.

“I am a new person in this matter they are talking about, I wasn’t even involved. It happened from 2015 to 2017, mine is just a post manager of the case, Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku is not willing to flout any order in whatever way. We are happy to comply in totality and whatever the grey area is, it is not an issue. Anything grey area can be corrected but whatever it is, we have fully complied 100 per cent”, the DSPG Rector stated.

However, when contacted by the embattled Lecturer, she acknowledged that she had been issued a letter of compliance by the management and she has equally signed it accordingly.

Delta Police Command gets new CP, Abaniwonda

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CP Abaniwonda Surajudeen Olufemi has assumed duty as the 22nd Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command.

The new CP is taking over from AIG Wale Abass who has been transferred to Police Force Headquarters Abuja.

CP Abaniwonda Surajudeen Olufemi was born on the 22nd of February 1966 to the family of Mr and Mrs M.A.R. Abaniwonda.  He hails from Epe LGA of Lagos State. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History in 1987, and a Master of Arts in Economics History, both from the prestigious University of Lagos in the year 1990.

He was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a member of Cadet ASP Course 17 on the 18th  of March 1992. He attended the elite Police Academy Kaduna, and upon completion of training in the academy, was posted to Kogi State Police Command as a young Assistant Superintendent of Police in November 1995.

He has served in various capacities in the Police Force as follows;
The CP served as the 2 I/C Squadron Commander Police Mobile Force (21PMF) in Jos from the year 1996, he also served as Squadron Commander at MOPOL 8 Jos from the year 2002-2005.

From the year 2005 – 2014, he served as Divisional Police Officer at Kubwa Division, Gwarinpa Division, Karmo, Division, Lugbe Division, Garki Division, and Karshi Division and also the CSP DOPS FCT Police Command. 

As a trained officer of international standards, he was deployed for the Peace Keeping Mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2000 and was in 2008 seconded as the Training Adviser at the UniNationsons’ Integrated Office in Sierra Leone. (UNIOSIL).

In 2015 he was posted to the Gwagwalada Area Command as the Area Commander, and in 2017 he was transferred to Oyo State Command as the Area Commander Oyo Area Command.

Upon his promotion to the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police, he was tasked with administrative duty at the Department of Operations Force Headquarters Abuja. Afterwards, he was transferred to Kogi State Command as the Deputy Commissioner of Polithe ce State Criminal Investigation Department.

He was the immediate past Deputy Force Secretary at Force headquarters in Abuja. He was promoted to the rank of Commissioner of Police on 1st June 2023 and deployed to Delta State as the 22nd   Commissioner of Police of Delta State Command.

During his service, he attended the following courses:
i. Traffic Management Course, Police College Ikeja, November 1995.

ii. Combat Operation Course, PMF Training School, Gwoza, April 2000.

iii. APC Conversion Course, PMF Training School, Gwoza, March 2001.

iv. Formed Unit Training, PMF Training School, Gwoza, July 2006
v. Induction Course at Police Staff College Jos (2005).

vi. Tactical Leadership and Command Course, Police Staff College, Jos, June 2008.

vii. Strategic Leadership and Command Course, Police Staff College, Jos, November 2019
He is a member of the Nigeria Institute of Management (NIM).

CP Abaniwonda Surajudeen Olufemi is a highly disciplined, detribalized officer; and has attended so many workshops and seminars both at at home and abroad.

His hobbies include reading books and sports. CP Abaniwonda Surajudeen Olufemi is happily married and blessed with lovely children.

While taking over from the outgone CP, the incoming CP promised to build on existing security mechanisms in place towards enthroning the reign of peace and safety in Delta State.

He advised the public to always cooperate with the Police and other security agencies at all times while tasking the youths not to allow themselves to be used for any act of criminality.

In his handing over remarks, the outgoing Commissioner of Police, AIG. Wale Abass thanked the State Government and the people of the State for their cooperation while he was in charge of the Command and urged them to extend the same cooperation to his successor.

CP. Abaniwonda Surajudeen Olufemi while addressing the press assures Deltans, residents and non-residents that the Command under his leadership will ensure that the state becomes uncomfortable for criminals.

Oborevwori flag off construction of 8-bedroom duplex at Commissioner’s quarters

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Delta State Governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has achieved another historic milestone as he flagged off the construction of eight (8) four-bedroom duplexes at the commissioner’s quarters in Asaba, the state capital.

He said the construction of the eight four-bedroom duplexes in the Commissioner’s quarter is part of an ongoing effort to improve physical infrastructure synergy and service delivery in the state.

The Governor made this known during the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of the eight four-bedroom duplexes in Asaba on Tuesday, stating that the contractor has a completion period of six months to complete the project due to the good weather conditions at the moment.

Oborevwori also said the commissioner’s quarter was built and furnished 22 years ago with the addition of a specialized Ministry over the years, and the number of Commissioners needed exceeds the number of houses currently in the estate. As a result, some Commissioners often feel left out and do not enjoy the sense of community of living in the quarters together.

“When you live together, there is a sense of belonging, there is also an issue of security and personal safety because living together makes Commissioners bond together.”

“It is my desire for every Commissioner to live in the distributed official quarters. As a responsive and responsible administration, I have decided to meet this need by adding eight (8) duplexes and 5 bungalows. By the time this project is completed, the total number of quarters will rise to thirty (30)”, he added.

However, the Honourable Commissioner for Housing, Godknows Angele, in his address said the Commissioner Quarters which were built about 22 years ago for 17 commissioners and 5 special advisers were adequate for the number of commissioners and the special adviser in the then administration led by the former Governor Chief James Ibori.

Honourable Commissioner for Housing, Godknows Angele

Angele added that the 22 duplexes are grossly inadequate for the present number of commissioners in this present administration hence some of the commissioners are either in rented apartments or Hotels. This informed why His Excellency the Governor Sheriff Oborevwari approved the speedy execution of the project so that on completion the affected Commissioners can settle down to work in a secure and serene environment.

He said the four (4) bedroom duplex comprises an anteroom, main lounge, private lounge, kitchen, guest room, laundry and 2 rooms boy’s quarter on the ground floor while the upper floor comprises a family lounge, master’s and madam’s bedroom, children room, kitchenette, study and gymnasium. And the premises shall be paved with interlocking stones among other external works.

The Housing Commissioner implores the contractor to reciprocate this gesture by showing due diligence and dedication to maintain high-quality standards and timely completion of the works to achieve the overall benefit of this project.

Tyla makes history, wins first-ever Best African Music Performance after Defeating Davido, Asake, Burna Boy

Tyla, the South African female singer, has written her name in gold after she won her first-ever Grammy Award, the Golden Gramophone for Best African Music Performance category with her song “Water”.

She defeated Davido featuring Musa Keys (“Unavailable”), Burna Boy (“City Boys”), Asake & Olamide (“Amapiano”), and Ayra Starr (“Rush”) at the 66th Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance, a new category created to honour music from the Africa continent.

The 22-year-old singer while receiving the award gave a shout-out to her family and said she never thought would win a GRAMMY at 22 years old.

“I never thought I’d say I won a Grammy at 22 years old. I know my mother’s crying somewhere in here,” Tyla said in her acceptance speech.

Although coming up against stiff competition, including massive Afrobeats stars Burna Boy and Davido, the massive appeal of Tyla’s hit song “Water” proved undeniable for GRAMMY voters.

In a blogpost by the Grammy Award, the amapiano-based pop song entered the Billboard Hot 100 last year, the first for a South African solo artist since Hugh Masekela in 1968. It later peaked at No. 7, making her the highest-charting African female solo musician in Billboard history. The song also went to No. 1 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs and Hip-Hop/R&B charts.

The 66th Grammy Award saw a record number of Nigerians nominated for different categories including the inaugural Best African Music Performance category with 5 Nigerian artists taking four out of five spots, however in a surprising turn of events no Nigerian won any of the awards nominated.

During the nominations, Nigeria saw a record of 10 nominations but has failed to win any of those categories.

The Best Global Music Album category was won by Shakti for his work ‘This Moment’ while the Best Global Music Performance category was won by Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer and Zakir for their song ‘Pashto’.

Joeboy Exit emPawa, Sign Deal With Warner Music, Launch New Record Label Young Legend

Joeboy, the Nigerian music star has launched Young Legend, his record label dedicated to giving a platform to the next generation of stars after exiting emPawa Africa, a record label owned by Mr Eazi.

The Young Legend partners with Warner Music, the US-owned global music company to help distribute the music of artists on its roster.

Announcing the new record label, Joeboy took to his social media page to share a documentary of himself which he captioned as the “dawn of a new era”, Likewise, Warner Music also announced Joeboy’s arrival in an Instagram post it shared on its page.

Also, in a blog post, Warner Music stated that the bond between the company Music and Young Legend will be cemented over the coming weeks with a series of music camps to be held in Lagos, London and Los Angeles. Stating that the aim is to start releasing new music from the Young Legend roster within the next few months.

“Joeboy will act as the CEO of Young Legend, working with Deola Jaiyesimi, who is the Head of the Label, and Teniola Akanni, who is the Head of Legal, Warner Music stated in the blog post.

Recall, that Warner Music has been continuously more active in Western Africa, working closely with independent Nigerian label Chocolate City; acquiring leading pan-African music company Africori; and benefiting international successfully with Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy and Ckay.

Joeboy born, Joseph Akinwale become a household name in the music industry since he laid the foundations of his career in 2017, when he was signed to the emPawa Africa record label.

His songs have generated millions of views while his albums, “Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic” and “Body & Soul” have also received critical praise globally.

In 2019, he won the ‘Best Artiste in African Pop’ prize at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). While In the singer also ripped the ‘Best Pop’ category at the Soundcity MVP Awards Festival.

Reno disagrees with Pastor Adeboye’s reliance on God for security issues, supports Senator Nwoko’s firearms bill

Nigerian author, activist, and influencer, Reno Omokri disagrees with the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye’s reliance on divine intervention for security issues, advocating for proactive measures such as citizens bearing arms for self-defence referencing biblical examples and the need to prioritize all lives equally.

Reno made this known through a post he shared on Sunday on his page on the X platform formally known as Twitter.

In the post, Reno said he believes that Nigeria should not rely on God for security but argued that Nigeria should answer the question God asked Moses and support Senator Ned Nwoko’s bill for Nigerians to bear arms in self-defence.

He added that self-defence is an ineligible right vested in every human being, as seen in Scripture, stating that If bullets start flying in the other direction, bandits and kidnappers will look for a different profession.

He also emphasizes that God does not love traditional rulers more than professional beggars and that every life is important to God, except for those who took a life themselves. He urges Nigerians to support Senator Nwoko’s arms bill.

An Investigative Trip To Ugboba Coal Mining Site

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The Truth And The Lies About The Coal Mining Project

A few years ago, coal deposits were discovered in four communities in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, namely Ugboba, Obompka, Ukwu-Nzu and Ugbodu. It was later licensed for mining and MOSRA Energy Limited got the bid, hence, the commencement of mining exploration.

Among these communities that the mining was to start from, only Ugboba has been able to galvanise its people together in terms of providing an enabling environment for the activities to take off. For mining activities to take off a lot has to be put in place. Top on the list are security, peace and the accommodating spirit of the communities involved.

My investigation revealed that the above-mentioned factors are essential, hence it is difficult for mining activities to commence without these essential factors.

I have followed up the activities of the miners even up to the coming of the then Honourable Minister for Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Olamilekan Adegbite during the launch of the official mining project. I had joined some of my colleagues to cover the engagement of the Minister in the State, which also created the platform for interaction with other stakeholders, including the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of MOSRA Energy Limited, Mr. Olukayode Ramos.

Recently when I started seeing some negative publications on social media about the mining activities, I became worried. My worry was not just about the negative effect of the falsehood being churned out for public consumption, but that this could either be a blackmail or the handiwork of fifth columnist desperately in need of something from the mining company. It could also be to tarnish their image unjustly. And as a thoroughbred journalist, specialising in community journalism, I decided to take an investigative trip to the mining site at Ugboba and other communities around just to unveil the story behind the story, to better inform the society of the happenings within and around the mining site.

First, the persons behind the sponsoring of the social media publications had alleged that the mining activities had caused the river water in the area to change colours and of course, causing harmful effect on the health of the people.

The above allegation had informed the decision of the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Abuja, Senator Prince Ned Nwoko to come up with a press release on the matter, detailing his intention to engage MOSRA Energy Limited on it, as well as other sundry issues relating to the mining activities of the company.

From my perspective as a journalist during investigation, I discovered that MOSRA Energy has no issue whatsoever with Ugboba community or any other community at all. Mining is going on well at the mining site.

On a guided tour of the mining site, I discovered that the coal is not the black coal but a Lignite Coal which is called the surface coal. Meaning that before getting to the coal underground, the top soil is first removed, and then the overburden is removed and dumped on a gully deep around the mining site. One does not need to dig deep before getting the coal, and it is not like the black coal mining in Enugu or other places.

I equally gathered that, this is called “Sustainable Mining”, where the essence of mining is not to destroy the ecosystem of the land, but to regenerate it for future use. The land is regenerated to its original state after mining by covering back the deep with the top soil in order to reproduce vegetation.

I discovered that even though the mining does not have any effect on the skin, the miners have regularly watered the community to eliminate any effect of dust. The mining is done along farm road and people move about their normal businesses without complaints.

In terms of corporate social responsibility, the company has done fantastic which the community has attested to in my opinion sampling. Apart from providing the youths with employment in MOSRA Energy in Ugboba and Kogi State, engaging some of the youths in skills acquisition, providing potable water for the community, supporting the welfare of the people and others, they had also earmarked a location of about three kilometres away from the mining site to set up a power plant. The power plant will be fed with the coal to supply electricity to Ugboba and its neighbouring communities in Aniocha North LGA and indeed our country Nigeria at large.

Another interesting finding is that the MOSRA Energy Facility Site is being built also in Ugboba to facilitate the processing of the coal before being taken to the market. From the mining ground, the coal will be taken to the facility centre for crushing, afterwhich it will be weighed through the weigh bridge to determine actual quantity before being conveyed out.

One striking thing I took note of, is the fact that the rivers – Ojeokpa and Iyi-Odo they claimed to be coloured by the effect of mining, are surface water and not underground. Again, they are kilometres away from the mining site. But there is one river, in fact, a spring water directly opposite the mining site, called “Iyioku” spring water. I decided to take a stroll down the water front where I saw nature at its best. The Iyioku water is so pure, and I learnt it has been like that for centuries, traveling miles away into other surface rivers.

Now, there is no coloration of the water which is directly opposite the mining site, how then can other rivers far away be coloured by the effect of mining?

From Iyioku, I decided to move towards Obomkpa axis where my suspicion was cleared. I knew that at a time, four to five years ago, the World Bank under the community health Centre carried out an ecological erosion control project at Obomkpa. This project took care of an aspect of Obomkpa Road with drainages which terminated at a point on the road leading to Ukwu-Nzu.

Where the road was terminated, the drainage was channelled from their towards a nearby river which then flows into Ojeokpa river as a discharge point. What I discovered here was a three-way channel: from Obompka, Ugboba and Ukwu-Nzu, the roads have drainage systems where water is channelled into nearby river, presumably in order to contain erosion flood in the area. And because of the volume of water coming from these three communities which carries lots of red sand to discharge at a nearby river point, there is no way that the mixture of the water with the red muddy flood water will not affect the colour of the river water at that point in time.

I noticed that Ukwu-Nzu on the other side is on a hill. The Government of Delta State some years ago, also constructed their main road and terminated the project at a point just before the popular Odiani Secondary School. Because of the volume of muddy flood water coming from Ukwu-Nzu too, it was always impossible accessing the school. Even students and teachers of the Odiani Secondary School or workers and patients at the community health Centre in Ukwu-Nzu can not access these two facilities when it rains.

Now, to solve this erosion challenge and link up the three communities, Ukwu-Nzu, Ugboba and Obompka on the other side, MOSRA Energy Limited has taken up the challenge of fixing the remaining part of the road of about four kilometres as its corporate social responsibility. The company had already completed drainages and now filling up the road ahead of stone base and asphalting.

When I saw what this mining company has done already, I concluded that anybody trying to blackmail them for personal benefits is an enemy of progress in these communities, particularly Ugboba, as succour has come to them, which was hitherto not being there before now. We all know how difficult those terrains had been to access.

Moreover, aside the road infrastructure and other social amenities the communities are now benefitting from MOSRA Energy Limited, the human capital development is massive. I learnt that several youths of Ugboba community are already employed by the company, working both at the Ugboba mining site and Kogi mining site. Some are even learning how to operate some of the mining equipment including their product moving trucks which are even being damaged in the process, yet the company does not mind.

We must think of the effect of the above indicators to the economy of the community. Our teeming youths are being taken off the streets, which is more important. And for other communities with deposits of the mineral resource, they should quickly fasttrack their own Community Development Agreement (CDA) in order to benefit from the massive investment that has come to the area, instead of being jealous of the one that has galvanised itself and met up with all the requirements necessary for mining activities to begin to take place.

In a nutshell, we must not forget that the mining activity is a business owned by somebody, not government. The government at the federal level only issued license to them, because they had met all the mining requirements from local government to state government and to federal government. This means that the company’s capacity had been certified overtime. But we must not forget that the company is in business to survive and also make profit for other ventures. They are doing their best to meet up with the terms of agreement with the community and governments at the three levels. They pay their tax and they also carry out corporate social responsibility to the community of Ugboba in particular, and its environs in order to create a conducive environment for their business to thrive. Otherwise, there seems to be no reason for the road project it has undertaken between Ukwu-Nzu, Ugboba and Obompka.

The economic benefit for mining the coal mineral resources in these communities will be of far more beneficial to the communities than anything else. The best advice is not to destroy this opportunity but to make good use of it in the best interest of this generation and generations of the communities yet unborn.

Davido confidently claims that he deserves to be awarded 20 Grammy Awards

It is no secret that Davido is one of the biggest names in the African music industry. With his exceptional talent and hard work, he has become a force to be reckoned with in the music world. And now, the Afrobeat star has his eyes set on something even bigger – the 2024 Grammy Awards.

Davido recently spoke about his excitement over being nominated for the newly introduced ‘Best African Performance’ category at the 66th edition of Grammy Awards, which will take place on Sunday, February 4, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The 31-year-old singer has also earned nominations in two other categories — ‘Best Global Album’ for his latest album, ‘Timeless’; and ‘Best Global Music Performance’ for his track ‘Feel’.

In a recent interview, Davido expressed his belief that he “deserved to have clinched 20 Grammy Awards” and his hope that he will win some of these prestigious awards soon.

With the release of ‘Timeless’, his fourth studio album, on March 31, 2023, Davido has continued to make waves in the music industry, surpassing one billion streams across major platforms on August 3. It is only a matter of time before he clinches some of those Grammy awards he so rightly deserves.

Oborevwori swears-in three new Commissioners highlights Delta as first state in Criminal Justice Reforms

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, highlighted the state’s ranking as the first among states in the country in Criminal Justice Reforms by the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies based in Abuja.

The Governor made this known during the swearing-in ceremony of three newly appointed Commissioners in Asaba, the state capital on Thursday.

Oborevwori said this achievement was made possible following the passage of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law 2022 and Administration of Civil Justice Law 2022 by the State House of Assembly under his leadership as Speaker.

The Governor described the newly appointed Commissioners as tested hands and expressed his confidence in their competence.

Mr Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, was described as a brilliant and capable lawyer who brings almost 30 years of distinguished service at the Bar to the office. He challenged the new Attorney-General to sustain the state’s pace-setter role in Criminal Justice Reforms and to ensure the rigorous and successful implementation of the state’s criminal justice laws.

Dr Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza, the Commissioner for Information, was described as a tested hand and avid communicator with extensive experience in political communication and information management. His appointment as Information Commissioner was thoroughly well-deserved, and his commitment to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and passion for citizen engagement and mobilisation were commended. Governor Oborevwori expects creativity and innovation in government communication that ensures optimal, fact-based projection of the policies, programmes, achievements, and activities of the government.

Prince Kelly Kalanama Penawou, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, was described as a grassroots politician of immense stature with extensive experience in local government administration. The Governor expects nothing but excellence and exemplary performance from him, having served as Special Adviser on Local Government Affairs in the immediate past administration.

Governor Oborevwori charged the Commissioners to lead by example by being role models in their respective ministries. He emphasized that their example is the most powerful leadership tool they possess, and they must be role models in punctuality, discipline, hard work, excellence, honesty, transparency, and accountability. He further urged them to let fairness, equity, and justice guide their actions, give every citizen equal opportunity to benefit from the government’s programmes and services, maintain an open-door policy in their ministries, and be accessible to all and sundry.

The Governor reassured Deltans that this administration is poised to fully focus on advancing Delta State through accelerated infrastructural development, more job opportunities, improved learning climate in schools, and better working conditions for workers in the public service. He charged all political appointees to roll up their sleeves and redouble their efforts.

Delta State is Peaceful for Investors to Come Invest – Oyibode

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Delta State government has reiterated its commitment to its M.O.R.E agenda to enhance peace and security across the state having earned the award of the most peaceful state in the country.

The Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode made this disclosure today in an interview with journalists in his office in Asaba.

Oyibode urged Deltans to contribute their quota to the already existing peace in the state, stating that the ministry would work with all security agencies to ensure the safety and security of all Deltans.

“With the cooperation of security agencies in the state coupled with the effort of the governor, who is security friendly, investors can now come and do business without interference in the state” he added.

He charged oil and gas-producing communities and companies operating within the state to embrace peace, and unity, shun greed, and avoid crisis to enhance peace in their communities.

He added that “before now our Warri comedians has been in the forefront of championing the course that Warri, Delta is not safe via their jokes which led to most of the oil companies leaving the state to another state but today the story has changed.

Oyibode called on our comedians to also use this medium to rebrand the state,  adding that Delta is peaceful and safe for investors to come.

He said the ministry’s vision is how to generate 24-hour electricity within the state with its natural resources.

The Commissioner urged the companies to comply with their corporate social responsibility, as the ministry would come up with a Free-to-operate (FTO) system for all companies operating in the state.

Oborevwori prioritizes power sector in 2024 budget, calls on BEDC to always restore faulty transformers

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Delta State Commissioner for Power and Energy, Jerry Ehiwerio has called on the BEDC to quickly restore faulty electricity transformers to help curb the issues of vandals stealing their parts in the state.

The power and energy Commissioner said this while interacting with journalists in his office at the Prof Chike Edozien State Secretariat on Wednesday.

He said since the governor came on board, he (Oborevwori) has sent out transformers to various communities both in the rural and urban areas across the state and also provided streetlights to some of the communities.

Ehiwario said he is very optimist that the Governor, His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori will find a lasting solution to the power sector in the state which is why in the 2024 budget that was recently signed into law, the governor specifically prioritized the sector to cater to the power disaster in the state as a bid to actualize his M.O.R.E Agenda.

Although, Ehiwario frowns over the issues of electricity transformers vandalization happening in the state but said the prioritization of the power sector in the state is a matter of maximum importance to the governor in actualizing the M.O.R.E Agenda, stating that it does not mean that the government will provides a special security for surveillance of the power infrastructures in the state rather, the government can only provide maximum security to protect the lives of citizens and properties.

According to him, there might be a lack of security coverage for some of these infrastructures but he believes that there are no security agencies that will see someone ravaging power infrastructure and fold their hands.

He said one of the challenges of security agencies in the country is that they lack manpower that will enable them to overseas these challenges, explaining that in due time some of these challenges will be resolved.

Ehiwario said “When you get to the Western world, there are no special security agencies assigned to the power sector to curb vandalization. When there is enough security in place, you will see some balance.

“We want to appeal that the residents should try to protect their Transformers from vandals because when these infrastructures are not working, they are very easy to be noticed by these destroyers and they will likely go closer.

“Most of these infrastructures, the government might have spent a lot of money to provide them and if they are faulty, it is the responsibility of the BEDC to come restore it so that vandals do not vandalize it.

“I urged the residents to always report faulty transformers to the distribution company to facilitate quick restoration, instead of waiting for months.”

“The governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has already prioritized the power sector in the 2024 budget that was recently signed into law, and very soon a lot of things will be in progress in most of the communities because Oborevwori, the governor is committed to doing more.”

“There are so many communities that the government is going to touch, so many local government areas will be impacted.”

8Miles9ja drops EP ‘On My Way’

Nigerian fast-rising artist, Edwin Nyamkume Abeh, who is better known by his stage name, 8Miles9ja has dropped his first extended Playlist titled ‘On My Way’ Tha EP.

This is coming as a follow-up to his single ‘No Delay’, a song he released in 2021.

The 7 track EP featured some sensational artists like Jiggy Biggy, Mekus, and Bigg Yetty. Xoxo, Mine, On My Way, Party Time, Hop On My Jet, Kilode, and No Dey are the tracks that make up the album.

‘On My Way’ Tha EP is a harmonious journey that transcends genres and captivates the soul. A symphony of emotions was put together with each track waving a narrative of passion, resilience, and self-discovery.

The EP is not just a craft that resonates with the depths of yourself alone, every note tells a story and every beat creates a connection.

8Milies9ja is an Afrobeat artist who hails from Guma Local Government Area of Benue State and he currently based in Asaba, Delta State.

He has been in the background trying to carve a niche for himself, according to him, ‘On My Way’ EP is a project released to position himself on the map of the entertainment scene.

He possesses lyrical prowess, a stage persona, and a creative ability to entertain. His music cuts across all spheres of life, and aside from being a musician, 8Miles9ja is also a dancer, photographer, and footballer.

Listen to the EP:

Simi Declares Support For Couples Cohabiting Before Marriage, Says It Helps A Lot

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Simisola Bolatito Kosoko, better known as Simi has expressed her viewpoint as regards couples cohabiting before marriage.

She said it is good for intending couples to live together before they get married, revealing that she was cohabiting with Adekunle Gold, her husband before they got married.

The singer who declared her support for couples cohabiting before marriage made these revelations while speaking at the latest episode of the Tea With Tay podcast.

She pointed out numerous advantages it brings to a relationship saying it is a means to better understand one another. According to her, cohabiting would allow an intending couple to know each other better before deciding to tying the knot.

Simi said “I used to go over to Adekunle Gold’s place for us to spend time together. I am of the opinion that…Maybe I shouldn’t share this opinion because I feel like religious people might not agree with me. Personally, I think that people who want to get married should live together for a little bit before they do that because I don’t think you really know someone that you’re going to marry until you cohabit.”

“The way someone is outside in their best behaviour is different from how they are when they are cranky and they haven’t eaten or when they wake up in the morning or when they are snoring.”

“When you live with someone you know all the sides to them, that is when you really know if you can do forever with them. Millions of people have gotten married without living together. But I personally think it’s a good idea to cohabit before marriage. It doesn’t have to be for long.”

Her opinion aligns with the idea that going through the nitty-gritty of day-to-day life together can reveal compatibility issues early on, potentially preventing larger conflicts down the road.

Simi perspective challenges conventional norms and raises questions about the significance of pre-marital cohabitation.

Watch the podcast:

FRSC Operatives Seen In Viral Video To Face Disciplinary Actions Over Misconduct – Sector Commander

Delta State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Udeme Basset Eshiet, has said the team of operatives of the corps who were seen in a viral video fighting with a motorist will face disciplinary measures for misconduct.

This is coming after an incident happened on Saturday, January 20, 2024, where the Federal Road Safety Corps came under public scrutiny after a video surfaced online wherein the operatives of the corps were seen fighting with a driver and left a sour taste in the mouth of the motorist along Asaba-Benin expressway in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

The Sector Commander while briefing Journalists at the State Secretariat of the Nigerian Union of Journalists in Asaba on Friday, said the FRSC team who were on their normal patrol duty on that faithful day flagged down a Toyota Sienna vehicle that was coming from Owerri going to Lagos but the driver who tried to invade arrest, uses his vehicle to hit one of the operatives of the corps which prompted the driver of the FRSC to use the operational vehicle to block the road, an action which led to the incident that happened that day in the viral video.

He said when this happened, a lot of people tried to resolve the issue but the driver of the Toyota Sienna vehicle came down and started fighting the Marshalls, according to him, the driver brought out a screwdriver to deflect the tyres of the patrol vehicle of the FRSC.

Commander Eshiet added that the FRSC head of operations who was there when the incident happened, took the two parties to the office with the help of the officers of the Nigerian Police Force.

He said though the driver of the commercial vehicle was wounded, but a special Marshall who happened to be a member of the voluntary arm of the FRSC took the driver and paid for his treatment, adding that the case was settled amicably in the office with the manager of the commercial vehicle when he arrived.

Condemning the action of the operatives of the FRSC, the Sector Commander said the corps does not tolerate such kind of incident, stating that the FRSC does not send officers to block vehicles on the road to cause that kind of damage to people’s vehicles.

Eshiet further stated that the command reported the situation accordingly and the corps Marshall directed that the matter should be handled and reported back to him.

He also assures the motoring public that it is not the character of the FRSC to behave the way the operatives behaved, stating that the members of the team involved in the incident are already facing disciplinary action, and if found culpable, they will be punished accordingly.

He added that the sector commander had gotten in touch with the driver of the Sienna vehicle and decided to support his treatment so that the burden would not be much on him.

The FRSC Sector Commander advised the motoring public to always obey the operatives and slow down whenever they are flagged down, saying “It may not necessarily be booking. It is not all the time we book offenders because sometimes it might be for public enlightenment while sometimes you may be made to know some things that are faulty in your car.

He said “The Command has taken further steps that they will not be having serious patrol operations along the Asaba-Benin expressway till further notice. Also, we will not be having our patrol team at the Niger Bridge to carry out enforcement till further notice.

“These are the steps that we’ve taken to have time to reorient the operatives for them to operate in a manner that the motoring public will have trust in them so they can punish whosoever is committing and violating traffic offenses and regulations. These are the stand of the corps as far as this matter is concerned because the action of the operatives is not in the modus operandi of the FRSC.”

“We are the only high source certified organization in West Africa as far as paramilitary is concerned and occupying such a position is what makes us an elite corps that should do what is right. The corps will do whatever it takes in our capacity to ensure that such an act does not repeat itself.

Responding, the chairman of the Delta State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyovwe thanked the Sector Commander for the opportunity to brief the press on the incident and also to enlighten the public on what transpired between his operatives and the Toyota Sienna driver on that faithful day.

The Delta NUJ chairman said despite the fact that the video has gone viral, it is very important that the public hear from the FRSC as a way of balancing whatever that has gone out.

He said it is professionally right for the press to balance stories from both sides and to know the necessary steps put in place by the corps to instill discipline among its operatives and also to inform the public on what is expected from them by the corps at all times.

Comrade Oyovwe commended the Sector Commander for his presence and the steps he has taken to ensure peace between his command and the motoring public and also for taking care of the medical bills of the driver.

He added that it is the responsibility of the press as the fourth estate of the realm to always bring up issues for proper public enlightenment.

Orere bridge signposts Oborevwori’s equal opportunity for all – Izeze

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Delta State Government, Thursday, said the ongoing construction of Orere bridge in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state signifies Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s opportunities for all Deltans as enshrined in his MORE Agenda.

The State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze disclosed this while speaking to journalists shortly after inspection of ongoing construction works at Orere bridge.

He commended the contracting firm, Obakpor Engineering Limited, an indigenous company for the job done so far on the project and assured that the Governor Oborevwori’s administration would patronise contractors with proven competence and capacity to deliver on projects.

While reiterating the importance of the project to the several communities across the Orere river, Comrade Izeze a former member representing Ughelli South Constituency, commended the state government for awarding the project.

He said: “I am very pleased with this project, the famous Orere bridge because its something I advocated for over the years.

“Let me state very unequivocally that I am very impressed with what I am seeing on ground considering the fact that the contracting firm, Obakpor Engineering before now has been one of those companies that has been alleged to cut corners, not having the professionalism to deliver on projects.

“But here we are standing across the project that is being handled by Obakpor Engineering and you will think that you are standing at the Trans-Warri Ode-Itsekiri bridges that is being handled by a foreign firm.

“What he has done so far is that he is bridging the gap between our indigenous contractors and their foreign counterparts..

“One of the cardinal legs upon which the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori stands is ‘Opportunities for all’ and it means everybody would have the opportunity to prove themselves.

“The quality of your work will determine how much patronage you will receive from government. I can say categorically that Obakpor Engineering has improved tremendously in terms of the manpower and equipment.

“The contractor has said he will be out of site completely within the next nine months and this goes to show that Obakpor Engineering has come of age and they will continue to improve as we move forward. It is a fantastic job but like I will always say, there is room for improvement.”

On the length of the bridge before the river, Izeze explained that the bridge was designed to ensure that high flood waters does not impede usage of the bridge when there is flood around the corridor.

“If you understand this terrain, the over 30 communities that make up the Ewu Kingdom in Ughelli South is entirely an Island and they don’t need much rains before the flood starts.

“To get the proper sloping, the bridge is designed such that there is enough distance before the river so that by the time flooding starts it will not disturb the usage of this bridge,” Izeze said.

On her part, the State Director of Highways, Engr. Mrs Juliet Aboloje said the Orere bridge is 500m cutting across 25 spans of 20meters each with access road of 4.3km and 1.36km arterial roads.

Managing Director of Obakpor Engineering Limited, Olorogun John Oguma said the company remains committed to completing the project on target.

He said the project was delayed by yearly flooding that makes the firm to lose four months of active work annually.

“The taste of the pudding is in the eating. We are trying our best as one of the best indigenous contractors around the state to ensure that we deliver the best quality roads and bridges for our dear state.

“What you are seeing here started in 2021 but God willing we will finish the decking by February to March ending then we will thereafter face the access road.

“By the grace of God this place will be fully motorable and we will open this bridge to the remaining 15 communities up to Bomadi.

“We can assure that in the next nine months we will be through with the job and I thank the state government for trusting us with this all important project.”

I Remain The Onishe of Ubulu Uku Kingdom – Emma Ejiofor

The king maker (Onishe) of Ubulu uku kingdom in Aniocha South local government area of Delta State, Chief Emma Ejiofor, has affirmed that he remains the Onishe and anyone parading himself is playing with fire.

Chief Ejiofor made these pronouncements on Tuesday in Asaba while conversing with Journalists about the speculations that another ‘Onishe’ has been installed in the Ubulu-Uku kingdom.

He added that nobody has the right to proclaim or assume the title or position of The Onishe of Ubulu-Uku kingdom in Aniocha South LGA while he is still alive even though the person is from his kindred.

According to him, the titles in the community are shared based on the quarters in the community and each title rotates within the kindred as no one is hereditary except the kingship which moves from a father to his first son.

He said the community is practising a monarchy system which he pointed out that anyone who is not from his family and is pronouncing himself as the Onishe or accepting such a title or position should be ready to face the consequences because such a person is only calling for death upon himself as it is sacrilegious to even think of it or to assume it.

Chief Emma Ejiofor put in words that the community cannot have two ‘Onishe’ at a time just as two kings cannot be on the throne, stating that it takes the throne to have an ‘Onishe’ and it takes an Onishe to have a king at the throne.

He said “Nobody has the right to take it even from my kindred. Nobody has the right to even assume that position while I am still alive. If you go to my community, we are not like other social communities, we are a traditional community.”

“When you come to Ubulu and you greet anybody with his title, one will know where the person is coming from. Titles are shared within the kindreds and nobody interlocks with another person’s title as none is hereditary, they rotate within the families.”

“Only one title is hereditary because we operate what is known as the monarchical system, that is the kingship. The kingship moves from father to the first son, not the second. We operate the ‘Diokpaship’, the eldest. So for an insane man to come up and say he is assuming when he is not from my kindred, I think that person is just asking for death without missing words.

“It’s sacrilegious for you to even think of it, not to talk less of assuming it. I didn’t stop anybody who wants to die not to die because if you have your money and you want to go buy poison at the pharmacy, I won’t stopped you. As far as I am concerned and the community is concerned, nobody assumes that position when I am still alive even when the person is from my kindred because we do not have two ‘Onishe’ at a time as two kings cannot be on the throne.”

“I urged all Ubulu Uku people to remain resolute as they have their king, Umuogochukwu Edward Ofulue, who is the first son of Obi Edward Ofulue ll, the late king of Ubulu-Uku kingdom.”

Dyslexia: Nwaobi Receives DIPA’s Patron’s Award For Support To Vulnerable Persons

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The Chairman, Nigerian Majority Leaders’ Forum/Majority Leader of Delta State House of Assembly and member representing Aniocha North Constituency, Hon. Engr. Emeka Emmanuel Nwaobi has been honored with the DIPA’s Patron’s Award, in recognition and deep appreciation for his past and present laudable roles in support of humanitarian activities, especially about vulnerable children in society.

The DIPA Patron’s Award was presented to him in his office by the Founder/Executive Director of Dyslexia Initiative Project Africa (DIPA), Enddy Sunny-Udjor.

Hon. Nwaobi said he was glad to have been nominated from among government functionaries to be so appreciated with the DIPA Patron’s Award, as a result of the State Government’s support to the development of vulnerable persons in the State.

He said in line with the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the 8th Assembly for which he is a Principal Officer, is already doing much to legislate on matters of social welfare schemes that will benefit the people, especially the vulnerable ones.

Hon. Nwaobi affirmed that the primary responsibility of government is to ensure the security and welfare of the people, noting that they would continue as lawmakers, to contribute their immense legislative quota to the actualization of dividends of democracy for all.

He appreciated the organizers of the award for finding him worthy of such honor while commending the State Government for supporting the activities of the NGO to carry out functions that are geared towards uplifting the status of vulnerable persons in the State.

In her speech, while presenting the award to the Majority Leader, Lady Enddy Sunny-Udjor thanked him for being among the very few politicians who had monumentally supported vulnerable persons to grow and develop beyond their limits.

She explained that the initiative of DIPA is geared towards vulnerable children, to enable them to reason and decode things like normal children in society; on that note, DIPA had been visiting various schools across the country, engaging teachers on training in skills that would encourage teaching and relational harmony amongst their students, irrespective of their differences in abilities.

The DIPA Director however, posited that it is the intention and policy of the organization to equally support the vulnerable children in their various schools, with gadgets that can adequately aid them in their academic studies as well as enhance their physical and mental development.

She further commended the Government of Sheriff Oborevwori for supporting the DIPA’s conference in line with its initiative to engender processes that can guarantee equity in opportunity for all children, irrespective of their physical abilities or disabilities.

Dyslexia is a learning disorder characterized by difficulty in reading. It occurs in children with normal vision and intelligence.

The Role Of Genuine Students In Leadership Position, A Case Of NANS – Sen. Obruche

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A lecture delivered by the
General Secretary of the
Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku Alumni Association, Sen. (Prince) Chris-Dan Obaro Obruche (MSc, mnim) in the DSPG Alumni national platform on December 12, 2023, on the role of genuine students in a leadership position, a case of NANS
.

Sen. Obruche in his lecture, talked about a genuine student, studentship and student leadership, which according to him a student is an individual who is enrolled in a university or any other higher education institution, or someone who studies a particular academic subject.

He said the primary reason for attending school is to acquire academic knowledge, skills, and positive character traits that are necessary to contribute positively to society. Adding that it is not uncommon to find students of different ages, ranging from children to adults, who are enrolled in various types of institutions such as colleges, universities, monotechnics, and polytechnics.

Discussing, he said “A student leader, on the other hand, is a student who holds an elected or appointed position of leadership within their institution. These leaders are responsible for guiding, motivating, and influencing other students towards the achievement of a common goal. They are entrusted with a specific rank or status to oversee, lead, or guide other students in achieving their goals and objectives.”

“A genuine student leader is someone who possesses admirable qualities such as integrity, honesty, and respect for others. They are highly motivated, enthusiastic, and passionate about the well-being of their fellow students and the institution at large. They have excellent communication and interpersonal skills that enable them to interact effectively with other students and faculty members alike.

“Furthermore, a student leader is expected to be knowledgeable about the policies, rules, and regulations of their institution. They must also be aware of the rights and privileges of registered students within the institution. This knowledge empowers them to make informed decisions that will benefit their constituents while adhering to the rules and regulations of the institution.

“Consequently, a student leader is an authentic member of an institution with all the rights and privileges of registered students. They are entrusted with a position of leadership to guide, motivate, and influence other students towards the achievement of their goals and objectives. Genuine student leaders possess admirable qualities and are knowledgeable about the policies, rules, and regulations of their institution.”

Giving a brief history of NANS, Sen. Obruche said
“The National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS) was a student association that brought together Nigerian students both within Nigeria and across the diaspora. NUNS was founded in 1956, following structural changes in the West African Students’ Union. It brought together student councils in Ife, Zaria, and Nsukka.

“In April 1978, Nigerian students were faced with the imposition of increased fees, and NUNS participated in a series of Campus protests across the whole of Nigeria known as the “Ali Must Go protests.” The government responded by sending in the army and police, leading to the death or serious wounding of over twenty students. Three universities were closed and NUNS was banned. Several university staff and students were dismissed.”

“The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), formerly known as the National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS), was initially set up to bring together all Nigerian Students to form a common front where issues concerning students are discussed. Comments: provide the connection between NUNS and NANS.”

“In its earlier days, the student association was bold and helped shape the acceptance of any government in Nigeria. The student body functioned as a pressure group that constantly pressured governments to change their political objectives, allies, and all anti-student policies.”

“The 1978 Ali Must Go Protests was the Nigerian students’ uprising that followed an increase in fees. The former Secretary of the Nigerian University Commission (NUC), stated that the increase was necessary due to the “high cost of living in the country.”

“The NUC said that, even though all undergraduate students will continue to receive free tuition, the cost of housing would rise to N90 per student for a session lasting 36 weeks or N30 for a session lasting three terms.

“A former president of NUNS, Segun Okeowo, now late, led a nationwide student protest against this government decision. Okeowo also assembled university students from all over Nigeria in a demonstration against the military government’s perceived arbitrary increase in the price of meal tickets for students.

“After several meetings with the then Federal Commissioner for Education, Ahmadu Ali, without achieving a reversal, NUNS called out students on a national protest which was to be tagged ‘Ali Must Go.’ The widespread demonstrations created unrest among the general public and spread beyond the schools. The ‘Ali Must Go Protest” shook the fabric of the nation and led to a significant challenge for the Obasanjo military regime.

“To put an end to the rioting, the military government under Obasanjo ordered the closure of all campuses. The protest signalled to the government the seriousness of the students to challenge any policy against them and the willingness of the students to organise subsequent demonstrations. In addition, the “Ali Must Go Protest” helped galvanise student unionism across the nation and created a way to hear students’ voices. The protest brought respect to the student body and provided direction for future student agitations.

“Okeowo, who led the protest, was swiftly expelled from the University of Lagos; he eventually received his first degree in education from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1980 and after the disbanding of NUNS, NANS was birthed in 1980 with Comrade Danlad Sunday Oladele pioneer president of NANS. Comrade Oladele who was from Yaba Technical College would be today shaking in his grave to see that young student leaders have deviated from the original norms, vision and principles upon which NANS was founded.

“The Present NANS
The current day NANS without apology to those involved is a NANS that has lost its founding principles, bearing and values. A NANS where fractionalisation is now seen as a norm. An association that is now a shadow of itself and a far cry from what it used to be known for.

“A NANS where supposed student leaders recycle themselves from JCC level to Zonal then National level and still have the temerity to blame politicians for corruption. A NANS that goes for the highest bidder. An association where supposed students move from one institution to another or continue buying various program forms to be eligible to stand in for election. A NANS that uses cultism in running its affairs and intimidating perceived political opponents and innocent students.

“A NANS where the SUG Presidents (original Senators) don’t vote but are rather ‘toronto’ by touts. A NANS where the real students with a genuine vision to lead and liberate the Association cannot even get near the convention ground let alone dream of contesting. A NANS which is the voice of Jacob and the Hand of Esau. A NANS where the so-called stakeholders come to campus to make money from management at the expense of students’ welfare. And the list is endless.

“My solution is NANS should be returned to campus, make it look less attractive without government funding, and rather be funded by students who are the legitimate owners and not the current ones hijacked by the celebrity/stakeholders’ students.
Comradeship and sportsmanship should be emulated. Accepting defeat and supporting the winner to succeed.

“It’s worthy of note that education has no age. And if a man gains admission genuinely for any accredited course. He or she is eligible to contest but the idea of going back to school just to be able to contest an election should be jettisoned by all and sundry.

“The man dies all who keep silent in the face of tyranny” is a quote often attributed to the German Lutheran pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. It is a powerful statement about the importance of speaking out against injustice and oppression, because “In the end, we will remember not the words of enemies, but the silence of our friends” (Martin Luther King Jr).

“Those benefiting from this divide rule NANS shouldn’t come for my head but rather make their intellectual depositions and your opinions for the way forward and saving Nigerian tertiary education from decaying are welcome.

Wadoo!!!
Many thanks.

Delta Govt To Introduce Automatic Number Plates, Train VIOs On Computerized Vehicles Inspection

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The Delta State Government is set to migrate from the manual process of vehicle inspection/ testing to computerized vehicle testing as well as computer-based testing of all drivers across the state.

This was disclosed by the Honourable Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital during a 3-day capacity building workshop for testing engineers and technologists of the VIOs for computerized vehicle inspection and testing.

Mr. Agofure said the 3-day capacity building workshop for testing engineers and technologists of the VIOs is in line with international best practices, following the trend of technology advancements and the need to build the intellectual capacity of vehicle inspection and testing officers.

Agofure put in that the capacity building workshop is to encourage the VIOs to take advantage of the latest technology innovations and develop their intellectual capacity to enable them to discharge their duties effectively.

He said plans are underway for the government to introduce an automated number plate recognition solution to replace the manual and crude process of road traffic enforcement.

He added that the government has also adopted computerized testing of all the drivers across the state. According to him, it has become imperative for the state government to migrate from manual to digital as the world is going global, putting in that this innovation with cutting-edge technology is automated to provide real-time information for revenue tracking in the state.

The Commissioner for Transport explained that the Governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has shown very strong commitment to the improvement of road infrastructure and rehabilitation of the road across the state.

He thanked His Excellency for the noble gesture while urging the VIO who are major stakeholders in the management of road traffic and vehicle inspection to reciprocate the governor’s gesture.

He said “Although revenue generation is very pertinent to the Government, you are expected to inspect all vehicles to ensure that all vehicles plying our roads are roadworthy.

“Drivers should also be properly tested and certified so that untrained and unqualified drivers are not issued Driver’s licenses and allowed to drive our roads, to avoid road traffic crashes that can lead to loss of lives and properties,” the Commissioner for Transport said.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Engr. Gabriel Fuludu thanked all the participants for finding time to participate in the workshop while also encouraging them to make the best use of the opportunity for the betterment of the state.

Man cycling from Damaturu to Asaba to see Oborevwori, arrives Akwanga

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A middle-aged man, Samuel Erukoghene Okoro, who started riding bicycle from Damaturu, Yobe State, on December 9, to celebrate the victory and performance of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, arrived Akwanga, Nasarawa State on Tuesday, on his way to Asaba.

Okoro, 38, told newsmen earlier on arrival that he was also carrying a letter from Deltans residing in Yobe state to congratulate Oborevwori on his emergence as Governor of Delta State.

The cyclist said he has been encouraged by people he met on the way.

The rider said his main objective for the cycling, was to further encourage Governor Oborevwori to carry on with his plans for the development of Delta State, especially the Effurun and Warri metropolis.

Meanwhile, as at the time of filing in this report, Okoro had left Akwanga enroute Abuja.

Delta Govt Profiles Entrepreneurs, Set To Promote Local Contents

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Delta State Governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, through the office of the Special Adviser on Trade and Export, has started profiling entrepreneurs for meaningful development towards the M.O.R.E Agenda in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Export, Chief Shimite Bello, joined by her colleague, the commissioner for Youth, Comrade Agbateyimiro Isaac Weyinmi made this known while briefing Journalists in Asaba on Thursday.

She said the essence of profiling is to teach, prepare, and equip entrepreneurs to be more competitive in the state by offering them more opportunities on how to run their business successfully in terms of branding, choice of packaging, and export. 

Shimite Bello said the office of the Special Adviser on Trade and Export was specially created in 2023 by His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to better prepare entrepreneurs towards meaningful development in the M.O.R.E Agenda and to ensure all roads lead to Delta State for business. 

According to her, the profiling has started since October and her office only centered on real products and services such as food, beverages and technology. Palm oil, cake, bread, wine, art, craft, photography, fashion, beauty, shoes, body cream, massage oil,  bead making, skits catoon, and apps making are some of the things she mentioned. 

She added that an ultra modern market has already been built in Oko, Oshimili South Local Government Area to further enhance the meaningful development of the M.O.R.E Agenda.  

Shimite Bello put in that her office is saddled with the responsibility to prepare entrepreneurs on how to access capital to run their businesses, and also to assist them to get licenses from NAFDAC, SON, Quarantine Service, Nigeria Export Promotion Council and other commission that centered on food and beverages. 

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Export summed up that her office also works with trade and investment so entrepreneurs can easily get their patent trademarks.

She urged entrepreneurs who have not been profiled to take advantage of the opportunity and make an effort to come for profiling before December 15, 2023. According to her, the government wants to encourage entrepreneurs by creating an enabling environment for local content to reach out to the major markets globally.

Resilience and Growth in the Face of Hard Times.

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Life is an exhilarating journey with many highs and lows. This road will inevitably include difficult periods that will try our determination and push us to the edge. Even though these trying times can feel overwhelming, they also present chances for us to grow as people and learn more about ourselves. This article will examine the characteristics of difficult times, how they affect our lives, and effective coping mechanisms.

Recognizing Hard Times can take many different forms, including monetary difficulties, medical conditions, interpersonal conflicts, or personal disappointments. They frequently take us off guard, leaving us feeling hopeless and apprehensive about what is ahead. But it’s important to understand that these trying times are transitory. These are transient obstacles that we can get past with the correct attitude and resources.

Effects of Adversity:

Adversity can have a significant effect on our physical, mental, and emotional health. Stress, anxiety, depression, and hopeless feelings can result from them. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that these difficulties can also be chances for resilience and personal development. By taking on hardship head-on, we may fortify our character, create coping strategies, and learn more about ourselves.

Strategies for Getting Through Hard Times:

  1. Acceptance and Mindset: Recognizing the reality of the situation is the first step towards managing difficult circumstances. Denying or resisting the truth of the circumstance will only make the suffering worse. Rather, accept the challenges and have an optimistic outlook. Recognize that obstacles are a necessary aspect of life and that they present opportunities for learning and personal development.
  2. Seek help: It’s important to rely on loved ones for help when things get hard. Speak with loved ones, friends, or support groups for direction and emotional support. Talking to others about your difficulties might lighten your load and provide you with new ideas for overcoming obstacles.
  3. Self-Care: When things get tough, it’s important to look after yourself. Take part in enjoyable and soothing activities, such as hobbies, meditation, or physical activity. Make your physical and mental health your top priority by leading a healthy lifestyle, obtaining adequate sleep, and feeding your body wholesome foods.
  4. Set Realistic Goals: Thinking about the future can be too much to handle when things are difficult. Divide your objectives into more doable, smaller steps. Take one step at a time and concentrate on the things you can manage. Enjoy the little triumphs along the road; they will give you more self-assurance and drive.
  5. Accept Change and Adaptability: During difficult times, we frequently need to adjust to changing conditions. Accept change and have an open mind to new opportunities. Seek out chances for professional and personal development that may result from these demanding circumstances. Being adaptive and flexible will help you get through difficult moments with greater effectiveness.
  6. Practice Gratitude: It might be difficult to discover reasons to be thankful when faced with adversity. But learning to be grateful can help you become more resilient and change your viewpoint. Every day, set aside some time to consider your blessings, no matter how minor. This technique can assist you in finding hope even under the most difficult circumstances.

In conclusion, adversity does not define us; rather, it is an inevitable part of life’s journey. We can overcome these obstacles if we approach them with the appropriate attitude and techniques. Recall that adversity offers chances for development, fortitude, and self-discovery. Seek assistance, take care of yourself, and be flexible. Accept change and practice thankfulness since it is from these trying times that we can grow into more resilient, astute, and caring people.

House of Reps Order Arrest of CBN Governor, AGF, 17 Others

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The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petition has put out a warrant to arrest the Central Bank Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, the Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs Oluwatoyin Madein, and 17 others for failing to appear before it to respond to queries about their actions.

Rep member, Fred Agbedi (PDP-Bayelsa) put forward the motion at the committee hearing on Tuesday.

Agbedi while moving the motion, put in words that the arrest warrant was inevitable based on the attitude of the invitees.

According to him, the parliament operated on a timetable and that the CEOs were asked four times but did not respond.

He said that the CEOs should be brought to appear before the committee by the Inspector General of Police through a warrant of arrest after due perseverance by the Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas.

The Chairman of the committee, Rep. Michael Irom (APC-Cross River), in his ruling said that the IGP should endeavors to provide the CEOs before the committee on Dec. 14.

It was gathered by Naija News House that the petitioner, Mr Fidelis Uzowanem, said that the petition was anchored on the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) report of 2021.

He said that the report was a summary of the transactions in the oil and gas industry for 2021 which NEITI could be challenged.

“We took up the challenge to examine the report and discovered that what NEITI put together is a report is only consolidation of fraud that has been going on in the oil and gas industry.

“It dates back to 2016 because we have been following and we put up a petition to this committee to examine what has happened.

“The 2024 budget of 27.5 trillion that has been proposed can be confidently be funded from the recoverable amount that we identified in the NEITI report.

“It is basically a concealment of illegal transactions that took place in NNPCL, they have been in sync with some oil companies where some companies that did not produce crude were paid cash core, an amount paid for crude oil production,” he said.

He added: “We also found that the cash core payment was use as a channel for laundering funds by NNPCL and we found out that NEITI was able to conceal it in its report.

“In 2021 NEITI reported that Total Exploration and Production Nigeria-Ltd was paid 168 million dollars but examination of submission by the company shows that it received 292 million dollars.

“In other words, 124 million dollars was laundered by NNPCL through Total because monies that have been officially paid to Total could not have been concealed if it were not meant for fraudulent purposes.

“Also for Chevron, the dollar payment NEITI puts forward in its report was 76 million dollars but a document emanating from Chevron showed that they received as much as 267 million dollars.”

“In other words, 191 million was laundered under the cover of Chevron and NEITI concealed that; also, Nigeria Agip Company received 188milliom dollars but none of it was reported by NEITI”.

Some of those to be arrested were the Chief Executive Officer, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), that of Ethiop Eastern Exploration and Production Company Ltd, as well as the CEO of the Western Africa Exploration and Production.

Delta Ministry of Works Proposes N150 Billion Capital Project for 2024 Budget

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The Delta State Commissioner for Rural and Urban Roads, Mr. Charles Aniagwu said the executive governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has given the ministry a mandate to complete all the ongoing projects in the state.

Mr. Aniagwu made this known while interacting with Journalists after defending the ministry’s 2024 budget, alongside his colleagues, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Hon. Izeze Rume Yakubu Reuben, and Commissioner for Special Projects, Barr. Funyei Manager, and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Engr. Fred Edafioghor at the Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday.

He said the unique part of the ministry’s 2024 budget is that it will enable development to get to the 25 Local Government Areas in the state, as the ministry is ensuring that all projects are also done in line with the specification that was spelled out in the bill of engineering measurement.

According to him, Deltans should expect a whole lot of projects and delivery from the N150 (one hundred and fifty) billion naira capital projects as proposed in the 2024 budget of the Ministry, adding that the governor has promised to do more and the ministry has also ensured that the budget put together will make provisions to address issues of those promises made by the governor.

He added that other high-profile projects will likewise be carried out via ISPO as some of these projects will last more than one budget circle.

He also said the Governor has given a marching order to ensure that the ministry concentrates on the completion of the ongoing projects in the state.

Mr. Aniagwu applauded the House Committee members for being able to assist them in looking into the different subheads that they have made provision for in the 2024 budget.

He said “We are here to answer our employers who are the representatives of the people to ensure the budgeting will affect the issue of development in their various communities and also addresses the welfare needs of their constituents.

“You know, the essence of the defense is about transparency and good governance. It is one of the relationships between the Executive and the Legislature,” Aniagwu added.

Delta Govt Set To Establish Youth Resource And Development Center

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Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Agbatemiyiro Isaac Weyinmi on Monday, gives a clue on what the youth should expect from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration through the Ministry of Youth Development.

The Commissioner said the ministry under his watch is looking towards establishing a youth resource and development centers in the state.

Comrade Weyinmi made this disclosure while interacting with Journalists after presenting his ministry’s proposed 2024 budget to the State House of Assembly House Committee on Budget.

According to Weyinmi, the youth should be hopeful as the 2024 budget is a budget of hope, adding that a lot of things have been packaged in the proposed budget and youths will be adequately mobilized through the MORE-YD E’ Series, the first-ever policy of the Ministry in line with the M.O.R.E Agenda of the State Governor.

The youth development Commissioner summed up that one major component of the ministry’s 2024 budget is the issue of the establishment of the Delta State Youth Resource and Development Center.

He put in that the establishment which will be massive, is also a first of its kind as it will enable the ministry to have a remarkable and sharp departure from every other youth facility in the state.

Delta Youth Ministry Unveils First Ever Youth Policy

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Delta State Ministry of Youth Development unveiled its first-ever youth policy that will run from 2023 to 2027, known as the “MORE-YD E’ Serie”.

This policy was unveiled by the Governor, His Excellency, Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday during the 2023 Africa Youth Day celebration held at the Unity Hall, Government House in Asaba, the state capital.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Energy, Jerry Ehiwario expressed optimism about the policy and encouraged youth to key into the MORE Agenda through the ministry.

Oborevwori urged the youth to take advantage of the ever-changing world and to think outside the box as he encouraged them to bring out their hidden talents for them to develop as white-collar jobs are not and will not be enough to go around.

According to the governor, the youths are an integral part of his administration and he cannot make meaningful progress without leaning on developing the intellect and general talents of the youths in the state.

He promised that his administration would always be youth-friendly as it tends to focus more on youth development in the state.

On his part, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Agbatemiyiro Isaac Weyinmi said that the policy is indispensable for youth development in the state as it is built upon seven thematic areas, engagement, education, entrepreneurship, employability, entertainment, exchange and collaboration, easing of any form of crime and social vices.

Weyinmi likewise says this year’s Africa Youth Day celebration theme, “One Million Next Level is Knocking: Youth-led Movement that Transcends Borders,” emphasizes the need for a successful, equitable, and stronger youth movement that transcends borders.

He added that the celebration aims to reach out to young people with opportunities in health and wellbeing, Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Engagement.

The Commissioner also said it gears toward overcoming age-related barriers in various spheres such as social integration, economic strengthening or political participation through partnership is essential.

He advised the youth that the MORE Agenda of the Governor has opened the doors within the context of the State for youth participation and exclusiveness while advising them to conduct themselves in a manner that they can be sufficiently allowed to participate and be accommodated.

Also speaking is the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, MS Ngozi Mogbolu who encouraged the youth to always dream big and have bright visions for the next level despite the challenges they might face.

She added that the ministry through its policy is willing to do everything possible to support youth in line with the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, putting in that the commissioner is already running an open-down policy and within a few months in office, he has given a platform for a lot of youth to showcase what they are made of.

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Development, Hon. Chief. Ebikeme Clark said the celebration of Africa Youth Day is necessary as it provides an opportunity for the youth in the state to gather and be mentored through the reorientation of their minds towards hard work.

He advised the youth to be patient and take education seriously and also to learn a trade to enable them to live meaningfully without white-collar jobs.

From R-L, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Development, Hon. Chief. Ebikeme Clark, representative of the Governor, Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Jerry Ehiwario, Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Weyinmi and friend of the Ministry during the Africa Youth Day celebration in Asaba.

2024 Appropriation Bill: Oborevwori Presents N714.4bn To Delta Assembly

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori presented an N714.4 billion Appropriation bill for the 2024 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly on Wednesday.

The Governor said the budget named, ‘Budget of Hope and Optimism,’ was made up of recurrent expenditure of N316.6 billion representing 44 percent, and capital expenditure of N397.9 billion representing 56 percent of the total budget.

He said that the 2024 budget proposal, his first since coming to office was envisioned to put the economy on the path of sustainable growth, boost investments and productivity, enhance the ease of doing business, and provide ample opportunities for the average citizen to participate in the economy.

Governor Oborevwori subtracted that the personnel cost of N150 billion procured in the budget was in the probability of the salary increase by the Federal Government sometime in 2024 while the overhead cost mirrors the inflationary tendency in the country.

He said: “This administration will embark on the construction of more critical road infrastructure in the 2024 fiscal year because we are irrevocably committed to advancing urban-rural integration.

“In 2024, we proposed to spend N150 billion on Road Infrastructure for the Ministry of Works; N46.55 billion on Education; Health will gulp N18.65 billion; Agriculture, N7 billion and Urban Renewal N7.5 billion.

“The environment will gulp N2.1 billion and Youth Development, N1.7 billion. These key sectors are essential in our 2024 budget.

“This administration is focused, process-driven, and result-oriented in its governance style. The progress that we have made in the last five months should give hope to our people that the goals we have set in this budget will be pursued with similar zeal and dedication.

“Rest assured, this administration is determined to see our people through the hard times, doing all that we can to assist the poor and vulnerable”.

He appealed for the speedy passage of the appropriation bill by the lawmakers.

Earlier in his remarks, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor said the budget presentation was historic as it was the first budget being presented by the governor who was the immediate past Speaker of the House.

Guwor said the House would ensure that the Budget substantially complies with the International Public Sector Accounting Standard, which is aimed at providing efficient internal control and result-based financial management in the public sector of the State.

Delta Proposes Two New Bills: Social Investment Programme, Merit Award

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Two bills, Social Investment Programme 2023 which seeks to provide for effective management and implementation of conditional cash Transfers for all the vulnerable and less privileged, and a bill to recognize and reward individuals and organizations with merit awards have passed its first reading at the Delta State House Assembly.

The Social Investment Programme Bill 2023 was sponsored by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori while the Delta Merit Award Bill 2023 was sponsored by the Majority Leader and member representing Aniocha North Constituency in the 8th Assembly, Hon. Engr. Emeka Emmanuel Nwaobi, during the Tuesday plenary.

Both Bills were unanimously supported and have been suggested to the Committee for further legislative action.

Speaking with journalists after the plenary, Hon. Nwaobi explained that the merit award bill seeks to recognize Deltans who have done exceedingly well to save lives and properties in their chosen careers.

He further mentioned that the bill also recognizes those who have done very well but possibly were not opportune to be given such an award before they died.

According to the lawmaker, the award is specifically centered on individuals and organizational actions that are capable of saving lives. Those who do things extraordinary or people who go out of their way to save lives and properties.

Describing the context, the Majority Leader said the bill would serve as a morale booster to Deltans in their various chosen career, putting in that when you recognize someone who has excelled in his career, it challenges others to do their best knowing that they will be rewarded too.

Hon. Nwaobi said the bill also specifies the processes of those who will be awarded and it’s open to everyone, both the rich and the poor will be considered provided they meet the criteria.

“Anyone who wants to nominate someone they feel deserves the award will write through the Secretary of the Council as they will scrutinize every single name or organization that will be sent to them for approval.”

“I urge Deltans to keep striving to do extraordinary things that will help to protect lives and properties in the state.

Oshimili South Chairman Ezenyili Enlists Achievements, Engages Over 240 Youths As Environmental Marshalls

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In a bid to ensure a clean and safe environment in Oshimili South Local Government Area, the executive chairman, Hon. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili said he has engaged the service of over 240 youths as environmental Marshalls to enforce compliance with environmental sanitation within the LGA.

The council chairman who was highly represented by the council secretary, Hon Brendan Iyeh, and accompanied by Barr (Mrs) Nwulu Ndidi, HOD Legal, made this known while addressing the Indigenous Correspondence Chapel (ICC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists during their monthly Congress in Asaba on Friday.

Hon. Ezenyili said the Council has continually run an open-door Policy and is proud to say it has a synergy with journalists in the State Capital in ensuring the capturing and reporting of accurate and up-to-date activities of the strides and achievements of its administration.

The council chairman while listing some of his achievements said that in the year under review, his administration has “set up seasoned and reputable personalities as members of the economic team and advisory body Committee.

“Construction of an ultra-modern legislative complex with state-of-the-art facilities commissioned by His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, former governor of the state.

“Renovation of the executive complex with sophisticated furnishings and appliances and computerization of the local government Secretariat.

“Installation of close circuit television within the executive complex with plans to extend to the entire Secretariat and purchase of a 200KVA standby generator to provide uninterrupted power supply to the Secretariat.

“Harmonious working relationship with the legislative/management staff that resulted in a yearly early passage of the budgets.

“Collaboration with security personnel by ensuring consistency of the monthly security meeting with all stakeholders in the local government and the provision of the basic needs for vigilante groups.

“Partnering with the private sector in a PPP arrangement to improve the infrastructural development of the local government council’s land by revamping/reconstructing the abandoned staff quarters into a modern housing apartment on behalf of the council.

“Introduction of an automated system for local government identification process and revenue collection for the council and engagement of over 240 youths as environmental marshalls to enforce compliance to ensuring a clean and safe environment.

“The establishment of a mobile environment court to prosecute offenders and partnering with Ecobank Nigeria PLC to empower female petty traders at 0% interest rate.

“Restoration of power at the Ogbeogonogo modern market by the refurbishment of the transformer and offsetting 50% of the outstanding electricity bill.

“Provision of continuous welfare and Christmas packages to staff and the electorate and continuous participation in the sponsorship of the annual ALGON Sports festival and winning the 2022/2023 trophy.

“Youth employment for revenue collection on behalf of the council (for Oshimili Youth Summit and empowerment of youths, widows, indigents, and the less privileged with cash and food items.

“Partnering with renowned authors to provide and distribute books on the eradication of cultism to both primary and secondary school students in the local government area and offsetting over 60% of outstanding debts owed contractors by precious administration and providing Palliatives for flood victims.

“Transmission of executive bills to the legislative house on the amendment of the revenue bye-law and a bill to eradicate scavenging and renovation of the revenue court and continuous grading of streets in the local government area

“PPP arrangement to construct burnt old Ogbeogonogo market to a modern shopping complex and reconstruction/landscaping and provision of solar light/furnishing of Ogwa Ukwu Ahaba.

“Ongoing construction of ultra-modern event center at Oko Amakom and the reconstruction of a culvert/mini bridge between Oko Ogbele and Oko Anala”.

On his part, the Chairman of the Chapel, Orusi Kenneth, thought highly of the council chairman for his developmental undertakings across the council particularly Asaba, which makes twice as much as the State capital.

He applauded Hon. Ezeyinli for running an open-door policy and still extending his doors for the chapel whenever it comes knocking.

Orusi also uses the opportunity to announce its First Anniversary and Press Week coming up in March 2024 to the chairman.

ADUN Committed To Produce Luminary Leaders – VC, Professor Omaji Says

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The Vice-Chancellor of Admiralty University of Nigeria, ADUN, Prof. Paul Omojo Omaji said the institution is committed to the principle of excellence In education, integrity, and respect for hard work.

The VC said the goal of the university set up by the Nigerian Navy is to raise luminary leaders as it was not established merely to issue certificates.

Professor Omaji stated this during the 2nd Convocation ceremony of the institution on Thursday, stating that the triumph stories of the university were an outcome of the continuous support of the Nigerian Navy.

Omaji said all the academic activities carried out in the institution were in line with the standard set aside by the Nigerian Navy, as they do not encourage any certificate that did not originate from the university.

He said in ADUN, the nature of the leadership, the commitment of the staff, and the willingness of the students to run with the discipline set up by the university in its operation is what makes the institution so unique, stating that the graduates were prepared to face the challenges of the society.

The Vice-Chancellor further put in words that the university started its programs with 95 percent of its students being presidential amnesty program delegates. Yet, they were able to convocate them in November 2022, which happened to be their first set.

Prof Omaji called on parents to bring in their kids while articulating that the institution has likewise strengthened its cordial relationship with the two host communities, Ibuza and Ogwashi-uku.

The Chief of Naval Staff, vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, in his speech during the ceremony applauded the management for producing future luminary leaders, while also notifying the graduates to take up what they have learned to put forward solutions to challenges they might face in the outside world.

Also speaking is the Governor of Delta State, who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, who congratulated the graduating students for fulfilling the requirements of the institution and charged them to take up a resourceful approach and be thought highly of as representatives of the university.

Oborevwori commended the management and staff of the institution for taking care of human capital development which he said is one of the focal points of the state government.

The Governor also thanked the Nigerian Navy for establishing the institution in the state while also guaranteeing adequate partnership with the institution.

On his part, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by Mrs. Stella Ugochukwu, Director of the Federal Ministry of Education said his administration places a high premium on quality education to equip youths for active participation in governance in nation-building.

President Tinubu said his administration is also committed to the welfare of both teaching and non-teaching staff in tertiary institutions and students to enable them to meet their educational needs.

According to him, the Nigerian Navy has done nobly for the vision to bear the dignified education institution with the main objectives of developing limitations of knowledge in various professions, particularly in the naval and marine time-space.

Tinubu encouraged the graduates to use the knowledge built up from the university as a tool for the expansion and enhancement of human well-being and to solve societal challenges in Nigeria.

While calling on the youths to take advantage of the students’ free loans to dive into their academic financial challenges in the quest for their education, the President also suggested that stakeholders and supporters should accompany the government in the areas of research, structuring development, and awards of scholarships to the best-graduating students.

Cash awards were presented to the best-graduating students of the institution and others who have contributed to the growth of the university.

DELTA GUBER: Desperation Drives Omo-Agege, APC To Cook Up Bribery Allegation

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The Integrity Group of Delta State has accused chieftains of the All Progressives Congress APC in the state and its gubernatorial candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege of being behind the faceless group accusing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of bribery allegations.

A group under the aegis of Delta State Transparency and Accountability In Political Litigations (TAPL) had accused Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of allegedly spending billions in attempt to ‘buy’ Appeal Court Judgment.

Reacting to the false accusation by the faceless group, Chairman and Convener of Integrity Group of Delta, Hon. Oke Idawene said desperation has driven Omo-Agege, APC to cook up bribery allegation and orchestrating lies to demonise the Governor before the general public.

According to Idawene, PDP has been in control in Delta and has won all elections in Delta State since 1999. The result of the 2023 General Election is a clear testament of this fact.

“Winning in 21 out of 25 Local Government Areas is a no mean feat and if anybody is being accused of trying to influence the judiciary, it should be those who won only four local government areas and not the other way round”.

Idawene said: “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has no reason to offer bribe in an election he won clean and clear. One should even wonder why a man who won in four local government areas out of 25 should go to the tribunal in the first instance.

“Their decision to challenge outcome of an election where they failed woefully, calls for worry and shows their level of desperation to take over Delta through the court, banking on perhaps on bribing the judges. However, we have absolute confidence in the judiciary as the only hope of the common man.

“Those trying to use money to buy Delta are not popular as they have been rejected over time by the people and the PDP should monitor them to ensure that they don’t hatch their plot.

“We have also confirmed that the said is faceless and has no registered identity as the signatories are not also known.

“Governor Oborevwori is A Divine Mandate. We the Integrity Group of Delta State…The More Agenda and You Matter Charity Foundation Remain Steadfast with our Amiable Governor who is working to transform Delta State,”

Oborevwori committed to building lasting legacies for Deltans – Izeze

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Delta State Government, Tuesday, said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was committed to delivering lasting legacy projects for the people of the state.

The State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads) Comrade Reuben Izeze disclosed this during inspection of ongoing projects in Effurun and Warri areas of the state.

The projects inspected include: reconstruction of Uti Road Effurun; Edo Guest House Road Ekpan both in Uvwie Local Government Area and Upper and Lower Erejuwa Road in Warri South Local Government Area of the state.

He commended the contractor, Messrs Roadwell Limited for introducing boulders on some sections of the road even when they were not provided for in the Bill of Quantities (BOQ).

On the Uti Road, Izeze said the road had failed over time because there was no stone base and side drains on the road and told the contractor to scarify the entire road to introduce stone base before wearing and binder course

The Commissioner said the road which was awarded in 2018 would be reviewed to enable the contractor complete the job on time.

“On the 29th of May 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori covenanted with Deltans when he subscribed to the oath of office and stated unequivocally that Effurun and Warri will be given a facelift.

“This road is a 2018 project, I have lived in Effurun in the last 30 years and this Uti Road has never worked and the reason is simple, no drains and no stone base on the road.

“Gov. Oborevwori is very concerned on delivering lasting legacy for Deltans and you all are aware that Governor Oborevwori is the first Governor to bring Julius Berger to Delta State.

“He is committed to delivering lasting legacy projects and value will be exacted from every kobo we spend and there will be no shortcut.

“By the grace of God, Governor Oborevwori has made me team lead and I have a very powerful and reliable team of engineers in the ministry and by the grace of God nobody will shortchange Delta under our watch.

“We will have value for our money and we will never deliver projects that are substandard. We have seen the project and will report back to the ‘Quality Governor’ on the need to review the project because we can’t build roads without a drainage to a discharge channel,” he said.

On the Edo Guest House Road, the Commissioner appealed to residents of the area to bear with the government adding that the contractor would finish the project in no distant time.

At the Upper and Lower Erejuwa Road, Comrade Izeze directed the Ministry’s engineers to redesign the culvert on the road. He also appealed to residents to stop using the drains as refuse dump.

He said Governor Oborevwori was determined to re-enact the success recorded by the late Governor Ogbemudia’s administration in the old Bendel State by delivering projects that would stand the test of time.

Also speaking, Director Urban Roads, Engr Solomon Akpotowho said the Uti Road construction entails expansion of the 2.7km road from DSC Expressroad to PTI Road by 3.8meters.

He said the Upper and Lower Erejuwa Road was being expanded from 7.1m to 12.1m, adding that the project was expected to be completed in February 2014 as part the Governor’s one year in office.

The Commissioner accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Engr. Fred Edafioghor had earlier inspected the DSC roundabout, the venue for the ground-breaking for the recently awarded flyovers and road expansion in the twin cities of Effurun and Warri.

DSPG 3rd Combined Convocation: Oborevwori Lauds Rector For Prudent Use Of IGR For Capital Projects, Pledges Government Improvement In Existing Infrastructure

Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the Rector, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi uku, Bldr Professor Emmanuel Achuenu, the Governing Council and management staff of the institution, for the judicious use of its internally generated revenue (IGR) in executing and completing landmark projects in the school

The Governor said, this prudent allocation of the institution’s IGR in project execution as well as other technological innovations of the Professor Achuenu-led DSPG, were worthy of emulation by other institutions of higher learning in the state and beyond

Speaking at the 3rd combined convocation ceremony of the school recently, Governor Oborevwori, represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, commended the giant strides the polytechnic had recorded since Professor Achuenu and the Chief Joe Arausi led Governing Council had recorded since they assumed office.

He also commended the management of the institution for the prevailing peace , industrial harmony, sports development strides , culminating in DSPG hosting the 2024 edition of the Nigeria Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) games.

The Governor promised to do something in the areas of infrastructure such as internal roads, construction of more lecture halls and laboratories in addition to completion of the perimeter fencing of the school, within the limits of available resources.

For the graduating students, Governor Oborevwori said, while congratulating them: “You are reaping the fruits of your hard work, dedication, and desire to succeed. You must not rest on your oars but put into practice what you have learned here. Continually hone your skills to remain relevant in this technological age and go out there to create jobs for yourselves.

Earlier in his address, the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi uku ( DSPG), Bldr Professor Emmanuel Achuenu while congratulating the convocating students, said graduation is the climax of the efforts made by them since they gained admission, and was an affirmation that they had fulfilled all requirements, having been found worthy in character and learning.

Prof Achuenu used the opportunity of the convocation ceremony to highlight achievements recorded since he assumed duties as Rector in 2021 in the areas of peace and security, infrastructural development, industrial harmony, lCT, sports breakthroughs, and mutual understanding with the host community among others.

The DSPG Rector commended the Governor for his support for the Polytechnic since he assumed office on May 29 this year, assuring him that the school is breaking technological grounds and innovations in solar power and laboratory-related disciplines.

Professor Achuenu who is the current President of NIPOGA, used the opportunity to solicit the support of the state government towards the successful hosting of the 2024 edition of the games whose hosting rights have been granted to the school in recognition of the sterling performances recorded by it’s athletes during the association’s games in Nigeria and even the West Africa sub-region.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the DSPG Governing Council, Chief Joe Arausi, thanked Governor Oborevwori’s administration for allowing the Governing Council and management of the institution to function without interference, in line with the extant laws setting up the school.

Chief Arausi said DSPG is on the threshold of industrial growth, and moral rectitude and used the opportunity of the convocation to appeal to all stakeholders and persons/corporate organizations of goodwill, to support the school for it to meet its objectives.

The highpoints of the 3rd combined convocation ceremony were the presentation of the OND and HND certificates to the graduands of the 2020/2021, 2021/2022 academic sessions drawn from the schools of Business Studies, General Studies, ICT, Applied Sciences, Engineering Technology, Arts and Industrial Design, as well as Environmental Studies.

The State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, was also investitured as the Grand Patron of NIPOGA, while the deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme bagged the DSPG fellowship award of excellence for his philanthropic support to the education of indigent but brilliant students of Ndokwa extraction in higher institutions of learning across the country.

Oborevwori identifies threats to ease of doing business in Nigeria

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, identified harsh and hostile operating environment, poor basic infrastructure, insecurity and policy flip flops as disincentive to both local and foreign investments in Nigeria.

Governor Oborevwori also remarked that the nation’s tax to GDP ratio was low because of harsh operating business environment and called for the removal of institutional bottlenecks to the ease of doing business in the country.

He stated this in his keynote address at the 2023 Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) retreat with the theme: “Creating a resilient economy through diversification of the nation’s reserve base” held at the Events Centre, Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori frowned at the non commital of the CBN to be responsive to the clarity and correctional demands made to it by FAAC, in relation to the management of the Federation Account.

He also called on the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to quickly verify the data earlier submitted by the three tiers of government.

According to the Governor, Nigeria’s tax to GDP ratio is comparatively low, about 10-12%, which makes the country vulnerable to disruptions in the global economy.

“A strong, resilient, and competitive economy, requires a flourishing private sector. But there are problems. Structurally, the private sector is largely weak, unorganised, and challenged.

“The operating environment is harsh and hostile to the ease of doing business. Poor basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, transportation, security, are strong disincentives to investments, local or foreign.

“Also, frequent policy flip flops and an inefficient bureaucracy are anything but helpful to the ease of doing business in Nigeria,” he stated.

While commending members of FAAC for their commitment and dedication to duty and for the correction of wrong computations and refunds to oil producing states of the Federation, the Governor added that much work still needs to be done on the payments of 13% derivation, since the coming into force of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

“Since the implementation of the PIA, a lot of concerns have been raised by stakeholders of this sector in respect of the new roles of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as it affects inflows of revenue into the Federation Account. It is my hope that this retreat will address these concerns and lay them to rest permanently.

“Tax is the dividend of a thriving private sector. For us to reap the benefits, we need to, as a matter of exigency, remove the institutional bottlenecks that make the cost of doing business in Nigeria unbearably high.

“It is only after we have done this that we can realistically expect to widen the tax base and diversify the economy. It is inevitable that where the cost of doing business is frustratingly high, tax evasion and tax avoidance will be pervasive.

“In conclusion, it is my considered view that the issue of economic diversification must move beyond rhetoric.

“Concrete, measurable steps need to be taken now to facilitate non-oil exports, expand the revenue base, and make economic diversification a reality.

“Here in Delta State, for instance, we have created a Trade and Export Unit to drive the process. Let me also stress that in seeking to facilitate the growth of non-oil exports as canvassed, there is a compelling need to ensure that the oil and gas sector is consistently operating at its optimum,” Oborevwori said.

Earlier in his welcome remark, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Olawale Edun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr. Okokon Ekanem, appreciated Governor Oborevwori and the Delta State Government for accepting to host the retreat.

He said in six months of the Bola Tinubu administration, the nation had witnessed important reforms such as Petroleum subsidy removal, fiscal and monetary policy reforms aimed at removing multiple taxation, streamlining and simplifying tax administration as well as achieving single foreign exchange market.

He said the reforms have gained commendations not only by experts in Nigeria but by the international development partners such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank among others.

“We believe these reforms are what Nigerians need at this point and we are on course to achieving the objectives of these reforms.

“The Federation Account is witnessing improved revenue inflows since the removal of subsidy from the average of N650 billion monthly to over N1 trillion in the last four months.

“Government has long realised that Petroleum subsidy is unsustainable giving that erodes revenues that should have been used to fund viable expenditures that are critical to the well-being of the populace.

“As we continue implement our policies, we will remain mindful of the needs and welfare of Nigerians.

“We all know that achieving tax revenue to GDP target of 22 per cent and tax to GDP of 18 per cent by 2026 are part of the terminal objectives of this administration.

“However in doing that, we appreciate the need not to overburden the tax payers by introducing so many new taxes. What is necessary to be done is to broaden the tax base, simplify and streamline tax administration for ease of collection,” Edun stated.

The retreat is being attended by Commissioners of Finance, Accountants-General of States, NNPCL, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Customs and other revenue generation organs of government.

Oborevwori salutes Ex-President, Jonathan at 66

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has congratulated the former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan as he clocks 66 years.

In a congratulatory message by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Oborevwori lauded the former Nigerian leader for his indubitable accomplishments in peace and international mediations.

According to him, Jonathan’s growing stature in global diplomacy and the promotion of democracy and peace throughout Africa is both significant and inspiring for him and Nigeria.

He said that the former president’s excellent and praiseworthy role as the ECOWAS peace envoy in Mali had persisted.

The Governor stressed that Jonathan’s selfless behaviour and calm demeanour, coupled with his leadership by example, contributed to the improvement of elections and the institutionalisation of democracy in Nigeria and throughout Africa.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I congratulate our leader and statesman, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, as he celebrates his 66th birth anniversary.

“It gives me great pleasure to honour you, Your Excellency, for your outstanding contribution to the growth of democracy in both our beloved nation and Africa at large.

“As President of Nigeria, you oversaw an administration that respected the rule of law and protected the right to free expression.

“As our beloved former President clocks 66 years old today, it is my prayer and that of all Deltans and Nigerians that God continue to strengthen him in his devotion to ensuring better peace, good governance, and long-lasting democracy in Africa.

“It is also our prayer that Almighty God grants him excellent health and long life so that he can continue to serve humanity to the fullest,” he said.

DSPG Convocates 20,933 Graduates, 241 Bags Distinction

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The Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-uku Rector, Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu said the institution has continued to pride itself as a center of excellence as it has lived up to its original mandate of bringing creativity to development, producing manpower needed to build the state of Nigeria.

Prof. Achuenu stated this in his remarks on Saturday during the 3rd Combined Convocation ceremony that was held at the permanent site of the institution in Ogwashi-uku, Delta State.

He said a total of 20,933 Graduates are awarded Diplomas from the institution with 9,359 National Diplomas and 11,574 Higher National Diplomas.

He said out of this Diploma, 241 are Distinctions graduates, 4,404 with Upper Credits, and 7,596 with Lower Credits.

According to him, the institution has also recorded tremendous achievements in the area of creativity, stating that in 2014, it won the Gold Trophy at the Delta State Higher Institution Festival of Art and Technology. In 2019, the institution came first in Painting and Textile Design during the Delta State Higher Institution Exhibition.

He added that DSPG received an excellence award in Hospitality Management and Technical Training at the Tourism and Transport Summit organized by the Institute of Tourism Professionals in Abuja in 2019. Adding that, out of the twenty-seven (27) Delta State students who benefitted from the 2019 Federal Government Scholarship, twenty-three (23) are students of DSPG.

Prof. Achuenu also put in that under the M.O.R.E Agenda initiative of His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the institution has put up a proposal for a short certificate course to be an additional boost for a meaningful peace-building platform aimed at political, and social stability and youth empowerment.

DSPG is one of the three polytechnics in Delta State, Nigeria. The institution offers a National Diploma and a Higher National Diploma in the School of Art and Design (Fashion Design and Clothing Technology, and Fine, and Applied Art), School of Business (Accountancy, Business Administration, Human Resources Management, Marketing, Mass Communications, Office Technology Management, and Production Operation Management), School of Engineering Technology (Agriculture & Bio-environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Foundry Engineering, Mechanical Engineering) among others.

What NLC Chairman Reveals About The Ongoing Nationwide Strike

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The Delta State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Chief Goodluck Ofobruku, (JP) has revealed the main reason why they shut down the country with the ongoing nationwide strike that commenced on Tuesday.

Comrade Ofobruku who speaks with journalists after monitoring the level of compliance in the capital city of Asaba said, they are protesting against the federal government for being insensitive to their demands, stating that their President, Comrade Ajero was arrested in Imo State by the Nigerian police and was handed over to thugs to be beaten up yet, the federal government is feeling no concern.

He said the union decided to embark on a nationwide strike because they feel that the working class cannot continue to take shit from the ruling class.

According to Ofobruku while stating their demands “Workers in Imo State cried that they have been owed 22 months’ salary, while Pensioners, have 44 months of pension not paid. Cooperative funds have not been paid to cooperators since the Governor, Hope Uzordinma took over the leadership in January 2020. Check-up dues have not been paid.

He said the Nigerian Labour Congress constituted a committee and went to Imo State to discuss with Hope Uzordinma and an agreement was reached when he promised to pay within a specified time. When it was time to pay, he started using his political thugs to harass the leadership of labour in Imo State.

The Delta NLC Chairman who also doubles as the Dean of Chairmen said, that when we went to conduct the NLC election on March 7, 2023, he sent thugs to disrupt the election. We constituted a caretaker committee in Imo State to run the affair but he refused them to work. He sent his thugs to go and take over the NLC secretariat in the Imo State.

‘When the National Executive Council reviewed what he was doing, he decided to go to Imo state to protest against the injustice on November 1, 2023.

“Despite the harassment of the labour workers, Hope Uzordinma declared eleven thousand workers as ghost workers and removed their names from the payroll. He also declared ten thousand pensioners as ghost pensioners and stopped paying them.

“We said the state money did not belong to him because he could not just wake up and do what he liked. Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria allows workers to protest any injustice. This is why we went to Imo State to protest and he equally sent his thugs to come to beat up labour leaders in the presence of policemen.”

“They beat up the labour leaders, stole our money, stole our phones, destroyed our vehicles, and vandalized our secretariat including the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress. So we felt that what he did was a slap on every worker in the country.

“Our President was arrested by the police and handed over to thugs to be beaten up. If not for the intervention of the National Security Adviser, who knows what would have happened? So workers in this country feel that it is a slap on their faces for them to send their president to Imo State and be beaten up.”

“We have asked the Federal government to redeploy the police Commissioner who supervises that beating. The Area Commander was also one of them who supervised the beating. Also, one, Chinaza Nwaneri, who is the head of the thugs in Imo State and also the Special Adviser on Special Duties to the Governor that led the thugs should be arrested and prosecuted alongside his boys for assaulting Labour leaders who were in Imo state for a peaceful protest.”

“Maybe the federal government feels that any Nigerians can go anywhere and be beaten up and nothing will happen. That is why we said no, there are laws in this country. Apply the rules no matter who is involved.”

“If the federal government cannot arrest those who assaulted our president and other labour leaders and persecute them, it means there is no need for us to keep working. We have to withdraw our services.

The strike is also in most of the state because most of these governors have refused to implement the thirty thousand minimum wage that was approved over 5 years ago in their state.

“Recently, the wage award was drafted for workers. The state governments were represented in the meeting when the agreement was reached and they were expected to apply it in their various states, yet they have refused to do the same.

“So we felt that no meaningful organization would allow his members to be taken for a ride without taking action. The National Executive Council sat again to look at what the federal government and some of the state governments have been doing and behaving. Especially to the extent when the number one labour leader in the country goes to a state and he will be beaten up by thugs and supervised by the police in Nigeria, we felt it as an insult to the working class in this country.

“The working class cannot continue to take shit from the ruling class. So we have decided to go against it until they listen to us and those who beat up our president are arrested and prosecuted. And until there is a former apology to the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congresses.”

“Also, to those governors who thought maybe the state money is their money. Until they pay us our entitlement, those who are working and those pensioners

“You have gone around and you can see that the strike is a huge success here in Delta State. All government establishments and the health sector are down. Our task force is going around to make sure there is good compliance. Even the workers are happy to withdraw their services as they are fed up, Ofobruku said.

See The Nominees For Best African Music Performance At The 2024 GRAMMYs

Five nominees, Burna Boy, Davido, Asake, Ayra Starr, and South African female artiste, Tyla were nominated for the inaugural ‘Best African Music Performance’ at the 66th GRAMMY Awards.

According to the Recording Academy, one of them will take home the GRAMMY for Best African Music Performance as they’ll be making history in the process.

In this category, “City Boy” by Burna Boy, caught the Recording Academy’s attention this year. The song produced by MD$ and Ruuben with a sample from Jeremih’s sultry R&B classic “Birthday Sex,” the stomping, glamorous track reminiscent of late-’90s Timbaland beats highlights the path of influence from hip-hop to Afrobeats.

In the song’s flashy video, Burna Boy rides around the streets of Los Angeles in a yellow Ferrari and matches an iced-out Richard Mille watch with a Wu-Tang Clan durag, paying tribute to hip-hop’s extravagance and braggadocio.

The track also topped the UK Afrobeats Singles Chart in September.

“UNAVAILABLE” by Davido Featuring Musa Keys, is one of the GRAMMY-nominated singles from Davido’s album ‘Timeless ‘ and is no exception in this category. A brighter, smoother take on the sound of Amapiano with triumphant choral vocals on the hook, it features confident verses from Davido and collaborator Musa Keys.

“Amapiano” by ASAKE & Olamide, is another song that was nominated in this category.

The song “Amapiano” works as both a statement on the title genre’s popularity and a subtle flip on its conventions, rearranging elements such as the iconic log drum and combining them with dynamic rapping from Asake and featured artist Olamide. The song’s hook — “Steadily, steadily, heavily, we are getting lit” — is especially irresistible.

Asake, whose rapid rise to fame feels at times like the Afrobeats equivalent of Beatlemania, become massively popular with just two albums under his belt. And speaking of spectacle, earlier this year he became the fourth Nigerian artist, behind Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, to sell out London’s O2 Arena, entering on a helicopter.

“Rush” by Ayra Starr also got the nomination for the category. The song is all about staying focused and grinding toward success.

Ayra Starr sings about the cutthroat nature of the working world with determined fierceness: “I no get the time for the hate and the bad energy / Got my mind on my money.” The track has a distinctive Afrobeats clave rhythm and Nigerian pidgin lyrics, but it has glimmering synths.

“Water” by Tyla, is also one of the nominated songs in this category. Tyla is the youngest nominee on this list and the lone South African artist. She is 21 years old and she is already a star in her home country, having been nominated for two South African Music Awards.

Her song “Water” is the lead single from her upcoming debut EP. The songs could be mistaken for an American pop song if not for the sweltering Amapiano instrumental underneath.

Singing entirely in English, Tyla’s vocal delivery brims with confidence and desire, especially over the chorus — “Make me sweat, make me hotter, make me lose my breath, make me water” — while the song’s sweltering video turns up the heat further.

The ‘Best African Music Performance’ category is one of three newly added categories for the 2024 GRAMMYs Award which serves as a breakthrough for the African music industry, signaling the commercial and cultural prowess of the continent’s music.

2024 Grammy Awards: Davido, Burna Boy, Other Nigerian Artists Make Nomination List

The Recording Academy has officially revealed the nominations for the 2024 GRAMMYs, which will take place Sunday, Feb. 4, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

In the list that was released by the Recording Academy on Friday, Burna Boy, Davido, Asake, Olamide, and Ayra Starr were the Nigerian artists that were nominated for the 66th GRAMMY Awards.

Burna Boy got 3 nominations, Davido 2, while Asake, Olamide, and Ayra Star got a single nomination.

Burna Boy song ‘Sittin On Top Of The World featuring 21 Savage was nominated for the “Best Melodic Rap Performance” – this category is for a solo or collaborative performance containing both elements of R&B melodies and Rap.

His song ‘Alone’ was also nominated alongside Davido’s song ‘Feel’ for the “Best Global Music Performance – this category is for new vocals or instrumental Global music recordings.

‘City Boy’ by Burna Boy, ‘Unavailable’ by Davido, ‘Amapiano’ by Asake & Olamide, and ‘Rush’ by Ayra Starr were all nominated for the ‘Africa Music Performance’.

The 2024 GRAMMYs, officially known as the 66th GRAMMY Awards, will air live (8:00-11:30 PM, LIVE ET/5:00-8:30 PM, LIVE PT) on the CBS Television Network and will stream on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs)^.

Three new GRAMMY categories will debut at the 2024 GRAMMYs: Best African Music Performance, Best Alternative Jazz Album, and Best Pop Dance Recording.

These history-making category additions are part of a larger set of updates and amendments, which go into effect immediately at the 2024 GRAMMYs, aimed at making the GRAMMY Awards process “more fair, transparent and accurate”, according to Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr.

The GRAMMY voting process begins with members and record companies submitting entries, which are then screened for eligibility and category placement. The Online Entry Process (OEP) Access Period took place from July 17, 2023 – Aug. 31, 2023. First-round voting occurred from Oct. 11 to Oct. 20, 2023. Lastly, Final Round Voting will span Dec. 14, 2023, to Jan. 4, 2024 — and the winners will be announced during Music’s Biggest Night on Feb. 4!

The Academy’s voting members, all involved in the creative and technical processes of recording, then participate in (1) the nominating process that determines the five finalists in each category; and (2) the final voting process that determines the GRAMMY winners.

See the full list of the nominations.

World Science Day: Delta To Build More Innovation Hubs And Technical Incubation Centers

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The Delta State Government through the Ministry of Science and Technology and Innovation on Friday marks the 2023 World Science Day For Peace And Development.

The celebration with the theme “Building Trust In Science” was held at the Delta State Innovation Hub in Asaba after a successful roadshow exhibition conducted by the ministry.

As part of the activities aimed at promoting the importance of trust in scientific research and a deeper understanding of science and technology in the state, it was gathered that the Governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, through his M.O.R.E Agenda intends to train more youth through ICT, build more Innovation Hubs, and establish technical incubation centers across the state.

According to the Commissioner for Science Technology, Hon. Odinigwe Daniel Odigie, in his welcome address, said this year’s occasion holds significance in the global community as it reflects on the role of Science and Technology in promoting peace, fostering sustainable development, and improving the quality of life for all.

Hon. Odigie stated that science has transformed our world from the simplest discoveries to the most groundbreaking advances of life-saving medical breakthroughs to sustainable energy solutions.

He reaffirmed the commitment that science like any other form of trust, must be nurtured and earned, especially in an age of misinformation and mistrust.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ejiro Ogheneaga, said the celebration is just a means of creating awareness of the importance of science and technology in our lives while also improving our physical well-being, and imbibing scientific innovation.

Dr. Ogheneaga revealed that the government intended to train a lot of youth through ICT, build more Innovation Hubs across the state, and establish technical incubation centers.

In addition, the Managing Director and CEO, FUPRE Energy Solution Nig Limited, Engr. Dr. Omonigho B. Otanocha, who is the resource person at the event said, the World Science Day for Peace and Development event is celebrated on 10 November every year, to showcase the impact of science on socio-economic advances and stimulate wider public deliberations on emergent
scientific matters.

He added that Science plays a crucial role in fostering peace, sustainable development, and community well-being by providing evidence-based solutions and building trust through rigorous methodologies.

The highlight of the event was the distribution of writing materials to secondary school students who graced the celebration.

the Managing Director and CEO, FUPRE Energy Solution Nig Limited, Engr. Dr. Omonigho B. Otanocha, who is the resource person demonstrated an exhibition to the students

Govt Issues Strong Warning On Residents Who Dispose Waste Randomly In Delta

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The Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro said the administration of Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori will not tolerate the random disposal of waste by residents in the state.

He said a task force has already been constituted to monitor the situation as any defaulter who flouts the environmental law will be met to face the wrath of the law.

Jamani disclosed this while speaking with journalists at his office on Wednesday in Asaba, the state capital.

He said the task of keeping the environment clean is everyone’s business but some residents are behaving indiscriminately in a manner that does not indicate concern about the environmental laws in the state.

According to him, His Excellency, Oborevwori is looking towards making the state one of the cleanest states in the country as it is planning to go into a zero-waste policy that will enable companies that are interested in transforming the waste into something else to come invest and recycle it into whatever they want, adding that the policy will also enable residents to generate money from their waste.

Speaking on the issue of open grazing and the environmental hazards it has caused, Jamani said that the age-old practice of herders roaming about with their cattle in the roadway while their cattle urinate randomly will also not be taken for granted.

He added that he would invite the cattle breeders to address them about the situation as it would not be business as usual.

16 Years On Throne, Our Culture Is Beautiful, Absolute Peace In Igbodo Kingdom – OBI Osedume

Igbodo is a Kingdom nestled on the fringes of eight communities within Delta State and Edo State. It is a beautiful town located in Ika North East LGA of Delta State, Nigeria. The town consists of six villages; Ilabor, Ndobu, Ikpekwu, Eyime, Ozei and Obior. The Kings throne is in Ani- Ikpekwu village, the most populated are Ndobur and Ilabor village. The town is popularly call ‘the food basket of Delta State’ based on the community commitment to farming and Agriculture.

A visit to the Palace of the Obi of Igbodo,
Obi Barr. Ikechukwu Nkeobikwu Osedume 1, in Ika North-East local government area of Delta State.

The road network that led to the Palace showcased a tremendous transformation in every part of the community. The roads were beautifully tarred with trees of various food crops swaying left and right while yam farms could be seen cultivated in every environment of the community which showcased the town as the real food basket of the state.

Also, the town is blessed with standard infrastructure, consumables Agricultural produce, and markets among others, coddle its landscape, a pleasant makeover for a suburb much troubled earlier by endemic neglect and underdevelopment.

In Delta State, Igbodo is a potential wealth mine, especially for young people interested in small and large-scale agriculture. A good portion of the land still remains uncultivated as almost every family mainly indulges in subsistence agriculture.

In an interview with the reigning ruler of Igbodo, HRM, Obi Barr. Ikechukwu Nkeobikwu, he disclosed that Igbodo has been a developing and peaceful town before he took over the throne 16 years ago. When I came in we have just one tarred road (old road) but since I came on board I believe there is no road that is not tarred in this community. And since inception of the community, let me say, I am the luckiest Obi so far, from the outpour of love from my people, care from my people, support from my people and peace in our land. “Our people are predominantly farmers and we are doing great in farming business till date.

Speaking about his throne he said,

The day I was enthroned, the only prayer I made to God was that He should help me never to be partial in my judgment I told Him to help me so that I don’t see white and call it black, or see red and call it purple. I know, I try as much as possible to maintain that, except I don’t have adequate information, and that is the confidence, the trust sincere people have on the throne.
As to the good times, I will say kingship comes with a lot of glory. It comes with authority, loyalty and submission. My coronation for instance was glorious. Even, the deputy governor then, Amos Utuama said since he had been attending coronations, he had never seen any as colorful and attended as Igbodo’s coronation. Even, some of my friends that came for the ceremony, were unable to get to the palace because of the mammoth crowd. It was a clear show of love from my people.

Also, when I traveled to the United States of America, Igbodo people over there gave me a royal welcome party. They even invited their friends from other tribes to join them in receiving their king. When I got to Dallas, it was party all night. It was really fun and glorious. I really felt honoured. I am happy on the throne because my people both at home and abroad made it so.

On the issues facing his marriage, he said

In the fight for peace, I have been through a lot. Even my private life was all over the globe. ThankGod I have resolved the issues of my marriage. And I have done what the people what me to do regarding that aspect of my life.

The sixteen years have so far been of mixed feelings. There have been the good times, the very good times, the bad times, and the very bad times. But, that is what leadership and the throne is all about. Even, life in general is not all rosy. The bible tells us that there is a time and a season for everything under the sun.

In all, I would say, the love of my people has held me strong. The trust, believe and confidence reposed in me have kept me going. Sometimes, some people may say unpalatable words and will be furious saying all manner of things when some laws and judgments do not go in their favour, or the way they had thought it would go. Some of these things really get me disturbed. But then, when I am sure that I never did that out of partiality, hatred or indiscriminate use of office, I summon courage to let their ill talks go off my mind.

As a community, we will not relent in fighting against crime and bringing peace to Igbodo. We have Zero tolerance for sabotage and the people who pose problems and security risks on Igbodo

According to him, the Obi of Igbodo is the respected traditional ruler recognized by the government. Also serve as the traditional and political head of Igbodo kingdom flanked by the council of chiefs in the republican saddle. I am the chosen one and nothing will happen to me.

Move round Delta State, 80 percent of the traditional Rulers are in power tussel with the President General. Some of them even go as far as causing disunity because of their position, this is because they want to control the Obi. And it may not be easy for them.

Traditional rulers are spiritual custodians of the land. They are the original fundamental roots of society from where every development emanates. They have theocratic powers. They are born only to be venerated, not violated. Whether by hereditary or selection.

I want people to know that, I am loved by my people, the Obi deserves all support, cooperation and goodwill to reign peacefully over Igbodo community, the beautiful bride basking in enchanting diversity and development.

According to him, the experience has been scintilating because of the love from the people of Igbodo
Speaking further he said, one of the primary function of the Obi in the community is to resolve issues and disputes within the community and protect the interest of the people. And by the grace of God, I have been doing this deligently with all pleasure. We have peace today in Igbodo and unity among our people.

By background, temperament and socialization, Obi had continued to symbolize the history, strength, reputation, traditional norms and values of the community.

Speaking on the challenges facing the community and why he was accused of having issues with the President General of Igbodo kingdom?

Every community, has it’s challenges, ranging from one crisis to another, but the ability to restore peace in the community is paramount. In every community, there is an opposition, people who don’t want peace, progress and they are always at the negative side. some times, it can be instigated or sponsored by group of men who don’t believe in the prosperity of the community while others can be power drunk with pride to bring conflicts to the Community. We have them here, in this town, two years ago, this same set of persons wrote petition to the governor against me, copied the DSS, Commissioner of Police, Ika North East Local Government Chairman and the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council Chairman, The DSS investigated me in this community for almost a week and I don’t know, asking people about all sorts lies, they ganged up against me and my community. They lied that, Igbodo is on fire, Igbodo is sitted on a gun powder, there was war in Igbodo, there is crises in the land, no body is safe here and malicious statements about me. And the security men, especially the DSS, did their investigations and report back to the Governor to explain the truth to him, that it was a ganged up against me. Do you know that after one year, they are still looking for how to drag this present administration into their propaganda? The truth is the President General of igbodo Community worldwide, Elder Matthew Okwaje tenure was disolved after a Five Man Member Committee did their Investigations and gave Igbodo a report of their findings which indicted Okwaje of 24 million naira and he refused to respond to invitations from the people base on this, Igbodo people ask him to step down with his Executives. It’s the people that took the decision not me, the Obi. Another issue came up when he borrowed N700,000 from Anieme village Lagos branch, of Igbodo Development Union. They wrote me that my PG, borrowed money for them for SEEFOR project and counterpart funding for Hospital Projects in the community, and since then, he didn’t refund the money. Even the Obi in Council, didn’t know anything about it. When he was questioned about the millions he took for SEEFOR project, he refused to respond, So people started agitating they look into his financial records and he was found guilty. Since 2020, the committee has been acting in that capacity. For the committee findings of 24million, the P.G should refund us our money.Maybe that’s the reason for all just to distract us. The people he using
maybe beneficiaries of the 24million he couldn’t account for
His second tenure expired in 2021. He has no capacity to call for IDU meetings. until Igbodo is ready to conduct another election and that is where we stand.

On the transformation story,
The royal father said, “I will like to appreciate one of our illustrious son, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, House of Representative Member, representing Ika Constituency for his continuous support to bring in development in Igbodo Kingdom, the Government of Delta State for their tremendous support in maintaining peace and continually coming to support our people by pushing in development . I want to thank our son’s and daughters in and out of diaspora who have contributed to the development of the town as Igbodo private or our own collective project. Today every road in Igbodo is tarred. Infact, our community is beautiful and the phenomenal transformation of Igbodo has attracted a burgeoning population of aborigines, civil servants, entrepreneurs and strangers numbering a huge population, to place the community in an all-time flourish and social conviviality” today, we have Customary Court in Igbodo built by us as part of our community effort to support the government, the magistrate court was also built by Igbodo people, the Police Division was built by our people, our hospital is well equipped and health centers, Our schools are well built, the Primary and Comprehensive high school, we have done a lot to transform the community.

On the beautiful culture of Igbodo people, the monarch said, Culture is the lifeblood of a vibrant society, it is our way of life and identity. It’s expressed in the many ways we tell our stories, celebrate, remember the past, entertain ourselves, and imagine the future. Our creative expression helps define who we are, and helps us see the world through the eyes of others.

Every year, from August ending to September ending, we celebrate our culture and dance for a bountiful harvest through our festival called Ogbanigbe and Iwaji ( New yam). The Iwaji day is the day set aside for the Obi to cook for all Igbodo people to eat and feast which signifies amthe end of the farming season.

The Ogbanigbe festival is an essential event for the people of Igbodo as it helps to preserve our cultural heritage and promote unity and understanding among us, and also serve as an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the richness and diversity of the Igbodo culture firsthand.

Our culture is getting stronger day by day, we have best food and farmers in Delta State. Let me say we are the jewel and the food basket of the big heart.

Encouraging the people Obi said, As a community we stand to resist any person or people that will cause conflicts on our land or steal away the peace of our community. And I want to encourage every Igbodo son’s and daughters, not to allow this people, looking for power relevance to distract us and change our focus. We are great and united people, with continous unity, we will overcome.

How do you relax, Your Majesty,?

I read a lot, watch football and travel if need be.. I also love books.

What turns you off?

Lies.

Fuel Subsidy: Delta Govt Plans 2nd Phase Of Upward Review Of Palliatives Allowance For Civil Servants

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Coming next to the successful undertaking of the Ten Thousand Naira (N10,000) palliative to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy remover for civil servants, the Head of Service of the Delta State Civil Service Commission, Sir Reginald Bayoko has said the Governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is looking towards the second phase of upward review of palliatives allowance for Civil Servants in the state.

Bayoko, who disclosed this in Asaba on Monday while interacting with journalists added that the governor has called for an update on the implementation and has also given a directive on the next phase to the committee headed by the Secretary to the State Government, to review the progress that they have made and to chat about a way forward.

According to him, there will be a complete pronouncement by the end of the month stating that the issue is at the ‘front burner’ of His Excellency the Governor.

He added that the payment would continue from where it was stopped and it would capture every worker on the government payroll.

The Head of Service while speaking, also advised every civil servant in the state to always give their best at all times despite the challenges that they are facing, saying “My message has always been clear because, in the civil service, an average civil servant, the way we are configured is that at every given point in time, you give your best. Whether there are good times or challenging times, you must give your best. That’s our training.”

“My advice is let’s forget about what the situation is directly. Know within yourself what your core values are as a civil servant. Whether good or bad, give your best at all times which is what I encouraged them to do.”

He also gives a hint about his experiences as one of the longest-serving heads of service in the state, saying “My experience is bitter-sweet but more sweet than bitter. The only thing I can say now is the challenge I am facing. Sometimes I get to hear feedback from people who wonder if a kind of civil servant in my category exists and whether we will have a quality person to replace us. This is what I think I am battling with at the moment.”

“And I tell myself that after all these years I can’t get positive feedback in that regard, it means that I can’t score myself a pass. That is why I said bitter-sweet but I will say I got good cooperation from the civil servants and there is a lot of positivity among the workforce”, Bayoko added.

Igbodo Community in Crisis As Obi Chased President General, Community Leaders Out of Meeting Hall

The members of the Igbodo Central Executive Council have decried bitterly the Obi’s aggressive ways of relating to his subject.

Speaking with Elder Comrade, John Egbubike, from Idumo-Obior, disclosed that the Igbodo community is being ruled by a dictatorship from the Obi who take advantage of the people.

He said, most of us in this community live in fear because our freedom is being touched. while the union of the Igbodo Development Union and the Central Executive Committee has been illegally and unconstitutionally dissolved.

He added, that the Obi issued a warning that no member of the Central Executive Council should hold a meeting in his community and also accused them of alleged non-cooperation with him and the leadership of the Obi in Council.

In the same vein, Barr. Azikiwe Lawrence an indigen from Idumogbe disclosed that the issue has been on the ground for the past four years, when he forcefully removed the CEC from office.

It would be recalled that the crisis began when, the Obi reappointed a nonqualified person, as the new President General of the Igbodo Community. “Presently he takes decisions on his own without the concern of his subjects and threatens anyone who goes against his orders. A development which did not go down well with the majority of the community people (at home and abroad)

He said, our appeal is that
that the government should come to our aid to help solve these issues in our community.

Speaking with the Obi of Igbodo, HRM, Obi (Barr.) Ikechukwu Nkeobikwu Osadume 1 on the issue, said it’s unfortunate that some set of chiefs in his community are causing conflicts and creating disunity in Igbodo.

According to him, he is the paramount ruler of the community, and he refused to be cowed by some set of chiefs that tagged themselves as the cabal of the community.

On the reason why they should not hold secret meeting behind him in the community he said, these set of people are known as agents of conflicts and trouble makers within the community.
I don’t want problem rising from decisions taken in their meeting. So the best is for the police to stop them for now, until they are ready to work in peace.

Like I said, I am not oppressing my people, either am I using unconstitutional rights not to allow the C.E.C government to function properly, all I want is peace in my community and that is my stand. he stressed.

Burna Boy Proposes To Pay Instablog, Pulse, Regha, Others To Stop Talking About Him

Afro-fusion musician, Burna Boy, called on Instablog, Pulse, Daniel Regha, and others to have a meeting to discuss how much he will pay them to stop talking about him.

The singer made this known on his page via X platform (formally called Twitter) on Friday after popular social media influencer, Daniel Regha, blasted him for constantly discrediting the Nigerian blogs.

According to the social media influencer, the singer is acting like he singlehandedly made it after a lot of people have paved the way for his success.

In his post, he said “Burna, the Nigerian blogs u are trying to discredit have contributed to our growth in life; Some news might be wrong but just like fans, u owe ’em a lot of thanks. Many people won’t hear about u, ur wins, or projects if they hadn’t promoted it. Stop acting like u are self-made, many people paved the way for u.”

Reacting in Pigin English, Burna Boy said “Oga how much be your money?? Make you sef develop amnesia for my matter. You follow for people wey I dey talk about.”

“How far. all these instablog, PulseNg e.t.c abeg make all of una do meeting then decide how much I go give all of una make una forget my name totally. I know say I never pay any of una before so I say make I just run am finally. I greet you bros!!”

NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Recalled Energy Drink

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The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control has given notice to the public that the recalled G Fuel brand Energy Drink produced by T&E Imports and GPAE Trading Corp contains high levels of caffeine and the product is not registered.

This was announced in a statement issued to journalists by the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye on Thursday in Abuja.

Prof Adeyeye said the high level of caffeine in the product could cause headaches, insomnia, irritability, and nervousness if consumed, stating that people who are exposed to caffeine will encounter these outcomes at very low consumption level.

According to the DG, pregnant women are not to take these products as possible health effects of consuming too much caffeine include the risk of miscarriage and a possibility of low weight.

She added that the agency was equally notified about the recall of the product by the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Adeyeye said “The product is not registered by NAFDAC, which implored consumers and retailers to refrain from using, selling, serving, or distributing the implicated product.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicion of distribution and sale of unwholesome packaged food products to the nearest NAFDAC office.

“NAFDAC could also be reached on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

“Healthcare professionals and patients are also encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of any substandard NAFDAC-regulated product to the nearest NAFDAC office.

“NAFDAC could also be reached through the use of the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application available for download on Android and IOS stores.

“The public could also reach NAFDAC via e-mail at pharmacovigilance@nafac.gov.ng.

Listen: DMW New Signee Morravey Drops Debut Album ‘Rave’

The new artiste signed into Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), Daniella Daniel, better known as Morravey released ‘Rave’ her debut extended playlist.

The album, a 5-track body of work was released on all streaming platforms on Thursday.

She featured her record label boss, Davido in ‘Magician’ one of the tracks in the album.

‘What Is Love’, ‘High Again’, ‘Condo’, ‘My Baby’, and ‘Magician’, are the songs that made up the album.

Listen to the album:

Former Big Brother Naija Housemate, Prince Set Up Records Label, Reveals First Signee

Prince Nelson Enwerem, the ex-BBNaija housemate has launched Pollux Records, his music label.

The reality TV star and fashion entrepreneur made this known through a video post he shared via his social media page on Wednesday.

In his post, he revealed the name of the first artiste he signed into the label and also gave an account of how he has been going after music since his primary school days.

He wrote “Finally, the time has come for me to officially present to the world officially, a very bold dream I had and have been nurturing for the past few years. Everyone who really knows me knows how much I love everything music, from my primary days buying songbooks to learn every song lyrics of Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, et al, to forming my own little “Mohits crew” with my friends to my dance crew in secondary school.

“It has not been an easy feat caring and nurturing this dream, as I have constantly battled the fear of the so many “what ifs” that come with such a humongous venture. But alas, I am a strong believer in the saying, “God will not put a dream in your mind that is too big for you to handle.

“So, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the birth of my record label, Pollux Records @polluxrecords. And on this note, I hereby announce Pollux Records’ first talent, Valentiiano @valentiianoo.”

Govt College Ughelli Old Boys Asaba Branch Elects Transport PS, Engr Fuludu, President

Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association, (GCUOBA), Asaba branch, has elected a seven-member executive led by Engr Mariner Gabriel Fuludu, to pilot its affairs for the next two years.

Engr Fuludu, the current Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry of Transport, was elected unopposed, at the association, ‘s monthly meeting held on Tuesday, October 31st, 2023, in Asaba.

At the well-attended monthly meeting cum election which was conducted by Senior old “boys” of the very prestigious secondary institution in the persons of Chuks Aguonye, the Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Security Services, Government House, Asaba, Snr Mariners Emmanuel Obaigbona( Chairman), Majiri Okaroh and Emeka Oforgu, with the supervision of the National Executive Committee (NEC), represented by the national Treasurer, Robert Oviri, the process was adjudged by members to be free, fair and transparent.

In his acceptance speech, the new President of the GCUOBA Asaba branch, Engr Mariner Gabriel Fuludu, pledged to take the association’s fortunes a notch higher.

He paid glowing tributes to his predecessor, Engr Mariner Mike Dottie, FNSE, for ably piloting the affairs of the association over the past four years of his legal two years each in office, along with his executives, describing the outgone President as an epitome of personal sacrifice towards the welfare of members.

While urging all members of the branch to support his executives in the task of delivering on its mandate, the new President pledged to run an all-inclusive administration that will be amenable to constructive suggestions in the task of moving their alma mater forward.

He therefore thanked the entire members of the association for the overwhelming confidence reposed in him to pilot the affairs of the association for the next two years in the first instance, describing it as a call for service.

Other executives elected at the election include Engr Obas Okekeri ( Vice President ), Mariner Ken Agwemuria ( Secretary) and Aloku Felix ( Asst Secretary).

Others are Mariners Kenneth Okoro ( Fin Sec), Jeffrey Okpoto ( Treasurer) and Comrade Mariner Andy Emephia ( Publicity Secretary).

The new President, Govt College Ughelli Old Boys Association (GCUOBA), Asaba branch, Engr Mariner Gabriel Fuludu , ( 1st left), and other elected executive members, at the associations elections held in Asaba, the Delta State capital

River Crisis: ‘You know I Will Not Agree – Wike Vows To Fight Fubura

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said he will continue the fight between him and his predecessor, Siminalayi Fubara in the ongoing crisis in River State.

He said he would never back down even if heaven would come down, let it come down.

Wike made this known when the governors who were elected on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party, and the party’s National Working Committee visited him over the crisis in Abuja on Wednesday.

According to the FCT minister, nobody can intimidate him as he would not accept any attempt to tamper with the political structure in Rivers State.

Wike said, “You know I will not agree. If heaven will come down, let heaven come down so that everybody will be at rest.

“Anybody who knows me knows too well: what I’ll never take is a threat. You know I will not agree. If heaven will come down, let heaven come down so that everybody will be at rest.

“Let’s do things right. He said they should bring N20 billion every month; that’s politics. But nobody said this when I was fighting. If you like, accuse me.”

However, this is coming despite reports that President Bola Tinubu has resolved the situation.

It was gathered on Monday, October 30, 2023, that Fabura who fell out with Wike, his predecessor, is being impeached by the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, who is an associate of Wike, and some other members of the House, had commenced impeachment proceedings against the governor.

Wike’s allies had suspended the Majority Leader of the House, Ehie Edison, who is believed to be Fubara’s loyalist.

The deliberate impeachment has brought about disorder in the state as party followers have gone on to stage protests in Port Harcourt, the capital city.

Hon. Odigie Congratulates Prince Ned Nwoko Over Appeal Court Victory

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The Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon Odinigwe Daniel Odigie, expressed satisfaction over the Appeal Court ruling today, November 1, 2023, a tribunal case concerning Senator Prince Ned Nwoko and former Senator Peter Nwoboshi, in the just concluded February 2023 Delta North Senatorial election.

Hon. Odigie in a congratulatory message on his social media page said “It is a thing of joy and celebration today as I congratulate Prince Ned Nwoko on his victory at the Appeal Court in Lagos.”

“I am extremely satisfied with the judgment presided over by Justice, Catherine Ogunsanya who stressed that the petitioner’s claims lack merit in the case.

“On behalf of myself and my family, I heartily congratulate Prince Ned Nwoko, the Senator representing the good people of Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly.”

“His victory is a true representation of the people’s mandate and I am particularly happy about this great news because God has smiled upon him once again. This is a great win for our party, the People’s Democratic Party, PDP”, the honorable Commissioner for Science and Technology stated.

However, the Appeal Court dismissed Peter Nwaoboshi’s Appeal and declared Prince Ned Munir Nwoko of the People’s Democratic Party as the rightly voted candidate for the Delta North senatorial election held in February 2023.

The court threw out the appeal filed by Peter Nwaoboshi Onyeluka of the All Progressives Congress, pointing out a lack of merit in his claim.

The National Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal in Asaba, Delta State, had already made a judgment in September that Prince Ned Nwoko was the rightful winner of the Delta North 2023 senatorial election, dismissing the petition filed by Peter Nwaoboshi.

In the judgment, Justice Catherine Ogunsanya, who presided over the Tribunal case, brought into the world a united judgment, highlighting the lack of merit in Nwaoboshi’s claims. The court further imposed a fine of N500,000 against Peter
Nwaoboshi.

The Tribunal’s judgment encouraged Nwaoboshi to seek redress in the Appellate court.

Emu/Abbi Boundary Dispute: Ndokwa West LG Sets Up Six-member Verification Committee

A six-man committee has been set up to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the boundary dispute between Emu and Abbi Communities Ndokwa West.

This was revealed by the Chairman Ndokwa West Local Government Chief Obi Nzete represented by the Secretary to the Ndokwa West Local Government, Mr. Austin Okom, after the enlarged meeting with the two communities to resolve the boundary dispute between the two communities.

The peace meeting which was held at the Ndokwa West Local Government Council was attended by Chiefs and elders of the two communities, including security Agencies, comprising the Army, police, and DSS, among others.

He said the communities had been told to hold their peace while the committee carried out their duties.

Chief. Obi Nzete said the mandate of the committee, comprising three persons each from both communities, is to Fastrack the peace process arising from the boundary dispute between both communities.

The Chairman said the committee will be meeting with the Local Government council from time to time to chart the way forward.

He said the two communities had been advised to maintain peace till the matter is resolved.

Modular Refinery: Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Calls on Investors To Come Invest In Generating Electricity With Gas

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…….A Process That Will Reduce Gas Flaring In The State….

Based on the policy of the M.O.R.E Agenda towards the Oil and Gas sector and the advantage of the Electricity Bill that was signed into law by the federal government, the Delta State Governor, His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori said is looking forward to investors who will come to establishing a modular refinery and building a turbine to generate electricity through the use of gas in the state.

The Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Hon. Olorogun Vincent Oghenerueme Oyibode, made this known when journalists visited him in Asaba on Tuesday, as he said the state has a lot of gas that can be used to generate electricity.

“Interestingly, three communities on their own are already doing that, they fund it by themselves – Otor Udu in Udu Local Government Area, Otor Jeremi, and Iwhreka the host communities in the state. They have spent N1.1 billion remaining N500 million to complete it”, Oyibode said.

He added that Oborewori is calling on investors to establish and generate electricity through the use of gas and doing so, will help to reduce the gas flaring that is destroying the Ozone layer.

He also said the governor’s policy keys into all the various opportunities within the oil and gas sector as Oborevwori is also thinking of a green economy.

According to Olorogun Oyibode, investors are already coming but they told them to refund the funds to these communities that have already started the project for them to inherit it and expand on it to increase the megawatts that will serve more communities.

“Currently, what these communities are building is one megawatt and we need a situation where these investors will increase it to maybe like 10 megawatts. We asked them for a statistic that could be used to generate a permanent electricity supply for the whole of Warri.”

Due to the nature of the gas which has always been converted in so many ways, Oyibode said other companies are also showing interest in supplying Compress Natural Gas (CNG) that can be used to serve other companies that will be established in the state and it can also be used on vehicles and tricycles (Keke).

The Oil and Gas Commissioner also said the governor is driving towards making gas inexpensive in the state, saying, so many of the oil companies in the state are already compressing most of the gas to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

He said the governor listened to the plight of Deltans on the issue of the high cost of transportation, which according to him, the issue of keke using gas is already on top gear at the governor’s table.

He added that electricity if generated in the state, a lot of industries would spring up and the development would help drive employment opportunities that would enable people to think of selling CNG to these Keke while again confirming that the companies in the state have over 35 percent of CNG that they can sell.

Oyibode pointed out that the governor is also looking for other ways to generate electricity and they have been reaching out to various organizations to come to invest, claiming that a lot of companies are already coming for it because they have made an effort to run a test at the Ogbogologo market to convert waste to wealth – a situation where plastic and condemned vehicle tires will be converted into pure diesel production.

“One of the political deficits caused in the Niger Delta today was to formulate lies mostly in the Warri area. They said that we were hostile so they moved all multinational oil companies from Warri. And now that the place is most peaceful, they also have the right to move back. Though we have a lot of investors that are coming and Delta State will be great again with Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration”, the oil and gas commissioner said.

When asked about an abandoned $20 billion industrial gas project situated at Ogidigben, Oyibode said the state government is planning on how it can meet with stakeholders of Ijaw and Itsekeri to discuss some of these issues because such projects are rich and will employ a lot of Deltans.

He describes the project as a magnificent landmark project that when completed will boost the socio-economic activities within the state.

He also made a speech about the issue of fuel subsidy where he frowned at President Tinubu’s administration for not putting in place measures to reduce the suffering of Nigerians before removing the policy.

The oil and gas commissioner said “What it ought to be before the subsidy remover is that the refineries were supposed to be put to work. The Warri, Port Harcourt, and the Kaduna refineries were supposed to be working. And licenses should be given to individuals without a cumbersome process for individuals to establish refineries because our boys can refine diesel and fuel locally.”

“When former vice president, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo visited the Niger Delta, as a PANDEF youth leader, we agreed together in Bayelsa State that we will put those boys who are refining these products locally into a cooperative, where they can also establish a modular refinery, collect the crude oil legally and refined these products to be available, but what killed the policy is because they know we will be prosperous in the Niger Delta.”

“President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajiamila, when he was the Speaker of the National Assembly, was one of those who helped to kill the relocation of all multinational oil companies to be relocated to the Niger Delta.

“We proposed that the administrative headquarters of Chevron should be in Warri, Shell should be in Port Harcourt, Agip in Yenegoa, and Exxon Mobile should be in Akwa Ibom. They are aware that when these companies relocated their administrative headquarters to the Niger Delta, there won’t be a place like Lekki because the Lekki will also be transferred to the Niger Delta.”

“So, I will say that the subsidy issue is political because if it is not political, strategy is supposed to be put in place to cushion the poverty level of the people. What about the monetary policy where foreign currency is high and our naira has been devalued? Is it economically viable? No, it is all about creating poverty so that the class theory can be sustained where the rich become richer and the poor become poorer as the middle class is not recognized”, Oyibode stated this while also calling on Journalists to be proactive and stand up to their constitutional duty to criticize these kinds of policies.

Alleged N20,000 Governor’s Portrait: Delta Commissioner, Ezewu Demotes Some Principals Over Extortion

Following the wrong accusation orchestrated by some secondary school principals against Hon. Mrs. Rose Ezewu, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Delta State whom they alleged is mandating N20 thousand for the portrait of the governor, has come to say that the reason some of the principals are against her is simply because she is fighting them for extortion and unnecessary activities that are going on within the basic and secondary school sector.

Mrs. Ezewu made this revelation while interacting with journalists in Asaba on Tuesday, stating that when she resumed office, she set up an educational task force that is made up of educationists and some insiders to checkmate the principals, teachers, together with students, and their lesson notes, and other activities within the schools.

She said it is from this engagement and monitoring carried out by the task force that she found out that some of the school principals are extorting money from the students and parents while alleging that some of the principals are collecting money above the approved admission fee the government asked them to collect.

The Basic and Secondary Education Commissioner also alleged that some of the teachers do not want to teach the students, as they just come to school, stay as they like, and leave.

According to her, the negligence of the teachers is what led her to direct all principals to ensure that their schools always conduct morning and closing assemblies, to enable their teachers to impact knowledge unto the students.

“It is this extortion and negligence that I am fighting against that they are saying they want to fight the honorable commissioner by twisting the whole story. You cannot be taking forty thousand for admission.”

“This has made me demote some principals and take some of them from the small schools to go head these schools.

“Do I look like someone who is going to schools and extorting money from principals? How much are they going to give to me?

“Most of these principals are just after their extortion and when the honorable commissioner storms the schools to stop them, they will rant and say they want to kick against me. What extortion do I want to extort? Go to the school, and go take money from them or what?

“Soon, WAEC enrollment will start and some of them are already lobbying to go to a bigger school to extort.

“Is there anything wrong or insensitive in the education sector if we constitute a task force to checkmate all these activities that are going on in the schools”, she asked.

Mrs. Ezewu in her justification, revealed that the reason His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori approved the collection of PTAs in all schools is for the principals to key into the M.O.R.E Agenda to be able to have little cash-on-hand to help develop some urgent needs of these schools.

“Some of these principals who were supposed to collect N1250 to admit students into their various schools are now extorting N40000 from them. Tomorrow people will say the M.O.R.E Agenda does not consist of free education.”

“I don’t collect money for admission. I don’t put children in the school, they are the ones doing that. So when I heard those stories that they were saying against the honorable commissioner, I just laughed because I knew my hands were clean”, she said.

The education commissioner also frowns at the attitude of some of the parents towards the teachers who punished their kids for misconduct as she cites an incident that happened at a school in Agbor where a parent came to the school to harass a teacher which eventually led to his death.

According to her “If a teacher should punish a child, the major thing is that he should not inflict strong injury on the child. There are corrective measures because the type of parents we have nowadays is something else. They cannot even train the children at home, so how then do they want the teacher to be able to teach them? The teachers are helping them to train these children and they want to castigate their efforts and make them feel like slaves. They don’t want the teachers to discharge their duties. If they don’t want the teacher to do their jobs, they should keep their children at home.

While calling on everyone to support the M.O.R.E Agenda of His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Mrs. Ezewu equally thanked the Governor for approving scholarships for the children of the demise teacher who was allegedly killed in Agbor by the father of a student.

Nigeria Signs $700b Deal With Germany On Solid Minerals Exploration

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An agreement that will allow the exploration of solid mineral deposits worth more than $700 billion in Nigeria has been signed by the Federal Government and a German geo-scientific technology company – GeoScan GmbH based in Berlin.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, made this known while conversing with State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja on Monday.

Alake said the agreement is on the exploration and exploitation of mineral deposits in the country.

The minister, who explained that his briefing was not the FEC outcome, but just an announcement of a significant achievement, said the agreement was formalized in Abuja on Sunday when German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, visited.

He said the significance of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and its development will advance solid minerals exploration, exploitation, and judicious use of the revenue accruing to the federal government.

According to the minister, GeoScan GmBH has cutting-edge technology capable of exploring mineral deposits up to 10,000 meters below the earth’s surface.

Alake while describing the accomplishment as a remarkable progress in the field of mineral exploration, said the cost-effectiveness of the proprietary technology, which he said, is 80% cheaper than current exploration processes and three times faster in locating underground deposits.

“The gathering of geo-data is very expensive. Now this particular technology, which is top-notch, is 80% cheaper than current processes in the world, three times faster to locate deposits down underground”, he said.

Given Nigeria’s vast and unexplored mineral landscape, estimated to be worth around $700 billion, the minister noted that the MoU with GeoScan GmbH presents a significant opportunity for the country.

He said: “We constitute about 0.02% of the global mining budget. With the $700 billion estimation of our solid minerals deposit, we still have over 90% of the entire landscape of Nigeria unexplored.

“And because it’s an expensive business, it underscores the significance of a landmark that we recorded yesterday with the GeoScan GmbH supported also by the German chancellor and our president.

“I’m happy to tell you that there’s no kobo commitment on the part of Nigeria. The company will establish its technology and plant here and move around the country enabling us to further explore all the other mineral deposits that we have.”

The minister pointed out that many critical minerals, essential for the production of electric vehicles, batteries, and other advanced technological equipment, are abundant in Nigeria.

He said: “These resources play a crucial role in the global shift toward clean and green energy, aligning with the global trend of addressing climate change.

“The partnership with GeoScan GmbH will help Nigeria fully explore its solid mineral resources, which can make a substantial contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of positioning solid minerals as a significant economic driver alongside petroleum.”

The MoU was signed by Oliver Haeggberg, CEO of GeoScan GmbH, Germany, and Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), Fatima Shinkafi, who represented Nigeria.

Haeggberg was part of the business delegation that accompanied the German Chancellor during his official visit to the country.

The delegation met with President Tinubu and the Nigerian delegation at the Business-to-Government (BTG) roundtable meeting in Abuja at the weekend.

Delta Contributory Health Commission To Finance Efficiency In Healthcare Delivery

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The Director General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, said the main motive and concept for the health insurance scheme is aimed at making healthcare services available and affordable for everyone in the state by financing high efficiency in its delivery.

He also said over 1.8 million Deltans have successfully enrolled in the scheme which makes it the highest in the country.

Dr. Akpoveta said this when the leadership of the Association of the Resident Doctors, Asaba branch led by Dr. Okolie Innocent visited the office of the commission in the state capital on Friday.

According to Dr. Akpoveta, instead of waiting for indigents to pay before they can be treated, the government with the help of the scheme, has now gone further to say it would pay for the indigent without them paying a dime or little kobo.

The DSCHC DG also said with financial management, the little money available in the world can be properly used to manage financing healthcare efficiency, saying there is a need for financial management otherwise it will be stressful if they don’t manage what they have properly.

He said the commission is between the people and the service providers, stating that health insurance is important because the world or the government feels there should be intermediaries between the people and the service providers, as the providers are not trained in the economy of care.

He revealed that the ideology behind the introduction of the scheme was born out of the need when the government realized that with little money available to treat one million people, how would it be managed or planned to make it treat two million people?

While giving a detailed explanation of the concept, the DSCHC Director General said “The core word is efficiency which with financial management, the little money available can be properly used to manage financing efficiency.”

“The second concept is that the money that is saved can be used to treat other people through the efficient use of healthcare services. With the money, it means we can do more, and we can still go further in other areas that do not have healthcare such as universal coverage because if you don’t have money you cannot do universal coverage. That is why we need to save more money to do universal coverage by increasing the numbers.”

“We will also look for areas that haven’t gotten healthcare for quite some time and extend it to such areas to carry everybody along with the little fund that we have to finance efficiency, universal coverage, and also used to protect the people from financial hardships.

“Instead of waiting for the indigent to pay before you treat them, the government has now gone further to say it would pay for the indigent without them paying a dime or little kobo. But mind you, If you send a bill to us and you overload it with so many drugs that are not necessary, the claim officer and the computer will knock them off. Like for instance, to treat malaria we need only anti-malaria drugs. The cheapest most effective malaria drug is what is needed.”

Dr. Akpoveta also urged the resident doctors to ensure health insurance works effectively in the state, saying any health insurance without doctors and health workers means there is no insurance. According to him, the association of the resident’s doctors and its members is at the middle and critical level as they occupy the workforce in the health sector.

“I have worked both in the private and public sector, I have seen the back and front of healthcare insurance schemes and I want to see it work. Who will make it work? It is you guys that will make it work because if we collect money from a patient and send it to you and you do not treat him well, he will not pay or release insurance next year. Most of them are not happy with the kind of treatment they received. We have secured 1.8 million Deltans enrolled in the scheme – the highest in the country, the next to us is about 600, and is Lagos State.”

“We now realize that we have some challenges, especially by bringing in the informal sector. Those who are paying directly from the informal sector, because they come to the hospital and they are not very satisfied.

“I have investigated widely and I cannot blame you as there is an adequate shortage of manpower. I have seen doctors sitting down waiting to attend to over two hundred patients who are waiting outside. So this kind of situation, the government is aware of it and it is trying hard to resolve it.”

He encouraged the doctors to build cordial relationships with their patients while rendering their services, pleading that they should also not transfer their aggression of tiredness or overwork onto the patients.

“I know it’s stressful but you need to put on a smile even when you are tired inside out. There must be a cordial relationship between you and the patients. Don’t transfer the anger of your MD who maybe has not employed enough doctors onto the patients, it is very important.”

“We want to appeal through you to our colleagues that they are the health insurance personnel, pamper them. They are indigent people, the government pays free for those under 5 years old. Through health insurance, the government has also made it possible to treat and take care of pregnant women for free. The commission has been given money to pay for that treatment. We are also appealing to Deltans to adopt the ‘Adoption Program’ whereby well-meaning Deltans will adopt a certain number of persons and pay for their health insurance, it’s just N7000 in a year. It will go a long way in helping the scheme.

Responding, the President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Asaba branch, Dr. Okolie Innocent, thanked the DG of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission saying “As resident doctors, we make up the workforce in most of the hospitals in the country. We intend to be very involved in healthcare delivery in the state and that is why we are very much interested in the commission.”

“We know that it is a way of improving the healthcare situation in Delta and giving more to the community, we are ready to key into any program of the commission anytime when we are called upon”, he said.

President of Asaba Resident Doctor, Dr. Okolie while speaking

Delta Police Arrests Teacher That Allegedly Defiles Minor

In line with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on the need to sustain the tempo against crime and criminality, the Delta State Police Command on Tuesday paraded some suspects and showcased their ammunition.

Police Public Relations Office, Edafe Bright while briefing journalists said among those who were paraded was a suspect named, Innocent Eziokwu who was alleged to have defiled a four-year-old child during school hours.

The PPRO said the suspect was accidentally the owner of the school and also the only male teacher in the school where this little girl was a student.

According to Edafe, the investigators while doing an identification parade, the suspect was placed alongside another male suspect, and the child who was 4 years old was able to repeatedly identify the said suspect that defiled her on the school premises.

He said on October 21, 2023, while acting on credible intelligence that some suspected cultists named Emmanuel Egbongbon Bons, age 36, and Obus Obukoko, age 32, all of the Juris confraternity were arrested by the DPO of Ekpan police station.

He added that on October 22, the DPO led operatives to the hideout of one of the gang members, Moses Omoko, a male who is a resident of the Sedeco area in Enerhen. Upon arresting the suspect and searching his premises, one AK-47 raffle, two magazines loaded with 41 rounds of 7.6mm ammunition, one locally made double barrel gun, and two live cartridges were recovered.

“The suspects are currently in custody and the investigation is ongoing, he said.

Again, the PPRO said in Sapele an incident occurred on October 23, 2023, where the DPO Sapele division received a distress call on a kidnapping incident that happened on the Ibadon-Elume expressway.

The DPO led operatives of the division alongside some operatives of the tactical team and some vigilantes of the community who went into the bush for over 6 hours, and at about 16:10 hours that same day, the kidnappers who sighted the operatives took to their heels and abandoned the kidnapped victims.

Two of the kidnapped victims have been rescued and reunited with their families, while the manhunt for the main suspects is ongoing.

Another ugly incident happened in Agbor on October 18, 2023, wherein a parent who was out of anger that his child was manhandled by a teacher in school, intended to flog the teacher but unluckily, the teacher while trying to restore normalcy slumped and died in the school premises.

The suspect, Emmanuel Nwike who is the father of the child that was flogged was arrested and taken into custody.

The Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Wale Abass reassured Deltans of the commitment of the command to eradicate crime and bring it to the minimum in the state.

The CP while assuring residents that the command will continue to enhance and improve its efforts to protect and fish out criminals in the state, added that the ember month operations have been intensified adding that additional takedown of unrepentant criminals should be expected.

He cautions residents particularly the youths who have formed the habit of taking laws into their own hands in the name of jungle justice to desist from such acts.

He said self-help is not the way forward while citing a situation of an alleged male organ disappearance in Cable Point, Asaba where a victim was beaten to a stupor by a mop who alleged that the victim after shaking hands with them, they discovered that their genital was going inside.

According to the CP, when the victim was rescued and the suspects were arrested it was discovered that their genitals were intact, though the investigation is still ongoing, he said.

The CP likewise urged residents to refrain from raising false alarms over genital disappearance and advised them to always be law-abiding by reporting any cases of such instead of taking laws into their hands.

Delta EXCO Proposes N714.4 Billion For 2024 Budget

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Delta State Executive Council approved N714.4 billion proposed budget for the 2024 fiscal year.

Commissioner for Economics Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen made this known to journalists during a press briefing immediately
after the post-EXCO meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday at the Government House, Asaba.

Ekadeyan who was joined by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, said the proposed 2024 budget is centered on improving the welfare of the people.

He said the budget consists of N397 billion representing 56 percent of Capital Expenditure, while N316 billion represents 44 percent of recurrent expenditure.

In his words, he said “We just finished the state EXCO presided of by the Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. The major discussion was on the 2024 proposed budget.

“The budget size is N714.4 billion, broken down into capital and recurrent components of N397 billion capital, representing 56 percent, while the recurrent component is N316 billion, representing 44 percent.

“The budget was premised on the vision of the present administration and encompassing largely the activities and programs that will drive the M.O.R.E agenda.

“It is still a proposition because the House of Assembly will still have to look at it and approve it at a later date. However, broadly speaking, it’s a budget that the people will be happy and proud of because a lot of impactful and developmental projects will be embarked upon.

“The people should expect new townships and massive road infrastructures, with emphasis on quality; people should also expect some new expansions in the healthcare institutions we have in the state.”

He indicated that the state government would continue to fund small businesses across the state in 2024, saying; “we should also expect the government to support the small and medium scale enterprises in the state with some kind of funds to support their businesses, which would be given at single digit interest rate.

“Looking at other things, agriculture will get a boost, such as rice and food crop production. We are hoping that one of the ways to fight the ravaging inflation is to make food available. So, the Agric Ministry will be on its feet. Like I said, it’s a people’s budget”.

Tinubu Orders Quick Implementation On Tax Reform

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President Bola Tinubu has mandated the implementation of all the recommendations made by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee across all federal ministries, agencies, and departments.

President Tinubu put out the order after receiving a report on the committee’s quick-win successes from its chairman, Taiwo Oyedele, at the State House in Abuja, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, made this known while speaking with journalists after the meeting.

According to him, the president had directed his Adviser on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, to liaise with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Oyedele to give effect to the directive.

He said the directive is to ensure there is effective synergy and assimilation when it comes to their implementation.

He added that the President promised to make the presentation of the recommendations a priority item when the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meets again on Monday.

He said: “After listening to a presentation by the committee chairman, the President directed the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, to liaise with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Chairman of the Tax Policy Review Committee to ensure that the recommendations of the committee are swiftly and immediately implemented across all ministries, departments, and agencies of the federal government to ensure that there is effective synergy and to ensure that every institution of the federal government is on the same page concerning how tax policy will be implemented.

“Henceforth, His Excellency Mr. President has also made available an opportunity for the recommendations of the tax policy review committee to be made a top priority at the next sitting of the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday. Mr. President will continue to emphasize the importance of ensuring that our tax authorities are not taxing the seed, but are taxing the fruit, and that will continue to be the focus.”

Delta Police Command Arrests Alleged Teacher Who Raped 4-Year-Old Girl

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In line with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on the need to sustain the tempo against crime and criminality, the Delta State Police Command on Tuesday paraded some suspects and showcased their ammunition.

Among those paraded, is a suspect named Innocent Eziokwu who was alleged to have defiled a four-year-old child during school hours. The suspect was accidentally the owner of the school and also the only male teacher in the school where this little girl is a student.

It was gathered that investigators while doing an identification parade, the suspect was placed alongside another male suspect, and the child who was 4 years old was able to repeatedly identify the said suspect that defiled her on the school premises.

Also, on October 21, 2023, while acting on credible intelligence that some suspected cultists named Emmanuel Egbongbon Bons, age 36, and Obus Obukoko, age 32, all of the Juris confraternity were arrested by the DPO of Ekpan police station.

On October 22, they led operatives to the hideout of one of the gang members, Moses Omoko, a male who is a resident of the Sedeco area in Enerhen. Upon arresting the suspect and searching his premises, one AK-47 raffle, two magazines loaded with 41 rounds of 7.6mm ammunition, one locally made double barrel gun, and two live cartridges were recovered. The suspects are currently in custody and the investigation is ongoing.

In Sapele, an incident occurred on October 23, 2023, where the DPO Sapele division received a distress call on a kidnapping incident that happened on the Ibadon-Elume expressway.

The DPO led operatives of the division alongside some operatives of the tactical team and some vigilantes of the community who went into the bush for over 6 hours, and at about 16:10 hours that same day, the kidnappers who sighted the operatives took to their heels and abandoned the kidnapped victims.

Two of the kidnapped victims have been rescued and reunited with their families, while the manhunt for the main suspects is ongoing.

Another ugly incident happened in Agbor on October 18, 2023, wherein a parent who was out of anger that his child was manhandled by a teacher in school, intended to flog the teacher but unluckily, the teacher while trying to restore normalcy slumped and died in the school premises.

The suspect, Emmanuel Nwike who is the father of the child that was flogged was arrested and taken into custody.

The Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Wale Abass reassured Deltans of the commitment of the command to eradicate crime and bring it to the minimum in the state.

The CP while assuring residents that the command will continue to enhance and improve its efforts to protect and fish out criminals in the state, added that the ember month operations have been intensified adding that additional takedown of unrepentant criminals should be expected.

He cautions residents particularly the youths who have formed the habit of taking laws into their own hands in the name of jungle justice to desist from such acts.

He said self-help is not the way forward while citing a situation of an alleged male organ disappearance in Cable Point, Asaba where a victim was beaten to a stupor by a mop who alleged that the victim after shaking hands with them, they discovered that their genital was going inside.

According to the CP, when the victim was rescued and the suspects were arrested it was discovered that their genitals were intact, though the investigation is still ongoing, he said.

The CP likewise urged residents to refrain from raising false alarms over genital disappearance and advised them to always be law-abiding by reporting any cases of such instead of taking laws into their hands.

Governor Oborevwori Appoints Dame Rita Daniels SSA Women Mobilization & Empowerment

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Delta State Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has appointed a Women rights advocate, Chief Mrs Rita Daniels Chukwuji as his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Women Mobilization & Empowerment.

Rita Daniels who recently bagged her degree in law has over the years remained consistence in advancing the welfare and development of women.

Before her appointment, she was the leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Women Wing.

As a technocrat, it is believed that she would bring to bear her years of experience in delivering effective service in her office.

She equally played a key role in mobilizing women’s support for her party the PDP during the governorship election.

Apart from enjoying the support of Delta women, she is also popular in all Igbo-speaking states by virtue of her closeness to the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

She has since expressed her profound gratitude to the Governor for finding her worthy of this strategic position, assuring that she would give her best to promote the State.

She thanked the State Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, for the opportunity given to her to serve, described the offer as a mark of recognition that would not be taken for granted.

Hon Rita Daniels, promised to give her best in the service of the state, especially the implementation of the M.O.R.E agenda of the Governor.

Prophet Odumeje Threatens To Make Pastors Who Pray For Isreal Deaf And Dumb

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Anambra-based controversial cleric, Prophet Chukwuemeka Odumeje has threatened to make Pastors praying for Israel amid its war with Palestine deaf and dumb.

Odumeje made the threat in a video that has gone viral online.

In the video, as posted by Instablog, Odumeje voiced that most pastors praying for Israel are not praying for the current challenges in Nigeria or the President who “does not know his left or right”.

He put in words that he would make all Pastors praying for Israel deaf and dumb as they are not praying for the right things.

“If I hear you pray for Israel again, I will make you deaf and dumb — prophet Odumeje threatens fellow pastors in the video.”

WhatsApp Introduces Voice Notes That Disappear After Recipient Listen To It Once

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WhatsApp is testing a new feature that allows users to send voice messages to receivers in view once mode.

The feature makes it possible to share voice notes with a new layer of privacy as they cannot be saved, forwarded, or exported.

This new feature is similar to WhatsApp’s existing ‘View Once’ feature for photos and videos.

As reported by WABetaInfo, this feature is available to some beta testers who install the latest versions of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store and Whatsapp beta for iOS from the TestFlight app.

According to the report, “After sending the voice note with the view once mode enabled, you won’t be able to listen to it and the recipient can no longer listen to the voice note after dismissing it. This mode effectively minimizes the chances of unauthorized access or later listening, providing a new layer of privacy for sensitive and confidential information.

“The feature empowers users with added control and privacy when sharing voice notes as these voice notes cannot be exported, forwarded, or shared with others. We think that this finally eliminates the risk of your personal or sensitive information falling into the wrong hands, adding an extra layer of privacy to your messages. In addition, we can confirm that the recipients won’t be able to save or record your voice notes, improving control of the content you share and safeguarding your privacy.

“The feature to set the view once mode to voice notes is available to some beta testers who install the latest versions of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store and WhatsApp beta for iOS from the TestFlight app, and it is rolling out to more users over the coming days.”

Davido, Rema, Burna Boy Win Big At 2023 Trace Awards

Davido, Rema, and Burna Boy are the top Nigerian musicians who won at this year’s 2023 Trace Awards.

The event was held in Kigali, Rwanda, on Saturday, October 21, 2023.

Davido won two awards — Best Male and Best Collaboration. He won the latter award for “Unavailable,” a collab with Musa Keys.

Rema also won two awards — song of the Year for his global smash “Calm Down” and Best Global African Artist (in a tie with Nomcebo). A remix of “Calm Down” with Selena Gomez reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Burna Boy won album of the year for Love Damini.

The Trace Awards are a new awards franchise created by Trace, a global TV and multimedia platform. The purpose of the awards is to celebrate the creativity and talents and to recognize African and Afro-influenced musicians from Africa and around the African diasporas.

More than 150 artists were nominated in the awards ceremony, which showcased the excellence and diversity of Afro-centric music in genres such as Afrobeat, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Afro-pop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, Soukous, Gospel, Rap, Rai, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba.

The awards ceremony, which was hosted by Nigerian music veteran D’Banj alongside Angolan global supermodel Maria Borges, featured a star-studded lineup of performers, including Davido, Yemi Alade, Black Sherif, Kizz Daniel and more.

The Trace Awards included performances by approximately 50 African and Afro-inspired artists from around the world, including Davido, Yemi Alade, Mr Eazi, and Diamond Platnumz.

In expansion to the competitive categories listed below, awards were presented in three categories in which no nominees were declared. They were: a lifetime achievement award to 2Face, a Change Maker award to Mr Eazi (Nigeria), and the aforementioned Best Global African Artist award to Rema and Nomcebo.

Here’s the full list of winners and nominees from the 2023 Trace Awards:

Album of the Year category

DNK – Aya Nakamura (France)
WINNER: Love Damini – Burna Boy (Nigeria)

Maverick – Kizz Daniel (Nigeria)

More Love, Less Ego – Wizkid (Nigeria)

Timeless – Davido (Nigeria)

Work of Art – Asake (Nigeria)

Song of the Year

“BKBN” – Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)

“People” – Libianca (Cameroon)

“Suavemente” – Soolking (France)

“Encre” – Emma’a (Gabon)

“Sugarcane” – Camidoh (Ghana)

“Last Last” – Burna Boy (Nigeria)

“Rush” – Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

WINNER: “Calm Down” – Rema (Nigeria)

“Peru” – Fireboy DML (Nigeria) with Ed Sheeran (UK)

“Sete” – K.O (South Africa)

“Cough” – Kizz Daniel (Nigeria)

“MORTEL 06” – Innoss’B (DRC)

Best Music Video
“2 Sugar” – Wizkid (Nigeria) feat. Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

WINNER: “Baddie” – Yemi Alade (Nigeria)

“Kpaflotage” – Suspect 95 (Ivory Coast)

“Loaded” – Tiwa Savage(Nigeria) & Asake (Nigeria)

“Ronda” – Blxckie (South Africa)

“Tombolo” – Kalash (Martinique)

Yatapita” – Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

Best Male
Asake (Nigeria)

Burna Boy (Nigeria)

WINNER: Davido (Nigeria)

Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

Didi B (Ivory Coast)

K.O (South Africa)

Rema (Nigeria)

Best Female
Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

Josey (Ivory Coast)

Nadia Mukami (Kenya)

Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)

Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)

WINNER: Viviane Chidid (Senegal)

Best Collaboration
“Many Ways” – BNXN (Nigeria) with Wizkid (Nigeria)

“Mine” – Show Dem Camp (Nigeria) with Oxlade (Nigeria)

“Peru” – Fireboy DML (Nigeria) with Ed Sheeran (UK)

“Second Sermon” – Black Sherif (Ghana) with Burna Boy (Nigeria)

“Sete” – K.O (South Africa) with Young Stunna (South Africa), Blxckie (South Africa)

“Stamina” – Tiwa Savage with Ayra Starr (Nigeria) & Young Jonn (Nigeria)

“Trumpet” – Olamide (Nigeria) with Ckay (Nigeria)

WINNER: “Unavailable” – Davido (Nigeria) with Musa Keys (South Africa)

Best Newcomer
Azawi (Uganda)

Krys M (Cameroon)

Libianca (Cameroon)

Nissi (Nigeria)

Odumodublvck (Nigeria)

Pabi Cooper (South Africa)

WINNER: Roseline Layo (Ivory Coast)

Best DJ
Danni Gato (Cape Verde)

DJ BDK (Ivory Coast)

DJ Illans (France)

DJ Spinall (Nigeria)

WINNER: Michael Brun (Haiti)

Uncle Waffles (Swaziland)

Best Producer
DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)

Juls (Ghana)

Kabza de Small (South Africa)

Kel-P (Nigeria)

WINNER: Tam Sir (Ivory Coast)

Best Gospel Artist
Benjamin Dube (South Africa)

Janet Otieno (Kenya)

WINNER: KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)

Levixone (Uganda)

Rwanda
Ariel Wayz (Rwanda)

WINNER: Bruce Melodie (Rwanda)

Bwiza (Rwanda)

Chriss Eazy (Rwanda)

Kenny Sol (Rwanda)

Best Artist – East Africa
Bruce Melodie (Rwanda)

WINNER: Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

Zuchu (Tanzania)

Khaligraph (Kenya)

Nadia Mukani (Kenya)

Azawi (Uganda)

Best Artist – France & Belgium
Aya Nakamura (France)

Booba (France)

Nihno (France)

Ronisia (France)

Soolking (France)

WINNER: Tayc (France)

Best Artist – UK
WINNER: Central Cee (UK)

Headie One (UK)

Ms Banks (UK)

Raye (UK)

Stormzy (UK)

Best Artist – The Caribbean
Admiral T (Guadeloupe)

Bamby (French Guiana)

Kalash (Martinique)

Maureen (Martinique)

Popcaan (Jamaica)

Princess Lover (Martinique)

WINNER: Rutshelle Guillaume (Haiti)

Shenseea (Jamaica)

Best Artist – Indian Ocean
Donovan BTS (Mauritius)

GaEi (Madagascar)

WINNER: Goulam (Comoros)

Mik’l (Reunion)

Sega el (Reunion)

Terrell Elymoor (Mayotte)

Best Artist – Brazil
Djonga (Brazil)

Iza (Brazil)

Leo Santana (Brazil)

WINNER: Ludmilla (Brazil)

Luedji Luna (Brazil)

Best Artist – North Africa
Amira Zouhair (Morocco)

Artmasta (Tunisia)

WINNER: Dystinct (Morocco)

El Grande Toto (Morocco)

Kader Japonais (Algeria)

Raja Meziane (Algeria)

Netizen Reacts As Gospel Singer Arrives Stage In Casket

Social media was on buzz on Friday due to how Nigerian gospel singer, Samuel Oguche, better known as Onoja entered into a church worship center in a coffin.

It was gathered that Onoja was trying to visually illustrate the theme of the church program “Funeral Service – Death Of Self.”

Onoja in a post he shared on his Facebook page regarding his performance at a church in Jalingo, Taraba State capital, could be seen at his grand entrance into the church in an unorthodox style which amazed a lot of residents.

In his post, Onoja wrote, “Thank you Jalingo City !!! I am so overwhelmed by the testimonies we received after this Experience.

“We return all glory to God for the impact, transformed lives and many others. Welcome Once again to Funeral Service — Death of Self (Die Daily).”

Reacting, wisdomcounsellin wrote: “Moral Lesson: we can’t add anything to Jesus or the Holy Spirit, this gospeltainmnet is becoming unbecoming. Respectfully.”

soundg.o.d wrote: “I can picture DADDY FREEZE racing towards his house to goan set up his Ring light n white curtain to throw more light on this matter’s arising.”

i_am_the_oasis wrote; “Is time you people see what is really happening for what it’s truly is. Demons, deceit, extortion, lies, fraud all in the Name of God in the so-called “House of God” Oloun Jo da luyi ru.”

dolce__la_vid wrote: “There is nothing wrong in him trying to pass a message with a concept. Nigerians are too religious. The second most prayerful country in the world and yet you all want to travel to a country where they don’t pray much. Keep using the region to deceive yourselves. In America or Canada they can make a joke like this and everyone will clap and get the message but he reaches Nigerians turn na different things you go hear. Assistant Jesus everywhere.”

she wrote: ”NESS men of God and associates Nigeria limited. Mtcheww.”

meenah_07 wrote: “Why the rush to enter a coffin ⚰️ when las las you will enter and won’t be able to come out.”

ksolo_hitz wrote: “What if he passed on to glory like that? God know e get some kind play wey I no fit to try.”

elohim: “These people are openly doing rituals inside churches and u mumus still sit there.”

l.tobiloba wrote: “He won’t still blow. Spiritual Rituals in disguise, I’m perplexed and flummoxed.”

See the post.

President Tinubu Approves Establishment Of Seven New Tertiary Institutions

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Federal University of Medical and Health Science, Kwale, Delta State, and six other tertiary institutions within the country.

The president said the approval is in line with the present Administration’s commitment to ensure continuity in governance and policy consistency.

This approval was announced in a statement on Friday, October 20, 2023, by Obilor-Duru Augustina Okechi, the Assistant Director, of Press and Public Relations for the Honourable Minister of Education.

According to the statement, the establishment involves the conversion of two Colleges of Education into Federal Universities of Education, Federal Universities of Agriculture, Federal Universities of Medical and Health Science, and three Colleges of Education.

The statement also states that the establishment and conversion of these institutions is a further demonstration of President Tinubu’s Education for the Renewed Hope Agenda and will help in improving access to tertiary education in the country.

The approved institutions for which the establishment process would commence immediately are the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, Delta State, and the Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi, Adamawa State.

Collages of Education converted to Federal Universities of Education, Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, Ondo State, and Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri, Imo State.

The three new College of Education, Federal College of Education, Ilawe Ekiti, Ekiti State, Federal College of Education, Ididep, Ibiono, Akwa Ibom State, and Federal College of Education (Technical), Yauri, Kebbi State.

Indigenous Correspondent Chapel Congratulates Delta NUJ Executives

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The Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel, ICC, Asaba, of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has Congratulated the newly sworn-in executives for their victory in the election held Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

In a statement released by the Chapel Chairman, Comrade Kenneth Orusi, and the Ag Secretary, Michael Odiah on Thursday, October 19, 2023, said “We are indeed happy for the victory of Comrade Churchill Oyowe and all other members of the executives.

“We therefore use this medium to formerly congratulate you the State Chairman and your team of exco’s for this great feat and call on you to run an all embracing and transparent administration that will bring back dignity, respect and succour to every journalists in the state.”

“ICC also appreciates the immediate past executive led by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and wishes all the past exco’s well in their respective endeavors and urges them to join hands with every other Journalist in the state to build the Union.

“We also commend NUJ National, the electoral committee and all observers for allowing transparent process implored all through the elections.

“Moving forward, we are positive that this administration will grow from strength to strength and will carry every member along professionally and ethically.”

God bless the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ

God bless Delta State NUJ Council

God bless the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel.

Signed Comrade: Kenneth Orusi, Chairman

Comrade: Michael Odiah, Ag. Secretary.

New And Unverified Users On X Will Start Paying $1 Yearly Subscription Fee

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Microblogging platform, X, Formerly known as Twitter has rolled out a program in which new and unverified users will pay a $1 Yearly Subscription Fee.

This was announced in a statement shared on the support account of the popular social media platform on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

According to X, the program is now being tested in New Zealand and the Philippines. The test will allow new accounts to post and interact with other users.

The statement read, “Starting today, we’re testing a new program (Not A Bot) in New Zealand and the Philippines.

“New, unverified accounts will be required to sign up for a $1 annual subscription to be able to post & interact with other posts. Within this test, existing users are not affected.

“This new test was developed to bolster our already successful efforts to reduce spam, manipulation of our platform, and bot activity while balancing platform accessibility with the small fee amount. It is not a profit driver.

“And so far, subscription options have proven to be the main solution that works at scale.”

However, in a tweet Wednesday, Elon Musk, X’s chairman, admitted the motive for the annual subscription payment.

According to Musk, the amount will reduce spam and automated bot accounts.

“Correct, read for free, but $1/year to write. It’s the only way to fight bots without blocking real users.

“This won’t stop bots completely, but it will be 1000X harder to manipulate the platform,” Musk said in his tweet.

Breaking: Delta, Julius Berger sign N78b flyovers, road expansion contracts

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Delta State Government and German construction giant,  Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Wednesday, signed N78 billion contracts for the construction of flyovers, cloverleaf, and road expansion projects in Effurun and Warri metropolis of the state.

A statement released by the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Festus Ahon revealed that the contracts include road expansion of a section of the DSC/NPA Expressway, including a Cloverleaf Interchange at the existing Effurun flyover, alongside two pedestrian bridges, Flyover bridges at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate, DSC roundabout and PTI junction.

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads),  Comrade Reuben Izeze, signed on behalf of the State Government, while the  Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Lars Richter, and the  Regional Manager, Engr Friedrich Wieser, signed for the construction giant.

The Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe,  and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafioghor, witnessed the signing.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori said the signing ceremony was a culmination of days and months of critical planning and deft negotiations and a major step forward in his administration’s plan to start an infrastructural revolution that would change the face of Warri and its environs.

He said: “Today’s event is the high point of months of vigorous planning, meetings, reviews and tough negotiations. I am pleased that we have reached a point of agreement.

“It is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta, they worked in NPA, but this is the first time the state government is engaging them for construction projects.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Delta state, I want to express my deep appreciation to Julius Berger PLC, the Ministries of Works (High way and Urban roads), Justice, Finance, and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government; for the countless energy invested in the process.

“I am aware that the road to this signing ceremony was tasking and draining but you stayed on course and, today, we are reaping the fruit of your diligence and resilience,” he said.

The Governor who said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent record but also by their experience in road construction in riverine terrains, tasked the contractor to deliver the projects within  27 months. 

“We have seen what they have done in other states with topography like Warri and we are confident that they will replicate the same feat here.

“Upon completion, these projects will not only change the face of Warri and its environs but also ease the traffic congestion in the area and alleviate the hardship faced by the commuters.

“As is often the case with road constructions of this nature, there will be direct employment benefits for our people, especially, engineers, artisans, and even food vendors. Transporters and so many others in the construction value chain also stand to benefit.

“I assure all Deltans and residents of the state that the M.O.R.E agenda is on course. They should expect more landmark projects across the different senatorial districts in fulfillment of our pledge to make life more meaningful for our people,” Oborevwori stated.

Richter, while thanking the Delta State Government for allowing the company to deliver on the projects, commended Governor Oborevwori for the vision and foresight in a huge investment and the commencement of a new era for the people of the state.

“We commend the Delta State Government for this and we are honored to be the chosen partners for the construction of this vision.

“We are also looking forward for a successful partnership, a great achievement and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state,” he said.

Delta Zenith Bank Principal’s Cup Competition Begins 6th Edition

The 6th edition of the Delta State Zenith Bank Principal’s Cup Competition will officially commence on Thursday, October 19, 2023.

This was officially announced during a press conference by the Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu in Asaba, the state capital on Wednesday.

Mrs. Ezewu said the competition is a remarkable initiative of the Delta State government to promote youth development, foster healthy competition, and identify and nurture talented footballers among secondary school students while providing a platform for quality education for them.

According to the Basic and Secondary Education commissioner, the Delta Principal’s Cup tournament has long been recognized as the cornerstone for the development of youth football in the state.

Ezewu thanked Zenith Bank PLC for the continual general support and sponsorship for this year’s edition which is the 6th edition of the sponsorship competition by the bank and promises to be an improvement from the previous editions.

In her words “The commitment of Zenith Bank PLC towards supporting educational initiative and supporting events in Delta State is a true reflection of their dedication to corporate social responsibility and empowerment to our young children.

“It is worthy to note that efforts by the Zenith Bank PLC as proved to be worthwhile as some of the talents discovered in the tournament are already making waves across Nigeria and overseas.

“Therefore, to sustain the noble idea of collaboration between the Delta State government and Zenith Bank Plc is in line with our program of activities for the 2023 Principla’s Cup competition. The tournament will run from Thursday, October 19, to Thursday, November 30, 2023, with the official kick-off of the competition held today Wednesday 18, October 2023 in St Patrick College in Asaba.

“Also, the preliminary stage of the competition will run simultaneously among competing schools in the 25 LGAs of the state.”

On his part, the consultant and Chief Responsibility Officer of Hideaplus Nigeria LTD, Mr Tony Oritse Pemu said this year’s event comes with much fanfare and upgraded quality in terms of match officiating, discipline, and professionalism.

The local organizing committee will be putting up tremendous efforts in education and enlightening participants and critical stakeholders on the new requirements.  According to him, they are set for real action and successful outings.

He repeated that the game is not to fulfill all righteousness but to discover, explore, and nurture the hidden talents in the young ones, adding that the dream is to groom them for an international platform.

“We shall explore collaborations for training and showcasing discovered talents beyond the shores of Nigeria. In addition, plans have been concretized for wide media coverage both electronic and print. While looking forward to a successful tournament.”

Ministry Of Housing To Conduct Integrity Test On Any Building Projects In Delta

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The Delta State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele said he will soon start to monitor and supervise every public and private building project that will be set up within the state.

Hon. Angele made this known while briefing journalists in Asaba, the state capital on Tuesday. 

The commissioner said the Ministry under his watch would not tolerate any shoddy jobs that are not up to standard in the state.

He said the ministry will soon initiate an integrity test for monitoring and supervising the standard of buildings, saying that the ministry has over 30 Architects and Builders that will conduct tests on any building.

According to the Housing commissioner, he will canvass for the law of urban planning which consists of the local government and urban renewal to inculcate housing into it to enable its ministry to conduct an integrity test. Adding that he would not risk the lives of Deltans by accepting a situation where someone would erect a house with substandard materials and the house would collapse on citizens.

He said he intends to use the Ministry of Housing to contribute to the MORE Agenda saying “Today we are here to do more by building on what the immediate past administration has already done. As you know, the cost of doing more in mathematics is times two of the equation.”

“The state is expecting a lot of projects from housing next year, and before we will work with any developer, we will need to see their antecedents. 

“Our target is to make it easy for civil servants to be able to build and own a house. And if we can achieve this, it is already a plus for His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration. 

“We intend to give out low-cost housing of two-bedroom to civil servants as their benefits from the retirement they ought to take while out of office.

“A lot of developers are in town and by the time these developers develop, we will control the price because we are the ones who will give them land and tell them in the MOU what we want because we want to provide ways on how we can subsidize the house to our people, as we are committed to do MORE for Deltans,” Hon. Angele said.

Portable Fight Show Promoter In Italy

Controversial Hip Hop artiste, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, goes dirty with a show promoter in Italy after discovering the money he was sprayed had been taken.

In a video that was shared on his Instagram stories, the singer could be seen having an altercation between himself and the promoter using pidgin English saying “Useless man. All my money wey dem spray me this man don collect am. This useless man.”

The yet-to-be-identified show promoter could be heard in the background bragging that whatever money Portable got during his performance belonged to him.

The Zazu singer who has been performing in several countries in Europe said, “Money wey dem spray you na me get am, money wey dem put for your pocket na your own,” the man said.

“I go beat you for here, for Italy me. I be the street man for Lagos, I go beat your father.”

Portable was also seen trying to vandalize a car believed to be that of the show promoter.

It would be recalled that Portable, in December 2021,  had accused Pocolee of siphoning the money sprayed on him.

Pocolee took some of the money Wizkid sprayed him during his performance with Olamide at the Livespot X event headlined by Wizkid.

Apologizing to the dancer for his outburst, he wrote; “My sincere apologies go out to my benefactors @olamide @poco_lee and @kogbagidi. I am in the learning process, I know better now.

“Kindly forgive me and pardon the street in me. Much love and appreciation to all my fans, words cannot express my feelings right now. Thanks for the intervention and words of comfort. Now I know I’m not on this journey alone. Love you guys. I will never let you down again. Expect more from your boy. Zeh nation.”

Delta Govt Promises Food Sufficiency, Faults Citizens Over Constant Increase In Food Prices

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Delta State Commissioner for Bureau and Special Duties, Hon. Etagherure Ejiro Terry called on Deltans to always make an effort to support the administration of His Excellency Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for the utmost delivery of his mandate.

Hon. Etagherure said the MORE Agenda through the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources will put together different programmes to enhance the provision of food sufficiency in the state.

The Commissioner said this while speaking with journalists during the 2023 World Food Day celebration organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the Cenotaph in Asaba, the Delta State capital on Monday. 

He said citizens always complicate things because of greed for wealth as they unnecessarily increase the price of foodstuffs even when some of these commodities are not expensive. 

According to Hon. Etagherure, some citizens are deliberately increasing the prices of local commodities all in the name of the high price of petrol.

Narrating a scenario, he said, “I sincerely went somewhere to buy foodstuffs for my mom, when I got there, just because I came with my jeep, plantain that was supposed to be sold for me five or six thousand nairas was intentionally increased to twelve thousand nairas.”

“We should learn to trade with caution to help ourselves instead of complicating things. Let be our brother’s keeper and also think of how to help our nation, the commissioner added.

World Food Day: Delta To Partner With Agencies, Organizations To Tackle Farmer’s Challenges

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The Delta State governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has said to better tackle the challenges facing farmers, his administration will keep encouraging farmers with programs that focus on building a resilient food system using flood-tolerance crop varieties implementing soil, water-conservative techniques and climate-smart agriculture.

The governor made this known at the 2023 World Food Day celebration with the theme: “Water is life, water is food, leave no one behind” held at Cenotaph in Asaba, the state capital on Monday.

The governor who was highly represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme said there is a great potential to further enhance the state export capacity by utilizing the water resources and the arable land, which will help to create new jobs, contribute to economic growth, and also improve food security.

The Governor noted that World Food Day aimed to promote global awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and to highlight the need to ensure healthy diets for all.

He explained that water makes up over 50 percent of our bodies and covers about 71 percent of the Earth’s surface, only 2.5 percent of water is fresh, suitable for drinking, agriculture, and most industrial uses. 

He added, “It is important to emphasize that water is a driving force for people, economies, and nature and the foundation of our food.

He maintained that “Data from FAO, further shows that the global food system relies heavily on water resources, with Agriculture consuming 72 percent of the world’s fresh water.

“In addition, 95 percent of our food is produced on land (soil and water) and 600 million people rely on aquatic food systems for livelihood.

“The increasing stress on our planet’s water resources due to increasing population growth, urbanization, economic development, and Climate Change, makes effective water management essential for sustainable food production,” he stated.

He said Delta State was blessed with an environment suitable for agriculture, fish production, and its value chain.

“With land that is suitable for the cultivation of virtually every crop, the state has 17, 698 square kilometers of land mass with 1,770 square kilometers that is made up of freshwater swamp and 5,840 square kilometers of mangrove swamp.

“However, pollution is a major challenge that is hampering the full utilization of water resources in our state and the country in general.

“Due to pollution as a result of oil exploration activities, we cannot fully harness the abundant economic potentials of our rivers and rivulets. It is common to see waste dumped in rivers and streams.

“Poor water quality is affecting our people, the economy, and the environment. This is an area that the Federal Government and the United Nations should tackle if we are to have full benefits of our water resources today and in the future.”

Governor Oborevwori also said floods had become a recurring decimal in Delta and most other states of the country, adding, “This has made farmers not sure if they will have full economic benefits from their yearly activities in the area of cultivation of crops or engaging in fish farming.

“The loss by farmers, as a result of the flood, cannot be quantified as its psychological effects on our people are enormous. Our state, Delta, is listed among the states that will be affected by floods this year.

“As a government, this warning has become important, though, the State Emergency Management Agency(SEMA) and the State Flood Disaster Management Committee have put measures in place to mitigate the effects of the flood on our people, should it occur.

“We shall work with other governmental agencies, organizations, and individuals to tackle the challenges facing our farmers as we deliver on our M.O.R.E Agenda which was designed to advance Deltans positively in all spheres of life.”

He expressed contentment at the high demand for agricultural produce from Delta State in different parts of the world, from oil palm, maize, cassava, yam, fruits, vegetables, tomatoes, pepper, poultry, and fish from both fresh water and brackish water to tapioca, spices, among other agricultural products and by-products.

“We shall keep encouraging our people with our programs which focus on building a resilient food system through improved agricultural practices, using flood-tolerant crop varieties, implementing soil and water conservation techniques, and climate-smart agriculture.

“There is a great potential to further expand our export capacity by utilizing our abundant water resources and arable land. This would help to create new jobs, contribute to economic growth, and also improve food security. Therefore, the agricultural sector is one of the priority areas of my administration,” Oborevwori stated.

On his part, the Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Perekebena Perez Omoun Esq, said in a bid to maximize the rich water resource potential and ensure food security, the state government has placed a remarkable premium on the Agricultural sector by embarking on various programs aimed at improving the Agricultural value chain in line with the MORE Agenda of the Governor.

Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Perekebena Perez Omoun Esq, delivering his address at the event

He said the theme of this year’s celebration highlights the critical role of water for life on earth and water as the foundation for crop production, livestock, and fisheries.

He added that it also seeks to raise global awareness about the importance of managing water wisely as rapid population growth, economic development, urbanization, and climate change threaten water availability.

According to Hon. Omoun, the World Food Day celebration is annually observed on October 16, to reflect on the effect of poverty and hunger, vis-a-vis the availability of food for the ever-expanding world population.

He put in that the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is at the forefront of the international efforts to combat poverty and battle hunger across the globe, particularly in developing nations which includes Nigeria.

He said the Greenhouse Project, Rice Value Chain Development Programme, Cassava Development Programme, Oil Palm Small Holder Scheme, Coastal Fisheries, Aquaculture, Risk Mitigation Plan/Programmes, Input Delivery Service, Agricultural Extension Services, and Flood Management are different programs to ensure all Deltans have access to adequate quality and quantity of food and water.

He called on all stakeholders to contribute to developing a food system that will help conserve the water and soil resources. While appealing to all farmers to embrace new technological systems, climate-smart agriculture, and other modern practices that will build a sustainable food system within the state with proper water management.

The celebration also spotlighted a food exhibition by farmers across the state where prizes were given to the best exhibitors.

Kano Conducts Mass Wedding For 1,800 Couples

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On Saturday, the Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf, and other government officeholders performed a mass marriage ceremony for 1,800 couples.

The wedding was funded and conducted by the state government as N50,000 in marriage settlement was paid on behalf of each groom to their brides.

It was gathered that some of the wedding couples were widows and divorcees.

The wedded couples received beds, bedding, food, and clothes from the state government.

Also present at the event was Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Netflix Is Planning to Implement New Price

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Netflix plans to increase the price of its ad-free service in a few months.

The latest in a series of recent price increases by the country’s largest streaming platforms as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

According to WSJ, the streaming platform reportedly issued plans to increase its price a “few months” after the Hollywood actor’s strike ended which could happen in the coming weeks.

As reported by WSJ, Netflix will raise prices in “several markets globally,” starting with the US and Canada. It’s still not clear how much Netflix will raise prices, and Netflix declined to comment. Netflix raised prices across all of its plans last year, bringing the ad-free Standard tier to $15.49 / month and the Premium plan to $19.99 / month. The company also rolled out a $6.99 / month ad-supported plan and later axed its mid-tier $9.99 / month basic ad-free plan.

Earlier this year, Netflix cracked down on password sharing and started charging an extra $7.99 per month for users to share their account with someone outside their household. The move to raise prices again also comes as Hollywood moves closer to getting back to work. Just last week, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) ended its strike and began voting on a contract with major Hollywood studios, including Netflix, that could change the business of streaming.

For example, Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, and other services will now have to share streaming data with the WGA under the new contract, allowing writers to see how well their content performed. The contract also grants writers of streaming features a minimum compensation increase of 18 percent for high-budget films, along with a 26 percent increase in residuals. According to the WGA’s calculations, the cost of their new contract will amount to just 0.2 percent of Netflix’s annual revenue.

Also, in complement to the notice about Netflix, the WSJ reports that Disney Plus could launch a new live sports tier outside the US. Disney Plus is no stranger to price hikes, either, as its most recent one goes into effect later this month.

How Organizers Of Warri Again Concert Saved The Night Without Davido

The controversy generated by this year’s Warri Again concert still exists even though the concert has come and gone following the absence of Davido to perform after Allegedly being paid a huge sum of $94,600.

The organizers, Brownhill Events said they had briefed their legal team and were waiting for the next steps to take.

It was gathered that Davido was supposed to headline the show, which also featured some of Nigeria’s finest singers, including Flavour, Fireboy, Spyro, and Pheelz among others.

The concert was heavily promoted on different local broadcast stations ahead of the show and everyone was looking forward to seeing the ‘Unavailable’ crooner perform on the stage and mesmerize them with his energetic performance.

On the day of the concert, the entire venue was filled to the brim, as the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and fun-filled. The artists in their element took turns to thrill the large crowd with their stagecraft and electrifying performances. But despite the breathtaking performances by some top artists on the night, everyone was waiting patiently for Davido to step onto the stage and as usual charge the atmosphere. He’s known for his crowd-pulling performances and his teeming Warri fans couldn’t wait to have a feel of his vibes on stage. Unfortunately, when it looked like Davido wouldn’t be performing on the night as the show headliner, the audience immediately became apprehensive and the atmosphere became charged.

It took the timely intervention of the former President of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Amaju Pinnick to save the situation when the pressure was mounting on the organizers.

Giving an account of the sad situation in a chat with a reporter during the week, the Project Director, of Brownhill Events, Mr. Victor Wokocha said everyone felt disappointed when it was obvious that Davido was not around to perform.

The Project Director in his word said “Warri is a very sensitive environment, the people don’t like to be cheated. During the show, people were getting apprehensive and there was tension everywhere. So, my boss had to put out the contract and everything we did with Davido on the screen to save the day. While tension was building on the night, people were scared because Warri is known to be a very sensitive city, and if the situation was not properly handled, it would have degenerated into pandemonium and catastrophe.

“We would not have been able to talk and it may turn out to be another Mohbad story. Davido should be thankful that the event didn’t degenerate into pandemonium which could lead to death. He should have come out to thank us, apologize, and refund the money paid to him, instead of abusing and leveling allegations against us. If somebody did not show up for an event he’s paid for, the police would invite him, and if there’s no good reason for his action, he should be prosecuted. In Nigeria, nobody is above the law.

“Recall back in time, when the late Fela Kuti came to perform in Warri. He climbed the stage around midnight and after performing for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, he wanted to stop. But the Warri people wouldn’t allow him to do so. And when he sensed danger, the Afrobeats king continued to perform till daybreak to satisfy his audience before closing the show. That’s how sensitive the Warri people are”.

Music Boss, Kenny Ogungbe Complete NYSC At 63

A well-known music executive, famous for shaping the Nigerian music scene with Kennis Music label in the early 2000s, Kenny Ogungbe, had just concluded the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program at 63.

In an Instagram post on Thursday, Ogungbe shared pictures from his Passing Out Parade which he captioned “NYSC graduation day. To God be the glory.”

Recall, that on Thursday, October 12, the one-year mandatory service for the Batch C stream comes to an end.

N5 billion: Things To Know About Delta State Fuel Subsidy Palliative, How It Was Shared

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The Vice Chairman of the Delta State Subsidy Palliative Committee set up by the Delta State Government to cushion the effects of subsidy removal on petrol by the Federal Government, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, said the committee has successfully distributed the palliative to all the heavily impacted people.

He said, 16836 bags of 50kg rice and 6760 bags of maize were received as palliative from the federal government in addition to 3000 bags of rice from the Nigeria Governors Forum and all have been shared with Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs), widows, and poor and vulnerable households within all the LGAs in the state.

He said this during an interactive session with Golden Nation Multimedia in Asaba, the Delta State capital on Thursday.

According to Jaro Egbo, after receiving the rice, the committee decided to allocate 696 bags per LGA, adding that nobody sold any rice because it was meant for the vulnerable.

Jaro Egbo who also is the Senior Adviser to the Governor on Transport clarified that the palliative committee was given the task of bringing out the blueprint to use and distribute the palliative which he said they had rightly done successfully.

“The only challenge we encounter is the excessive supply of maize because our people don’t like maize as they like rice and beans, yam or garri. Out of the N5 billion announced by the federal government, we only received N2bn worth of items as palliative. We were given 106 trucks of maize and we have only received 6760 bags of it and 16836 bags of 50kg rice.

“Another issue is transportation as it causes delays in the supply of the items based on the bad roads.

“Everybody was carried along in the process, women’s group, CAN, PFN, the Muslim community, Handicap, and the Orphanage were all in the structure that we set up in the distribution and there was nothing like politicians who hijacked the items in the system.

“At the ward level, the House of Assembly members, Party Chairmen, LGA Chairmen, and Commissioners were told to supervise. We only received N2bn as palliative and it did not come to us as cash, instead, we received it through maize and rice,” he said.

The Senior Adviser to the Governor on Transport highlighted some of the long-term plans of the state government to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy, stating that the government has reduced the working days to 3 days a week for all civil servants and also an additional ten thousand naira monthly palliatives for three months.

He said the government plans to bring in vehicles that will reduce the cost of transportation such as gas-powered Keke, buses, and electric cars. Adding that the Keke will be given out at a subsidized rate when the time comes.

He also added that the government has already signed an MOU with a company on where to charge these electric buses while calling on residents to continue to promote good governance and support the administration of His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to deliver the MORE Agenda.

Youth Group Rates Oborevwori High On Deliverables Within 100 Days In Office

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A youth group under the aegis of MORE For Delta Youth Project has rated the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori high for delivering on strategic projects and mainstreaming good governance policies as he marks his 100 days in office.

The Deputy Director General (Operations) of the group, Amb. Ugagaoghene Ogheneyole who briefed the press in Asaba, Tuesday 5th September, 2023, scored the Governor 90 percent for adequately attending to the ongoing projects before the expiration of the Immediate Past administration, as well as his proactive approach to give Warri a face-lift within his 100 days in office.

Ogheneyole who commended the Governor for appointing youths into his Government, said the group thought it wise to use the platform of the celebration of 100 days in office of the Governor, to urge Deltans to keep faith with the new Sheriff in town, adding that Governor Sheriff is truly the leader that the people deserve.

The vibrant youth leader said, he was amazed at the number of projects the Governor had executed in record time, which are ready for commissioning to celebrate his 100 days in office.

He equally lauded the Governor for the #5 billion approved to pay promotion arrears to civil servants and another #10 billion approved to pay salary bonus of #10,000 each to the same civil servants, including start up grants, business stability grants to other individuals as palliatives to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal.

According to Ogheneyole, “We are impressed with the performance of the Governor so far; and that is why we have boldly come to appreciate Deltans for voting such a charismatic and capacity Governor.

“In the last 100 days in office, the Governor has taken adequate and visible steps to address the challenges of Deltans in the areas of massive infrastructure development of previously ongoing and new projects, and again the issue of flooding is doggedly tackled to give our environment the desired status.

“This Government has given a sense of belonging to the youths, and we are happy. The Government of Sheriff Oborevwori is a rich blend of averagely old and youths who are eager to deliver on mandate. A Governor who found it expedient to execute projects left by the past administration, is a good Governor.

“I want to rate Governor Sheriff Oborevwori 90 percent for the much he has accomplished within this record time. In the development sector, the best way to rate a working Government is to check target against delivery. By this I make bold to say that, almost 90 percent of projects from the past administration is completed and ready for commissioning as part of activities marking the Governor’s 100 days in office.

“Delta is ahead in public sector infrastructure development. However, our people should expect more from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori going forward”, the youth leader said.

Delta State Executive Council Approves N167 Billion As 2023 Supplementary Budget

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To better ease the effect of the remover of fuel subsidy, the Delta State Government has approved the sum of N167 billion as the 2023 supplementary budget.

A N40 billion credit facility was also approved to be offered to the 25 local government councils in the state to cover a substantial part of outstanding retirement benefits to local government pensioners.

The decisions were made known by the State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Rueben Izeze immediately after the maiden State Executive Council (Exco) meeting presided over by His Excellency, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba.

The sum of N10 Billion was also approved for Social Investment to fund palliative for Deltans.

Exco also approved the payment of the 2023 counterpart fund for the Universal Basic Education Programme and for the organization/hosting of the 7th Edition of the National Youth Games in the state.

The Exco further approved the reconstruction of Upper and Lower Erejuwa Roads in Warri, the Rehabilitation of Esisi Road from Warri Sapele Road to the Estate roundabout with a spur to Nana College to link Ajamimogha in Warri, rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of the failed sections of PTI Road in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.

Rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Oviri Court-Adagbrasa Road in Okpe Local Government Area, rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Ohorhe-Adagbrasa-Ugolo-Okuodiete road with a spur from Adagbrasa to Ughwagba community to Okan junction along the Eku-Osubi-Effurun Road in Okpe Local Government Area, construction of roads around Otovwodo junction in Ughelli North Local Government Area were also included.

Also approved is the construction of Nsukwa-Umute-Adonte Road Phase 1 from Nsukwa to Umute in Aniocha South Local Government Area and remedial works for the failed approach to the bridge at Bedesegba along Ohoror-Bomadi Road in Bomadi Local Government Area.

In addition to the approval, Exco added the installation of all-in-one LED solar-powered street lights along the NPA – DSC Expressway and its environs in Uvwie and Warri South Local Government Areas.

YouTube Plans To Ban Links Across Shorts Comments, Descriptions, And Vertical Live Feeds

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To reduce spam and scam attempts, YouTube has said, starting on August 31, 2023, links in Shorts descriptions, comments, and vertical live feeds will no longer be clickable.

The company says it’s planning to introduce a new, safer way for creators to link their Shorts viewers to other Youtube content by the end of September, as it tries to prevent users from potentially being exposed to malware, phishing scams, and other harmful scam-related content.

The video-streaming platform added that it will also remove the clickable social media icons from channel banners on desktops, as it claims them to be a “source of misleading links.” The obvious downside to these changes is that these links are super important to creators — they enable them to diversify their content by guiding viewers to their accounts on other platforms and build revenue by linking to ads and affiliate content.

In a press release, YouTube says it plans to give creators a new space on channel profiles to place prominent, clickable links to websites, social profiles, merch sites, and other links that comply with the platform’s Community Guidelines. The update will be rolled out across both mobile and desktop starting August 23rd and can be found near the “subscribe” button.

According to YouTube “We don’t have any plans to make any other links unclickable. We know that links are an important way for creators to share information and recommend products/brands to their communities, so we’re actively working on safer ways for creators to include important links in their content.”

YouTube claims that some of the policies and systems it’s already implemented to combat scammers and spammers are having a positive effect. The number of channels that were removed or otherwise terminated due to impersonating other users increased by 35 percent in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year.

Comments held by YouTube’s “increase strictness” feature — which detects any potentially spammy and/or inappropriate comments and gives creators the option to review them — also increased by 200 percent in the first week of June following updates to the feature, compared to the first week of May (before the improvements were released.

Street Boys’ Attacks Singer Portable In Lekki

Nigerian Street Pop Singer, Portable has bounced back in the news after being attacked in Lekki while on shopping spree with his artists, Yung Duu.

It was gathered that Portable went to shop for clothes for his artist, Yung Duu in Lekki when street boys attacked him and his artist who sustained injuries on his face.

In a video he shared on his Instagram story on Tuesday, August, 8, 2023, it revealed that he was attacked with his entourage.

According to Portable the boys approached him during his shopping and claimed to be fans with a demand to be given money. After he failed to give them money, the boys revealed that they’re cultists and today August 8 marked their 8/8 celebrations before harassing him.

He added that he would take revenge whenever his attackers enter Sango Tedo where he resides. Portable embarked on a lengthy rant during which he boasts of being heavily fortified and also being a member of a rival cult group.

The incident that transpired today is another fuss in what has become the norm for Portable who during the lengthy video failed to state whether he would be reporting the case to the Police.

WhatsApp Roll Out Voice Chats, New Feature To Communicate In Groups

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Having the advantage of being one of the most widely used chat apps in the world, with over 2 billion users, WhatsApp now has a new feature for voice chat that allowed groups of 32 people to connect for a spoken session.

WABetaInfo, revealed this on Monday as it added that the new feature is been rolled out through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.23.16.19.

According to WABetalnfo, the new feature is similar to Telegram and Discord chats, Slack’s Huddles, and even Meta’s own Messenger platform.

The new feature, if it’s live in your version of the app, you’ll notice a waveform icon within group chats — but only if the WhatsApp account has the feature enabled and includes compatibility with the group.

Tapping the button immediately launches voice chat, along with its interface. Then, anyone in the group, up to 32 people, can just pop up and start speaking. Unlike the existing group calls feature, group voice chats will not make everyone’s phone ring.

When everyone leaves, the session remains active but will automatically end after an hour. Voice chats in WhatsApp are, like its other messages, end-to-end encrypted by default.

The new WhatsApp voice chat feature may show up on non-beta installations as well since WABetaInfo notes it’s a broader release.

Although, Meta isn’t early to the party with this feature — Telegram has had voice chat features since 2020.

Confusion During Senate Session As Lawmakers Bid To Stop Keyamo’s Nomination

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Drama ensued in the Senate session on Monday during the ministerial screening as Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Darlington Nwokocha, moved a motion for the suspension of the ministerial screening of Festus Keyamo, a minister nominee from Delta State.

The trouble started when Keyamo who was the former Minister of State for Labour was taking his questions and Senator Nwokocha raised a point of order over his nomination, recounting how he disregarded an invitation from the House of Representatives when he was the Minister.

Coming after the point of order, the Senate chamber became rowdy for more than 10 minutes while the nominee stood.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, had to stand up to restore normality to the chamber.

He quickly called the Senators to order, saying that based on the rule of the Senate, whenever the Senate President stands up, any Senator or Committee would have to remain silent.

When the matter was worsening, Akpabio beckoned on the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele to “lead the House.”

Senator Bamidele however moved two motions, first for the Senate to extend the time for the Senate sitting beyond 2 pm and the second session to dissolve into an executive or closed-door session.

The motions were scaled through while the screening of Keyamo was postponed.
Akpabio said the Senate now resolved to go into a closed-door session “to iron out an issue of national concerns.”

The Senate later dissolved into a closed session.

After 7-Day Deadline, ECOWAS Leaders Convene Another Meeting Over Niger Coup

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Following the expiration of the 7-day deadline issued to the coup plotters in Niger Republic to reinstate its unseated president, Mohamed Bazoum, or risk sanctions, the Chairman of the Economics Community of West Africa State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has scheduled another date of meeting with his counterparts to talk about the ongoing crisis in the region.

The meeting was scheduled to hold on Thursday, August 10, 2023, in Abuja, this was made known in a statement on Monday.

The statement reads, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has convened another Extraordinary Summit of the Authority on the political situation in the Republic of Niger. The Summit will hold in Abuja, on Thursday, August 10, 2023.

“The ECOWAS Leaders will be considering and discussing the political situation and recent developments in Niger during the Summit.”

Recall that ECOWAS in a bid to resolve the crisis in Niger, the West African leaders threatened the Niger junta with possible military intervention.

But rather than reinstating Bazoum, the junta declared General Abdourahamane Tchiani as the country’s new head of state and vowed not to bow to outside pressure even though the body also sent a high-powered delegation led by General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) to broker peace with the coup plotters.

Brazilian President Advocate To End The Dominance Of U.S Dollar In Global Trade

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Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, the Brazilian President has called on the international community to end the dominance of the United States dollar in international trade.

The president said he does not see why the U.S. dollar should be allowed to dominate global trade.

He stated this on Friday saying “Everyone knows that I defend the idea that we have our currency to trade between countries,” he said. “Why does Brazil need the dollar to trade with China or Argentina? We can trade in our currency.”

The Brazilian president who has been very straightforward on ending the supremacy of the U.S. dollar in international trade said, having a gold-backed BRICS currency that provides countries with alternative money to trade would end the dominance of the U.S. dollar in international trade.

According to the president, the BRICS bank would be much more generous than the IMF and genuinely interested in helping countries, not sinking them.

President Da Silva likewise offered clues about the upcoming BRICS conference scheduled to hold in South Africa from August 22 to 24, adding that new countries signing on BRICS and the devaluation of the U.S. dollar would be talked about at the conference.

However, the countries comprising the BRICS are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, while over 20 countries, including Saudi Arabia, have formally applied to join the BRICS bloc.

South American countries like Argentina have already started to trade with the Chinese yuan, signaling a gradual shift from the U.S. dollar as the go-to currency for international trade.

Instagram Is Making It Difficult For People Not To Spam You With Message Requests

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Photo and video-sharing social networking service, Instagram is testing a new feature that will make it more difficult for people you don’t follow to send you unwanted message requests on your DM.

People you don’t follow can only send you one text message to request to connect. The message can only contain text without unsolicited photos, videos, or voice messages popping up in your message requests.

Before now, Instagram let users send an unlimited number of message requests which could sometimes get out of hand.

Meta started testing the feature as part of a broader safety push, as the Company also rolled out more robust parental controls on both Instagram and Messenger that give parents a more detailed look at what their child is doing on either app.

In a statement by Cindy Southworth, Meta’s head of women’s safety, she said “Now, users can only send you more than one bunch once you’ve accepted their requests live in the ‘Request Button’ located above your inbox in Instagram’s DM tab.

She added that you can only receive requests if your privacy settings require users to send a request before they can message you.

“We want people to feel confident and in control when they open their inbox. That’s why we’re testing new features, which mean people can’t receive images, videos, or multiple messages from someone they don’t follow until they’ve accepted the request to chat,” she added.

Kizz Daniel Signs New Artiste To His Record Label

Nigerian singer and record label boss, Kizz Daniel has signed a new artiste, Pryme to Flyboy Inc.

The singer made this announcement through a post he shared via his social media page on Monday.

Sharing the post, Kizz Daniel wrote “A very special shout-out to my artiste @prymeofficial the world is yours to conquer.”

Pryme also took to his Instagram page to announce the engagement as he wrote  “Cheers to a new chapter with my new family. We take over the world together.”

This is coming after Kizz Daniel recently released the visual to ‘Show You Off’, a song featuring Pryme from his fifth album ‘Maverick’.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvVkGz5LqSe/?igshid=NjIwNzIyMDk2Mg==

Oborevwori Describes Senator Aguariavwodo As A Rare Gem In The Elite Group

The Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo as a rare gem who had the opportunity of serving both in the Green and Red Chambers of the National Assembly.

He said not every politician has the privilege of serving in the Red Chamber and also in the Green Chamber and has decided to come down to serve in the State.

Oborevwori stated this during the thanksgiving service in honor of Senator Aguariavwodo, his Senior Political Adviser at the All Saint Cathedral, Ughelli Diocese of the Anglican Communion on Sunday.

Oborevwori stated this during the thanksgiving service in honor of Senator Aguariavwodo, his Senior Political Adviser at the All Saint Cathedral, Ughelli Diocese of the Anglican Communion on Sunday.

The Governor who go down memory lane to explained how Aguariavwodo predicted his governorship 10 years ago when he was burying his mother in Osubi.

He said “Senator Aguariavwodo is someone I knew many years ago, and sometimes there are things you say and it will come to pass.

“When I was burying my mother at Osubi Trade Fair complex some years ago, he came and saw the crowd and he said with this crowd you are qualified to contest for Governor.

“He said it over ten years ago in 2013 and that prophesy has come to pass. So when he decided to support me, it is because God wants to fulfil what he has said.”

The Governor added that Senator Aguariavwodo is a very humble and respected man who belongs to the rare elite group and prayed that God grant him the wisdom to succeed in his new role.

The Governor also expressed dissatisfaction following the protest by Ewu Community over appointment, as he said “Ughelli South has gotten senior political adviser, Executive Director DESOPADEC and Commissioner. After giving you a project of over N20bn, you are still coming to protest.

“As Governor, my local government has gotten just one appointment which is the Commissioner designate because I have promised Deltans I want to be governor for all.’

He thanked Archbishop Cyril Odutemu and the church for their support during the elections and called for endless prayers for his administration to succeed.

Earlier in his sermon, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bendel and Bishop of Ughelli Diocese (Anglican Communion), The Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu in his sermon titled “Be strong in the Lord”, said Christians were confronted with several spiritual warfare and charged leaders to be strong “as leadership is a constant struggle to get things right in the interest of the people”.

The Cleric said leaders must demonstrate strength and uncommon courage in the face of daunting challenges.

“Whatever you do in offering advice to the Governor, you should be adequately guided by truth; don’t allow your garment of righteousness to be stained,” the highly celebrated Anglican cleric said, even as he urged the Governor to keep to his promises and to always stick to the truth.

The thanksgiving service was attended by the immediate past Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his Deputy, Rt Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Kingsley Esiso; Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi and former Minister of Information, Professor Sam Oyovbaire.

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Johnson Erijo; Senior Policy Adviser to the Governor, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon; Special Adviser on Transportation, Olorogun Jaro Egbo; Chairman Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata; Managing Director DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor; members of the State House of Assembly, Commissioner designates, Local Government Council Chairmen, traditional rulers among other dignitaries, were at the thanksgiving on Sunday.

WhatsApp Introduces New Feature For Instant Videos Messages

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Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp has added a quicker way for users to send short videos to their friends.

The new feature enables users to send up to a 60-second-long video message to their contact with just a tap of a button. With this feature, users can record and share short personal videos directly in the chat just like sending a voice message.

Meta CEO, Mark Zuckerberg shared a short clip of the feature in action, showing the circular videos sent through the feature on his Facebook post on Thursday.

Also, WhatsApp in a blog post stated that video messages can be up to 60 seconds in length and will automatically play or mute when a recipient opens a chat. That’s in contrast to voice messages, which don’t auto-play and can be as long as you want. You can send a video message by tapping the existing voice message icon to put it into video mode.

WhatsApp has long offered the option of sending videos, but the new video message feature removes a couple of steps in the process, making it quicker and more immediate. If they work the same way as voice messages, which exist solely within WhatsApp, video messages should also avoid cluttering up your phone’s camera roll with short single-use clips.

The video message feature has been rolling out on WhatsApp on both iOS and Android since at least last month, and WhatsApp’s blog post says the feature will be available to “everyone in the coming weeks.”

Emmanuel World Children Foundation Inaugurates Support Network For Survivors of Human Trafficking

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A non-governmental organization that implements advocacy, prevention activities, rescue, and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking through shelter, family tracing, vocational training, and empowerment has inaugurated a support network in Delta State for the survivors of human trafficking.

The inauguration ceremony was conducted by the Executive Director of EWCF, Adaramola Emmanuel on Wednesday at Lighthouse Suites, Asaba, the Delta State capital, as victims of human trafficking were in attendance.

The Executive Director while speaking, describes the inauguration support network as a family gathering of those who have survived human trafficking by ways of sharing their experiences, as many didn’t make it out of the situation.

Conducting the event, Adaramola said everyone present is a victim of human trafficking in Senegal, adding that most of them were tricked and deceived to such places as some through exploitative labor and sexual exploitation, while others through mining exploitation.

He also said they are working with an organization known as ‘Free The Slaves’, An international organization that is currently operating in Sub-Saharan Africa, stressing that the ‘Free The Slave’ organization partnered with a functional organization in each country while its West Africa office is situated in Ghana.

He added that in Senegal, The Free The Slave organization partnered with another organization that focused on the search and rescue of victims of human trafficking and then sponsored them to their countries.

According to him, 61 Nigerians have been brought back into the country between November 2022 and June 2023, with additional 3 female babies that were given birth to by some of the victims, emphasizing that some of the survivors are from Delta, Edo, Taraba, Anambra, Ebonyi, Kaduna, Rivers, Ekiti, and Lagos State.

Explaining the job of his organization, the Emmanuel World Children Foundation, Adaramola said, when the organizations from Ghana and Senegal send the survivors to the Nigeria airport, his organization took over the survivors from the airport and takes them to their shelter known as ‘The Ark Children Home’ in Ondo State, where they provide them with accommodation, counseling, rehabilitation, and tracing of their families by also helping them to settle down based on their area of interest among other things when the need arises.

He clarified that 16 of the survivors are already learning some skills like fashion & design, hairdressing, catering & decoration, make-up, and auxiliary nurse, adding that others will join in a few weeks.

The Executive Director of EWCF continue by saying “each support group is to leverage on each other strength and support by sharing ideas and challenges, as he said, over 15000 thousands Nigerians are in Senegal while about 16000 in Mali and other Africa countries including the Gambia, Ghana, Libya, Togo, Dubai, and others.

In his words, he said “We want the media to let people know that the traffickers majorly target vulnerable young girls, deceive them that they will provide job opportunity for them like selling in the super market or as house help who will be earning N120k per month.

“There are so many cliques and gangs going about recruiting young and innocent girls, deceiving them. These cliques have spread all over the place with a very strong network and connection. Every of the survivors are picked up by different individuals who handle them to another individual at a different locations until they get to their destination.”

“For instance, one will pick you from the village, then handover to another man in Calabar, from there, another will took over in Lagos then another from Benin Republic to Ghana, and from there, another will took over to Senegal which make It difficult for one to determine the main person to hold.”

“We want the media to let the communities and the people to know that the trafficker have shifted to young girls between the age of 10-14, they are now the target, Primary and Secondary school girls. As an organization and a family, we want the public to know about what is happening and we don’t want them to fall victims of that trap. If anyone tells you that he or she wants to help you in overseas, don’t believe them because a lot of people have lost their lives in the process while some of their families are still expecting their return.

“We also want the media to let the people know that our organization is doing this kind of a thing in the state. We’ve had meetings with the Ministry of Women Affair and the Delta State taskforce on human trafficking. Our organization is doing this job with our partner, ‘FREE THE SLAVE’ here in Nigeria. We have survivors across 12 states and the highest number of survivors state is Edo followed by Delta State, Adaramola stated.

Some of the survivors who speak during event said, they were tricked to Senegal by the traffickers who promised to help them with job. They added that they were also taken to spiritual houses were they swear an oath never to revealed to anyone what they are going there to do.

One of the victim who doesn’t know she was pregnant at that time until she get to Senegal said, she got the connection to go to Senegal through one of her sister’s friend in Benin, Edo State.

According to her, the lady said her sister living abroad will help her with a job when she get there, unknowingly she was pregnant at that time. “when I get to Senegal and discovered that I was pregnant, I told the woman that in charge of me in Senegal that I am pregnant, but she said it doesn’t mean anything that they will abort the pregnancy. It took the intervention of one woman who saw me in the street and have compassion on me and took me to the government agency in Senegal were they take care of me and my unborn child until I put to birth.”

Another survivor stated that she was deceived by a lady who approached her and told her that her sister who is living overseas has a bar where she sell drinks and she need four girls that will be working for her. According to the survivor, she went to inform her friend and they both embark on the journey. They left without their families knowing exactly where they are going to.

She said when they get to Senegal, the woman that received them took their phones from them and told them that they should rest a little then give them packs of condoms to use, when they rejected the condom, they were been maltreated without food.

Why Nigerians Should Consider Death Penalty For Corrupt Public Officers – Dein Of Agbor

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A first-class monarch of the ancient Agbor Kingdom in Ika South LGA in Delta State, HRM Benjamin Ikenchukwu Gbenoba, Keagborekuzi 1, the Dein of Agbor, said Nigeria’s problem is that public office holders are too used to illegality in the country.

The erudite traditional ruler disclosed this at his royal palace in Agbor when members of the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel Asaba of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council paid him a courtesy visit.

According to the Dein of Agbor, Nigeria is not poor because God has blessed the nation with numerous mineral resources beyond oil but the country needs to tackle corruption undivided.

He said “I want to know what’s happening with our gold, I want all our resources brought to the Federal books. We are heavily indebted but we are rich in minerals. The West knows how important Nigeria is to Africa. They are not coming here to teach you their languages and their food but because they know the importance of Nigeria to the world.

“We are too used to illegality in this country and that’s our problem. The money belongs to all Nigerians and it needs to be shared accordingly.

“I’m beginning to think if we can copy from the rest of the world their harsh punishments to public officials caught stealing, Nigeria as a country should consider harsh penalties like a death sentence for corrupt public officeholders to help reduce the unending issue of corruption happening in our nation, we need to tackle corruption.

The monarch also said he is looking forward to the efficacy of subsidy removal, according to him “I hear we’ve saved over N400bn in just a month of removal of fuel subsidy if so far we have saved such amount then I’m looking forward to what we are going to do with it.

“Other countries have various forms of subsidy from health care to education amongst others and it’s not an issue there because of the absence of corruption but ours in this country is corruption among politicians.

The Dein of Agbor kingdom who also speak about coexistence expressed that we shouldn’t judge other people negatively because of our beliefs or culture, but learn to continue to coexist as one as non of our beliefs are above each other.

“We only have differences which is the unique part of it. We should learn to respect these differences that exist amongst our cultures.”

He called on Journalists to be tactful in their responsibilities by shading out bad stories to developmental stories

“As Journalists I want you to be diplomatic and very careful when we say certain things, for in, a stance it’s the criminal elements of the Fulani herdsmen that are committing these crimes not all Fulani herdsmen, its crucial to state the difference”

On the issue of governance in the state he hinted that “whether you like Okowa or not, he did well, he made his mistakes but he’s human, and yes the new Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is a good man very approachable but I advise him to get the right people around him. You could be a good leader with the bad advisers and not be productive.” He added.

Responding on behalf of the journalists, the Chairman of ICC, Comrade Kenneth Orusi thought highly of the first-class monarch for his time and privilege given to the ICC members.

Orusi stated that “as Journalists, we ensure that we move from community to community to see the level of government presence, analyze and ensure onward reportage to the corridors of government till the needful is done”

He applauded the Delta monarch on his giant strides towards securing the Agbor forests and environs but expressed concerns at the slow pace of development in Agbor.

OFAAC Honours DTSG, Jibunoh, Onu-Ika, Seaman For Supporting Anioma Cultural Festival

The culture umbrella of Anioma Nation, otherwise known as the Organisation For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), has honoured the Delta State Government with an Award of Excellence, for her support towards the Anioma Cultural Festival.

The Organisation also honoured the Desert Warrior, Chief Newton Jibunoh, the Onu Ika of Nigeria and the Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps for their numerous supports to the advancement of Anioma Cultural Festival over the years.

In his speech during the OFAAC Award Day, which held at the Orchid Hotel Asaba, on Wednesday 5th July, 2023, the President of OFAAC, Arc. Kester Ifeadi appreciated the awardees for being pillars of support to the Organisation over the years.

Ifeadi specifically thanked the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for adopting the Anioma Cultural Festival as his own project even before becoming a Senator, thereby doing much more as a Governor.

He also appraised the ingenuity of Chief Jibunoh towards OFAAC as the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Organisation since inception, adding that the octogenarian known as the Desert Warrior has continued to remain a beacon of hope to OFAAC.

For Onu Ika Socio-cultural Organisation, Ifeadi commended its President for sharing in the ideals behind the formation of OFAAC, maintaining that there are more milestones to cover with Onu Ika going forward in OFAAC’s quest towards building a virile legacy of trans-generational cultural identity for Anioma people.

On the aspect of sponsorship, the OFAAC visioneer profoundly appreciated the Grand Oak Company, makers of Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps for their outstanding support to the Anioma Cultural Festival, especially the unique way it marketed the 18th edition of the Festival this year.

According to Ifeadi, “Today is a special day for all of us in OFAAC. It is very significant, because the journey of OFAAC is a journey of 19 years; which started like a joke. Over 19 years ago, we came together to put an end to Anioma identity crisis, and today, it has paid off through the instrumentality of Anioma Cultural Festival.

“We have had tremendous support over the years from various stakeholders. For this, OFAAC has become a culture umbrella of Anioma people by the support of our traditional rulers and other major stakeholders like Chief Newton Jibunoh as chairman of the Board of Trustees and other members like Late Pa Fortune Ebie, Prof. Pat Utomi, etc., including the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

“Today, OFAAC can boast of over 1000 members, including volunteers. The government seeing what we are doing, has chosen OFAAC as a model for other ethnic groups to emulate. The last edition of Anioma Cultural Festival was a huge success and that is why today, we are honouring the winners who participated in the event.

“We are proud to say that OFAAC is a rallying centre for Anioma people. We have a micro credit facility for members, and gladly, they have remitted back over 90% of the fund. There is the health insurance scheme for members too, making it possible for our people to access medical treatments with less or no burdens”, said OFAAC President.

In their separate goodwill messages, Chief Newton Jibunoh, Chairman of Board of Trustees of OFAAC and Mr. Dan Osifo, President, Collective Leadership, Onu Ika commended Ifeadi for birthing a vision for Anioma Cultural Identity and sustaining it in the past two decades.

While Jibunoh narrated the story of how he promoted Anioma and made friends through flaunting of the Akwa Ocha in UK, Mr. Osifo craved for synergy between OFAAC and Onu Ika to grow and produce flute (Akpele), in order to use it to influence the younger generation into cultivating a cultural identity and unity for themselves.

Furthermore, certificates and cheques were presented to the winners of the various categories of prizes from the last edition of Anioma Cultural Festival on Easter Monday, which was the 18th edition.

The first runner up, Okiti Mixed Secondary School, Ubulu-Okiti got a cheque of #200,000, the second runner up, Egwuoma Dance Group of Ibusa, got #300,000, and the overall winner, Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Kwale got #400,000.

Meanwhile, consolation prizes were also given to the following: Contemporary Dance Group of Ubulu-Okiti, Egwu-Oshushu, Umu Anioma Solidarity Group of Asaba, Anglican Girls Grammar School Asaba, Egwu Amala Dance Group of Isheagu, Aguba Royal Dance of Asaba, Ihuoma Dance Group of Agbor, including the Ogbu-Akpele.

The event which was colourfully organised, was graced by the following personalities, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, who received an award on behalf of Delta State Government, Mrs. Umukoro, the Desert Warrior, Chief Newton Jibunoh, the President of Onu Ika, Mr. Dan Osifo, Seaman’s Sales Rep, Mr. Efe, the Traditional Ruler of Ubulu-Uno, HRM Obi Henry Afamefune Kikachukwu, the Traditional Ruler of Ukala, HRM Obi Clement Ejiofor, the Traditional Ruler of Akumazi, HRM Obi Henry Jegbefume, OFAAC Vice President, Mr. Paddy Ugboh, Zonal chairmen of OFAAC and others too numerous to mention.

I’m Willing To Take A Debate On The Finances Of Delta State, Sir Tilijie says

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Immediate past Commissioner of Finance in Delta State, Sir. Okenmor Fidelis Tilijie said he is ready to go on a public debate with any individual or organization on the finances of the state because Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s led administration has served meticulously which the World Bank can attest to the facts.

The past finance commissioner made this known on Wednesday, immediately after the send-forth ceremony organized by the Ministry of Finance in Asaba when journalists asked him to comment on the recent allegations made by Sheriff Mulade and Pa. E.K Clark regarding the 13 percent derivation funds.

Sir. Tilijie said he doesn’t want to go to the pages of newspapers and begin to discuss the finances of the state because he believed there are laws before they came into office and there are still existing laws even after they have left, adding that there are legal ways to go about it not by shouting at the pages of newspapers.

According to him “We respect Pa. E.K Clark very well but I’m not going to join any forces or discussions with him or anybody else but I am by the grace of God alive today and I hope I’ll be alive for more years to come and I am willing to take a debate on the finances of Delta state with any individual or agency that want to incurred or inquiries into whatever we have done.

He said World Bank spoke about it and give accolades to Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on the transparency of expenditure and the accountability of the expenditure of the state.

Tilijie said the projects that have been financed and the ones claimed to have been financed are there for all to see.

“All the projects are there and all the finances are there”, the ex-commissioner said.

Newly-Born Babies To Get Compulsory Sickle Cell Screening In Delta

In Delta State, to better curb the increasing rate of Sickle Cell Anemia, the government made it compulsory for every newly-born baby to get screened within 48-72 hours after birth.

This was made known by Dr. Uche Okwe, a convener of sickle cell in the state while speaking at a one-day training exercise organized by the Delta State Ministry of Health for media practitioners in Asaba.

The training titled ‘Sickle Cell Control And The Role Of The Media’ is aimed to partner with the media in sensitizing the public against the challenges of sickle cell.

According to Dr. Okwe, the compulsory screening exercise became critical for the early detection of anemia and to help work out the situations associated with it, making it easier to manage such children thereby making them suffer nominal or no problem while they grow up.

Dr. Okwe stated that since it became mandatory, 2000 babies have been screened and 26 babies have tested positive.

She also disclosed that there are about eleven thousand persons living with sickle cell in the state, and treatment for sickle cell patients is free in the state through sickle cell clinics.

She appealed to the media practitioners to make the public know that the government has made the NNS mandatory in various health facilities to early detect any sickle cell disorder for prompt treatment and to let them know that it has become law in the state.

Dr. Okwe lamented over the ignorance of many people who still attribute sickle cell disorder to spirituality, advising that people should and must check their genotype before going into marriage.

She stressed that people should not tempt God by thinking of genotypes AS and AS could go into marriage without having a sickle cell child.

While giving suggestions for the presentation, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, the Chairperson of women journalists in the state pleaded with Journalists to rally around medical officials to help curb sickle cell disorder in the society.

She urged journalists to see the fight against Sickle Cell Anemia as their own and ensure that they impact positively in the fight.

Other participants at the event also suggested ways of curbing SCD by teaching young people, from Primary School age, on the issue of genotype while others expressed the belief that religious and traditional institutions are also significant in the fight against SCD.

Giving remarks at the occasion, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health in Delta state, Dr. Philomena Okeowo advised that journalists should be mindful of how they report SCD, adding that said harsh and scary words should be discouraged.

“Sickle cell is not a death sentence, people have lived with it successfully because, with proper care, people can survive it,” she added.

How Long Are We Going To Blame Oyibo, Nigeria Is Corrupt Not Poor – Agbor Monarch

His Royal Majesty, Benjamin Ikenchukwu Kiagborekwuzi 1, CON, the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, said the United States and Europe, have educational and agricultural subsidies but what is happening in Nigeria is corruption because the country is not poor.

The highly respected new-generation traditional ruler stated this when journalists from the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of Delta State NUJ Council paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Agbor on Monday.

The monarch said he learned that the country has several minerals that are so valuable but he doesn’t know what is happening to all the mineral resources, as he likes to see all the resources brought into the federal pulse. According to him, we are drowning in debt but yet we have so many minerals in this country.

The monarch said he knows foreigners are coming to the country, “China is not coming to Nigeria to have dinner and teach us how to eat Chinese food. Indians are not coming here to do anything. The West knows how important Nigeria is and how it is to the rest of Africa but honestly, we’re not doing things right. Nigerians are to blame because they are just keeping quiet without asking after the minerals. For goodness sake, nothing is been wrong if gold is been taking out. Anything done illegally also has a legal way of doing it but we are too used to illegality in this country.

He urged the government to work on the micro economy and the devaluation of the naira in such a way the Nigeria products can be saleable abroad while advising the advisors of the President not to push him too fast.

“For those advising our president and wanting him to move fast, let’s not put him in a situation where he will move so fast and then start correcting his mistakes. We have to give the president time and encouragement. Something like electricity increase should be increased for a reason just like taxes, we need to start paying taxes. Everybody needs to start paying taxes, but the fact of the matter is that nobody is going to pay taxes when they don’t know where the money is going. When you are paying taxes and you are not seeing improvement in the environment around you, one has to ask where that tax money is going.

“My advice for this new government agenda is for them to start tackling corruption because there is a reason why China moved from zero to a hundred and there is a reason why this tackling economy moved from zero to hundreds. If you are found stealing as a public officer in those countries, you will be killed and I am beginning to think of such in Africa because public officers are stealing the wealth of our nation. The countries and the continent have suffered a lot, the Agbor monarch spoke one’s mind.

He also talked about the tourism potential of the Ika Nation. According to him, tourism is something that should be felt, as it requires looking at the aspect of the community that will be appealing to the rest of the world. It has to be an interest, he added. “I think the best place to showcase that is the Benin Kingdom because they have amazing festivals that they hold every year. But while we all have to be correct, we have to talk about security. Aside from Ika being such a lovely place, the East is completely decimated. The economy is gone and the east has some of the best places for tourism, some of the best places for manufacturing, yet, we have a situation right there and nobody is safe over there anymore.

“Security needs to be tackled even when it concerned the economy as a whole. For us to invite the investors that we have lost back to this country, we need to tackle security outside of the environment because nobody is coming to partake in tourism in a dirty environment. We all have a responsibility to our various communities. Imagine a situation wherein drainage is been blocked by dirt and nobody in the community is doing anything about it, even the youths. Our boys are too much interested in ‘yahoo-yahoo’ making them sing ‘school is a scam’. Our kids must go back to school as it is very disappointing to be hearing now that school is a scam. At the same time, we also need to be seeing things from their point of view. What they are telling you is that after they have suffered through a four years degree and mistakenly six years due to strike actions, they asked where is my job. It is at this point they start saying things like school is a scam. School is not a scam but we as the government make sure our educational system is brought back to standard.

“When was I young, I believe when you leave Nigeria after getting your degree, they want you all around the world. But painfully now, when you leave Nigeria university and go to anywhere in the world, the first thing they wanna do is to make you sit for exams, which is an insult. What they mean is that they don’t believe in the credibility of your degree, which is quite sad. I know Nigerians to be the top most brilliant-minded people in the world. So I will say tourism can not come before security and a clean environment, it cannot come before people living in peace.

“Nobody is going to go to the east when you know that police and army officers are been killed. The sit-at-home is killing one of the most vibrant parts of the country. I want to see the Igbos being given an opportunity in a similar way as the Chinese are been given an opportunity. The Igbos are like the Chinese of Nigeria, they should be given that kind of chance. Allow the East to become our manufacturing because that’s what they like to do and they should be allowed to do it. Those interested in agriculture should be allowed to do it. Very importantly, the government should bring onboard into the federal pulse all our natural minerals. Oil is not the only thing that we have, it is probably one of the least things that we have and it is one of the most damaging.

“But while bringing all of these natural minerals onboard, let’s stop to bring them to the detriment of the local environment. We need to do this mining, mineral researching, and resourcing in such a way it will not destroy our local environment. Yes, tourism will come but we need to put some things in place to be to attract such.

The monarch frowned at Nollywood for how the movie industry is portraying the traditional rulers negatively while talking about the culture of the people. He said “Agbor has a particular culture but it’s not different from the beauty of the culture in Ile-Ife nor the beauty of the one in Lagos. This is what makes us Africans, this is what makes us Nigerians. One of the ways we can enhance our culture is by telling Nollywood to stop portraying our traditional rulers as negative. ‘Juju this, juju that’ – I’ve never seen anybody turns into a rat, I’m still here to see it. I’ve never seen anybody fly, I’m still here to see it. I’ve never seen anybody when thunder struck and they disappeared. All these are negative impressions the movie industry is portraying our country to be which is not supposed to be so.

“We need to start projecting our culture n a positive light. For those who are Christians, I stop looking at religion being taken strictly and I understand that everybody has their path to God. Do not charge people negatively because you happen to be from a different culture and religion. Here in Nigeria, we now have a Muslim/Muslim president. I hope the North will allow us a Christian/Christian president someday because it will prove that we are living as one and seriously.

“No part of the country is better than the other side. What we have is differences and those differences complement each other. The reason why I am so much accepted in the North is because I respect my Muslim brothers and culture. When I meet with them, I will pray with them and there is nothing wrong with that. I also expect them to deal with me in my culture like that and they have been very accommodating with that, he added.

The monarch also prayed that His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the executive Governor of Delta State gets the right people around him because leadership is about getting the right people to work with, adding that, he has been on the throne for such a long time, and the most significant part of it is that he was a baby then, and later a teenager, and now an adult.

He said for 23 years I came back until I started getting involved, the people have been wonderful as they coach me, advise me and they continue to do that. I’ve got an advantage because I am traveling which is one of the best education in the world. I have the advantage of growing up differently and seeing things differently that’s why my mind and my thinking are different. Assuming I have grown up here, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I had that advantage.

“I am very wrong with many of our elites who equally have these advantages but come to Nigeria and behave as if they never left the country. That’s the problem, anywhere you go in life, your degree or your education is meant to make you better. If you leave your place and you decide to see something better in life, you don’t come back to what you have and discontinue. You cannot go abroad and see that toilets work, shopping malls are nice, and hospitals work which is why everybody rushes to go get their kids abroad and you can’t make them here is wrong. We should make ours work because the beauty that I have seen in Maimi and other parts of the US can be brought to the Niger Delta. After all, I’ve been to the Niger Delta on the boat. I can guarantee you that if we organized ourselves in this country, oyibo will like to come here for tourism every single year. Oyibo loves traveling, especially to all countries. They will love to come to Nigeria but they don’t want to get kidnapped, killed, and abused.

“I thank the IGP for the fact of a very horrible video wherein some alleged police officers committed a criminal offense. Those officers were called upon, sacked, and arrested. Because if you are a police officer and you committed a crime, you are no longer a police officer. The moment you committed a crime, you are disrespecting the Nigerian police force, you are disrespecting your uniform. Some of our police officers are criminals because if a police officer is committing a crime, is no longer a police officer.

“Recently, I had the Inspector General of Police saying all police officers should follow the rules of traffic. I want the IG to go further by letting police officers know that if police are on an entourage, and they are guiding an entourage, and any civilian does not move out of the way of that entourage or maybe heard police sirens and do not move out of the way and park or allow that entourage pass, that civilian should be arrested. In America, in England, you dare not block the way of an ambulance, fire brigade, or police, you will be arrested because it is called obstruction of justice. Nigerians must respect sirens, it’s a two-way thing because there is what the government does for citizens and there is what the citizens do for the government. It is a social contract as we all have our part to play.

“I will also like to see less abuse in the social media between Nigerians because Nigerians are very abusive. I’ve never seen people who are so critical of their brothers and sisters. Control your mouth and mind the way you talk to your fellow Nigerians. The insult I see sometimes in the comments session is disgraceful and disgusting. Can you not make your feelings known without insulting your brother, calling his mother and father? What’s that got to do with the argument? We are richer after sharing each other opinions. We need to respect each other because this is a huge country and we have a responsibility towards each other.

“Africa is in the mess and it’s black Africans who are in the mess, Arab and white Africans are not in the mess. Or how do we explain that in South Africa when under the white world, the country was doing marvelously great but since it has been taken over by black fold, everything go down-down? We have to stop this despite having enough time, we also have enough examples. I guarantee you that Ukraine is doing better economically while at war with Russia than most African countries, and they will still come out of the war still doing better than the majority of the African countries. It is very bad, how long are we going to blame Oyibo? We are the problems, we are the faults. Why is it that everywhere we go as black people, is the same problem? We need to start taking responsibility for our actions, the monarch said.

The Dein of Agbor, his Chiefs and Journalists from Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of NUJ, Delta State Council.

Delta ALGON clarifies N40bn loan for pension

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The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Delta State chapter, on Monday, clarified reports published in a section of the media as regards the N40 billion borrowed to pay accrued rights owed primary school and local government pensioners in the State.

The State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Victor Ebonka, who gave the clarification after a meeting of the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) in Asaba, said it was not the State Government that was borrowing the funds.

Flanked by his colleagues, Ebonka said it was the statutory duty of Local Governments to pay pensions to its retirees as well as Local Education Authority (primary school retirees).

He said the problem arose due to error in the enrollment of the workers into the contributory pension scheme.

According to Ebonka, “in this Country constitutionally, we have three tiers of government; the Federal, the State and the Local Governments. We all have separate responsibilities.

“It is our constitutional responsibility to pay the Local Government staff and primary school teachers salaries.

“And we are not unmindful of the lingering problems that we have with regards to the pension benefits of the Local Government staff and that of the primary school teachers.

“This problem was inherited from the two previous administrations and it has to do with an error in the enrollment into the contributory pension scheme.

“And for this short comings, we have found ourselves owing their accrued rights from 2016 to date. The past administration set a machinery in motion and has tried to ensure that the debt is liquidated by giving several grants totaling about N5 billion and increased statutory contribution from N200 million a month to N500 million.

“Despite all these grants from the State Government, we have not been able to clear the outstanding arrears and this made the immediate past administration to set up a Committee comprising of myself the ALGON Chairman, the Head of Service and other stakeholders.

“The Committee went to the bond market to get a facility but was not successful because the cost of funds was quite expensive. So we approached the commercial bank to get the facility and we can say that Zenith Bank has agreed to afford us N40 billion out of the N51 billion indebted to the pensioners”.

He said the State Government did not borrow N40 billion as reported in some quarters, adding that the only role played by the State Government was to give approval and forward same to the State Assembly for ratification.

“So it is exclusively the Local Government Councils that are borrowing this money. You know that by law, we need the approval of the State Government and the ratification of the State Assembly and that was sort for and it was granted by the Governor and approved by the State House of Assembly.

“So any moment from now, the pensioners will smile home. We also want to state that no penny from the N40 billion is going to the coffers of the Local Governments.

“We are going to cover about ninety percent of the accrued rights from this money, all of the monies will be paid directly to the pensioners,” he said.

On environmental sanitation across the Council areas, the ALGON boss appealed to residents to abide by relevant laws, adding that mobile courts would soon be set up to try offenders.

DESOPADEC To Prioritize Projects Based On Community Needs

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Hon. Chief Dr. Charles Olisa, a member representing Ndokwa East on the board of the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), has said the board’s vision is to surpass the previous administration.

He said they are engaging critical stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, women, and youths to figure out the kind of projects needed in their community.

Dr. Olisa made this known to Journalists when members of the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists paid him a courtesy visit on Tuesday.

The DESOPADEC boss said the board is planning to come up with a template that they will work with based on the available resources.

According to him, they will prioritize all the projects based on the special needs of the communities, because they want the community to have what they wanted instead of doing a project that they don’t want at that particular time.

He spoke about the epileptic power supply in Ndokwa land, stating that he is aware of the lack of power supply by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company, BEDC, but promises that the solution will be on a two-way approach, as one will be a short term while the other will be for a long term.

Explaining, he said the short term is to engage with the BEDC to improve the power delivery and supply in Ndokwa ethnic nationality, while the long term is to work together as a team with the members of the National and State Assembly representing Ndokwa and the State government to put pressure on those responsible for the setting down of the independent power plant that will sustain enough power supply.

He also spoke about the unemployment challenges faced by the youth and its development, stating that different programs will be rolled out for the youths to make them independent and self-reliant.

Dr. Olisa added that a skill acquisition academy program is already in place to help train the youth on different skills while adding that a palliative will also be distributed to the youth from time to time to improve their economic well-being.

He said the commission hope to ensure that the processes of youth benefiting from this initiative are transparent and all-inclusive based on the limited resources which are been guided by the budget.

Hon. Chief Dr. Charles Olisa is an environmentalist, geographer, politician, and hotelier who hails from Aboh in Ndokwa East LGA of Delta State.

Hon. Chief. Dr. Charles Olisa and members of the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of NUJ

FRSC Deploy 101 Officers, 488 Marshals, To Prevent Accidents During Eid-el-Kabir Celebration In Delta

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has deployed no fewer than 101 officers, 298 marshals, and 150 Special marshals, for the special operations patrol during the Eid el-Kabir celebration.

The Sector Commander, FRSC, Delta State Command, Corp Udeme Bassey Eshiet, disclosed this in a statement he issued on Monday, June 26th, 2023, in Asaba, the State capital.

Mr. Eshiet said that about 15 Patrol vehicles, two power bikes, one Tow Truck, and three ambulances, would be on the road during the special operation.

He said that FRSC has mobilized its personnel for the 2023 Eid-El-Kabir celebration to enhance visibility and guarantee safe travels for all road users before, during, and after the festivity.

He urged motorists to obey all traffic rules and regulations and cooperate fully with the FRSC and other law enforcement agencies that would be deployed for traffic management duties.

He assured that the patrol would be sustained from 0600hrs to 1800hrs daily within the period with 24 hours rescue team while the corps would collaborate with sister agencies.

According to him, “Muslim faithful, as well as other Nigerians, will take advantage of this period to travel across the length and breadth of Nigeria to celebrate with family members and friends.

“Expectedly, the volume of traffic will rise during the festive period with attendant traffic congestion, gridlocks, and road obstructions as well as road traffic crashes, which may result in fatalities and injuries.

“The Federal Road Safety Corps, in her usual proactive method of handling road traffic management, has commenced the 2023 Eid-El-kabir Sallah Special Patrol to ensure that all road users obey traffic regulations to engender Safety and efficient travel time.

“For realization of the set operation objectives, the Delta State Sector Command has deployed a total of 101 officers, 298 marshals, 150 Special Marshals, 15 Patrol vehicles, 2 power bikes, 1 Tow truck and 3 ambulances.

“The motorists are therefore advised to be Safety conscious by complying with all road and vehicle use regulations. Road users should plan their journey to avoid night travel and road rage.

“The FRSC operatives are to ensure Road Traffic Crash is minimized during the festive season and beyond” he added.

Burna Boy Wins BET’s Best International Act

Nigeria’s afrobeat superstar and Grammy award winner, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has won the Black Entertainment Television award for Best International Act.

The 23rd Black Entertainment Television Awards was held on Monday to celebrate achievements in music, sports, television, and movies. It was held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California.

The BET, now owned by Tyler Perry, announced nominations on June 8, with Canadian rapper Drake bagging the most nominations and Burna Boy with four nominations. 

Rapper Busta Rhymes received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Patti LaBelle performed a tribute to the late Tina Turner.

Winners at the BET awards include Jalen Hurts for ‘Sportsman of the Year’, Angel Reese for ‘Sportswoman of the Year’, Libianca for ‘Viewers Choice International’, Coco Jones for ‘Best New Artist’, Teyana ‘Spike Tey’ Taylor for ‘Video Director of the Year’. 

Others are Latto for ‘Best Female Hip Hop Artist’, Burna Boy for ‘Best International Act’, Beyoncé for ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’, SZA for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist’, Chris Brown/Usher for ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist’, Drake and 21 Savage for ‘Best Group’, and ‘Wait For U’ Future ft. Drake and Tems for ‘Best Collaboration’. 

The list of winners also includes Kendrick Lamar for ‘Best Male Hip Hop Artist’, SOS/Renaissance for ‘Best Male Hip Hop Artist’, Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin for ‘Dr Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award’, Damson Idris for ‘Best Actor’, Angela Bassett for ‘Best Actress’, Marsai Martin for ‘Young Stars Award’. 

Journalists In Delta Goes Tough On Okowa, Media Aides Over Denial Of Benefits

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The Immediate past governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, faces more trouble as Journalists in the state go tough with him and his media aides, over the unbearable attitudes displayed towards them during his administration.

It was gathered that the Okowa-led administration wasn’t fair to journalists based on the lackadaisical attitude and poor treatment given to them.

The gentlemen of the press accused Okowa and his media aides of playing a divide-and-rule game among the media practitioners in the state.

In a Communique’ issued on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the well-attended emergency Congress of Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel (ICC), of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, (NUJ), held at the Chapel Secretariat in Asaba, the State capital, the Chapel pointed out that the media aides of the former governor failed woefully in the discharge of their duties.

According to the Communique’, “Congress in session frowns at the divide and rule attitude of his media managers, which seemingly made a select few chapels superior to others

“Congress-in-session notes with dismay, that over the years, the indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel which is the strategic link between government and the grassroots, has consecutively and flagrantly been marginalized in the scheme of things, especially in the coverage of major government activities.

“Congress-in-session condemns strongly, in one voice, our denial of benefits assured us by immediate past Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, CON, due to the deliberate inaction of the former Governor’s media managers.

“Going forward, Congress in session, appealed for equal treatment from the present administration’s media managers, judging from our very strategic role as community-based media in Delta. Even our brand new Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori is described as a man of EXCESSIVE LOCAL CONTENT, just like the indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel!

“Congress-in-session commends His Excellency Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for appointing one of our finest veterans, Sir Festus Ahon, as his Chief Press Secretary (CPS). We pledge to cooperate with him in the area of dissemination of information on the government’s policies and programs.

“Congress-in-session passionately appeals to His Excellency the Governor, to kindly consider appointing a member of the indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel as part of his media team, to oversee the affairs of community-based media in Delta State”, the Communique’ stressed.

CLEEN Foundation Launches Civil Society Observatory Platform To Monitor ACJA

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A nongovernmental organization that promotes public safety, security, and justice through empirical research, legislative advocacy, and demonstration program in partnership with the government, civil society, and private sector, CLEEN Foundation, has launched a civil society observatory platform towards efficient implementation and compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJA).

The launching of the platform was held on Wednesday at Best Western Plus – Elomaz Hotel, Asaba, Delta State capital, and was attended by representatives from different civil society organizations in the state.

The Observatory platform aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas for problem-solving between the civil society observatory and criminal justice actors for the smooth implementation of ACJA in the focal states. Effective tracking of compliance level to ACJA against the backdrop of the minimum standards, and efficient documentation of court proceedings on corruption-related cases to underscore strict compliance to the provisions of ACJA/ACJL, to deepening the institutionalization of continuous learning on the ACJA/ACJL.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the CLEEN Foundation, Mr. Gad Peter stated that the main objectives of the ACJA as found in Section 1 of the Act, are to promote efficient management of criminal justice institutions, provide speedy dispensation of justice, and protect the society from crime while defending the rights and the interest of the defendant and the victim. According to him, these indicate a deliberate shift from punishment which is the main goal of criminal justice to restorative justice which pays attention to the needs of society, the victims, vulnerable persons, and human dignity.

Mr. Peter stated that the establishment of the civil society observatory group on the Administration of Criminal Justice Reform is to independently monitor the compliance rate of stakeholders to the unique provisions of the ACJA/L, as a critical step towards promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in the country. Adding that it requires a strong commitment from stakeholders, the development of a clear governance structure, and a focus on achieving tangible outcomes.

He also added that the group would be composed of a diverse range of stakeholders including civil society organizations, human rights groups, legal experts, and other relevant stakeholders, while saying that for Nigerian citizens to enjoy the benefits of the revolutionary ACJA 2015 and the ACJL in various states, criminal justice actors must be ready to fully comply with their roles and responsibilities as stipulated in the Act.

According to the Executive Director, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play a critical role in holding the government accountable because they are advocates and watchdogs for the promotion of human rights and adherence to the rule of law, and act as mobilizers and educators of the public.

“In recent years, state and federal governments in Nigeria have not been receptive to civil society engagement. Many CSOs lacked the skill required to take part in policy decisions or monitor government processes through the observatory platforms, we will keep an eye on the abuse of court processes, unprofessional conduct of judges, courts attendants, and law enforcement personnel, outdated processes, and procedures leading to other challenges such as arbitrary and unlawful arrest/detentions and congested prisons, increasing numbers of awaiting trial/death row inmates, the vicious circle of impunity, incessant delays in case hearing caused by prolonged adjournment.”

“CLEEN Foundation worked with CSOs and the government to become allies in the implementation of criminal justice and anti-corruption reforms. CLEEN Foundation will support CSOs to improve their capacity to effectively engage with the government in policy advocacy and coalition building. The goal is to advocate for the institutionalization of continuous learning on ACJA and the issuance of ACJL practice directions and relevant guidelines by the state Chief Justices to guide the implementation of the laws in the focal states by criminal justice actors in the focal states.”

The Executive Director further stated that the observatory platform will focus on training and mentoring by supporting opportunities for CSOs to engage in dialogue with the government, to deepen the tools developed and initiated under phase one of the project to improve accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, which was highlighted as necessary at the end of the project evaluation report.

He added that the initiative aims to bring together civil society organizations and stakeholders to foster collaboration, advocacy, and knowledge exchange for efficient implementation and compliance with ACJA/L in the country covering eight focal states – Bauchi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kwara, Cross River, Edo, and Delta State respectively. Adding that the CSO Observatory will be a pressure group, collectively identifying and responding to emerging issues within the criminal justice system in the focal states.

“I am quite confident that this intervention by CLEEN Foundation will contribute robustly towards the efficient implementation and compliance with the administration of the criminal justice Act/Law in the project states. It would strengthen their capacity and capability for improved mandate delivery in a professional, transparent, and just manner to rid the focal states and Nigeria of judicial-enabled corruption and impunity in the criminal justice sector. We urge everyone in the room to fully support this project by constantly reporting compliance gaps with ACJA provisions using the Uwazi web platform via http//cleen/uwazi.oi,” the Executive Director added.

Tribunal: Ken Pela Debunks Rumour of Withdrawing Petition Against PDP

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The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in Delta State, Hon. Ken Pela has proved to be false the rumour of him withdrawing his petition against the People’s Democratic Party, PDP.

He revealed that the members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, told the Delta State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting that he has abandoned his petition and was completely compensated.

Ken Pela made this revelation on Tuesday while speaking to journalists during the Tribunal Sitting in Asaba.

However, the Counsel of the PDP and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, filed an application seeking the termination of his petition.

According to the petition filed by the PDP and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s counsel, they argued that Ken Pela’s petition was deemed abandoned, saying that the petitioners failed to file a pre-hearing notice seven days from when the last respondent on the matter filed his reply which elapsed on Monday.

Also, the Counsel of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Robert Emukperuo SAN,
also sought the dismissal of the petition on the same grounds

Counsel of the petitioner, S. I Nwogu said they intend to respond to the application within two days

Pela in the petition, challenged the outcome of the March 18, 2023 governorship election, saying that he should be declared winner of the polls.

On the development, Pela said he neither withdrew or abandoned the petition “I didn’t abandon my petition; we will clarify whatever the issues are with our lawyer.”

On rumours that he had joined where he had had been compensated, be said: “They did not see me coming, neither will they see me coming now. They kept thriving on rumours that l was given money, that l will step down, that Labour Party has joined PDP.

“My principal, Peter Obi said, if you want to be called His Excellency, the process by which you attain the position must be excellent”

“We will fight the process all the way to the Supreme Court to ensure that the process that will produce the next Governor of Delta State will be excellent, I am confident”

He added, We don’t mind how much it takes, but the most important thing is that we are looking for victory and at the end of the Supreme Court the victory will come”.

The three-man tribunal panel headed by Justice C.H. Ahuchaogu, who earlier stepped down the matter till 1pm, adjourned the sitting to 24 June, 2023 for hearing of the applications.

I Will Keep Maintaining My Relationship With the Grassroot – Oborevwori

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Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State said being a governor won’t stop his relationship with the people in the grassroots.

He said this during his inauguration Thanksgiving /60th birthday service at the Living Faith Church and reception ceremony in Asaba on Monday.

According to the Governor, his relationship with the people at the grassroots was key in his political journey and would never stop.

Oborevwori said “What I just have to say here is that you know me very well. I am still trying to fit into the shoes of a governor. You all know my relationship with the people at the grassroots, that relationship is very key and will not stop.

“I want everyone to be patient, more appointments will come and there will be more development for the state, even as I sincerely thank all our leaders for their show of love to me.

“I want to sincerely thank all of you who have come to celebrate with me. Your presence means a lot to me.”

DESOPADEC Send Diamond Wishes To Oborevwori As He Celebrates 60th Birthday

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Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, has sends a diamond wishes to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orovwhedor Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

The Board in a statement signed by the Managing Director, CEO, Chief Festus M. Ochonogor on Monday, described the Delta State Governor “as a man of destiny.”

The statement reads “Joy continues to fill our mouths as the Board, Management, and Staff of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, send very robust and warm wishes to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orevwhedor Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State on the occasion of his birthday on June 19, 2023.

“Your Excellency, life indeed is a gift lived by the divine grace. Your encounter in this journey has been most eventful. Over the years, you have seen favor thrust on you.”

“You have enjoyed a quantum leap of divine help on all fronts. You have been in the political trenches of our struggle for a better life for the majority of our people. You have demonstrated exemplary leadership with a calm mien and steely determination.”

“We have equally resolved to line up behind you in your utmost quest to upscale the rhythm, tempo, and candor of transformational leadership with the unbeatable M.O.R.E agenda, through our sundry people-inspired initiatives in the mandate areas. We have rolled up our sleeves to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people.”

“As your days, so may your strength increase. May the good lord keep you, sustain you, defend you, uphold you, direct you, guide, guard, and equip you with the mental creative, and pragmatic ideas needed to raise the bar of leadership in very enviable ways. Once again from all of us, Happy Birthday to Your Excellency!!!

The Board members, Olorogun John Nani, Chairman; Mr. Efele Eyewu Nicolas, Executive Director Planning, Research & Statistics; Chief Favour Izoukumor, Executive Director Social Services; Chief Taleb Tebite, Executive Director Projects; Chief Oghenekome Okpobor, Executive Director Finance, and Administration; Chief Julius Egbedi, member; Mr. Sylvester Ovbije, member; Mr. Goru Jonathan Oghenekaro, member; Mr. Azuka Enebeli, member; Dr. Charles Olisa, member; Mrs. Cordelia N. Anyangwu, member; Mr. Sonny Ofe, member; Chief Victor Okemena Egbo, member; Mr. Spencer Okpoye, member.

I Love Being Around My People, I’m A Grassroot Person – Ned Nwoko

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The Senator representing Delta North senatorial district, Prince Ned Nwoko has reiterated his desire and commitment towards working for the good people of Anioma Nation because he loves his people as a grassroots man.

Ned Nwoko made this promise on Sunday during the reception ceremony held in honor of his inauguration in Idumuje Ugboko, Aniocha North LGA.

He said he will work for his people in every sphere, sector, and area whether it is a collective interest or an individual interest, he will make sure they address all the needs of the people, ranging from health, education, road, employment, and empowerment of the youths.

According to the National Assembly member, there are many things to be done because every sector is crying for attention.

He also said as a friend of the governor, he will not allow him to rest until the governor does those things that can be done by the state, adding that many things should be done by the state and its agencies.

He said “I love the people, I love being around the people as a grassroots person. When the inauguration was to take place, many people from the lowest to the highest called me that they will be coming to Abuja and they insisted that I should have a reception in Abuja but I told them if I will have a reception in Abuja for 200-500 people, that will not serve the purpose. Again, I told them that they should not worry that I am coming back to the grassroots for Anioma people to have a reception and anybody who can come from Ndokwa, Ika, Aniocha, and Oshimili can come to be part of the reception.”

“For example, if the reception is been done in Abuja, the governor and members of the state Assembly won’t be able to be there. Only a few people will have the opportunity to be there and I also don’t like the idea of people traveling a distance journey based on the risk involved. I am happy that it has taken place here and I am also happy that many of our people were able to attend. I was born in the village, I’m still a village boy despite my education and exposure, I am happy being around the people because I love the people and the environment, I love Anioma,” Ned said.

The Delta State governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Deputy governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, State PDP Chairman, Chief Kingsley Esiso, Senior Political Adviser, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, and Great Ovedje Ogboru among others attended the ceremony.

Expect Good Governance, Better Cohesion From The 8th Assembly – Hon. Emetulu Tells Deltans

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The member representing Ndokwa West in the Delta State House of Assembly, Honourable Charles Emetulu, said Deltans should look forward to the 8th Assembly participating actively in governance.

He said the Legislature intends to collaborate with the executive arms of the government for the betterment of the entire state.

The returning lawmaker said this while speaking with journalists during the reception ceremony held at the Legislative Quarters in Asaba, the Delta State capital on Tuesday.

According to him, collaborating with the executive arms of the government does not mean that the Assembly is a rubber stamp. It only means that as democracy matures, there will be fewer conflicts.

Hon. Emetulu said the House of Assembly members are there to speak for their people saying “The House of
Assembly is Delta State. It is the democracy in it but if one removes democracy, it means there’s no Delta state”.

He added, “For example, if Hon. Emetulu is speaking, it means that the whole of Ndokwa West is speaking because for him to perform his obligations, he must confer with his people to know their demands.”

“I believe when Democracy matures, there will be fewer conflicts. Though I did not believe that I am going into conflict with anybody and if there is anything of such, it will be resolved maturely.”

He also added that the 7th Assembly has worked fantastically and he except the 8th Assembly to accomplish better cohesion.

“It is that cohesion that led to the Assembly producing the governor of the state. There is a bond, unity, love, understanding, and compassion as everybody knows what each member wanted. We give ourselves that push to achieve whatever we wanted to achieve.”

“I think the 8th Assembly will try to beat that and when they beat it, the coming assembly will also try to do it. So I believe this assembly will do better than the 7th assembly”, Emetulu said.

Oborevwori Approves Renaming Of Old Lagos-Asaba Road After Senator Ifeanyi Okowa

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the renaming of Old Lagos-Asaba Road which cut across Ika North East and Ika South LGAs after Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

Oborevwori made the approval at the grand reception in honor of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa at the Owa Model College, Boji-Boji, Owa, Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state, after the two Council Chairmen, Hon. Victor Ebonka and Hon. Sunny Tatabuzuogu requested the name to be changed in honour of the immediate past Governor.

Also, the Governor pledged that his administration would be fair, just, and equitable to all parts of the state.

He said that every senatorial district would be treated equally in terms of projects and appointments.

According to him, we have promised to do more for Deltans for entrusting us with this cherished mandate and we will do so with the fear of God.

Oborevwori applauded the Ika nation for organizing the reception in honor of the former Governor, saying “You have done very well for the people of Delta and your eight years in the saddle have been very wonderful and impactful on the lives of our people.

“There is nothing as good as your people celebrating you because some people will finish serving in public office and they cannot return home.

“But here you are being celebrated and given a hero’s welcome by your people and Deltans have come in their large numbers to honor you today in appreciation of your good deeds.

“I want to appreciate the Ika nation for organizing this hosting in your honor and I appeal to Deltans to extend the same love and support shown you to our administration.

“The immediate past Governor is very experienced in governance and leadership and I learned a lot from him in the last eight years.

“I want to serve you people and to be a Governor for all Deltans. I will be fair to you all in everything we are going to do in this administration,” Oborevwori assured.

In his remarks, Dr. Okowa thanked the Ika nation and Deltans for the honor done to him and his family and appreciated everyone who supported his administration’s success story.

“Am truly very excited to be back home and to be received in this manner and I must thank you all for honouring me and my family.

“Coming home in this way gives me a lot of peace and joy because when your people receive you the manner they have received us, it gives us a lot of comforts because it shows that we can return home anytime.

“Throughout my eight years Ika nation was very peaceful and that allowed me to perform my duties very well I must thank our youths and all stakeholders for the peace we are enjoying across the state.

“Let me appreciate all Deltans for their prayers and support and I owe you all gratitude because Delta has continued to prove its worth in the comity of states in this nation.

“I thank God for the support we got from all elected and appointed public officials. We are proud to have done the best we could given the circumstances that we found ourselves but we were able to impact the lives of our people,” he said.

He urged the people to extend support to the Oborevwori administration to advance the state through its M.O.R.E. agenda.

“You have shown me love please extend the same to Sheriff Oborevwori. He has promised us that he is going to do more and am convinced in my heart that he is prepared for the job.

“Your Excellency, we are proud of you and I thank Deltans for voting for you and our party,” Okowa stated.

Welcoming guests earlier, Chairman Planning Committee, Hon. Nduka Irabor, said they honored the Governor for his outstanding accomplishments in the administration of the state and for making Ika nation and the entire Delta proud.

He commended Deltans for coming out in large numbers to honor the immediate past governor and his family, adding that the Okowa administration witnessed unmatched peace and unprecedented development across the three Senatorial Districts of the state.

The Wife of the Governor Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor represented by Rear Admiral Ndidi Agholor, former Governor of the state, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan; immediate past Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; former Deputy Governor, Chief Benjamin Elue; Minority Leader House of Representatives, Chief Ndudi Elumelu; Senator James Manager; Senator Ighoyota Amori, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Chief of Staff to the Governor Hon. Johnson Erijo, Senior Political Adviser Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Olorogun John Oguma, Mr. Hope Oborevwori, Olorogun Talib Tebite among others dignitaries were present at the ceremony

Southern Nigeria Youth Congress Endorses Akpabio For Senate Presidency

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… Commends Tompolo For Assisting FG On Security Against Oil Theft

The Southern Nigeria Youth Congress has vehemently endorsed the candidature of Senator Godswill Akpabio for Senate Presidency, describing him as eminently qualified to occupy the number three office on behalf of the people of South-South Nigeria.

Briefing the press in Asaba, Delta State, the President General of the group, Comrade Emordi Ugochukwu Caleb a.k.a Odogwu affirmed that it was the strong belief of the Congress of the Southern Nigeria Youth to throw their weight behind Akpabio, just as he said that no Senator from the South-South region of Nigeria had ever held that office.

According to Emordi, “On National Assembly leadership, we wish to reiterate that it is the turn of the South-South to produce a Senate President. We are calling on all elected Senators from Southern Nigeria and other regions to support a South-South Senate President in the spirit of fair play.

“For those bringing up the argument that Senate Presidency should go to the North because His Excellency, President Tinubu is from the South-West, may we remind them that the 8 years of the Immediate Past President, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari saw Senator Saraki and Ahmed Lawan from the North as Senate Presidents.

“It is therefore only right for the position to now rotate to South-South and we believe that His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio is best qualified, experienced and possessing of the needed capacity to effectively perform as a Senate President. We, therefore, pass a vote of confidence on His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio for the exalted office of the Senate President.

“We also encourage every elected member of the House of Representatives from Southern Nigeria to support a Northern Speakership bid for equity and fairness while we call on all Nigerians to support the South Eastern Nigeria for the Deputy Speaker in the spirit of inclusivity”, he submitted.

Additionally, Emordi commended a true and illustrious Niger Deltan, General Government Ekpemukpolor a.k.a Tompolo for his bold face Security fronting towards assisting the Federal Government to secure the waterways against oil theft through his company, Tantita Security Services.

In praising Tompolo for his effort at helping Federal Government sanitise the Niger Delta region to save it huge foreign earnings, Emordi urged the Government under President Tinubu to continue to do all within her powers to ensure proper security of the Niger Delta region.

His words, “We wish to really appreciate all the Southern leaders and stakeholders helping Nigeria in the battle to curtail economic sabotage through crude oil theft and bunkery, especially General Government Ekpemukpolor a.k.a Tompolo and his Tantita Security Services company for the efforts so far in sanitising the region. While we call on Federal Government through the Federal Ministries of Environment, Petroleum, Niger Delta Affairs, and NIMASA and NNPC to immediately commence the cleanup of Ogoni and other communities in the Niger Delta, affected by oil spillage and as well upscale Youth Economic Empowerment in the region to curtail restiveness, we want to assure the Federal Government and President Tinubu of our full support and cooperation to his administration”.

My Administration Has Zero Tolerance For Sectionalism And Nepotism – Oborevwore

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…..Swears In SSG, SPOLAD

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwore said to Deltans that his administration has zero tolerance for sectionalism and nepotism in the management of government business.

He also said he is an unrepentant believer in the unity of the State.

Oborevwori said this while swearing in Dr. Kingsley Emu as Secretary to the State Government, (SSG), and Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo as Senior Political Adviser, (SPOLAD) on Friday, in Asaba.

The Governor who complimented the appointees on their well-deserved appointments, urged them to key into the M.O.R.E agenda of his administration to break new grounds in infrastructural renewal, human capital development, and social investment programms.

According to the Governor, political appointees in his administration must shun ethnic politics and sectionalism and regard the entire state as their constituency while stressing that they must be fair and just to all Deltans.

He said “Let me sound it loud and clear that this administration has zero tolerance for sectionalism or nepotism. I am an unrepentant believer in the unity of Delta State.

“Therefore, both of you must always strive for unity by ensuring that there is fairness, equity, and justice in all your actions and utterances.

“This administration is set to build on the legacies of the previous government and break new grounds in infrastructure renewal, human capital development, and social investment programms.

“In this regard, Dr. Emu’s broad experience in government will be very useful in the implementation of our MORE agenda.

“He has a firm grasp of our policy direction and therefore, in a position to properly integrate it into the operations and activities of the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government.

“A major requirement for success in this office is the ability to marry policy and politics. Policy generally points the direction of the government but good political skills enable their seamless execution.

“As the engine room of government, the SSG interfaces with and coordinates the operations of all the MDAs. Hence the SSG must be a consensus builder with the wisdom to marry policy with politics.

“Indeed, how the SSG carries out this function is very critical to the success of this administration. With his vast experience in corporate governance and the public sector, Dr. Emu is well equipped to handle this responsibility.

“I advise Dr. Emu to ensure that he is accessible to all. This office will certainly task your patience and resourcefulness because you will be confronted with all manners of issues from all manners of persons. But you must never lose your cool.

“Ask God for the grace and enablement to always remain calm, while maintaining the highest standards of discipline, firmness, and decorum.”

Oborevwori assured Deltans that he would be faithful in implementing the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda, adding that appointments would be based on capacity and merit.

“I wish to reassure the good people of Delta State that this administration will be faithful to its MORE agenda. In formulating our manifesto, we were very mindful of the needs and aspirations of our people at this time.

“Deltans should expect MORE policies and programmes that will touch their lives positively because ours is a home-grown approach to governance and development.

“As I have always said, this will be an all-inclusive government whether in terms of projects distribution or appointments.

“With the appointment of the SSG, the process of constituting the State Executive Council has commenced. However, I wish to state that appointments into this administration will be based on capacity and merit.

“We need capable, tested, and competent hands who can hold their own and be worthy ambassadors of the government. Rest assured, it will be a good mix of youth and experience but they must be deserving,” Oborevwori stated.

Responding, Dr Emu thanked Governor Oborevwori for finding them worthy to serve, adding that they would remain loyal to administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda aimed at advancing Delta.

The Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, former Governor of the state, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, a former Deputy Governor, Chief Benjamin Elue, and Senator James Manager among others attended the ceremony.

NUJ Delta Congratulates Festus Ahon On Appointment As CPS To Governor Oborevwori

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, congratulates the Senior Correspondent of the Vanguard Newspapers and National Ex-Officio of NUJ, Comrade Festus Ahon on his well deserved appointment as the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

The Union in a letter signed by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, NUJ Chairman
Delta State Council and Comrade Patrick Ochei, NUJ Secretary Delta State Council stated that Comrade Ahon has proven his mettle in the journalism practice as a distinguished professional in all aspects of the profession, including character and ethical conduct.

The letter reads “We are proud of him as an active and loyal member of the Union in the state for which he was nominated for an appointment as the National Ex-Officio of NUJ in the administration of Comrade Chief Christopher Isiguzo.”

“We indeed commend the amiable and media friendly Governor for this extension of a hand of fellowship to the NUJ, just immediately after being sworn-in as the Executive Governor of Delta State.”

“Of course, the Governor made a promise to the leadership of the NUJ, to appoint a member of the Union who must satisfy the yearnings and aspirations of all members of the Union. This he has achieved as the vast majority of our members are happy and jubilating on hearing the news of Festus Ahon’s appointment.”

“We make bold to say that the NUJ Delta State Council is at home with Comrade Festus Ahon and will work assiduously to ensuring that he succeeds in his new assignment.”

“Like Oliver Twist, we plead with our dependable Governor, to also accord us the honour of appointing for us, a media practitioner in the State as the next Commissioner for Information.”

“We equally look forward to seeing more of our members appointed into the Government of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in order to continue to foster the cordial working relationship that already exists between us.”

“Once again, we congratulate the newly minted CPS, Comrade Festus Ahon. We rejoice with him and hail this appointment with utmost appreciation to Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

Sheriff Oborevwori Makes First Appointment As Delta State Governor

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Hours after the inauguration, the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori approved the appointment of Mr. Festus Igboyeguonor Ahon as the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of the state.

Mr. Ahon until his appointment, was the State Correspondent of the Vanguard Newspaper and a National Ex-Officio Member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Warri Will Get Special Attention – Sheriff Oborevwori Declares After Swearing-In

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Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori has been sworn in as the 5th executive Governor of Delta State, the big heart.

The Governor and his deputy, Sir John Onyeme took the oath of office conducted by the State Chief Judge, Justice Theresa Diai, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

According to the Governor in his inaugural address, promised to give special attention to the metropolitan city of Warri and its environs by advancing its economic activities.

The Governor stated that his administration will mark a new era that will advance Delta State to greater heights in people-centered policies, human capital development, and infrastructure renewal.

He also thanks Deltans for the opportunity given to him and his deputy while promising to do more for the citizens of the state.

Oborevwori said “I accept with humility the responsibility which the good people of Delta State have bestowed upon me to serve as their governor for the next four years.

“I accept it with a resolve to do MORE to ADVANCE the State to new heights in leadership and socio-economic development.

“Today marks the beginning not only of a new administration, but of an era that will advance Delta State to greater heights in people-centered policies, human capital development, and infrastructure renewal.”

With what has been achieved by the immediate past administration, the new government is poised to ADVANCE the state through the MORE agenda, which stands for Meaningful development; Opportunities for all; Realistic reforms; and Enhanced peace and security.”

He also said his administration will foster sustainable economic growth and private sector job creation; boost human capital; build an enabling infrastructure; enhance governance and accountability systems for improved service delivery; and strengthen public financial management.

“In furtherance of these objectives, the existing entrepreneurship development programs will be sustained and expanded to encourage the creation of more small-scale businesses, thus creating jobs and, consequently, reducing crime and anti-social activities among our vibrant youth population.

“We will also enhance the existing social investment programs for the benefit of the poor and vulnerable groups, including widows and People Living with Disabilities, through microcredit, training, and business networking.”

He added that his administration will develop empowerment programs for women’s associations, particularly in rural areas.

“This administration will ensure the completion of all ongoing projects – roads, bridges, schools, and other physical infrastructure. As you all know, government cannot do it alone. Hence, we shall build a conducive environment for public-private partnership investments in virtually all sectors of the economy.

“In the agricultural sector, we shall develop the agricultural value chain, which is a major driver of sustainable economic growth.

“This administration will spare no effort to ensure that the development of agro-industrial parks is accelerated, given their potential to generate employment opportunities, create wealth, reduce unemployment, and improve food security.”

Oborevwori alike commended his predecessor for setting the foundation which he would build on assuring that “We will improve the quality of life of our people, build bridges of social cohesion, and give our people the hope of a better tomorrow, and accelerated development.”

“I pledge to run an open and responsive government that meets the needs and aspirations of our people. I am committed to making life richer, better, and more fulfilling for our people.”

Deserving Congratulations To Our Mint Governor, Sheriff Oborevwore

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The Board, management, and staff of the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission, DESOPADEC, are pleased to join millions of progress-minded Deltans to send joyful, robust and reassuring congratulations to the mint Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori on his formal inauguration as the 5th democratically elected Executive Governor of Delta State on Monday, May 29, 2023.

In a celebratory message, the commission stated “Your Excellency, there is no doubt that you have walked the tested rope of pragmatic leadership over the years with a proven track record of progress and positive impact.”

“Delta’s do know this and have entrusted the solemn and noble mandate of leadership to you to up the ante, brace the odds, confront the challenges and deliver quality, result-oriented dividends of democracy to the greater number of our citizens.”

“As you take the oath of allegiance as Chief Servant of our dear State, we assure you of our unalloyed support and cooperation as the State’s foremost interventionist agency to exceed expectations on all fronts. Once again, congratulations on your excellence.”

DSTG Approves Establishment Of Independent Power Plant In Ika North East

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To keep to the promise of working until the last day of his administration, the Delta State Government led by Sen Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has approved several projects in barely five days to vacate the governor’s office.

The government approved the establishment of another independent power plant in Ika North East and other projects within the state.

The honorable Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu made this known to journalists immediately after the State Executive meeting at the government house in Asaba, the state capital on Tuesday.

According to the information commissioner, a lot of memos were brought forward and approved. Most of these memos centered on the development of infrastructures, adding that the establishment of 2.5 megawatts of electricity became necessary based on the need to provide enough power energy for critical government establishment in the state.

The Commissioner said it is an opportunity for the state to utilize based on the amendment to the Constitution, which now guaranteed full liberalization of the power sector wherein the federal government makes it possible for states to now generate, transmit, and distribute electricity.

He said the government also approved the procurement and installation of medical equipment at 20 General hospitals across the state, adding that the medical equipment is to boost the delivery of healthcare to the people of the state.

He also said the government has approved the appointment of Samson Sapele Obruche 11, as the Odion O’rode of Uwheru Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area.

Mr. Aniagwu again said that the government has approved the payment of the outstanding debt incurred due to the rent of some of the properties that the government has rented before now. According to him, after the development of the state secretariat, the government made it possible for people to leave all those rented apartments and has decided to pay off a number of these landlords the rents the government has not paid before now.

He said the construction of 2.3 kilometers road in Obiaruku, as well as internal roads in Turugbene in the Burutu Local Government Area of the state has also been approved.

Mosra Energy Commission New Mining Equipments With 600MW Coal Power Plant in Ugboba

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Mosra Energy Limited, a coal mining company on Tuesday, inaugurated new mining equipment for Mosra Energy Idowu Falola Coal Mines and also commissioned a groundbreaking of 600MW mine-mouth coal power plants by Ramos Electric in the Ugboba community, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The commissioning witnessed the presence of the honorable minister, Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Arc. Olamilekan Adegbeti; Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinlade; Representative of the Delta State governor, Hon. Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Prince Emmanuel Agbadugba; DG MCO, Engr Obadiah Nkem; Director Mines Inspection, Engr. Ganiyu and the host traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty Obi Ezedimba Nkebakwu 111, Obi of Ugboba; other traditional rulers, and members of the inter-community coal committee and environs.

Commissioning the new mining equipment and the 600mw power plant, the chairman and CEO of Mosra Energy Limited, Mr. Olukayode Ramos, said these projects represent a historic milestone in the company’s journey towards meeting the energy need and growing the Nigerian economy where power is not sufficient but affordable.

The CEO said when they embarked on the project, they were driven by the need to contribute their quota to the national development policy called Coal to Power program, adding that the Coal to Power program is a federal government initiative of encouraging the private sector to participate in the energy sector that targeted 30 percent electricity generation from coal in line with the Roadmap for Power Sector Reform and Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP) for Nigeria.

According to the CEO, the new mining equipment will turbo-change the mining activities in Ugboba, adding that the new mining equipment is top-of-the-line with the latest technology and equipment that will enable the mining operations to remain efficient and safe.

Mr. Ramos stated that the groundbreaking 600MW power plant is another significant milestone for the company’s power strategy. In his words, “Our power situation needs urgent attention, and our power plant is a step in the right direction.”

Ramos further stated that the plant will provide a stable power supply to the local communities and significantly impact the country’s energy provision, by alleviating the suffering of millions of Nigerians who lack access to electricity.

He added that the establishment of the mine-mouth coal power plant will create employment opportunities for residents. According to him, the direct and indirect impacts on employment could be ten times direct employment, benefiting products and services such as food, clothing, catering, transport, communication, and housing.

He explained that the construction phase alone will create thousands of jobs for construction workers over a decade of construction of facilities and numerous jobs in allied services.

Explaining, he said, “Mosra Energy Limited has also engaged in several infrastructures and other CSR projects such as the ongoing construction of the Ukwu-uzu/Obomkpa/Ugboba 2.2 km road worth N1.3 billion, the completion of an Erosion control project worth N237 million, supply and distribution of laptops worth N7 million, construction of borehole worth N20 million, provision and installation of rechargeable solar lights worth N21 million and supply of motorcycle worth N940 thousands.”

“I pledged Mosra continued the commitment to driving Nigeria’s energy agenda through excellence and innovation. We thank everyone who made this possible. We thank you all for being part of this milestone achievement in our journey and look forward to celebrating many more successes together. Thank you all for gracing this occasion with your presence, and may we all see the fruit of our labor,” Mosra CEO said during the commissioning.

Also speaking is Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinlade, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development who stated that Mosra Energy has by this sterling milestone set itself apart as a brand with a unique vision whose vision is home-grown, very indigenous, a factor she considers to be critical for the long term interests of the country in general and for the communities in particular.

She added that the event marks an important turning point for all the stakeholders, the community, and the company – Mosra Energy Limited, the State Government as host, and the Ministry of Mines and Steels as regulators of the sector.

According to her, each has a role to play in the success of the project which she says is complimentary and so they need to continuously collaborate for the success of the project.

The Permanent Secretary, therefore, congratulates the Chairman/CEO of Mosra Energy Limited, Mr. Olukayode Ramos, for the laudable project and also the management and staff for making the vision come alive despite daunting challenges. She urged all stakeholders; Community leaders, security agencies, and State and Local Government authorities to play their part to ensure that the project fulfills its purpose.

The Honorable Minister of Mines and Steels Development, Arc. Olamilekan Adegbeti commended Mosra Energy Limited for its vision and the manifestation of its idea.

He stated that Mosra Energy Limited being the first coal power plant in Nigeria, has started the construction of 600 megawatts power plant and in a few years, the project will impact positively in the communities, the state, and the country.

He, therefore, urges the community and the company to foster unity and cooperation toward enhancing productivity for the betterment of the country.

In addition, the Honourable Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Prince Emmanuel Agbadugba congratulated Mosra Energy Limited for their display of oneness by allowing the project to happen and also encouraged them to continue to maintain peace to enable the dividend of the project to triple down to their doorstep.

Giving the vote of thanks, His Royal Majesty, Obi Ezedimba Nkebakwu 111, Obi of Ugboba, appreciated Mosra Energy for keeping up with its commitments, while assuring them of the best cooperation from the community in terms of encouraging a cordial working relationship as the operations proceed.

Obi Nkebakwu 111 further applauded the people of Ugboba for their unalloyed patriotism and support to his rulership, while also acknowledging that the community had taken the best decision in the interest of the Energy development of Nigeria with the expectation of ripple advantages to the community.

Team FAM Hails Delta Governor-Elect Oborevwori, Passes Vote Of Confidence On Hon. Rapu, DTHA Member

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A political pressure group, Team FAM, set up to create political awareness among the indigenes and non-indigenes residing in Oshimili South with the passion to play participatory politics, particularly in Oshimili South local government area and Delta State in general, drum support for Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Delta State governor-elect.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the convener, Ogbueshi Afam Mkpaya, acknowledged that, as a pro-PDP political pressure group, they believe in the person of Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, the governor-elect as they are ready to toe the line of his MORE agenda to leverage on the gains of the Stronger Delta vision of the outgoing Governor, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, who place Delta on the global map of accelerated development with the strong human capital flow.

The group stated that its members from Ward 9 Westend, hereby align with the ward exco, in passing a vote of confidence on the member representing Oshimili South State Constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Shadrach Ekene Rapu, for not only attracting numerous state and constituency projects to his people as a member of DTHA’s Finance and Appropriation committee in his four (4) year term but also mobilizing various political groups at his expense, during the just concluded 2023 general elections.

The group also stated that such trait of patriotism and unalloyed loyalty to the PDP as displayed by Hon Shadrach Ekene Rapu, a one-time State Treasurer of the PDP should serve as a reference point to some disgruntled members of the ward (9), who attempted to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of a magnanimous and high ranking legislator.

Part of the statement read “We wholeheartedly commend the first-ever Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly of Oshimili South extraction, Rt Hon Peter Onwusanya, for the proactive roles he played in galvanizing massive support for the party PDP, during the just concluded general elections.”

“We heartily congratulate an illustrious daughter of Ahaba, Bridget Anyafulu, Esq, for emerging victorious as member-elect representing Oshimili South State Constituency I’m the incoming State Assembly. We have no doubts that with her rich pedigree in advocacy, her term in office will usher not only effective representation but also more people-oriented dividends of democracy.”

“We appeal to the youths of Oshimili South to wake up from the slumber of political docility and brace up to be counted as we chart a new course in the political development of our area. We should note that the onus lies on us to change the narratives of seeing that education is a key to development and not a scam, that we as leaders of tomorrow should be well primed towards filling the gap of leadership that will inevitably be imminent when our elders and leaders vacate the space.”

“Long live FAM, live the PDP, long live Oshimili South and long live Delta State.”

Owa Model Primary School Wins 2023 Zenith Bank Headmaster’s Cup In Delta

The 2023 Zenith Bank Headmaster’s Cup in Delta State, comes to an end on Friday, May 19, 2023, with Owa Model Primary School, Owa, defeating Ogedegbe Primary School, Warri at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, the state capital.

Owa boys beat their opponents three goals to one during penalty kicks, after a full-time draw of three individual goals.

Aside from winning the medal, the winners of the tournament went home with a brand new eighteen-seater bus, courtesy of the state government, and a cheque of N750,000 from Zenith Bank.

The third-place match was won by Destiny Group of Schools, Ughelli, which defeated Ogidi Primary School, Patani, with a two-goal beating.

Speaking at the end of the first half of the game, the State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, said the aim of the tournament, which was to boast school sports in Delta state and catch potential football stars young had been largely achieved.

Okowa, who was represented by the State Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, reiterated the decision of the state government to continually invest in sports development, which he pointed out had paid off with the wonderful performance of Delta state in national and international pursuits.

The Governor applauded Zenith Bank for maintaining the sponsorship of the competition in the state and assured the financial institution of the constant assistance of the state government in that path.

Also speaking on the occasion, the State Commissioner for Basic Education, Hon (Chief) Sunday Onoriode, said the state government’s interest in partnering with Zenith Bank for the competition was to facilitate the development of grassroots sports in the state.

Chief Onoriode stated that the tournament was aimed at discovering talented children in the game of football and strengthening them to play in the Under-17 football competition, pinpointing that the Okowa administration had, over the past eight years, promoted sporting activities and also created a master plan for the development of grassroots sports, in partnership with the Organized Private Sector.

According to him, the Primary Education arm of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education had left no stone unturned in ensuring that the Zenith Bank Delta Headmasters’ Cup Football Competition met the expectations of the sponsors and other stakeholders in the game of football.

The Commissioner observed that the 2023 edition of the tournament was unique as it was the last the Okowa administration would be involved in, revealing that over 600 primary schools across the state registered for the competition out of which one team would emerge the overall winner.

Chief Onoriode thanked Governor Okowa for his visionary strides in making Delta great through sports and Zenith Bank for the institution’s irresistible support for sports development initiatives in the state.

Earlier, the Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Mr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, while speaking, explained that the 2023 edition was the second to be sponsored by the bank, describing the competition as the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, which had generated the expected results.

The GMD, who was represented by the Regional Director, Mr. Lucky Ighade, commended the state government for being a collaborator in progress in the sponsorship of the tournament and thanked the competing schools and their officials for their contributions to the success of the tournament.

Abanum Commends Okowa, Pledges To Maintain Newly Commissioned Mechanic Village

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The Chairman of the Artisans Association of Delta State Comrade, Ifeanyi Abanum has commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the land approved for the Automobile technicians, in Asaba.

Speaking to newsmen in an exclusive interview in his office, He disclosed that the approved land will be used as workshops and business avenues for automobile technicians.

The chairman noted that the reason for the land approved by the governor was to create more workshops for every mechanic in town to move out and relocate into the mechanic’s village.

He urged all the Automobile Technicians and spare parts dealers to work in unity and adopt the new guidelines, guiding the operation of the mechanic Village for proper achievement in line with the Smart Agenda of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

“Apart from the aesthetics, the mechanic village offers Deltans and Artisans a befitting one-stop auto market where they can purchase all auto parts as well as repair their automobiles with the latest state-of-the-art technology and equipment in a most convenient, secured, serene world-class environment”.

He added, “thousands of jobs will be created by this project even as new businesses have been set up apart from its impact on hospitality in the capital city”

“This project is part of senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa campaign promises to create wealth and bring massive infrastructural development to Delta”.

And with this Ultra-Modern Auto-mechanic village, sanity will be restored in the State Capital Territory and it will enable the capital territory well structured and managed”environmental aspect for which the mechanic village was created.

He said, the Artisans pledged their unalloyed loyality and support to the incoming administration in order to maintain continuity.

He thanked the governor, for fulfilling all his promises just as he added that the governor did more than what the Artisans requested.

He also appreciated the Chief of Staff, Hon. Festus Agas, the Senior Political Adviser, Hon. Solomon Funkekeme, Hon. Kingsley Emu, Chief Economic Adviser, , the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Mike Okah and others respectively, for their supports in achieving the ultra modern mechanic village in Asaba.

National Museum: OFAAC Founder, Ifeadi, Honoured For Promoting Nigeria’s Rich Cultural Heritage

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In commemoration of the International Museum Day, the Founder of the Organisation For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) and Chief Executive Officer of the Contemporary Group Ltd, Arc. Kester Ifeadi has been honoured with an Award of Excellence by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in Asaba, Delta State.

He was honoured in recognition of his tireless effort in promoting Nigeria’s Rich Cultural Heritage, by the Director General of National Museums and Monuments, Prof. Abba Isa Tijani, who was represented by the Curator, National Museum, Mungo Park House, Asaba, Elder Emeka Idika Kalu.

In the address of the DG, Ifeadi was eulogized for not just his architectural prowess with over 300 designs and projects all over the country in his over 35 years of practice, but for his inspirational cum professional contributions to the Restoration of the Mungo Park House, Asaba.

Historically, the Mungo Park House was built in 1886 as soon as the colonial masters disembarked by the River Niger through the Royal Niger Company that oversaw Nigeria on behalf of the British Government at the time. That means that, Nigeria was ruled by the colonial masters from Asaba way before places like Calabar and Lagos.

When the concept to Restore the Mungo Park House to its original form was hatched as soon as the National Museums and Monuments commenced operation therein in 1997, Ifeadi was fully involved and indeed supervised the project, thereby restoring it to its original state as it were in 1886.

In view of the above, in addition to his numerous contributions to cultural renaissance and traditional rebirth in Nigeria, he was selected among many to be so honoured by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments.

In his address, Prof. Tijani recognised that “The world looks up to May 18 every year, as Museums and communities from all over the world come together to celebrate International Museum Day.

“Throuh the years, International Museum Day has become a veritable avenue to advocate for the role of Museums in society. This year, the theme for the World Museum Day celebration is ‘Museums, Sustainable Development and Well-being’.

“The theme of this year’s Museum Day has opened up huge possibilities for Museums and cultural organisations to engage with the health and well-being of society.

“The National Commission for Museums and Monuments as an agent of government charged with the responsibility of protection and promotion of the nation’s Heritage resources has contributed and is still contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goals; supporting climate action and fostering inclusivity, tackling social isolation, and improving mental health.

“As we join the global community to mark the 2023 International Museum Day, let us be conscious of our roles and the expectations of the people around us”, the DG posited.

Congratulating Ifeadi once more on his numerous contributions to the promotion of Culture and building of bridges across ethnic boundaries through professional architecture and philanthropy, the Curator of the National Museum Asaba, Elder Emeka Idika Kalu commended him for the huge support he has continued to render to the Mungo Park House.

He equally thanked the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa on behalf of the DG, for his immense financial assistance to the Restoration of the Mungo Park House.

In his response to the Award, Arc. Kester Ifeadi said, though he was overwhelmed by the award, he would forever cherish it as a mark of appreciation.

He said he has received numerous Awards in the past, but sees this one as special to the effect that he would never regret his effort in the Mungo Park House project.

Arc. Ifeadi therefore, dedicated the award to God as the Giver of Talent and Grace, for how He has continued to make all things possible for him.

He also dedicated the award to the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for his commitment to tourism development, affirming that the Restoration of the Mungo Park House wouldn’t have been possible without the approval and funding of the Government under Governor Okowa. He sincerely appreciated him for monitoring all aspects of progress of the project until it was completed and put to use.

For Chief Philip Asiodu, Arc. Ifeadi thanked him for his efforts in National Conservation of Monuments and undisputed concept to the Restoration of the Mungo Park House, maintaining that the Mungo Park House is one of the most cherished projects in his over 35 years of practice as an Architect.

According to Ifeadi, “The National Commission for Museums and Monuments should endeavour to extract more information from the ethnic nationalities that make up the Lower Niger Basin, in order to make the Asaba Museum richer in quantity and quality.

“You need to do a proper history of the Mungo Park House while also expanding on the Exhibition to tell a richer story in order to showcase the underlying importance of the heritage.

“In all of these, the economic importance of Tourism cannot be overemphasized. Apart from Agriculture, Tourism is the next industry that puts money in everybody’s pocket. I once traveled to observe the Zanzibar culture; their tourism potential is not as rich as that of Mungo Park, but they were able to package their culture well, to the effect that tourists regularly occupy their hotels from all over the world.

“We need more advocacy if we must advance, leveraging on the strategic importance of the Mungo Park House. The Traditional Rulers as custodians of culture and traditions must get involved to make the effort a sustainable venture. I suggest that they should begin by ensuring that the Gallery proposed for the Council of Traditional Rulers House, is fully implemented”, Ifeadi advised.

It was a huge honour done Ifeadi, as he was showered with accolades from dignitaries present while receiving the award alongside two other recipients.

Indeed, it was an entertaining day as there were cultural performances and other side attractions that made the event a befitting one.

How To Reduce Post-Harvest Losses In Agricultural Products Using Technology

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The Federal Ministry of Science and Technology Innovation (FMSTI) in collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Science and Technology through the Department of Bioresources Technology organized a four days capacity development program on post-harvest losses reduction in agricultural products.

The event aimed to equip farmers and allied practitioners with the requisite knowledge and abilities in handling agricultural products to reduce post-harvest losses, commenced on Tuesday, May 16th, and is scheduled to end on Friday, May 19th, 2023, in the Ministry of Science and Technology conference room, Cluster B, first floor at Prof. Chike Edozien’s secretariat, Mariam Babangida Way, Asaba.

Speaking at the event is the Delta State Honourable Commissioner of Science and Technology, Olorogun Mrs. Jennifer Oma Adesan Efeviroro, who said the workshop with the theme “The Use Of Technology In Post-Harvest Losses Reduction In Agricultural Products” could not have come at a better time as the whole world is facing a different crisis ranging from post covid-19 effect, recession, inflation, food shortages, internal conflicts, international war (such as the Russian and Ukraine).

Hon. Efeviroro thanked the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation for their vision, resourcefulness, and tenacity of purpose in extending the collaboration exercise to Delta State, maintaining that the program is second to its kind.

According to her, the first was organized from the 24th to the 28th of June in 2019, with the theme “Technology and Innovative Bioresources Interventions To Improve Income And Livelihood” in which one hundred youths and women are trained in fish farming, snail rearing, and grass cutter breeding with starter packs issued to all the participants at the end of the workshop.

She said as the present administration winds to a halt, they are looking retrospectively over the past almost eight years, through which her ministry, the job creation office, other agencies of government, the state government led by the visionary governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, has impacted meaningfully in the economy of the state in entrepreneurial development index, creating jobs and improving the economic well-being of its citizens through the Information and Communication Technology Youth Empowerment Programme (ICT-YEP), Skill Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurship Programme (YAGEP), and others.

Mrs. Efeviroro thanked His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the executive governor of Delta State who has demonstrated an uncommon passion for wealth creation and human capital development as a requisite for good governance. His gracious and unalloyed support has given a good foundation for building businesses across the state.

She also encouraged the trainees to take the exercise so seriously as they stand to gain immensely from it, adding that the knowledge gained will be very useful to them as a farmer or allied practitioners.

“It will be a credit seeing you practice what you have learned in these few days to the benefit of our dear state,” the commissioner said.

MOSRA Energy Commissions Water Project For Ugboba Community, Begins Coal Mining Operations

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Ugboba community, an agrarian locality in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State, has been provided with potable water by a coal mining company, MOSRA Energy Limited.

In a well attended commissioning ceremony on Monday 15th May, 2023, the amiable Monarch of Ugboba Kingdom, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nkebakwu Emmanuel Ezedimbu 111, appreciated MOSRA Energy for such a gesture, assuring them of the best of cooperation from the community in terms of fostering of cordial working relationship, as the mining operations continue to progress.

Obi Nkebakwu also commended the people of Ugboba for their unalloyed loyalty and support to his rulership, maintaining that the community had taken the best decision in the interest of the Energy development of Nigeria with the hope of ripple effect benefits to the community.

According to the UK trained Monarch, “I sincerely wish to appreciate MOSRA Energy for their kind gesture in ensuring that Ugboba gets potable water for drinking. This ceremony is not much but means so much to us.

“Today, we have come to witness the commissioning of the water project built for us by MOSRA Energy and also to take delivery of the two motorcycles donated to the vigilance group to advance security in the community.

“The world is today, also aware of the commencement of mining activities in Ugboba. This community has eventually etched her name in the history of mineral deposits communities contributing their own quota to the development of Energy sources in Nigeria.

“Our country Nigeria is predominantly gas producing in Energy source. Coal is one of the main sources of energy in China, ranking about 50 percent of their energy source.

“It is in our own best interest to look inward and give what we have for the Energy development of our country. We want to change the industrial sector, we want to contribute to power sector and we want to be happy as a people. For this, I commend Ugboba people for their understanding, and, I urge them to keep the unity of Ugboba in tact. We will definitely achieve our aim of a better Ugboba when we coexist together in peace, unity and love.

“MOSRA Energy has provided Potable Water for Ugboba people as part of their commitment in the Community Development Agreement (CDA). Ours is to remain peaceful and law-abiding as mining operations begin in earnest. We are delighted for what God is doing and we will not take this privileged opportunity for granted.

“Let me emphasise to prove naysayers wrong in their ignorant attempt to cast aspersions on the mining project. There is no difference in what MOSRA Energy is doing here from what Coal mining is all about in other developed climes like Germany, where 16-30 percent of their coal mining is Lignite. There is no harmful effect with regards to the ongoing Lignite Coal mining in Ugboba and other Coal deposits communities around it.

“In this kind of mining, the company is using Open Cast system to excavate. This is a method where the soil is opened in a shallow form and the Coal taken away, afterwhich the deep is covered with the same soil. We even have forest with enough capacity to curtail any environmental effects like dust. They also have equipment that wets the environment with water.

“We must realise that Energy sufficiency is the bedrock of any development. If we don’t mine, we cannot enjoy developmental infrastructures like road and electricity.

“In Nigeria as a country, we do not have diversified sources of energy. India and China have about 40 and 45 energy sources. We want to start using what God has given us to start living well. With this Lignite Coal, Ugboba will be paying her own due in developing Nigeria and helping to provide energy source for Nigeria. By the Paris Convention on coal mining regulations, the world is aware of the mining project in Ugboba. It is not hidden and we must do everything humanly possible to achieve success in our Energy sufficiency agenda for Nigeria, and in particular, the accruing developmental benefits to our community”, Obi Ugboba explained.

Meanwhile, the Federal Mines Officer, Delta State, representing the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Golden-Okpataku Fatima thanked the King and people of Ugboba for supporting the mining efforts of the Federal Government in the community.

Her words, “I thank God for making it possible for us to witness this laudable event. I congratulate His Royal Majesty, Obi of Ugboba for ensuring that this monumental project is taking place in his time.

“I plead with Ugboba people to continue to support the king because of his tireless effort to make this project a reality. He has a good heart towards the development of the community.

“For MOSRA Energy, please do your best to treat the community well. We will ensure that this exploration project is environmentally sustainable. The Minister is passionate about this project, he wants this particular mining experience better than what we have in Kogi State. Remember that Johannesburg was a community like this in time past, but today, it is a big city with enormous development that brings tourists from all over the world on vacation in the city. It is my prayer that this community will see better development for the good of the indigenes and those of her neighbouring communities”, the Federal Mines Officer stated.

Speaking on behalf of the MD of MOSRA Energy Limited, Mr. Olukayode Ramos, the Site Geologist, Mr. Ishola Emmanuel affirmed that MOSRA Energy Limited is doing its own part of the bargain to ensure that Ugboba gets her own fair share of development as a host community.

He confirmed that the company is doing various road networks towards making movements of equipment and materials easy in the community.

Speaking further, he said, “I have been on ground since 2015 when we came in here to start exploration. We have bonded with the community all these years, and they have taken time to understand our mission. Everything we told them we would do, we have been doing and there is no cause for alarm.

“We use the open cast in this mining, where we remove the overburden and cover back with the soil. We have proffered solution with the soil which is the bone of contention with some persons. We have water tankers for the wetting of the ground to mitigate the effect of dust. But you can attest to the fact that the environment is not harmful, that people are here working without even masking, that people are farming around and that people are going to be living around the Facility Site.

“The truth is that, Ugboba community has given us peaceful atmosphere to operate and we in turn have been reciprocating their kind gestures. It’s a win-win for all of us and there is nothing to worry about”, he concluded.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the commissioning of the water project by the Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Kelvin Okwechime, who was represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Kennedy Okoh.

Cutting the tape, the SLG appreciated MOSRA Energy for their effort in locating the mining site for their mining operations in Ugboba.

While expressing joy over the project, Okoh affirmed that he was sure that the partnership of the mining company and that of its host coal community would lead to utilising part of the generated profit to advance development in the community.

He however, advised MOSRA Energy to ensure to productively engage not only Ugboba indigenes but Aniocha North people in their workforce.

Okoh pledged the partnership of the Local Government towards enabling the company’s mining activities to success, and at the same time, a worthwhile and profitable venture for the benefit of all parties involved.

He turned on the tap and served water to the President General of Ugboba Development Union, Mr. Nnabuife Ikechukwu and also drank; thereby sparking up an overwhelming applause and jubilation from those watching the action.

A colleague Monarch and Oloza of Ugbodu Kingdom, HRM Obi Ayo Isinyemeze who was present to witness the water project commissioning ceremony and official take-off of mining operations in Ugboba, was given the opportunity to officially commission the two motor bikes that were donated to Ugboba Vigilante Group for their use in mounting security surveillance in and around the community.

The keys to the motor bikes were handed over by Engr. Golden-Okpataku Fatima to the beneficiaries.

The atmosphere in Ugboba on Monday 15th May, 2023, was not one that required the telling of soothsayers that the people were happy, just as they sang, danced and eulogized their king to the admiration of the visitors.

Three In Police Custody As Criminal Elements Infiltrate Issele-Uku Community

Issele-Uku, the headquarters of Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State; is a peaceful and hospitable agrarian community that is currently facing some security challenges occasioned by the infiltration of criminal elements, mostly strangers into the community.

This alarming posture of insecurity as a result of the influx of persons coming into the town in search of white collar jobs but with sinister intention of going into crime, however, dawned on the community to embark on a security strategy that would curb the menace.

Several security meetings were held with the Police and other security agencies, including the vigilance groups, and they came up with the modus operandi to keep night watches and to be alert in broad daylight.

The very recent achievement from this security initiative which of course the youths were involved in, was the tracking and subsequent arrest of three armed robbers posing as motor cyclists (okada riders).

In many cases, motor bikes were snatched at gun points at nights, homes broken into and robbed, even recently an innocent okada rider was shot at the express and his motor bike snatched.

In this instance, some youths were robbed and they were dispossessed of their phones, which triggered more concerted effort to unravel this new wave of crime.

One of the phones was tracked to a supposed okada rider at the Afor market area, and on sensing he must have been trailed, the bike rider pulled out a weapon but with the quick intervention of the Police, he was caught.

This imminent arrest led to information about the criminal gang and their hideout, which was subsequently raided where two other accomplices were caught with a recovery of one AK 47 with a Magazine stuck in it.

Speaking with the DPO in charge of Issele-Uku Divisional Police headquarters, Mr. Onyeke Ezekiel, he said the surge in insecurity within and around Issele-Uku metropolis was becoming alarming.

He therefore, confirmed the arrest of the three suspects while promising that they would be transferred to the State Command for further investigation and prosecution on Monday.

According to Onyeke, “This new twist of insecurity in Issele-Uku is unfortunate after all the efforts we have put in place to sustain the existing peace and security in the town.

“When I resumed here, I met a peaceful community and a hospitable people. Issele-Uku people are good natured, I don’t see the reason why any stranger would come here to begin to operate criminally.

“I have vowed to leave a legacy of peace, harmony and well secured community better than the way I met it. God willing, we will overrun these criminal elements and restore peace and order in this well respected kingdom. This particular arrest will serve as warning to other syndicates that this zone will not be conducive for them”, the Police Chief posited.

Further giving clarification on the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer of Delta State Command, DSP Edafe Bright confirmed the existence of a criminal syndicate within Issele-Uku and environs, adding that they were bursted as a result of the swift and well coordinated effort of the Police.

He stated that “on 4/5/2023, at about 1900hrs, the DPO Issele-Uku Division, CSP Onyeke Ezekiel mobilized and led a team of policemen on an intelligence led investigation about a syndicate that has been terrorizing issele-Uku and other areas in Aniocha-North LGA, and stormed their hideout where three suspects namely; Samuel Nimven ‘m’, Ponfa Dandi ‘m’ and John Tanko ‘m’ all of Plateau State but resident in Aniocha-North LGA, Delta State were arrested.

“Upon searching of the suspects, one (1) locally fabricated AK-47 rifle with three (3) live ammunition were recovered from them. Investigation is ongoing”, he concluded.

In his comment in the whole of the saga, the President General of Issele-Uku Development Union (IDU), Mr. Ugeh Offordile commended the Monarch of Issele-Uku Kingdom, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka for his security alertness initiative and partnership with the various security organs in the town, especially the Police to restore order and security in the community, which he said had brought about the successful arrest of some of the criminal gang members.

The PG also appreciated the DPO Onyeke for his professionalism and proactiveness in tackling security issues urgently.

His words, “By this accomplishment, criminal elements that have found their ways into Issele-Uku should know that it is no longer business as usual.

“I want to use this medium to commend the youths of the community for their renewed vigour in joining the security agencies to provide security to the community. Their efforts in all of this cannot be underestimated; they have proven that with them, no stranger can come here to begin to perpetrate evil agenda.

“From now henceforth, all hands must be on deck in ensuring adequate security in Issele-Uku and environs”, the PG insisted.

Meanwhile, security observers within Issele-Uku have said that there is need for landlords and landladies to know their tenants by State of Origin and by occupation, as well as their movements.

They proffered the need for an enforcement of the ban on okada transportation from 9pm, while equally calling on relevant security agencies and community authority to ban selling of food beyond 10pm.

In a nutshell, while calling on security agencies to regularly hold security town hall meetings to intimate the community of their operational modus, they said the various communities making up Aniocha North should have a joint collaborative security initiative for synergy in preventing crime and criminality within the council area.

Dspg Alumni: Committee Adopts New Date For Elective Congress

The Alumni Association of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi Uku has set a new date for its Elective Congress.

The new date which will commences on Friday, May 5, 2023, was adopted after the Congress committee made it open for members to vote based on two different dates suggested.

The decision on the date was won by a majority vote, as stakeholders and members voted based on their comfort.

The venue for the exercise is the school premise as Day 1 of the congress is for arrival and registration. It will commence from 10 am to 3 am, registration will continues on Day 2, to end by 11 am. Congress begin till 2 pm, the time slated for the election.

Thankgiving is slated for Day 3 on Sunday, while Day 4, Monday 8, 2023 is scheduled for the presentation of the communique together with the new executive to the School Management.

All graduates of the institution are advised to make themselves available for the exercise.

Labour’s Day: NLC Hails Okowa Over Worker’s Welfare

Delta State chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Chief Goodluck Ofobruku, while celebrating Workers Day, applauded the state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for his accomplishment in the area of workers’ welfare and human capital development over the past eight years.

He said the massive turnout is a result of workers’ gratitude over what the governor has fulfilled for them.

Comrade Ofobruku said this while addressing journalists during the Worker’s Day celebration held at Cenotaph, in Asaba, the state capital, on Monday.

The NLC boss said, workers are happy based on the existing friendly relationship with the government, as they are looking out for more government cooperation, solidarity, and request.

Ofobruku also said some workers are not happy about their salaries as nothing the union can do unless the government legislates on it, according to him, the issue of wages and salary increases is of the federal government.

“Until legislation is made and there is an enabling circular, we cannot talk of salary increment at the state level. But on the condition of service and other aspects of workers’ welfare, the state government has been doing very well. When you talk of a decent working environment, there is a multi-billion naira secretariat that has been given to workers.”

“Those who use to occupy the junior staff quarters as tenants, that place has been sold to them at a discounted rate and the workers suddenly become landlords. The state government is on the verge of building more low-cost houses for workers in the state, so we have every course to rejoice as the future is bright,” Ofoburuku said.

He then urged new workers who will be coming into the civil service to always show solidarity with the government to enable it to succeed.

Twitter To Allow Media Publishers To Charge Users Per Article

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Twitter CEO and founder of Tesla Inc, Elon Musk has said the microblogging site will soon allow media publishers to charge users per article basis.

Musk said the new feature will be available next month.

In a tweet on Saturday, Tweeter’s CEO said the new service will allow readers who do not sign up for a monthly membership to pay a higher per-article price for reading an occasional article.

He tweets, “Rolling out next month, this platform will allow media publishers to charge users on a per-article basis with one click.”

“This enables users who would not sign up for a monthly subscription to pay a higher per-article price when they want to read an occasional article.

“Should be a major win-win for both media organs & the public,” the Twitter chief executive officer tweeted.

In October 2022, Musk took over Twitter after completing a $44 billion deal.

For its blue tick mark, the microblogging platform started charging users $8 per month last year.

Earlier in the month, Musk had said users of the platform will be able to monetize their content, including long-form text and hours-long video.

He also said on Friday that the microblogging platform will take a 10 percent cut on content subscriptions after the first year.

YouTube Music Unveils Podcasts Option For Users

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YouTube Music has rolled out a new update that enables listeners to listen to podcasts in the background for free.

The new update allows users to tune into podcasts on the YouTube Music app where listeners can gain access to on-demand, offline streams that support background listening without a Premium subscription.

What its means is that the YouTube Music app will now have a dedicated podcast tab where users can browse through shows that were once limited to the main YouTube app. Users can also swap between the audio and video versions of a podcast while using YouTube Music.

In February, during The Verge’s Hot Pod Summit, YouTube first announced its bringing podcast to its music streaming service which it’s “gradually” rolling out to users.

Though the podcasts are only available to YouTube Music users in the US for now, YouTube says it plans on extending the feature to other countries in the future.

The new feature is available on the YouTube Music app across iOS, Android, and the Web.

YouTube Music adding podcasts to its service will help it compete with Spotify which just hit 500 million monthly active users earlier this week.

In November 2022, It was reported that YouTube has around 80 million Music and Premium subscribers while Spotify says it has around 210 million paying users.

WhatsApp New Feature Enables Users To Login Into Multiple Phones

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WhatsApp has launched a new option that allowed its users to login into one account on multiple devices as users are no longer restricted to using their accounts on just a single phone.

Meta, the parent company of the messaging app announced this multi-device feature on Tuesday, stating that one WhatsApp account can now access multiple phones and it will be rolled out to everyone in the coming weeks.

WhatsApp is throwing out the feature as a useful tool for small businesses that might want multiple employees to be able to send and receive messages from the same business number via different phones, which is also useful for anyone who uses multiple smartphones regularly and wants them all to be associated with the same WhatsApp account.

The new feature works across both iOS and Android devices, it works after installing the app, instead of entering your phone number during the setup and logging in as usual, one needs to tap a new link to the existing account option. This will generate a QR code to be scanned by the primary WhatsApp phone via the ‘link a device’ option in settings.

Although the original phone that logged into your account is considered the “primary” device, it doesn’t need to be turned on to receive messages across the other phones or devices. However, if the primary device is inactive for over 14 days, WhatsApp says it’ll log out of other devices. Though one can also manually log out of linked devices from the primary phone.

Also, once a secondary phone is linked to the WhatsApp account, one will be able to access and send messages from either phone. Messages will sync between devices for up to a year, making it possible to see chat histories before sending any new messages. Sync happens across phones regardless of their operating systems, whether it’s iOS to Android or vice versa.

Personal messages remain end-to-end encrypted, regardless of whether you’re using the multi-device feature.

There have previously been workarounds to access the same WhatsApp account on multiple phones via WhatsApp Web in a browser. But the experience has never been great, and official support for the feature should be far more seamless and useful.

Critics Blast Pastor Adeboye’s Son Over Comment

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Some critics on Twitter have refused to accept the testimony story narrated by Leke Adeboye, son of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God after he commented on how he made his first million from selling Wristbands.

It was gathered that Leke during a recent interview with ‘The School of Wealth’, made a comment revealing how he produces and sells wristbands making his first million.

He said everyone wants to hit it big but forget the essence of little profit.

According to him, selling promotional gift items like rubber wristbands to a big Christian event with a small profit of N50 or N100 gets to add up.

In his words, Leke said “Promotional gift items for those that are doing branding wristbands are just rubber. But if I sell enough of those rubbers with a very tiny margin profit of ₦50 or ₦100 at a big Christian event, it adds up.”

Reacting, a tweep, Xperience_Snr said, “I don’t think is that hard to make a million naira from selling a “Wristband” among an African Church Congregation that’s over 5 million People. Especially when you tell them is for their Protection and Prosperity. An African Church’s biggest selling points.”

Dimeji Joseph said, “No doubt, especially when you have the monopoly of production and that huge number of patronage.”

Meanwhile, AimThaMachine_said, “If my father was Pastor EA Adeboye, I will sell rubber wristbands, wristwatches, handkerchiefs, t-shirts, packed shirts, trousers, vests, briefs, and boxers, braziers, and everything I can think of by inscribing RCCG logo on it and I’ll become a Billionaire.

Shozy said, ” I’ll believe him if it’s redeemed church wristband. They’ll buy more from him, with the belief it will have special blessings, he’s the G.O.’s son and a pastor. If he said he made 50 million off it I’ll still believe him.

One DuruChibuzorE said that “10 million RCCG members multiplied by 200 naira wrist band. He can easily make his first million. That’s not a grass-to-grace story. It’s you taking advantage of naive worshippers”

House of Assembly Member-Elect, Barrister Omonade Empowers Constituents With N700,000

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Barrister Matthew Omonade, a member-elect of Delta State House of Assembly representing Ughelli North Constituency, has dished out the sum of seven hundred thousand nairas (#700,000) to constituents for vocational exercise.

He said empowerment of the people remained the only elixir against poverty while emphasizing the necessity to ensure that the circle of poverty among Deltans is broken permanently.

According to him, capacity building among the constituents and the provision of self-sufficient economic empowerment programs would eradicate the tense atmosphere in the State.

Omonade, who won the March 18th, 2023 election under the All Progressives Congress (APC) said this during Ada Omoyoma’s baby dedication on Sunday in Igbuku Orogun, Ughelli North local government area of the State.

The astute lawyer and first-timer House of Assembly lawmaker acknowledge that the primary idea of political leadership is impacting people and society.

Though, this may be tricky in some quarters, Barr. Omonade is fully competent to impact lives as an empathetic and visionary young man, he believes that politics is an opportunity to serve people selflessly with all available resources.

He has always exemplified this rare self-sacrificing, philanthropism in all the stages of his life as a conscious adult, long before his journey into politics. Politics, to him, is an opportunity to do more.

Gushed by his capacity, Barrister Omonade, in his usual way of raising others and brightening their paths, assisted Omoyoma with the sum of seven hundred thousand nairas (N700k) to improve his business.

Those close to him cannot be shocked at his generosity over the years, Omonade is known for helping people find their feet! May God continue to increase him in all he does as he awaits his swearing-in as a legislator.

As a man, he genuinely shows love to help relieve the economic survival of his people. A rare kind of politician. More of his type who bears light and hope are needed to populate the political space.

Ada Omoyoma is a very creative DJ and MC, trying to find his feet in his vocation.

Divorce-Seeking Wife Finds Out Husband Uses Mother’s Name In All His Fortune

Hiba Abouk, the wife to PSG and Morrocan defender, Achraf Hakimi, has gotten the shock of her life after discovering that her husband had used his mother’s name in all his fortune.

It was gathered that Footballer, Achraf Hakimi’s wife filed for divorce and demanded half of his property.

She was however informed by the court that her “Millionaire’ husband owns nothing as all his property is registered under his mother’s name.

Hakimi receives €1 Million from PSG monthly but 80% of this is deposited in his mother Mrs. Fatima’s account.
He has no property, cars, houses, Jewelry, or even clothes in his name.
Anytime, he wants anything, he asks his mother who buys it for him.

This development emanated after Abouk recently broke her silence to show support to victims of sexual abuse and assault as her husband and Paris Saint Germain defender is currently accused of the crime.

Earlier this March, Hakimi was charged with rape and is currently being investigated by French authorities.

In late February, Pulse Sport Nigeria reported that a 24-year-old woman from Fontenay-sous-Bois in the Parisian suburbs went to a local police station claiming that she had been raped by the Moroccan international, per Le Parisien.

Even though the woman did not want to press charges, the prosecutor’s office decided to take up the case because of the player’s social status.

Hakimi’s lawyer and representative, Fanny Colin, has since denied all the accusations, against the player.

“The accusations are false. He is calm and is making himself available to the authorities”, Colin said.

Internet Fraud: Hushpuppy’s Colleague, Woodberry Pleads Guilty In US Court

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Olalekan Jacob Ponle, better known as Mr. Woodberry, a well-known partner-in-crime to now imprisoned internet fraudster, Ramon Abbas also known as Hushpuppi, has pleaded guilty to wire transfer.

In a petition submitted at the United States District Court of the Northern District of Illinois Eastern Division on April 6, Woodberry pleaded guilty to count one of the indictments and also agreed to forfeit to the foreign governments $8 million in proceeds of wire fraud, as well as luxury cars and watches.

According to his plea agreement, he is required to pay back the sum of $8 million he fraudulently received from the seven companies that he scammed.

“Defendant understands that by pleading guilty, he will subject to forfeiture to the United States all right, title, and interest that he has in any property constituting or derived from proceeds obtained, directly or indirectly, as a result of the offense,” stated the document containing Mr. Ponle’s signed plea declaration.

Woodberry was also asked to waive his rights to the luxury cars, and designer watches he had stashed in Dubai.

The high-end automobiles include Rolls Royce Cullinan with vehicle no J9153, Lamborghini Urus (N4973) and Mercedes-Benz G-class (G68816).

Other items seized are four Rolex watches, one Patek Philippe watch, three Audemars Piguet watches, three gold and diamond-studded earrings, and six gold neck chains.

Last year, he forfeited 151.8 Bitcoin to the American government.

On June 10, 2020, Woodberry was arrested in Dubai alongside Ramon Hushpuppi Abbas, who is currently serving an 11-year sentence for a similar fraud charge.

Before his arrest, Woodberry was known for rolling and exhibiting expensive designer wear and showing off his illicit wealth to his massive Instagram followers, the majority of whom had no idea his luxury lifestyle was funded by cybercrime.

Presidential Election: Tinubu Defend Mandate, Give Reasons Why He Defeated Peter Obi

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Bola Tinubu, the President-elect and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has challenged the competence of a petition filed by Peter Obi, candidate of the Labour Party to nullify his mandate.

In a preliminary objection filed by the President-elect, alongside his Vice-President-elect, Senator Kashim Shettima, stated that Obi lack the locus standing to file a petition to challenge his victory at the February 25th presidential election.

According to the counter-petition, Tinubu argued that Obi was not validly nominated to contest the presidential election in line with the mandatory provisions of sections 77(2) and (3) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

He insisted that Obi’s name was not found on the register of members of the LP, noting that he defected to the party from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, less than 30 days before the primary election that produced him as a presidential candidate, was conducted.

Giving reasons why he won the presidential election, Tinubu, in the preliminary objection he filed through his team of lawyers led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, said it was his consistency and track record of excellence in public service, that endeared him to millions of the electorates across the federation.

He further accused Obi of jumping from one political party to the other, insisting that the LP lacked the requisite structure to win the presidential contest.

On his qualification, Tinubu told the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, that he is a holder of a Degree of Bachelor of Science in Business and
Administration from the Chicago State University since 1979, saying he has
vast private and public sector work experience, including working with Mobil Oil Nigeria as an auditor, and later treasurer of the company.

“In a bid to actualize his quest for public service, left his lucrative and secure employment in Mobil Oil Nigeria, and forayed into active politics, as a founding member of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP).

“In 1992, he was elected by an overwhelming majority of lawful votes cast as a Senator of the Federal Republic Nigeria, representing Lagos West Senatorial District.

“The votes secured by the 2nd respondent at the time were the highest scored by any senatorial candidate in the entire country.

“As a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he distinguished himself as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Finance, Appropriation, and Currency.

“Following the annulment of June 12, 1993, Nigerian presidential election and the consequent fresh militarization
of the Nigerian political leadership, which terminated the structures of elective governance in that Republic, he became a founding member of the notable pan-Nigerian pro-democracy group, the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) where he was at the forefront of advocacy for a return to democratic governance and the fight against military rule.

“During the period in (viii) above (popularly referred to as the dark days of Nigeria’s military era because of human rights abuses and a clampdown on pro-democracy advocates), he suffered many arrests, intimidations, threats, search, and violation of premises, which ultimately eventuated his proceeding on exile out of Nigeria.

“Many pro-democracy activists suffered wanton attacks including death suspected to have been state-sponsored in the said dark days and it was commonplace that a number of them proceeded on exile and together with the 2nd respondent, they continued to mount international pressure for the return of democratic rule to Nigeria. These pressures eventually yielded positive results in 1999 with the return of democratic rule to Nigeria by the birthing of the 4th republic which is currently running and in which period, the 2nd respondent has been a constant and prominent feature.

“Preparatory to the return of Nigeria to democratic governance and commencement of the 4th republic, the 2nd respondent returned to Nigeria from exile and became one of the founding members of the Alliance for Democracy, on which platform he was successively and overwhelmingly elected by the people of one of the most populous states in Nigeria, Lagos State, as the Executive Governor of the State for two terms of four years each in 1999 and 2003.

“As a result of his outstanding performance as an executive
Governor of Lagos State, he won various national and international awards and recognitions from reputable organizations, such as the Nigerian-Belgian Chamber of Commerce; Federal Ministry of Works, and the United Nations Habitat Group; as well as the Computer Association of Nigeria.

“In recognition of his stellar contributions to governance, humanity, educational development, and nation-building, he has received several honorary academic awards from various notable academic institutions.

“Was/is a founding member of the 4th respondent which, in its first national election after formation, ended the 16-year cycle of the Peoples Democratic Party at the helm of affairs in Nigeria”, he added.

While denying the allegation that the election was fraught with irregularities, Tinubu, accused Obi of accepting the outcome of the election in states where he won and denigrating results from states he lost.

“The respondents shall further contend that the petitioners have embarked on a wild goose chase in the presentation of this petition and, in the process, are questioning results of elections where the respondents lost, including where the petitioners were declared winners, as exemplified in paragraph 73 of the petition where petitioners were querying results of Lagos, Imo and Plateau where they won, as well as Taraba, Adamawa, Bauchi, and Kaduna where PDP won.

“The respondents contend that the entirety of the petition is about guesswork, hype, speculation, and conjecture, as there is nowhere in the entirety of the petition, where the petitioners have specified in any form howsoever, the number of their votes which have been affected by irregularities which they bandy and what their total number of votes would have been on the one hand, and the number of the respondents’ votes that have been inflated by the much-touted allegations of noncompliance/corrupt practices and what the votes of the respondents would have been on the other hand.

“In terms of national acceptance of the 2nd respondent as a political figure, titan, and maestro on the one hand, and that of the 1st petitioner on the other hand, the 2nd respondent is far ahead of the 1st petitioner in every sphere and index, and this is clearly known to Nigerians and also demonstrated by the result of the election.

“Further to paragraph 103 supra, in terms of structures, stability, national spread, political office holders who have won elections, either at the national level or State and Local Government levels, as well as national acceptability/spread, the 2nd petitioner trails the 3rd respondent far behind and this is equally well known to the electorate and the petitioners themselves.

“Further to paragraphs 103 and 104 supra, while the 2nd and 3rd respondents scored not less than 25% of the votes cast in 29 States, cutting across the different geo-political zones, the petitioners only managed to score 25% in 16 States, in restricted geo-political zones”, Tinubu added.

He, therefore, prayed the court to not only dismiss Obi’s petition but to also probe election results from states the LP won.

Obi-Datti Media: Why Peter Obi Was Detained In London

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The Labour Party has explained why its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, was detained at Heathrow Airport, in London, United Kingdom.

In a statement released by the head of Obi-Datti Media, Diran Onifade, on Wednesday in Abuja, said the former Anambra Governor was detained for hours for questioning because he was being impersonated in London.

According to the statement, it took the intervention of Nigerians at the airport for the presidential candidate of the Labour Party to be released by the immigration officials.

The statement reads: “The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi just back from London, United Kingdom where he celebrated Easter, has confirmed that he was harassed by London immigration officials and placed in detention but for the spontaneous reaction of Nigerians at Heathrow Airport.

“Obi-Datti Media confirm that the LP Presidential candidate in the February 25 Presidential poll arrived at the Heathrow Airport in London from Nigeria on Good Friday, April 7, 2023, and joined the queue for the necessary Airport protocols when he was accosted by an immigration official who handed him a detention note and told him to step aside. He was questioned for a long time and it was very strange for a man who lived for over a decade in that country.

“Since Obi’s face was already an international frame, especially for Nigerians, Africans home, and in Diaspora who are likely to be Obidients, the people quickly raised their voices wondering why he was being delayed.

“The immigration officials who were also taken aback at the reaction of the people were forced to reveal that Obi was being questioned for a DUPLiCATION offense meaning that someone has been impersonating him in London.

“The high implication of the offense is that the impersonator could be committing all kinds of weighty crimes and other dubious acts and it would be recorded in Obi’s name.

“Since the impersonator is still at large, the scenario is unimaginable as Obi could be implicated in a series of forbidden acts and even be framed in a manner that could be a huge embarrassment to him, his family, his party, the obedient Movement, and indeed Nigeria, where he currently and indisputably remains the conscience of the people.”

Also in the statement, it was alleged that Obi has been under attack since the February 25, 2023, presidential election.

The campaign office alleged that those urging Obi to leave the country may have planted the impersonators ostensibly to tar the “Eagle’s immaculate appearance.”

The statement added: “Obi-Datti Media office recalls that our principal has been under all kinds of attack, since the February 25th, 2023 Presidential election in which as the standard bearer of the Labour Party, he put up an outstanding showing coming third out of 18 contestants as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, even though his supporters and many other election watchers including international observers believe very strongly that he won the election but was manipulated out.

“Since he was told to go to court if he feels strongly about the election which all international monitors chorused were flawed and full of imperfections and he accepted, there have been severe attacks on him from all corners.

“Even the Federal Government who directed him to go to court even despatched the Minister of Information Lai Mohammad to the United States to attempt at de-marketing him and accused him of treason.

“Obi’s telephone line was also bugged when they were possibly looking for information to portray him badly before a section of the country who had voted for him massively.

“As if they were not getting the desired results of denting his image, and possibly placing the traducers under a heavier conscience load, they tried to persuade him to leave the country and go take a rest.

“It’s also not impossible that those urging him to leave the country may have planted the impersonators ostensibly to tar the Eagle’s immaculate appearance.

“The Obi-Datti Media office would like to therefore assure all persons of goodwill especially the Obidients that the Rock is not deterred as he is ready to suffer the pain and remain even more determined to pursue whichever path his creator destined for him in Nigeria.

“Finally, let it be known that In the face of the flurry of unwarranted attacks and cogs being placed in the wheel of rescuing our dear country, Obi strongly believes that a new Nigeria is possible where the people will be able to live in a secure and productive country they will all be proud to own.

“Meanwhile, the former Anambra state Governor is back in the country and has continued his charity work visiting health and educational institutions, making donations, and bagging awards,” the statement reads.

Man Lands In Jail After Stabbing Friend To Death Over N14k Debt

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A man identified as Bitrus Wurawa has been remanded in the Correctional Center by a Lagos State High Court for allegedly stabbing one Ezekiel Yohana to death with a Jackknife at Kara Market in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the State.

It was gathered that Yahana, 23 years old was said to have borrowed N14,000 from Wurawa in January and promised to repay in a few weeks.

But, Yahana was unable to pay back despite several requests from the defendant.

In the process of an argument, Yahana was said to have brought out a jack-knife which the defendant immediately snatched from him and used to stab his back and hand.

Thereafter, the defendant was charged with one count of murder before Magistrate P. E Nwaka on April 10.

The charge reads “That you, Bitrus Wurawa, on March 18, 2023, around 6.23 pm at Kara Market, Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, in the Lagos Magisterial District unlawfully killed one Ezekiel Yohana, 23, by stabbing him with a jackknife.”

According to the prosecutor, Thomas Nurudeen, Wurawa committed the offense on March 8.

Nurudeen put in that the crime is punishable under Section 233 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, Nigeria, 2015.

He pleaded with the court to remand Wurawa to the correctional center pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution.

The defendant has been remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending legal advice from the DPP.

The case was adjourned till 5 May 2023 by the Magistrate.

NPF Stop Officers From Demanding Custom Papers

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) charged its officers across the country to stop asking for customs papers from vehicle owners.

The Force also said the issuance of tinted glass permits remains suspended.

This directive was made known on Twitter by the Force’s Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi on Sunday.

Adejobi said police officers are only required to stop and search vehicles as well as their occupants.

According to his tweet, “No policeman should demand your customs papers except they are on joint operation, but not just on mere routine checks,” the FPRO tweeted.

Catastrophe: Woman Set House Ablaze After Quarrel With Husband

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Information received proves that a woman identified as Esther Alison Ibiwari, set her house on fire after she was allegedly beaten by her husband.

It was gathered that the incident happened in the Rumuolu community in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of River State.

Though it was not clear what caused the problem, an eyewitness said the couple had a heated argument on Tuesday.

According to the eyewitness who pleaded anonymity said the woman in an apparent act of retaliation went inside their apartment and set it on fire.

The eyewitness also said the detachment of the building which was destroyed by the fire belonged to her husband, adding that the incident rendered some tenants homeless.

He said the fire caused pandemonium as some of the tenants who were inside ran out and tried to salvage some of their properties but could not.

He stated, “The man and his wife had a little issue yesterday which resulted in him beating the woman.

“He went in, wore his clothes, and went out. So the woman went inside the house and brought out her clothes outside. She then went to buy kerosene and set fire to the man’s clothes inside the house.

“That was how the fire started. It escalated and burnt down several rooms. Some of the apartments affected are occupied by tenants.

“Most of their properties were burnt. I believe some of them don’t have where to stay now. We don’t know the whereabouts of the woman. But I heard she has been arrested.”

When contacted, the spokesperson for the state Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, saying the woman had been arrested and the investigation is ongoing.

The police spokesperson said “Yes, I can confirm it. The woman has been arrested and the matter was transferred to the State Criminal and Investigation Department.”

Victony Narrates How His Accident Becomes A Blessing In Disguise

Afrobeat singer, Anthony Victor, better known as Victony, said his ghastly accident two years ago has thought him a lesson and it was indeed a blessing in disguise.

The singer said this during a recent interview with the Tee with Tay podcast.

According to him, the accident helped him to slow down and gain a deeper understanding of what is truly important in life.

Victony said, “The accident was a blessing in disguise because it’s teaching me a lot, I’m still learning from that experience.”

“You know, it kind of like just slowed me down and just made me understand that certain things were really important in life,” he said.

In April 2021, the 22-year-old was involved in a ghastly accident that left one dead and three injured.

Recounting the experience, Victony said he remembers exiting the club and heading home with his friend, he fell asleep in the car and woke up in the hospital four days later.

He said, “We just left the club, on our way back, I slept off. I was tired. That was like my first time outside up to that time. So, I slept off.

“When I woke up, I was in the hospital with my dad. I was like ‘What’s happening?’. Because my parents didn’t know I was in Lagos. So, I was like ‘Why is my dad here?’ And he told me I was out for like 3 or 4 days.”

Victony said when he came back from a coma, he was told that another car hit their vehicle from the back.

“I heard that the impact was from the back like another car hit us. The driver and the other guy at the front were totally fine.

“We were two at the back, two at the front. So, the one beside me [at the back] died while I broke my legs.”

Thereafter, he went through his first surgery in the same year.

In February, the Soweto crooner announced he will be taking a two-month break from music after undergoing his third and final surgery.

Victony rose to fame over two years ago after he collaborated with Mayorkun for ‘Holy Father’.

Despite being a new artiste in the Nigeria music scene, he has also received several recognition.

He was once nominated at the Headies and the All Africa Music Awards.

He is currently signed to Mainland Block Party, a record label owned by Tobi Mohammed.

Watch: Davido Drops New Video ‘Unavailable’ Off ‘Timeless’ Album

Following the release of ‘Timeless,’ Davido has come up with the music video for ‘Unavailable,’ one of the songs in his new album.

The singer announced this on his social media pages on Tuesday evening.

According to Davido, the video is just the first among many others to come.

While announcing the release of the video, OBO shared a snippet of the visual with the caption “Unavailable video is finally officially out! It is our first visual for TIMELESS so this one means a lot to me. Just know the work we’re putting into this album and all that’s to come is for you! We gotta go all out so we’re just getting started.”

Again, he wrote “Special thank you to my @martellofficial family for the role they played in making this movie. We are back better and stronger! More surprises with them on the way,” he wrote.

The video directed by Dammy Twitch, begins with an invisible radio voice introducing Davido and asking where he had been in a long time.

The voice in the video said “After a long time of wondering where is he? And what is he doing? I am here to confirm that the king of Afrobeat is back baby. I am talking about Davido.”

It was gathered before the release of the video, that the singer had put out a dance challenge for fans to replicate the steps.

Watch the video:

Delta Guber Race: I’m Convinced Oborevwori Won The Election Properly – Ogboru

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While other political party candidates are going to Electoral Tribunal to nullify the conduct and results of the just concluded 2023 general election, Chief Great Ogboru, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), in Delta State, has put on his reasons why he will not challenge the victory of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the governor-elect, and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party.

Chief Ogboru who once congratulated the governor-elect said he was convinced that the PDP candidate won the March 18 Governorship Election properly.

He said this while interacting with journalists in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state on Monday.

The politician who turns 60 years old on Monday, April 10th, 2023, clarifies the aspersion that he was bought over by the PDP, as false, restating that he was one of the few people that could not be persuaded with money in any condition.

According to Ogboru “If anybody was making that insinuation, they are wrong; when we went to the elections, the PDP approached us and as a matter of facts, they came and approached us that we should step down and I said no, it should be the reverse, your candidate should step down and endorse me.

“After a few weeks, we met with the state governor, and in that meeting, we agreed that one of us should win that election and that if Sheriff won, Great Ogboru that win and if Great Ogboru won, it is Sheriff that won.

“So to that extent, l have to congratulate him and be part of the celebration, but in any case, it was not pre-planned because it was not to be so, and without any apology, we have to congratulate him because we did not win that election.

“The issues of apathy, violence, voters inducement, and intimidation are not issues to be adjudicated upon in the court, these are realities, and if you are not able to change it because the law did not permit you to do so, you must accept the outcome.

“There are no contradictions to the facts that the elections were marred with shortcomings, but it did not take the fact that somebody won the election as it were. We accept that report and we are standing by it.

have no words for other constants, they have their party and l have my party, the decision we took was not a decision l took by myself but it was after due consultation with members of our caucus, very senior members of our party and it was not a personal decision.

“They would have to conclude themselves and by the time they realized as l have realized that it is not going to be easy, it is going to be impossible for that matter to prove some of the allegations levied against the election.

“They would come to the inevitable conclusion that they will not question the outcome. In any case, it is a process, let them go to court, they have their grievances, let them go to court and do what they think is the best.

“We stand by our judgment confirmation that Sheriff Oborevwori won the election properly.”

AY Has Never Been My Friend – Basketmouth Reveals Amid N30k Debt

Bright Okpocha, the Nigerian comedian better known by his stage name as Basketmouth has finally opened up after his colleague, AY Makun accused him of being cold over N30k debt.

In an interview with the Honest Bunch on Glitch Africa, Basketmouth said he has never been friends with AY as speculated.

The comedian accused AY of being stingy with the truth, saying he was paid the money in question.

He also said it was Ali Baba who introduced them and would never have had any form of relationship with AY based on the confidential information he got, as he had very competent people around him to work with.

In his words, Basketmouth said “Just to set the record straight, AY is not my friend, we have never been friends. I’ve never visited his house, I’ve never personally invited him to my house. I’ve never called him any day to hang out. And it’s easy to tell because if you look on social media, you will never find a picture of me and AY.”

Peak Milk: Producer Apologises To Christians Over ‘Offensive’ Easter Advert

The manufacturer of Peak Milk, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC has admitted guilt to the Christian Association of Nigeria for using the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor to promote their product on Good Friday.

The company while recognizing the sensitivity of the social media post and “considering the solemnity of the season,” noted that it was “not intended to make light of the significance of the season nor to inordinately exploit the unrivaled sacrifice of Jesus Christ.”

In a statement addressed to the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, titled “Apology for the Good Friday social media post by the Peak Milk Brand,” and was seen by Golden Nation Blog on Tuesday morning, the company’s executive director, Ore Famurewa, expressed regret and said the social media advertising has been withdrawn.

According to Famurewa “We hereby reaffirm our unwavering commitment to nurturing Nigeria while upholding all religious laws, tenets, and guidelines.”

“Once again, please accept our heartfelt apologies and pledge to prevent a recurrence in the future.” Please accept my best wishes,” Famurewa stated.

This is coming after CAN had Threaten To Boycott the Consumption Of Peak Milk Over its Easter Advert.

The Christian Association accused the company of using an “offensive” advert to illustrate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ during the Easter celebration.

It was reported that on Friday, the company released an Easter message with a picture of a dented tin of Peak Milk pierced on two sides with a nail to portray the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Describing the advertorial in a statement, CAN general secretary, Joseph Daramola stated that the advert is “insensitive, offensive, and unacceptable.”

He said Good Friday is a solemn day for Christians all over the world, a day they commemorate the death of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour who was crucified on the cross for their sins.

According to him, “It is not a day to be used for crass commercial purposes. FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC’s action is not only disrespectful to the Christian faith but also an affront to the millions of Christians in Nigeria and beyond.

Daramola said “We are deeply disappointed that a company of such repute would stoop so low to exploit the religious sentiments of its customers for profit.

“We are considering sanctions against FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, including a boycott of their products by our members and all well-meaning Nigerians who share our concerns.”

“We call on the company to issue an unreserved apology to the Christian community and withdraw the offensive advert immediately. We recall a similar incident in the past when Sterling Bank Plc. used crucifixion imagery to promote their product.”

“We condemned it then, and we condemn it now. We, therefore, urge all companies and organizations to be mindful of the religious and cultural sensitivities of their customers when promoting their products. We will not tolerate any attempt to trivialize or disrespect our faith. Be warned,” the statement added.

Suspected ‘Yahoo Boy’ Beaten To Stupor After He Recklessly Crushes Four To Death

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A young man suspected to be an Internet fraudster received the beating of his life, his car burnt after he lost control while driving and crushed four persons to death as others were injured.

The incident happened in the Ijoka area of Akure, Ondo State on Monday morning.

According to eyewitnesses, the driver of the Toyota car was driving at a high speed while going through Ijo Mimo to the Sunday bus stop, in the Ijoka area of the town when his vehicle suddenly skidded off its lane and crushed the victims to death.

Some of the victims were on commercial motorcycles and they died immediately at the spot before they could be rushed to the hospital.

It was gathered that the driver was returning from Ijoka, where he had gone to see some of his friends when he lost control of the car and crashed into the victims.

Sympathizers who rushed to the scene the victims allegedly found some fetish items inside the vehicle, raising suspicion that the driver was a Yahoo boy.

They were said to have been angered by what they saw in the car and descended on the driver, beating him to a point of comatose. They also set the car on fire.

“The mob action was due to the driver’s attitude after the incident because he showed no sign of remorse and attempted to run away from the scene of the accident,” an eyewitness said.

Though, officers of the state police command who arrived at the scene were able to rescue the driver from the mob and took the lifeless bodies of the victims to the mortuary.

Chimamanda’s Letter Is Against Nigeria Democracy – Law Professor Write Biden, Trudeau

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A law professor, Yemi Oke, has criticized a letter written by Chimamanda Adichie, a Nigerian novelist over the conduct of the presidential election held on 25 February.

Adichie’s letter was addressed to Joe Biden, the United States President on Thursday, last week.

In the letter, the award-winning novelist said the Nigerian election was “deliberately manipulated,” and that the presidential election was fraught with discrepancies, irregularities, and violence.

Ever since the letter was publicized, it has gone on to spark reactions.

But, in a counter-letter written to Biden and Justin Trudeau, the prime minister of Canada, the law professor said Adichie’s correspondence was “against Nigeria’s democracy.”

The professor claimed that the letter contains “seditious elements,” stating that it is a “case of extraterritorial ethnocentric politicking of a non-resident Nigerian-American”.

Oke said Adichie’s claims and statements about the presidential election were “ludicrous, illogical, and depicts ignoble ranting of an uninformed mind about legal and judicial processes or procedures”.

The academic said his counter-letter was not to “vilify, ridicule or incite” against the celebrated writer.

“It is most bewildering that a privileged Nigerian-born writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie born in Enugu, Nigeria in 1977 but now lives in the United State of America, has decided to paint her country of origin “black”. Sadly, Chimamandi’s letter is a reckless affront to our resolve not to be part of the “brain-drain” syndrome against our dear country Nigeria like the writer. Some of us are determined to be “brain-gain” to Nigeria,” the law professor writes.

“It is given this that we felt taken aback that Chimamanda went below expectations to pen down a seditious letter against the Government and people of Nigeria.

“Chimamandi’s letter titled “Nigeria’s Hollow Democracy” was not about the election or person of the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu whose victory was freely and fairly unveiled despite dis-oriented opposition politicking and those of their supporters in Nigeria and their allies in the diaspora.

“Chimamandi’s letter was against entire “Nigeria’s Democracy” that was fought and procured with patriotic blood, labor, efforts, lives, and undeterred resolve of democrats, chief among them being Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, by divine arrangement, is now the President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Chimamanda’s claims and statements on the recently concluded presidential elections in Nigeria are not only ludicrous, but it is also illogical, baseless and depicts ignoble ranting of an uninformed mind about legal and judicial processes or procedures,” the law professor wrote.

“It is unimaginable that someone who did not participate or vote in an election would make categorical statements about an election she did not witness.

“What Chimamanda did not tell her gullible readers is that her candidate won mostly in her/his ethnic enclaves and that the president-elect Bola Tinubu, President Buhari, notable Nigerian governors, senators, and others also lost in their strongholds, which should ordinarily have been their locational advantage for “manipulating” the outcome, as Chimamanda is unconscionably and recklessly alleged.

“The intention of this open letter is not to vilify, ridicule or incite and set the law of sedition in motion against Chimamanda. It is to right-size her over-bloated ego of perceived global self-esteem.

“She needs to realize that thousands, if not millions of Nigerians (including those of us who are now back home in Nigeria — but still frequently travel to those sides — to be a part of the solution and those still in the diaspora) have had similar and even better opportunities in Canada, US, UK and other countries of the world without deploying our privileged positions to undermine our country of origin, Nigeria.”

Davido Reveals How He Met Morravey, Logos Olori, His New Signee

Afrobeat singer and music executive, Davido has revealed how he confronted Morravey, Logos Olori, the new artists signed to his record label, DMW.

In a recent interview, Davido said he signed Morravey and Logos Olori into his records label in March 2023.

He said he became interested in signing Morravey after listening to her cover of Fireboy song on Instagram.

The singer said he was drawn to Morravey’s “unique voice” and could not help but comb through Instagram for her page, thereafter sent her a direct message, telling her to get ready to become “a star.”

According to OBO, Morravey has a voice that nobody has, stating that he was at home one day watching Instagram reels when he stumbled on her video.

Davido said “I saw her singing a cover of Fireboy’s song. Her voice was so amazing and I was like who is this girl because she wasn’t tagged on the post?

“I had to go into the comments and scrolled through over 400 comments to look for her name. I finally got her page and sent her a DM.

“I told her I’m going to make you a star. She didn’t believe it, she stopped replying but I told her this is real. She asked if she could call and I called.

“Her family was in the background and she was shocked. I told her I’ll call her back in a week and send her some money.

“I sent her some money to arrange herself and that I’ll send her a flight. I told her to come with a friend or producer or someone closest to her.

The plan was never for her to be on the album. I’ve started a creative house. The plan was for me to groom her and maybe drop a single in September.

“Her pen game is stupid. She came in and surprised everyone.”

Talking about Logos Olori, Davido said: “He wrote the hook on ‘Available’. I met him through Magic Sticks and Asake.”

“He will always come to the studio every time Magic comes. So on the last day of recording, I asked him how far and he has no platform and I told him to come with me.”

Google: FG Stop Loan Apps From Accessing User’s Contacts, Photos

Following the recent update by Google, it means that Loan Apps on Play Store will no longer have the ability to access their customer’s contacts or photos starting from May 2023.

This development is coming after the Federal Government said it would implement the latest policy by Google, saying the action was consistent with the Nigerian authorities’ move to curtail the invasion of customers’ privacy by loan app firms.

The Federal Government had in recent times taken major decisions intended for tackling the violation of customers’ privacy by loan apps. Notably, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission had recently registered 170 loan apps out of the 200 operating in the country.

Google, in its April 2023 policy updates, said the new policy update would provide respite for loan app users in Nigeria and other places that have become accustomed to crude loan retrieval methods employed by a majority of loan apps.

Google said, “Policy preview (effective May 31, 2023): This article previews changes included in our April 2023 policy updates.

“We are updating our personal loans policy to state that apps aiming to provide or facilitate personal loans may not access user contacts or photos.

“We are introducing additional requirements for personal loan apps targeting users in Pakistan. Personal loan apps in Pakistan must submit country-specific licensing documentation to prove their ability to provide or facilitate personal loans.”

This new policy is coming after the firm announced updates to its Developer Programme Policy, mandating digital money lenders in Nigeria, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Kenya to conform to regulatory rules or be taken down by January 31.

According to the firm, only digital money lenders that have adhered to and completed the Limited Interim Regulatory/Registration Framework and Guidelines for Digital Lending, 2022 (as may be amended from time to time) by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and obtain a verifiable approval letter from the FCCPC will be allowed on Play Store in Nigeria.

Commenting on the new policy to The PUNCH, the Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Babatunde Irukera, stated that it was a welcome development and shows that Google was institutionalizing its regulatory policy.

He said, “It is a welcome development effort and is consistent with the position the FCCPC has taken and what we are enforcing.

“Google is now institutionalizing our regulatory effort as a policy, which is very welcome. It is certainly important for proper regulatory oversight of the industry, and we commend Google for taking a position that is consistent with our position as regulators.”

He added, “Recall that we took this position earlier and what has happened is that Google has looked at the regulatory landscape, looked at the regulatory priorities, and is supporting those priorities by institutionalizing those regulatory priorities and position.”

The FCCPC recently stated that it has approved 173 digital lending applications to operate in the country. 119 of these got full approvals while 54 got conditional approvals. This move became necessary after loan apps started harassing Nigerians by sending defaming messages to their contacts, and more.

The commission’s ‘Limited Interim Regulatory/Registration Framework and Guidelines for Digital Lending 2022’ is an attempt to regulate the digital lending space and make registration and approval a prerequisite for companies seeking to operate in the space.

Although, Google’s policy states that it does not “allow apps that promote personal loans that require repayment in full in 60 days or less from the date the loan is issued,” many loan apps in the country do not adhere to it, exposing many Nigerians to confidential data leak.

Irukera who also speak recently on Arise TV on how the recent registration drive of the commission will protect the privacy of Nigerians, stated, “We also want to restrain what kind of information they can pull off people’s phones and what they can do with that information, especially concerning making contact with people on the contact list, and their loan recovery practices; the kind of language the times they call, what kind of things they say.”

Drake Won $2.7m After Betting Adesanya To Win Pereira In UFC

Canadian rapper, Drake has won $2.7 million after betting on Israel Adesanya to win Pereira at the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Adesanya defeated Pereira, the Brazilian fighter to reclaim the middleweight belt title in the main event of UFC 287 at the FTX Arena in Maimi, Florida on Sunday morning.

This came five months after he lost it to his bitter rival Pereira who had won against him twice in kickboxing.

It was gathered that Drake previously lost $ 1.6 million on Adesanya in that fight, yet the rapper staked his funds in the rematch.

As revealed via his social handle, he placed a $500,000 bet on Adesanya to win which is to return $885,000.

The rapper also took a risk of another $400,000 for him to win by knockout, which is to return $1.8 million.

This amounts to a total of $2,685,000 win, following Adesanya’s victory at the rematch.

Asked about Drake’s bet after his fight, Adesanya said: “Shoutout to everyone that bet on me.

“You have to realize that when I step into the octagon, I put my life on the line.

“That’s the biggest parlay you can ever do.

“I’m a betting man too so shoutout to stake, we are about to make another deal and get more money.”

Drake became notable for his UFC stakes when he backed Jorge Masvidal to beat Colby Covington in March.

The rapper lost $275,000 in the fight and $400,000 when Justin Gaethje was choked out by Charles Oliveira.

Drake broke his bad luck by winning $1 million when Adesanya beat Jared Cannonier in their title fight last July.

He also raked in $3.6 million when Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann won their respective fights at UFC London.

Governor Okowa Principal Secretary, Mr. Hillary Built Multi-Purpose Hall For Ute-Okpu Community

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Mr. Hillary Obi Ibegbulem, the principal secretary to the Delta State governor, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has built and donated an Ultra recent multi-purpose Community hall to Ute-Okpe Community in the State.

The beautiful hall named Ezeaja Multi-Purpose Community Hall was commissioned by His Excellency Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, in Ute-Okpu, Ika North East LGA on Saturday.

See the photos of the hall:

Huge Retirement Benefits Awaits Governor Okowa, Deputy

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Huge retirement benefits await Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa after he retired from office as Delta State governor.

He and his deputy will soon be enjoying some lucrative benefits as an ex-governor.

The hefty retirement goodies came courtesy of the signing of the Delta State Governor and Deputy Governor Pension Rights and Other Benefits Law in 2005 by former governor James Ibori.

The law was amended in 2009 as the Delta State Governor and Deputy Governor Pension Rights and Other Benefits (Amendment) Law, 2009.

It makes provision for ex-governors to be paid allowances and other benefits pegged at N50m yearly.

The listed benefits include; A furnished duplex in Delta State or any other state in the country worth over N300 million;

350% gratuity of his basic salary for the first tenure;

A gratuity of 450% of his basic salary for the second tenure;

Pension of 70% of the salary of the first term;

Pension of 80% of the salary of the second term;

Medical treatment for him and members of his immediate family;

Two vehicles, including a utility vehicle, not below the sum of N20 million each, every two years;

Two armed policemen and one Department of State Security officer;

15 days’ annual vacation in any place of his choice and other benefits;

In an office with four aides, each of the four domestic workers will earn N100,000 monthly.

Adesanya Knocks Out Pereira, Reclaims UFC Middleweight Title

Israel Adesanya has regained the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight title from Alex Pereira, his long-term rival.

He knocked out Pereira in the main event of UFC 287 at the FTX Arena in Maimi, Florida on Sunday morning.

The ‘Last Stylebender’ produced a remarkable second-round knockout to seal a victory over the Brazilian fighter and take back the title that he lost in November last year.

It was the fourth time that the two middleweights had met, they were second inside the octagon, and it was the first occasion in which Adesanya has come out on top.

In his fourth encounter with Alex Pereira, he finally gets the win that he so thoroughly deserved. He has come so close to achieving it in their previous meeting but lacked that cutting edge that he displayed in this recent fight.

Pray For Us To Recover Our Stolen Mandate – PDP Begs Nigerians

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The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) begged Nigerians to use the circumstance of Easter to pray for justice to prevail in the 2023 election petition tribunal.

PDP national publicity secretary, Debo Ologunagba made this request in a statement on Saturday, stating that the party was determined to retrieve its stolen mandate so that Nigerians can breathe fresh air again.

According to Ologunagba, “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urges Nigerians to use the occasion of Easter, the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to pray for the triumph of justice in the country and rekindle their hope for a new and purposeful order that derives only from the will of the people.”

“The coming of Easter, at the time Nigerians are despondent over the outcome of the 2023 general elections, serves as an assurance that no matter how long falsehood and manipulation appear to thrive, the truth will surely prevail at the end of the day.

“This season rekindles humanity’s assurance of victory of life over death, hope over despair, justice over injustice, and the triumph of the will of the people over the selfish and parochial scheme of an arrogant, selfish, corrupt and manipulative few.”

Ologunagba said the PDP was saddened that Nigerians were observing another celebration in hardship, fear, insecurity, and hopelessness occasioned by the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He charged Nigerians to persevere in prayers and continue to care for one another “at this critical time” in the hope of a better nation under “a people-enthroned” leadership.

“The PDP assures of its utmost resolve to take every lawful action in the determination to retrieve the presidential mandate freely given by the people to our party and candidate, Atiku Abubakar at the February 25, 2023, presidential election so that Nigerians can have the breath of fresh air under a purposeful leadership that they eagerly yearn for,” the national publicity secretary added.

“The PDP felicitates with Nigerians and wishes them a happy Easter celebration.”

APC Expels Senator-elect Over Anti-party Activities

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Taraba State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expelled David Jimkuta, the Senator-elect from the party over gross anti-party activities.

This was made known in a statement titled “Expulsion of Hon. Jimkuta S.U David from the All Progressives Congress APC for gross anti-party activities” on Friday.

The statement signed by Sirajo Sallau, the party chairman, stated that the expulsion followed due to deliberation of the report from the disciplinary committee set up to investigate the allegations levied against Jimkuta, the Senator-elect.

Part of the statement reads “The Takum local government executive committee of our party, after due deliberation of the report of the disciplinary committee set up to investigate allegations of gross anti-party activities against Hon. Jimkuta S.U David as provided under article 21(B) (i) -(vI) of the All Progressives Congress, as recommended by the disciplinary committee.

The anti-party activities that constituted the bases of this action include (I) “Sponsorship and openly campaigning for a rival political party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Taraba state and its governorship candidate.

(ll) Open express and tacit denunciation of the All Progressives Congress and its governorship candidate.

(lll) Open canvassing of votes for the People’s Democratic Party and its governorship candidate.”

CBN set to block millions of Bank Accounts, give reasons

As part of the efforts to battle the increasing incidents of fraud in the financial sector, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has planned to close millions of bank accounts that are not linked to a Bank Verification Number (BVN).

The apex bank through its Director of Risk Management Department and Chief Risk Officer, Blaise Ijebor announced the plan at the Prembly Compliance Breakfast Dialogue on Thursday.

According to the CBN Director, the objective of the initiative is to clean up the financial sector and reduce the growing incidence of fraud.

Ijebor explained that the CBN has observed that many bank accounts are not linked to the BVN, making it difficult to track fraudulent activities.

He said the CBN’s decision to close millions of bank accounts that are not linked to the BVN is expected to encourage customers to update their records and link their bank to the BVN.”

“The BVN is a biometric identification system that captures the unique biometric data of bank customers, including fingerprints and facial features. It is a means of verifying the identities of customers and ensuring that they are who they claim to be.”

“This system has been instrumental in curbing fraudulent activities in the Nigerian financial sector since its introduction in 2014. As part of its efforts to combat the growing incidence of fraud in the sector, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been collaborating with the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).

“The NIBSS is a payment infrastructure that facilitates the electronic clearing and settlement of inter-bank transactions in Nigeria. The partnership between the CBN and NIBSS has led to the development of various initiatives to enhance the security of the financial sector, including the BVN system,” he said.

The CBN Director of Risk Management Department and Chief Risk Officer, also emphasized the importance of the BVN system in reducing cases of fraud in the sector, while assuring customers that the process will be conducted transparently and fairly.

Ijebor said that the public has been urged to cooperate with the CBN to ensure the success of this initiative in creating a more secure financial sector for everyone.

He also restated the CBN’s commitment in working with stakeholders to promote a more secure and transparent financial sector in Nigeria. According to him, the reason why CBN is closing bank accounts without BVN is because only 57.01 million registered BVN numbers out of the total 191.4 million bank accounts in the country, with 133.5 million active?

While giving detailed importance of closing bank accounts without BVN, Ijebor further highlighted three areas where cybercriminals are exploiting vulnerabilities.

The first he said, is the Tier-1 account, which allows customers to open an account with minimal documentation and is mostly targeted at the unbanked and rural population.

He said: “This account is dominated by digital banks or fintech firms, and often lacks BVN linkage, which makes it an easy entry point for hackers.”

“Secondly, some banks, especially digital ones, may not meet regulatory requirements, creating a second loophole for fraudulent activity.

“Lastly, hackers can exploit any vulnerability to gain access to bank accounts,” he added.

Ijebor mentioned that the apex bank are working on improving agency banking and enabling agents to register BVN, which will help move Tier-1 accounts to Tier-2.

Buhari Mocks Governors Who Lost Their Senatorial Election

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President Muhammadu Buhari laughed philosophically on Thursday as he reflected on the results of the just concluded federal elections that led to ten governors losing their senatorial bids.

The President obliquely blamed the failure of the governors who were serving out their final terms in preparation for promotion to the Senate in the next administration.

According to him, the 2023 elections have demonstrated that there was no easier path to power anymore as he regards Nigeria’s polity and democracy as maturing and becoming more sophisticated.

He said Nigerian citizens have known they now have a say in who represents them in leadership.

The President talked about his thoughts at the State House in Abuja while hosting the newly-installed Emir of Dutse, Jigawa State Capital, Alhaji Muhammad Hamim Nuhu Sunusi.

Talking, he said the shocking result of ten governors failing to make it to the Senate demonstrates that there is no longer a sure path to power, adding that when it comes to elections, the voting population is indeed king.

“It is a testament to the maturity of our democracy and the amazing sophistication of the voter. What shocked me was that the ordinary citizen who is usually underrated has made the point of his political understanding of things.

“Assumption is always that you are a governor for eight years and you go to the Senate to crown the career. No one should underrate the Nigerian voter anymore. Politics will be more difficult, henceforth,” Buhari said.

The President has already planned to leave the office on May 29, 2023.

Recall, Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom and his Abia State counterpart Okezie Ikpeazu were two renowned governors who were not elected to the 10th Senate.

Gbagi in Tribunal says Delta guber election full of Irregularities

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The Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, has challenged the results that led to the victory of Sherriff Oborovwore, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party and governor-elect in the just concluded gubernatorial election in Delta State.

He said at first, everyone who stands to contest with him is not qualified to contest the election.

Olorogun Gbagi made this known after submitting his petition before the Election Tribunal in Asaba, the Delta State capital on Thursday.

The SDP Candidate who was so optimistic about the petition said if someone was to gain admission into a secondary school, he will need a qualification from primary six before he can fully gain such admission but when such persons fake his result, it means such persons are not qualified.

While faulting the credibility of the election, Gbagi said there are a lot of malpractices, vote buying, food being cooked for people, and wrappers being bought for them among other irregularities that transpired during the election, adding that these are what the Electoral Act spells out as crime.

“I believe my petition has encompassed all of that and I believe strongly that the judiciary will do justice,” Gbagi said.

He also alleged that the election results were manipulated and allocated because those numbers are not realistic with INEC. According to him, declaring results which have nothing to do with the BVAS is wrong as those results are deemed to be canceled.

The former Education Minister said it will not be like business as usual stating that he already prepared and plan himself before embarking on the governorship race as he will not accept what is not a reality. 

“We have lived in the law of deceit for too long, Delta State needs a renewed atmosphere and an honest character,” he added.

Also speaking is Magaji Mato Ibrahim, SAN, the counsel to Olorogun Gbagi, who said they are maintaining three basic grounds which he claimed that all the other political parties and their candidates are not qualified to contest the election.

He said the election is not conducted in line with the Electoral Act and other statutory positions of the law.

The counsel also said the election was marred with rigging and other electoral malpractice adding that the three grounds are highly pleaded and adequately provided with facts and concrete evidence to justify the course.

“As a lawyer, I believe the judiciary is the last hope of the common man where justice can be served based on the petition,” the counsel added.

Second Niger Bridge will be officially open on May 15 – FG

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The federal government has said the Second Niger Bridge will be fully open to motorists on May 15, 2023.

The Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, made this known after inspecting and confirming the completion of the Loko-Oweto Bridge and the link roads between Benue and Nasarawa states on Tuesday.

According to Fashola, the project was undergoing necessary finishing works such as lane marking and others.

He said the flag-off ceremony will be formally done by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Speaking he said, “Yesterday (Monday), we had a periodic meeting in the office of the chief of staff to the president where the contractors, and our team, all reviewed the challenges [on the Second Niger Bridge] and how to solve them.”

“The link road [of the bridge] that we formally opened to traffic, the date we have now is the 15th of May, as of yesterday ‘(Monday). We are rolling out all the steps to support the contractor to see that date is achieved.

“A lot of snag resolutions are going to start; lane marking on the bridge will soon start and erection of signage will also soon start. Just about two weeks before the end of the term, the President will be invited to the completion, and maybe any day thereafter, he will be able to fly in and do the ceremony. But by the 15th of May, the bridge should be fully open to traffic.”

Fashola also assured that the Lagos-Ibadan expressway will be completed by April 30.

Recall, the federal government opened the Second Niger Bridge for use on December 15, 2022, for one month during the Yuletide season to ease traffic in the southeast and later closed it on January 15, 2023.

Donald Trump, former US President arrested in New York

The former president of the United States, Donald Trump has been arrested in New York.

Trump’s arrest came after he surrendered before the Manhattan grand jury in New York on Tuesday, making him the first former President to be arrested.

He is to face extraordinary criminal charges that threaten to derail his 2024 presidential ambition.

The indictment purportedly charges the Republican leader with more than 30 counts of corporate fraud, the most serious of which is allegedly paying ‘hush money’ to a porn actress, Stormy Daniels.

The former President wearing a dark blue suit and a red tie was seen showing little anger on his face as he waved to the crowd who gathered outside the courthouse.

Also, before he departed for New York, he held his fist in the air as a gesture to reporters in the Trump Tower.

Delta State Government to develop Waterfront, Six-Lane Road in Asaba

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The Delta State Government has approved the development of a waterfront and the construction of a six-lane road within the Anwai River down to the city center in Asaba, the state capital.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Anaigwu, to Journalists immediately after the State Executive meeting at the government house in Asaba, on Tuesday.

According to Mr. Anaigwu, the state executives have agreed to pay compensation to those individuals who own lands within the area of the waterfront development and the area of the construction of the six-lane road.

Mr. Anaigwu also said the government has approved the construction of the second phase of the Umunede/Ogwashi-Uku old road which formally refers to as the old Lagos/Asaba road.

The Information Commissioner added that the construction of the parameter road and fence at the Asaba International Airport was also approved, to meet up with international best practices and to prevent individuals that want to have access to the air site and the incursion of animals that may have access to the runway.

While still speaking, he said due to the poor performances of the power-holding companies, the state hospitals are still bearing the brunt of inadequate power supply, and this has made the government also adopt renewable energy means by providing solar panels to several General hospitals in the state.

He said as a government they are more desirous to finish strong, which is why they have to engage a consultant to help reconcile their FAAC Account, due to the kind of remittance they got from the financial institutions as regards the 30 percent derivation fund which is been paid into the reconciliation account.

Music Is In My Blood – upcoming artist Yano Bae reveals


Felix Baron Ojei, popularly known as Yano Bae, Is a young afrobeat singer, from Issele-uku in Aniocha North L.G.A of Delta State, based in Lagos. Felix recorded his first song (Don’t Rush) produced by VinoBeats, at the age of 19 years.
Which has been trending on various online streaming platforms and Youtube. He speaks in this interview on making music and more.

What inspired you into music?

For me, Music has always been a part of me while growing up, it’s a passion I have chosen and I so love it, I started working on myself, learning to grow and writing different songs.

You look like a foreign artist, are you a Deltan for real?

I am a full born Deltan, from Issele-uku in Aniocha north L.G.A, of the state.

Since you started at 19, did you ever take a break from music?

No. I keep pushing everyday, investing on my song challenges and my happy moments in life keep pushing me into doing music and also, my life struggles inspire me to do more as that is another way I can be able to express myself in full to the public. Sincerely since I started I have never taken a break from music.

Do you have any album presently?

I haven’t released an album yet, but I have an Ep comprising of 5 songs, which are all on streaming platforms.My Instagram account:
@yanobae2023 is filled with comment, twitter @iamyanoofficial

In your released body of work, how many songs are to be expected?

Five songs.

What’s the title of your soon to be released album? The title of my Ep is ‘EVERYTHING FOR A REASON” and I have five sings inside which includes, Super man, 2 Ghanaian girl, 3, Kpos 4, Good day 5, Shuku shaker.

When you started making music in Nigeria, did you think your music would be accepted?

When I started intially, I was afraid, thinking I will not be able to make it, But as time passed, I summoned up courage that I could do it and it would be accepted and so far, God has been my strength.

What are some of the challenges you encountered when you started?

As an upcoming artiste one of the major challenges am facing is capital to finance my musical career and you know getting financial resources these days is definitely tough. Secondly, people don’t show support to upcoming Artistes until they are globally recognized, you should know this. Again, I pray those at the helm of affairs in the industry can stop music producers from charging exhaubitant rates to up and coming Artistes, so as to enable us grow as well as push the industry forward.

How can you rate the music industry, so far?

Yes, honestly the industry is a very tough ground, but I do not intend to compete with anyone, I just want to be myself with no pressure, I will express my heart through my music and have fun.

Where do you draw your inspirations from?

I’m a songwriter and I get my inspiration through my everyday activities, things I see and stories I get to read or hear, the good and the bad moments also contributes to my making of good music. But, I thank God because music is in my blood, it is my calling, although it is the spirit of God that gives me inspiration. Sometimes I could be doing random things and the music comes. At other times, I would start singing a known or popular song and in a short while I would start singing a song that is original to me; it comes raw that way.

In five years time. where will you be?

Well, when you love what you do and you trust the process surely the World will acknowledge you one day, definitely.

Davido’s ‘Timeless’ becomes the most first-day streaming African album on Apple

Davido’s new album ‘Timeless’ has broken global records as the most first-day streaming African album on the Apple music platform.

The music streaming platform revealed this on its Twitter page on Monday.

According to Apple Music, Davido is breaking global records. His ‘Timeless’ album had the most first-day streams ever for an African album on Apple Music.

On March 31st, the singer released his fourth album ‘Timeless’ with 17 tracks.

‘Timeless’ album is built on different tune together with other artists like Asake, Fave, Focalistic, Angelique Kidjo, Skepta, and others.

The tracks in the project include ‘Over Dem’, ‘In the Garden, ‘Godfather,’ ‘Feel,’ ‘Unavailable’, ‘Kante’, ‘Bop’, ‘E Pain Me’, ‘Away,’ ‘Precision’, and ‘Na Money.’

Others include ‘U (Juju)’, ‘No Competition’, ‘Picasso’, ‘For the Road’, ‘LCND’, and ‘Champion Sound’.

The album is Davido’s fourth project. His three other bodies of works are ‘Omo Baba Olowo’ (2012), ‘A Good Time’ (2019), and ‘A Better Time‘ (2020).

The singer earlier disclosed that concerts for the new album will be held in London, New York, and Lagos.

The New York concert was held on Sunday night with thousands of fans celebrating the new album.

The London concert will take place on April 5 while the singer will hold the Nigerian concert on April 25.

It was gathered that Davido recently signed two new artists to DMW, his record label.

The new acts — Morravey and Logos Olori — were also featured in the ‘Timeless’ album.

FG approves 173 Loan Apps, bars others

173 digital lending application has been approved by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to operate in the country.

Out of the 173 applications, 119 have complete operational approval while 54 others have conditional approvals.

This is coming after loan apps started victimizing Nigerians based on their mode of operation and FCCPC began a registration drive to protect citizens from the atrocities of these loan apps.

To encourage the process, the FCCPC released a ‘Limited Interim Regulatory/ Registration Framework and Guidelines for Digital Lending in 2022’ to regulate the digital lending space and make registration and approval a prerequisite for companies seeking to operate in the country.

The commission after shifting its deadline multiple times, finally adopted March 27, 2023, as the date to close registration.

After the closing of the registration, the commission has now released a list of approved apps that can operate in the country, and companies without approvals will not be able to operate in the space.

Commenting on its effort against digital lending apps in August 2022, the FCCPC said, “In addition to the enforcement action(s) and in furtherance of the desire to promote fair, transparent and mutually beneficial alternative lending opportunities apart from traditional lending to consumers, the inter-agency Joint Regulatory and Enforcement Task Force has developed and mutually adopted a Limited Interim Regulatory/ Registration Framework and Guidelines for Digital Lending, 2022 as the first and interim step to establishing a clear regulatory framework.

“This becomes enforceable immediately. It requires permission to proceed in digital lending; it provides a limited moratorium period for existing businesses to comply to continue in digital lending.

“The guidelines also mandate different service providers in the relevant ecosystem (such as banks, access/download platforms or stores, technology providers and payment systems) to require regulatory approval before providing services.”

Some of the approved loan apps listed by the commission include Branch International Financial Services Limited, Fairmoney Micro Finance Bank, Pivo Technology Limited, Renmoney Microfinance Bank Limited, Carbon Microfinance Bank Limited, and Creditwave Finance Limited amongst others.

Loans without the FCCPC’s approval will be removed from Play Store by Google and unavailable for download.

In November, Google Play announced updates to its Developer Program Policy, which mandated that digital money lenders in Nigeria, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Kenya must conform to regulatory rules. This was expected to come into force from January 31, 2023.

According to a report on TechCrunch, Google took down hundreds of unapproved loan apps from the Play Store in Kenya in March.

Also, in February 2023, the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau disclosed that a national committee, made up of federal agencies, was working with partners to halt the activities of illegal loan apps in the country.

OFAAC: Another Anioma Festive Season Is Here

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Every year in the past eighteen years, the Anioma people have always looked forward to Anioma Cultural Festival with joy and excitement. It has always been a time sons and daughters from all walks of life at home and in the Diaspora, make frantic efforts to be around to identify with the singular Festival that brings all communities in Anioma together, including participating cultures from neighboring friendly communities within Delta State and beyond.

On Easter Monday, 10th April in this year 2023, history will repeat itself. This time, it promises to be more fascinating and colorful because, it’s a Festival of Victory and Celebration, themed “Preserving Our Cultural Heritage”.

This year’s edition heralds the celebration marking the end of the tour of duty as Governor of Delta State, an Anioma illustrious son, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa who has held sway as the number one citizen of the State in the past eight years.

His administration brought about enormous development in infrastructure and human capital, and more especially, an atmosphere of serenade peace and prudence in the management of resources.

Anioma people are proud of him as a quiet achiever in governance, a thoroughbred in politics and a home grown administrator.

This is a good time for us to celebrate – by celebrating the achievements of our son in office as Governor, celebrating peace, celebrating development and celebrating ourselves as a people.

Our culture is unique, and in the past two decades, had changed the narrative amongst culture-loving and keeping communities of the world.

Anioma is renowned for her peculiar identity, shining through the exhibition of our pride fabric, the “Akwa Ocha” with aesthetic value, our language, our moral values, and standards, our food, our ways of showing hospitality to strangers, and of course, our land of peace and harmony, devoid of natural disasters.

We are blessed because we are beautifully made by the most expensive and diligent Potter Himself – God. We have found favor in His sight, and He has continued to show us mercy through our journeys in life’s existence.

Anioma Cultural Festival is a time to flaunt the beautiful creations of God in us by exhibiting our way of life through our highly revered culture and traditions.

We have come a long way in this history of uniqueness, all thanks to the Organisation For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), which provided us with the platform to showcase who we are and what we represent within the heterogeneous Delta in the past 18 years.

It is noteworthy to say that OFAAC has done nobly through the patriotic initiative of the renowned Anioma highly achieved person of Arc. Kester Ifeadi, Managing Director of Contemporary Group Ltd.

This Ubulu-Okiti born culture enthusiast and passionate lover of Anioma, aside his widely acclaimed excellence in Architecture profession, has festered his nest worldwide by the promotion and mainstreaming of Anioma Culture to the world.

He didn’t do it alone, at inception, he galvanised ideas and concepts from the likes of Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu, the Desert Warrior, Chief Newton Jibunoh and a host of other cultural juggernauts who have continued to add value to the system.

We love our culture. We love the platform provided by OFAAC for Anioma Cultural Festival which comes up every year on Easter Mondays.

This 2023 edition promises to be eventful, colourful and culturally exhilarating. It will feature dance, wrestling, cuisine, arts and crafts exhibition, raffle draw and more. Don’t miss out; see you there. It’s our season; the Anioma season.

Comrade Patrick Ochei, is the Secretary of the Delta State Council of NUJ, Publisher of Anioma Trust, and Media/Culture Consultant.

What Comedian Bovi reveals about his friendship with Basketmouth

Comedian Abovi Ugbomma, better known as Bovi has said his relationship with Basketmouth, his colleague has reduced because of his ambition to develop his brand and concentrate more on promoting himself.

The comedian made this assertion while speaking during a recent podcast hosted by Chude Jidenowo, the media personality where he acknowledged that he and Basketmouth are not as close as they used to be.

According to him, they are still friends but “there’s a limit to how far” his friendship with Basketmouth “can take him.”

Bovi said as at when they became friends, his colleague Basketmouth is already a brand which is why he decided it was time for him to grow his own brand and focus more on himself.

In his words, he said “Don’t forget at the time Basketmouth is a brand. An established brand. If we had to pay him we would probably have had to rob a bank. There was a symbiotic friendship. But he was more visible because he is a brand.”

“Over the years, my mission was to become a brand as well. A big one. There is a stage where brands become too small. So you would have to separate ways to allow room for more people to come on board.

“I would like to speak for myself. I decided that it was time to grow my brand and focus on myself now. We are human beings. There will always be skirmishes. We were young and restless. I realized that the biggest service you can do is to push yourself. If you wait for somebody to say ‘come let me take you’, you might wait forever.

“Also, there is a limit to how far certain people can take you. You have to get up and move to break new ground. That’s it.”

The 43-year-old actor also said he still maintains a good relationship with Basketmouth.

“We are still cool. The energy we shared was a phase. Now we are on to new phases. Priorities change as we go every day. Right now, I just want to be happy. I want to do things that make me happy. I want to make sure my immediate constituency – family is happy,” he submitted.

In 2021, Basketmouth revealed that he had no dispute with Bovi as widely claimed.

Also, another stand-up comedian, AY Makun earlier disclosed how his 17-year disagreement with Basketmouth began over a debt of N30k. According to him, Basketmouth has a “seniority complex.”

Portable in Court, granted N300k bail as Judge adjourns case to April

The Ogun State Magistrate Court in Ifo on Monday arraigned controversial singer, Badmus Habeeb Okikiola better known as Portable for assault.

It was gathered that the singer had been in police custody since Friday after he was arrested by the police.

According to the charges, the singer was accused of assaulting a police Inspector and also resisting arrest.

Part of that charges read: “That you Badmus Habeeb Okikiola, aka Portable, and others now at large on the 28″ day of March 2023 at 11:00hrs at Odogwu Bar, Oke-Osa, Ilogbo, Ifo in the Ifo Magisterial District, did willfully cause or inflict physical injury on one Inspector Hammed Moshood ‘m’ with your elbow on his nose, which caused blood to gush out from his nose and thereby committed an offense contrary to and punishable under Section 4 (1) of the Violence against persons & Prohibition Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2017.

“That you Badmus Habeeb Okikiola, M. aka Portable, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District did resist to be arrested by Inspector Hammed Moshood ‘m’, ASP Gregory Iyoha ‘m’, ASP Kunle Badmus ‘m’ after serving you with Police Invitation Letter on the 20 days of January 2023 for the offenses you committed when they were about to discharge their duty with a warrant of arrest on you thereby committed an offense contrary to and punishable under Section 197 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006.”

Portable, though, pleaded not guilty to all the charges against him.

The magistrate granted him bail of N300,000, with two sureties from his immediate family.

The court held that Portable must fulfill the bail condition before leaving the court premises.

He is to be remanded at the Ilaro correctional center until he perfects the condition of his bail.

The case has been adjourned to April 26.

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) earlier said Portable will face more than six charges bordering on alleged assault in court.

Portable was arrested on Friday after the expiration of the 72-hour ultimatum given to him by the police to turn himself in.

The ‘Zazoo Zeh’ crooner’s saga began last Tuesday after he had resisted arrest by the police in Ogun state.

The singer argued that the arrest was “unwarranted,” adding that he makes his money “legitimately.”

The 29-year-old also referred to himself as “a federal government liability”.

Muyiwa Adejobi, the NPF’s public relations officer, said portable will be charged with “assault” — apart from “resisting arrest and injuring a police officer”.

“He will be charged to court for beating up a guy in Ota, who filed a petition to CP Ogun,” Adejobi wrote on Twitter.

“There are many pending cases of assaults on people and attacks, and he will be investigated because people have complained against him.

“So, there is no sentiment in law, let him appear in court, and allow the judge to listen to the charges against him. He has no constitutional immunity anyway.”

BBTitans: Khosi defeats Kanaga, Tsatsii to win $100k grand prize

Khosi Twala has won the maiden edition of the Big Brother Titans (BBTitans) reality TV show themed ‘Ziyakhala Wahala’.

She defeated other contestants to claim the $100,000 grand prize at the finale on Sunday night.

The contestants are Kanaga Jnr, Tsatsii, Ipeleng, Ebube, and Yvonne.

Ipeleng was the first to be evicted, followed by Ebubu and Yvonne.

Khosi came first with the highest number of votes, followed by Kanaga Jnr who took the second spot.

Tsatsii secured the third position on the ranking with Yvonne, Ebubu, and Ipeleng coming 4th, 5th, and 6th respectively.

The reality show is the first of its kind to house participants from two countries — South Africa and Nigeria. It commenced on January 15 with 20 housemates. But four other housemates were later added in a twist by the organizers.

The BBTitans ran for 78 days with several remarkable moments ranging from drama, love triangles, and controversies to twists.

I don’t want AY to hear from me, Basketmouth react over N30k debt

Nigerian comedian and actor, Bright Okpocha, better known by his stage name Basketmouth has finally reacted to the recent claim by AY Makun, his colleague’s story about their 17-year beef.

In a video that surfaced online, Basketmouth said he doesn’t want AY to hear from him.

It was gathered that both comedians have been in the news lately over their years-long dispute.

Recently in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, the media personality, AY said their 17-year-old disagreement started over N30,000 debt.

On Saturday, @Onejoblessboy posted a video on Twitter wherein Basketmouth seemed to be talking about the issue.

In the video, the comedian was seen performing at an event when his audience asked him to tell his side of the story.

“They say na N30k,” some members of the audience were heard saying about AY’s claim.

But responding, Basketmouth said he would rather keep mum to avoid taking out the issue.

He said “The thing is, to be honest, I would have loved to talk about it, but some people will record it. Then it will leak and they will say that I have responded.

“To be honest, I don’t want that guy to ever hear from me,” he said.

Watch the video:

Although he did not mention AY’s name in the video, the context of the words showed his statement was about his dispute with the latter.

In August 2021, Basketmouth claimed that he fell out with AY because the comedian “messed with loyalty”. Also, in 2022, during an interactive session with fans on Instagram, AY said Basketmouth has a ‘superiority complex’.

Intelregion reported that AY said even though he tried to end the beef with Basketmouth as they are now both rich but he will always refuse as Basketmouth always tells him that “I’m a beast, I don’t forgive.”

Comedian AY further noted that he attended Basketmouth’s wedding but wasn’t allowed to enter due to the 30k beef between them even though he invited his wife.

APC drags INEC, NNPP to Court over election results in Kano

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Kano State Chapter of All Progressives Congress has directed its legal team to file a suit against the results and declaration of New Nigeria People Party (NNPP) governorship candidate and governor-elect, Abba Yusuf, as the winner of the gubernatorial election held on March 18 in the state.

This was disclosed by the spokesperson for the party, Ahmed Aruwa on Saturday.

Aruwa claimed that the declaration exercise violates the laid down electoral laws.

He said “The declaration of the winner of the elections as announced by INEC contravenes the provisions of the laws regulating the overall conduct of the elections.

“The Kano APC faults the results declared by INEC, which confirmed the candidate of the NNPP as the winner of the governorship polls,” he said.

According to him “INEC had acted in contrast to the provisions of the electoral rules by declaring Abba Gida Gida as he is fondly known as the governor-elect of the State.”

“The state party hierarchy has directed its legal organ to proceed to challenge the outcome of the elections before the state governorship election petition tribunal sitting at Miller Road Court Complex,” he added.

It was gathered that the litigation is coming days after the APC governorship candidate in the state congratulated the governor-elect, Nasiru Gawuna.

Portable To Face Six-count Charge in Court – Police PRO

The Nigeria Police Force has said that controversial singer, Habeeb Okikiola, better known by his stage name, Portable will be facing more than a six-count charge when he appears in Court following his uncontrollable conduct and incitement against Police officers.

CSP Muyiwa Adejobi, the Police Public Relations Officer, made this known through a post on Twitter on Saturday, stating that the musician allegedly injured a policeman and beat up a fellow in the Otta area of Ogun State, while also resisting arrest.

While responding to an inquiry, the PPRO said “I am sure you are, very awake as I have addressed MCs case, but Portable has more than 6 count charges to attend to, apart from resisting arrest and injuring a policeman.

“He will be charged to court for beating up a guy in Otta, who filed a petition to CP Ogun.

“There are many pending cases of assaults on people and attacks, and he will be investigated because people have complained against him.

“So, there is no sentiment in law, let him appear in court, and allow the judge to listen to the charges against him. He has no constitutional immunity anyway. Ire o.”

It was widely circulated during the week that the police had arrested the singer, after the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum to turn himself in.

This had been confirmed by the Ogun State police spokesperson, Abimbola Oyeyemi who said the “Zazoo Zeh” crooner was arrested on Friday and he was at the state headquarters of the police in Eleweran, Abeokuta.

On Tuesday, It was reported how Portable was in hot exchanges with operatives of the Nigerian police force who stormed his bar to arrest him.

The incident was captured on his verified Instagram page in live videos, where the Zazu Zeh crooner was seen challenging the authority of the police as they attempted to cart him away.

Portable made certain to question the officers about his offence and even demanded to see their identification cards. He also rebuffed the officers’ attempts to stop him, telling them that he was a superstar and celebrity.

According to one of the officers, they came to arrest the singer because of the petition against him, and they told him that he is not above the law and cannot dictate how they operate.

The police later revealed that they had received a petition against the singer and had summoned him for questioning five times, but he had refused each time. According to the police command, they went to pick him up from his bar after obtaining a warrant, but he resisted arrest.

The singer was later arrested by Ogun State police command on Friday March 31.

APC organizes Pro-Tinubu rally to clash with opposition parties’ protests in the US

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has organized a Pro-Tinubu rally against the opposition parties’ protest in the United States.

The rally was fixed the same day the anti-Tinubu agitators fixed theirs.

It was gathered that the United States chapter of the APC has secured a permit to hold a rally in support of Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s President-elect.

In a statement on Saturday by the APC National Youth Leader in the United States, Oyakhilome Bello said the protest is to counter the planned protest of some individuals who were against the emergency of Tinubu as the President-elect.

Bello said the protest will be held on April 3, at Lafayette Park in South West Quadrant, Washington DC, the same day scheduled for the anti-Tinubu protest.

The APC youth leader maintains that the chapter will galvanize and work hard to defend the mandate of Tinubu even from Diaspora.

“We will defend the voice of the majority of Nigerian electorate because we have come too far to let some few selected people destroy what we have built over decades,” Bello said in the statement.

Recall, on Thursday, March 30, members of opposition political parties staged a rally at the same venue.

Apart from US protests, there have been protests in Nigeria too with protesters for two weeks demonstrating in several places such as the Independent National Electoral Commission office.

They have also visited US and UK Embassies, United Nations, and ECOWAS among others over the alleged manipulation of the 2023 presidential election.

The groups had called for the sacking and prosecution of the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The groups of protesters had also called for the invocation of the Interim National Government and compensation of all victims of electoral violence in the country.

Court Sentence 2 Chinese Citizens To Three Years In Prison Over Bribery

Two Chinese citizens, Meng Wei Kun and Xu Kuai has been sentenced to six years by the Appeal Court in Sokoto imprisonment over fraud.

It was gathered that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had earlier charged the convicts before a federal high court in Sokoto on three count charge bordering on conspiracy, money laundering, and attempted bribery to the tune of N50 million.

It was also gathered that the trial court had marked off the charges against the defendants but EFCC indicted the case in Appeal Court.

On Friday while delivering the judgement in Appeal Court, the judge led by Abubakar Talba, found the respondents guilty of the two out of three counts.

According to judge “The respondents are charged with conspiracy and making a cash payment in excess of the threshold provided by the Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011 ( as amended in 2012) to Abdullahi Lawal (then zonal head of EFCC Sokoto) which was established beyond reasonable doubt before the lower Court but surprisingly the trial Judge somersaulted in his judgement and recanted”.

Talba maintained that the EFCC was able to convince the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Judge said “I regret to say that the judgment is like a fiction by the trial judge who created doubts in his mind while discharging his responsibilities.”

“Without doubt, the trial judge grossly misconceived that no offence was committed.

“Conspiracy is a distinct offence even if the commission of the actual offence is aborted, and in the instant case there exists positive cogent inescapable evidence the offence was committed.

“The respondents are Chinese and an offence of this gravity in their home country attracts the death penalty yet here they are corrupting our country.

“The courts of the federal republic of Nigeria will not condone corruption in any way. As President Muhammadu Buhari has said, “if we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria.”

The court held that the appeal was “immensely meritorious” and convicted and sentenced the Chinese nationals to three years on each of the two counts.

Though, an option of N10 million fine on each count were given to each of the convicts.

Davido hints on possible collaboration with Wizkid

Music star and DMW boss, Davido has indicated a possible music collaboration with Wizkid.

The music star made the acknowledgment during an interview with Beat FM, almost the same time he released his fourth album, ‘Timeless’.

He said the partnership will apt to be in 2024 after he might have completed his tour for ‘Timeless’.

Davido’s comments came after Wizkid announced in January that he will be going on a tour with him. Although, Wizkid later postponed the tour due to some “unforeseen logistical circumstances.”

“Yeah. I would be lying to you if I tell you that the tour is not in the talks. So it’s looking like next year. But I have to do my ‘Timeless’ tour first. And the tour is coming up in July in almost 20 arenas,” Davido said.

“I think me and Wiz are probably going to drop a record and we are going to tour. Shout out to my brother. He calls me every week and checks on me. Shout out to Wiz.”

Immediately after Davido released his ‘Timeless’, Wizkid asked his fans to visit streaming platforms to listen to the album.

Also, in the interview, Davido expressed his dissatisfaction with the just-concluded general election.

“I am happy people were not calling me because they know that if I was online I will be very vocal. I have always been vocal about it but I wasn’t happy about it. That is just being honest. I don’t feel like that was a credible election,” he said.

Delta 2023: Bishop Edugbo congratulates Rt. Hon. Oborevwori, calls for Unity

      

The presiding Bishop of the House of Gladtidings Mission International, Bishop Dr. Prince Edugbo has congratulated the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his emergence as the Delta State Governor-elect at the just concluded 2023 Governorship and State House of Assembly elections in the State.

He noted that Rt. Hon. Oborevwori had endeared himself to the people of the state with his unprecedented humility, friendship, and outstanding services to the state at large.

Bishop Edugbo disclosed this in a sermon he preached recently at the House of Gladtidings Mission International Headquarters, Asaba, Delta State.

The dynamic preacher who spoke on “supernatural prosperity”, said Oborevwori’s victory at the elections was a true confirmation of the party’s “prosperity for all Deltans ” agenda for the people of the State.

He also congratulated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the State Chairman of the party, Chief Kingsley Esiso on the victory of the party at the elections stressing that it was an act of God.

Edugbo who lauded Governor Okowa on his administration’s remarkable achievements in the state called on the Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to continue from where Governor Okowa will stop, to bring more growth and development to the state.

Speaking further, Bishop Edugbo encouraged other contestants and the entire people of the state to be united and work together with the Governor-elect to make Delta State the envy of other states in the country, adding that Delta State was loved and blessed by God from its origin.

Ambassador Frank Oteyga pledged Support for Delta Anti-Cult Volunteer Group

The Founder and Chairman of Eyes Global Business International, Ambassador, Frank Oteyga Festus has pledged to support members of the Anti-Cult Volunteer Group in Asaba, Delta State in the area of training and capacity building.

The philanthropist extraordinaire and business mogul who hails from, Afiesere Town in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State pledged Asaba when he played host to a delegation from members of the Anti-Cult Volunteer Group in the state that came for a familiarization visit in his villa over the weekend.

While receiving the President of Anti-Cult Volunteer Group Delta State Chapter, Comrade Uche Eboma alongside his members, encouraged them to be diligent and focused in discharging their duties.

He decried the challenges faced by the group in the course of their work and advised that they should work closely with the Nigerian Police Force.

He also tasked the Patrons and Zonal Commander of the Anti-Cult group, to come up with innovative initiatives to empower members in carrying out their responsibilities effectively.

He charged: “Don’t ask what the society should do to you, but it should be what you should do to bring peace and security for the benefit of mankind.

“Contribute your little resource to make society safer via community police. Selfless service is a must for the policy to succeed,” Oteyga stressed.

“For a successful eradication of crime in Delta especially the community you are assigned to, there must be a conscious selfless synergy towards the move by members of the community and society at large in coming together to assist members of Anti-Cult group to expose crimes.

“Selflessness here is going the extra mile as Anti-Cult Volunteer Group to galvanize people to fall in line with our aims and objectives for a crime-free community. And that’s exactly what AVC stands for”

He said, to expand your scope and be confident to be able to perform alongside the police in your area of service.

He expressed appreciation to the Organization for the recognition noting that aside from the humanitarian services rendered, his foundation will be partnering with AVC in terms of all their activities to boost their performance.

He assured that moving forward is key to any group adding that he will operate an open-door policy for any member of the Anti-Cult Volunteer Group in Delta State.

The President of the Group, Comrade, Uche while appreciating Ambassador Frank, aka (Wakiki) said, we embarked on this courtesy visit based on his financial and moral support for Anti-Cult Group and his outstanding humanitarian service which is lifting and touching the lives of many people in Delta and Nigeria as a whole.

Comrade Eboma described Amb. Frank “Is a personality who is making a huge difference in Africa and the world at large through his business and entrepreneurship coaching platforms.

“Over the years, he has displayed an uncommon passion for selfless engagements and support for the poor”

The Anti-Cult President said, Wakik, is an entrepreneur, Economist, and the founder of Eyez Global Foundation that has empowered hundreds of less privileged and Persons with disability (PWD) all over Delta State.

“He has done so much to encourage Anti-Cult and he is indeed a patron with a large heart”

He also used the opportunity to encourage the Ambassador, adding that, he has worked hard as a businessman and has lived a life for humanity.

Davido drops ‘Timeless’ new 17-track album

Music star, David Adeleke, better known by his stage name, Davido has finally dished out ‘Timeless’ his much-awaited album.

The singer announced the 17-track album via his social media pages in the early hours of Friday.

While announcing the album he talked about the process he went through from his previous album to the current.

He also gave a shout-out to Chioma Rowland, his wife while appreciating his numerous fans and the people who ensured the completion of the project.

Davido wrote on Twitter “At long last – WE are back. The journey from my last album to this album has been a whirlwind, to say the least.”

The DMW boss said he thought back to when he was sitting and staring over an ocean not too long ago, “wondering if I could get here again, after all, I’ve been through… but with your love & support, we made it.

“I’m not sure what comes after this but I wanted to give you my heart, soul, and energy. Today I present you “TIMELESS”.

So many people to thank who helped make this happen but first, I must send a special thank you to the strongest woman I know, @thechefchi!

“Thank you, thank you, thank you. And to all my supporters – I love you. Now, enjoy! I’ll see you all on road soon!” the music star added.

The album features exciting Nigerian and international artists such as Fave, Asake, and Cavemen, as well as British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, multi-Grammy winner Angelique Kidjo, South African singer Musa Keys, and Jamaican Dancehall star Dexta Daps.

Listen to the album:

Delta State Government Terminates Appointments Of 6 Political Aides Over Gross Misconduct

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The Delta State Government has terminated the appointments of the following persons; Onwuka London (SSA Political), Victor Ossai (SA Political), Iyasele Tunji (SSA Political), Ramon Ossai (SA Political), Lawrence Odu (SA Political), and Tobechukwu Richard Ukwamedua (SSA Political) over unethical conducts in public space.

In a letter to the Senior Political Adviser by the Secretary to State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah, dated 27th March 2023, the above-named persons were relieved of their appointments for no longer sharing in the philosophy and vision of the State Administration.

The termination of their appointments was to take effect from March 1, 2023.

Our investigation revealed that the persons whose appointments were so terminated did everything within their heinous tendencies to undermine their Political Party’s chances of winning elections at all levels in the State.

The source said that despite several warnings and pleadings not to indulge in anti-party activities, they turned a deaf ear and worked against their benefactor Political Party, the PDP.

As such, it was only proper and politically expedient to relieve them of their appointments to avoid further embarrassment to the party.

Finally, Davido confirms his marriage to Chioma

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DMW boss and music star, Davido have confirmed that he has married Chioma Rowland.

Davido confirmed this during an interview with Kiekie, a media personality on Thursday.

According to him, he got married while he was away on break and he also said that he enjoyed a lot of family time.

He added that he is so excited to be back after taking a break to reflect.

In his words, he said “My fans grew up with me since I dropped my first song at 16 or 17 years old. My whole 20s, Nigeria grew up with me.”

“I’ve never taken this kind of break, just being away I’ve had a lot to think about. I’ve had time to rest, reflect, enjoy a lot of family time, and time to make music again.

“Before I went on the break, I had an album ready, I had a tour ready but we redid the album.

“I traveled, I’m married. A lot of different things but we’re ready now to get back on the road. The album will soon be out, it’s amazing and we’re back on the road.”

In January, the couple was spotted getting their names tattooed on each other’s ring fingers.

Recall, after the shocking death of Ifeanyi, his three-year-old son on October 30, 2022, the singer had been on a social media break.

He returned to social media on March 21 with the announcement of ‘Timeless’, his fourth studio album, which will be released on March 31.

The singer described ‘Timeless’ as an amazing project.

Watch the interview:

Nollywood Actor, Yul Edochie’s first son is dead

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Nigerian film star, Yul Edochie, has lost his first son, Kambilichukwu Edochie.

He died after falling unconscious and was rushed to the hospital.

According to a source who spoke to Vanguard and doesn’t want to be identified said Yul has confirmed the death of his son.

It was gathered that May’s sister who was at the scene said “The boy read throughout the night preparing for his exam. After his exam in school, he joined his mates to play football and that’s when he developed a seizure and was rushed to Mother and Child Hospital. All efforts by the doctors to revive him proved abortive.”

This is coming two months after Yul Edochie and his first wife May, celebrated their first son and second child as he turned 16; showering encomiums and blessings on him.

“My first son just turned 16. Happy birthday to you Kambi Leo Yul-Edochie. Many more great years I wish you loads of accomplishments and greatness. May God be with you always. Daddy loves you,” his father wrote on Instagram.

Yul, the last child of veteran actor, Pete Edochie, married his wife, May, at 22 after they both dated for six years. He followed in his father’s footsteps and debuted in the movie industry a year after his marriage.

FEC approves N24.2bn free internet for Airports, Universities, Markets

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Two contracts worth N24.20 billion for the provision of broadband for free internet in 75 public places, including 20 airports, tertiary institutions, and markets nationwide were approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) during its meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday.

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, made this known while briefing State House Correspondents at the end of the FEC meeting.

According Isa Pantami “The Federal Executive Council today approved two memos for the Nigerian Communications Commission, a parastatal under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

“In these two memos, certain intervention projects are going to be implemented by the federal government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Communications Commission, of providing internet in 20 selected airports in Nigeria and higher institutions of learning and also some markets to support micro, small and medium enterprises.

Pantami said that “The two memos are interwoven and related. Memo number one is the award of a contract for the provision of broadband in some selected domestic and international airports. Twenty of them are going to be covered in the first phase of the project.

“In each geopolitical zone, you have around three airports. Like in the southwest, you have two in Lagos, you have in Ondo. For Southeast you have Imo, you have Anambra, you have Enugu. For South-South. For example, you have Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom. For North-Central you have Abuja and Ilorin. For Northwest, you have Kano, Sokoto, and Kebbi. For the Northeast, you have Yola, Maiduguri, and Gombe.

“So all these airports are going to be covered and the federal government of Nigeria will provide broadband for free for passengers that are coming through the airports and particularly in Abuja, sometimes you will discover you will land and there is no any internet for free to even allow you to communicate.

“So, we have set our team in order, we have developed the sustainability model, so that even after the deployment, the maintenance will be very effective.

He also said “In the same memo, there is going to be a provision of broadband to 43 higher institutions of learning at federal and state levels. Some of them are universities for the federal government, some states, some polytechnics, and many more. You may recall that last year, the federal executive council approved a similar memo for the provision of unlimited internet in 18 universities (17 universities and one college of education).

“So this one is the second phase of the project and in the first memo approved today, we have 20 airports, both domestic and international, and in addition, we also have 43 institutions of learning. So if you add you will discover 63 institutions are going to benefit, accommodating higher institutions and local and domestic airports and the price for this is N18.95 billion.

The minister maintained that “The second memo is very similar to the first one; it’s the provision of broadband to some selected markets. Last year, the Federal Executive Council has approved the implementation of that by providing broadband to 20 markets in Nigeria, where you have a minimum of three markets per geopolitical zone.

“This one is to complement the earlier approval, where six markets are also going to benefit from this in addition to six higher institutions of learning; two federal universities, one state university, and polytechnics, and this one the price is N5.25 billion.

“So both memos, you will discover that they will provide broadband to these institutions at the price of approximately N24.20 billion and the project is going to be implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission.

“The duration for the project is four months minimum and a maximum of five months and there is a budgetary provision for that. Also, the fund to sponsor the implementation has been secured by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.”

The minister further said For universities, it’s because we have learned bitter and better lessons during COVID-19, so we don’t want to go back to that, we want to ensure that students and staff benefit from unlimited internet. For airports, we know the difficulty when you land without any connectivity.

“So it will even at least make our airports more lively if there is at least internet connectivity that is for free.

“Thirdly for the market, it’s to support innovation-driven enterprises that are being championed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where we try to give global visibility to our innovators, to our micro, small, and medium enterprises, so that their market is not going to be narrowed and restricted only to our local communities.

“So besides the internet, we have been giving them domain name for free and also supporting them to establish website so that they will be able to have global visibility and also it will support Nigeria, even in the process of transition to cashless policy. When the internet is free and it’s effective in our markets, it will support online activities, and online payments, among many others.”

Pastor allegedly raped Teenager, disvirgin her

A Deeper Life Church youth pastor in Lagos, Pope Paul raped and deflowered a teenage girl.

The girl now 19-year-old narrated how she was allegedly raped by the pastor when she appeared before the Sexual Offenses and Domestic Violence Court setting in Ikeja, Lagos State on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the alleged sexual abuse happened when the girl was 15 years old while living with the pastor and his wife.

Narrating her ordeal to the court, the girl said she knew the pastor when she started residing with him and his wife identified as Sis. Lydia.

According to her “Immediately after Sister Lydia got married, I came to Lagos for a holiday in 2016.”

“After the holiday was over, I was to go back home (Ibadan) but she told me I should start living with her and that she had spoken with my mother.

“I was enrolled in a private school as I resumed SS1. I only go back to my parents during the holiday.”

She also said the pastor started the alleged sexual abuse by caressing her breasts when nobody was around.

“On February 17, 2018, I noticed this lustful look on Pope Paul and he came to me; he started with a rough play and then bumped into me.”

“He started touching me because there was nobody around.

“He moved on to touch my breasts and used his hand to cover my mouth while he inserted his fingers into my private part. As he fingered my private part, blood was flowing out.”

The 19-year-old girl further told the court that the pastor played a “Christian message” and increased the volume so that no one could hear her voice during the alleged rape incident.

She said the cleric instructed her that she would die if she told anyone.

The girl also narrated how the pastor came to her room one night, pushed her to the kitchen, and had sexual intercourse with her.

She told the court that her mother observed her when she got home and subjected her to a pregnancy test, which turned out positive.

“My mum called the pastor and he said that he was sorry and had asked God for forgiveness and knew that God had forgiven him,” she said.

“My mum told him to inform his wife about the pregnancy but he refused and later denied that he is not the one who impregnated me which prompted my mother to report the case to the police and he was arrested.”

The trial judge, Ramon Oshodi, adjourned the case to May 23 for continuation of the case.

Anambra pastor, Odumeje says he will die soon

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Controversial Anambra pastor, Chukwuemeka Ohanere, popularly known as Odumeje said he has completed his work on earth and he will die soon.

During Sunday service, Odumeje, in a viral video was heard singing in the Igbo Language and telling his church members that it was time for him to go.

He said: “I have called my little son, KingDavid, and I told him that very soon, I your father will leave. You must take care of your brothers and your mother.

“I came to this world for a purpose, and that purpose has been fulfilled. I have finished my earthly ministry, and I will leave soon,” he told the congregation.

It was gathered that Odumeje fought many battles and has confronted many native doctors to open contests on their ability to perform miracles. He is 40 years old.

The pastor came into the limelight with his weird pattern of spiritual deliverance, where he carries miracle-seeking members of his church in a manner akin to the WWE wrestlers and smashes them on the floor.

He was in the news last year after he engaged officials of the Anambra State Government, who had come to demolish his church. He was beaten during the encounter.

Oborevwori’s guber victory: Vindication of his destiny to govern Delta – Omimi Esquire

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Political Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Omimi Esquire, has described the declaration of PDP Governorship Candidate, Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, as an indication that the State Assembly Speaker is destined to govern Delta State.

In a congratulatory message made available to newsmen in Asaba, Omimi Esquire said with all the distractions of legal tussles which were resolved by the supreme court, even in the face of his clear win at the party primaries, Sheriff Oborevwori remained resolute, calm, and placed his faith in God which has now seen him vindicated as being a man destined to take over from Governor Okowa come May 29, 2023.

Describing the PDP’s victory as a demonstration of collective teamwork and unity of purpose, Omimi Esquire paid glowing tributes to the leader of the party and State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, the party Chairman, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso, party leaders and others who worked tirelessly round the clock to ensure victory for the Governor-elect, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

While urging those who lost the Saturday, March 18 2023 governorship polls to take the declaration of the Governor-elect in the spirit of sportsmanship, the Political Adviser to the Governor advised Rt Hon Oborevwori to carry all along and strive to be magnanimous in victory, as those who contested the elections with him are Deltans who have made their mark in their various fields of endeavor and should be carried along to enrich his MORE agenda.

Omimi Esquire also used the opportunity to congratulate Deltans who voted en masse for the PDP during the just concluded governorship and house of Assembly polls, describing their overwhelming votes as a demonstration of their implicit confidence in the party, which, under Governor Okowa’s Stronger Delta vision, has transformed the State to an enviable height which will be strengthened with the emergence of Sheriff Oborevwori as Governor-elect.

Part of the statement reads “On behalf of my office, family, and political associates, l heartily felicitate with the RT Hon Speaker of the state house of Assembly, and by the grace of God the incoming Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, on his declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Delta State, as the duly elected Governor-elect of the Saturday, March 18, 2023, polls.”

“This victory further strengthens my belief that he is indeed destined to take over the mantle of leadership from Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. The various legal hurdles and distractions arising from the emergence of the Governor-elect as PDP flag bearer for the governorship polls, have further deepened my belief in the fact that power belongs to God and man can meander and plot, but God’s will ultimately prevail.”

“Sheriff Oborevwori is a man of destiny. Not only that his Pan Delta unifier outlook which saw him becoming the longest serving Speaker in the history of Delta State House of Assembly where the cosmopolitan nature of the state is captured by the various representatives from the 25 local government areas of the state speaks volumes of his leadership qualities in a complex multi-ethnic Delta. I have no doubt your emergence is ordained and you will do well with your MORE agenda. Congratulations Sir”, the statement said.

DSTG hails Deltans over Sheriff Oborevwore’s victory

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The Delta State Government applauded the good people of Delta and its residents for their support and love shown to the Governor-Elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwore, the candidate of the People Democratic Party over on Saturday’s poll.

Sheriff Oborevwore won Saturday’s gubernatorial election, defeating his strongest opponents, Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege, the candidate of the All Progressive Congress, and Ken Pela, the candidate of the Labour Party.

Briefing newsmen in Asaba, the state capital on Tuesday, the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said that the Okowa-led administration, Governor-elect, and indeed the PDP party faithful are entirely grateful for the love and support they sacrifice during the gubernatorial election in the state.

According to him, Oborevwore’s victory now confirmed that indeed Delta is PDP and it is in their DNA.

Aniagwu said, “We are happy as an administration that we won fair and square in all the senatorial District, we got the overwhelming support from Deltans and those who live with us.”

“This victory had spurred the PDP and it does not only sustain the development trajectory that characterized the Okowa-led administration but embarked on a process to bring more just like the ‘MORE Agenda’ of Sheriff Oborevwore.”

He also called on the opposition to join hands to build a more developed and peaceful State for its citizens and its residents.

“For our opponent, we congratulate them for putting up a very strong contest and we urged them to join hands with Sheriff Oborevwore and Monday Onyeme together with the leaders of the PDP to indeed pursue an agenda that will be of more development than it is now,” the information commissioner said.

NUJ congratulates Sheriff Oborevwore, Delta State Governor-Elect

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, congratulates the Governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has victoriously emerged winner of the contest as Governor-Elect.

The union in a statement by the State Council Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, and his Secretary, Comrade Patrick Ochie stated that Oborevwore having worked so hard for the position, deserves the winning.

The union mentioned that those who contested with him are all great Deltans who had shown dexterity and capacity to leadership by contesting to contribute their quota to the development of the State.

Part of the statement reads: “On this note, we beg to affirm that the election sould be ,seen as “No Victor, No Vanquished”.

“It is Delta State that has won, because in the final analysis, we all remain Deltans – One Great People.”

“Let this also be credible advice from us to the Governor-Elect; that he should be magnanimous in victory by carrying everybody along to achieve inclusiveness in the spirit of his MORE Agenda mantra.”

“As the umbrella body of all journalists in the State, we will remain committed to our constitutional mandate of holding government accountable through our routine and investigative reports.”

“However, we will not shy away from making our sincere contributions to the growth and development of the socio-economic and political focus of Delta State.”

“This we will do through constructive criticism, advice and suggestions on how best to achieve system cohesion and comprehensive progress for all.”

“Our doors at the Council level are always open for partnership and synergy to create an enviable environment and achieve a Delta of our Dream.”

“Once again Mr. Governor-Elect; on behalf of the entire the journalists in the State and beyond, we say a Big Congratulation to you, and success in your administration.”

APC rejects Delta election results

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The All Progressives Congress today rejected the INEC declaration of Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, winner of the Delta State governorship election.

The party said the last Saturday’s election was deceitful as it was characterized by votes buying and intimidation of voters.

According to a press statement signed by Sunny Areh, chief press secretary to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the APC Governorship candidate, said INEC went ahead to declare Oborevwori as the winner despite the myriad of infractions and acts of impunity on the part of the PDP in the course of the election.

Part of the statement reads: “The March 18 election was characterized by massive fraud, unprecedented vote buying, and voter suppression perpetrated by the PDP in the course of the election.”

“The fraudulent nature of PDP’s so-called victory is just too damning and daring for it to be acceptable in any decent society. Most of those infractions are in the Public domain and known to INEC officials and the security agencies involved in superintending the election.”

The APC argued that it won two senatorial seats and some House of Representatives in February 25 elections and that it does not add up how the party could be defeated in Delta South and Delta Central senatorial districts.

The statement added that Ovie Omo-Agege and the party will challenge the election of Oborevwori in court.

The party, therefore, appealed to its numerous supporters and the entire public to remain calm as the stolen mandate would be recovered in court.

The statement further affirmed:’ I can assure all our teeming supporters and all Deltans that the PDP pyrrhic celebration of a stolen mandate will be short-lived.
By the grace of God and the clearly expressed wish of the people, this electoral heist will be reversed and Senator Omo Agege will be sworn in on May 29, 2023, as the lawfully elected Governor of Delta State.”

Breaking: INEC declares Oborevwore winner of Delta governorship election

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The Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwore, the governorship candidate for the People Democratic Party in Delta State, winner of Saturday’s governorship election.

Prof. Georgewill Owuneri Abraham, the State Returning Officer, announced the result at the commission headquarters in Asaba, the state capital on Monday.

The Returning Officer while announcing the result said “The PDP candidate, having met the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner and returned as governor-elect.

According to the result, Oborevwore scored 360, 234 votes to defeat Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the APC governorship candidate who polled 240, 229.

Ken Pela, the candidate for the Labour Party came third with 48,047 total votes.

The total number of Registered Voters is 3, 221, 697, while Accredited voters are 710, 829.

The total number of votes cast is 687121, valid votes are 611737, and Rejected votes are 15384.

Buhari signed 16 Constitution Amendment Bills into Law, permits States to generate electricity

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President Muhammadu Buhari has signed 16 amended constitutions into law, making it possible for States to generate, transmit and distribute electricity in areas covered by the national grid.

The amended bill also guaranteed the financial independence of the State Houses of Assembly and the Judiciaries.

Tolu Ogunlesi, the presidential media spokesperson made this known on Twitter on Friday.

According to Ogunlesi, the amendment also makes it possible for the Railways to be moved from the Exclusive Legislative list to the Concurrent list.

With Railways moving from Exclusive to Concurrent list, it means Rail is no longer an exclusive preserve of the Federal Govt/NASS. States will now be able to make laws regulating the establishment & operation of rail services within their territory. Inter-State Rail will remain FGN’s responsibility.

The Correctional Services is also moved from the Exclusive Legislative list to the Concurrent list. It means States now have the power to establish Correctional and Custodian facilities which the State Assemblies have the power to legislate on.

Also with the new amendment, the Constitution now mandates the President and Governors to submit the names of persons nominated as Ministers or Commissioners within sixty days of taking the oath of office for confirmation by the Senate or State House of Assembly.

Another part of the amended Constitution relates to the change of name of some Local Governments. In Ogun State, Egbado North, and Egbado South Local Government Areas are now to be known and addressed as Yewa North and Yewa South respectively.

In Ebonyi, Afikpo North and Afikpo South LGAs are now to be known as Afikpo and Edda LGAs respectively.

The Presidential media spokesperson further said that the Constitution amendment Bills originally passed by NASS included one for financial autonomy for local governments, replacing the controversial “State Joint Local Government Account” which a new “Local Govt Council Allocation Account” to be credited directly.

Now that the Bills have been assented to, and have become Acts of Parliament, the next step is for “gazetting” to happen – the process by which the assented Acts are published in the Official Gazette of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Breaking: World’s oldest monarch, Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom is dead

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His Royal Majesty, the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom in Delta State, Ovie Richard Layieguen Ogbon, Ogoni Oghoro 1, the oldest monarch in the world has died at the age of 106 years.

The passage of the monarch was announced by the Otota of Olomu Kingdom, Olorogun Macaulay Ovbagbedia during a meeting of the traditional council at the Ohworode Palace in Ogoni Olomu on Thursday.

Announcing, Olorogun Ovbagbedia said “The Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, HRM, Dr. (Ovie) R. L. Ogbon Ogoni-Oghoro 1, Royal Canon, OON, Chairman, Council of Traditional Rulers of Urhobo Nation otherwise known as Ukoko R’ Ivie R’ Urhobo.

” We can confirm today that our Ohworode has gone back to God. He lived a great life, he served the Government well and his people.

“We are mourning and celebrating, the reason is that he was old but it’s painful though,” he added.

Also, the Akpile of Olomu Kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN, said due to the happening, there shall be 21 days of mourning in the kingdom, no celebration of burial, and marriages across the kingdom.

He also said that the Chiefs should not adorn themselves in the traditional red cap and should add a black armband to any dressing during the time.

According to Olorogun Akpomudje, the burial arrangement will be announced soon.

It was gathered that the departed monarch celebrated his birthday on 20th January with Thanksgiving after battling health challenges over two months.

The late Urhobo majesty ascended the throne at the age of 70 years in 1988. He was the twelve Ohworode of Olomu, an ancient kingdom in Nigeria.

Born on 20th January 1917, he was baptized into the Anglican Communion in 1936. He was a retired Inspector of Education under the then Bendel State Ministry of Education.

He was the only Royal Canon of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, a title that is recognized in England.

He had 12 children but was survived by 11 following the death of the eldest child, the late Elizabeth Ogbon-day, Nigeria’s first woman Ambassador.

Princess Ogbon-Day was a Nigerian Consul-General to Hamburg, defunct West Germany, and the Philippines under the administration of former President Shehu Shagari.

Omo-Agege sues for peace, urges Anti-Cult group to be security cautious during election

The Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate and the candidate of the All people progressive Congress have assured the members of the Delta State Anti-Cult group to be vigilant before, during, and after the Governorship Election.

He gave the assurance on Monday, March 13 when he met for the first time with the members of the Anti-Cult group in Asaba, the state capital.

According to him, “the issue of security is everybody’s business, especially politicians. frankly speaking the Police can not do it alone”, all over the world crime fighting is a collective one hence the need for inter-agency cooperation and collaboration.”

He noted that no country in the world had zero crime rate even the developed ones, noting that it can only be brought down astronomically particularly with the collaboration of stakeholders such as Anti Cult Volunteer Corps, vigilantes, and other sister security agencies playing their roles effectively.

While commending the Anti-Cult Volunteer Corps for its commitment to stamping out cultism and other social vices from communities, the Senate President advised the Patrons not to condone any bad egg among its fold who would want to use the corps as a cover to engage in criminality, especially during the elections.

He said, “I will work with you, we will work together to change the face of Delta. I enjoin every man of the Anti-Cult to be professional in the discharge of his duties and desist from acts against the tenets of the formation of AVC. As crime fighters, you must smoke out moles from within who sell out intelligence to their criminal cohorts. We should not allow saboteurs to be in our midst”.

The President urged the anti-cult Volunteer Corps to carry out their duties within the ambit of the law and should be exemplary in their conduct, especially during the elections.

There is a need for security so that all those companies that have left the state will return. The government does not create jobs but we will create the enabling environment for peace and security so investors can come in and create jobs for our people.

Omo-Agege said the challenges facing the state affected everybody irrespective of ethnic or political affiliation, saying he will be fair, just, and equitable in the management of the state resources if elected

The Delta Central lawmaker stated that under him as governor, no section or part of the state would be neglected or marginalized on account of ethnicity, senatorial district, or religious affiliation.

Responding, the President in Charge of the Anti Cult Unit Delta State Chapter, Commended the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate for his outright contribution to peace and development of the state and country at large.

He promised to carry out his duty within the ambit of the law and work with all zeal alongside his men during the Governorship elections.

Peter Obi reveals what he will do if Tinubu invites him into his Govt

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The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party said he will not accept any offer to be part of Bola Tinubu’s government of National Unity.

Peter Obi made this known when he was asked what he would do if he was called upon to be a member of Tinubu’s government of national unity on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday.

He said he will still challenge the process of the election and the declaration stating that the process of the election should be put right first before anyone could talk of the government of national unity.

According to him, “The first thing I want to see is that the process is right. The process through which you achieve anything is far more fundamental than what you do thereafter. Let us go back first, I am challenging the process and the declaration.

“Until we get it right, then we can talk about a government of national unity. Otherwise, we would go and sit down and say that those who stopped a train and kidnapped people can call us to discuss peace when they have people in captivity. Until things are done rightly, we will be encouraging what we don’t need to encourage,” he added.

Again, when asked whether or not he would accept the outcome of the court judgment if it is not in his favor, Obi said he would be upset if the court upholds Tinubu’s election.

His words: “Issues about the election will be sorted out in court. I will be shocked if this country goes on with that situation. It will then stand that it is a corporate criminalized country. We can’t allow it. We need to start unbundling this criminality.

“When people were talking about structure, it is this fraud and criminality that we witnessed that they were talking about, and we want to unbundle it for the sake of our children.”

The former Anambra State governor said he believes the judiciary would do the right thing.

Recall, Tinubu, the president-elect, and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) have been dragged to court by Obi over the outcome of the February 25 election.

However, the camp of the APC candidate had mentioned that the former Lagos Governor would form an all-inclusive government to carry all his opponents along in his government.

DTHA 2023 Aniocha North Constituency: The Candidate Bazim Sally Biose

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Born on the 22nd of May, 1975, to the family of Mr. and Mrs. Emmanuel Okolie Biose, of ldumu-ine quarters of lssele Uku, in Aniocha North local government. Bazim Sally Biose obtained his Higher National Diploma, ( HND), in Marketing, from the Institute of Management & Technology (IMT), Enugu between 2000 and 2002, after which he proceeded for his National Youth Service Corps ( NYSC) national assignment to Yobe State, Damaturu, to be precise, between 2002 and 2003.

Bazim’s maternal grandmother, is from the Adudu family of Ogbeowele quarters of lssele-uku, while his paternal grandmother is from Kachikwu’s family in ldumu Mpeneke quarters, all from lssele uku.

From 2002 – 2004, he works at A+k Nigeria Limited, Port Harcourt, Rivers State; 2005 – 2011, Abbey Mortgage Bank PLC; 2011, MD/CEO, Sallybest Properties LTD, Gwarimpa, Abuja FCT; 2015, Non-Executive Director, AG Mortgage Bank PLC, Chief Executive King Dee suites Apartment, Gwarimpa Abuja while in 2022 till date as Principal Partner, De Eagles Newspapers, Asaba.

Bazim professional summary is to always strive for excellence and true integrity in professionalism, offering diligent and righteous services in a dynamic, proactive way, to give a fair representation.

His unrestrained passion to serve his people at the grassroots, motivated him to join the political fray of Aniocha North, when in 2018, Baziim contested the DTHA primaries for Aniocha North but was schemed out due to external influences of certain cabals who were alleged to be acting on orders from “above” to deliver his closest rival.

This infraction of the process led to mass defections from the PDP, whose primaries he contested, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), under whose auspices, he is the Aniocha North Candidate for State House of Assembly elections of Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Speaking about his attribute, he is highly organized, motivated, and imbued with great communication skills, Bazim, an upwardly mobile and successful personality, thrives in sorting out situations without supervision.

He is highly meticulous and deeply in tune with his people at the grassroots, Bazim, like a breath of fresh air, is out to reinvigorate the Dynamics of effective representation for the people of Aniocha North by entrenching people-oriented bills which will translate to great strides of development and welfare for them.

Bazim is a household name in Aniocha North. He has the disposition and capacity to bring about effective and people-oriented representation to the good people of Aniocha North if they give him their mandate. Very accessible, humble, and altruistic, his Fidelity and integrity stand him out of the pack.

Vote for Bazim Sally Biose for DTHA, Aniocha North constituency, for robust development and value for the good people of the area. Ndi Aniocha North, let’s get it right this time.

Delta Information Commissioner says opposition engages individuals to foster wrong allegations

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The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu said ahead of the election, the opposition is trying as much as possible to engage in the services of individuals who want to malign the administration of Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa by bringing out lies and paint stories that are completely at variance with reality.

The Commissioner for Information said this while briefing Journalists on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital.

He said those who are spreading lies ahead of the election are doing so because they want to play dirty politics and they are trying much as possible not to join issues with them.

He also said the PDP has produced and showcased a candidate, who they believe has the capability of uniting Deltans, and he is the person of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwore.

According to the Information Commissioner, Oborevwore has served as the Speaker of the State House of Assembly for upward of 6 years and within that 6 years, he has been able to pursue a development trajectory that suggests he is indeed a pan Deltan.

Aniagwu said beyond the fact that he is a pan-Deltan, Oborevwore has also demonstrated that he is in touch with the grassroots, and he also has the development agenda of the Okowa-led administration which he will continue.

He said with Oborevwore’s development stride, the PDP is quite convinced that Deltans will be electing another developmental-minded individual that can not be compared with other candidates that are deliberately sectional.

Speaking about Oborevwore’s absence from Arise TV debate, he said they have looked forward to that debate before the postponement of the governorship election.

He said they appreciated the opportunity initiated by Arise TV but opined that the timing for the notice is very short because it affects other activities lined up by their candidate.

FG postpones population census to May

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The population and housing census that was earlier scheduled for March 29 has been shifted to May by the federal government.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed made this known after the end of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on Wednesday.

According to Mohammed, the decision came as a result of the gubernatorial election that was postponed to March 18.

He also said that the council approved the sum of N2.8 billion for the National Population Commission (NPC) to procure software to be used for the conduct of the census.

The minister said “There was a memo presented by the National Population Commission, seeking some software to allow them to conduct the census in May this year. I believe because of the rescheduling of the elections, they cannot commence the census as scheduled.”

“They sought Council’s approval for a contract to procure software for the census at the sum of N2.8 billion.”

IPOB ranked the world’s 10th deadliest group

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has been classified as the 10th deadliest group in the world.

The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) in its 2023 report, stated that IPOB is responsible for 40 attacks and 57 deaths in 2022 which is regarded as the group’s deadliest year.

According to the GTI report that was published by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), the Islamic State was recorded as the deadliest terrorist group in the world with 1,045 deaths and 410 attacks.

Al- Shabaab ranked next with 784 deaths and 315 attacks while Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISK) recorded 498 deaths and 141 attacks; Jamaat Nusrat Al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), 279 deaths and 77 attacks; Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), 233 deaths and 30 attacks.

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) ranked 6th with 219 deaths and 65 attacks followed by Boko Haram which is responsible for 204 deaths and 64 attacks.

The reports also showed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as recording 137 deaths and 90 attacks, followed by Islamic State – Sinai Province with 71 deaths and 27 attacks, and then IPOB as number 10th.

“The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), designated as a terrorist group by the Nigerian government in 2017, recorded their deadliest year in 2022,” the report reads.

“They were responsible for 40 attacks and 57 deaths in 2022, an increase from 26 attacks and 34 deaths the year prior. IPOB is a separatist movement with many factions, many of which are seeking a peaceful succession from Nigeria.”

Recall in 2017, the federal government proscribed and declared IPOB a terrorist organization.

Omo-Agege pull out of Arise TV gubernatorial debate amid Oborevwori’s withdrawal

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The Delta State governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress and Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, has withdrawn from a debate organized by the Arise News, the operator of Arise Television.

It was gathered that the gubernatorial debate is scheduled to commence today, Wednesday, March 15, at 6 pm in Warri.

His withdrawal was as a result of the non-availability of his major opponent and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Sheriff Oborevwori.

This was made known in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sunny Areh who said “In the evening of Tuesday, March 14, 2023, the Delta APC Campaign Organisation received a letter from Arise News, operators of Arise Television, inviting the leading contender for the March 18 governorship election in Delta State and APC’s flagbearer, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, to a debate involving the major candidates.”

“The said debate is scheduled to hold today, Wednesday, March 15 at 6 pm.”

“Although the invitation came rather late and we had no prior knowledge of the event while having other engagements already lined up, Senator Omo-Agege is prepared to review his appointments and participate in the debate.

“However, his readiness had always had a caveat: His main opponent and candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori should also be in attendance.

“Unfortunately, we have confirmed that Rt. Hon. Oborevwori has chickened out of the debate. Of course, this does not come as a surprise as the PDP flagbearer had repeatedly indicated that he will not participate in any debate, probably to conceal his inadequacies and avoid his hollow persona being unraveled by the discerning electorate.

“As a result, Senator Omo-Agege is not inclined to participate in the debate when Rt. Hon. Oborevwori is not there.

“However, if as the PDP stated in their letter declining the offer from Arise News that should the organization reschedule it to a new date, their candidate may consider participating, Senator Omo-Agege will promptly review his decision. If only that was truly the case. But we that Rt. Hon. Oborevwori will never subject himself to any situation where he will face a barrage of questions from the media without the aid and guidance of his media aides.

“If the unthinkable happens and the Speaker expresses willingness to be part of the debate, Senator Omo-Agege will adjust his schedule and participate in the debate.

“We believe that a debate involving all the candidates is a veritable platform for the public to further enrich their assessment of each candidate’s programs. Such exercise can only be meaningful and wholesome if the major candidates, especially the flagbearer of the ruling party in the State are willing to participate.”

Beware of Defective Tetracycline Ointment – NAFDAC alerts Nigerians

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control cautioned the public on defective tetracycline hydrochloride ophthalmic ointment.

The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye disclosed this on Tuesday.

Prof. Adeyeye said the World Health Organization had raised the alarm on batches of the tetracycline hydrochloride ophthalmic ointment USP one percent for various quality issues.

She said the affected ointment, manufactured by Navi Mumbai-based Galentic Pharma (India) Pvt Ltd, was still within valid shelf life.

The NAFDAC Director-General while citing WHO said “At least 55 countries received the affected batches, and the manufacturer has initiated a voluntary recall for several batches.

“The WHO also stated that the manufacturer had indicated that other batches may be included in the voluntary recall.”

She added that various marketing authorization holders exist for the product and that the product is available under various labeling.

She also added that “five international procurers of the product independently conducted a visual examination of random samples of stock on hand and detected a range of quality issues.

“The issues reported by each procurer were not uniform and varied from batch to batch. Some of such issues include the presence of particles, ranging in color, size, and shape on the nozzle in the cap and in the ointment inside each tube.

Davido delete profile picture, cleared thousands of posts on Instagram

DMW boss, Davido deleted a lot of posts on his Instagram page and also removed his profile picture.

It was confirmed on Wednesday that the singer only retained 50 posts with only three visible on his IG page of 26.4 million followers.

The visible post includes that of his late son, Ifeanyi, his performance at the World Cup in Qatar, and photos of him and Chioma.

Recall, Davido has been on holiday on social media since the shocking death of his three-year-old son on October 30, 2022.

He made his first public appearance after Ifeanyi’s death at the swearing-in ceremony of Ademola Adeleke, his uncle, as Osun governor, on November 27.

He also returned to social media shortly before his performance at the closing ceremony of the 2022 FIFA World Cup on December 18 and shared loved-up photos with his fiancée.

After the performance, Davido teased about his return to music, which he said was going to be in March.

Watch Asake world-class performance of “Yoga” & “Organise” on “Tonight Show”

YBNL signee, Asake delivered a world-class performance of his hit songs “Organize” and “Yoga” off his debut album, Mr Money With The Vibe on Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

His performance was backed up by The Compozers, a music band, and a dreamy-looking stage.

Watch video:

Over 12 million cyberattacks recorded during the presidential election – FG

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami has said the 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections attracted 12.99 million cyber-attacks.

He said the attacks were recorded between February 24th, 25th, and 28th, with the presidential election, attracting 6.99 million attacks alone.

The Minister said this in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Uwa Sulaiman on Tuesday while giving a rundown of the activities of the ministry during and after the 2023 presidential election.

He stated that the attacks witnessed during the period include a series of hacking attempts, Distributed Denial of Service, Email and IPS attacks, SSH Login attempts, Brute force injection attempts, Path traversal, Detection evasion, and Forceful browsing.

It was gathered that before the presidential election, Pantami had on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari inaugurated a committee on an advisory role for the protection of Nigerian Cyberspace and ICT Infrastructure.

The committee was chaired by the Board Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission with the CEOs of NCC, National Information Technology, and Galaxy Backbone as members.

Recall, this is not the first time the Nigerian election will be recording cyberattacks. It was publicized by the Independent National Electoral Commission that its result viewing portal was unsuccessfully attacked after the Ekiti and Osun governorship election in 2022.

Delta State PDP governorship candidate, Sheriff Oborovwore escapes assassin

The Governorship Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party for the 2023 governorship election in Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori escaped from an assassin.

The incident happened along the Warri/Sapele Highway on Sunday, March 12, 2023.

According to a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dennis Otu stated that the gunmen ambushed the convoy of the PDP Governorship Candidate and opened fire on them when he was returning from Sapele to Osubi.

The statement reads: “The convoy of the Delta State PDP Governorship Candidate, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on Sunday, March 12th, 2023 came under heavy attack from unknown gunmen between Elume junction and Okuabude in Okpe Local Government Area of the State.”

“The car which he was driving and security vehicles attached to the convoy were riddled with bullets in the incident that took place at about 9:05 pm. He had gone to Sapele for political meetings and on his way back to Osubi, the unknown gunmen ambushed the convoy and launched a heavy attack on him, spraying his car and backup vehicles with bullets.”

“Only the Grace of God and the fact that he was riding in a bulletproof car saved the life of the leading governorship hopeful in the State.

“His brave security men rose to the occasion by engaging the suspected assassins in a duel which lasted for over 10 minutes before the gunmen took to their heels and disappeared into the thick darkness of the night.”

“Although no life was lost, one of the security men attached to the PDP governorship candidate sustained injuries.

“The matter has been reported to the Police for further investigation”, the statement added.

Recall, this is the second time suspected assassins have made attempt on the life of the Delta State PDP Governorship Candidate for the 2023 governorship Election, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

The first incident occurred on Wednesday, January 11th, 2023, when he escaped an attempt on his life by assassins who disguised as police officers and opened gunfire on his convoy along the Warri/Sapele Highway, while on his way to Koko, Warri North Local Government Area of the State for the commissioning of the ultra-modern floating market, Ogheye.

CBN finally bows to Supreme Court, says old naira notes remain legal tender

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) last night said that the old N200, N500, and N1000 notes remain legal tender.

This is coming after President Muhammadu Buhari stated that he did not ask the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Attorney General of the Federation to disobey the ruling of the Supreme Court.

According to a statement issued by Isa Abdulmumin, CBN’s spokesperson, he said the new directive was in line with the judgment of the Supreme Court.

The statement read “In compliance with the established tradition of obedience to court orders and sustenance of the rule of law principle that characterized the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, and by extension, the operations of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), as a regulator, deposit money banks operating in Nigeria have been directed to comply with the Supreme Court ruling of March 3, 2023.

“Accordingly, the CBN met with the Bankers’ Committee and has directed that the old N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes remain legal tender alongside the redesigned banknotes till December 31, 2023.

“Consequently, all concerned are directed to conform accordingly.”

Recall, the CBN had for days refused to publicly accept the Supreme Court judgment on the old naira notes, a development that worsened the hardship being faced by millions of Nigerians amid reluctance by traders and some banks to accept the old denominations.

Many lawyers and other pundits had condemned the disposition of the Buhari-led administration to the naira crisis and voiced out their anger over the affront on the highest court in the land.

Okowa commission Press Center, debunks N850B loan allegation

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The executive governor of Delta State, his excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, commissioned a Press Center at Government House in Asaba.

He also proved to be false that his administration had borrowed over N850 billion since he assumed office, saying that it is a lie from the pit of hell.

Okowa said this after the commissioning of the Press Center, on Monday while expressing joy over the successful completion of the project, saying with the project, there is a befitting place for journalists to be addressed. He gave thanks to God for the building to have been completed.

The governor who spoke about the loan he collected, said his administration only inquired about bridging finance of N150 billion from a consortium of banks from the N217 billion owned by the Federal Government to the state.

He said the amount was later reduced to N100 billion, with necessary options to the House of Assembly, adding that the government only got N91 billion which had successfully been used on projects.

According to him, out of the N91 billion, N10 billion was spent on state and local governments pensions, while the other balance was used on projects that were listed in the application to the House of Assembly, including the Koka Flyover and interchange, Mariam Babangida Leisure Park, the Film Village, and the Ughelli-Asaba Dualisation.

He said that the projects had been completed and inaugurated while two were ongoing, and advised critics of his administration and those seeking the number one position in the state to speak the truth to people.

Okowa also said that remarkable progress was made by his administration in healthcare delivery, education, infrastructural, and human capital development emphasizing that no fewer than 2,000 kilometers of roads and 1,000 kilometers of drains had been constructed by his administration.

He said the creeks and other riverside communities in Ijaw and Itsekiri lands had a fair share of road and bridge projects despite the cost, adding that the Ayakromo Bridge project was ongoing, with a new contractor in charge following its repudiation as a result of poor performance by the former contractor.

“The rumor that we have borrowed N850 billion was a lie from the pit of hell. It is unfair for anybody trying to be the governor of the state to deceive the people.

“We have structured our finances with superior thinking. When we borrowed money, we borrowed reasonably to finance our projects.

“We have constructed over 2,000 kilometers of roads in the state. We have constructed a lot of bridges and we are still constructing more.

“We are still working on the bridge on the Beneku River, the Orherhe Bridge project, and others. We have revoked the Ayakromo Bridge project and re-awarded it to a more competent contractor,” the governor said.

Again he noted that his administration had enjoyed peace and all-around development due to the input of members of the House of Assembly, union leaders, stakeholders, civil servants, politicians, traditional rulers, and the organized private sector while urging them to sustain the tempo of such support.

On the assumption that the Warri axis was abandoned in terms of road projects, the governor said the flooding challenges in the oil city and its environs took months before solutions were proffered through a study which, he said, gave birth to the stormwater drainage project in the area.

While affirming that the stormwater drainage project had gone far, he said tarring any road in Warri without proper drainage and discharge point would have amounted to a waste of resources, adding that with the stormwater project on course, the Warri township stadium and major roads construction will be achieved.

“We have done over 1,000 kilometers of drains across the state as well as underground drains. The same thing we did in Asaba, we started in Warri. A lot has been done and l know that at the end of the day, Warri will be better for it.

“Having realized that the storm drainage project in Warri was nearing completion, we awarded the contract for the total rehabilitation of the Warri township stadium last year,” Okowa added.

He said the huge pensions arrears owed retirees from the state civil service which was inherited by his administration on assumption of office in 2015 has been reduced significantly.

The governor said that genuine arrears owed workers in the state would be paid, and advised appropriate agencies of government to ensure that promotion was done as at when due to avoid the accumulation of arrears.

He said that the concession of Asaba Airport and Delta Line Transport Company to private investors had yielded positive results, stressing that the economic drain the two agencies hitherto constituted to the state had become an asset.

“Today, we have four universities running in Delta State. Some persons may have something to say about it, but l have no regret floating the universities by upgrading some of the existing institutions in the state.

“The important thing is that we have brought university education closer to the people. It is important to make it clear that we do not charge tuition fees in Delta, what the students pay is running cost.

“In the primary and secondary schools, we have continued to do the best we can. Technical Education is key to our entrepreneurial development. We are laying a strong foundation for entrepreneurial development in the state.

“Civil service cannot provide all the jobs. That is why we are building capacity in entrepreneurial development through the various skills acquisition and entrepreneurial development programs of the state government.

“The contributory health scheme of the state government is working very well as it has the highest number of enrollees in the country,” he said, adding that the state secretariat was one of the best secretariats in the country,” he stated.

The State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, in his remarks, thanked the Governor for his media-friendly policies and programs and assured him of a robust relationship in promoting the policies and programs of his administration.

Commissioner tasks LG Chairmen to urge Residents on sanitation exercise

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The Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Godspower Onafuvwe Asiuhwu, said residents are not actively encouraging the idea of environmental sanitation in the state.

He said a lot of the residents are ignorant of the environmental laws because they don’t know such a law exists and how it affects them, adding that the State Ministry of Justice is currently working on the environmental laws.

The Commissioner said this when Journalists paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Asaba on Monday.

According to him, the negligence from the residents is due to a lack of proper orientation and enlightenment that is supposed to come from the Local Government Areas.

He explained that the LGAs are not living up to their responsibilities of keeping their environment clean and evacuating dead bodies in the streets.

The Commissioner while explaining said “Most of the LGAs abandoned their environmental responsibilities to the state government. The Ministry is only there to supervise the activities of the LGAs and to come up with a policy that will help them operate effectively.”

“When I resumed office, I discovered that a lot of people are not taking sanitation so seriously. The residents normally locked up their shops and standby without engaging in the activity of sanitation.”

“At the initial stage, the Ministry has to come up with some form of sensitization and orientation program to educate the people about why they need to engage environmental sanitation.”

Asiuhwu said the Ministry was forced to map out a strategy for the 25 LGAs to overhaul their environment department since they discovered the challenges.

The commissioner who Is not happy with the way the Oshimili South Local Government Area residents are going about the Thursday sanitation exercise in the market said, the ministry has called on the council Chairman and the environmental department to sit up and take the issue of sanitation very seriously.”

He further said that his team at the Ministry of Environment will work until the last days of Governor Okowa’s administration.

Massive Jubilation As Peter Obi Endorses Ken Pela

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Peter Obi supporters have turned out en masse to welcome him to Agbor Delta State as he endorsed Labour Party’s governorship candidate as the incoming Governor of Delta State

In a shocking political gathering with over a hundred thousand supporters of the Labour Party chanting praises on the streets of Agbor, Umunede, and Asaba as they dance along with his car screaming and singing songs of victory.

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr. Peter Obi disclosed that the governorship candidate Deacon Ken Pela of the labour party is the people’s choice that will liberate and bring peace to the area.

According to him, there is no need for distractions because the masses are tired of the APC and PDP-led government.

Obi added that the people want a total reform of political parties and had endorsed the labour party as their best choice to govern Delta State.

He said, “if you are a true OBIdient, and you truly believe in Peter Obi’s mandate, you will never give your vote to APC because if APC wins Delta State, it will prove that Peter Obi didn’t win here”

He urged all Deltans to come out en mass on the 18th of March, 2023 to vote ken Pela for governor adding that, when the righteous rule, the people rejoice.

Speaking during the rally, Deacon Ken Pela also called on the good people of Delta State to vote for all candidates of the Labour Party in next Saturday’s Governorship and House of Assembly general elections cum March 18, 2023.

Speaking further. The incoming Governor noted that just like the Labour party defeated the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party in Delta state during the just concluded presidential elections in the state, he will be able to defeat Sheriff Oborevwori, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party.

While speaking about his chances in the coming election, the Labour Party candidate noted that the good people of Delta have been yearning for change for 24 years now, and with the exploit of Peter Obi in Delta state during the just concluded presidential election, they now have hope that they can have their desired change.

“Our votes were like double of the next party, and even when you put the PDP and APC together, it wasn’t up to. We are very certain that at the next elections, we will do even better. More importantly, is the fact that Delta state has been yearning for change for 24 years. Every election cycle, the people have been yearning for change and this is the first time they’ve been able to see that they can defeat the ruling party. The ruling party, the PDP is a shadow of itself, it’s divided into several parts. I’m confident that we will trash them a second time.”

Pela said, that his vision if elected as the governor of Delta State is to bring a better Deltan when righteousness, harmony, and prosperity reign.

He added that the vision is deeply rooted in the vision of the Presidential Candidate Mr. Peter Obi to take Nigeria from consumption to production.

He said that the labor party will enthrone righteousness in Delta State and governance by enthroning accountability and integrity, fairness, equity, and justice.

The guber candidate explained that the party will eliminate waste and corruption, bring transparency into government and re-orientate the value of the good people of Delta State and ensure mass participation of the people in government.

Pela added that, there will be security in Delta State and that the security operatives will be equipped to ensure peace in the land to enable the good people of Delta State to sleep with their two eyes closed.

The governorship Aspirant promised to construct the best road, healthcare services, and good educational learning for children in Delta State.

He said that the worker’s salary/minimum wage will be increased progressively to a Hundred Thousand Naira (#100,000) per month.

The Labour party candidate added that there will be Social Investment Scheme (SIS) for Deltans and inject the sum of One Hundred And Twenty Billion Naira (#120,000,000,000) into the economy of Delta State for four years, interest-free loans to people to start up their businesses and also expand their businesses.

He said that the interest-free loans payable for four years, One Million Naira each to a hundred people in the 25 LGA every month will drive the economy of the state.

In the same vein, Ken Pela debunked the alleged rumor of One Hundred Million Naira (#100,000,000) by one Fejiro Oliver of the All Progressive Congress Party (APC).

Just as he maintained that, the state government did not invite them as alleged and that they never visited Delta State Government House to collect or receive any money.

He called on Deltans and labour party faithful to debunk the rumors and go ahead with their legitimate duty by making sure that the labor party emerges as the winner coSaturday’sday governorship and the house of assembly general election.

“The worse thing any government will do to her people is to punish the loyal and hard-worked pensioners who served this state with their sweat and blood. The PDP-led government was cursed by old pensioners who were deprived of their entitlement”

He said that the interest-free loans payable for four years, One Million Naira each to a hundred people in the 25 LGA every month will drive the economy of the state.

Delta APC is just a rebranded PDP, their Guber candidate just completed his training from the Buhari administration. Deltans will not allow the worse of what currently happening in Nigeria to happen to us.

Heavy gunshots, many casualties as APC, PDP supporters clash

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Tragedy as one person was reportedly killed while about 15 others sustained injuries from gunshots and machetes attacks at a campaign rally of the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Sadique Abubakar.

The incident happened in Duguri town in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State on Wednesday.

Duguri is the hometown of the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Buni Mohammed.

The incident which happened a few minutes before 6 pm, came barely five hours after seven out of nine governorship candidates met at the Bauchi State Police Headquarters and signed a peace accord ahead of the governorship and state Assembly elections.

The candidate of the APC who was absent at the venue of the signing of the peace accord was however represented by his running mate at the event.

Speaking to journalists at a press conference held at the Media Unit, Government House, Bauchi at 11.50 pm on Wednesday, the Director-General, of the Peoples Democratic Party Campaign Council, Farouk Mustapha, accused the APC and its candidate of being responsible for the attack.

He alleged that Abubakar, the immediate past Chief of Air Staff, led thugs belonging to his camp and party to unleash terror on the governor’s kinsmen and also destroyed billboards of the PDP.

Mustapha said, “Today (Wednesday) is one of the saddest days in the political history of Bauchi State. All governorship candidates of various political parties in the state were at the State Police Headquarters with all the security agencies to sign a peace accord as has been the practice in every election season. However, the candidate of the APC was conspicuously absent with only his deputy in attendance, showing no respect for the peace and harmony to reign in Bauchi State.

“To our dismay, while the candidates were signing the peace accord, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, took a campaign tour to Duguri town, the hometown of His Excellency, Senator Bala Mohammed, who doubles as the sitting governor as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the forthcoming election.

“His gang leaders who led today’s thuggery unleashed terror, and intimidation on the people of Duguri town. They were chanting abuses and breaking all PDP billboards carrying His Excellency’s pictures, buses, and even Keke NAPEP, and the office of the PDP were all burnt down.

“This barbaric act was resisted by the people of Duguri led by the thugs and even the armed security men to open fire on the unarmed and innocent people of Duguri. They left several people injured and killed one Mallam Mai Ungwan Shata through a gunshot and also macheted others, about 15 of them, who sustained different degrees of injuries, and they are right now at the Teaching Hospital here in Bauchi.”

However, in reaction to the incident, the Director of Media and Publicity of the APC Campaign Council, Salisu Barau, accused the PDP of hiring thugs who opened fire on the campaign team of the APC governorship candidate.

“Suspected hired thugs, using dane guns, opened fire on the convoy of the Bauchi State governorship candidate of APC, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, in Duguri the birthplace of the incumbent Bauchi state, Sen. Bala Mohammed.

“According to onlookers, sounds of sporadic shootings were heard around the premises where the campaign lecture was being held, which made the security operatives at the venue rush to the scene of the shootings where, in an attempt to disarm the thugs and retrieve the guns from them, three people were shot: one Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps; one from a vigilance group and one from the hunters union.

“However, the NSCDC operatives succeeded in recovering two dane guns from the thugs while others escaped with their guns,” Barau said

Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer, Bauchi State Police Command, Ahmed Wakil, who confirmed the incident however, said there was no record of any death pointing out that only 14 people sustained various degrees of injuries.

He said, “Today (Wednesday), APC governorship candidate went out on a rally at about 17.4500hrs, while in Duguri Village, under Yuli-Yin Ward, Alkaleri Local Government Area, violence ensued during the rally in which 14 people were injured. Among the 14 injured, six were taken to Primary Health Center in Duguri, where they were treated and discharged.

“Among the eight that were treated and discharged, was Suleiman Adamu, Danlami Musa, Kabiru Sani, Rabi, Abdulrasheed Bala, and Tanko Wakilin Pawa, all residents of Duguri Village. These are the six that were taken to the Health Center in Duguri.

“Eight others were seriously injured, they were referred to the General Hospital, Alkaleri. Because of the severity of the injuries, the doctor could only attend to one Mohammed Abdullahi, who is also a resident of that Duguri. The remaining seven were transferred from the General Hospital Alkaleri to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi for medical treatment.

Among those attacked was part of the personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps attached to His Excellency’s entourage. But their details were not yet made available to us. Furthermore, two Sharon Galaxy buses were damaged.”

Wakil, a Superintendent of Police, said that immediately after the Command received the distress call, the state Commissioner of Police, Aminu Alhassan, directed the Area Commander Metro and the Divisional Police Officer, Mainamaji, and that of Alkaleri to commence an investigation.

Asked to react to allegations that two people were killed in the incident, he said, “I have mentioned all that was here, I mentioned six first that was injured and I have mentioned eight that were transferred out of which one is in Duguri. I don’t know any of them that are dead. All of them were taken to the hospital by the police and up to this moment that I am giving you this report, none of them has died.”

He called on members of the public to be calm as the situation was under control. He vowed that the Command would not leave any stone unturned to deal with anybody who wanted to disrupt the peace that the state was presently enjoying.

Netflix users can now easily adjust its TV subtitles to suit their needs

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Netflix has improved its TV subtitles amid growing demand as users can now customize the appearance of subtitles and closed captions on the streaming platform.

The company announced this on Wednesday stating that the new feature can toggle subtitle text size between small, medium, and large, and modify the overall appearance of the text to make it easier to read as the audio quality of dialog seemingly gets worse.

Netflix also provides three new text style options with contrasting backgrounds alongside the default white text to make the text stand out: Light (black text / white background), Drop Shadow (white text / black background), and Contrast (yellow text / black background).

Netflix already offers similar subtitle customizations via the web. Now, the feature is also available globally to TV users, a welcome update considering that Netflix reported in 2018 that 70 percent of its content is watched on TVs, and smart TVs and app-supported streaming boxes have only grown in popularity since.

Other streaming platforms such as Disney Plus, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video also offer similar user adjustments to their subtitles.

There are obvious accessibility benefits. The subtitle adjustments allow Netflix TV users with visual or hearing impairments and auditory processing disorders to customize their viewing experience to their requirements. Making the text of subtitles and closed captions easier to read could also improve focus for those with cognitive disorders or who are easily distracted.

But even outside of accessibility, poorly mixed audio on streaming platforms has likely resulted in a large portion of consumers now enabling subtitles when watching TV shows and movies.

A study by Preply last year found that 50 percent of Americans watch content with subtitles, and 62 percent use subtitles more on streaming services compared to regular TV. 70 percent of Gen Z users admitted to enabling subtitles too, suggesting those figures don’t just consist of aging, hard-of-hearing individuals.

Unless streaming platforms take steps to improve the audio quality across their content, a lot of people will have to start slapping on subtitles or captions to understand unintelligible on-screen conversations.

Derivation funds: Oil-producing states are most indebted without revenue generation structure

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Despite the 13 percent derivation allocation given to the oil-producing state, they are still struggling with high domestic debt and suffering from massive infrastructure corruption.

Ikemesit Effiong, the head of research at SEM Intelligence said this during an interview with TheCable, stating that oil-producing states ignored workable revenue initiatives because of crude oil income.

He explained that because oil-producing states command a healthy portion of the national income, they are not motivated to “build the durable revenue generation and infrastructural structures that would ordinarily guarantee sustainable economic development, simply because crude oil income is available for them to spend”.

“There is also the situation where a lot of the players in the oil and gas sector which operate in these communities offer to stand in the gap in meeting some of these infrastructural needs, but host communities stand as a roadblock by demanding even more income rent from them,” Effiong said.

“This leaves state governments with the lion’s share of responsibilities in meeting the infrastructure needs that major oil and gas players would have taken care of, further driving up subnational commitments.

“In the end, crude income is easy money, and easy earnings are also easy to spend, so these states are too relaxed to look for creative ways to build robust revenue generation structures,” he added.

According to the Debt Management Office (DMO), Delta leads with a total debt of N272.61 billion, followed by Rivers, and Akwa Ibom with N225.51 billion and N219.62 billion, respectively, at the end of Q3 2022.

Imo has a domestic debt of N207.52 billion, followed by Bayelsa, Edo, Abia, Ondo, and Anambra with N151.16 billion, N110.99 billion, N104.57 billion, N78.82 billion, and 75.69 billion, respectively.

The nine oil-producing states in Nigeria shared N970.20 billion from the federation account through the 13 percent derivation formula in 2022.

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers were states that received the fund.

The 13 percent derivation fund comes from the federation revenue to oil-producing communities through the state governments as enshrined in section 162, sub-section 2 of the Nigerian constitution.

Analysis of the report by TheCable Index showed that Delta state received the highest allocation totaling N296.63 billion, representing 31 percent of the total revenue from the derivation account.

Delta is followed closely by Akwa Ibom, having received N222.52 billion, representing 19 percent of the total disbursement during the period.

Other states include Bayelsa (N188.02 billion), Rivers (N169.79 billion), Edo (N37.49 billion), Ondo (N25.95 billion), Imo (N18.61 billion), Abia (N6.95 billion), and Anambra (N4.25 billion).

The 13 percent derivation fund is different from the three percent provided for host communities in the PIA from the oil company’s operating expenses (OPEX).

In a controversial comment last year, Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers, said President Muhammadu Buhari had approved the payment of funds owed to states in the Niger Delta since 1999.

According to Governor Wike, the money approved by Buhari were funds owed from the 13 percent derivation, which he said has significantly aided his infrastructural strides in the state.

Tinubu is not looking to work with a rubber stamp National Assembly – Oshiomhole

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The Senator-elect to represent Edo North senatorial District, Adam Oshiomole has said the President-elect, Bola Tinubu is not hoping to work with a “rubber stamp” National Assembly.

Oshiomole made this known in Abuja on Tuesday after receiving his Certificate of Return from INEC saying the incoming lawmakers are not going to the National Assembly because of material needs.

The former governor of Edo said Tinubu is expecting to have a senate that will contribute to the development of the country after the 10th national assembly has been inaugurated in June.

This is coming on the heels of the outgoing ninth national assembly since it was constantly criticized as always doing the bidding of President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Oshiomole said “Our president-elect looks forward to a senate that would contribute to the development of the country. I will not be part of the legislature for the powerful but for the countrymen.”

“I will be part of the senate that legislates for the good people of our countrymen, not for the powerful, by making sure that what we do in appropriation will be such that Nigerians get value for money.

“It is expected that the executive is powerful but does not have absolute power, so it will not be subject to legislative check.

“We are not going there for the allowance. There are a couple of things that can be done differently so that the renewed hope of our party can be translated into reality.

“Even the president-elect will not look forward to a rubber stamp assembly but the one that can help to contribute to knowledge.

“Nobody has absolute knowledge but working together and negotiating to have a win-win formula that will contribute to the dividends of democracy.”

The former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said he would not go to the senate to lament about the country’s problems but contribute to bills that when passed could be enforced.

Breaking: INEC postponed Governorship, House of Assembly election

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The Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) has postponed the date for the gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections.

The election was postponed and rescheduled by a week, from March 11 to March 18, 2023.

This is coming after the Court of Appeal granted the electoral commission permission to reconfigure the BVAS machine on Wednesday.

Barr. Festus Okoye, the National Commissioner & Chairman Information and Voters Education Committee confirmed the postponement in a statement issued on Wednesday saying the commission needed time to reconfigure the BVAS machine used for the presidential election.

Recall on 3rd March 2023, the Presidential Electoral Tribunal had given an ex-parte order for some political parties to inspect materials used for the presidential election, including the forensic inspection of over 176,000 BVAS used in the election which are located in INEC LGA offices across the country.

But the statement from the INEC National Commissioner & Chairman Information and Voters Education Committee read “The commission approached the Tribunal to reconsider the order, given that the BVAS Systems were to be deployed for the Governorship and State Assembly elections and that the lack of a clearly defined timeframe for the inspection could disrupt the Commission’s ability to conduct the outstanding elections.”

“For instance, the BVAS can only be activated on the specific date and time of an election. Having been used for the Presidential and National Assembly elections on 25th February 2023, it is necessary to reconfigure the BVAS for activation on the date of the governorship and State Assembly elections.

“While the ruling of the tribunal makes it possible for the commission to commence the preparation of the BVAS for the governorship and state assembly elections, it has come far too late for the reconfiguration to be concluded.

“Consequently, the commission has taken the difficult but necessary decision to reschedule the governorship and state assembly elections which will now take place on Saturday 18th March 2023.

“By this decision, campaigns will continue until midnight of Thursday 16th March 2023 i.e. 24 hours before the new date for the election. This decision has not been taken lightly but it is necessary to ensure that there is adequate time to back up the data stored on the over 176,000 BVAS machines from the Presidential and National Assembly elections held on 25th February 2023 and then to reconfigure them for the Governorship and State Assembly elections.

“This has been the practice for all elections, including the period when the commission was using the Smart Card Readers (SCRs),” the INEC Commissioner stated.

Earlier on, it was reported how the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja granted the request of INEC to reconfigure the BVAS it used for the presidential election.


The court, in a collective decision by a three-member panel of justices, ruled that the consequences of preventing the commission from reconfiguring the BVAS would adversely affect the governorship and State Assembly elections.

However, the Court refuses the Labour Party and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi request to stop INEC from reconfiguring BVAS.

Breaking: Court grants INEC to Re-configure BVAS

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The Court of Appeal has granted the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) the request to reconfigure the Bimodal voter accreditation system (BVAS) before the gubernatorial and House of Assembly election scheduled to hold on March 11.

A three-member panel of the court led by Joseph Ikyegh, on Wednesday, ruled for INEC to reconfigure the machine. According to the court, restraining the electoral commission will deprive it of conducting the election.

Recall, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi had sought an order of the court to “restrict the 1st respondent (INEC) from interfering with the data embedded in the BVAS until a due process of inspecting the machine is been completed and certified true copies (CTC) issued.

Labour Party governorship Candidate in Delta State makes huge promises

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Deacon Kennedy Pela, the governorship candidate for Labour Party in Delta State has called on Deltans to vote for his party in the March 11 governorship and House Assembly election in the state.

He said the candidates of his party possess the integrity needed to turn the wealth of the state around for the good of all.

Ken Pela made this known during an interactive session with journalists in Asaba on Tuesday.

He said that Nigeria’s political space has witnessed an unprecedented revolution with the listing of the Labour Party in the ballot for the 2023 general election.

According to him, the mass movement that recognized the entry of his party’s Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi to the stage revealed that Nigerians within and outside the country needed a change compared to the regular business or style of politics by politicians which has never yielded any value to their lives.

Pela said the party had a remarkable achievement in the February 25 election in Delta and was set to repeat the feat in the Governorship and House of Assembly elections.

Explaining his agenda, he said that Delta workers would enjoy a monthly living wage of N100,000 if voted to power, while arrears of pensions would be a thing of the past.

He also revealed his party’s empowerment plan that would see one hundred persons from each of the 25 local government areas of the state receiving N1m interest-free loan monthly, pointing out that market women would also benefit from the scheme to enable them to grow their trades and become economically strong.

In his developmental plan, he said ten new cities would be developed in the next four years, one in each Federal Constituency in the state, adding that the cities would have tourist attractions that would make them preferred destinations and shoot the state to the status of Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.

Also speaking is his running mate, Prof. Julie Umukoro, who promised women and youths better deals if given the mandate, insisting that it was high time Deltans took their destiny into their own hands by installing a government of integrity, which the Labour Party would bring to the table.

Earlier on, Chief Tony Ezeagwu, the State Chairman of the party, uses the opportunity to discredit claims that he had been bought over by political opponents to reduce the influence of the OBiDIENT MOVEMENT in Delta during the March 11 election.

Prof. Julie Umukoro, the deputy governorship candidate
Chief Tony Ezeagwu, the State Chairman of the party

Ofobruku Re-Elected Delta NLC Chairman, Scores Okowa High In Government/Labour Relations

The incumbent Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC Delta State Council, Comrade Chief Goodluck Ofobruku has been re-elected a second time in office.

The Urhobo born Labour leader was returned unopposed at the 9th Delegates Conference of the Congress on Tuesday, 7th March, 2023, at the Labour House in Asaba.

Ofobruku appreciated the delegates for believing in him to be returned a second term in office, promising not to take the confidence reposed in him for granted.

He pledged to continue to fight for the welfare of workers in the State, especially as it concerns salaries, promotions and pensions.

However, he scored the Governor Okowa led administration high in cordial working relationship with the Labour Force, insisting that the Governor had done well over 70 percent in fulfilling most of the demands of workers in the State.

He therefore, took time to elucidate on the Governor’s promptness in payment of salaries from inception, irrespective of the then economic crunch, including attending to workers’ promotions and other sundry issues like payment of salaries and promotions arrears.

Ofobruku equally, eulogized the Governor for offsetting over #70 billion out of the #78 billion pension arrears owed retirees, while at the same time assisting the Local Governments to pay salaries and clear part of her pension arrears.

Declaring the Delegates Conference open, the Head of Service of the State, Mr. Reginald Bayoko, ably represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary in Establishment and Pensions, Mr. Kingsley Umukoro affirmed that Delta State Government was pleased with Labour as an entity.

The HOS said the Government would continue to support the workers by meeting up with their demands in as much as they continue to enjoy their cooperation and cordiality towards a progressive civil service.

He reminded them of the recent accomplishment of Government towards the demand of Labour, which is upscaling of the retirement age of teachers from 60-65, including that of the non teaching staff of the State Colleges of Education and Polytechnics.

The Delegates Conference which ratified the harmonization report on the election of the State Executive of NLC, however, returned Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku as Chairman, Comrade Ziko Osita Okwudi as 1st Vice Chairman, Comrade Alice Jegede as 2nd Vice Chairman, Comrade Okotie Titus as Treasurer and others.

APC plots to manipulate Delta state elections with security operatives – Aniagwu alleges

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Just a few days before the governorship and House of Assembly election, the People’s Democratic Party in Delta State alleged that plans are underway by the All Progressives Congress to rig the election scheduled for Saturday, March 11 using various security operatives.

The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu made this allegation during an interactive session with journalists in Asaba, the state capital on Wednesday.

He called on the heads of all the security operatives in the country to call their subordinates to order to enable the will of democracy to prevail in the state.

The Commissioner for Information explained that the essence of democracy is free choice adding that the APC governorship candidate, Senator Ovie Omo Agege should not be allowed to derail it.

According to him, Deltans should reject the APC because the party has nothing to offer to the good people of Delta State.

Aniagwu said that Saturday’s election was very important for it affects all Deltans and residents in the state.

He also said a vote for APC is to subscribe to political slavery, arguing that Omo Agege does not believe in a Power shift in Delta State.

In his allegation, the APC governorship candidate does not believe in the unity and oneness of Delta State.

Aniagwu challenged Omo Agege to tell the voters what he has for the state apart from spreading lies and propaganda.

On the alleged threat by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to sack LGA chairmen who fail to deliver their council areas in Saturday’s election, the Information Commissioner replied that it was a lie from the pit of hell.

He said there was no iota of truth in the allegation saying that Okowa was a thorough breed democrat.

He lambastes the APC governorship candidate for not campaigning on facts.

Aniagwu observed that Delta State APC was very ashamed of the abysmal performances of the party at the center.

He stated that PDP governorship candidate, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has the legacy projects of Okowa to campaign with. Oborevwori, according to Aniagwu was more liberal-minded than Omo Agege who is known for his clannish nature.

The Commissioner also debunk the rumors that Delta State Government has sold its Liaison Office in Lagos as well as other spurious statements being made by the APC governorship candidate.

Okowa lauds civil servants for contributing to the achievement of his administration

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The Executive governor of Delta State, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has commended civil servants in the state for their irresistible support which benefited the success of his government since 2015 it came on board.

Okowa gave the commendation during an interactive session with civil servants at Dome Event Center in Asaba on Tuesday.

The governor in his speech admitted that the successes reported by his administration would not have been possible without the teamwork and efforts of the civil servants.

He appealed to the workers to sustain the support for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP-led administration in the state by voting for the party in Saturday’s Gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections.

The Governor noted that civil servants played critical roles in oiling the wheels of governance, disclosing that the financial status of the state was not healthy when he assumed duty as Governor in 2015.

He said it took the grace of God and the cooperation of workers in the state, as demonstrated by labor leaders, as well as the dogged commitment of his administration for the challenges to be frontally mitigated.

“In the last year, I have been off and on Delta state. But one thing that makes me proud is that the government has continued to stay on course in the development of the state.

“I know that it wouldn’t have been possible without the loyalty of our civil servants and the great efforts that you put into your various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). So, for that, I truly thank you.

“Whatever we have achieved in the course of governance in this last eight years would not have been possible without the great input of our civil servants and guidance they have given even to those who have been appointed to various offices as Commissioners or other capacities.

“I thank you for the great job done. I have been part of you for the greater part of my life even when I know that I am not a civil servant. But somehow, I found myself working in public service for a very long time.

“I know the important role those of us that are civil servants play in oiling the wheels of governance in the state, and that none of us can achieve anything without the input of civil servants.

“I tried as much as possible not to be distracted nor join issues with people, but to look into the future to see what I could do to solve the problems that I met on the ground.

“I also want to thank the labor unions for the support that I received when I came into office in 2015. It was truly a very difficult time”, he added.

While saying that the payment of workers’ salaries was his top priority, the Governor reiterated his appeal to the workers to vote for the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as Governor in the forthcoming election.

He stated that his administration tried its best in assisting local government councils to pay workers salaries even though the councils belonged to another tier of government.

Okowa pointed out that 21 local government councils in the state would not have been able to pay their workers’ salaries but for the intervention of the state government.

The Governor deflated the allegation that his administration had borrowed N850 billion, clarifying that the state government had only discounted N91 billion from the N217 billion that the Federal Government was owing the state.

Okowa, who was the Vice Presidential candidate of the PDP in the February 25 Presidential election, added that the N91 billion that was discounted was tied to specific projects for the overall good of Deltans.

On promotion arrears of workers, the Governor called on the appropriate Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to do the needful at the appropriate time to avoid a backlog of arrears.

He explained that the tuition fee paid in the state-owned tertiary institutions was for the running of the schools and not aimed at putting a heavy burden on parents and caregivers.

During a question and answer session, the Governor appealed to anyone not comfortable with the policies and programs of his administration to put the past behind and work for the greater good of the state.

Responding, the State Head of Service, Mr. Reginald Bayoko, hailed the Governor for his labor-friendly tendency, putting in that workers in the state are always thankful to him.

What Banky W said after losing election to LP candidate

After losing the Federal House of Representatives seat for the second time, Bankole Wellington, better known by his stage name Banky W, has finally spoken out.

He said he had made plans to celebrate his highly anticipated win before he was announced to have lost the election.

He said this in a video while speaking at ‘The Water Brook’ church service.

In the video which he shared on his Instagram page on Monday, Banky said the loss will not stop him from praising God.

Expressing his disappointment after losing the election, the singer revealed that he had discussed with the lead pastor how he would go to Abuja and secure an apartment for the new office if he have won.

According to Banky in a message he titled ‘Faith after a Fall’ said “God said is it only faith when you win? Because the truth is, your faith in God does not stop you from hurting. But it helps you heal and it helps you deal.”

He urged the congregation to be prepared and know that sometimes, their journey in Christianity can demand “sacrifice, pain, confusion or frustration.”

“Your faith in God is not just about when everything is rosy or a walk in the park,” he added.

On February 25, Banky contested for the Eti-Osa federal constituency seat under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a position he lost to Thaddeus Attah of the Labour Party (LP).

Attah secured 24,075 votes to beat Banky W who had 18,666 votes.

APC appoints 12 Senior Advocates to defend Tinubu’s mandate

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Twelve Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) have been appointed by the All Progressives Congress to defend the mandate of its presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu in the just concluded election.

In a statement on Tuesday, the party released a 13-man list comprising its National Legal Adviser, Ahmad Usman El-Marzup, and the 12 senior advocates.

The team led by Lateef Fagbemi is to represent the ruling party at the Presidential Election Tribunal.

The party also urged its members to support the team in its effort to defend the will and mandate of the people, calling on all parties involved to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism and respect for the rule of law throughout the legal process.

The statement read “The All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed a team of highly qualified and experienced lawyers to represent the Party at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.”

“The team is comprised of legal luminaries with vast experience in election petition matters, constitutional law, and litigation.

“The legal team consisting of twelve (12) Senior Advocates of Nigeria and the National Legal Adviser of the Party, Ahmad Usman El-Marzuq, Esq, is led by Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, a renowned lawyer who has successfully handled various high-profile election matters and other landmark cases.”

Other members of the list are Ahmad Usman El-Marzuq, Sam Ologunorisa, Rotimi Oguneso, Olabisi Soyebo, Gboyega Oyewole, Muritala Abdulrasheed, Aliyu Omezia Saiki, Tajudeen Oladoja, Pius Akubo, Oluseye Opasanya, Suraju Saida and Kazeem Adeniyi.

The party is “confident that the legal team possesses requisite expertise and experience to ensure a successful outcome for the APC in the Presidential Election Petition matters.”

DTSG approves 65 years retirement age for public school staff

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The Delta State Government has approved 65 years as the retirement age for teaching and non-teaching staff of all its public schools including polytechnics and colleges of education with immediate effect.

It also approved 40 years as the length of the service year for teaching and non-teaching staff in all its public schools.

The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the approval was part of the decisions reached at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting, presided by Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa on Monday in Government House, Asaba.

The commissioner, accompanied by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, noted that other approvals which included an upward review of road projects and new road contracts among others were considered at the meeting.

According to Aniagwu, teaching and non-teaching staff of public primary, secondary, polytechnics, and colleges of education will now retire at age of 65 years or after putting in 40 years of service in the state.

“In line with the promises we have made as an administration to work till the last day in office, the EXCO sat today and considered several memos.

“Today, the council approved that teachers and non-teaching staff in the public schools of Delta can be in the office up to 65 years of age.

“And that teacher can also be in the office for as much as 40 years which before now, it has been 60 years and 35 years of service before retirement but they now have additional five years in terms of age and years of service.

“We did it because, at 65 years, teachers may have garnered lots of experience to teach more and matured with a clearer understanding of their field of study.

“For the non-teaching staff in polytechnics and colleges of education, we have given them the advantage to remain in service for 40 years or 65 years of age,” he said.

Aniagwu noted that even when some teachers may have retired, they may not be really tired, hence the need to effect the change and to take advantage of the human capital to develop and build a more viral society.

He said the council also approved construction, expansion, and redesign works on several roads and drainages linking many communities across the state.

“The council also approved six new solar power grids for the six zonal hospitals across the state to ensure steady power supply, function optimally, and improve service delivery at the hospitals.

He said that the government also approved upward reviews of contract sums for nine technical colleges out of 10 being constructed to reflect the realities and enable the contractors to deliver the projects.
End.

Governorship Election: INEC heads to Court seeking Re-Configuration of BVAS

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The Independent Electoral Commission will today approach the Court of Appeal seeking to set aside an earlier ruling concerning the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and other sensitive materials used for the February 25th presidential poll.

Daily Trust reported that a senior official of the commission who pleaded not to be named said this over the weekend in Abuja.

This is coming on the heels of Saturday’s INEC meeting with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to review the presidential and National Assembly elections as well as discuss the governorship and state assemblies elections slated for March 11.

According to the official “The commission as a law-abiding institution would seek the Court’s leave concerning the BVAS, they have to be re-configured polling units by polling units for the next election

We have to approach the court to grant us leave to do the re-configuration, as this cannot be done without the court order. The re-configuration must be done on time as it would be done manually and would be deployed to the designated PUs.”

Daily Trust also reports that there have been mixed reactions to the outcome of the elections, especially on the real-time transmission of collated results from the BVAS to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (iReV).

Why presidential election losers are spreading fake news about Wike

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The Rivers State government says those who lose the presidential poll are circulating fake news about Governor Nyesom Wike.

The State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Chris Finebone made this statement through a press release he issued on Sunday.

According to him, the purveyors of the fake news are spreading it to deceive Nigerians.

He said a preliminary investigation by the state government revealed that the scheme is the handiwork of the opposition on social media.

“Their easiest style, so far, is to dig up old fake videos that have been discredited in the past, edit them and circulate same as if they are true and current,” the statement reads.

“Firstly, they manipulated an old audio clip from 2016 and circulated same in cyberspace as a current clip involving the governor and another individual just to tarnish the image of the governor before the last Presidential Election.

“Their main objective was to harvest the sympathy of a certain section of Rivers voters. Secondly, after the shellacking they got at last Saturday’s presidential election, they angrily placed another fake news on the internet claiming that the governor’s son in the US had been mortally harmed – a lie taken from the pit of hell since the governor has no child in the US.

“With the Presidential election behind us, these individuals have gone back to contrive more fake news. This time, they took an old video clip of 26th February 2019 in which Col. Aminu Iliyasu, the then Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt in which the officer raised spurious allegations against Gov. Wike following the faceoff between the governor and the Army over the governor’s courageous resistance to the military that were bent on rigging the 2019 governorship election in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

What these persons have done is take that video clip, cut it out of context, and circulate same in social media to portray the governor as someone who is planning to compromise the military for the forthcoming governorship election. Their insidious efforts are shameful, criminal, and evil.

“The Rivers State Government is using this medium too, once again, urge the general public, civil society, and the international community to discountenance the video in question and all such fake news these individuals and their likes will try to deceive the public with as the governorship election of March 11, 2023, draws near.”

However, it was gathered by TheCable during several fact-check reports on issues related to the Rivers governor, it was discovered that on March 2, it was falsely reported that the only son of the governor was shot dead in California, United States, a publication TheCable thereafter published a fake news alert to prove to be false.

Hackers attack Flutterwave accounts, reportedly steal over N2 Billion

African financial technology company, Flutterwave, has lost #2,949,557,867 via illegal transfers to large numbers of beneficiaries after unidentified hackers attacked its platform.

It was gathered that the men of the dark world executed this illegal activity on the fintech company early this year.

According to Techpoint Africa, the fintech company is seeking to freeze personal accounts in 27 Nigerian banks and wallets, where the funds were transferred after its audit discovered the development from its record.

Albert Onimole, the tech attorney reported the case to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Intelligence Department, Panti, Yaba.

In a statement issued by the tech counsel, the hack on Flutterwave’s accounts came up about some weeks ago, indicating that the said sum was initially transferred to 28 accounts in 63 transactions.

Although the accounts that received the money were listed, the police are yet to freeze the receiving accounts to prevent the money from being moved.

But, Flutterwave said that some commercial banks allowed the money to be moved to other accounts, widening the money trail.

To investigate the accounts holding the stolen funds across various financial institutions in Nigeria, S.A. Adedesin, Legal Officer, State CID, Panti, Yaba, filed a suit in the Magistrate Court of Lagos to support Flutterwave’s claims.

The suit is between the Commissioner of Police and the affected 28 commercial banks. While there are no documents to confirm if the court has ruled in favor of Inspector Micheal’s motion, some people have confirmed that their accounts have been frozen in connection to the hack.

Per the motion filed by Adebesin, 107 accounts, including the fifth beneficiaries of those accounts, are to be placed on lien/Post-No-Debit (PND). With the stolen funds distributed across several accounts, which, according to tweets, may or may not have anything to do with the hack, it is not clear at this time who hacked Flutterwave.

Questions about how hackers got past Flutterwave’s security and what this means for the fintech customers remain unanswered. As of press time, Flutterwave hasn’t responded to emails seeking clarifications.

We’ll defend Tinubu’s mandate by every necessary means – APC campaign council

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The agro commodities Directorate in the All Progressives Congress presidential campaign council said they will defend the mandate of Bola Tinubu by every necessary means.

This is coming after it was reported that the candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of the Labour Party has filed a lawsuit against the victory of Tinubu at the presidential election tribunal.

Speaking with Journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Bello Abubakar, head of the Directorate said Tinubu won because of his “proven records” as governor.

Abubakar said “Let us be clear, the president and vice president-elect have the nation’s mandate. The mandate is a trust to them based on their proven records in Lagos and Borno states and their excellent administrative prowess over the years as well as sustained nationalism.”

“We urged those that are not satisfied with the result of the election, to use the court as provided by the constitution and be peaceful doing so.

“Violence pays nobody. Let it be on record that as the largest voting Bloc in Nigeria, we are standing by the mandate of H.E Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and we will defend it by every means necessary.”

Also speaking, Shehu Muazu, a member of the PCC and national coordinator for the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, said the federal government should compensate farmers for losses incurred due to the naira policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“We have a president-elect, who is yet to be in office,” Muazu said.

“However, the directorate wants to call on the president His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari – now that the supreme court has spoken and we all know the consequences of that hardship, we are not saying anybody should be punished, we should be forgiving as we have been directed by our principal.

“However, we call on the federal government of today to put in place policies that will help to alleviate the losses incurred by farmers.”

Davido’s fan offers sacrifice to make him release new music

A yet-to-be-identified fan of Davido has offered a traditional sacrifice to incite him to release new songs.

It was gathered that Davido has earlier asked his fans to expect his new album in March and being that the month is five days ahead and no update from him, a fan has decided to do something about it.

In a video shared on Instagram by WahalaNetwork on Sunday, the man dressed in a white wrap took a sacrifice to the roadside and called on Davido to return to the social media and start releasing fresh music.

The man recited some words of appeal on what seemed like incarnations before dropping the sacrifice on the floor and walking away.

Aniocha North DTHA Elections: Beware The Ides Of March !!!

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(Uploading) At every turn in the political trajectory in Aniocha North, the people have been greeted with avoidable hiccups, gaping gullies, and yawning gaps.

No matter how it is now presented, the chequered experience has been very awful and awesome, with the will of the people usually being subverted like leeches in the just concluded Presidential and National Assembly elections.

Aniocha North has consistently had it so bad. Uzoma Idaboh (Uz) suffered it fully and handed it to Osi Okocha, then to Bazim Sally Biose.

The manipulations were intra-party. Another scenario was that of Odi who was finally lost by the whiskers due to nepotic discrimination and external influence by the same actors as usual. The herculean taste is not a hallowing experience, leaving a soured taste in the mouth, having to swallow the bitter pills.

Today the real game is set and the people are ready to take their destiny into their own hands. With the just concluded elections, “Oga” is embattled between the deep blue sea and the devil. On one hand, he is in court, on the other hand, lost two senatorial districts, and now losing more members.

This is coming at a time when PDP ought to be finishing strong. Looking like a pair of dividers, in both divides, you find PDP stalwarts who want to make a statement. Anioma has never had it so bad.

However, Aniocha North has always been hit by unhealthy Intrusion. This time around, on March 11, the people will speak and the earth will quake. February 25, had the Labour movement, with the tsunami.

Today the Obidients have returned to their original parties for the guber and state Assembly elections, though in court for the presidential.
Controversial
leadership in the Aniocha constituency is the base of the PDP, having bruised the people since the 2014,2015,2018, and 2022 primaries.

The -ten(10)- wards in the local government comprising Issele Azagba, Onicha Olona, Onicha Ugbo, IdumujeUnor, Obamkpa, Ukwunzu, Issele-Uku1&2, Ezi, and Obior will liberate themselves from the shackles of Stronghold, Arrogance, disrespect, and impunity. This may not be unconnected with the resilience of the people who the powers that be took advantage of over the years.

The battle, therefore, is between the PDP and APC. Most constituents have perceived the upcoming change at the state with two senatorial districts already won by APC and would want to be relevant politically till 2027, devoid of opposition at the local level.
A STITCH IN TIME SAVES NINE. (A Wake–Up Call Downloading)

“CBN governor deceived President Buhari on naira redesign policy to make PDP win the election” – El-Rufai alleges

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Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State alleged that Godwin Emefiele, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, misled the president into accepting the naira redesign policy.

He alleged that Emefiele planned to make the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, win the 2023 general election with the naira redesign policy, stating that the PDP is behind it.

He said this on Friday while briefing journalists after the Supreme Court ruled that the old naira note remains legal tender until 31st, December 2023.

El-Rufai said “First let me say that this is a policy of the PDP. Emefiele was appointed Central Bank governor by the PDP originally.

“So let’s not forget where he came from and he is the one that put this policy together to help the PDP win the 2023 general elections and deceived the president into thinking it is possible to withdraw two trillion nairas from circulation and reprint everything in three months.

“No country in the world history has done it. He deceived the president and gave the president wrong information and the attorney general.”

On Friday, Governors Nasir @elrufai, Yahaya Bello, and Bello Mutawalle witnessed the ruling of the Supreme Court which upheld the claims of the State Govts against the FG and declared the cashless policy invalid.

APC vows to take PDP, LP to court over election results

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The presidential campaign council of the All Progressives Congress has said they will go to court to challenge the results scored by the presidential candidate of the PDP, and LP at the just concluded election.

This is coming after Atiku of the PDP and Obi of the LP who came second and third respectively in the last Saturday’s presidential election have resolved to challenge tinubu’s victory in the court over alleged irregularities.

Festus Keyamo, the chief spokesperson of the APC presidential campaign council at a press conference in Abuja said they were going to file a counter-petition against the opposition parties in a fight-back manner.

Keyamo said the votes scored by the opposition candidates, particularly LP’s Obi were fraudulently obtained as evidenced by the electoral malpractices perpetrated in the Southeast.

He said: “As I am talking to you, we have constituted our legal team. We are going to court too. Let it not be that they are the only ones going to court. I am part of the legal team.”

Also speaking is the special adviser, media, and communications of the presidential campaign council, Dele Alake urged Atiku and Obi to follow their resentments with politeness.

He said the complaints by the candidates of the two opposition parties over the electronic transmission of the election result are not supported by law.

Alake, said the claim that INEC did not use the BVAs is false, adding that those who voted across Nigeria, including Atiku and Obi, were accredited by the machines.

“We must say, however, that listening to both Atiku and Obi yesterday, (Thursday) left us in the APC family confounded. We understand that there has been an orchestrated campaign by the acolytes of PDP and LP in the media to discredit the Presidential election.

“What we did not expect is that the two presidential candidates and, indeed, their political parties, would shamefully re-echo the puerile and unimaginative arguments that are being canvassed by political illiterates and mischief-makers who are crying wolf on social media.

“As we can see, these two, otherwise experienced politicians are pinpointing a lack of adherence to guidelines as a basis for discrediting votes lawfully cast by Nigerians.

“We shall examine the so-called process that was purportedly breached by the electoral body and how, in their wild imagination, undermined the credibility of the election.

“The complaint over the electronic transmission of the result is not supported by law. Section 38 of the Electoral Act 2022 referred to, by the PDP and LP has nothing to do with the transmission of election results.

“Section 60, subsection 2 of the Act deals with the transmission of results and it is at the discretion of INEC. The Act does not contain any mandatory provision regarding the transmission of results.

“In any case, the process of transmitting results from polling units, whether real-time, two days later, or at any time, cannot in any way change the results that have been announced, right after the counting in the presence of the parties’ agents and to the hearing of the voters.

“It is, therefore, nonsensical to insinuate that time variation in uploading results would cause a change in the figures.

“The loss of Katsina and Lagos to PDP and LP respectively were contrary to expectations. BIVAS brought the intended credibility to voters’ accreditation such that many governors and well-established politicians lost elections in what should be safe areas.

“The era of ghost-voting and snatching of ballot boxes is gone. Experience in the last governorship election in Osun State has shown, over-voting would automatically lead to outright cancellation of results of polling units based on the provision of the new Electoral Act,” he stated.

“Our agitation for power shift to the South settled” – Gov. Wike

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Governor Nyesom Wike of River State has said the rotational presidency has been settled with the emergence of Bola Tinubu, the president-elect.

He said the power shifting to the Southern part of the country has fixed the rotational presidency being cried out for.

Wike said this when he joined Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State to inaugurate a 5,000,000-liter Aviation Fuel Dispensing Depot at the Ibadan Airport in the Alakia area in the state on Friday.

He also commended the Oyo State governor for supporting the demand for a power shift to the South, saying he was their demand later materialized.

“I am happy he (Makinde) is one of those that made history by making sure that power shift to the south.”

“I have told people that those who fight for change, who fight for revolution may not be directed beneficiaries of that fight but today, history has it that all of us now are aware that when power finishes from the south, it will go to the north; when it finishes from the north, it will come to the south.

“So, it does not need to be written in the constitution at all before it is implemented. And I thank Nigerians for standing firm to see that this issue materializes,” he said.

Breaking: Supreme Court rejects naira redesign policy, says old note remains legal tender

The naira redesign policy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has been nullified by the Supreme Court.

The apex court made the ruling on Friday while giving the judgment in a suit filed by three state governors.

The apex court and its seven-member panel ruled that the old N200, N500, and N1000 notes remain legal tender until 31st, December 2023.

According to the ruling of the court, the entire timing of the policy introduced by the CBN and it’s enactment were inadequate.

Recall, Godwin Emefiele, CBN governor in October, 2022, declared openly the plan to redesign the naira to control the money supply and aid security agencies in fighting illicit financial flows.

The redesigned naira notes were revealed on December 23, 2022.

The deadline for the implementation of the policy was fixed for January 31, 2023, but it was further extended to February 10.

On February 3, a suit was instigated by Kaduna, Kogi, and Zamfara before the supreme court challenging the implementation of the policy.

Five days later, the supreme court restricted the CBN from giving conclusion to the deadline on the use of old notes following an ex parte application brought by the three states.

Thirteen (13) other states later joined the suit as co-plaintiffs. The states argued that the implementation of the policy has caused untold difficulty for Nigerians.

Abubakar Malami, the attorney-general of the federation (AGF), who is the sole respondent, had, however, filed a preliminary objection to the suit.

The AGF argued that the supreme court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the matter and that the suit ought to have been filed before a federal high court.

He then said the complainants went wrong to join the CBN in the suit.

Labour Throws Weight Behind Sheriff Oborevwori’s Governorship Ambition

The Organised Labour under the aegis of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), Delta State Councils, have respectively thrown their weights behind the candidacy of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP Governorship hopeful, insisting that they had always worked cordially with and benefitted from PDP Governments and would have no other choice than to support the continuation of PDP Government in power.

This decision was reached when the candidate of PDP, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori had an interactive session with the workers at the Labour House on Thursday, 2nd March 2023, to seek their support for his MORE Agenda for Deltans.

In their separate speeches, the NLC Chairman and the TUC Chairman eulogized the personalities of the past PDP Governors, affirming that they were promise keepers, insisting also that they were convinced Oborevwori would do more in power as Governor.

According to Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, State NLC Chairman, “The Labour movement in the State has been blessed with promise-keeping Governors right from the administration of Chief James Ibori who supported greatly in the building of the Labour House. Also, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan came in and continued the good work from there.

“I will like to say that Governor Okowa was exceptional in fulfilling most, if not all of the demands of Labour before becoming Governor.

“When Okowa came in as Governor and then the revenue of the State had dropped to #2 billion monthly while the state’s wage bill was #8 billion, he made workers’ salaries a priority. Despite promoting workers whose promotions were due as and when due, he went ahead to agree with Labour to calculate pensions with #18,000 minimum wage as against #7,500 that he met on the ground.

“Going forward, out of the #78 billion arrears owed pensioners, he has offset about #70 billion. The issue of Local Government workers came up and people were saying all sorts of things because they don’t know the workings of the civil service. Let me tell you that, Okowa has supported Local Governments immensely to pay workers, including offsetting some pension arrears even when he was not their direct employer.

“I want to conclude by saying that Governor Okowa has given workers in the State the best environment to work and add value to the system, and that is the new Secretariat. No worker now has any reason to complain about not doing their job well.

“The only thing that Okowa has not completed its process, is the housing scheme for workers, even though he has built a low-cost one for junior workers, which is on the verge of being handed over. We will like Sheriff Oborevwori to look in this direction by making most workers landlords before completing his tenures.

“We will support Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori because he is personally a good man. The majority of us here know him, and the fact that he turned around the fortunes of workers in the State House of Assembly, is worthy of commendation. Our affiliate union Chairman of PASSAN can attest to what he did to stop the incessant strikes in that union. We believe he will do more for workers across the state”, Ofobruku submitted.

On his position, the TUC Chairman, Comrade Martins Bolum said he had the authority and mandate of TUC members to adopt Sheriff Oborevwori as their Governorship Candidate of choice, adding that he is being considered an important instrument for the next level development of workers in the State.

Bolum eulogized Oborevwori for the quality laws he had passed as the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, which mostly had immensely benefitted workers in the State.

His words, “We want more from your wealth of experience and good nature leadership. As active participants in the electioneering process, I want to assure you that TUC is solidly behind you. We want a Governor we know and a Governor we can trust. We will more than ever before, intensify efforts towards telling our members and others the good news about Sheriff Oborevwori’s Governorship. Sir, Workers are Obidiently Sheriffied”, he stressed.

In his address to workers without paper, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori spoke passionately and convincingly of the things he would do for workers if he emerges Governor of Delta State.

While agreeing to bequeath workers houses of their own under a Low-Cost Housing Scheme that will come as Public Private Partnership and Direct Government Intervention, he promised to appoint a vast Labour leader to his Interim Transition Committee to profile the myriads of workers’ demands for priority attention in his administration.

The Governorship hopeful answered all the questions of workers seamlessly while also taking time to tell the story of his life as a locally made leader who understands how to perform to get the results that are acceptable to all.

Further dazzling his audience, he said, “I am a local man, made locally as a boy. I have street credibility because of where I am coming from. Being street-wise does not mean I am a tout; my street credibility is all about accessibility and the ability to interact with all. They can’t beat my local flavor.

“My story is an interesting one. As of 1984, I already had my Ordinary National Diploma. I had been a Councillor and then the youngest host community Chairman in Osubi. I worked with SHELL and the footprints of our achievements with the Osubi airport are still there for everybody to see. I was trained in the art of negotiations.

“The records are there that I went to Edo State University, Ekpoma where I graduated with a 2.1 before obtaining my M.Sc in Political Science from Delta State University, Abraka. Because I have been a local man, doing things at the local level, they believe I didn’t go to school. In all the court cases, God has continued to see me through.

“Let me tell you, an illiterate and uncertificated person cannot lead the Delta State House of Assembly where the likes of Hon. Reuben Izeze are key threats for almost six years. Have you heard of any impeachment notice? It takes a man with intellectual capacity and impeccable track record of conflict management to lead such a place and becoming the longest on the saddle as Speaker.

“I want to assure you that Governor Okowa has done so much to develop Delta, I will do MORE in my development agenda. I am prepared, I have my social contract with Deltans well and aptly documented. Let’s do this together and nobody will regret it. Vote for me as the right candidate with the capacity to do more for you and the entire Deltans”, Oborevwori appealed.

In a nutshell, his arrival to and departure from the Labour House was heralded with the ‘Solidarity Song’, indicating the commitment of workers to give him the needed support to become the next Governor of Delta State.

Delta Guber: Businesses shutdown as Ogboru storms Asaba markets

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BUSINESSES were on Thursday shut down in various parts of Asaba, headquarters of Delta state as the campaign train of the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru stormed Asaba to canvass for a vote in the forthcoming March 11th governorship and the house of assembly election.

Ogboru who made this appeal when the Jubilee Campaign Organization stormed several markets in the Asaba metropolis, said the jubilee time for Deltans to change the narrative has come, urging them to vote for APGA governorship candidate, Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru and all the house of assembly candidates on Saturday, March 11th for a new Delta.

The APGA governorship hopeful, Chief Great Ogboru assured Deltans of a brighter Delta state, pointing out that there is no Deltan, home and abroad that is not tired of either the PDP or APC government; and that the only means to rescue the state is to vote APGA, the only political party that can guarantee Deltans of good welfare package as contained in its manifesto.

Ogboru said the Jubilee agenda for Deltans includes, health, education, agriculture, empowerment of youth, food security, human capital development, infrastructural development, environment, urban water regeneration, investment in the comparative areas, and equal opportunity development which will give equal opportunities to local government areas to develop their local government by themselves.

“The APGA Jubilee agenda represents all that we need to be a stronger society; so I implore all market women, men, and youths to come out massively on Saturday, March 11th to vote for all APGA candidates”

Meanwhile, the traders who could not hide their joy as Ogboru stormed their various markets places, said they have suffered too long in the hands of bad administration of APC and PDP across the country, saying that there is no difference between the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the  All Progressive Congress, APC, hence they will vote en masse for Ogboru and APGA, at least to change the narratives. 

The traders in their separate statements when the Great Ogboru Jubilee Campaign train went around the various markets from Agbaja market Anwai, Cable market, and Ogbogonogo market among others to canvass and solicit their votes, the traders said that over twenty-four years of PDP government and that of APC, that there has never been any meaningful development, assuring Ogboru of their full supports.

One of the traders who expressed joy seeing Chief Great Ogboru going around the markets said they are all overwhelmed at his physical presence, promising him of their massive support in the March 11th governorship and house of assembly elections, saying that this is Ogboru’s time to liberate Deltans from long years of sufferings.

Another trader in the market, Mr. Emmanuel  Eleshi who spoke to Ogboru on behalf of others, thanked Ogboru for his humility, saying that they will mobilize massively for him come Saturday, March 11th, adding that they are confident that Ogboru will turn things around for Deltans when he emerges governor.

Eleshi noted that they are tired of PDP and APC government and have been yearning for total change, hence they all voted for the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi to be the next president of Nigeria, but he was shortchanged last Saturday’s polls, promising that they will extend the same hand of fellowship to All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA candidates on Saturday, March 11th election.

“We won this election and we’ll prove it to Nigerians” – Peter Obi

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The candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, says he won the presidential election and he is ready to prove it to Nigerians.

Obi said this on Thursday while speaking with Reporters in Abuja.

He said he will seek all legal means to restore his mandate.

He also said the 2023 presidential election is the most controversial in the history of the country.

He further urged his supporters not to regard the decision of the election as the end, “but a beginning”.

“This election will go down as one of the most controversial elections ever conducted in Nigeria.”

“The good people of Nigeria have again been robbed. However, I appeal to Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding.

“This is not the end but a beginning… We will explore all legal and peaceful options to reclaim our mandate. We won the election and we will prove it to Nigerians.”

He begged Obidients not to be intimidated, encouraging them to take part in the governorship elections fixed for March 11.

“We have elections coming on the 11th. We enjoin you to go out and vote,” he said.

Obi said he and Datti Baba-Ahmed, his running mate, are “committed” to the cause of a new Nigeria.

“We will work for that new Nigeria that is possible. Datti and I remain committed to that new Nigeria.

Talking about the announcement of Tinubu as the winner of the election, Obi said: “I believe that for you to answer “you excellency”, the process through which you arrive to office must be excellent.”

The National Chairman of LP, Julius Abure, and Akin Osuntokun, director-general of the presidential campaign, were also present at the press briefing.

Recall, on Wednesday the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu as the winner of the presidential poll.

Tinubu secured 8,794,726 votes while Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had the second-highest figure with 6,984,52 and Obi polled 6,101,533 votes.

“INEC jeopardizes the election process, Apc just celebrating over a stolen mandate” – Aniagwu

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The PDP spokesperson for Atiku, Okowa presidential campaign, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has said the result which brought about Bola Tinubu as the winner of Saturday’s poll does not reflect the true principles of the Electoral Act.

He said the result lacks credibility and does not reflect the majority of Nigerians and the best interest of the country.

Mr. Aniagwu put this together while addressing Journalists in Asaba on Thursday.

He said Apc is just rejoicing over a stolen mandate of the people.

According to him, the presidential election held on Saturday was compromised by INEC, stressing that the commission failed to conform to the electoral law which prescribed the electronic transfer of election results from the unit level to the INEC server.

He alleged that the deliberate refusal of INEC officials to use the available technology in the procedures of the election jeopardize the credibility of the result.

The PDP spokesperson analyzed that most Nigerians were not happy with the aftermath of the presidential election, he also lamented that the stolen mandate of APC was a backward movement as Nigerians were not convinced that Tinubu won the election based on free and fair.

Also, he urges the PDP supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding to maintain the existing coexistence in the state.

He further pleas to Deltans to be more vigilant while stressing that the March 11 governorship election is a different ball game.

Aniagwu said Hon. Sheriff Oborevweri, the governorship candidate of the PDP remains the best and most qualified candidate to build on the legacies of the Okowa administration.

He said Deltans should not believe the falsehoods of the governorship candidate of the APC, as he denounced the rumor that the State government is trying to get a new loan, a speculation he said was formulated by the governorship candidate of the APC.

Wahala, man on mufti beats up ‘soldier’ for impersonating [Video]

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A viral video has surfaced online showing a man on mufti punching a fake soldier in uniform accused of impersonating a military officer.

The video was shared on Instagram by @Thatblackbwoy, an entertainment blogger on Thursday.

In the video, the man on the mufti is said to be a soldier who discovered that the one wearing a uniform was not a real officer.

He gripped him by the jugular in a bid to deal with him for wearing an army officer’s clothes even though he is not one.

Also, in the video, onlookers could be seen begging him to be forgiving as he used his leg to tackle the fake soldier to the ground.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpSHk1hPuB4/?igshid=NTdlMDg3MTY=

Tinubu has set up a reconciliation committee to meet with Atiku, Obi – Akeredolu

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The governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu has said the president-elect, Bola Tinubu has set up a committee to reconcile with other presidential candidates of other parties.

He said the committee contains elders of the All Progressives Congress, the ruling party.

Akeredolu in a statement issued by his chief press secretary, Richard Olatunde said the election reveals the wishes Of the electorate.

He also said that every aggrieved person will be met for reconciliation.

The statement reads “The president-elect has set up committees to meet with the gentlemen who contested in the election for us to start the healing process. I belong to one of the committees. We are going to meet them and appeal to them so that we can work together.”

This is an election that was not padded. People who voted were counted, that is the way I see it, not one which shows millions of votes. You can see the candidates, everyone won 12 states each, it has never been like that before.”

Akeredolu said the votes recorded by APC candidates in Ondo show the love of the people for his administration, putting in that the people “willingly” supported his outcry for a southern president.

“Ondo people are progressives and we will always, at least, be on the side of progressivism. From the onset, we were at the forefront of clamor for a southern president and so we have to put everything we had into it and we got the support, that is why we can make it,” the governor said.

On Wednesday, Bola Tinubu was declared the president-elect and was issued the Certificate of Return to him and his running mate, Kashim Shattima after defeating his opponents on Saturday’s poll.

Tinubu scored 8,794,726 votes against Atiku Abubakar of the PDP who polled 6,984,520 votes and Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate who scored 6,101,533 votes.

Motorola to launch new Razr foldable this year

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The CEO of Chinese technology giant Lenovo which now owns the Motorola brand, Yang Yuanging has confirmed that the new Motorola foldable phone is coming ‘very soon’ with some improvements to the device’s hinge.

Yang Yuanqing made the confirmation to CNBC during an interview at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on Wednesday.

Though, Yang didn’t expand much on what’s new with the upcoming Razr that will be available June 1st this year but said its inner display could have a less notable crease when unfolded, an issue that just about every foldable maker has to contend with. “I think it’s much better,” Yang told CNBC about the new device.

He said the improvements would focus on the hinge and the applications on the device. Smartphone makers from Samsung to Honor that have launched foldable phones have focused on the hinge to make sure it is robust and also does not produce a line in the screen of the device. Yang said this is where the next generation of Razr phones would see improvements.

Motorola spokesperson, Luciana Vedovato, told the Verge that Motorola released its most recent iteration of the Razr last year, which offers several improvements over previous versions but is only available in China and Europe.

The Razr is one of the brand’s most iconic mobile phones and was first launched by Motorola in 2004. It became one of the most popular flip phones of the 2000s.

Women in Kogi Protest, Go Spiritual, Reject Election Results

Some group of women has taken it upon themselves to protest in the street over abnormalities in the election results in Kogi Central Senatorial District, describing it as an “injustice”.

The women were seen wearing white ritual clothes demonstrating and calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to do justice to their votes and declared Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan as Senator-elect.

According to Tribune Online, the white ritual is done at sacred times to invoke the traditional spirit of war against those who deceive or cause pain to the land.

It was gathered that Natasha had earlier rejected the announcement of the candidate of the All Progressive Congress, Abubakar Sadiku-Ohere as the winner of the February 25 election for Kogi Central Senatorial District following the irregularities that ravaged the process.

The INEC Returning Officer for Kogi Central Senatorial District announced the results in Okene on Tuesday that Sadiku-Ohere win Mrs. Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party to emerge winner of Saturday’s election.

INEC presents Certificate of Return to Tinubu, Shettima

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The President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his running mate, Kashim Shettima have received their Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Manhood Yakubu, the INEC Chairman presented the CoF to Tinubu and Shettima at the International Collation Center in Abuja on Wednesday.

Speaking after receiving the Certificate of Return, Tinubu said the Cof symbolizes service to humanity as he promises to be a servant to Nigerians, not a leader.

He also appeals to his fellow contestants to team up with him to build a better Nigeria while calling on the youth to work with him when his administration begins.

“I know many didn’t vote for me and are disappointed your candidate doesn’t stand where I stand now. I understand your hurt, anger, and disappointment and I send the embrace and comfort of one family member to another,” President-elect.

Tinubu, the candidate of the All Progressive Congress polled 8,794,726 votes to defeat the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar; Peter Obi of the Labour Party; and Rabiu Kwankwaso, the candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party in the 2023 presidential election that was held on Saturday.

He polled a total of 8,794,726 votes to defeat Atiku Abubakar, who polled 6,984,520 votes while Peter Obi obtained 6,101,533, and Rabiu Kwankwaso scored 1,496,687 votes.

“If Obidients wants victory, they must learn to play the game like others” – TG Omori tells Obi supporters

TG Omori, the Nigerian music video director sent some words of advice to Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate, and his Obidient supporters after he lost in the presidential election to Bola Tinubu, the candidate of the All Progressive Congress.

He said if Obi and his followers wanted victory, they must learn how to play the game as dirty as others do.

He made this assertion on his Twitter page on Wednesday saying that the election that saw Bola Tinubu emerging as president-elect was just part of the game.

According to him, stupid emotions are what led to the result that the entire nation saw in the early hours of Wednesday, a statement that doesn’t go well with the fans.

When fans called him out for stirring unsympathetic statements, he maintained that one must learn to play the game or stand outside crying and asking for fairness.

In his words “The game is the game and all of you are in tears quickly with the same sympathy and stupid emotions that have put all of us here! Play the game or stand outside and be crying for fair play. Wear your kits and jump into the field idiot.”

“Chains were taken off your hands/feet and placed in your head. The slave master never changed his ways he just changed his methods, Search your soul and you will understand the problems are older than your fathers. freedom is still on the line, the war isn’t won.”

“People who go to war angry and emotional die quickly, a true warrior Fight with strategy, tactics, and respect. Thank me later.

“Lol, y’all forcing a candidate on me now, To cancel me or what? 🤣 I don’t even believe in democracy, Africa, in general, should never be amalgamated by force in the first place, we should live as kingdoms and tribes, not countries and states cos y’all don’t even like yourselves.

Finally, Tinubu scales through as INEC declares him the winner of the Presidential election

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Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has been confirmed the winner of Saturday’s presidential election.

The INEC Chairman, Professor Manhood Yakubu, announced tinubu’s victory at the International Collation Center in Abuja on Wednesday morning after declaring the final results.

According to the results, Tinubu polled 8,794,726 votes to win the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar; Labour Party, Peter Obi; and Rabiu Kwankwaso, the candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party in the 2023 presidential election.

Tinubu polled a total of 8,794,726 votes to defeat Atiku Abubakar, who polled 6,984,520 votes while Peter Obi obtained 6,101,533, and Rabiu Kwankwaso scored 1,496,687 votes.

The INEC Chairman said the total votes were 24,025940 and rejected votes were 939,278, while the total votes cast were 24,966218.

The INEC Chairman also said Tinubu and APC met the Constitutional prerequisite, adding that the Certificate of Return will be handed out to Tinubu and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima today by 3 pm.

APC gains victory in Delta Central and South Senatorial District

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The candidates of the All Progressives Congress representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, and Joel Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District have emerged winners of the National Assembly of Saturday’s poll.

Prof. Ezekiel Agbalagba, the Returning Officer for Delta Central declared Dafinone the winner at the Collation Center of INEC in Ughelli, while Prof. Peretimina Anthony, the Returning Officer for Delta South declared Joel Thomas as the winner at the Otobo Hall in Delta South Collation Center in Oleh, headquarters of Isoko South LGA.

According to the results from Delta Central, the APC candidate, Dafinone polled 109,197 votes to win against Ighoyota Amori, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party who scored 101,385 votes.

While Peter Omaruaye, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance scored 17,523, the candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party scored 4,721 votes.

Other political parties votes in Delta Central are APM – 1,195; NRM – 728; ADP – 1,341; A – 513; ADC – 3,517; YPP – 967; ZLP – 2,193; AA – 336; SDP – 3,568.

Also in Delta South, it was announced that Thomas triumphed over Mr. Michael Diden of the PDP and Commodore Omatseye Nesiama (retd), candidate of the NNPP to become the winner of Delta South Senatorial District.

The APC candidate in Delta South, Thomas polled a total of 49,955 votes while Diden of the PDP scored 47,656 votes on Saturday poll.

Arnold Schwarzenegger returns with new action-comedy movie series, FUBAR on Netflix

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Ace American actor, Arnold Schwarzenegger returned to his action movie roots on Netflix with FUBAR, his first action-comedy TV series.

The movie series tackles universal family dynamics set against a global backdrop of spice, action, and humor as it’s highlighted Schwarzenegger as a ready-to-retire CIA agent who gets wrapped up in one last mission.

Schwarzenegger on the point of his retirement discovers a family secret that forced him to go back into the field for one last job.

The series will land on Netflix on May 25th, 2023, and the original titled FUBAR is an acronym for “fucked up beyond all repair”

The first trailer has Schwarzenegger return to his action movie roots, blazing between scenes of the star jumping on a motorcycle, running around in a sports car, and firing off a pistol.

Other stars in the eight-episode movie series include Monica Barbaro, Jay Baruchel, Fortune Feimster, Milan Carter, Travis Van Winkle, Gabriel Luna, Andy Buckley, Aparna Brielle, Barbara Eve Harris, and Fabiana Udenio.

“Everywhere I go, people ask me when I’m going to do another big action comedy like True Lies. Well, here it is,” Schwarzenegger says in a statement.

According to him “FUBAR will kick your ass and make you laugh and not just for two hours. You get a whole season.”

Prince Ned Nwoko wins Delta North Senatorial Seat

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Prince Ned Nwoko, the Senatorial Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party representing Delta North Senatorial District has won the seat in the upper house of the National Assembly.

Prince Ned was declared the winner on Monday by Dr. Josephine Anene-Okeakwa, the Returning Officer of the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency.

Dr. Anene-Okeakwa announced the result at the collation center for the House of Representatives and Senatorial office in Oshimili South Local Government Council, Asaba.

According to the result, Prince Ned of the PDP won with a margin of 6393 votes. He scores 92514 to defeat Kennedy Kanma of the Labour Party who score 86121 while Sen. Peter Nwaobushi, candidate of All Progressive Congress scores 36,816 during Saturday’s election.

APC is A Dream Killer, Has No Reward System – Chief Akegwure Says After Returning To PDP

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The former House of Assembly Candidate of the All Progressive Congress, APC in Isoko North, Hon Chief Israel Okpure Akegwure has officially returned to the ruling party in Delta State.

Speaking to journalists at his country home in Ozoro, Hon Akegwure stated that his move back to the PDP is a symbolic one that saw the active movement of not fewer than two third of APC leaders, chieftains, and youths in Isoko North to the People’s Democratic Party.

Hon Akegwure also hinted that after active service in the APC, the APC has no reward System beyond what’s good on paper and not in reality while stressing that the self-acclaimed Emperor of the APC in the state, in the person of DSP Ovie Omo Agege, the Gubernatorial candidate of the APC has zero regards for Isoko nation and it’s people and will not get a single vote from Isoko north and the entire Isoko nation in extension.

Speaking further Hon Akegwure stated that his move to PDP was not for monetary gains or selfish reasons, but a move to ensure that Isoko North is appropriately recognized and well placed in the state and the country in extension as they key into the Atiku/Okowa and Sheriff/Onyeme 2023 mandate for unity and more. “I didn’t go back because I was offered a penny, but I went head-on because of the good of the people and the land, as PDP offers a platform that will help take Isoko North to greater heights from jobs creation to empowerment plus talent hunt amongst others.”

“To me, politics is a means of bringing advancement to your people, which in turn propels you to greater heights. I have a dream for the good people of Ozoro, Isoko North, and Isoko Nation at large, and the APC isn’t the right platform to achieve that dream.”

Hon Akegwure stressed that “The party APC itself is a dream killer and full of self-centered leaders at the state and National level, hence my emphasis on why they have to be seriously voted out come Saturday, February 25, and not given a chance come March 11 at the polls.” He added.

Being handed a membership card by the ward chairman, Ozoro ward 9
Being received at the state secretariat by HE with over 150 members of his team from Isoko
With other APC leaders and Elders at a tête-à-tête with the governor

Ohanaeze Youth Wing endorse Atiku-Okowa Presidency

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The Youths wing of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo worldwide have endorsed the presidential and vice presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the 2023 Presidential elections.

This endorsement was made during a Town Hall Meeting of her Maiden Edition of the Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo held in Orchid Hotel in Asaba on Thursday.

Speaking during the event, Mazi Livinus Obasi Onu, the leader of the youth said without a healthy and progressive Youth in the society there will be no progress and development, as his leadership is working round the clock to protect and promote the nascent Igbo unity and to ensure stability and security of Alaigbo in the South East.

He said “Today, Ala-Igbo bleeds, our economy is replating, Igbo Youths are on the edge, our women especially the younger ones are misguided, going against tradition, disrespecting norms and values that shaped us, and our supposed leaders/elders are either watching or very much complicit. These notwithstanding, the leadership of the Igbo Youths under me shall continue by all godly means to see that these values are restored.

“It is also our resolve as leaders that we cannot continue to do the same thing and expect different results. It is on this note we are convinced that every Igbo man working hard for a better society irrespective of religion or political inclination deserves our support. “

Again he said “The General election is here, Ndigbo especially youths cannot afford to continue shying away from reality. It is our foremost responsibility to ensure a peaceful, credible, and successful process come February 25, 2022. We shall come out en-mass to attend our civic responsibility and ensure our efforts counts.”

He hereby urged the PDP Presidential Candidate Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to ensure they reverse the challenges facing Ndi Igbo when they eventually emerge from the poll.

Gov Okowa while responding assured that Atiku Abubakar will dialogue with key stakeholders to release Nnamdi Kanu within the first 100 days of his administration. Adding that the elders of Igbo land have made the request and it means it was important to them.

Okowa said, “In 2015 when he emerged as governor, Delta was badly affected by the agitation in the Niger Delta but he sat them down and dialogued with them which has resulted in peace.”

“My administration had engaged many youths through skill acquisition and empowerment programs which had made many youths become successful entrepreneurs and job creators.

He said the Atiku-Okowa presidency will devolve more power to the states and local government, stating that they’ve already drafted a bill to amend the constitution for states to have their police force.

He also said the Atiku-Okowa presidency will provide more jobs to the teeming youths by setting aside of 10 billion dollars fund for MSMEs while commending the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo youths.

Also speaking is Prince Ned Nwoko, the Candidate for the Delta North Senatorial district who said Delta State is a PDP state and they are working earnestly hard to deliver all the candidates from the party.

Nwoko said that being elected as a Senator is one thing and being able to perform as a Senator in Anioma is another while saying that he doesn’t want to go to Abuja to be an opposition rather he wishes to be in the ruling party.

He further commented about the level of insecurity and killings in the country as he promise to introduce a bill for dialogue when he gets to the Senate. According to him, Boko Haram, IPOB, ESN, and other agitators are all fighting for territories and it will be good if they are allowed to be in the National Assembly for them to be heard.

The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu and the Commissioner for Youths Development, Ifeanyi Egwunyenga were among others who were present during the event.

Kiddies Carnival Nigeria Seeks Partnership With NUJ, Donates Waste Bins To Union

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An initiative geared towards talent hunt and development in Delta State, anchored by the Kiddies Carnival Nigeria through the Office of the Girl Child, has visited the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, where the three winners of the various categories of their pageants donated waste bins to the union for the disposal of waste at the Press Centre.

The Project Director of the initiative, Valerie Opia a.k.a Valerie of Africa, introduced her girls and demanded that NUJ partner with the group redefine the place of a girl child in society and the contributions expected of her towards adding value in society.

The lead pageant, Ambassador Chisom Agu commended NUJ for the great job her members are doing in policing and checkmating the society for the betterment of all.

She appealed to the union to support her idea of preaching peace and unity during the forthcoming general elections, adding also, that it is of paramount importance that all stakeholders join hands together to fight cultism, gender based violence and immoral acts in the society.

She, therefore, informed the NUJ Chairman of her intention to hold a seminar at the Press Centre with Hon. Ned Nwoko as the chairman, where would gather stakeholders to deliberate on the critical need for Girl Child Education in our society.

Responding, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu appreciated the team for deeming it feat to come to the NUJ to seek partnership, stating that the union which is the umbrella body of all practicing journalists, exists to serve the society and individuals, irrespective of status.

He congratulated the three winners of their various categories of contests, admonishing them to keep it up in order to get to the stardom of their career.

His words, “You must focus on your Education while you also passionately build on your potentials and talents. Don’t let the achievements of today get into your head. Work hard with consistency of hope in what you are doing, in no distant time, you will get to the apex of your career and dream, happily and peacefully.

“On your request for partnership, we are ready to partner with you. It is our duty to support the young ones in building a productive and responsible society. Just inform us on the date you wish to use the press centre for your seminar and be rest assured that we will make it available for you free of charge.

“We will also give you the publicity you need to make your event successful and worthwhile. On behalf of the journalists in Delta State, I want to wish you well in your chosen endeavours”, Ikeogwu said.

The highpoint of the visit was the official presentation of the waste bins and taking of group photograph with the Chairman of NUJ and some of the Exco members.

Oshimili South Council Boss Showcase his Achievements, Built Ultramodern Legislative Chamber Within 23 Months

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Oshimili South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili has said his administration will never relent in its effort to actualize its development plan tagged Y-PEP AGENDA.

He said his administration will always sustain youth and women empowerment, peace and security, environment and sanitation, primary health care, and infrastructural development in the LGA.

The council boss made this known in a press briefing on ‘The Scorecard Of The Executive Chairman, Oshimili South Local Government Council’ from March 2021 to February 2023, at the council Secretariat in Asaba, the state capital on Friday.

Hon. Dr. Ezenyili who revealed some of the achievements of his administration in socio and economic development said in the quest of achieving his Y-PEP AGENDA, his administration has to set up seasoned and reputable personalities as members of the economic team and advisory body committees.

He said his administration was able to construct an ultra-modern legislative complex with state-of-the-art facilities that are awaiting commissioning and the renovation of the Executive Complex with sophisticated furnishings and appliances.

He also said there was the installation of a close-circuit television within the executive complex with plans to extend to the entire secretariat.

According to the breakdown of some of the achievements in the recent past, Hon. Ezenyili said his administration has purchased a 500kva standby generator to provide an uninterrupted power supply to the secretariat and has also built a harmonious working relationship with the legislature/management staff that resulted in an early passage of the budget.

He mentioned that his administration further collaborates with security personnel by ensuring periodic meetings are held monthly with all security personnel and agencies in the local government to ensure safety in the local government and also provide the basic needs for vigilante groups.

In terms of partnering with the private sector, he said there is a PPP arrangement to improve the infrastructural development of councils’ land by revamping/ reconstructing the local government staff quarters and also constructing modern housing apartments on behalf of the council.

He went further to say that there is an Introduction of an automated system for local government identification process and revenue collection for the council.

According to him, there is an engagement of over 240 youths as environmental marshalls to enforce compliance with extant laws / and rules regulating a clean and safe environment and also the establishment of a mobile environment court to prosecute offenders.

He added that the council also partners with Eco bank Nigeria plc to empower female petty traders at a 0% interest rate, adding that the council also provides a means to restore power through the repairs of the transformer and offsetting 50% of the outstanding electricity bill at the ogbeogonogo modern market.

He explained that his administration made provision for continuous welfare and Christmas packages to staff and the electorates and also
continue participating in the sponsorship of the annual ALGAL sports festival and winning the 2022/2023 trophy.

Explaining, he said, “We provide youth empowerment for revenue collection on behalf of the council for the stimuli youth summit).”

“Empowerment of youths, widows, and less privileged with cash gifts, partnering with renowned authors to provide and distribute books on the eradication of cultism to both primary and secondary school students in the LGA.”

“Offsetting over 60% of outstanding debts owed to contractors by the previous administration, providing palliatives for flood victims, the transmission of executive bills to the legislative house on the amendment of the revenue by-law, etc.”

“Inauguration of ad-hoc committees to wit, revenue committee (to identify/ harness IGR sources, monitor revenue collection exercise, evaluate and make yearly reports), door-to-door environment committee (daily monitoring of the state of the environment), street naming and house numbering committee (to effect strict compliance with extant laws), assets recovery committee (to recover lost assets and prosecute offenders)” the council Chairman added.

Present at the inspection is the Delta State Commissioner for Information and Spokesperson of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, and, the Chairman of the Delta State Chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Mr. Emeka Bidokwu has commended the effort of the Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili in building and tastefully furnishing the Legislative Arm of the Council.

Nigeria Is Dying In Your Hands, Don’t Close Your Eyes – Gbagi Tells Journalists

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The governorship candidate for the Social Democratic Party, SDP, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, has urged journalists to be more proactive and objective while performing their tasks saying they are not doing what is highly required of them.

He said the current situation of things happening in Delta state is a result of journalists who are not being bold in their reporting.

The formal minister of Education made this known while briefing journalists in Asaba on Wednesday under a program titled ‘The Platform’ organized by the Delta State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, as a means to interact with candidates of the various political parties, to help the electorate to make reasonable choices in the election.

Olorogun Gbagi said if journalists thoroughly carry out their responsibility as a watchdog, the level of corruption and corrupt leaders in the society will reduce and leaders will be held accountable for any misappropriation of public funds adding that all the revenue generated from the oil in Delta state cannot be accounted for hence Delta has lost its glory despite the huge resources the state received from the federation.

According to him “Stealing has engraved in our souls in Delta State. It is a state where thieves become the leaders. Anybody who cannot declare his or her source of wealth is a thief.”

While faulting the level of corruption in the state, the SDP governorship candidate said there are no industries established by the state government to employ the indigenes of the state despite the huge allocation from the federal government and the internally generated revenue.

He explained that Shell has left Delta State for another state and they are paying their revenue to another state while still drilling the oil from the soil of Delta.

He clarified that if elected as the governor of the state, he will industrialize the state to enable it to retain its lost glory while advising that the state is only wasting its resources if it does not go back to industrialization.

While responding to questions from journalists concerning the issue of pension, he said he will endeavor to give every pensioner his or her cheque the day they retire and also promised to pay every youth a stipend of N30,000 when he becomes the governor.

In response, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, the Chairman, of Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) said “the Platform” was organized to give the same opportunity to candidates of all political parties to tell the electorate why they should be voted for in the elections.

He also thanked Gbagi for honoring the NUJ’s invitation.

Police Officer, Dimka Joins Wife’s Foundation To Feed Over 500 Nigerian Students In Asaba

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One of the finest Police officers in Delta State Police Command and Commander of the Eagle Net Special Squad in the State, SP Amb. Dr. Usman Dimka, today, Monday 13th February, 2023, turned the State Capital Asaba into a Mecca of sort, distributing food and drinks to Nigerian students struggling to do their JAMB registration at the Delta State E-Library complex, along Maryam Babangida Way.

This humanitarian reachout was staged by an NGO under the aegis of PZAFAAMA Helping Hands Foundation, which has Dimka’s wife, Princess (Mrs) Hauwa P. Usman Dimka as the Chief Executive Officer.

It was a huge one as over 500 students were planned for, with packs of enriched food, water and beverages distributed to them at the complex which is within the Asaba metropolis.

The Foundation in carrying out this humanitarian reach-out to the students who had come from various parts of the State for their JAMB registration at the Delta State E-Library complex; spurred the students who were moved by such act of benevolence, thereby resorting to praying for the Foundation to be replenished for such gestures and to succeed in all its endeavours.

Speaking to newsmen who accosted him to speak on the motivation behind such kindness, the Police officer extraordinaire, said he feels happy doing good to people and alleviating their sufferings.

According to him, “This NGO, PZAFAAMA Helping Hands Foundation is actually run by my wife as the CEO. Mine is to support her efforts in contributing meaningfully to humanity.

“Of course, my passion is giving a helping hand to people who are vulnerable either by birth circumstances or by misfortunes of life. It makes me happy seeing people happy. It was not a difficult thing supporting my wife, because what she is doing is what I am divinely inspired and endowed to do.

“So far, I have adopted 12 less privileged children whose school fees, feeding and medical needs I take care of every year until they will finish their university education and stand on their own. Just last year during my birthday, I celebrated it with the children at the City of David Orphanage and the Mother of Divine Grace Orphanage. That in itself was a show of my love for children in need of unrestrained love.

“Helping people is a normal routine for me; it is where I find my peace. If those who are privileged in the society could emulate the kindness of others, there won’t be so much people that are suffering in Nigeria.

“Showing love and helping those in need helps to reduce crime through positive empowerment that can only get them productively engaged. Personally, it is my everyday desire to see a loving, peaceful and prosperous society where everybody will live happily, irrespective of their statuses.

“I was moved by the dexterity of these students to get registered, even when they had been around since morning with no food to eat or water to drink. It touched me when I first saw them gathered in huge number just to get registered. I tell you, whatever you do for these ones today, they will remember tomorrow. And such act of kindness may even spur them to want to give back to society in future”, Dimka averred.

Speaking further, he condoled with the Nigerian Police Force, the Armed Forces and other paramilitary agencies that are losing their officers and men to terrorism and banditry.

He specifically prayed for the repose of the soul of his boss and mentor, late AIG Lawal Jimeta (AIG Zone 5, Benin), whose sudden death occurred after a brief illness; and of course, the souls of his three colleagues who were attached to the convoy of Governor Okowa that recently died in active service while escorting the Governor on campaign to Abia State.

How APC Tries To Trigger Processes For INEC To Postpone Election

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The spokesperson for the People’s Democratic Party, PDP presidential campaign council who also the honorable Commissioner for Information in Delta State, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has accused the members of the All Progressive Congress, APC, and its presidential candidate of trying to ignite a process that will lead to the postponement of the election.

He accused the 3 APC governors who took the federal government to the Supreme Court under the guise of fighting for Nigerians over the naira scarcity.

Mr. Aniagwu made this charge during a press conference in Asaba on Thursday stating that the PDP supported every effort made by the CBN to trap all illicit funds and not make them available for the election.

According to him, the PDP is very much aware that the APC and its presidential candidate are depending on stance funds largely on the old naira notes for vote buying which is why 3 APC governors have decided to take the federal government to the Supreme Court.

Aniagwu said the PDP as a political party wants the election to hold as scheduled because their only concern is to make sure that the governor at the Central Bank makes it possible for funds to be at the ATM in line with the limit that they have set.

He said as a political party, the PDP is not depending on vote buying because they are very confident of the interface they’ve already had with Nigerians adding that the APC is busy fighting President Muhammadu Buhari and everybody because they know they are going to lose this election.

The PDP campaign spokesperson also said, the APC governors forget to sue the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria but went ahead to sue the federal government instead of Godwin Emefiele, the governor of the CBN over the old naira notes, adding that the APC is only trying to trigger processes that will lead to the postponement of this election.

Speaking about the crisis as regards the issue of fuel scarcity, Aniagwu berated the 3 APC governors asking if the governors did not know that they have a Supreme Court and approach it over the fuel crisis rather they are fast to approach the court over the old naira notes because of interior motives.

He said in this country when people are finding it difficult to obtain their PVCs, these governors are very quiet minding their business but Today, these governors are posing as if what is affecting them is Nigerians who don’t have nairas in their pockets. That’s not their challenge, their challenge is how to deploy the old notes that they have stacked.

“Why didn’t they go to court to use the court against the CBN to provide the new naira notes, why are they still interested in the old ones? Did Nigerians say they are not interested in the new notes, why are they still busy talking about the old ones, the spokesperson asked.

Mr. Aniagwu further applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for trying to leave a legacy of a free, fair, and credible election despite the situation he is currently facing from the members of the APC who are trying to stumble through the process of the election.

“The APC members are not happy that Buhari wants to conduct a free and credible election using one man, one vote.

“Mr. President even if you are of the APC, we support you to leave a free, fair, and credible election for Nigerians. We support you in your desire to deal with those who have taken our money and want to spend it illicitly, we urged the CBN to make sure that the bank has the redesigned naira notes and not pump back the old notes into circulation because what Nigerians need at the moment is to have the redesigned notes for them to carry out their businesses as they are not looking for the old notes.

“Let the APC go to court and ask the court to impose it on the CBN to provide the new naira notes. Why are they trying to take us backward if indeed they have good intentions? They claimed the President is not smart enough but he is smarter than them on this, he added.

Mr. Aniagwu also said any PDP governors who wish in joining the APC governors to take the federal government to court over the old naira notes should rest assured that the party did not support them, adding that the PDP is one party and there is no fraction anywhere because their National Working Committee is still intact.

“Anybody who goes on air anywhere and begins to ask that they should join him in a suit should know that they are co-travelers. That money they think they will use to cause trouble is where their challenges are coming from because they just assumed that they have money to use to deceive people.

“We are not depending on money on this election, we are depending upon the interface we have had with Nigerians, we are depending on Nigerians because they believe that Atiku and Okowa will be able to make a difference, we are depending on the fact that Nigerians are looking forward to a country that will work effectively for everyone as they believe in the candidacy of Atiku and Okowa as the right candidates that will rescue the country, Aniagwu said.

In Critical Times Journalists Need to Uncover Issues, Be Objective Without Reward – Ned Nwoko Tells NUJ

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The Delta North Senatorial candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Ned Nwoko, has said during critical times in governance, journalists should always expose critical issues concerning the public without expecting any kind of reward.

Nwoko said it is their duty as a watchdog to always scrutinize any policies that are of public concern and follow them up and be objective in their reporting.

He made this known while speaking with journalists in Asaba on Tuesday at the NUJ Secretariat under “The Platform” a program organized by the Delta State council of NUJ to interact with candidates of the various political parties.

According to the senatorial candidate, he explained that “As the fourth estate of the realm, journalists are very important. You should be the conscience of society by carrying out your watchdog obligations objectively.

“In advanced societies, quite often, you see and hear about the problems of the society through the prism of journalism. It is the duty of journalists to unearth and report issues of public concern without expecting any form of reward. With their objective reports, they help in making society a better place.

“In Nigeria, the story is a bit different. Some journalists are making a mockery of the profession by reporting false and slanted information, reporting opinions rather than facts, because of financial gains or protection of interest.

“There should be a correlation between journalism and good governance. But, because of the reward and gratification syndrome prevalent among Nigerian journalists, government officials do as it pleases them,” he said.

While still speaking, Nwoko characterized governance as a football team, where the players could only do well on the pitch with proper teamwork and familiarity with one another.

He clarified that it would be difficult for him to operate in a situation where the President or the Delta State Governor were of different political parties, augmenting that a Governor policy could likewise be hindered by a President elected on the platform of an opposition party.

He, therefore, urged Deltans, and undoubtedly Nigerians, the significance to vote for the entire team of the Peoples Democratic Party to rescue, rebuilt, and reset Nigeria from the enormous harm caused by the APC-led federal government in the country.

Explaining, Nwoko said “Most likely, the majority of you will say they support me if asked. But supporting me without supporting the complete team is not enough. There is no point in sending me to Abuja to be in the minority.

“As a representative, being in the opposition makes it difficult for you to be effective. No matter how determined I am to perform effectively, being in the opposition will dampen my efforts.

“The government at the center may likely not approve my plans because they are not part of theirs. This is why you must be logical with your voting structure. Do not mismatch votes. If you are supporting me, then you have to support other PDP candidates. That is the only way your support will be meaningful to me.”

Again he said if given the mandate, he would use his knowledge to give his senatorial district an effective and efficient representation that would impact positively the lives of the people adding that Delta North is blessed with beautiful vegetation and a good geographical location that can be turned into one of the best tourist destinations in Africa.

The former member of the House of Representatives, who represented the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency also added that he plans to introduce large-scale farming to his senatorial zone as a means to generate more revenue for the state.

He further applauded the state NUJ for organizing “the Platform” as a means to interact with candidates of the various political parties, to help the electorate to make better selections in the poll.

In response, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, the Chairman, of Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) said “the Platform” was organized to give the same opportunity to candidates of all political parties to tell the electorate why they should be voted for in the elections.

He also thanked Nwoko for honoring the NUJ’s invitation.

2011 And Current PVCS: Both Are Valid For Voting – Delta INEC Rec, Rev Udoh Tom

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Ahead of the forthcoming general elections starting with the Presidential on Saturday, February 25th, the Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (lNEC), Rev (Dr) Monday Udoh Tom, has assured eligible voters in the State, that both the voter’s cards issued in 2011 and the current Personal Voters Cards (PVCs) are valid for voting.

The Delta lNEC REC gave this assurance while monitoring the Saturday, February 4th, 2023 Mock Accreditation exercise in Oshimili North and lka North East local government areas.

Rev Udoh Tom who expressed satisfaction at not only the impressive turnout of eligible voters at the various polling units visited but also at the efficiency of the BVAS machine being deployed for the accreditation of voters, said what the electoral umpire has been advocating has come to stay.

While also stating that lNEC had perfected strategies to ensure that the “one man, one vote” mantra succeeds, he urged Deltans to turn out en masse on election days and vote for their preferred candidates, emphasizing that their votes must count.

Said the Delta INEC REC: The card you had in 2011 is still valid because you can see that the BVAS accepted them and accredited those who came with them. The newly issued PVCs are equally valid.

On fears expressed by some eligible voters that network issues could crop up on election days, the electoral commission helmsman dismissed it by stating that “we don’t use the network to do accreditation. We don’t use the network to vote. We only use the network when we are uploading results. For example, when results are sent from any location and there is a network challenge, if you move a little distance away or even while going to the collation center, the network will return. As long as the result is already uploaded, nothing will stop the result from delivering”.

Eligible voters at the various polling units expressed satisfaction with the BVAS mode of accreditation, disclosing that in less than three minutes, the entire process of accreditation had been completed.

They commended the Commission for deeming it to engage in the mock accreditation exercise nationwide, noting that this and other strategies being put in place by INEC, had proved that the electoral umpire is prepared to hold a free, fair, and credible general election.

Polling units visited by the state REC included unit 9 ward 001 Okpanam, unit 1 ward 1 Atuma lga in Oshimili North, and unit 1 ward 2 (Omi Primary school), Owa Alero, as well as unit 1 ward 9 Ekpu Primary school, Ute Okpu, both in lka North East local government area.

On the REC’s entourage were the HOD Legal Services Department of Delta INEC, Barr ( Mrs) Angela Ebhosaghe, and the Electoral officers of both Oshimili North and lka Northeast.

The Delta lNEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Rev Udoh Tom, (1st right), at one of the polling units during the mock accreditation exercise

Ned Nwoko ‘ll Make A Huge Difference As A Senator – Dr Nwoko

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… Gets Pressure Group’s Partnership Investiture

The Director, of Contact and Mobilization, Ned Nwoko Campaign Organisation, and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health Monitoring, Dr. Michael Nwoko has described Hon Prince Ned Nwoko as an impeccable leader and humanist who is fired up to make a huge difference in the Senate, adding that till date no politician in his contemporary could boast of beating his records when he was in the House of Representatives.

Dr Nwoko affirmed that the Senatorial candidate of the PDP for Delta North is eager to resume duty as a Senator, to begin to correct years of representative anomalies in order to attract the desired dividends of democracy to his people and to make life better for them.

The grassroots mobilizer, urged the group to join various units in their localities as canvassers in order to achieve more in the expected results for 2023 elections.

According to him, “I know that virtually every adult voter in Delta North will vote for Ned Nwoko because of the love they have for him. He is one politician whose focus in leadership has always been how to make a difference by creating an atmosphere of genuine development both for communities and individuals.

“My appeal is that we all should deliver PDP 5/5 at all levels. By this we will achieve the objective of rescuing and resetting Nigeria to fit into the global best standards of governance.

“We are messed up as a country, and I know that no Nigerian is happy as it stands. We need urgent and imminent rescue to be able to carry out drastic reengineering of the governance system that will return the dignity of life for Nigerians.

“Our people need to survive this hellish reality that the ruling Federal Government has put everybody, therefore, it means that it is incumbent on us all to work faster towards making life normal again.

“I thank you for finding me worthy for this investiture, it shows that you are keenly monitoring what we are doing to see that the right people are in leadership and that we win all our elections as a party. You have come genuinely to appreciate me for the passionate and responsible services that I am rendering to my Party; however, I will further engage you to work with us as canvassers at the unit levels to realise our goal. It’s my earnest desire to see us achieve this together and I will support you as you carry on with your own assignments in this regard”, Nwoko posited.

The pressure group, peopled mostly by grassroots politicians from Obior Ward 1 in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, was led by Mr. Isichei Okechukwu to do the investiture on Dr Michael Nwoko as their Patron.

Eulogizing the political sagacity of Dr Nwoko popularly known as “The Political Oshobe”, Mr. Isichei said they were in his house to endorse the candidacy of Hon Ned Nwoko and to key into his campaign programmes for the purpose of delivering him and other PDP candidates in the coming elections.

“Our sole aim of being here is to partner with you to deliver Ned Nwoko who has the capacity to bring development to Delta North Senatorial District and also empower our youths and women to become productive going forward.

“I have been a chapter leader in my ward, we understand the nitigrities of grassroots mobilisation. This group has been formed since 2014 and we are still waxing strong. We appreciate what you are doing politically and that is why we have come to honour you and partner with you to deliver the candidates of PDP in the coming elections for a better tomorrow”, the President, Isichei submitted.

Delta Govt Not Seeking Fresh N100 Billion Loan, APC Spreading Misconceptions And Lies

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The Delta State Government has expressed disappointment over the action of the State Chapter of the All Progressive Congress, APC, for spreading a whole lot of misconceptions and lies over the N100 billion discounting facilities loan that has been requested.

The honorable Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, and his counterpart, the honorable Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilijie, alongside the Chief Press Secretary to the Delta state Governor, Mr. Olise Ifejika, said this during a press briefing in Asaba, the state capital on Monday stating that the Delta State government is not seeking a new loan of N100 billion rather it is only seeking N20 billion which is the fresh loan.

Conveying, the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Aniagwu, said those who don’t know what to tell Nigerians particularly Deltas are beginning to paint pictures that are not relevant to reality simply because it’s an electioneering period and they want to score cheap political points.

He said APC started spreading lies concerning what the government is doing, how it’s financing the projects, and how it’s continuing to deliver all the many projects.

Similarly speaking, Chief Tilijie, who is the Commissioner for Finance, stated that he was drawn into the misconception surrounding the N100 billion discounting facility loan when he heard about the lies circulating that the state government is seeking a fresh loan of N100 billion.

He said the N100 billion remains the N100 billion because the repayment is a discounting facility from a syndicate of the banks and the N100 billion stands alone stating that the N20 billion which is the new loan is intended to invest in a gas production company that will be situated in Warri.

Explaining he said “Initially when we started the discussion with the gas company, they wanted to put the head office in Bayelsa but we said the only way we can invest in it is when they move the head office back to Delta State which will be in Warri, and as God may also have it, the promoter of that gas plant is a Deltan which we said, you can’t be a Deltan and bringing in businesses then you are taking it to Bayelsa to go and invest on.”

“So that is exactly how the N20 billion came in. The N20 billion has nothing whatsoever to do with the discounting facility that we are discussing, this is a separate payment source from the state government.”

According to him the totality of the amount they are trying to discount is still the same, maintaining that they initially wanted to take N150 billion as discounting facilities proceed from the market but when they sat down and review the cash inflows, they decided to bring it down to N100 billion.

He said “It is that formal N100 billion that we intend to take but we had to go to the House of Assembly again because we found out that the lead agent of that same N100 billion discounting facilities was not moving as fast as we wanted, and all we did was to go back to the House of Assembly in the same spirit of transparency and accountability to seek their consent to enable us to change the lead bank for that discounting facilities exercise. That is all we did, the Commissioner for Finance added.

Speaking further he said “It is not a new loan, it is not a new discounting facility, it is not a new bridging, it is still the same N100 billion that we had been speaking about since then and until now. All we did was to change the lead bank to another lead bank, this is the only reason why we had to go to the House of Assembly.”

“I do know that in certain other states, the need to go to the House of Assembly may not arise and the third process may not be there because they will think the responsibility of determining who is a lead agent solely depends on the executive which is the governor of the state, but Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa in his usual manner felt that whatever alteration that we’ll be making, whether a change of terms and conditions, we must go back to the House of Assembly and that was why we had to go to the House of Assembly again to let them know that the N100 billion that they have earlier approved as discounting facilities would no longer be loaned by that particular lead bank that was earlier documented since we have decided to change the lead bank to another bank.”

“I know that journalists often do research and we are at the point when we will be going to the House of Assembly to itemize all the projects we will be doing with the discounting facilities, the details of all the projects we intend to fund from the discounting facilities proceeds are known to all of us, those who are yet to get the details can go to the House of Assembly, it’s a public document for everyone to have a purview of it.”

“For instance, I said we are going to be spending N10 billion out of the proceeds to fund the pension arrears of the state, we have released N5 billion to the state pension board and we have also given N5 billion to the Local Government board. Even if we decided to reduce it from N150 billion to N100 billion, we still felt it’s very important to keep to the target we initially intended regarding the pension arrears of the state.”

“I have said earlier that we have gotten N30 billion initially but as we speak today because of the change of the lead agent, we have gotten N80 billion and we are still trying to access the additional N20 billion. We have started executing the projects that we have already itemized initially when we approached the House for the loan.”

“A lot of money has been paid to the contractors at the flyover, the interchange at the Ibusa junction and a lot of payments have also been paid to those contractors at the film village, the leisure park, the Mother and Child hospital, and of course, we have been able to resume three more Technical Colleges, one in Asaba, one in Effurun, Warri, and the other in Obiarukun. All these funds are fully paid and we are doing everything possible to ensure that the incoming governor of Delta State does not start where Governor Ifeanyi Okowa started, that era of no money has passed and we are doing everything humanly possible that there is enough funding for the next government when they come in, Chief Tilijie added.

Vanguard Personality Of The Year 2022 Award To Gov Okowa: Oma Adasen Describes lt As Icing On The Cake

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Governor Okowa’s deputy, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, (m), receives the award on the Governor’s behalf

As accolades continue to pour in for the PDP Vice Presidential candidate and Governor of Delta State over his recent Vanguard Newspapers Personality of the year 2022 award, Science and Technology Commissioner, Jennifer Oma Adasen, has described it as “the icing on the cake” for a distinguished public service to Delta and indeed the nation spanning several decades.

In a congratulatory statement, the Science and Technology Commissioner emphasized that this award has once again proven that Governor Okowa’s track record of good governance and leadership capacity is widely acknowledged even by the critical sectors of society that the media represents.

Describing the PDP Vice Presidential candidate as an accomplished and highly detailed statesman, Olorogun Jennifer Oma Adasen, noted that, from his humble beginnings in the local government administration to his emergence as Governor, Okowa had continued to impact positively in any task he undertook, such that the indelible footprints of his administration under the Stronger Delta mantra are visible and tangible across the three senatorial districts of the state.

The Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology specifically mentioned the Governor,s passion for youth empowerment through her ministry and other agencies of government which have in no small measure brought hope and relief to the teeming mass of unemployed youths who now have their businesses and are training others to be self-employed.

Commissioner Jennifer Adasen, therefore thanked the board and management of Vanguard Newspapers for finding her boss worthy of recognition for the award, adding that she does not doubt that it will spur the Governor to do more in his distinguished public service career.

Federal Technology And Innovation Expo 2023: Delta Bags First Position Nationwide

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Delta State Ministry of Science and Technology under the headship of Olorogun Jennifer Oma Adasen has come out tops in the State Ministry Category at the just concluded Technology and innovation expo 2023 organized by the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Eagle Square, Abuja

The 7th edition of the Science, Technology, and innovation Expo 2023, had as its theme, “Actualizing Effective Diversification of the Nigerian Economy, through Science, Technology, and innovation”.

Presenting the first-ever award to any Delta Ministry of Science and Technology, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Senator Adeleke Mamora, said Delta State made all the required parameters for coming out tops among ministries of Science, technology, and innovation nationwide.

Noting that the construction of a Solar panel box idealized by Delta State is of world Standard, the minister of science, technology, and innovation, said Delta,s trailblazing efforts have engendered his ministry’s zeal to ensure all-round lCT driven policies and programs of the federal government.

In her remarks, the Delta State Science and Technology Commissioner, Olorogun Jennifer Oma Adasen, appreciated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, for his proactive support to the ICT milieu of Delta, which has added more impetus to Delta,s unmatched profile of science and technology-compliant states in Nigeria.

The Delta Science and Technology Commissioner also commended the Minister, Senator Adeleke Mamora, for his proactive approach to engendering technology-based innovations since he assumed office.

Present at the historic presentation was the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ben Okonta, among others.

Business Mogul, Nuel Ojei Loses Brother

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Global business mogul, Dr Nuel Ojei has lost his immediate younger sibling, Thomas Uzor Ojei to the cold hands of death.

In a statement by the family of late Chief Sylvester Ojei of Idumu-Osodi, Ogboli Quarters, Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, late Thomas Uzor Ojei, passed on after a brief illness.

Late Thomas Ojei, was the pioneer Technical Sales Manager of Nuel Auto Distributors Ltd, an affiliate of the Nuel Ojei Holdings Plc – a global conglomerate.

Also, he was a consummate multi-tentacled business operator, who later founded and successfully managed Tizor Enterprises Nig Ltd to fruition.

According to the family, burial arrangements would be announced later.

Nigerian Red Cross Society, DSPHCDA To Partner NUJ For Sensitization On Resurgence Of Covid-19

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The Nigerian Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency (DSPHCDA), has paid a courtesy visit to the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the State, to solicit their partnership towards creating awareness on the Resurgence of Covid-19 pandemic and the need for vaccination.

The head of the team, Mr. Charles Arinomor of the Scale 3.0 Sensitization (Covid-19), affirmed that by statistics, Delta State is one of the least States that are not fully vaccinated, advising that all and sundry should take advantage of the new surge of the virus to get vaccinated.

Speaking on the role of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in ensuring the scale up of the uptake of the Covid-19 vaccine, Mr. Arinomor said, the Nigerian Red Cross Society was able to access funding to create awareness on Covid-19 vaccine, and therefore, decided to collaborate with the Delta State Primary Healthcare Development Agency for effective mobilization of the people to get vaccinated.

He maintained that the media remains a veritable instrument in the strategy to disseminate and properly manage the information regarding Covid-19 and global health policy on vaccination; adding that the people should be aware that Covid-19 has not left the world but in fact has surged up again.

Arinomor said, as a result of this concern by the Nigerian Red Cross Society to embark on this sensitization, the NUJ was made a focal point to visit in order to seek possible partnership in reaching out to the larger audience of Deltans in the interest of public health and safety.

According to him, “We have implicit confidence in the NUJ to help us drive this awareness campaign through publicity, and that is why we have come. Deltans need to vaccinate, they shouldn’t entertain the fears again that the vaccine is unsafe for humans. It is perfectly safe. We need to hurry up and vaccinate now that the surge is coming up again.

“NUJ is one of our targeted advocacy points in reaching our stakeholders. We are working towards one goal – to save the greater number of human population from getting infected and dying of the virus. Our job is working in the humanitarian space to achieve safety and security of health for humanity”, Arinomor said.

Speaking on behalf of the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Mrs. Naomi Ogbakpah solicited the support of the NUJ to achieve the awareness needed to save humanity from the pessimism associated with Covid-19 through concerted effort to get vaccinated.

She narrated how her Agency had been engaging the students in Delta through sensitization on the dangers of Covid-19 and the need to take the vaccine, appealing to the NUJ to help give it the desired publicity for the work to become effectual.

Responding to their submissions, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu assured them that the partnership they seek was possible if they constantly get the NUJ involved in their activities and programmes.

Ikeogwu called on Deltans to make out time to vaccinate, commending the two groups for the visit and advising on hosting some of their programmes at the Press Centre, which he said would enhance the partnership they had proposed.

He said, “Covid-19 is not a fluke, I used to believe it to be so, but I have come to know now that it is real. I had the premonition it was political, but from all indices, it’s not.

“We will work together going forward; your visit is well cherished. Just ensure that you regularly get us involved in your activities and be rest assured that your desires as far as the media is concerned will be taken care of”, he affirmed.

The International Committee of the Red Cross came into existence in 1863 in Geneva, to help advance humanitarian supports to vulnerable people of the world and stand in the gap for succour in times of humanitarian crisis and wartime. It is founded on the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary services, unity and universality for the benefit of the entire human race.

Other members of the two bodies that visited included, Perpetua Igbobah, Oduah Joseph, Ashiedu Peter, Alidunkwu Ikechukwu Scott and Alimasunya Julius.

Warri deserves more developmental attention Dr. Okubor says, drums support for Sheriff

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The Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Political Matters/Chairman of Governing Board, College of Education, Warri, Dr. Festus Okubor, has said there is a need for Warri to get better government attention than it has now.

Dr. Okubor said this when he plays host to journalists at his official residence on Tuesday in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

He said no sitting governor will give better developmental attention to Warri than the son from the soil of Warri.

According to Dr. Okubor, the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Sheriff Oborovwore is the best candidate that has very good attributes, experience, and qualities to be governor of the state and is the best candidate to give better attention to Warri stating that “Sheriff comes from Osubi and Osubi is in Warri.

“Though Warri may not be how it ought to be at the moment but gloriously speaking, for good reasons, we will applaud neutrally how Ibori turn Oghara to where we started calling it Oghara-London.”

Again he said, Governor Okowa has done a lot for the Ika people and they are grateful to him and he has also done a lot for the entire state adding that Warri deserves far greater attention developmentally and the level of attention Warri deserves at this point can only be given by someone who is from Warri and its environs, this is what gives credence to Sheriff.

Speaking further Dr. Okubor said it will be good for those lovers of Warri and those who wish to dream of Warri London to go for Sheriff Oborovwore, explaining that it’s not easy to be the longest-serving Speaker in any state, no matter what the people say, Sheriff has very good qualities because to be able to build confidence among his colleagues, he has done that successfully and they know he is not greedy and self-centered.

Talking about Oborovwore street credibility, Dr. Okubor hinted that the street can be a jungle and one cannot survive in the street by being greedy, not respecting hierarchy or not being nice to people, or being weak.

He maintains that the street can only give you credibility and follows you when you have qualities because the street is the perfect place to live.

Why Nigerians should resist Tinubu’s hopeless promises and trap of internal slavery

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Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the spokesperson of the campaign council of Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party has urged Nigerians not to make the mistake of submitting themselves to internal slavery by all the promises made by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress, APC.

The spokesperson said the APC presidential candidate has captured Lagos State and he is looking for means to expand his territorial control beyond Lagos and wants to control the entire country in form of slavery.

Mr. Aniagwu stated this while briefing Journalists in Asaba, the Delta state capital on Tuesday.

He said for those who don’t know, a number of the major projects in Lagos State are controlled by the same individual stating that when you get to Lagos and ask them about the BRT which handles the issues of transportation, you will discover that it is handled by the man’s family. The signage in Lagos where you have billboards and everything about signage which is a big business in Lagos is handled by his son while the collection of taxes in the state (Lagos being the biggest in terms of tax collection) is handled by a company said to belong to this same man aside many other sources of revenue that Lagosians might have benefited from.

According to him “You also do know how he handicaps those who governed Lagos to the extent of Ambode, a man that was reputed to be doing very well was taken out of office because he disagreed with them on how to share the funds of the people of Lagos and for such a person to now aspire to govern our country will be very detrimental to all of us. It means we want to submit ourselves to slavery.”

“Nigerians must stop Tinubu from crossing Lagos into the other 35 states and the FCT because that could amount to internal slavery for all of us when he alone will determine who becomes the next president, he alone will determine who gets what by forces and not interaction within the balms of democratic governance.”

“As part of his quest to expand his greed on the state and capture the state, they have cooked up stories because they have seen that our presidential candidate has won the minds of Nigerians based on the conviction by a good number of Nigerians that Atiku Abubakar is a man that has what it takes to recover this country and place us on the part of growth and development. They have come to wake up a blackmailer who called himself a whistleblower, I’m happy that you are very much informed as newsmen to know who a whistleblower is and who is a blackmailer.”

“Let me put it on record that Michael Achimugu was not a staff of Atiku Abubakar, he works in one of the support groups and closely with the daughter which is a different thing entirely. He was not employed by Atiku to work for him and if what he does is to begin to record his boss or your friend and you call him a whistleblower, all of you here know that is not a whistleblower, that is blackmail. And anybody who is a blackmailer cannot be taken seriously and that is why we don’t want to take the issue seriously because it was not done to help our great country.”

“Also for our brothers in the APC particularly Festus Keyamo and the likes of Femi Fani Kayode, individuals we know too well in this country in terms of where they stand and the credibility that they parade, shouting and screaming saying that they want to get a petition and even accusing those of you in the media that you are not reporting the issues on time as if they are the ones to teach you how to report.”

“As a political party and as a campaign council, we do know what the issues are. The issues that most Nigerians have lost their jobs, more than 133 million Nigerians are now suffering from what is called multi-dimensional poverty, our infrastructure is not in the best of shape while our unity is challenged and there is a need for our children to have the best of education to curb the sapa syndrome and of course, we need to be able to grow the food and indeed to progress our country from this very consumptive atmosphere to much more productive environment.”

“Those are the issues, so in that attempt to want to distract us by raising issues that don’t add up to enable them to have their way to enslaving the rest of us, we want to urge Nigerians to be willing to ask those in Lagos what they are going through whether that is the kind of thing they want to happen to us as a country. I want to say God forbid it because our forefathers fought the slave master, the colonial masters, and chase them to where they came from and we were able to regain our independence. You know what slavery did to us, the number of manpower that was taken away from us and indeed the rest of Africa to Europe and America, which is why we cannot bring back our internal slave masters to come to govern us and then dictate how our means of production will be distributed.”

“For us in the PDP and our presidential candidate, we desire to take steps to get our economy to work again. We desire to ensure that the whole country comes together irrespective of your ethnic group and the religion you profess, we want to as much as possible to give a dirty blow on this very decisive tendency where individuals keep rebelling against one another based on the ethnic group they belong to or the religion they belong.”

“Our presidential candidate is very much desirous of ensuring that infrastructure which is not the best of it at the moment is fixed, our presidential candidate appreciates the facts that insecurity has done very great damage to us as a people, It has hindered productivity, it has weakened the fabrics that bind us together and as such our presidential candidate and his running mate are very much concern to ensure that the length and breadth of the country particularly the 36 states and the federal capital territory are very well police such that security returns to every part of the country.”

“They are also very much determined in the medium term to bring up an amendment to some sections of our constitution particularly the aspect that deals with exclusive lists such that power is further dissolved to the component unit and then gives way for a possible introduction of state police, community policing and other forms of policing that will enable individuals to feel safer than they do at the moment.”

“And so, Nigerians shouldn’t be distracted from what the issues are as is just about 38 days to the general election, they want to bring up issues that will distract us from where we are and where we are going and any attempt to fall into that trap will amount inadvertently yielding ourselves to the slave intent of this person, who has succeeded in placing some elements slavery on our brothers in Lagos by collecting a whole lot of resources which they claim they grew from N600 million to N50 billion without the litigation benefiting from the excess of that very high rise in the internal revenue of Lagos State.”

“You do know what happened in Lagos when people woke up very early for them to be able to beat up traffic compared to some very functional state. In Lagos, some left their houses as early as 5 am and have not gotten to their workplace even until 10 am. That is an addition to the slave mentality that they placed on our people in Lagos State who are working very hard daily to earn a living.”

“So if anybody tells you that the APC is going to renew any hope, they are lying because they have not given us any hope in the past let alone renewing it, that is why we cannot afford to subject ourselves to renew hopelessness which Tinubu and members of the APC are promising.”

“We need to inform Nigerians so that they don’t make the mistakes of falling into this trap set by Tinubu and his APC co-travelers who are very much desirous of distracting us from what the issues are which I have stated very clearly in the cause of this briefing, the spokesperson added.

Iyaloja Mulls Collaboration With AASG For APC’s Victories

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Towards clinching towering successes at the 2023 elections, the Iyaloja of the federation, Erelu Folashade Tinubu-Ojo has expressed a desire to partner with the Amalgamated APC Support Groups (AASG) in the quest for overwhelming electoral victories at the forthcoming serial poll.

She revealed this while interacting with the Director-General/National Coordinator of the group, Dr Nasiru Ladan, during a courtesy visit to the organization’s national headquarters in Abuja.

Erelu Tinubu-Ojo submitted, “It is our desire to partner with this group, which can best be described as a silent potent driving force in the APC’s quest for a sweeping electoral triumph”.

In his response, Dr Ladan affirmed his explicit thirst for partnership, with such a nationwide group, as the market association, with an outstanding prolific mobilization amazon, in the mould of Erlelu Tinubu-Ojo at the helms.

He further declared, “I am enthused at the prospects, of a complementary synergy with the market union, a group which boasts national pervasive reach. Such a collaboration will undoubtedly, augur unprecedented victories at the 2023 elections”

Monarch Commends Governor Okowa For Building Secretariat For Journalists In Delta

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The revered 2nd Vice Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and King of Ubulu-Uno Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM Obi (Dr) Henry Afamefune Kikachukwu has commended the Executive Governor of Delta State and PDP Vice Presidential Candidate in the forthcoming general elections, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for building a befitting Secretariat for the members of the fourth estate of the realm in the State.

He gave this commendation when he visited the Press Centre to felicitate with the Council Executive for the new year, and he was taken on a guided tour of the edifice by the NUJ Chairman and other members of the State Working Committee.

Obi Kikachukwu said it could only take a media friendly Governor to take up the project and complete it tastefully to enhance the performance of Journalists in their statutory assignments.

He urged Journalists in the State through the NUJ, to endeavour to cultivate the virtue of gratitude by building on more cordiality with the Government as a way of reciprocating the unprecedented gestures of the Governor.

He therefore prayed for the Governor to receive the reward of God for the favour done the NUJ and for his numerous accomplishments in the State, adding that he has seen good days, he would see better days going forward in his personal eandeavours and political career.

He also prayed for the Union to receive the grace to do its job of Watchdog to the pleasing of God and satisfaction of humanity.

The amiable Monarch commended the Chairman for holding the union together since his inception of office, particularly his second inauguration which has seen good things coming to the union.

His words, “Your tenure couldn’t have come at a better time than now. We were all happy at your emergence and we thank God for the bar that has been raised so far.

“The journalism profession is noble in creating awareness for the proper information, education and entertainment of its audiences. These functions are key for societal advancement and development.

“I will suggest that the leadership of NUJ finds a way to meet with the Council of Traditional Rulers in the interest of building working synergy. Our roles as Traditional Rulers and yours as Media are tailored towards passing the verdict of peace, sound values and security of our society towards sustainable development.

“We are not partisan in politics, but our duty is to ensure safe, peaceful and serene environment to practice politics and administer good governance. So there is need for us to meet and activate this partnership in the interest of a better society, anchored on positive behavioural patterns for human and economic advancement”, the Royal Father admonished.

In his response, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu appreciated the Monarch for being the first to ever visit the Press Centre to greet and engage the Council members.

According to him, “We will not take this royal visit for granted; and coming earlier in the year means that God has sanctioned it to bring us good things for the year.

“We have keenly observed your person Your Majesty, and there is no mincing words to say that you are a thoroughbred custodian of our people’s culture and traditions. No wonder your personality and fame is towering within the traditional institution across the country, and, also based on the services you have rendered and still rendering to Nigeria as a renowned statistician.

“We are proud of you in the media, because you are one traditional ruler that has distinguished himself in conduct, humility, peace and conflict resolution and preservation of culture and traditions in our dear State.

“We have taken note of all the points you have advanced here with us, they are all germaine to the partnership we need to build in our desire to take our State to the next positive level. For identifying with us, we will give your visit the deserved publicity in order to encourage other well meaning Deltans to equally seek friendship and partnership with the NUJ in the State.

“By your vantage position in the society Your Majesty, we are also soliciting your assistance to canvass for us, issues that will benefit the media in the State. Thank you Your Majesty for this awesome Royal visit”, Ikeogwu appreciated.

In his vote of thanks to the academically accomplished traditional ruler, the Secretary of the NUJ in the State, Deacon (Comrade) Patrick Ochei assured the Obi of Ubulu-Uno of the readiness of the NUJ to partner with the traditional rulers to advance the State and nation in the right direction going forward.

He also assured the Royal Father that the media would continue to canvass constitutional roles for the traditional institution as a way of galvanizing them to assist the Government in curbing insecurity at the community level.

Ochei thanked the Monarch for visiting and promised to follow up on the resolutions reached during the engagement.

Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, An Epitome Of Beauty And Sound Moral Values – Omu Anioma

The cerebral mother of Anioma Nation and an advocate of proper womanhood, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu (Omu Okpanam/Omu Anioma/Nneoha) has described the Delta State Governor’s daughter and PDP candidate for Ika North East Constituency seat, Barr. (Mrs.) Marilyn Okowa-Daramola is the epitome of beauty and sound moral values.

The Omu Anioma sent these fine words as statement to the media, to qualify the person of Mrs. Okowa-Daramola as she felicitates with her on her birthday, which is marked today, 11th January, 2023.

Omu Dunkwu further acknowledged in her statement that, she has seen and interacted with children of big men in her years in corporate business but has found something different and spectacular about Mrs. Okowa-Daramola in character, conduct and consummate interpersonal relationship with people she comes in contact with.

Her words, “Many dread to come close to us as if we come from a different planet as Omus. But one thing was striking the very first day I met this awesome lady. I had just noticed that someone ran and knelt down to greet me. She was full of candour and respectability, exuding the aura of proper home grooming. She said she had seen me at various events from afar and she had heard me speak and she was proud of a mother that I am. All this while that the drama lasted, I was just looking and wondering what manner of a lady could this be. In the end, the introduction came and I was like ‘No Wonder’.

“My No Wonder came from a point of keen observation. I have specifically and carefully studied the First Lady of the State, Dame Edith Okowa and honestly, she is different from other good First Ladies I have known and interacted with.

“My No Wonder was no wonder, this is where the semblance and moral values came from. While the mother is doing so much mentoring women in the State and empowering them, Mrs. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola has devoted so much time and energy in mentoring and empowering the girl children in skills development and entrepreneurship empowerment as the then SSA to the Governor on Girl Child.

“I am proud of her. Since that first encounter, I have taken usual notice of her activities. And I am happy that she is in the race to represent her people in the State House of Assembly. She will make us proud as a woman; her types are earnestly needed in politics, to make a difference, particularly for women.

“Today is a special day for you dear Marilyn Okowa-Daramola; I celebrate you. Happy birthday to you dear and many blissful returns. I pray that respect will not be far from you and that your desire to change the course of women will be actualized. I look forward to celebrating more of you on the day of your swearing-in by the grace of God, when you shall have emerged as the next Member representing your Constituency in the State Parliament”, Omu Dunkwu wished the celebrant.

Barr. (Mrs.) Marilyn Okowa-Daramola was a former SSA to the Governor on Girl Child, currently vying for the House of Assembly seat of her Ika North East Constituency and today is her birthday.

NUJ, A Veritable Partner In Prosecuting The War Against Insecurity – Delta PPRO

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The Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright has said that the media is indispensable in the operations of the Nigeria Police in curbing crimes and criminality, maintaining that the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), as the umbrella body of all media practitioners in the State has remained a veritable partner to the Police towards prosecuting the war against insecurity.

He made this assertion when he paid a friendly working visit on the Union’s Executive in the State on Tuesday 10th January, 2023, at the Press Centre in Asaba, where he underscored the importance of Journalists in righting the wrongs of not just the Police but every stratum of the society.

While sympathising with the NUJ on what media practitioners go through in carrying out their constitutional roles, the PPRO affirmed that both the Police and the Media are like orphans, suffering neglect and aspersions in a bid to make sacrifices for the betterment of society.

Placing their constitutional functions side by side, Mr. Edafe said, while the Police is saddled with the internal security of the nation, the Media has the onerous task of revealing the ills of the society and putting government functionaries on their toe to do the right things.

Delivering the message of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Mohammed Ali, the PPRO said the Command holds the NUJ and her members in high esteem and would continue to maintain the already existing cordial relationship between them.

He said, “The CP sees you as a partner in progress. He can never take you for granted, and that is why he has open door policy for the media at the Command.

“We have the synergy already, and that presupposes that you are part of us. Forget what some of our men do outside, it is the bad orientation that they have chosen for themselves that oftentimes drives their actions. But let me assure you that the Police authority is on top of its game to correct the misdemeanors of some of our officers to punish those who violate the law. We need the NUJ leadership to also join us in correcting these anomalies on all sides. We need a sound society to breed a sound Police Force and other security agencies”, PPRO posited.

In his response, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu welcomed the PPRO and his entourage to the Press Centre while appreciating him immensely for visiting.

He said since the elevation of Edafe to the exalted position of PPRO, he has distinguished himself in PR policy thrust of the Police, and in character, media relations and proactive responses to Journalists seeking confirmation of information.

His words, “On behalf of the Delta State Council of NUJ, I welcome you to the Press Centre. I thank you immensely for this august visit, and I must confess that we are not taking this for granted.

“We have PPROs before now, but you have proven to be very remarkable and outstanding in your performance. Even the testimonies from our members are enough to positively qualify your person and the personality you have brought into the Public Relations job.

“Thank you for looking for us to make your friends; it is not only Journalists that should be looking for people to make friendship with. You have shown that we are important to your job, I must also accord you same regard as we tag along in this symbiotic relationship.

“The CP has done well in policing Delta and bursting crimes here and there. However, he should work harder to discipline erring officers who are breaking the rules of engagements against the professional lay down of the Police. There are a few that are giving the Police a bad name, but when they are not disciplined to serve as deterrent to others, their actions will just end up destroying the image and reputation of the Police institution. We are not praying for that because, the Police is highly important for the internal security integrity of our dear country.

“We will continue to support you and the activities of your office. When you need us, just call on us and we will answer”, the Chairman assured.

Stop telling lies, Delta govt didn’t deny the Labour Party campaign venue – Aniagwu blasts Prof. Utomi

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Delta State Commissioner of Information who also the spokesperson of the Atiku/Okowa Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Charles Aniagwu together with Mr. Oliseh Ifeajika, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, has scolded Prof. Pat Utomi for telling a lie to the media stations and on social media alleging that the Delta State government is preventing the Labour Party from using the state public venues for their campaign.

Mr. Aniagwu made this known while addressing journalists in Asaba on Tuesday.

He said the idea of Prof. Utomi lying to Nigerians is not what the country needs at this point expressing that every political party is free to campaign anywhere they feel they want to campaign as long they did not infringe on the rights of any other persons.

According to him Senate Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and Atiku Abubakar believe that whoever wants to campaign to seek people to support their aspirations should be free to do so, claiming that is what they have been doing in Delta.

Expressing he said “You can see nobody has removed any of their posters pasted anywhere, all the billboards are allowed to be placed wherever they are. You can see the offices of political parties even when you leave the government house, about two houses from the government house is a campaign office of one of the political parties. The next building is a campaign office of APC even before you get to that of the PDP, the closest campaign office in this state is that of the opposition to the government house and we never made any law or take any steps to stop them from using those infrastructures because we believe that in a democracy, people should be free to exercise their rights and aspirations without having to infringe on the rights of other Nigerians.

“So we needed to make this clarification because it is very-very bad that Prof. Pat Utomi thought that we will fall into that trap of not officially writing us and even until this moment I challenge him to show us a letter written to the Secretary to the state government demanding for any venue, and for him to produce any letter telling him that we will not give them.”

“Let him also deny that it was not on Sunday morning that they spoke to me that they needed to carry out a campaign on Monday. The man who called me said his name is Kelly Ajufo, he claimed he is over 70 years old, and pleaded with me that it was their fault that they sent somebody but the person could not deliver the message as when he was sent. Let him come out and say that is not what he told me on Sunday morning, a day less than 24 hours before the campaign. The man was pleading and I asked him how can you be making this demand for something that you want to do tomorrow, what if somebody else has taken that place?”

“Of course, all of you know that our stadium is under renovation immediately after the sports festival because we needed to also bring it back which is why we said we’ll continue to maintain our facilities. We needed to bring it back to the state where it could be also available for other functions, if you also go to the Cenotaph where we are also been very busy but in this case what they demanded is the Arcade.”

“That Kelly who called me on Sunday if truly he is above 70 years old, should also be able to say the truth that the interaction between me and him was short because he was pleading that we should forgive them for not making any application. He even suggested that we give them anticipatory approval while he makes steps to go and bring a letter which I told him don’t worry we will give you, let me assume that this phone call becomes your application.”

Again, the commissioner said they went to the extent of asking them not to pay, and instead of them writing a letter to commend them and ask another state to do the same, they are busy telling Nigerians that the Delta state government prevented them from using the venue they requested for.

“Now, how did they use the place they use? How did they have access to use the Arcade, did anybody chase them out of the Arcade, or is the arcade in Ondo?

“It is too bad because if it is some children on the street that did such, we can say they don’t understand, Prof. Pat Utomi and members of his party should know that our desire to build Nigeria should not be on the nails of lies and blackmail. Our desire to build Nigeria must be based on truth because if they claimed that they have character and the beginning of the display of character is to tell truth to Nigeria.”

“The reason why we allow everyone to come there and do their campaign is that we are very much on the ground, one because Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has performed very well and he is in touch with the people in the grassroots. Also, we are on the ground because the PDP before now has already become the indigene of Delta State and he’s not in a hurry to fly away from this state.”

“Even if tomorrow they want to come and campaign in front of the government house we will give them. For any political party that wants to come and campaign in Delta, the floor and everywhere are open so long as that venue is available we will not prevent them as they are coming to campaign and it will not change any of those things. Number one, we are confident that Deltans believe that the PDP has done so well in the last 24 years and so we are not disturbed by those antics.”

“Please I want to use you to advise Prof. Pat Utomi and individuals like him not to deride our democracy by telling lies to Nigerians and beginning to write history in such a way that will not reflect the reality because as a professor, he’s supposed to be believable. Even if it’s a tweet from him, the International community will record it, if it were to be a beer parlor discussion, we would have ignored it but coming from a professor it will be assumed he is saying the truth.”

“For us, we will continue to interact with our people, we have made a promise to continue our government process even till the 28 of May this year. The governor even though he is engaged with national campaigns has always been around to continue with project delivery. Tomorrow by the special grace of God we will proceed to Warri North where we’ll be commissioning the ‘Oge floating market’ which is the first of its kind in the history of West Africa. A market sitting on top of the water and the national chairman of our great party will be around to commission it and thereafter, there are several other projects in the creeks that we will be commissioning.

“The other day we told you that the APC candidate is not even in touch with the people in his community let alone those in the creeks. Assuming he is in touch, he would have known that in the creeks there is a light wonder of the world called the Oge floating market, he’s not aware because when he was campaigning he said nothing has happened in the creeks and I am sure our brothers from the creeks will be laughing at him. Maybe he needs to visit the creeks to understand that there is a very good amount of transformation that has taken place” the commissioner said.

In addition, the Chief Press Secretary, Ifeajika said that Prof. Utomi was unfamiliar with the politics of the state as he neither traveled home nor knew his polling unit and Ward.

He said that APC, the main opposition party in the state, flagged off campaign at Warri Township Stadium few weeks ago.

2023: “AASG Will Ensure Victory For APC”, Says Ladan

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The Director General/ National Coordinator of the Amalgamated APC Support Groups (AASG), Dr. Nasir Ladan, has expressed explicit confidence in the group’s ability and capacity to overwhelmingly deliver the All Progressives Congress, APC at the 2023 general elections.

Dr Ladan made this known while appraising the group’s strength preparatory to the pending electoral exercises starting with the presidential election on February 25.

According to him, “With President Muhammadu Buhari’s impressive accomplishments in developmental governance across Nigeria, and approximately one thousand four hundred and sixty-five recognised support groups within the APC political family, victory is more of low-hanging fruit for our great party.

He further revealed that the national working committee of the party has adopted the Amalgamated APC Support Groups as the coordinating body for all registered APC Support Groups.

He subsequently mandated the AASG’s to ‘Collate, manage, monitor and synergize the activities of all support groups across the thirty-six (36) states and FCT on behalf of the All Progressives Congress, (APC)’.

Omo-Agege will rejoin us in PDP after the election – Oborevwori

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RT. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori took the political stage in Delta State by storm in mid-2022 when he outsmarted several challenges and challengers to emerge as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP governorship candidate.

His emergence was, however, no coincidence, he came tested having passed through the tutelage of the three governors who have superintended the state since the advent of the Fourth Republic.

In this interview Oborevwori who served as Special Assistant to Governor James Ibori, Special Adviser to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, and now Speaker of the House of Assembly with Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as governor opens up on the mission and marks of his politics. Excerpts:

Why do you want to be Governor of Delta State?

To answer that question, I should begin by telling you about my mission in politics. It is really about the people. And I have come to understand quite early in life that the most important means of affecting the people for good is politics. When I was growing up, I saw a lot of deprivation and poverty in society and my biggest wish was to see how I could be of help to free people from lack and deprivation. As I went through primary and secondary school the role of politics and government in making life better for the people was made central in our social studies, government, and economics lessons, and textbooks. We also got taught that the surest and most legitimate way into government is politics. So from childhood, I carried the burden of taking up the responsibility of making life better for people.

After the general elections in 2019, my colleagues in the House of Assembly expressed a vote of confidence in me by returning me as Speaker for a second time, that gesture opened my eyes to new vistas of possibilities for me and Delta State. My return as Speaker was unprecedented in the history of Delta State. My colleagues said that they were returning me as Speaker because I am a Pan-Deltan and that I easily build consensus. They also said that I showed a deep understanding of the development challenges of Delta State and that for the State to develop without obstruction, I should continue to lead the legislative arm.

I took time to evaluate what my colleagues said and I realized that I have unconsciously promoted politics in the service of the people in the House of Assembly and by extension the State. I soon started receiving encouragement to take my people’s political ideology higher by seeking to be governor of Delta State. I am not one to run away from a challenge especially when it has to do with people. I thought seriously about it. I also prayed. As a political scientist who is in practical politics, I thought of so many possibilities.

Do you have what it takes to be governor of Delta State?

Yes, it I have more than what it takes. Besides the basic points of being a Deltan and the age as well as the basic educational qualification, I am most qualified to be the Governor of Delta State. I am well educated in the art and science of politics having studied political science up to the postgraduate level. I also must point out my experience in politics. I have been a councilor at the local government level.

I was a special assistant, senior special assistant, and special adviser handling very sensitive positions. I then crossed over to the legislature after winning an election.

I have been elected Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly twice and I am the only one to be so elected and the longest-serving Speaker in the history of Delta State. So far, I have worked with three governors since 2003 when I was appointed as a special assistant. I have both legislative and executive experience.

As Speaker, the entire state is one big constituency for me, and apart from the incumbent Governor, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, no other politician has the kind of knowledge that I have about Delta State in terms of her development aspirations and challenges.

What about the controversy about your educational qualifications?

It is unfortunate that what was supposed to be a minor mistake arising from names used and names not used in the course of schooling was twisted to cause mischief in an attempt to undo me. Let the truth be told.

Many people who have three or more names have used them differently at one point or the other. This was my case. The names that my detractors pointed at are all mine. There is no doubt about them whatsoever. The schools I attended at different times have the records and they can verify that the names refer to the same person which is me.

I have never claimed that the schools I attended are no longer in existence. I can direct you to my schools from primary, and secondary to university. I am well educated. I might not have gone to school in quick succession due to my background, but I had the benefit of western education up to a postgraduate degree which is the Master of Science degree in political science that I obtained from Delta State University, Abraka. My schoolmates and many of my teachers at different stages of my education are alive. I affirm that my educational qualifications are solid and genuine.

What are your chances of becoming governor?

My chances are very bright. I have the brightest of chances among all the governorship candidates. You know my emergence has a history. I was among the twelve governorship aspirants screened by the governorship screening committee of the DC-23 for four months. I was among the three shortlisted aspirants. Then we went for the PDP governorship primaries which I won by a very wide margin. I can assure you. The people see my governorship as their project which has been divinely endorsed.

What do you have to say about your opponents?

In truth and frankly speaking, I do not see them as my opponents. They are my friends, people that I know, and once upon a time fellow PDP members especially the APC and the SDP candidates. They have their ideas about Delta State and I respect that. However, I believe that in the end when I would have emerged as Governor they will fold up their canopies and re-join the PDP which is one big family with a big enough umbrella to cover all of us.

What is your relationship with former Governor, Chief James Ibori, and Chief David Edevbie?

I smell mischief in this question. But I must say it again that His Excellency, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, the former Governor of Delta State, is our leader and my leader. When I started this journey of becoming governor I went to consult him and he prayed for me. He remains my leader and he is supporting my ambition and all that I am doing. Chief David Edevbie is my brother. We contested against each other and we struggled for the ticket. He remains my brother and friend. There is a picture of the two of us shaking hands, embracing, and laughing. That is the relationship between Chief Edevbie and me. People out there are saying a lot of things that are not true about us. Be rest assured that we have a good relationship.

What do you have to say about the allegation of you being a stooge of the incumbent governor and also about the massive borrowing and indebtedness of Delta State?

These are very unfair and unkind allegations. I am not a stooge and I have never been a stooge. I have been a grassroots politician all my life and somehow I know my way around politics. The stories of borrowing and indebtedness in Delta State are also not true. They are exaggerated and manipulated by political enemies to make His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and the PDP look bad and score cheap political points.

The State Government using the appropriate organ has come out with explanations and I urge the people of Delta State to believe the explanation. The opposition is using lies and propaganda to want to deceive the people. Do not believe their lies. We must remember that that was how the APC told lies against President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014 and they deceived Nigerians. Look at what the APC has done to Nigeria. They brought our country to ruins.

What are your final words?

I appeal to the good people of Delta State to vote for me and all PDP candidates from the State to the national level. Delta State is on the momentum to greatness and we should not abort it. I have outlined a robust vision that will take our State work for the good of our people. This is possible and we can do it. Thank you.

Atiku is the most preferred candidate when Nigerians will tick the boxes – Aniagwu says amid Obasanjo, Clark endorsement

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The Delta State Commissioner of Information who also doubles as the spokesperson of the Atiku/Okowa Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Charles Aniagwu has said the reason why the People’s Democratic Party is not disturbed by any endorsement coming from anywhere is that most Nigerians believe that Atiku Abubakar is the most preferred candidate for the presidency.

The commissioner stated this in Asaba on Friday during a press briefing saying the PDP campaign Council will not lambaste former president Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief Edwin Clark for endorsing the Labour Party Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, or any form of endorsement that is coming from anywhere on who becomes the next president of Nigeria.

He said “One thing every Nigerian irrespective of the political party is grief about is the poor state of the country whether in the area of the economy, insecurity, unity, or the area of advancement.

Mr. Aniagwu said since everyone is almost on the same page regarding those troubling issues, he believes when the majority started ticking the boxes, Atiku will be the first to fill the gap in most of those boxes because he is seen as the most preferred candidate.

“That is the reason why we are not disturbed about any endorsement coming from anywhere because most Nigerians believe by the special grace of God that they have already endorsed Atiku and they are going to practicalize such endorsement come 25th of February when they will come out at the poll to elect Atiku Abubakar and Ifeanyi Okowa as the President and Vice President of the federal republic of Nigeria.”

Explaining, the spokesperson of the Atiku/Okowa Presidential Campaign Council recalls what happened during the PDP campaign that was held in Oyo state on Thursday, stating that one man wants to ascribe himself with the power to decide who the people should vote for but the people exercise their democratic and constitutional rights by making it very clear that Atiku is their choice.

“We told you the last time that our train left the train station and the beauty of it is that, despite the speed of the train, it is been captained by a very efficient and effective Captain. Another beauty of that train is that it has been very active with the Japan-United States confirmed brake pads and the moment the captain applied the brake at any train station, the train will stop to pick up hesitant passengers.”

“As we speak, I’m sure you see the level of inflow from other political parties into the PDP? I’m talking about notable Nigerians, anywhere they are coming from, our brake pads have shown that it is indeed made in Japan with American specifications and they are working very well.”

“As we move this year, we’ll maintain the same speed and indeed increase the momentum but always willing to stop at necessary bus stops or train stations to pick up more passengers. And if along the line, the members of the G5 decided to hop in, we will give them a comfortable seat to sit down and also give them the right place to occupy on that train.”

Mr. Anaigwu also commended the party’s patriots in Oyo state for demonstrating their support for Atiku as their preferred candidate despite what has been cooked out over there.

“It is their choice as nobody asked them who mobilized them, we didn’t mobilize them and those who mobilize them did not foresee what was to come.”

Imagine when you mobilize people and they came to your gathering and they are telling you that the road you are passing doesn’t suit to be the right way. They were trying to play the music to downplay the Atiku-Atiku sign but the music wasn’t loud enough, he said.

“Though we still have time for any of the presidential candidates that want to step down for Atiku, we’ll welcome them so that at the end of the day, we will not leave them out. We will bring them in for them to bring in the little ideas they have because we are determined to form a government of national unity.”

While still speaking, Mr. Aniagwu take a swipe at the deputy senate President who also is the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress in Delta State, Sen. Ovie Omo Agege, by asking journalists why they haven’t been able to question the APC candidate on why he had not spoken to deltans about what he wanted to do for them, according to the commission, he has not heard any promise made by the APC candidate to deltans.

He said “I can tell you what Oborovwori says he wants to do for Deltans, “THE MORE AGENDA” by Oborovwori is looking out on how to sustain the number of projects and policies that the Okowa administration has put in place for the past seven and half years.

“Oborovwori is very clear on what he wants to do concerning infrastructure, what he wants to do to deepen the peace and harmony that exist in the state, what he wants to do to increase the number of job creation so that our people will become entrepreneurs, and what he wants to do to open our urban areas, he is very clear.

“So as a governorship candidate, he must tell the people what he wants to do and not look for means to cast aspersions on a man who is not on the same ballot with him, Governor Okowa is not contesting to be the governor of Delta State.

“We are urging and advising our brother who forgot to remember that he was supposed to represent us in Abuja because all the federal roads he never drew the attention of the federal government, not even one kilometer he never did. Or is there any place where you can see the federal government people working in Delta, Aniagwu asked.

“Those were supposed to be some of his responsibilities, particularly being the deputy Senate President of the upper legislative chamber.”

While still faulting the APC candidate for accusing Governor Okowa’s administration that they are not working, he said “When others are busy thinking about what they will take to their place, the deputy senate President is thinking about how to approach the maze, later, he will say we are not working.

“Please, use your medium and advice him that we don’t begrudge him, we respect his democratic rights to contest for election but he should always be able to speak the truth to Deltans because deltans are very much informed. He should stop thinking about the propaganda of 2015 that he wants to bring up now by raising issues that don’t add up, Aniagwu stated.

Asaba Firebrand Woman Of God, Pastor Oghogho Uto Receives Distinguished Woman Of Substance Award

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Wife of the Senior Pastor of Heroes Family Church and Host of Healing Bread Outreach, Asaba, Delta State, Pastor (Dr) Mrs. Oghogho Peters Uto has been honored with the Distinguished Woman of Substance Award by Ben’s Media and publishers of Prime News.

The Award was presented to her at the Heroes Aglow Gospel Ministry’s headquarters, Okpanam in the most celebrated manner.

Presenting the award, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ben’s Media, Pastor Ben Chukwurah described the Woman of God as a sacrificial woman of integrity, credibility and force behind her husband’s immense pastoral success and achievements.

Chukwurah said, having observed the personality of this wave making Woman of God in Asaba and beyond, it was evident that her fame would skyrocket round the globe in no distant time.

The Media Executive affirmed that he was divinely obligated to honour the Woman of God to connect to her grace in time, before it becomes impossible to do so; maintaining that she is one person that is down to earth in serving God and helping humanity to grow.

His words, “We are glad to connect to the Grace of God upon your Distinguished person. We have seen you in actions at various ministration centres and fora, and what you are doing in the body of Christ is never in doubt.

“This is a way of saying that you are being monitored, assessed and evaluated for the positive work you are doing in service to God and humanity.

“The role of the media is to beam the searchlight to be able to inform, educate and entertain the public. You are already prominent in the media as a result of your various outreach sessions, but we are here to add credibility to that through our endorsement and recognition.

“You deserve this honour as represented in the Award; and when Award is deserved, we don’t withhold our hands from presenting it. This way others can be motivated to do good and serve God as it should be.

“Congratulations Mama G.O of Heroes Family. We of the Ben’s Media are proud of you and will always cherish projecting and celebrating impeccable personalities like you”, Pastor Chukwurah posited.

In her response, Pastor Oghogho appreciated God for the gift of vision and purpose to serve Him and help build humanity for Him.

She dedicated the Award first to God Almighty for His grace, and then to her lovely husband, Pastor Elvis Peters Uto for his encouragement, the leaders and members of the church for their support.

She also commended the Ben’s Media for finding her worthy to receive the award after their careful observation of what God is using her to do.

Pastor Mrs. Oghogho Peters is the founder of the Healing Bread Outreach that has continued to bring salvation and succour to prisoners in correctional centres as well as hosting various wealth creation and empowerment seminar sessions that have seen hundreds mentored and empowered.

This Woman of God has also authored over 16 Christian and motivational books which include Easy Life, Build Again, The Heart of a King, Easy Does It, among many others.

Delta PDP: Concerned Isoko PDP Youths Calls For Disciplinary Action Against The Party Youth Leader Over Anti-Party Activities

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A group of concerned PDP youth from Isoko extraction has drawn out the attention of the Delta State People’s Democratic Party leadership to take disciplinary actions against the party youth leader, Victor Egbo over his anti-party activities.

The group championed by Amb. Ugagaoghene Ogheneyole made this accusation through a press briefing on Sunday, January 1, 2023, in Asaba, the state capital.

Amb. Ogheneyole in what he described as anti-party taken too far, accused the state youth leader of openly campaigning against the PDP house of representatives flag bearer in Oleh and as Isoko people who are loyal party members are not going to sit down and assemble while somebody is using the name of the party in such a way that will affect them as party members.

He said they are using this press conference to officially notify the party of their grievances and anger against the action of the PDP youth leader who has gone ahead to not even secret but to a public gathering of an opposition party to declare support for the opposition and calling for the people not to support the candidate of the party which he represented.

He also said they are looking forward to the party leadership at the state level to go take action and sanctioning him immediately if not, they’ll take further action.

“We don’t care how far we are going to go to get justice but as young people from the Isoko extraction, we feel that we cannot trust Victor Egbo any longer to lead us into the party election as the youth leader because we cannot entrust our faith in the hands of somebody that is already publicly working against the party at our federal constituency.”

“Victor Egbo could not monster the courage to challenge or reply to candidates of the opposition who have been throwing tantrums at Gov Okowa, Sheriff Oborevwori, and other PDP candidates but was quick to run to the SDP campaign gathering to pitch the people against the very party that gave him a platform as a youth leader. As Isoko Youths, we take serious exception to these ignoble acts.

Do not forget that this same victor Egbo was the same person who packaged a Labour party faithful to gain cheap popularity by embarrassing our dear Governor and vice Presidential candidates over an appointment” he added.

When asked if there was a crisis among the PDP youth in Isoko, he said there was no crisis and there is still no crisis, according to him Egbo’s action is a pure case of abuse of office, the use of an office in a manner that is unlikely of any person that is holding that office.

He explained that “A PDP youth leader is first a member of the party, a position holder of the party, and a representative of the youth of the party. His actions should be seen as promoting the party because the party is different from his community.

It is obvious and normal in our political hemisphere that people can have opposition members or candidates that have an altercation with each other. Whether they belong to any community does not matter but to derail as a party faithful and take party matters into a community issue, to the extent of raising the issues of communal crisis that has been settled by the state and the traditional ruler’s council of Isoko. Talking about murder over an issue affecting 2 communities because of politics, he’s taking politics too far.

Ogheneyole further explained that the candidate of the PDP had no time had any issues with Oleh as a community and that he is maternally from Oleh.

He said “Even though he now had a course to disagree with any son of Oleh does not give the PDP youth leader the right to attend another party’s public campaign function and to come out to identify himself as the PDP youth leader hitting hands-on his chest that he should be quoted that nobody from the community should vote for our candidate. That is unacceptable, totally unacceptable. We can not have a PDP youth leader who is publicly working against our candidate that means we are not ready to win the elections and that is why we are looking up to the leadership of the party led by Kingsley Esiso to deal with this issue decisively if not, we may do it on our way as Isoko youth.

As Youths, our confidence is waning in victor Egbo which is not a good omen ahead of the elections. We are worried by this disloyal act that tends to bring our party to disrepute. Victor Egbo needs to show cause why he went that low. We are law-abiding party loyalists calling for things to be done right as Victor Egbo’s action doesn’t represent the true Isoko spirit. We urge our party at the state level to revise this issue and met appropriate sanctions to forestall such ludicrous vituperation.”

6th Coronation Anniversary: In You I Derive My Strength – Obi Issele-Uku To Subjects

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The cerebral Monarch of Issele-Uku Kingdom and Member of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka has appreciated his subjects for their immense support and cooperation to him since ascending the throne of his forebears, adding that in them he derives the strength to carry on with his developmental agenda.

He made this assertion during the celebration of his 6th Coronation Anniversary on Thursday 29th December, 2022, which held at the newly built Royal Hall inside Issele-Uku Royal Palace.

According to Obi Nduka, “You are my strength; you have continued to give me energy to work for the development of Issele-Uku. I feel pleased that once again since my Coronation, you have all gathered to celebrate today as Issele-Uku Day.

“I don’t know what to say or do to represent how happy I am to be your King. You have made me proud by honouring me in unique ways. You have highly revered our culture and traditions to the admiration of others.

“We have remained in peace and unity, loving one another in brotherly associations and collective interest meetings for our community’s common good. By your cooperation and solidarity with one another, and to me in particular, we have made Issele-Uku a model for others to emulate.

“I want to say that I am grateful for all you Issele-Uku sons and daughters both at home and in Diaspora are doing to advance the development of our God given community. What I have for you is huge appreciation. And it is my prayer that God and our Ancestors in their infinite mercies, continue to bless the works of your hands, that year in and year out, we shall continue to celebrate in good health, joy and prosperity. Thank you for coming to celebrate my anniversary; Happy New Year ahead”, Obi Nduka said.

Basking in the euphoria of the Obi Nduka’s 6th Coronation Anniversary, some prominent elders of the community took to the stage to eulogize the Royal Father for his sterling leadership qualities and impeccable achievements since his ascension to the throne of his fathers.

The Anya-Obi of Issele-Uku and the Regent that oversaw Obi Nduka’s coronation, Chief Dominic Egbune paid glowing tributes to the Issele-Uku Monarch, describing him as one of the best things that have happened in his life time.

Addressing him as Dooba, the octogenarian retired banker prayed for longevity of the King while asking God to endow him the more with wisdom and grace to continue to rule well.

For the Diokpa Shinne of Issele-Uku and Chairman of Obi Nduka’s Coronation Committee, Engr. Frank Mordi, he was elated that Issele-Uku has indeed been blessed with a king that is so delightedly loved by all.

He commended all the individuals, groups and segments of Issele-Uku that are overseeing various developmental projects in the community, urging them to continue to support the Royal Father for more divine benefits.

Singing an ancient song of eulogy in honour of Obi Nduka, the renowned Issele-Uku historian and highly respected Diokpa in Umueze Issei, Prince Chris Akeh described him as a Royalty with a difference.

He affirmed that Issele-Uku has remained first class in culture and traditions by virtue of a treaty signed on February 20, 1896, maintaining that the coming of Obi Nduka has made Issele-Uku culture more remarkable, meaningful and interesting to all and sundry.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the launching of the 6th Coronation Anniversary Calendar with Mr. Rex Unobukwu as Chief Launcher and Prince Mike Akeh as Co-Chief Launcher.

The creme-de-la-creme of Issele-Uku sons and daughters who were present at the Anniversary celebration included; Diokpa Isimchei Okonkwo (Ogbelani of Issele-Uku), Diokpa Shinne of Issele-Uku, Engr. Frank Mordi, Chief Dominic Egbune (Anya-Obi of Issele-Uku), Chief Victor Isiekwanamgbu (Ozah of Issele-Uku), Chief Innocent Ikpeamanam Nwakpati (Omeogor of Issele-Uku), Chief Barr. Tony Nwabuotu (Ide of Issele-Uku), Chief David Siunoje (Olikeze of Issele-Uku), Chief Fidelis Jigide (Esogba of Issele-Uku), Chief Victor Egbune (Inwengwe of Issele-Uku), Chief I.G Memeh (Olotor of Issele-Uku), Chief Uche Ngbanwa (Ashi-Obi of Issele-Uku), Chief Egbo Adigwe (Chi-Obi of Issele-Uku), Chief Sunday Monye (Osodi of Issele-Uku), Chief Isichei Morka (Isekute of Issele-Uku), Prince Chris Akeh (Issele-Uku Historian), Prince Ibe Ozoma (MD, Fidelity Fortune Group of Companies), Mr. Henry Rex Unobukwu (Chief Launcher), Prince Mike Akeh (Corporate Czar), Mr. Moses Nwaise (MD, Enuani Mega City), Mr. Emeka Ijei (US Based), Mr. Ekene Chukwuedo (Illustrious Issele-Uku Son), Mr. Afam Izueke (Illustrious Issele-Uku Son), Mr. Ofordile Ugeh (IDU President General), Mr. Parker Okafor (IDU Asaba Chapter President), Mr. Onyeisi Mokogwu (IDU Port-Harcourt Chapter President), Pastor Engr. Emmanuel Ebegbuzie (IPYA Asaba Chapter President), Mr. Felix Okolie (IPYA Abuja Chapter Rep), Mr. Emma Ojei (Retired Federal Director, Nomadic Education), Pastor Sam Ugbaja (Assistant Director, State Ministry of Information), Mr. Bazim Sally Biose (APC House of Assembly Candidate, Aniocha North Constituency), Diokpa Anwuzia Umemezie (Diokpa Idumuinei Village), Mr. Anthony Nwakogo (Author of Nwaezimmadu), Mrs. Ugeh (Federal Director, Teachers Registration Council), Mr. Chuks Unobukwu (Illustrious Issele-Uku Son), Prince Austin Maha (Former IPYA National President), Comrade Deacon Patrick Nweike Ochei (Secretary, NUJ Delta State Council) and others too numerous to mention.

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Issele-Azagba Man Rapes 15 Years Old Girl, Threatens Victim’s Parents With Gun

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An alleged serial rapist posing as a Member of the Anti-Cult Group in Issele-Azagba village of Aniocha North LGA, Delta State, identified as Tony Ukwamedua has allegedly raped a 15-year-old SS1 girl (name withheld) at a popular Guest House in town, named Civic Centre.

It was gathered that the victim had gone to look for her brothers who went to buy something for the house around 9pm only to be missing and later found in her pool of blood around 1am the next morning.

On disclosing to her parents what happened to her, the father immediately rushed out to the suspect’s house who happened to be an in-law to them and called uncle by the children, but he was instead, chased by the suspect with gun.

It was gathered that the two sons of the man who were coming after their father, held the embattled rapist, wrestled him down and collected the gun while he managed to escape.

From the brief taken by the Delta State Child’s Rights Implementation Committee at the Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Asaba Specialist Hospital where the victim was admitted while still bleeding two days after, the medical report confirmed multiple bruises within the vagina region.

According to the girl, “I went to look for my brothers when uncle Tony met me and asked where I was going. I told him I was looking for my brothers who came out to buy something. He asked me to join him on his bike to trace them further. I know him and he was carrying gun, and so I joined him.

“Instead of going up small, he drove straight to the brother’s guest house around the market. I told him uncle this is not where you should bring me, allow me to go, my parents must be looking for me too.

“Nobody was sighted around when he brought me inside the guest house and was asking me if I was a virgin. I told him yes. He said I should not worry that he wants to have sex with me, that he would use two condoms together to penetrate well.

“I was crying and begging him to allow me go. He now turned my hands back and pushed me on the bed. He covered my mouth and forced me naked and started raping me.

“When he finished, I was bleeding and crying, he now brought water and asked me to wash up. He forced #5000 into my hand and asked me not to tell anybody. When I managed to get home, I told my daddy what uncle Tony did”, the victim narrated.

The Victim’s father known as Mr. Ngozi Johnbest Okolie, said in that rage after the daughter had told him what happened, he now left angrily to trace Tony to the house.

Explaining further, he said, “The rapist who has no remorse was bold to chase me with gun. Thank God for my two sons who were coming after me, they held him down, collected the gun and he escaped while being beaten.

“I took the gun to our Palace and handed it over to the Obi of Issele-Azagba. Early that morning, not knowing what to do, I was directed to take my daughter to a private clinic around for treatment. She was given injection, drip and some drugs. But throughout that day and the next morning, she was still bleeding before somebody directed me to bring her to this SARC unit in Asaba Specialist Hospital where government handles cases of sexual assault.

“I thank God that we came here, since morning it has been one medical examination and the other. We received the best of cooperation. The Child’s Rights Committee people assured me that the government will handle everything regarding her comprehensive tests and treatments.

“I want this animal in human nature to pay for what he did to my innocent daughter. I have nobody, I am just a poor farmer struggling to take care of my children. I need justice for this little child Tony has just destroyed her life”, insisted Mr. Johnbest.

In a telephone conversation, the Chairman of Delta State Child’s Rights Implementation Committee, Mrs. Kevwe Agas confirmed the incident, saying that proper medical, legal and security documentations would be made to prosecute the case.

She affirmed that justice must definitely be served to act as deterrent to irresponsible men who prey on the vulnerability of the Girl Child to defile or rape her.

“The government under Senator Ifeanyi Okowa will not fold its arms and watch perpetrators of sexual violence offences go scot free. That is why the State passed the Child’s Rights Law and its being fully implemented under this government. This is evil and it must be treated as evil with full consequences of the law”, Agas added.

MD Fidelity Fortune Group, Prince Ozoma Gives Scholarship To Issele-Uku Undergraduates To Commemorate Obi Nduka’s 6th Coronation Anniversary

The Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fidelity Fortune Group of Companies, Prince Ibe Ozoma has given scholarship awards to 18 undergraduates of Issele-Uku origin to the tune of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (#200,000.00) each to the beneficiaries, amounting to #3.6 million.

The US and Nigerian based philanthropist also gave a consolation sum of Fifty Thousand Naira (#50,000.00) each to eight others who participated in the selection exam but didn’t pass, insisting there was no way he could have left them empty handed without encouraging them to do better next time.

Presenting the cheques to the beneficiaries from different higher institutions of learning, Prince Ozoma revealed that he asked God earlier in life, that if He gave him power to overcome poverty, he would be an instrument of help to people, especially those struggling to create their own paths in life.

He said apart from his regular four years scholarship to new university entrants up to graduation, he instituted this special scholarship in commemoration of Agbogidi Obi Nduka’s coronation anniversary, which is 29th every December.

Ozoma urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate his gestures by remembering to give back to society when they start making it in life.

According to him, the screening of enrollees in the coming year would be stricter in order to ensure that every applicant produces evidence of studentship as a paramount criteria.

While feeling sad about the current state of education in Nigeria, he advised parents to always ensure to visit their children at school to ascertain if they are actually there and studying too.

In appreciation of the immense contribution of Prince Ibe Ozoma to the human capital development of Issele-Uku people, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka commended him for having a scholarship in his honour and using it to mark his anniversary.

Obi Nduka prayed for Ozoma, asking God and the Ancestors of Issele-Uku to keep blessing him to remain relevant in all spheres of human endeavour for the benefit of humanity.

He challenged the beneficiaries to imbibe the attitude of gratitude whenever they remember that the scholarship was sponsored by somebody who meant well for them and by extension, the community.

Happy that majority of the beneficiaries understood Issele-Uku dialect, Obi Nduka urged them to try to help somebody in future, knowing that they were helped at a point in their lives.

His words, “It is good for the helped to know that he was helped. This scholarship award is as a result of sincere passion for the growth of humanity and community development.

“Prince Ibe Ozoma has narrated to us how he sponsored somebody through school about 25 years ago, and the person is doing well in life but nowhere to be found with regards to being a contributor to the development of others and the community even without showing gratitude to his source of bright life.

“You must be proud that you are from Issele-Uku. You must realise that you have been helped. You must also endeavour to help others in future. When you are helped in life, you in turn become an instrument of help to others going forward. That way, we have more people supporting the development of our people and the growth of our community.

“Once again, I beg you to please, use the money given wisely to advance your education. Congratulations”, Obi Nduka advised.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the presentation of cheques to the beneficiaries, starting with the overall best in the exam, Miss Nwosu Isioma Excel.

The cheques were presented by Obi Nduka, Chief Dominic Egbune (Anya Obi of Issele-Uku), Prince Ibe Ozoma (the benefactor) and Ogbelani Diokpa Isimchei Okonkwo, with series of goodwill messages from Issele-Uku Development Union, IDU National President, Mr. Ofordile Ugeh, Issele-Uku Progressive Youth Association (IPYA) Abuja Chapter, Mr. Felix Okolie, Diokpa Jebose Adigwe, etc.

The event which held at the Multipurpose Royal Hall inside the Issele-Uku Royal Palace, was attended by the village heads led by the Ogbelani Issei, Diokpa Isimchei Okonkwo, the chiefs, illustrious sons and daughters of Issele-Uku, including Mr. Henry Unobukwu, Prince Mike Akeh, and others too numerous to mention.

The Prince Ibe Ozoma Foundation has been in the business of giving scholarships over 25 years ago. For this particular edition which is attached to the coronation anniversaries of Agbogidi Obi Nduka, the Screening/Nomination Committee was headed by a Federal Director with the Teachers Registration Council and wife of the PG of IDU, Mrs. Ofordile Ugeh.

General Ochei Pays Surprise Christmas Visit To Omu Anioma, Describes Her As People’s Pride

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The newly promoted Major General Raymond Nkem Ochei has paid a surprise Christmas visit to Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu to felicitate with her at her Palace in Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA of Delta State on 27th December 2022.

The Onicha-Olona born Nigerian Army General said, he visited to celebrate the Christmas with the mother of Anioma Nation and to inform her of his promotion from the rank of Brigadier General to Major General in the Army.

Ochei who brought bags of rice and money to the cerebral Queen Mother, described her as Anioma’s pride and popuplar voice of truth.

His words, “Anybody could be proud of a mother like Omu Anioma. We are blessed with you. Your prayers and constant defence of our values give us reason to hold on to our obligation to our nation.

“It is proper for me to come in person to inform you of my promotion. And being a season of celebration, it is equally proper to take out this time to share the love of the season with a dear mother to all”, Ochei posited.

Omu Dunkwu appreciated General Ochei for his patriotism to the Nigerian nation and for helping to keep the fabric of unity of the country together.

She commended Ochei for finding her worthy to visit and to share gifts with, describing him as an illustrious Anioma son with a heart of gold.

Obi Dunkwu therefore, said prayers for General Ochei and his accompanying colleagues, pronouncing the guidance and protection of God and Anioma’s Ancestral spirit on them.

Major General Raymond Nkem Ochei was enlisted into the Nigerian Army on 10th September 1993, after passing out of the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 40th Regular Combatant Course.

6th Edition: June Odika Presents Christmas Gifts To Widows In Issele-Uku And Onicha-Ugbo

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… Receives Agbogidi Obi Nduka’s Royal Prayers

Issele-Uku Royal Palace once again for the sixth time, was a beehive of activities as no less than a thousand widows from Issele-Uku and Onicha-Ugbo communities of Aniocha North LGA, gathered to receive their yearly Christmas packages from a renowned Lagos and UK based Evangelist June Odika.

Every 24th December, Evangelist Odika would gather widows in Issele-Uku for empowerment through her foundation – June Vision.

This year’s edition being the sixth, was different as she reached out to widows in Onicha-Ugbo to be part of the programme while hoping to include Issele-Mkpitime in the list by next year.

As usual, it started with prayers and then praise and worship, followed by a word of exhortation by Pastor Sunday Ikelede.

Pastor Ikelede had dwelt extensively on forgiveness and love in his preaching, insisting that God can never abandon any widow who genuinely trusts Him and possesses the character of love for her neighbours.

He challenged them to change for good and begin to see the difference in their lives as it concerns their children, welfare and health.

Pleased with the consistency of love being showered annually on widows by Evangelist June Odika through her Widows For Christ Project, the Traditional Ruler of Issele-Uku Kingdom, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka prayed for her to continue to break barriers to achieve her desires in life.

Worried by the high cost of commodities in the market, Obi Nduka wondered how she was able to buy and ship the number of bags of rice to go round the widows in Issele-Uku and Onicha-Ugbo respectively at this critical time in the nation’s economic history.

He commended her for her thoughtfulness and patriotism as an illustrious daughter who is inspired to share from the little she has, maintaining that God would replenish her purse and by extension the Odika family for having been of immense support to the brotherly and social development of Issele-Uku.

His words, “I am highly pleased by your act of love and kindness, especially to the vulnerable widows. You have continued to supply them with foodstuffs in the past few years, and in spite of the high cost of food items in the market, you still were able to achieve it this year. I pray God to bless you more and continue to give you the spirit, grace and strength to carry on with your ministry of love and reaching the unreached in times like this.

“We will continue to support your effort in any way you deem necessary. This Palace is always for you to use, because what you are doing is for the good of our people. I am indeed pleased because, not everybody can give like this even when they are richly blessed. But you have the heart and the spirit to touch lives in a unique way, God will always strengthen your paths for success”, Obi Nduka prayed.

In her vote of thanks, the Founder of the June Vision and widows’ benefactor, Evangelist June Odika appreciated God for the gift of life and vision to carry out His divine instructions.

She affirmed that what she is doing was a divine command from our Lord Jesus Christ who is the husband and lover of the widows.

“He sent me what I am doing. Irrespective of the stress and high cost of things, I can never complain because He will always supply all my needs.

“I don’t have much to say but to encourage you to keep holding your monthly meetings with your coordinators. Those meetings are vital because of the spiritual implications and other forms of empowerments that come once in a while.

“In spite of whatever happens, please, continue to dwell among yourselves in love through the sharing of the Word of God and gifts. Love is the greatest of virtues expected of us by our Lord Jesus Christ. When you dwell in love you encourage me, and that is what Jesus Christ wants from us.

“I appreciate my awesome and amiable King who has been supportive since inception of this project. I thank all my guests and to you all my dear Widows For Christ, I love you”, Odika professed.

It was a beautiful day for the widows as each went home with a piece of wrapper, a measure of rice, tomatoes, etc, after corporately praying for their benefactor, Evangelist June Odika.

Present at the event were HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka, the Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Pastor Ijeoma Herbert Odika, an Aviation Expert, Pastor Sunday Ikelede, Guest Preacher, Pastor Ejimchukwu Nicodemus, the officiating minister, Chief Innocent Ikpeamanam Nwakpati, the Omeogor of Issele-Uku, Comrade Patrick Ochei, NUJ Delta State Council’s Secretary, Mrs. Ijeoma Odika and others too numerous to mention.

Boat Mishap: Delta PDP Consoles Omo-Agege, APC Family Over Loss Of Party Members

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Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has condoled with the State’s All Progressives Congress, APC, and its Gubernatorial candidate and Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, over the Okerenkoko Boat Accident, which reportedly claimed the lives of two of its supporters, with several more either missing or hospitalized.

The condolence message was contained in a statement on Wednesday, 21, December 2022, by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, State Publicity Secretary, Delta PDP, and Deputy Director, Media and Publicity, Delta State Campaign Council, which reads:

“Delta PDP is shocked and deeply saddened at the reports of a fatal boat mishap at Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area, involving supporters of the Delta State All Progressives Congress, APC, which has claimed the lives of two supporters, with some others, either missing or hospitalized, as a result of serious injuries sustained in the aftermath of the accident.

“We commiserate with the Deputy Senate President and Delta APC Gubernatorial Candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the entire APC family in the State, and most especially the families of those whose lives were lost and those receiving treatment from injuries, sustained during the mishap, which occurred as they returned from the APC rally in Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area, on Tuesday, 20th December 2022.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, even as we pray that the search for the missing persons by the authorities, will yield positive results and they would soon be reunited with their friends, families, and loved ones.

“Every Delta life matter to us and the loss or misadventure of any Deltan, irrespective of political, cultural, and other diverse considerations, is our collective loss.

We pray the good Lord grants the families of the deceased the fortitude to bear their losses while we are still trusting and believing that God Almighty will cause his light to shine and illuminate the way for the success of the search and rescue.

Please accept our deep, sincere, and profound condolences.

Delta State Child’s Rights Implementation Committee Raises Concern Over Children In Conflict With The Law

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… Proposes To Amend Sections Of The 2009 Child’s Rights Law

The Delta State Child’s Rights Implementation Committee has raised concern over the increasing spate of children in conflict with the law, adding that such was becoming too difficult to deal with at the implementation stage of the Committee’s activities.

The issue prominently came up in the meeting of the Committee on Tuesday 20th December 2022, where a resolution was reached to write to the Ministry of Education to wade into the matter to come up with solutions to the menace as far as pupils and students are concerned.

The Chairman of the Committee and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Mrs. Kevwe Agas submitted that the situation shows a loss of authority on the part of the parents and teachers who are supposed to be in the forefront of molding and mentoring these children.

She said that the Ministry of Education must be notified of the breakdown of discipline in most of the public schools across the state, with particular mention of the West-End Secondary School Asaba, whose students’ names had consistently been mentioned in cases of indiscipline, rascality and improper behaviours both in the school and outside the school.

The Chairman also said she had noticed that the Child’s Rights Law of the State needs amendment to enable the Committee discharge its functions effectively and in accordance with the prevailing best legal practices as far as Child Protection is concerned.

Her words, “With the law being amended, we will be able to effect changes in the composition of the Committee to bring in especially representatives of Heads of primary schools, principals of secondary schools and Parents/Teachers Associations among others”.

She affirmed that she would collate the needed information alongside the Committee’s lawyer to approach the State House of Assembly for possible amendment.

Meanwhile, reports on activities of the year were given by different Committee members and investigators on the numerous cases handled by them, including advocacies, arrests, prosecutions, and majorly, the establishment of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), in conjunction with the Ministry of Women Affairs, at the Asaba Specialist Hospital.

Whereas justice had been served in some of the cases, most are still on prosecution stages while some others were settled and dispensed with.

In a nutshell, the Committee resolved to continue with aggressive implementation of the law by interrogating every case of Child’s Rights infractions that comes to it, in addition to continuing with the advocacy initiative against child abuses.

Elumelu is a star that shines brighter among stars – Omu Anioma

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The cerebral mother of Anioma Nation, Omu Anioma and Nneoha, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu has said that she couldn’t find a proper English word to describe the person of the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives and member representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu; however, she eulogized him as a star that shines brighter amongst many other stars.

She made the statement when members of the Project Monitoring Team of the State came to visit to ascertain the level of progress of the Constituency project the lawmaker has sited in her Palace.

Omu Dunkwu who was exceedingly excited receiving the Team, pronounced more blessings on Elumelu while praying to God to continue to grant him victory in all his political endeavours.

According to Omu Dunkwu, “I am the wrong person anybody can come to speak ill of Elumelu to, or even come to campaign to over the same office. On this one, everybody knows that I am biased. I am blunt about my full support for Elumelu to return to the National Assembly to continue with his quality representation. I am saying this because I am a pragmatist.

“Without any equivocation, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu is the best man for the office of the member representing the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, and he has my vote all ready to go back. We will use our influence to garner support and mobilize votes for him. This is because he has done well as a politician and he has done well as a highly achieved person on an individual scale.

“What he is doing is uncommon kindness. And it is said that of all the virtues, the best is kindness. He is not even exhibiting what he has done, it is us that he has touched with his political benevolence that should promote his good deeds.

“This is the kind of person we need at the House of Representatives at this time and going forward, every other person can wait until when he is done. I will continue to let the world know about him and what he is doing with his constituency projects.

“Who am I to deserve a 6-Bedroom Duplex as a Constituency Project of the Minority Leader in my residential arm of the Palace? This is because, he is a child that understands tradition and values culture. What he is doing is monumental and something never thought of.

“With all due respect, I love him as a son and one who is proudly Anioma. He has given respect to me and many other Traditional Rulers in Aniocha/Oshimili that he is building structures for in their Palaces. And on behalf of all our fathers, I pray that victory will continue to be his portion, even as God’s grace and mercy and the spirit of our Ancestors continue to guide, protect and deliver him from all evils”, Omu prayed.

The Project Monitoring Team was led by the Senior Special Assistant on Project Monitoring, Madam Bridget Modebe.

However, speaking on behalf of the Team was Engr. Modungwo Augustine, who commended Omu Anioma for being a true mother and one respected across the shores of Nigeria.

He informed her of their mission, which was to inspect the ongoing building project in her Palace, but however, they decided to check on her to receive her blessings as they tour the Constituency Projects of the Minority Leader across Aniocha/Oshimili.

At the end of the inspection at the building site, the Team was satisfied that the contractor was doing a good job. They left enthusiastic of the warm reception of Omu Dunkwu, assuring her they would always come to tap from her wealth of knowledge.

NDDC: Disregard Anti- Onochie’s Nomination, Human Right Group Tells Senate

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A group of legal practitioners interested in human rights and public interest litigations has advised the senate, to disregard the strident and selfish comments from persons and groups, challenging Lauretta Onochie’s nomination as the Chairman of the NDDC governing board.

In a release authored by Yusuf Dankofa, a professor at law and addressed to the Nigerian senate president, the group declared the call as auspiciously necessary to deflate the campaign of calumny and hatred against Lauretta Onochie, on her recent nomination by President Muhammadu Buhari as the Chairman of the NDDC.

He posited that the purveyors of falsehood have continually bandied baseless petitions against Onochie’s nomination, a development he emphatically said was bereft of proper legal foundation.

Dankofa cited part 2, subsection 2(1) of the NDDC Act, as an antidote to the traducers’ frivolous and shallow submissions, noting that “The act explicitly highlighted the appointment of the Managing Director, the Executive Directors and other Board Members as the only ones subjected and predicated on the oil-producing indigeneity and not the appointment of Lauretta Onochie”.

He further described the maligners’ erroneous depictions as “an aberration and a misguided understanding of the law for any group to canvass that the nomination of Lauretta Onochie is ultra vires with the NDDC Act.

“It is upon the above premise that we beseech the respected and distinguished Senate not to allow petitions like this that stand on nothing to sway its decisions because, allowing this is to create an avenue where politically desperate people will continue to irritate, dehumanize and consistently sabotage government efforts at bringing credible, visionary and transformational people on board to assist her in driving its change agenda”, he affirmed.

2023: Delta PDP says APC is unpopular as party begins campaign across delta

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The Delta State People’s Democratic Party, PDP has lampooned the State Chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC, over the schedule and modus operandi of its Campaign itinerary, especially in Delta North Senatorial District, describing it as a clear case of unpopularity not only in the Senatorial zone but across the entire Delta State.

This conclusion was contained in a terse statement by the Delta PDP State Publicity Secretary Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza who further declared that the APC campaign schedule for Delta North, is a harsh reality check on the dwindling fortunes of the opposition party, ahead of the 2023 general elections.

The statement reads: “Our attention has recently been drawn to an invitation by Delta APC to join their Governorship candidate, Senator Ovie Omo Agege, “as he leads the Delta APC Campaign train to Delta North Senatorial District to rekindle the hope of our people with the EDGE Agenda to Build a New Delta”.

“Of course, there is nothing wrong with the invitation, signed by the duo of Barr. Bosin Ebikeme and Chuks Erhire, the Party’s Director and Deputy Director, Directorate Of Contact and Mobilisation respectively. But, what we, however, find quite intriguing is the fact that the APC has desperately lumped minimum of Four Wards together to converge at a central location in each of the major towns in the Federal Constituencies of Delta North Senatorial zone, with the intent to shore up their numbers at the various Campaign stumps on their schedule.

“This is indeed a very loud admission and an incontrovertible indication that the APC has already realized and accepted its obvious unpopularity in Delta North and indeed Delta State as a whole and to make matters worse, the APC even asks its flagging members in the public invitation to “turn out en-masse and help Mobilise our supporters and teeming Party members to make our outings grand.”

“In its frantic and despairing attempt to hoodwink Deltans into believing that this kindergarten ploy of gathering Four Wards at a central location is strategically inspired for whatever slim gains it hopes to achieve, the APC has unfortunately and inadvertently exposed the fact that it not only lacks the presence of solid structures and personnel on ground, it also lacks any modicum of popularity and will be unable to muster a meaningful crowd if it decides to do ward-to-ward campaigns.

“Compare this then, to the pomp, pageantry, and carnival-like celebrations across Delta State as massive and tumultuous crowds of Deltans welcomed the PDP campaign teams during our recent robust and comprehensive ward-to-ward campaigns which was a runaway success from every indication.

“Deltans indeed not only demonstrated an outpouring of love and trust for the PDP, but loudly and in one voice, chorused a unanimous endorsement for all our candidates, charging them to “bow and carry go”, as landslide victory in the 2023 general elections was already a “fait accompli”; a done deal.

“We will not grudge or diminish the tedious but potentially wasted effort which the APC will deploy to at least seek to enjoy some few moments of cameo recognition in the limelight, as they embark on their futile quest to assemble minimum of Four Wards together at every campaign ground in Delta North to give the impression that they are popular.

“Our own Ward-to-Ward Campaigns has already proved that PDP is on ground and we are the number one party in Delta State, it has once again consolidated the fact beyond reasonable doubt that Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta.”

South-South Agog As APC Women Rally In Calabar

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…Ayade Says Tinubu Most Experienced Presidential Candidate 

Women members of the governing All Progressives Congress on Saturday converged in Calabar, Cross River State, for the South-South rally of the Tinubu/Shettima Women Presidential Campaign Team. 

At the event, which was held at the U.J Esuene Sports Stadium, the First Lady and grand patron of the women’s team, Dr. Aisha Buhari expressed optimism that women and youths will deliver in the forthcoming general elections, noting that the party stands for peace and progress, and urged the women to be fully committed to the campaign. 

The First Lady was represented by Zahra Buhari Indimi, her daughter.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, wife of the APC presidential candidate and chairman of the women’s team, extolled the qualities of women from the South-South region and pledged her commitment and that of her co-chairman, Hajiya Nana Shettima, to ensuring that women’s issues are prioritized if their husbands are elected. She further called on the women in the region to support the APC in its quest to win the upcoming elections. 

Dr. Linda Ayade, wife of the Governor of Cross River State, urged women and youths to vote APC at the polls, especially as the current administration has performed well. 

Governor Ben Ayade, in his remarks, thanked the women for the choice of Cross River for the women’s campaign flagoff in the South-South region, and lauded the leadership qualities of the APC presidential candidate.

“Our support for Asiwaju Tinubu is not because he is perfect. Our support for Asiwaju is because of his proven excellent track record as a people person who can consolidate on the gains of the present, drive inclusive growth, and lead our country to become more prosperous. The Tinubu/Shettima ticket is the most experienced and the most progressive combination available on the ballot”, he said. 

The APC National Women Leader, Dr. Betta Edu, who also hails from Cross River, assured the women of her commitment to ensuring women’s interests are protected and urged women to come out en masse to deliver a record number of votes for the APC presidential candidate. 

On arrival in Calabar, the delegation paid a courtesy call on the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, who was represented by the Prime Minister. 

Nigerian Market Leaders Pledge Loyalty To Omu Anioma

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The National Association of Traders and Market Leaders of Nigeria (NATMAL) has pledged unalloyed loyalty to the leadership of Omu Anioma and by extension, all other Omus in Anioma Nation, as custodians of the market.

The Market Leaders from various states of the Federation, who were led by their National President, Hon Chief Mrs. Chinwe Monu-Olarewaju on a courtesy visit to the Palace of Omu Anioma in Okpanam community of Oshimili North LGA, Delta State, on Wednesday 23rd November, 2022, described the institution of Omu as not only unique but key in the affairs of the market within the Anioma extraction of Nigeria.

The National President of the Association, who was a former Oshimili South Local Government Chairman, House of Assembly member and Commissioner for Commerce, was brief but direct in her address before Omu Anioma, reeling out her 6-point agenda on how to reposition the Association of Traders and Market Leaders of Nigeria.

While presenting the certificate of incorporation of the Association with CAC and briefing on the subsequent registration with the European Union, Hon. Olarewaju posited that she has decided to upgrade the market into e-commerce by digitizing trading in Nigeria to meet global standards of doing business.

Her words, “We can’t embark on all of these policy agenda without recognising the place of Omu Anioma in the system of market and as a juggernaut in the organised private sector. We know your capacity as a leader in the Chamber Movement in line with your impeccable achievements in corporate business and consultancy.

“As an Omu, we have come, being carefully mindful of your role in market leadership. Your place as far as market is concerned, is very unique and powerful. It is not like that in other places, and so, I have come with the Executive members of the council to appreciate this unique system of administering the market in Anioma.

“We want to engender leadership in our time. We want to make a difference. But we have to learn and follow laid down procedures in order to do it better. However, we cannot go into the market here without the permission of the Omu. That’s why we are here, and I have no doubt in me that these galaxy of men and women will leave here today better informed and spurred to work harder. Thank you Your Majesty for this unique audience to listen to us and give us your blessing, we count it a privileged honour”, Hon. Olarewaju submitted.

In addition to the address of the Association’s President, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Traders and Market Leaders, Prince David Iweta eulogized Omu Dunkwu for being a woman of power and authority.

He said before Omu Dunkwu ascended the throne of Omu, she was a very dynamic mother with beauty and brain, adding that she turned the chamber movement around in her days as a leader.

In her usual signature smiles when responding to comments made about her, Obi Martha Dunkwu said she was indeed very proud of Hon. Olarewaju and Prince Iweta and can never take them for granted.

She specifically described Olarewaju as a woman of capacity, saying it was a great honour for the Association of Traders and Market Leaders to choose an Anioma daughter who is intellectually savvy and resilient to lead as National President.

Omu Dunkwu congratulated Olarewaju for the registration of the Association with the Corporate Affairs Commission, maintaining that the group has got credible identity to take with them wherever they go to.

She promised to give them all necessary support and assistance to enable them operate seamlessly in the market.

Moreover, she commended the National Secretary of the Association, Alhaji Idowu Alonge for the cordial synergy between him and the National President and of course, his dedication to the course of the Association, advising both to keep it at that in the interest of unity and progress of the Association at all levels.

Some of the Omus who were present during the visit were HRH Omu Lobe Nokwaba (Omu of Ukala), HRH Omu Barr. Queensly Uzoka (Omu of Obomkpa) and Ochendo Omu Edith Rafua (Omu of Ogwashi-Uku).

You Are Ignorant Of The NDDC Act – Imegwu Blasts Tilije

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A foremost political strategist and former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Olise Enebeli Imegwu has described as uninformed and unfortunate, Chief Okenmor Tilije’s comment, during a television program in which he faulted Lauretta Onochie’s nomination as the prospective chairman of the governing board of the NDDC, based on the fallible premise of her not being an indigene of oil mineral producing community.

The former federal legislator, who is also a lawyer and speaker emeritus of the Delta State House of Assembly, observed that Tilije’s views can neither trivialize nor vitiate the extant procedure of nominating a chairman and members of the governing board of the NDDC.

“Chief Tilije simply gave his personal opinion which, at best symbolises crass ignorance of the NDDC Act especially, Section 2(1a) which states that the chairman of the board shall be from an oil mineral producing state”, he said.

He further emphasised that Chief Tilije was obviously incognizant of the fact that, the President has the constitutional prerogative and latitude, to appoint a chairman from any of the oil mineral producing states in consonance with the enabling Act.

“President Buhari is within the ambit of the Constitution and the enabling NDDC Act to so appoint. Every well meaning Deltan should applaud President Buhari for appointing an indigene of the state as chairman of the body, because Delta State has been clamouring for her citizen to occupy that position”, the former Speaker submitted.

DTSG Establishes Sexual Assault Referral Centre In Asaba Specialist Hospital

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The Delta State Government has set up a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) at the Asaba Specialist Hospital to handle cases of sexual violence, rape, and defilement, mostly perpetrated against women and Children.

The Centre came on stream, yesterday, Wednesday 23rd November 2022, in a modest ceremony presided over by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, in conjunction with the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee.

Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and as Chairman of the Child Rights Implementation Committee, Mrs. Kevwe Agas submitted that the birth of the Centre was a dream come through.

She said most often, offenders of sexual crimes go scot-free, leaving their victims in pain of not getting adequate and right treatments, and being further traumatized justice is not guaranteed.

According to her, “What we have done is to put a proper system in place, not only to respond to cases of rape and defilement when reported at the hospital, but to take necessary steps to arrest the perpetrators and get justice from there.

“This is because, sexual violence is a serious crime in our laws. But while making effort to bring justice to the victim, we must also support the victim medically, psychologically and emotionally.

“This is a One Stop Centre where one can get psychosocial support, legal support, security support, media support and more. It is a serious crime against humanity to rape a woman or man, defile a girl child or a boy child. In this case, we tend to see the focus as being more on Women and children; it is because these are more vulnerable people in this kind of issue.

“We will do everything humanly possible to ensure that this vision is sustained to yield benefits for victims and bring punishment to offenders”, Agas posited.

The Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Barry Gbe commended the Women Affairs Ministry and other stakeholders for putting together this human interest Centre for the purpose of reducing the impact of sexual assault on victims.

He promised to provide the budgetary leeway for the Ministry to be able to set up more centers across the 25 local government areas of the State.

L-R: Ven. Kingsley Dieli (member, Child Rights Implementation Committee), Mr. Barry Gbe (HC, Economic Planning) & Mrs. Kevwe Agas (PS, Ministry of Women Affairs)

In her goodwill message, the Commissioner for Girl Child and Entrepreneurship Development, Hon. Nkechi Chukwurah insisted that all hands should be on deck to ensure that perpetrators of sexual offences are punished adequately.

She commended the effort of the Women Affairs Ministry and Child Rights Implementation Committee for the laudable project, adding that it would bring succour to the vulnerable persons, especially the girl children.

Giving a talk on Rape Case Management, the Medical Director of Asaba Specialist Hospital and Paediatrician by training, Dr. Peace Ighosevwe lauded the establishment of the Centre, adding that it would not only help victims to get speedy medical attention but also help them to voice out their challenges for justice to come.

Her words, “We are happy to partner with the Ministry of Women Affairs to carry out this divine human project. We will on our part as medical practitioners, manage the Centre effectively well to get value for all the stakeholders involved in the project”.

Speaking further, the MD said in managing a rape case, it must be first established that the patient was actually raped or defiled, afterwhich a comprehensive investigation is carried out through examination to ascertain the level of damage to the vagina.

She continued by saying that after doing all necessary examinations, the hospital would do what is called ‘Post Exposure Prophylaxis to ascertain if there is the presence of sexually transmitted infection.

Dr. Ighosevwe went on to list the importance of reporting a rape case early in hospital to avoid the incidence of disappearance of bruises and semens, application of psychotherapy against trauma and more importantly, the use of religious leaders for healing processes.

Giving a vote of thanks on behalf of the Child Rights Implementation Committee, Ven. Kingsley Dieli commended the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs, the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee ably led by Mrs. Kevwe Agas and of course, every other stakeholder who made the vision of the Centre possible.

He urged all hands to be on deck to ensure that the Centre is not only engaged with activities, but also to assist in drastic reduction of sexual assaults in the society.

At the inauguration ceremony were representatives of the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Justice, the Police, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ), the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA), and others too numerous to mention.

CNDS Cautions DSP Omo-Agege Against Challenging PMB’s NDDC List At Senate Clearance

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The Concerned Niger Delta Stakeholders (CNDS), has admonished Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Delta-born second in command of Nigeria’s red chamber, against stonewalling President Muhammadu Buhari’s nominees’ list of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) governing board, recently transmitted to the senate for clearance.

In a statement available to journalists, the group’s spokesperson, Pere Jackson Zuokmo, disclosed that this call has become auspicious, given Omo-Agege’s preference for the outdated list which had his preferred candidate, Bernard Okumagba, his kinsman as the prospective Managing Director of the interventionist organization.

The outmoded list was allegedly prepared and ferried to the national legislature for clearance in connivance with the DSP but without Mr. President’s assent.

He further revealed that “the inability of the list to sail through thus, engendered resention on the DSP’s part, which allegedly prompted him to declare that “no list other than his will see the light of the day at the Senate”.

The group expressed fear over the DSP’s habitual insistence on determining membership of the governing board and other agencies where President Muhammadu Buhari would have normally, exercised his constitutional latitude to nominate individuals to such bodies.

Examples of this challenge syndrome are plethora. One that readily comes to mind is the inability of Lauretta Onochie’s clearance to the Independent National Electoral Commission, where partisanship and sundry spurious reasons were advanced to scuttle that process.

He also cited the instance of an interactive parley with APC faithful at Ute-Okpu in Ika North-East, where he was captured on video preening over his yeoman’s attribute that saw to the smooth adoption of the 2022 amended electoral act.”

From the group’s submission, this high ranking senator may not be unconnected with the recent appointment of a junior officer as the interim (Acting) Managing Director of the NDDC by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Umana Okon Umana.

“This reeks of deliberate travesty of Muhammadu Buhari’s directive after the disengagement of the erstwhile interim administrator, Mr. Akwa.

The President had instructed that the most senior director in the commission should be appointed to run the affairs of the interventionist body. Rather, a junior third ranking director, Engineer Emmanuel Audu-Ahwaworua was appointed”, the statement added.

Zuokmo stated that impeccable sources close to senator Omo-Agege disclosed that he (Senator Omo-Agege) is poised to bloody President Buhari’s nose as, he averred that” he (the senator) is believed to have initiated subterranean ploys to stall the clearing process of the nominees except those he fancies, thereby exposing the commission to continual mismanagement and plundering of its revenue.

“The plot is thickening, as he (Agege) has engaged lobbyists including a southern governor to challenge PMB’s list of nominees, because according to him, “PMB has no right to choose for Niger Deltans”, allegedly boasting that “He (the senator) would always have his say and way, because he saved President Muhammadu Buhari from impeachment”.

The (CNDS) therefore, urged Niger-Deltans, to pray against any iota of confrontation to the smooth sail of the NDDC’s governing board list coming after over thirteen months in abeyance.

“Let’s all hope that this imperial senator won’t stagnate President Muhammadu Buhari’s lofty rapid developmental drive for Niger Delta”, the statement affirmed.

SDCC Inaugurates Drug-Free Clubs In Delta Schools, Charges Students To Shun Drug Abuse

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In living up to its mandate of checking and controlling the reckless use of drugs and abuse of illicit substances in Delta society, the State Drug Control Committee (SDCC) has on Thursday, 17th November 2022, inaugurated over 11 secondary school clubs at the Uvwie area of Warri in Delta State with the sole purpose of curtailing access and use of drugs by students and other young persons within the area and beyond.

The message of Delta State Government was unambiguous to the Drug-Free Club members, which is to assist the Government in orienting students to shun drug abuse and be good ambassadors of their schools, families, and society at large.

This charge was vigorously conveyed at the venue of the inauguration at the Delta Careers College, Ugboroke, by the Delta State Director of Orientation/Functioning Permanent Secretary in the State Orientation Bureau, Mrs. Stella Macaulay.

She urged the students to organize quiz competitions, debates, essay writings and other social activities that would take their minds off drug use and abuse at all times.

Macaulay who is also a member of the SDCC, noted that lots of mentally deranged cases among young people are traceable to the use and abuse of hard drugs which according to her can be addressed if young people could shun reckless use of drugs in the society.

According to her, “The inauguration of the Drug Free Clubs in secondary schools across the state for which Uvwie LGA is a pilot scheme, will empower schools to operate the clubs and sustain the advocacy against drug abuse among young adults in their communities.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Delta State Drug Control Committee, Pharm. Mrs. Helen Orie advised young people to avoid drug abuse because, according to her, unhealthy youths breed unhealthy nation, being that the effect of drug abuse on the active youths affects productivity and enhances stunted economic growth.

She said in view of this concern, the Delta State Government led by Ifeanyi Okowa graciously approved and mandated the Committee to carry on with the message of catching them young with meaningful engagements and activities that would make the young people great future leaders.

Orie stressed the need for young people to be wise by avoiding drug addiction and abuse in order to live a better life and help the country to have a drug free future that would not only place them on the pedestal of greatness but would make for a sane society devoid of lawlessness and destruction of the active segment of its economic chart and development chain.

Speaking from an expert point of view, however, Pharm. Stella Uduaghan and Mr. Finecountry Goodluck from the State Agency for the Control of HIV/Aids reiterated their advocacy against drug abuse, thereby charging the students to desist from peer group influence in order not to be involved in drug abuse, alcoholism, smoking, and other illicit substance abuse.

They both charged the students to be agents of change in their various schools and be good models for their colleagues to emulate.

The State Drug-Free Clubs in Nigeria are supported by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Delta State Ministry of Health, and other critical stakeholders for better living amongst people in the society.

The Drug Free Club schools that were inaugurated in Uvwie include: Urhobo College, Effurun; Ugbolokposo Secondary School, Ugbolokposo; Abe 1 Secondary School; Army Day Secondary School, Effurun; Ekpan Basic Secondary School; Alegbo Secondary School, Sedco Secondary School, Enerhen; Ogbe Secondary School; Ekpan Secondary School; Opete Secondary School; Ebrumede Secondary School, Ohorhe Secondary School and Delta Careers College, Ugboroke.

Responding on behalf of the Teachers, Mrs. Seth-Ugbosu Oghale commended the Delta State Government and the State Drug Control Committee for the good job they are doing, assuring that the school managements would give the students necessary support to float the clubs successfully in their various schools.

Some of the students equally expressed the joy that the state government had initiated what they described as students enabling environment which will attract health free discussion centres.

They also promised to work hard to keep the Drug Free Clubs operational through the convert of more of their likes to become drug free ambassadors in their schools as well as sustain the drug free initiative in the State.

Delta North Senatorial Race: Come Out Of Hiding And Face Defeat, Ned Nwoko Dares Nwaoboshi

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Frontline People’s Democratic Party ( PDP), Delta North Senatorial candidate for next year’s elections, Hon Dr. Prince Ned Nwoko, has dared his perceived closest rival in the race, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, to come out of hiding and challenge him if he thinks he has anything to offer the Anioma people.

Speaking with select newsmen at the Asaba international airport upon arrival in the state capital to commence full-blown campaigns for his senatorial ambition, the Anioma-born international lawyer and doyen of the Paris club refunds that saw Nigeria out of recession, stated that it is time to retire Senator Nwaoboshi permanently from service to the people of Anioma as his track records has brought nothing but under development and embarrassment to the Anioma people.

The Delta North PDP Senatorial hopeful, who was brimming with confidence, said he is looking forward to squaring against Nwaoboshi and other Delta North Senatorial candidates in the 2023 elections, assuring that PDP will emerge victorious across the state.

Promising to bring pride to the people of Delta North when elected to the red Chambers of the national assembly, the billionaire Chancellor of the first ever sports University in sub-Saharan Africa and legendary philanthropist stated inter Alia: “l have been looking forward to this (campaign and election ). I want Nwaoboshi to come out from wherever he is hiding and tell the Anioma people what he has done with their trust since he became their senator. All he has brought to them is disgrace and diversion of what is due them. I am ready to show him the way to political retirement if he comes out from his hiding place “.

The PDP Delta North Senatorial hopeful has already commenced his ward-to-ward campaigns across Delta North starting with Aniocha North.

Political Rascality: Emma Chinye Arrests Aniocha North Councillor For Accusing Him Of Anti Party

The Chairman of Delta State Waste Management Board, Emma Bazim Chinye has arrested a Councillor of Aniocha North Legislative Arm, Hon. Philip Kawekwune for accusing him of anti-party activities against the People’s Democratic Party.

Though the Councillor was released immediately through the intervention of Hon. Engr. Emeka Nwaobi and Comrade Ifeanyi Egwunyenga today Sunday 6th November, 2022, by the Police. This brazen act of rescality has been condemned by all well meaning Party Faithful in the local government area and the State level.

It could be recalled that the serial decampee had branded a campaign vehicle 4/5, leaving out the House of Assembly candidate for Aniocha North Constituency, Hon. Engr. Emeka Nwaobi against the stand of PDP to give 100 percent support to all its candidates (5/5).

Speaking to the Councillor after he was released, he said he came to the PDP LGA Secretariat to find a branded vehicle that has four candidates on it without the picture of the House of Assembly candidate.

As a party loyalist and chieftain, he said he had to call the party Chairman to ask him to inform whoever that had dropped the vehicle there to come remove it as it was against the spirit and belief of the PDP.

The Councillor said not too long after that call to the party chairman, believing that someone who was eavesdropping must have informed Emma Chinye who then called him to confirm his comment concerning his branded vehicle.

According to Hon. Kawekwune, “I repeated what I said to the Chairman on phone to him, and when it was obvious he was the person who branded the vehicle, I told him that this is anti party and he should not repeat such, otherwise the Youth of the Local Government will revolt against him.

“Just this morning, a number of police men rounded off my house and said Emma Chinye had made a complain of threat to life against me. And so I was arrested, and on getting to the police station, I made my statement. It was later that the Honourable Member representing our Constituency, Hon. Nwaobi and the Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Egwunyenga came to bail me out.

“I want to say that this is a show of power, and I refuse to be intimidated. We at the grassroots are the ones that suffer the brunt of anti party and we don’t want it again. That is what I stand for. I wonder why Emma Chinye would try to use my honest observation to oppress me, just because he has appointment at the State level”, Kawekwune stated.

Meanwhile, some of the persons who had witnessed the brazen anti party by Emma Chinye in all his branded billboards, had called on the PDP hierarchy and Delta State Government not to let this form of impunity go unpunished.

They said such a rascal party beneficiary should not be allowed to continue to hold office in Government, otherwise he would cause more harm to the party if not sanctioned early.

Meanwhile, all efforts to contact Emma Chinye for comment proved abortive before press time.

North-Central leaders express surprise, unhappiness on Kogi government terrorism statement 

· Move against APC

· Endorse Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Top leaders of the North Central zone on Friday urged the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo to desist from a campaign of calumny, hate, and deception.

 ‘’Such empty posturing cannot fool the good people of Kogi State. The Commissioner for Information and Communication is talking rubbish. He knows the real terrorist in the state’’

The highly respected leaders also urged President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on the Yahaya Bello-led All Progressives Congress (APC) government to avoid the continuous illegal approach to governance and public issues as it is now becoming a stigma on the ruling party and the Kogi State Government.

‘’We want to use this opportunity to inform Mr. President and the wonderful people of Kogi State that the terrorism statements by the Commissioner for Information and other officials of the Kogi State government are all lies’’

In a statement issued at the weekend in Abuja by the Chairman, of the Congress of Concerned North Central Leaders (CCNCL), Alhaji Mohammed Suleiman, the leaders noted the frivolity, ignorance, and mischief that informed the commissioner’s recent statement.

The commissioner for information embarked upon this latest charade in a vain attempt to deflect attention from the woeful performance of Yahaya Bello.

They condemned the Kogi State government’s skirmish against the opposition, the draconian rulership of Yahaya Bello and the havoc done to the North Central zone by holding down one of the great prospects of the Middle Belt region.

‘’We condemn in strong terms the kidnapping of opposition members in Kogi State. We see this as a very bad trend for the state. We enjoin President Mohammadu Buhari to unravel the people behind this criminal act as the public opinion and petitions lay this at the doorstep of some powerful members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State.

Principally, the leaders carpeted the APC for abandoning Kogi youths to the ogre of unemployment.

They listed misery, poverty, violence, economic mismanagement, and human destruction as key achievements of the APC administration in Kogi State.

 ‘’What is Governor Yahaya Bello’s performance? He has performed disgracefully. The Yahaya Bello-led APC government is oppressive, ugly, and blight in the heart of the North Central. Kogi State is now rated highly in the halls of infamy’’

They urged Kogi voters to reject tired souls and con men whose only motivation is self-enrichment at the expense of the suffering masses.

They also urged the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Kogi Central Senatorial district, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, not to be intimidated over the 2023 senatorial race.

‘’Kogi Central needs a senator who can find solutions to the district’s enormous economic, social and political problems. Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has the integrity, dynamism, courage, and vision to address problems and take the senatorial district to the Promised Land’’ 

Stand-Up For Women Society Conducts Training In Business Skills For Women In Asaba IDPs Camp

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As defenders and restorers of the dignity of women, the Stand-Up For Women Society (SWS), Delta State Chapter has yet again, taken up the initiative of conducting business training for women in the Internally Displaced Person Camps across Delta State.

This programme was today, Thursday 27th October, 2022, flagged off at the Ogbe-Afor IDPs Camp in Asaba, with a charge that the women should look beyond their present predicament of hopelessness by seeing an opportunity that would launch them into an unimaginable position of comfort in life.

Speaking to them motivationally before the commencement of the programme, the State Chairperson of SWS and Functioning Permanent Secretary in the State Orientation Bureau, Mrs. Stella Macaulay told the women not to be depressed about their present circumstance orchestrated by the flood disaster that ravaged their homes and farmlands, asking them to instead, look up to God for help and direction.

Macaulay who intermittently sang and danced with the women, encouraged them to see opportunity in their coming to the camp to seek refuge and relief, maintaining that in the mindset of God, every disappointment is a blessing.

She told them that the SWS was in the camp not only to train them on skills required to begin life again after the camp, she assured them of Empowerment that can enable them to start little after the camp experience.

Her words, “In our 365 days of impact as a group, we have been able to truly bridge the gap between the women folk and the men folk in terms of creating mindset reorientation in women to realise their potentials and strive towards fulfilling their purpose on earth.

“Because of the aggressive nature of men, a lot of women are laid back in contributing their quota to the growth and development of society. However, if only the society can allow the women the opportunity to make contributions towards economic and political value system of our country, they will surely excel and perform optimally.

“This programme is put together to alleviate the suffering of the women in the circle of those affected by the flood, by way of putting smiles in their faces and reassuring them of God’s intervention in their case.

“We have discovered the enormous benefits of engaging in dry season farming – a situation where plants are harvested between 3-4 months and can be done twice in a circle of one year. We know that majority of these women are farmers and now heartbroken by the disaster caused them by the flood. Our agenda here is to engage them as they prepare to return to base, so as to upscale to other businesses and still do farming that they can benefit from during rainy and dry seasons without always developing hypertension that flood is going to come to flush away their crops. And that is why we have brought experts in various areas of farming and skills, to impart in them the requisite knowledge to drive their future in the midst of surmountable predicaments”, Macaulay posited.

Further evaluating the acceptance of the message by the women, the group’s Chairperson told newsmen that from the sequence of the event, the local dialect was extensively used to drive down the orientation and training for easy communication, adding that “I am sure they appreciate this effort by their responses, which to me is a perfect feedback.

“These skills will help them to productively engage themselves as they begin life again after the flood”, she stressed.

Macaulay insisted that fund does not pose challenge to her in carrying out her functions as a humanitarian service oriented NGO, maintaining that the focus of SWS wouldn’t let her deter in meeting the needs of majority of traumatised and less privileged women in the society.

She gave a brief background of the achievements of SWS since inauguration in Delta State, scoring the group excellently in tangible performances.

Macaulay hinted that the group’s Live Programme for Adolescents and Youths (LPAY) had helped it to professionally educate the children on what they can do to minimise the effect of social vices on them while making positive effort to become better through imbibing the requisite values and morals for their future benefits.

She equally talked of how the group had rendered psychosocial support to a young lady who got pregnant through rape and almost committed suicide, adding that SWS came in to assist her rehabilitate among other cases the group had been rendering rehabilitations to.

“We have a platform for Real Women Conversation where lots of women who had abi initio bottled up their pains and sorrows are now beginning to speak up. So many of them had even slided into trauma and depression, majorly as a result of rape and domestic violence. Meanwhile, our coming into their lives has helped to open them up to discuss those issues that bothered them.

“The fact that the IDPs are alive means that God is not through with them yet. And the fact remains that they need as much help as they can get. This knowledge we are imparting in them is key and surely, the Empowerment that will come to them will further encourage them not to start recounting their pains”, Macaulay explained.

However, the training sessions had Mr. Kalu I. Kalu teaching the women the benefits of snail farming and of course, the economic values of crops like pawpaw and coconut.

Of much interest was that the woman who invented Zobo drink in Nigeria, Mrs. Rebecca Isagba was there to teach them how to make Zobo, while Miss Patrick Lynde Oluomachukwu (makers of Richlyn soap products) also brought her expertise in soap making to bear, for the benefit of the IDPs.

They also learnt how to make pof-pof and other snacks from Teggy Tag Confectionaries, and both the trainer and the trainees ended up making enough for majority in the camp to feed from.

In a nutshell, the Camp Commandant, Mr. Okpor Daniel was pleased with the humanitarian gesture by the Stand-Up For Women Society, thereby commending them for their selfless humanity towards the IDPs, especially the women among them.

He prayed that God would continue to replenish the purse of the NGO to continue to bring succour to the hopeless and sorrowful with a view to creating a society of lovely and peaceful people.

Nonetheless, one Mrs. Maria Okelue thanked the Stand-Up For Women Society for their selfless concern on behalf of the IDPs, however, appealing to other relevant agencies to come to their aid to enable them return back happily to farming.

APM Candidate For Delta State House Of Assembly, Sir Okonji Receives Royal Blessing From Omu Anioma

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The candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) for Delta State House of Assembly, Oshimili North State Constituency, and Omelora of Ibusa, Sir Dr. Felix Okonji has paid a consultative visit to Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu where he received a Royal Blessing ahead of the 2023 general election.

Omu Dunkwu who commended the politician for his widely acknowledged philanthropic gestures wished him well in his political journey to represent the people of Oshimili North Local Government Area at the State Parliament.

She said that the nation needs people of proven integrity and mental capacity to drive the political leadership of the country from the coming election, maintaining that we have lagged behind for too long in developmental leadership.

Omu Anioma gave her blessing to Sir Okonji, praying and declaring that it’s a season of contest and not a season of death; and so therefore, no Anioma son or daughter in the race for any political office would kill or be killed.

She posited that her stand as a mother is for Anioma sons and daughters in the political race of 2023, to play by the rule without harboring any intentions to kill another.

Her words, “I pray that no death will near you. I pray that nobody will kill you and you will not kill anybody either, intentionally or unintentionally. I pray that evil that beclouds politics will be far from you, you will only excel and emerge victorious just as you have desired.

“Our God Almighty and our great Ancestors will guide you, protect you and direct you in all your endeavours during campaigns, election and even after election. The peace of God will always go with you and you will always conquer the forces of darkness”, Omu Dunkwu declared.

Earlier in his address to Omu Dunkwu by way of stating his mission, Sir Okonji eulogized her for her sterling leadership qualities and impeccable mentoring personality, positing that his long dream of meeting with her had finally come to fruition.

He said, “We are humble and loyal to your authority as our mother, and that is why we have come to consult with you and to seek your blessings ahead of our campaigns.

“You are indeed Nneoha with matchless power and authority. Your open door policy is unimaginable.

“I am a child of history, and having followed your activities over the years, I make bold to ascribe the best of virtues to you as far as motherhood is concerned. We cannot continue our political journey without your motherly blessings and advice.

“My party – the Allied People’s Movement may be small, but my followers are not small. Together, we are strong as men of proven faith and integrity, who are launching out their best potentials for the good of society. It’s our utmost desire to change the narrative in order for the system to run unfettered quality representation and good governance for our people, both old and young.

“I want to stand for Oshimili North people in this contest for the House of Assembly, to ensure that they get all their rights from the system. We are not just coming out as novices in people oriented leadership; we are coming out because we have our antecedents that can be verified and attested to. If the people remember my antecedents, they will support me.

“We must all agree that 2023 must be different. Seeing the Youth Movements and the eagerness in the people for a change, you will know that our time for the people’s leadership has come.

“God Himself is involved in this. And of course, the structured Government and the structured politicians know that with your support and everybody’s cooperation, we will stand firm to speak truth to power and of course, the truth that can only liberate us all.

“Let me assure you that women and children must have their pride of places in our agenda. We must put control mechanisms in place to ensure adequate security of our people; we must not allow outsiders to overwhelm us and overrun us with insecurity.

“Your Majesty, as the Omelora who has achieved in life and has helped where help was needed, I am assuring you that my foray into the race is to serve on a larger scale. Leadership by service is what I have come down to Nigeria to render to my people. Thank you ma for your usual support and confidence that you have always reposed in us for quality and honesty”, Okonji submitted.

OBOREVWORI’s SUPREME COURT VICTORY: OMIMI HAILS JUDGEMENT, URGES UNITY TO WIN THE GUBER ELECTIONS

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The Political Adviser to the Delta State Governor, Omimi Esquire, has hailed the Supreme Court judgment affirming Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori as the duly nominated Governorship candidate of PDP at the party primaries.

He equally stressed that it is now time to put the protracted legal tussles behind and embrace unity for all party members in the state to form a formidable force towards ensuring total victory for the party in next year,s general elections.

In a statement made available to newsmen , the Political Adviser to the Governor said with the Apex court's landmark judgement done with, the party was now more focused and determined to maintain it's lead as the party to beat in the forthcoming elections , stressing that like in a family, there are bound to be differences of opinions which, once resolved, makes for more bonds of unity to be strenghtened.

Describing the judgement as historic , Omimi Esquire urged Olorogun David Edevbie to help reposition the party for landslide victory by joining forces with the party’s Governorship candidate as affirmed by the supreme Court, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, as campaigns commence in earnest, to ensure total victory in all elective positions for the party,s candidates.

He noted that the judgement of the Apex court is a victory for the entire Delta PDP family , as it would go a long way towards bringing all members on board to achieve set goals of total victory of the party.

Omimi Esquire also admonished the party,s guber candidate, Rt Hon Oborevwori, to reach out to Olorogun David Edevbie to ensure that all members of the party in the state are on the same page with regards to the task ahead of delivering all candidates at the 2023 polls.

INT’L DAY OF THE GIRL CHILD RECEIVES BOOST AS NGO SETS TO EMPOWER 100 IN SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

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… Omu Anioma, Jibunoh, Others Charge Participants To Grab The Opportunity

The 2022 International Day of the Girl Child has received a boost just as a Non-Governmental Organisation under the aegis of Courageous Girls, Women, and Children Initiative convened about 100 girls in Asaba, Delta State to train, certify, equip and productively engage them in Solar Technology.

The program which was tagged “The Girl Child Tech Project – Energize Naija” was launched in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child with an orientation on how girls should refocus their attention from the belief that they are the weaker vessels to a special breed of humans that are aggressively intelligent and energetic to achieve excellent results in life.

In her address of welcome, the Convener and CEO of the Courageous Girls, Women and Children Initiative, Ayovuata Courage Uyoyou welcomed guests and participants, thereby giving the history of the group as dated back to 2019 when the first edition of the program was launched.

She affirmed that the Girl Child Tech Project is an initiative of the CGWCI, designed to support and connect the next generation of African Girls to become experts in technology and engineering by equipping them with relevant knowledge and technical skills to become Solar Energy Installation/Maintenance Technicians.

Ayovuata stated that the program is a masterclass for the African Girl, designed to run from October 2022 – April 2023, maintaining that it is the empowerment that puts the Girl Child at the forefront of becoming renowned in technology.

The Convener further posited that at the end of the training session, the earmarked 100 beneficiaries would be empowered with business start-ups to successfully begin their careers as Solar Energy Technicians, including other benefits such as becoming certified renewable energy experts, empowered with business start-up kits, become partners with MitchelEE Engineering Integrated Services for one year to master the skills and earn in the process.

Spelling out the goals of the program, Ayovuata stressed that it is aimed to empower Nigerian girls to enable them to achieve their potential and contribute to the economy while also reducing vices in our society; and of course, joining the Federal Government of Nigeria in the energy transition drive of zero-emission by 2060.

In a nutshell, Ayovuata urged the girls to “become everything you are capable of, being the best version of yourself revolves around identifying the specifics of who you are, and what you are wired for, to harness your innate abilities and reach your full potential. It is about purpose and fulfillment which are the pillars for socioeconomic sustainability and survival”.

In her goodwill message as the Royal Mother of the Day, the Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu sang the ‘buga’ song for the girls before defining the Girl Child as the female child that is full of potentials just as she is created to fulfill her purpose on earth.

She equally told them her life’s story, how she was born poor and how she was determined to change the narrative surrounding her with the courage to redefine her birth story and family lineage.

Her words, “I sacrificed my life to lift my family out of poverty. It’s a man’s world, but we must find our purpose in creation. You must take seriously what you have come here to learn today, because, in the long run, it will give you the power and self-esteem that you need to face the world”.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE), otherwise known as the Desert Warrior, Chief Newton Jibunoh who was represented by Mr. Okeze Odugala, praised the courage of the organizers of the program and the willpower on the part of the participants to undertake such venture, promising to support them to achieve success in the end.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Flora Alatan who was represented also, stated that such an initiative would help to curb the vulnerability of the Girl Child to human trafficking and other social vices, thereby urging well-meaning individuals to ensure that the girl child is properly developed to achieve her full potentials.

The Accountant General of the State, Mrs. Joy Enwa encouraged the participating girls to endeavor to lift the banner of hard work and zeal to accomplish success through the platform provided by the Girl Child Tech Project.

However, to properly equip them with the knowledge of what they stand to benefit from if they applied the right attitude to the training, the Delta State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Chris Uche Anyabuine first educated them on the statutory mandate of NOA.

He said, “Our duty as National Orientation Agency is to sensitize the citizens on the policies and programs of the government in line with our values, towards changing attitudes to help achieve a positive lifestyle. Our attitudes and values matter in life and our country has set them out as core values in our Constitution, to guide our daily conduct and obligations to our society. Such include Discipline, Integrity, Dignity of Labour, Self Reliance, and Social Justice.

“You are not second fiddle being girls, so don’t play second fiddle because your role is to nurture humanity to become better. The country needs you and all you can contribute as mothers to make it better for the entire humanity that lives in it”, Anyabuine posited.

Other personalities who graced the occasion also included a Catholic Reverend Sister, Rev. Mother Lauretta Elechukwu, the Secretary of Delta State Council of NUJ, Comrade Patrick Ochei, the Delta State NAWOJ Chairman, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, the Vice Chairman of NAWOJ, Comrade Ruth Omigie and many others.

Delta will continue to partner ICT driven initiatives of the private sector – Adasen Efeviroro

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The Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mrs. Jennifer Adasen Ereviroro, has reiterated the state government’s continuous desire to partner with the private sector in the area of information communication technology as it is a veritable tool for reducing youth unemployment and making them economically self-reliant.

The Commissioner stated this in Asaba last weekend at a physical mini hackathon held by Remotebase, in partnership with the State Ministry of Science and Technology at the lCT hub, Asaba.

The Science and Technology Commissioner said with the high premium placed by the Okowa administration on developing the skills of the teeming youths in the ICT sector to make them economically independent and become employers of labor, the initiative by Remotebase falls perfectly in line with the stronger Delta vision of the present administration.

She commended Remotebase for the initiative of the mini hackathon which was geared towards enabling software engineers and technology enthusiasts to evolve solutions to local problems as a way to ignite the developer ecosystem and improve community engagement.

Earlier in his address, the Community Manager, of Remotebase, Mr. Aima Atigari, said his organization is committed to matching more software engineers from Nigeria and Africa with global opportunities that improve their economic situations and careers through remote work programs and initiatives like the mini hackathon.

He paid glowing tributes to the Science and Technology Commissioner for her ministry’s continued support in ensuring that youths in Delta are empowered through leveraging the opportunities in ICT

At the end of the exercise, Team Galaxy won the first prize of $150 for centering their solution around reducing the stress and cost of house seeking in Delta State, followed by Team Firestone whose second prize of $100 came with their solution on dealing with self-medication and emergency medical situations.

Mr. Dogun Oghenekaro also won $50 in the Coding Challenge category for writing the best 20 lines of Javascript code.

Team Galaxy
Team Firestone
Mr. Dogun Oghenekaro
Mrs. Jennifer Adasen Ereviroro, Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology

GOV OKOWA’s CON NATIONAL AWARD: TESTIMONY OF HIS NATIONAL ACCEPTANCE – OMIMI ESQ

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The recent announcement of the conferment of the national honors award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, has been described by his Political Adviser, Omimi Esquire, as another eloquent proof of the Governor’s acceptance even at the APC led federal government level.

In a statement, Omimi Esquire said the presentation of the national award which will be presented by President Muhammadu Buhari soon, has once again demonstrated that Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has done exceedingly well in administering Delta State and also as a pan Nigerian who preaches peace and unity across the board.

Describing the Governor as a true nation builder and unifier, the Political Adviser said from all indications, it has dawned on even the federal government controlled by the APC, that Okowa is a national asset worthy of celebration.

Noting the high success rate recorded by the Okowa administration in Hunan capital development, infrastructure, peace, and security as well as education, sports, and agriculture, to mention a few, the Governor’s Political Adviser expressed confidence that the Vice Presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections deservedly merits the nomination for the prestigious national award.

He, therefore, congratulated Governor Okowa for making Delta proud, while saying that he is confident that the conferment of the national honors award will spur the Governor to do more and finish strong both in Delta and the forthcoming general elections.

“Governor Okowa has made Delta proud by this further recognition at the national level. These national honors are well deserved and amply cement the truism that Okowa is a national asset. He has excelled in governance and as a statesman, he has also excelled as a unifier and peace builder “, said Omimi Esquire.

Int’l Day Of The Older Persons: Mma Sunshine Recognises Omu Anioma For Her Contributions To Humanity

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In celebration of the International Day of the Older Persons, which is marked annually on October 1, a social media influencer, Ms. Chidimma Oramali with the Facebook name ‘Mma Sunshine’ was at the Omu Anioma Palace in Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA of Delta State, to identify with Her Royal Majesty Obi Martha Dunkwu, in recognition of her numerous humanitarian achievements, including the mentoring of the Girl Child.

Mma Sunshine who idolised Omu Anioma and Nneoha by calling her an impeccable and angelic role model to her and many of her fans, affirmed it was a rare privilege to have finally met her.

Ascribing her the name “Nwanyi bu ife”, she stated that Omu Dunkwu represents the totality of womanhood which was captured in the 2022 theme of the International Day of the Older Persons with regards to the Resilience of Women and their Contributions in a Changing World.

The elated Omu Dunkwu appreciated Mma Sunshine for the honour, while encouraging women never to deter nor give up because of oppositions and obstacles in their way.

“If we give up, our nation will entirely collapse, because the future of humanity is in the hands of women. And one of the ways you can remain strong and fulfilling is to acquire education and stay focused on your dreams. I assure you, you will definitely find and fulfill your purpose in creation when you are educated as a woman”, Omu Dunkwu advised.

The UN is marking IDOP by encouraging countries to draw attention to and challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions about older persons and ageing, and to enable older persons to realize their potentials.

The overall umbrella theme for the United Nations International Day of Older Persons in 2022 is “Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World.” This theme will be celebrated by the NGO Committees on Ageing in New York, Geneva and Vienna – each with a unique and complementary approach to the overall theme.

Nma Sunshine visited with her crew which included her friend and Omu’s special daughter, First Lady Akwaugo 1 of WAZOBIA FM, Ndubuisi Piety a.k.a Fiona and Francis Onyekachi.

Buhari confers national honour on Omo-Agege

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For his immense contribution to lawmaking, oversight and representation, President Muhammadu Buhari has awarded the national honour of the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) to the Deputy President of the Senate and Delta APC Gubernatorial Candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.


This was disclosed to newsmen by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser, Media, and Publicity, to the Deputy President of the Senate, on Friday, September 30, 2022.

According to the letter conveying the national award to Senator Omo-Agege, the President approved the honour to him in the exercise of his power as enshrined in the National Honours Act No 5 of 1964.

The conferment notice was signed by the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Sen. George Akume.

The CFR award, according to the letter, will be formally conferred on Omo-Agege at a ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The letter reads in part, “I have the honour to formally inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has approved the conferment of the National Honours on you, in the rank of CFR (Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic)”.

Senator Omo-Agege has to his credit over 30 bills including the Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Delta State (Establishment) Bill which has since been signed into law by President Buhari. Others are the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, Sexual Harassment Bill, Dormant Account Funds Management Bill, National Industrial Court Act (Amendment) Bill, Court of Appeal Act (Amendment) Bill, National Social Security Commission Bill, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Act 2020 (Amendment) Bill, National Electoral Offences Commission Bill, 2019 (co-sponsored with Senators Abubakar Kyari and Kabiru Gaya) several constitution alteration bills, among others.

The federal lawmaker has also attracted numerous projects to his senatorial district. These include the establishment of Nigeria Defence Space School; Nigerian Law School Campus; establishment and construction of Oil and Gas Industrial Park, Sanubi (with an independent power plant to power Orogun, Eku, Abraka etc. with 24/7 uninterrupted power supply); construction of NDPHC/NIPPS Injection Substation and a host of others.

In the same token, the federal legislator has influenced projects beyond his constituency namely: the construction of classrooms, hostels, e- Library and Administrative Block at Saint George’s Obinomba, Ukwani Local Government Area, construction of Asaba-Ugbolu-Illah-Ebu Road; installation of solar powered street lights in Agbor, Utagba-Uno, Abbi, Onicha Olona, all in Delta North Senatorial District as well as installation of solar powered street lights in Koko, Oporoza Town, Okerenkoko, Oleh in Delta South Senatorial District.

He also facilitated the provision of furniture for primary and secondary schools in Isoko North and South Local Government Areas; construction and renovation of Nana Palace and Museum, Koko, Warri North Local Government Area among others.

Omu Obior celebrates Ilochi festival in grandstyle

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The uniqueness of the Ilochi Ikpala in Obior Kingdom, which took place on the 29th September, 2022, was further enhanced by the mother of the community, HRH Omu Onyebuchibe Okonkwo during her own celebration.

Ilochi Ikpala which means the celebration of the forebears of Obior is celebrated by titled men in the community; and Omu being a man by virtue of coronation must carry out her own activities of the day as an Okpala and Omu put together.

Obior is an Ezechima community with deep track record in culture and traditions of her forebears. And so being a day of celebration of the Ancestors, the Omu was at her best, dressed in red regalia as of a Royal Princess, her appearance on the stage of celebration was greeted with over 100 canon shots (mkpolo-ani).

She felt elated by the crowd and calibre of personalities that visited to felicitate with her. Thanking God for a successful day and ability to celebrate her Ancestors in such a unique way, she pledged to continue to carry out her traditional duties with diligence and strict adherence to the rules of the Kingdom.

Omu Okonkwo stated that Ilochi Omu signifies a day set aside to celebrate the forebears of Obior for their protection, provision and direction from season to season with incremental progress.

Her words, “I am happy. I feel honoured, especially with the people who have come to be with me. I thank my king and father, Obi of Obior Kingdom, our Anioma mother and my mentor, Omu Anioma, Chief Baje from Idumuje-Unor Kingdom and many others. May God richly bless you for your presence, assistance and support”, said Omu Obior.

In his goodwill message to the celebrant, the Obior Monarch, HRM Obi Kingsley Ofuokwu 111 eulogized the Omu as a mother in whom he was well pleased, adding “Omu is my mother, Obi only has a mother and doesn’t have a father; and so I have come to celebrate my mother because I am proud of her”.

Breaking the Kolanuts, he prayed for the kingdom of Obior to continue to experience the hand of God in all her affairs. He blessed the land to continue to yield increase season after season.

He also prayed for the Omus Council being coordinated by Her Royal Majesty Obi Martha Dunkwu, asking God to continue to strengthen them in capacity and wisdom as they play their roles towards the traditional growth and development of the various communities in Anioma Nation.

Addressing newsmen, Obi Ofuokwu said, the Ilochi Ikpala is a day of merry making in preparation for the Ogbanigbe Obior which climaxes on the 7th and 8th of October, 2022.

He affirmed that Omu has enormous traditional responsibility to the community in terms of ensuring peace and order in the land.

In addition, he said the Ogbanigbe symbolises how the offsprings of Ezechima evolved, maintaining that as they go into the week of peace, Omu has the onerous task of moving round the community for cleansing and to ensure peace ahead of the awesome Ogbanigbe cultural festival.

Meanwhile, the delectable Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu was exceedingly glad to associate with the Omu of Obior whom she has high regard for as one Omu that has carried herself with dignity and respect for the institution of Omu.

HRH Omu Onyebuchibe Okonkwo and Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu during the festival

She prayed for Omu Onyebuchibe Okonkwo, the Obi and the kingdom of Obior to continue to exist progressively in traditions and customs of their forebears.

Omu Dunkwu affirmed she was pleased with the synergy and cordiality that exist between Obi Ofuokwu and Omu Okonkwo, adding that such an awesome relationship is worthy of emulation.

She therefore called on all traditional rulers in Anioma Nation to emulate such virtues between the father and the mother of the community of Obior in the interest of peace, unity and progress of the various kingdoms in Anioma.

The Ilochi Omu Obior was well attended by friends and well wishers from across Anioma and beyond. Some of the personalities that graced the festival were Chief Dr. Baje, Chief Dr. Ikenga a.k.a Oracle Money, Dr. Kido Nwanji, Dr. Ugo Awucha, Chief Innocent (Iyase of Ekwuoma), Chief Darlington Igheghe JP, Chief Olotu from Warri, Chief Nwanbor Anuka, Dr. Sabo from Owa, SA Nwamama from Umunede, Mr. Ubaka Biose and others too numerous to mention.

The Omu Obior 2022 Ilochi festival witnessed awesome traditional beats and sounds that reverberated from Okanga dancers and Otu Ifechukwude Dance Group of Idumuje-Unor to the admiration of guests of Omu Onyebuchibe Okonkwo.

STEP DOWN, OMO-AGEGE TELLS ATIKU, OKOWA

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As the Presidential campaigns officially kick off, the Deputy Senate President and Delta APC Gubernatorial Candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege have called on the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and his running mate, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to step down.

This was made known in a statement released by Ima Niboro,
Director, Communications and Media Strategy,
Delta APC Gubernatorial Campaign Council on 30th September 2022

In the statement, Senator Omo-Agege hinged his call on the need for equity, insisting that by contesting the polls when a northerner is about to complete his eight years in office, the PDP presidential candidate has shown that he lacks the locus to preach equity, fairness, justice, and integrity.

Omo-Agege who is also the Delta State Coordinator, Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, argued that Governor Okowa has by his action of becoming a Vice Presidential Candidate of PDP, betrayed the trust reposed on him by his colleagues and the entire South.

“During the week, at the Second Reading and Debate on General Principles on a bill seeking to legalize power rotation across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, I had urged my colleagues in PDP to persuade their Presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to step down and rotate the presidential ticket to the South.

“The domino effect of that would also be the resignation of Atiku’s running mate and Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and ceding the vice presidential ticket to the North.

“Like I pointed out on the floor of the Senate during my contribution, if PDP senators were serious, they would have first pleaded with their presidential candidate to step down from the race for power to return to Southern Nigeria. By May next year, the North would have ruled for eight years of two terms and it is only fair that power comes back to the South,” he said.

The Delta Central lawmaker noted that notable bodies like the Southern Governors Forum, their northern counterparts, social-cultural organizations such as Afenifere; Middle Belt Forum, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and Ohaneze Ndigbo have all harped on the need for Southern Presidency.

He recalled his meeting with elder statesman and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark in July this year when the Niger Delta leader faulted the PDP for not zoning its presidential ticket to the South.

“Irrespective of political differences, 17 Governors in the South met in Asaba, the capital of Delta State on May 11, 2021, and took far-reaching decisions, including that, based on the principles of fairness, equity and justice, the Presidency should rotate to the South, at the end of the statutory eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure.

“Governor Okowa was the host of that historic meeting. The Southern Governors later met in Lagos, on July 5, where they reaffirmed their decision, and again in Enugu, on September 16, to restate the call that the Presidency should rotate to the South in 2023.

“What Nigerians can deduce from PDP jettisoning zoning and giving its ticket to Atiku is that the campaign messages of the party should be taken with a pinch of salt. ‘Trust,’ they say, ‘is like an antique, once it’s broken, it can never be replaced. The PDP Presidential candidate and his running mate have broken the trust of Nigerians. The honorable thing to do is for the duo to honorably resign and right the wrong.

“It, therefore, didn’t come to us as a surprise that five PDP governors boycotted the inauguration of PDP Presidential Campaign Council in Abuja to register their grievances over the injustice meted to the Southern States of Nigeria,” Omo-Agege stated.

COUNCIL OF OMUS COUNSELS ANIOMA POLITICIANS AGAINST ELECTORAL VIOLENCE

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The Anioma Council of Omus has advised politicians of Anioma extraction who are going into the 2023 general elections starting with the Presidential campaign, to play by the rule and avoid engaging themselves in electoral violence, adding that our nature abhors such political tendencies irrespective of the need for power.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Her Royal Majesty Obi Martha Dunkwu (Omu Anioma), the group affirmed that in as much as it would continue to pray for the sons and daughters of Anioma Nation that are embarking on election come 2023, it would be expedient to also advise them against the temptation of wanting to use violence to achieve their desire.

The statement further read, “We wish our sons and daughters victory in this coming general election. All our children will emerge victorious because that is what we have been praying for. In every position they are vying for, it shall be success for them both for those who will win and those who may not win.

“What we don’t want to be recorded against us in this election is bloodshed. One doesn’t have to kill his or her brother or sister because of ephemeral power. It’s just a contest and peradventure one does not win, there is always another time in politics and elections.

“We are taking this pain as mothers to counsel our children to be careful and vigilant as they begin with the Presidential campaign on 28th September, 2022. No mother will want to watch her children fight and kill themselves. We have been praying for them, but we also need to caution them to be guided.

“It is our prayer that God and our Ancestors give our children incremental peace and joy ahead of the forthcoming elections. A peaceful and joyful person will take a contest the way it comes, victory or failure. That is the attitude we want our children in politics to put on in this election – take your victory with humility and accept your loss gallantly by congratulating one another. That is the spirit of sportsmanship.

“In the past seven years, our eyes have seen good days with enormous developments. Our eyes will see better days. Every election offers opportunity for improvement and more progress. While we appreciate the achievements of these past years, we are praying for the incoming administration to do more for us and our children who will be taking the batons from us”, the statement read.

Ahead 2023 Elections, APC Gets A Boost As PMB‘s Aide, Lauretta Onochie Formalises Membership.

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The All Progressives Congress(APC) penultimate weekend, got a confidence surge, in the march to 2023 electoral victories as President Muhammadu Buhari’s Special Assistant on Social Media Lauretta Onochie, formalized her membership of the national ruling party at Onicha-Olona (Ward 4), Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

At the event Onochie, a blue chip avowed BUHARIST, disclosed that her resolve to formalising her status, stems from “Given that President Buhari won’t be contesting come 2023, it is imperative to support and ensure victory for the APC presidential standard bearer, ASIWAJU Bola Ahmed Tinubu in furtherance of President Buhari’s innumerable accomplishments”.

She also revealed that this development has debunked the earlier fallacious “partisan inclination” which was widely disseminated.

“With this, I can confidently state that I am now a card-carrying member of the party(APC) as against the earlier fictitious story of my purported membership whereby my details were forged and presented to the public. Well, that’s another story for the future”, she emphasized.

In his speech, the Delta North Senatorial Chairman of the party, OIgbueshi Adizue Ekuaka, said he remained enthused over her membership of the party, as the development portends positive dividend at the impending 2023 elections.

Similarly, the Aniocha North Chairman of the party, Sir Matthew Chinye affirmed that Lauretta Onichie’s membership of the party, will herald good tidings for the party nationwide.

2023: APC youth group unveils Ominimini as patron, inaugurates 112 LGA executives in Delta Central

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A youth group, Delta State Core Comrades (DSCC) for Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and Rt Hon Friday Osanebi has unveiled Hon. Dr. Sir. Chief Ominimini Obiuwevbi as state patron.

The group which cut across the 25 LGA with over 300,000 thousand members across various higher institutions of learning both homes and in the Diaspora said they are very confident that Hon. Dr. Sir. Chief. Ominimini will bring his wealth of experience to propose full leadership to father and mentor the leadership of DSCC to deliver victory for His Excellency Distinguished Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and his Excellency Rt Hon. Friday Osanebi as well as other candidates come in 2023.

The National Coordinator/Convener, Comrade Esiri Kotor made this known during the inauguration of the Delta Central Senatorial 112 LGA Executives on Sunday 25th September 2022.

During the inauguration, Comrade Kotor uses the opportunity to thank His Excellency Distinguish Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and the APC campaign council for appointing Hon. Dr. Chief. Ominimini as the Delta central coordinator campaign council which he described as highly commendable and timely.

Kotor said that his nomination is a true testimony of his capacity and commitment to lead, adding that Chief Ominimini will add value to the much-needed capacity of leadership in Delta stats and Nigeria at large.

“It gives us great pleasure to announce that we have found Hon. Dr. Sir. Chief. Ominimini Obiuwevbi FIMC is worthy to be unveiled as the National Patron of the Delta State Core Comrades for Ovienebi across the 25 LGA.

“We are very confident that he will bring his wealth of experience of over 16 years of proposed full leadership to bear at this level. You have done good sir, let me use this medium to congratulate you.”

“The leadership of DSCC looks forward towards getting all the needed support from our National Patron to achieve our goals and objectives politically,”
Kotor added.

While still speaking, the convener said there’s no democracy without elections and there are elections with people
it is on this note, that the leadership of the Delta state core comrades for Ovienebi decided to launch his campaign at the grassroots level to in cooperating with the various communities, Ward, and units in the leadership structure of DCSS.

However, the leadership of DSCC is set to inaugurate 112 LGA Executives that cut across the eight Local government Areas of Delta central, to increase the level of political participation and political awareness of Ovienebi at the Grass Roots level.

Going forward the delta central LGA Executives Inauguration is the flag off of the senatorial district inauguration activities of DSCC, after today’s activities the leadership of DSCC is set to inaugurate 238 LGA Executives of both delta south and delta North senatorial districts of delta state and also the Unveiling of the delta south and delta North patron of DSCC.

On the 25th of August 2022, the Delta State Core Comrades for Ovienebi officially unveiled and inaugurated the 25 LGA Coordinators and 3 Senatorial District coordinators along with the National Executives at Topview hotel in Asaba, Delta state capital.

This Inauguration brought the spirit of comradeship under the umbrella body of Delta state core comrades for Ovienebi, which has Representatives of past and present students leaders, youth leaders, and women leaders across delta state for togetherness and effective mobilization and solidarity support for the success of Senator OVIE OMO-AGEGE 2023 Governorship election in Delta state as their major mandate.

EZENYILI EULOGIZES ONYEOBI, TO IMMORTALISE HIS NAME WITH OSHIMILI SOUTH LEGISLATIVE COMPLEX

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The young and dynamic Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government, Hon. Kelvin Obi Ezenyili has eulogized the sterling leadership qualities and impeccable personality of the Iyase of Asaba Kingdom, Obi Patrick Isioma Goodluck Onyeobi, describing him as his mentor and role model.

He made this assertion while paying homage to the Iyase during his 2022 New Yam Festival (Iwaji) celebration on Thursday 22nd September, 2022, at the Iyase’s Ancestral home at Ogwa Idumuojei in Umuezei Quarters of Asaba.

The Chairman said people might not know how he got into office as the Oshimili South Council Administrator, stating that it was the making of Iyase Onyeobi.

His words, “It is a humbling pleasure on my person to identify with the Iyase of Asaba. We are not just here because of his new yam festival celebration, we are here because this is what we want to always do – identifying with him.

“Obi Onyeobi is more than a father to me. He played much role in my emergence as Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government. As long as we continue to be in office and even beyond, we will always pay our loyalty to him.

“I am exceedingly grateful to God for having such a well endowed community leader on my side. Iyase Onyeobi remains a fountain of knowledge, wisdom and intellectual prowess to always draw from, and no matter his age, he has continued to play key role in brightening our administration. He was an administrator par excellence and that is why we will not stop praying to God to grant him many more years of productivity for the good of humanity.

“On this note sir, I have come to inform you that our administration recently embarked on the construction of the Oshimili South Legislative Complex. That building is 85 percent at completion stage. When completed, we shall invite the Governor of our dear State and incoming Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to commission it. This edifice will be named after you sir, Obi Patrick Isioma Goodluck Onyeobi as our token of honour for all you have done and stand for in Oshimili South and the entire human race. Obi Igwe!

“In a nutshell, I want to appeal for the continual support of Asaba people and Oshimili South in general to the PDP. Let us do it 5/5 this time in our collective quest to rescue Nigeria. And of course, with our son as Vice President, we should be rest assured of a better Nigeria going forward”, Ezenyili submitted.

In his response, the Iyase said he was surprised to receive such cheering news from a working Chairman.

He stated that he would live to remember this particular edition of his Iwaji celebration, appreciating Ezenyili for honouring him on his moment of joy as a traditional leader and also proposing to immortalise him.

According to him, “I am surprised at how highly this young man, assessed to have done so well thought about me. I am not a politician; I was only a professional civil servant who was taught how to dispense leadership that brings peace and development to the people. We were taught that there is no price greater than the price for peace. The Chairman has done extremely well and we must continue to support him.

“I just do what I need to do as an individual. This has shown me that people see the good works of others. And except a man dies, his goodwill continues to live on.

“Our Chairman has proven to be a true son of Anioma Nation; we must as a people keep record of such virtues and quality of humans around us. I once again appreciate him for honouring me on my Iwaji. This is a celebration of Asaba people as an agrarian community reputed for farming as their major industry. And yam as their revered staple food is the symbol of Thanksgiving to God and Ancestors for a productive farming season, while also using the period to pray for better farming seasons in future.

“The Asagba of Asaba having done his own Iwaji, the Obis then followed. I am currently an Obi, also an Iyase having first been installed as a chief and presently, I hold the position of Diokpa of Idumuojei Village in Umuezei Quarters of Asaba. So in my case, I now combine the three celebrations to have one Iwaji celebration. It’s a period of peace; Iwaji is used to harness peace and so, when we gather to celebrate the new yam, we are gathering because of the presence of peace in our community. Where people are hungry there can’t be peace. On this note, I urge the government to provide the enabling environment for people to live in peace”, Onyeobi posited.

It was indeed a day of merry making as the men, women and youths gathered in their numbers to celebrate with Obi Onyeobi and there was more than enough to eat and drink. Dignitaries such as Ogbueshi Dada Okonji (Oshimili South PDP Chairman), Mr. Brenban Iyieh (Secretary to Oshimili South Local Government), Mr. Nnamdi Odiwe and others also came in company of Hon. Kelvin Obi Ezenyili to pay homage to the Iyase of Asaba.

UGBOBA KING, NKEBAKWU 111 CELEBRATES NEW YAM FESTIVAL IN GRANDSTYLE

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The Kingdom of Ugboba in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, was on Wednesday 21st September 2022, agog as the 38-year-old Monarch, HRM Obi Agbogidi Ezedinbu Emmanuel Nkebakwu 111, the Obi of Ugboba Kingdom celebrated his new yam festival in grand style.

The day was full of activities beginning with the gathering of the Ikpoho Ogbe (women) from 7 am to carry out general cleaning of the Palace and residence of His Royal Majesty.

At 9 am, the Ikpoho Ogbe was entertained by the Traditional Ruler and they sang and danced in the Majesty’s honour to his admiration and that of onlookers.

The activity that followed next at 10 am was symbolic as gunshots were inviting the Majesty’s kindred (Ndi Ogbe-Obi) for the proper eating of the new yam and their entertainment.

The second gunshots were fired at noon inviting Ndi Ikpala (red cap chiefs) for their entertainment with the new yam.

The third gunshot at 2 pm invited every other guest, including in-laws, friends, well-wishers, and nonindigene farming communities from the various quarters of Ugboba to celebrate with the King. The entertainment continued until 4 pm with singing and dancing and at this time, the Palace was already filled with people of diverse audiences.

The fourth gunshot invited the Ndi Ikpelime to usher out the traditional ruler for the traditional dance done with the Ozi drum. This is the climax and it was highly entertaining as the king performed greatly in the act of Ime Uje.

Obi Nkebakwu danced gracefully to pay homage to his Ancestors at the Ihu Agboh, then to Ihu Ojeokpa and finally to Ihu Nze before retiring into the Palace after greeting the people who were delighted to behold him.

Addressing newsmen, the London trained King made reverence to God Almighty and to his Ancestors for the grace to return home to his people to celebrate one of the intricate festivals of the community – Iwaji Obi.

According to him, “Yam (Ji) is highly revered in our community; it can’t just be eaten except it follows traditional process of Iwaji which is celebrated on Nkwo day. Traditionally, the Obi opens the Iwaji in Ugboba. This celebration is going to continue until tomorrow which is Eke Obo in our traditional days.

“I must appreciate my people for their unrivalled love towards my person. Our institution is father to son and that has never been truncated. When my father joined his ancestors, I was just a minor. And so, a Regency Council was set up by the Delta State Government to oversee the affairs of the community while I proceeded for my studies. I did a couple of studies here in Nigeria before proceeding to United Kingdom.

“I returned in 2016 when it was obvious my people needed me badly to come back and ascend the throne of my forefathers. Precisely on the 2nd of June, 2016, the staff of office was presented to me by the Delta State Government through the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Barr. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro. After that I went back to complete my studies and I am back to my lovely people to reciprocate all what they had been for me.

“Let me particularly thank the Regency Council, headed by Diokpa Chukwunweike Nwabuzor for their show of love, obligation and responsibility to Ugboba community. They effectively administered the Kingdom in waiting for my return, and I must say that the community had witnessed lots of progress in terms of peace and development just by their act of patriotism.

“Since 2016 that the symbol of authority was transfered to me, things have taken their shape and lots of development had taken place in the community. I can only ask God and our Ancestors to grant me more wisdom to continue to administer the Kingdom for more progress and prosperity”, Obi Nkebakwu posited.

Speaking further, he promised to replicate some of the experiences garnered in the UK by making some changes in the system.

He said that the English Monarchical System was one that united people and races to appreciate the dignity of life and quality of human existence, maintaining that no Kingdom can have peace and develop in the absence of justice.

He added that “My residency and experience in the UK had actually prepared me for the responsibility ahead. As an individual who is within the age bracket of the youth and also being a traditional ruler, I will look forward to a time when the traditional institution will engage the leadership of this country to tinker a way forward of greater constitutional role for the traditional rulers, as well initiatives that will launch us to greater heights of development.

Also speaking was a princess of the Kingdom, Princess Ebele Obukohwo who eulogized her younger brother for bringing respectability to the kingdom by the enormous development that has take place, including the return of the colourful and glamorous Iwaji Obi since his ascension to the throne of his forebears.

Princess Obukohwo affirmed that the Ugboba community now enjoys enormous peace more than ever before as a result of the visible development in road infrastructure, water, light and market projects.

She commended the people for their quantum of love and respect to his brother whom she said also respects them, adding that such symbiotic relationship is needed for the advancement of the Kingdom.

In the words of the President General of the Ugboba Development Union (UDU), Mr. Iyke Nnabuife “The Iwaji Obi is a milestone for the people of Ugboba. This has further exhibited the peaceful coexistence of the people.

“The Iwaji Obi amongst other festivals of the community helps us to trace back to our origin which is historically Edo, and that is why we are known as Ugboba Na’ Do”, the PG explained.

He equally thanked the Delta State Government for the development that had taken place in Ugboba since Obi Nkebakwu 111 ascended the throne of his fathers, thereby urging his people to continue to support the government in place so as to attract more dividends of democracy to the community.

The 2022 Iwaji Obi Ugboba was one that the people can never forget in a hurry. It witnessed lots of aesthetic features that brought out the colour, as well as the personality of the young and dynamic British trained Monarch.

Earlier, the three quarters of the community – Ogbe-Obi, Umuagbeze and Akpoma had come out to pay homage to the king with their harvests and other substances, which they in turn received the King’s blessings.

Apart from the non indigene communities and friends that also paid homage to the Obi, the oldest man in Ugboba, Diokpa Ngwagi Abojei, children, including Mr. Patrick Nwaoba, Dr. Oluchukwu Kpomafa and others equally paid glowing homage to the king.

INE FESTIVAL: ISSELE-UKU MONARCH, AGBOGIDI NDUKA PREACHES PEACE AHEAD OF 2023 ELECTIONS

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Climaxing the 2022 Ine Aho Festival, His Royal Majesty, Agbogidi Obi Nduka (MNSE), Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom has sent a strong message of peace and harmony to world leaders in general, and particularly political leaders in Nigeria, Delta State and Aniocha North Local Government Area, to always eschew bitterness and embrace peace in the interest of the socioeconomic growth and development of the various global societies; and specifically urging politicians in Nigeria to seek peace and rule of law ahead of the coming general elections in 2023.

He made this call while granting interview to newsmen on his Ine Festival, which is the major feast amongst the series of activities within the Ine Aho Festival.

Obi Nduka affirmed that a peaceful world is a world that is safe, secure and one that can only usher in more in development and security of the sanctity of life and dignity of man.

The amiable Monarch also sent a message of condolence to the British Monarchy and Government over the transition of Queen Elizabeth 11, the Queen of England, affirming that she was such a fanciful global personality that the world would miss for a long time.

He said while respect and tributes are being paid to her memories, the world should also accord reverence to the new King Charles 111 by praying for him to succeed in doing much more that the world would equally appreciate and celebrate at the end of time.

“There is a new dawn for the British people; they should be brave and look forward to the future, as we all should. It’s our season of joy having experienced a bountiful harvest, and so I call on all our people to embrace peace and harmony”, Obi Nduka added.

Without mincing words, Agbogidi Nduka admonished politicians to put themselves in check as election is close to call, maintaining that the country including the State cannot afford to face crisis in a period of contest which is supposed to symbolise sportsmanship.

It was indeed a busy day for the intelligently classy King who concluded his five days of intense spiritual exercise, having been in a solitude state praying for his people and blessing them with nzu (white native chalk). The morning of the Ine was when he came out from that solitude mood (Ipu Nzu) by visiting the Ishu Ani to pray for a number of times before a gunshot indicated that he had concluded his five days period of fasting and praying (Ino Nzu). It was a period that the entire community was compartmentalised into quietness in strict observance of the holy days, otherwise any live animal around could be killed at one’s expense or seizure of one’s property as value for the offence of noise making.

Now the town can celebrate as Obi goes inside to freshen up in readiness to receive homages from the warlords (Onotu Chiefs) and other well wishers.

The sound of the gun tells the warlords that the king is out of his solitude mood and they too can fire their own guns at their various quarters, indicating an agreement that the period of noiselessness had ended and the people can now celebrate. With that mindset, they will dress in their regalia, gather their people to eat and drink and then dance to the Palace to pay homage, report their war experiences to the king and then receive the Royal handshake in commendation for their heroic exploits at their various internal and external security assignments. This is what is known as “Inaka”.

Issele-Uku is made up of nine villages – Umueze Issei, Ogbe-Owele, Ogboli, Ukpai, Idumuinei, Ogbe-Utu, Ogbe-Ofu, Idumu-Ahaba and Ute. Majority of these villages if not all, have chiefs who represent them as warlords who go to fight in moments of external aggressions. And so, their gathering in this manner at the Issele-Uku Royal Palace is to report back to the King the events of the season.

While the dance is ongoing at the Palace Ground (Uge Obi), the chiefs would go in to usher the king out for the “Uje” which is the mimicking of the ancient nature of Issele-Uku king in times of war as Commander-in-Chief.

Before the chiefs and the Obi could emerge from the Palace chambers, the Omu; Omu Beatrice Onwodi in this instance and her Ilogo Omu had danced from the Uge into the main Palace, performed some rites just as the king and chiefs stepped out by the door and there was a rousing ovation and ecstatic shouts from the crowd awaiting his appearance.

The Obi is then led to the main centre of attraction with the Royal Dance (Egwu Issoh); and while in that procession, he prays to his ancestors through the performance of some rites along the way. Sitted at the Ukpo after another round of spiritual cleansing by the Omu and Eze Dibie, the chiefs began to come dancing in their order of seniority to take the Royal handshake.

For this year, the Onotu Chiefs that came for the “Ime Uje” performed exceptionally well as they were conducted in the act of “Inaka” in their order of seniority.

First, the Iyase of Issele-Uku Kingdom known as the Traditional Prime Minister, Chief Innocent Etenmua Ashiedu, representing Ogbe-Ofu Village took the lead. He was praised as “Oyibo na nma”, a handsome whiteman. Of course as an American resident with a career in Aeronautics Engineering, he has done well for himself in family, business and love for the culture of his forebears.

The second Onotu Chief is the Okwalegwe of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Dr. John Ochei representing Idumuinei Village. The Okwalegwe Chieftaincy Title was first given to Ochei Unewu as a brave and energetic young man who was a bosom friend of the then Prince Egbune. The young Prince had lobbied his father to appoint Ochei as the commander of the Issele-Uku troop that fought against another enemy community in a war. Due to his exploits that earned Issele-Uku victory in that war, Obi Usifo then bestowed the Title of Okwalegwe to Ochei and his offsprings in perpetuity. Chief John Ochei is the fourth in that lineage from Ochei to his son, Nwabunoh Ochei, to his grandson, Charles Chiemeke Ochei and now to another grandson, John Ochei. The current occupant is a retired Laboratory Technologist from the University College Hospital, UCH Ibadan, from where he moved to work at the University of Oman for years. He later returned to work with the Bowen University in Nigeria, and then Global Funds before joining the Babcock University, Ogun State as a Chief Lecturer.

The third is the Isama of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Hon. Krees Njiokwuemeni, representing Idumuigwe. He is a renowned lawyer and former Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly. His displays at the Inaka rituals would prove to you that he is indeed a warlord of repute.

The fourth is the Inene of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Dr. Felix Nwani, representing Idumu-Ahaba Village. He also represented very well, being a son of the former Inene of Issele-Uku.

The fifth Onotu Chief in line is the Agujiegbe of Issele-Uku, Chief Sunday Gabriel Ebite representing the Ishiekpe Quarters of Umueze Issei Village. When you see his appearance, it is obvious he has things to do behind rifles. As a retired police chief, the title of the lion with the gun is befitting and he hasn’t been found wanting as he has been instrumental to the security of the town and control of the youths against the use of dangerous weapons.

The sixth Onotu Chief is the Esogba of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Fidelis Jigide representing the Ogbeidibo Quarters of Umueze Issei Village. He is fondly called the dancing Chief and he has never failed to make the Ine Aho a fun to watch. Of course, his grandfather was the great Isagba of Issele-Uku in the days of Chief Nwalia, Chief Ufoegbune, Chief Charles Ochei and others.

The seventh Onotu Chief and last in line for the day is the Olotor of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Ignatius memeh representing Idumu-Ahaba Village. He is an astute politician who is respected among his folks. He has shown enormous interest in the culture of Issele-Uku being an ancient kingdom with roots in Bini Monarchical Dynasty.

Take note that after the chiefs had paid homage to Obi Nduka, they moved round to share their fraternal greetings with their fellow chiefs who are palatial and social in nature and other dignitaries sitting inside the Uge as the show was on.

After the chiefs had done their part, then came the king who danced majestically to pay homage to his forebears at the Ishu Ani by the market square. On his return, he greeted his beautiful wife, Anasi-Obi Chukwudumebi Rosemary Nduka who had been dancing and eulogizing him along with other wives in the Royal family.

Dancing into the Palace, Obi Nduka retreated to prepare for the main moment – the moment of Igbu Agboh. The Ukpo (traditional seat) was also taken inside by the Isekute, meaning that he was done with the celebration inside the Uge for the day.

While the celebration was still ongoing outside, the next emergence of the Agbogidi was fierce and warlike. He appeared in red regalia in an obvious mood of war, wielding cutlass while the able bodied Igbebors and Idimes were close to prevent him from actual bloodshed.

Obi Nduka is indeed an enigma, Godsent and graced in all ramifications as a wise Royal Father and firm king. On his return from the Igbu Agboh, performed inside the Afor Market, he bade the people goodbye as he retired into his Chambers, calling it a day from his own end.

The Ine does not stop at this point but continues into the night and the next day. The beauty of the Ine Aho Festival is in the “Igba Ine” itself; an experience that is never wished to end.

However, the grandfinale of it all will happen on the 16th September, a day set aside for the final sacrifice and homage to the forebears of Issele-Uku at the Ishu Ani, known as Ishu Onicha. This is where the Palace, Honorary and Social chiefs will have their date to receive their own royal handshake from the king. The Onotu Chiefs who will come will be with the king as he performs the rites of the day.

The 2022 Ine Festival was indeed colourful, glamorous and resplendent as a result of the clemency of the weather. It was equally well attended with music at every corner and the dignitaries who graced it included the Odogwu of Obior representing the Obi of Obior, Chief Ike Odoe, the Ojioba of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Barr. Mrs. Josephine Ada Kachikwu, the Ezinne of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Sunday Monye, the Osodi of Issele-Uku Kingdom (one who guides and protects the Anasi-Obi), Chief David Siunoje, the Olikeze of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief (Barr.) Tony Nwabuotu, the Ide of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Victor Egbune, the Inwengwe of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Brian Odiakosa, the Osigie of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Egbo Adigwe, the Chi-Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Uche Ngbanwa, the Ashi-Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Hon. Engr. Emeka Emmanuel Nwaobi, Member of Delta State House of Assembly and PDP candidate for Aniocha North Constituency, Mr. Bazim Sally Biose, the APC candidate for Aniocha North Constituency, Prince Ibe Ozoma, CEO of Fidelity Fortunes Group of Companies, Prince Mike Akeh, a corporate czar, Mr. Chiedu Kogos (Marketing and Events Consultant), Mr. Onyeisi Mokogwu (National President of Issele-Uku Progressive Youth Association), Prince and Princess Mrs. Nwoko, Diokpa Frank Mordi and wife and others too numerous to mention.

GROUP READY TO LAUNCH FOUNDATION TO CREATE AWARENESS ON ALZHEIMER/DEMENTIA SICKNESS

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A group under the aegis of Pat & Milly Alzheimer/Dementia Foundation is set to launch the foundation as a platform to create awareness of the misconception about Alzheimer/Dementia sickness.

The launching which is slated to hold on September 21, 2022, from 9am at the Arcade Ground, Asaba in Oshimili South LGA of Delta State, will be used as platform to celebrate the World Alzheimer’s Day.

In a statement signed and issued by the Chairman of Pat & Milly Alzheimer Dementia Foundation, Patricia Odume Okoh, she clearly defined what Alzheimer/Dementia sickness is all about, its effect on the victim and caregivers and then the standard management solution.

According to her, “Pat & Milly Alzheimer/Dementia Foundation (P/MADF) is a non profit and non-governmental organisation (NGO), established to create awareness of the different stages of Alzheimer/Dementia sickness in our society and the world at large, and how to assist in managing the situation.

“Alzheimer sickness is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink (Atrophy), and the brain to die. It is the common cause of Dementia, a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that affect a person’s ability to function independently. At the outset of the sickness, the individual will start by forgetting things e.g. trail of thoughts on discussions, etc. At the middle stage, an individual may have difficulties with language and behavioral changes, such as repeating stories. In the later stage, individuals lose sight of time and place. They are unable to recognise loved ones; they have difficulty walking, and confusion, agitation and possibly outbursts set in.

“It is also typical of people in the later stages of Dementia to require more assistance for daily activities that otherwise they would have been able to do by themselves. At this later stage, the impact of this condition is primarily on personal relationship, e.g parents forget children’s names, faces, change behaviours, personality and emotions; and many of the things that make them who they are. This deterioration can be quite distressing for the family of the patient as well, more so, the affected are also left dependent and vulnerable.

“It is at these stages that the victim or some family members are stigmatised and traumatised. Most often, the victims are labeled as witches or mad people; women have the highest indices than men. They are mostly beaten and ostracised from their families and society. A lot of innocent victims have been killed due to ignorance.

“Our work subsist in helping families in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large to understand the nature of the sickness, and how to manage people afflicted with it. We also plan to establish a home for the care of the people living with the sickness and the training of their care-givers”, the Chairman explained.

Going forward, the facilitators of the Foundation are calling on government and the general public to support the project financially, in order to be able to carry out the noble task of saving the aged in the society and others the embarrassment and pains that come with the Alzheimer/Dementia sickness.

There will be a march of awareness of the programme at the venue which will be culminated into a reception for guests and participants.

Delta government passionately fighting to curb drug abuse

To curb and control the improper use of drug and their abuses, the Delta State Drug Control Committee, has heightened its Awareness Campaign Against Drug Abuse in the state.

The Committee, in an awareness campaign tour against drug abuse on Friday, visited Ochele Community, Umuezei Quarters by Allen in Asaba, Delta State.

Revealing the purpose of the visit to the Obi of Ochele Community, the Director General, Delta State Drugs Control Committee, Pharmacist Mrs. Helen Orie, appealed to the Obi of Ochele Community to help the Agency in spreading the message of drug abuse, its dangers and consequences according to law to his subjects.

According to him, “drug abuse is dangerous”, saying that people now abuse many substances containing chemicals which they inhale, drink or inject into their body.

She noted that those that are abusing drugs are supposed future leaders, adding that “we don’t want them to waste away, that is why we are spreading the message so that the community will be free from the drug, likewise Asaba, Delta and the nation at large”.

Stating the implications of drug abuse to the youths, she said the federal government had observed and therefore, worried that the youths are being affected by using drugs negatively in society.

In addition, Chris Owoeye listed alcohol as a good example of drug abuse, saying it causes danger to our health and system, just as he urged youths to desist from drug abuse.

In his response, the Obi of Ochele Community, Obi-Honourable Chima Okonta noted that the awareness campaign against drug abuse is a good move by the state government, thereby appealing that the institution should look beyond the street in fighting to curb this menace.

He urged the government to also sensitize the system by way of doing what they preach to enable both state and federal governments to achieve their goal of curbing the society of illicit and abuse of drugs, which usually leads to all manners of crime bedeviling our society today.

2023: Delta Core Comrade drums support for Omo-Agege

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A youth group, Delta State Core Comrades (DSCC) for OVIENEBI with over three hundred thousand membership strength across the nation and beyond, in and out of school campuses and alumni, encapsulating old, new, and upcoming comrades, has in its unwavering tenacity taken a stand with the delta state APC gubernatorial duo ticket with Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and Rt Hon Friday Osanebi names on it.

According to the Convener, now National Coordinator, Comrade Esiri Kotor during the Inauguration of the National Executive, Senatorial Coordinators, and the 25 Local Government Coordinators and unveiling of DSCC ambassadors in Asaba, the Delta State Capital, “The group threw its weight behind the Duo ticket of Omo-Agege and Osanebi because of their contribution to the advancement of the state and Nigeria in extension, then imagine what they would collectively do when they take over the Osadebe house”

Speaking further, Comr Esiri who hinted that ” We are particularly excited because Rt Hon Friday Osanebi is young, brilliant, resourceful, energetic and a round peg in a round hole, who would add developmental values to Delta State.”

He also assured Sen Ovie Omo-Agege of an impeccable massive mobilization of real voters from all the nook and crannies of Delta State to deliver Omo-Agege and Osanabi ticket 100 percent during the election come 2023.

Also Speaking was the chairman of the occasion who also administered the oath to the Executive members of DSCC, Senior Comrade Progress Omo-Agege popularly called (KOP) king of politics who stated that ” People now respect people with Permanent Voters Card (PVC), and that this is the first time a house of assembly candidate is attending an event of comrades.

Comrade Progress also hinted that “Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and Rt Hon Friday Osanebi are members of the comrade community, hence they will not and cannot forget the comrade Community for their commitment.”

Also speaking was Olorogun (Dr) John Oyibokwifi, the APC Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA) hopeful candidate for Ughelli South who stated that “we are sure of Senator Ovie Omo-Ageges competence, capacity and track record of achievements as a Senator and Deputy Senate President (DSP) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Federal Polytechnic In Orogun, speaks for itself loud and clear amongst others.”

Olorogun Oyibokwifi also assured the group of his total support and commitment, while stressing the need for each of the youth as canvassers, to go back to their respective polling unit and kick-start a door-to-door engagement with prospective voters about the party and its candidates at all levels in preparation for the 2023 elections.

Anker’s new power bank ‘PowerCore 24K’ has USB-C PD that can charge MacBook

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Anker launched a new GaNPrime series portable power bank named ‘PowerCore 24K’ with an impressive capacity of 24,000mAh and 140W charging output that can charge a MacBook.

The power bank has three different ports, a typical USB-A slot that has a great legacy capable of 18W charging devices, and the main USB-C PD 3.1 port that can dish out 140W of power to a connected device and also accepts the same speeds when charging itself up from a wall adapter.

PowerCore also includes features from Anker’s set of new “GaNPrime” chargers introduced last month based on the high-powered GaN 3-based tech. GaNPrime chargers promise improvements in AC-to-DC conversion efficiency, more total power output, and better temperature sensing, all in a slightly smaller package.

The other chargers that Anker just released aren’t capable of PD 3.1, including the new Anker 747 GaNPrime, which is capable of 150W of charging; however, every single port can still only output 100W max.

One of the standout features of the PowerCore 24K is its smart display, which gives info like power draw for each connected device, how much power is left in the tank, and recharges time. The screen does draw 0.36W of power, so Anker recommends keeping it off when not in use, according to the product FAQs

The current price for the Anker PowerCore 24K is $149.99 and is now available on Amazon and directly from Anker.

NPF dismissed officer seen in viral video checking passenger’s phone

Corporal Opeyemi Kadiri, a police officer with Force No. 509745 attached to Dolphin Divisional Headquarters, Lagos Police Command has been dismissed from the Nigerian Police Force.

Kadiri’s dismissal came after he was seen in a viral video checking a passenger’s phone.

His dismissal was based on misconduct, disobedience to a lawful order, and assault on a member of the public.

This was made known by, the Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Friday, August 12, 2022.

According to the Force spokesperson, on August 3, 2022, Kadiri, who joined the Nigerian Police Force on December 6, 2022, was seen in a viral video checking out the phone of a commuter by the roadside, an offence that is contrary to the directives of the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba.

In the statement, the NPF warns officers of the Force to maintain professionalism and politeness to members of the public while discharging their duties.

The Force also urged members of the public to ensure proper conduct in all clashes with the police to prevent infractions that may lead to prosecution.

Full list: Asisat Oshoala nominated for 2022 female Ballon d’Or

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Nigerian Super Falcons and Barcelona striker, Asisat Oshoala, has been nominated for the 2022 Women’s Ballon d’Or.

Her nomination was made known on Friday via the Ballon d’Or official page on Twitter.

For the Ballon d’Or prize, she will go up against tough players like Sam Kerr, Vivianne Miedema, Beth Mead, and Alex Morgan.

Oshoala made up the list with her extraordinary performance after generating 20 goals in 19 appearances despite being injured for over three months.

In June, She won the African Women’s Player of the Year for the fifth time.

Below is the full list of nominees for the 2022 Women’s Ballon d’Or

Selma Bacha, Fridolina Rolfo, Vivianne Miedema, Lucy Bronze, Sam Kerr, Christine Endler, Lena Oberdorf, Kadidatou Diani, Catarina Macario, Alexia Putellas, Alexandra Popp, Aitana Bonmati, Wendie Renard, Alex Morgan, Beth Mead, Asisat Oshoala, Marie-Antoinette Katoti, Millie Bright, Trinity Rodman, and Ada Hegerberg.

More Whole Foods stores are adopting the scan your palm method as means of payment

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Over 65 Whole Foods stores located across California have adopted Amazon palm-scanning technology as a means of payment. A technology that let customers pay with just a scan of their palm.

The checkout device was introduced in 2020 as part of the Amazon One payment service. This is the biggest rollout by the company yet, with the first new Whole Foods locations adding support in Malibu, Montana Avenue, and Santa Monica on Wednesday.

With Amazon One, customers can register their palm print using a kiosk or at a point-of-sale station at any participating stores. To register, customers need to provide a payment card and phone number and agree to Amazon’s term
of service and share an image of their palms. Once completed, customers can take items to check out and not have to take out their wallets – or even their phones. Just a hover of their hand over the device is all that’s needed to pay and leave.

The Amazon One rollout is part of the company’s campaign to change how customers interact at retail stores and runs alongside its Just Walk Out-enabled stores with technologies that make it faster to pay.

Amazon One is designed to identify you accurately and allow you to pay at Amazon-owned stores, but the company is looking to expand the technology to outside businesses as well.

Since the introduction of the payment system by Amazon One, several Whole Foods locations have already been testing the palm-scanning tech in the LA area as well in Austin, Seattle, and New York. It’s also been available at the company’s Amazon Style store in Glendale and at the select Amazon Go and Fresh stores.

Amazon has set up a fortune in encouraging millions of customers to provide them with data in exchange for a more convenient lifestyle. Things like online shopping, grocery shopping, using Alexa, Ring smart cameras, doorbells, and now room-mapping robot vacuum cleaners are all areas that Amazon collects data in, and that will continue to be a concern to privacy advocates.

In 2020, James Vincent, a writer from The Verge wrote an article on how the technology works, it emphasized that the images taken on the kiosk aren’t stored locally; instead, they are encrypted and then sent to a cloud server that is dedicated to Amazon One, where an identifiable palm signature is generated.

Kizz Daniel apologizes to Tanzania fans, promises free show on Friday

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Kizz Daniel has apologized for failing to perform at a show on Sunday in Tanzanian and promised to perform for free on Friday.

It was gathered that the singer was earlier arrested in Tanzania after he failed to show up at the event he was paid for.

Though he was released a few hours after his arrest on Monday while on Tuesday during a press conference, Kizz Daniel said the situation wasn’t intentional but promised to perform for free in Tanzania on Friday.

During the press conference, the Buga crooner said “This Friday, a free show, by the way, I will be partnering with Straight Up Vibes to make that happen. I must apologize to the fans. None of this was intentional, he added.

Meanwhile, the show organizer, Stephen Uwa during an Instagram live session with Daddy Freeze, the media personality, alleged that the singer refused to perform because he was not wearing his gold chain.

Also, Uwa alleges that he paid Kizz Daniel $60,000 to perform at the show.

In his chat with Daddy Freeze, Uwa said ” He only said the airline didn’t bring his bag. That is why he could not perform because his gold chain is not there and he had a gold chain on his neck. He wanted everything.

“I bought him different clothes but he said just because the airline didn’t bring one of his bags, he cannot perform without his gold on his neck.”

“I spent nothing less than $300,000 on that show because it was a premium show, it was no joke. The table for that show was set for $5,000 and the highest table was set for $10,000.

“My company is new here (Tanzania). Paul O is the one I booked Kizz from. Paul O begged this guy ‘Please go to this show’. He called from America!

“I paid this guy $60,000 to perform on this show. I went down on my knees. I was like ‘Bro, you are damaging me, I’m a Nigerian. I am trying to build my company here. You are going to damage me’. I begged this guy ‘Save my career, save my life’. I was on the table with Kizz Daniel for like five hours begging him, kneeling for him.”

Watch the apology video:

Stakeholders in Delta State task INEC, Political parties on credible 2023 elections, increased women’s participation in political leadership

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Stakeholders from the Civil Society Organisations, faith-based organizations, media, women groups, and different political groups, today Tuesday, 9th August 2022, tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political parties on credible 2023 elections, including increased participation of women in political leadership.

This development was a fallout of a one-day stakeholders town hall meeting on the International Coworking Day Celebration, organized by the Stand-Up For Women Society (SWS) in collaboration with the Elona Development Foundation, which was held at the conference hall of the Delta State Orientation Bureau in Asaba.

The Keynote address on the theme of the Day “Credible Elections, Democratic Stability, and Women’s Role” was delivered by the Director General of the State Orientation Bureau, Eugene Azuka Uzum Esq., who dwelt extensively on the challenges of the electoral processes and INEC improvement as fallout of the Anambra, Ekiti and Osun States’ elections.

Meanwhile, goodwill messages were given by INEC REC represented by the Director of Voter Education, Mr. Bukola Ojeme, the Chairman of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, and other critical stakeholders who highlighted the major impediments before, during and after elections, while calling on political parties to allow for greater women participation in political leadership.

At the onset, the Chairperson of Stand-Up For Women Society, Delta State Chapter, Comrade Mrs. Stella Macaulay said that the International Coworking Day which holds every August 9, provides the platform to create awareness on what needs to be done by critical stakeholders in advancing the course of society.

She revealed that the stakeholders were gathered to interrogate the contributions of various segments of the society, aimed at achieving Goal 17 of the Sustainable Development Goal, SDG.

The cerebral Macaulay however, called for collaboration to incubate ideas that would engage productive leadership and a transparent electoral system going forward.

In addition, the SWS Chairperson commended INEC for the transformation that had taken place in its guidelines and operations, orchestrated by the introduction of the BVAS machine into the electoral system, while equally tasking them with sustaining the credibility of the electoral system for the overall benefit of the Nigerian people.

Other guest speakers also presented their papers and in the end, a 9-point communique was issued from various deliberations by the stakeholders.

First was that, for electoral credibility in the next elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission should endeavor to make adequate logistics available for the 2023 elections.

Secondly is that necessary Voter Education should be carried out in respect of the Biometrics Verification System.

Thirdly, every effort should be made towards making the 2023 election to be the freest and most credible election ever conducted in the country.

Fourthly, that election violence, thuggery, vote buying, and other electoral malpractices should not be condoned by the electoral umpire and various security agencies.

Fifth, youths and women should make every effort to be active participants in the next election.

Sixth, the forum frowns at the high cost of conducting elections in the country and calls for drastic measures to cut down the huge budgetary allocations.

Seventh, for the sustainability of the democratic process and the enthronement of true federalism and good governance, the electoral umpire should strive to be seen as unbiased.

Eighth, in line with the resolution of the Beijing Conference of 1995, 35% of all elective positions should be reserved for women at all levels of government.

Ninth, and concluding is that, the stakeholder’s forum congratulated the organizers for the high level of success recorded during the meeting and also for the huge turnout of invitees.

Police foil kidnapping operation and rescue kidnapped victim in Delta

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Officers of the Delta State Police Command have prevented a kidnapping operation and rescued the kidnapped victim along Okirigwe road, Sapele LGA.

It was gathered that during the operation, the command recovered one locally made gun and a suspected stolen vehicle.

Also, in another development, the officers killed a suspected armed robber and recovered one locally made cut-to-size gun and six rounds of live cartridges.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement by the Police Public Relations Office of the State Command, DSP Bright Edafe, on Sunday in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the statement, “
On 06/08/2022 at about 2300, Police operatives attached to State Anti-Cult Unit (SACU) while on Special duty alongside Sapele Divisional patrol team, flagged down a Toyota Camry with reg. No. AFM 47 AP with three occupants. They refused to stop for a search, instead, they drove against traffic in a bid to escape along Okirigwe road, Sapele but were given a tireless chase by the Policemen until they got to a dead end.

“They jump down from the vehicle and escaped into a crowded place. The Policemen professionally did not open fire as the reason why they were running has not been established and did not want to hurt innocent persons in the process. When the team got to the abandoned vehicle, they saw a victim (name withheld) tied inside the car who was kidnapped by the suspects. He was rescued unhurt and has since been reunited with his family.

“Exhibits recovered include one locally made short gun, one cutlass, and their operational vehicle which is suspected to have been stolen. The effort to arrest the fleeing suspects is ongoing.”

Similarly, “On 05/08/2022, at about 1715hrs, an Anti-crime patrol attached to ‘A’ Division Warri were on Stop and search duty at Iyara road when they intercepted a tricycle with three male occupants. The suspects surprisingly reversed the tricycle and sped off, the team upon suspicion went after them till they got to chevron Clinic road in Warri.

“The hoodlums opened fire on the Policemen and the team equally responded. In the process, one of the Suspects was maimed while others escaped. The injured suspect was taken to the hospital where he gave up the ghost while receiving treatment.

“One locally made cut-to-size gun with six live cartridges and two expended cartridges were recovered. A serious manhunt for the other members of the gang is ongoing.”

The Commissioner of Police while appreciating the efforts of Deltans in the fight against crime and criminality, urges them to be patient especially when they encounter Policemen on the road performing stop and search duty. He noted that Stop and search is one of the proactive ways in combating crime and nipping it in the bud.

The CP assures all residents in the State that the Command remains committed to carrying out its core mandate which is the protection of life and property.

Music: Fireboy DML drops his highly anticipated album ‘Playboy’

YBNL signee, Adedamola Adefolahan, better known as Fireboy DML, has finally dropped his long-awaited album ‘Playboy’

The singer dropped the album on all streaming platforms in the early hours of Friday.

While announcing the release, Fireboy took to Twitter to share a picture of himself with a caption “It was meant to be. ‘Playboy, the album is out now.

The album contains 14-tracks featuring Ed Sheeran, Chris Brown, Rema, Asake, and Euro.

‘Change’, ‘Bandana’, ‘Ashawo’, ‘Playboy’, ‘Adore’, ‘Sofri’, ‘Diana’, and ‘Compromise’, ‘Timoti’, ‘Peru’, ‘Peru remix’, ‘Afro High-Life’, ‘Havin Fun’, and ‘Glory’ are the song that made up the album.

The project happens to be his third studio album and is coming after ‘Apollo’ his 2020 album and also ‘Laughter, Tears, and Goosebumps’, his debut album in 2019.

Since the release of his debut album, Fireboy has established himself in the Nigerian music industry and he has also received several awards for his craft.

During the 14th Headies, ‘Apollo’ won the album of the year award, and also at the ceremony, the singer grabbed a total of four different awards.

Recently, he became the first African artiste to perform on the main stage at the 2022 BET awards ceremony.

Listen to the Playboy album below:

Get All Expense Paid Vacation To Dubai

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The Psychological effect of the current happenings in our society has raised the stress level of Nigerians to an all-time high.

In response to this, Wealth Academy Business Club has put together an avenue to help reduce this effect.

If you are in Asaba, you want to join us this weekend and find out how you can get an ALL EXPENSE PAID VACATION TO DUBAI to relax your mind + AN ADDITIONAL $2,000 for Shopping at the prestigious DUBAI MALL.

The date for the meeting is slated for Saturday 6, August 2022, time 11 AM. The venue is Hampton Towers & Spa, located at
147 Okpanam Road
Asaba.

Don’t fall victims to fake registration websites – INEC tells Nigerians

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The Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised an alarm to caution Nigerians over a fake registration portal that is urging them to enroll for voter cards despite the closure of the exercise.

The fake site claimed that the federal government has approved individual registration online to avoid unnecessary crowds in the “NIMC” centers.

This development comes barely 24 hours after the commission suspended voter registration.

A statement issued on Monday by the INEC Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, stated that the site is not linked to the Commission and the link/portal is spurious and from a dubious source.

According to the statement “The Independent National Electoral Commission is the only body constitutionally and legally mandated to conduct the registration of persons qualified to vote in any election in Nigeria and to update and revise the register when the need arises.

“The Commission is solely responsible for organizing, undertaking, and supervising national elections in the country and does not share this responsibility with anybody or organization.

“Members of the public are strongly advised not to succumb to the antics of online scammers and should avoid such fake sites.

“The Commission has concluded the Continuous Voter Registration exercise nationwide and does not need to open an additional site or portal for registration of voters.”

Recall, that the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) registration ends on 31 July. The deadline, initially set for 30 June, was extended to 31 July following public outcry.

Insecurity: Edo state government set to recruit forest guards

The Edo State Government has announced it will be recruiting forest guards in a renewed effort to enhance security across the state.

This was made known in a statement on Monday by Crusoe Osagie, the Special Adviser on the Media Project to Governor Godwin Obaseki following the documentation and audit of the state’s forests.

According to Osagie, the state government in partnership with relevant stakeholders is strengthening the security architecture and adopting various instruments to boost security in the state, including bush combing, registration of motorbikes and marketplaces, and signing of the anti-grazing laws, and residents’ registration, among others.

The statement reads “The responsibility of any government in any society is to guarantee the security and safety of the people. No government can call itself a government if it cannot protect and secure the lives of the people that it oversees.

“That is why for us in Edo, given what is going on in the country today, we have decided that security is now our number one priority. In the area of our forests, we have completed documentation and audit of all our forests in Edo State, particularly in Edo South.

“We have done a flyover of all our forests and as we speak, we have set up a new forestry commission. Our forestry laws that have not been updated in more than 50 years now have been updated. And part of the provisions of the law is that we will now re-energize the institution of forest guards.

“We are currently in discussion with the Federal Ministry of Environment and some other stakeholders to begin the recruitment of the first set of the new forest police as we will call them to support the activities of all the other security agencies.

“In terms of squatters in markets, we are going to enforce the local government laws which stipulate that it is only the local government that is entitled to register markets and shut down illegal markets.

“Any place where trading is currently taking place today and such a place has not been registered will be immediately shut down.”

BBNaija: Hermes emerges HOH for week 2 as Chichi, and Dotun become the tail of the house

As the ongoing Big Brother Naija season 7 continues to level up, Hermes won the Head of House challenge for the second week on Monday.

As HoH, the reality star will enjoy Immunity from this week’s possible Eviction, immunity for the Head of House’s Level, and sole power to Nominate 5 housemates.

Just like last week, the housemates gathered in the Arena for their Head of House game but this time, the two new housemates, Deji and Modella, as well as last week’s HOH, Eloswag, were exempted from joining in.

This week’s HOH Challenge involves two stages, for the first challenge, involves setting the time on multiple wristwatches correctly. There are 23 bowls, each with 10 toy wristwatches in them. The watches have been set to the same time, your challenge is to set each wristwatch to 4 o’clock.

Chomzy and Khalid finished the quickest but failed to advance to the next level because some of their wristwatches failed to tell the time correctly.

Dotun, Cyph, and Hermes, however, came out as the best-performing housemates in the first challenge and were pitted against each other in the final challenge.

Hermes was thereafter declared the winner of the game.

The model and his yet-to-be chosen deputy will have the privilege to enjoy the luxury that comes with the HoH room for a week.

Meanwhile, Chi Chi was also announced as the tail of the house (ToH) — the title given to the worst performing housemate during the games.

Dotun is also expected to share the title of the tail with Chi Chi because he mishandled his microphone.

Peter Obi’s experience is not deep enough to lead Nigeria – Gov. Okowa

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The executive governor of Delta State, Senator. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, who is the vice presidential candidate of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), said Peter Obi did not have enough experience to lead the country.

Okowa made this known during an interview with BBC pidgin, adding that Obi has experience from being a former governor but it is not “deep” enough to lead Nigeria.

He said “I did not say he won’t have any votes, he will have. But what I’m saying is that he’s not a new candidate. It has not been long since he left PDP. You know he was in APGA before, from APGA he came to PDP. It hasn’t been long since he left (PDP) so he cannot say anything about PDP because that’s where he was before.”

Some of us are still here. At every party, there are good people and bad people. But today’s Nigeria is very troubled and we need the right person. That is why I am appealing to our youths be wise and vote well, they should not be blinded by the concept of a false change because that is how they raved on Jonathan in 2015.

“His (Obi) previous experience is not enough for this one (presidency), it will be hard. His experience is not deep enough. Even as a current governor ruling in a time of crisis, I know how hard it is. I even want to learn under Atiku because he has experience with the federal government. The thing is not easy. For them to have handled the economy at that time and made it something better, offering hope, creating jobs, and filtering the society, was not easy because it’s a bigger thing. So someone is supposed to learn through that. If you look at Obi’s experience you’ll know it’s small.

Speaking on the crisis in the PDP, Okowa said Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers, is his friend and that he is making an effort to reach out to him.

We’ve been talking internally, everything is being settled. You know that when something happens and everybody can’t agree, it’s settled bit by bit. That is what we’re still working on from the inside. We are finding a way to talk I’ll say, he is my friend, I am his friend, and we will find a way to talk,” he said.

“Atiku has said his version of what happened, and I am sure that version he said is the true position. I am also not saying that Wike is lying, but if someone carries their anger, it is important to air your views. For us at the party, it’s about how to bring everybody together, how all of us can work together. Wike is still a very important member of the party, he has worked so hard for the party as many of us have worked hard too so we pray that everything comes together and we talk. I’m sure very soon we’ll be sitting down.”

The decision of Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the PDP, to name Okowa as his running mate for the 2023 presidential election caused division in the party.

Some party stakeholders, including Samuel Ortom, governor of Benue, had expressed concerns over Atiku’s decision to ignore Wike, who was recommended for the position by the party’s national working committee (NWC). Wike placed second in the party’s presidential primary election which took place in May.

But in a recent interview, Atiku said the panel did not choose Wike and that he did not pick Wike as his running mate because he wanted someone he could work with “amicably”.

Responding to the claims made by the PDP presidential candidate in the interview, Wike accused Atiku of lying, saying he would speak on the matter soon.

Conjoined twins with fused brains successfully separated in Brazil

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Conjoined twins, Bernardo and Arthur Lima, who was born with fused brains have been successfully separated after 33 hours of medical procedures.

The Twins undergo different surgeries in Rio de Janeiro, under the direction of UK-based paediatric surgeon Noor ul Owase Jeelani from London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital.

The three-year-old boys had a total of seven procedures, involving more than 33 hours of operating time in the final two surgeries alone, and 100 medical staff were involved.

According to SkyNews, Surgeons spent months trialling techniques using virtual reality before beginning the real procedures.

Their surgery was led by Mr Jeelani, alongside Dr Gabriel Mufarrej, head of paediatric surgery at Instituto Estadual do Cerebro Paulo Niemeyer.

Mr. Jeelani described the operation as a “remarkable achievement” by medics but added the charity, Gemini Untwined, relies on public donations to keep its work going.

He said: “The successful separation of Bernardo and Arthur is a remarkable achievement by the team in Rio and a fantastic example of why the work of Gemini Untwined is so valuable.

“Not only have we provided a new future for the boys and their families, but we have also equipped the local team with the capabilities and confidence to undertake such complex work successfully again in the future.

“It is through this process of teamwork and knowledge-sharing globally that we can hope to improve the outcome for all children and families that find themselves in this difficult position.

“This is only possible through generous donations from members of the public.”

Gabriel Mufarrej said the hospital where he works had been caring for the boys for two and a half years, and their surgery will be “life-changing”.

He said: “Since the parents of the boys came from their home in the Roraima region to Rio to seek our help two and a half years ago, they had become part of our family here in the hospital.

“We are delighted that the surgery went so well and the boys and their family have had such a life-changing outcome.”

Their work was supported by Gemini Untwined, a charity founded by Mr. Jaleeni to raise funds for siblings born joined at the head – called craniopagus twins.

Freeing Bernardo and Arthur from one another was one of the most complex separation processes ever completed, and many surgeons did not think it would be possible, according to the charity.

Since the twins are almost four years old, they are also the oldest craniopagus twins with a fused brain to have been separated.

Both twins are recovering well in hospital and will be supported with six months of rehabilitation, the charity has said.

According to Gemini figures, one in 60,000 births results in conjoined twins, and only 5% of these are craniopagus children.

Rafiatu Lawal wins 2nd gold medal for Nigeria at Commonwealth Games

Folashade Rafiatu Lawal has set a new record after winning the second gold medal for Nigeria at the ongoing Commonwealth Games.

She won the medal in the women’s 59kg weightlifting event on Sunday in Birmingham.

The 25-year-old lifted a total of 206kg to set a Commonwealth record for accumulated lifts. She also wins the category after lifting 90kg for her first lift.

Lawal also set a Commonwealth record in the clean and jerk category, lifting 110kg, 115kg, and 116kg in all her attempts.

It was recorded that Lawal’s gold is Nigeria’s third medal at the games, after Adijat Olarinoye and Umoafia Joseph finished first and third on the platform of their weightlifting categories, respectively.

In boxing, Nigeria’s Adeyinka Benson booked a place in the quarter-final of the 71-75kg boxing category.

He defeated Abubakar Kumasi of Ghana 3-2 in the third round.

The 26-year-old will face Sam Hickey of Scotland on Wednesday at 3:15 pm.

YouTube announces new feature for creators to turn longer videos into Shorts

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YouTube has introduced a new feature that will make it easier for creators to import their longer videos into Shorts format.

The features enable creators to convert 60 seconds from an existing video into Shorts using all the same editing tools such as text, timeline editor, filters, etc.

With these features, creators can now bring fresh life to classic content and give it a new way to engage with their audiences.

YouTube announced this in a post on its website saying the finished Short will also be linked to the full video it was clipped from, which could help make Shorts an ideal promotional tool for the creator’s longer content.

The Edit tool for converting longer videos into Short only allows creators to make Shorts Clips from their original content, not possible for other creators’ content.

The new features are available for all mobile creation across iOS and Android devices.

Another twist for BBNaija, Ebuka introduces two fake housemates

As the show continues on day 9, its third live show, another twist, and turns of the game unfold as Ebuka Obi Uchendu, host of the Big Brother Naija show, introduced two fake housemates to level things up in the house.

The two fake housemates, Deji and Modella were welcomed on the stage of the Big Brother Naija Live Show on Sunday.

As fake housemates, Deji and Modella will keep the original housemates on their toes just as Maria and Pere did with the wild cards in the ‘Shine Ya Eye’ season.

Deji from Lagos State was introduced first and he promised to be as real as it gets as well as spontaneous and of course, put his faith in his hot body to keep the game sizzling. Deji’s blood-red outfit spoke volumes as it showed off his torso, sending the crowd into a frenzy. He was introduced into the level one house.

Meet Deji:

Meanwhile, Modella from Osun State, portrays herself as the content queen the House needs came full of energy in a pure white bedazzled gown and that’s exactly what she promises Biggie fans. Africa will have to wait and see.

When Modella made her appearance on Level 2, the Housemates paused for a moment as if they were seeing a ghost. It was only when she spelled out to them that she was the new Housemate that she finally got a reaction.

Meet Modella:

Before closing off the Show, Ebuka reminded the Housemates on both Levels that showcasing themselves is important but entertaining the fans is what’s more important,

“Relax, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he warned.

Singer Ne-yo’s wife ends 8-year marriage over infidelity

The marriage of American singer and songwriter, Ne-yo to Crystal Smith, his wife has ended.

His wife announced the breakup with a lengthy statement on her Instagram page on Sunday.

Crystal is accusing Ne-Yo of infidelity and also added that she has had enough because he committed it just after they both renewed their wedding vows.

The mother-of-three stated that for eight years of their marriage, she had been sharing her husband with numerous women “who sell their bodies to him unprotected.”

She also stated that she will no longer lie to the public or pretend that their marriage was working.

In her statement, she said “Eight years; Eight years of lies and deception. Eight years of unknowingly sharing my life and husband with numerous women who sell their bodies to him unprotected… every last one of them!

“To say I’m heartbroken and disgusted is an understatement. To ask me to stay and accept it is insane; the mentality of a narcissist.

“I will no longer lie to the public or pretend that this is something it isn’t.”

Crystal pointed out that though she gained three children from the marriage, she was left with “wasted years and heartache.”

She went on, “I choose me, I choose my happiness and health and my respect. I gained three beautiful children out of this but nothing else but wasted years and heartache.

“I ask that you all please stop sending me videos or information of him cheating because what he does is no longer my concern. I am not a victim. I’m choosing to stand tall with my head held high.

“If someone can’t love you the way you deserve, then it’s up to you to love yourself. With no hate in my heart, I wish him nothing but the best.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CgqSYXOuRZb/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Police arrest Herbalist for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl

An herbalist residing in the Referefu area of Oja-Odan in Ogun State has been arrested for allegedly having unlawful carnal knowledge of a 17-year-old girl.

The suspect identified as Samson Ogundele was arrested following a complaint filed by the victim at Oja odan divisional headquarters.

It was gathered that the victim came to the house of the herbalist for consultation when the incident happened.

The victim a hairdressing apprentice reported that a sum of one thousand naira got missing in their shop which made all the nine apprentices in the shop consult the herbalist to know who stole the money amongst them.

On getting to the herbalist, he started calling them into a room one after the other after collecting seven hundred from them.

Also in the report, the victim said the first and second persons who entered the room came out, but when it was her turn, she entered and the herbalist tried to rape her.

Upon her complaint, the DPO Oja odan division, CSP Gabriel Ikechukwu, told his operatives to go after the suspect and he was arrested.

It was while investigating him that one of the girls who are 17 years old confessed that the herbalist had already had carnal knowledge of her when she met him in the consulting room. She stated further that the herbalist threatened that she will die if she inform anybody.

Immediately after the report, the victim was taken to Oja Odan General Hospital where the Doctor on duty confirmed that the girl has been defiled.

The spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi, confirmed the incident stating that the herbalist himself has confessed to being guilty of the crime.

He also said the state Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Bankole, has directed that the suspect be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Departments for further investigation and diligent prosecution.

Tinubu would transform Nigeria’s economy if elected president – Zack Orji

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Veteran actor, Zack Orji, has declared his support for the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He says the former governor of Lagos State will transform Nigeria’s economy if elected president in 2023.

Orji who is also the vice-president of Ambassadors of Voice for Change made his position known in a viral video on Saturday.

According to the actor, he said Tinubu ran an all-inclusive government during his time as governor of Lagos. Adding that the politician is a kind of leader Nigeria’s economy needs to achieve positive change.

Orji said “My support for Bola Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu is both experiential and personal. I have lived in Lagos for over 40 years. I have always known this man as a chief crusader of the democratic consolidation of Nigeria.

“I have always known him as a man who stands for justice, equity, fair play, and national cohesion.

“In his time as the governor of Lagos state, he ran an all-inclusive government, drawing people from different ethnic extractions into the executive council as decision makers to run the affairs of the state.

“There is nothing like this. People who came from different ethnic extractions were allowed to be part of the decision-making of Lagos state.

“I know with a high degree of certainty that, on a national scale when he becomes the president of Nigeria, he will do likewise.

“This is what we need in this country. Though we differ in tribe and tongue, we stand tall and proud in solidarity and brotherhood. I know that when he becomes the president of this country, he will turn the economy around.

“Join me to support this man and turn the fortunes of this country around for the better.”

INEC reveals the date PVCs will be ready for collection

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), says the Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) will be available for collection in October and November.

This was revealed by Festus Okoye, INEC National Commissioner, and Chairman, Information and Voters Education Committee while monitoring the concluding part of the ongoing CVR in Awka, Anambra on Saturday, July 30.

He said the registration exercise will end on Sunday.

According to the INEC Commissioner, he said “INEC has to bring the exercise to a close, to enable the commission to cross-check data collated.

“This will enable our system operators to eliminate double and multiple registrations before we produce the PVCs for distribution.

“The law equally requires that we should display the register in the 774 Local Government Areas and 8, 809 registration areas for claims and objections.

“And we have to print the PVCs, truck them to all the local government areas across the country for collection.”

Okoye explained that the PVCs for eligible voters who registered between January and June would be ready in October, while those who registered from July 1 to July 31 would collect theirs in November.

“At least 276, 767 persons had completed their registration as of July 25.

“The commission deployed a total of 110 INEC Voters Enrollment Devices (IVED) in the state out of which 10 malfunctioned,” he added.

Italian man beat Nigerian man to death in Italy

A 39-year-old Nigerian man identified as Alika Ogorchukwu has been murdered by an Italian man in Italy.

It was gathered that the Italian man beat Ogorchukwu who was disabled to death on a busy road as passersby watched and film the incident without making any effort to stop the situation.

The incident happened in Civitanova Marche city in the province of Macerata, Marche Region of Italy on Friday 29, July 2022.

In a statement, the Nigerian Ambassador to Italy, Mfawa Omini Abam, condemned the incident saying the embassy is currently working together with appropriate Italian authorities to ensure justice is served and to provide succor to the family of the deceased.

The statement reads: “The attention of the Embassy has been drawn to the brutal murder of Alika Ogorchukwu, a 39-year-old Nigerian citizen who was beaten to death by an Italian man on Friday 29th July 2022, in Civitanova Marche city, located in the Province of Macerata, Marche Region of Italy.

The incident occurred on a busy street, in front of shocked onlookers. Some of whom made videos of the attack, with little or no attempt to prevent it. His Excellency, Ambassador Mfawa Omini Abam has condemned the gruesome murder and has commiserated with Mrs. Charity Oriachi, wife of the deceased, and the rest of his family.

“His Excellency has directed the provision of immediate consular assistance as appropriate.

“The Embassy is currently collaborating with relevant Italian authorities to ensure justice is served and to provide succor to the family of the deceased. Ambassador Abam wishes to enjoin members of the Nigerian community in Italy to remain calm and to refrain from taking laws into their hands.

His Excellency wishes to reassure Nigerians in Italy that citizen diplomacy remained the key thrust of his administration and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all Nigerians in Italy receive timely, efficient and professional consular services. Embassy of Nigeria
Rome, Italy.”

Emirates declares flights reduction to Nigeria over failure to repatriate revenue

Emirates Airlines has announced it will reduce the number of flights to Nigeria from August 15, 2022, over failure to repatriate its revenue from the country.

This development was made known in a letter signed by Sheik Majid Al Mualla, the DSVP International Affairs to the Nigerian Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sitika, dated July 22, 2022.

“With effect from 15 August 2022, Emirates will be forced to reduce flights from Dubai to Lagos from 11 per week to 7 per week. We have had no choice but to take this action, to mitigate the continued losses Emirates is experiencing as a result of funds being blocked in Nigeria,” the letter partly read.

The letter noted that as of July, Emirates had $ 85 million of funds awaiting repatriation from Nigeria. It said the figure has been rising by more than $10 million every month, while operational costs of 11 weekly flights to Lagos and five to Abuja continue to accumulate.

The airline said these funds are urgently needed for them to meet their operational costs and maintain the commercial viability of their services to Nigeria.

“We simply cannot continue to operate at the current level in the face of mounting losses, especially in the challenging post-COVID-19 climate,” the airline noted.

According to the Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs) with countries, airline tickets are mostly sold in naira while the airlines would repatriate the funds in dollars through the country’s central bank.

Emirates said it tried to stem the losses by proposing to pay for fuel in Nigeria in Naira, which would have at least reduced one element of its costs, but that the request was denied by the supplier.

“This means that not only are Emirates’ revenues accumulating, we also have to send hard currency into Nigeria to sustain our operation. Meanwhile, our revenues are out of reach and not even earning credit interest,” the airline added.

The airline said, “Your Excellency, this is not a decision we have taken lightly. Indeed, we have made every effort to work with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to find a solution to this issue.”

It said, “Our Senior Vice-President met with the Deputy Governor of the CBN in May and followed up on the meeting by letter to the Governor himself the following month, however, no positive response was received.”

The letter also explained that meetings were also held with Emirates bank in Nigeria and in collaboration with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to discuss improving Forex allocation, but with limited success.

The airline requested the government to help resolve the problem. Nigeria is facing a foreign currency crunch amid low oil revenues and rising demand for dollars. Naira sold for N700 a dollar on Friday at the parallel market, about its worst performance.

“Should there be any positive development in the coming days, we will of course re-evaluate this decision,” the airline noted.

When newsmen reached out to a Special Assistant to Sirika, James Odaudu, for comments he said, “ I am not in the mood to talk to you now.”

While Nigeria grapples with forex scarcity as demand increases, domestic airline operators within the past weeks and months have lamented the sudden increase in aviation fuel, threatening to halt operations.

Sirika on Tuesday during an emergency meeting with airline operators, said, “there are no immediate solutions” to the lingering crisis in the sector because what suffers the industry is a global problem.

Slay queen arrested for stabbing her boyfriend who just return from Canada to death

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A young Ghanaian lady identified as Safina Diamond, has been arrested for allegedly stabbing her boyfriend to death.

It was gathered that the young lady stabbed her boyfriend who just returned from Canada in the neck and stomach multiple times leading to his death.

She was arraigned at the Adenta Court Complex on Friday, July 28, where she claimed she killed him in self-defence because he was trying to rape her.

It was further gathered that she had an accomplice, who is said to also be her boyfriend.

The duo has now been remanded in police custody and the case adjourned to August 12th, 2022.

Watch the video showing the moment she was escorted into the court building.

Police dismiss inspector for justifying extortion in viral video

The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed one Mr. Richard Gele, the Police Inspector caught in a viral video dignifying and justifying extortion of members of the public.

The dismissal was made known in a statement by CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi,
force public relations officer, force headquarters in
Abuja on Friday.

According to the statement, the dismissal came after the officer was seen in a viral video justifying the act on July 25, 2022.

The statement read in part “The former Inspector, with AP/No. 188547, was until his dismissal, attached to Police Mobile Force 77 Squadron, Okene, Kogi State, and deployed to the Itobe–Anyigba Road for the safety of road users and commuters. This was the route where the incident occurred.

“The dismissed Inspector, who hails from Benue State, was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force in September 2000.

“The officer has been de-kitted and handed over to the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State, for further necessary action.

“His dismissal came after subjection to internal disciplinary mechanisms and being found wanting of the charges leveled against him in line with extant laws governing the conduct of police personnel.

His dismissal and de-kitting, however, implies that he, henceforth, ceases to be a member of the Nigeria Police Force.

The IGP, Usman Baba, while expressing the commitment of his administration to bequeathing policing standards in tandem with international best practices to the nation, warned all personnel to eschew extortion, unprofessionalism, corruption, and other inappropriate acts.

He also urged police officers across the nation to display exemplary courage and patriotism in the discharge of their duties.

African Queen a blessing and curse – 2Baba

Nigerian legendary singer, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Baba has said ‘African Queen’, his debut single is a source of blessing and a curse to him.

2Baba confessed this while talking about the impact of the African Queen when he was featured in the fifth episode of the Journey of the Beats documentary which premiered on Showmax.

The documentary was centered on the history and rise of the Afrobeats genre.

The 46-year-old musician considers the 2004 hit song a blessing while affirming that the track brought him to the spotlight and won him awards, International recognition, and commendations.

Listen to the song

He also added that the song got him the “King of R&B” title in Nigeria and became a template for performing an outstanding Afrobeats song.

He went further to mention that the song happened to be a curse because its success now serve as a yardstick to his other songs.

According to him, ‘African Queen’ would always overshadow his other works in terms of success.

The fifth episode also explored momentous events that contributed to Afrobeats during the mid-2000s. These events included the Urban Kings, extremely the first Nigerian pop boy band, Style Plus, and the iconic duo, P-Square, to the Bariga boys such as ID Cabasa, 9ice, Da-grin, and Olamide, who brought the street sound, indigenous rap, an infusion of street slang, local dialects, and originality that spoke directly to the audience.

The ‘Journey of The Beats’ story continued in the sixth episode which was released on Thursday, July 28, 2022

Visit www.showmax.com to watch the latest episode.

Breaking: Senators stage walkout during plenary after Lawan shuts down impeachment motion against Buhari

Opposition Senators from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have threatened to impeach President Muhammadu Buhari over the worsening case of insecurity in the country.

The lawmaker also issued a six-week ultimatum to start the impeachment process in case he failed to address the issue within the stipulated period.

The position of the lawmakers was made known by Senator Philip Aduda, Senate minority leader who briefed journalists at the National Assembly in Abuja on Wednesday.

It was gathered that before the briefing, the opposition lawmakers had staged a walkout following the call to impeach President Muhammadu Buhari during the plenary.

It all started when Senator Aduda raised a point of order asking the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, to discuss the security situation in the country and the impeachment of President Buhari.

But Senator Lawan, who presided over the plenary declined the request of the minority leader, saying the point of order raised fell flat on its face.

Provoked by the action of the Senate President, all the opposition lawmakers took turns and walk out of the legislative chamber while the plenary is ongoing.

The walkout came as the latest in a series of concerns raised by various individuals and groups amid the rising spate of insecurity in the country.

ASUU strike: NLC puts up with protest to National Assembly

The National Labour Congress on Wednesday moved its protest to the National Assembly in Abuja amidst the ASUU strike.

The union did a similar demonstration held in all states of the federation on Tuesday except in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

It was gathered that workers from different states Tuesday 26, began the protest calling on the federal government to agree to the demands of ASUU for the union to reopen Nigerian universities.

The protest begins again in Abuja today, July 27 at 9:30 am after members of the NLC leadership and leaders from the different affiliated unions gathered on the Unity Fountain in the nation’s capital.

Before the Labour Union arrived at the Legislative Houses, security had been reinforced.

The protesters plan to match to the National Assembly where the NLC president will deliver a message from the labour unions to the lawmakers.

Those who led the protest in Abuja on Wednesday included the NLC President, Ayuba Wabba; AAC presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, and the immediate past President of ASUU, Professor Biodun Ogunyemi, among others.

Breaking: Organizers of Headies awards disqualify Portable from this year’s edition, give reasons

Controversial singer, Habeem Okikiola, better known as Portable, has been disqualified from this year’s edition of The Headies awards.

The organizers of the awards disqualified his nomination following controversy and investigation by the Nigeria Police Force, after allegedly claiming to be connected to a criminal group known as ‘one million boys’.

On May 24, Portable was nominated for the ‘Best Street Artist’ and ‘Rookie of the Year categories.

He was expected to compete with Av, Fave, Magixx, and Ugoccie in the ‘Rookie of the Year category. While for the second category, he was nominated against Bella Shmurda, Mohbad, Naira Marley, and Goya Menor among others.

Immediately after the nominations were unveiled, Portable claimed his co-nominees at The Headies are no match for him.

He also threatened to kill anyone who wins any of the categories in his place.

In its reaction, organizers of the awards threatened to disqualify him if he failed to withdraw his statement and issue an apology on his social media pages.

Portable had initially insulted the award organizers, saying they “nominated a mad man musician”.

The singer thereafter apologized for his “unguarded utterance” which he said was harmless.

But in a statement released on Tuesday evening, the award organizers said Portable was disqualified because he is “a subject of an investigation relating to criminal activities.”

The organizers also brought up a claim he made that he’s the founder of ‘One million Boys’, a suspected cult group in Lagos, as another reason for his disqualification.

The statement reads “We regret to announce that following numerous indicting statements made by Mr. Habeeb Okikiola popularly knowns as “Portable”, and the incessant negative attention that Mr. Okikiola has garnered from the Nigeria Police and the general public in recent times, the organizers of the Headies have resolved to disqualify Mr. Okikiola as a nominee at the forthcoming 15th Headies Awards.

“The decision to disqualify him is accentuated by a series of misdemeanors by Mr. Okikiola via his social media platforms. On the 25th of May 2022, he threatened to kill, harm, or cause harm to the other nominees in the same categories of awards he was nominated for, if he does not emerge the winner, precisely.

“Smooth Promotions Limited, the organizers of the Headies Awards is a law-abiding and responsible organization that abhors any form of violence, unlawful or activities ravaging our society.

“We shall not condone reckless and uncouth statements from artists and hereby disassociate ourselves from any individual linked to such assembly or activities including Mr. Okikiola’s prospects as long as these acts are sufficiently linked to him as described.

“The music industry demands all-around excellence. Young artists need to be potential role models to exude professional responsibility, proper decorum, and respect for others.

“Being subject of an investigation relating to criminal activities, Mr. Habeeb Okikiola is hereby disqualified from both categories of awards Annual Headies Awards scheduled to hold later this year namely: Best Street Artist and Rookie of the Year.”

Since he came into the spotlight, Portable has been in the news for controversial reasons.

Recently, the Ogun state police command had invited him for allegedly asking his team to brutalize a young man.

Delegates who took money at APC presidential primary now regret – Rotimi Amaechi alleges

Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation and former presidential aspirant of the All Progressive Congress, APC, has alleged that some of the delegates who voted at the APC convention are now regretting their decisions.

He also alleged that those bishops at Kashim Shettima’s unveiling ceremony, may not be bishops, but they are Christians.

Amaechi made this known in Port Harcourt during the 60th birthday celebration of Apostle Eugene Ogu, the General Overseer of Abundant Life Evangel Mission.

According to him, some of the voters at the party’s convention took the money and are now regretting their decisions.

The former governor of River State said “Those who voted at the APC primaries, who are they? They are ordinary Nigerians. The small money they got solved their immediate problem, now they are saying they made a mistake, you are now hearing different things.”

“If you are praying for us, pray for the leadership of the country, but also pray for ordinary Nigerians to be able to choose the right president to govern the country.”

“Those Bishops you saw (at the unveiling of Shettima) may not be Bishops but they are Christians. Pray for the ordinary Nigerians. Please vote for APC, I am not joking. May God make you vote for the right candidate that will change Nigeria.

“Giving money is not the solution to Nigeria’s problem. The solution to Nigeria’s problem is that all of you must all rise.

“When I was giving contracts and money, they said Amaechi is not a good man and I left office now, what am I? A saint. When you marry two wives, you know that the first one is better.

“People are now saying when Amaechi was here insecurity was not like this bad. Remember, I was always in the bushes chasing those criminals. When you kidnap, I will come and look for you. I will call the security heads, we go into the bush together and we must recover the man. Now kidnapping is natural, as you are you expect to be kidnapped. Nobody cares.”

Eloswag becomes the first HOH for season 7 of BBNaija

Eloswag has won the head of house (HOH) for the Big Brother Naija ‘Level Up’ season while Bella becomes the tail of the house.

He becomes the first housemate to achieve the title for season 7 of BBNaija after winning the HOH contest on Monday.

Before the contested Head of House game, the housemates in the two groups came together to play the HOH game in the arena. Big Brother asked the excited Housemates to calm down before he read out the rules of the game. He explained to the Housemates what came with winning the title of Head of House such as bragging rights as the first HOH for the season.

A game changer came when Biggie announced that if a Housemate from one level wins the HOH title, all Housemates from that level gain immunity for the week. Housemates with the worst performance will be given the title Tail of the House which may hold some responsibility or yield rewards, an honor that befell Level 1 Housemate, Bella.

During the game, Housemates were given ping pong balls to move from one end of the room to the other using pipes that Biggie provided. The aim was for Housemates to make sure that they transport as many balls as they could.

Biggie let Bella, Phyna, Daina, Chryst O, Giddyfia, and Groovy know that they were out of the game and that Bella was the first tail of the House. After tallying the score, Khalid, Byann, Cyph, Eloswag, and Dotun were onto the next round of the game.

After battling it out, Biggie explained to Dotun and Khalid that they were disqualified for ignoring the rules. The Ninja came onto the floor to measure the cashew nuts from the three remaining Housemates, Eloswag, Bryann, and Cyph. After a tense few minutes, Eloswag was announced as the first HOH winner.

Biggie explained that Eloswag’s win comes with the responsibility of who the ultimate nominees are. He wish all the Housemates a good night and asked them to return to their respective Houses. Housemates left the Arena with mixed feelings about Eloswag’s win as the Level 2 Housemates leave the Arena pained.

Eloswag and his deputy will have the privilege to enjoy the luxury that comes with the HOH room for a week. Meanwhile, Bella’s task as the tail of the House is to wear her clothes inside out for the rest of the week including headwear and a tail that will be provided to her.

Phyno anticipates a new song featuring Tekno, see the release date

Nigerian indigenous rapper Phyno is about to drop a new song titled ‘Current’ featuring Tekno, a talented music producer, and singer.

He said the song will be dropped this Friday while anticipating it.

Phyno made this known through a video post he shared via his Twitter page on Monday.

Sharing the post, he wrote “NEW MUSIC THIS FRIDAY!!! FULL CURRENT ft TEKNO READY?”

The song ‘Current’ is produced by superstar producer, Young Willis.

2023: 70 groups join Obi movement during stakeholders meeting in Delta

As the struggle for structure begins in the Labour Party, seventy groups and non-governmental organizations from the 25 LGA of Delta State have joined the Peter Obi movement, the presidential candidate of the party.

The groups held a stakeholders’ town hall meeting in Asaba over the weekend where they unveiled the state governorship candidate, Deacon Kawhariebie Ken Pela; his deputy, Prof. Julie Nwabogo Umukoro, and other candidates.

During the meeting, Prince Favour Reuben, LP’s Deputy Chairman, South-South, urged Nigerians to do all they could for the party to take over power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), because “our country, for now, is looking for a saviour.”

According to the Deputy Chairman, “Nigeria is looking for a savior. Peter Obi is there for us. He is God-sent and the spiritual force to change the face of Nigeria. He has the brain needed to refloat the nation’s economy for our common good.”

He also urged the groups to be completely prepared for the assignment ahead, adding that the party needs only those with the determination to win the election and certainly not those that will easily be negotiated.

In his remarks, Pela asked Nigerians, particularly youths, to take their destiny into their own hands and vote out the leadership of the country, saying the leaders are the biggest problem in Nigeria.

The party-state Chairman, Tony Ezeagwu, said: “It’s God divine that Peter Obi will take over power next year.”

Among the groups were: Door to Door for Peter Obi; Peter Obi Vanguard; Oshimili South Peter Obi Movement; Rescue Nigeria 2023 for Peter Obi; We Will Take Back Naija; Vibrant Men and Women for Peter Obi; Take by Force for Peter Obi, Ijaw Youths for Peter Obi; Ika Mechanised Farmers Association of Nigeria for Peter Obi: Peter Obi Network and United Pastors for Peter Obi.

Also on the list are Ika Nation for Peter Obi; Nigerian Youth for Peter Obi; Voice of Priests for Peter Obi; It’s Time to Take back Nigeria; Peter Obi Coalition; Astute Reporter for Peter Obi.

Tobi Amusan Breaks World Record, Wins Historic Gold For Nigeria

Nigerian athlete, Tobi Amusan celebrates after setting a world record in the women’s 100m hurdles final during the World Athletics Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

She becomes the first Nigerian athlete to win a World Athletics Championship gold.

Amusan had broken the world record in the semi-final where she timed 12.12 seconds, powered over the line at Hayward Field in an extraordinary 12.06 seconds.

During the World Athletics Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon on July 24, 2022, she crosses the finish line ahead of Jamaica’s Britany Anderson and Jasmine Camacho-Quinn of team Puerto Rico to win the women’s 100m hurdles final.

Amusan had achieved an impressive world record in the semi-finals, breaking the previous best mark of 12.20 seconds held by American Kendra Harrison since 2016.

“Honestly, I believe in my abilities, but I was not expecting a world record at these championships,” Amusan said after her final victory. “The goal is always just to execute well and get the win. So, the world record is a bonus. I knew I had it in me but I could not believe it when I saw it on the screen after the semis.

“Before the final, I just tried to stay calm and to do my best. I took a deep breath knowing that I have some goal to accomplish, and it worked pretty good. I knew it was very fast but not this fast.”

Oregon 2022 is Amusan’s third appearance at the World Championships after making her debut in London in 2017 where she made the semi-finals before finishing 4th in the final in Doha in 2019. She also placed 4th at the Tokyo Olympics.

The 25-year-old has been in the form of her life in recent times breaking the African record three times in the space of 10 months and finally striking gold on the biggest of stages is the befitting way to end her wait for a world championship medal.

Gunmen attack police station in Delta, kill three officers

Gunmen on Sunday attacked the divisional police station in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, and killed three police officers.

The police officers were responding to a distress call by members of the local vigilantes when the gunmen shot them to death.

It was gathered that men of the local vigilante had claimed they were being attacked and urged the police to come to their rescue. The policemen then set out on the rescue mission but we were ambushed and three of them were killed.

Confirming the incident, the Delta State police spokesperson, DSP. Edafe Bright said one of the gunmen has been arrested.

He said three of the local vigilantes sustained injuries and are recovering while one of them is in severe condition at the emergence ward of the Federal Medical Center.

He also said the investigation is ongoing and a manhunt has been initiated to arrest some of the attackers.

BBNaija: Another 12 housemates join the ‘Level Up’ season

12 housemates were unveiled on the second launch of Big Brother Naija season 7 on Sunday.

With the unveiling, the housemates will be staying in the Level 1 house of the reality show while those unveiled on Saturday are already staying in the Level 2 house of the reality show.

In a new twist during the show, the host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu announced that the 24 housemates would be in two groups with 12 each staying in separate apartments.

According to him, the housemates played a game before the opening of the show to decide which group they belong to.

He said, “All 24 housemates played games to choose a multicolored or black and white game.”

“Those who chose multi-colored– entered level 2 house last night. Black and white — entered level house tonight.”

This is a strong difference from past seasons where the housemates are kept together in the same apartment from the first day of the show.

Here are the 12 housemates unveiled on Sunday:

Bella

Full Name: Chidimma Esther Okagbue

25-year-old Bella is a fun, energetic UNILAG graduate and content creator. She loves travelling, swimming, photography, and making new connections. She considers herself “a no-nonsense person who gets pissed off easily” and is competitive, because she likes winning.

Bella admits most of her friends are male because she doesn’t get along with girls. “It always leads to jealousy and gossip,” she says, two things she tries to avoid at all costs.

What habits are most likely to irritate her fellow Housemates? “My bluntness. I am fearless, so I don’t sugar-coat my words. I tell it like it is, and people hate to hear the truth”.

Bella decided to sign up for Big Brother Naija because she wants to be rich and famous. “I do not ever want to introduce myself. I want to walk into a room and be recognised. I love a life of comfort and intentional happiness”.

Chichi

Full Name: Chinenyenwa Desire Okoebor

“Stripper by night and chef by day”. That’s just one of the many colourful phrases 22-year-old exotic dancer and chef, Chichi, uses to describe herself. She loves swimming, dancing and travelling, and considers herself “an unshakeably ambitious goal-getter”.

Although she had a painful childhood, Chichi has managed to rise above it all and continues to forge her own path. She admits her bluntness can sometimes tick people off, but she doesn’t mind because she believes in sincerity. “It’s either I say things the way they are, or I don’t say it at all”.

Chichi wants to be on Big Brother Naija to show people that there is more to this stripper than meets the eye. “I have so many things to showcase and I believe the world needs to see me. The Big Brother Naija House is the only place that will bring me that kind of spotlight,” she says. Her hidden talent? Working the pole, of course!

Adekunle

Full Name: Adekunle Tobilola Olopade

Adekunle is a 27-year-old digital marketing consultant from Lagos. He considers himself “a self-actualised introvert” who takes pride in being a giver that solves other people’s problems.

When he’s not dreaming of creating a better life for himself and figuring out ways to make the world a better place, you’ll find Adekunle playing games on his phone or watching his favourite show, Family Guy, on YouTube. Although peace-making is one of his strengths, Adekunle is not afraid to step up and face challenges head-on should the need arise.

Are there any habits that may annoy his fellow Housemates? “The fact that I’m always right; and by the way, I never say anything I don’t know, could be considered annoying. Also, I learned recently that I use a lot of big grammar when I speak,” he says with a chuckle.

Adekunle hopes to win this season of Big Brother Naija so he can help his mother pay off her mortgage, loans and debt.

Chomzy

Full Name: Esther Chioma Ndubueze

22-year-old entrepreneur Chomzy loves the simple things in life; sewing, travelling and twerking. She hates snitches and betrayers, and considers herself a resourceful and passionate peoples-person.

Chomzy reckons she has the best family in the world. “My mom and siblings are all in Nigeria, and my dad is in Gabon. My family gets along very well and we love each other, but I’m everyone’s favourite,” she says with a smile. Although single, this firecracker is open to love when the time is right.

Some of Chomzy’s proudest moments come courtesy of her pageant and modelling work, as well as the multiple awards she has received for her humanitarian and school work.

Chomzy hopes Big Brother Naija will make her rich and famous. “I want to be successful in my business and I want to find love too”.

Allysyn

Full Name: Osy Allysyn Audu

Easy-going Allysyn describes herself as “a creative goofball who enjoys experiencing people”. She enjoys watching movies, modelling, hanging out with friends and making her own lip gloss, when she is not hard at work as a Sales and Marketing Executive for a popular vehicle brand.

She considers herself a loyal friend and expects the same energy from those closest to her. As a “huge fan of love”, Allysny is currently in a relationship and enjoys “how love helps me see myself in a new light every day”.

After investing all her money in furniture for a show she wanted to start on YouTube ­– then subsequently losing it all when Covid hit, this 25-year-old is eager to get it all back and then some, by winning Big Brother Naija. She also hopes appearing on the show will help her build her brand.

“I want to do social media full-time, I want to continue modeling and I also want to be a television presenter”. What habits could annoy her fellow Housemates? “I take everything as a joke, and I like to do things in my own time,” she says.

Diana

Full Name: Diana Isoken Edobor

Diana is a 33-year-old Project Manager from Edo State. She was born in France, but now calls Abuja home. She is sociable, family-oriented, passionate about self-development, and loves learning about new cultures.

Diana values friendship and believes in treating people the way she would like to be treated; with love, loyalty and respect. When asked about romantic relationships, Diana confirms that she is single. “Guys perceive me as sophisticated, high maintenance and too expensive to approach. When they eventually get to know me, they realise I am actually a very lovable and down to earth person,” she says.

This livewire would like to kickstart her acting career, build a network of friends and use the Big Brother Naija platform to establish her brand, and also impact the world in the critical areas of poverty, education and climate change.

Dotun

Full Name: Oladotun Mofiyinfoluwa Oloniyo

26-year-old Dotun works in an hospital as a medical physiologist and moonlights as a personal trainer on his days off. When he’s not working out or saving lives, you will find this chatty, competitive socialite watching movies, cooking or gardening.

He describes himself as “fun, good looking and spontaneous” and admits he never backs down from a challenge. Dotun has aspirations of taking over the entertainment industry and counts being crowned Mr. Tourism Nigeria 2018 as a proud moment, alongside graduating as one of the University of Ibadan’s top students in his specialty a week later.

One of his favorite pastimes is to walk around shirtless, something he notes usually irritates insecure guys. “I’m opinionated and confident, and some people don’t like it much,” he says when quizzed about habits that may rub his fellow Housemates up the wrong way. Dotun reckons he has the perfect blend of competitiveness and excitement to help him stand out in the Big Brother Naija House.

Doyin

Full Name: Doyinsola Anuoluwapo David

Doyin describes her personality as a mix of Michelle Obama and Cardi B, and admits she is not afraid to bring out either, depending on the scenario. This 26-year-old is “a box of surprises, and you never know what you’ll get”.

When she’s not hard at work as a medical radiographer, you’ll find Doyin partying and reading, and although she may come off as a tough cookie, she is a true softie on the inside. Making friends hasn’t been an easy journey for Doyin because a lot of people can’t handle how brutally honest she can be. However, she is grateful to have two close friends who mean the world to her.

Doyin is hoping Big Brother Naija will help change the direction of her life. “I find medicine incredibly boring and I want to see if there is anything for me in the entertainment industry. Also, I just want to make more money than I’m currently making,” she says.

Eloswag

Full Name: Eloka Paul Nwamu

“I’m the next big thing out of Naija and I auditioned to make the House freaking fantastic,” are the confident words of Eloswag, a 27-year-old digital marketer and content creator from Lagos.

Apart from being lively, confident and talented, Eloswag, who counts his mom as his superhero, reckons he is a hit with the ladies. “I’m a great guy and the ladies love me,” he says with a laugh.

Eloswag is single at the moment and confesses he is in no rush to get boo’d up because he has been “served his breakfast” a couple of times. “Besides, I feel relationships only work better if you have money”.

He loves to try out new things and feels Big Brother Naija is just the show for him. “I love networking and I want to have fun. I feel this platform was created to uplift the youth and the chosen contestants, and I think I’d fit the role perfectly,” he says.

Giddyfia

Full Name: Gideon Anieti Nwawo

Whatever Giddyfia chooses to do, he makes sure to do it with passion. This 24-year-old engineer considers himself a hardworking team player with excellent interpersonal skills and lots of creative ideas.

Prone to laughing and joking during serious moments, Giddyfia respects friendships and tries to avoid drama and betrayal at all costs. He has many friends, but is careful to let only a few people in.

One of his favourite achievements is graduating from university with top honours. He is a fitness buff and even won the 2019 ‘Male Physique of the Year’ award in college.

Giddyfia feels he will make a good Housemate because he is kind, caring, smart and fun to be with. “There are things about me that people will love to see and emulate,” he says.

Hermes

Full Name: Hermes Chibueze Iyele

Performance artist Hermes counts basketball, public speaking and American flag football as some of his interests.

He has had the opportunity to perform some of his original dance pieces at reputable festivals in Lagos, Glasgow and Rotterdam, and has also appeared in music videos for afrobeats stars including Burna Boy, Davido and Ajebo Hustlers.

Hermes is in a polyamorous relationship with two women and feels this kind of partnership has left enough room for everyone in it to grow individually and collectively. One of his favourite traits is honesty. “I’m one to tell the truth, but over time I’ve realised many people are not particularly fond of perspectives they don’t agree with, so I tell the truth, but diplomatically,” he says.

Why the Big Brother Naija House? “I’d like to show people just how much they love and creativity that is built in such tight living circumstances can change the world and help people grow”.

Sheggz

Full Name: Segun Daniel Olusemo

Sheggz is a 26-year-old actor and professional footballer based in England. After sustaining an injury last year, he started acting again and recently scored a role in a production directed by Tola Odunsi.

Describing himself as “confident, but not cocky” and “the perfect mix of Lagos and London”, Sheggz is a hard worker, but also a smart worker, and believes it’s important to be both. Talkative when needed, but also a good listener, Sheggz considers himself down to earth, relatable, and ambitious.

Although currently single, he loves relationships, but believes it is important to find the right person. “I think it’s important to settle down with someone you genuinely connect with and not just for vibes,” he says.

Why Big Brother Naija? Sheggz believes he has a lot to show the world. “Nigerians have talent, we have swag, we have vibes, we’re smart, we’re ambitious and to be honest, we’re all over the world smashing goals and achieving”.

Terrorists who kidnapped Abuja-Kaduna train passengers threaten to kidnap Buhari and el-Rufai

A video surface online showing how some terrorists were boasting and threatening to kidnapped President Muhammadu Buhari and Nasir el-Rufai, governor of Kaduna State.

In the video, the terrorists were seen flogging some of their kidnapped captives in the forest.

In the video, one of the terrorists who speak in Hausa said the captives will be sold if the government failed to meet up with their demands. Adding that the authorities must meet their demands or they will kill some of the captives.

The terrorist said “This is our message to the government of Nigeria and just as you have seen these people here, by God’s grace, you will see your leaders; your senators and governors will come before us”

“These ones you are seeing here, we will keep some as our slaves and sell them off just as our Imam told you in the past.

“Just like the Chibok girls that were sold off, we will equally sell these as slaves. If you don’t adhere to our demands, we will kill the ones we need to kill and sell the remaining.

“By God’s grace, el-Rufai, Buhari, we will bring them here.”

Information circulating that the group is suspected to be behind the kidnapping of passengers from a Kaduna-bound train in March.

On March 28, 2022, gunmen attacked the train, killed eight people, injured many, and kidnapped over 60 persons.

Eleven of 61 remaining victims were released “following negotiations” in June.

Terrorists have targeted the road and rail routes between Abuja and Kaduna to kidnap people.

See the video

https://twitter.com/realFFK/status/1551090928810708993?t=3kCeDTL2TFZ6BtbhWNZlEw&s=19

BBNaija season 7 titled ‘Level Up’ begins

Season 7 of Big Brother Naija titled ‘Level Up’ has begun as announced by the host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

Big Brother Naija Season 7 starts on Saturday 23 July from 19:00 WAT on Africa Magic Showcase, Africa Magic Urban, and Africa Magic Family channels.

The show will also be aired on 24-hour channels 198 on DStv and 29 on GOtv. Fans across Africa can also stream through the African online streaming service, Showmax.

The opening ceremony witnessed exciting performances from Asake and Victony, who thrilled the audience and fans.

During the opening ceremony, 12 of the housemates were also introduced. Groovy, who was the first housemate to join the show also led the introductions with a description of who he is and what he likes and dislikes.

He was followed by the other Housemates; PhynaAmakaKessBryann,  IlebayeKhalidDaniellaCyphBeautyPharmsavi, and Christy O.

The second day of the opening ceremony will hold on Sunday, July 24, 2022, across all Africa Magic stations on GOtv and DStv.

As usual, this year winner will be given a whopping N100m grand prize – a cash prize of N50m and N50m worth of prizes from the sponsors.

Also, 30 fans will win N1m each in the ‘Fave Lock-in’ promo exclusive to DStv and GOtv subscribers.

The show that will last for the next ten weeks is said to maintain its previous voting style wherein voting will only be on the Big Brother Naija website, mobile site, and the MyDStv and MyGOtv apps for active subscribers.

See the 12 housemates

2023: I don’t expect a miracle for Labour Party because of Peter Obi – Atiku

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has said he does not foresee the Labour Party winning the 2023 presidential election.

He said it will be impossible because the party does not have governors, members of the national assembly, and state assemblies.

He said this in an interview with Arise TV on Friday.

Atiku also talks about the belief that the LP will share the vote meant for the PDP in the forthcoming election.

According to him, the chances of the Labour Party winning the 2023 election is not possible, putting in that the LP will not divide the votes as suggested in some sections.

While speaking, the former vice president questioned the achievement of the LP in the just concluded governorship election in Osun saying, “I don’t expect the Labour Party to take as many votes from the PDP as people are suggesting.”

“We could have seen it in the last election in Osun state. What is the performance of the Labour Party?

“This is a party that doesn’t have a governor, doesn’t have members of the national assembly, doesn’t have state assembly members, and politics in this country depends on the structures you have at the various levels — at the local government level, at the state level, and the national level.”

In addition, he said 90 percent of people in the north are not on social media, suggesting that it will restrict the possibility of the LP winning the 2023 presidential election.

Atiku said “So, it is very difficult to expect a miracle to happen, simply because Peter Obi is in the Labour Party. After all, they were saying through social media, that they had more than one million votes in Osun state.

“But how many voters turned for the Labour Party? And then again, mark you, you’re talking about social media. In the north, 90 percent of our people are not tuned to social media.”

Listen: Psquare drops two new songs, ‘Jaiye’ and ‘Find Someday’

Nigerian music duo, Psquare has come through with two new songs titled ‘Jaiye’ (Ihe Geme) and ‘Find Somebody’.

The two single was released on Friday alongside the music video for ‘Jaiye’.

‘Jaiye’ is a dance-pop track with an Amapiano beat while ‘Find Somebody’ is a wedding-theme sound similar to their previous hit like ‘No one be like you, ‘Ifunanya’, and Beautiful Onyinye’.

Both songs are the first joint work released by the duo since they reunite as Psquare.

Listen to the songs and the video below:

Jaiye video

Ahmed Idris, suspended accountant-general remanded in Kuje prison over N109bn fraud

A federal high court in Abuja has ordered the remand of Ahmed Idris, the suspended accountant-general of the federation at Kuje prison.

The suspended accountant-general was arraigned alongside Godfrey Olusegun Akindele, Mohammed Kudu Usman, and a firm – Gezewa Commodity Market and Exchange Limited.

During the court session on Friday, Rotimi Jacobs, counsel to the EFCC, begged the court to permit the prosecution to leave to prefer a criminal charge under section 109 of ACJA against the defendants.

Adeyemi Ajayi, the judge, granted the application as prayed.

Thereafter, the 14-count charge was read to the defendants to which they pleaded not guilty.

Making an oral application, Chris Uche, counsel to Idris, prayed the court to grant bail to his client which Jacobs said the application must be done in writing.

Responding, Uche said pending when he files a written bail application, the court should consider that the defendants have been on administrative bail.

“Since there is no complaint that they have breached any of the conditions, they should be allowed to continue on that bail,” he said.

He said his client had to take the next available flight from Kano just to be able to make it for trial.

“They have his international passport, he provided sureties that were screened and approved. It won’t serve any purpose in keeping him in detention. The prisons are already saturated and are indeed unsafe,” the senior advocate added.

But Jacobs opposed the application saying the media and the world are watching, and that it would send the wrong signal if they are allowed to go home without hearing the bail application.

Ruling on the application, the judge held that “the court is not a puppet to dance to the rhythm of public opinion”.

“In the interest of justice for all, they are remanded in prison custody,” she held.

Recall in May, Idris was arrested in Kano after he failed to respond to invitations by the commission to answer questions over the allegation of N80 billion fraud.

Two days later, Idris was suspended indefinitely “without pay” by Zainab Ahmed, the minister of finance, budget, and national planning.

Court grants petition for Tinubu’s trial over perjury

A federal high court sitting in Abuja has granted the request by a civil rights organization under the auspices of Incorporated Trustees of the Center for Reform and Public Advocacy, to apply for an order of mandamus that will require the Inspector General of Police to prosecute Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, over alleged perjury.

The organization filed the request after the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba allegedly refused to effect the arrest and prosecution of Tinubu for supplying false information on oath in respect of his educational qualifications.

Ruling on an ex-parte application, Inyang Ekwo, the presiding judge granted the permission on Thursday.

According to Justice Inyang Ekwo, the ex-parte petition was meritorious and subsequently fixed November 1 for the hearing of the substantive suit.

In a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1058/2022 and filed on July 4, the CSO claimed that Tinubu lied under oath when he tendered his credentials to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 1999.

Tinubu contested the Lagos governorship seat at the time.

The group said the IGP is authorized by the constitution and police act to probe criminal allegations leveled against anyone.

The CSO had begged the court for “an order of mandamus compelling the respondents to comply with sections 31 and 32 of the police act and section 3 of the criminal justice act, 2015 in respect of alleged crime laid out in complaint of the applicant encapsulated in the letter of June 16, 2022, received by the respondents on the same date and titled: Demand for Criminal Prosecution of Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu under Sections 191, 192 and 463 of the criminal code act, law of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, consequent upon the findings of the Lagos State House of Assembly ad hoc Committee, 1999″.

The CSO, in the suit, said according to section 32(1) of the police act, any suspect is meant to be arrested and tried in court.

The group also said it was compelled to file the suit because two letters it wrote to the IGP where it called for the prosecution of Tinubu were allegedly ignored.

Housewife sets husband ablaze over infidelity

A lady identified as Akanji Ifeoluwa Haddasah has set her husband, Bolu Bamidele ablaze for cheating on her and having a child outside wedlock.

The incident happened on Sunday at about 11:30 pm at their residence in the Koka community, ibokun LGA of Osun State.

A photo showed the victim naked on the hospital bed with serious burns.

It was gathered that the man resides in Cairo and was on a visit to his home in Nigeria before the arson that killed him.

According to reports on Wednesday, the lady was on the run after setting her husband on fire.

Some other reports claimed the suspect committed suicide in Osogbo, the state capital.

A source also alleged that she left an angry note on her WhatsApp stories saying her man had pushed her to the edge.

The post on her WhatsApp stories reads “I’ve always been a calm girl and I’ve never done this in my life but Teebam has pushed me to the edge.”

“At this point, y’all will weep over myself and him before daybreak. I’m promising y’all that!!!”

Confirming the incident, Yemisi Opalola, the Osun state police spokesperson said efforts are on top gear to arrest the lady who was said to have set her husband ablaze.

Opalola said the victim was rushed to the Osogbo Central Hospital and was later referred to UCH Ibadan.

She also said Bamidele passed away on Tuesday at about 4 pm but denied the claims that the culprit committed suicide after the incident.

Woman suffers serious injuries after her dog almost eats her alive

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A woman is suffering from serious injury after she was almost eaten up by her Pitbull.

The woman was showing off another dog to a friend when her pit bull attacked her.

She said the dog first sank its teeth into her friend’s neck, before rounding on her.

The dog ripped her arm apart and also bit her leg and foot, almost killing her.

According to New York Post, Tya Lucas, 41, was at home in Lewisville, Texas, introducing her new puppy, Roo, to her friend Peter, 33, on May 16 when her nearly 100-pound pit bull, Hercules violently turned on her, reps for the Lewisville Police Department confirmed to The Post.

“The puppy went to jump on the couch so I went to pick the puppy up — and my friend told him to get down,” Lucas said. That’s when Hercules lunged at Peter and sunk his teeth into his neck.

“The pit bull jumped on my friend’s neck and he started bleeding. I was like ‘What the f–k?!’ He was latched onto the back of his neck,” she said.

Tya told Kennedy News she sprang into action and pried the pit bull off her friend and shoved him into the safety of the bathroom.

That’s when Hercules turned his aggression on Tya. “He must have smelled [Peter’s] blood all over me and started attacking me. I don’t remember a lot of it. I remember looking down and my flesh being torn off my arm,” Tya recounted.

“I don’t remember the feeling of it, I remember screaming, ‘Hercules, it’s me.’ ”

The dog tore off two-thirds of Tya’s right arm, ate her bicep, and sank its teeth into her leg and foot. She was screaming, “Help me, I’m dying” when her daughter, Tana, 20, and her husband, Harley, 21, rushed into the living room.

[Tana] saw the dog was trying to kill me. She reached out her hand to me and I tried to grab it but I missed her by inches,” Tya said. “It grabbed onto my leg and dragged me further away. Her husband walked in and he beat the dog off of me. I don’t remember that part. I don’t know if I was passing out.”

Harley stepped in to wrestle the canine away from Tya and carry her outside when officer Jordan Potter arrived on the scene in response to Tana’s frantic 911 call.

Lewisville Police Department Public Information Coordinator Matt Martucci told The Post: “Officer Potter is very proud of the fact that he was able to save the woman’s life — but if you ask him it was all just in the line of duty to serve and protect the residents of Lewisville. This was a pretty traumatic situation for this family [but his] actions kept it from being a deadly situation and provided a little comfort for the family”

“I don’t know how many times he bit me. I think it went on for about five minutes. I thought I was going to die. I fought somehow to stay alive,” she said. “A good two-thirds of my arm was torn off. He ate my entire bicep.”

Officer Potter immediately began life-saving measures. “The police said if I’d passed out in the house, he would have eaten me from my insides,” Tya said. “They said they’d seen stabbings, gunshot wounds and they’ve never seen what they saw that day.”

“They put a tourniquet on my arm and the doctor said if he hadn’t been there to do that at that exact moment, then I wouldn’t have made it until the ambulance got there.”

Tana and Harley had found Hercules abandoned at the side of the road, covered in cigarette burns, two years earlier.

But Tya says Hercules had never shown signs of aggression before and even slept in bed with her the night before the attack.

Animal Control Officer Amanda Navarro was called to the scene and used a tether pole to secure the dog despite his consistent thrashing.

After Potter tended to her wounds, Tya was rushed to the hospital, where she was put on a ventilator for two days. She stayed in the hospital for 19 days, where she had hundreds of stitches across her arm, leg, and foot and five operations to cut the dead skin away.

Tya also underwent the sixth operation where a muscle in her back was rolled up into the shape of a bicep and attached to her arm.

“My arm bends a couple of inches but it’s stiff. My hand is swollen, my wrist doesn’t move, there are 15 inches of nerves damaged, my nerves and tendons were crushed,” Tya said.

“For each inch that was damaged, it takes a month to come back. My wrist hangs there, I don’t have much use of my hand. I had staples in my leg and under my foot. I’m in constant pain.”

She has set up a GoFundMe to cover her medical bills, which are at $180,000 but are expected to increase.

“I need physical therapy. The discount program is $100 a week, then there are prescriptions. I don’t even know the total of the hospital bill yet.”

Tya and Tana surrendered Hercules to police at the scene and he was put down soon after. They have no idea what triggered the aggression but Tya has been left terrified of dogs.

“He was never aggressive before. I heard him bark one time when something made him jump,” Tya said. “I’ve no idea why this happened. He slept in bed with us. I don’t know what triggered him.”

She noted that Hercules was beginning to display “food aggression” and she has begun to think about aspects of him that were changing and showing possible signs of his aggression.

Pitbulls are often the source of debate, with some insisting that the dogs are lovable and suitable pets while others note sometimes deadly levels of aggression.

Pitbulls make up only 6% of the dog population, but they’re responsible for 68% of dog attacks and 52% of dog-related deaths since 1982, Time reported.

“I never had a problem with dogs, but now I’m terrified of them,” Tya said. “I can’t go near dogs. If there’s a one-off a leash, I panic [like] I’m about to have an anxiety attack.”

If politician’s children attend Nigerian public varsity, our strike won’t last 2 days – ASUU

The president of the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU), Emmanuel Osodeke, said the strike action embarked by the union would have been dealt with earlier if politicians’ children attend public universities in the country.

Osadeke made this assertion during an interview on Channel Television on Tuesday.

It was gathered that President Muhammadu Buhari has given Adamu Adamu, the minister of education, two weeks to resolve issues of contention regarding the ASUU strike.

Responding to Buhari’s directive, the ASUU president said the two-week ultimatum is “too long” and that the union can suspend its strike in less than two days if the federal government honors its agreement with the union.

Osadeke explained that “Two weeks is too long. The issue of renegotiation has been completed by both sides, which means that one is gone. They should just come back to us and say ‘we have agreed, sign it’. That should not take two days.”

“If you have a crisis in your house, you will source for money to resolve that crisis — the way they are sourcing for money to do all kinds of things.

“We were told they spent billions to feed children in schools. Is that correct? How many children have you seen being fed? They released N200 billion for the entrepreneurship program.

“Your universities are closed for five months, you did not release N100 billion, but you released money to share in villages because the election is coming. It is the priority you place on education.

“Government should prioritize education as number one priority in the country, because all of us here, wherever you are, you must pass through the school. Now that you have killed it, we are wasting our money on foreign countries.

“Last year, according to CBN, Nigerians spent N1.6 trillion on school fees to other countries. N1.6 trillion will turn around all the universities in Nigeria and bring them to standard and people will come from outside. We go outside; nobody comes in.

“For this strike, universities are shut down. Those who run the affairs of Nigeria – the national assembly and executive arm – do not have any problems. Their children are not here. If the children of all the ministers and senators are all in our public universities, this will not last two days.

“When the aviation people wanted to shut down, the national assembly called them immediately and settled them overnight because fear could not allow them to pass through roads. They quickly resolved it.”

Recall, the union has been on strike since February 14 over the Federal Government’s failure to honor an agreement on issues bordering on funding of universities, as well as salaries and allowances of lecturers.

INEC, NCOs talk about modalities that will allow inmates to vote

The Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC) and officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) came together to talk about modalities that will allow inmates to vote in the forthcoming election.

The meeting was held at the commission headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday with Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC chairman alongside Daniel Odaro, the deputy controller-general in charge of operations who represented Haliru Nababa, the controller-general of the NCOs.

According to Mahmood, there are a lot of areas to be addressed before a decision can be taken on allowing inmates to vote and these include the location of polling units, format for electoral campaigns, access to correctional facilities for election officials, the media and observers and many others.

He added that “Section 12(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 lists five qualifications for registering as a voter in Nigeria because you have to register as a voter, before the right to exercise that right as a voter is conferred.

“That section of the electoral lists five qualifications — the prospective registrant must be a Nigerian citizen; he or she must be at least 18 years of age; he or she must originate, reside, or work in the local government or ward covered by the registration center; the citizen must present himself/herself to the registration officer for registration as a voter; he/she must not be subject to any legal incapacity to vote.

“This is one area we need to discuss so that we know the categories of inmates that will exercise the right to vote. We, therefore, need to work things out carefully. We want transparency in the process, because everything that we do in the commission, particularly when it comes to the right of citizens to vote, must be done transparently.

“So, will inmates vote outside or inside the prison? Are we going to set up polling units outside or inside the prisons? Since the majority of inmates are awaiting trial, we believe some of them are already registered, voters. If they are registered voters, what they will do is transfer their registration. Will they transfer their registration to the correctional centers for that reason?

“Will political parties be allowed to campaign inside the correctional centers? This is a matter that you need to advise the commission. Will observers and the media be allowed access to the correctional centers on election day, so that the process is transparent? Will INEC officials be granted access to the correctional center for voter education? These are matters that we need to discuss.

“Will elections hold in all 218 federal correctional centers currently holding inmates nationwide or there are some correctional centers where this process can start instead of all the 218? We understand that some correctional centers are not holding inmates at present. So, will the process be allowed to cover all the 218 centers?

“So, these are some of the issues that we need to carefully discuss and resolve before a decision is taken. But in principle, the commission is committed to ensuring that all Nigerians are given the right to vote and be voted for — but in this particular case, the right to vote, which is exercisable under the law.

“The sooner we can address these issues, the better for the process. But remember, we have only a little over seven months to the next general election. But the next general election is not going to be the last conducted by Nigeria. So, even if we don’t meet all these critical thresholds for 2023, we’ll continue with the discussions to see what happens beyond 2023.”

NNPC approves new fuel price, peg it at N179 per liter

The Nigerian National Petroleum Commission (NNPC) has approved a new price for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

The price has been increased from N165 per liter to N179 per liter after the company had increased the ex-depot price from N148.17 to N167 per liter.

NNPC had notified fuel marketers about the new development and also directed them to change their pump price to the new price effective from today Tuesday.

This new development emanated after weeks of fuel scarcity resurfaced across the country leading to marketers selling at different prices due to unofficial deregulation attempts.

It was gathered by the Guardian that the majority of petrol stations in Lagos have adopted different price models. While some petrol stations have changed the price on their meters to reflect the current price they are selling at, others have left theirs to show the approved retail price of N165 per liter but we’re still selling above the displayed price.

For instance, the Mobil filling station on Agidingbi sold a liter of petrol at N170 per liter on Friday and that was displayed on their meters.

The development was also the same at Enyo filling station at Chisco bus stop, in Lekki, which now sells for N170 per liter, Eterna filling station at Jankade bus stop, Lekki sells at N180 per liter and Mobil Filling station, by Osapa London, Lekki now selling at N170 per liter.

IGP orders probe of singer Portable over claim he founded notorious cult group

Usman Baba, the Inspector General of Police has ordered the investigation of singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable over his claim of founding a notorious cult group, One Million Boys and Ajah Boys.

Portable openly bragged in a viral video that he established the two terror groups terrorizing Lagos state.

Ajah Boys and One Million Boys are gangs known for engaging in violent activities and terrorizing residents of Lagos with dangerous weapons.

Portable while speaking in Yoruba boasted that he is not scared of anyone. He said “Open your ears and be listening. Have you heard of Ajah Boys, One Million Boys? I established them. Go and ask Sammy Larry.”

According to him, socialites Samlarry Eletu and Abu Abel knew him back in the day.

However, Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer in a statement has directed the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to investigate him.

The statement reads “Sequel to the trending video of one Habeeb Okikiola aka Portable where he claimed to have formed the One-Million Boys cult group terrorizing some parts of Lagos State, the IGP has ordered CP Lagos to investigate the indicting statement and take necessary legal action.

This directive is premised on the continuous effort of the Nigeria Police Force to fish out pillars and sponsors of cult groups to decimate their activities and restore sanity to our society.”

Ever since he came to the limelight in December 2021 after the release of his song, ‘Zazu Zeh’, in which he featured top artiste and record label boss, Olamide, practically no month has gone by without him, being in the news for negative reasons.

He was backlashed some hours ago for congratulating the Osun State governorship winner, Senator Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after supporting the opposition party.

Breaking: Nollywood actress, Ada Ameh is dead

Ada Ameh, the Nollywood actress popularly as Emu in her role in the Nigerian TV series, The Johnsons, has died.

She died on Sunday night at a hospital in Warri, Delta State.

It was gathered that she suddenly collapsed at an event and was thereafter rushed to the Nigerian National Petroleum Hospital. She, however, died before they arrived at the medical facility.

The news of the death was confirmed by the President Actors Guild of Nigeria AGN, Emeka Rollas on Monday.

Meanwhile, Abubakar Yakubu, national secretary of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) also said they’re trying to confirm the circumstances surrounding her death.

The actress’ demise comes a few weeks after she announced that she was battling mental health issues.

“I have an issue right now and it’s taking my life, but I won’t die. We would get over it. I was given a job, but I didn’t do it because I have mental health issues,” she had said.

“Would people understand when say you have mental issues? No, they wouldn’t. They are slamming me with a bill, suing me but it’s okay.”

In October 2020, the film star lost her only daughter, Aladi Godgift, after an unsuccessful surgery in Abuja.

Ada had earlier recounted how she was influenced by peers, introduced to early sex, and got pregnant at 13.

“It wasn’t my parents. My peers influenced me. They introduced me to early sex. One thing led to another, and I got pregnant,” she had said.

“I got pregnant in March, and I had my baby in December the same year. That means I got pregnant when I was 13+.”

Zamfara govt suspends Emir for giving chieftaincy to repentant bandit leader

The Zamfara State Government has suspended Aliyu Garba Marafa, the Emir of Sabon Birnin Yandoto of Tsafe local government area of the state for giving a chieftaincy title to Adamu Aliero, a notorious repentant bandits leader.

This was disclosed to journalists on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Kabiru Balarabe.

It was gathered that Alieru was turbaned as Sarkin Fulani (Chief of Fulani) of Yandoto Emirate by the emir on Saturday.

The news of the turbaning ceremony along with photos went viral, provoking uproar and anger.

Apart from suspending the emir, Governor Bello Matawalle approved the appointment of a Committee to investigate the circumstances leading to the action of the Emir.

The committee has Yahaya Goro as chairman and Musa Garba as secretary. Members are Yahay Kanoma, Muhammed Magaji, Lawal Zannah, Isa Moriki.

“In the meantime, Alh. Mahe Garba Marafa, who is the District Head of ‘Yandoto is hereby assigned to take charge of the affairs of the Emirate,” the statement said.

Channels Television had earlier reported how several bandit group leaders and lieutenants arrived at the venue of the occasion on several motorbikes to celebrate with Alieru during his turbaning.

A source told Channels Television that the decision to make the bandits’ leader a chief was aimed at finding lasting peace in Tsafe and the Yandoton Daji Emirates, and other areas that were regularly attacked by Aleru-led gangs.

“It was aimed at providing lasting peace in the emirate, the emir told us that there is a peace accord between the emirate and the bandit group,” the source said.

Similarly, an official from the palace who pleaded anonymity said that the title of Sarkin Fulani was conferred on Aliero considering his present status as a ‘peace-maker’ within the emirate.

“The chieftaincy title was given to him in appreciation of the peace reconciliation,” he said.

Two businessmen bags jail terms in the U.S over money sent to Nigeria

The Owners of Ping Express US LLC, a Texas-based fintech company, Anslem Oshionebo, and Opeyemi, Odeyale, have been sentenced to jail in the United States after having pleaded guilty to failing to thwart money laundering on their platform.

Their company was used to enable the remittance of $160 million to Nigeria.

Some of the funds are said to be proceeds of romance scams.

The two businessmen pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them by the US Department of Justice.

According to Business Insider Africa, a statement by the US Department of Justice explained that the businessmen failed to maintain anti-money laundering controls on their platform; a situation that allowed some of their customers to remit large sums of illegally-derived funds to Nigeria.

Part of the statement reads “The company outlined its anti-money laundering policy in a memo to state regulators, claiming it would cap first-time customer transactions at $499, cap daily transactions at $3,000, and cap monthly transactions at $4,500.

However, in plea papers, the company admitted it allowed more than 1,500 customers to violate these rules. In one instance, Ping allowed a customer to remit more than $80,000 in a single month – more than 17 times the purported limit.”

The DoJ further disclosed that the company was guilty of conducting money transmission services in some US states where it was not licensed to operate.

Within 3 years, Ping Express US LLC helped customers to remit a total of $167 million to Africa. Out of this sum, $160 million was remitted to Nigeria. And the company was said to have failed to verify the sources of the funds or what they were intended for.

Intereststingly, some of the company’s customers have already been tried and found guilty of illegally transmitting funds they earned through romance scams. Two of these three individuals were among the fintech’s top customers.

One of the customers, Collins Orogun, pleaded guilty and admitted he accepted fees to help romance scam fraudsters to transfer money from the US to Nigeria through Ping Express US LLC.

“In two years, Mr. Orogun received more than $1.3 million in cash, cashier’s checks, and wires into several U.S. bank accounts he controlled, and then quickly moved more than $1 million of the funds to Africa through Ping. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and is set to be sentenced on Jan. 23, 2023,” part of the statement said.

Anslem Oshionebo and Opeyemi Odeyale, who both served as Ping’s CEO and COO, have been sentenced to 27 months in prison.

The company’s Head of IT and Business Development Manager, Aleoghena Okhumale, also pleaded guilty to knowingly facilitating the illegal remittance of fraudulently derived funds.

Meanwhile, the fintech company itself is facing 5-year probation as well as a $500,000 fine.

NLC declares two days of nationwide protest amid ASUU strike

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has announced July 26 and 27 for a nationwide protest intended toward the continual strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

This development comes after the federal government failed to reach an agreement with ASUU over the issue of staff salaries, allowances, and the funding of the Universities.

The NLC in its letter dated July 15, 2022 and signed by its President and General Secretary, Ayuba Wabba and Emma Ugboaja, respectively said the protest is aimed at pressuring the federal government to hasten the negotiation process and also to ensure that universities proceed with educational activities.

According to the letter, the protest is to take place in all the state capitals and Abuja, starting from the NLC secretariats.

In the letter, it reads “We bring you fraternal greetings from the national secretariat of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).”

“In line with the decisions of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Nigeria Labour Congress held on the 30th of June 2022, we have scheduled as follows the National Days of Protest to get our children back to school and support our unions in Nigeria’s public universities fighting for quality education.

“Dates: Tuesday, 26th July 2022 and Wednesday, 27th July 2022.

“Venue: All the State Capitals of the Federation and Abuja the Federal Capital Territory. Take off Point: NLC State Secretariats and the Labour House, Abuja

“You are requested to immediately convene the meetings of your SAC to disseminate this information and to fully mobilize workers in the states for this very important protest for good governance.”

Breaking: INEC declares Adeleke winner of Osun election

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has declared Senator Ademola Adeleke, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party winner of the Osun governorship election.

Adeleke score a total of 403,371 votes above Adegboyega Oyetola, the incumbent governor of the All Progressive Congress who got 375,027 votes.

Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos who is the Returning Officer for the election made the announcement.

According to the Returning Officer, he said: “I declare Adeleke Ademola Jackson Nurudeen, on behalf of the chairman of INEC, the PDP having satisfied the requirement of the law, is hereby declared the winner, and he is returned elected.”

Out of the total votes recorded in the state, PDP won 17 Local Government Areas among the 30 LGAs while the APC won the remaining 13.

It was gathered the PDP won in Ede North, Ede South, Ifelodun, Boluwaduro, Egbedore, Odo Otin, Osogbo, Ila, Atakumosa West, Olorunda, Ilesa West, Obokun, Oriade, Orolu, Ife North, Irepodun, and Ejigbo LGAs.

While the APC, on the other hand, won in Boripe, Ilesa East, Ayedire, Ifedayo, Ife Central, Ayedaade, Iwo, Olaoluwa, Asokan, Atakumosa East, Irewole, Ife South, and Ife East LGAs.

Although no fewer than 15 political parties partook in the election, many thought the Osun governorship election was only between Governor Adegboyega Oyetola and Senator Adeleke.

Other candidates who participated include Akin Ogunbiyi of Accord Party; Lasun Yusuff of Labour Party; Oyegoke Omigbodun of Social Democratic Party; Segun Awojide of African Action Congress; Kehinde Atanda of Action Democratic Party; Awoyemi Lukuman of Allied Peoples Movement; Adebayo Elisha of All Peoples Party; and Adeleke Adedapo of Boot Party.

Rasaq Saliu of New Nigeria Peoples Party; Abede Samuel of National Rescue Movement; Ayowole Adedeji of Peoples Redemption Party; Ademola Adeseye of Young Peoples Party; and Adesuyi Olufemi of Zenith Labour Party also participated in the election.

The election was held across 3,763 units in the 30 LGAs of the state with a massive voter turnout and it was extensively peaceful.

Out of the 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, 1,479,595 Permanent Voter Cards were collected before the election.

Elton John reveals plans to make music with Burna Boy

British iconic singer, Elton John has said it’d be an honor for him to make music with Burna Boy.

He also said that Burna Boy’s music is “so fantastic” that it makes him feel “really happy”.

The 75-year-old songwriter made his intention known when Burna Boy was featured on the recent episode of the ‘Rock Hour’ on Apple Music. A conversation that centered on the growth of African music and his latest Album “Love Damini”.

According to the award-winning pianist and composer, he said ” Well, personally I would love to do something in the studio with you. I’m on a world tour at the moment but when things calm down, if you ever want to do a song with me, i’d be.”

“You are the one artist that I really would love to do something with, because you really make me happy, and your music is just so fantastic. It would be an honour for me to do that,” He added.

Responding, the “Last Last” singer expressed his excitement to work with the celebrated singer stating that “I have been looking forward to that for so long”.

Burna Boy, who couldn’t hide his feelings, took to his Instagram page to share a video of him replaying the jingle multiple times.

Well, this isn’t the first time Elton John is publicizing the ‘African Giant’ music because, in August 2019, he also made it public that he is a big listener of Burna Boy’s songs.

Elton John is considered one of the best-selling artists of all time. In his music career passing over six decades, he has sold over 300 million records worldwide.

He has achieved five Grammy Awards, and five Brit Awards; including Outstanding Contribution to Music; two Academy Awards, and two Golden Globes.

He also has a Tony Award, a Laurence Olivier Award, a Disney Legends Award, and the Kennedy Center Honour.

‘kids’ who ‘chase clouts’ – Omah Lay slams Ruger and Victony

Singer, Omah Lay has taken a swipe at Ruger and Victony amidst a supremacy battle, calling them kids who chase clouts.

Trouble started after Ruger said that BNXN is not better than him during an argument. He bragged that he had single hits as described in relation to BNXN, a statement that provoked Omah Lay.

According to Ruger’s statement, he argued that “I love Buju he’s good but he’s not better than me. Everything I’ve done since the beginning was only Ruger. All my hits are Just Ruger. I’m always proud going on stage around the world with my own hits and everyone is singing along. You see the difference?” He added.

The tweet has stirred mixed reactions on Twitter as users express different opinions.

Reacting to Ruger’s comparison, singer Omah Lay accused him of “chasing clouts” and also hit on Victony for responding to his earlier tweet with lol.

Omah Lay who just released his debut album ‘Boy Alone’ wrote on Twitter “Ruger get mind dey talk about bnxn like that for this app smh!! Mofos do anything for clout out here, same way Victony lol my tweet the other time, y’all are really kids, he added in the tweet.

Omah Lay, Ruger, Bnxn, and Victony are fast-raising singers who have come to be a household names in the Nigerian music industry and across Africa.

Prove your worth over APC Muslim-Muslim ticket – Activist tells CAN, PFN

Pastor Moses Onodua, an Edo-based human rights activist has challenged the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) to vote against the All Progressives Congress and its presidential candidate, Ahmed Bola Tinubu in the upcoming presidential election as evidence that they are against the Muslim-Muslim ticket.

He brought out this idea while answering questions from journalists on Thursday in Benin City.

According to Onodua, APC as a party has made its choice of who got its ticket and nobody can question it aside from voting against the party and its presidential candidate.

He added that it is an advantage for the Christian bodies to determine whether they are going to mobilize their believers to vote for or against the party which runs the Muslim-Muslim ticket in the forthcoming election or not.

He said “My advice for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), which are also voluntary organizations for individuals who came together, is very simple, APC has made their choice of what is best for them, then, CAN and PFN should also make their choice. Then, we will now test our might in the 2023 general elections.”

Onodua mentioned that the APC did not put the interest of other religious groups into consideration in its quest of getting its presidential running mate knowing that Nigeria is a secular country.

“According to statistics, Nigeria is dominated by Christians and Muslims. I don’t have the figures now but by some projections that I was made to understand, as of today, the population of Christians is more than Muslims in Nigeria.

”So, in other words, Nigeria is not a Muslim country nor can it be a Christian country.

”So, Nigeria is a secular country. So, if you want to aspire to become the leader of Nigeria, you must do everything humanly possible even though it is not constitutionally enshrined, to make sure that you carry the two major religious groups along in your decisions to appear to be fair to everyone in this country.

But what the APC has done, is that they have now decided that they don’t have the interest of the entire nation at heart rather they are concerned with a particular segment of the Nigerian society, which is the Muslim community.

So, they have decided to please them. So, we will see what comes out of the ticket, 2023 is around the corner”, he said.

He likewise accused the APC of dividing the country and also indirectly trying to Islamize the country.

“But let me make it abundantly clear, the APC Muslim Muslim ticket is dead on arrival.

”It cannot fly because what the APC is trying to do, is to polarize the country, to divide the country.

“That ticket gives us an idea that what people have been talking about since during these years of Buhari’s administration, the Islamization of Nigeria is the truth.

”That means, from the onset, this Buhari’s administration has been laying a foundation to Islamize Nigeria, to make sure that Nigeria becomes a 100 percent Muslim country which is not going to be possible.

“It may have happened in other countries because while studying church histories, I read in a place that, the present day Turkey and some other Muslim countries today, were once 100 percent Christian but today, they are now more or less 95 percent Muslim, some 85 percent Muslim that was once 100 percent Christians.

“That is the same agenda that Buhari’s government and this APC is trying to impose on Nigerians which will not fly”, he added.

Police discover baby factory in Okpanam, rescue 3-pregnant-women and arrest two suspects

Delta State Police Command discovered a baby factory operating in the Obodogba community, Okpanam, and rescued three pregnant women, then arrested two suspects.

The command also arrested ten suspected armed robbers/cultists and recovered one fabricated AK47 rifle.

In addition, another 21 suspected cultists were also arrested during their initiation activities and three locally made guns were recovered.

This was disclosed to newsmen on Thursday by the command spokesperson, DSP. Bright Edafe, in Asaba the state capital.

According to the police spokesperson, the Command gathered information that there is a baby factory located somewhere in Obodogba community, Okpanam. While acting on this information, on 10/7/2022, at about 0730hours, operatives of the State Investigation Department stormed their den in Okpanam community, Oshimili North LGA, and rescued three pregnant women, and two suspects; Promise Ejogu ‘m’ age 25yrs and Aruna Sulieman ‘m’ age 29yrs were arrested.

One of the Suspects, Promise Ejogu, is a brother to the ring leader of the syndicate who engages in sexual activities with these women to get them pregnant. They are currently in custody while an effort is on to arrest the other members of the syndicate.”

Also in another development, DSP. Edafe added that “On 11/7/2022, the Area Commander Asaba, received intelligence on some suspected cultists hibernating somewhere in Mile 5, a boundary between Oshimili North and Oshimili South LGA, and planning to attack innocent citizens in the area.

“The Area Commander alerted the Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, who ordered a massive raid in the area. A combined team comprising of Raiders Squad, operatives from GRA Division, and Area Command Asaba, led by the Area Crime officer, SP Kufre Udofia, stormed the hideout and arrested ten (10) suspects, recovered one fabricated AK47 rifle, charms, fake Vigilante ID card, and AC&DC black ice confraternity regalias. The investigation is ongoing.”

The police image maker further disclosed that “On 10/7/2022 at about 0130hrs, the DPO Ibusa Police Station got information that men of Black Axe Confraternity, also known as ‘AYES’, were having their initiation ceremony at Zion Road Ibusa.

“The Commissioner of Police directed a joint team of State Anti-Cult (SACU), Ibusa Division, and local vigilantes who swung into action to raid their hideout, arrested twenty-five male suspects, recovered three Aye confraternity regalias, one military vest, a pair of aye confraternity stockings, three cut-to-size locally made guns, four live cartridges, a gallon of substances suspected to be liquid hard drugs, four vehicles, and four motorcycles. The investigation is ongoing”, the police spokesperson added.

Netflix partners with Microsoft for its new Ads supported plan

Netflix is partnering with Microsoft to become its global advertising technology and sales partner to help power its first Ads-supported subscription offering.

The streaming company announced this in its blog post on Wednesday stating that Microsoft has the proven capacity to support all its advertising needs.

Netflix also added that Microsoft has delivered the flexibility to innovate over time on both its technology and sales side, as well as strong privacy protections for its members.

In addition, Microsoft in its blog post added that they will be working with marketers to bring ads to the Netflix ecosystem. Adding that all Ads served on Netflix will be exclusively available through its platform.

According to Mikhail Parakhin, Microsoft’s president of web experiences, said: “Today’s announcement also endorses Microsoft’s approach to privacy, which is built on protecting customers’ information.”

In May, Netflix first indicated a cheaper, ad-supported tier and later confirmed the possibility last month.

Although Netflix hasn’t declared openly an official date for the tier’s rollout, it’s rumored to become available to customers by the end of 2022.

The news of Netflix’s ad-supported plan originated after the company disclosed a drop in subscribers for the first time in a decade last quarter, topping out at 222 million globally.

The company is also analyzing its live streaming and ways to clamp down on password-sharing to help mitigate a decrease in its subscribers and earnings.

It is false, nothing like Sharia Law – Lagos Assembly

The Lagos State House of Assembly has denounced the statements that its legislators have secretly enacted Sharia law.

This is coming as some speculations on social media claimed that the lawmakers are on a deal to get Northern support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate.

In a statement released by Hon. Setonji David, chairman of Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Security, and Strategy, stated that the assertion is untrue.

Hon. David also said the Assembly has at no time passed a Sharia law in a deal to get Northern support for the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate. Adding that people should not believe the vendors of such misconception.

According to the legislator in the statement titled ‘Alleged secret passage of Sharia Law by Lagos Assembly, a lie from the pit of hell’, stated that the claim is malicious and baseless.

Part of the statement reads “We would not have dignified the writer of this hate speech but to set the record straight, this is a mere figment of the imagination of the writer and a total lie from the pit of hell.

“No informed person should believe this lies against the Assembly that is above the common standard of excellence. The news is far from the reality,” Hon David alleged.

“Some people are just mischievous. Spreading all sorts of untrue stuff. Is it possible to pass a law under cover? The process of law-making is universal and very open. You cannot pass a law without subjecting it to a public hearing in Lagos State.

“We urged the residents of the state and Nigerians as a whole to take the peddlers of this unfounded report as illiterate, uninformed, and uneducated people who needed to be schooled about the law-making process.”

Hon. David also bragged that Tinubu is a fast-selling product across the country and does not need any law from the state to further promote him to all Nigerians.

In addition, he said he is confident that by the Special Grace of God, the former Lagos State Governor would emerge the winner of the 2023 Presidential election to humiliate the peddlers of such mockery statements.

Death is just punishment, there’s no hell anywhere – Music producer claims

Mr. Logic, a popular and controversial Ghanaian music producer has alleged that “hell does not exist”.

The beat maker also advised people not to pay attention to what the Christians are saying regarding hell while declaring that there will be no judgment day.

Mr. Logic made this assertion during an interview on the Day Break Hitz show on Hitz FM in Accra.

According to him, there won’t be any judgment days as God does not have time to line people up and be asking them questions about how they live their lives on earth.

In his words, he said “Death in itself is a punishment. There’s no hell anywhere.

“God doesn’t have the time to line up people to ask them how many people they slept with and all that. God doesn’t have time for that. There’s no such thing in the Bible.”

Watch the interview

Doctor arrested for raping a pregnant woman during childbirth

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An anesthesiologist has been arrested after he was caught raping a pregnant patient during delivery.

The doctor drugged the victim when he was going through a cesarean section and the action was filmed by members of his medical team, who condemned him.

The event happened at the State Hospital for Women Heloneida Studart, in Sao Joao de Meriti, Baixada Fluminense, Brazil on Monday.

It was also believed that the doctor may have carried out attacks on two other women on the same day.

As reported by CNN Brazil, Giovanni Quintella Bezerra, 32, was arrested after health care workers filmed him, with a cell phone, as he passed his penis across the patient’s face while she was unconscious and lying on a stretcher. The images also show that the organ was introduced into the parturient’s mouth, while the team worked on the surgery.

In the images, Bezerra was away from the medical team, who could not see what he was doing, due to the isolation made by the surginumbereld, which delimits the area of ​​the body where the procedure is performed. To the Civil Police, the employees reported that they had during suspecting the number of sedatives applied by the anesthesiologist to pregnant women and, therefore, decided to leave a cell phone filming the professional during the procedure.

CNN chose not to show footage of the crime.

President of the Regional Council of Medicine of the State of Rio de Janeiro (Cremerj), Clóvis Munhoz, highlights that the body received complaints and opened a precautionary procedure for the immediate suspension of the doctor, due to the severity of the images. “The Cremerj will institute, after the precautionary procedure, a disciplinary process of cassation”, she said.

The State Department of Health (SES) and the management of the unit reported that triggered by the medical team, they reported the crime to the Civil Police, who went to the unit and arrested the anesthetist in the act.

According to the ministry, Bezerra is not a civil servant of the state, has the title of specialist in anesthesiology, regular registration with the Regional Council of Medicine (CRM), and has been working for six months as a legal entity for the unit and the Getúlio Vargas State Hospital, in the North of Rio de Janeiro.

The SES and the Health Foundation of the State of Rio de Janeiro reported that “an internal investigation will be opened to take administrative measures, in addition to the notification to Cremerj”. The team at the São João de Meriti medical unit said that it provides, at this moment, all support to the victim and family members.

Giovanni Quintella Bezerra was taken to the prison of the Women’s Police Station of São João de Meriti, from where he was taken to the José Frederico Marques Public Jail, in Benfica, North Zone of the capital. The unit works as a gateway to the Rio de Janeiro prison system.

In a note, the Novais Advogados Associados Office, which would be responsible for defending the anesthesiologist, said it had dropped the case; the name of the lawyer who will assume Bezerra’s defense has not yet been released.

Osun mega rally: Tinubu mocks PDP and LP calling them ‘mushroom parties’

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has taken a swipe at the opposition parties competing with his party in the July 16 governorship election in Osun.

Tinubu described the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) as ‘mushroom parties’ and also said they will labor in vain till they die.

The APC flag bearer said this on Tuesday while campaigning for Gboyega Oyetola, the governorship candidate for Osun State, ahead of the election that was planned to hold on July 16.

While speaking at the rally, he said “I ask you to please do the same thing you did in Ekiti. Come out with your PVCs and vote massively for APC. The voting is now in your hand. Be very vigilant. Be watchful. You will not do it in vain.

Think about your children and vote accordingly so you can see the future. Come out en masse. Don’t mind PDP and other mushroom parties — parties like Labour; they will labor till they die. God will not make you laborers.

You’re next. We will be here till tomorrow. We will come back here for the victory dance. Look at the trajectory of our lives. We make promises and fulfill them. We are the ones upholding the party, the Buhari party. Don’t answer the naysayers.”

Gboyega Oyetola, the incumbent governor, is the flagbearer of the APC, while Ademola Adeleke is the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Other candidates are Lasun Yusuf of the Labour Party (LP), Akin Ogunbiyi of Accord, and Goke Omigbodun of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Twitter sues Elon Musk For Refusing To Honor Their $44 Billion Agreement

Twitter, the social media company has filed a lawsuit against the world’s richest man for trying to withdraw from the $44 billion acquisition deal.

The company complains that Musk’s withdrawal strategy is an example of hypocrisy.

According to the lawsuit that was filed on Tuesday in the Delaware Court of Chancery where the company is incorporated, Twitter is saying that Musk is refusing to “honor his obligations” under their agreement and they are seeking to make him complete the bargain they declared openly on April 25.

In the lawsuit, the company writes that “Twitter brings this action to enjoin Musk from further breaches, to compel Musk to fulfill his legal obligations, and to compel consummation of the merger upon satisfaction of the few outstanding conditions.”

As reported by The Verge, Musk claims that Twitter has failed to satisfy his requests for information about bot activity and spam on the platform.

Though Catherine Hill, a spokesperson for Twitter, did not comment beyond the legal filing, the company board chairman Bret Taylor said in a brief tweet that the lawsuit is aimed at “holding Elon Musk accountable”.

Immediately after Twitter had filed the suit, Musk answered back with a tweet saying, “Oh the irony lol.”

ASUU strike: Ahmed Musa blasts politician whose children school overseas

Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has jumped on Nigerian politicians whose kids school overseas.

The footballer said the politicians are running a system that they don’t trust.

He said this through a post he shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday.

According to the post, he marveled how the politicians feel when they visit their kids school in overseas while “ASUU is on strike”.

In his post, he wrote “To our politicians whose children school abroad. How do you feel visiting your children abroad, taking pictures in their schools, and posting them online while ASUU is on strike? Like seriously, how is it ok for you? You’re running a system that you don’t even believe in. Show me one Oyibo leader whose child is schooling in Nigeria.

“E no dey touch una? And when you return, Nigerian youths will still gather and sing praises for una.”

This is coming a few hours after two Nigerian governors, Seyi Makinde and Okezie Ikpeazu, attended the convocation ceremony of Nyesom Wike’s son in London.

Funke Akindele nominated as running mate to Lagos PDP governorship candidate

Funke Akindele, the Nollywood actress has been nominated as the deputy governorship candidate for the People’s Democratic Party in Lagos State.

She is now the running mate to Olajide Adediran, Lagos State PDP governorship candidate.

This was disclosed by the actress in a video post she shared on her Instagram page on Tuesday.

In her post, she stated her intentions and why she agreed to be a running mate to Olajide Adediran.

According to her IG post “, I saw it as an opportunity to help liberate and improve the wellbeing of our people, particularly the deprived youth, women and the girl child.

“My decision is not just to accept this huge responsibility but to also work tirelessly and complement Jandor’s burning desire to see our dear Lagos live up to its full potential.”

Confirming the development, Gbenga Ogunleye, the media aide to Adediran said the official unveiling of Akindele as the running mate will take place in the Ikorodu area of Lagos.

Kenneth Okonkwo resign from APC following Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket

Nollywood actor turned politician, Kenneth Okonkwo has resigned his membership from the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC).

Okonkwo said he is abandoning the APC due to the decision of the party to adopt a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket for the 2023 election.

He made this known in a statement he shared on his Instagram page on Monday night.

In the statement, he said “I just resigned my membership of the All Progressives Congress in the interest of equity, justice, fairness and peaceful co-existence among Nigerians,” he captioned the post.

“May God deliver Nigeria from the hands of power grabbers who elevate the quest for power above the quest for purpose.

“God bless you and Barka da Sallah to our Muslim brothers.”

The statement also read in part: “If Muslims could voluntarily vote for southern presidents it is then a fallacy to insinuate that they cannot accept a northern Christian vice president.

“This will permanently destroy the political viability of Northern Christians in Nigeria if allowed to stand. This is in the addition to the failure to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians which should be their primary responsibility. The country is also in shatters.

On Sunday, July 10, 2023, Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the APC picked Sen. Kashim Shettima, a Muslim and former governor of Borno state as his running mate.

Since the incident occurred, it has generated numerous criticism from Nigerians.

Tiwa Savage finally uncovers the ‘Somebody’s Son’ behind her song

Nigerian songstress, Tiwa Savage has revealed the ‘Somebody’s Son’ behind her song.

She also opened up about what inspired her about the song stating that she was singing about Jesus and not the boyfriend or sugar daddy that everyone thinks she was referring to in the song.

She said this during her performance at Afrobeats Festival in Berlin.

Savage added that she wrote the song when she was going through a lot in her life and she wanted some reassurance.

According to her, the inspiration came from what she didn’t expect adding that it made her understand she doesn’t need a man to be happy.

In her words, she said “I was single asf… When I wrote this song, I realize that I didn’t need a man. That the only somebody son I needed was Jesus. That is the real somebody’s son I’m talking about, that’s Jesus Christ.

Fake news – Ned Nwoko dismiss rumored marriage to Emmanuella

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Nigerian businessman and politician, Ned Nwoko, has denied the stories circulating that he wants to marry Emmanuella, the teenage comedian.

The report claims he visited the parents of the comedian to pay her bride price.

Confirming the rumors, an interested fan had taken to the comment section of Nwoko’s Instagram post to raise a question if the stories were true.

The fan asked in pidgin English stating that “I hear say you won marry Emmanuella is it true or false?”

Responding to the question, Nwoko the husband to Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels said, “I already have beautiful wives.”

In addition, another user asked an identical question and the politician marked it as “fake news.”

It was gathered that Ned Nwoko has threatened to report fake news carriers to the police for proper action due to a similar rumor that he married a new wife in February.

In April 2019, the politician who is well known for his polygamy lifestyle got married to Regina and they welcomed their first child together in June 2020.

After 12 years, Soulja Boy blasts Wizkid over comments

American rapper, DeAndre Cortez Way, popularly known as Soulja Boy, has taken a late swipe at Wizkid over the comments he made towards him twelve years ago.

The drama started when Soulja Boy saw an old tweet from Wizkid dated back to 12th May 2010.

In the tweet, Wizkid was referring to Soulja Boy as being wack, he wrote “I swear Soulja Boy is wack!…jeeeezzzzz!

Responding to the tweet after twelve years, Soulja Boy responded by insulting Wizkid’s mother.

He tweeted “Ya mama Wack. Shut ya btch a* up.”

The tweet has generated over 8000 likes and more than 6000 retweets.

The rapper has also liked a couple of tweets scrutinizing the topic.

Hotewhiphop.com reported that Soulja Boy doesn’t care how long ago the disrespect was– he’s going to address it.

According to the report, Soulja Boy might have gotten his start by being a rapper, but since his first song dropped in the early 2000s he’s found plenty of ways to stay relevant. Whether he’s trending for doing something first, coming out with a new invention, or saying something crazy online, it’s become incredibly easy for the 31-year-old to break the internet.

See the tweet below, what is your opinion on the topic?

https://twitter.com/souljaboy/status/1546119056175992832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1546119056175992832%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hotnewhiphop.com%2Fsoulja-boy-replies-to-wizkid-dissing-him-12-years-ago-news.154832.html

CAN condemn Muslim-Muslim ticket as Tinubu picks his running mate

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has kicked against the decision of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), to pick a Muslim as his running mate.

On Sunday, Tinubu unveiled Senator Kashim Shettima, a Muslim and former governor of Borno State as his choice.

Tinubu disclosed this at the residence of President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura when he visited the president to inform him of his decision to pick Shettima as his mate.

The APC flag bearer has once chosen Ibrahim Kabiru Masari as running mate for the office of the Vice President.

Responding to Tinubu’s choice, Adebayo Oladeji, CAN spokesperson said Nigerians should be ready to face the consequences of their actions if they endorsed and vote for a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Oladeji added “We knew this was what he was going to do and we have warned against it. It is up to Nigerians to decide on what they want.

“You are all alive when we warned Buhari not to allow Muslims to dominate the security architecture of the country and he did it. I think we can see the way the criminals are operating with impunity.

“So, if Tinubu says he is opting for a Muslim-Muslim ticket in a polarised country like ours, if Nigerians endorse him and vote for him, whatever happens, Nigerians will face the consequences.

“If you have a government where a pastor is a vice president and pastors and worshipers are being killed you can imagine what will happen when we have a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

“It is left to Nigerians to make their choice, let them vote them in and we will all face the consequences together.

“We are raising our alarm. It is an irony that Buhari they regarded as an extremist when we raised an alarm to warn him against a Muslim-Muslim ticket, he heeded and opted for a Christian as his vice-presidential candidate.”

Tinubu reveals why he picked Shettima as running mate

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The All Progressive Congress (APC) presidential candidate for the 2023 election, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has said he picks Sen. Kashim Shettima as his running mate because he “possessed one of the best credentials for the election”.

Tinubu made this known in a statement he signed when he paid Sallah’s visit to President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura on Sunday.

According to the statement, he said “Today I announce the selection of Sen. Kashim Shettima as my partner and running mate in the mission to advance and reclaim the fortunes of this great country and the hopes of its people.

“Shettima’s career in politics and beyond shows that he is eminently qualified not only to deliver that all-important electoral victory but, also, to step into the shoes of the Vice-President.

“As a man with the talent, maturity, strength of character, and patriotism, he has my implicit confidence and faith.

“I am aware that many will continue to focus on a particular detail, the question of his faith,” Tinubu said.

He added: ”If we truly understood the challenges upon us a country, we must also see the imperative of placing competence in governance above religious sentiments.

“In 1993, Nigerians embrace Chief MKO Abiola and a fellow Muslim running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe in one of the country’s fairest elections ever held.

“The spirit of 1993 is upon us again in 2023, adding that the ticket the APC is presenting, represents a milestone in the country’s political history.

“The ticket symbolizes the party’s determination to be a leading light among political parties in Africa.

“The democratic process and the decorum that characterized our presidential primaries and the selection of our Vice-Presidential candidate exemplifies why we are the party of the people and the betterment of their future.”

Tinubu said that the choice of Shettima would further brighten the APC chances at the poll.

“With this selection, the APC surely shall continue to be the party that shows the way and carries this nation towards its best future.

“I implore you all to join me on this journey to a brighter future, as we enter a moment of renewed hope, we have the chance to move the nation and our collective cause forward as never before.

“We seize the moment so that history may write kindly of us, it is time to focus with utmost devotion and love of country to do all we could to advance the ideals of democratic and progressive good governance in the land,” he said.

Tinubu said that APC was focused on tackling the country’s numerous challenges.

“Together, we must end poverty and bring greater prosperity and more lasting peace, we should be wise of thought yet courageous in action.

“As we embark on a collective enterprise that brings jobs, education, food, medicine, hope, and belief in a better life to those who need them.

“I stand ready to begin this journey with you, hopefully, to lead the nation on this needed path as your next president by the grace of God.

“I believe this is a pivotal moment at which the dynamics of history and destiny call us forth to reshape our beloved nation, this is our moment,” he said.

Tinubu said that he did submit his documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) shortly after winning the APC presidential ticket.

“In full compliance with existing law and regulation, I submitted all necessary documents regarding my nomination as the APC presidential candidate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“The choice of my Vice-Presidential running mate has remained an open and burning question which gave rise to much speculation and debate.

“What I am, however, is a democrat, and a democrat must listen to, and consult with the people and his advisors so that he may reform and govern wisely and on their behalf.

“This I have done, my political career was not built on blind indifference to the views of others,” he said.

Tinubu added: ”I appreciate the perspectives of leading members of the party, political allies, and key national figures who see Nigeria’s future as I do. They gave me their views.

“So that I might add their valuable insights to mine to reach the best decision possible and do so in a manner that strengthens the institutional fabric of our party as well as accelerating the evolution of our political democracy.”

A report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) stated that Shettima was born on Sept. 2, 1966, and presently represents Borno Central at the National Assembly.

Music: Burna Boy drops ‘Love Damini’ 19-track album

Nigerian singer and Grammy award winner, Damini Ogulu better known as Burna Boy has eventually dropped ‘Love Damini’ his highly anticipated album.

The singer made this announcement known via his social media page on Friday.

The album contains 19-track featuring both international and local artists such as Ed Sheeran, Popcaan, Ladysmith, Victony, J Balvin, J Hus, Boxset, Kehlani, Black Mambazo, and Khalid.

The songs include ‘Glory’, ‘Science’, ‘Jagele’, ‘Kilometer’, ‘Cloak & Dagger’, ‘Whiskey’, ‘Last Last’, ‘Different Size’, ‘It’s Plenty’, and ‘Dirty Secrets’.

Others are ‘T. A. S’, ‘Solid’, ‘For My Hand’, ‘Rollercoaster’, ‘Wild Dreams’, ‘How Bad Could It Be’, and ‘Love Damini’.

Burna Bou has verified himself as a household brand in the music industry with various awards and recognition.

He rose to fame in 2013 after dropping his lead single ‘Like to Party’ from his debut album ‘L.I.F.E’.

In 2021, his album ‘Twice As Tall’ won the ‘Best World Music Album’ category at the Grammys.

Listen to the album:

Video for Kuje prison attack surface, ISWAP claims responsibility

The Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for the attack on the facility of Kuje prison that occurred on Tuesday night in Abuja.

A 38-second video that surfaced online on Wednesday, shows how some of the men of the terrorist group forced their way inside the facility and started shooting sporadically.

Also in the video, it was gathered that tens of fighters were seen parading in groups and firing while a facility and vehicles were on fire.

The video also shows an elderly man wearing native attire who is among the young fighters screaming on top of their voices.

The video was released by the Islamic State A’maq Agency with the caption “Fighters of Islamic State attacked Kuje prison in Abuja yesterday and succeeded in freeing dozens of prisoners.” The words were written in Arabic.

https://twitter.com/Murtalaibin/status/1544764707042742281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1544764707042742281%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fpulsembed.eu%2Fp2em%2FYZvg7ZFRz%2F

On Tuesday, July 5, 2022, Terrorists broke into the facility located in the Kuje area at midnight, throwing explosive devices and shooting at the prison guards before releasing over 800 prisoners including some Boko Haram suspects.

‘Citation’ wins Best International Film Award in Uk

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A movie titled ‘Citation’ produced by award-winning film producer, Kunle Afolayan has won the Best International Film Award at the 2022 National Film Festival in the United Kingdom.

Kunle Afolayan made this known on his Instagram page on Wednesday.

In his post, he stated that the award came as a surprise to him “as there was no form of lobbying to win”.

According to him, he wrote, “Two days ago in London, Citation won Best International Film. The Director – Kunle Afolayan and the entire production team didn’t see the award coming”.

“We are grateful for the support and recognition of the public and the organizers. In Kunle Afolayan’s words ‘I am glad we got recognized without even lobbying’.

“The National Film Awards is an annual awards ceremony celebrating the achievements of established and independent filmmakers, actors, actresses, casting directors, production companies, and crew who make up the motion picture industry.

“The National Film Awards holds 4 events annually in the United Kingdom, USA, South America, Africa, and Australia.

“All nominations and voting for the NFA are submitted and voted for by movie fans. The NFA is produced by the National Film Academy which also produces the new National Film Festival.”

‘Citation’ is the story of a real event centered on a 21-year-old brilliant female student on a Nigerian campus, who takes on the academic establishment when she reports a popular professor who tried to rape her.

Temi Otedola, Joke Silvia, Ibukun Awosika, Ini Edo, Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), Jimmy Jean-Louis, Yomi Fash-Lance, Adjetey Anang, Gabriel Afolayan, Bienvenu Neba, and the late Sadiq Daba, among others, are featured in the movie.

Watch the trailer:

Police neutralize six suspected armed robbers, recover guns and cartridges in Delta

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The Delta State commissioner of police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, has assured residents of their safety as operatives of the command engage suspected armed robbers in a gun duel and neutralize six of them.

The operatives also recovered four cut-to-size locally made guns and cartridges.

This was disclosed by the command spokesperson, DSP. Bright Edafe, on Sunday in Asaba the state capital.

According to the spokesperson “On 01/07/2022, Operatives attached to ‘B’ Division Warri surveillance team while on Aberdeen patrol along lower Erejuwa Street in Warri, received a distress call, that suspected armed robbery gang were terrorizing Igbudu market/old welfare.

The teams acting on this distress moved to the scene where the hoodlums on sighting the police took to their heels, and the team went after them. Somewhere around old welfare road, the hoodlums went into a gun duel with the Operatives, but could not withstand the superior firepower of the police.”

“During the gun duel, five of the hoodlums sustained serious gunshot injuries while, two (2) locally made cut-to-size single barrel guns, three (3) rounds of expended cartridges, three (3) rounds of live cartridges, and one dagger were recovered from them. The injured suspects gave up the ghost while they were being taken to the hospital. The investigation is ongoing.”

Again, the police spokesperson said “Following a series of complaints from members of the public, about the activities of some hoodlums who attack innocent residents in Asaba, especially around Ezenie axis, DLA, Summit Road, and other areas within the Asaba metropolis, rob them of their phones, money, and other belongings.

The Commissioner of Police detailed some tactical teams on a round-the-clock patrol within Asaba and its environs, to arrest those perpetrating the act. On 30/6/2022 at about 0230hrs, operatives of the Command Rapid Response Squad (RRS) while on visibility patrol along Ezenei Street Asaba, sighted four suspicious-looking young men in a parked minibus without a registration number. When the team advanced towards them to find out their identity, they zoomed off towards Asaba-Benin Expressway.

The police image added that the operatives gave them a tireless chase till they got to Issele-Asagba in Aniocha South LGA.

He said “The team while trying to double-cross the vehicle was faced with stiff resistance from the hoodlums, who ran into the Police van, abandoned the vehicle fled into an adjoining bush while firing at the policemen. This confirmed the suspicion of the operatives, they followed them into the bush while exchanging gunshots. Consequently, one of the suspects sustained gunshot injuries while others escaped with bullet wounds.

“One (1) cut-to-size English double barrel, one (1) locally made pistol, six (6) expended cartridges, two (2) live cartridges and a big iron cutter were recovered. The injured suspect was taken to Agbor General Hospital, where he died while receiving treatment. The effort is on top gear to arrest the other fleeing members of the gang while Investigation is ongoing.”

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OMlMI Congratulates Delta PDP Governorship Candidate, Oborovwori, Commends Governor Okowa, Party, On Level Playing Field For Aspirants

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The Political Adviser, to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Omimi Esquire, has congratulated the Delta PDP Governorship Candidate and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, on his victory at the Wednesday 25th of Governorship primaries held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

The Political Adviser (POLAD), equally commended Governor lfeanyi Okowa, and the State working committee of the PDP, for providing a level playing field for a free, fair, credible and transparent primaries for all the aspirants.

In a statement, Omimi Esquire, described the PDP Governorship Candidate, as a dedicated party man whose record-breaking tenure as the longest-serving Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, has engendered massive collaboration with the Okowa administration, thus translating into the rapid transformation of the State.

While noting that the build up to the primaries was hectic for all the aspirants, he stated that it was only natural that at the end of the day, only one person will emerge as the party’s flag bearer whose lot fell on Rt Hon Oborevwori.

The POLAD to Governor Okowa therefore urged the victorious winner not to see his emergence as a personal victory, but to extend his hands of fellowship to all co contestants as campaigns intensify, in order to ensure that as one united family, PDP in Delta State remains in power after Governor Okowa’s second term in office, ends on May 29, 2023.

Omimi Esquire stressed the need for all party faithful across the 25 local government areas to go back to the drawing board and start mass awareness at their various units and wards, to sell the candidature of the party’s Governorship as well as other candidates for the state assembly, house of reps and senate, to the electorate at various levels.

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HON. ENGR. EMEKA EMMANUEL NWAOBI: THE MAN THAT SAW TOMORROW

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He addressed the plenary of the Delta State House of Assembly on the 25th of January 2022, where he enjoined all his colleagues to support Mr. Speaker in his bid to become the next Governor of Delta State.

He said his spirit tells him that Mr. Speaker is the next Governor. He called on Deltans to support Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, so that he can continue from where Dr. Okowa will stop in 2023. It happened exactly the way he predicted it.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE POLITICAL COLOSSUS!

Watch the video here:

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Archbishop Apena celebrates 91 birthday, preaches love

The Archbishop of Bethesda Gospel Mission, Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, Archbishop Christian Aggrey O. Apena has marked his 91 birthday.

The ceremony which was held at the Bethesda Gospel Mission Cathedral Irri was described as an honour given to the Archbishop by those in attendance.

Speaking at the event, Bishop Dr. Prince Edugbo, presiding Bishop of House of Gladtidings Mission, Asaba who was a guest speaker said the celebrant, Archbishop Apena is an ocean of divine virtues, power, and knowledge.

The preacher who spoke on the topic ” We’re here to draw” and taking his bible reading from Genesis 27:26-27 said Archbishop Apena is a preacher and priest of Jesus Christ for over seven decades adding that he is a father to politicians, traditional rulers, academicians, religious leaders both in Nigeria and many other nations of the world.

Edugbo noted that the birthday celebration was a divine invitation for a step up urging the people to partake in his grace by making the heart of the patriarch of the faithful rejoice.

Meanwhile, the celebrant, Archbishop Christian Aggrey O. Apena in his speech said the secret to longevity is loving God and your neighbor as yourself.

The nonagenarian preacher cautioned the political class against injustice, corruption, and perverting the will of the people during elections.

He also called on Nigerians to shun intertribal and interreligious crises in the country.

The ceremony was witnessed by dignitaries from all works of life and very prominent preachers from the Isoko nation among are Archbishop (Barr) Ginbright Adaigho, Archbishop Dr. V. E Arikoro, Primate Moses Ogbodogbo, Chief Apostle Thompson Oki, Bishop John Aruakpor, Bishop Sam Oyede, Bishop Dr. Oroh Itehiri, Rev. Dr. (Mrs) Ovuomo, Renaissance College of Bishops and others.

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Panic for Peter

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The name Ned, simply, Ned, gives him the jitters. He knows he is not anywhere near Ned’s legendary clout, garnered over the years in selfless, altruistic service to fatherland.

Ned is a colossus, Ned is Primus inter pares. Ned,s passion for humanity is at once befuddling and awe-inspiring.

Ned is an enigma. A proud blue blooded ldumuje Ugboko royalty. Ned is more ways than one a path to a sublime future for Anioma.

Ned, oh Ned, bleeds, at his every pore, for the betterment of his people.

Ned has lost count of his deeds, etched in gold, etched in epaulets of passion and altruism.

Peter, on the other hand, is a paradox, never able to reach Ned’s rich diadem.

As the ticker tape of time beckons on the red Chambers at the Senate, one glow, incontrovertibly, one lamp that cannot be his, is Hon Dr. Prince Chinedum ( Ned) Nwoko.

He is not only the doyen of the Paris club refund, not only the man who brought Nigeria out of recession, but also he is the Chancellor of the first Sports University in Sub Saharan Africa, STARS UNIVERSITY, ldumuje ugboko.

Ned is also the first Nigerian to hoist the 13th flag of a Nation, his nation, on the coldest continent in the world, ANTARCTICA, not for pleasure, but malaria research! Ned is a phantom.

Ned’s foray into altruism knows no bounds. He is a lover of the challenge, undefended, and has the uncanny spirit to help.

Ned, oh Ned, please help Anioma come 2023. Your tourism and cultural blueprints speak volumes. Your Mount Ned Nwoko Tourist Resort is Glee, an elixir and impetus. It speaks of your kind heart and clairvoyance.

Anioma kwenu….

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Delta North Traditional rulers council stamp seal on Ned Nwoko, endorse him as their sole candidate

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Traditional rulers, under the leadership of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Chike Edozien, have unanimously endorsed foremost Anioma patriot and PDP Delta North Senatorial aspirant, Prince Ned Nwoko, as their consensus choice.

They lauded the Sterling altruistic disposition of the Anioma-born Prince Nwoko, and also his legion acts of love for Anioma, as the be-all and end-all of their unanimous decision.

Rising from an enlarged meeting of the Anioma traditional rulers council which had over forty ( 40) Royal father’s across the nine (9) local government councils that make up the Delta North Senatorial district, the Obi of Abavo and Vice Chairman of the group, HRM lrienuma who read the communique issued after the meeting, said the choice of Hon Prince Ned Nwoko as their consensus candidate to represent Delta North at the red Chambers, come 2023, is incontrovertible, judging from his track records in literally every field of human endeavor.

Flanked by the secretary of the council, Obi of Atuma lga kingdom, HRM Daniel Ogbodu, the Abavo monarch emphasized that their choice of Prince Ned Nwoko was also a result of his nationalistic fervor and multidimensional approach to Anioma related issues, such as his attracting the first Sports University in the entire sub-Saharan University in Africa domiciled in Anioma land, Idumuje ugboko specifically.

Noting, in addition, the singular initiative of the Anioma born international legal icon to highlight the injustice of the illegal Paris Club refunds which ultimately heaved a sigh of relief to Nigeria and exited it from recession, Obi Irienuma stated unequivocally that the Delta North Traditional rulers council did not need to look any further in their choice of a consensus candidate to represent them.

The 15-point communique also noted, with Glee, that Prince Ned Nwoko had never been found wanting in moral rectitude and good works too, not only in Anioma but across all strata in general.

Recalling the Anioma billionaire’s antecedents as the house of reps member representing the Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency from 1999 to 2003, the communique said the performance of Prince Ned Nwoko which was among others the current Benin Onitsha expressway, the current Delta Police headquarters complex, the NTA Asaba premises and too many numerous initiatives, were tops of the iceberg, assuring that they are resolute in their support for Nwoko.

The communique which stated that they are in full support of Ned Nwoko,s malaria eradication, and other nationalistic programs, urged all Anioma people both at home and in the diaspora, to support the biggest and most profitable cause that will take Anioma a notch higher among the comity of senatorial districts in Nigeria and beyond.

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Abuja-Kaduna train service to resume operation on May 23 – FG

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The federal government has announced the resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna train service, saying the operation to begin on May 23.

The announcement was made known in a statement by the spokesperson for the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Yakubu Mahmood, on Monday.

This is coming weeks after unknown gunmen attacked a train and kidnapped some of its passengers.

According to the announcement, the NRC spokesperson said the decision to resume services does not mean efforts to secure the safe release of those a dude will be put on hold, adding that additional security measures are being put in place to strengthen security at the train stations and along the track.

In addition, Mahmood said customers must present a Valid Photo Identification Card (ID) and a reachable telephone number of a Next of Kin (NOK) or close relative before boarding a train.

He added that online and offline purchases of tickets must contain the passenger’s profile or identification data, the NRC added.

The statement reads “The Government wishes to assure the relatives of the abducted citizens still in captivity that the safe rescue of these passengers is a top priority and not to misconstrue the resumption of train services, like abandonment or nonchalant attitude of the government towards their plight.

“The Federal Government will never abdicate its responsibility in rescuing these valuable citizens, however, the government assures of its resolve not to succumb to threats by any faceless group.

“These measures are not only for the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) but also for all the passenger train services, especially on the standard gauge railway lines.

“Consequently, the passengers are hereby enjoined to cooperate with the NRC to enjoin improved service delivery, safety, and comfort by patiently complying with additional measures that will surely be introduced for the safety of our passengers, such as requesting for passengers’ National Identification Numbers (NIN) as part of our internal security check.”

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Why we are Reviewing Administration of Criminal Justice Law – Gov Okowa

“The importance my administration places on Justice delivery cannot be overemphasized, evidently the summit underscores that “

The Executive Governor of Delta State, Sen Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, made this statement at the statehouse on the 12th of May, 2022, during a Stakeholders summit on the review of the Delta State Administration of Criminal law, 2016.

Gov Okowa ably represented by His Chief of Staff, Hon Ovie Agas hinted that “we would not have finished strong if we don’t look at Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), “ he further stated that “this summit underscores the importance my administration places on the justice system and delivery, I am particularly pleased with the assemblage of the caliber of personalities here at this review…”

Speaking further he said that before the enactment of ACJL in 2015, the situation of JCL was epileptic, from slowness to ineffective plans for cases even in the most important cases amongst others” This led to the 2015 Enactment of the Delta state Administration of Criminal Justice Law and passed in 2016.

“The current status quo has lived up to its purpose but there are lags,” he also hinted that “it is far better and effective than it was from defunct Bendel state, but since the advent of covid, increase in organized crime amongst others there’s been a need to address the current status quo to ensure efficiency, Reduce delayed trials, eliminate reluctance of witnesses to give evidence amongst others and to help ACJL in delta state keep up with the trend and speed of development.”

While appreciating everyone present for the review he commended the attorney general and Commissioner for Justice of the State, Hon Isaiah Bozimo ESQ. for his foresight towards attaining a more efficient ACJL and placing delta state at the top of the creative map in Criminal Justice Administration (CJL).

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Ned is the ‘Central Tendency’ to represent Delta North at the Senate – Hon Pascal Adigwe

The Director-General, Ned Nwoko Campaign Council, Hon Pascal Nwaoronine Adigwe, has described the Delta North Senatorial aspirant under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon Dr. Prince Ned Nwoko, as the ‘central tendency’ that will take Anioma to heights not imagined, if given the mandate by Aniomas, come the senatorial primaries.

Hon Adigwe, a one-time member of the House of Representatives, stated that Ned as a brand that has bestrode the national and international landscape, like a colossus, needs no introduction especially as it relates to his global vision of altruism.

The Ned Nwoko Campaign Council DG who also described his Principal as Primus inter pares, said Ned’s legion acts of patriotic acts, ranging from leading the fight for the Paris club refunds which bailed Nigeria out of recession, to the malaria awareness initiative where he not only became the first Nigerian to visit Antarctica and hoist the nation’s flag but also committed millions of dollars towards research on a vaccine to end the scourge in Africa are indelible.

Adigwe also noted that STARS University, the first Sports University in Sub Saharan Africa, is proudly in Anioma land, courtesy of the billionaire philanthropist whose passion for sports development knows no bounds.

Stating that Prince Ned Nwoko’s achievements in the tourism, culture, and Philanthropy areas, as well as a myriad of infrastructural initiatives at his cost, are Sterling evidence of the Delta North PDP senatorial aspirant, Adigwe affirmed that with Ned at the red Chambers, Anioma in particular, and the nation in general, we’re in for the best of legislative sagacity and dividends of democracy.

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Delta Police assure residents of safety, urging them to go about their businesses amid IPOB threats

The Delta State Police Command has assured residents of their safety and urges them to go about their lawful businesses amidst sit-at-home threats from the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

This is coming after the attention of the command is been drawn to a Facebook post shared by some faceless individual with the caption “Unknown gunmen Asaba Delta State sends a strong message”.

According to the Facebook post, Asaba residents are warned to observe the “Sit at home order” as declared by the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra.

However, for clarity, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+, has declared that there is no “sit at home order” in the State.

This assurance was made known in a statement by the command spokesperson, Dsp. Bright Edafe, on Sunday in Asaba, the state capital.

In the statement, the CP assures residents of their safety and urges them to go about their lawful businesses as the command is willing and able to deal decisively with anyone or group of persons who try to cause any form of trouble in the State.

The CP also admonishes members of the public particularly residents of Asaba and the entire Delta North district to remain vigilant, monitor, and report any strange and suspicious movements or persons in their neighborhood to the command or other law enforcement agencies.

Meanwhile, the CP in his determination to maintain the existing peace in the State has placed officers and men of the Command on red alert and urged them to remain watchful and deal decisively with anyone or group of persons attempting to cause any form of mayhem in the State.

He has further directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations, Area Commanders, DPOS, and Tactical Commanders to maintain Police visibility across the length and breadth of the State and emplace measures that will make the State uncomfortable and uninhabitable for any group of hoodlums.

Given this, the command also released some contact information to enable residents to report cases of suspicious activities, stating that the Delta State Police Command can be contacted through the following numbers;
The PPRO’s Office on +234 915 557 0008, +234 915 557 0007, Or the Command Control Room via +234 803 668 4974.

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Breaking: Unknown gunmen behead Nigerian Army couple in Imo

A couple in the Nigerian Army who just got married recently has been beheaded by unknown gunmen.

The incident happened on Saturday when the couple was on their way to Imo State.

In a video that surface online, the gunmen can be seem putting the head on the victims’ chest.

After the incident, it was gathered that the gunmen were calling on their family members to mock them, a source in the military revealed.

According to the source, the lady was also raped before they were beheaded adding that A.M Linus, a sergeant first class in the Army and his lance corporal wife were on their way to Imo when the incident happened.

“It’s so sad that we soldiers are no safer, the man was a member of the 19 regular intakes while the wife was of the 79RI.

“They were on their way to Imo state on Saturday when the incident happened. You won’t believe these gunmen as we speak still used their phones to make calls to their family members, making jest of them and threatening to kill them as well.

“This couple just married recently, even their photoshoot caused a lot of criticism and seems they were punished for it.

“Though the man is married to another woman with grown-up kids, he suddenly eloped with this young soldier, I was told the girl also had kids before joining the army as well.

“The man still has a father, his brother is also a soldier working at a battalion in Kaduna. The lady was also raped before they were beheaded.

Remember, the attacks by unknown gunmen have increased in the South-East in recent times. The attacks often target security agencies and government facilities.

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Juliet Ibrahim narrates how she was camped and raped

Juliet Ibrahim, the Ghanaian actress who is very prominent in Nollywood narrated the experience she suffered under an abusive relationship stating that she was once a victim.

She said her former boyfriend, would always lock her up and force his way on her.

The Ghanaian actress said this in a chat with Chude Jideonwo, the media personality.

Though, she did not disclose the identity of her ex-boyfriend but said “I told him what he did was rape and he said but we were in a relationship.”

“But was I ready, that was the question, did I say I was in the mood? I kept saying no, stop it, stop it, you pin me down and you’re doing whatever you wanted to do and you’re smiling saying don’t worry.

“And you’re kissing whilst I’m crying, that means you’re a rapist and I had to leave that relationship.

“I fought my way out of that relationship because he even locked me up in his house for days until my sister Sonia came to find me.

“I was scared, uncertain of what to do because this guy was huge and taller than me. He can raise you above the wall. And just imagine that it was every day. Every day, he wanted to do something. That is rape.

“You’re naive. Who do you go and tell? Who would come and fight for you?

“But ladies you can report it now, go and report. If your husband is forcing you to do when you’re not in the mood it is rape and I tell these men that you cannot force a woman.”

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See 5 war films that can blow your mind: Lone Survivor, Hacksaw Ridge, 12 Strong

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To keep the groove alive for not being boring this weekend, here are five battle movies recommended to watch.

Lone Survivors

Running time: 121 minutes

Synopsis: A four-man reconnaissance and surveillance team in the United States Navy Seal were given the assignment of tracking down a Taliban leader.

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster, Eric Bana.

13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi

Running Time: 144 minutes

Synopsis: The film follows six members of the Annex Security Team who fought to defend the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya after waves of attacks by militants.

Starring: James Badge Dale, John Krasinski, Pablo Schreiber, Max Martini, David Denman, Dominic Fumusa, and supporting roles by Toby Stephens, Alexia Barlier, and David Costabile.

Hacksaw Ridge

Running Time: 139 minutes

Synopsis: The film focuses on the World War II experiences of Desmond Doss, an American pacifist combat medic who, as a Seventh-day Adventist Christian, refused to carry or use a weapon or firearm of any kind.

Starring: Andrew Garfield stars as Doss, with Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey, Teresa Palmer, Hugo Weaving, Rachel Griffiths, and Vince Vaughn in supporting roles.

12 Strong

Running Time: 129 minutes

Synopsis: The film is based on Doug Stanton’s non-fiction book Horse Soldiers, which tells the story of U.S. Army Special Forces sent to Afghanistan immediately after the September 11 attack.

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, Michael Peña, Navid Negahban, Trevante Rhodes, Geoff Stults, Thad Luckinbill, Ben O’Toole, William Fichtner, and Rob Riggle.

Tears of the Sun

Running Time: 121 minutes

Synopsis: The movie depicts a fictitious U.S. Navy SEAL rescue team sent to rescue a U.S. doctor amidst the civil war in Nigeria.

Starring: Bruce Willis, Monica Bellucci, Cole Hauser, and Tom Skerritt.

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Having sex with animals attracts 14 years imprisonment – Lawyer

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The Managing Partner of Universe Attorneys, Akande Paul, has warned Nigerians against the act of having sexual intercourse with animals.

He said such an act is against the Criminal Code Act and the Penal Code Act in Nigeria and it attracts 12 years of imprisonment.

The lawyer said this in a chat with The Punch on Saturday after a viral video of a dog having sex with a female surfaced online.

The video was said to be recorded in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria but there was no proof to validate the venue.

However, the lawyer in his chat with The Punch also explained some of the sections of the law stating that “It is a Criminal offense for anybody in Nigeria to have sex with lower animals like dogs, horses, cats, cows, etc.

“Oral sex (‘receiving head’) from an animal is a sexual act which constitutes a sexual offense.

“In Nigeria, it is an offense to engage in bestiality (having canal knowledge of an animal).

“The punishment is 14 years imprisonment upon conviction based on Section 214 of the Criminal Code Act; Section 284 of the Penal Code Act.”

Section 214 of the Criminal Code Act states that “Any person who- (1) has carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature; or (2) has carnal knowledge of an animal; or (3) permits a male person to have carnal knowledge of him or her against the order of nature; is guilty of a felony, and is liable to imprisonment for fourteen years.”

Section 284 of the Penal Code Act states that “Whoever has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to fourteen years and shall also be liable to fine.”

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10 movies to watch this weekend: Strange, Man For The Job, Lost City

If you are thinking of a million ways to enjoy your weekend, here are ten movies to search out on Netflix or at the Cinema as recommended by TheCableLifestyle.

Some of the movies may leave you delighted.

  1. Strangers

Running time: 2hrs

Starring: Lateef Adedimeji, Femi Adebayo, Jide Kosoko

Synopsis: Forgotten in a remote village and battling a life-ending disease, a young boy’s future could change forever when people he has never met showed up.

  1. Man For The Job

Running time: 2hrs 5mins

Starring: Ini Edo, Temi Otedola, Uzor Arukwe, Ibrahim Suleiman

Synopsis: A young engineer joins his team to solve a software problem for an IT company. However, things take a turn for the worse when he’s accused of using the software to steal from the company.

  1. Lost City

Running time: 1hr 52mins

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Brad Pitt, Daniel Radcliffe

Synopsis: A reclusive romance novelist on a book tour with her cover model gets swept up in a kidnapping attempt that lands them both in a cutthroat jungle adventure.

  1. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

Running time: 1hr 45mins

Starring: Tiffany Haddish, Nicholas Cage, Pedro Pascal

Synopsis: A cash-strapped actor agrees to make a paid appearance at a billionaire super fan’s birthday party, but is an informant for the CIA since the billionaire fan is a drug kingpin and gets cast in a Tarantino movie.

  1. Blood Covenant

Running time: 1hr 50mins

Starring: Tobi Bakre, Erica Nweledim, Alex Ekubo

Synopsis: The tale follows three ambitious young men in their late twenties struggling to make it in life. Tired of being looked down upon, they embark on a relentless quest for the high life, chasing easy money, fast cars, and fame; willing to do whatever it takes no matter what it costs them.

  1. The Secret of Dumbledore

Running time: 2hrs 22mins

Starring: Mads Mikkelsen, Callum Turner, Dan Fogler

Synopsis: An overwhelmed wizard sends a band of sorcerers and witches after his arch-enemy and their success against the all-powerful being bleak. How long can the wizard be on the sideline?

  1. The King of Thieves

Running time: 1hr 50mins

Starring: Femi Adebayo, Lateef Adedimeji, Odunlade Adekola

Synopsis: It tells the legendary tale of the greatest thief there ever was. A ruthless bandit with a fearsome reputation and his exploits in a kingdom that uses everything from vigilante to witchcraft to destroy him.

  1. I am Nazzy

Running time: 1hr 56mins

Starring: IK Ogbonna, Denrele Edun, Chinonso Arubayi

Synopsis: A fast-rising music artist’s picture-perfect life suddenly goes haywire when she accidentally switches places with a doppelganger. All attempts to prove her identity are futile, and she is subjected to a whole new life without the glitz and glamour. Will she lose herself or embark on a journey of self-discovery?

  1. Morbius

Running time: 1hr 46mins

Starring: Jared Leto, Tyrese Gibson, Corey Johnson

Synopsis: A doctor proffer solution to a global pandemic. While the medication appeared to be successful at first, it revealed itself to be a remedy potentially worse than the disease.

  1. A Simple Life

Running time: 1hr 37mins

Starring: Bisola Aiyeola, Emmanuel Ikubese, Kie Kie

Synopsis: A lady runs into her ex and tells a simple lie that snowballs into a series of unplanned events and reactions.

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I’m not a big man minister, I know poverty – Rotimi Ameachi

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The race to clinch the Presidential ticket by Aspirants under the All Progressives Congress APC cannot be overemphasized, it’s becoming a myriad of well-deserving aspirants with different interests.

It’s a win for the party as it’s clearly a fundraising affair but most likely perceived to throw potential delegates into confusion on who to vote for during the primaries.

Today the great ancient city of Asaba, saw the likes of Rt. Hon Victor Ochie a former Speaker of the Delta state house of Assembly, amongst others driven in black colored 4 by 4s, sophisticated security details and blaring sirens, followers amongst others who accompanied the present-day Hon minister for transportation, His excellency, the immediate past governor of Rivers State, Hon Rotimi Ameachi to Asaba to make known his interests to run for the office of the president and to also solicit for the support of delta delegates of the Progressives family.

Hon Rotimi while soliciting the support of delta delegates stated that “I’m a minister that’s present almost all the time, I’m not a big man minister, because I was born from a very poor family, my father and
Mother didn’t go to school, I know poverty, I was the first graduate of my entire home, after that, I started training my siblings.”

Speaking further the former Governor of Rivers state urged the party faithful not to be sentimental, in his words “Don’t be sentimental about your votes, don’t vote for me because I’m south-south but because I’m capable, hold me accountable when I’m there” adding that “my developmental strides are still evident in my state, my scholarship schemes made many graduates from different fields that are doing well in and outside Nigeria, I recall putting contractors on their toes as Governor, I let them know that if you don’t deliver as when due, not just me but the entire community will hold you till you get the job done “

“One thing I know for sure is that give us six more months and you will see the beauty of our efforts in road developments, taking cognizance of the 2nd Niger bridge, the bridge is almost set, but businesses in the region are already ahead and warming up for the opening for the usage of that bridge “

Hon Rotimi further hinted that “ if you observe you will see that there’s a lot of bickering and agitations on all regions and I’m certain that I can resolve all and sundry in these troubled regions, but most importantly, understand that the electability of a candidate gives us a chance, we need a sellable candidate.”

Also speaking was Rt. Hon Victor Ochei while giving the vote of thanks stressed that “He, Rotimi Amaechi is running as a Nigerian, as a president for all, for you and me, not as a south-south man, but as a capable Nigerian with a wealth of experience.”

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Burna Boy announces next album, reveals release date and title

Nigerian singer, Burna Boy has officially announced the release date of his sixth album and also revealed the title.

The singer said his next album titled ‘Love Damini’ would be released on July 2, 2022, which happens to be his birthday.

Burna Boy announced this on Twitter on Friday after his Madison Square Garden concert.

While announcing, he also gives details about the album stating that the project will highlight some of his life struggles, he tweeted “Love Damini is a persona body of work. It’s about the ups and downs, the growth, the L’s and W’s. I’m excited to share this journey and roll [it] out with you all.”

The new project comes two years after the release of his fifth studio album ‘Twice as Tall.’

Burna Boy gains recognition in Nigeria’s music scene in 2013 after releasing ‘Like to Party’, the lead single from his debut album ‘L.I.F.E’.

In 2017, he signed with Bad Habit/Atlantic Records in the US and Warner Music Group internationally.

His second studio album ‘On A Spaceship’ came in 2015 but ‘Outside’, his third, marked his major-label debut.

Burna’s fourth album ‘African Giant’ was released in July 2019 and nominated for the 62nd Grammy Awards.

In the same year, he won ‘Best International Act’ at the BET Awards and was named an Apple Music Up Next artist.

His fifth album ‘Twice as Tall’ was nominated for the 2021 Grammys and it won.

This achievement made the singer the first Nigerian to score back-to-back nominations at the Grammys.

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Vice President Osinbajo is physically fit to rule – Dr. Ominimini

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The Coordinator of the south-south group for Osibanjo, Dr. Ominimini Opiuwevbi, has stated that His Excellency, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo is capable and physical fit to rule Nigeria.

Dr. Ominimini made this statement today in Asaba after having a closed-door meeting with Presidential Aspirant Prof Yemi Osibanjo who doubles as the current Vice President of The Federal Republic of Nigeria, of the All Progressives Congress APC, and other Party delegates.

He stated that “the VP has shown capacity that his physically fit to rule, that he has regards for the delegates and Nigerians” adding that “he stood for about one hour taking notes while answering questions from delegates”

Speaking further he stressed that “he is moving from state to state himself and not sitting at the comfort of his house giving orders, rather he is moving personal, which shows that he is physically fit to rule this country, can deliver this country take it to the next level” “he is sound”, he added.

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Pete Edochie banishes Yul’s second wife from entering his home

Pete Edochie, the veteran Nollywood actor, has banished Yul’s second wife from entering his house.

On Wednesday, Yul clarified Judy Austin as his second wife while introducing his son, born by her, to the world after 17 years of marriage with May, his first wife.

According to Worlsnews.space, the Nollywood veteran said he’s not in support of Yul’s second marriage.

He said, “I want the whole world and Nigerians to understand that as an Igbo man, I never support my son’s actions and as a statesman, I only Recognized his first wife as the only authenticated wife of my son, the rest is banished from entering my household.”

Pete, who publicly endorsed his son, Yul, for the 2023 Nigerian presidential election, pointed out that getting with another wife simply means that one is ready to suffer and breed confusion among his generation.

The veteran actor bore his mind on the second wife and son that Yul had outside his knowledge, after having four children from the first wife.

He was said to have affirmed that right from when Yul was a child, he never listened to him.

“I’m not shocked that he has a son without my knowledge. A child that doesn’t listen to his father ends up cutting his or her life span short,

Yul, on Wednesday, welcomed a son with his second wife, Judy Austin, who is also a Nigerian actress.

The actor announced this on his Instagram page on Wednesday, where he shared pictures of himself and his newborn son.

He added that he loves the child as much as he loved his older four children, which he shared with his first wife, May.

Edochie wrote, “It’s time for the world to meet my son. His name is STAR DIKE MUNACHIMSO YUL-EDOCHIE. Born to my second wife, Judy Austin. And I love him so much, just as much as I love my other children.”

In the comment session, Yul’s first wife, May, wrote, “May God judge you both.”

The 40-year-old actor and his wife, May, had marked their 17th wedding anniversary in October 2021.

He maintained his father’s footsteps and made his debut in the movie industry a year after his marriage.

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2023 Elections: I’m excited about the process – Osibanjo

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The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo SAN, who also doubles as an Aspirant for the office of the President of Nigeria in the coming 2023 general elections under the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress APC, has physical with boots on the ground hit the field for due consultations with delegates.

As witnessed on Thursday in the capital city of Asaba, Prof Osibanjo in his words said that “ there’s been an evident warm welcome by the progressives family here in Delta and all is going beautifully well”.

Speaking further, the Prof said “So far I’m excited about the process so far, and with the support of the people as seen here today, I remain positive about the process “

Meanwhile, the Prof on his first stop at the palace of the Azagba of Asaba was assured of the Support of the Azagba of Asaba, Prof Chike Edozien who highlighted Security, light, Poverty cum the value of the Naira as an integral part of being handled by the federal government.

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FG declares May 2nd, 3rd public holidays to mark workers’ day and Eidul-Fitr celebration

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The Federal Government has declared Monday 2rd and Tuesday 3rd May 2022 as public holidays to mark this year’s workers’ day and Eldul-Fitr celebrations.

The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government while congratulating workers across the country on this year’s celebration.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Dr. M.L Shuaib Belgore, the permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior on Thursday, April 28, 2022.

The minister commended workers for their hard work, diligence, and sacrifice, noting that their efforts are largely responsible for the greatness of the country and the respect Nigeria now commands in the comity of nations.

According to the Minister, “Labour is the very essence of humanity. We are alive because we work and only are dead are incapable of working”

Aregbesola, therefore, enjoins workers to imbibe the culture of productivity, saying “The end of work is productivity. It is productivity that the leads to the satisfactory provision of goods and services and wealth creation, therefore, therefore the path to national and individual prosperity”.

He urges workers to raise the bar trade in line with the President Buhari-Buhari-led administration’s drive to rev up the vehicle of governance and make all the people of Nigeria derive maximum benefit from the nation.

The Minister also congratulates all Muslims for the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Aregbesola calls on all Muslims to imbibe and practice the virtues of kindness, love, tolerance, peace, self-denial, and sacrifice neighborliness, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him).

“The self-restraint self-denial, sacrifice, and deep spiritual consciousness that accompanied the fasting period should not end but be maintained and improve to be a better person and true worshipper”, the minister advises all Muslims.

The minister expresses confidence that the security challenges in some parts of the country will soon be a thing of the past, noting that the government is putting determined efforts and all necessary measures in place for Nigerians to enjoy unfettered around all round.

Aregbesola assures Nigerians that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is fully committed to the security of life and property of every citizen and foreigners alike.

The Minister commends all security agencies for the successes recorded in the fight against criminals across the country and the peace that has returned to the formerly embattled places.

He urges Nigerians to be part of the nation’s security architecture by being vigilant and reporting suspicious individuals and activities to law enforcement agencies nearest to them, noting that security is everybody’s responsibility.

Aregbesola wishes all Muslims a happy Eidul-Fitr celebration and prays that the peace, blessings, and favors of Allah be with you all. Ameen.

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Police arrest drug dealers, recover three guns from armed robbery suspects in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested suspected drug dealers and recovered substances suspected to be cocaine and other illicit drugs.

The command also arrested two suspected armed robbers and recovered two double-barrel long guns and one cut-to-size double-barrel gun.

This was disclosed by the command spokesperson, DSP. Bright Edafe, on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the police spokesperson, “On 26/4/2022 at about 1740hrs, the Command’s Crack Squad while acting on information, raided a suspected criminal hideout at Azugwu street, Umuonicha quarters in Ogwuash-Uku, and arrested three suspects namely; Izuagbe Theophilus ‘m’ age 20yrs, Okofu Henry ‘m’ age 22yrs, and Confidence Ugochukwu ‘f’ age 19yrs. Exhibit recovered from them includes; One hundred and forty-seven (147) wraps of dry weeds suspected to be loud, forty-seven (47) wraps of substances suspected to be cocaine, seven (7) wraps of Colorado, and forty-four (44) wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp. The suspects are in custody and the investigation is ongoing.”

The police image maker also added that “On 26/04/2022 at about 1800hrs, operatives attached to the safer highway patrol, deployed along Benin-Sapele road in Sapele, while conducting stop and search, intercepted a Toyota Camry car with reg no. APP 134 UP driven by one Osasere Megegbe ‘m’ age 45, in the company of one Edosa Monday ‘m’ aged 35, both of no 12 Emah Community road, Ekiadolor Benin City. During the search, one cut-to-size double barrel gun was found concealed inside the engine compartment. The suspects were promptly arrested, and the gun and vehicle were recovered at the station. Upon further investigation and interrogation, two additional long single barrel guns shrouded under the back seat of the vehicle were also recovered. Suspects are in custody and will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation, the police spokesperson added.

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Simi is shocked as Adekunle Gold shows up on Nigerian Idol to surprise her with birthday cake

It was a magic scene the moment Nigerian music star, Adekunle Gold, surprisingly brought a cake on the stage of the Nigerian Idol to celebrate his wife, Simi, who is a judge on the reality Tv show.

Recently, the songstress celebrated her 34 years birthday and during the show, the host, IK Osakioduwa, revealed that the organizers had agreed to allow a “super fan” to celebrate with her.

It was at this moment that Adekunle Gold showed up on the stage with a birthday cake, leaving Simi completely speechless as they embrace while the audience praised them.

Thereafter, AG Baby was given the chance to say a few words to her. He said “I just want to say I am your biggest fan. I am proud of you, well done, Deja and I am rooting for you and we love you, I love you.”

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FAAN introduces ‘park and pay’ policy in Abuja airport

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The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced that motorists will start to pay for parking at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The initiative sought to bring sanity to the airport and increase the revenue of the federal government as disclosed by Kabir Mohammed, the manager of Abuja airport/regional general manager north-central of FAAN over the weekend.

The airport manager said the new policy is expected to address the problems of touts who relentlessly harass and export innocent drivers who bring in passengers at the airport.

Mohammed said, “We will discourage that by introducing pay parking at the airport so that all those littering at the airport with cars will stop.”

He said that as part of the ongoing reorganizations at the airport, a task force had been inaugurated by the authority to curb the traffic jam at the toll gate of the Abuja airport.

According to him, members of the task force include himself, as well as heads of departments who will supervise activities at the toll gate daily to manage traffic into the airport.

He said rowdy taxi drivers and illegal businesses going on in front of the departure hall at the local wing of the airport would also be addressed.

He also said the mosque at the airport is being relocated to an appropriate location, and local kiosks around the airport would be removed.

“We are ending the practice where cleaners, especially in the restrooms, harass passengers,” he added.

“Going forward, once a passenger is in the restroom, the cleaner leaves until the passenger is done, then he or she could return to clean again.

A cleaner shouldn’t be opening toilet doors, turning on taps, and serving tissue papers to passengers. Passengers know how to use those.

“We can’t get it right 100 percent, but let there be some semblance of civility at the airport, he said.

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Rainstorms uproot trees in Lagos – Cars, fence destroyed

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Over two cars together with a fence of one building have been destroyed by trees uprooted by a rainstorm that occurred on Sunday early morning.

The incident happened in Muri Okunola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos State.

It was gathered that the trees broke through the iron fence of one building and crushed cars parked on the other side of the fence.

A resident in the neighborhood said nobody was injured during the incident.

He stated that “The incident happened during the storm in the early morning.

“No one injured that we know of. Looks like the driver of the grey Merc SUV was trying to maneuver out when the trees fell with side as the car is in the middle of the road and unscathed.”

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Seyi Shay welcomes first child

Nigerian singer, Seyi Shay has welcomed her first child, a bouncing baby girl.

The singer made this known on her Instagram page on Friday through a post she shared.

According to her post, she stated that “The Eagle has landed. Thank you all for your good wishes. What a journey it has been. We love you,”

Last week, she had earlier revealed the gender of her baby during a baby shower held for her.

In February, the news of her pregnancy broke out after she announced her engagement during an interview.

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Sex Scandal: Lagos State govt ordered reopening of all Chrisland School branches

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The Lagos State government has authorized that all Chrisland Schools be reopened on Monday.

This is coming a few days after it was shut down over a sex tape of its students surfaced online.

The news of the reopening was made known in a statement by the Commissioner of Education, Folasade Adefisayo, on Saturday.

The commissioner said the decision came after a careful examination of the ongoing administrative investigation into the incident.

According to the commissioner, the decision is to ensure students of the school are not denied access to learning when schools across the state resume on Monday.

He also said the ministry would be collaborating with other stakeholders to provide psychosocial support for the affected pupils.

Adefisayo said in the statement that “The Lagos State Ministry of Education has directed that all Chrisland Schools shut for alleged misconduct of some students in Dubai be reopened from Monday, April 25th, 2022.”

“The directive follows a review of the ongoing administrative investigation into the incident. Besides, it is to ensure that students are not denied access to learning when the new term begins on Monday 25th April 2022.

“The state Government shut the schools for the safety of students and the staff and to ensure unhindered investigation of the incident.

“The ministry of education and other relevant agencies of the state, in conjunction with the school’s Parent Teachers Association, will be working on scheduled psychosocial support for the students.

“An extensive assessment of the school’s procedure, especially on external trips and excursions, is being made to identify safety gaps and prevent such incidents.

“Besides, the ministry will launch the reviewed guidelines/protocols governing private and public schools across the state within the next one month.”

The school has been in the news since a woman claimed her 10-year-old daughter was raped during her trip to Dubai when the Pupils from the private school located in Victoria Garden City were in the UAE to participate in the World School Games between March 10 and 13, 2022.

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Yoruba’s longest-ruling monarch, Oba Lamide Adeyemi, the Alaafin of Oyo is dead

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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamide Adeyemi has died.

He died at the age of 83 years in the late hours of Friday at the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State.

According to a palace source, the remains of the top Yoruba monarch were brought to Oyo town in the early hours of Saturday, and traditional rites has begun.

The late monarch ruled for 52 years before his death, making him the longest-ruling Alaafin.

It was gathered that the monarch had been sick and a plan had been made to fly him abroad before he died on late Friday night.

Also, a source familiar with the medical travel plan said his tickets and those of a few wives were already obtained.

By tradition, the head of the Oyo Mesi, Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Ayoola, would take over pending the appointment of a new Alaafin.

The Basorun is also required to inform the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, before an official statement.

His death came months after the two other senior Oyo State monarchs – the Olubadan of Ibadan, Saliu Adetunji, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Jimoh Oyewumi – died. All happened in less than five months.

Before his death, he was the permanent chairperson of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

Alaafin Adeyemi was born Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi on October 15, 1938, in the Alowolodu Royal House of the famous Oyo town.

He was crowned in 1970 after he succeeded Oba Gbadegesin Ladigbolu I.

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US Embassy adopts no visa renewals interview for Nigerian students

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The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced no visa renewal interview for Nigerian students who attempts to proceed with their studies in the US.

This was disclosed on the embassy website on Thursday, April 21.

According to the announcement, if you are currently studying in the United States, you may be eligible to renew your student visa without an interview when you return to Nigeria this summer.

The embassy also stated measures to qualify for this procedure stating that you must be physically in Nigeria renewing a student visa that is still valid or has expired within the past 24 months and is renewing your visa either to: (a) continue participation in the same major course of study even if at a different institution; or (b) attend the same institution even if in a different major course of study.

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Wizkid still owns EME 3 albums – Banky W reveals

Nigerian singer and record label boss, Banky W, has alleged Wizkid still owned his label Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) three-album before he left.

He also said he was disappointed that Wizkid did not attend his wedding.

Banky W made this revelation when he and his wife Adesua Etomi were guests at an interview with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, a media personality.

The music executive said Wizkid signed a record deal with EME in 2009 and he promised to produce 5 albums as part of his contract but he only did 2 before he left.

He added that Wizkid released ‘Superstar’ and ‘Ayo’ his first and second albums respectively before he left his label in 2017 and release his third album after signing a deal with RCA Records.

According to him, Wizkid left the label without fulfilling his part in the contract but he never talked him out of his exit to avoid controversy.

Banky W said “There’s no need for us to try and tie him down. It was a five-album deal in the beginning and he had done two solo albums. He still owed three, but he wanted to leave. I don’t want anyone to stay when they don’t want to.”

“It will only create resentment. I didn’t try to talk him out of leaving because I could tell that he was ready to do other things.

“One thing that has been mostly true in my life and EME with Tunde and Segun is that most of the people who work with us when they eventually leave, they’re better than where they were when we found them.

“I think, for me, that’s enough of a testimony to say I did what I could and I couldn’t be happier that they’re out doing better things. I don’t believe in burning bridges. We had an agreement on how to release him.”

In 2017, Banky W and Adesua Etomi had a star-studded wedding ceremony

The singer-turned-politician also expressed his disappointment that Wizkid did not show up at his wedding.

“Was I disappointed that he wasn’t at the wedding? I was but I know he tried because there was a show with a lot of the artists…I think it was One Africa,” he said.

“But he called at the time that he was so sorry.”

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Pheelz signs deal with Warner Record after his song ‘Finesse’ blows up

Nigerian artist, Philip Moses, better known as Pheelz, has signed a deal with Warner Records, one of the world’s leading record labels.

The signing comes a few weeks after he dropped ‘Finesse’, his collaborative song with BNXN, which blows up to sit at number 6 on Billboard’s US Afrobeats chart.

According to an interview with Billboard magazine, Pheelz described the contract as “unbelievable” and “a blessing to see his music open such doors for him.

The 27-year-old singer said it took like 20 minutes just to take it all in and understand what this moment is. I made a timestamp and picture in my mind how I got that moment. I had my manager there.

“It was unbelievable, man. Having my music get that kind of attention and open that kind of door for me is a blessing. I still have whiplash. I haven’t been able to process everything, to be honest. It’s just been back-to-back work and back-to-back shows and all that”, he added.

On his part, Steve Carless, president of A&R Black Music and Associated Labels at Warner Records, said he was excited by the singer’s passion for technology and music.

He said though Pheelz is in sync with the cultural and creative network around the world, the label’s focus is to uplift his brand.

“What was so compelling about Pheelz when we first met was his passion and affection for music and the Web3 space. He’s creating his own NFTs and graphic art, which aided in the launch and popularity of ‘Finesse’,” he said.

“He has an incredible connection to the cultural creative network around the world as an established figure for so many years. Our focus is really about staying true to the diaspora and lifting this song from the ground as our season progresses.”

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Bishop Edugbo reveals how Christians can be lifted

The presiding Bishop of the House of Gladtidings Mission International incorporated, Bishop Prince Edugbo has said that the only way Christians can be lifted by God is when they obtain mercy.

He disclosed this at the 2022 Easter prophetic Conference of the Church held at the House of Gladtidings Mission headquarters, Asaba, Delta State.

In his opening sermon to mark the Easter Prophetic Conference, Bishop Edugbo advised Christians not to give up on God no matter what they go through in life adding that there is no glory without a story.

The president and founder of the Rhema Embassy Church, Benin City, Bishop Shekinah Omorogbe who was a guest speaker at the conference said Christians can miss their blessings and help if they are not under grace.

Bishop Omorogbe who spoke on the topic, “Grace found me”, said the level every man is praying for is from a man adding that God will always use somebody to lift another person.

He advised Christians to hold on to God saying that what they have gone through does not determine what they will go through in life.

Meanwhile, the outreach director of the Mission, Apostle Jessy Kings who was also a guest speaker at the conference said Jesus had already passed through everything Christians are passing through today.

The preacher who spoke on the topic ” Lifted by Grace” said God is the source of all grace, Jesus is the medium or channel of grace and the Holy Spirit is the medium for the impartation of grace in the life of a believer.

Apostle Jessy who took his bible reading from Hebrews 14:14-16 said when God grants a man mercy, he or she is qualified for grace.

He called on Christians to engage themselves in doing something adding that grace does not come when someone is idle in life.

The Conference featured salvation, sermon and lectures, deliverance, breakthrough, holy communion, and Thanksgiving service on Easter Sunday.

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Driver crushes LASTMA official to death in Lagos

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A Sienna driver while driving against traffic, hit an official of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Jamiu Issa, to death.

The incident happened on Wednesday morning around the Lekki-Ajah area of the state.

According to a statement released by LASTMA spokesperson, Filade Olumide, said: “The driver of a green Toyota Sienna vehicle, with Reg. number, FST 901 AR, knocked down and run over a LASTMA official, Jamiu O. Issa, who was later confirmed dead, this early morning on the 19th of April, 2022.”

“The Late Issa was said to have approached and accosted the Sienna vehicle driver who was driving against the direction of flow of traffic (One-way) facing oncoming vehicles from Chevron towards the Conservation Toll Plaza.

“It was reported that Issa, the LASTMA patrol team leader in Ajah, who accosted the driver by standing inside the driver opened the door was knocked down and run over by the traffic law offender, who had pretended to be alighting from the vehicle but changed his action and tried to escape by reversing the vehicle, knocking down Issa with the opened door while the front tire also ran over the officer, this action fatally injured Issa in the process.

“Issa’s colleague at the scene of the event quickly put a call through to the zonal head while some good Samaritans/eyewitnesses pursued the escaping Sienna driver to the Chevron Waterfront area where he was eventually apprehended and taken first to Ilasan Police Station, and eventually to Ajiwe Police Station, under which jurisdiction the event happened for proper investigation.

“Also, according to other eye witnesses’ accounts, the Sienna driver also knocked down another person while trying to escape from the scene before the driver was apprehended.

“At the same time that the above scenario was going on, the fatally injured Issa was rushed to the Lagos Island General Hospital where it was confirmed that he was brought in dead (BID). His remains have been deposited at the morgue of the same hospital.”

LASTMA said its General Manager, Bolaji Oreagba, was grieved by the incident.

“He has also said that despite several appeals and warnings to the public to desist from assaulting and injuring government officials, some unscrupulous elements in the society who have refused all entreaties would be made to face the full wrath of the law,” the statement added.

“Oreagba also noted that this occurrence would not discourage the officers of the agency from continuing to carry out their duties and responsibilities as enshrined in the law that set up the agency.

“He, therefore, appealed to the general public to abide by the laws governing the State in order not to run foul of the law and its attendant consequences.”

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APC placed presidential nomination form at N100m, releases timetable for primary election

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The All Progressive Congress (APC) has placed its presidential nomination for N100 million while the one for governorship is been sold for N50 million.

The party also released the timetable for its primary election for various public offices ahead of the 2023 elections.

All this was announced after its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to the party, the price of the nomination form for the state house of assembly is pegged at N2 million while the house of representatives is N10 million and the senate for N20 million.

The party said a notice of election to stats chapters would commence on April 22.

The party also said the sales of forms for the various public offices will begin from April 23 to May 6 respectively, adding that the congress to elect state and national delegates would be held between May 7 and 9.

The ruling party said aspirants for the state house of assembly and governorship will be screened on May 12.

Those aspiring to hold seats in the house of representatives and senate will be screened on May 17 and those seeking to clinch the party’s presidential ticket will be screened on May 23.

The party said it will screen aspirants for positions in the state house of assembly and governorship on May 14.

The primaries for governorship, state house of assembly, house of representatives, and senate will be held on May 18, 20, 22, and 24 respectively.

But no date has been resolved for the presidential primary election.

However, to enable the conduct of seamless Primary Elections for 2023, Party candidates among other activities, NEC devolved its powers to NWC for 90 days.


President Muhammadu Buhari, VP Osinbajo, APC National Chairman, Sen Abdullahi Adamu Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, and other NEC members attend the All Progressives Congress National Executive Committee Meeting.

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Police raid a brothel where underage girls are trafficked and used as sex slaves

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The Delta State Police Command raided Fagoma Hotel, a place used as a brothel where underage children are being trafficked and used as sex slaves.

The hotel is located at Aragba in Otokutu in Ughelli South LGA of the state.

This was disclosed during a press briefing by the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Mohammed Ali, on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at the state capital, Asaba.

The CP said “On 15/4/2022 at about 2330hrs, the Command received information that Fagoma Hotel located at Aragba in Otokutu in Ughelli South LGA of Delta State is being used as a brothel where underage children are trafficked and used as a sex slave.”

“The command upon receiving this disturbing information raided the brothel and the following underage girls were rescued:

  1. Happiness Johnson ‘f’ age 13yrs
  2. Esther Godspower ‘f’ age 21yrs
  3. Angel John ‘f’ age 22yrs
  4. Miracle Bishop ‘f’ age 19yrs
  5. Happiness Isreal ‘f’ 19yrs.”

The CP also said Investigations revealed that one Joy ‘f’ surname unknown now at large trafficked the underage girls from Rivers State took them to Patani where they were forced into taking an oath before they were brought to Otu-Jeremi and harbored by one Edwin Etareri the owner of the said brothel and his wife one Mrs. Grace Etariri currently in custody.

He further said that ten other male suspects and ten female suspected prostitutes were also arrested during the raid. The investigation is ongoing, he added.

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After 34 years: The Village Headmaster returns to TV screens

Nigerian TV drama, The Village Headmaster has been rebooted for TV screens after three-decade of suspension.

The development was announced in a statement on Wednesday by Globacom, a telecommunications company.

According to the statement, “The Village Headmaster remains unmatched and unparalleled in the annals of Nigerian television.”

“As an innovative technology company committed to excellence, Globacom is delighted to be bringing back this iconic television program which has undergone a spectacular make-over by Wale Adenuga’s WapTV to delight our subscribers and Nigerians in general.”

The popular TV drama was created by Segun Olusola and Dejumo Lewis and began its life as a radio program on Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) before migrating to television in 1958.

It ran for over three decades and became a purveyor belt of acting talents. The program became one of the most popular Nigerian TV soap operas until 1988.

Justus Esiri was the eponymous village headmaster having taken over from Ted Mukoro, who was the first to play the role.

Chris Iheuwa, a Nollywood actor, will now step into the role in the rebooted show.

‘The Village Headmaster’ will return to television screens on April 24, 2022, and will be broadcast on the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) on Sundays from 8-9 pm; on Africa Independent Television (AIT) on Wednesday from 9-10 pm; and WapTV every Friday from 8-9 pm.

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Electricity distribution company disconnects govt offices in Niger State over huge debt

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Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has disconnected the government offices in Niger State over a debt of N1.9 billion.

The company made the disconnection over the Easter weekend and the company workers who made the disconnection said they disconnected the state House of Assembly complex, the office of the Secretary to the state government, and the water board among others.

It was gathered that most of the offices affected were powered by generators on Tuesday when they resumed work.

According to a statement issued on Friday, the regional manager of the electricity company in Minna said the debt spanned over eight years and vowed not to reconnect the offices until they were cleared.

He said that the immediate past administration left a whooping debt of N343 million, adding that from June 2015 till date the government accrued a total debt of N1.9 billion.

The manager also said all efforts made to recover the debt have been so frustrating so far.

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Soludo appoints Nollywood actor Bob-Manuel Udokwu as special adviser on entertainment

Nollywood actor, Bob-Manuel Udokwu has been appointed by Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra State, as the special adviser on entertainment, leisure, and tourism.

The appointment was made known in a statement on Tuesday by the state commissioner for information, Paul Nwosu.

According to the statement, Bob-Manuel was appointed alongside seven others as Christian Aburime enlist as the chief press secretary while Tochukwu Nweke was enlisted for the position of special legal adviser to the governor.

Chike Anyaonu was appointed the managing director of Anambra state housing development corporation, while Joe Anatune was named the head of Anambra state signage and advertising agency.

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata comes to be the chief executive officer of the state’s information and communication technology (ICT) agency, while Okey Ezeobi will resume as the general manager of the Anambra state bureau of public procurement.

The appointment makes it the third consecutive time Bob-Manuel has been named as a political appointee for three different Anambra state governors.

He was appointed the senior special assistant on creative media during Peter Obi’s tenure and was also bought back by Willie Obiano as an aide in the movie and entertainment industry.

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Police arrest four suspected cultists with guns in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspected cultists and recovered two locally-made guns with four cartridges.

The command also arrested a suspected serial car snatcher and recovered a stolen vehicle.

This was disclosed to newsmen by the command spokesperson, DSP. Bright Edafe, on Tuesday in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the police spokesperson, on 17/4/2022, information got to the Command that a group of suspected cultists/armed robbers were hibernating at Eloke Hotel located in Isele-Azagba and the location being their meeting point before carrying out their operations.

DSP Edafe said Intelligence further revealed that the syndicate monitor to know if the police are closing upon them and that whenever they suspect anything, they throw their guns from the window of the hotel and run away.

He added that the operatives of the State Anti-Cult unit in a carefully planned operation raided the said hideout and arrested four suspects namely; Ogbuokwu Trust ‘m’ Age 23yrs, Augustine Solomon ‘m’ Age 20yrs, Edebatu Gideon ‘m’ and Kingsley Okolie ‘m’ Age 20 yrs. Two locally-made cut to size guns and four live cartridges were recovered from them.

In another development, he said on 17//4/2022, the Command received a distress call from a caller (Name withheld) that his Toyota Camry car with registration no. EFR 939 TK was snatched at about 2000hours of the same date in the Otu-Jeremi community of Ughelli South LGA. Information was quickly disseminated through the Command’s control room to all DPOs and Patrol teams to be on the lookout to recover the said vehicle and arrest the suspects.

He said consequently, on 18/4/2022 at about 0635hrs Anti-Crime Patrol of Ogwashi-Uku Police Station while on routine stop and search duty along Kwale/Ogwashi-Uku expressway by Olloh-Ogwashi Community, intercepted the said Toyota Camry.

The Occupant who happens to be the driver of the vehicle upon sighting the Police abandoned the car and took it to his heels. The team went after the suspect and after a hot chase caught up with him and the suspect Mkohol Iligh ‘m’ age 57yrs was arrested. The suspect stated that one C.Y m’ who stays in Warri gave him the car to be delivered to another person in Asaba. The investigation is ongoing to arrest all suspects involved, the police spokesperson added.

He also said the Commissioner of Police CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, Psc+ while commending the efforts of the men also urges them to continue to be on their toes, and go after all criminal elements in the State to make the State unbearable for them.

He said the CP appreciated the efforts of residents of the state who has been supporting the command by way of information and assuring them that their identity will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

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Chrisland school reacts to the sex scandal surrounding its student whose parents claimed was raped

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The management of Chrisland High school has finally reacted to the rumors circulating that its students are involved in a sex tape while on tour for a school competition in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

The school management said no student was raped under their watch as it was widely spread.

This development is coming after a woman had earlier alleged that her 10-year-old daughter was raped during a school trip to Dubai.

It was gathered that the school located in Victoria Garden City went to Dubai to participate in the World School Games between March 10 and 13, 2022.

However, the school through a statement released by a member of its advisory board, Akin Fadeyi, counterclaims that nothing of such happened.

According to the statement, the school said no rape or pregnancy test was carried out on any of the pupils as was widely circulated.

Fadeyi stated that “We are proud to reassure our stakeholders that no rape of anyone or the administration of a pregnancy test on any child took place on our watch.

“For emphasis, only a COVID post-travel test was conducted on the returning delegation of our students, in compliance with COVID-19 travel protocols, at the Life Centre Medical Services on March 21, 2022, at School Hall, Opebi.

“This was through the nose swab test as consistent with COVID-19 health protocols. We trust that this can be verified at the source provided. To insinuate that a pregnancy test was carried out on a student, for whatever reason, therefore, is a highly unfortunate conjecture.”

He also stated that 76 students had been enlisted for the Dubai trip, while 71 of that figure had abided by its code of conduct.

The board member further said male and female students had been kept seven floors apart in the hotel where they lodged in Dubai.

He admitted that disciplinary actions had been dealt against the remaining five students who flouted its pre-set rules.

In his explanation, he said, “We took a critical view of the number of students who partook in this recent trip and who did the school proud in our quest to expand the horizons of our students holistically through global exposure.”

“[This] takes into account a wholesome development of the mind, body, and spirit through sporting engagements.

“Of the 76 children who represented Chrisland, 71 ensured an untainted adherence to our standards, abiding with laid down regulations and code of conduct, while doing us very proud in the process.

“Within these 71, we kept our girls on the 11th floor and Boys on the 4th floor to draw clear lines that respect moral boundaries.

“We were, however, compelled to engage with the parents of the remaining students who unfortunately got themselves involved in misconduct.

“By our code of conduct processes, which are well known to the parents, we meted out measured reprimands to them to instill a sense of discipline and as deterrence to others.

“This was also to caution our students on the need to remain on the path of resisting wrong influences.”

Fadeyi said efforts are in place to provide psychosocial support for all the students who embarked on the trip.

“We assure the public that our first approach as an institution was to assume parental roles by offering support to those involved and ensuring that nothing affected their senses of esteem,” he added.

“We cannot help but express how scandalized and distressed we feel as mothers, fathers, and instructors with a relationship that holds a direct bearing on the development of those involved.

“While we hasten to affirm that, as an institution that is managing children from diverse backgrounds, we cannot lay claim to, or embark on any sense of self-righteousness in our approach.

“But we learn and evolve within the frames of best practices every single day.

“We are committed to re-evaluating our processes to reinforce child protection protocols, even as we shall leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the senses of the esteem of the children involved are uncompromisingly preserved.

“We have activated child protection processes and shall be engaging the expertise of child psychologists to ensure we translate this incidence to benefit the children in our care.”

Meanwhile, the Lagos State ministry of education authorized the closure of all the school branches and advised the general public not to spread the sex tape of the minors.

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Ronaldo loses one of his newly born twins

Christiano Ronaldo and his wife, Georgina Rodriguez, have lost one of their newly born twins.

The couple announced the death of their baby in a post on Ronaldo’s Instagram page on Monday.

According to the post, the couple described the death of their baby as the “greatest pain parent can feel.”

Also in the post, the couple thanked the medical team for their “care and support” before the demise of their son.

The post reads “It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away,” the post read.

“It’s the greatest pain any parent can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness. We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all their care and support.

“We are all devastated at this loss and we kindly ask for privacy at this very difficult time. Our boy, you are our angel. We will always love you.”

Recall, that the 37-year-old football star already has four children before the couple announced, in October 2021, that they were expecting twins.

Ronaldo and Georgina have been married since 2016 with a daughter Alana, 3, and Georgina, 28. They also has a son Cristiano Jnr, 11, and Eva and Mateo, who are also twins aged four.

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Telegram new updates now allow you to set any sound for your notifications

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Telegram has announced some new updates to its services that allowed users to set any sound as their notifications tone, setting custom durations for muting chats or auto-deleting messages, as well as supercharged bots ready to outshine any website.

The company also improved the forwarding of messages that preserves replies, and a lot more.

The new updates allow you to use short audio files uploaded from your phone and save messages as notifications tone from a chat and also create a custom alert from your favorite music or even memes.

According to a post published on its website on Saturday, Telegram says it currently supports audio files and voice messages under 300KB and is less than five seconds long. “You can assign a sound to specific chats or whole groups of chats from the Settings > Notifications and Sounds menu. If you don’t have a sound you want to use right away, you can choose from an array of options, ranging from a bell to Merlin the cat, available from Telegram’s Notification Sounds channel.”

Aside from custom notification tones, the company also rolled out custom mute durations. Formerly, you could only mute notifications for one hour, eight hours, or two days, but the new update gives you many more options.

Now the feature is a bit more practical if you want to pause notifications during a 30-minute drive, for example, or even for a much longer two-month period if you’re on an extended break. The update includes more increments for the auto-delete timer, which automatically makes messages in a chat disappear at a specific time.

Telegram also made some iOS-specific changes, including improved in-app translation on iOS that supports just as many languages as the Android version of Telegram.

The messaging app now lets you change the size of the player window in picture-in-picture mode on Android, letting you use pinching gestures to resize the window or hit the “X” button to close the screen.

In addition, the company also added a new animation emoji has a new look, with animated ducks to walk you through the process.

An interface for changing your phone number in Settings was also added. Changing your account’s phone number updates where they will send future login codes – all your chats, media, and other settings will stay the same.

You can get more information here.

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Why I can’t trust any Igbo man as president – Oluwo revealed

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The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has revealed that he can not entrust the office of the presidency to an Igbo extraction.

The monarch said the sit-at-home order issued by the Eastern Security Network (ESN) was not only unfavorable to their survival but also to the growth of the country.

Oba Abdulrosheed also said the South Easterners should reconsider their approach as they are demanding a Nigerian president of Igbo extraction based on equity.

He made this known in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem.

According to him, no Nigerian will feel secure in the hands of a leader whose ethnic attachment deprived other Nigerians of their rights.

The monarch added that the failure of the South Easterners to change their approach will amount to chasing a shadow on their political journey of producing Nigeria’s president.

While acknowledging the damage done to the Igbos by the Nigerian civil war, he enjoined the southeasterners to abolish their attitude of preventing people from other parts of the country from acquiring properties in their domain.

He argued that the policy was not only damaging to their political strength but also a deficiency to the economic unity of Nigeria.

Oluwo said “The civil war wounds meted on south easterners is a weak factor to institutionalize policies capable of tearing the nation apart.

“I have people from across Nigeria in Iwo, including the South Easterners. They do not only have their businesses but also built their houses and own farmlands. Such is not only peculiar to Iwo but other parts of the country, except the South-East. A Nigerian in Nigeria should be able to own land anywhere.

“The style by the South easterners is barbaric. Such is not only detrimental to their economic viability but also their political recognition. As a traditional ruler, I can’t trust any South easterner as my President.

“You can’t be a leader on sectional interest. With such unsophisticated, primitive, and uncivilized thinking, no Nigerian from other zones will vote a south easterner as their President.”

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Gunmen attack Imo community – kill many, others injured

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On Sunday afternoon, some gunmen invaded a community in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo state and killed a yet-to-be-confirmed number of people while others sustained injuries.

It was gathered that the gunmen opened fire on residents before being met face to face by security operatives.

During the invasion, many people were reportedly injured and several buildings were also destroyed.

As of the time of filing this report, the Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, Mike Abattem, is yet to react to calls to verify the incident.

Recall, that the state has been the victim of multiple onslaughts by gunmen.

The recent one happened days after an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was shot dead in Ihitte Uboma LGA of the state.

Two other INEC officials were alleged missing in the attack which occurred last Thursday. But they were later found.

It was also gathered that the development has led to the commission suspending the continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise in the LGA.

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Ubi Franklin reveals how his friend’s 10-year-old daughter was raped during school competition in Dubai

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Nigerian music manager, Ubi Franklin, has revealed how his friend’s 10-year-old daughter was raped and filmed by his fellow students during a school competition in Dubai.

He said the school authority later suspended the girl after the video trended online for over a month.

The music executive made this revelation on his Twitter page on Sunday, adding that the parents of the girl only found out after another parent in the school informed them about the incident.

According to Franklin, The girl was selected to represent her school at the World School Games in Dubai when the incident happened; he said.

He said, “Just got off the phone with a friend of mine. His 10-year-old daughter was selected to represent her school at the World School Games in Dubai. His daughter was raped by fellow students, video tapped and posted on Instagram, and the school concealed it for a month.

“He found out on his own when another parent called his wife and showed his wife the video of his 10-year-old daughter being circulated on Instagram.

“I have spent the last one hour listening to confessional.

statements by some teachers, and I am begging. This should rather be a dream.

“UPDATE ON MY PREVIOUS POST. This school took the girl from her parents that they wanted to conduct a Covid test and the school rather took the girl for a pregnancy test. As we speak, the girl has been SUSPENDED from the school. Some things don’t make sense at all”

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Nigeria is now an emergency hospital where everything has ceased to function – Bishop Kukah

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The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, has interpreted Nigeria’s situation as a big emergency hospital where everything has ceased to function.

He said the caregivers do not know how to fix the problem.

Bishop Kukah said this on Sunday during his Easter sermon that he delivered at the Holy Family Cathedral in Sokoto.

According to the outspoken Bishop, he said the challenges Nigeria presently encounters require devoted leaders who love their country to stabilize them.

Kukah said “The challenge of fixing this broken nation is enormous and, as I have said, requires dedicated leaders who love the country to fix them.

“They also require joint efforts. With everything broken down, our country has become one big emergency national hospital with full occupancy.

“Our hearts are broken. Our family dreams are broken. Homes are broken. Churches, Mosques, and infrastructure are broken. Our educational system is broken. Our children’s lives and futures are broken. Our politics is broken. Our economy is broken. Our energy system is broken.

“Our security system is broken. Our roads and rails are broken. Only corruption is alive and well. So, we ask with the Psalmist, “We look up to the hills, from where shall come to our help? Our help shall come from the name of the Lord,” he lamented.

Kukah who also took time to speak about the 2023 elections, said Nigerian politicians have refused to learn past lessons from the “tragedy that has afflicted us in the last few years.”

“The Presidency of Nigeria is not a human right based on ethnic, religious, or regional sentiments.

“The next President of Nigeria must be a man or woman with a heart, a sense of empathy, and a soul on fire that can set limits to what human indignities visited on citizens that he or she can tolerate.

“We do not need any further empty messianic rhetoric laced with deceitful and grandiose religiosity.

“We need someone who can fix our broken nation, rid our people of the looming dangers of hunger and destitution. Our Presidential aspirants must show evidence from their legacies and antecedents that they know the country well enough and its severe wounds.

“Whoever wants to govern us must illustrate that he or she understands what has turned our nation into a national hospital and show us plans for our discharge from this horror.”

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Tragedy as Seminarian slum and died while acting Easter Drama in Imo

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A 25-year-old Seminarian and first-year student of Philosophy identified as Suel Ambrose, has slumped and died during the process of acting in an Easter Passion play, a drama presentation of the agony and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

The incident happened on Saturday at Claratian University of Nigeria (CUN), Nekede, Owerri in Imo state.

It was gathered that the deceased who hailed from Benue State was playing the role of St. Peter when he suddenly slumped. An incident that throws the whole school community into confusion.

According to one of the students named Mavis, he said the deceased fell on the floor and started bleeding.

He also said when the first aid was given to him and couldn’t revive him, he was quickly rushed to the Federal Medical Center in Owerri where he was confirmed dead.

The incident led to the suspension of all activities relating to the Easter celebration in the institution.

However, the priest in charge of Students Affairs at the university, Fr Chukwuemeka Iheme, who confirmed the incident said that he could “only speak further when authorized to do so.”

Meanwhile, a resident of the area, who identified himself as Charles, said it was the second time a student would die in a similar situation.

He said a student had died in the past while taking part in a jugging activity.

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WhatsApp is adding new option to hide your ‘Last Seen’ from particular contacts

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WhatsApp is currently releasing advanced settings to manage your privacy settings. The company is testing the feature on Android and iOS versions.

The new option allows users to limit specific individuals from seeing their “Last Seen” status.

Some weeks ago, WhatsApp has released the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.22.8.9 update, which brings advanced settings to manage last seen, about, profile photos to more Android beta testers. Today, WhatsApp is rolling out the same feature to some beta users that install the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 22.9.0.70, according to TestFlight!

If you open WhatsApp Settings > Account > Privacy > Last Seen / Profile Photo / About, you might find a new option called “My Contacts Except…”: this option lets you exclude some people from seeing your information on WhatsApp.

For example, you do not need to set your last seen to “Nobody” if you have disabled it due to certain contacts: you can exclude them from seeing your last seen now.

WhatsApp is also implementing more granular privacy controls for both profile photos and about sections. With the feature now in beta testing on both Android and iOS, it likely won’t be long until it’s officially available on WhatsApp.

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Ten movies to watch this weekend – Blood Covenant, Secrets of Dumbledore

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As we set to enjoy the weekend, here are ten movies recommended for you to watch.

Watching them on Netflix or in the Cinema will make you delighted.

Blood Covenant

Running time: 1hr 50mins

Starring: Tobi Bakre, Erica Nweledim, Alex Ekubo

Synopsis: The story follows three ambitious young men in their late twenties striving to make it in life. Weary of being looked down upon, they venture on a relentless mission for the high life, chasing easy money, fast cars, and fame; willing to do whatever it takes no matter what it costs them.

Running time: 2hrs 22mins

Starring: Mads Mikkelsen, Callum Turner, Dan Fogler

Synopsis: A overpowered wizard sends a band of sorcerers and witches after his arch-enemy and their success against the all-powerful being bleak. How long can the wizard be on the sideline?

The Serpent

Running time: 1hr 29mins

Starring: Gia Skova, Nigel Vonas, Travis Wade

Synopsis: Lucinda Kavsky, a top special agent, works for a secret part of the CIA. She’s given a special assignment but then set up by her agency.

The King of Thieves

Running time: 1hr 50mins

Starring: Femi Adebayo, Lateef Adedimeji, Odunlade Adekola

Synopsis: It tells the mythical story of the greatest thief there ever was. A ruthless bandit with a dreadful status and his exploits in a kingdom that uses everything from vigilante to witchcraft to destroy him.

The Contractor

Running time: 1hr 43mins

Starring: Ben Foster, Chris Pine, Eddie Masan

Synopsis: A disgraced US special force marine tries to replenish his reputation and pocket by joining a private contracting organization. He must navigate the all-too world of chaos without getting himself killed.

I am Nazzy

Running time: 1hr 56mins

Starring: IK Ogbonna, Denrele Edun, Chinonso Arubayi

Synopsis: A fast-rising music artist’s picture-perfect life suddenly goes haywire when she accidentally switches places with a doppelganger. All attempts to prove her identity are futile, and she is subjected to a whole new life without the glitz and glamour. Will she lose herself or embark on a journey of self-discovery?

Morbius

Running time: 1hr 46mins

Starring: Jared Leto, Tyrese Gibson, Corey Johnson

Synopsis: A doctor proffer solution to a global pandemic. While the medication appeared to be successful at first, it revealed itself to be a remedy potentially worse than the disease.

A Simple Life

Running time: 1hr 37mins

Starring: Bisola Aiyeola, Emmanuel Ikubese, Kie Kie

Synopsis: A lady runs into her ex and tells a simple lie that snowballs into a series of unplanned events and reactions.

City Hustlers

Running time: 2hrs

Starring: Bolanle Ninalowo, Akin Lewis, Mercy Aigbe

Synopsis: The film highlights real-life events of the day-to-day hustling of the average Lagosian — showing the extent to which some would go to live the kind of life you dream of?

The Batman

Running time: 2hrs 55mins

Starring: Amber Sienna, Colin Farrell, Paul Dano

Synopsis: A superhero uncovers corruption in his city and discovers connections of the underbelly to his own family while facing the antagonist.

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APC proposes date for primary election, begins sales of forms

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The All Progressive Congress has fixed May 30/31 for its presidential primary election and May 23 for the governorship.

The party will also begin the sales of forms for the various elective position on April 22 and end the process on May 7.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Iyiola Omisore, the party’s national secretary, and was sent to the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu.

According to the statement dated April 6, it was gathered that the APC informed the election body of the dates and roster of its primaries for the nomination of candidates for the 2023 elections.

The ruling party also in the statement, proposed the May 11 for the States House of Assembly primary election while the House of Representatives is slated for May 16, and May 18 for Senate.

“This serves as a formal notification under the provision of Section 85 of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended. Kindly arrange for your officials to monitor the exercise accordingly. While hoping to receive your cooperation, please accept the assurances of my highest esteem,” the letter reads.

The newspaper said the party would commence the sale of forms for the various elective positions on April 22 and end the process on May 7.

While the expression of interest form for the states’ houses of assembly will cost N500,000, the nomination form will cost N1,500,000.

For the house of representatives seats, the expression of interest form will cost N1 million and the nomination form N4 million, while aspirants vying for senatorial seats will pay N2 million for the expression form and N8 million for the nomination form.

Also, the expression of interest form for the governorship will cost N5 million and N25 million for the nomination form.

For the presidential position, the expression of interest form will cost N5 million, while the nomination form is fixed for N40 million.

The party had on Friday fixed April 20 for a post-convention national executive committee meeting.

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10 most played songs on radio – BNXN ‘For You’, Asake ‘Sungba’ top chart

Here are the top 10 songs making waves in the Nigerian airplay. At the moment, they are the most played songs on radio stations across the country.

The songs are like and mostly played by the DJs while fans often request them.

The number one song on the count down is ‘For You’ by BNXN, who is formerly known as Buju.

‘For Day’ is BNXN latest single that he dropped recently, the song jumped from the ninth spot to sit at the top position, the biggest jump recorded so far.

The song is making waves across the country and it also tops the charts in Nigeria and goes beyond Africa.

Second, on the list, is ‘Kwaku The Traveler’ by Black Sherif, unfortunately, the song drops to the second position on the chart.

Meanwhile, Asake, YBNL’s new signee seized the number two position with the ‘Sungba’ remix featuring Burna Boy.

See the top 10 songs here:

BNXN – For Days

Black Sherif – Kwaku The Traveller

Asake — Sungba remix (Burna Boy)

Fireboy — Playboy

Pheelz (ft. BNXN)– Finesse

Asake — Omo Ope (ft. Olamide)

Darko — Always (ft. Black Sherif)

Zarion Uti — One Question

Rema –Calm Down

Terri — Danger

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Changing the coach is not Super Eagle’s problem, Nigeria’s football system needs to change – Daniel Amokachi

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Daniel Amokachi, former Nigerian footballer and assistant coach of Super Eagles have said the country’s football system needs to be rebuilt.

He said the glory days of the Super Eagles will not return unless a major restoration is been done in the country’s football system.

Amokachi said this after he said no to the issue of which coach came after Gernot Rohr permanently.

According to The Punch, Amokachi mentioned some challenges that bedeviled the football system saying “Focusing too much on the coaching is like building a house from the roof downwards instead of starting with the right foundation and building upwards.”

“Do we have a solid developmental program for our young footballers, a proper long-term plan for our national teams, or develop a football identity for the game in our country?

“I am a product of the Nigerian league. But have we sorted all the issues around our domestic game, from players’ welfare to the lack of television rights and the chaos around the organization of local football?

“There are bigger issues that have long bedeviled the Nigerian game and until we fix them, we will just be moving in a circle.”

“A Nigerian or foreigner as the next coach is their (NFF’s) decision to make. But let’s not deviate by looking at a coaching solution from our bigger issues. We always react when we fail to qualify or perform at major tournaments because shortcuts will not get us results.

“Let’s sort all the fundamental issues of administrative problems – lack of planning and structure.’’

, our troubled domestic league, absence of a developmental youth program and retrain our youth coaches with modern methods – then we can start reaping the rewards.

“Anything away from tackling these problems and we will return here to complain again next year.”

Amokachi as a player, he scored 13 goals in 44 appearances for Nigeria and has had four stints as the Eagles’ assistant coach with the late Stephen Kechi from 2011 to 2015.

He also act as an assistant to former Eagles coaches Eguavoen (2005-2007), late Shaibu Amodu (2008-10), and Lars Lagerback (2010).

The former Ranchers Bees, Club Bruges, Everton, and Besiktas striker played the 1994 and 1998 World Cups and won Olympic gold with in 1996.

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Rick Ross in Lagos, advises youth to outwork their peers

American rapper, Rick Ross, advises Nigerian youth to always set themselves apart by outworking their peers.

The rapper linked up with some Nigerian actors, media personalities, musicians, and content creators after touching down in Lagos for his Easter concert, titled ‘Rick Ross Live In Lagos’ which was slated for April 14, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.

During the link-up, he also talked to a group of youth, telling them about his journey to stardom.

Rick Ross said, “What I do want to say to youngsters, the young black boys around is to make sure we spend time wisely.”

“We have to make sure we outwork everyone around us. It’s important.

“I was a youngster. It’s what I told myself. I wanted to outwork everybody.

“Hustling and working are all that make you get the money. Nobody will give you sh*t.

“You have to separate yourself from everybody in the room. How do you do that? Outwork them.”

The concert will also feature Davido, Tiwa Savage, Mayorkun, DJ Obi, The Cavemen, Fave, and DJ Yin.

In 2012, the US rapper also visited Nigeria when he stormed Lagos for the Summer Jam Fest concert.

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Watch Rugar display pirate-style in ‘Dior’ new video

Nigerian artist, Rugar, has come through with an eye-catching, pirate-style musical video for ‘Dior’.

The video was directed by Topshotta. Dior is one of the songs from his Second Wave EP that he released last year.

In the video, Rugar Sticking to the eye-catching style and swashbuckling pirate style acts as the commander of the H.M.S Dior alongside his love interests across the seas of the Cape of Good Hope.

According to an interview with OkayAfrica, Ruger formerly explained his attitude toward those EPs, he said: “I made those vibes during the pandemic. I’ll always say this, ‘You can’t control the situation you find yourself in but you can control your reaction toward that situation.’ I just used that energy when making music.”

The 22-year-old Nigerian artist broke through mid-pandemic with the massive reception his single, “Bounce” received, as well as his subsequent Pandemic and Second Wave EPs.

Watch the video here:

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NCC, Google collaborate to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation

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Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in partnership with Google, is set to drive the county into a digital transformation that will lead to cheaper internet services and higher broadband penetration with the innovation of Google’s funded Equiano subsea cable.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, disclosed this recently when a representative from Google Global Services Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to the Commission’s Head Office in Abuja.

During the visitation, the NCC was represented by its Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Ubala Maska said the Commission’s expectations, initiatives, and vision towards increasing broadband penetration, quality of service, advancement of a digital economy and commitment to improving national security through technological advancement are at the front burner of its regulatory interventions.

Maska also said the Commission looked forward to creating the drives of both parties more impactful by strengthening the partnership between the NCC and Google Nigeria for quantifiable and incredible results.

The EVC affirmed the positiveness that Google’s investment in the subsea cable, Equiano, which is believed to land in Nigeria by end of April 2022, will be more impactful in leading NCC’s ongoing implementation of the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP), 2020-2025, intended for increasing broadband penetration to 70 percent by 2025.

According to the EVC, he said: “I am hopeful that Equiano will have additional landing points in the hinterlands through collaborative efforts with the licensed Infrastructure Companies (InfraCos) to reduce retail data prices significantly and thereby complementing the Commission’s efforts at ensuring affordable Internet services are available to boost the Commission’s ongoing broadband policy drive.”

The Director, Google West Africa, Juliet Ehimuan, who led the delegation to NCC applauded the commission for its consultative approach in proposing regulatory policies, and as the engine room for optimal delivery of telecommunications services that will in turn impact the digital economy drive of the government.

She also applauded the Commission for its seamless, fair, credible, impartial, and successful auction of the 3.5 Gigahertz spectrum for the deployment of Fifth Generation (5G) in Nigeria, stating that it is evident that both the NCC and Google share a common goal.

She added that research has proven that Africa will have an additional 300 million Internet users and Nigeria will take the lead, having 141 million internet subscribers and broadband penetration of over 40.88 percent as of January 2022.

According to Ehimuan, demands for internet services have increased the need for more capacity, and sustainable collaborations with all relevant stakeholders within the public and private sectors. She asserted that Google’s commitment of $1billion across five years in various interventions will support digital transformation in Nigeria and across Africa.

Ehimuan stated that research has proven that Africa will have an additional 300 million Internet users and Nigeria will lead in that number, given its current statistics of over 141 million internet subscribers and broadband penetration of over 40.88 percent as at January 2022.

The Equiano cable system is the third private international cable owned by Google and the 14th subsea cable invested by Google. Equiano connects Portugal and South Africa, running along the West Coast of Africa, with branching units along the way that can be used to extend connectivity to more African countries. The first branch is expected to land in Nigeria by end of April 2022.

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FG set to conduct national census by April 2023

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The federal government has said it is hoping to hold a national census by April 2023 after the general election.

This was made known by the director-general of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Kwarra, on Thursday immediately after the council of state meeting, which was presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Kwarra said the NPC is determined to perform a pilot census in June 2022 after political party primaries.

He affirmed that the commission will deploy high technology in conducting the national census.

According to the NPC boss, he said through census, data is generated for planning and the data currently being used are “mere projections and obsolete”.

Explaining, he said, “It is very crucial because I have highlighted that the census is a very important exercise for the nation, because, through census, we generate the data that we use for policymaking, for planning, for development, by the three tiers of government, and the private sector, they all need this”.

“If you are in the private sector and you’re producing something, certainly, you need to know the population of an area if you want to create a market there.

“So, census data is very crucial, very important, because the data we’ve been using are just projections, estimations, and are sort of obsolete. We need the actual census data to use for our planning.”

In December 2020, NPC had said a total of 206 million people are living in Nigeria — an accumulation of eight million people in two years.

Also in 2018, the commission confirmed that the country’s population was 198 million.

The country’s national census was last conducted in 2006.

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Elon Musk’s offer $43 billion deal to buy Twitter

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Elon Musk, the Tesla CEO and billionaire entrepreneur has offered $43 billion in a bid to take over Twitter Inc.

He said the social media company needs to be taken private to grow and become a platform for free speech, adding that Twitter has extraordinary potential and he will love to unlock it.

Musk made this know in a statement he sent to his board on Wednesday. But the offer was made public in a regulatory filing on Thursday.

According to Reuters, the San Francisco-based company’s second-largest shareholder offer price of $54.20 per share represents a 38% premium to Twitter’s April 1 close, the last trading day before his 9.1% stake in the social media platform was made public.

Reuters also reported that Musk – the world’s richest person with a $273.6 billion fortune according to a Forbes tally – rejected an invitation to join Twitter’s board this week after disclosing his stake, a move analysts said signaled his takeover intentions as a board seat would have limited his shareholding to just under 15%.

Investors were not immediately convinced. Shares of Twitter were flat to slightly lower in midday trading. Some argued Musk’s bid undervalued the micro-blogging platform that has become a global means of communication for individuals and world leaders.

Saudi Arabia’s Prince Alwaleed bin Talal tweeted from his verified account about the deal. Describing himself as one of the “largest & long-term shareholders of Twitter,” he said Musk’s offer undervalued the company and he rejected it.

Musk, for his part, told Twitter it was his “best and final offer” and said he would reconsider his investment if the board rejects it.

“Since making my investment I now realize the company will neither thrive nor serve this societal imperative in its current form. Twitter needs to be transformed as a private company,” Musk said in his letter to Twitter Chairman Bret Taylor.

Musk, a self-described “free speech absolutist,” has been critical of the social media platform and its policies, and recently ran a poll on Twitter asking users if they believed it adheres to the principle of free speech.

Elon Musk’s takeover bid for Twitter has prompted speculation that he would restore Donald Trump’s account if he succeeds in purchasing the social-media platform. But the former U.S. president says he “probably” would not go back.

In an interview with Sirius XM’s Americano Media on Wednesday, before Musk’s announcement, Trump said he “probably wouldn’t have any interest” in returning to the platform, where he had almost 90 million followers.

“You know, Twitter has become very boring. They’ve gotten rid of a lot of their good voices … a lot of their conservative voices,” Trump said

Trump was permanently suspended by Twitter following the assault on the U.S. Capitol by his supporters on Jan. 6, 2021. The platform cited the risk of “further incitement of violence.”

The attack on Congress followed a speech by Trump in which he reiterated false claims that his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden was because of widespread fraud, an assertion rejected by multiple courts and state election officials.

Twitter’s decision was criticized by Trump’s Republican Party and others as an attempt to stifle conservative voices and an attack on free speech.

Trump has since launched his own social media platform, Truth Social, which has been plagued by technical issues and long waiting times to sign up.

In the interview, Trump said he would wait until after the U.S congressional elections in November to announce whether he will run for another presidential term. But, he said, “I think a lot of people are going to be very happy,” about his decision.

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Delta State Police Command deploys massively across the state as Christians celebrate Easter

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The Delta State Police Command has deployed massively across the state as Christians prepare for the Easter celebration.

The Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC+, has assured Deltans of a hitch-free Easter celebration.

This was disclosed to newsmen on Thursday morning in Asaba the state capital by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe.

According to DSP Edafe, the Commissioner of Police has ordered massive deployment of personnel across the state to provide adequate security before, during, and after the Easter celebration to ensure the protection of all residents in the State and the successes of all activities lined up to mark the celebration.

The Police Public Relations Officer also said the CP has directed that all Area Commanders and DPOS deploy men to all venues of the Celebrations and other resorts centers, to avoid mischief-makers showing their ugly faces and causing any form of mayhem to law abiding citizens and also to ensure proper supervision of their men deployed.

In addition to the personnel deployed from Area Commands and Divisions, additional deployments have been drawn from Dragon Patrol, safer highways, Quick Response Squad, Rapid Response squad, Eagle-net special squad, Crack Squad, Special Anti-Kidnapping, and Cyber Crime squad, the PPRO said.

He added that the CP urges members of the public to be law-abiding and continue to support the police in the fight against crime and criminality while assuring them of the Command’s commitment to the provision of security, maintenance of law and order, protection of life and property among other duties in the State.

He said, “The CP on behalf of officers and men of Command wishes Deltans and Nigerians in general, a hitch-free Easter celebration.”

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Google tests new app that enables transfer of files from iPhone to Android devices

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Google is testing to launch a new iOS app known as ‘Switch to Android’, an app that will enable Apple users to move data from iPhone to Android devices.

The Google “Switch to Android” app will be running on an iPhone wirelessly as you won’t have to worry about connecting the two devices with a cable.

According to the app descr desertiption on the App Store, the Switch to Android app from Google helps you to quickly and securely move your most important data types – photos, videos, contacts, and calendar events to a brand new Android device without fussy cables.

That list does not include messages, so it appears the app won’t be able to transfer those, though it will walk you through how to turn off iMessage so you do miss text messages from friends and family.

9to5Google reported that when moving from one Android device to a new one, it’s easy to simply connect the two phones – either wirelessly or with a USB cable – to seamlessly copy over all of your apps, contacts, messages, photos, and more. By contrast, copying your data from an iPhone to Android has not been nearly as simple of a process, involving backing up your data to Google Drive and restoring it manually. Android 12 made things a bit easier, allowing you to copy over contacts, apps, and media, but only via a Lightning cable connection.

In the opposite direction, for over five years, Apple has offered a dedicated “Move to iOS” app for Android that attempts to make it as easy as possible to join Apple’s ecosystem. Back in July 2021, we reported that Google was working on its app to help new customers make their next phone an Android.

Switch to Android has now been soft-launched into the App Store as an unlisted application – a feature that Apple only recently launched – only accessible through a direct link which our APK Insight team was able to uncover.

With that link, we were able to successfully install Switch to Android on an iPhone, and run it. However, while everything seems to be ready on the iOS side of things, Android’s setup and restore process is not yet prepared for the Switch to Android app’s availability.

To get an idea of how the app will work, check out the hands-on video by 9to5Google:

It was also reported that Apple has proposed a similar app to help users migrate from Android to iPhone since 2015. The app is called ‘Move to iOS.

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Two Reverend sisters, driver, couple burnt to ashes in Anambra

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Two Catholic reverend sisters alongside their driver and couple have been burnt to ashes in an auto crash in Anambra.

The accident involves a Toyota Hiace bus and a Toyota Highlander along the Nawfix axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway on Tuesday night, April 12.

According to investigations, the two reverend sisters identified as Rev. Sr. Virginia Obike and Sr. Monica llem, are both Principal and Bursar at Handmaid’s Secondary School in Amanda, Akwa North LGA, and their driver, Mr. Chamberlain Umunakwe, was traveling to Amanda from Ifite-Ogwari, in Ayamelum LGA, where they went to purchase bags of rice for the school.

Other victims in a Toyota Highlander were identified as Mr. Emmanuel Okeke, former Anambra State Government Storekeeper, and his wife.

A brother to the deceased, Mr. Ifeanacho Okeke, who spoke at the accident scene said he spoke with his brother, Emmanuel around 5 pm yesterday, and around 9 pm his and the wife’s lines were off, leading to a search and the sad discovery early this morning.

Also, an eyewitness, Mr. Chinecherem Okonkwo from Nawfia, said he arrived at the accident scene yesterday night during light rainfall when the vehicles were still burning, but it was late for any meaningful help.

As of the time of filing this report, Reverend Fathers and Sisters were seen at the accident scene, while others helped in taking the vehicles off the single lane of the Expressway for free flow of traffic.

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FIFA launches soccer streaming platform with over 40,000 free matches live

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The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), has launched its digital platform known as FIFA Plus, a free soccer streaming service with over 40,000 live matches.

The games on the platform include a mixture of live soccer matches, archived content, original features, and much more.

The platform is available globally on the web and mobile devices in five languages (English, French, German, Portugues, and Spanish) with more to follow.

The games to be streamed will be from 100 FIFA member associations and will include 11,000 women’s matches.

Live coverage will range from Europe’s topflight leagues to previously unserved competitions from around the world in men’s, women’s, and youth football. From launch, 1,400 matches will be live-streamed monthly on FIFA Plus, rising rapidly.

During the presentation event for the platform, Charlotte Burr, FIFA Plus lead said “Ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the platform aims to be home to every women’s and men’s World Cup match ever recorded, totaling more than 2,000 hours of archive content. The FIFA Plus archive will launch with more than 2,500 videos dating back to the 1950s, with many more to be added.

“The platform is available globally across all web and mobile devices, and a range of connected devices soon, initially in English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish editions, with Mandarin, Bahasa, Korean, Japanese, Italian, Arabic, and Hindi editions to follow in June.

“Our 100% focus is on reach, we can’t achieve our development ambitions and our business model if it isn’t extending reach.”

The platform is free at the moment, operating on an AVOD model, but there could be a subscription fee going forward. “We’ll be strategically extending – so we will be potentially going into gaming, social community, and potentially subscription depending on where this goes and where the industry disruption heads,” Burr said.

The Qatar World Cup games will not stream live on FIFA Plus. “There is no plan to have premium World Cup live rights on the platform today,” Burr told Variety.

A key component of FIFA Plus is a slate of originals featuring full-length documentaries, docuseries, talk shows, and shorts, localized into 11 languages, telling stories from local grassroots to national teams and soccer heroes from more than 40 countries.

Titles available at launch include “Ronaldinho: The Happiest Man in the World,” a documentary featuring the globally popular player; “Captains,” a series following six captains — Luka Modrić (Croatia), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon), Brian Kaltak (Vanuatu), Andre Blake (Jamaica), Hassan Maatouk (Lebanon) and Thiago Silva (Brazil) — as they lead their countries through qualification for the 2022 World Cup; and
“Croatia: Defining a Nation,” about how soccer binds the nation.

The originals slate also includes “HD Cutz,” a docuseries with the barber to the stars Sheldon Edwards talking food, fashion, music, and soccer; “Dani Crazy Dream,” a docuseries featuring Dani Alves, the most decorated player in history as he tries to make it to the 2022 World Cup; “Golden Boot,” a series on the greatest World Cup goalscorers; “Icons,” showcasing five of the biggest game-changers of the women’s game: Wendie Renard, Lucy Bronze, Asisat Oshoala, Carli Lloyd and Sam Kerr; and “Academies,” the inside story of some of the greatest talent production lines in world soccer.

Active conversations are going on with streamers to create content for FIFA Plus and other platforms, FIFA officials said.

“FIFA Plus represents the next step in our vision to make football [soccer] truly global and inclusive, and it underpins FIFA’s core mission of expanding and developing football globally,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

“This project represents a cultural shift in the way different types of football fans want to connect with and explore the global game and has been a fundamental part of my Vision 2020-2023. It will accelerate the democratization of football and we are delighted to share it with fans.”

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Music Business Academy for Africa unveils 2022 edition

The Music Business Academy (MBA) for Africa, developed by iManage Africa is set for its second edition with a program channeled towards “developing the next generation of music industry executives” on the continent.

The MBA led by its new program director, Elizabeth Sobowale is in partnership with Music Ally and Carlos Chirinos, an academic at the music business department of New York University.

This 2022 edition of the MBA is backed by YouTube Music and registration for the program is opened to potential applicants and students on April 11.

YouTube’s head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Addy Awofisayo, while speaking about the project said “Africa’s music industry produces some of the world’s most creative content and contributes significantly to global pop culture.

“This initiative enables the support of more creatives who will play a critical role in the continent’s fast-growing creative economy.

“Additionally, It paves the way for the inclusion of more perspectives, which benefits Africa and the global musical landscape. It aligns with our values, and we are thrilled at the opportunity to support it.”

The program is to run between July and November and it is equipped to teach a range of music business trends.

The program is centered on the place of technology while giving hands-on experience on releasing and promoting music to create sustainable artiste careers.

The organizers further said that the project’s women’s fund already aims to ensure that at least 50 percent of its 2022 participants are female after the program hit its 40 percent target in 2021.

According to Sobowale, it is understood that students will get to pick senior music industry executives from different sectors of showbiz.

She said, “As Africans, we must take the creation and distribution of our knowledge into our own hands.”

MBA for Africa plays an important role in ensuring that the knowledge of Africa’s music, creative and cultural industries are passed on to the future leaders, executives, and creators of the continent.”

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What Tinubu did after Osinbajo declared his presidential ambition

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A day after vice president Yemi Osinbajo declared his ambition to contest for the position of the presidency in 2023, it seems like his declaration will have some effect on Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the National Leader of the ruling party, All Progressive Congress (APC).

After the Vice President’s declaration, many Nigerians acknowledged his decision while others are reacting to his statement to contest against Tinubu, his former employer, who announced his intention for the candidacy a month ago.

Despite the move by the vice president, Tinubu opted to move ahead with plans to further his political motive.

The Punch gathered on Monday, April 11, 2022, that after Osinbajo’s presidential declaration, Tinubu held a meeting with governors elected under the APC platform in that regard.

According to the Punch, Governor Simon Lalong (Plateau State), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos State), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara State), and El-rufai (Kano State) were among those who present at the meeting.

Tinubu’s action was calculated based on the fact that the party vested so many powers in the governors by designing them as party leaders in their respective states.

Tinubu knows that obtaining the governor’s support as a powerful influencer will boost the chance of any presidential candidate.

Also making headlines was Osinbajo’s announcement of his candidacy over a fast-paced dinner with some APC members.

It was gathered that the vice president hosted the dinner at the presidential villa where he has an official residence.

With these recent outcomes, other presidential aspirants under the ruling party such as Tinubu, Ebonyi State governor, Dave Umahi, and Rotimi Amaechi are expected to make moves to win over some of the APC governors to boost their prospective ambitions. A task Tinubu just accomplished after consulting the governors but who will win the ticket at the end of the day is what we will be expecting after the primary election.

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Recruitment into the Nigeria Police Constables in Delta State

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The Delta State Police Command wishes to inform indigenes of the state that the Nigeria Police in collaboration with the Police Service Commission will be concluding the ongoing 2021 recruitment exercise nationwide.

This was disclosed to newsmen by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP. Bright Edafe, on Tuesday in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the PPRO, he said the computer-based test (CBT) for indigenes of Delta state is scheduled to hold on Wednesday 20th April 2022. Time: 0920hours, venue: WEST GATE CBT, BY WEMA BANK NNEBISI ROAD, ASABA.

He said only successful candidates are to appear for the examination. Candidates who participated in the screening exercise are advised to log on to

https://policerecruitment.gov.ng

He added that candidates are also advised to come along with their NIN slip and the invitation letter printed from the website.

The police image maker continues by saying that “The Commissioner of Police Delta State while wishing candidates success during the examination also urges them to adhere strictly to all covid-19 protocols, and assures all candidates of adequate security, the PPRO added.

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Breaking: Vice President Osinbajo officially declares presidential ambition

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Yemi Osinbajo, Nigerian Vice President has finally declared his intention to join the 2023 presidential race.

Osinbajo made this know on Monday during a live broadcast on TV after several weeks of assumptions and anticipations.

The vice president also made the declaration on Twitter via his page stating that “I believe that the very reason that the Almighty God gave me these experiences, these insights, and these opportunities is that they must be put to the use of our great country and its great peoples.

“Which is why today, with the utmost humility, I’m formally declaring my intention to run for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the platform of our great party, the All Progressives Congress.”

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Music: Singer Boj anticipate album, reveals tracklist – features Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML

Nigerian singer, Bolaji Odojukan, better known by his stage name, Boj, has revealed his album cover containing the tracklist.

The album titled ‘Gbagada Express’ contains 16 tracks featuring Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML, Shaybo, Buju, Fresh L, Darkovibes, Pretty Boy D-O, Kofi Jamar, Joey B, Moliy, Melissa, Teezee, Enny, Victony, Amaarae, Zamir, Davido, Mr Eazi, and Obongjayar.

Boj revealed the tracklist via his verified Instagram page on Friday.

Sharing the post, he wrote ‘Gbagada Express’ my very special album out on April 22, very deep tracklist. What songs are you looking forward to”.

This will be his fourth album following ‘BOTM’ (2014), ‘Deluxe’ (2016), and ‘Magic’ (2017).

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Power outage: National electricity grid collapses for the third time in one month

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There has been a total blackout in Abuja, Lagos, and other places as the National electricity grid collapsed for the third after it had previously collapsed twice last month.

Last month, the national power grid collapsed twice and worsened the energy crisis nationwide, as Nigerians had to contend with fuel scarcity and power outages.

The collapse of the grid happened on Friday evening, again causing a power outage across the country, as homes and businesses were without power to run their activities.

The development was confirmed by some of the power distribution companies in a statement on Friday.

The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company stated that the collapse had resulted in a power outage in its area of operation, which covered about five states.

According to AEDC in a tweet via its official Twitter handle, the company said, “Please be informed that there has just been a national grid collapse causing an outage in our franchise areas.

“We apologize for the inconvenience caused and appeal that you bear with us while we await restoration from the TCN (Transmission Company of Nigeria). We regret all inconvenience caused.”

Eko Electricity Distribution Company also said the grid collapse affected its entire network.

“Good evening everyone. We regret to inform you that the current outage affecting our entire network is due to system collapse,” EKEDC stated.

It added, “TCN team is working to resolve it as soon as possible.

Sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused. Please, bear with us.”

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Will Smith get 10-years banned from Oscars over Chris Rock’s slap

Will Smith has been banned from the Oscars for 10 years over Chris Rock’s slap.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the ban in a statement on Friday.

Smith had slapped Chris Rock on stage after the comedian joked about Jada Pinkett, his wife, at the 94th Oscars.

Rock had, in his joke, mocked Pinkett’s shaved head which the latter said was due to alopecia, a hair loss condition.

Smith’s action received different reactions from Hollywood stakeholders, some of whom criticized the assault.

Amid calls for a sanction, Smith would instead resign from the Academy after describing his conduct as “inexcusable”.

The Academy’s board of governors, it is understood, met virtually on Friday to further discuss the matter.

In a letter announcing its verdict to the full membership at the end of the meeting, David Rubin, AMPAS president, and Dawn Hudson, its CEO, described Smith’s conduct as “unacceptable and harmful”.

“The board has decided, for 10 years from April 8, 2022, that Mr. Smith shall not be permitted to attend any Academy events or programs, in person or virtually, including but not limited to the Academy Awards,” AMPAS said.

The current roster of the AMPAS board includes Steven Spielberg, Ava DuVernay, Laura Dern, and Whoopi Goldberg.

Earlier, in a statement of apology, Smith had admitted that he went out of line by smacking Rock’s face on live TV.

“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” the actor said.

“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy.

“I deprived nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work.

“I am heartbroken. I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.”

It was gathered that Netflix has also paused the production of ‘Fast And Loose,’ a forthcoming film by Will Smith, amid the feud.

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NYSC DG warns corps members not to criticize Buhari on social media

The Director-General of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Maj-Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, on Wednesday, warned corps members against making fun of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administrative policies on social media.

The Director-General put on the warning during the induction of the senior staff quarters, launched and finished off by NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ikare-Akoko, Ondo.

Before the induction, while addressing the corps members, the DG said “Let me warn you against using social media to disparage government policies. Rather, you should allow all the lessons learned in the course of the orientation program to incorporate you into change vanguards and the youths of the new Nigeria, who will take the nation out of the myriads of challenges facing it.”

He also warned them against any act damaging to the success story of the scheme.

Mr. Ibrahim added, “My dear patriotic children in the service to the fatherland, I want to urge you to give your best to the development of this country wherever you find yourselves and continue to work relentlessly towards achieving the unity and integration of Nigeria, which the NYSC was established to promote.”

He went further to tell the corps members that the federal government and Nigerians “expect nothing short of patriotism and devoted service from you and our part.”

“We will not relent in improving your welfare. This is part of the reasons you have been enrolled on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS),” he told them. “I want you to reciprocate the kind gesture and welcome development from the government and contribute your quota at your various places of primary assignment and host communities”, he added.

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Stakeholders’ engagement on laws of Delta imminent – Bozimo

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To improve the criminal justice system and bring up to speed the administration of criminal justice laws in Delta, a stakeholders engagement forum is imminent.

Disclosing this in his Chambers when he played host to the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Delta State, Isaiah Bozimo, Esq, noted that the stakeholders include the judiciary, NBA, the Nigeria Police Force, and Correctional Services (Prisons).

According to the erudite Number 1 Law Officer in the State, the need for public engagement has become necessary, viewed against the backdrop of the laws that may have needed a rejig.

The Delta Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice also stated that though the administration of Criminal justice laws had excellent intentions upon enactment, there were plausible reasons to check the disconnect between the spirit and letters of what the law stipulates and its application, especially as it dovetails around current realities.

On the Violence Against Person’s Prohibition Act which is still being finetuned at the Delta State House of Assembly, Isaiah Bozimo Esq said the VAP law is very important to his ministry and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

He assured that his ministry, through the office of the Public Defender (OPD), will not promote any clause that tinkers with strict penalties, “stricto senso”, the deliberate defilement of minors under any guise whatsoever.

Isaiah Bozimo, while responding to a question dovetailing on the Correctional services adulating alleged suspects as was recently viral on the Chidinma Ojukwu queenship title, bemoaned the fact that the bulk of inmates is Awaiting Trial people. He said such a development is problematic, anomalous, lamenting that a facility that ought to deter crime is now an incubator of the same crime.

Earlier, the Chairman of indigenous Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Andy Emephia, sued for the cooperation of the ministry towards simplifying the delivery of the ministry,s message to the grassroots, which is its core mandate.

Stakeholders during engagement with the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Delta State, Isaiah Bozimo, Esq
Stakeholders during the engagement with

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The issue of Road Safety should be treated as a national emergency – Gov. Okowa

Delta State Governor, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa stated that reducing road crashes in Nigeria should be treated as a national emergency to prevent people from dying from avoidable road accidents.

The Governor stated this on Wednesday during the 2021 Road Marshal Assistant Drivers Basic Course Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Marshal Inspectorate Training School in Owa-Alero.

According to Okowa, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) must, as a matter of exigency, educate Nigerians continually and continuously on the meaning of road signs and the importance of observing them.

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Elon Musk buys 9.2 percent of Twitter to become the biggest shareholder

Elon Musk, Tesla CEO has acquired 9.2 percent of Twitter’s shares amid complaints about free speech.

The purchase was revealed by Bloomberg News after the regulatory filing on Monday.

According to the report, Musk, who has long been one of Twitter’s highest-profile users, recently polled his over 80 million followers about the platform’s adherence to free speech.

It was gathered that Musk purchased the stake on March 14th. The share surge has increased Twitter’s share price up to 25 percent in pre-market trading on the news.

CNBC also reported that Musk’s Twitter stocks were worth $2.89 billion based on Friday’s closing price. Musk’s shares are classified as a passive stake, but Wedbush analyst Dan Ives told CNBC that the purchase “could lead to some sort of buyout.”

Musk had been publicly calling into question Twitter’s approach to free speech via a poll conducted on his Twitter account on March 25th. “Free speech is essential to a functioning democracy. Do you believe Twitter rigorously adheres to this principle?” the CEO asked, before noting in a follow-up tweet that “the consequences of this poll will be important.”

“Given that Twitter serves as the de facto public town square, failing to adhere to free speech principles fundamentally undermines democracy,” Musk tweeted the following day, before publicly asking whether a “new platform” is needed. Given that Musk purchased his stake in Twitter on March 14th, it appears as though these comments came after he decided to buy a stake.

Earlier in the month, Musk said he was a “free speech absolutist” after he claimed Starlink had been told by some governments to block access to Russian news sources. “We will not do so unless at gunpoint,” he said.

Musk’s use of Twitter has occasionally gotten the CEO into hot water. In 2018 he infamously tweeted that he had secured the funds to take Tesla private if it reached $420 a share. Eventually, it emerged that he had not secured funding for the sale, and Musk was forced by the Securities and Exchange Commission to have Tesla’s lawyers pre-approve any tweets about the company’s financial health, sales, delivery numbers, and more.

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Ukraine Invasion: Roman Abramovich reportedly begs friends to lend him money to pay staff

Russian businessman and Chelsea football owner, Roman Abramovich, is reportedly begging his Hollywood and US power broker friends to lend him $1 million to keep his business running as his assets are frozen by global authorities amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

As the war in Ukraine continues, Page Six gathered that Abramovich whose bank accounts are frozen in the US and the UK has been asking for loans from prominent and powerful friends to maintain his whispered $750,000-a-week staff payroll, which includes those that keep his multiple luxuries superyachts.

It was gathered that his associates are, however, said to be wary about lending him money, even as he takes part in the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

A source who told the publication said “Roman is asking some of his closest powerful friends to let him borrow $1 million.

“He is saying he has never missed payroll for his staff, which is $750,000 a week, and with his assets frozen he can’t pay his people.

“He has reached out to Hollywood producer and director Brett Ratner and the Rothschild family, among many others for money, but – while they are good friends with Roman – they have not agreed to give him money, because either they do not have that in liquid cash, or moreover it is not clear what are the repercussions under international law.”

Abramovich who has hosted a series of starry celebrity parties on his boats and at his sprawling St Barth’s estate, has many close friends in Hollywood, Wall Street, and the tech world.

According to Bloomberg in early March, reported following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the European Union sanctioned Abramovich who has a net worth of $14.3 billion. His assets were also frozen by US hedge funds.

The sanctions likewise prevented Abramovich from benefiting from the $3 billion sales of Chelsea Football Club.

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Reasons, why Wizkid loses at Grammy, the voting process explained

Wizkid is one of the Nigerian artists nominated and lost out in the categories at the 64th Grammy Awards.

Wizkid was nominated in the ‘Best Global Music Performance’ category for ‘Essence’, his collaboration with Tems.

Also nominated in the category is ‘Pa Pa Pa’ by Femi Kuti and ‘Do Yourself’ by Angelique Kidjo and Burna Boy.

Wizkid’s ‘Made In Lagos (MIL)’ and ‘Legacy +’ by Femi and Made Kuti were up in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category.

However, Wizkid lost to Kidjo, the Beninese singer, in the album category, and Pakistan’s Arooj Aftab in the song category.

Given Wizkid’s stellar 2021, topping the charts with his hit ‘Essence’ and his critically acclaimed ‘MIL’ album, fans of the Afropop superstar had expected at least one of the Grammy statuettes to have his name engraved on it.

Wizkid’s loss stirred a wave of mixed reactions on social media as well as misconceptions about the Grammy’s voting process.

Before Grammy voting

Before Grammy voting, members of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS), both media companies and individuals may nominate recordings for consideration.

Entries are made online and a physical copy of the work is sent to NARAS.

When a project is entered, review sessions are held that involve over 150 recording industry experts, to determine that the work has been entered in the correct category.

The resulting lists of eligible entries are then circulated to voting members, each of who may vote to nominate in the general fields (Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist).

Each can nominate in up to nine out of 30 other fields on their ballots.

The five recordings that earn the most votes in each category become the nominees, while in some categories (craft and specialized categories), review committees determine the final five nominees.

There may be over five nominees if a tie occurs in the nomination process.

Final voting process

After nominees have been determined, final voting ballots are sent to NARAS voting members, who may then vote in the general fields and up to nine of the 30 fields.

Members are encouraged, but not required, to vote only in their fields of expertise.

Ballots are tabulated secretly by the independent accounting firm Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu.

After vote tabulation, winners are announced at the Grammy Awards.

The recording with the most votes in a category wins and it is possible to have a tie — in which case the two [or more] nominees who tie are considered winners. Winners are presented with a Grammy.

In both voting rounds, Academy members are required to vote solely based upon quality, without consideration for sales, chart performance, personal friendships, regional preferences, or company loyalty. Gifts may not be accepted.

Members are urged to vote in a manner that preserves the integrity of the academy and its member community.

Although registered media companies may submit entries, they have no vote in the process.

Wizkid’s loss in this context

For many, Wizkid’s loss would seem as though the Grammy had yet to accept the idea of contemporary African pop.

In 2021, the Academy had introduced the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category, which honors artists performing non-western music genres. It broadened/renamed the ‘Best World Music Album’ discontinued in 2020.

The award for ‘Best Global Music Album’ is reserved for international performers exhibiting “non-European, indigenous traditions”, with the definition of “world music” adjusted to include non-western classical music.

Kidjo, who has so far won five Grammys, is applauded for her pan-African leanings. Her projects are known for incorporating very compelling aesthetic, thematic, and linguistic components relating to the continent.

Her track ‘Dignity‘ kicks off with her speaking a local language and proceeds to criticize the concept of christening a country “the giant of Africa” in hopes for economic growth and development that remains to be seen.

Wizkid’s ‘Made In Lagos’, while it received critical acclaim, addressed predominantly the global theme of love.

As a music bigwig in Nigeria exporting Afrobeats to climes far beyond Africa, Wizkid’s ingenuity is not in question.

But based on the criteria for the category, it’s not difficult to see why he would lose the statuette to Kidjo.

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2023: Oshiomhole declares senatorial interest in Edo North

Adams Oshiomhole, the former governor of Edo State, has declared his intention to bid for the Edo North Senatorial District under the All Progressives Congress in the 2023 election.

The former governor made the declaration on Monday during an APC meeting held in his country home, Iyamoh, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the former governor said he decided after due consultation with the people of his constituents, friends, family, and political associates.

Oshiomhole said “Many people have been asking me if I will run for the Senate, but I pleaded with them to wait until our national convention when I would have made up my mind.

“Now that the APC convention is over and we now have a new National Working Committee, I have decided to contest for the Senate come 2023.”

He said that his decision to contest for the Upper chamber seat is to provide purposeful leadership for the people of his district, noting that the senate should not be seen as sabbatical leave for ex-governors.

“My intention to vie for the Senatorial seat is to ensure that the voice of Afemai land is heard and my concept of empowerment will be modified not just giving Keke Napep, generator, or motorcycle.

“We should be thinking of how we can bring infrastructure development to our people,” he said.

The ex-governor promised to meet with the incumbent Senator, Francis Alimikhena, who has expressed intention to contest for the third time to resolve who will fly the ticket for the party.

“You all know how the incumbent became the candidate for Edo North senatorial district, he was denied the PDP ticket, and we allowed him to fly our party’s flag, which he had used twice to represent us.

“We voted for him twice and there is nothing wrong in him voting for me in return.

“I will personally meet with him because I want us to still keep the Afemai unity together and I think he will be the Director-General for my campaign team for the election.

“So, I have resolved to contest and am sure to get the ticket and become the candidate to represent Edo North senatorial district come 2023,” he said.

Earlier, Mr. Mike Afegbua, a member, of the APC Board of Trustees and the Deputy State Chairman of APC, Jariet Tenibe, said the senatorial ticket was given to Mr. Oshiomhole to provide leadership and rescue Edo North.

The high point of the meeting was a motion moved by former APC Chairman, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo, Alhaji Abubakar Akokhia, which suggested that the Senate seat be taken from Etsako East to Etsako West and given to Mr. Oshiomhole.

The motion was seconded by Fred Omoregbai, APC leader in the Owan East local government area of the state.

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Spotify is testing new ways to bring users’ created playlists to the app Homepage

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Spotify is testing a new way for listeners to discover music they love with a collection of playlists curated by select Spotify users and influencers.

The company’s Featured Curator pilot brings out user-made playlists to the Homepage of the app. Spotify announced this in a blog post on Monday.

If you’re a part of the test, the recommended playlists will appear in thein Featured Curator carousel. Spotify says it’s piloting the feature in “select markets” but doesn’t specify where exactly it’s rolling it out or on which devices.

Spotify also points out that the Featured Curators section doesn’t include playlists from just any users; the platform selected curators based on their followings and playlist popularity as well as whether they tell “unique stories through playlists” or create “authentic connections” with listeners.

As a Spotify user, sometimes your fellow listeners are a lot better at figuring out which songs mesh well on certain playlists. The algorithms powering Spotify’s Made for You playlists can only go so far when it comes to guessing based on taste in music, and its in-house playlists are limiting when trying to discover new artists. It’s nice that Spotify is making an effort to highlight users’ creations, rather than tucking them away in search results.

Just recently, Spotify rolled out a new feature, called Blends, which allows you and 10 other friends to create a collaborative playlist that’s personalized to the entire group. After each member joins, Spotify will automatically generate a playlist based on everyone’s preference.

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FG directs telcos to bar outgoing calls on all unregistered sim-cards

The federal government has authorized telecommunication companies to bar outgoing calls on all subscriber identity module (SIM) cards that are not yet connected with the National Identification Number (NIN).

This was made known in a joint statement signed by the director of public affairs, Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), Ikechukwu Ayinde, and Kayode Adegoke, head of corporate communications, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) on Monday.

According to the statement, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the implementation of the NIN-SIM policy with effect from the 4th of April, 2022.

“Consequently, the Federal Government has directed all Telcos to strictly enforce the Policy on all SIMs issued (existing and new) in Nigeria. Outgoing calls will subsequently be barred for telephone lines that have not complied with the NIN-SIM linkage Policy from the 4th of April, 2022,” the statement reads.

“Subscribers of such lines are hereby advised to link their SIMs to their NINs before the telcos can lift the restriction on their lines. Affected individuals are hereby advised to register for their NINs at designated centers and thereafter link the NINs to their SIMs through the channels provided by NIMC and the Telcos, including the NIMC mobile App.

Professor Pantami especially appreciates President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) for his tremendous support. He also commends the Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Dambatta, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Aliyu Azeez Abubakar along with their Management and Staff, as well as other notable bodies whose efforts have seen the monumental success of the exercise. The Minister also extends his thanks to the telecommunication operators for their support towards the success recorded.

The Honourable Minister also emphasized that enrolment for the NIN is a continuous exercise, and NIN is a precondition for service in Telcos, banks, Nigerian Immigration Service, and several other government services. He also encouraged Nigerians and legal residents to visit NIN registration centers for the enrollment and issuance of valid NINs.”

The federal government said it has put in place machinery to ensure compliance by citizens and legal residents.

“It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, gave the directive for the implementation and commencement of the exercise in December 2020, as part of the administration’s security and social policies. The deadlines for the NIN-SIM linkage had been extended on multiple occasions to allow Nigerians to freely comply with the Policy. The FG also took into consideration the passionate appeals by several bodies – Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Civil Societies, Professional Bodies, and a host of others – for the extension of the deadlines in the past,” the statement added.

Accordingly, President graciously approved the many requests to extend deadlines for the NIN-SIM linkage. At this point, however, the government has determined that the NIN-SIM Policy implementation can proceed, as machinery has already been put in place to ensure compliance by citizens and legal residents. The implementation impacts on government’s strategic planning, particularly in the areas of security and socio-economic projections.”

The statement added that over 125 million sims have had their NINs submitted for linkage, verification, and authentication as of date, while the NIMC has issued over 78 million unique NINs.

In December 2020, the minister of communications and the digital economy announced the integration policy of SIM cards into the national identification number (NIN) database.

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Grammy 2022: Angelique Kidjo wins Wizkid, Femi Kuti [see the full list of winners]

Angelique Kidjo, the Benin superstar has won the 2022 Grammy Award in the Best World Music Album category, her fifth win of her 40-years-career.

Her album ‘Mother Nature’ won her the Grammy and it’s her first album of original music in seven.

Kidjo was nominated together with Wizkid, Femi Kuti and son, Made (all from Nigeria), Rocky Dawuni, Hawaii’s Daniel Ho (both from Ghana).

In 2021, after Burna Boy won Best Global Music Album for ‘Twice As Tall’ at the Premiere ceremony of the 63rd Grammy Awards, the category was renamed as Best World Music Album recently.

The 64th annual Grammy Awards were held on Sunday night in Las Vegas for the first time at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, with Trevor Noah as the host.

In the best Global Music Performance category, Brooklyn-based Pakistani vocalist, Arooj Aftab, emerged the winner after beating Angelique Kidjo, Burna Boy, Femi Kuti, Yo Ma, and Wizkid and Tems.

Here is a rundown of all the 2022 Grammy winners.

Best Reggae Album: Soja, Beauty in the Silence

Best Regional Roots Album: Kalani Pe’a, Kau Ka Pe’a

Best Folk Album: Rhiannon Giddens with Francesco Turrisi, They’re Calling Me Home

Best Contemporary Blues Album: Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, 662

Best Traditional Blues Album: Cedric Burnside, I Be Trying

Best Bluegrass Album: Béla Fleck, My Bluegrass Heart

Best Americana Album: Los Lobos, Native Sons

Best American Roots Song: Jon Batiste, “Cry”

Best American Roots Performance: Jon Batiste, “Cry”

Best Country Song: Chris Stapleton, “Cold”

Best Country Duo/Group Performance: Brothers Osborne, “Younger Me”

Best Country Solo Performance: Chris Stapleton, “You Should Probably Leave”

Best Latin Jazz Album: Eliane Elias With Chick Corea and Chucho Valdés, Mirror Mirror

Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album: Christian McBride Big Band, For Jimmy, Wes And Oliver

Best Jazz Instrumental Album: Ron Carter, Jack DeJohnette & Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Skyline

Best Improvised Jazz Solo: Chick Corea, “Humpty Dumpty (Set 2)”

Best New Age Album: Stewart Copeland & Ricky Kej, Divine Tides

Best New Age Album: Stewart Copeland & Ricky Kej, Divine Tides

Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals: Vince Mendoza, “To The Edge Of Longing (Edit Version)”

Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella: Charlie Rosen & Jake Silverman, 8-Bit Big Band’s “Meta Knight’s Revenge.”

Best Instrumental Composition: Lyle Mays, “Eberhard”

Best Musical Theatre Album: The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical

Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media: The United States Vs. Billie Holiday

Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media: Carlos Rafael Rivera, The Queen’s Gambit and Jon Batiste, Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, Soul (tie)

Best Song Written for Visual Media: Bo Burnham, “All Eyes on Me”

Best Immersive Audio Album: Soundtrack Of The American Soldier

Best Global Music Performance: Arooj Aftab, “Mohabbat”

Best Global Music Album: Angelique Kidjo, Mother Nature

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WhatsApp makes it easier to chat with new contacts

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WhatsApp has made it simpler to communicate with new contacts, an option for interacting with new phones number.

In recent times, the app has grown to be a messaging behemoth, as it is presently the number one messaging platform in the US, despite being banned in China.

The app is also the number one messaging app worldwide with more than 2 billion monthly users and 5 billion Play Store downloads.

If you’re a member of the beta program, you’re in store for some new features for dealing with phone numbers.

The beta program also involves new emoji and updated voice messaging which were released earlier this week.

WABetainfo reported that Beta users have started seeing some new tools to interact with phone numbers sent in messages,

How it works, when tapping a number from a chat, the previous behavior was to immediately send that number to your dialer app, so you could get a call going. After this change, WhatsApp presents a pop-up dialog first.

The app also checks to see if the line is linked with any WhatsApp account, and if so, gives you the alternative to start a chat with the user.

It was gathered that the features are first displayed in the beta 2.22.8.11 release for Android and are now rolling out

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Suspended Abuja chief Imam finally speaks after his suspension for criticizing the govt

Sheikh Nuru Khalid, the suspended chief Imam of Apo Legislative Quarters Mosque, has eventually said ‘only God dethrones’ a few hours after his suspension.

He said God is the most powerful. He gives and takes away power from whomever he wishes. Almost the same statement that was used by Sanusi Lamido II when he was dethroned as the Emir of Kano.

On Friday, the mosque committee of Apo legislative quarters, Abuja, suspended Khalid, over a sermon he delivered.

The Imam during the sermon blamed the government for its negligence to curb the escalating insecurity and killings in the country.

In the sermon, the imam told the electorate not to vote for any politician who cannot ensure the safety of lives and property.

He said, “Nigerian masses should resort to only one term which is – protect our lives, we will come out to vote; let us be killed, we will not come out to vote, since it’s only elections that you people know,” he added.

“We need prayers. We need supplication. This is very important at a time when Nigeria is facing a very serious challenge. Everything is not working well. People are dying. Our roads are not secured.

“Most of the country is not secured. The government is always telling us that they are doing their best. But we deserve more than that best as citizens because we want a secured Nigeria.

“What you are telling us is that your concern is about the 2023 elections. And what I am telling the citizens is to send a message that we are going to vote under one condition. Nigerian masses should resort to only one term which is – protect our lives, we will come out to vote; let us be killed, we will not come out to vote, since it’s the only language you understand, we are going to speak it.

“Our lives are important to us. We want to live. Our wealth and dignity are is important as well. You must do something to secure our lives and make our security workable. We cannot afford to be moving like this. People attacking our trains, killing our people as if there is no government in this country.

“They (bandits) can gather and disseminate intelligence information as if they are a government of their own while our government cannot share information and stop the rubbish on our ways.”

In a statement sent to BBC Hausa Service, the chairman of the mosque committee, Senator Saidu Muhammed Dansadau, said the imam was suspended over his sermon.

The statement accused Khalid of “inciting public outrage”, saying his preachings negated the tenets of Islam.

The statement read in part, “I am informing you that you have been suspended from leading prayers in the Apo Legislative Quarters Mosque from today being April 2nd, 2022 until further notice.

“The decision was taken out of the inciting Friday sermon you delivered on April 1st, 2022; where you advised people not to vote come 2023 general elections unless politicians respond to some critical questions.

“You should have advised them to vote out those that transgress the Almighty and breach people’s social contract as well as the state.”

The committee has immediately appointed Malam Mohammad who will deliver Ramadan Tafsir while Malam Abdullahi will be leading Friday prayers.

However, there’s no reaction from the suspended imam.

Sheikh Khalid has been an avid critic of the government over the escalation of insecurity in Nigeria.

His latest sermon is coming to a couple of days following terrorists’ ravaging attack on a Kaduna-bound train where yet-to-be-confirmed passengers were killed and others kidnaped.

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Twitter for Android set to get text selection on tweets

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It looks like Twitter is finally adding the ability to select text within tweets to the Android version of its app to make it as user-friendly as its IOS counterpart.

This upcoming feature was noted in a tweet posted on Saturday by leaker and hidden feature detective, Jane Manchun Wong.

She said the Android version of Twitter has been lacking in terms of easy text selection, but in the past, users have found a way to bypass this issue using Overview Selection (a useful feature that lets you select text from any screen to copy and paste).

However, Mishaal Rahman, a podcaster and Android expert said the feature is only accessible on a small preference phone.

He said that with the upcoming feature on Twitter, users can now select and copy text from the Android version of its app and not figure some way out to make it a paid feature, as the company is considering with other tools.

He also added that it is strange that it took so long to add, but good that it might be on the way and we just have to wait to see when it will be released.

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Will Smith resigns from Oscars Academy over Chris Rock’s slap

Will Smith, the US actor who slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage during last Sunday’s Oscar ceremony has resigned after he had apologized.

The actor in his apology statement said “My actions at the 94th Academy Award presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable.”

It was gathered from BBC News that the Academy acknowledged the resignation but say would “continue to move forward” with disciplinary proceedings.

Smith slapped Rock over a joke about his wife’s shaved head, a result of the hair-loss condition alopecia.

Less than an hour later, he was awarded the best actor award for his role in “King Richard”, where he played the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams.

“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home,” Smith said on Friday.

“I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken.”

The actor said he wanted to “put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements”.

He concluded that “change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason”.

The Academy’s president David Rubin said it had accepted Smith’s resignation, but would continue its disciplinary proceedings.

Rock addressed the episode during a stand-up show in Boston on Wednesday, saying he was “still kind of processing what happened”.

The comedian, 57, who is currently starring in his “Ego Death” tour of the US, was greeted with a standing ovation by fans.

Rock had earlier decided not to press criminal charges against Smith, reports say.

Smith’s wife, actress Jada Pinkett-Smith, broke her silence in a brief Instagram post on Wednesday, writing: “This is a season for healing and I’m here for it.”

However, Peter Bowes, an analyst at BBC News in Los Angeles said the resignation is not the end of the story.

He said resigning from the Academy is a big deal. Membership in this illustrious, invitation-only body is seen as a mark of achievement in itself.

Only a handful of people have ever been expelled: they include Harvey Weinstein, Bill Cosby, and Roman Polanski – although it wasn’t clear that the same fate awaited Will Smith. He would have found out in a few weeks.

But the actor decided to seal his fate, and forfeit his esteemed role as an Oscar voter – by quitting now. His mea culpa is strongly worded, but not the end of the story.

The Academy says its disciplinary proceedings will continue, which leaves open the possibility that he could be stripped of the Oscar he won on Sunday – although that seems unlikely – or he could be denied future appearance at Academy Awards ceremonies.

But Hollywood is a forgiving place, and Smith is a hitherto well-liked character. Perhaps his next starring role will be opposite Oprah Winfrey, to explain all.

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Davido becomes first Nigerian artist to feature on FIFA World Cup soundtrack

Nigerian singer and record label boss, Davido, has become the first Nigerian artist to be featured on the soundtrack for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The singer is on the track with American R&B singer, Trinidad Cardona alongside Aisha, an American singer.

Announcing the development, Davido in a Twitter post he shared on Friday started ”I’m honored to be featured on the Official ⁦@FIFAWorldCup ⁩ 2022 Soundtrack! See y’all later 2NITE! This one is for Africa! TULE!!!! 🤞🏾❤️ WE RISE !”

The soundtrack titled; Hayya Hayya (better together) is produced by RedOne, and it is set to debut on Friday, April 1, 2022.

At the draw ceremony, the song will be performed live while being live-streamed globally.

The World Cup is scheduled to take place in Qatar from 21 November to 18 December 2022.

FIFA shared the soundtrack via its official Twitter page.

Watch Davido performance

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Hotel manager tricks, rapes corps member in Osogbo

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A hotel manager identified as Joseph Adeleye has been arrested by the Police attached to the Osun State Police Command for allegedly raping a corps member inside a hotel room.

It was gathered that the manager entices the corps member into an isolated room inside the hotel and forcefully had unlawful carnal knowledge of her.

It was also gathered that the corps member (name withheld) was attached to the hotel which is located in the GRA area of Osogbo as her Primary Place of Assignment (PPA) and was functioning as the admin officer of the company when the incident transpired.

The corps member while narrating her experience said that the incident happened last week Friday night when she was on duty.

She said “The manager, Mr. Adeleye requested that I should bring a bottle of beer to his room, after he collected it, he started to inquire about my plan after NYSC, I was not too fine with it because we were in an enclosed room, a few minutes later, he started touching me and I resisted pulling his hands off my body, but suddenly, he pulled me closer and turned my face on the bed and put his hands in my trouser and inserted it in my private part.

“He then pulled my trouser from behind, turned my face up, and wanted to penetrate me, I was resisting him. He was too heavy for me, I even bite him, yet, he carried on. I shouted at the top of my voice but no one could hear me because the room was a bit far from where the other staff stayed.

“He penetrated and he poured his semen on my body and pant. When he discovered that I couldn’t breathe very well, he stood and I ran out of the room. The following day, two of my female corps members discovered I wasn’t not playing or relating with them very well, they inquired what happened. I couldn’t tell them at first, but when I couldn’t hold the tears anymore, I told them what happened to me and they encouraged me to report the matter to the police and I did. He was later arrested and detained,” the victim said.

Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of Osun State Police Command, SP Yemisi Opalola said the suspect has been apprehended and the investigation is ongoing.

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US House of Representatives votes to legalize marijuana

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The United States House of Representatives on Friday voted to approve a bill that will legalize cannabis at the federal level.

The effort is geared toward making the drugs legal and seeking to reverse some of the damage caused by tough drug laws, especially among communities of color.

It was gathered that the voting happened along party lines, with 220 votes in favor and 204 opposed on Friday.

The bill may face a skeptical future in the Senate, but advocates say with Democrats controlling both houses of Congress, they’re more optimistic that the legislation will eventually become law.

The Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (or MORE Act) would remove marijuana from the federal list of controlled substances and add a federal tax on cannabis products. It would also establish a process to expunge convictions and review sentences for past federal cannabis convictions.

The House also added different amendments to the bill, among them a necessity by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct a study on the “Impact of the legalization of recreational cannabis by states on the workplace” and help employers develop best practices in modernizing their cannabis policies.

Another, which was rejected on Friday, would have overruled cannabis use as a justification for restricting a federal security clearance, retroactive to 1971.

The House enacted a first version of the bill in a lame-duck session in December 2020, only to see it stall in the Senate. But with midterms looming, advocates think the timing may finally be right for Congress to take action.

“I feel a lot more optimistic than I did last time around,” Maritza Perez, director of the Drug Policy Action office for national affairs, said in an interview with The Verge. “The bill is the same version passed in 2020, with no substantive changes, so hopefully everyone who voted last time will vote in favor again.”

House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), a sponsor of the bill, says the recent wave of state legalization efforts has put pressure on Congress to act. He told The Verge he hopes “the Senate will finally [pass the MORE Act] so the federal government can join dozens of states in putting an end to these unfair and outdated policies.”

The fate of the MORE Act in the Senate is uncertain, but Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) introduced draft legislation for the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act last summer, which could be introduced in the Senate next month.

The Biden administration, however, has not made the progress many expected on cannabis reform, and its actions suggest a stance that is still very anti-cannabis. For instance, in 2021, the White House screened staff for marijuana and asked some who tested positive to resign or work remotely. It also updated rules earlier this month that could deny security clearances to prospective job candidates who invested in legal cannabis companies. And Perez said earlier that hopes that Vice President Kamala Harris might influence the president’s thinking have cooled.

In addition, Perez notes that Biden had an opportunity to reduce cannabis restrictions in Washington, DC, but didn’t do so. The president’s 2023 budget proposal keeps intact a rider that blocks DC from legalizing marijuana sales, even though DC’s city council voted to decriminalize marijuana possession in 2014.

“To me, that’s pretty shocking — you would think the budget is an area where he could make a statement,” she said. “This tells me where his mind is at; that he believes more research is still needed,” Perez added that she thinks Biden may yet take some action to give clemency to people convicted of low-level marijuana-related crimes.

During a hearing for the MORE Act before the House Rules Committee on Wednesday, Chairman Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) said the MORE Act would “address our nation’s failed approach to the war on drugs.” It’s worth noting that Biden was a key part of the federal war on drugs in the 1980s and 1990s; he authored the 1994 Violent Crime Control and Enforcement Act, which ramped up the war on drugs and imposed tougher prison sentences for federal drug crimes.

In 2020, during the presidential campaign, Biden took a softer line saying he would seek “to reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts.” He has not yet taken action on rescheduling.

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Google Photos tests new features that create shot, shareable clips from your videos

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Google Photos is currently testing a new feature called ‘Snippets’.

The feature is currently accessible to only a few users, and Google is yet to share any information about the detail of its full rollout.

Fortunately, users who have received the Snippets feature on their devices reveal that it automatically creates short, shareable clips from longer videos.

First spotted by Reddit user u/CraftSquid426 (via Android Police), the Snippets feature in Google Photos appears to be a new creation category that will join the existing Animations, Collages, Movies, and Cinematic photos categories. Its icon is a short strip of film, suggesting that it will take a small section of a video on your phone to create a short, shareable clip. Like the other Google Photos creations features, Snippets will likely use machine learning to create the short clips.

Android Police further reveals that the Photos app will also show Snippets in the main carousel on the home page. These automatically created Snippets look to be trimmed versions of longer videos attempting to highlight the best part of the video. However, the Snippets currently seem to capture a random part of the video, suggesting that the machine learning algorithm needs more training. It’s also worth mentioning that the Snippets feature has only been spotted on videos of pets so far.

At the moment, we don’t have any additional information about Google Photos’ new Snippets feature as it’s not accessible on any of our devices. We’ll make sure to let you know as soon as we have more details.

It’s worth reporting that the new Snippets feature comes just a week after Google announced three big changes coming to the Photos app — a Library tab UI overhaul, a Sharing tab design refresh, and new screenshot features.

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Joeboy drops new song, talks about ‘Obi Cubana’

Nigerian singer, Joseph Akinwale, popularly known as Joeboy, has dropped his first single for the year titled ‘Cubana’.

The song talks about the wealth of Obi Cubana, a Nigerian celebrity businessman, and socialite.

Joeboy took to his Instagram page on Thursday to announce the official release of the single — after days of anticipating it ahead of his US tour tagged ‘The Young Legend’.

The 24-year-old music star showcases his lyrical vocals in the less than three-minute track, produced by Type A.

According to some part of the lyrics, Joeboy sing “Put am for me confama/ If you be hoe/ I be farmer/ plenty money bi ti Obi Cubana/ If the vibes negative my dear don’t bother,” he sings.

Talking about ‘Cubana’, Joeboy had earlier said: “This is probably the most playful song I’ve ever released.”

“I was in the studio trying to create a ‘heartbreak song ‘with my producer TYPE A, and there was this particular progression that was vibey and trippy, and I just started playing around with it,” Joeboy thought back.

Listen to the song and lyrical video:

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Gov. Okowa commissions 2.1-kilometer road – cautions oil companies, host communities against face-off

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The Delta State Governor Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa commissioned a 2.1-kilometer Obitobon-Elolo-AjaokurreOgbo-Orubi road in Ogidigben.

The governor also commissioned a 2-3-kilometer road in Benikrukru, both in the Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state on Thursday.

During the inauguration, Okowa cautioned against the face-off between oil companies and host communities, saying that it can lead to further divestment in the oil sector.

He also appealed to the communities to always channel their requests to the state government stating that when a request is not met, they should direct it to the Ministry of Oil and Gas so that the government can intervene on their behalf.

See photos from the inauguration:

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NIPR condemns Abuja-Kaduna train attack, sympathizes with victims’ family

Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) sympathizes with Nigerians over the callous attack on the Kaduna-Abuja train.

The attack, which was followed by deaths injury, and abduction of yet unspecified number of passengers is not only unfortunate and unacceptable but also a sad reminder of the descent into the abyss of the security situation, especially in that part of the country, has fallen.

Nobody or group has the right to continuously subject people to this kind of reign of terror, dehumanizing them and seemingly getting away with it.

This was disclosed to newsmen by Mukhtar Zubairu Sirajo, fnipr,
President/Chairman, Governing Council.

While the Institute appreciates the gallant role being played by our armed forces and other security and law enforcement agencies to square up to the bandits perpetrating these heinous acts, it is clear that a lot more needs to be done to inspire the confidence of the people. The earlier attack on the same route, which occurred in October last year ought to have served as a wake-up call for the system to be more proactive to forestall what was a not so unexpected occurrence, given the seeming over-reliance of commuters on the train service as a safer alternative to plying the Abuja-Kaduna road.

There’s a very urgent need for our security agencies to restrategize and get on top of the situation rather than wait to react. The government on its part must spare no effort in continuing to provide the armed forces and security agencies with all logistical requirements to enable them to up the ante in this must-win war. The intelligence-gathering processes must also be given a shot in the arm to enable the agencies to get ahead of these criminals in all ways imaginable.

The NIPR expresses its heartfelt condolences to families of the deceased, Federal and Kaduna State governments, prayers for the prompt rescue of those abducted as well as speedy recovery for the injured.

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Afrika Shrine to launch its online TV on Easter weekend – 2baba, Rema, The Cavemen performing

The New Afrika Shrine is hosting 2baba, Rema, and The Cavemen to celebrate the launching of its online TV, a live streaming platform introduced to broadcast happenings at its 2,500 capacity facilities to an international audience on Easter weekend.

The pay-per-view concert is also organized to mark this year’s Easter celebration.

According to the concert schedule, Rema is to perform at the venue on April 15 while 2baba and The Cavemen are scheduled for April 16 and 17 respectively.

Announcing this in a blog post, the organizers said all live streaming performances at the venue would be available to subscribers for a further seven days.

Also, the organizers put in that with a monthly payment of $5, subscribers will have full access to different content including Fela’s documentaries, historical recordings, and concerts.

“Enjoy these sensational shows from the comfort of your home at $5/day or an introductory offer of all 3 events for $10. Each event, following live-streaming, will be available to subscribers for a further 7 days,” it read.

Yeni Kuti, daughter of Fela Kuti, the late Afrobeat icon who speak with eyesofalagosboy.com about the TV launch, said: “I’m happy about the Afrika Shrine TV, it means that the Shrine has gone to the next level – Live at the shrine. People will be watching all the activities going on, performances, birthday parties – it’s our reality TV and I am excited about it.

“We are no more analog, the Afrika Shrine is digital.”

The New Afrika Shrine — a replacement for the Afrika Shrine — which was demolished by the federal government in 1977, is managed by Femi, Fela’s eldest son.

The facility has hosted several top figures in the past including Emmanuel Macron, France’s president.

Well-known artists such as Wizkid, Davido, Timaya, Pasuma, Reminisce have also performmed at the iconic facility.

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Gunmen set secretariat ablaze, kill one in Anambra

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The headquarters of Nnewi South Local Government Area in Anambra state has been set ablaze by gunmen.

A security man was also killed during the process on Thursday.

It was gathered that the gunmen burnt several buildings, including the education office, traditional rulers’ meeting chamber, and the works department facilities.

Anambra state governor, Charles Soludo, who visited the scene of the incident, condemned the act, describing it as thoughtless and mindless.

The governor questioned what could have merited the destruction of public property.

He also promised that the perpetrators will face the full bitterness of the law when arrested.

Others who accompanied the governor include the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Echeng Echeng, and the state director of the Department of state service.

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Abuja-Kaduna train: Lawmaker calls for the sacking of the NSA, saying ‘Nowhere is safe’

A member of the All Progressive Congress in the House of Representatives, Nasiru Ahmed, from Kano, has demanded the sacking of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno.

The lawmaker said this during the plenary session on Thursday while deliberating about the recent killings in Kaduna State.

According to Ahmed, he said since 2015 when President Muhammadu Buhari took over power, service chiefs have been changed but the national security adviser has not been replaced.

He said all the security agencies are accountable to the national security adviser who has failed in his duty.

While speaking, he asked “Do we have a national security adviser?

“Are we saying the army, the Nigerian navy, air force, police, and DSS with all the training that they have had, with all the international training that they have gone to — they have gone to peacekeeping. That a ragtag army of 16 to 17 year-old-boys (bandits) is more powerful than them?

“Mr. Speaker this madness has to stop. It simply has to stop. You travel by road you’re kidnapped; you go by train, you’re kidnapped, last week the airport was attacked by bandits; you sit at home you’re kidnapped, you send your children to school they are kidnapped. Mr. Speaker a few weeks ago somebody was kidnapped in a hospital. Where are you going to stay? You can be kidnapped right in this chamber.

“What do we tell our people that elected us? Do we just fold our arms? I want to use this opportunity again and I am calling on the national security adviser — he must be removed.”

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CKay’s ‘Love Nwantiti’ top No.1 on first-ever Billboard Afrobeat US chart

CKay hit song ‘Love Nwantiti’ has topped the number one position on the first-ever Billboard Afrobeat chart.

The inaugural list on the chart comprises the top 50 most popular Afrobeats songs in the United States from March 29 to April 2.

In the list, Fireboy DML’s ‘Peru’ remix featuring Ed Sheeran came second while Wizkid ‘Essence’ remix featuring Justin Bieber and Tems tool the third spot.

‘Attention’, the joint song by Omah Lay and Justin Bieber took the fourth spot on the chart with ‘Free Mind’ by Tems closing the top five.

Billboard had first declared openly that the music chart would be done based on a weighted formula.

This, it said, will incorporate official streams on both subscription and ad-supported tiers of leading audio and video music services as well as download sales from top music retailers.

Obi Asika, Afro Nation founder, said the initiative was advised by the rising influence of the Afrobeats in the global music terrain.

“The last decade has seen Afrobeats explode into a worldwide phenomenon, influencing culture and fashion across the globe and I am humbled to have contributed to growing the genre alongside many talented, passionate people.”

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Senate to probe MultiChoice over price hike in DStv, Gotv subscription

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The Senate has asked MultiChoice to reduce the prices of DStv and GOtv subscription packages due to the current economic circumstance of the country after the company increases its prices last week.

Abba Moro, a senator representing Benue South raised the motion on Wednesday.

According to Moro during his resolution, he said MultiChoice Nigeria always increases the rate of its packages “because there is no regulation whatever in the area of fixing rates”.

He explained that without recourse to the economic situation of the country, MultiChoice has again raised the cost of DStv and GOtv packages.

He also said Nigerians are insisting that, instead of paying fixed rates for packages monthly, pay-TV service providers should introduce a subscription model which allows subscribers pay-per-view to enable them to match their TV consumption to subscription as is with the case of electricity metering and mobile telephony.

Supporting the motion, Barau Jibrin, senator representing Kano north, said regulators should deter paying television companies from increasing the prices of their packages incessantly.

“Because of the nature of electricity we have in this country, sometimes someone will pay but lack of light won’t allow the person to enjoy such services yet once the month ends, that money goes,” Jibrin said.

“There should be a system where there will be pay-per-view.

“The regulators should do the needful by not allowing an increase of fees by these entities the way they like. It is not in the interest of our people.

“I thereby support this motion because we need to stand for the interest of our people.”

Thereupon the motion was approved by the upper legislative chamber, Senate President Ahmad Lawan said Multichoice can’t always increase prices in other countries.

“What DStv is doing here, they can’t do it in many countries but here they do it and get away with it,” Lawan said.

“So we need to have a public hearing. Our ad-hoc committee should be given the mandate to do a whole-scale investigation.”

An ad hoc committee was set up to probe the price hike by pay television companies.

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Celebrity clash: Timaya threatens to beat Ubi Franklin

Singer Timaya has threatened to beat Ubi Franklin, a music executive.

On Wednesday morning, Timaya issued a serious threat to the music executive in a post he shared on Twitter.

According to Timaya, he said he will beat Ubi Franklin for the second time.

He also Describes the music executive as “Davido’s son’s employed nanny”, adding that he should focus on his new job

Timaya tweeted ““Ubi Franklin, u remember the beating I gave u in January last year? Don’t let me beat you again and please I like your new job as Ifeanyi’s NANI.”

“Pls don’t mess it up. Davido is a good guy, he can make ur life. Pls focus on ur new JOB. Thanks.”

Responding to Timaya’s tweet, Franklin described him as being “petty” while asking the singer to remember what transpired on that faithful day.

“See Timaya wen senior men help comot for hand dey talk say em beat me. You don forget wetin happen that day? Or you don high?” he wrote on Instagram.

Also in another post on Twitter, Ubi Franklin claimed Timaya was angry because he criticized him over last month’s “hit and run” incident involving a lady.

“Timaya is so petty. You are angry cos I told you how wrong it was to knock a woman down and leave her to her fate,” he wrote.

“You come to talk trash here today? I am not a person that will see wrong and keep quiet.

“You were wrong to have knocked that woman down and left her there. Period.”

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Abuja-Kaduna train attack: Senate asks Buhari to declare war on bandits

The Upper Chambers of the Nigerian Senate have asked President Muhammadu Buhari to declare a full-scale war on bandits terrorizing the country.

The motion for the call was moved by Uba Sani, a senator representing Kaduna Central, on Tuesday.

The senator draw the attention of the house to the attack that occurred around the Kateri-Rijana area of Kaduna on Monday, a train that have almost reached its final destination in Rigasa was bombed by gunmen. Some passengers were killed while others suffered wounds.

The senator asked the security forces to reassemble their strategies to come up with powerful solutions to the danger of banditry and terrorism.

Criticizing the tactics adopted by security forces in dealing with the attacks, the lawmaker wondered why final actions haven’t been taken against bandits months after being announced, terrorists.

While contributing to a debate on the motion sponsored by Sani on Tuesday, Gabriel Suswam, senator representing Benue northeast, said the country is under attack and critical measures should be taken to address insecurity in the country.

“It is time enough for the appropriate authority to have taken decisive actions to address the insecurity in our country,” Suswam said.

This is the time that we as a senate meet with the leadership of this country to sit down and talk.”

Danjuma Laah, senator representing Kaduna south, on his part said if Nasir el-Rufai, Kaduna governor, is not capable of solving the security problems in the state, he should seek help.

“In the whole country, the issue of Kaduna state is the worst. There must be an urgent action immediately to solve all the problems,” Leah said.

“If the governor is short of manpower, let him cry out.”

The motion was adopted after Senate President Ahmad Lawan put it to a voice vote.

In the motion, the upper legislative chamber asked the army and the air force to sustain their operations on the enclaves of these gunmen.

It also asked the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials for the victims of the attack.

On Monday, Golden Nation Blog reported that armed bandits bombed a Kaduna-Abuja train conveying hundreds of passengers.

The incident came two days after armed gangs invaded Kaduna International Airport, killing aviation workers and leaving many others wounded.

The Senate urged the Nigerian military to put special focus on the vicinity of Nigerian Airports, especially the Abuja Airport.

It also charged relevant government agencies to step up their information-gathering device to forestall this kind of occurrence.

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I foresee this will happened, Amaechi speaks amid Kaduna train attack

Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation, revealed that he had warned about the possible loss of lives before the Abuja-Kaduna train incident that happened on Monday.

He said he would have been prevented if only what he requested was approved, adding that he requested for necessary digital security and crime prevention equipment but it was not approved.

The minister made this revelation while speaking with journalists on Tuesday when he visited the scene of the incident.

The minister who expressed disappointment over the incident said the occurrence could have been prevented with the relevant digital equipment in place.

According to Amaechi, he said “We knew what the problem would be. We knew we needed to have digital security equipment. We applied for it.

He said, “Because if we had that equipment, you will see nobody on that track. And I warned that lives will be lost. Now, lives are lost. Eight persons were dead, 25 persons were in the hospital.

“We don’t know how many persons have been kidnapped. And the cost of that equipment is just N3 billion. The cost of what we’ve lost is more than N3 billion.

“We’ve lost tracks, we’ve lost locomotives and coaches. We’ve lost human beings. And the equipment is just N3 billion.

“To fix all the things on that track now, will cost us more than N3 billion. And now even the things we said give us the approval to buy – at the time we asked for it, the dollar was N400, now it is N500. When you come with sincerity to government and your colleagues and people are stopping you, it is annoying.”

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Witches warn Osinbajo not to contest for Presidency in 2023, see reasons

The White Witches Association of Nigeria, WWAN, has sent a message to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, not to contest the 2023 presidential election.

They said God did not call him to become Nigeria’s President in 2023; hence he would not win if he decided to contest.

The spokesperson of the witches, a former board member of the Edo State Traditional Council during the tenure of Adams Oshiomhole, Dr. Iboi Okhue said God did not send Osinbajo to run for the presidency rather, God sent him for a particular mission.

According to the spokesperson, he said the Vice President would conclude the mission God sent him on May 29, 2023.

Okhue advised the Vice President to retreat to the pulpit where God has a higher assignment for him than being the “Head of State.”

He told The Independent that “God sent him to deliver a message to Nigerians. He has done that and he should go back to the church. God will use him in a bigger way other than being the head of the state. As there are indications that Osinbajo may run for the Presidency in 2023.

But, Laolu Akande, the vice president’s spokesperson, dismissed such claims, stressing that his principal was focused on working with President Muhammadu Buhari.

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Will Smith apologizes to Chris Rock over Oscar’s slap

Hollywood actor, Will Smith, has apologized for slapping Chris Rock, the comedian at the 2022 Oscar.

He put it up on Instagram that he went out of line on Tuesday morning.

According to Smith’s post, he said violence in all of its forms is “poisonous and destructive”, adding his conduct was “inexcusable”.

“My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally,” he wrote.

“I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.

“I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees, and everyone watching around the world.

“I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us. I am a work in progress.”

On Sunday, Smith had slapped Rock in the face on stage for making a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett, while presenting an award.

The comedian had directed at Pinkett’s shaved head – which is due to the hair-loss condition alopecia.

This had provoked mixed reactions from fans and Hollywood stakeholders, some of whom criticized the assault.

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Workers disobey govt’s directives against sit-at-home in Anambra

Anambra State civil servants on Monday defied the government directive to come to work every Monday against the Independent People of Biafra’s (IPOB) sit-at-home order.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that most government offices visited were under lock with a key in Akwa.

According to NAN, the state government had sent out circulars authorizing workers to come to work on Mondays.

The statement issued by the government was signed by the Head of Service, Mrs. Theodora Igwegbe on March 25.

The statement read: “Following the need to reposition the service for better performance and productivity, His Excellency, Prof. Charles Soludo has directed that all public servants should henceforth report to their places of work on Mondays as they do other workdays.

“Consequently, absence from duty on Mondays or any other official workday without approval will be viewed as serious misconduct which will attract appropriate sanctions.

NAN reports that only a few junior workers were seen loitering around the state secretariat complex.

Even the Office of the Head of Service, together with the ministries in the block, was also under lock and key.

Most staff buses, which convey workers to and fro their offices were also seen parked in the secretariat.

Some of the buses included Route 1 for Awka- Ogidi-Onitsha, Route 2 for Awkuzu-Otuocha, and Route 4 for Awka-Agulu-Ekwulobia.

Some workers, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that people might want to comply with the directive but had no means to get to their offices.

“We are here because we live in Awka and we can easily find the means to be in the office than those living outside Awka.

“It is not everyone living in Awka that can make it because in most areas there is no vehicular or human movement at all.

It was, however, observed that the Office of the Accountant-General of the state was open and the Accountant-General, Mr. Chudi Okoli, and staff members were on duty at the time of the visit.

NAN also added that some of the schools visited in Awka and its environs were not open.

Markets and motor parks near the capital city were also shut down.

Many stores and food sellers were seen trekking to Aroma, a popular junction in Awka.

A petty trader, Mrs. Grace Anaelu, urged the government to reconsider the matter to prevent excessive casualties.

“We do not have security following us around, so the issue does not require a hasty decision.

“People’s safety needs to be considered before the marching order.

“I asked my only daughter to stay at home, if the governor sack her for not coming to work on Monday, let her come home and manage with me.

“Her life is more important to me than the salary,” she mumbled.

See Photos:

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I will withdraw from presidential race if PDP zones ticket to North – Gov Wike

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has said he will not run for the position of the presidency if the PDP’s presidential ticket goes to the North.

He also said he will obey the party, but what he doesn’t agree with is for people to say there should not be zoning.

According to Wike, he said that is why he has never left the party since 1998, stating that every decision must not be good to you.

He added that what is important as a party person is for you to believe in the party.

He further said the party has given him everything and he won’t leave because of its decision.

Explaining he said “The party has given me everything. I won’t because of the decision to leave the party. I won’t do that.

“It is your belief in the party. I have no other place; I have no other party to go to. I cannot leave my party.”

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Terrorists bomb Kaduna-Abuja train with over 1000 passengers onboard

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A train conveying over 1000 passengers has been attacked by bandits on the Kaduna-Abuja track.

The incident happened around 8 pm on Monday along Katari to Rigasa train station in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

This happened two days after gunmen invaded Kaduna International Airport, killing aviation workers and leaving many others injured.

An eyewitness who also happens to be a passenger on the train said on Twitter that the bandits bombed the train track with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which forced the train to derail.

He said upon the blockage of the train, the bandits began to fire gunshots sporadically.

He also said that the bandits later forced their way into the train and kidnapped an unspecified number of people, with some others feared killed.

Meanwhile, troops have been mobilized to the scene of the attack to rescue the remaining passengers.

Confirming the incident, Fidget Okhiria, MD of Nigerian Railway Corporation said efforts are underway to obtain further information about it.

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World Cup qualifier: Nigeria vs Ghana, FG gives out 20, 000 tickets for ‘Super Eagles’ fans

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After the opening 90 minutes match in Kumasi on Friday that finished up a goalless draw, the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and Nigeria Football Federation have together paid for 20,000 tickets to give to fans who want to support the Eagles on the day, in a bid to support the Super Eagle and to fill up the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Tuesday’s playoff final battle against the Black Stars of Ghana in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare after a meeting of the organizing committee put in place by the ministry, including officials of NFF.

The Youth and Sports Minister said “We will buy 20,000 of the tickets and give them to fans at designated centers on Monday and Tuesday morning. We want to ensure maximum support for the Super Eagles by filling up the stands.

“The NFF has done well to secure maximum capacity of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium for the match. This move will guarantee us a full house if you also consider the efforts that the ticket rights holder, Africa Independent Television have been making on their own.”

In addition, Mallam Shehu Dikko, NFF 2nd Vice President, said both the Ministry and the NFF believe that the full house will ginger the Super Eagles to win a seventh FIFA World Cup finals ticket on Tuesday evening.

“It is a very big match and we need the maximum support for our team. The players have expressed a desire for a full house, just as the Ghanaians had in Kumasi. We want to thank the Ministry for initiating this move.”

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Music: Asake team up with Burna Boy for ‘Sungba’ remix

Nigerian fast-rising singer, Asake has come through with the remix of his single ‘Sungba’ featuring Grammy award winner, Burna Boy.

Asake released the song on Monday after releasing his four-track extended playlist (EP) titled ‘Ololade’ a month ago.

The less than four-minute track was produced by Magicsticks.

“Tell me what you see when you look at me / Sun gala JA ko ma jo badi / My problem is I too Sabi oh/ Pop molly for the pool party oh / Agata Oya pada (Pepper Jor) / Shey you dey whine me ni / You no see Uber Oya gbokada / Sure banker you go chop gala dada / Ęlę sung,” Burna Boy could be heard singing in pidgin English.

Asake, a graduate of theatre and performing arts from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is currently signed to YBNL, recently recounted how he begged Olamide, the Nigerian rapper, for two years to join his music label.

Born Ahmed Ololade, the singer embarked on music at a very young age. He also showcased his talent through several freestyle videos on social media.

His rise to prominence with the release of his hit song ‘Lady’ in 2020. The song became popular among Nigerian music lovers including celebrities.

Listen to the song:

Watch the video of the song here:

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Court orders transfer of DCP Abba Kyari to Kuje prison

Abba Kyri, the suspended deputy commissioner of police who has been in the custody of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) since February 12, has been transferred to Kuje Correctional Center pending the ruling of his case.

A Federal High court in Abuja ordered his transfer on Monday.

Kyri was arraigned on March 7 over allegations of drug trafficking alongside Sunday J Ubia, Bawa James, Simon Agirigba, and John Nuhu who are members of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT).

Others are Chibunna Patrick Umeibe and Emeka Alphonsus Ezenwanne — two alleged drug traffickers who were arrested at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

In the charge marked FHC/ABJ/57/2022, the agency accused the defendants of conspiracy, obstruction, and dealing in cocaine worth 17.55 kilograms.

Upon arraignment, Kyari and four other defendants pleaded not guilty.

However, the sixth and seventh defendants pleaded guilty and begged the court to “have mercy”.

At the court session on Monday, Emeka Nwite, the trial judge, rejected the bail request of the defendants.

The judge held that the NDLEA placed sufficient materials before it to warrant the refusal of bail to Kyari and his co-defendants.

Thereafter, the judge ruled that Kyari and four others be remanded in Kuje correctional center while the sixth and seventh defendants who pleaded guilty, should be remanded in Suleja correctional center.

The judge has fixed April 27 to rule on an application for review of facts.

Joseph Sunday, prosecution counsel, is pleading with the court to examine the fact of the case relating to the sixth and seventh defendants.

But Kanu Agabi, counsel to Kyari and the second defendant, said examining the facts will be prejudicial to the trial of his clients.

“If you review the facts, you’ll have to make findings that will be prejudicial to the trial,”

“The facts are interwoven and the danger in this circumstance is that the findings in respect to one are the findings concerning all”, He said.

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“Why Prince Ned is the most suited to represent Anioma in the Senate”

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As political activities rev up ahead of the 2023 general elections, one race that will ignite passions in Delta State is that for the Delta North SENATORIAL district.

The current occupier of the position is Senator Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi, who rode to victory on the platform of the PDP, after a controversial primary that saw his closest contender, Hon Dr. Prince Ned Nwoko, placed second in the contest.
Nwaoboshi has since decamped to the APC, thus bringing in its trail, a host of diatribes that leaves bitter memories of regrets from the party under whose ticket he rode to the red chambers of the National Assembly.

The dramatis personae in this well-orchestrated game of betrayal and outright fraud meted on Hon Dr. Prince Ned Nwoko, have since realized their folly in being part of the grand conspiracy that aided his (Nwoko’s) “too close for comfort” loss to Nwaoboshi, but all that is now history.

When the news filtered in, penultimate week, that a group of like minds roaring for Ned, had stormed Wadata Plaza, the national headquarters of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), in Abuja, to purchase the mandatory EXPRESSION OF interest AND NOMINATION FORMS, for the Anioma born doyen of the Paris club refunds that bailed Nigeria and the states out of recession, not a few heaved a sigh of relief, to wit, that the palpable air of suspense surrounding whether Ned will seek Anioma’s mandate to represent them, had been doused in relief.

The group, under the banner of Ned Nwoko Political Family/Campaign organization, was unanimous and clear that their Principal deserved to be supported to represent Delta North SENATORIAL district at the Senate of the federal republic of Nigeria, come the 2023 National assembly elections.

And why not Ned? As a dedicated party man, Ned never lost faith or rebelled against anyone who was remotely or directly linked to his painful loss orchestrated by clear gang-ups during the 2019 SENATORIAL primaries at the Cenotaph, Asaba. Instead, he, like the man of large heart, moved on, with all might, mirth, main, and muscle, to remain loyal and committed to supporting his party in all its activities.

Ned’s resume is at once intimidating as it is enviable. One of the few lucky Nigerians to have the best form of Education: First Degree in law and history at the prestigious University of Keele England, master’s in law at Kings College, University of London. Barrister at Law of Lincoln’s Inn, solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, honorary doctorates at Commonwealth University and Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Ugbomro in Uvwie Local Government of Delta State amongst others. Was named philanthropist of the year by a leading national newspaper, Leadership.

As Vice Chairman of the PDP Campaign Council that oversaw the activities leading to the re-election of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in 2019, it is on record that he deployed his funds, running into “billions of his hard-earned money” to mobilize various support groups, ranging from the entertainment industry, artisans, labor unions and influential individuals, among other numerous groups, to rally support for Governor Okowa’s reelection bid.

The Chancellor of the FIRST sports University in the entire Sub Saharan African continent, also behind the scenes, as characteristic of him, provided huge funds to alleviate the challenges of hundreds who daily troop into his country home at ldumuje Ugboko, in Aniocha North local government area. It is a known fact that his home is a Mecca of sorts open to the high and low in society without any tribal or social discrimination.

This Maverick and urbane lawyer, businessman, philanthropist, and political enigma whose stint as the federal lawmaker representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency, witnessed landmarks such as the Benin Onitsha expressway, the current police headquarters in Asaba, minimum wage largesse for workers, among other initiatives too numerous to mention, proves Ned to be a man with a broad outlook who looks out for the welfare of the common man on the streets.

Ned’s passion for the eradication of malaria took him to Antarctica, the coldest continent in the world, where he became the FIRST black African to hoist our green white green flag and the 13th country to have a presence in the South Pole.
Not only has he committed hundreds of thousands of dollars for research-based activities, but he has also taken the campaign to the relevant stakeholders such as the federal ministry of health, the World Health Organization, and also the National Assembly where he hopes enabling laws will be passed to create a separate agency for dealing with malaria-related issues.

And finally, as a man whose sources of income hold no secrecy or controversy, he has never been a guest of any anti-graft agency or been linked to any fraudulent activity that will bring disrepute to Anioma. So far, he has become the role model, the hope for the despondent, with his large-hearted and global disposition to issues. Indeed he is one of Anioma’s finest, a rare breed of blue blood and empathy.

Prince Ned is one of the richest in Africa. According to Google, he is reputed to be worth over $1.2b. He is not going to NASS to look for money. We know that he has already pledged his salaries and allowances towards scholarships. He will adequately represent delta and Nigeria and indeed the black race.

A multidimensional personality, Hon Prince Dr. Chinedum Munir Nwoko (Ned), is a global explorer, a tourism promoter, a connoisseur of arts and culture, an avid reader, and a doting father, husband, brother, and lots more. It is on record that his Mount Ned Nwoko tourist resort which boasts of landmarks such as an Ogbunike cave like an underground tunnel, exotic plants such as the Cedar and fig trees, exotic animals, and pristine furniture, also boasts of a 100 feet tower, which is the second-highest point in the southern part of Nigeria, after the Obudu Cattle ranch in Cross River State.

So, as the primary elections to determine who will represent Delta North at the red Chambers draw near, one man whose pedigree and ability to attract development and restore Anioma to her rightful pride of place is Hon Dr. Prince Chinedum (Ned) Nwoko. He is Primus inter pares and deserves to be supported. Anioma will be better for it.

Dear people of Anioma, behold your son, Hon Dr. Prince Chinedum Munir Nwoko, Ned for short. He is needed. Indeed, he is.

Anioma kwenu!

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Video: After slapping Chris Rock on stage, Will Smith wins ‘Best Actor’ at Oscar 2022

Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage after the comedian make jokes about his wife, Jada Pinkett, at this year’s Oscar awards.

The trouble start when Rock was onstage at the Oscars to present Best Documentary, and true to form as a stand-up comic, he began sending barbs out into the crowd.

After making a quip about Denzel Washington, Rock turned his attention to Jada Pinkett Smith, saying he was looking forward to seeing her in G.I. Jane II. (Pinkett Smith was sporting a buzzcut, just like Demi Moore’s character in the 1997 film G.I. Jane).

But Pinkett Smith has been open about her struggles with hair loss and bald spots caused by alopecia. “Mama’s gonna have to take it down to the scalp so nobody thinks she got brain surgery or something,” she wrote on Instagram in December. “I and this alopecia are going to be friends … period!”

All had seemed well until the cameras caught Smith, approaching Rock on the stage. Thereafter moved forward to slap the comedian on the face.

“Keep my wife’s name out of your… mouth,” Smith yelled while returning to his seat.

After slapping Rock in the evening, Smith won his first Oscar for his portrayal of Richard Williams, the father of Venus and Serena Williams, in King Richard.

He won the ‘Best Actor category at the 2022 Oscars.

The actor would later apologize to the organizers of the 94th annual Academy Awards and his fellow nominees for the incident in an emotional best actor acceptance speech after slapping Rock, in the evening, he won his first Oscar for his portrayal of Richard Williams, the father of Venus and Serena Williams, in King Richard.

In his acceptance speech, he said “I want to apologize to the Academy. I want to apologize to all my fellow nominees.”

“Art imitates life. I look like the crazy father, just like they said about Richard Williams. But love will make you do crazy things.”

Smith, however, did not mention Rock by name in his speech.

The 94th Academy Awards returned to the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and had a host for the first time in four years — with Amy Schumer, Regina Hall, and Wanda Sykes co-hosting the event.

‘CODA’, the English-language remake of the 2014 French film La Famille Bélier, won all three awards it was nominated for.

This includes the ‘Best Picture’ category and a historic win for Troy Kotsur, who won for ‘Best Supporting Actor’ — becoming the first deaf man to win an Academy Award for acting.

Jane Campion won the ‘Best Director’ category for her role in ‘The Power of the Dog’ while Jessica Chastain secured her first Oscar for her performance in ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’.

Will Smith received his award shortly after delivering a shocking slap to Chris Rock who made a joke about Jada Pinkett, his wife, while presenting a different award.

See the full list below:

Best supporting actress

Jessie Buckley (The Lost Daughter)
Ariana DeBose (West Side Story) – WINNER!
Judi Dench (Belfast)
Kirsten Dunst (The Power of the Dog)
Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard)
Best costume design

Cruella – WINNER!
Cyrano
Dune
Nightmare Alley
West Side Story
Best sound

Belfast
Dune – WINNER!
No Time to Die
The Power of the Dog
West Side Story
Best original score

Best original score

Don’t Look Up
Dune – WINNER!
Encanto
Parallel Mothers
The Power of the Dog
Best adapted screenplay

Coda (Sian Heder) – WINNER!
Drive My Car (Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Takamasa Oe)
Dune (Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, Denis Villeneuve)
The Lost Daughter (Maggie Gyllenhaal)
The Power of the Dog (Jane Campion)
Best original screenplay

Belfast (Kenneth Branagh) – WINNER!
Don’t Look Up (Adam McKay, David Sirota)
Licorice Pizza (Paul Thomas Anderson)
King Richard (Zach Baylin)
The Worst Person in the World (Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier)
Best animated short

Affairs of the Art
Bestia
Boxballet
Robin Robin
The Windshield Wiper – WINNER!

Best live-action short

Ala Kachuu – Take and Run
The Dress
The Long Goodbye – WINNER!
On My Mind
Please Hold
Best supporting actor

Ciarán Hinds (Belfast)
Troy Kotsur (Coda) – WINNER!
Jesse Plemons (The Power of the Dog)
JK Simmons (Being the Ricardos)
Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog)
Best film editing

Don’t Look Up
Dune – WINNER!
King Richard
The Power of the Dog
tick, tick… BOOM!
Best makeup & hairstyling

Coming 2 America
Cruella
Dune
The Eyes of Tammy Faye – WINNER!
House of Gucci
Best animated feature

Encanto – WINNER!
Flee
Luca
The Mitchells Vs the Machines
Raya and the Last Dragon
Best documentary feature

Ascension
Attica
Flee
Summer of Soul – WINNER!
Writing With Fire
Best documentary short

Audible
Lead Me Home
The Queen of Basketball – WINNER!
Three Songs for Benazir
When We Were Bullies
Best original song

Be Alive (King Richard)
Dos Oruguitas (Encanto)
Down to Joy (Belfast)
No Time to Die (No Time to Die) – WINNER!
Somehow You Do (Four Good Days)
Best cinematography

Dune – WINNER!
Nightmare Alley
The Power of the Dog
The Tragedy of Macbeth
West Side Story
Best international feature

Drive My Car – WINNER!
Flee
The Hand of God
Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom
The Worst Person in the World
Best production design

Dune – WINNER!
Nightmare Alley
The Power of the Dog
The Tragedy of Macbeth
West Side Story
Best visual effects

Dune – WINNER!
Free Guy
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
No Time to Die
Spider-Man: No Way Home
Best actress

Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye) – WINNER!
Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter)
Penélope Cruz (Parallel Mothers)
Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos)
Kristen Stewart (Spencer)
Best actor

Javier Bardem (Being the Ricardos)
Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog)
Andrew Garfield (tick, tick … BOOM!)
Will Smith (King Richard) – WINNER!
Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth)
Best director

Kenneth Branagh (Belfast)
Drive My Car (Ryûsuke Hamaguchi)
Paul Thomas Anderson (Licorice Pizza)
Jane Campion (The Power of the Dog) – WINNER!
Steven Spielberg (West Side Story)

Best picture

Belfast
Coda – WINNER!
Don’t Look Up
Drive My Car
Dune
King Richard
Licorice Pizza
Nightmare Alley
The Power of the Dog
West Side Story

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Ukraine invasion: What God will do to Putin and Zelensky – Primate Ayodele reveals

The leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has revealed some shocking revelations about the war in Ukraine.

He said Russian President, Vladimir Putin will not cease the war in Ukraine until God arrests him.

He also said Putin will continue to agitate the world with the ongoing conflict, which has lasted more than a month.

Ayodele made this revelation during his church service, according to his media aide, Oluwatosin Osho, on Sunday.

According to his aide, Ayodele also revealed that the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, would be targeted for assassination.

He, however, noted that God would save Zelensky, adding that he should not give up.

‘’Putin will not step down, He will continue to disturb the world until God arrests him.

“There will be an attempt to kill the president of Ukraine but God will save him, he must not relent. Ukraine will make an impact that will confuse Putin,” Primate Ayodele said.

The war in Ukraine has persisted for over a month.

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How a dispatch-rider secure two high-paying jobs after learning Digital Marketing skills

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Two months is a long to have your life transformed after you acquire digital marketing skills and Samuel’s story, a dispatch rider is proof of this.

Although Samuel took the training to develop himself, he got more than he imagined after two months of his training.

Samuel Oluwakoya moved from being a dispatch driver to getting two high-paying digital marketing professional jobs and one was with an international company even before he completed his training.

Now he is making money from two different ends as a professional digital marketer.

See his mind-blowing testimony, “My first job as a Digital Marketer after 2 months into the course was with an Australian tech company, as a remote digital marketing strategist, which I’m still working with, and then, the company where I’ve been working as a delivery driver for close to 2 years accepted my proposal marketer as I submitted my CV and performed some level of understanding in digital marketing”, Samuel said.

Goldennationblog gathered that over 2000 people who have passed through the digital training course have gone on to secure high-paying jobs, start or scale their successful businesses or set up their advertising agency. See the proof

https://app.expertnaire.com/product/7251263076/7251254950

According to a digital marketing expert, Toyin Omotosho, you can do it and get better results than Samuel did. All you need is to first take action and secure the opportunity.

Don’t miss the chance to take action and learn a new skill that can potentially change your life.

For more information, click the link below:

https://wa.me/message/5IZQZY2OYA4CG1

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Osakwe: Ndokwa has lost an ‘Iroko’ – Onah

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A PDP Elder statesman in Ndokwa, Delta State, Rear Admiral Mike Ojinika Onah (rtd), has described the passing on of Senator Patrick Enebeli Osakwe, as the loss of ‘Iroko’ in Ndokwa nation.

Onah while reacting to the death of Osakwe in a statement, said he had lost a brother, friend, and bridge builder in Ndokwa land.

He said the late Osakwe was passionate about the unity and development of Ndokwa land while alive, stressing that the unfortunate news of Osakwe,s death in London was a big blow, not only to him, but the entire Ndokwa nation in particular, and Delta in general.

Admiral Onah recalled the stint of Senator Osakwe as Senator representing Delta North, stressing that it ushered in much development and unity.

The revered elder statesman added that as a close ally of the deceased, he found Osakwe a true Patriot whose actions were motivated by love for the collective interest of his people.

Said Ona:” words fail me to describe the passage of a true son of Ndokwa. Osakwe was an icon, a Pathfinder whose wealth of experience in business and politics was felt by all and sundry. Indeed Nfokwa has lost a patriotic look”.

He, therefore, prayed God for the repose of Osakwe,s soul, while condoling the immediate family as well as the Ndokwa nation and the entire Delta PDP family to take solace in the good works of the deceased which are tangible in the hearts of all and sundry.

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US donates nuclear detection systems to Nigeria Police Force

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The United States has donated nuclear detection system vans and equipment valued at over $2 million to the explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The donation took place at the Police EOD headquarters annex in Lagos.

During the donation, the office of nuclear smuggling detection and deterrence, the US Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA), also organized a two-week training for 30 officers of the EOD command of the NPF.

The officers of the EOD command who received the exercise also carried out a public demonstration on the use of the mobile nuclear detection system.

Ten other officers were also trained on the maintenance of the donated equipment.

The training was focused on the task of the detection equipment to combat the smuggling of nuclear and radioactive elements.

Present at the donation were Steward Voit, sustainability manager of the US Department of Energy’s Office of nuclear smuggling detection and deterrence, and Ibrahim Zanna, commissioner of police, EOD command.

Below are photos.

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Breaking: Bandits storm Kaduna airport, prevent aircraft from taking off, kill one staff

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Tension in Kaduna airport on Saturday as bandits prevented AZMAN aircraft from taking off.

It was gathered that the aircraft was planned for Lagos on Saturday when the bandits stormed the runaway causing the officials of the airline and passengers to run for their safety.

The bandits also shot and killed one staff of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), around the runway of the airport, a source disclosed to newsmen.

According to the source, Shehu Na’Allah was shot and killed by the bandits around the runway area of the airport, a staff of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

The source said that the AZMAN aircraft could not take off at about 12.30 pm because of the presence of the bandits by the runways of the airport.

‘’As I speak to you now, there is already military presence to beef up security, though most of the staff are scared with the killing of the NAMA staff, the source said.

The source also said more than 10 trucks of the military are at the airport presently for reinforcement.

Confirming the incident, the manager of the Airport, Mrs. Amina Salami, said the bandits invaded the airport through the perimeter fence from a nearby forest at about 1 pm on Saturday and started shooting sporadically to scare the workers.

Details later…..

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See 10-must-watch movies this weekend, A Simple Lie, Obsession, others

To better enjoy your weekend, here are some collections of movies recommended for you to watch in the cinema or on Netflix.

.

A Simple Life

Running time: 1hr 37mins

Starring: Bisola Aiyeola, Emmanuel Ikubese, Kie Kie

Synopsis: A lady runs into her ex and tells a simple lie that snowballs into a series of unexpected incidents and fallouts.

Obsession

Running time: 1hr 46mins

Starring: Mercy Aigbe, Munachi Abi, Gideon Okeke

Synopsis: The crack in their marriage is widened by the arrival of their neighbor. The wife tries to befriend the neighbor, unknown to her, the neighbor has been seeing a psychologist for body dysmorphia.

City Hustlers

Running time: 2hrs

Starring: Bolanle Ninalowo, Akin Lewis, Mercy Aigbe

Synopsis: The film highlights real-life events of the day to day hustling of the average Lagosian — showing the extent that some would go to live the kind of life you dream of?

The Rise of Igbinogun

Running time: 1hr 52mins

Starring: Akin Lewis, Shaffy Bello, Tina Mba

Synopsis: A Nigerian retelling of the legendary Robinhood following a rebellious young lady and her gang attempt of taking from the rich and giving it to the poor.

Mama’s Big Stick

Running time: 2hrs 15mins

Starring: Patience Ozokwor, Mofe Duncan, Peggy Ovire

Synopsis: It tells the story of how two mothers-in-law put aside their protracted enmity to help their children have a blissful matrimonial home.

Deja Vu

Running time: 1hr 26mins

Starring: Lateef Adedimeji, Bimbo Adedimeji, Yomi Blaq

Synopsis: A couple finds themselves enmeshed in trouble that threatens their young love journey, how will they survive it?

Boycott

Running time: 1hr 52mins

Starring: Richard Mofe-Damijo, Kunle Coker, Yomi Blaq

Synopsis: A sponsor of an insurgent group finds himself losing his only daughter to the warm arms of one of the terrorists who refused to execute a suicide mission because he has found a reason to live again. This is a story of love crossing borders.

https://youtu.be/mTLsb_G1DSM

The Batman

Running time: 2hrs 55mins

Starring: Amber Sienna, Colin Farrell, Paul Dano

Synopsis: A superhero uncovers corruption in his city and discovers connections of the underbelly to his own family while facing the antagonist.

Blacklight

Running time: 1hr 44mins

Starring: Gabriella Sengos, Aidan Quinn, Taylor John Smith

Synopsis: A former government secret agent must wrestle with his past in his journey to redeem himself.

Uncharted

Running time: 1hr 56mins

Starring: Tom Holland, Mark Wahlberg, Antonio Banderas

Synopsis: The film brings to life the story of the popular video game of the same name.

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Burna Boy bombasts, says he’s Africa’s highest-paid artiste

Grammy Award winner, Burna Boy bragged about being the highest-paid artist in the history of African music.

Burna Boy said this in a series of posts he shared on Twitter on Saturday after evaluating his career paces and love for music.

He said he already achieved all the dreams he had, adding that his wish now is to live and die on stage.

The music star also added that nothing – including money – can give him satisfaction anymore except being on stage with his band, The Outsiders.

According to his post, he stated “At this point, I just want to live and die on stage with my band, The Outsiders. I’ve achieved all the dreams I ever personally had. Money gives me no satisfaction, nothing does, except being on stage with my God sent band.”


https://twitter.com/burnaboy/status/1507529353990713345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1507529353990713345%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Flifestyle.thecable.ng%2Fim-africas-highest-paid-artiste-burna-boy-brags%2F

The award-winning singer also lamented dealing with industry politics. He said he wished people can simply enjoy his music and watch him perform on stage without resorting to politics.

“I thank God and the world for giving me this. I just wish the world would leave me out of all politics and just let/watch me perform till I die. The only time my heart feels genuine peace is on stage and that’s where I want to live and die,” he added.

“I said money doesn’t satisfy me and it’s my truth but it doesn’t change the fact that I’m the highest-paid artist in the history of African music. Believe it or not.”

This is coming days after he pulled out of the 2022 AfroNation festival that he is scheduled to perform.

The AfroNation Puerto Rico is the world’s biggest Afrobeats festival.

He announced his withdrawal on his Instagram page on Thursday, stating that he would not make it to the event due to circumstances beyond his control.

Announcing, he said “I’m extremely gutted that I won’t be at the AfroNation in Puerto Rico, due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control,” he wrote.

“I will make it up to you all for sure! Love, Damini.”

The AfroNation Festival is returning after a two-year hiatus in 202o due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For this year, the festival will hold in two different countries — Puerto Rico and America.

It is scheduled to take place between March 24 and 26 in Balneario de Carolina, Puerto Rico, while the latter part is expected to hold between July 1 and 3 in Praia da Rocha beach, America.

The festival will also have performances from several Nigerian music heavyweights like Wizkid, Yemi, Wande Coal, Patoranking.

Burna Boy started to gain fame after releasing ‘Like to Party’, the lead single from his debut album ‘L.I.F.E’ (2013).

In 2021, the singer set a record in Nigeria after his album ‘Twice As Tall’ won the ‘Best World Music Album’ category at the Grammys.

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Tiwa Savage announces ‘Water And Garri’ North American tour, reveals date & venues

Nigerian songstress, Tiwa Savage, has announced her tour titled ‘Water and Garri’ as she planned to perform in 17 North American cities.

Tiwa made this announcement known via a post she shared on her Instagram page on Thursday.

According to the post, the Afrobeats queen the title of the tour is named after her 2021 extended play (EP) ‘Water And Garri’.

Sharing her post, she wrote “Don’t even need to sing, y’all energy is gonna be incredible on this tour. I can feel it already,” she wrote.

The tour is expected to begin from New York on May 12, and end on June 19, in Toronto.

See dates and locations below:

May 15 – New York, NY – Warsaw
May 20 – Edmonton, AB – Union Hall
May 22 – Vancouver, BC – The Commodore Ballroom
May 25 – Seattle, WA – Nuemos
May 27 – San Francisco, CA – August Hall
May 29 – Los Angeles, CA – The Roxy Theater
May 31 – Denver, CO – Marquis Theater
June 2 – Dallas, TX – Echo Music Hall
June 3 – Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall
June 5 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft
June 9 – Chicago, IL – The Promontory
June 10 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theater
June 12 – Columbus, OH – King of Clubs
June 15 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore
June 16 – Philadephia
June 17 – Montreal, QC – The Corona Theatre
June 19 – Toronto, ON – Longboat Hall

In August 2021, Tiwa released a five-track EP ‘Water and Garri’.

The R&B songstress’ debut album ‘Once Upon a Time’ was put out in 2013. She released her second ‘R.E.D’ in December 2015.

In September 2017, she came with her debut EP ‘Sugarcane’ and followed it up with the ‘Celia’ album in 2020.

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Kim Jong-un celebrates North Korea missile launch in Hollywood style

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North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, dramatized the celebration of the launching of the largest-ever Intercontinental Ballistic Missile in Hollywood style.

The launching of the ICBM was announced by North Korea state media On Thursday.

Before the launch, Jong-un was seen in a video dressed in a leather jacket and sunglasses.

In the video, Jong-un was also seen in line with other military officials walking in slow motion in front of the Hwasong-17 missile before it was blown up.

In a little suspense, the video shows the camera shot switches between the two officials and the North Korean leader before he snaps off his sunglasses and gives a nod for the massive missile to be set up and launched.

It was gathered that the giant missile was first unveiled in North Korea in October 2020 and glorified as a “monster missile” because of its long-range but it had never been successfully test-fired.

According to The Times of London, the missile reached a maximum altitude of 3,880 miles (6,248 km) and traveled 680 miles (1,090km) during a 67-minute flight before crashing into Japanese waters.

Kim Jong-il, Jong-un’s father, was said to be a massive fan of cinema, who owned more than 20,000 videos and DVDs.

In the 1970s, he was said to have ordered the kidnapping of a South Korean director and an actor to help grow North Korea’s film industry.

However, the U.S. is calling for new sanctions against North Korea after the country tested its first intercontinental ballistic missile since 2017 on Thursday.

The U.N. needs to “update and strengthen” sanctions against North Korea, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said at a meeting Friday, The Associated Press reported.

“It is clear that remaining silent, in the hope that the DPRK would similarly show restraint, is a failed strategy,” she said, referring to the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea, the country’s official name.

Thomas-Greenfield did not say what the sanctions should be, while Russia and China pushed back on the idea, according to the AP.

The calls for sanctions by the U.S. came after North Korea was condemned for its missile test Thursday, one of multiple since the start of 2022.

The missile was in the air for 70 minutes before crashing into the waters west of Japan after traveling 671 miles.

“It’s an unforgivable recklessness. We resolutely condemn the act,” Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said after the country detected the missile.

South Korea responded by conducting its military drills while President Moon Jae-in called an emergency meeting of the national security council.

​​White House press secretary Jen Psaki called the test a “brazen violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region.”

“This action demonstrates that the [Democratic People’s Republic of Korea] continues to prioritize its weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs over the well-being of its people,” she said.

Watch the video below:

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APC have performed well, we will win in 2023 – Fashola

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The Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has said the All Progressive Congress (APC) will win in 2023, saying the ruling party has what it takes to solve Nigeria’s problem.

He added that the All Progressive Congress has done well enough to be reelected.

The minister also described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as an “uninspiring opposition”

The minister said this while speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Friday.

According to him, he said “First of all, there is nothing patented about the use of the word ‘progressive’. Let me dispel that quickly. Progressivism for me is being concerned about improving the human condition.”

“All of the investments we have made, whether for business or employment, aim at only one thing — improving the human condition.

“Let me just remind you that our opponent had 16 years. We beat them at the peak of power when they had almost 30 governors. We beat them again in 2019, and we will do it again because I don’t remember them providing one alternative to the options we have given or alternative to the measures that we have proposed.

“So, they have been an uninspiring opposition and when the time comes, we will show to the Nigerian people that we are still worthy of their trust and worthy of their services because we can solve these problems. The umbrella is not an alternative to any of the problems Nigeria has.”

Articulating, Fashola said Nigerians must make a conscious judgment to re-elect APC at the federal level to allow the ruling party complete projects that may not be completed by May 2023.

“Of course, there are many projects that will not be finished in the tenure of this administration, the Buhari-led administration. That would for me be a reason for members of the electorate to make an informed choice — who do you want to continue with it? Those who did not start or those who started it and time did not permit them to finish it?

“That will be a reason for conversation in the future as the electorate makes their choice. The other party had 16 years to fiddle with this (referring to the Second Niger bridge). What they had done is just fiddling — a lot of talk without motion or movement.

“Now, we have momentum and I’m sure that trusted with this mandate again, we will do more and complete many of the projects that the precious time and resources may not have permitted us to complete.”

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Niger Delta Youths defend Buhari, Akpabio, condemn calls for NDDC scrapping

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Niger Delta youths on Friday kicked against the call for the scrapping of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), labeling those behind it as ‘’enemies of the region’’.

‘Some of these people that make comments like that are figures who are not favored by the current administration’’

They also said the directive to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice to stop placing the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under any ministry including the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs was done out of malice.

‘’They deliberately want to create mischief because that probably brings them more into the limelight’’

The youths at a news conference in Yenagoa distanced themselves from individuals mooting confusion and calling for the scrapping of NDDC or removal of the Commission from the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

The Secretary-General of the Niger Delta Youth Movement, Mr. Ibifubara Ekiyor who read the position of the youths to newsmen urged the Federal Government not to contemplate such a line of action.

‘’The Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) and the Integrity Friends for Truth and Peace Initiative (IFTPI) are self-centered and selfish and do not care about the development of the region’’.

The youths extolled the virtues of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

They praised Akpabio for doing his work to the satisfaction of all.

Specifically, the youths hailed Akpabio for steering the region in the needed direction, making obvious progress in transforming the region and fighting the ills which plagued the Niger Delta Development Commission,

The youths said they feel embittered that some politicians are canvassing NDDC scrapping or removal from a particular ministry simply because of their inability to secure contracts and political appointments.

They urged Odighonin Adienbo and her co-travellers to imbibe the spirit of patriotism and learn to work for the interest of the region.

They also advised President Muhammadu Buhari not to attach weight to the comments of Odighonin Adienbo and her supporters.

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Delta State Govt approves lease-to-own contract for Oghara Independent Power Project

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The Delta State Government has approved a lease-to-own contract for the Oghara Independent Power Project in Ethiopia West Local Government Area.

This was disclosed to newsmen by the Commissioner of Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, immediately after the State Executive Council meeting at the Government House in Asaba on Thursday.

According to the Commissioner, the State Executive Council decided lease-to-own instead of outright sale as earlier advised. This is to ensure that the state government gets value for its investment in the project.

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How to use Shazam without downloading the app on your iPhone

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Following the release of iOS 14.2, in 2020, Apple enlisted some trademark new emoji, like the “frustrated Italian hand gesture” and bubble tea.

Apple also creeps in a very useful feature: the ability to add Shazam song identification to your iPhone Control Center. Best of all, one doesn’t need to download the Shazam app to use it. With just a couple of easy steps, you can access this feature right from your lock screen.

Shazam is a song identification app that is very helpful when you’re hurrying to identify a song on the radio before it ends. It even works for songs playing through your headphones.

In much more recent history, Apple acquired Shazam in 2018, making the app ad-free for everyone and finally integrating its eerily good song identification feature right into iOS, which you don’t need to download the app.

If you’re using iOS 14.2, follow these steps to use Shazam from your lock screen. Make sure Control Center is available on your lock screen:

Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID)
Scroll down to “Allow access when locked” and make sure that Control Center is toggled on.

Then add Shazam to your Control Center:

Go to Settings > Control Center
Scroll down to “More Controls” and tap the green plus icon next to Music Recognition to add it to the “Included Controls” list above
Change its position in the Control Center by moving it up or down the list (tap and hold the three bars to the right of the icon)
Now you’ll see a Shazam icon in the Control Center. To access it from your lock screen, swipe down from the top of the screen on a phone with Face ID, or swipe up from the bottom on a phone with Touch ID. Tap the Shazam icon to turn music recognition on — the icon will light up and pulse as it’s listening. You’ll see a notification in a few moments with the song and artist or a message that no result was found.

You can also use Shazam via Siri, which is helpful if you don’t have your hands free, but it will blow your cover if you’re trying to act like you knew what song was playing. You’ll need to follow the steps above to make sure Siri is enabled on your lock screen if you want to use this feature without unlocking your phone. Otherwise, just say “Hey Siri, what song is playing?” or something to that effect. She’ll respond that she’s listening, and you’ll get a notification from Shazam when the song has been identified.

However, downloading the Shazam app will allow more features, like an archive of the songs you’ve identified and the ability to capture audio while you’re offline and have the app ID the song when you’re back online. But if you’d like to avoid adding yet another app to your life, you can rest easy knowing that you can use Shazam’s very best feature right there within iOS.

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Listen to Fireboy DML’s new song ‘Playboy’

YBNL record label signee, Fireboy DML has dropped a new track titled ‘Playboy’, a track to follow up ‘Peru’, his hit single in 2021.

The track is produced by Bizzouch and released on Thursday, listen to the song below.

In 2020, Fireboy DML put out his breakout sophomore album Apollo. “Peru” then arrived in July 2021, with the Ed Sheeran remix of the single getting released right before Christmas.

The Sheeran version of “Peru” has attained No. 57 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

Recently, R3hab remixed Fireboy DML and Sheeran’s “Peru.” In addition, Fireboy DML teamed with Rexx Life Raj and Wale on “Beauty in the Madness.”

He also played upon a new version of Madonna’s “Frozen.”

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DELTA 2023: I have not endorsed anyone as my successor ― Okowa

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Ahead of the 2023 Governorship election, Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, on Thursday said he has not endorsed anybody as his successor come 2023.

Okowa who clarified while speaking with newsmen insisted that his name was being dropped by aspirants to gain some political mileage.

The Governor who spoke through the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, maintained that as a democrat, he would not be interested in asking anybody to step out of the governorship race.

Saying that the aspirants were simply identifying with the achievements of his administration and the integrity which he had built over the years, he said; “everybody knows that the governor has recorded a number of achievements, and it is believed and rightly so that any direction he shakes his body will have a whole lot of advantage because he has been able to add a whole lot of values to the promises he made.

“If in that light because they believe the name of the governor is capable of giving them advantage, you can’t blame them, and we are not going to fight them for using the name of the governor because they are trying to associate themselves with what is good.

“At the end of the day, we are going to have one governorship candidate in the PDP. The governor’s pedigree is quite high and everybody wants to have that covering.

“If you go and meet him to say you want to run, you are being courteous. Naturally, he will not ask you to stop because it is assumed that you have accessed and you have the capacity to run.

“And if you believe that because he did not ask you to stop, that it is an endorsement, there is nothing wrong with it.

“What is important is that we hope and believe that all our members who are interested in positions whether the governorship or legislature, that they are able to play safely and with respect for one another.

“So the governor hopes that anybody who is contesting will use the most sane words; have respect for one another; recognize the fact that we are one family; recognize the need for us to sustain the development trajectory in the state.

“Not too many people are carrying money and jumping up and down because they believe that the best just have to come, knowing that the enormity of succeeding Okowa is a task that would require a whole lot of strength if the person must indeed command the respect that this administration enjoys at the moment”.

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John Dumelo Says He’ll Walk Barefoot From Accra To Lagos If Nigeria Defeats Ghana in World Cup qualifier

John Dumelo, a Ghana actor who is also double as a senator has said he will walk barefoot from Accra to Lagos if Nigeria defeats Ghana in the first leg of their World Cup qualifiers match that is going to take place today, March 25.

The actor said this in a post he shared on his Twitter page today, stating “The Super Eagles should stop dreaming. They can’t win their game in Ghana. If they do, I will……”

He also said he will add ginger on his head during the walk if the march swings in Nigeria’s favor.

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Rema Drops 16-tracks Album ‘Rave & Roses’ Featuring Chris Brown

Mavin Records signee, Rema, has dropped his debut album ‘Rave & Roses’ featuring Chris Brown.

The album dropped on Friday with 16 tracks and features like 6lack, Chris Brown, AJ Tracy, and Yseult.

Rema first dropped his eponymous debut EP ‘Rema’ which peaked at number 1 on Apple Music Nigeria in 2019, after he signed a record deal with D’Prince’s Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records,

In May 2021, he called his sound Afrorave, a subgenre of Afrobeats with a pinch of Arabian and Indian music.

Also in 2019, he won the ‘Next Rated’ award and was nominated for Viewers Choice at the 13th edition of the Headies.

He was also nominated during the 2020 BET Awards as ‘Best Viewers Choice: International Act alongside Burna Boy and Wizkid.

In January 2020, he received the Soundcity MVP Awards for ‘Best New Artist.

Listen to the album:

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APC Excludes Political Appointees From Voting In Congress

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The All Progressive Congress has barred all political appointees from voting in its national convention slated on Sunday, March 26.

This was made known in a statement by the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC).

According to the CECPC, all political appointees who were elected as delegates to the National Convention scheduled for Sunday, March 26, 2022, shall not vote given the controversy surrounding Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022.

The CECPC added that the appointees can attend the conventionon as observers, adding that this was in line with the amended electoral act which barred political appointees from contesting for an electoral office unless they resign.

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Delta State CP Interactive Session With Officers Of The Command, Assures Them Of IGP’s Commitment To Improve Welfare

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, in an interactive session with the officers and men of the command, assured them of the IGP’s commitment to improving their welfare.

The CP also put forward the issue of the fake strike action notice that has been circulating online.

This was disclosed to newsmen by DSP Bright Edafe, Police Public Relations Officer of the command in Asaba, the state capital on Thursday.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted “Following the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Alkali Baba Usman Psc+, FDC, NPM, the Commissioner of Police Delta State Police Command, CP Ari Muhammad Ali FCIA, PSC+ had an interactive session with officers and men of the Command on 23rd March 2022.”

“During the session, the CP raised the issue of the fake strike action notice that has since gone viral, noting that we all have a stake to nip it in the bud. He said that the police is a regimented organization with laid down rules and regulations guiding its operations and that there are procedures to address grievances and strike action is certainly not a part of it.”

“The CP informed them of the IGP’S mission and vision to reposition the Force and urged them to do all it takes to key into the IGP’s vision and support him. He noted that the IGP has promised to implement the new salary scheme and also ordered the removal of tax from Police salaries. He stated that a 40% increment on rent allowances and a 20% increment on risk allowances have been approved and it’s with immediate effect.”

“The CP during the interactive session said that this current administration headed by IGP Usman Alkali Baba has ensured that promotions across all ranks are done as when due and will be sustained. The CP said that the IGP has assured officers and men of massive distribution of equipment and kits particularly to members of the rank and files.”

“Approval for prompt payment of allowances for special duty, distribution of two hundred (200) buffalo trucks across the federation, expansion of Police medical services, reintroduction and strengthening of the NPF scholarship scheme for dependents of police officers, incorporation of the NPF insurance company to guarantee seamless insurance services to officers as well as the general public among many other reformations are ongoing.”

“In addition to all the IGP has been doing to reposition the force, the CP also noted that modern Police Stations are currently being built all over the federation, Delta State inclusive, and also renovations are going on in some barracks even at the Force Headquarters Abuja.”

“Finally, the CP urged all officers and men to go on with their normal duties while assuring them of the IGP’s commitment to their welfare and as such it will be unwise and unfair to embark on any strike action.
Officers and men in response to the CP echoed their support and assured the IGP and the CP of their commitment to service, noting that they will not be part of any strike action or any other act that will bring the good name of the force and the Command into disrepute.”

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We’ll Only Accept Gas Payment In Rubles – Putin Tell Unfriendly Countries

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Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has said its countries will accept only rubles as gas payment from unfriendly countries, most especially from European Union members.

It was gathered that after the announcement, the prices of has gas increased, and the ruble which has fallen since the start of the Ukraine crisis has strengthened itself against the dollar and euro.

The president announced this during a televised government meeting on Wednesday amid the unprecedented sanctions over Ukraine’s invasion.

According to him, the country has decided to carry out a set of criteria to transfer payment for its gas supplies to unfriendly countries into Russian rubles, adding that the country will continue to supply the volume of gas outlined in its contracts.

He also ordered Russia’s central bank to enforce the new payment system within a week, saying it must be “transparent” and will involve the purchase of rubles on Russia’s domestic market.

Putin further added that the Russian exports may also be affected.

Announcing, he said, “It is clear that delivering our goods to the European Union, the United States and receiving dollars, euros, other currencies no longer makes sense to us.”

Ukraine was fast to condemn Russia’s “economic war” on the EU and its efforts to “strengthen the ruble”.

“But the West could hit Russia with an oil embargo that would cause the Russian economy to plunge,” Ukrainian presidential advisor Andriy Yermak said on Telegram.

“This is now a key economic battle, and the West must collectively win it,” he added.

German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, whose country imported 55 percent of its natural gas from Russia before the conflict, said Putin’s demand was a breach of contract and that Berlin will discuss with European partners “how we would react to that”.

Austria’s OMV energy company said Wednesday that it would still keep paying for Russian gas in euros despite the announcement.

“We don’t have any other basis for the contract. I wouldn’t be able to do otherwise,” OMV CEO Alfred Stern told Austrian television.

Western countries have piled crippling sanctions on Moscow since it moved troops into Ukraine.

The West froze some $300 billion of Russia’s foreign currency reserves abroad, a move that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday described as “theft”.

But while the United States banned the import of Russian oil and gas, the EU — which received around 40 percent of its gas supplies from Russia in 2021 — has retained deliveries from Moscow.

Brussels, however, has set a target of slashing Russian gas imports by two-thirds by the end of the year and is eyeing an oil embargo.

“Russia is now trying to pressure the West with counter-sanctions — and reduce its dependence on foreign currencies,” Swissquote senior analyst Ipek Ozkardeskaya told AFP.

– ‘Historic decision –
Russia has been moving to “de-dollars” its economy for years since the introduction of Western sanctions over its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

In March 2019, the Russian state energy giant Gazprom announced its first sale of gas for rubles to an unnamed western European company.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said Wednesday a shift to trading in the national currency would “increase reliability”.

He warned that a full embargo on Russian oil and gas would lead to a “collapse” of the global energy markets and “unpredictable” spikes in prices.

– ‘Upend opponents‘ –
Analyst Timothy Ash of BlueBay Asset Management said, however, that it was “hard to see Putin’s move as ruble positive”.

Ash said Putin is essentially trying to force Western countries to trade with Russia’s central bank, which they have sanctioned.

“It will just accelerate diversification away from Russian energy,” he added.

According to investment group Locko Invest, the countries declared “unfriendly” by Russia account for more than 70 percent of Russia’s energy exports in terms of earnings.

The group also highlighted the danger for Gazprom of running out of foreign currency to honor its debts in the future.

But Andrew Weiss of the Carnegie Foundation said on Twitter that “Putin knows how to build and exploit leverage”.

He added that “Putin has routinely used escalation in such situations to upend his opponents’ best-laid plans. No reason to doubt that that’s changed.”

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Atiku Declares Presidential Ambition For 2023, says He’ll Rescue Nigeria

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Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President has officially declared openly his intention to contest for the 2023 presidency.

He made this know on Wednesday at the International Conference Center in Abuja.

According to him, he said his involvement in bidding for the 2023 presidency is borne out of his passion and endless perseverance to revive the Nigerian dream that he was privileged to live.

He characterized Nigeria as a sinking ship that must be urgently liberated.

He also said Nigeria is a land of possibilities that is in terrible need of a resourceful leader.

The former president said “The 2023 election is not just like the usual elections; it is a referendum to decide whether we want greatness or continuous destruction. It is a choice between two paths: the path of unity and progress or the path of division and backwardness.”

“We need a new kind of leadership that will steer us to a positive path. In 2023, we want a President who has ideas on how to fix Nigeria. We want a president who understands, inspires, and is empathetic.

“I have contested for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria a couple of times in the past. My enduring persistence is borne out of my passion to rekindle the Nigerian dream that I was privileged to live.

“Nigeria is a land of possibility. There is no challenging background that will make any Nigerian give up. I am a living witness to what is possible in Nigeria.

“You and I know that Nigeria is in dire need of visionary leadership. Our fundamental principles and purpose as a nation have never been challenged as it is today. Presently, Nigeria is a sinking ship; it must be rescued urgently. That is why I am happy to announce my candidacy for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“I offer myself to rescue the sinking ship. Under my captainship, this ship will sail to a brighter course by the grace of God. However, this journey is not mine alone. It is a journey I am taking for all Nigerians. It is also a journey to a destination I planned with my late great mentor, Major General Shehu Musa Yar’adua, and with my beloved compatriot, the late, and great, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. May their souls rest in peace.”

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“You’ll Not Live Past Next 7-days” – Kanayo O Kanayo Curses Those Who Spread His Death Rumor

Nollywood veteran, Kanayo O Kanayo, has cursed people spreading rumors of his death.

He said those who spread his death rumors will not live to see the next seven days.

The actor made this declaration on Tuesday through a video post he shared on his Instagram page, stating that he wondered what people gain when they circulate death rumors about celebrities.

According to him, he said “I don’t know what people gain by carrying rumors, printing their obituaries. I don’t know what will make somebody wake up in the morning and start tagging somebody,” he said

“Do most people think Nollywood people, entertainers do not have family members. What kind of life do you think we live? Somebody wakes up, compiles photos, and puts RIP. You will not live past the next 7 days. You’ve got the wrong guy,”

“My life has never been in anybody’s hand. I want to thank my friends who have called me since morning, I don’t even have a fever. Whoever has compiled these photos, you will exit this world in 7 days.”

The actor also acknowledged his friends who phoned to check up on him, stating that he is hale and hearty.

Recall on March 1, Kanayo shared a post on Twitter to celebrate his 60th birthday, while also narrating his childhood experiences.

He wrote “The young boy From Oboama Ezinihitte Mbaise that went to Enugu to school sold akamu and again to survive is now 60. Things only God can do.”

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See The Easy Strategy Affiliate Marketers Implement To Make Money Online In Nigeria

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Being an Affiliate Marketer is one of the fastest ways to make money online currently in Nigeria.

Many youths have made themselves millions of naira simply by referring digital products that satisfy human wants to people that need them.

You may wonder how it works and the methodology of doing it successfully, this is what I will show you in a minute, Toyin Omotosho, a super affiliate marketer in Nigeria revealed.

According to him, he said “Well, I never thought I could make money from the internet until I started doing a few things with my smartphone.

I was depressed after the evolution of lockdown and in October 2021, My friend introduced Affiliate Marketing to me which I ignored at that time. I was scared because I always hear people say they lose their money online and that assumption didn’t permit me to take advantage of the opportunity.

Later, I realized when my friend started sending me screenshots of how much he made every week from just being an Affiliate marketer, a job he does with his smartphone from the comfort of his home.

I was shocked to see him earn a huge amount of money from the time he started within 3 weeks.

It was then I realized that I don’t need to judge a book by its cover until I made out time to read it.

I said to myself, I must try it out and see exactly how it worked and to my greatest surprise within 2 weeks, I started, I already made my first money with this same method that I want to introduce to you, only if you have a smartphone and data, I will show you exactly how you can start making your own money online from scratch and to better understand the principle, click on the link below to know more.

https://tinyurl.com/2p8zfxh3

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Delta State Police Command Rescues Kidnapped Victim, Recover Stolen Vehicle

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The Delta State Police Command has rescued a kidnapped victim and recovered a stolen vehicle.

The command also arrested a suspected drug baron and recovered illicit drugs.

This was disclosed by the command spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, on Tuesday in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the command spokesperson, he said “On 20/3/2022 at about 0300hrs, the DPO Ozoro received information that at about 0230hour of the same date, a man was kidnapped and taken away in the boot of his RX 350 car silver in color with Reg. No. ASB 124 HK by four armed men.”

“He stated that they drove towards Ughelli in Ughelli North LGA. Consequently, Dragon Patrol Teams 27, 28, 19, 20, and 16 were massively deployed to the scene. The teams went on an intelligent led operation and trailed the kidnappers to PTI junction Effurun, where the kidnappers upon noticing that the teams were closing in on them abandoned the victim and the vehicle and fled.”

“The victim (name withheld) ‘m’ age 22yrs of Ozoro was rescued unhurt and the vehicle recovered. Meanwhile, a manhunt is ongoing to arrest the fleeing hoodlums.”

The command spokeperson also said “On the 19/03/2022 at about 1900hrs, Raider Operatives in compliance with the directive of CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, Psc+, raided a black spot in 74 areas, Asaba during which one suspect named: Sajor Louis ‘m’ was arrested and ninety-one (91) wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, one hundred and twenty-four (124) wraps of loud, fifty (50) parcels of SK, some razors and some bottles of liquid mixed with substance suspected to be Indian hemp were recovered. The investigation is ongoing.”

The command also arrested a suspected robber and recovered a stolen motorcycle, this the police image maker said “On the 19/3/2022 at about 0600hrs, the Safe Delta patrol team stationed along Umutu/Obiaruku Abraka road, received information that one unregistered Lifan ladies motorcycle parked in the compound of the complainant (name withheld) has been stolen by unknown persons, the team embarked on intensive stop and search and on 20/3/2022 at about 1030hrs, information was received that the suspect was sighted moving towards Umunede, he was trailed to Umunede where the suspect named: Nzubechi Emeka ‘m’, 27yrs from Egbema LGA of Imo State was arrested and upon interrogation, he confessed to the crime. The motorcycle was recovered and Investigation is ongoing.”

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MultiChoice Increases Prices Of GOtv, DStv Subscription

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MultiChoice Nigeria has increased the prices of DStv and GOtv subscriptions.

The company announced this through a statement on Tuesday, stating that the new prices will take effect from April 1, 2022.

According to the statement, the company said “In light of the rising costs of inflation and business operations, we have had to review the prices of our packages to keep delighting our customers with great entertainment, anytime and anywhere.”

“Therefore, from April 1, 2022, a new pricing regime for both our DStv and GOtv packages will be in effect.”

Giving details of the new prices, the company said its DStv package will now cost: Premium (N21,000), Compact + (N14,250), Compact (N9,000), Confam (N5,300), Yanga (N2,950), Padi (N2,150),
Business (N2,669), Xtraview + PVR access fee (N2,900)

The new prices for the GOtv package are Govt Max for N4,150, GOtv Jolli for N2,800, GOtv Jinja for N1,900, GOtv Lite for N900.

MultiChoice says to support the price adjustments, customers who pay on or before their due date (before April 1, 2022) would be eligible to pay the old price, adding that customers who pay unfailingly before their due dates for 12 months would be eligible to pay the old price.

Explaining, MultiChoice said, “Customers who pay for 10 months upfront on the new price will get the 11th and 12th month free.”

MultiChoice also added that the price adjustments would permit it to attend to customers adequately.

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FAAC Banned Two Immigration Officers From Airports For Extorting N8000 From Teenager

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The Federal Airport Authority Of Nigeria has restricted two officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service from its airports.

The two officers were banner for extorting from a 14-year-old passenger of N8000, an incident that happened in February 2022.

Mrs. Faithful Hope-Ivbaze, the Acting General Manager, Corporate Affairs, made this known in a statement on Friday, March 18, 2022.

The acting-general manager said the mother of the passenger, a chef, Imoteda, had put up a statement about the actions of the officials in February, and upon examination, the reports were found to be true.

See statement:

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Bianca Ojukwu Opens Up Why She Slap Ebele, Obiano’s Wife

Bianca Ojukwu has revealed the reason she slapped the immediate past, First Lady of Anambra State, Ebele Obiano, during the inauguration ceremony of Charles Soludo.

She said Obiano’s wife who was absent at the start of the inauguration ceremony walked up to her and verbally abused her with her voice raised as soon as she arrived.

According to her, the former governor’s wife also questioned her attendance at the inauguration, wondering if she was there to commemorate their last day in office.

The former Nigerian ambassador to Spain claimed she warned Ebele to keep away, but she tried to remove her head tie by stroking her head.

She also claimed she hit Ebele to stop her from attacking her at that point.

Speaking with Arise TV on Friday, Bianca said “I didn’t pay any attention to her arrival,” she admitted. She unexpectedly walked towards me, and I mistook her for someone going to meet me. Instead, she verbally assaulted me with her voice raised, insulting me and asking me what I was there to accomplish, using filthy words that could not be printed.

“I walked away, but she continued to scream and put her hand on my shoulders.

“I requested twice that she desist from touching me with her hands, even though individuals seated around me counseled me to ignore her verbal barrage. She did it again, this time attempting to touch my head and remove my headtie.

“It was at that point I stood up to defend myself and gave her a dirty slap to stop her from attacking me. As she made it towards me, I removed her wig, she then held on to her wig with her two hands and tried to take the wig away from me.”

She also revealed that while people tried to separate them, she was surprised by the stench of whisky in Ebelechukwu’s breath at such an early hour of the day.

Bianca added, “How could the first lady be so drunk at that time? I stayed back to watch the ceremony till the end and left with my dignity intact.”

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Ukraine crisis: Putin Tell Turkish President His Demands, Lists Two Category

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Russia president, Vladimir Putin has laid out his demands for a peace agreement with Ukraine to Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish President in a phone call on Thursday afternoon.

He laid down two categories of demands affirming that the first four are not too difficult for Ukraine to fulfill but added, that the second classification is where the complication lies.

According to Bbc “Turkey has positioned itself with great care to be the go-between with Russia and Ukraine – and this seems to be paying off.

On Thursday afternoon, President Vladimir Putin rang the Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and told him what Russia’s precise demands were for a peace deal with Ukraine.

Within half an hour of the ending of the phone call, I interviewed Mr. Erdogan’s leading adviser and spokesman, Ibrahim Kalin. Mr. Kalin was part of the small group of officials who had listened in on the call.

The Russian demands fall into two categories.

The first four demands are, according to Mr. Kalin, not too difficult for Ukraine to meet.

Chief among them is an acceptance by Ukraine that it should be neutral and should not apply to join Nato. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has already conceded this.

There are other demands in this category that mostly seem to be face-saving elements for the Russian side.

Ukraine would have to undergo a disarmament process to ensure it wasn’t a threat to Russia. There would have to be protection for the Russian language in Ukraine. And there is something called de-Nazification.

This is deeply offensive to Mr. Zelensky, who is himself Jewish and some of whose relatives died in the Holocaust, but the Turkish side believes it will be easy enough for Mr. Zelensky to accept. Perhaps it will be enough for Ukraine to condemn all forms of neo-Nazism and promise to clamp down on them.

The second category is where the difficulty will lie, and in his phone call, Mr. Putin said that it would need face-to-face negotiations between him and President Zelensky before an agreement could be reached on these points. Mr. Zelensky has already said he’s prepared to meet the Russian president and negotiate with him one-to-one.

Mr. Kalin was much less specific about these issues, saying simply that they involved the status of Donbas, in eastern Ukraine, parts of which have already broken away from Ukraine, and stressed their Russianness, and the status of Crimea.

Although Mr. Kalin didn’t go into detail, the assumption is that Russia will demand that the Ukrainian government should give up territory in eastern Ukraine. That will be deeply contentious.

The other assumption is that Russia will demand that Ukraine should formally accept that Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014, does indeed now belong to Russia. If this is the case, it will be a bitter pill for Ukraine to swallow.

Nevertheless, it is a fait accompli, even though Russia has no legal right to own Crimea and signed an international treaty, after the fall of Communism but before Vladimir Putin came to power, accepting that Crimea was part of Ukraine.

Still, President Putin’s demands are not as harsh as some people feared and they scarcely seem to be worth all the violence, bloodshed, and destruction which Russia has visited on Ukraine.

Given his heavy-handed control over the Russian media, it shouldn’t be too hard for him and his acolytes to present all this as a major victory.

For Ukraine, though, there are going to be serious anxieties.

If the fine details of any agreement aren’t sorted out with immense care, President Putin or his successors could always use them as an excuse to invade Ukraine again.

A peace deal could take a long time to sort out, even if a ceasefire stops the bloodshed in the meantime.

Ukraine has suffered appallingly over the past few weeks, and rebuilding the towns and cities which Russia has damaged and destroyed will take a long time. So will rehousing the millions of refugees who have fled their homes.

What about Vladimir Putin himself? There have been suggestions that he is ill, or possibly even mentally unbalanced. Did Mr. Kalin detect anything strange about him in the phone call? Not at all, he said. Mr. Putin had been clear and concise in everything he said.

Yet even if he does manage to present an agreement with Ukraine as a glorious victory over neo-Nazism, his position at home must be weakened.

More and more people will realize that he overreached himself badly, and stories of the soldiers who have been killed or captured are already spreading fast.

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Achievements Recorded In The Fight Against Kidnapping And Cultism In Delta

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The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Ari Mohammed Ali, has given an insight into the achievements recorded in the fight against kidnapping and cultism in the state.

During a press briefing at the command headquarters on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital, the commissioner stated that the command recorded the death of daredevil kidnappers and recovered two AK47 rifles, three pump action guns, and sixty-two rounds of live ammunition.

The CP said on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at about 1400hours, while acting on intelligence gathered operatives from the command Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime squad trailed a suspected kidnapping syndicate operating within Sapele, Oghara, and Abraka axis.

According to the CP, the kidnappers were trailed to their hideout in Oghara where three suspected kidnappers were successfully neutralized by the operatives and two AK47 rifles, three pump action guns, and sixty-two rounds of live ammunition were recovered.

Again, the CP said the command also arrested forty-three suspected cultists, stating that on Monday, March 14, 2022, a cult ensued between Eiye and Arobaga confraternities in the Jesse community, Ethiope West local government area where four suspected cultists were killed.

He stated that he immediately directed the command State Anti-Cultism Unit, Dragon Patrol, Eagle-net special squad, and Safe Delta Patrol teams to Jesse town to ensure that sanity is immediately restored in the community.

He also stated “Consequently, three members of the Arobaga confraternity namely: Victor John ‘m’, Nelson Friday ‘m’ and Festus Friday ‘m’ who were alleged to have killed the four members of Eiye confraternity were arrested and today I am glad to say that they are here with us. The investigation is ongoing, meanwhile, sanity has been restored in the community.”

The police commissioner further added that “As part of measures to forestall any further breakdown of law and order in any part of the State, I ordered that intensive raiding be carried out on suspected cultists’ hideouts by DPOS in their areas of responsibility. In compliance with these directives, the DPO ‘A’ Division Warri led a combined team of Police/Vigilante Patrol teams and carried out intensive raids at Ogedengbe and Hausa quarters respectively.

Adding that “During the raid, twenty-one suspected cultists were arrested.
The State Anti-Cultism unit and the Command raiders squad also carried out raids in different parts of the state and arrested Nineteen suspected Cultists.

CP Ari said “I assure you all today that the Command will not relent in the fight against Kidnapping/Cultism and is more than ever before willing to identify, raid, arrest and prosecute anyone found wanting. Parents and guardians are therefore urged to monitor their wards and caution them to shun all forms of criminality as anyone found wanting will be arrested and prosecuted.
Thank you all”, he added.

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Meta To Test New Feature That Gives Advertiser Control Over Ads Placement

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Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has revealed plans to start testing new tools designed to give advertisers control over where their ads are shown on its platforms, Facebook and Instagram feed.

The company made this revelation through a blog post on Thursday, stating that the new tool will permit companies to prevent their ads from being placed next to inappropriate content such as posts about politics, tragedy, or violence.

According to the post, the company will begin testing the new content controls in the second half of this year as it plans to officially roll them out in early 2023.

The company also says it will primarily focus on English-speaking markets for the testing phase. Over the next year, Meta will expand the controls to include ads placed within stories, video feeds, Instagram’s explore page and more.

Meta also plans to someday expand the controls to additional languages.

Announcing, Meta said in the blog post that “Across Meta, we are designing suitability controls to give advertisers control over where their ads are shown”.

“We previously announced our commitment to building content-based suitability controls to address concerns that advertisers have of their ads appearing adjacent to content that is not suitable for their brand preferences. We have been working closely with GARM (Global Alliance for Responsible Media) as we develop these controls, which will be aligned with the GARM Suitability Framework.”

Meta also announced that it’s partnering with Zefr, a platform that enables companies to measure brand suitability, to monitor and report the context in which ads appear on Facebook. The company will work to verify that ads only appear next to suitable content. Meta and Zefr will begin small-scale testing in the third quarter of this year.

The new tools will be Meta’s response to growing demands from advertisers who have repeatedly asked for more control over their ad placements online to ensure they aren’t displayed next to unfavorable content, a development the company has helped to address in the past.

In November, Meta said it would broaden News Feed controls for advertisers that run ads in English and give them access to “Topic Exclusion Controls.” The three topics are news and politics, social issues, and crime and tragedy. When an advertiser selects one of these topics, their ad will not be shown to people who have recently engaged with these topics. At the time, Meta had said it’s aware that this tool may not address all of the questions that advertisers have and assured to develop content-based controls in the future.

Facebook’s algorithms are notorious for promoting inflammatory content and dangerous misinformation. Given that, Meta is under mounting regulatory pressure to clean up the platform and make its practices more transparent. The modern news cycle and online advertising landscape have made it difficult for brands to avoid having their ads placed next to unsuitable content. Since most companies purchase ads by creating an ad and submitting it to Meta’s ad auction, they don’t influence ad placement, but these forthcoming tools should change that.

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Obiano’s Wife Fights Ojukwu’s Wife During Soludo Inauguration

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Drama arose the moment Mrs. Ebelechukwu Obaino, the wife of the outgoing governor of Anambra State confronted Bianca Ojukwu, the widow of late Odumegwu Ojukwu in a fight at the swearing-in of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, the new governor of the State.

The fight happened immediately after Soludo took the oath of office and the rationale behind the fight is not yet ascertained as of the time of this report.

However, it was gathered that Obiano’s wife stepped to where Bianca was sitting. And a few seconds later Biance stood up and there was a drama. It took the intervention of security officers to reclaim the situation to normal.

It was also gathered that Obiano reportedly left the venue with his wife after the fight.

Reacting, Soludo in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Joe Anatune, apologized to the people of Anambra State for the occurrence which he interpreted as a ‘breach of protocol’.

According to the statement, he said: “The breach was caused by improper communication which itself arose from a personal issue between the two parties involved in the breach.”

“steps were being taken to resolve the misunderstanding and restore the two parties to their previous relationship” he added in the statement.

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Hushpuppi Commits Fresh Fraud Of $400k Inside US Prison

Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi, has received a fresh charge as US prosecutors submit reports confirming how he perpetrated crime and laundered over $400k from inside prison.

On Wednesday, March 16th, 2022, the US prosecutors submitted the reports before the US District Court of California inducting him of committing fraud and money laundering in the US Federal correctional facility.

According to the court documents, Hushpuppi, while inside US Federal correctional facility participated in the purchase and laundering of Economic Impact Payment debit cards fraudulently obtained from stolen data of US citizens and residents.

The Economic Impact Payments are financial support offered by the US government to U.S residents according to the CARES Act. One of the ways eligible US residents receive their Economic Impact Payments is by debit cards. From the documents presented in court, it was found that hackers use data of U.S residents to file and obtain Economic Impact Payments debit cards. They sell off these EIP cards in underground marketplaces to other cybercriminals.

In the court document, US prosecutors mentioned that inmates are allowed access to phone calls, video calls, the internet, and computers with limited usage but they are not monitored because inmates have the right to their privacy. Hushpuppi also received this access like other inmates.

It was gathered that between 28th Jan and 4th Mar 2022, security officers at the US Federal correctional facility observed more usage of the internet by Hushpuppi. Knowing that Hushpuppi was arrested for internet-related crimes, they obtained a warrant to record Hushpuppi’s activities. A dedicated system was set up for him and his activities were recorded for 7 days.

It was also gathered that Hushpuppi was actively buying EIP debit cards from an underground cybercriminal marketplace called StimulusCard (“https://stimuluscard.com/”). While being recorded, he purchased a total of 58 EIP debit cards with a total value of $429,800 on the site and laundered the money through one AJ.

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Soludo Sworn In As Governor Of Anambra State

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Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has been sworn in as the executive governor of Anambra State.

The swearing-in ceremony was conducted at the state government house on Thursday.

Recall, Soludo won the Anambra governorship election with 112,229 votes in 2021, under the All Progressive Grand Alliance.

More details coming soon.

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Davido Vows To Give N20m To 20 Nigerians With Best Business Ideas

Nigerian music star, Davido, has promised to give N20 million to 20 persons who have the best business ideas.

He made this announcement on Wednesday via his Twitter handle while also promised that the beneficiaries would get the money on Friday.

According to him, the money is to relieve the suffering many Nigerians are presently going through.

The singer who is always known for his slogan “we rise by lifting others” has always been in the news for his generosity.

In November 2021, the singer had asked his followers and friends via Twitter to send him money to help facilitate the clearance of his Rolls Royce at the ports with a target of N100 million.

It was gathered that he later amasses up to N200 million and in a surprise post, he added N50 million to the fundraising and donated all to orphanage homes.

Recently, he was named an outstanding global citizen of Belize for his philanthropic work.

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2Baba Donates Ultra-Modern Recording Studio To OAU

Nigerian legendary music star, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2baba, has donated an ultra-modern recording studio to the music department of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

2baba made this revelation in a video post he shared on his Instagram page after commissioning the project on Tuesday.

He also shared a picture of himself and the vice-chancellor of the University, Eyitope Ogunbodede after the studio was commissioned.

According to the video, he was seen inside the studio interacting with some of the University officials and students while also appreciating the leadership of the institution for earlier inducting him into its school of music.

Sharing the posts, 2baba wrote “Sometimes ago, I was honored by the Great OAU as I was inducted into the school of music as a fellow of the school of music. Today, I just commissioned the multimillion naira studio I built for the music department in OAU file-life. Up next is Benue State University.”

He also revealed his plans to build a similar studio at the Benue State University (BSU).

The 46-year-old musician has organized himself as a household name in the Nigerian music industry and has also been vocal about problems affecting the socio-economic growth of the country.

He has recently urged youths to re-evaluate their importance and action.

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26-year-old Lady Stabs Her Ex-boyfriend To Death Over N3,000

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A 26-year-old lady identified as Oluwatoyin Joshua has been arrested by the operatives of the Lagos State Police Command for allegedly stabbing her former boyfriend to death in the Shangisa area of the state.

The suspect who claimed to have regretted her action said she killed her ex-boyfriend in self-defense.

She also said the money that causes the disagreement was given to them by a “Good Samaritan.”

Speaking during interrogation, she said
“I am Oluwatoyin Joshua, I am 26 years old. On the day of the incident, I went to see Olayinka Adebayo who was my ex-boyfriend at the place, where he was selling hard drugs.

When one of his friends, Olalekan, an internet fraudster came and gave me N3,000. He was about traveling when he gave me the money. The guy (Olalekan asked me to take N1,000 and give my ex-boyfriend N2,000.”

After Olalekan gave me the money he left, I went to meet my ex-boyfriend and told him that his friend said I should give him N2,000, he said it was a lie that he owns the whole money.

I told him he cannot collect the whole money from me and I dropped his N,2000 on the table. Thereafter, my ex-boyfriend picked the money, threw it back at me and he then called the guy that gave us the money.”

“Before I knew what was happening, my ex-boyfriend started beating me. I went to report him to an elderly person in the area who warned him and I was advised to leave where he was staying and he was dragged away. After he was dragged away from my side, he came back to continue to beat me, it was in the process I went into the kitchen to pick up a knife to scare him.

While I was running away from him he hit me at the back of my head with a broken tile. I then stabbed him in the neck and he was rushed to the hospital where he later died two hours later. I was the one who paid his hospital bill.”

However, the spokesperson of the Lagos police command, CSP. Adekunle Ajisebutu said the suspect is in police detention while awaiting Legal Advice from DPP.

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Kunle Afolayan’s Film/TV Academy Start Application For Production Training

Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Film & Television Academy, in conjunction with Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works, has declared openly the application of its training to Nigerians between ages 20 and 35 passionate about television and film production.

Afolayan, the film director said in a statement that Interested individuals can apply to register by visiting the KAP Academy website from Tuesday, March 15, 2022.

According to him, a total of 300,000 young Nigerians will be trained under this initiative over the next three years, stating that the registration and application exercise follows last October’s official announcement of the landmark partnership between KAP Academy and Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works.

Also, he said the selection process will take into consideration a gender balance ratio to allow for adequate participation of women.

He added that 40 percent of candidates to be selected would be drawn from young women and men from low-income backgrounds.

Explaining, he said successful program applicants will become the first set of beneficiaries in the training scheme that will formally commence in April 2022.

He also said, “The academy is focused on growing the next generation of skilled filmmakers through the tutelage of veterans and film professionals who provide hands-on experience in diverse aspects of filmmaking to enrolled students.”

“The training will include two levels of certification from professional institutions in screenwriting, sound, editing, directing, cinematography, and production design as well as practical hands-on training.

Afolayan further said that the KAP Academy will be leveraging smartphone technology for the training as teaching will be conducted through a learning app.

He added that the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works initiative aims to enable 30 million young people, particularly young women across Africa, to access dignified work.

Adding that free tuition and smartphone devices will be offered to students from less privileged backgrounds as part of the support to ensure young people enrolled in the program have access to the tools required for digital learning.

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Russia Bans Instagram Amid Ukraine’s Invasion, Block Access To 80 Million Users

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Russia has banned Instagram and made it inaccessible to its population after announcing the ban last week in response to Meta’s decision (parent company) to allow Facebook and Instagram users in some countries to call for violence against Russian soldiers following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

The new development that happened today was revealed by an internet monitoring service, GlobalCheck.

The Verge reported that Russia has been steadily restricting access to online platforms to control the flow of information about the war and has already banned Facebook and Twitter.

“This decision will cut 80 million in Russia off from one another, and from the rest of the world as 80% of Russia follow an Instagram account outside their country. This is wrong”, Adam Mosseri, the Instagram chief tweeted it last Friday.

Over the weekend, Russian influencers on Instagram posted farewell messages to their followers, encouraging them to follow them on other platforms, or download VPN software to bypass the state’s ban.

The Washington Post Report that one Russian fashion influencer, Karina Nigay, bemoaned the ban in a live video. “This is my work,” said Nigay. “Imagine you were just fired completely from work and you aren’t receiving any income at all, but at the same time you have expenses for your family, for your team if you have subordinates, and then all of a sudden you have nothing to pay your team.”

Nigay later suggested the ban might turn out to be good for Russian fashion brands. She also responded to commenters on her video who were unfavorably comparing her complaints to the plight of Ukrainians by saying, “Listen, to those who are writing all sorts of filth, all these propaganda stories, I don’t give a shit.”

Instagram has also given a platform for Russians to speak out against the war, including wealthy oligarchs and their families. Sofia Abramovich, daughter of billionaire Roman Abramovich, shared an anti-Putin post on Instagram before deleting it, while wealthy Russian banker Oleg Tinkov posted that the war was “unthinkable and unacceptable.”

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Delta State Commissioner Of Police Pays Courtesy Visit To DELSU, Pledges Partnership

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The Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, paid a courtesy visit to the Delta State University, Abraka, on Friday, March 11, and pledged a partnership with the school.

The CP also assures them of adequate security at all times after he was warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Andy Ugochchukwu Egwunyenga, and the management of the University.

According to the command spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, he said the CP in his remarks noted that the university environment must be policed properly as it comprises vulnerable youths who need to be properly guided against Cultism, internet fraud, and other related practices that will affect them negatively.

“The CP assured the VC and management of the university that the Command is ever ready to partner with the school to achieve a conducive and peaceful environment for the staff and students.

“The CP also noted that as a community policing-driven officer, the need to partner with all stakeholders cannot be overemphasized. He urged the management of the school to reach out to the DPO or the Area Commander whenever the need arises and if they don’t get the desired results, the office of the CP is open 24 hours to handle such issues.

“The Vice-chancellor in his remarks stated that the CP’S visit is the first of its kind in the existence of the school and also noted that the Commissioner of Police is a goal-oriented Police officer who has his agenda well spelled out and is sure the security in the State under the administration of CP Ari Muhammed Ali will be a very solid one.”

“The Commissioner of Police also visited Abraka Police Station where he had a brief lecture with officers and men of the Division. The CP lectured them on the need to be civil while dealing with members of the public, noting that Abraka and its environs are a university community where the majority are students, hence very important to know that policing a student community may not be entirely the same with police a commercial community.”

“The CP said students can easily ignite crisis if they are not properly managed, noting that students are our children, brothers, and sisters and must be handled with care (Human face).”

“The CP warned in strong terms that extortion of any kind, involvement in crime, fraternizing with criminals, violation of human rights will not be tolerated as any officer found wanting will be decisively dealt with. He also emphasized the need for policemen to neatly and smartly dress as it will determine how they will be accessed by members of the public.” The spokesperson said in a statement.

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NDLEA Arrest General-Overseer Of Popular Church With Drugs At Lagos Airport While Traveling For Crusade

The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency has arrested Rev. Ugochukwu Emmanuel, the General Overseer of Christ Living Hope Church, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport for having drugs.

The popular pastor was arrested with 54 sticks of drugs tied around his body while on his way to a three-week crusade in Nairobi, Kenya on Monday 7, March, during the outward clearance of passengers on an Ethiopian Airlines flight to Nairobi through Addis Ababa.

It was gathered that the popular pastor has his church headquartered in Isuaniocha, Mgbakwu road, Akwa, Akwa North LGA, Anambra State, and two other branches in Lagos and Abuja.

The anti-drugs agency said when the drugs were tested, the 54 sticks proved positive for cannabis, the spokesperson, Femi Babafemi said in a statement titled ‘Church General Overseer arrested with drugs at Lagos airport’.

According to the statement the clergyman confessed during a preliminary interview that he packed that quantity of illicit substance on his body to use during his three weeks crusade in Kenya.

The statement read, “On the same day, another passenger, Nnakeanyi Chukwuka King who arrived at the airport on Ethiopian Airlines flight from Sao Paulo, Brazil via Addis Ababa was intercepted during the inward clearance of passengers at the E-Arrival Hall of the MMIA. During a search of his luggage, forty (40) parcels of Cocaine concealed inside bottles of body cream with a gross weight of 9.70kg were recovered from the suspect.

“Three days later, Wednesday 9th March, another passenger on Ethiopian Airlines flight to Italy, Mr. Edo Blessing was intercepted at the Departure Hall of the airport with 2, 090 tablets of Tramadol 225mg and Flunitrazepam. The suspect who hails from Edo state but lives in Italy claimed ownership of the recovered psychotropic substances.

“Also on the same day, operatives arrested a freight agent, Rafiu Abbas at the NAHCO Export Shed of the airport when he presented a cargo containing 19.15kg cannabis going to London. The illicit substance was concealed inside plastic containers labeled as “African Dishes” and packed in a bag.

“In a related development, a 63-year-old Vincent Obama was on Friday 11th March arrested with 350grams of cocaine and 150grams of heroin by NDLEA operatives at a park in the Apapa seaport corridor in Lagos. The drugs were hidden in industrial torch packets heading to Kano, Kano state.

“Meanwhile, a drug dealer in Kaduna state, James Okenwa has been arrested in a follow-up operation at Central Market, Kaduna. He admitted the ownership of 1,807 bottles of cough syrup with codeine that were earlier recovered from two suspects at the tollgate. At the point of his arrest, another 152 bottles of the drug were recovered from his vehicle. He has accepted ownership of all the 1,959 bottles of codeine syrup.

“In Yobe state, two fake security agents: Akalonu Justin and Azimbi Festus who were coming from Onitsha and heading to Maiduguri, Borno state have been arrested with 25 blocks of Cannabis Sativa weighing 12 .5kg and 1, 598 bottles of Codeine Syrup weighing 159.8 Liters, while 85kg of cannabis was also recovered from the warehouse of a notorious drug dealer in Patwari area of Damaturu, the state capital on Thursday 10th March.

“In Anambra state, a total of 38,605 tablets of assorted opioids were recovered from a 29-year-old drug dealer, Awoke Friday at Nkwelle junction, Onitsha on Friday 11th March with the support of men of the Nigeria Police.

“While commending the officers and men of the MMIA, Apapa Port, Kaduna, Yobe and Anambra Commands of the Agency for the impressive seizures and arrests in the past week, Chairman/ Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) charged them and their colleagues across the country to stay focussed and intensify efforts to rid Nigeria of illicit drugs and substances.”

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Dispatch Rider Arrested With Baby Inside Courier Box

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A dispatched rider has been apprehended after a baby was found inside his delivery box.

It was gathered that the incident happened in the Sangotedo area of Lagos State on Saturday morning.

The incident and the video of the scene were shared on Twitter by Gidi Traffic.

According to the video post, the rider can be seen being beaten by the angry youth as he was being dragged to a police station.

Also in the video, one of the people in the background was heard saying, “This is the child that was abducted.”

However, the situations surrounding the child being kept in the box were not made clear because the police are yet to comment on the development as of press time.

Watch the video below:

https://twitter.com/Gidi_Traffic/status/1502537415063396358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1502537415063396358%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fdailytrust.com%2Fbreaking-lagos-dispatch-rider-nabbed-with-baby-inside-courier-box-video

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Delta Police Command Arrest Female Suspect Who Drugged Motorcycle Rider And Stole His Bike

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a female suspect identified as Aisha Hassan, who allegedly drugged a motorcycle rider and stole his bike at Kenu Guest House located at Bonsaac, Asaba.

The command also raid a suspected drugs hideout and recovered hard drugs.

This was disclosed to newsmen on Saturday in Asaba, the state capital by the command spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe.

According to the police spokesperson, he said “Following a report received by the Area Commander Asaba that on the 23/2/2022 at about 1430hhrs, an Okada rider (Name withheld) carried a lady named Aisha Hassan ‘f’ and one other who pretended to be passengers to Kenu guest house located at Bonsaac, on getting to the hotel, the victim stated that the lady brought out drink for them to drink unknown to him that sleeping pills and suspected hard drug have been added to the drink, after drinking he slept off and to his greatest surprise, when he woke up he discovered that his red color unregistered KC Sanya motorcycle with Engine No. 162FMJ510828953, Chasis No. IPCKL11M1018611 valued at three hundred and thirty thousand nairas (N330,000.00) has been stolen by the suspects.”

” The Area commander Asaba ACP Nuhu Hamidu, detailed Police detectives to investigate and ensure that the said suspects are arrested. Consequently, the team went on an intelligence-led investigation and arrested one of the suspects named Aisha Hassan.”

“An investigation later revealed that her gang member took the motorcycle to an unknown destination. The investigation is ongoing to possibly recover the said motorcycle and to arrest the fleeing suspect.”

Again, the police spokesperson said “Following series of reports the Command has been receiving regarding some drug cartels in the State, and the high rate at which the youths are abusing drugs. The Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC+ directed all tactical teams, DPOS, and Area commanders to embark on intelligence-led raiding to curb this menace, identify all illicit drugs hideouts, arrest and ensure that those found wanting are prosecuted accordingly.”

“In Compliance with the said directive, the Command Crack squad on 09/03/2022 at about 1835hrs while acting on intelligence, raided a drug criminal hideout at Atata quarters, Ogbomro Community in Uwvie LGA during which one Solomon Okodaso ‘m’ suspected to be a drug dealer and also the Ogbomro Community Chairman was arrested.”

“The following exhibit was recovered: Twelve (12) bottles of codeine, fourteen (14) sachets of tramadol, one and a half (1 ) compressed sack of loud, seventy-three (73) wraps of weeds suspected to be SK, sixty-five (65)tablets of happy mood drugs, one (1) pack of Colorado, one (1) pack of Arizona, nine (9) packets of razors, one hundred and ninety-two thousand nairas (#192,000.00) cash, one Samsung handset, one (1) infinix handset, one (1) ash-colored Mercedes Benz c350 with reg no. KUJ 664 BH, one (1) white colored Lexus 330 vehicle with reg no. EFR 303 DC. The investigation is ongoing.”

He said the CP urges members of the public to help with any useful information that will lead to the arrest of the suspect and also recover the said motorcycle.
Members of the public can reach the command through any of the following numbers

He also added that the PPROS Office can be contacted through the following numbers
+234 915 557 0008
+234 915 557 0007
+234 902 907 0037
Or the command control room via +234 803 668 4974

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FG Shutdown GoCash, Okash, EasyCredit, Kashkash, EasyMoni, And Others

The Federal Competition Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), in conjunction with the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), National Institute Information Technology Development Agency (NIDTA), together with the Nigerian Police Force raided GoCash, Okash, EasyCredit, Kashkash, SpeedyChoice, and EasyMoni, loan apps offices for rendering illegal financial services online.

The financial institutions operating on Opebi Road, Ikeja, Lagos, were raided on Friday for going against the financial procedures.

It was gathered from The Punch that the Chief Executive Officer of FCCPC, Babatunde Irukera, said the raid was in response to customer’s complaints of malpractice by the financial institutions

According to the Chief Executive Officer of FCCPC during the raid said that customers had accused the financial institutions of violating their privacy in their debt recovery drive.

Irukera said the agency had begun investigations into the allegations since 2020.

He said, “This information started quite a while ago. Some time ago, when the country was on lockdown in 2020 due to the pandemic, we started seeing the rise in money lenders”

“Because there was lockdown due to the pandemic, people needed small easy loan which is understandable. But over some time, people started complaining about the malpractices of the lenders, so we started tracking it”

“Towards the end of last year, we gathered quite a lot of information. We started working with some other key agencies and the FCCPC led the meeting where we all agreed there would be a joint effort to look into these businesses.”

According to Irukera, the interest rate charged by online financial institutions appear to violate the ethics of how lending is done.

He further said, “The key two things that were subject of concern were what seems to be the naming and shaming violation of people’s privacy concerning how these lenders recover their loans.”

“Secondly, the interest rate seems to be a violation of the ethics on how lending is done. So, those were the two things that we set out to look for.”

“So, we started an investigation trying to determine the location of these firms. That has been a very difficult thing. We did that for several months and some of them have moved from one place to the another and we have been visiting these places for months”

The FCCPC boss, however, said investigations had revealed that the loan firms were neither Nigerian companies nor registered in the country.

“We found out that most of these companies operate from the same place. We also found out that many of them are operated by the same person. They are not Nigerian companies, they don’t have an address in Nigeria and they are not registered in Nigeria with the Corporate Affairs Commission and they do not have any license to do their business”

As a result, Irukare said the agency had written to global app companies asking them to suspend the operations of the online banks.

He said, “Essentially, what they have is an app, and so we started gathering more information about them. We engaged the public and the people who had been their victims. They gave us more information”

“As we got more information we had enough evidence to convince the court to issue a warrant for us to proceed with an investigation into a search and seizure. And sometime last month, a court issued a warrant, and between then and now, we were preparing a sting operation which is what you are seeing here today. The reason for this is because we wanted to be sure we are hitting at the place we could get many of them.”

He explained, “In addition to what you are seeing here today, the FCCPC has also issued multiple orders today. Two of them are going to vendors: Apple and Google stores where some of these apps are available. We have asked them to shut these companies’ apps down so that people will not be victimized anymore. Secondly, some of them (the orders) have gone to the bank, asking them to freeze the accounts used by these people.”

“I must add though that not all money lenders are operating illegally and that is why it has been taking time for us to track these people.

It doesn’t also mean that the people we are proceeding against today are the only ones, no. We want to start with them. We also understand that they are between five and seven companies operating at the same location.”

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UK Govt Freeze Chelsea Owner Abramovich Assets Amid Russian Ukraine Crisis

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The UK government has frozen seven Russian oligarchs’ assets and banned them from traveling to Britain for being in Putin’s ‘inner circle’ and also having ‘blood on their hands.

Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich, Oleg Deripaska, and five other Russian oligarchs worth £15bn are among the seven oligarchs knocked with an asset freeze and travel ban under brutal new UK sanctions revealed on Thursday.

According to the announcement, The owner of Chelsea FC will also be restricted from transactions with UK individuals and businesses – meaning his plan to sell the club looks impossible.

Mr. Abramovich’s one-time business partner, Oleg Deripaska, has been hit with the same measures – as have Rosneft chief Igor Sechin and four more described as being in Putin’s ‘inner circle’.

Roman Abramovich is one of seven Russian oligarchs sanctioned by the UK Government today.

The Government estimates his wealth at more than £9billion and notes his stakes in steel giant Evraz, Norilsk Nickel, and ownership of Chelsea FC.

‘He is one of the few oligarchs from the 1990s to maintain prominence under Putin,’ a Government spokesman said.

The other oligarchs sanctioned today are: Oleg Deripaska: An estimated wealth of £2billion and a multi-million-pound Uk property portfolio. Subject to US sanctions since 2018. Has stakes in En+ Group, major extractives, and energy company that owns UC Rusal, one of the world’s major aluminum producers.
Igor Sechin: Chief Executive of Rosneft, the Russian state oil company. The Government said he is a ‘particularly close and influential ally of Putin’. Already sanctioned by the US and EU. Andrey Kostin: Chairman of VTB bank, the second-largest bank in Russia. A ‘close associate of Putin’ who has ‘long supported Kremlin objectives through VTB Bank’. The net worth of £379 million. Already sanctioned by the US and EU.
Alexei Miller: Chief executive of energy company Gazprom. Served under Putin when autocrat was mayor of St Petersburg. Already sanctioned by the US.
Nikolai Tokarev: President of the Russian state-owned pipeline company Transneft. Former KGB agent who served alongside Putin in East Germany. Already sanctioned by the US and EU.
Dmitri Lebedev: Chairman of Bank Rossiya, which is ‘widely considered to be the Kremlin’s private bank’. Sanctioned by the US in 2016.

The Foreign Office said the Economic Crime Bill coming into force next week ‘will allow UK Government to move further and faster than ever on sanctions’.

Boris Johnson said: ‘There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin’s vicious assault on Ukraine.

‘Today’s sanctions are the latest step in the UK’s unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals, and illegal occupation of sovereign allies.’

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss added: ‘Today’s sanctions show once again that oligarchs and kleptocrats have no place in our economy or society. With their close links to Putin, they are complicit in his aggression.

‘The blood of the Ukrainian people is on their hands. They should hang their heads in shame.

‘Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not stop in this mission to ramp up the pressure on the Putin regime and choke off funds to his brutal war machine.’

The Foreign Office said the oligarchs have a collective net worth of around £15billion.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries tweeted that Chelsea FC will be able to operate under a ‘special license’.

The team will be able to play fixtures and pay staff, but only ‘existing ticket holders will be able to attend.

It appears that means only season ticket holders, and away fans will not be permitted.

There is also the prospect that Champions League games will be played effectively behind closed doors, as those tickets are often purchased separately from season tickets.

Ms. Dorries said the aim was to ensure that Abramovich cannot ‘benefit from his ownership of the club’.

The surprise move came as Defence minister James Heappey insisted the bombing of a maternity hospital in Ukraine was a war crime and called for Putin and Russian generals to be held to account.

Mr. Heappey stressed that the West is gathering evidence that can be used in a future prosecution, but said in a round of interviews: ‘What you see on your TV screens is a war crime.’

The comments came as it was confirmed three people, including a child, died when warplanes bombed the hospital in besieged Mariupol as pregnant women gave birth in the basement.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has described the attack as an ‘atrocity’ and ‘the ultimate proof of genocide against Ukrainians’.

The hospital, in the besieged city of Mariupol, was hit ‘several times’ by high-explosive Russian bombs – one of which missed the building by yards and left a crater two stories deep, officials said. Other bombs scored ‘direct hits’, President Zelensky said, wounding at least 17 people.

Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister, said there can be ‘no doubt’ the hospital was deliberately ‘targeted’ by Russia in chilling echo tactics used during the bombing of the Syrian city of Aleppo while Putin’s men were fighting alongside dictator Bashar al-Assad’s troops. Moscow denies targeting civilian facilities.

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57-year-old Man Who Recieve Pig Heart Transplant Dies After Two months

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David Bennett, 57, the first man to accept a transplant of a genetically altered pig heart, David Bennett, 57, from Hagerstown Maryland, has died two months after the successful transplant.

Bennett who had terrible heart disease received the heart in early January and died on Tuesday, March 8, at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

The New York Times reported that the spokesperson from the University of Maryland Medical Center, where the process was conducted in his explanation, did not disclose the cause of his death but said doctors will undergo a full evaluation and publicize their results.

According to the spokesperson, Bennett’s death reveals the challenges of animal-to-human transplants, called xenotransplantation. Supporters of the technique I’m aieve a steady supply of animal organs could help treat the thousands of people on waitlists for organ transplants.

Also in his explanation, he said Researchers and surgeons have shared a wave of successes in recent months — including Bennett’s transplant, which initially appeared successful, and the attachment of a pig kidney to a brain-dead patient on a ventilator.

He added that the kidney and heart came from a company called Revivicor, which has genetically altered pigs to inactivate genes that could trigger a human body to reject an organ.

“Although it’s still too early to say if organ rejection played a role in Bennett’s death, researchers involved in xenotransplantation procedures have stressed that early, positive outcomes don’t necessarily mean long-term success. Even with more routine and well-matched human organ transplants, rejection can happen years after the operation.”

Also responding, Peter Reese, a kidney transplant expert, and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania said on Twitter that Xenotransplantation could be a major innovation but should develop with care and transparency.

He tweeted ” The right road is through oversight deliberate patient selection, transparency, robust ethics input, peer review, and humility from all.”

Reacting, Bennett’s son, David Bennett Jr, in a statement praised the hospital for offering the last-ditch experiment, saying the family hoped it would help further efforts to end the organ shortage.

‘He said, “We are grateful for every innovative moment, every crazy dream, every sleepless night that went into this historic effort.”

“We hope this story can be the beginning of hope and not the end,’ he said. ‘We pray that those looking for hope will continue to fight for the future, fight for new ideas, fight for answers, fight for life. Fight like Dave.’

The doctors who worked with Bennett while reacting also praised the 57-year-old for his bravery.

‘We are devastated by the loss of Mr. Bennett. He proved to be a brave and noble patient who fought to the end. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family,’ Dr. Bartley Griffith, the surgeon who led Bennett’s transplant said in a statement. ‘Mr. Bennett became known by millions of people around the world for his courage and steadfast will to live.’

Dr. Muhammad Mohiuddin, director of cardiac xenotransplantation at the University of Maryland Medical Center, said Bennett’s successful transplant has provided great insight for future procedures.

‘We have gained invaluable insights learning that the genetically modified pig heart can function well within the human body while the immune system is adequately suppressed,’ he said in a statement.

‘We remain optimistic and plan on continuing our work in future clinical trials,’ he added.

Scientists inserted six human genes into the genome of the donor pig – modifications designed to make the organ more tolerable to the human immune system.

The scientists activated four genes, including sugar in its cells that are responsible for that hyper-fast organ rejection and a growth gene to prevent the pig’s heart, which weighs around 267g compared to the average human heart which weighs 303g, from continuing to expand.

Prior attempts at such transplants also known as xenotransplantation – have failed largely because patients’ bodies rapidly rejected the animal organ.

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“Runs Girl Threatens To Release My Sextape” – Harrysong Reveals

Nigerian singer, Harrison Tare Okiri, better known as Harrysong, has revealed that a ‘runs girl’ is threatening to blackmail him after six years they had affair.

The singer made this revelation in a post he shared on his Instagram story on Wednesday stating that a lady is threatening to release his sex tape.

According to him, the incident happened when he patronized the lady six years ago and paid her on several occasions, but because he stopped paying her, the lady is now threatening to release his video clip.

In his words, he wrote on IG “Any runs girl that put up an unpaid sex scandal about me any time soon, don’t believe her. I’ve paid and paid and paid just to calm her down, but she’s still threatening.”

“This happened six years ago, abi she been record me da year sef I no even know, but no shaking, at least, I don clear una first.”

Recall, in a similar development that happened last month, Oxlade, the Afropop singer, was in the public eye after a leaked sex tape involving him went viral.

In October 2021, Tiwa Savage also joined the popular list when a video of her making out with a man hit social media.

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Police Arrest Staff Who Allegedly Stole Seven Computers From Primary School

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 34-year-old man identified as Oki Peace for stealing seven Zinox computers from a primary school in Warri.

This was revealed to newsmen by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, in Asaba the state capital on Wednesday, March 9, 2022.

According to DSP Edafe, it was gathered that on Wednesday, March 6, 2022, at about 1500hrs, a staff of Nana Primary School reported that eight out fifteen Zinox computers were supplied to the school by Delta State Government have been stolen.

DSP Edafe said, “Upon receipt of this report, the DPO ‘A’ Division Warri detailed police detective who swung into action. The detectives after a painstaking investigation, on 6/3/2022, arrested the principal suspect named Oki Precious. An investigation later revealed that the suspect is the computer operator working in the school and employed by the parent-teachers association (PTA) of the school. The suspect led the police to his house where seven computers were recovered. The case has been charged to court, he added.

The Police Public Relations Officer also said the command arrested some suspected cultists and recovered some hard drugs.

The PPRO said “On Monday, March 7, 2022, at about 03:25hrs, operatives of the Command Raider’s Squad in conjunction with Raider Volunteer Corps raided several black spots in Animeli road by Panama junction and Kevin Road both in Sapele.”

“During the raid, fifteen (15) male suspects were arrested during which the following items were recovered: fifteen (15) grams of substances suspected to be cocaine, one (1) compressed sack of substance suspected to be Indian hemp, seven (7) packets of tramadol, twelve (12) syringes, four (4) CSP codeine syrup bottles, two crushers, some items suspected to be charming, one (1) cooler soaked with suspected Indian hemp popularly known as ‘monkey tail’, one (1) grinder and twenty (20) packets of razors. The investigation is ongoing, he also added.

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DELTA STATE FROWNS AT COLLECTION OF ILLEGAL LEVIES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

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… Lists Approved Levies

The Delta State Government has frowned at the continued reported cases of collection of illegal levies in public primary and post primary schools in the state.


Making the stance of government known in Asaba (04/12/2019), the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, disclosed that the state government has zero tolerance for illegal levies stressing that any Principal or School Head caught in the act will be made to face the full wrath of the law.


He advised parents not to be encouraging the collection of illegal levies by paying such money, but should resist it and report such erring Principal or School Head to the appropriate authority for necessary action.


Chief Ukah warned Principals and School Heads involved in the ignoble act to retrace their steps and turn a new leaf as any of them that collects a kobo more than the approved levies will be sanctioned appropriately.


The Commissioner listed the approved levies for public primary schools to include school badge for primary one to primary six N50:00 every 3 years, report cards for primary one and transfer pupils N250:00 every 6 years, consumables for primary one to primary six N100:00 per term.


For students in public post primary schools, all students are to pay N150:00 every session for school badge, N200:00 every three years for students identity card, N200:00 termly for consumables, and SS 1 to SS 111, N300:00 termly for sports/NSSF levy.

All the students, including transfer students, will pay N250:00 termly for customized on line result, while JS 1, SS 1 and transfer students are to pay N150:00 every three years for students file.

Chief Ukah stated that even if the Parents’ Teachers’ Associations (PTAs) of schools are to do any intervention in any school, such decision must be taken during a general meeting of the body where the parents will agree on a particular amount to be paid.

Going further, he said that the money collected should be paid into the account of the PTA whose executive officers are expected to disburse the funds to meet the objective for which it was agreed on.

He said that any Principal or School Head that collects any amount more than the approved levies will be treated as a violator of the law.

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American Rapper, Wiz Khalifa Announces Collaboration With Wizkid

Wiz Khalifa, the U.S rapper has announced his collaboration with, Wizkid, a Nigerian superstar on a new project.

The rapper made this revelation known on his Instagram story on Monday when he spiked fans’ interest with the announcement which he said ironically should not be revealed to everybody.

Wiz Khalifa wrote on his IG story, “Wiz Khalifa and @Wizkidayo on the way. Don’t tell everybody!!! Multiverse.”

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Instagram Reveals Plans To Stop Supporting IGTV App

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Instagram has announced its plans to stop supporting the IGTV app, saying it will focus on keeping all the videos in the main Instagram app.

This was announced in a blog post on Monday stating that the effort is to make a video as simple as possible to discover and create.

According to the post, it stated that any videos in the main app will have a full-screen viewer and tap-to-mute.

Instagram also disclosed that the company is working on a consistent way to share the different types of videos (such as video posts or Reels).

The company further added that it’s planning on “testing a new ad experience on Instagram, which will allow creators to earn revenue from ads displayed on their reels” later this year.

In 2018, the standalone IGTV app was announced and was meant to go toe-to-toe with Youtube by acting as a place to post long-form vertical videos. Less than a year later, IGTV content was being heavily promoted in the main Instagram app, with videos showing up on the Explore page, and previews showing up in stories and on the main feed.

However, in 2020, Instagram removed the button that took you to IGTV content in the main app, citing the fact that very few people used it, and late last year, the company announced that IGTV was being rebranded as “Instagram TV,” and that its hour-long time limit would be coming to regular videos too.

Meanwhile, the IGTV app is going away along with the In-Stream ads that were inserted into the videos over a minute long, Instagram has made it very clear that it still intends to focus heavily on video.

Announcing the suspension of the IGTV on Monday in a blog post titled “Continuing our video investment on Instagram, it was gathered that Instagram is no longer a photo app – instead, it’s going after TikTok and Youtube, its competitors.

In a bid to become a general entertainment app, Meta has offered creators up to $35,000 bonuses to post Reels, and there have been plenty of new video features added to the main Instagram app.

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Ukrainian President Signs Formal Request To Join European Union

Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the Ukrainian president has said he had signed an official request for Ukraine to join the European Union.

The Ukrainian Press Service/Handout made this known to Reuters on Monday, February 28, 2022, in Kyiv, Ukraine.

During the signing, the president asked the European Union to allow Ukraine to gain membership immediately under a special protocol as it defends itself from invasion by Russian forces.

The signing was witnessed by the Prime Minister, Denys Shmygal, and Parliament Speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk.

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Burna Boy Involved In an accident In Lekki

Singer Burna Boy was involved in an accident in Lekki on Saturday evening.

He was driving in his Ferrari when the incident happened.

According to a post that he shared on his Instagram page, the singer stated that he is fine but hurts his leg a little.

He also added that people were more interested in filming him after he had the accident instead of helping him.

See his post:

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Cultists Invade Burial, Kill 20 Persons In Anambra

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Some gunmen suspected to be members of a yet-to-be-identify cult group invaded a burial ceremony in Ebenebe in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State and killed 20 mourners.

It was gathered that the suspected cultists, shot at the mourners after arriving at the deceased’s compound, the scene where his body was lying in state on Saturday.

It was also gathered that they desecrated the corpse of the suspected member identified as Ozo, that had been prepared for burial.

The members of the community cried as they returned to find corpses in the compound.

As reported by The Punch, a source said “My sister was supposed to be at the burial. She and her friends had already prepared to leave Awka for Ebenebe, but the vehicle they booked to take them disappointed them. She and her friends were so unhappy, and they decided to go in search of another vehicle that could take them. It was in the course of going to the burial that they received a phone call that everybody at the burial had been dispersed by some gunmen.

“There is a video from the scene, which showed several persons lying in pools of blood, while the corpse was desecrated, and the coffin flung apart.”

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a case of cult rivalry.

Its spokesman, DSP Toochukwu Ikenga, said, “Yes, this morning (Saturday), there was an incident at Ebene. A burial was going on when some people suspected to be cultists invaded the area and started shooting. I do not have details of casualties now, but I will keep you informed once the picture becomes clear. For now, the Commissioner of Police, CP Echeng Echeng, has dispatched tactical squads comprising various units to the area to maintain calm.”

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Putin Tell Ukrainian Army To Seize Power Saying It’ll Be Easier To Make Deal With Them

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Vladimir Putin, the Russian President has called the Ukrainian military to seize power in their country saying it would be easier for him to make a deal with them than the gang of drug addicts and neo-Nazis.

He said this while speaking during a televised address on Friday.

During his address, he condemned the Ukrainian leadership for using civilians as “human protection.”

According to him, he said, “I once again appeal to the military personnel of the armed forces of Ukraine: do not allow neo-Nazis to use your children, wives, and elders as human shields”.

Take power into your own hands. It will be easier for us to reach an agreement.”

The Russian government had also said Putin is ready to send a delegation to Minsk, the capital of Belarus, for negotiations with representatives of Ukraine.

The development comes after the Russian leader held a phone call with President Xi Jinping of China.

Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, said Alexander Lukashenko, president of Belarus, told the Russian leader he would “create the conditions” for such a summit.

It was gathered on Thursday that the Russian troops, on Friday, entered Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, with missile strikes reported while residents took shelter in underground railway stations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had said he was the target of the Russian invasion and vowed not to abandon his country.

Several sanctions have been imposed on Russia by the international community, with several countries asking Putin to end the Ukraine invasion.

One of the latest sanctions was from the Council of Europe, which suspended Russia from the continent’s human rights organization “as a result of the Russian Federation’s armed attack on Ukraine”.

The 47-nation council announced on Friday that Russia was suspended with “immediate effect” from the organization’s committee of ministers and parliamentary assembly.

Here are some of the circumstances surrounding the Ukraine invasion that occurred.

On Thursday at least 40 people are said to have died as the Russian President finally squeaked the long-touted aggression of the country as bombs continue to cascade down the sky of Kyiv, Dnipro, and other cities in Ukraine.

After months of heightened tension which saw Russia deploy over 100,000 troops to surround its ex-Soviet neighbor on three sides “like a sickle,” according to observers, Putin jacked forward the machinery of war, sending the world into jarring disbelief.

Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, condemned the invasion as a “blatant violation of international law”. Joe Biden, the US president, described it as “an unprovoked and unjustified attack” while Boris Johnson, the UK prime minister, declared that the country and its allies “will respond decisively”.

A global showdown is brewing, and an adamant Putin has damned the rest of the world with his action, and it seems he will not leech the war dog any time soon.

As the situation between Russia and Ukraine deteriorates beyond diplomatic reconciliation and hits the shrapnels of a full-fledged war, we take a trip down memory lane to understand the origin of the conflict.

History of the tension
The tension between the neighbors has been bubbling for a while. The protracted conflict first brewed over in 2014 after the widespread Euromaidan protest in Ukraine forced the parliament to remove President Viktor Yanukovych from office. The removal of Yanukovych, who was regarded as pro-Russia, vexed the leadership in Moscow, and they thought the best way to strike back was to reclaim Ukraine’s region of Crimea, which used to be under Russia’s control from 1783 to 1954.

The Kremlin then kicked off operation ‘Returning Crimea’, and it engineered a series of pro-Russia protests across several areas in the city. The invasion of Crimea followed as the “little green men” — masked soldiers without insignia but with distinctly Russian weaponry and equipment — took to the city. Russia then launched a referendum in the city, and in the infamously skewed plebiscite, a staggering 97 percent of the population voted for the integration of Crimea into the Russian Federation.

The annexation of Crimea by Russia was a blow to Ukraine. But the onslaught had not reached an end for Ukraine as Russia began to secretly provide weaponry support for separatists in the country’s eastern region. This violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty helped the rebels claim control of the eastern city of Donbas with over 14,000 lives lost in the region.

To end the bloody crisis, an agreement was hammered out in Minsk, Belarus, in February 2015. The resolution tagged the ‘Minsk agreement’ was monitored by United Nations, and it proposed a cease-fire with all parties signing to power down their machinery of war.

Despite a ceasefire agreement, both parties have not been at peace, and the Russia-backed rebels have claimed further swathes of land in the east of Ukraine.

NATO and its eyes on Ukraine
After the collapse of the Iron Curtain and subsequent dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has never been subtle in its mission to bring into its fold the majority of countries that used to be in the eastern bloc. NATO won over Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in 2004.

However, NATO has always had its eyes on Ukraine, a pursuit that has provoked Russia deeply over the years.

With the persistent Russian invasion and support for rebels, Ukraine finally tilted toward the Atlantic bloc. In 2019, the constitution of Ukraine was amended with the addition of parts indicating the country’s imminent membership of NATO and the European Union (EU).

For Russia, the movie was a red line in the sand as it sees Ukraine’s romance with NATO as a bombardment by its Western enemies across numerous sides. And when the topic was raised again at the 2021 Brussel Summit, Russia intensified its move to bring Ukraine to its knees before it walked into the arms of NATO.

Putin said Kremlin will not allow “any further NATO moves eastward and the deployment of weapons systems that threaten us in close vicinity to Russian territory”.

He insisted that Russians and Ukrainians “were one people – a single whole,” adding that the crisis is the “result of deliberate efforts by those forces that have always sought to undermine our unity”.

In December 2021, Putin warned NATO that deploying weapons or soldiers into Ukraine would cross a “red line” for Russia and trigger a strong response from the Kremlin.

The tension boiled over with the new year, and it erupted into a war on Thursday, February 24, 2022.

What does Putin want from Ukraine?
Putin has described the West’s mission with Ukraine as “the overarching goal being to divide and then to pit the parts of a single people against one another”.

He added that “step by step, Ukraine was dragged into a dangerous geopolitical game aimed at turning Ukraine into a barrier between Europe and Russia, a springboard against Russia”.

In his bid to bring Ukraine back under Russia’s influence, he openly backed and recognized the government of rebels in the eastern part of the country and quickly sent in troops for “peacekeeping” in the region.

He wants to stop Ukraine from being, in his own words, “a puppet” of the West.

What can the West do?

The leaders of the West have been airing their condemnation of the Russian invasion of Ukraine since it began. But, at the moment, NATO countries haven’t unfurled plans to send combat troops in Ukraine’s defense.

Instead, they’ve offered the beleaguered country weapons and medical aids. But NATO already has about 5,000 troops in Poland with other troops across the Baltic territory ready to swing into action when called.

NATO has made it clear that it will deal with Russia; using economic and financial sanctions to strangulate it to back out of the invasion.

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President Buhari Finally Sign Electoral Act Amendment Bill Into Law

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President Muhammadu Buhari has finally signed the electoral act amendment bill into law.

The President assented to the bill at a council chamber of Aso Villa in Abuja on Friday.

Those present during the signing, were the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Others who are also present are the president cabinet which includes his Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, and the Secretary of the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha.

However, here is the summary of ten key provisions of the new ELECTORAL ACT LAW assigned today by President Buhari.

1. Clause 29(1) stipulates that parties must conduct primaries and submit their list of candidates at least 180 days before the general elections.

2. Clause 65 states that INEC can review results declared under duress.

3. Clause 3(3) states that funds for general elections must be released at least one year before the election.

4. Clause 51 says that the total number of accredited voters will become a factor in determining over-voting at election tribunals.

5. Clause 54(2) makes provisions for people with disabilities and special needs.

6. Clause 47 gives legislative backing for smart card readers and any other voter accreditation technology that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deploys.

7. Clause 34 gives political parties power to conduct a primary election to replace a candidate who died during an election.

8. Clause 50 gives INEC the legal backing for electronic transmission of election results.

9. Clause 94 allows for early commencement of the campaign season. By this provision, the campaign season will now start 150 days to the election day and end 24 hours before the election.

10. Clause 84 stipulates that anyone holding a political office – ministers, commissioners, special advisers, and others – must relinquish the position before they can be eligible to participate in the electoral process either as a candidate or as a delegate.

Recall on January 31, the Senate had sent a reworked bill to the president after he rejected the previous version passed by the National Assembly.

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Police Rescue kidnapped Victim, Arrest suspected Kidnapper And Some Notorious Keke Snatcher

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The Delta State Police Command arrested a suspected kidnapper and rescued the kidnapped victim and recovered his stolen car in Ekrokpe Community in Ughelli South Local Government Arean of the state.

The command also arrested some notorious Tricycle snatchers, this was disclosed by DSP. Bright Edafe, Police Public Relations Officer of the command in Asaba the state capital on Thursday.

According to DSP. Edafe “On 21/02/2022 at about 2025hrs, a distress call was received from an unidentified person from Otu-Jeremi Community in Ughelli South LGA, that some hoodlums stormed the Community and kidnapped a young man along with his Toyota Corolla car. The DPO Otu-Jeremi Division swiftly detailed patrol teams who went on their trail but before their arrival, Policemen attached to Counter Terrorism Unit, Base 5 Warri who were escorting their principal coincidentally ran into the hoodlums. They trailed the hoodlums to Ekrokpe Community. The hoodlums upon sighting the Police shot at them and the team retaliated. The vehicle was successfully demobilized by the team and one of the suspects Onwuka Kelly, age 23yrs was arrested while the victim (name withheld) age 37yrs of the Egbo-Urhie Community of Ughelli South LGA was rescued unhurt. The following exhibits were recovered from the suspect: one (1) cut to size double barrel gun, one (1) cut to size single barrel gun, and one (1) live cartridge. The investigation is ongoing.”

Edafe said “On 22/2/2022 at about 1030hrs, acting on information received from a tricycle(Keke) rider that two young men flagged him down at PTI junction Effurun and hired him to convey them to Agbarho. The Tricycle rider further stated that on getting to Agbarho bridge along Ughelli-Portharcourt Expressway, one of the passengers hit him on the head, forced him out of the tricycle, and robbed him of his tricycle. The DPO Agbarho Division detailed operatives to investigate to arrest the suspects and recover the tricycle. Consequently, on 23/2/2022 at about 1200hrs, upon an intelligence-led investigation, the hoodlums were trailed to their hideout in Eghwarha road Agbarho, where two (2) suspects namely: Goodluck Ahirima ‘m’ age 24yrs and Charles Oyibocha ‘m’ age 24yrs were arrested and the snatched tricycle recovered. The investigation is ongoing, the PPRO said in a statement.

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Meta Globally Introduces Facebook Reels, Short Video Feature Just Like TikTok

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Facebook has added Reels, a new feature to its platform and also augmented its advertising options.

The new feature is a short video copycat of TikTok which is the most downloaded app of 2021 and very popular among young users.

According to Meta, the parent company of the social media in a statement on Tuesday while announcing the launching said, the Reels is available on Facebook in India, Mexico, Canada, and the U.S.

Adding that it is also available across sub-Saharan Africa, including countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Tanzania, Swaziland, South Africa, Seychelles, Senegal, and Rwanda. It

Others are Nigeria, Namibia, Mali, Malawi, Lesotho, Kenya, Guinea, Ghana, Cape Verde, Cameroon, Burkina Faso.

Commenting on the launch, Nunu Ntshingila, the regional director for sub-Saharan Africa at Meta, said: “We’ve seen that video now accounts for almost all of the time people spend on Facebook and Instagram.

“And Reels is our fastest-growing content format by far.

“This is why we’re focused on making Reels the best way for creators to get discovered, connect with their audience, and earn money. We want to make it fun and easy for people to find and share relevant and entertaining content.”

Meta said it is also creating a variety of opportunities for creators to earn money for their reels.

The Reels play bonus program, part of Meta’s $1 billion creator investment, pays eligible creators up to $35,000 a month based on the views of their qualifying reels.

In the coming months, it said the bonus program will be extended to more countries, so more creators can get rewarded for creating reels that their communities love.

As part of the launch, Meta is also debuting brand suitability controls like publisher lists, blocklists, inventory filters, and delivery reports for banner and sticker ads in Facebook Reels in every region they are available.

This gives advertisers more control over how their ads appear in places they don’t consider suitable for their brand.

In addition to the editing features announced in 2021, Meta said creators around the world will now be able to access a remix feature, 60-second reels, drafts, and video clipping.

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Laycon Features Made Kuti For ‘New Dimension’ [Listen]

Nigerian rapper and BBNaija winner, Laycon has released a new song titled ‘New Dimension’ with Made Kuti, on Thursday.

In the song, Laycon brings his imposing vocals to the background of Made’s Instrumentation.

In 2020, the music star after winning the reality TV show has remained a household name in the country’s entertainment industry with significant projects as well as endorsement deals.

Laycon delivered a soulful performance of ‘All Over Me’, his hit song for the Recording Academy.

He also released his second album ‘I Am Laycon’ in September last year as a follow-up to his debut work ‘Shall We Begin’.

Made Kuti, is the grandson of Fela Kuti, the late Afrobeat legend.

Listen to the song:

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Breaking: Buhari Set To Sign Electoral Amendment Bill Within 30 Days

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President Muhammadu Buhari is set to sign the reworked Electoral Act Amendment Bill within thirty days.

This was disclosed by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity during an interview with Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television Programme on Tuesday morning.

According to Adesina, it is just a matter of hours for the president to sign it into law.

He said “Buhari will sign the bill any moment from now. It could be today, it could be tomorrow, it could be anytime, but within the 30 days.

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You’re Criminal If You Don’t Pay Tithe – David Ibiyeomie Tells Congregation

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Pastor David Ibiyeomie, the General Overseer of Salvation Ministry has said all Christians who fail to pay tithes to the church are criminals.

The senior pastor said this during his church service on Sunday in Port Harcourt.

He also said the offense is punishable and attracts curses.

David Ibiyeomie’s viewpoint is coming in the wake of vast criticism that is meted out on Pastors following their luxurious lifestyles.

Some of them have private jets, posh cars and are reportedly living large at the expense of their church members.

During his preaching, he stated “Tax is the government’s share, so you don’t say I want to give the government my tax, you say you want to pay tax, that is how the tithe is God’s own. Leviticus 27:30. God is the owner of the tithe. So, what do you do?

“You pay, it’s only in Nigeria you don’t pay tax and they can leave you, in the Western world it is a big criminal offense, if you don’t pay tithe, you are a criminal, your offense is punishable, the tithe is simply one-tenth of your income, 10 percent of your income goes to God.

Emphasizing some of the punishment, he added “Near success syndrome will not happen. If you’re experiencing near success syndrome don’t go for deliverance, you’re not a tither. Anything that I do, when it is close to manifestation, the thing will just go off, you’re not a faithful tither.

“Many deliverance ministries, they just go for deliverance, this is the problem, they don’t pay tithe faithfully. Yet, they will say anything I want to do, when it is about to click it will just go off.

“It is near success syndrome. Correct it from tithing, don’t correct it from seven days deliverance. Hear this, tithe must be paid first otherwise the curse will remain.”

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Wanted Abba Kyari, Four Others Now In NDLEA Custody

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The Nigerian Police Force has handed over the suspended DCP Abba Kyari, the erstwhile Commander of Intelligence Response Team (IRT) at the Force Intelligence Bureau of the Nigerian Police Force, to NDLEA authorities.

This was disclosed in a statement by the NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, on Monday.

According to the statement, five of the wanted suspects namely DCP Abba Kyari; ACP Sunday J. Ubua; ASP Bawa James; Inspector Simon Agirgba and Inspector John Nuhu were driven into the National Headquarters of NDLEA in Abuja at about 5 pm on Monday 14th February to formally hand them over for interrogation and further investigation.

The Agency also assures Nigerians that no stone will be left unturned to ensure that all suspects already in custody and those that may still be indicted in the course of the investigation will face the full weight of the law at the end of the ongoing probe.

Earlier on Monday, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during a press briefing declared Abba Kyari, the suspended deputy commissioner of police wanted over an alleged connection with drugs barons and his failure to honour the invitation sent to him

During the press briefing, Babafemi stated that the anti-drug agency strongly believes that “DCP Kyari is a member of a drug cartel that operates the Brazil-Ethiopia-Nigeria illicit drug pipeline”.

The NDLEA spokesperson said Kyari has questions to answer in an ongoing drug case.

He narrated how Kyari and the intelligence response team arrested some traffickers who arrived in the country from Ethiopia with 25kg of cocaine.

Babafemi alleged that Kyari and his team proposed to take 15kg of the seized cocaine for themselves.

“Let me give a synopsis of what transpired. The saga started on Friday, January 21, 2022, when DCP Kyari initiated a call to one of the NDLEA officers in Abuja at 2:12 pm,” the NDLEA spokesperson said.

“When the officer returned the call two minutes later, Kyari informed him he was coming to see him, to discuss an operational matter after the Juma’at service.

“He appeared at the agreed venue of the meeting with the officer and went straight to the crux of the matter.

“This was it: His team had intercepted and arrested some traffickers that came into the country from Ethiopia with, according to him, 25kg of cocaine. He proposed a drug deal whereby he and his team are to take 15kg of the cocaine and leave 10kg for the prosecution of the suspects arrested with the illicit drug in Enugu.

“In the meantime, the purloined cocaine will be replaced with a dummy worth 15kg. He asked the NDLEA officer to persuade men of the FCT Command to play along as well.

“Now, anybody who is in touch with the reality of the renewed drug war by NDLEA since January 18, 2021, would know that that was a tall order because our officers and men have rededicated themselves to the war against illicit drugs and what Kyari was asking for was not tenable, not in this new dispensation, not with the new NDLEA.

“Well, I am not here to wash his dirty linen in public. But I want us to understand how we arrive at this juncture whereby we are having this press briefing.

“NDLEA has the mandate to take custody of suspects and consignments of drugs seized by other arms of law enforcement.

“And there is a standard protocol for such transfer. This we duly followed. The suspects and drugs were delivered to us on February 8 but the last part of the process, yet to be completed, is the debriefing of Kyari.

“Gentlemen of the press, DCP Abba Kyari was invited by NDLEA for debriefing on Thursday, February 10 through two main channels because there are a whole lot of questions begging for answers.

“The invitation was legitimate and formal according to our protocol. But up till the close of office hours on Friday, February 11, he refused to respond. Up till this moment, he hasn’t responded.

“We are a law-abiding agency of the government. We follow due process. In that vein, we will not detain suspects beyond the stipulated period according to the law before we charge them to court. And Kyari must be debriefed before the suspects are arraigned in court.

“Having failed to honor the official invitation, NDLEA has no option but to declare DCP Abba Kyari of the Nigerian Police WANTED, right from this very moment.”

However, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that the Police Headquarters on Monday also revealed the identities of the suspected drug barons who allegedly conspired with DSP Abba Kyari and four others to move illicit drugs into the country.

The suspects had been arrested by the police and handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation.

The Deputy Force Public Relations Officer (DFPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said in a statement in Abuja that some NDLEA officials were allegedly involved in the drug deal.

He said that the police had carried out a discreet investigation when it received a request from the NDLEA on February 10.

“In line with standard administrative procedure of the Force, the Inspector General of Police ordered a high-level, discreet, and in-house investigation into the allegations.

“The interim investigations report revealed that two international drug couriers identified as Chibunna Patrick Umeibe and Emeka Alphonsus, both males, were arrested at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Jan. 19.

“The suspects were arrested upon their arrival from Addis Ababa aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight ET917.

“The arrest led to the recovery of a substantial quantity of powdery substance suspected to be cocaine from the two narcotic couriers.

“The operation which was intelligence-driven was undertaken by a Unit of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT),” he said.

Mr. Adejobi, a chief superintendent of police, said the case and the two suspects were subsequently transferred to the NDLEA on Jan. 25.

He said the findings of the in-house investigation ordered by the Inspector-General of Police established reasonable grounds for strong suspicion that the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) officers involved in the operation could have been involved in some underhand and unprofessional dealings.

The Police spokesman said the finding showed that the officers were allegedly involved in official corruption which compromised ethical standards in their dealings with the suspects and exhibits recovered.

“Beyond this, the Police investigation also established that the international narcotics cartel involved in this case have strong ties with some officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) who are on their payroll.

“The two arrested drug couriers confirmed that the modus is for the transnational drug barons to conspire with the NDLEA officers on duty and send them their pre-boarding photographs for identification.

“The idea is to ensure seamless clearance, and unhindered passage out of the airport with the narcotics being trafficked,” he added.

According to him, the two arrested drug couriers also confirmed that they have been enjoying this relationship with the NDLEA officers at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport since 2021.

He said the narcotics, in the instant case of Jan. 19, were identified and cleared by the NDLEA officers as customary, having received their pre-departure photographs and other details before they arrived in Enugu.

He said the suspects were on their way out with the narcotics when they were apprehended by the Police.

Mr. Adejobi said police investigations report had earlier indicted Kyari, who had been on suspension for alleged involvement in a fraud case being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).

He said Kyari’s involvement in the recent allegation occurred while his suspension from service was subsisting.

“On the strength of the findings of the in-house Police Investigation Panel, the I-G has ordered the immediate arrest and transfer of all the indicted police officers to the NDLEA for conclusive investigation.

“Appropriate disciplinary actions are also being initiated against them by the Force leadership,” he said.

Mr. Adejobi said the IGP has formally requested the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA to ensure the identification, arrest, and investigation of the agency’s officers involved in the alleged criminal act.

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American Rapper, Yung Bleu Is Looking For Emerging Nigerian Artiste To Sign

American rapper and producer, Yung Bleu, has revealed his intention to sign any Nigerian upcoming artiste to his record label.

The rapper made this revelation on his Twitter page on Thursday, the 10th of February.

According to him, he is searching for an artist whose sound appeals to him.

Making the revelation, he tweeted ”I wanna sign a Nigerian artist tag one Up pointing index let me check em out”

He also revealed that some Nigerian artists’ recently visited his studio to record and he produced a track.

Yung Bleu said, ”Making a beat for this Nigerian artist it’s crazy they all standing at the mic at the same time they built differently they mean business.”

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Prison Official Rapes Mentally Challenged Teenager

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M.C. Bello, a Nigerian prison officer has allegedly raped a 13-year-old mentally challenged girl.

The incident happened on February 1, 2022, in Adamawa State.

It was gathered that Bello persuaded the minor with N50 before taking her into his quarters near the Yolde-Pate correctional facility in the Yola South Local Government Area of the state, where he had carnal knowledge of her.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, DSP Suleiman Nguroje said, Bello, is in police custody in connection with the crime.

He also said the police has commenced an investigation into the matter.

Reacting, the Human Rights Desk Officer at the Centre for Women and Adolescent Empowerment, Madam Laila said the victim had undergone medical examination and that there was confirmation that she had been sexually abused.

She said “We’ll follow up the case to its logical conclusion so that the little girl gets justice. The survivor has undergone a medical examination, which confirms penetration”

“The suspect has confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency, attributing his action to the devil’s influence.”

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Watch: Angelique Kidjo & Burna Boy “Do Yourself” New Video

Angelique Kidjo, and Burna Boy have released the music video for the song “Do Yourself”.

The video directed by Meji Alabi was shot in London and New York.

The song “Do Yourself” is off Angélique Kidjo’s recent album, “Mother Nature“, which was released in 2021.

In a statement, Kidjo said “With Burna Boy, we have written the anthem for a new Africa—laced with modernity, beauty, and energy. We revere Africa because it is the birthplace of all humanity. We won’t let her fall apart, we know she is strong like metal and steel. A long time ago we learned that if you want Africa to change, you have to do it yourself!”

Check out the video below:

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Youtube Is Adding New Tools For Creators To Make Money With Short

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YouTube is testing new ways for creators to monetize their content, interact with viewers, and generate new ideas for their channels using Short videos.

This was disclosed by the Chief Product Officer for the company, Neal Mohan, who gives a detailed description of the new products, tools, and features in a long post on the company’s Website.

Neal Mohan said, “This year, YouTube Shorts is getting new products, features, tools for our Creators, Viewers, and Partner.”

He said on the Creator side, YouTube says it plans to roll out new video effects, editing capabilities, and the ability to reply to comments by creating a Short — much like creators do on TikTok.

The Chief Product Officer added that YouTube plans to introduce new ways for creators to monetize Shorts, including by expanding avenues for branded content, bringing Super Chat to Shorts, and eventually, enabling the ability to shop from a Short.

He added “Shopping is going to be widely expanded on across the app more generally, the company says. Beyond shoppable videos and Live Shopping, it’s also exploring other ways to incorporate shopping into the YouTube experience.”

” YouTube is also introducing a handful of other features this year that will help creators generate new content. New insights will be added to YouTube Studio that the company says will help creators understand how viewers are interacting with their contact and help spark ideas for new videos.”

“Additionally, YouTube this year will roll out the ability for creators to go live together, once again boosting interactivity and working around the problem of coming up short for things to talk about with viewers.”

“On the user side, YouTube also plans to widely introduce a popular Twitch feature: gifted memberships. YouTube has already started testing the previously announced feature, but Mohan writes that YouTube expects to expand the capability in the coming months.

“In addition, YouTube will soon roll out an integration that’ll allow you to interact on your phone with the video you’re watching on TV. This will work when you’re logged into the same account on both devices and will allow viewers to read or write a comment and share videos from their mobile device, among other things.”

“Lastly, YouTube TV is getting a redesign this year that Mohan writes will “improve the look and feel, and let you organize your favorites more easily.” It’s a big year of change for YouTube — don’t miss our discussion with Mohan about all these and other changes coming to YouTube and YouTube TV on a new episode of Vergecast today.”

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Kodak Black Sustains Gunshot Injury At Justin Bieber’s After Party

American rapper, Kodak Black, has reportedly been hospitalized after he sustained a gunshot injury during an after-party organized by Justin Bieber, in Los Angeles.

TMZ reported that the rapper was outside a restaurant in West Hollywood, California, where Bieber’s Super Bowl party was held on Saturday when the shooting began.

A statement issued by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), stated that the rapper and three others were injured during the incident.

The statement also stated that those injured have already been hospitalized, stating that they are in “a stable condition.”

Police also said a preliminary investigation showed the incident happened after a “physical altercation” ensued “between several individuals at the location.”

“Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Wilshire Area are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for an early morning shooting,” it read.

“On February 12, 2022, around 2:45 a.m., Wilshire Area officers responded to gunshots heard in the 400 block of North La Cienega Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers located two victims of gunshot wounds.

“Preliminary investigation revealed there was a physical altercation between several individuals at the location. Gunshots were fired by an unknown suspect, who then fled south from the location.

“Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and transported two victims to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.

“Officers discovered there were two additional victims who self-transported to local hospitals, bringing the total shot to four. All four victims are listed in stable condition.

“The suspect is described as a male Black. No arrests have been made.”

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19-month-old Pupil Flogged By Teacher, Dies Five Days After Hospitalized

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The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of one of the private school teachers in Asaba, Arise and Shine Nursery and Primary School, for allegedly flogging one of the pupils who died five days after being hospitalized.

The deceased, identified as Obinna, a 19-month old pupil was said to have fallen into coma after receiving 31 strokes of the cane from the suspect.

Confirming the arrest to our correspondent on Sunday, Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Bright Edafe said the matter was being investigated.

Edafe also confirmed that the victim died on Saturday, adding that the suspect was the school proprietor’s son.

“We have the suspect who is the son to the owner of the school in our custody. He is a teacher in the school.

“But I wonder how a teacher would flog a pupil 31 strokes of the cane. I am only hearing it from the media that it was 31 strokes of cane.

“The question is was anybody there to count the strokes while the flogging was on?”, Edafe wondered.

A section of the media had alleged that the flogging was allegedly perpetrated by the school proprietor herself.

A human right group, Advocates for Children and Vulnerable People Network, had stated that the deceased pupil was allegedly flogged for playing with water and getting wet.

Chief Operating Officer of the network, Ebenezer Omejalile who blew it open, alleged that little Obinna’s hands and legs were tied before the flogging started.

Omejalile said the suspects including the proprietor and her son were initially arrested but released due to agreement with the victim’s family.

The human rights activist added that the suspects were re-arrested on Saturday after the baby died.

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Gov. Okowa Tell Communities To Embrace Peace Over Boundaries Dispute

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The Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on communities fighting over boundaries to embrace peace to pave the way for development.

The governor said this while speaking during the burial ceremony for late Professor Abednego Ekoko at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Uzere in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State over the weekend.

He said that no land was worth the life of any individual and urged the Isoko people to embrace peace in honor of the late Ekoko who was an accomplished boundary scholar.

According to him, Ekoko contributed immensely to the peaceful resolution of crises in many communities, adding that Isoko people should tread the path of peace in memory of the deceased peacemaker.

Okowa recalled that Ekoko played a vital role in the resolution of the Aladja-Ogbe-Ijoh crisis and other boundary issues in the state and across the country when he served as National Commissioner, National Boundaries Commission.

He said “on behalf of my family and the government and people of Delta, I extend my condolences to the Ekoko family of Uzere on the passing of our father, brother, and friend.

“We thank God for what is happening today on the day a peaceful man is being laid to rest. Professor Ekoko achieved all that he truly needed to achieve and today we are celebrating his life of great accomplishments.

“In everything he found himself doing he excelled and he taught my wife at the postgraduate level and has impacted directly on my family.

“In the community, he rose to achieve the highest honor in the land and beyond serving God; he served Nigeria at our national governance and through various appointments in the state.”

He counseled the people to eschew bitterness, especially over land matters, saying “when you fight because of land and for the sake of the land, destroy lives, those lives you destroyed you cannot recreate them when you settle.

“No land is worth the life of anyone and as leaders and elders, we ought to hand over things that will connote peace and development and not a crisis.

“I hope that the sermon spoken to us today will touch our lives for a change in honor of the late Ekoko.”

Okowa urged the leadership of the Isoko Development Union and the Christian community to organize a collective prayer to rededicate Isokoland to God.

Bishop of Oleh Diocese (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. John Aruakpor, said that late Professor Ekoko was a man who worked for peace across the country.

He described him as a man who was an addicted singer and worshipper of God, adding that his death was a great loss to Christendom.

The bishop said that Ekoko worshipped God even through pains and sickness.

He urged Christians to live in peace and shun the spirit of bitterness and acrimony which had pervaded the land in recent years.

He said, “As politicians, it is only when we are united that we can attract dividends of democracy to our land.”

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Oxlade Apologise To The Lady In Sex Tape

Nigerian singer, Ikuforiji Abdulrahman, popularly known as Oxlade has eventually responded to his sex video that went viral.

He said he was betrayed while apologizing to the lady in the sex tape and also to his fans.

Oxlade has been in the media since a video showing him and an unrecognized lady having sex hit the internet.

The video clips were said to have been leaked via Snapchat. The sex video has proceeded to ignite a profusion of mixed reactions on Twitter.

While some users condemned the singer, others applauded what they termed Oxlade’s “skills” — as the footage was reshared across different social media networks.

According to a statement via his Twitter page on Saturday night, Oxlade apologized to his fans over the leaked sex tape.

The singer attributed the incident to “betrayals”, adding that “I am not the type of person to put my business out there.”

The ‘Ojuju’ crooner also begged the lady in the video, saying she does not “deserve this type of exposure.”

“I am conscious that my business is out in the public and I am not the type of person to put my business out there,” he wrote.

“Betrayals are very real and in this same token I want to apologize to the woman in the video, who did not deserve this type of exposure, and lastly apologies to my fans and well-wishers.”

It was gathered that about five different videos of the singer were disseminated across social media, in which he could be seen having sexual intercourse with the unrecognized lady.

The video clips come a few months after another sex tape scandal implicating Tiwa Savage, the Nigerian songstress, provoked hot anger across social media.

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Police Caught Couple With Fresh Human Parts

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Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a 43-year-old man identified as Kehinde Oladimeji and his 35-year-old wife, Adejumoke Raji, for having fresh human parts.

The suspects, who are residents of 72, MKO Abiola way, Leme, Abeokuta were reportedly arrested after different fresh human parts such as hands, breasts, and other parts were found in their house.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Abimbola Oyeyemi, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

Oyeyemi said the couple alleged to be herbalists who got the human parts from one Michael who resides in the Adatan area of Abeokuta.

Oyeyemi also said the suspects were reported at Kemta Divisional Headquarters by the Baale of Leme Community, Moshood Ogunwolu.

The PPRO said Ogunwolu told the police that one Pastor Adisa Olarewaju, who is a co-tenant with the suspects, informed him of offensive odors coming out from the room of the suspects.

According to the PPRO, he said “Upon the complaint, the DPO Kemta Division, CSP Adeniyi Adekunle, quickly led his detectives to the scene where a search was conducted.

“On searching the room, a plastic bowl containing fresh different parts of human being was discovered in the room, and the couple was promptly arrested.

“On interrogation, the suspects confessed they were herbalists and that the human parts comprise hands, breasts, and other parts were given to them by one Michael who they claimed resided in Adatan area of Abeokuta.

“All efforts to locate the said Michael proved abortive as the suspects could not locate his house.

“It will be recalled that a dismembered body of an unknown person was found in a swamp area at Leme area of Abeokuta about a week ago, it is not yet clear whether the parts is that of the found body or not.”

He, however, said the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Bankole, has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for discreet investigation.

“The CP vowed that anyone who is directly or indirectly involved in the crime would be brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others.”

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Breaking: Women Jubilates As Govt Legalize Polygamy In Kenya

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A group of women in Kenya has commended the government for a new law that went into effect this week.

The law that makes it legal for a man to marry as many women as he wants does not provide an official limit on the number of wives a man can have.

The polygamy measure was signed into law by President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday by formally recognizing it as a long-time cultural practice in the nation.

According to Kenyatta in a statement, he said: “Marriage is the voluntary union of a man and a woman whether in a monogamous or polygamous.”

“The Marriage Act 2014 defines various types of marriages including monogamous, polygamous, customary, Christian, Islamic, and Hindu marriages.”

Recall, the Parliament has passed the bill in March despite uprisings from female lawmakers who angrily stormed out of the late-night session at the time.

Initially, the bill gives the first wife the right to veto the husband’s choice of additional spouses. But male counterparts in the Parliament successfully pushed to get that clause dropped.

However, the Federation of Women Lawyers, a powerful women’s rights group applauded aspects of the bill and criticized others parts of it.

Reacting to the bill, Christine Ochieng, the executive director of the nation’s Federation of Women Lawyers said “We are happy with the law because finally all marriages are being treated equally.”

“All marriages will be issued with marriage certificates, including customary marriages. Before this, customary marriages were treated as inferior with no marriage certificates. This opened up suffering for the women because they could not legally prove they were married to a particular man.”

She suggested that the first wife should have a say in picking her husband’s co-wives.

“What we are not happy about is that now a man can marry another wife or wife without the consent of the first wife.”

In her opinion, she said. “That section of the law is potentially open to abuse because a man can secretly marry other wives because he doesn’t need his wife’s consent to marry.”

Also, Jane Kimani, a Nairobi resident who criticized the development said the bill is archaic and has no place in modern society

Kimani said “Polygamous marriages should not even be an issue today,” she said. “Kenya is moving backward instead of changing with the times.”

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Fix Nigeria, Don’t Blame Nollywood For Ritual Killings – Yul Edochie Tell Reps

Nigerian film star, Yul Edochie, son of Pete Edochie has knocked down claims that Nollywood movies are the reasons for constant ritual killings in the country.

He asked why would people keep blaming Nollywood for ritual killings, which according to him, have been occurring for years stating that crime can not go away in a country where people are living with extreme poverty.

He said this on Friday via his Instagram handle stating that the government should find a lasting solution to the suffering of the people.

According to Yul Edochie, on IG, he wrote “From when I was a kid in the eighties, I started hearing about ritual killings in Nigeria. There was no Nollywood. Hunger and poverty make people do crimes. No, be Nollywood cause am, Nollywood is only showing what happens in the society”.

“Nigerians are wallowing in extreme poverty. A hungry man is an angry man. Fix the country and crime will go away, don’t blame Nollywood.

“Frustrated people use a sniper to commit suicide, the remedy is to fix the reason for the frustration not ban sniper.”

This is coming after several people have criticized Nollywood for using scenes involving money rituals.

Recall on Wednesday, the House of Representatives asked the executive director, National File and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Adedayo Thomas to rise to the mandate of the agency as the clearinghouse for all movies produced in the country.

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Ycee: How An Artist Beef Me Because The Song He Featured Me Didn’t Blow

Nigerian rapper, Oludemilade Martin Alejo, better known as Ycee, has taken a swipe at his colleague for beefing him over a collaboration.

The rapper said he recently found out the artiste who featured him some years ago, is disappointed with him because the song did not become a hit.

According to a video shared by Instablog9ja on Instagram on Tuesday, the rapper who did not disclose the identity of the artiste berated the singer for expecting him to do the work of promoting the song even though he did not collect a dime from him for the feature.

Also in the video, Ycee announced that he would no longer be doing free features, adding that any person interested in working with him should endeavor to reach out to his management and stop contacting him directly.

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What I Encounter In London Hotel While Trying To Check-in – Bovi

Nigerian popular comedian, Abovi Ugboma, better known as Bovi, has revealed how he was almost accused of stealing in a hotel in London.

He said he got to the hotel and attempted to check-in when he was asked to present the card he used in booking the room.

Bovi stated this on Wednesday via his Instagram stories stating that he explained to the official that his wife, who is in Nigeria, helped him book the hotel using her card.

According to him, his explanation did not sit well with the officials investigating him as they thought he was trying to steal.

He said when the matter became worse, was when his card declined when they tried using it to further confirm his identity.

He said when the drama started getting complicated, he told the officials to search about him on Google to save himself from the unfolding situation.

While describing the situation, he wrote “Simon Leviev did spoil everywhere o. Tryna check into a hotel in London and they insist I present the card that was used for the booking.”

“I tell them it was done for me by my wife and she’s in Naija. That made it worse. They think I’m stealing. Then to crown am my card dey decline. For the first time in my life, I said the words ‘google me.”

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Delta State Police Command Extends Recruitment Exercise Till Friday 11

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The Delta State Police Command has extended the 2021 recruitment exercise for indigenes to Friday, February 11, 2022.

The exercise which commenced on 1st February 2022 at Cenotaph Asaba, has a total of four hundred and thirty-five (435) applicants screened so far.

This was disclosed by DSP. Bright Edafe, the spokesperson for the command, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that today, being February 10, 2022, is slated for Warri South and Warri southwest Local Government Areas respectively. Adding that over 50% of the applicants are yet to appear for the screening exercise.

Edafe also noted that the Delta Police Command wishes to inform applicants who are yet to appear for their physical/Credential screening that the exercise has been further extended to Friday, February 11, 2022, from 9 am to 6 pm at Cenotaph, Asaba.

Explaining further, he said the applicants are to report at Cenotaph, Asaba in their clean white T-shirt and shorts wearing a face mask with the following mandatory basic requirements.
i. National identity number (NIN).
ii. Original and duplicate copies of credentials.
a. O’ level result(s)
b. Certificate of origin
c. Birth certificate/declaration of age. Two white flat files
e. Four recent passport photographs
iii. Printout of application submission confirmation page.
iv. Duly completed guarantor’s form.

The police spokesperson added that any candidate who fails to present any of ( i-iv) above will not be considered for the screening.

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Nelly Apologies After His Sex Tape Hit The Internet

US rapper, Nelly has penned down an apology message after a video of him receiving oral sex surfaced on Instagram.

He says the video is an old clip that was never meant to see the light of day.

TMZ gathered that the “Hot In Herre” rapper started trending Tuesday on Twitter after his IG story briefly included an uncensored video of a woman performing oral sex.

According to TMZ, the video was quickly deleted, but not before folks were able to capture screen recordings and repost.

While apologizing, Nelly stated that “I sincerely apologize to the young lady and her family, this is unwanted publicity for her/them. This was an old video that was private and never meant to go public.”

Question on how the clip ended up getting on his Instagram account, his team said it seems like Nelly’s account may have been hacked.

The team further said they’re investigating a breach and are concerned more of his private content might have also ended up online.

The team added that information including his financial information, personal documents, and passwords might have also been tampered with.

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FG Grants 286 Foreigners Citizenship, Out Of 600 Applications

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The federal government has granted Nigerian citizenship to 286 foreigners out of 600 applications received.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting, presided by President Muhammadu Buhari approved the application on Wednesday.

According to the minister, 208 of those approved were granted citizenship by naturalization while 78 others were granted citizenship by registration.

Aregbesola said the approved applications cut across citizens from different countries.

Describing the development, Lai Mohammed, minister of information and culture, said the approval of the memo on citizenship was “groundbreaking”, adding that it came at the time some Nigerians are saying the country is unfit to live in.

Mohammed added that many foreigners around the world apply daily for Nigerian citizenship.

“It’s a groundbreaking memo as it will tell you because just as some people think Nigeria is not a fit and proper place to live,” the minister said.

“We have thousands of people who are applying daily all over the world from virtually every continent to be citizens of Nigeria. I think that is very instructive.”

Recall in 2017, the federal government granted Nigerian citizenship to 335 foreigners — out of the 500 applications received by the government.

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See Reactions As Oxlade Sextape Surface Online

Nigerians have reacted over the sex tape of singer, Ikuforji Olaitan Abdulrahman, better known as Oxlade, surfaced online.

Oxlade was seen in a viral video having sex with a girl after he openly displayed and recorded his nude using his phone.

The sex tape has gone viral on Twitter after it leaked out on Snapchat.

Meanwhile, the singer and his team are yet to make an official statement regarding the viral video.

But some Nigerians on Twitter have applauded his performance in bed while others have dragged him for using the energy meant for dropping hit songs to make a sex tape.

They also urged he should be dragged like Tiwa Savage when her sex tape leaked.

See some of the reactions gathered on Twitter:

@Tiwalang: “I think Oxlade is a good artist, but he is better at something else. Your versatility is admirable.”

@sammyconnect2: “Oxlade has blocked the comment section on IG. Bros, we are not trolling; we want to hail you.”

@khanofkanis11: “Apparently, there will never be much uproar when men’s sex tapes get exposes like there is when women’s happen. Tiwa’s case nearly shit the internet down with takes. Nobody cares about Cross’s nudes and everyone laughs about Oxlade’s and how good he is. Hypocrisy.”

@jayythedope: “Many of you are trying to paint Oxlade’s sextape like he committed a crime, smh. Everybody is a virgin on Twitter. It’s high time we all stopped acting like kids whenever things like this happen. When sex tapes get leaked, blame the leaker, that’s the criminal, period!!”

@Deoors “People that bashed the Tiwa video are applauding the Oxlade one.

Well different strokes for different folks.”

@Yeahmicee “Make Oxlade leave music start porn, this dick has to go round 🥺🥺🥺💀💀

@jedipand: “Nigerians are hypocrites, they bashed Tiwa Savege when her sextape was released, but are not applauding Oxlade because he is a man. Same thing should happen to him too.”

@Davidchibike “Oxlade’s sex tape leaked and everyone is praising his stroke game, where was this energy when it was Tiwa? 🙂

@Lyncoln4u “Person serious GF was pounded by oxlade… A wise is enough for the word”

@Aflamezi “Horse laid
Kare ohh Weldon sir

He don forget say him na public figure…
Abi baba don change Line of duty? Wan dae do blue film now? 🤔🤔
Hmm make una think am well

@Realviva “Tiwa Savage was slutshamed when her sex tape dropped, but Oxlade own drops and it’s all cruise.

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Olamide Signs New Artists To YBNL, Jayboi, Asake

YBNL boss and rapper, Olamide, has signed two new artists, Jayboi and Asake to his label.

Olamide made this announcement on his IG story four days ago after signing Jayboi.

According to him, he wrote, “Welcome to YBNL officialjayboi.”

Also, on Tuesday morning, Olamide further revealed the signing of Asake through a video post he shared when he was seen in the studio with him.

Sharing the video post on his Instagram page, Olamide wrote “Mood…Asakemusic welcome to #YBNL.”

The signing of Asake comes after his recent collaboration with Olamide on a song titled ‘Omo Ope.’

Recall Olamide and Jayboi has been in a couple of songs together including ‘Yebobayee.’

Jayboi was also featured on Olamide’s ‘999’ album which was released in 2020.

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Basketmouth Second Album ‘Horoscopes’ To Drop on Feb 11

Nigerian comedian, Basketmouth has revealed information about his upcoming album titled ‘Horoscopes’.

The album which has nine tracks will be officially released on February 11, featuring 2Baba, illbliss, Cavemen, Johnny Drille, and Blackbonez.

Basketmouth made this revelation during his album listening party on Sunday.

According to him, he said he is back to his first love, music stating that “Back then, I started with music, I never really left it. I just took a pause and now I’m back on it but it does not affect any other thing that I’m doing because they all complement each other.”

“Right now, I’m creating content like ‘Flatmate’, ‘Baba Benji’, ‘Ghana Jollof’, and all these contents require soundtracks. So, in the process of making a soundtrack, I made music.

“I’m a standup comedian, I’m still doing it. I’m making everything in one unit but people see it as several units but the truth is, the soundtrack compliment the movies.”

Speaking about what inspired the title of his album, he said it comes naturally.

“I don’t force it out. it comes like ‘Yabasi’. Even though I have a movie titled ‘Scorpio’, I decided not to name this music album the same as it would resist the album to just Scorpio zodiac sign.”

“So, I was like why not make it ‘Horoscope’ so that you can get more.

“As an Igbo man, I love highlife music and that was I made Yabasi but ‘Horoscope’ is a combination of different genres of music.”

He also talked about his upcoming show-themed Basketmouth Concert which is schedule to hold on September after his London tour.

The comedian added that the concert will end in Lagos, Nigeria.

‘Horoscope’ comes after the success of ‘Yabasi’ album he released in 2020.

The album is also coming four months after he signed a music deal with Empire, a US-based record label.

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Police Restores Sanity In Agbarho, Arrests Eleven Suspected Cultists With Guns

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested eleven suspected cultists, recovered two pump action guns, ten live cartridges, and restored sanity in Agbarho, a community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement issued by the state command Police Public Relations Officer, DSP. Bright Edafe, on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted “Sequel to the Cult clash between Eiye and Black axe confraternity in Agbarho, Ughelli North LGA that started on 6/2/2022, which led to the death of five persons.”

“The Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+ directed the Command Anti-Cult Unit (SACU), Dragon Patrol Teams, and Police Operatives from Agbarho Division to proceed to the said town to ensure that sanity is restored in the Community.”

“Consequently, the DPO Agbarho Division, CSP Sam Ogwa led the teams deployed on intelligence-led operation during which eleven suspected cultists who actively participated in the cult clash that led to the death of five persons were arrested and two (2) Pump action guns, one (1) cut to size locally-made gun, eight (8) expanded cartridges and ten rounds of live cartridges were recovered.”

The PPRO said that the situation has been brought under control and more patrol teams have been deployed to forestall any further breakdown of law and order in the Community. Adding that manhunt for the other fleeing suspected cultists is ongoing.

He further said the Commissioner of Police while calling on members of the public to help with any useful information that can lead to the arrest of the other fleeing suspects, also urges parents and guardians to monitor, guide and caution their wards to desist from any cult-related activities as the Command under his watch will not relent in arresting anyone found wanting and ensuring that they are prosecuted accordingly.

He added that the commissioner also warned that the Command is more than ever before determined to fulfill its core mandate which is to protect lives and properties, maintenance of law and order among others, and as such will not take it lightly with anybody who tries to cause mayhem of any kind in the state.

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Updates on 2021 Police Recruitment Screening Exercise In Delta

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The 2021 physical and credential recruitment screening exercise for Delta State indigenes into the Nigeria Police Force has commenced.

The exercise started on February 1st, 2022, at Cenotaph Asaba.

Applicants at Cenotaph Asaba

This was contained in a statement issued by the spokesperson for the state command, DSP. Bright Edafe, on Sunday, February 6, 2022, in Asaba, the state capital.

DSP Bright noted that a total of two hundred and seventy-eight (278) applicants have been screened so far.

He noted as follow: Aniocha North – 11
Aniocha South – 9
Bomadi – 20
Burutu – 24
Ethiope East – 22
Ethiope West – 23
Ika North East – 39
Ika South – 31
Isoko North – 17
Isoko south – 13
Ndokwa East – 16
Ndokwa West – 31
Okpe – 11
Oshimili North – 3
Oshimili South – 8

According to him, the exercise will continue on Monday 7th February 2022 for Patani, Sapele, and Udu LGA’s respectively.

The police spokesperson added that applicants from other LGAs who missed their scheduled date can also come for their screening.

He said the Commissioner of Police Delta State CP. Ari Muhammed Ali, while wishing all the applicants success during the exercise urges other applicants who are yet to appear for their physical/credential screening to take advantage of the ongoing screening exercise.

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Obasanjo Named Eternal Patron Of Kegites

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Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo has been named the eternal patron of Kegites Club, a socio-cultural group in Nigeria.

The Kenites club was established in 1962 at the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

The club is one of the popular socio-cultural groups in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

GoldenNationBlog gathered that on Wednesday, the gyration committee of the group paid a courtesy visit to Obasanjo at his Abeokuta residence.

During the meeting, the group sympathized with the former president over the fire incident that destroyed his farm located in Benue State.

According to a statement released on the group’s Facebook page, it was gathered that the former president accepted the position of the eternal grand patron of Kegites bestowed on him.

The group also said Obasanjo approved the invitation of Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, for a gyration event ahead of his 85th birthday to celebrate him.

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My Next Album Maybe My Last, 95% Ready – Rapper Olamide

Nigerian rapper and record label boss, Olamide Adedeji, better known as Olamide, has shared some details to his fans about his next album.

He said his next album titled ‘Unruly’ is 95 percent ready added that it may be his last.

The rapper said this on Saturday on his Twitter pages.

According to Olamide, he’s not specific about the exact release date but said he would be dropping single at intervals.

The YBNL label boss stated that he was simply putting up with his time to ensure it is the best.

He wrote “Next Album = #Unruly 95% ready. Release date = I don’t know
Taking my time to make it the best… probably my last album.

“Though I’ll drop singles once in a blue moon when I feel like it. It’s been a mad ass run; giving albums back to back.”

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Video: Onicha-Ogbo Youths Protest, Blocks Onicha-Ogbo/Abuja Road In Delta

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The youths of the Onicha-Ogbo Community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State have taken to the street to blocked the Onicha-Ogbo/Abuja road while protesting for the dividend of democracy.

The youths through their demonstrations on Thursday morning, February 5, 2021, created awareness through the protest and call on the federal and state governments to understand the pains residents suffered due to the bad nature of the road.

Speaking during the protest, Comr. Emmanuel Ekharto Zelinjo, the Youth spokesperson for Aniocha North LGA expressed concern to the DPO of Onicha-Ogbo Police Division who visited the scene stating that said “Oga thank God you are a federal government worker and we can send you our Message. We are not happy, at all. Oga DPO, our people, and suffering and smiling, and yet Delta State is an oil-producing state. What have we done bad that will make government forget Onicha-Ogbo.”

Comr. Ekhator also asked “Is Onicha-Ogbo not part of Nigeria? Is Onicha-Ogbo not part of Delta State? These are the pertinent questions we want answers to now. Our major challenges now this road. Our ancestors have been using this memorial. Umeko belongs to Onicha-Ogbo. Now, this road is so bad and it is a federal road.”

He lamented that the community has endured for so long but yet to no avail.

“We waited and waited, no answer. Very soon Oga DPO, I am aware that you are aware that the rainy season is fast approaching.”

“Now we have suffered so much, we have looked for every possible means to address this issue. We have some good people in government. We have expected them to say the truth or attract one or two to this direction, no way.”

He also revealed that “There is no government presence in Onicha-Ogbo except the Police station. That is why we are calling on the government to help us repair the road.

Ekhator added that the community has been doing self-help to ease the movement of vehicles utilizing that route.

Watch below the video:

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If Everyone Participates In 2023 Election, The Game Will Officially Change -Falz

Nigerian rapper, Falz has said if everyone participates in the 2023 general elections, the outcome will change because whoever wins will be active.

The music star said this while responding to a question during an interview with HipTV.

He said the renewed energy and increased awareness with which citizens are approaching matters of politics, policies, and governance in the country will enable anyone elected to sit up.

According to Falz, he said the reduction in political apathy among citizens would ensure leaders don’t get too comfortable.

In his explanation, he said, “There’s an energy that’s growing and it’s very good to see. Everyone is aware now. Everyone wants to participate. And that’s what we need. Once everyone can participate, whoever is in power won’t get too comfortable.”

“Always feeling like they have the system figured out. Once everyone participates come 2023, the game officially changes. It doesn’t matter what the actual results of these elections are. What matters is that the game changes.”

Falz also talked about the recent successes the Nigerian music space has recorded.

He depicted Africa as making “historic” paces, according to him “African music is on the rise. It’s number one in the world. I’m so happy to be born into this time. I’m so excited to be a part of this movement. It’s historic. This right here will go down in history,” he added.

“People don’t even understand what’s happening right now. It hasn’t even started.”

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Adekunle Gold Drops New Album ‘Catch Me If You Can’

Nigerian music star, Adekunle Gold has finally dropped his fourth album titled ‘Catch Me If You Can.’

The singer made this announcement on Friday via his social media handles.

The album contains 14 tracks which include ‘Born Again’, ‘Win’, ‘Mase Mi’, ‘One Woman’, ‘Mercy’, ‘More Than Enough’, ‘Sinner’, ‘FYE’, ‘Sleep’, ‘High’, ‘Dior, Dior, Dior’, ‘It Is What It Is’, ‘Selah’ and ‘Catch Me If You Can’.

In the album, he also features several top singers including Davido, Fousheé, Fatoumata Diawara, Ty Dolla $ign, Lucky Daye, and Stefflon Don.

His latest project comes after the success recorded by his past three albums namely, ‘Gold’ (2016), ‘About 30’ (2018), and ‘Afropop’ (2020).

In 2015, Gold attained popularity after releasing his hit single ‘Sade’ a highlife cover of One Direction’s ‘Story of My Life.

Listen to the album:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX1JK2UnfDCOP?si=y97FK6VfTkC0C0dtFc6bMA&utm_source=copy-link

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Sweden Opens News Consulate In Lagos

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Sweden has opened a new consulate in Lagos to widen economic cooperation between Nigeria and the Nordic country.

The new Swedish consulate was inaugurated by Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday at Landmark Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reported that the Swedish Ambassador in Nigeria, Carl Michael Gräns, said during the ceremony that the consulate in Lagos would be a focal point for trade and socio-cultural activities for both countries.

He said Sweden’s first embassy was opened in Nigeria on October 1, 1961, stating that both countries had celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations.

According to Gräns, he said “Right now, we want to broaden our economic cooperation and that is one of the reasons this honorary consulate has been opened.

“We understand that the pandemic has done a lot of harm to businesses and relations but we desire to get closer and be a significant part of the economic recovery,” said the Swedish envoy.

He also said the new honorary consulate would consult affairs for Swedish citizens and Nigerians on business issues as well as cultural promotion.

Also speaking at the ceremony is the newly appointed Honorary Consul of Sweden in Lagos, Philip Akesson, who said his primary task was to assist Swedish citizens in Nigeria with consular matters, while also supporting Swedish companies in necessary ways.

Akesson added that in the course of his 10 years in Nigeria, he fell in love with the entrepreneurial energy warmth, economic culture, and drive of Nigerians.

He said “There are many opportunities in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos, and I believe that the relationship between both countries will continue to be strengthened.

“I look forward to supporting our Swedish businesses and also supporting the embassy in Abuja as they work to improve upon ties, friendship, and the promotion of trade between both nations.”

Responding, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State is open to more business partnerships with Sweden.

The governor stated that the presence of the mission in Lagos will further strengthen Swedish-Nigerian businesses leading to mutually beneficial economic, cultural and political results.

According to the governor, he said “It is exciting to know that the bilateral relations between Sweden and Nigeria span over sixty years. This speaks to our partnership and I appreciate the Swedish government for putting this together.”

“A lot of businesses and sovereign nations in Nigeria recognize that while we have a thriving capital in Abuja, for them to be close to citizens, activate businesses, and initiate cultural activities, there is always a sense that they must have a footprint in Lagos.

“This partnership is not only about what Lagos stands for but also the benefits we all can derive from bilateral relations and today, the Swedish government has done the most appropriate thing.”

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Sabinus Says FG Discouraging Entertainers With Stiff Rules, Police

Nigerian popular skit maker, Chukwuemeka Ejekwu, better known as Sabinus, has expressed dissatisfaction over the federal government’s perception towards entertainers and the industry.

He also said the government has not done enough to establish an enabling environment for the entertainment industry to strive but yet discouraging skit makers with its stiff rules and police.

The funnyman said this during an interview with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, a TV host recently.

According to Sabinus, he said “I think entertainment, in general, is the best thing Nigeria has right now. As for Super Eagles, we will talk about that later. Entertainment is one reason for which I would say I’m proud of my country.”

“But I don’t see the government looking into that aspect. They don’t see it as anything. Instead, they go against the entertainers, trying to manipulate us with some kinds of rules, regulations, the police, and all that stuff.

“The government needs to calm down and come to terms with entertainment bodies because so many things are going on that they don’t know about. And these things can help this country. Content creation is a career now.

Speaking about the revenue potential of showbiz in Nigeria, he said “It’s playing very well. Why many citizens in the country don’t know about it is because of the government. I wish the government can put an eye on it and invest. You’ll see massive talents that are still behind.

“To do an advert right now, I could get paid N1.5 million or N2 million for a post. In a month I could get five ads. That’s roughly N10 million on a very good month. A reasonable person should invest and put things in place.”

He also acknowledged he would take hold of any opportunity to break into Nollywood, stating that many Nigerian skit makers and content creators earn millions monthly but end up being typecast as people with questionable wealth.

He said “Content creation helped many youths. There are people YouTube pays roughly N15 million to N20 million every month. Nobody knows. Later, if that person buys a house, people say it’s fraud. It doesn’t work that way.”

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Delta State Police Command Goes Tough On Drugs Barons, Indian Hemp Dealers, Cultists

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The Delta State Police Command has taken it hard on drugs barons, Indian hemp dealers and also arrested 25 male suspected cultists in the state.

This was disclosed by the command spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, on Thursday, February 3, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he said “On 1/2/2020 at about 0900hrs, acting on intelligence, the Command Crack Surveillance team raided a black spot in Okwuch quarters, Eku during which one Larry Onifon ‘m’ age 24yrs was arrested.

“The Suspect who claimed to be a fashion designer was arrested in the drug Neighborhood while other suspects took to their heels. The following exhibits were recovered: Forty (40) packets of 100mg Tramadol, eighty-nine (89) wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, four (4) sachets of Swinol, three (3) containers of Loud, fifty-five (55) wraps of substances suspected to be cocaine.”

“The suspect Larry Onifon also stated that the cartel popularly called the “OBJ cartel” is owned by one of the fleeing suspects named “OBJ”. The suspect is in custody while a manhunt for the other fleeing suspects is ongoing.”

DSP Edafe also said that “On 31/01/2022 at about 2100hrs, the Command Raider’s operatives raided a criminal hideout at Agbor, Delta State, during which twenty-five (25) male suspected cultists were arrested.”

“Some of the suspects confessed to being members of Black Axe Confraternity and Junior Supreme Aiye Confraternity. The investigation is ongoing.”

The police spokesperson added that the Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+ while appreciating officers and men for their tireless efforts in the fight against crime and criminality, also admonished them to be alive to their responsibilities and discharge their duties effectively.

He said “The CP thanked Members of the public and other stakeholders for their continuous support and partnership with the Command. He assures all that the Command under his watch will not let them down.”

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Drunk Police Officer kills Army Man In Borno

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An allegedly drunk police officer from the force mobile unit has killed a soldier identified as Donatus Vongkong, a warrant officer.

The soldier and the policeman are officers stationed at the palace of Abubakar El-Kanemi, the Shehu of Borno, to provide security services.

It was gathered that the armed police officer returned to the palace area around midnight after being drunk on Tuesday, a source disclosed.

According to the source, the police officer started “misbehaving” and the army officer who is in charge of the security unit at the palace had to intervene.

The source said, “Vonkong after noticing the attitude of the police officer, ordered that the policeman be disarmed but his policemen colleagues started begging that he would be fine.”

The source explained that “Vonkong agreed, and we thought the matter had been addressed. Suddenly, the policeman engaged his rifle and started shooting sporadically. It was while trying to get around him that a bullet hit Vonkong in the chest and he died immediately.”

“The situation almost led to a fight between the army and the police, sources said, but senior officers from both agencies quickly intervened.”

Another source also revealed that “There was a delegation of senior police officers from the command who immediately went to see the army’s theatre commander.

“The matter was going to escalate and this could lead to soldiers, in retaliation, opening fire on police officers. Several policemen immediately left their duty post in fear of a retaliatory attack.”

However, the police spokesperson in the state, Kamiludeen Sani, when contacted, could not immediately comment on the incident.

In 2012, Vongkong was single-handedly picked by the Shehu to serve as his chief of security when he reportedly saved the monarch from a suicide bomber.

It was gathered that El-Kanemi escaped the bomb explosion that went off immediately after Jumat prayers at a mosque in front of his palace. About 10 people died in the blast.

Vongkong who had noticed the suicide bomber moving close to the Shehu was said to have jumped to pull out the Shehu. The soldier also sustained an injury while ensuring the safety of the monarch.

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Atiku’s Daughter Gift Zubby Michael Plot Of Land On His Birthday

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar’s daughter, Nana Atiku, has gifted Zubby Michael, a Nigerian actor a plot of land in Abuja to mark his birthday.

Zubby turn a new age on Tuesday, February 1, and he was celebrated by friends, colleagues as well as fans on social media.

Making the announcement, the Nollywood actor took to his Instagram page that he received a land gift from Nana Atiku which he tagged “best cake day gift ever”.

Appreciating the Realtor, the film star also say a prayer for her as he wrote “Best cake day gift ever. NANA ATIKU just gifted ME a plot of land in Abuja as a cake day gift @nanaatiku_kadi. I appreciate this thanks and GOD bless.”

It was gathered that Nana also shared some photos writing: “Happy birthday to my favorite Actor. A Man with a heart of gold. May happiness never depart from you.

“May God keep opening ur ways as you bless others. Am always proud of you. Happy birthday my brother. May Allah bless your new Age.”

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R. Kelly Contracts Covid-19 Inside Jail

American singer, R. Kelly, who is awaiting sentencing after being convicted on racketeering and sex trafficking charges, has contacted Covid-19 at the federal jail in Brooklyn, New York.

The singer who was diagnosed recently with the virus has been given a two-week extension on Tuesday after his lawyer pleaded with the judge. An opportunity that extends R. Kelly’s deadline to file an appeal in his lawsuit.

According to the presiding judge, Ann Donnelly has said the singer has from February 17 to begin his September 2021 conviction on the charges that he had sex with underage girls and bribed a state employee to create a fake ID card so he could marry Aaliyah, a 15-year-old music artist.

But R. Kelly’s lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, who filed ahead of the judge’s decision said on her Twitter page on Tuesday that the singer’s Covid-19 diagnosis “interfered with his ability to speak with counsel by telephone” to review his post-trial paperwork.

https://twitter.com/jenniferbonjean/status/1488550193993760781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1488550193993760781%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Flifestyle.thecable.ng%2Fr-kelly-contracts-covid-19-in-jail%2F

Bonjean stated that “It is vitally important that Mr. Kelly meaningfully participates in his post-trial defense.”

“The (jail) has not indicated when visits will resume which is less than ideal, but undersigned counsel is confident that she can accomplish necessary discussions with Mr. Kelly via upcoming scheduled Zoom visits”

She also stated that her client was faring “well” following his infection.

“Understandably, many people are concerned about Mr. Kelly’s health and well-being (as am I). Mr. Kelly is doing well, but there is no question that MDC’s Covid policies are putting all inmates in harm’s way.

However, R. Kelly risks the chance of 10 years minimum and maximum of life imprisonment if sentenced in May.

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Clergyman blasts David Ibiyeomie For Causing Yahoo Boys Instead of Politicians

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Nigerian pastor, Apostle Kassy Chukwu, general overseer of The Oracle of the Nation Ministry, has blown up on his counterpart, the Senior Pastor of Salvation Ministries, Bishop David Ibiyeomie, a Port Harcourt-based cleric for cursing Yahoo Boys.

He also asked Ibiyeomie to place his curse on politicians because to him, they are the major causes of Nigeria problem.

It was gathered recently from a viral video that Ibiyeomie while preaching in his church, prayed that Yahoo Boys would have accidents with the cars they buy with the proceeds from their illicit activities.

During his preaching, he also placed curses on police officers who release arrested internet fraudsters.

But in a trending video that was seen by Goldennationblog.com at Lindaikejiblogofficial page on Instagram on Tuesday, Apostle Kassy asked Ibiyeomie to stop cursing Yahoo Boys stating that none of his curse placed on the Internet fraudster would work.

The clergyman alleged that everywhere is peaceful and no cult clashes are recorded because the boys now have something they are engaged to.

According to him, he said “Wetin concern you concern Yahoo people? Are they the problem of Nigeria”?

Speaking further, he asked Ibiyeomie to stop talking like that. He said that prayer will not work! You cannot curse Yahoo boys. At all! E dey forbids to curse politicians. Why e nor go curse politicians? Because na them dey him a church. Na they dey buy the private jets for them. Na them dey buy the big big motor for them. All the big big motor he is driving, who is buying it for him? The clergyman added.

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I’ll Love To Collaborate With Drake, Eminem – Mayorkun Reveals

Nigerian singer and DMW signee, Mayorkun, has revealed his interest to collaborate with global music superstars, Drake and Eminem.

The 27-year-old singer also talked about his relationship with Davido, his latest album ‘Back In Office’, and those who inspired him.

Mayorkun made this revelation recently during an interactive session with ‘That Grape Juice’ after performing his latest song ‘Holy Father’ featuring Victony.

Talking about those who inspired him, he said “Bob Marley and King Sunny Ade are the people I listen to then. If you talk about now, I would day Davido and Wizkid.”

According to him, he said “Davido has inspired me as a musician and human being. I lived with him for like two-three years. He is like my big bro.”

He added that Davido has inspired the way he writes and moves in the music industry.

When asked about his dream collaborations, Mayorkun mentioned the Canadian rapper and singer while stating that “everybody wants to work with Drake.”

He also mentioned US rapper, Eminem for some weird reason.

In 2016, he was discovered by Davido, and ever since then, the singer has continued to pull strings in the Nigerian music industry and has won several awards and recognitions for his name.

Recall in 2018, he won the ‘Next Rated’ category at the Headies awards.

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24-year-old Man Loses Testicle After Being Shot By Fetish Priest

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A 24-year-old man identified as Kwasi Peters has reportedly lost one of his testicles after being shot by a fetish priest during a fight.

The incident occurred at Dwenewoho in Ahafo Ano South West District of Ashanti Region of Ghana.

It was gathered that fight ensued after Kwasi accused the priest of sleeping with his wife.

Kwasi who speak to the media at Dwenewoho said he confronted the priest after seeing him with his wife in compromising positions on several occasions.

According to the victim, he said “I never believed rumors about the affair between the priest and my wife until I saw the two going on errands on several occasions mostly around 11 p.m. in the night.

“I confronted him when my wife’s attitude confirmed her affair with the priest but he shot me in the process.

This is not the first time he’s sleeping with a married woman, we have evidence of his acts in our community and so I could not sit down for him to destroy my marriage”

However, the priest has been arrested and is currently detained at Mankranso Police Station for more investigation.

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National Assembly Amend Electoral Bill, Sent To Buhari For Assent

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The National Assembly has modified the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill and had also transmitted it to President Muhammadu Buhari for assessment.

This was disclosed in a statement titled Transmission of the Electoral Bill 2022′, on Monday by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Babajide Omoworare.

According to Senator Omoworare, he stated that “The Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr. Olatunde Amos Ojo, has sent the authenticated copies of the Electoral Bill 2022 to the president on 31st January 2022.

“This was done by the provisions of Section 58 (3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Acts Authentication Act Cap. A2 LFN 2004.

“Mr. President had withheld assent to the Electoral Bill 2021 transmitted to him on 19th November 2021. The electoral bill was thereafter reworked by the National Assembly and both the Senate and the House of Representatives passed the same on 25th January 2022.”

The federal parliament had since Tuesday last week amended the electoral bill for the second time by concurring on consensus candidacy and setting fresh conditions for political parties in the nomination of candidates for elections.

The President had last year vetoed the electoral bill and sent it back to the National Assembly over the restriction of political parties to direct primary, insisting on the direct or indirect.

The House had amended Clause Section 87 of the Electoral Act 2010, which is Clause 84 of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, by inserting the indirect primary option.

The Senate, however, not only added indirect primary but also consensus adoption of candidates for elections by a political party.

Bypassing different amendments to the bill, the Senate and the House were expected to refer the versions to a conference committee to harmonize the differences and report back for final passage and transmission to the President for assent.

However, both the Senate and the House of Representatives, last week, took a shorter route by rescinding their decisions on the amendments last week and re-amending the electoral bill.

This time, the House agreed with the Senate on the agreement, while both chambers passed the same conditions set for the option.

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Kelly Rowland Shows Interest To Collaborate With Ayra Starr On Bloody Samaritan Remix

American songstress, Kelly Rowland, has shown an interest in collaborating with Nigerian singer and Marvin Record signee, Ayra Starr, on the remix of her hit song ‘Bloody Samaritan’.

The news of this development arose after Kelly and Ayra Star took to their respective Instagram stories to repost a video of a Ghanaian-American author, Larry Ossei-Mensah, who shared a video of himself driving with the song playing in the car on his Instagram page on Sunday.

Sharing the post, Mensah also tagged both singers and wrote “I need this collab to happen for the culture, please!”

It was gathered that Kelly Rowland reposted the video on her Instagram stories on Sunday confirming her interest in the collaboration.

Reposting the video, Kelly wrote, “Just say the words, I’m ready.”

The Punch gathered that Ayra Starr also reposted Kelly Rowland’s post on her Instagram stories.

In August 2021, Ayra Starr released her debut album ’19 and Dangerous’ which amassed her the number 2 spot on Billboard’s Next Big Sound chart in the same month.

Since the release of her album, the singer, born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, has remained relevant and consistent in the Nigerian music scene.

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Rihanna Expecting First Child, Show Off Her Baby Bump [Photos]

Barbadian singer, Rihanna, and her rapper boyfriend, A$AP Rocky, are expecting their first baby together.

Daily Mail reported that the couple were seen on Friday during an outing in A$AP Rocky’s hometown, Harlem, in New York.

According to a photo post, Rihanna was seen wearing a bright pink $8,000 vintage Chanel coat, which she wore open from just below her breasts, showing off her bare baby bump while her boyfriend was also seen protectively placing his hands over her as they stopped to share a kiss.

In December 2020, Rihanna and Rocky were first reported to be dating after being long-time friends.

A$AP Rocky had served as an opening act for the US dates of her Diamond World Tour in 2013 and also featured on her track ‘Cockiness’.

In 2018, they were also spotted together attending a Louis Vuitton fashion show in Paris.

However, in November 2021, the singer first sparked pregnancy rumors after she was named a national hero in her native Barbados. It was gathered that she had worn a tight-fitting gown when she was to accept the award.

Also, in March 2020, Rihanna had spoken about her plans to have kids in the next 10 years with or without a partner.

“Ten years? I’ll be 42! I’ll be ancient. I’ll have kids—three or four of ’em,” she had said.

Rihanna had once dated Chris Brown, Drake, and a fellow billionaire, Hassan Jameel.

In August last year, Forbes had declared the Fenty Beauty mogul as a billionaire with an estimated net worth of $1.7 billion.

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Buhari Hails Onyeka Onwenu As She Celebrates 70 Years Birthday

President Muhammadu Buhari has celebrated with singer, Onyeka Onwenu, the renowned songstress who is also known as the Elegant Stallion as she clocks 70 years.

The President also showered praises on the “One Love” singer and also prayed that God would go on to bless her with long life and good health.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Femi Adesina on Monday.

In the statement titled ‘Buhari greets Onyeka Onwenu at 70’, the President heap praises her for living a life that inspired both the old and younger generation.

According to the statement “The President affirms that Onwenu’s creativity, sincerity of purpose and diligence continue to bring glory to the country, starting as an NTA presenter and reporter that caught the world’s attention by putting a spotlight on corruption in the ’80s and releasing songs with great social and moral impact.”

He applauded Onwenu, a former executive director/chief executive officer of the National Centre for Women Development and chairperson of Imo State Council for Arts and Culture, for fresh ideas and institutional reforms she brought into public service.

He also praised her for passionately developing and maintaining a vision for a reasonable life for many.

Buhari said Onwenu’s many recognitions and awards at home and abroad were well-deserved, adding that she directed her energy into global movies with historic contexts.

He also said Onwenu concentrated her energy into sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ which he prayed that God would go on to bless her with long life and good health.

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Nigerian Man Shot Dead After Stabbing Officers At Police Station In Ghana

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A Nigerian man identified as Hakimu Friday has reportedly been shot dead after he allegedly stabbed some police officers at the Kwabenya Hills Valley police station in Accra, Ghana.

The incident occurred on Friday, January 28, 2022, after the suspect had threatened to kill three persons and stab a police officer in the head.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by ACP Kwesi Ofori, Director-General, Public Affairs of Ghana Police Service on Saturday, January 29, 2022.

According to ACP Ofori, he noted that on Friday, January 28, 2022, the suspect had threatened to kill three persons. The victims out of fear rushed to the police station to seek refuge but the suspect pursued the victims to the station with a knife.

He noted at the police station, the deceased attacked the station officer and the investigator with a knife and stabbed them multiple times for attempting to protect the victims from the violent attack.

He also noted that the police after sensing that the lives of the station officer, the investigator, and the three other victims were in danger, shot and killed the suspect.

ACP Ofori further noted that the injured police officers are currently responding to treatment at the police hospital while the body of the deceased has been deposited at the police hospital mortuary.

However, the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and some POMAB members on Saturday visited the Kwabenya Hills Valley Police Station to encourage the injured officers, while also commended the station officer for protecting the victims at the peril of his life.

The IGP also uses the opportunity to warn people who have a penchant for attacking police stations that they should be prepared to face the full wrath of the law.

The statement partly read “The deceased went straight to the station officer, Inspector Osei Yaw, and stabbed him several times on the head and also caused damage to the office furniture. He later turned his attention on the investigator and punched him on the face injuring him as well,”

“Deceased also caused damage to other office and the glass doors and windows. Police in an attempt to immobilize the now deceased whilst trying to flee, he was fired upon and he died whiles being conveyed to hospital. Body deposited at the Police Hospital Morgue. The Kwabenya District Crime Officer has visited the scene to assess the situation.”

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Obi Cubana, DCP Kyari Seen Together At IGP Son’s Wedding

Nigerian socialite, Obi Cubana and the suspended deputy commissioner of police (DCP), Abba Kyari, were among the public personalities who turned up for the Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Baba Alkali, son’s wedding.

The pair were spotted again at the wedding after they were last seen together during Obi Cubana’s mother’s funeral in July 2021, at Oba in Anambra state.

The IGP’s son’s wedding took place at the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Umar Garbai El-Kanemi on Saturday.

Other prominent personalities at the event include Senate President, Ahmad Lawan; former governor of Borno, Hadi Sirika; Minister of Aviation, and billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote.

See some of the photos:

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Nigeria Police Announces Date For Recruitment Exercise

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Nigeria Police Force has fixed Feb. 1 for commencement of physical and credential screening of applicants who completed the 2021 online registration for recruitment into the constable cadre.

The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Mr. Frank Mba disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the screening would be conducted by the Force in conjunction with the Police Service Commission (PSC).

Mba said the exercise, slated to commence on Feb. 1 would end on Feb. 6 at designated venues in states across the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to him, all applicants are to proceed to their respective states of origin and appear at the various screening centers in their clean white T-shirts and shorts.

He urged applicants to pay attention to detailed and specific guidelines on the exercise for each state, particularly, the location of screening and dates of screening per local government area.

Mba said the guidelines would be announced by the Police Public Relations Officers in the 36 states of the federation and the FCT.

The PPRO said the Inspector-General of Police, IGP. Usman Baba had assured that the statutory entry requirements into the Force as clearly stated in the Police Act and Regulations, would be followed.

The IGP said the officials deployed for the screening had been directed to ensure that all applicants shortlisted were allowed to participate.

He said the officials were expected to recommend the suitability or otherwise of applicants in the spirit of transparency, accountability, and fair hearing using the already established benchmarks as contained in the Act.

The Inspector-General of Police also added that a total of 135,027 valid applications were received in the online registration.

He also affirmed satisfaction over the improvement in the number and geographic spread of the applications, particularly in the South-East and the South-South region of the country following the extension of the online registration.

The IGP said the exercise was free of charge and urged applicants to be wary of criminal elements who would want to take undue advantage of the exercise to perpetrate recruitment-related scams.

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I Suffered Depression As Single Mum – Iyabo Ojo

Nigerian actress, Iyabo Ojo, has revealed how she suffered depression when she started up her life journey as a single mum without direction.

The mother of two kids said this on Thursday on her Instagram handle and also shares old and current photos of herself with her children.

The film star wrote: “This year, I began my journey as a single mum with no direction. I was afraid, sometimes depressed, confused, and I always had a lot of anxiety.”

“I felt like a failure; a loser. I felt I wasn’t good enough, I felt little, I didn’t know how to fit in or even start.

“How was I even going to pull through? I never thought of making it in life. I just wanted my kids to be fine, that was my ultimate goal.

“All I knew to do was to love my kids immensely and give them all of me and that inspired me to keep moving.

“Today I look back and all I want to say is thank you, Lord.

“It’s never too late to start all over again. It will be tough but you will be fine. There is always light at the end of the tunnel.”

Iyabo Ojo got married to a movie marketer in 1999, at the age of 21. She also gave birth to her son, Felix in 1999, and Priscilla, her daughter, in 2001 respectively, before, her marriage to their father, crashed in 2001.

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Why I Left School To Chase My Music Career – Bella Shmurda

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Akinbiyi Abiola Ahmed, better known as Bella Shmurda, has revealed why he dropped out of school to chase his music career.

The singer revealed that he dropped out of Lagos State University (LASU) to pursue his music career because he failed some of his courses while at the institution.

He revealed that the failure finally ushered the determination to stop school.

He said this in a series of posts on Twitter on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, while analyzing his impressions in the music industry.

He also appreciated Poco Lee and Olamide for their contributions to his success.

In his post, he said “I did not regret the decision, instead, he boasted that he would not have achieved the status he is now if he had agreed to resit for the courses and further his studies.

Bella Shmurda boasted that he amassed 550 million streams as he wrote “I now worth over half a billion streams (550 million streams to be precise). I for still dey LASU dey wine and dine with carryovers and stranded with nothing in my pocket… forever glad I did my thing.”

“Thank God I was stubborn and I never got to pass those exams then. Big thanks to @Poco__lee for telling me to do that vision2020 viral video, shoutout to @Olamide for his listening ears and open hands for upcoming acts.”

“Thanks to omotena sha she sef try, the pikin suppose to be five this year but sometimes God proposes man disposes of because how I wan take tell mumsy wey I still dey apprentice for tailoring school.”

However, he celebrated his birthday today and also uses the opportunity to drop his first single for the year titled ‘My Friend.’

In 2020, Bella Shmurda rose to fame with the release of his EP titled ‘Vision 2020’ after which he released other hit songs including ‘Cash App’ featuring Zlatan Ibile.

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Erigga Blasts Bloggers For Not Posting His New EP

Nigerian rapper and songwriter, Erhiga Agarivbie, popularly known as Erigga, alias Paperboi, has taken a quick swipe at bloggers for not supporting him enough because they didn’t publicize his new music projects.

The rapper accused them of always publicizing controversial trends about him and deliberately disregarding him whenever he dropped new music.

He said this in a video post he shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, while driving.

In his post, he wondered why blogs preferred not to post his new EP titled ‘Strange Vibes’ featuring Jay Teazer on January 21, 2022.

The self-acclaimed King of the South went ahead to hand out an empty warning to any news platform that refuses to circulate his work.

According to Erigga while sharing the post, he wrote “9ja blogs God forbid. Thank God say my music no depend on una. The street got my back.”

Listen to the EP here

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Buhari Receives Olu Of Warri After Five Months Of Coronation

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President Muhammadu Buhari, receive Tsola Emiko, the 21st Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse lll.

During the visit, the President commended the monarch for his patriotism after he led a delegation to him at the State House on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.

According to Buhari in a statement issued by Femi Adesina, his spokesperson, he said “I’m grateful for your visit, and impressed by your patriotism. I’ve taken note of your requests and will work on them as soon as politically possible.”

Adesina also noted how the Olu of Warri expresses his gratitude to the president for sending a delegation to his coronation in 2021, stating that the people of Itsekiri are committed to “one united Nigeria, as they fully support his government aspiration by providing security and economic prosperity to all Nigerians irrespective of tribe, creed or religion.

Adesina said during the visit, the monarch also described the president as “a dogged patriot and fervent believer in project Nigeria.”

The spokesperson said the Olu of Warri further drew the attention of the president to what he described as the “underutilization” of some ports in Delta including Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu, and also urged Buhari to reconstitute the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) board.

“As an interested party, we genuinely want a better deal for us in the Niger Delta, as we believe charity begins at home”

“By this, we mean that we Niger Deltans must be ready to put the betterment of our people first in all we do. Putting our people first is the only way to make our lives better, ” Adesina said in the statement.

He also added in the statement that the monarch requested the president to immortalize the first finance minister, Festus Okotie-Ebon.

Others who escorted the monarch on the visit included her Highness Olori Atuwatse III and some chiefs from the Kingdom – Chief Mene Brown, Chief Oma EyewuomaChief Thomas Ereyetomi, Daniel Reyeneju, Dr. (Mrs) Dere Awosika, and a notable Itsekiri Oil & Gas businessman, Mr. Julius Rone.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the monarch and his Royal entourage also went on to visit Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo in his offices and had further meetings with him after leaving the presidency.

See photos of the visit below.

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US Court To Sentence Hushpuppi On Valentine’s Day

The Attorney General’s office at the Central District of California, United States, has said, Ramon Igbalode Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi, the confessed International fraudster will be sentenced on Valentine’s Day.

The court director of media relations, Thom Mrozek, alleged that Hushpuppi’s case is about to come to an end.

BBC also Pidgin reported that the court has planned to sentence him on February 14, 2022.

According to BBC Pidgin, the court’s spokesperson did not give any further information on the time of his trial and sentencing.

Recall in June 2020, Hushpuppi who is well known for his flamboyant lifestyle was arrested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) together with 11 of his associates over allegations bordering on hacking, impersonation, banking fraud, identity theft, scamming, Business email compromise.

He was later extradited to the United States after the UAE police reported his arrests in a special operation dubbed ‘Fox Hunt 2’ where he was indicted of defrauding 1.9 million victims to the tune of N168 billion.

However, the socialite had pleaded not guilty to four court charges. But an expert says he might serve up to 20 years imprisonment if found guilty of the accusation leveled against him.

In 2021, he also made the news after claiming to have bribed a deputy commissioner of police (DCP) in Nigeria, Abba Kyari, to arrest one of his associates and rival known as Chibuzo.

Although Kyari dismissed the allegation, an investigation by the FBI claimed the detective co-operated with Hushpuppi to foster the arrest of Chibuzo.

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UK Govt Set To Ban Virginity Repair Surgery

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The British government has tabled an amendment Bill to ban virginity repair surgery known as Hymenoplasty.

An act that makes a girl or woman bleed when next she has sexual contact by creating a fake hymen using scar tissue, a practice that is considered a form of violence against women and girls.

The bill was proposed under the Health Care amendment Bill on Monday, January 24, 2022.

According to the proposed bill, it will be a criminal offence to any procedure that attempts to reconstruct the hymen no matter if the individual undergoes the surgery permissions or not.

Reacting, Dr. Edward Morris, president of the Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologists said, Hymenoplasty can never be justified on medical grounds. Adding that they have been campaigning for the introduction of a ban on both virginity testing and Hymenoplasty.

He added that Women’s Health and Rights Organization are also campaigning against it as both are inextricably linked with violence against women and girls.

He explained that neither of these practices has a place in the medical world and should never be performed.

Explaining further, he said anytime they noticed that someone is performing these procedures, they will inform the General Medical Council so that appropriate measures can be taken against such a person.

Also, one British survivor of honor-based abuse who was harassed by her parents for months into having the surgery said, the ban will provide vital protection to girls under family pressure.

WION News also reported that a growing number of clinics, private hospitals, and pharmacies offer the controversial surgery, promising the restoration of virginity with a large number of girls and young women coerced into the procedure.

However, since July 2021, the government had dedicated itself to criminalized virginity testing, as doctors and midwives had called for the surgery to be banned.

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Pope Urges Parents To Support Their Children Despite Being Gay

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Pope Francis has called on families whose children are gay never to condemn them.

The pontiff had said this while speaking during his general weekly audience at the Vatican.

His Holiness said parents should always support their children if they are gay and not hide under the attitude of condemnation.

It was gathered that the Pope has repeatedly opposed that gay should be accepted in their parishes but expressed disagreement with their marriages.

According to the 85-year-old pontiff, he called on parents to never condemn their children for whatever reason, including their sexual orientation.

Speaking from the center stage of Paul VI Hall in the Vatican, the Pope said he understands the pains of parents whose children are affected with illnesses, even permanent illnesses, he added.

He said “Parents who see different sexual orientations in their children. How to deal with this, how to be on their side and not hide in a condemnatory attitude.”

While still speaking, he revealed that he is suffering from an agonizing inflamed ligament in his right knee that hinders his movement.

He also uses the opportunity to pray for peace in Ukraine and call for the center to prevail over partisan interests to resolve the West’s standoff with Russia.

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FG Set To Impose Twitter Operational Conditions On Other Social Media Platforms

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The Federal Government has said it is looking forward to applying the same operational conditions imposed on Twitter to Facebook, WhatsApp, and other social media platforms.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed at a meeting with Egypt Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Dr. Amir Talaat, in Cairo.

The meeting was based on a bilateral discussion with the Africa Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) on how Nigeria can access funding to support its growing creative industry.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reported that Nigeria’s information minister had led some private sector stakeholders involved in the Digital Switch Over (DSO) to Afreximbank to assist them on how they can source funds to complete the private-sector financial driven project.

NAN reported that the minister while discussing with his Egyptian counterpart said, Nigeria was amending its National Broadcasting Act and Broadcasting Code to ensure that all online platforms operating in the country must comply with stipulated conditions.

According to Lai Mohammed, the decision was borne out of the recent developments on suspending Twitter operations in the country and the agreement reached before the suspension was lifted.

Mohammed said “The beauty of the engagement with Twitter is immense.

“Whatever applies to Twitter will apply to all other social media platforms, be it WhatsApp, Facebook, or any other.

“That is why we will be having a retreat to amend the NBC Act and the NBC Code to incorporate these new gains we made with the engagement with Twitter.”

The minister also said on the agreement reached with Twitter, the microblogging site had agreed to open an office in Nigeria within the first quarter of 2022.

He also said that Twitter had agreed to appoint a designated country representative within one month of lifting its suspension while its global policy team would also be available to engage directly with the government.

He added that Twitter also agreed to meet all regulatory requests, which includes its registration with the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Nigeria Communication Communication Law, Rules, and National Broadcasting Commission Code.

He said “Twitter has agreed to comply to all payable taxes as they are operating under the Nigerian laws and this they agreed to do within one week of restoring their operations.

“Twitter agreed to immediately work with the Federal Government in the area of code of conduct which is in line with global best practices

“Twitter agreed to immediately enroll Nigerians in its Law Enforcement portals and Partners Support Portal.

“The law enforcement portal will provide dedicated channels for the Nigerian laws enforcement agencies to escalate reports on contents that violate the code of conduct or the national laws.

“Similarly, the partner support portal provides a direct channel for government to engage twitter staff to manage prohibited contents.”

Also, Mohammed added that the suspension of the Twitter operation from Nigeria was not because they wrote something about the president as being circulated.

He explained that the operation was suspended because Twitter had become the platform of choice for those who wanted to destabilize and create disunity among Nigerians and hit the government.

In his explanation, the minister said “We met with a barrage of knocks, we were accused of running the authoritarian government, trying to infringe on freedom of the press, violating the constitution but we were sure in our mind of what we were doing.”

“We were glad that after seven months of serious engagement with Twitter, we can say that what we achieved is what the suspension of the operations of Twitter was all about.”

Responding, the Egyptian minister, Dr. Talaat said his country had similar challenges in the area of dissemination of policies and programs of government.

Dr. Talaat also said he was a recent victim of a fake news report which was very devastating to him, adding that to combat the menace, a department was established in the office of the Prime Minister where they monitor on an hourly basis what kind of fake news is being fabricated.

He further said whenever such fake news surfaces, the government instantly responds by giving a candid viewpoint on the topic being circulated.

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Psquare Anticipate New Song After Five Years

Nigerian music duo, Peter and Paul Okoye, better known as Psquare, are set to drop their first song after they put aside their five years controversial rifts.

This was disclosed through a post they shared on their Instagram page on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, with a caption prompting fans to expect the project. 

Sharing the post, Mr. P wrote on his page “You’re ready….Incoming,” while Rudeboy also wrote “Incoming.”

Recall in 2017, the two parted ways over opposition on the part of their elder brother, Jude Okoye, who happens to be their manager.

However, Peter had earlier criticized the constant comparison from fans — over who is better between the duo — as part of the reasons they broke up.

According to his statement, he said “For those trying to troll us, if it is painful for you, it’s not painful for us. You guys don’t matter anymore. Let me say it openly if you are a P-Square angry fan, you guys don’t matter anymore. It’s not about you guys anymore, it’s about us. Go and deal with your sour,” he had said.

“Don’t let me hit on you guys because you guys don’t even deserve it. Because you guys are among the people that contributed to the break-up. Two brothers doing their own thing, you try to say one is better than one. Una don gets wetin una want.”

Meanwhile, in November 2021, they ended up their five years dispute and thereafter organized their welcome back concert in December.

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Olarika Bags New Endorsement Deal With Maserati Company

Nigerian fast-rising music producer and singer, Olarika, has signed an endorsement deal with Maserati company, an automobile production brand in recognition of his hit song ‘In My Maserati’.

This was announced in a video post shared by the automobile company @Maseratimiddleeast on its Instagram page on Monday, January 24, 2022.

According to the deal, the superstar has access to Maserati Luxury Cars in any country he visits.

Sharing the post, the company wrote “If 36 million views seemed surreal, a real @maserati collaboration seemed unreal for @Iamolarika.”

Olarika started his musical career as an instrumentalist in church and sometimes got paid to program music for events until he later decided to make a career out of it.

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Traditional Ruler Murdered, Three Others Burn To Ashes In Ogun

Oba Ayinde Odetola, the Alagodo of Agodo in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State, has been murdered by yet-to-be-identified hoodlums.

Three other persons said to be friends of the monarch were reportedly burnt to ashes.

The incident happened on Monday, January 24, 2022, in Ogun State.

A source disclosed that Oba Odetola was reportedly killed alongside his friends around 11:00 a.m when they return from an outing.

The source said that there had been a crisis over the chieftaincy title of Alagodo as regards who occupies the seat between Ake and Owu people of Egbaland.

According to the source, the traditional ruler was from the Ake section of Egba and there had been a crisis that an Ake person cannot oversee the town which was mainly dominated by the Owu people.

It was gathered that a brother to the traditional ruler was also murdered some time ago.

However, Mrs. Adenike Akintade, one of the siblings of the traditional ruler who confirmed the death of her brother said “I had just been discharged from the hospital this morning only to start mourning the killing of my brother.”

She said, “Kabiesi called me on Saturday urging me to reduce my activities, saying stress could contribute to my illness.”

“Oba Odetola lost his younger brother to the imbroglio some months ago; the young man was killed by hoodlums. Today, Kabiyesi is no more, what a world.”

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command when contacted, the spokesperson, Abimbola Oyeyemi, confirmed the incident but said, the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Bankole, and Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Security, Mr. Olusola Subair, were in town for inspection of the crisis.

The police spokesperson also stated that residents had abandoned the whole town at the time of the visit, stating that the CP has directed the State homicide unit of the Criminal Investigation Department to begin an investigation immediately.

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NAFDAC Bans Registration Of Alcoholic Drinks In Sachets, Pet Bottles

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has banned the registration of alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles with more than 30 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

This was contained in a statement that was released by the agency on Monday, January 24, 2022.

According to the statement, it was stated that “In a decisive move to reduce availability and curb abuse of alcohol in the country, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has stopped the registration of alcohol in Sachet and Small volume PET and Glass bottles below 200ml amidst other stringent regulatory measures.”

Announcing the ban, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, said registration of new alcoholic drinks in Sachet and Small volume PET and Glass bottles above 30% ABV (alcohol by volume) has been banned by NAFDAC.

The NAFDAC DG explained that “The Agency will ensure that validity of renewal of already registered alcoholic products in the affected category will not exceed the year 2024.

“The Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria was also given a marching order to embark on intensive nationwide sensitization campaigns against underage consumption of alcohol by adolescents below the age of 18 years in the bid to stem the tide of alcohol abuse in the country.

“Producers of Alcohol in Sachets and Small volume agreed to reduce production by 50% with effect from January 31st, 2020 while ensuring the products are completely phased out in the country by 31st January 2024.

“Even as we grapple with the containment of COVID-19 pandemic, NAFDAC is resolutely committed to the strict implementation of the regulations and regulatory measures towards safeguarding the health of Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable youths against the dangers of reckless consumption of alcohol.”

It was gathered that the ban followed a proposal made by the committee of the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) in December 2018.

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What Reminisce Said About His New Movie Role, Upcoming Album, Concert

Ace Nigerian rapper, ​Remilekun Abdulkalid Safaru, better known as Reminisce, has revealed that he had featured in another movie which will be released later this year.

The rapper also revealed that he will put out his fifth album ahead of his December concert.

He said this during an interview when he featured on the Rubbin Minds, a show hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, a TV host.

However, the music star who had his movie debut in ‘King of Boys’ (KOB), didn’t reveal the title of the forthcoming movie but said, it is centered around his person.

Reminisce said “I get approached a lot now for movies. But I make sure I bill appropriately, considering where I’m coming from as a musician. Beyond fees, I tend to also look at the script and see if it’s something I want to do.”

“Apart from KOB, I did another that will be out this year. That one is centered around my person and name. I liked the script. But the billing is important. I have three children and school fees have to be paid, you know.

“I run a football agency now, doing ads and all that. It’s like a proper sports agency. It’s the same way music and advertising works. People don’t take musicians seriously. But imagine if I’m identified as a CEO of an agency.

“I had to appoint someone close to me. He has been doing the groundwork. I appointed him CEO. But we run it together. We’ve done stuff with big names. I have my football show on the side, so I’m not idle.

“I’m not scouting players. I’ve done that in the past, six years ago. I ran an amateur football club. It’s a tough job. You get disappointed by a lot of people, spend a lot of money, yet you can get just one breakthrough player.”

Reminisce also revealed that he is planning to release his fifth album and also organizes his concert in December.

According to him, he said his next body of work would be released after his collaborative songs with Buju and Simi are put out in the first quarter of the year, adding that a concert is meant to follow towards the end of 2022.

In his explanation, he said “With all that I do, the music hasn’t suffered. I have my audience and I know how to serve them. I promised them an album last year my many engagements made me not release it. It has been ready all this while.”

“We’re going off with the first [song] in three days. Next month, there’s one with Buju. In March, there’s one with Simi. Next, the album comes out. I’ve told you all, so let me rest on Instagram. You’ll get a lot of music this year.

“I’m in the mood and you’ll get a concert as well. From the artwork to the content, I like my music projects to be themed. In the album, I talk about how my experiences with people and how the family made me rearrange priorities.

“I want my fans to grow along with me. They’re older as well. I want them to be able to relate to what I sing about. I don’t dress the same anymore. Where I am at the moment, I want to make that reflect in my music.

Reminisce had released four albums to his name, including ‘Book of Rap Stories’ (2012), ‘Alaga Mobile (2013), ‘Baba Hafusa’ (2015), and ‘El-Hadj’ (2016).

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Mercy Aigbe Marries Ex-Husband’s Friend After Four Years Of Separation

Nollywood actress, Mercy Aigbe, has remarried Kazim Adeoti, better known as Adekaz Production in the Yoruba movie loops after four years of divorce from her former husband, Otunba Lanre Gentry.

This was disclosed by the actress in a post she shared on her Instagram pages on Sunday, January 23, 2022, while celebrating the birthday of her new partner.

According to her post, she wrote “Alhaji and Hajia Kasim Adeoti. Still celebrating you my King! May you continue to be celebrated all the days of your life! Thank you for being my Peace, My Happiness! May Almighty Allah continue to bless your path and uplift you beyond your imaginations.”

Reacting to the actress post, the former husband posted a picture of himself, the actress, and the new husband to tell the world that the man the actress just married to used to be his friend.

Lanre wrote in his post “At least I thank God the truth is out. This is just one out of many. Glory be to God.”

See the post her former husband shared:

Recall, Lanre and Mercy separated their seven years of marriage due to violence and public dramas. While Mercy accused Lanre of domestic violence, Lanre blamed her for infidelity.

In September last year, it was gathered that Lanre remarried and announced it on his social media page. But Mercy Aigbe’s marriage with her new hubby took place in December of 2021 without any publicity,

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Bob-Manuel Says Nothing Wrong With African Traditions, Deities Not Demons

Nigerian film actor, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, has dissed out some words of warning, most especially to Igbos while arguing about the perception surrounding African traditions and their deities.

He has said the African deities are not demons adding that there is nothing wrong with traditionalism.

The Nollywood actor said this during an interview with BBC Igbo while speaking about how modern Christianity has worn away a great deal of the Igbo tradition.

According to him, the invasion of modern religion has demonized the existence of native doctors and African spiritualists who were often asked to cure madness and malaria.

During the interview, Udokwu also charged Igbo people to be selective with the traditions they abolish, even while embracing modern Christianity.

In his explanation, he said “As white people came to our land, they took away our artifacts, deities, insignia, and other valuables. If you look up the news, you find that they’re returning them because these statues are tormenting them.”

“The white people brought modern Christianity but included the part where we’re being made to pray in the name of some of their saints and adherents who have died. These are dead people we never got to know.

“If you pray in the name of white saints, make sure you include those of your home country. If your father is dead, know that he has joined the saints and ancestors that would do intercessory prayers for you wherever God is.

“It doesn’t amount to worshiping deities. And even worshiping African deities is nothing bad.”

“There are some customs that are not acceptable. Let’s stop those. And some have indeed ceased to exist. Let’s not dispose of both the baby and the bathwater.”

“Before the whites came, we had herbalists who treat various ailments. All of them were categorized as native doctors and spiritualists. The whites came and made us believe that native doctors are a bad omen.

“Today, where are those traditionalists who cure insanity, IBA, diarrhea before white people came? Open your eyes.

“I’m educated. I agree that sick people should use the hospital but let’s give what’s to Ceasar to him and what’s to God to him. Breaking kola is no different from the holy communion we take in church.

“The white people who told us these things are demonic are taking back their words because our deities they stole are tormenting them.”

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Moving Train Hits Dangote Truck, Keke NAPEP In Kano

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A moving train has crashed with a Dangote cement truck and one Keke NAPEP, a commercial tricycle, as many people seriously wounded in Kano.

The incident occurred when the truck driver tried to cross the rail line on Sunday, January 23, 2022, at about 11:30 a.m along Obasanjo Road in the Kano metropolis.

The passenger in the tricycle was greatly injured and unconscious before they were rushed to Murtala Muhammad Hospital in Kano, while the Dangote truck driver was unhurt.

It was gathered that the incident affected vehicular movement at the Obasanjo Road for hours as some persons were seen trying to unload the bags of cement loaded in the truck.

Security operatives were also seen preventing hoodlums from stealing the goods.

According to an eyewitness who engage in business activities along the rail track said, “We saw the trailer coming towards the rail line as the train was speeding. I and some other people attempted to flag down the trailer but the driver did not notice, next was a heavy sound of the crash.”

While another eyewitness said, “The incident occurred when the driver of the tanker tried to cross the rail line, the train hit the vehicle and the tricycle at the same time.”

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Fire Destroys Mortuary, Burnt Corpses Beyond Recognition In Anambra

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Fire has razed the mortuary section of the General Hospital in Onitsha, Anambra State, and burnt all the dead bodies beyond recognition.

The fire which lasted for over three hours originated from a bush burning behind the mortuary on Saturday, January 22, 2022.

A source said, the fire burnt both fresh and old corpses loaded inside the mortuary because the chemicals used in preserving the corpses worsened the situation of the fire.

According to the Director of the Anambra State Fire Service, Mr. Martin Agbili, who confirmed the incident said, the fire was from bush burning, adding that firefighters struggled to stop the fire from circulating to other surrounding buildings.

He said, “We received a distress call from the General Hospital, Onitsha, and we deployed our men and the firefighters’ equipment to put out the fire.

“We found out that the fire came through the bush and we have been telling people to ensure that they cut the bushes around their houses and avoid bush burning because this harmattan period, fire can come from anywhere, even from a far distance, because every surface is dry and inflammable.”

Mr. Agbili also said there was no casualty, but added that those who tried to put out the fire sustained varying degrees of burns.

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Breaking: Police Officer kills Teenager Over Sachet Of Pure Water

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A police officer has reportedly shot and killed a teenager over a sachet of pure water he took from the police car without permission.

The incident happened on Saturday morning, January 23, 2022, in the ancient city of Kabba in the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

According to the information gathered from a source, the boy had allegedly taken a sachet of pure water from the police van to drink without the permission of the officer.

The source said the attitude of the boy annoyed the police officer and the violence that ensued led the officer to pull his trigger against the boy and killed him immediately.

As of the time of filing this report, the incident has provoked wide commotions in the town, which has also deprived business activities.

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Edward Egbuka, has said the information from the Area Commander is different from the one being circulated.

The CP further promise to investigate the matter and get the real cause of the incident, adding that the true situation could only be ascertained after the investigation.

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Super Eagles Coach, Eguavoen Named Best Manager Of AFCON Group Stage

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The Super Eagles interim coach, Austin Eguavoen, has been named as the best manager of the AFCON group stage at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nation (AFCON) in Cameroon.

This was disclosed in a post that was shared on AFCON’s Twitter page on Friday.

Eguavoen who replaced Gernot Rohr in December 2021, was named as the best coach after he won all matches during the group stage and attain nine points to qualify to the knockout stage.

According to reports, he has been praised by many of the footballers in the squad for bestowing upon newly-fangled freedom and credited for adding a breath of fresh air to the team.

Others who were awarded include Vincent Aboubakar, from Cameroon was named the best player in the group stage for scoring five goals.

Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy was handed the gong for the safest pair of hands throughout the group stage for conceding just one goal in three games.

Guinea’s Ilaix Moriba was also named the best young player on the group stage. The 19-year-old FC Barcelona youth product was instrumental for Guinea as they finished second in Group B.

However, on Sunday, the Super Eagles are scheduled to face Tunisia in the second round of 16.

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2baba Drops New Single ‘Smile’, Dedicate To Wife, Annie

Ace Nigerian musician, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2baba, has dropped a new single titled ‘Smile’.

The new song released along its visual on Thursday, January, 20, 2022, is said to be dedicated to his wife, Annie Idibia.

The song is about 2baba restating his affection and promises to his wife.

According to the video, 2baba and Annie can be seen kissing and keeping company with nature.

The song ‘Smile’ is produced by Jerry Sheika while the video is directed by Ryan Jonathan.

Last year, Annie has publicly dragged 2baba over their dispute after she allegedly accused him of spending night with one of his two baby mama under the guise of seeing his children. An outburst that stir different reactions on social media. Though, she later apologized for the action.

According to the Actress, while apologizing, she wrote “The last 10weeks have been the worst of my entire life, yes the worst since I was born. I have gone from being so angry to being so broken and back to anger. And then sadly, which I am ashamed to admit, suicidal!”

Also, 2baba similarly apologized to her during her birthday in a post he shared online.

According to 2Baba post on her birthday, he wrote: “I know I’m not without mistakes neither I’m I perfect but we keep learning and working and striving to become the best version of ourselves. It is well.”

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Lawmakers Proposes 10-Years Jail Term For Promoters Of Ponzi Scheme

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A Bill that seeks to prohibit Ponzi and Pyramid schemes has scaled through its second reading at the House of Representatives.

The Bill also seeks to repeal and re-enact the Nigerian Capital Market, Investment, and Security Act.

The Bill when signed into law, will enable promotes of such to face up to ten years in prison.

The Bill titled, ‘A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Investments and Securities Act, 2007 and Enact the Investments and Securities Bill to Establish Securities and Exchange Commission as the Apex Regulatory Authority for the Nigerian Capital Market as well as Regulation of the Market to Ensure Capital Formation, the Protection of the Market to Ensure Capital Formation, the Protection of Investors, Maintain Fair, Efficient and Transparent Market and Reduction of Systematic Risk; and for Related Matters’ was proposed by the chairman of House Committee on the capital market, Hon. Ibrahim Babangida.

According to the lawmaker, he said the “current trends in capital market regulation have made it imperative to make major improvements to the Act to align our market with international standards.”

He said the Bill seeks enhancement of provisions relating to efficient regulation of investment schemes and to effectively combat the proliferation of Ponzi schemes in Nigeria.

He added that the bill will empower the Security and Exchange Commission to shut down such prohibited investment schemes.

Ibrahim also expressed optimism that the Securities and Exchange Commission would in the nearest future be able to impose strict punishment on promoters of Ponzi schemes and other unregistered investment schemes if changes to its laws were passed by the National Assembly.

While explaining, he said “The current Act regulating the capital market in the securities and investments act of 2007 was signed by the late Umaru Musa when he was the president.

He said “If you calculate from 2007 to date it’s about 15 years. The current reality in the capital market requires that those regulations be improved to enable the regulators (SEC) to perform their optimum functions. That is why, we are revealing the ACT because some essential part of the ACT requires amendments, and also there is a need to introduce some new sessions of the ACT. The original ACT contains about 316 sections but the current one contains about 351 sections.”

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TikTok Testing New Feature That Will Enable Creators Charge Subscription Fees

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TikTok says it’s testing a new feature that will allow content creators to charge subscription fees for their content.

The feature will allow fans to send money to creators directly through their profiles and also enable viewers to react to videos by buying.

The new feature revealed by TikTok follows the announcement made by Instagram that it will be launching a test of paid subscriptions with a small number of creators and influencers.

According to Instagram in his announcement, the subscribers will pay a monthly fee to access exclusive content from creators they follow, including Stories and Live videos. A price that ranges from $0.99 to $99.99 per month depending on what the creator decides to charge, stating that a purple badge will denote a subscriber’s status to the creator/influencer in the comments section.

However, Meta which owned Instagram says it’s doesn’t plan to take a cut of creators’ subscription revenue until next year.

Though, TikTok did not share more details about when it might roll it out to creators, how many creators are currently testing it, or what the payment structure might look like.

But the company’s spokesperson, Zachary Kizer, confirmed it to The Verge on Thursday in an email, stating that the subscriptions were a “concept that’s has been in the testing process because the company is always thinking about new ways to bring value to its community and enriching it experience.

The spokesperson also said, if adopted, it would be the latest move by TikTok to help its creators monetize their content. Introducing its Creator Next hub with monetization tools and rolled out its tipping feature to eligible creators in December after testing it with a smaller group.

Kizer added that direct-to-creator payments are a highly successful business model despite being a head-scratcher.

He also said the app’s major advantage over its competitors is the uncanny algorithm that surfaced content to users in its ‘For You Pages’. Explaining that it’s a way for creators to reach users and ideally turn them into subscribers.

But he added, if creators are holding their best content for subscribers, that content is probably not available to fuel the algorithm, which in turn could reduce engagement since, in theory, it’s not being surfaced to nonsubscribers.

Explaining further, he said this is not a problem unique to TikTok alone, all digital platforms are trying to help content creators and influencers monetize their content are trying to balance engagement vs letting creators monetize their content directly.

He said the creators themselves have to be able to predict what content their subscribers will be willing to pay for, AMD what content will help them best promote their work.

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Gov. Okowa says Koka Flyover In Asaba Will Be Completed Before 2022 Ends

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The Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has given affirmation that the ongoing construction of the Koka flyover and interchange in Asaba, the state capital will be completed before the end of 2022.

The governor said he will work with the contractors to ensure its early completion after inspecting the project on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

According to the governor, he said “The contractors started work here a few weeks ago and with the explanations, we have gotten, a lot of work is already being done,” he said.

“One good thing about the contracting firm, CCECC, is that it tries to work ahead of time because we can see the drilling work going on and the workers are also casting the beams already.

“We are told that they have cast 30 out of the 96 beams that they required and they have already drilled 16 of the piles that they are supposed to drill and that means that work is progressing.

“They have given us January 2023 delivery date, but I have also told them that am not comfortable with that because I would like to have the project inaugurated during my time.

“January 2023, there will be a lot of campaigns and we may not have time to talk about the inauguration of projects; so, we are trying to work up a process that will enable them to work day and night to fast track the project.

“I believe that with the quality and capacity of the contractors, they can finish the interchange in this year so that it does not spill over into next year.

“The dualization coming from Ogwashi-Uku to Ibusa and Asaba will be completed in the next few months and it will put pressure on this interchange; so, there is the need to ensure an early finish so that we don’t have a chaotic situation here.”

“All our projects, including this one, are very dear to me and we will continue to inspect more projects. One good thing about the inspection of projects is that it gives you first-hand knowledge of what is being done and you can ask questions from both the ministries and the contractors and they can give you timelines and what they hope to achieve.

“So, indirectly, I am also putting both the contractor and the ministry under pressure to finish on time, but finish with quality work and that is the first and most important thing to me.”

“While I play politics, I will not forget that Deltans voted me to serve them; so, until the very last day of 28th of May, 2023, I will focus on that aspect of service to the people, I will not allow politics to distract me.”

He also thanked the contractors for the job done so far while hoping that they would speed up to make up for any lost time during the yuletide.

Okowa said his administration would stay on course to ensure that the project was inaugurated within the year.

Recall last year, the state government began the construction of the flyover along the Benin-Onitsha Expressway to reduce traffic jams along the Koka Junction of the road.

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Okon Advises Ex-President Jonathan To Stay Away From 2023 Presidency

Nigerian comic actor, Ime Bishop Umoh, better known as Okon Lagos, has dissed out a word of advice to former President Goodluck Jonathan not to contest for the 2023 presidential election.

The Nollywood actor said this through a post he shared on his Instagram page on Thursday, following the rumors circulating that the former president might dump the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressive Congress (APC).

According to the film star, he advised Jonathan to resist the temptation of “being wooed to pick up a presidential ticket”, stating that the APC-led government has done too much damage that cannot be fixed overnight.

He also said there is little Jonathan would do if he joins the presidential race and eventually become the president, adding that he should rather strive towards retaining his “hero status.”

In his words, he said “Rumours have it that Goodluck Jonathan is being wooed to run for president again. Abeg your excellency as tempting as it may sound, don’t. Too much damage has been done and it is too little you can do to fix it in just a term.”

“Imagine bringing Ronaldo in 90+2 minutes to turn around the fortunes of a team that is down by 7 nil what he will he do? Magic? Remain the legend and hero you are sir. Duck the bait.”

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Two Suspected Armed Robbers Who Pretend As Sit-At-Home Enforcers, Set Ablaze In Onitsha

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Two suspected armed robbers have been burnt to death by an angry mob for impersonating sit-at-home enforcers in Onitsha, Anambra State.

The incident happened on Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at MCC junction, beside Conoil Filling Station, along Enugu/Onitsha highway.

It was gathered that the two suspects came on a motorcycle, robbed some residents in Awada of undisclosed amounts of money, phones, and other items after which they shot sporadically in the air to scare people away before escaping.

According to an eyewitness, the suspects were caught at MCC junction after they were given a hot chase by a mob who immediately placed the motorcycle on their top before setting them ablaze.

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Delta Police Arrests Kidnappers And Armed Robbery Suspects Specialized In Stealing Vehicles

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested kidnapping suspects and armed robbers who specialized in stealing vehicles using master keys.

The command also recovered one Baretta pistol, two locally-made guns, eight live ammunition, suspected stolen vehicles, and four master keys.

This was disclosed in a statement by DSP Bright Edafe, the command spokesperson in Asaba the state capital on Thursday, January 20, 2022.

According to the statement, DSP Edafe noted that “On the 18/01/2022 at about 1500hrs, a distressed caller (Name withheld) informed the DPO Otu-Jeremi Division that on the 12/01/2022 at about 2230hrs, he was kidnapped in front of his house to an unknown destination along with his vehicle by unknown armed hoodlums.”

“However, on the 17/01/2022 at about 2200hrs, he escaped from his abductors at Owhorode Udu in Udu LGA. The DPO Ovwian-Aladja Division was immediately contacted by the DPO Otu-Jeremi Division and on receipt of this information, he swiftly mobilized and led police operatives to the scene.”

“The hoodlums on sighting the police escaped. Upon searching their hideout, the following exhibits were recovered; one cut to size locally-made gun, one Beretta pistol with eight rounds of live ammunition, one handcuff, six(6) assorted phones, nineteen(19) sim cards, one UBA ATM card, one wristwatch, one jackknife and a cash sum of thirty-five thousand nairas (N35, 000). Manhunt for the fleeing suspects is ongoing.”

Edafe also noted that “On 18/2/2022, the DPO Sapele Division received a distressed call that a two-man armed robbery gang was operating at No.6 power close Okirigbaga in Sapele. Consequently, The DPO Sapele Division, CSP Harrison Nwabusi detailed and led police patrol teams to the scene, the team upon arrival cordoned the area and laid an ambush.”

“One of the suspects named Liyo Okiri ‘m’ age 25yrs was arrested and one locally made pistol, two live cartridges, and one expended cartridge were recovered. Manhunt for the other suspect is ongoing.”

Also, the spokesperson said in another development that “On the 17/01/2022 at about 2200hrs a distressed caller (name withheld) reported at Enerhen Police Station that at about 2145hrs, while he was sitting in his Toyota Camry car with Reg. no. WWR457LS, Chassis no. 4T1BE46KX8U775688, Engine no. 2AZ9070187 black at Thermocool premises opposite Ecobank, Udu road in UDU LGA, some hoodlums double-crossed him with a custom colored Highlander jeep, pointed a gun at him and forcefully robbed him of his car along with the following items; iPhone 12 Pro valued N600, 000, Oppo phone valued N195, 000, two gold chain valued N380, 000, and Apple series wristwatch valued N150, 000.”

“The DPO Enerhen Division detailed Police Detectives to investigate. Upon a technical intelligence-led investigation, the vehicle was located at Orhuwhorun in Ovwian-Aladja. The Armed robbers replaced the Vehicle number plate with another with reg. no. TDU269AA. The Vehicle was recovered, while a manhunt for the hoodlums is ongoing.”

“Similarly on 18/1/2022, a Toyota Hiace Bus with two occupants was intercepted by Police Operatives attached to Sapele Division while on stop and search duty. Upon searching the Vehicle, four master keys usually used for removing vehicles from where parked were recovered. Two suspects arrested while the investigation is ongoing.”

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Wizkid Nominated For 53rd NAACP Image Awards Along Tiwa Savage, Fireboy

Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML, and Omah Lay, are among other Nigerian artists that got nominated for the 2022 NAACP Image Awards.

The NAACP Image Award is an annual awards ceremony presented by the U.S.-based National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to honor outstanding performances in film, television, theatre, music, and literature. Similar to other awards, like the Oscars and the Grammy Award.

The nomination for the 53rd annual NAACP Image Awards was announced on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, through a virtual event.

According to the announcement, the 53rd annual NAACP Awards will be hosted by Anthony Anderson and will be aired live on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.

It was gathered that viewers can also stream it live on BET+, as it will proceed without an in-person audience due to COVID-19.

According to the nomination, Nigerian music icons, Fireboy DML, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Omah Lay were nominated for “Outstanding International Song”, while Tems received her first nomination for “Outstanding New Artist” for her 2021 album “If Orange Was A Place.”

In addition, “Eyimofe (This Is My Desire)” also received its first NAACP nomination for “Outstanding International Motion Picture.” Not only that, but it was the first and only Nigerian film to be nominated in that category.

While Fireboy DML got the nomination for his hit song ‘Peru’, Wizkid was nominated for ‘Essence’, his song featuring Tems and Justin Bieber.

Tiwa Savage’s ‘Somebody’s son’ featuring Brandy, a US singer, gained her nomination.

Kidi, Ghanaian artiste, and Omah Lay received nominations for their song ‘Touch it’ and ‘Understand’ respectively.

Also, while Netflix leads nominations across motion picture and television plus streaming categories, ‘Insecure’, the comedy-drama series, received the most nominations in the television plus streaming categories.

Below is the nominations list for the 53rd annual NAACP Image Awards:

Outstanding International Motion Picture
“7 Prisoners” (Netflix)
“African America” (Netflix)
“Eyimofe (This is My Desire)” (Janus Films)
“Flee” (Neon / Participant)
“The Gravedigger’s Wife” (Orange Studio)

Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series
Issa Rae – “Insecure” (HBO)
Loretta Devine – “Family Reunion” (Netflix)
Regina Hall – “Black Monday” (Showtime)
Tracee Ellis Ross – “black-ish” (ABC)
Yvonne Orji – “Insecure” (HBO)

Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series
Billy Porter – “Pose” (FX Network)
Damson Idris – “Snowfall” (FX Network)
Forest Whitaker – “Godfather of Harlem” (EPIX)
Kofi Siriboe – “Queen Sugar” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
Sterling K. Brown – “This is Us” (NBC)

Outstanding Actress in a Television Movie, Limited-Series or Dramatic Special
Betty Gabriel – “Clickbait” (Netflix)
Cynthia Erivo – “Genius: Aretha” (National Geographic)
Danielle Brooks – “Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia” (Lifetime)
Jodie Turner-Smith – “Anne Boleyn” (AMC+)
Taraji P. Henson – “Annie Live!” (NBC).

Outstanding New Artist
Cynthia Erivo – “Ch. 1 Vs. 1” (Verve Records / UMG Recordings)
Jimmie Allen – “Bettie James Gold Edition” (BBR Music Group)
Saweetie – “Best Friend feat. Doja Cat” (ICY / Warner Records)
Tems – “If Orange Was A Place” (RCA Records / Since ’93)
Zoe Wees – “Girls Like Us” (Capitol Records)

Outstanding International Song
“Essence” – Wizkid feat. Tems and Justin Bieber (RCA Records / Starboy / Sony Music International)
“Peru” – Fireboy DML (YBNL Nation / Empire)
“Somebody’s Son” – Tiwa Savage feat. Brandy (Motown)
“Touch It” – KiDi (Lynx Entertainment / MadeInENY / Empire)
“Understand” – Omah Lay (The KeyQaad / Sire Records)

Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album
“Best Friend” – Saweetie feat. Doja Cat (ICY / Warner Records)
“Essence” – Wizkid feat. Tems (RCA Records / Starboy / Sony Music International)
“Fye Fye” – Tobe Nwigwe feat. Fat Nwigwe (Tobe Nwigwe, LLC)
“Have Mercy” – Chlöe (Columbia Records / Parkwood)
“Leave The Door Open” – Silk Sonic (Atlantic / Aftermath)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)
Chris Brown feat. Young Thug, Future, Lil Durk and Latto – “Go Crazy (Remix)” (RCA Records)
Doja Cat feat. SZA – “Kiss Me More” (RCA Records / Kemosabe Records)
Drake feat. Future & Young Thug – “Way 2 Sexy” (Republic Records)
H.E.R. feat. Chris Brown – “Come Through” (RCA Records / MBK Entertainment)
Tobe Nwigwe feat. Fat Nwigwe – “Fye Fye” (Tobe Nwigwe, LLC)

Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series
Aurin Squire – “Evil” – “C Is For Cop” (Paramount+)
Davita Scarlett – “The Good Fight” – “And the Firm Had Two Partners…” (Paramount+)
Malcolm Spellman – “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” – “New World Order” (Disney+)
Nkechi Okoro Carroll – “All American” – “Homecoming” (The CW)
Steven Canals, Janet Mock, Our Lady J, Brad Falchuk, Ryan Murphy – “Pose” – “Series Finale” (FX Network)

Entertainers Of The Year Nominees Jennifer Hudson
Lil Nas X
Megan Thee Stallion
Regina King
Tiffany Haddish

Outstanding Motion Picture
“Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
“King Richard” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
“Respect” (Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures/United Artists Releasing)
“The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
“The United States vs. Billie Holiday” (Hulu Original / New Slate Ventures / Lee Daniels Entertainment / Roth-Krischenbaum Films)

Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture
Denzel Washington – “The Tragedy of Macbeth” (Apple TV+ / A24)
Jonathan Majors – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
LaKeith Stanfield – “Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Mahershala Ali – “Swan Song” (Apple TV+)
Will Smith – “King Richard” (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture
Andra Day – “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” (Hulu Original / New Slate Ventures / Lee Daniels Entertainment / Roth-Krischenbaum Films)
Halle Berry – “Bruised” (Netflix)
Jennifer Hudson – “Respect” (Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures/United Artists Releasing)
Tessa Thompson – “Passing” (Netflix)
Zendaya – “Malcolm & Marie” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture
Algee Smith – “Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Daniel Kaluuya – “Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Delroy Lindo – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
Idris Elba – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
LaKeith Stanfield – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix).

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture
Aunjanue Ellis – “King Richard” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Audra McDonald – “Respect” (Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures/United Artists Releasing)
Danielle Deadwyler – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
Dominique Fishback – “Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Regina King – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)

Outstanding Independent Motion Picture
“American Skin” (Vertical Entertainment)
“Bruised” (Netflix)
“CODA” (Apple TV+)
“Test Pattern” (Kino Lorber)
“The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain” (RedBird Entertainment)

Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture
Ariana DeBose – “West Side Story” (20th Century Studios)
Danny Boyd, Jr. – “Bruised” (Netflix)
Jalon Christian – “A Journal For Jordan” (Columbia Pictures)
Lonnie Chavis – “The Water Man” (RLJE Films)
Sheila Atim – “Bruised” (Netflix).

Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture
“Coming 2 America” (Paramount Releasing/Amazon Studios)
“Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
“King Richard” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
“Respect” (Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures/United Artists Releasing)
“The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)

Outstanding Animated Motion Picture
“Encanto” (Walt Disney Studios)
“Luca” (Walt Disney Studios)
“Raya and the Last Dragon” (Walt Disney Studios)
“Sing 2” (Universal Pictures)
“Vivo” (Netflix)

Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance – Motion Picture
Andre Braugher – “Spirit Untamed” (Universal Pictures)
Awkwafina – “Raya and the Last Dragon” (Walt Disney Studios)
Brian Tyree Henry – “Vivo” (Netflix)
Eric André – “Sing 2” (Universal Pictures)
Letitia Wright – “Sing 2” (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Short-Form (Live Action)
“Aurinko in Adagio” (Universal Pictures)
“Blackout” (Netflix)
“The Ice Cream Stop” (Walt Disney Studios)
“These Final Hours” (Universal Pictures)
“When The Sun Sets (Lakutshon’ Ilanga)” (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Short-Form (Animated)
“Blush” (Apple TV+)
“Robin Robin” (Netflix)
“She Dreams at Sunrise” (Tribeca Studios, Procter & Gamble)
“Twenty Something” (Pixar Animation Studios)
“Us Again” (Walt Disney Animation Studios)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Motion Picture)
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson – “Summer Of Soul (…Or, When The Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” (Searchlight Pictures, Onyx Collective, Hulu)
Jamila Wignot – “Ailey” (Neon)
Jeymes Samuel – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
Liesl Tommy – “Respect” (Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures/United Artists Releasing)
Rebecca Hall – “Passing” (Netflix).

Outstanding Comedy Series
“black-ish” (ABC)
“Harlem” (Amazon Studios)
“Insecure” (HBO)
“Run the World” (Starz)
“The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series
Anthony Anderson – “black-ish” (ABC)
Cedric the Entertainer – “The Neighborhood” (CBS)
Don Cheadle – “Black Monday” (Showtime)
Elisha ‘EJ’ Williams – “The Wonder Years” (ABC)
Jay Ellis – “Insecure” (HBO)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Andre Braugher – “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” (NBC)
Deon Cole – “black-ish” (ABC)
Kenan Thompson – “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
Kendrick Sampson – “Insecure” (HBO)
Laurence Fishburne – “black-ish” (ABC)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Amanda Seales – “Insecure” (HBO)
Jenifer Lewis – “black-ish” (ABC)
Marsai Martin – “black-ish” (ABC)
Natasha Rothwell – “Insecure” (HBO)
Wanda Sykes – “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Drama Series
“9-1-1” (FOX)
“All American” (The CW)
“Godfather of Harlem” (EPIX)
“Pose” (FX Network)
“Queen Sugar” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)

Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series
Angela Bassett – “9-1-1” (FOX)
Dawn-Lyen Gardner – “Queen Sugar” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
Octavia Spencer – “Truth Be Told” (Apple TV+)
Queen Latifah – “The Equalizer” (CBS)
Rutina Wesley – “Queen Sugar” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network).

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Alex R. Hibbert – “The Chi” (Showtime)
Cliff “Method Man” Smith – “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)
Daniel Ezra – “All American” (The CW)
Giancarlo Esposito – “Godfather of Harlem” (EPIX)
Joe Morton – “Our Kind of People” (FOX)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Alfre Woodard – “SEE” (Apple TV+)
Bianca Lawson – “Queen Sugar” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
Chandra Wilson – “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC)
Mary J. Blige – “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)
Susan Kelechi Watson – “This is Us” (NBC)

Outstanding Television Movie, Limited-Series or Dramatic Special
“Colin in Black & White” – (Netflix)
“Genius: Aretha” – (National Geographic)
“Love Life” – (HBO Max)
“Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia” – (Lifetime)
“The Underground Railroad” – (Amazon Studios)

Outstanding Actor in a Television Movie, Limited-Series or Dramatic Special
Anthony Mackie – “Solos” (Amazon Studios)
Jaden Michael – “Colin in Black & White” (Netflix)
Kevin Hart – “True Story” (Netflix)
Wesley Snipes – “True Story” (Netflix)
William Jackson Harper – “Love Life” (HBO Max).

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Television Movie, Limited-Series or Dramatic Special
Courtney B. Vance – “Genius: Aretha” (National Geographic)
Keith David – “Black As Night” (Amazon Studios)
Tituss Burgess – “Annie Live!” (NBC)
Will Catlett – “True Story” (Netflix)
William Jackson Harper – “The Underground Railroad” (Amazon Studios)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Television Movie, Limited-Series or Dramatic Special
Anika Noni Rose – “Maid” (Netflix)
Natasha Rothwell – “The White Lotus” (HBO)
Pauletta Washington – “Genius: Aretha” (National Geographic)
Regina Hall – “Nine Perfect Strangers” (Hulu)
Sheila Atim – “The Underground Railroad” (Amazon Studios)

Outstanding News/Information (Series or Special)
“Blood on Black Wall Street: The Legacy of the Tulsa Massacre” (NBC)
“NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt” (NBC)
“Soul of A Nation” (ABC)
“The Reidout” (MSNBC)
“Unsung” (TV One)

Outstanding Talk Series
“Desus & Mero” (Showtime)
“Hart to Heart” (Peacock)
“Red Table Talk” (Facebook Watch)
“Tamron Hall” (Syndicated)
“The Real” (Syndicated)

Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition or Game Show (Series)
“Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC)
“Iyanla: Fix My Life” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
“Sweet Life: Los Angeles” (HBO Max)
“The Voice” (NBC)
“Wild ‘n Out” (VH1).

Outstanding Variety Show (Series or Special)
“A Black Lady Sketch Show” (HBO)
“BET Awards 2021” (BET)
“Dave Chappelle: The Closer” (Netflix)
“Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 3” (Amazon Studios)
“The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” (Comedy Central)

Outstanding Children’s Program
“Ada Twist, Scientist” (Netflix)
“Family Reunion” (Netflix)
“Karma’s World” (Netflix)
“Raven’s Home” (Disney Channel)
“Waffles + Mochi” (Netflix)

Outstanding Performance by a Youth (Series, Special, Television Movie or Limited-Series)
Alayah “Lay Lay” High – “That Girl Lay Lay” (Nickelodeon)
Celina Smith – “Annie Live!” (NBC)
Elisha ‘EJ’ Williams – “The Wonder Years” (ABC)
Eris Baker – “This Is Us” (NBC)
Miles Brown – “black-ish” (ABC)

Outstanding Host in a Talk or News/Information (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble
Joy Reid – “The Reidout” (MSNBC)
Daniel “Desus Nice” Baker, Joel “The Kid Mero” Martinez – “Desus & Mero” (Showtime)
Garcelle Beauvais, Adrienne Houghton, Loni Love, Jeannie Mai Jenkins – “The Real” (Syndicated)
Jada Pinkett Smith, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, Willow Smith – “Red Table Talk” (Facebook Watch)
LeBron James – “The Shop: Uninterrupted” (HBO).

Outstanding Host in a Reality/Reality Competition, Game Show or Variety (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble
Alfonso Ribeiro – “America’s Funniest Home Videos” (ABC)
Amber Ruffin – “The Amber Ruffin Show” (Peacock)
Cedric The Entertainer – “73rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards” (CBS)
Iyanla Vanzant – “Iyanla: Fix My Life” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
Trevor Noah – “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” (Comedy Central)

Outstanding Guest Performance
Alani “La La” Anthony – “The Chi” (Showtime)
Christina Elmore – “Insecure” (HBO)
Daniel Kaluuya – “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
Erika Alexander – “Run the World” (Starz)
Maya Rudolph – “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)

Outstanding Animated Series
“Big Mouth” (Netflix)
“Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz” (Kweli TV)
“Super Sema” (YouTube Originals)
“We The People” (Netflix)
“Yasuke” (Netflix)

Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance (Television)
Angela Bassett – “Malika: The Lion Queen” (FOX)
Billy Porter – “Fairfax” (Amazon Studios)
Chris “Ludacris” Bridges – “Karma’s World” (Netflix)
Cree Summer – “Rugrats” (Nickelodeon)
Keke Palmer – “Big Mouth” (Netflix)

Outstanding Short Form Series – Comedy or Drama
“Between the Scenes – The Daily Show” (Comedy Central)
“Dark Humor” (Comedy Central / YouTube)
“Della Mae (AspireTV)
“The Disney Launchpad: Shorts Incubator” (Disney+)
“Two Sides: Unfaithful” (Snapchat)

Outstanding Short Form Series or Special – Reality/Nonfiction
“Life By The Horns” (Snapchat)
“Memory Builds The Monument” (Fifth Ward CRC)
“Widen the Screen: 8:46 Films” (BET)
“Through Our Eyes: Shelter” (HBO Max)
“Lynching Postcards: Token of a Great Day” (Paramount+).

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television)
Angel Kristi Williams – “Colin in Black & White” (Netflix)
Cierra Glaude – “Queen Sugar” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
Deborah Riley Draper – “The Legacy of Black Wall Street” (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)
Halcyon Person – “Karma’s World” (Netflix)
Quyen Tran – “Maid” (Netflix)

Outstanding Male Artist
Anthony Hamilton – “Love Is The New Black” (My Music Box LLC / BMG)
Drake – “Way 2 Sexy” (Republic Records)
Givēon – “Heartbreak Anniversary” (Epic Records)
J. Cole – “The Off-Season” (Dreamville / Roc Nation)
Lil Nas X – “Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” (Columbia Records)

Outstanding Female Artist
H.E.R. – “Back of My Mind” (RCA Records / MBK Entertainment)
Ari Lennox – “Pressure” (Dreamville / Interscope Records)
Beyoncé – “Be Alive” (Columbia Records / Parkwood)
Chlöe – “Have Mercy” (Columbia Records / Parkwood)
Jazmine Sullivan – “Heaux Tales” (RCA Records).

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album
“Anthems & Glory” – Todd Dulaney (MNRK Music Group)
“Believe For It” – CeCe Winans (Pure Springs Gospel / Fair Trade Services / Red Alliance Media)
“Jonny x Mali: Live in L.A.” – Jonathan McReynolds and Mali Music (Life Room Label LLC / K Approved Enterprises. Inc.)
“Overcomer” – Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
“Power” – Jason McGee & The Choir (My Block, Inc.)

Outstanding Album
“An Evening with Silk Sonic” – Silk Sonic (Atlantic / Aftermath)
“Back of My Mind” – H.E.R. (RCA Records / MBK Entertainment)
“Certified Lover Boy” – Drake (Republic Records)
“Heaux Tales” – Jazmine Sullivan (RCA Records)
“When It’s All Said and Done… Take Time” – Givēon (Epic Records)

Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album
“Coming 2 America (Amazon Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” – Eddie Murphy, Craig Brewer, Kevin Misher, Randy Spendlove, Jeff Harleston, Brittney Ramsdell (Def Jam Recordings)
“Judas and the Black Messiah (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” – Mark Isham and Craig Harris (WaterTower Music)
“Respect (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” – Jason Michael Webb and Stephen Bray (Epic Records)
“The Harder They Fall (The Motion Picture Soundtrack)” – JAY-Z and Jeymes Samuel (Geneva Club / Roc Nation Records, LLC)
“The United States vs. Billie Holiday (Music from the Motion Picture)” – Salaam Remi, Andra Day, Raphael Saadiq, Warren “E” Felder, Downtown Trevor Brown (Warner Records).

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song
“Believe For It” – CeCe Winans (Pure Springs Gospel / Fair Trade Services / Red Alliance Media)
“Help Me” – Tamela Mann feat. The Fellas (Tillymann Music Group)
“Hold Us Together (Hope Mix)” – H.E.R. and Tauren Wells (RCA Records / Sony Music)
“Overcome 2021” – Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul / RCA Records )
“Time for Reparations” – Sounds of Blackness (Sounds of Blackness / Atomic K Records)

Outstanding Jazz Album – Instrumental
“Forever…Jaz” – Jazmin Ghent (Independent Artist)
“Love Languages” – Nathan Mitchell (ENM Music Group)
“Somewhere Different” – Brandee Younger (Impulse! Records)
“Sounds from the Ancestors” – Kenny Garrett (Mack Avenue Music Group)
“The Magic of Now” – Orrin Evans (Smoke Sessions Records)

Outstanding Jazz Album – Vocal
“Dear Love” – Jazzmeia Horn and Her Noble Force (Empress Legacy Records)
“Generations” – The Baylor Project (Be A Light)
“Ledisi Sings Nina” – Ledisi (Listen Back Entertainment / BMG)
“Let There Be Love” – Freda Payne (Alain Franke Records)
“SALSWING!” – Rubén Blades y Roberto Delgado & Orquesta (Rubén Blades Productions)

Outstanding Soul/R&B Song
“Damage” – H.E.R. (RCA Records / MBK Entertainment)
“Be Alive” – Beyoncé (Columbia Records / Parkwood)
“Have Mercy” – Chlöe (Columbia Records / Parkwood)
“Leave The Door Open” – Silk Sonic (Atlantic / Aftermath)
“Pick Up Your Feelings” – Jazmine Sullivan (RCA Records).

Outstanding Hip Hop/Rap Song
“Best Friend” – Saweetie feat. Doja Cat (ICY / Warner Records)
“Fye Fye” – Tobe Nwigwe feat. Fat Nwigwe (Tobe Nwigwe, LLC)
“Industry Baby” – Lil Nas X feat. Jack Harlow (Columbia Records)
“My Life (with 21 Savage and Morray)” – J. Cole (Dreamville / Roc Nation)
“Way 2 Sexy” – Drake (Republic Records)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional)
Anthony Hamilton feat. Jennifer Hudson – “Superstar” (My Music Box LLC / BMG)
Chlöe x Halle – “Georgia On My Mind” (Columbia Records / Parkwood)
Jazmine Sullivan feat. H.E.R. – “Girl Like Me” (RCA Records)
Leela James feat. Anthony Hamilton – “Complicated (Remix)” (SheSangz Music, Inc. / BMG)
Silk Sonic – “Leave the Door Open” (Atlantic / Aftermath)

Outstanding Documentary (Film)
“Attica” (Showtime)

“Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power” (Greenwich Entertainment)
“My Name Is Pauli Murray” (Amazon Studios in association with Participant)
“Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” (Searchlight Pictures, Onyx Collective, Hulu)
“Tina” (HBO Documentary Films).

Outstanding Documentary (Television)
“1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything” (Apple TV+)
“American Masters: How It Feels to Be Free” (PBS)
“Blood Brothers: Malcolm X & Muhammad Ali” (Netflix)
“High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America” (Netflix)
“Insecure” Documentary (HBO)

Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series
Ashley Nicole Black – “Ted Lasso” – “Do the Right-est Thing” (Apple TV+)
Issa Rae – “Insecure” -“Everything’s Gonna Be, Okay?!” (HBO)
Leann Bowen – “Ted Lasso” – “Lavender” (Apple TV+)
Maya Erskine – “Pen15” – “Blue in Green” (Hulu)
Temi Wilkey – “Sex Education” – “Episode #3.6” (Netflix)

Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie or Special
Abdul Williams – “Salt-N-Pepa” (Lifetime Movie Network)
Mario Miscione, Marcella Ochoa – “Madres” (Amazon Studios)
Monique N. Matthew – “A Holiday In Harlem” (Hallmark Channel)
Sameer Gardezi – “Hot Mess Holiday” (Comedy Central)
Sherman Payne – “Black As Night” (Amazon Studios)

Outstanding Writing in a Motion Picture
Janicza Bravo, Jeremy O. Harris – “Zola” (A24)
Jeymes Samuel, Boaz Yakin – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
Shaka King, Will Berson, Kenny Lucas, Keith Lucas – “Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Virgil Williams – “A Journal for Jordan” (Columbia Pictures)
Win Rosenfeld, Nia DaCosta, Jordan Peele – “Candyman” (Universal Pictures).

Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series
Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle – “South Side” – “Tornado” (HBO Max)
Melina Matsoukas – “Insecure” – “Reunited, Okay?!” (HBO)
Neema Barnette – “Harlem – “Once Upon A Time in Harlem” (Amazon Studios)
Prentice Penny – “Insecure” – “Everything’s Gonna Be, Okay?!” (HBO)
Tiffany Johnson – “Black Monday” – “Eight!” (Showtime)

Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series
Anthony Hemingway – “Genius: Aretha” – “Respect” (National Geographic)
Barry Jenkins – “The Underground Railroad” – “Indiana Winter” (Amazon Studios)
Carl Seaton – “Snowfall” – “Fight or Flight” (FX Network)
Carl Seaton – “Godfather of Harlem” – “The Bonanno Split” (EPIX)
Hanelle Culpepper – “True Story” – “Like Cain Did Abel” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Television Movie or Special
Jaffar Mahmood – “Hot Mess Holiday” (Comedy Central)
Kenny Leon – “Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia” (Lifetime)
Mario Van Peebles – “Salt-N-Pepa” (Lifetime)
Maritte Lee Go – “Black As Night” (Amazon Studios)
Veronica Rodriguez – “Let’s Get Merried” (VH1).

Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture
Denzel Washington – “A Journal for Jordan” (Columbia Pictures)
Jeymes Samuel – “The Harder They Fall” (Netflix)
Lin-Manuel Miranda – “tick tick…BOOM!” (Netflix)
Reinaldo Marcus Green – “King Richard” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Shaka King – “Judas and the Black Messiah” (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Outstanding Directing in a Documentary (Television or Motion Picture)
Andre Gaines – “The One and Only Dick Gregory” (Showtime)
Dawn Porter – “Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer” (National Geographic)
Sam Pollard – “MLK/FBI” (IFC Films)
Samantha Knowles, Yoruba Richen, Geeta Gandbhir, Nadia Hallgren – “Black and Missing” (HBO)
Spike Lee – “NYC Epicenters 9/11➔2021½” (HBO Max)

Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction
“Harlem Shuffle” – Colson Whitehead (Penguin Random House)
“Libertie” – Kaitlyn Greenidge (Algonquin Books)
“Long Division” – Kiese Laymon (Simon & Schuster)
“The Man Who Lived Underground” – Richard Wright (Library of America)
“The Perishing” – Natashia Deón (Counterpoint Press)

Outstanding Literary Work – Nonfiction
“Dance Theatre of Harlem” – Judy Tyrus, Paul Novosel (Kensington)
“Just As I Am” – Cicely Tyson (Amistad)
“My Remarkable Journey” – Katherine Johnson (Amistad)
“Renegades: Born in the USA” – Barack Obama, Bruce Springsteen (Penguin Random House)
“The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story” – Nikole Hannah-Jones (Penguin Random House)

Outstanding Literary Work – Debut Author
“Just As I Am” – Cicely Tyson (Amistad)
“My Remarkable Journey” – Katherine Johnson (Amistad)
“Other Black Girl: A Novel” – Zakiya Dalila Harris (Simon & Schuster)
“The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois” – Honorée Fanonne Jeffers (HarperCollins Publishers)
“Wake: The Hidden History of Women-Led Slave Revolts” – Rebecca Hall (Simon & Schuster).

Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography
“Just As I Am” – Cicely Tyson (Amistad)
“Unbound: My Story of Liberation and the Birth of the Me Too Movement” – Tarana Burke (Macmillan / Flatiron Books)
“Unprotected: A Memoir” – Billy Porter (Abrams Press)
“Until I Am Free” – Keisha Blain (Beacon Press)
“Will” – Will Smith (Penguin Random House)

Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional
“Diversity Is Not Enough: A Roadmap to Recruit, Develop and Promote Black Leaders in America” – Keith Wyche (Kandelle Publishing)
“Feeding the Soul (Because It’s My Business)” – Tabitha Brown (HarperCollins Publishers)
“Permission to Dream” – Chris Gardner (Amistad)
“Teaching Black History to White People” – Leonard N. Moore (University of Texas Press)
“The Conversation: How Seeking and Speaking the Truth About Racism Can Radically Transform Individuals and Organizations” – Robert Livingston (Penguin Random House)

Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry
“Perfect Black” – Crystal Wilkinson (University Press of Kentucky)
“Playlist for the Apocalypse” – Rita Dove (W. W. Norton & Company)
“Such Color: New and Selected Poems” – Tracy K. Smith (Graywolf Press)
“The Wild Fox of Yemen” – Threa Almontaser (Graywolf Press)
“What Water Knows: Poems” – Jacqueline Jones LaMon (Northwestern University Press).

Outstanding Literary Work – Children
“Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy” – Misty Copeland (Aladdin)
“Change Sings” – Amanda Gorman, Loren Long (Penguin Young Readers)
“Stacey’s Extraordinary Words” – Stacey Abrams, Kitt Thomas (HarperCollins)
“Time for Bed, Old House” – Janet Costa Bates, A.G. Ford (Candlewick Press)
“When Langston Dances” – Kaija Langley, Keith Mallett (S&S Books for Young Readers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Youth/Teens
“Ace of Spades” – Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé (Feiwel & Friends / Macmillan)
“Happily Ever Afters” – Elise Bryant (HarperCollins)
“The Cost of Knowing” – Brittney Morris (Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers)
“When You Look Like Us” – Pamela N. Harris (HarperCollins)
“Wings of Ebony” – J. Elle (S&S Books for Young Readers)

Outstanding News and Information Podcast
“#SundayCivics”
“After the Uprising: The Death of Danyé Dion Jones”
“Blindspot: Tulsa Burning”
“Into America”
“Un(re)solved”.

Outstanding Lifestyle/Self-Help Podcast
“Checking In with Michelle Williams”
“The Homecoming Podcast with Dr. Thema”
“The SonRise Project Podcast”
“Two Funny Mamas: Sherri Shepherd & Kym Whitley”
“Under Construction w/ Tamar Braxton”

Outstanding Society and Culture Podcast
“Beyond the Scenes – The Daily Show”
“Jemele Hill is Unbothered”
“Professional Troublemaker”
“Questlove Supreme”
“Super Soul Podcast”

Outstanding Arts and Entertainment Podcast
“Club Shay Shay podcast with Shannon Sharpe”
“Jemele Hill is Unbothered”
“Questlove Supreme”
“Reasonably Shady”
“The History of Sketch Comedy with Keegan-Michael Key”

Social Media Personality of the Year Nominees Eunique Jones Gibson
Kevin Fredericks
Laron Hines
Lanae Vanee
Terrell Grice

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Italian Police Arrests Four Suspected Black Axe Members Over Human Trafficking, Kidnapping

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The Italian police have arrested four Nigerians suspected to be members of the Black Axe confraternity over human trafficking, kidnapping, and allegedly forcing women into prostitution.

The four suspects were arrested in the early hours of on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, during an operation conducted in the Sicilian regional capital, Palermo, and Puglian regional capital, Taranto.

It was gathered that the Palermo flying squad led the investigation through their department for foreign organized crime and prostitution.

During the arrest, one of the suspects was taken into custody in Palermo, while the other three that were living in Taranto were also taken into pre-trial custody.

The suspects were charged with slavery, human trafficking, kidnapping, and pandering (recruiting prostitutes) as described by the police.

According to the information obtained from the Italian News Agency, (AGI) the police were acting on credible information obtained from a Nigerian female migrant who spoke against them that she had been forced into prostitution by the group.

The young lady who accused the suspects said she was assisted by one Nigerian female Pentecostal pastor, stating that she turned to the preacher for help after being forced to work as a prostitute in Italy.

According to her, she underwent a “juju” or traditional magic ceremony in Nigeria before being trafficked to Italy.

She also said she was first kidnapped by a group of Black Axe members in Nigeria before she escaped with the help of a fellow Nigerian. But to pay her back, she was asked to travel to Italy as a “slave”.

She added that during the ceremony, she promised to pay €15,000 for the journey once she arrived in Palermo under “the threat of death and violence” as reported by the Italian News Agency (AGI).

It was also gathered that the money she earned was taken from her to “repay” the debt after being forced to work as a prostitute.

Meanwhile, the pastor who assisted her has said, she has been receiving death threats.

Below is the video for the arrests:

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2022: Grammy Awards Organizers Announces New Date, Venue

The Organizers of the Grammy Awards, the Recording Academy which honour top performances in music have announced that this year awards will be held in Las Vegas on April 3.

The Recording Academy announced this in a statement on Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

According to the statement, the award ceremony which was previously scheduled to hold on January 31, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, has been shifted due to the Omicron variant that has sparked a new wave of Covid-19 infections.

In the statement, the Recording Academy said the Grammy Awards will now hold at the MGM Grand Garden Center in Las Vegas.

The statement also stated the ceremony will be televised and streamed live from the venue, adding that Trevor Noah, the ace comedian, will be returning as host to this year’s awards as he did last year.

Recall, this is the second time that the award event will be rescheduled in two years.

In 2021, the Grammy Awards which was initially scheduled to take place in January was eventually shifted to March due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, the nomination list for the 2022 awards was released in November last year with a number of Nigerian artistes among the nominees.

According to the list that was released, Wizkid was nominated in the ‘Best Global Music Performance’ category for ‘Essence’, his collaborative song with Tems.

Also nominated in the category is ‘Pa Pa Pa’ by Femi Kuti and ‘Do Yourself’ by Angelique Kidjo and Burna Boy.

Wizkid’s ‘Made In Lagos’ album and ‘Legacy +’ by Femi and Made Kuti were put up in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category.

In 2021, Burna Boy’s body of work, became the first Afrobeats album, ‘Twice As Tall’, to win a Grammy award.

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Court Orders FG to Pay Nnamdi Kanu N1b For Violating His Rights

A High Court in Abia State has ordered the federal government to pay the sum of N1 billion to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), for violating his rights.

Justice Benson Anya, delivered the judgment on Wednesday, January 19, 2022, after declaring the invasion of his home as unconstitutional.

The judge also ordered the federal government to issue a public apology to Kanu in three national dailies.

He also advised the federal government to adopt a political resolution in dealing with issues involving Kanu.

However, the judge struck out other reliefs sought by Kanu’s legal team, including an order against his continued detention by the DSS.

In September 2017, it was gathered that the Nigerian Army invaded his residence in his hometown in Afaraukwu.

The judge while delivering the judgment on Wednesday, the Nigerian soldiers violated his rights when they invaded his home without a warrant, leading to the death of several persons while Kanu escaped unharmed.

In a separate case, Kanu has been in DSS custody after being abducted in Kenya in late June 2020 and forcibly transferred to Abuja.

His case was heard on Wednesday morning at the Nigerian capital, during which it was adjourned again until February 16, 2022.

It was gathered that Kanu filed the suit through his counsel, Aloy Ejimafor against Abubakar Malami, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), and the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly violating his fundamental human rights.

Aside from the AGF and the DSS Director-General, other respondents include the federal government of Nigeria (first), Chief of Army Staff (third), Inspector-General of Police (fifth), and three others.

Amongst other reliefs sought in the suit marked HIH/FR14/2021, Kanu asked the court to compel the respondents to pay him N5 billion in damages as monetary compensation for the “physical, mental, emotional, psychological and other damages” suffered as a result of the alleged infringement on his fundamental rights.

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Tiwa Savage Sex Video Appears As Examination Question In FULAFIA

The viral sex tape of Nigerian songstress, Tiwatope Savage Balogun, better known as Tiwa Savage, has appeared as an examination question in the Federal University of Lafia (FULAFIA).

The question paper was shared online by Instablog9ja on Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

According to the question paper, the students of the Department of English and Literary Studies were asked to explain the connection between musical lyrics and the scene in the trended video.

The question reads “Tiwa Savage’s notorious video trended in 2021. What’s the connection between musical lyrics and poetry?”

Recall in October 2021, Tiwa Savage alleged that someone want to blackmail her with her sex video that was accidentally posted on Snapchat by her lover.

In the following weeks, the video finally surfaced online where she was spotted having an intimate moment with an unknown man suspected to be her lover.

The sex video trended on social media for several weeks with different reactions.

See the examination question below:

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Faze Loses Mum Barely One Year After Losing Twin Sister

Ace Nigerian musician, Chibuzor Orji, popularly known as Faze, has announced the passing away of his mother just one year after his twin sister’s death.

Last year, his twin sister, Ifeyinwa, died two days before their birthday.

The musician who expressed sadness over his mother’s death took to his Instagram page to share the news on Monday, January 17, 2022.

According to him, he said his mother died on January 12, adding that he did not know why so many people he loves are leaving this world.

He also added that he is however glad that his mother “lived a full life and is done with the troubles of this world.”

In his post, he wrote “I don’t know how to express what’s in my heart. My heart is heavy. My Mum passed on last Wednesday, January 12th. This, after my twin sister left this world last year.”

“I don’t know why so many good people I love are leaving but I just hold on to the thought that God is God and he knows what he is doing.

“It is well. I just thank him (God) that she lived a full life and is done with the troubles of this world. Rest well, Mummy.”

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Lawmaker Proposes Bill That Will Prevent Landlords From Collecting Yearly Rent

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A lawmaker representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Smart Adeyemi, has sponsored a bill that will ban landlords from collecting annual rent from tenants.

The bill titled ‘Advance Rent For Residential Apartments, Office Spaces, Etc, Regulation Bill 2022’ is seeking to make it a crime for any landlord to request payment of advance rent from tenants of residential, office buildings, and space beyond three months.

The bill which passed its first reading at the Senate Chamber after its presentation on Tuesday will enable tenants to make a maximum advance payment of three months’ rent with subsequent monthly payment.

According to Senator Adeyemi while addressing journalists after the presentation, he said “We discovered that landlords are compelling tenants to make one-year and two-year advance rent payments before they would give them keys to their apartments. It may not be an issue to quite a several people but to many others, it is a great pain for them. Most Nigerians need the protection of the law to be able to meet their basic needs after paying rent.

“Many landlords did not secure loans to build their houses; they are products of free money they acquire from the system. Yet, they make life difficult for poor Nigerians who do not have such privilege of making ill-gotten money from the system and putting up structures.

“The buildings are constructed in such a manner that an average Nigerian would not be able to afford it. Many people are involved in corrupt practices to get their rents paid, while the ladies took to prostitution.

“The law we are proposing stipulates a maximum advance rent payment of three months. After the expiration of the three months rent, the tenants are expected to pay monthly.

“There are many tenants whose salaries are competing with their rents because they live in cities like Abuja. The law will prevent the poor workers from any form of oppression.”

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AY Welcome Second Child With Wife After 13 Years

Nigerian comedian and actor, Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has welcomed his second child, a baby girl with his wife Mabel.

It was gathered that the newly born baby arrived 13 years after the birth of their first child, Michelle.

This was revealed by AY in a post he shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday, January 18, 2021.

According to his post, the entertainer said the arrival of the baby is proof that God’s time is always the best, stating that the arrival is a validation of their prayer requests that was answered after 13 years.

In his post, the 50-year-old comedian also thanked friends and fans who assisted his family amid their quest to have another baby after their first child.

Also, in his post, he further encouraged people to always believe God with all their hearts regardless of their expectation.

AY while sharing his post on IG page, he wrote “Our prayers in the last 13 years have been answered. Ayomide thank you for making @realmabelmakun and I, Mummy and daddy again. Thank you for making Michelle a big sister.”

“Thanks to everyone who kept us in their prayers and never stopped feeding us with positive vibes.”

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. God’s time is always the best.”

Last year November, the couple celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary as a parent after they tied the knot in November 2008.

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Davido Anticipates New Song After Being Spotted With Olamide

Nigerian singer and DMW boss, Davido, has teased his fans with the anticipation of a new song after he was seen in the studio hanging out with YBNL record label boss and rapper, Olamide.

The singer was seen in the video working with Olamide in the studio, while another clip was also seen with singer Skibii.

Following the circulation of the videos, Davido took to his Twitter on Tuesday to announce that he will be dropping a new song ahead of his 2022 album on Friday.

Recall, Davido in March 2021, has said he already had two studio albums recorded after his last project ‘A Better Time’ album.

Also at that time, the 29-year-old singer added that he has an EP for which he partnered with Chris Brown, the US R&B singer.

According to him, he said “Luckily for me, a lot of hits came out of ‘A Better Time’ (ABT). The first video I shot on ABT was me and Chris Brown. I’ve noticed that, with music, you have to plan especially when you’re releasing an album.”

He also said “We’re in an industry where you have hit after hit. After you drop this, they want you to drop that. With me right now, I have two albums already made. I have movies coming out so I think I want to chill.”

In his explanation, Davido revealed that he would be playing the role of a taxi driver in a film to be directed by Edward Zick.

He said “I have another movie that I’m doing with the dude that shot Blood Diamonds. I play a taxi driver.”

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MultiChoice unveils D’banj, Simi As New Judges For Nigerian Idol Season 7

The leading entertainment company and organizers of Nigerian Idol, MultiChoice Nigeria, has unveiled D’banj, the award-winning entertainer, Simi, one of the Nigerian songstresses, and Obi Asika as the new judges for season seven of the show that is scheduled to commence on February 6, 2022.

This announcement was disclosed in a statement by MultiChoice Nigeria on Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

According to the statement, it was gathered that IK Osakioduwa, the popular radio and TV personality will be returning as the show’s host alongside Obi Asika who also comes back as a judge.

Dr. Busola Tejumola, the Executive Head, Content, and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria, while unveiling the new judges said: “We could not think of a better trio to be the season’s judges than Obi Asika, D’banj, and Simi.”

He also said “The three of them combined bring decades’ worth of experience in the music and entertainment business, as well as individual mastery of their crafts. We do not doubt that they will keep the viewers entertained in what will be a spectacular season!”

It was gathered that D’banj who is currently not in the country during the unveiling also affirmed his enthusiasm at being one of the judges of this season.

Speaking about the new task, D’banj said “I was out of the country when I found out that I was going to be a judge for this season of Nigerian Idol and I couldn’t contain my excitement. I’m coming in with my strategy so viewers should expect a bang.”

Also, Simi on her part stated that “I’ve always loved the idea of being a judge and I think it’s a fun thing to do. I plan to be very honest and have fun and hopefully gain inspiration from those that come on the show.”

Obi Asika who also returned as one of the judges added that “I will be looking for special talents and new faces this year. I’m also excited to work with the rest of the judges this season, and I will be very fair and real to every contestant just like I was last year.”

It was gathered that the auditions for the seventh edition of the show had commenced in November last year.

In July 2021, Kingdom Kroseide emerged winner of season six of the Nigerian Idol, after defeating other contestants in a serious musical session.

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Gbajabiamila Wants National Assembly To Increase Educational Qualification For Presidential Aspirants

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has called on the National Assembly to review Section 131(d) of the 1999 Constitution to increase the minimum educational qualification for aspirants into the position of the president and lawmakers.

The speaker said this while speaking at the 52nd Convocation Lecture of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) titled “Building Back Better; Creating a New Framework for Tertiary Education in Nigeria in the 21st Century” on Monday, January 17, 2022.

While speaking, he said though the age requirements have been reduced, the education requirements should be increased to deal with the ever-challenging issues of the modern world.

According to him, in the Nigerian Constitution, a presidential aspirant is qualified to contest for president if he/she has at least a secondary school certificate.

He said section 131 (d) of the 1999 Constitution as amended states that “A person shall be qualified for election to the office of the president if has been educated up to at least school certificate level or it’s equivalent.”

He argued that the provision of the section is a product of a different time which reflected the reality of that time.

Gbajabiamila said raising the minimum educational qualification would help the country to reform its electoral system and provide strong leadership.

In his explanation, he said “As we have reduced the age for eligibility to contest those offices, so also, we should increase the minimum educational requirement. We cannot be talking about raising the standard of education and requiring the barest minimum for people vying for political offices.

“It is time to take another look at the provision. Let us lift our gaze from considerations of small things to focus on the pursuit and achievement of grand ambitions that lift us all and save the future.

“Let us raise a generation in whose hearts the light of understanding is lit and cannot be put out.”

The lawmaker further called on tertiary education to promote entrepreneurship and vocational skills in all courses.

He said “In the new world order, there will always be more businesses to establish than jobs to be found. Our educational focus should better prepare our citizens to be entrepreneurs, instead of being job seekers.”

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Gov. Okowa’s Aide, Ossai Blames Parents For Prostitution And Rituals Killing Among Youths

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The Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Media, Ossai Success Ovie, has said that parents should be blamed for youths’ engagement in prostitution and ritual killings.

He said how many of them are questioning their children’s source of wealth today.

Ossai said this on his Facebook page on Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

According to him, he attributed the rising rate of ritual killings of young girls by Yahoo boys to the inability of parents to live up to their responsibilities.

In his post, he wrote “Our parents are the reasons why our young girls/boys are into Prostitution and rituals.

“Let me say the truth here if there is anyone to blame for the killing of our young girls by our young boys are our parents

“Over the years, our parents failed to bring up our young girls and boys in the fear of the Lord. Today you see an increase in prostitution and rituals killings

“Some of you blame it on the government inability to provide jobs for the youths but you all also failed to understand that there is no way the government will provide jobs for all Nigerians

“Majority of our parents are the ones pushing our young girls and boys into prostitution and rituals

“I also do understand that there are peer pressure but you see, when you are properly trained with the fear of God, no matter the pressure, there are some things you won’t do

“Not because there is no money but because you have the fear of God in you. How many of our parents today question their children’s source of wealth?

“How many of our parents today know where their children are living? How many of our parents today know the kind of friends children are keeping?

“How many of our parents will reject money given to them by their children because they know the money is illegal? These are some of the questions will need to ask ourselves as parents.”

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Singer, Teni Acquires Multi-million Naira House

Nigerian female musician, Teniola Apata, better known as Teni, has reportedly bought a new house in Lagos.

The news of the new apartment was made known by Gossipmillstv through a video post it shared on its Instagram page on Monday, January 17, 2022.

According to the video, the singer can be seen posing by the new house while holding a giant dud key with the inscription; SOLD.

Also in the video, the singer can be seen getting an excursion around the house which is said to be worth millions of naira.

Although Teni has yet to share the good news on her social media pages, colleagues and fans have already started congratulating her.

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Reno Omokri Advises Nigerian Youths To Approach Elections Like They Did With BBNaija

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A former aide to ex-president Goodluck Jonathan and activist, Reno Omokri, has dished out some words of advice to Nigerian youths ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Omokri has said Nigerian youths should approach the 2023 elections as they did with Big Brother Naija.

He said this through a post he shared on his Twitter page on Monday, January 17, 2022.

According to his post, he advised them to ensure they vote on election day, no matter how long it takes to wait in line.

He also asked them to form a team and spend their money to campaign for their preferred candidates, adding that rigging is only possible “when there is low voter turnout”.

He further said that ” rigging is all but impossible” when there is high voter turnout.

In his words, he stated “Dear Nigerian youths. The 2023 election is upon us. Approach it as you did with #BBNaija. Form teams for your preferred candidate. Spend your money campaigning for them. Broadcast their manifestos to all your contacts. Don’t be BBNaija wise and Aso Rock foolish!”

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16-Year-Old Boy Kill Himself After Shooting His Classmate To Death

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A 16-year-old boy has reportedly killed himself after shooting his classmate to death.

The incident occurred in Lesiba Secondary School in Daveyton, Gauteng province in South Africa.

BBC reported that the two pupils were in Grade 10 and the incident occurred inside the school premises as classes resumed for a new session.

According to the report, it was gathered that South African officials investigating the circumstances said on Thursday that the incident happened on Wednesday following a quarrel that ensued between the deceased pupil.

It was also gathered that the incident has left other students and school officials in a traumatic state as mental health officials have been deployed to counsel those who may have been affected by the situation.

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Villagers Worship Unusual Cow born With Three Eyes, Four Nostrils

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Villagers have been seen worshipping an unbelievable calf born with an extra eye on its forehead and four in India.

The cow which was born on January 14, 2022, has been regarded as a “divine miracle” by the villagers as they queued to worship it after it was claimed to be a reincarnation of the Hindu God known as Shiva.

Sputnik reported that some residents of the village of Chhattisgarh in Rajnandgaon District of India claimed that the three-eyed calf is a reincarnation of Viswanatha, a God known for having an eye on their forehead.

According to Sputnik, a large number of people flocked from nearby villages to worship the cow, believing it to be the rebirth of Shiva.

It was gathered that a large crowd of people offered incense sticks, coconuts, and money as per the custom of their culture.

Some of the locals said the timing of the calf’s birth, which was born at the beginning of Makar Sankranti, the Hindu festival of harvesting, is not a coincidence, because many believed the arrival of the calf to be of religious significance.

Meanwhile, Neelkumar Verma, one of the villagers who spoke to the Indian News Agency, ANI, said: “I have never seen any three-eyed being. Only Lord Shiva had it. It is a divine miracle. An incarnation of the Lord himself.”

However, while the birth of the animal was linked to the Hindu God, a veterinary doctor has thought differently with the comparison.

The Doctor, Kamlesh Chaudhary, said that such cases should not be regarded as miraculous, stating that such things sometimes happen due to unnatural consequences of the embryo.

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Music Producer, Samklef Blames Nollywood For Influencing Rituals killings

Nigerian music producer and social media influencer, Samuel Oguachuba, better known as Samklef, has blamed Nollywood for the increasing cases of ritual killing in the country.

Samklef said this in a post he shared on Twitter on Sunday, January 16, 2022, while reacting to the high rate of ritual killing.

According to him, he argued that the movie industry keeps promoting fetish-themed content, thereby influencing people negatively.

In his post, he tweeted “Igbo Nollywood, English and Yoruba movie are the reason why a lot of young boys are doing rituals. They keep promoting fetish stuff in all their movies.”

“Nigeria movies producer can do better. Everything must no be based on juju and religion” he added in his tweet.

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Man Advertises Himself On Billboard While Searching For Wife

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A 29-year-old man who resides in West London, United Kingdom, identified as Muhammad Malik, has advertised himself on Billboard while searching for a wife.

It was gathered by TimeOut Magazine through an interview that Malik who was sick of dating, went from an unknown guy to a famous face overnight, and has gotten over 1000 applications from women inspiring to marry him in just a few days after advertising himself on Billboard.

The illustration on the Billboard carries the photo of Malik with the caption “Save me from an arranged marriage.”

The Billboard was erected in London, Birmingham, and Manchester and it also carries an address to a website he purposely created for the search.

According to him, he said he wants a woman to marry because he doesn’t want to accept an arranged marriage by his family.

Malik who is overwhelmed by the responses he received from potential suitors said, the idea of advertising himself was brought up by a friend who is a marketer.

As reported by TimeOut Magazine, Malik was quoted saying “There’s no timeframe. For me it was a bit of a tongue-in-cheek thing that ‘2022 is the year’, but it doesn’t have to be. I have a strong belief in predestination, that things are written and not to worry.

He said, “I think it’s really important to have that genuine connection with somebody because we’re looking to leave a legacy behind us.”

Also, when asked about how he expects his first date with the applicants to be, he said it would be done by the Islamic tradition.

Malik said “It might be a bit of a culture shock for people, but for me, that would be to meet in a setting where it isn’t just us, but there are also family members around.

“That’s the Islamic way to go about it – there’s always someone there as a chaperone. That would be perfect.”

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BBNaija housemate, Tuoyo survives auto crash

Former Big Brother Naija, season 4 housemate, Tuoyo Ideh, has survived a ghastly auto crash

The reality star broke the news on his Instagram page on Monday with a video post he shared while acknowledging God for his life.

Sharing the video post, he wrote “Thank God for life, and everyone that was with me. Nothing shall take our life this year in Jesus’ name Amen.”

Recall in 2019, Tuoyo was the fifth housemate and the first make to be evicted from the show.

He had admitted that he falsely identified himself as a stripper to stir reactions and attain influence in August 2020.

Also, in December 2021, he had removed the wig he fixed on his hair to return to his normal appearance as a hairless man

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Frederick Leonard Says Nobody Should Preach To Him About PVC

Nigerian film star, Frederick Leonard, has said no one should preach to him about getting his Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs).

He said this while reacting to individuals who urged people to get their PVC ahead of the 2023 general elections that will usher in a new president.

According to him, a lot of individuals are already persuading the masses to get their PVCs to vote their desired candidates into power.

But Leonard on Sunday, January 16, 2022, in his Twitter handles, criticized the importance of getting PVCs in some quarters, stating that has not produced any desired outcomes in the past

The Nollywood actor added that no one should preach to him about getting his PVC.

He added that Nigerians should rather seek to understand the problems in the past elections and spread energy towards changing the narrative.

In his post which he wrote in a combination of English and Pidgin, the film star said “Did I just hear get your PVC again? Please what happened to the ones we got seven years ago and very recently… three years ago? Chai, my darling Naija.”

“May we open our eyes, mind, and sense to see what the problem is, and call it what it is… Please, no brainwashed person should preach PVC to me! the film star wrote.

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IPOB Declares Sit-At-Home In South East On Tuesday

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the proscribed separatist group has declared on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, as a sit-at-home in South East.

It was gathered that IPOB has suspended its sit-at-home directive in the region, including the days when Nnamdi Kanu, its leader appears in court.

But on Saturday, January 15, 2022, its spokesperson, Emma Powerful said in a statement that Kanu is billed to appear in court on January 18, 19, and 20 for the continuation of his trial and there will be a sit-at-home protest on January 18.

Powerful noted that the outcome was to allow people of the Southeast to go about their lawful business as the court rules on Kanu’s fundamental right suit.

He said anyone enforcing a sit-at-home protest on January 19 and 20 is not its member and is working against the interest of the organization.

According to the statement, it reads “We are the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB under the command of our indefatigable Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Following our Leader’s upcoming court proceedings on the 18th, 19th, and 20th of January 2022 next week, we wish to remind Biafrans that there will be only sit-at-home on 18th of January, and not 19th and 20th of January. In keeping with our avowed solidarity with our Leader, the entire Biafra land will be on lockdown only on January 18 for obvious reasons,” the statement reads

“Biafrans should understand that 19th January is the judgment day in the suit by our Leader against the Federal Government which is pending before an Umuahia High Court. So, there will be no sit-at-home on that day.

“Again, we don’t want to compound the pains of our people, hence, we will limit the sit-at-home to only January 18. Biafrans and residents of Biafra are free to go about their businesses without molestations on 19th and 20th January. Anybody found enforcing non-existent Monday sit-at-home on 17th, 19th and 20th is criminal and must treat as such, IPOB leadership have given order and that order is what signed.

“Everybody must be careful because these waves that are coming will consume many and every principal of IPOB mostly the coordinators must know that it will bounce on their heads if they don’t checkmate the activities of members and call them to order. IPOB is not a village or social club where everybody will behave untowardly toward people like cultists.

“For clarity’s sake, we reiterate that there will be no sit-at-home on January 19th and 20th. Nobody is expected to interfere with either human or vehicular movements in those days under any guise. Any detractor or agent of darkness caught obstructing people’s activities in Biafra land on January 19th and 20th in the name of enforcing sit-at-home will regret his or her actions.

“We realize that some unscrupulous and traitors are trying to create confusion about these days and dishing false information and propaganda trying to create confusion in Biafra land. IPOB never declared sit at home on 19th and 20th of January 2022. Therefore, we want all Biafrans to go to their normal business on these days without fear.”

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“Yes, Mummy GO Is My Sister – Singer Olarika revealed

Nigerian music producer and singer, Adelusola Adefemi, better known as Olarika, has confirmed that the Funmilayo Adebayo, better known as Mummy GO, the controversial evangelist is his sister.

The ‘Maserati’ singer confirmed his relationship with Mummy GO via his Twitter page on Friday after rumors circulated that they are related.

It was gathered that a Twitter user had asked if Is it true that Mummy GO is his sister.

Responding, Olarika tweeted and said “Yes, she’s my sister, and na heaven I dey go.”

It was also gathered that some users in the comment section mocked Olarika that is going to hell.

Mummy GO became a viral phenomenon on social media after many videos of her sermons propagating unorthodox moral standards surfaced online.

According to the clergy, she had, in a recent interview, claimed that many viral videos of her preachings about hell are falsified.

She said “I’ve seen those videos but I didn’t feel bad because none of those posting these things are my enemies. 90 percent of them are just catching fun on social media and jumping on trends. They don’t know me.”

“Many don’t know the scandalous reasons why it started. In Nigeria, stress is too much for the youth. People need what will make them laugh. Some didn’t even know I exist. I didn’t say those things. Most of the videos are edited.

“Even Lucifer won’t say those things if he were to become pastor not to talk of a preacher. Those doing it started eight years ago. They first used magazines but started sending armed people to pursue me when it didn’t work.”

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Charly Boy Betrayed Me For N70M Over 2004 Clash With 50 Cent – Eedris

Ace Nigerian rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, has blasted his colleague, Charly Boy, over the comments he made about his clash with 50 Cent, the American rapper in 2004.

Eedris faulted Charly Boy for betraying him after he collected N70M from Nigeria Breweries to blackmail him.

Trouble started after Charly Boy described Eedris as an “ungrateful son” who didn’t appreciate his efforts, despite playing a vital role as the President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

The veteran singer alleged that “The people wey know dis story go tell you to say after I show 50 Cent’s people craze, I made dem leave Nigeria that day back to the states, forgetting the rest of their Nigerian tour.”

“For beating my ungrateful son Edris I drove dem back to America. Nigerian Breweries head scatter, dem come arrange package the IG of police, I was locked up in police cell for almost 1 month. Sometimes in Life, the people that you fight for the fight you back out of their ignorance,” Charly Boy added.

While responding to his comments, Eedris in a series of posts on his Instagram page on Friday, January 14, 2022, accused him of trying “to take the glory that belongs to him.”

The 47-years-old rapper also accused him of being a fake activist who is only interested in financial gains and not leadership.

According to him, he said he called Charly Boy to weigh into the matter after 50 Cent and his team disgraced him while aboard a plane, but further revealed how Charly Boy ended up disappointing him and “sold him out” after collecting over N70 million to blackmail him.

In his post, the ‘Jaga Jaga’ singer wrote “Shut up, you collected 70million from Nigerian breweries to blackmail me, you also collected the evidence of the attack by 50 Cent and Gunit from DJ Tee who recorded everything that happened in the plane on that faithful day.”

He also recounted how Psquare, the now-defunct KC Presh, and other artists were chased and harassed out of a show by the organizers.

The rapper also released a video wherein he further gave his account of what happened at the time.

In 2004, 50 Cent had visited Nigeria alongside his crew for a four-city concert tagged ‘Star Mega Jams’.

But the event was ruined with violent disputes after Eedris and the U.S rapper fell out over a deal — a development that eventually forced the US rapper and his team out of Nigeria.

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Gunmen Attack Police Station, Kill Inspector, Injure Another In Imo

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Unknown gunmen have repeatedly attacked Mgbidi Divisional Police Headquarters in Imo State.

During the attack, a police inspector was killed while another officer was injured in the late hours of Friday, January 14, 2022.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement by the command spokesperson, Michael Abattam, on Saturday.

Abattam noted that the gunmen were resisted in a gun duel while also asking residents of the state to report any person seen treating bullet wounds or hiding within the community to the nearest police station for prompt action.

According to the statement, it was gathered that “On 14th January 2022 at about 20:45 hours, the Command’s Tactical teams at Mgbidi Police Station repelled an attack by some hoodlums who came in a white Hilux vehicle shooting sporadically, attempted to gain entrance into the station but were repelled by the ever gallant Imo Command’s Tactical teams and the police operatives of the division who positioned themselves professionally.

“They engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel. In the process, the attackers were suppressed almost immediately, having suffered a huge defeat, with a number of them sustaining various degrees of bullet wounds, they retreated and escaped in the Toyota Hilux vehicle they came with. And were given a hot chase by the police operatives.

“Consequently, a vigorous and aggressive manhunt of the hoodlums is ongoing with the sole aim of tracking and arresting the fleeing hoodlums since they cannot go far because of the huge damage done to them.

“However, in the course of the attack, a police Inspector lost his life, while another sustained minor bullet injury on his hand.

“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police CP Rabiu Hussaini commended the officers and men for their gallantry and urged them not to relent in their efforts until all criminal elements and their partners are apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law.

“He then appealed to Imolites for the continuous support and collaboration by giving security agencies especially the Police, credible and timely information and to report any person seen treating bullet wounds or hiding within the community to the nearest police station for prompt action.”

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Imo State Governor, Appoints Cubana Chief Priest As Social Media Aide

Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinma, has appointed Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, as his social media aide.

The political appointment was disclosed in a post shared by Cubana Chief Priest on his Instagram page on Friday, January 14, 2022.

According to his post, he said he received the appointment letter as the governor’s Special Adviser on Social Media Influence and Social Events Management on Friday.

In his post, the socialite shared a photo of him posing with his appointment letter on his IG page.

Sharing the post, he wrote “I just picked up my letter of appointment as Special Adviser To His Excellency @he_hopeuzodimma on Social Media Influence and Social Events Management.

“I have an instruction from His Excellency @he_hopeuzodimma to make over 1,000 Imo youths get super successful like me from the Almighty social media which made me in just one year.

“It’s so easy for me to do and I will do just that through christ who strengthens me. Amen.”

“May God give me the grace, wisdom, energy, and guts to tell his Excellency the unfiltered truth he needs to hear at all times. Amen”

Though, while Cubana Chief Priest announced his political appointment on Friday, his former boss, Obi Iyiegbu popularly known as Obi Cubana was in the news over an alleged connection with drug dealers.

On Thursday, January 13, 2022, it was gathered that Obi Cubana was invited by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and was subjected to serious interrogations over the aforementioned allegations.

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Babangida reveals why he remains unmarried after losing his wife

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General Ibrahim Babangida, former Nigeria Head of State, has revealed why has not taken another wife after losing his late wife, Hajiya Maryam Babangida.

He said he decided to honor his late wife by being unmarried.

The former military leader who ruled Nigeria for eight years said this during an interview with Daily Trust when asked why he has not taken another wife since then.

According to him, he said “The media still snoop around me. They should have known, I haven’t. It is a matter of choice; I decided to honor her by being not a bachelor but being unmarried.”

On December 27, 2009, Maryam Babangida, who was Nigeria’s first lady between 1985 and 1993 died after battling ovarian cancer for years at the age of 61.

She died at the University of California’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Centre (JCCC) in Los Angeles, United States.

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Mummy GO Claimed, Saying ‘Hello’ Is Demonic And Slogan Of Hell

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Nigerian controversial evangelist and founder of Rapture Proclaimer Evangelical Church of God (RAPEC), Funmilayo Adebayo, popularly known as Mummy GO, has argued that saying hello is demonic.

She also said it is a slogan for hell.

Hello is mainly used as a salutation to begin a phone talk, but Mummy GO in one of her teachings which has gone viral on social media, has claimed hello “is a language and slogan of hell.”

She also confirmed this after a Bishop from Ghana argued with her.

According to her, she said “A bishop from Ghana was arguing with me. He said ‘Evangelist Funmi, we are listening to your message but don’t say nonsense. Don’t teach us wrong things. I said what is the wrong thing that I taught.”

“He said ‘you said if somebody said hello, it is demonic. It is not good. I said yes sir, I said so. I never denied it.

“He then asked, what about our Lord’s prayer… ‘our father who art in heaven, hallowed…’ I said it’s hallowed not hello.

“By the time you remove letter o from hello, what is remaining? Hell! So, I greet you in the morning or you call me and I just mention hell! It is a language of hell, a slogan of hell.”

Mummy GO became a viral phenomenon after many videos of her strange and harsh sermons emerged online.

She had first alleged that some of the viral videos of her preachings about hell were fabricated.

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How I Wish Dangote Is My Father – Tiwa Savage Laments

Nigerian songstress, Tiwa Savage, has wished Aliko Dangote, the billionaire businessman was her father.

She said this on her Snapchat story while analyzing the task she had to embark on to make money daily.

According to her, she affirmed that making money is not easy

The ‘Somebody’s Son’ singer wrote on her Snapchat story “I have one more meeting. It’s not easy looking for money o. God help me, bit why my papa no be Dangote or something like that (may his soul Rest in Peace though).”

Last year, the singer had said the death of her father left her troubled while announcing her demise.

She wrote “You fought till the very end, you fought daddy. It’s been rough for you these past couple of years but you are resting now. This is tough on me, I’m so numb, so weak. Rest in perfect peace, my king. I love you, daddy. Savy t’eko, popping K.”

Tiwa Savage is one of the well-known female musicians in the Nigerian music industry with strings of awards and honorary mentions.

Meanwhile, it was gathered by TheCable Lifestyle that she is not the only celebrity who wanted to have a rich personality like Dangote as a father.

In 2019, Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, had also challenged what her father was doing when billionaires like Dangote were getting rich.

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Queen Elizabeth Strips Son Of Military And Royal Title

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Queen Elizabeth’s second son, Prince Andrew, has been stripped of his military and royal titles over sexual assault leveled against him.

He will no longer use his “His Royal Highness” title in any official capacity until the case comes to an end as he will defend himself as a private citizen.

This was disclosed by Buckingham Palace in a statement signed by the Queen on Thursday, January 13, 2022.

This is coming after a 38-years-old woman,
Giuffre accuses him of sexually assaulting her in 2001 when she was 17, claiming she was delivered to him by Jeffrey Epstein, Andrew’s friend.

According to the lawsuit, Giuffre alleged that the Duke of Yoke had sex with her without her consent, even though he was aware of her age at that time, an allegation Andrew has denied on various occasions.

In 2019, during an interview with BBC, Andrew had said he did not remember ever meeting Giuffre.

He said “It didn’t happen, I have no recollection of ever meeting this lady whatever.

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Stop Preaching Fear On Congregation, Tithes Payment Isn’t compulsory – Uti Tell Pastors

Former Big Brother Africa (BBAfrica) winner and media personality, Uti Nwachukwu, has said the payment of tithes in churches is optional, not compulsory.

He also said the payment comes with benefits but no punishment for those who do not support it.

Uti said this on Wednesday, January 13, 2022, on Twitter amidst the different controversial beliefs besieging the payment of tithes among Christians.

According to him, he stated that many people are ignorant of tithe payment and how it works, adding that there is no punishment for those who do not support it.

The media personality also condemned the teachings made by some pastors who claimed that non-payment of tithes is “a sin” and that those who do not practice it are likely to face unavoidable consequences.

Uti argued that tithes are “elective” and he compared them to other forms of giving in the church while advising clerics to only teach their members the advantages of paying tithes not instilling fear in them.

In his post, the reality TV star tweeted “A lot of people get this whole tithing thing wrong! Does it work? Yes! But It is not compulsory! And you will not be punished for not practicing it! It is an elective! A covenant blessing available for those interested.”

“What is wrong is using fear of punishment to threaten your congregation into practicing it! It’s like the government waking up today to tell us that you’d be arrested if you don’t invest in real estate,” he added.

“Same goes for first fruits, offerings, and all types of giving. Let people know the advantages but do not lie to them that they sin if they don’t practice it.

“Love and faith are all that matter in our chosen religion. Your faith will always produce results. Which is why some people doing the unimaginable still produce results.”

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Anglican Bishop Charged To Court For Attempt Kissing And Touching Woman’s Breast

An Anglican Church Bishop of Kenya, Joel Waweru, has been charged for allegedly attempting to caress and kiss a woman forcefully without her permission.

The Bishop was arraigned for two criminal charges related to sexual assault before the Kibra Law Court on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, an offense he willingly denied.

K24 Digital reported that the cleric allegedly committed the offences on different dates in Lang’ata Sub-County within Nairobi County.

According to K24, the woman told the police that Waweru had on several occasions said that he liked her because she was beautiful.

It was gathered that the woman further alleged that the Bishop was obsessed with her even though she is married.

She added that the obsession pushed her into filing a complaint as she became extremely insecure and frustrated.

In response to the petition, the clergyman pleaded not guilty and requested forgiving terms.

The magistrate, Derrick Kuti ruled that he should be granted on ksh50,000 cash bail and therefore adjourned the case to a fortnight.

Also, it was gathered that Bishop Waweru was also charged with a second count of touching the breast of J.N.M indecently on July 13, 2021.

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After 7-Months: FG Finally Lifts Twitter Ban

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President Muhammadu Buhari has lifted the suspension of Twitter operations in the country.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Kashifu Abdullahi, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and Chairman Technical Committee Nigeria-Twitter Engagement on Wednesday, January 13, 2022.

In the statement, it was gathered that the approval followed a memo written to the president by the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami.

The government said it has reached an acceptable solution with Twitter on various terms and conditions that were given to the micro-blogging platform, while also revealing that the lifting will be effective from midnight on January 13, 2022.

According to the statement, it reads “Twitter has committed to establishing a legal entity in Nigeria during the first quarter of 2022. The legal entity will register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The establishment of the entity is Twitter’s first step in demonstrating its long-term commitment to Nigeria,” the statement reads.

“Twitter has agreed to appoint a designated country representative to interface with Nigerian authorities. The Global Public Policy team is also directly available through a dedicated communication channel.

“Twitter has agreed to comply with applicable tax obligations on its operations under Nigerian law.

“Twitter has agreed to enroll Nigeria in its Partner Support and Law Enforcement Portals. The Partner Support Portal provides a direct channel for government officials and Twitter staff to manage prohibited content that violates Twitter community rules. At the same time, the Law Enforcement Portal provides a channel for the law enforcement agencies to submit a report with a legal justification where it suspects that content violates Nigerian Laws. Taken together, these represent a comprehensive compliance apparatus.”

The statement further stated that the micro-blogging site has “agreed to act with a respectful acknowledgment of Nigerian laws and the national culture and history on which such legislation has been built and work with the FGN and the broader industry to develop a Code of Conduct in line with global best practices, applicable in almost all developed countries”.

Recall In June 2021, the federal government declared openly the indefinite suspension of Twitter’s operation after the platform deleted tweets made by President Muhammadu Buhari, who had threatened to treat members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the “language they understand”.

Buhari had linked the suspension to “the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence”.

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Burna Boy Criticizes Soot Pollution Caused By Illegal Refineries In Rivers

Nigerian Grammy-award winner, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy has condemned the situation of dark clouds caused by soot pollution of illegal refineries in River State.

It was gathered that the atmospheric pollution has resulted in serious health difficulties to the residents of the state, as they are dying slowly.

According to reports, the regulatory agencies and security operatives have failed to address the situation.

While reacting to the situation, Burna Boy took to his Instagram Stories on Tuesday to share some photos of the dark clouds caused by the pollution in the state.

In his post, the “Way Too Big” crooner called on all the relevant authorities to address the situation using the hashtag #StopthesootinPortHarcourt.

He wrote “Dark clouds over my city. What is the way forward, #StopthesootinPortHarcourt? This is what bright sunny days look like for my people now.”

To tackle the hazard, it was also gathered that Nyesom Wike, the state governor, had earlier authorized the shutdown of illegal refining of crude oil sites in the state.

He has declared 19 operators of illegal refining sites wanted for the soot pollution in the state.

Also, the state police command had earlier announced that its operatives have apprehended 18 persons accused of illegal activities.

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How Delta Police Arrested Suspected Kidnapper, Two Internet Fraudsters, recovered snatched car

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested suspected kidnappers and recovered two locally-made double barrel guns with ten cartridges and snatched vehicle.

The command also arrested two suspected internet fraudsters and recovered one locally-made gun with three cartridges.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP. Bright Edafe, in Asaba the state capital on Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

According to the statement, it was gathered that on 10/01/022 at about 1030hrs, the DPO Oghara Division CSP Jimoh Hassan received information from the DPO new Etete Division in Benin City, that on 9/1/2022, a Pastor was kidnapped along with his Lexus 330 SUV with Reg no KWL 510 BH black in color and that after a painstaking technical intelligence-led the investigation, it revealed that the vehicle was parked along Ibori Road in Oghara.

The DPO Oghara Division detailed and led operatives to the area where the said vehicle was sighted. Upon sighting the Vehicle, the Operatives laid ambush and waited for the suspects to show up. Three men later appeared to pick the vehicle and the Operatives rounded them up, but two of the suspects escaped while one of them named Osagie Felix ‘m’ age 36yrs of H & H Ologbo in Edo State was arrested.

Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the kidnapping syndicate that kidnapped the Benin-based Pastor. He led the Operatives to freedom view hotel in Oghareki where they were hibernating. Upon arrival at the hotel, the owner of the hotel aided the escape of the other two suspects and ran away.

The suspect Osagie Felix led operatives to his room in the Hotel and upon search, one cut to size double barrel pistol, six live cartridges, and the sum of four hundred and ten thousand nairas (#410,000) which was part of the Five hundred thousand nairas (#500,000) ransom were recovered.

The Suspect also led the operatives to another room where another double barrel pistol, ten live cartridges, and a laptop were also recovered. The Victim’s vehicle was also recovered to the station. A serious manhunt for the fleeing suspects is ongoing.

Also in another development, it was gathered that on the 8/01/2022 at about 2230hrs, Patrol team from Eagle Net Special Squad while on stop and search duty at Maryam Babangida Junction in Asaba, intercepted a Toyota Camry car, black with Reg. No. ABH 911 GW with two male occupants namely Daniel Anikpe “M” age 27Yrs and Chikeluba James Ani “M” age 27Yrs both residing at Ulo line shop off Asaba –Ibusa road.

Information revealed after a painstaking search was conducted on the suspects and the vehicle, one locally made double barrel pistol, three live cartridges, one jack knife, two wraps of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, one Samsung Galaxy, one iPhone, two black berets, a driver’s license, one GT bank ATM card, one hand chain and five finger rings were recovered.

An investigation later revealed that suspects are into internet fraud and one of the Suspects Daniel Anikpe admitted that he got the gun about eight months ago from his friend named Tata (surname unknown) who is currently in Ogwashi-uku prison for an offense of armed robbery. He also stated that he bought the gun for twenty-five thousand nairas (#25,000).

He said in the course of his Cybercrime activities, issues bordering on sharing formula usually emanate with his partners in crime, hence he bought the gun to exert revenge on whoever tries to swindle him of his ill-gotten money. The investigation is ongoing.

While commending the gallant officers the Commissioner of Police Delta State Command also applauded the collaborative efforts of the DPO new Etete Division in Edo State and the DPO Oghara Division as it was their working synergy that led to the arrest of the suspect.

The CP reinstated his commitment and that of the Command in ensuring that Delta State is crime-free.

The CP also noted that a crime-free Delta State can only be achieved when members of the public partner with the Police.

The CP also appreciated the collaborative efforts of sister agencies as they have been of immense support to the Command because the Police cannot do it alone.

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Kizz Daniel Sign New Deal With Upfront And Personal Management

Nigerian music star, Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, popularly known as Kizz Daniel, has started up the year with a new management deal that he just signed.

The singer signed a management deal with Upfront and Management Consultant, a reputable company.

The CEO of the Management Consultants, Paul Okoye, announces the new development after the singer penned down his signature with the brand.

Announcing the deal, the CEO of the brand took to his Instagram page to share the news on Tuesday.

While sharing the post, he described Kizz Daniel as the best in the game.

In his post, he wrote “Best in the game! Let’s go No 1 in Africa 2022. Signed and sealed exclusive management deal with Kizz Daniel. Let’s go to the world.”

Also, while confirming the deal, the ‘Pour me water’ crooner wrote “Highest” on the comment section as fans, colleagues, and well-wishers also commented by congratulating the singer and twin dad on his new deal.

Recall, Kizz Daniel was under his self-owned label named Fly Boi Inc, after leaving his former G-Worldwide, his former imprint.

The talented singer also has a distribution deal with Empire Records in the United States wherein he released his latest album ‘Barnabas’.

The singer is set to kick off his Afro Classic World Tour from February 2022 to September 2022, where he will tour over thirty cities around the world, including Lagos, Abuja, London, Toronto, New York, Chicago, Paris, Frankfurt, Lisbon, Melbourne, and a host of others.

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Breaking: Death row as Salvation Ministry Church Building Collapses In Delta

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The church house of Salvation Ministry beside Rain Oil in Okpanam road, Oshimili North Local Government Area in Delta state has collapsed.

The building collapsed on Tuesday at about 5:55 p.m during evening service trapping an unknown number of worshippers with over 10 deaths recorded.

It was gathered that about ten persons lost their lives, four persons have were rushed to Asaba Specialist Hospital while eight persons have been rescued unhurt.

During the rescue operations, the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah; the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ononye Mordi, and a team of Red Cross officers and firefighters were on the ground as worshippers, and family members, sympathizers were seen crying as of the time of filing this report.

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Basketmouth vows to continue criticizing pastors despite its repercussion

Basketmouth, a Nigerian comedian and actor has said that he will go on berating pastors even though they say it’s attracted some kind of punishment.

The comic actor said this after Bishop Davido Oyedepo, the senior pastor of Winner Chapel, admonished Christians to desist from criticizing men of God.

According to the clergyman, he said such a manner attracts dangerous punishment such as leprosy.

Oyedepo said “Beware of speaking hurt against the Ministry you claim to be part of advancing, it’s a risk. Beware of speaking hurt against a prophet you claim to believe.”

“It is dangerous. It can make a man leprous. It is dangerous. We don’t have the data of how many victims may have come from this warning, but I know quite some would have been victims.”

While responding, Basketmouth took to his Instagram story on Monday with a post, stating that he is guilty of what the clerics said and also added that he will continue despite the warning.

In his post, he shared a photo of the Bishop and wrote “This news dey make me laugh cos I am so guilty of this. Did it again 7 times yesterday and 15 times today. And I know I have 50 more to go today.”

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Police Arrests Armed Robbery Suspects, Drug Dealers, And Recover Stolen Car In Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested some suspected armed robbers and recovered a stolen car.

The command also arrested illicit drugs dealers and recover forty-three wraps of Indian hemp, Loud, Colorado, and Tramadol.

This was disclosed by DSP Bright Edafe, the command spokesperson on Saturday, January 8, 2022, in Asaba the state capital.

He said the command also recovered one G3 rifle with breach No. 69021340 and a battle-ax.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that “On 07/01/2022 at about 0430hrs Dragon Patrol Teams while on stop and search duty along Warri/Sapele Road intercepted one Toyota Venza with Reg. no. FKJ 420 GT, chassis number 4t3bk3bb0bu056957 and Engine number 6668351 Grey driven by one Akpoyerinebele ‘m’ 33yrs of mechanic village Effurun in the company of another occupant (name unknown) the other occupant immediately took to his heels and ran into the bush while the driver was arrested. Upon searching the vehicle, a phone number was found inside. During the investigation, the owner of the vehicle was contacted through the phone number found in the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle confirmed that the vehicle was snatched at NDC road Ozoro at gunpoint by a five-man robbery gang at about 0100hrs of the same date. Manhunt for the other fleeing suspect is ongoing.”

He also noted that “On 05/01/2022 at about 1530hrs, the Command Crack Squad while acting on intelligence gathered, raided a suspected criminal hideout along Jakpa Road, Warri and in the process arrested two suspects namely, Felix Aroh ‘m’ age 43yrs and Erumu Ogodo ‘m’ age 20yrs. The following exhibits were recovered from them; Three (3) containers of Loud, eight (8) wraps of Kolorado hard drugs, four (4) packets of rolling paper, one hundred and forty-three (143) wraps of substance suspected to be Indian hemp and some sachets of tramadol. “

“The team also raided another criminal hideout in Agbor metropolis and arrested Musa Abdullahi ‘m’ age 25 and Gift Ahemte ‘f’ age 53yrs and recovered 8kg of Indian hemp, volume 5 and swinol drugs.”

“Similarly, on 7/1/2021, Crack surveillance team raided a criminal hideout in Issele-Asagba where one Blessing Nwabuokei ‘f’ age 32yrs was arrested and 12kg of weed suspected to be Indian hemp and some quantity of cocaine were recovered from her. The investigation is ongoing.”

Edafe added that “On the 2/1/2022 at about 1300hrs, Acting on intelligence gathered over some time, operatives from Area Command Warri raided Ugborikoko community. During the raid, one Randy Omovie ‘m’ was arrested and one G3 rifle with breach No. 69021340 and battle axe was recovered from him. One Sunny Blessing ‘m’ a suspected drug dealer was also arrested and a substance suspected to be Indian hemp soaked in gin, fourteen wraps of substance suspected to be cocaine, eight bottles of codeine, ten cups of loud were recovered from him. The investigation is ongoing.”

The police spokesperson further added that the Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, PSC+ while commanding officers and men of the Command for their efforts in fighting crime, also admonished them to sustain the tempo in the fight against crime and criminality and ensure that they continue raiding criminal hideouts/black spot to ensure that the battle is taken to the doorsteps of criminal elements so that crime can be nipped in the bud.

The PPRO said the CP also encouraged members of the public to continue to support and partner with the Police by helping with useful and timely information as it relates to security in the State.

He said the Command can be contacted through the PPRO’s Office via the following numbers
+234 915 557 0008
+234 915 557 0007
+234 902 907 0037
Or the Command Control Room via +234 803 668 4974

See other exhibit below:

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Fireboy DML ‘Peru’ Remix Reaches New Peak, Enters UK Top 10 Chart

Nigerian singer, Fireboy DML, has landed on the official UK top 10 charts for the first time with the remix of ‘Peru’ his single featuring British singer, Ed Sheeran.

Fireboy disclosed the news via its official website on Friday.

The remix arose at no. 6 this week, making it his very first top 10 entry on the chart.

This comes after the song which was released last month hit over 10 million views on YouTube.

The song also made its debuts on the US Rhythmic Radio Chart, while the original song has spent weeks on the Official UK Afrobeats chart.

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Rugar Woo Lady On ‘Snapchat’ musical video [Watch]

Nigerian fast-rising singer, Michael Adebayo, better known as Rugar, has dropped the visual for ‘Snapchat’, a track off his latest EP ‘Second Wave’.

The singer announced the release of the video on Thursday via his social media pages.

In the video, he was seen trying to win over a lady’s heart, as he convinced a lady on what she stands to gain if she dances to his tune and becomes his woman.

The musician can be heard singing in a mixture of English and Pidgin.

“Girlie, you know wan tap that Olayemi, sh’oripe o gara oh? Easy text me pon Snapchat. Sexy snaps me heart beatin’ like rap chat, hmm-hmm ’cause inna my quality bed…quality rest I rest assured for you. Me ready shoot my shots in you.”

“I want to see you soon. You should be here by noon. Come catch my cruise, want to see you move, move…all I need is you.”

Since he released ‘Bounce’, his hit single. Ruger has continued to pull the strings of fame in the Nigerian music industry.

Watch the video below:

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Burna Boy, Wizkid drops ‘Ballon D’Or video [Watch]

Burna Boy and Wizkid have released the visual for the ‘Ballon D’Or’, the latest song they collaborated on recently.

The video was announced on Friday by both artists using their social media handles.

The video starts with Burna Boy and Wizkid on a boat cruise, drinking in the stability of the cool atmosphere at a beach in the company of different ladies.

Both singers can be seen demonstrating their salvage style in the music video — a concept they portrayed by the ‘Ballon d’Or award which is a prestigious trophy given to the best male footballer in the world.

This is coming after they collaborated on ‘Ginger’, a track off ‘Made in Lagos‘, Wizkid’s 2020 hit album.

It is a well-known fact that both singers have established themselves as household names in the global music industry with a series of hits tracks, awards, and various recognition.

In 2021, the pair grabbed their first-ever Grammy award each at the 63rd edition of the annual event.

Burna Boy started to gain popularity in 2012 after releasing ‘Like to Party’, the lead single from his debut album ‘L.I.F.E’ (2013).

He went on with his incredible run to release his fourth studio album ‘African Giant’ in July 2019. The project would later win ‘Album of the Year at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).

Wizkid, on the other hand, has taken the global music industry storm since last year with the success of his ‘Made in Lagos’ album.

Watch the video below:

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Rema Gains Admission To Study Creative Arts In UNILAG

Mavin Records signee, Divine Ikubor, better known as Rema, has revealed that he has successfully gained admission into the University of Lagos (UNILAG)).

The singer disclosed this in a series of tweets he tweeted on Friday.

Rema also tweeted that the decision was founded on his mother’s insistence that he should get a degree from a University.

According to his tweets, he wrote “What if I told y’all I got an admission into UNILAG? Lol, Mom said I still need to get a degree sigh, oh well see you guys in class!”

He also said he would be releasing his much-awaited debut album ‘Rave & Roses,’ before proceeding with resumption.

“I go try to drop the album before I enter school, make dem no go beat me for UNILAG, plus I’m in the creative art department.”

Rema had in 2020, recalled how his mother’s assistance was significant after he lost his father and brother.

He said “I had to work hard because I lost my father and my brother and things were left only to me. So, I had to put things in place. I did a lot of jobs like working at a beach in Ghana.”

“Hard work got me my this shape. At first, it was hard for me, I cried and was sad. When I got back to Nigeria I had to appreciate my mum for being strong so I had to get her a car.”

“I was tired of seeing her trekking every day. She didn’t even have money to use public transport or a motorcycle. Even though I had no car of my own then, I had to buy my mum a car.”

The musician has continued to pull the strings in the country’s music landscape with strings of hit projects.

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Unforgettable Night As Flavour Thrills Fans During Homecoming Concert In Anambra

Last Sunday was an exciting experience as, Nigerian highlife musician, Flavour, stormed his hometown, Umunze, in Anambra State with his homecoming concert.

The concert was organized by Life Beer, one of the major cultural stakeholders in the Southeast of Nigeria over the years.

The event is filled with a non-stop groovy and it is free for attendees.

According to Flavour while commenting on the event, he said “I feel like it’s the perfect way to celebrate with my fans. What a truly amazing year we have had, and bring in brand new energy for the New Year.”

Also commenting is the Aishat Anaekwe, the Senior Brand Manager of Life Continental Beer said: “For decades, Life Beer has supported the progress and success of easterners. We are using the concert to give our wonderful consumers a thrilling concert with one of Nigeria’s finest High-life musicians, Flavour of Africa. As we grow, it is also our desire that our loyal customers and partners across the nation grow with us.”

Some other guest artists that excited the audience include Phyno, who reeled out his rap hits to the amazing crowd; Masterkraft, Obi Cubana, WhiteMoney, the BBNaija season 6 winner as well as the viral sensation Prophet Odumeje, who also threw the crowd into a comic atmosphere.

Recently, Flavour has had quite a prosperous run with his Flavour of Africa U.S. tour including many sold-out venues in major cities such as Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Minneapolis as well as his headline performance at New York’s legendary SOB.

Last month, he also shut down another headline concert in Lagos as part of the Flytime Music Festival.

See other photos for the event:

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Reasons why Teni’s show was Hijacked by Thugs in Rivers State

In what happened as a security breach during Teni’s performance in Rivers State recently, the Rivers State Police Command has said the incident was due to the absence of police operatives at the venue, a place in the Degema environment of the state.

This was disclosed by the spokesperson of the State command, Grace Iringe-Koko, who said the organizers of the event failed to apply to the police for security operatives at the venue.

Recall that eyewitnesses had shared a now-viral video of unknown assailants firing their guns into the air at the venue and alleging it to be attempted kidnapping.

But the police spokesperson had earlier debunked claims stating that the gunfire was from private security agents who fired to disperse restive miscreants at the venue.

Fringe-Koko wrote: “No police officer from Rivers State Command fired any gunshot that day. Normally, if they have such an event they are supposed to write an application to the Commissioner of Police. Then the CP would direct the Area Commander covering the Degema axis. The Area Commander would then assign it to the Divisional Police Officer at Buguma that will cover the event. But there was no application of such. Perhaps the DPO and his men strolled around to the venue while on patrol. But there was no application for such security that day.”

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Harrysong, Olamide, Fireboy diss out ‘She Knows’ video [Watch]

The video for ‘She Knows’, the latest collaboration between Harrysong, Olamide, and Fireboy DML has been released.

The video was released in the early hours of Friday almost a month after the release of the song.

The video was shot and directed by Film Bank Studio and the concept featured a fashion runway with beautiful ladies cat walking.

The video opened on Fireboy delivering the chorus with his enhancing voice then Harrysong dissed out his agility verse in a slow high-pitched melody before dipping to the pop-like harmony.

Then to wrap it up, Olamide blends in with his street slang and sexual imputations.

Watch the video below:

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My mum is not bothered about hellfire memes on social media – Mummy GO’s son revealed

The son of Funmilayo Adebayo, an evangelist nicknamed Mummy GO, Samuel, has revealed that her mother, who now trending on social media with her hellfire memes is not worried about the circulation online.

Samuel said different contents credited to her mum in the memes about hellfire were formulated and false intuition.

This is coming after some video clips of her mum’s hell-threatening sermons videos went viral, the videos are what earned her the nickname Mummy GO. She is the founder of Rapture Proclaimed Evangelical Church of God.

The Punch reported that her son in a chat on Friday said though his 54-years-old mother made some comments about some actions that might attract hellfire as a destination in the afterlife, she never concerned people to believe her.

The Punch publicized that the son of the preacher is in his early 30s and he has also urged social media users not to take his mother’s comments personally but free to ignore or accept any of her sermons that align with their belief system.

According to The Punch, Mummy GO’s son said “Social media has always been a platform where anything can be posted at any point in time but everything that has been posted about her saying she said this and that are all lies, nothing is true about the memes, they are just fabricating the memes, everybody with their contents, writing all sorts of things and tagging her pictures. We are used to it; the best thing is to ignore them.

“Even though she said everything about hell, there is nowhere she said by fire, by force, people must agree and accept what she is saying. I don’t think she has ever made that kind of statement before.

“Everybody is entitled to believe what they want to believe. I don’t know why people are taking it personally. There is the freedom to believe whatever one wants to believe and neglect whatever one wants to neglect but there is always the freedom of expression. Even Christ didn’t say that people must accept Him by fire by force as the son of God.”

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Tiwa Savage Drops New Year Quote About Listening Ear

Nigerian songstress, Tiwa Savage, has composed a quotation that dwells on the carefulness of not sharing too much personal information with people for the new year.

She advised people to be mindful of the individual who presents himself or herself as a listener, while also said such a person can also be the one to reveal confidential.

Tiwa Savage explained this on her Instagram page on Thursday.

In her words, she wrote: “Just remember a listening ear can also be a running mouth.”

Recall, the singer while expressing grief at the demise of her father and friend, Obama DMW, also known as Davido’s aide as 44 said in 2021 that some people will be happy when she is no more.

Tiwa wrote, “I was sad at the passing of my dad and 44 but at least they are no longer in this cruel place. Some people will be happy when I am no more” she added in her post.

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President Buhari admits that old age is telling on him

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For first the time, President Muhammadu Buhari admitted that at 79, the rigors of office are affecting him.

He also blamed part of the situation on the outbreak of Covid-19 stating that the circumstance seriously lessened the number of visitors he receives daily at the Presidential Villa.

The President said this on Thursday, January 6, 2021, during and an interview with Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

According to him, he added that he was not in a position to complain because he asked for the job of presiding over the affairs of the country.

Buhari said in his words “I think that COVID-19 came to my rescue in the sense that the number of people that need to see you can’t see you. That gives you more time.

“Regarding my age, I see my colleagues, they are now resting and I assure you that I’m looking forward to the next 17 months when I too will have to be less busy. The age is telling on me, working now for 6, 7, 8 hours per day in the office is no joke.

“The Executive Council, memos from as many states as possible to be considered virtually every week. So, really, it is a lot of hard work but like I said, I asked for it so I cannot complain”.

Also, when about politics if the opposition can mobilize the strength to grab power in 2023 if the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) fails to put its house in order before its national convention.

Buhari completely said the APC should learn from the fate that befell the PDP in the 2015 general elections.

Explaining, he said the PDP which was then the ruling party was so confident and never thought that opposition parties could unite and come together to contest the presidential election.

He said by the time the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) united, it was too late for the PDP to realize its mistake.

Buhari said, “Well, we have a time frame. We have to work because the four-year cycle is constitutional; it cannot be interfered with by anybody. So, if the party cannot agree, then the opposition can take over”.

“What did the PDP do? They thought that the opposition cannot agree and come together. But when the ACN, ANPP, CPC, APGA came together, they were off. They are still off. So, they can see it” he added.

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Gov. Okowa says leisure park, film village in Asaba will complete in 2-months

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To build a Stronger Delta Vision, the executive governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has said the ongoing leisure park and film village in Asaba when completed will change the landscape of the state capital.

He said his administration will continue to do its best to ensure that the project is completed in two months and in good time.

He said this on Thursday morning, January 6, 2022, after inspecting the ongoing construction projects to ascertain the level of work done.

Gov. Okowa said the equipment for the leisure park and film village has arrived at the Lagos seaports and will be installed before the end of February.

He also expressed satisfaction with the rate of work and said he will visit the site a lot more to ensure that the deadline is met.

He added that the project is important to his Stronger Delta vision and would continue to receive funding despite financial challenges in the state.

According to the governor in his explanation to newsmen, he said “This is my first assignment in this year, 2022, because of the importance that I attach to the twin project of the leisure park and the film village.

“We have gone round and a lot of work has been done. There is no doubt that there might be a little delay or the other but definitely, a lot of progress has been made.

“I have been reassured by the contractors that civil works will be completed by the end of February.

“The civil works will be through by the end of February from what I see but some environmental works are still going on, the issue of greenery of the area.

“As we walked around, we saw some of the trees that are being nursed for planting and I am told that many more are also coming in.

“So, we look forward to the completion of the civil works and the greenery of the area by the end of February.

“I want to hold them to their word but I can see some improvement here and I desire that we should be able to give life to this twin project by the Easter season which is just only a month and a week by February ending.”

See photos from the ongoing projects:

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Davido officially opens his new house in Banana Island

Nigerian singer and DMW record label boss, Davido, has officially opened his new house in Banana Island, Lagos State.

He Announced the official opening of the house on his Twitter page on Thursday, January 6, 2022, with a tense post.

In his post, the DMW boss wrote “I open my new house today! 2022 all blessings. Amen!

This is coming a month after he started a fundraiser on Twitter, a donation he originally said was for the clearance of his Rolls Royce automobile at the ports.

It was gathered that the singer generated a whopping sum of N200 million from the initiative within 24 hours and added his own N50 million then declared openly that the funds would be used to help orphans.

The fundraiser was launched using WEMA BANK, which later gave him an endorsement contract.

Also, in his effort to rightly disburse the fund to Nigerians, Davido opened an online portal for orphanages to apply for the N250m fund, in memory of his 29th birthday.

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“I Know Many Grew Stupid People And I Don’t Believe In Religion – Wizkid Revealed”

Nigerian award-winning musician, Wizkid, has revealed that he doesn’t believe in religion.

He said this on Wednesday in a post he shared on his Snapchat handle.

In his post, he also said age does not symbolize one’s intelligence.

Wizkid added that he knows so many foolish people who are grown of age too.

According to him in his words on Snapshot, he wrote “I don’t wake up sad, I don’t wake up poor in life, in health and spirit and I don’t wake up with hate in my heart.

“Don’t waste your life with temporary situations. Live life, Age isn’t a representation of how smart you are.

“I known plenty stupid grew people too. And I don’t believe in religion.”

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Burna Boy gift himself 2022 Lamborghini

Grammy award winner, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has bought himself a new car, a 2022 Lamborghini Urus.

The car is worth N253, 946000 excluding shipment and customs fees.

Burna Boy revealed this on his Instagram story on Thursday, January 6, 2022, when he shared pictures of the expensive car.

Sharing the post, he wrote “Merry Christmas and happy new year Damini. God loves you, your family loves you and I love you. You don’t need anything else.

See photos of the car:

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Duncan Mighty survives auto crash

Nigerian music producer and singer, Duncan Mighty, has survived a ghastly car accident on his way to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The singer made this known through a post he shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday.

In his post, he narrated how the incident occurred on Sunday, January 2, 2022 while on his way to Uyo.

He said their vehicle drove into a nearby river after a trailer that was moving at a high speed failed its break and collide with their car.

He said he and others in the car were rescued by some youths in the area and later rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.

According to him, he has already been discharged from the hospital.

He also thanked those who rescued them and others who have been of assistance after the incident occurred.

In his words, he stated “God bless you all for your prayers, 2nd January on our way to Uyo our vehicle drove straight into the river after a trailer on a high-speed failed break was the last thing I can remember,” he wrote.

“Next is seeing myself in a hospital. God made no man-made. To our rescuers Akwa Ibom/Ogoni youths, God bless you more and more. I’ve been discharged and sound. Na today I get another second-hand phone, I say make I cassette the good news.”

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Prices of non-alcoholic drinks to increase as FG imposes N10 excise duty

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The federal government has introduced a new tax of N10/liter on all non-alcoholic, carbonated, and sweetened beverages across the country.

The imposition is regarded as excise duty on the production, licensing, and sales of goods.

This was disclosed by the minister of finance, budget, and national planning, Zainab Ahmed, on Wednesday in Abuja during the public presentation of the 2022 Appropriation Act.

According to the minister, she stated that the new policy is in the Finance Act that was signed into law on December 31, 2021, by President Muhammadu Buhari.

She said apart from the new ‘Sugar Tax’ in section 17, the 2021 Finance Act also raised excise duties and revenues for the health sector.

She also said the excise duty on soft drinks would prevent unnecessary consumption of sugary beverages which contributes to diabetes, obesity among others.

In his explanation, Ahmed said, “There’s now an excise duty of N10/ per liter imposed on all non-alcoholic and sweetened beverages.”

“And this is to discourage excessive consumption of sugar in beverages which contributes to several health conditions including diabetes and obesity.

“But also used to raise excise duties and revenues for health-related and other critical expenditures.

“This is in line also with the 2022 budget priorities,” she added.

Recall in 2019, Zainab Ahmed, the minister of finance, had announced that the government may introduce excise duty on carbonated drinks.

Also in 2020, Hameed Ali, comptroller-general of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), had recommended the collection of excise duty on soft drinks.

He had also introduced the same proposal in 2021 at an interactive session on the 2022-2024 medium-term expenditure framework (MTEF), organized by the house of representatives committee on finance.

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Jim Iyke says the fight with Uche Maduagwu was aimed at promoting his movie ‘Bad Comment’

Nigerian film star and producer, Jim Iyke, has revealed that he planned the fight with Uche Maduagwu, the self-acclaimed Nollywood actor to create awareness for his 2021 movie titled ‘Bad Comments’.

He also revealed that he paid Maduagwu to help him execute the plans.

In August 2021, Jim Iyke staged a fight with Maduagwu at an undisclosed location in Lagos over his comments on social media, questioning Iyke’s source of wealth. A situation that caused an uproar online.

But Jim Iyke during an interview with Jideonwo disclosed that he organized the crisis and also paid Maduagwu to play along.

The 45-year-old movie star said it was well deliberate, scripted, and executed for the movie he was trying to promote at that time.

According to him, he said he put up with the measure as a strategy to publicize the movie after spending over N20 million without getting the desired result.

He went forth to say that the initiative was also to demonstrate that he is capable of pulling any prank.

In his words, he said
“It was orchestrated, I can say it now. I’ve given you two scripts. Do I look like the kind of person that just before the introduction of one of the most important works in my entire career would go and jeopardize it with that? No, I’m too strategic.”

“I called the man (Maduagwu), we had an understanding, I paid very well for it, rolled out the script, called Moses in, we shot it and we’re about to release the ending of it. I’m not stupid. I will never make that kind of mistake.”

“We buried over N20m in the promotion of that film and people were still viewing it with a certain degree of cynicism. Immediately there was a scandal, it caught fire.”

“I wanted to tell them to paint the picture of what it was like in the social media ecosystem. I can orchestrate anything and you will perceive it. It’s about perception.”

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Wizkid’s album ‘Made In Lagos’ surpassed one billion streams

Nigerian multi-award winner, musician, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, better known as Wizkid, has achieved another milestone with his ‘Made In Lagos’ album.

The ‘Made In Lagos’ album hits over one billion streams across all music streaming platforms in 2021.

The album was released in 2020 and also had its deluxe version released in 2021.

‘Made In Lagos’ has garnered a total of 1.4 billion streams making it a global album.

According to the breakdown of the streams across major platforms, Apple Music recorded 410.15 million, Spotify 312.7 million, Audiomack 313.7 million, Youtube 324.06 million, while Boomplay recorded 48.7 million streams.

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Don’t give your first salary of the year to pastors, give it to your parents – Mr. Jollof

Popular Instagram comedian, Mr. Jollof, has cautioned Christians regarding their first salary of the year.

He said they should not send their first salary of the year to their pastors as seed money, instead, he advised them to send it to their parents.

This is coming because it has become a common practice among pastors in Nigeria who advise their members to always sow seed with their first salaries at the beginning of the year.

Mr. Jollof said this in a video post that was shared on Instagram on Tuesday, January 4, 2021, by Mabeldanqua and was seen by Goldennationblog.com.

According to the video post, Mr. Jollof alleged that people should stop giving their first salary of the year to their pastor as seed money alleging that it is better to give it to their parents.

In his words, he stated that such a gesture would be in their favor as it will bring more blessings to them more than a pastor who has more than the person giving him.

The comedian also added that if it will be difficult to give out their January salary, the person can use it to attend to his or her financial issues instead of giving it out as a seed.

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FG declares free train transportations from Dec 24 to Jan 4

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The Federal Government has announced free train transportation for Nigerians during the Yuletide celebration.

The free train rides will commence from December 24 to January 4, 2022.

This was disclosed by Fidet Okhiria, the managing director of Nigeria Railway Corporation during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Abuja.

According to Okhiria, he said ”The decision which was made in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation, is to ease movement of citizens during the yuletide.

”This is to help ease the cost of transportation and enable citizens to move easily enjoy the festive period.

”Passengers are, however, advised to ensure they obtain their tickets from appropriate quarters at no cost, to enable them to gain access and enter the trains.

” All passengers are also enjoined to observe and obey COVID-19 rules by wearing of face mask, washing and sanitizing of hands. “

He also restated the federal government’s assurance to ensure the safety of passengers and trains during this time.

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Police arrest suspected armed robber with locally-made double barrel pistol and ten bullets

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The Delta State Police Command arrested a suspected armed robber and recover one locally made double barrel pistol with ten live bullets.

This was disclosed by the spokesperson of the command, DSP Edafe Bright, on Friday, December 23, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

DSP Bright said “On the 21/12/2021 at about 1010hrs, Operatives attached to Eagle-net special squad while on routine stop and search along Ughelli/Warri road, intercepted a motorcycle with two (2) male occupants.

“On sighting the Police, the passenger alighted from the motorcycle and ran into a nearby bush. He was given a hot chase and the unrelenting efforts of the Police led to the arrest of the suspect named Mamus Obine age 18years from Agbarho in Ughelli North LGA, Delta state.”

“Upon searching the bag the suspect was carrying, one (1) locally made double barrel pistol and ten (10) live cartridges were recovered.”

“Preliminary investigation later revealed that the suspect operates with two other suspects namely Austin and Thankgod ( both surnames unknown).”

“The suspect confessed that he was after one Kingsley whom he had issues of money sharing with after he defrauded his victim of the sum Eight Hundred thousand naira (#800,000) from internet fraud and that he was about going to attack the said Kingsley with the gun when the police intercepted and arrested him.”

“Investigation is on while a manhunt for the other members of the gang is ongoing” the police spokesperson added.

Mamus Obine age 18years from Agbarho

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Ne-yo reveals plans to collaborate with Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tems

American R&B singer, Shaffer Chimere Smith, has admitted that he will love to work together with Nigerian artists.

He mentioned Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tems, and Ckay, as artists he will love to with during a media conference with Flytime music before headlining their music festival on Wednesday.

The songwriter said he was surprised when he knew he had a huge fan base in Nigeria.

The 43-year-old record producer also spoke about his intention to change course into Afrobeats.

According to him in his words, he stated that “I remember being pleasantly surprised the first time I came to Lagos, Nigeria. I genuinely had no idea that I had such an amazing fan base here,” he said.

“For me to sit with producers and go and be like, ‘Let’s do some afrobeat today’, I’ll feel like an imposter.

“If I want to get into it, I want to be invited by an artist who’s already there.

“Let me feature on an artist who’s already there or I get an artist who’s already there to feature on something of mine, so that’s authentic.

“I’ll love to collaborate with some African artists. Wizkid is on the list, Terms is on the list, Burna Boy is on the list, and Ckay is on the list.

“I’m just waiting on a phone call. I don’t have anybody’s number for me to call. I’m waiting for them to call me.”

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Mompha threatens Bobrisky with N1bn defamation lawsuit

Instagram celebrity, Ismailia Mustapha, Better known as Mompha, has threatened to sue Okuneye Idris Olarenwaju, better known as Bobrisky, for allegedly circulating “libelous statements” against his personality.

Mompha said this in a letter signed by his lawyer, Clement Benjamin, on Wednesday, December 22, 2021.

In the letter, the internet celebrity claimed that Bobrisky posted the said post on December 18 and 21 respectively, insisting that the self-acclaimed transgender accused him of using his car.

According to his claims, he also claimed that Bobrisky described him as an audio billion who rents vehicles in Dubai just to show off while also arguing that he accused him of gossiping about two Nollywood actresses, Anita Joseph and Nkechi Blessing.

The socialite interpreted Bobrisky’s statement as “malicious and sponsored to smear his reputation.”

In his words, he stated that “It is by the reckoning of our Client, a deliberate attempt sponsored and/or designed to malign his image and cast aspersion on his personality in front of his teeming social media fans and followers and most especially the general public.”

Mompha also tackled Bobrisky for failing to publicly debunk the claim by Oye Kyme, his ex-aide, that the pair dated — despite several entreaties to make him do so.

The socialite asked the crossdresser to withdraw the said publications and issue an apology to be published in two major national newspapers as well as online news outlets in the next seven days.

He also demanded the sum of one billion nairas from Bobrisky as “damages and compensation for the malicious publications made against him.”

Mompha threatened that he would take the matter to court should the brand-influencer fails to meet the listed demands within seven days after receiving the letter.

The two social media celebrities have not been on good terms since their seeming friendship went sour.

Recently, Mompha cautioned the crossdresser against involving him in his feud with Tonto Dikeh, the Nollywood actress.

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Tony Nwaka’s Suspension From PDP Takes Dramatic Turn

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The suspension of the former Chairman of Aniocha South and Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and also Basic and Secondary Education during the Uduaghan administration, Tony Nwaka, from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has taken another dramatic turn as ward exco and leaders state as follows that they were not consulted by the ward chairman before his suspension.

On Wednesday, December 15, 2021, Mr. Patrick Nwandu, Chairman of PDP Ward 2, Ogwashi-uku, Delta State signed and issued a letter to Dr. Tony Nwaka’s purportedly on behalf of the executive officers and leaders of the ward suspending him from the party for one month, requesting that he appears before a disciplinary panel to explain the content of his Facebook post dated Monday, December 13, 2021.

Now there is a new twist to the unfolding drama on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, during a meeting held in Ogwashi-uku.

At the meeting with the embattled ward 2 Ogwashi uku chairman, Mr. Patrick Nwandu, the entire PDP exco members and leaders of Ward 2 said they never authorized him to issue any suspension letter to Dr. Tony Nwaka.

They threatened to suspend Mr. Nwandu himself for falsely claiming that he acted on the directives of ward 2 executives and leaders.

They said the issue was never brought to their attention by the Ward Chairman and on reading the said Facebook post they did not see any relationship it had with politics, government, Delta State, or any individual for that matter.

It was gathered that Mr. Patrick Nwandu apologized to ward 2 exco and leaders and confessed that he acted on the orders and pressure of “some people” to issue the suspension letter.

He said the same “some people” told him he should claim the suspension was done by the exco and leaders of Ward 2.

He however did not disclose the identities of these “some people” that pressured him to do so.

As the meeting began to get heated up, with angry leaders and exco members insisting on suspending the ward chairman for singlehandedly taking such a major decision, and seeing the looming possibility of disquieting revelations, the elders of the ward pleaded that the meeting should retire into a closed session, to enable a few elderly leaders of the ward to get to the root of the matter.

Meanwhile, here is the trajectory of the ward chairman’s statements as narrated by Tony Nwaka, he said: “First, he called me at 6.41 pm on Tuesday 14 December 2021 narrating how he was summoned to the party headquarters in Asaba and instructed me to go and place me on suspension over a Facebook post.”

“An explanation he elaborated some minutes later in our discussion 6.53 pm and reconfirmed in my house when he came the next day to deliver the suspension letter.”

“Then, as my response went viral, he issued a statement denying that he ever communicated with me to reveal the influences and pressures on him to suspend me.”

“He stated that the party headquarters in Asaba had no hand in the matter and that it was strictly the decision of my ward; Ward 2. But now confronted by the entire exco, leaders, and elders of the ward, he apologized to them for not seeking their approval for the suspension in line with party rules and procedures.”

“He confessed that he acted on the orders of “some people,” whose identities he is yet to disclose. Meanwhile, the party headquarters in Asaba says it has no hand in the matter.”

“Now the question is, Who ordered the illegal suspension of Tony Nwaka from the PDP?
So, my people, that is where we are. I shall keep you all updated as the drama unfolds.
But please be informed that my Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin accounts have all been hacked as we speak. I can no longer access them. I don’t know the intentions of the hackers. Kindly ignore whatever messages that may appear on those pages for now.
Thank you and best season’s greetings.
Dr. Tony Nwaka added.

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Delta Police Command condemns Policeman’s act who assaulted man in viral video

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The Delta State Police Command has condemned the actions of a police officer who was seen in a viral video assaulting a young man along the Asaba-Onitsha expressway.

The erring officer attached to Rapid Response Squad (RRS) was found guilty of assault and he has also been subjected to internal disciplinary mechanisms by the command.

This was disclosed by the command spokesperson, DSP Edafe Bright, on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, in Asaba the state capital.

According to DSP Bright, he stated that the attention of the Delta State Police Command has been drawn to a video-making round on various social media handles.

He said the video captured Policemen attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Command assaulting a young man along the Asaba-Onitsha expressway.

He also said the command condemns the act of the Policemen in totality.

The police spokesperson while explaining, added that the Command wishes to state that the incident occurred sometime in August 2021 and immediately it was brought to the knowledge of the Command, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, psc+ directed the incident be looked into which has since been done and the erring Policemen indeed found guilty of assault and were subjected to internal disciplinary mechanism after which they were adequately sanctioned.

The command image maker further explained that the CP while condemning the malfeasance conduct of the officers also urges members of the public to remain calm and assured of the Command’s commitment in dealing with any officer who disregards the human right of any person.

DSP Bright said, to this end, members of the public are urged to call any of the following numbers and report cases of abuse to human rights or any other infractions by Policemen of the Command.

The PPRO’s Office can be contacted through the following numbers
+234 915 557 0008
+234 915 557 0007
+234 902 907 0037
Or the Command Control Room via +234 803 668 4974.

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White Money becomes honorary member of Liberian senate

The Big Brother Naija (BBN) season six winner, White Money, has been appointed by the Liberian Senate as an honorary member.

He was also given an official government car immediately after being appointed.

This is coming less than a month after he was appointed as an ambassador for creative arts in Enugu by the state governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

Announcing the appointment, the entrepreneur took to his Facebook page to share some videos of his conferment on Monday.

In his post, the reality star dedicated the feat to God and also appreciated those who made it possible.

According to his words, he stated “One might wonder, ‘what type of grace is this?’ Having a great time in Liberia as we keep turning up.”

“I have been made an honorary member of the Liberian senate & also assigned an official government vehicle immediately. Congratulations senator.

“I owe God my life and dedication. I just want to thank the Liberian senate and Everyone in line for this amazing opportunity to serve. Words can’t express how I feel inside.

“I Love you Liberia. God bless Liberia, God bless Enugu and of course, God bless Nigeria.”

White Money after winning this year’s BBNaija ‘Shine Ya Eyes’ edition, has gone on to reap the benefits of fame.

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New AIG resumes duty at zone 5 police command headquarters

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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has deployed a new Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG. Ahmad Abdurrahman, mni, to Zone 5 Command Headquarters in Benin City.

The new AIG resumed duty on Thursday, December 16, 2021, after AIG Isaac O. Akinmoyede, has been redeployed to Zone 9, Umuahia.

This was disclosed by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tijani Momoh, ANIPR, on Monday, December 20, 2021, at the force headquarters, Benin City.

According to DSP Momoh, he noted that the “Zone 5 Command Headquarters, Benin City wishes to inform the general public and the people of Delta and Edo States that a new Assistant Inspector-General of Police has been deployed to the Zone which comprises Delta and Edo State Police Commands.

He said AIG. Ahmed Abdurrahman, mni since assumed duty on 16th December 2021, after taking over from AIG Isaac O. Akinmoyede, psc, FDC, MNIM who has been redeployed to Zone 9, Umuahia.”

AIG. Ahmad AbdurRahman, mni was born in Kuru, Jos, Plateau State. He hails from Bulakko in Kirfi Local Government Area of Bauchi State. He attended LEA Primary School, Kuru, and Government Secondary School, Shendam. He obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree, B.Sc (Hons) in Political Science and Administration from the University of Sokoto in 1988. A post-graduate certificate in Corruption Studies from the University of Hong Kong.

He holds Masters degree in Conflict, Peace, and Strategic Studies; another Masters’s degree in Criminal Justice, both from Kaduna State University.

He also holds a Masters in Philosophy degree in Defence and Security Studies (DSS) from the Nigeria Defence Academy, Kaduna. A Doctorate in Peace, Conflict and Development Studies, (Ph.D. in view) from Enugu State University of Science and Technology.

AIG. Ahmad AbdurRahman, mni joined the Nigeria Police Academy on 3rd March 1990 as a Cadet Officer. He was commissioned as Assistant Superintendent of Police and deployed to Oyo State Police Command in 1991.

The AIG has held several appointments which include: Police Public Relations Officer, Plateau State Command; Detective at Force Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (FIIB); O/C Crime section, Zonal Intelligence Bureau, ZIB Kano; Chief Security Officer to IGP Ibrahim Coomasie, mni (Rtd).

He also served at the United Nations Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Admin Officer “C” Department, (Logistics and Supply), Force Headquarters, Abuja. Commanding Officer, Police Mobile Force 6 PMF Squadron, Maiduguri; 2i/c Operations and later 2i/c State CID, Benue Command Headquarters, Makurdi. Staff Officer Training, Dept. Of Training, FHQ, Abuja, 2i/c Head of Operations, Lagos and Abuja; Head, Economic Governance Section (Federal), Head, Counter-Terrorism and General Investigation, Abuja and later Deputy Director Operations, all at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) Headquarters in Abuja.


O/C State CID, Ogun State Command; ACP Operations, Kaduna State Command; Deputy Commandant, Nigeria Police College, Kaduna. DC Operations, Kaduna State Command. Commissioner of Police, Special Fraud Unit, FCID, FHQ, Abuja; Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command; CP. Bayelsa State Command. CP. Kaduna State Command; CP. Force Intelligence Bureau, FHQ, Abuja, and Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command before being nominated for the Senior Executive Course at NIPPS where he was promoted to the prestigious rank of an Assistant Inspector-General of Police on 3rd February 2021.

In the course of his career, the AIG has attended so many professional courses both at home and abroad. These include an International Certificate in Drug Awareness and Intelligence from the International Police Task Force under UNMIBH, Bosnia, and Herzegovina, International Certificate in Better Governance and Anti-Corruption Policy from the Civil Service College, Singapore, an International Certificate in Intelligence-Led Policing organized by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in Chicago, U.S.A. An International Certificate in Crime Scene Investigation and Technology from the Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, U.S.A, International Certificate in United Nations Police Peace-keeping operations from the Norwegian Police University, Norway and another International Certificate in Special Investigation on Specific Criminal Cases from the International Law Academy, Volgograd, Russia.


Finally, he attended the highest think tank of the Nation – the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos as a distinguished participant of the Senior Executive Course (SEC 43-2021) and graduated with the prestigious award of mni.

AIG Ahmad AbdurRahman, mni is a fellow of so many professional bodies and holder of many UN medals in peacekeeping operations.

He is married and blessed with children, well-traveled, and has visited forty-seven (47) countries across the continents.
His hobbies include Football, cycling; traveling; reading, and debating.

The AIG Zone 5 wishes to solicit for the cooperation of the good people of the Zone, to assist the Police with useful and timely information that will enhance in checkmating crimes and criminality in the entire Zone.

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Army detained female soldier who accepted corps member proposal in Kwara

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The Nigerian Army has said the unidentified female soldier who accepted a corps member proposal at the National Youth Service Corps Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Kwara State, will be punished for failing to observe military rules and regulations.

This was disclosed by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, during an interview with The Punch on Sunday.

According to Nwachukwu, he said the female officer violated the military laws by getting involved in a public display of amorous relationships with a paramilitary trainee – a corps member while in the orientation camp.

Last week, a trendy video surfaced online showing a male corps member proposing to a female soldier at the Kwara State NYSC camp, the video has since caused different responses on social media.

In one of the clips, the yet-to-be-identified corps member was seen holding a ring as he knelt to ask the female soldier to marry him.

Also in the clip, the visibly excited female officer in military uniform was seen, accepting the young graduate’s proposal and the latter went on to put in the ring in his love interest’s finger.

It was also gathered from the clip, how the two lovebirds were seen in a warm embrace and kisses as other corps members poured in compliments.

Speaking against the incident, the Army spokesperson said the female soldier violated the Nigerian Army’s rules and regulations guiding the codes of conduct of military personnel when deployed for duty.

He said the female soldier’s action amounted to taking advantage of her trainee, stating that the public would have been infuriated and condemned the Army of intimidation had a male soldier proposed to a female copper during the NYSC parade.

In his words, he said “Personnel must have served for three years before he/she can qualify for marriage.

“She disobeyed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s standing guidelines and directives for the use of Social Media. Indulging in romance while in uniform.

“Her conduct was prejudicial to good order and military discipline.

“All the above, if proven violate extant laws with attendant disciplinary and penal implications.

“As personnel, her task was to train the Youth Corps members and not to indulge in amorous relationships with any of them. These rules were put in place for proper administration and discipline in the Army. If I may ask, what if the soldier was a male? How would the public have perceived his action? It would have been perceived as taking advantage of a female Corper, a trainee, put in his care for training.”

When asked the kind of punishment the female soldier may get, the Army spokesman, though, refused comments but said “the Nigerian Military like all others, has its disciplinary codes, distinct from that of the general society. All personnel has voluntarily undertaken to be bound by this code.”

Meanwhile, the incident occurred some three months after a female soldier, Lt. Chika Anele, dehumanized a female corps member, Ifenyinwa Ezeiruaku, at the 13 Brigade headquarters, Calabar, Cross River State.

In September 2021, in a viral video, Anele ordered the corps member, who was in her uniform to kneel as she used a bowl to scoop muddy water from a bucket and poured the same on her.

The Army had condemned the action and said the soldier would be tried for unprofessional conduct but it had yet to conclude the trial public.

The NYSC scheme was created in May 1973 by the former head of state, Yakubu Gowon, as a tool for healing, reconciliation, and nation-building after the horrible experience of the civil war between the Biafran side and the Nigerian State.

The scheme enables the posting of graduates to states other than their state of origin as they are expected to mix with people from different ethnic groups, social and family backgrounds, and learn the culture of the indigenes in the location they are posted to.

The young graduates are camped for three weeks and are drilled in paramilitary skills by soldiers before they are deployed to their places of primary assignments.

But in the last couple of years, Nigeria’s security challenges worsen, some critics have called for the discontinuation of the scheme speaking of the kidnapping and killing of intelligent corps members but the government has defended the continued existence of the scheme, saying it is still fulfilling its objective as a pathway for ethnic integration.

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Future brag, says he’s bigger than Jay-Z in the streets

American rapper, Nayvadius DeMun Wilburn, better known as Future, has boasted that he is bigger than Jay Z when it comes to the streets.

The US rapper known for his pompousness said this in a series of tweets on Saturday, December 18, 2021.

According to him, he said “In the streets, I’m bigger than Jigga. I’m run me a B up easy.”

He continued by saying that “Everything I do legendary or it wants to get done.”

Future also bragged about bringing out Kanye West during his Rolling Loud California set last weekend.

He said, “I’m the only one who can get YE to pull up whenever wherever..tuh.”

This has got many people talking on social media, as they felt he wasn’t up to or too quick to put himself in such a place.

Reacting, @Nae2Bomb stated that “Some of these kids do think & feel Future is bigger & better than jay-z & that’s okay. It’s a different time they didn’t have our music experience.”

@YouHeartGiGi also commented saying “Future must’ve been drunk last night. Man’s said he was bigger than Jay-Z in the streets…I need parts of that beverage” 😂

Also, @Kingkhelz1 said “Love you Future but you ain’t even as big as Wayne. when you are done competing with Drake let us know … sit this one out.”

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Drama as Teni, Shizzi fight over who initially produced “Case”

Nigerian music producer, Oluwaseyi Akerele, popularly known as Shizzi, has opposed Teni Apata, the musician in a verbal war on social media over who initially produced her hit single “Case” from scratch.

The trouble started when Teni took to her Twitter page to advise her fans to walk away from those she called “users” while alleging that these groups constantly exploit people and dump them consequently, this she said on Friday, December 17, 2021.

In her words, she wrote “Users have no pity, they’ll use you and feel no remorse, don’t let that crown shift. Walk away”, a statement that doesn’t go well with Shizzi.

While responding to the statements, Shizzi, however, taunted Teni’s over her post, claiming she is not in a position to give such a tip considering what she did to him.

According to the record producer, he also claimed that he produced ‘Case’ for Teni in 2018 but the singer then gave the song to her in-house producer to reproduce it without giving him the necessary credit.

Shizzi stated that “Oh, you do dey feel am? Them don dey serve you breakfast already? See who’s talking about users???” he queried.

“You, that took a song that I produced with you “Case” and you went and gave your in-house producer to reproduce it without my consent and you released the song and your guy “Nurse Dolor” endorsed it with no remorse till 2day.., you’re talking about users. Nah, stop it!”

Teni in her reaction, dismissed the claim, insisting that she only parted ways with the record producer because he “signed me with no plans and wanted to waste my life.”

She said “You that you wanted to waste my life. Signed me with no plans. You gave my songs away, my mother paid you in full and I got out the contract, I walked away peacefully. Thank God for my mom, I would’ve still been singing on the streets of Atlanta.”

The musician also dared Shizzi to drop the song’s stems if he produced the track as claimed.

In audio production, stem refers to a group of audio sources mixed, usually by one person, to be dealt with downstream as one unit.

“Drop the stems if you produced it. Drop the stems in 10 minutes or you’re a Lil bitch,” Teni fired back.

Also, in a swift reaction, Shizzi described Teni as “an ungrateful element”. He also recounted how the singer’s mother called to plead with him before they parted ways.

He further shared more clips and conversations between the duo in the past to back his claim.

But Teni insisted that the record producer should drop the track’s stem, while also claiming her mother paid Shizzi when they ended their contract.

Shizzi, however, maintained his stance that he created the song from the scratch, and threatened he could write Sony to take the song down.

In the heat of the confrontation, Chisom Obinna Onyeke, Nigerian sound engineer, who eventually produced the song, weighed in to share his side of the story.

According to Onyeke, better known as JaySynths, said he and Teni had a freestyle on the track before she later departed for Atlanta at the time.

He also said the musician originally told him she wanted Shizzi to produce the song for her but things didn’t go as planned between them.

The 33-year-old claimed when Teni later returned to Nigeria, she reached out to him and he produced the song from the scratch for her.

JaySynths stated that “Teni and I had a freestyle of this song (CASE) before she went back to Atlanta. She had said she wanted Shizzi to produce the song for her (the reason for the video) but obviously, things didn’t go the way she planned. She got back to Naija and I produced the song from the scratch.”

JaySynths also attacked those countering to the controversy without understanding how music production works.

In his words, he stated that “Some of you don’t even know what stems is!!! You’ll just open your mouth and ask for stems. Smh.”

Recall in 2018, Teni released ‘Case’ and the song has continued to pull the strings in the music industry.

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Delta CP deploy massive security personnel ahead of Yuletide celebration

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The Delta State Police Command has made a massive deployment of police officers across the state to provide adequate security before, during, and after the Yuletide celebration.

The deployment is to ensure maximum protection of all residents in the state and the successes of all activities lined up to mark the celebration.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement by the command spokesperson, DSP Edafe Bright, on Saturday, December 18, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Bright, he said
“The Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, has assured Deltans of a hitch-free Christmas celebration.

He said, “The Commissioner of Police has ordered massive deployment of personnel across the state to provide adequate security before, during, and after the celebration to ensure the protection of all residents in the state and the successes of all activities lined up to mark the celebration.”

He explained that the CP directed that all Area Commanders, DPOS, and Tactical Commanders deploy men to all venues of the Celebrations and other resorts centers to avoid mischief-makers showing their ugly faces and causing any form of mayhem for law-abiding citizens in the state and to ensure proper supervision of their men deployed.

He also explained that the “Police Patrol teams have been drawn from Dragon Patrol, safer highways, Quick Response Squad, Rapid Response squad, Eagle-net special squad and deployed along Asaba/Onitsha Head bridge, Anwai Campus gate to Illah, Onicha Ugbo to Idumuje-Ugboko.”

Explaining, he said “Similarly, men have also been deployed to Asaba – Agbor expressway, Abraka to Eku road, Asaba to Kwale/Ughelli road. Patrol teams from Abraka, Ughelli, and Sapele Divisions respectively have also been deployed along Abraka, Eku, Ughelli express roads.”

“The CP also ordered the deployment of a Quick response squad, a Rapid response squad, and an Eagle net special squad to Benin/Warri expressway, PTI to Orerokpe Road, and Eku to Osubi road.”

The police spokesperson further said, “Massive Deployment has also been made to all flash points within the Asaba Metropolis which includes Summit Junction, Inter-bau roundabout, Federal medical center roundabout, Ibusa Junction by Nnebisi road, Ogbe-Ogonogo Market, Government house gate, Coker Junction, Ezenie/Osadenis roundabout, Airport Junction and the federal college junction by Nnebisi road, Asaba.”

Again, he said, “The CP equally tasked the Commanders of the various tactical teams with the responsibility of ensuring that men deployed are properly supervised.”

“Traffic Control at the Head bridge end has equally been taken care of as both police personnel and traffic wardens have been deployed solely for traffic control while the Divisional Police officers ‘B’ and ‘C’ Divisions Asaba and the State Traffic Officer have been tasked with the responsibilities of working with other security agencies to ensure free flow of traffic and effective supervision of Police and traffic personnel deployed.”

DSP Edafe maintains that “The DPOS Ekpan and Ebrumede Divisions have been directed to ensure adequate security in Warri and its environs and to ensure that there is a free flow of traffic in the ever-busy DSC and Effurun roundabouts.”

He added that “The CP also ordered the deployment of marine Police along the waterways to checkmate the activities of Sea pirates and illegal bunkers with particular attention on Escravos, Burutu, and Warri waterways to ensure the protection of traders and travelers along with the waterways.”

“The CP has mandated the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operation to organize Continuous ‘OPERATION SHOW OF FORCE’ with effect from Monday 20th December 2021 in all parts of the State to ensure a hitch-free Yuletide period.”

“The CP urges members of the public to be law-abiding and continue to support the police in the fight against crime and criminalities while assuring them of the Command’s commitment to providing security, maintenance of law, and protection of lives and properties among other duties in the State.”

“The CP on behalf of officers and men of Command wishes Deltans and Nigerians, in general, a hitch-free celebration”, DSP Edafe said in the statement.

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South Korea to gift Nigeria solar mini-grids worth $12.4m

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The South Korean government has promised to build and donate the construction of solar mini-grids to Nigeria.

The project estimated at $12.4 million is a grant from the government of South Korea to Nigeria, not a loan said by Kim Young Choe, ambassador of South Korea to Nigeria during an interactive session with the Senate committee on power on Thursday, December 16, 2021.

The Senate committee chaired by Gabriel Suswam had called for the meeting to clarify certain issues regarding the stand-aline mini-grid project to be sponsored and donated to Nigeria by the South Korean government.

In response, the ambassador clarified that the nuclear energy options currently used in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are based on South Korea’s model and powered by South Korean companies.

He said that Nigeria should also benefit from the same technology.

According to him, the solar mini-grid project valued at $12.4 million is a grant from his country to Nigeria and not a loan.

The diplomat also confirmed that all the four mini-grids would be sited in Abuja with the construction and sustenance of the project to be overseen by South Korean contractors.

While the committee accepted the donation, the legislators illustrated a little uneasiness about the conclusion of the South Korean government to have all the grids sited in Abuja.

The Senate committee chairman persuaded the South Korean government to allow for a spread that would leave Abuja with one grid and at least two in each of the six geopolitical zones.

Also speaking, Salihijo Ahmad, chief executive officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), in his presentation, supported the senate committee’s suggestion that the grids should be spread across the country.

He also expressed interest in the sustainability of the project and the possibility of having Nigerian companies work on it.

In responding, Choe said the demand by the committee was a tough one, but he would forward the recommendation to his government in Seoul.

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Kizz Daniel drops ‘Pour Me Water’ video [Watch]

Nigerian singer and Flyboi records label boss, Kizz Daniel, has released the visual for ‘Pour Me Water’ off his extended playlist (EP).

The concept of the video tells a heartbroken relationship and the difficulty in trying to move on.

The less than 3-minute video comes on the heels of his recently released 7-track EP, which has gone on to earn massive airplay across the country.

Announcing the release of the video, the singer took to his Instagram page to share a snippet of it with a lengthy note describing the concept.

In his post, he stated that “Just wanted something unusual, interpreting the video in a representational format using elements of nature like fire, water, and sand to explain the complexity of what an individual goes through after a heartbreak: the pain, the disappointment, but at the same time still maintaining a good appearance.”

Kizz Daniel is best known for his hit tracks like ‘Woju’ and ‘Yeba’ and he has always been on the trend in the country’s music industry with numerous beautiful projects which have taken various awards and recognition.

In 2013, he got a record deal with G-Worldwide Entertainment before he left the label over a contract disagreement and court case. Later in November 2017, he establish Fly Boi Inc, his record label.

Watch the video below:

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Brymo features in the movie adaptation of Soyinka’s book

Nigerian music star, Brymo, has made his acting debut on the set of the ‘Death And The King’s Horseman’, a movie adaptation of Professor Wole Soyinka’s book.

In the upcoming movie, he played the role of Olohun Iyo ( the praise singer).

The singer disclosed this on his Twitter page on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, revealing that he was in “a mild panic” while shooting the film.

He also added that he cannot wait for the release of the project.

According to his post, he stated that “Being on the set of ‘The King’s Horseman’ had me diving so deep in time that at the end of the shoot I was in a mild panic; ‘what will I do with my life now?’. I can’t wait for you to meet my character – Olohun iyo. (the praise singer).”

The project — a movie adaptation of Wole Soyinka’s 1975 play with the same title — is inspired by Abudu’s EbonyLife Studios in collaboration with Netflix.

The movie directed by Biyi Bandele follows the story of a king’s horseman who is forbidden from perpetrating ritual suicide by the colonial authorities.

In June 2020, Netflix partnered with Mo Abudu for the film adaptation of books by Soyinka and Lola Shoneyin, the novelist.

TheCable Lifestyle reported that the singer had also featured in a movie ‘Price of Admission’, a short film that addressed the payola culture in the music industry earlier in June this year.

Brymo has established himself as a household name in the Nigerian music industry with several hit projects.

Recently, the singer has also been in the social space in various circumstances over his ambiguous statements.

In October, he had alleged that 2Baba once falsely accused him of sleeping with his wife, Annie Idibia.

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Bella Shmurda reveals how Pasuma, Kwam 1 influence his style of music

Nigerian singer, Bella Shmurda, has revealed how his music style was highly influenced by the likes of Pasuma and Wasiu Ayinde (Kwam 1).

The singer made this revelation during an interview ‘The Afrobeat Podcast’ hosted by Adesope Olajide, in London recently.

In the interview, he talked about his childhood experience in the Okokomaiko area of Lagos State and how he achieved transition as an artist.

The conversation started with the Bella Shmurda telling the host about his journey from the streets of Lagos to finally visiting London for the first time.

He also recounts his path to finishing school in fulfilment of a promise he made to his mother.

The music star is one of the fast-rising artists in Nigeria with two extended playlists (EPs) to his name.

His chant-like voice gives his melody an almost-spiritual vibe that when accompanied with his street-heavy lyrics sums an artist who is inspired by his upbringing on the streets of Lagos.

The 21-year-old singer while speaking on his type of music, focused on the Fuji sounds of Pasuma and Kwam 1 as his major source of influence.

According to him, he applauded their music as “conscious sound”, adding that he ought to continue making such type of music “so our culture won’t die.”

He said “Those sounds are conscious sounds. And that’s my background majorly. Because when you listen to Pasuma, [KWAM 1] they take you back and encourage you,” Shmurda said.

“They let you know there’re better days ahead. And this is what I want to continue. It’s not typically singing Fuji, but I want to continue that conscious sound. I want to awaken people and make them happy and give them hope so our culture won’t die.”

The singer started getting International recognition when he dropped ‘Vision 2020’, his 2019 single, in which he talked about his quest to take the country’s music industry by storm.

In 2020, he began again with his outstanding race as he released ‘Cash App,’ a hit song, which featured Zlatan Ibile and Lincoln.

It was gathered that the song, not only shot him into the spotlight but also earned him special recognition, which included a nomination for the ‘Next Rated’ category at the 14th edition of The Headies.

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Corps member proposes to soldier in NYSC camp

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A viral video has surfaced online showing a yet-to-be-identified corps member proposing to a female soldier at the Yikpata orientation camp of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kwara State.

The corps member was seen in the video kneeling while proposing to the female soldier.

According to the video that was shared by Date360 on Instagram on Thursday, December 16, 2021, some corps members were seen discussing at a venue assumed to be the parade ground of the orientation camp.

In the video, their discussion was still on when the yet-to-be-identified corps member, who is seen holding a ring, went down on one knee and popped the question to the soldier with the lady accepting the proposal.

Also in the video, the corps member went on to put in the ring in the finger of the visibly excited soldier amid cheers from others at the scene.

The soldier could also be seen enjoying the moment as she kissed the ring at intervals with a smile inscribing on her face.

It was gathered that the lovebirds later share a warm embrace.

Thereafter, in another clip, the pair were further seen sharing lovey-dovey moments. The corps member was seen wearing the lady’s military cap as she stood directly behind him.

They thereafter shared a kiss — much to the thrill of other corps members filming the incident, as no one knows how their love story started.

Meanwhile, the development comes as a shift from incidents of soldiers assaulting corps members at different times.

In September, Chika Anele, a female soldier, provoked widespread criticism for bathing Ezeiruaku Ifeyinwa Fidelia, a corps member in Calabar, Cross River state, with dirty water.

Also in 2016, TheCable reported a female soldier dealt with a civilian for allegedly complimenting her beauty.

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Netflix dedicates new movie to Rachel Oniga

A newly released movie titled ‘A Naija Christmas’ has been dedicated by Netflix, the global streaming giant to late Nollywood actress, Rachel Oniga.

The storyline of the movie follows three sons trying to make their mother’s Christmas wish for daughters-in-law come true.

In the movie, Oniga, who played the role of the mother, criticized her sons’ refusal to marry and requested that they bring home their partners on Christmas Day.

In July, the actress passed away after battling a heart-related disease and was laid to rest in Lagos a month after.

It is understood that Oniga took sick during the proceeds of the movie that was directed by Kunle Afolayan.

The filmmaker announced the movie on Thursday, December 16, 2021, using his Instagram page.

According to Afolayan in his post, he revealed how he suggested to Netflix to dedicate the movie to the actress to which the streaming platform agreed.

He also shares the trailer of the movie showing the heroics of the late film star.

Also, Afolayan in his caption, wrote: “A Naija Christmas is now live on @naijaonnetflix. I am glad that I proposed to Netflix that we dedicate the film to the memory of our dear Late Rachael Oniga and they obliged. Thanks to the Netflix team.

Kunle Remi, Efa Iwara, Linda Osifo, and Ade Laoye are among several movie stars who got featured in the movie.

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Police deny the allegation of igniting Asaba head bridge traffic

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The Delta State Police Command has dismissed the allegation contained in a 117 seconds viral video in which the officers of the force are wrongly accused of being the reason for the heavy traffic hold-up on the Asaba – Onitsha Expressway towards River Niger Head bridge.

The command says the accusation is not only wrong but an intentional attempt to misinform members of the public and to bring the image of the command into disorder.

This was contained in a statement titled ‘Asaba Head bridge problem Delta State Police Command Working Round The Clock Along With The State Government And Other Agencies To Ameliorate The Problem’.

The statement was issued on Thursday, December 16, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital, by the command spokesperson, DSP Edafe Bright.

According to the statement, DSP Bright noted that “The attention of the Delta State Police Command has been drawn to a 117seconds video clip with the above caption which has gone viral in various social media platforms. In the said clip which captured the traffic hold-up on the Asaba – Onitsha Expressway towards the River Niger Headbridge, recorded in an admixture of English and Igbo languages, a voice could be heard of a seemingly frustrated motorist, understandably bemoaning the traffic situation on the ever-busy road linking the South West to the South-Eastern part of the country.”

DSP Edafe also noted that “The voice in the narrative, wrongly accused officers of the Force as being responsible for the heavy traffic at the head bridge. However, following a careful examination of the trending clip, the Command wishes to state as follows.”

“That the accusation is not only false but a deliberate effort by the narrator to mislead members of the public and to bring the image of the command into disrepute.”

“The Command has been doing all it’s possible best daily to ease the traffic at the HeadBridge and will continue to do so.”

“It should be noted that the video was recorded on 14th December 2021 being a Tuesday. Because people do not usually ply the route on Mondays due to the situation in the Eastern part of the country, it is expected and quite natural that the traffic flow to the market will be heavy on Tuesdays. The fast-approaching Yuletide season is another contributory factor as more people are traveling eastwards for the celebrations.”

“It is a notorious fact that the bridge which was commissioned for use in 1965 in response to the vehicular traffic flow of that era is grossly inadequate and structurally not designed to deal with the vehicular flow of present time. The single lane of the bridge can not easily accommodate the four lanes flowing into it without causing a traffic jam as it is currently being experienced.”

“Truth be told, the narrowing down of the multiple lanes to a single lane as well as the narrow exit at the Onitsha end is solely responsible for the overflow at the Asaba entrance of the bridge. This is very visible to every discerning mind.”

“That the current situation at the Headbridge is not strange neither is it a sudden development as the Federal Government who is bent on tackling the problem headlong commenced the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge to ease the pains of motorists on the route.”

The police spokesperson said the Delta State Police Command was under the watch of CP. Ari Muhammed Ali is working with the State government and other sister agencies involved in traffic management including the FRSC both in the state and in Anambra state to see that the HeadBridge is decongested.

He added that the Command remains committed to its goal and will not be deterred by any ill-intentioned comment from whatever quarter.

Edafe also added that the Commissioner of Police has made additional deployments to the area, including Monitoring Teams, to ensure that no one impedes the flow of traffic under any guise. The Command is thus appealing to members of the public for full cooperation during and after this season as lawlessness anywhere in the state will not be tolerated.

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21-year-old man jumps into Lagos lagoon

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A young man identified as Odunare Olalekan has committed suicide by jumping into the lagoon in Lagos.

The 21-year-old man was seen in a 30-minute viral video sitting on the bridge guardrail and suddenly jumped into the river around Berger Bridge in the Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

According to the video, the person who recorded the incident was overheard asking Olalekan what was wrong with him.

The deceased was said to be a holder of the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) certificate and a worker at Alaro City, a mega estate along the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

Daily Trust reported that a source revealed that Olalekan left a one-year-old baby and told his father, Mr. Odunare, in the early hours of Tuesday to pray for him.

“He also told his girlfriend who is 19 years old to take care of his baby, thereafter, he left to the bridge side to commit suicide by jumping inside the creek, without giving any reason for such action to his family.”

“For some time now, Olalekan has been acting strangely.”

“For more than a week, he couldn’t sleep. He just woke up yesterday (Tuesday) to say he was going. They asked him, ‘going where?

“They tried to hold him but he overpowered the people around because he was very strong.

“Maybe it was a spiritual attack. But we could not ascertain that. He just woke up and said he was going and that they should pray for him.

“They held him but he overpowered them and went straight to his girlfriend’s house to tell her to take care of his child because they might not see each other again.”

It was gathered that one of his brothers who live in Ajah saw the trending video and alerted the family.

“He told their father that they should not bother looking for Lekan because he saw him on Berger Bridge as he jumped into the lagoon and he must have died,” the source added.

Another source also revealed that Lekan died a few months after the death of his elder sister who was a student of Lagos State University (LASU). She reportedly slumped while writing exams and died.

When raised a question why the person who recorded the video could not save him at the scene, the family friend said, “The person that made the video was alerted by some motorists on Lekki-Epe expressway and he was walking towards him while recording but he could not catch up with him.

“The guy was far away from him. He was about to hold him when he jumped inside the river. Nobody could hold him there except somebody who can swim, ” he said.

As of the time of filing this report, his body was yet to be found almost 48 hours after the source said rescue efforts were being hindered by the massive existence of hyacinths in the river.

When contacted the Police Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Police Command, CSP Adekunle Ajisebutu, was yet to answer back to the inquiry.

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Congolese singer, Koffi sentenced to 18 months imprisonment for kidnapping

Music star, Koffi Olomide, a Congolese singer has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after a court in France convicted him of holding his female dancers against their will.

Koffi was also being charged with performing sexual assault on the same dancers.

The musician was sentenced by the Versailles Court in France on Monday, December 13, 2021, as he was also cleared of the rape allegations leveled against him.

It was gathered that in 2019, Koffi was found guilty of sexual assault and abducting his dancers in 2002 and 2006 at his home. perpetuated between 2002 and 2006 in Paris. The dancers alleged that he had assaulted them in his villa in Asnières, a town in the Paris region, in his car and sometimes in recording studios.

During the ruling, Koffi was charged to pay Sh1.2 million ($10,000) each to the three women, as he was cleared of the rape charge leveled against him.

The court vindicated him of the rape allegations because of the conflicting evidence submitted.

But while responding, the counsels to the ladies said his clients are left in the lurch with the ruling after the rape charges were dropped.

Explaining, he said, “They will be disappointed with the sexual assault verdicts because for them it was the most important thing.”

In 2016, the music star was reportedly deported from Kenya after he was caught on camera molesting a young female.

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Burna Boy talks about rivalry in the music industry

Nigerian singer, Burna Boy, has said he is not in competition with any artist in the music industry.

He said this when he featured on ‘The Zane Lowe Show’, which was aired on Apple Music 1.

The 30-year-old music star also said he would not hesitate to “crush” anyone who wants to get a into rivalry with him.

According to his explanations, he said: “There’s no competition in music because if there was, then there wouldn’t be competition for me, because it’s not how I see it.”

”I just do it. I just move, man. Do you know how gorillas move? Do you get me? Everything in front of them gets crushed. Do you get me? That’s how it is. It’s not even a competition thing. Do you get me? Just don’t stand in front of me.”

He further revealed that it’s always a thing of happiness to him whenever he sees fans gyrate to his music.

He said “I see it, and sometimes it brings tears to my eyes. I see it. When I don’t see it, I feel it. Do you understand? It’s something that is my biggest excitement in the whole thing. That’s really what excites me the most about this whole journey.”

“There’s been too many, man. I don’t know where to start. All the shows, all the festivals, all the awards.

“I don’t know. I don’t know which one of them feels best. Hopefully, it keeps getting better. This year I kind of made up for a lot of things I couldn’t do last year. I’m thankful for that.”

Recently, Burna Boy joined together with Wizkid for a new song titled ‘Ballon d’Or. The new single follows their collaboration on ‘Ginger’, a track off ‘Made in Lagos’, Wizkid’s 2020 hit album.

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Breaking: FEC approves 20% increment for police officers salaries

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the salaries increment for officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) by 20 percent.

The minister of police affairs, Maigari Dingyadi, made this known to state house correspondents after the FEC meeting on Wednesday.

According to the minister, the new salary upgrade will commence in January 2022.

The meeting was presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari, at the presidential villa in Aso Rock, Abuja.

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18-year-old bus conductor won chess competition in Lagos

An 18-year-old boy, identified as Adeoye Fawaz, who works as a bus conductor in Lagos has become the overall champion in chess in slum contests.

The contest was organized by Chess In Slum Africa, a nonprofit organization known for using the game as a framework to promote, educate, and raise champions from low communities.

Recently, the group organized a chess exercise for “51 homeless children” living under the bridge in Oshodi, a hustling and bustling area of Lagos State.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that during the exercise, the team took the children on the rudiments of chess as well as mental maths where they were given several puzzles to solve.

It was gathered that the exercise ended up with a contest organized to test the participants’ knowledge of what they were taught during the training session.

According to a Twitter thread, the founder of the organization, Tunde Onakayo, said Fawaz emerged as the overall champion in both chess and mental maths.

He also recounted how he and his team saw Fawaz about a month ago under the bridge and then enlisted him for the exercise.

In his explanation, he said, the bus conductor revealed that he still nurses the dream of becoming a musician and comedian.

Adeoye Fawaz, said “An 18-year-old boy who works as a bus conductor and has lived years of his life under Oshodi bridge emerged as our overall champion in both chess and mental maths. A star is born.”

“The final phase of the mental maths competition was fast and furious but Fawaz aced the questions. Now imagine if you gave these boys a proper education?! Imagine if you gave them coding?! Imagine how many of them we’ve lost to the streets because no one paid attention.”

He said some of the participants — who are between the ages of 11 and 20 — include orphans and those who ran away from their homes to seek greener pastures in Lagos.

“51 homeless children in one of the most dangerous ghettos in Nigeria showed up every day for our chess training because they saw an opportunity to learn — a new lease of hope,” he added.

“Some of are them, orphans, while some ran away from their villages to seek greener pastures in Lagos.”

He also uses the opportunity to call on Nigerians to support the children to further explore their potentials and get quality education.

Ferdinand, who has spastic cerebral palsy, won the last edition of the contest held in Makoko, Lagos.

See more photos below:

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Teenager withdraws N4m from BTC wallet after stealing owner’s phone

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A teenager identified as Iwaku Olatunji has been remanded by the Senior Magistrate Court in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

Olatunji was remanded on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, for allegedly withdrawing four million nairas from a BTC wallet.

According to the prosecutor, Insp Elijah Adesina, he told the court that the 19-year-old defendant committed the crime sometime in October at 1:30 AM at Parakin Estate, IIe-Ife.

He said the defendant broke into the apartment of one Mr. Kingsley Emmanuel with the purpose to perpetrate a crime.

The prosecutor while explaining, he said the defendant stole an iPhone XR valued at N220,000 and fraudulently withdrew four million Naira (the equivalent of $5,000) from the BTC account belonging to Emmanuel.

The prosecutor said that the offenses contravened Sections 410 and 412 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Osun, 2002.

The defendant, still, pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge.

Magistrate Olusola Aluko rejected an oral request for the bail of the defendant.

The magistrate ordered defense counsel, Mr. Reuben Abeginigo, to have a written petition.

He also ordered the remand of the defendant pending the outcome of the bail application.

The magistrate adjourned the case until Jan 25, for a hearing.

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Psquare postpones concert as Peter fell sick

Nigerian music duo, Psquare, has rescheduled the date for its much-awaited concert after Peter better known as Mr. P, put up with fever.

The concert titled ‘Reactivated’ was formerly planned to hold on December 18, 2021, in Ikate, Lagos State.

But Goldennationblog.com gathered that the concert has been postponed through an Instagram post that was shared by Mr. P on his verified page on Tuesday, December 14, 2021.

According to the post, the postponement was due to Mr. P battling with “immense pain, fever, and general body weakness.”

In his post, he revealed that after the unexpected illness, he had moved to put up with a COVID-19 test but the result turned out negative.

The musician apologized to fans who have already purchased their tickets.

He put in that Livespotx, the company in charge of tickets sales, will guarantee that ticket holders get “updates and options” on the latest outcome.

The post read “It’s been a challenging couple of days trying to power through immense pain, fever, and general body weakness,” he wrote.

“We were very excited about giving you an amazing show on the 18th, unfortunately, my body has taken quite a beating with several intense rehearsals back to back and studio that it just couldn’t take it anymore and I have had to give in to Dr’s orders to get some rest, build back my strength to get to optimum health.

“The first thing I did was take a COVID test and thankfully my tests came out negative for COVID. I’d like to thank my brother King Rudy, my family, and my team for holding it down while I get through this.

“The good news is, we will make it up to you and give you a truly amazing show on Christmas Day – Saturday, December 25th.

“If you’re a ticket holder, the wonderful team Livespotx will send you an email with updates and options.

“The show will go on and we can’t wait to see you there. Look out for electrifying performances from P-Square, some of your faves and more.”

The concert will be the first major event that would see Peter and Paul Okoye, his twin brother, perform together since they ended their five-year dispute.

See the photo, Mr. P shared on IG:

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See what Kanayo. O. Kanayo said about old Nollywood movies

Nollywood veteran actor and lawyer, Kanayo. O. Kanayo, has said old Nollywood movies have better storytelling despite having technical support at the period.

The actor made this known after he shared an old movie video of himself and his colleague, Charles Okafor on his Instagram page on Monday, December 13, 2021, while reflecting on the current state of the film industry.

In his post, the 59-year-old film star supported its post with the caption “This period witnessed better storytelling, lower technical support.”

In 1992, Kanayo made his acting debut in ‘Living in Bondage, a Nollywood classic, and since then, he has stabilized himself as a household name in the movie industry with various awards and distinctions.

The movie star had earlier hit back at critics who mocked him for influencing ritual roles in films.

According to him, he said “What’s the link between Kanayo O Kanayo and the role he played as Nicholas? There are certain questions people ask you all the time such that it looks as if these people don’t think,” he had said.

“Let gossipers be. They should go educate themselves. Even among Jesus’ disciples, Luke was a doctor. They all had what they were doing before they were called.

“You take up a role and interpret the script so well, only for viewers to ask if you truly do money rituals. What’s one’s business with that? What people should understand is I have a profession.”

In September 2020, Kanayo became a lawyer after being called to the Nigerian bar.

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Suspected cultists set final-year student ablaze for refusing cult initiation

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A final-year student of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), identified as Victor Oke, has been attacked by suspected cultists for his rejection to join their secret cult.

Oke who is a part-time student of political science at the institution was attacked with cutlasses, stones, and later set ablaze by the attackers before he was rescued by residents.

The Public Relations Officer for UNIOSUN, Ademola Adesoji, spoke about the incident in a statement, stating that the institution had reached out to the student’s family after he failed to come for his final paper which was held on Saturday.

In the statement, the spokesperson said the student was attacked at the Akede area of Osogbo, the state capital.

Adesoji quoted eyewitnesses as saying the student was attacked by his assailants with cutlasses, stones before he was set ablaze until the resident came to his rescue.

According to him, he said “The eyewitnesses living in the area where the incident happened reported that they heard Oke Ademiju Victor shouting that he was not joining their cult, while they continued to hit him with cutlasses, hard stones and attempted to burn him, partially succeeding before he was eventually rescued.”

“We have since been following up with the parents and it is confirmed that he was rushed to the university’s teaching hospital for treatment and later moved to an undisclosed hospital where he is currently receiving treatment.”

Adesoji also said that the institution is working with the police and relevant agencies to ensure those who attacked the student are brought to book, he added.

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India’s Harnaaz Sandhu won Miss Universe 2021

Harnaaz Sandhu, a contestant from India has been crowned as the winner of Miss Universe 2021, on Sunday night.

The pageant took place at the resort city of Eilat, Isreal, with 80 women from around the world vying for the crown.

The competition was hosted by comedian Steve Harvey, a U.S comedian, and TV host.

During the process, the contestants were removed at various points until the two last finalists.

Sandhu won the top prize while Paraguay’s Nadia Ferreira and South Africa’s Lalela Mswane finished up as the first and second runner up respectively.

The 21-year-old was presented the crown by Andrea Meza, former Miss Universe 2020 from Mexico, at the event which was live-streamed globally.

Meza was on May 17 crowned winner of the 69th edition after the competition had to be postponed for more than a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Others who made the top 10 contestants are Thessaly Zimmerman (Aruba)
Valeria Ayos (Colombia)
Clémence Bottino (France)
Harnaaz Sandhu (India)
Nadia Ferreira (Paraguay)
Beatrice Gomez (Philippines)
Michelle Colón (Puerto Rico)
Lalela Mswane (South Africa)
Chantel O’Brian (Bahamas)
Elle Smith (United States).

The Miss Universe pageant was founded in 1952 and currently just rounded up its 70th edition.

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How I struggled through university with an extra year – Fireboy

Nigerian singer and YBNL signee, Fireboy DML, has recounted the early days of his music career during his days at the University.

He said he had an extra year when he started concentrating on his music career.

Speaking with Chude Jideonwo, a media entrepreneur, the singer uncovered his days at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

The ‘Peru’ crooner said he was bound for an academic career but his grades started slippery after he decided to take his career seriously.

According to him, he said the situation cost him an extra year in OAU, with his father once looking in on his lecturers to deal with the issue.

While explaining he said “I use to say I started music in 2012, that was during my second year in school, but I didn’t have sense until around 2017. Between 2012 and 2016, I was just the regular guy who loved Wizkid and Davido,” the 25-year-old said.

“I wanted to be a regular Afrobeats star. I didn’t have any sound. It was messed up. At some point, I sat down and decided I would find something to make me stand out. I decided I would do Afrobeats but add more lyricism.

“When I was younger, I thought was going to be a professor of literature. I was a book-smart guy. When I took turns, it was hard for my parents to take. I had some clarity and understood I was never going to end up doing a 9-to-5 job.

“The only kind of hard work I wanted in life was stressful flights, long studio sessions, and sweating on stage. My parents didn’t know at first until my dad started monitoring my [slipping] grades and asked what was going on.

“I told him the truth. I finished school but it was a tough struggle. I had an extra year. I knew that, after, I was going straight to Lagos. Lecturers, the shame. There was a time when my dad came to my school in my final year.

“At first, it wasn’t about music. He thought I had lost focus. He didn’t know at the time that it was the music thing.”

In 2019, Fireboy released his first studio albums ‘Laughter Tears Goosebumps’ and in 2020, he dropped his second album titled ‘Apollo’.

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Samuel Eto’o wins opponent to become president of Cameroon FA

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Ex Cameroonian and International footballer, Samuel Eto’o, has emerged as the president of the football association in its country.

Eto’o became the head of the football association after defeating Seidou Mbombo Njoya, the fourth vice-president at the Confederation of African Football on Saturday.

It was gathered that withdraws out of the seven competitors contesting for the position discontinued the race on the morning of the election.

Among those who resigned their candidacy during the election were former Cameroon international Maboang Kesack and Jules Denis Onana.

The election ignited popular scrutiny with the proceedings of a national live broadcast from Cameroon television.

The four-time African Footballer of the Year promised to reform the sports industry in a wide range.

The former Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Chelsea stars said: “We have to bring footballer’s to the center of our policies, afterwards, it is our role to ensure that those who play this discipline make a decent living out of it.”

He also promised to construct at least 10 stadiums during his mandate, stating that “I’ve spoken to the business community and we’re certain we’ll get the right investors who can accompany us in fulfilling our goals.”

With this new development, Eto’o will now lead the way for the Cameroon FA as the country prepares to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022.

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Man cries out after being extorted by Nigeria Embassy in Rome

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A Nigerian man living in Italy has taken to social media to share the experiences he encounters while trying to renew his wife’s passport at the Nigeria Embassy in Rome.

The user identified on Twitter as @nosafk, accused the ministry of extorting its citizens under the guise of trying to renew their passports.

He alleged that he paid for the renewal of his wife’s passport and went to the ministry’s website to book an appointment but to his greatest surprise, there was no date on it.

He revealed how the embassy continues issuing passports without an appointment, stating that they will ask you to pay an unofficial amount of money before it can be released.

The man also exposed how your phone will be seized upon entering the embassy.

According to him, he stated that “The embassy of Nigeria in Rome is a big shame to Nigerians. Everyone needs to know what these stupid people do. After writing this they may never renew my Nigeria passport anymore. I don’t even care if they do, but they need to stop extorting Nigerians.”

“My wife needed to renew her Nigerian passport, I paid for 64 pages booklet. I did this because most times if you pay for 32 pages booklet, they will come up with stories like a booklet is not available. And use it to delay your passport. The 64 pages cost more than 32 pages.

Then I went to the embassy website to book the appointment date. There was no appointment. Take a look at the screen-recorded video. You will notice that there is no appointment now till January 2024. I decided to stop there. There is no appointment even till 2080.”

“The wonderful thing is that the embassy keeps issuing passports without appointments. The reason will shock you.

To be able to renew your passport you will have to pay an unofficial amount of money. The amount varies from the person helping you to do it.”

“In my wife’s case, we paid €200 more to someone there to help us renew the passport. This is just to bribe them to do the passport. Even after paying them $137 they were not satisfied. They still wanted me to bribe them to release the passport.”

“Upon entering the embassy, her cellphone was collected from her. She was obligated to submit her cellphone before entering the embassy.

What could they be scared of?

Someone might video their corrupt activities and leak it?

She gave them her cellphone and entered inside.

One oyinbo came inside the embassy and they didn’t seize her cellphone. My wife saw her flaunting her cellphone inside the embassy. Now, why didn’t they do the same to her? Maybe they are scared she might report them to the Italian police.

And if the Italian police get involved, their intelligence might leak everything. It might complicate the Chancery. Even the way they talk and embarrass citizens is very bad. My wife told me about someone who had difficulty speaking English. Instead of them to help, he was mocked.”

“Let’s do simple Maths and figure check the business they’re doing at the embassy.

Assuming they issue 100 passports a day for €200, that’s €20,000 a day and €600,000 a month for 30 days. This is a year is €7.2 million. In just one year.

Na suits dem dey wear.”

“That’s a lot of money. This is the business going on at the Nigerian embassy in Rome. Now you know why there is no appointment till 2080. For you to get scanned you have to pay that unofficial amount. And this is nothing but extortion.”

“If you’re a Nigerian and you believe it is wrong for the Nigerian Embassy to extort your fellow brothers then retweet this as support to end this extortion. Nigerians deserve better.

Passports should be issued without bribes or extra fees.

Many Nigerians have no jobs and may not be able to afford them. We can’t allow this nonsense. If you don’t pay them you won’t get scanned and won’t get your passport” he added.

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Harrysong features Fireboy DML, Olamide in new song ‘She knows’

Nigerian singer, Harrysong, has dished out a new single titled ‘She Knows’ featuring Fireboy DML and Olamide.

In the song, the 40-year-old musician sings about romance and affection as he did not dish out his regular style of pop-like genre.

The song is produced by rising beatmaker, Dezimix and starts with Fireboy DML’s exciting intro, while Olamide dabbled in with an extraordinary street terminology demonstrating his sexual confidentiality.

The release of the song was announced by Harrysong on Friday through his social media handles.

‘She Knows’ happens to be the second single Harrysong dropped after ‘Sawanale’ early this year.

Meanwhile, the release of the song existed side-by-side with the birth of his newborn baby named Daviva.

Announcing the arrival of his newborn with his wife, Alexer Peres, the singer took to Instagram to express his bundle of joy as he stated: “And just this morning in the very cold winter season in Malta, my woman delivered my beautiful bundle of blessing, my princess is Here.”

“She’s called DAVIVA welcome to my world of love, Hard work, peace, money, fame, and grace. I guess she knows it? I’m the happiest and most blessed man this year 2021. And midnight…Tonight …we crown this celebration with the release of ‘She Knows’ ft Fireboy and Olamide oooooh what a year?

Recall in 2017, The couple was also blessed with a set of twins — Perez and Tare, while on March 27, 2021, the duo got married.

Listen to the song here:

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See how Ayra Starr got signed to Mavin Records

Mavin Records signee, Ayra Starr, has revealed how she got signed by the music producer and record label executive, Don Jazzy.

The singer revealed that she got signed the first time she met the record label boss.

She said this after making the cover page for Viper Magazine during an interview that was held on Thursday, December 2, 2021.

According to the singer when asked about how she started writing songs at an early age, she said “I started remixing songs when I was seven or eight, I would remix Michael Jackson songs and I’d put my own words. I’d take it to school and act like this is my song and people would be like “you’re a liar, it’s not yours”. I would put my own words every time. Then I and my brother started writing songs when I was 10 and he was nine. Then when I was 12, my mom got us a guitar so we started properly writing music. A song from my album, I wrote when I was 14 and my brother was 13.”

Also, when asked how she got into the industry she explained that “I used to upload covers on Instagram, then the first time I started to do an original song written by my brother. I uploaded it on Instagram, this is something I was overthinking for like a whole day before I posted and it wasn’t even up to three hours before Don Jazzy sent me a message! He was like “we need to meet up at the studio, just call me” and the rest was history. We met at the studio with my brother.

Ayra Starr further explained that the songs she recorded on the first day were on her EP, two songs on my EP, she said.

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Yuletide: Police ban the use of fireworks in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has announced that the ban on fireworks is still in force during this yuletide season.

This was disclosed to newsmen by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, in a statement titled “Ban on fireworks still in force Yuletide” on Thursday, December 9, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that the commissioner of police Delta State, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC(+) has said the ban on the use of fireworks is still in force and the command will enforce all the extant laws prohibiting the use of fireworks which includes ‘knock-out’, ‘banger’ and others, especially during this yuletide season.

He also noted that Parents/Guardians are advised to guide their children and wards to desist from using them. Retailers of such goods are equally warned to withdraw from the sales of these products as anyone arrested will be prosecuted.

The PPRO said that the CP has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police officers, and Tactical Commanders to ensure strict compliance with the ban on fireworks in their respective Areas of Responsibility. Undercover Police Operatives have also been deployed to arrest anyone found wanting.

Again, the police spokesperson added that the CP while assuring residents of their safety at all times also calls on residents to continue to partner with the Police and other security agencies by providing useful information in their untiring efforts at providing a peaceful and secured environment for them all.

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Celebrities blasts Kizz Daniel for calling Nigeria music industry a ‘cabal’

Some Nigerian celebrity has taken a quick swipe at Kizz Daniel, over his comments claiming that the Nigerian music industry is a “cabal”.

On Wednesday, December 8, 2021, Kizz Daniel took to his Twitter page to share a post about what is happening in the music industry.

The music star in his post alleged that the Nigerian music industry is operating like a cabal, saying that those who don’t associate are usually sidelined.

According to the singer’s post, he wrote “Be calm and locate sense, for this is not an industry, it’s a cabal, who no belong will belong. I will be Barnabas, I do it for the passion/love and I’m f**king great at it.”

But drama started when the tweet did not settle well with some of his pals in the industry.

Jaywon reacted to his claim saying that he should not expect to get what he cannot give.

He also said that the music industry is not just about talent and packaging.

In his words, he stated “Well, the industry is not just about talent alone or packaging. No, be every time packaging dey work. Love and respect, love and respect people, and you will be loved and respected too,” he wrote.

“You no fit get when you no dey give boy!!!! Las last everybody goes dey okay!! If you haven’t done 10 years in this game. Keep shut when men dey talk!!! cabal ko Kabba nii…you get what you give. So, enjoy it as e do reach your don’t know.”

A media personality, Ehizojie Okoeguale better known as Ehiz, also undertook Kizz Daniel’s claim.

Ehiz said the singer should rather focus on dealing with his problem since “no one regards him.”

According to the media VJ in his combination of English and Pidgin, he wrote “You talking about Cabal? You!!!!! No one regards you ni**a so free that Cabal talk … you the headache to your problem. No, be only cabal na 57.”

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Lagos State launches monthly rent scheme with N5bn

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The Lagos State government has released N5 billion to fast track the state’s monthly rent scheme that will commence in January 2022.

The scheme will enable the government to decide to landlords how they should collect rent revenues from occupants.

The state commissioner for finance, Rabiu Olowo revealed this at a panel discussion during the Lagos Real Estate marketplace conference and exhibition held on Wednesday in Lagos.

The two-day event titled ‘Lagos: 21st Century Real Estate Investment Hub’ was organized by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA).

The commissioner while speaking said the scheme was set up to support tenants and landlords regarding rent remittance.

Olowo said the first set of beneficiaries will be drawn from the formal sector, the second set will be from the informal sector and others will follow accordingly.

According to him, he said, “Following a survey, we have been able to create a model that will be launched and known as the Lagos monthly rental policy.”

“The survey reveals that a large percentage of Lagos residents finds it difficult to pay their rent on yearly basis, hence the introduction of the initiative.

You (stakeholders) have nothing to fear. You will get a better deal by joining the scheme.

“To start with, an N5 billion portfolio has been put in place to kick off the scheme.

“We welcome more support from more financial institutions to raise the bar of the portfolio for the masses to enjoy from this policy.”

Also the special adviser to the Lagos governor on housing, Toke Benson-Awoyinka added that the scheme is part of efforts to develop the real estate industry and to boost investors’ trust.

She said the scheme is similar to the rent-to-own system which is already in operation in Lagos.

According to Benson-Awoyinka, the government can dictate to landlords how they should receive rent payments from tenants.

NAN quoted “Yes, there is a way we can dictate because we have the tenancy law that has prescribes that you cannot collect more than one-year tenancy in some areas of Lagos state.”

“We also know that because of the credit system in Nigeria, we cannot enforce that monthly tenancy but create enabling environment for people to also subscribe to the scheme.

“We have put about five components together as a state government, modifying the policy and making it seamless and easily accessible by the citizens of the state.

“If pre-qualified, we know that the tenant can afford whatever rent she or he wants to pay. But if she or he is having difficulty putting big funds together, we refer them under this scheme to the financier.

“The financier also does the needful in terms of pre-qualification and gets to know who the landlord is.

“So, there are various components to this. We have the insurance, financier, the landlord, the tenant, and the legal, apart from the administrative cost of the scheme.”

Again, she noted that there is a method for existing tenants that would like to enroll in the scheme.

She added, “The scheme goes ahead to pay that yearly rent to the landlord but gives such a tenant an option of paying that rent on monthly basis after pre-qualification.”

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Don Jazzy counters claim over gay allegations

Nigerian music producer and record label boss, Don Jazzy, has kicked against the discussion of people calling him gay.

He reacted to the claim on Wednesday through his verified Instagram page after sharing a screenshot from an online blogger known as Gistlover who stated that some celebrities were gay.

According to the blogger’s post, he read, “Do your gay in peace and stop deceiving our girls. Come out of the closet. if we start to do roll call yeah Instagram fit catch fire now now, Don Baba J oga oga, I dey hail o.” (sic)

Goldennationblog.com gathered from reports in the past few months, how the marital status of the Mavin Record CEO has been causing a lot of uproar on social media, some reports claimed he is homosexual who keeps his identity away from the public eyes.

But Don Jazzy, while reacting on Instagram jokingly took advantage of the gossips by asking his fans to subscribe to his YouTube channel.

The 39-year-old celebrity also added that he would be coming out on the issue via his YouTube platform.

In his post, he wrote “So, I hear I’m gay all the time. Anyways click on the link on my bio. Subscribe to my YouTube channel. Click on the notification bell too soon because I’m going to be coming out there.”

It was gathered that Don Jazzy had earlier disclosed that he does not know how to propose to women, adding that he prefers to be pursued by ladies instead.

Also in April, he announced how his addiction to music led to the downfall of his marriage to a UK-based writer, and model, Michelle Jackson.

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Delta ICT YEP Programme: Successful graduands to get starter packs soon – Jennifer Adasen Efeviroro

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The Commissioner for Science and Technology in Delta State, Mrs. Jennifer Adasen Efeviroro, has assured participants of this year’s lCT Youth Empowerment Programme ( YEP), that starter packs will be distributed soon to enable them to set in motion their dreams of becoming entrepreneurs, thus justifying the Okowa administration’s huge investment.

Reacting to insinuations that the graduating participants, who started the program with a Computer Based Test (CBT), in February 2021, long before her appointment in August of this year, should rest assured that they will soon heave a sigh of relief.

While nursing fears that they would not get starter packs, the Science and Technology Commissioner allayed their fears, assuring them that they will soon heave a sigh of relief once the necessary documentation processes are completed.

Mrs. Jennifer Oma Adasen Efeviroro revealed that since his Excellency the Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa approved the lCT YEP program whose screening commenced in February 2021 and training for successful applicants commenced almost immediately after the list of successful candidates was released, there is no iota of truth that the program will suffer hiccups.

She appealed to those agitating to be calm as final modalities, in line with due process of release of funds, is being followed, stressing that the hiccup could have been occasioned by the dissolution of the erstwhile state executive council where her predecessor under whose watch the program was birthed, did not make it back to the state executive council.

“Upon my assumption honorable commissioner for science and technology”, Mrs. Adasen Efeviroro said, “l was duly briefed by my top management on the status of the program, and l have since written a memo to that effect. Very soon, the beneficiaries will be smiling with their starter packs and any other benefits that accrue to them. His Excellency does not start what he can’t finish, that l can assure them.”

The Science and Technology Commissioner, Mrs. Jennifer Adasen Efeviroro, therefore, advised those using the participants to score cheap political points to desist from cheap blackmail and seek other meaningful ways to eke out a livelihood, as the starter pack issue will soon be a thing of the past, to their shame and disgrace.

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We had our four kids through artificial insemination, Fani-Kayode estranged wife revealed

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The estranged wife of Femi Fani-Kayode, Precious Chikwendu, has said she conceived all her four children with ex-aviation minister through artificial insemination.

She claimed that she never had sexual intercourse with Fani-Kayode throughout their six years of living together.

The former beauty queen made this revelation known through a suit she filed before a Customary Court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) while seeking access to her four kids.

Chikwendu claimed that his relationship with the former minister crumbled in 2020 over domestic violence and the latter’s counterclaims of infidelity.

She revealed that they have been in a hectic legal battle for the control of their four children.

According to the suit she filed through Abiodun E. Olusanya, her lawyer, Chikwendu said her request followed information that one of her kids currently staying with the former minister was injured on the head.

The suit marked FCT/CCK8/01/043/2021, Chikwendu claimed that she did not have sex with the former minister throughout their six-year relationship.

The mother of four also claimed that she was forced to remain celibate during the cohabitation due to Fani-Kayode’s alleged erectile dysfunction.

In the suit, she argued that she was never married to Fani-Kayode, adding that he neither paid her bride price nor performed customary or statutory marriage rites with her as believed in some quarters.

She added that Fani-Kayode manufactured a fake story to her that his marriage to his third wife, Regina, who is a Ghanaian, had broken off.

The entrepreneur also added that her relationship with Fani-Kayode, her former “estranged cohabiter,” was full of “woes, lies, deceits, quarrels, assaults, battery, and domestic violence.”

Also in her petition, Chikwendu begged the court to agree to the requests she embodied in her earlier suit titled “Application for issuance of civil summons/plaint” which was filed against Fani-Kayode on November 29.

In her earlier suit, these among others, include: “An order declaring that there was no customary marriage between the Petitioner and the respondent (despite their six-year cohabitation) under the Nanka, Orumba North, Anambra State of Igbo native law and customs.

“Alternatively, assuming by the evidence during the trial the court finds that there was a customary marriage between parties:

“An order dissolving the customary marriage between the petitioner and the respondent forthwith.

“An order granting the Petitioner access to and custody of the four children of the cohabitation between parties especially during their academic calendar.

“An order ordering the respondent to be continuously responsible for the academic, medical, clothing, and welfare of the four children of the cohabitation.

“An order ordering the respondent to release and return the Petitioner’s property.”

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Audiomack introduces new feature where fans can support artists

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Music streaming platform, Audiomack has announced a new feature into its service that will enable fans to support the music artists they love directly.

The new feature called ‘Audiomack Supporter’ is a new way for fans to become champions. This was made known on the Audiomack website on Tuesday, December 7, 2021.

The Audiomack Supporters features create a new revenue stream for artists and an exclusive connection between creators and fans by allowing listeners to directly contribute to releases.

The new features also enable Creators to have direct access to top fans where they can message them directly on Audiomack.

According to Dave Macli, Audiomack co-founder, and, he said “With Supporters, Audiomack is treating artists as they see themselves – as entrepreneurs building profitable careers. Supporters create brand new monetization opportunities for creators while bringing dedicated fans closer to the music and artists they love.”

He also said, what Supporters mean for fans to become a part of your favorite music. Champion the artists you love by directly supporting their work and careers.

He added that the feature enables you to display your fandom. Stamp your name on a release, and unlock shareable trophies to showcase your support to the world.

How it works, first, one needs to update the Audiomack app to the latest version to access Supporters, and to support a song or album, simply tap to contribute as you listen, where you listen.

Again, fans can purchase support badges tied to a song or album. The artists earn more revenue, while the fan is permanently associated with the supported release. The artists can directly message their supporters to show love and share links for exclusive content and offerings (merch links, concert tickets, unreleased music, and more).

Meanwhile, for everything you need to know about Supporters as a creator/artist, including making sure your releases are enabled for support and what to do once you receive support, see Audiomack Supporters for Creators.

Also, for everything you need to know about Supporters as a fan/listener, including how to support and why it’s important for artists, see Audiomack Supporters for Fans.

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Police arrests three Dowen College students allegedly connected to Oromoni’s death

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three students of Dowen College who are in connection to the sudden death of Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, the JSS2 student who died last week.

The state commissioner of police, Hakeem Odumosu, made this revelation known on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, stating that three out of the five students that were mentioned by the deceased are already in their custody and are being cross-examined by the police.

Oromoni before his death had named five students who he alleged had attacked him in his dormitory room and incited many internal injuries on him.

According to the commissioner, he also revealed that the suspects are assisting the police in their investigation.

The CP said “It is still an allegation until we conduct our investigation. We just started the full investigation yesterday (Monday).

“Two out of those mentioned in the viral video are at large while three of the students are helping us to get others.

“I am in contact with my counterpart in Delta State. I spoke with the parents yesterday, we are perfecting everything scientifically.”

It was gathered that on Sunday, December 5, 2021, the CP ordered an investigation into the death of Oromoni and also sealed the school premises till further notice.

Meanwhile, the father of the deceased had alleged that his son who is in JSS2 died from the injuries he sustained during an assault by five of his fellow students who intended to initiate him into a secret cult.

He added that his son was beaten and fed with a liquid chemical.

On the contrary, the management of Dowen College had insisted that Oromoni died after sustaining injuries during a football game.

Since the incident happened, the school has been in the eyes of the public as the situation has sparked outrage on social media platforms, with over 100,000 persons signing an online petition that seeks the detention and immediate prosecution of those found culpable.

The school is located in Lekki, Lagos.

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KWASU sacks lecturer who asked female student to write examination in his bedroom

A lecturer identified as Pelumi Adewale has been sacked from Kwara State University (KWASU).

The lecturer was sacked for threatening to fail a female student over sex and for inviting her to come to write the examination in his bedroom.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that one of the students in the institution, Tosin Adegunsoye, of the department of Pure and Applied Sciences, accused the lecturer for sexually bullying her.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the vice-chancellor at KWASU, Mustapha Akanbi, announced Adewale’s dismissal in Ilorin on Monday.

NAN reported that the VC made this announcement while speaking at a news conference to celebrate the eighth and ninth convocation ceremonies of the institution.

The VC said that Adewale had stopped being a lecturer of the school for bringing the institution into dishonor.

He added that ”The security agency has taken up the case and it is in court already. The man is now an ex-staff member of the institution. He is a disgrace to our great institution and we won’t condone such acts.”

It was gathered that on September 11, Adewale was arraigned before a magistrate court in Ilorin, over an accusation of sexual harassment.

The presiding magistrate, Ibrahim Mohammed, in his ruling, granted the accused bail in the sum of N200,000.

The magistrate thereafter adjourned the case till December 8 for further mention.

Meanwhile, the suspect was arrested by the State Intelligence Bureau (SID) over offenses bordering on criminal intimidation, sexual harassment, and examination malpractices.

In the petition submitted by Adegunsoye dated October 15 had claimed that Adewale, a lecturer employed to teach her a course, called and threatened to fail her in her coming examination if she refused to have sexual intercourse within view of the threat.

The police thereafter instructed Adegunsoye to play along to obtain raw evidence until the lecturer persuaded the student into his bedroom quarters around 8:30 pm at Taoheed Road, Basin Area, Ilorin, where he gave her a new question paper and KWASU answer script to rewrite her examination.

It was in this process the suspect was arrested by the operatives who were hiding in a closed setting.

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Drake withdraw his nomination from 2022 Grammy award list

Canadian rapper and singer, Drake has withdrawn his name from the nomination list in the forthcoming Grammy Awards.

The recent development was made known by Variety on Monday, December 5, 2021.

According to Variety, the decision was made known by the chart-topping musician and his management.

It was gathered that the organizers of the Grammy have removed his nominations from the nominee’s list on its website as of Tuesday.

Drake one of the most outstanding and influential artists in today’s pop music, had two nominations for the 64th annual awards, which were confirmed two weeks ago.

His song “Way 2 Sexy,” featuring Future and Young Thug, was up for best rap performance, and “Certified Lover Boy” — one of the biggest hits of the year — was up for best rap album. He was not nominated in any of the top categories, like album, record, or song of the year.

But Drake and his managers recently asked that his name be omitted from the two rap categories of the Recording Academy. A request the organization behind the awards had honored according to the rapper’s representatives.

The Recording Academy had not issued a statement, but a page on the Grammys’ official website, listing changes to the nominations, was updated on Monday noting the removal of Drake’s two selections.

Drake’s withdrawal, which occurred just as the final voting period for the awards was opening, is the latest difficulty for the Grammys. The academy has battled for years to discourage an exodus among major artists of color, who have made a litany of criticisms against the awards, including a poor record of wins for Black artists in the most prestigious categories, as well as a wider failure by the academy and its voters to recognize and appreciate the cultural weight and difficulties of contemporary Black music.

The Recording Academy has also taken steps in recent years to attract a younger and more diverse voting pool and to prove to the music industry that its processes are fair and transparent.

But already this year, the awards have been dogged by questions about what has happened behind the scenes. The day before the nominations were announced last month, the academy’s board approved a last-minute plan to expand the ballot in the top four categories to 10 slots, from eight. Comparing the final ballot to an early version of its nominations list, which circulated throughout the industry, showed that the beneficiaries included Taylor Swift, Kanye West, Abba, and Lil Nas X.

It was also gathered Drake has been nominated for 49 Grammys in his career — counting the two nods he got this year — and has taken home four. But he has long expressed ambivalence about the awards, even after winning, and has often decided not to attend the ceremony even when he has been widely nominated.

In 2017, after his streaming smash “Hotline Bling” won best rap song and best rap/sung performance, Drake questioned his genre categorization in a radio interview. “‘Hotline Bling’ is not a rap song,” he said at the time. “Maybe because I’ve rapped in the past or because I’m Black, I can’t figure out why.” He added of the awards, “I don’t even want them, because it just feels weird.”

Again in 2019, when Drake and Kendrick Lamar were the two most-nominated artists, each declined invitations to perform on the show. Drake did app on stage to accept the best rap song award for “God’s Plan,” but seemed to allude in his speech to the Grammys’ fraught history in recognizing hip-hop — a rocky relationship that dated back to the first-ever rap award in 989 when some artists boycotted the show because the category was not going to be televised.

“This is a business where sometimes it’s up to a bunch of people that might not understand what a mixed-race kid from Canada has to say or a fly Spanish girl from New York, or a brother from Houston,” Drake said. “But the point is, you’ve already won if you have people who are singing your songs word for word — you don’t need this right here,” he added, holding up the Grammy.

But as Drake started to continue speaking, the Grammys cut to commercial. Drake later called his words “too raw for TV.” A representative for the show said that producers had mistaken a pause in Drake’s speech for the end.

Earlier this year, before the 63rd annual show, the Weeknd, who had been shut out of the nominations despite his album, “After Hours,” being one of the biggest hits of 2020, declared that he would boycott the awards in the future to protest its use of anonymous nominations review committees. Those were blue-ribbon industry panels that sorted through voters’ first-round nomination picks and settled on a final ballot.

The review committees had long been a subject of intrigue in the business. A legal complaint by Deborah Dugan, who became the academy’s chief executive in 2019 — only to be ejected just five months later — said that those committees were rife with corruption and conflicts of interest. This year the Recording Academy, led by its new chief, the producer Harvey Mason Jr., eliminated those committees in most categories, though the last-minute rule change has once again put a spotlight on the nominations process.

In response to the perceived snubs of the Weeknd last year, Drake wrote on Instagram that “we should stop allowing ourselves to be shocked every year by the disconnect between impactful music and these awards and just accept that what once was the highest form of recognition may no longer matter to the artists that exist now and the ones that come after.”

He added, “This is a great time for somebody to start something new that we can build up over time and pass on to the generations to come.”

The 64th annual Grammys are scheduled to be held in Los Angeles on Jan. 31.

Wizkid, Femi Kuti, Made Kuti, and Burna Boy are nominated for the awards.

Wizkid was nominated in the ‘Best Global Music Performance’ category for ‘Essence’, his collaborative song with Tems.

Also nominated in the category is ‘Pa Pa Pa’ by Femi Kuti and ‘Do Yourself’ by Angelique Kidjo and Burna Boy.

Wizkid’s ‘Made In Lagos’ album and ‘Legacy +’ by Femi and Made Kuti were put up in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category.

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Police rescues kidnap victim, arrests one suspected kidnapper in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has rescued a kidnapped victim and arrested a suspected kidnapper in possession of one AK 47 rifle, nineteen rounds of 7.62mm live bullet, pump-action gun, and cartridge.

This was made known to newsmen by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, on Sunday, December 5, 2021, in Asaba.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that “On 30/11/2021, at about 2200hrs, acting on information received from a motorcyclist that a lady (Name withheld), age 63yrs of Ughelli town was seen with two boys armed with machetes in an isolated place along Irri-Aviara community road and suspects them to be kidnappers. The DPO Oleh Division SP Paul Oboware swiftly mobilized and led Police patrol teams in a combined effort with Irri vigilante and cordoned the surrounding bushes. The hoodlums on sighting the police abandoned the victim and escaped into the bush. An investigation later revealed that the victim was kidnapped on 26/11/2021 at about 1830hrs at Olori road Ughelli on her way home.

He also noted that the Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, PSC(+) has mandated the DPO to ensure that these hoodlums are brought to book.

He said “In compliance with the directive of the CP, the DPO Oleh division embarked on an intelligence-led investigation. Police Operatives and vigilante were strategically deployed to get useful information with a view to seeing that these hoodlums are arrested and brought to book. Consequently, it paid off as on the 02/12/2021 at about 2143hrs, he received another distressed call from the vigilante deployed around Irri roundabout Oleh, that some hoodlums were sighted near the roundabout and operating in a white Toyota Hilux without a registration number. He further stated that in an attempt to kidnap one man (name withheld) who recently returned from Europe, a disagreement ensued among themselves which made residents in the area who became suspicious to alert the vigilante.”

Explaining, he also noted that “The gallant DPO Oleh again led a combined team of Police operatives/vigilantes to the area in a carefully planned operation which led to the arrest of one of the suspects named Davidson Odigho ‘m’ aged 26yrs of Irri community in Oleh while other members of the gang escaped in the white Hilux. Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to being part of the gang that kidnapped the 63-year-old woman on 30/11/2021 and abandoned her when they noticed that the police were closing in on them.”

Edafe explained that the suspect led police operatives to his house where one Ak 47 rifle, nineteen (19) rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, one magazine, one pump action gun, and twenty- six (26) live cartridges were concealed in a sack bag and buried in the compound were recovered.

Meanwhile, he added that the manhunt for the fleeing members of the gang is ongoing.

Davidson Odigho ‘m’ aged 26yrs of Irri community in Oleh

Edafe likewise added that the CP while appreciating the efforts of all stakeholders in the fight against crimes and criminality also admonish Deltans to be law-abiding and always give credible information to the police for a safer Delta state.

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Gold Collins drops new EP ‘Kelebe Boyfriend’ featuring Cameo CY

Nigerian fast-rising singer and songwriter, Efecha Collins Gold, better known by his stage name, Gold Collins, has dissed out his Extended Playlist (EP) titled ‘Kelebe Boyfriend’ featuring sensational music star, Cameo CY.

The Afropop music star released five tracklists on Sunday, November 28, 2021, as a follow-up to his first single “Me And You”.

During an interview, the singer said: “Kelebe is a slang in ‘Pidgin’ used to portray a ‘fine girl’. The word Kelebe Boyfriend simply means ‘Fine Girl Boyfriend’.

The word ‘Kelebe Boyfriend’ is also the combination of two tracks title in the EP.”

The tracks in the EP have a chilled groovy Afropop rhythm with a storyline portraying a guy (Boyfriend), who expressed his feelings towards a pretty lady known as Kelebe, and her reactions expressing fake love while in a relationship.

The tracks depict a guy’s conspiracy theory in a romance, the love he got, the predicament he meets face to face when his spouse doesn’t pick his calls, and also her excessive temperaments towards his feelings.

In the EP, Boyfriend appears to be the first track. This track gives an insight into the EP as it explained how a gentleman confronts a gal that he likes and make an effort assuring her that he wants to be his boyfriend. While “Kelebe” is the fourth track where he featured Cameo CY, this track starts with a cameo voice of CY explaining to Kelebe how he feels about her.

The 5 tracks include ‘Boyfriend’, ‘You Nor Dey Pick Call’, ‘Me And You’, ‘Kelebe’, ‘This Place’. The track 1, 2, 4, produced by ID Clef, track 3, produced by ProfBeat, while track 5, is produced by Softouch.

Gold Collins, a native of Urhobo was born on 28 January 1988, in Ughelli, Delta State, a state in South-South Nigeria, to Mr. Felix Oghenebrohien Gold and Mrs. Patience Ughegheruvwe Gold.

He is the fourth child and first son among twelve children. He had his primary school education at Ogele Primary School and his secondary education at Afiesere Secondary School, both in Ughelli before he proceed to the prestigious Delta State Polytechnics, Ogwashi-Uku (DSPG), Delta State, where he obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mass Communication.

Aside from being a musician, he is also a Journalist, who currently owned Goldennationblog.com, a media website with the latest Nigerian and foreign news, politics, sports, business, entertainment, and opinions updates.

He like most other musicians started singing at a teenage age while about to complete college. The singer has never been in the choir, he never played any instrument yet he organizes and writes lyrics by honing to distinct instruments.

In April 2020, he released his first EP titled “The Storyline” before his first single “Me And You” in January 2021, a song he dropped on his birthday.

The singer appears not to have restrictions between style and genre in creating music. He is an imaginative and contemporary songwriter whose imaginative expression is emotional. His creative components include the combination of Afrobeat, Afro-Pop, Afrofusion, Hip-hop, and Reggae which offered him a vast attraction within distinct demography while creating music.

In his teen, he became a defunct member of B-Series, a music group he formed with his childhood friend, Cameo CY until they formally go solo.

Gold is a self-determined young man growing and learning in an ever-changing world of ordinary music. He is the founder of Nothing Spoil Music, a record label he established.

Listen to the EP below:

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Commissioning of ultra-modern Prof Chike Edozien secretariat and 8.5 MW IPP station in Asaba

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Ahead of the historic commissioning of the ultra-modern Professor Chike Edozien State Secretariat complex as well as the 8.5 MW independent Power Plant (lPP) station in Asaba the state capital by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Political Adviser (South) to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Omimi Esquire, has stated that Delta is the state to beat in infrastructural development among states of the federation.

Speaking with newsmen in Warri, Omimi Esquire said these multi-billion naira projects slated for commissioning have once again placed Governor Okowa on a far higher pedestal of a true trailblazer.

The Governor’s Political Adviser noted that with the level of professionalism and expertise displayed in the construction of both megaprojects, there was every need to celebrate the Governor as a stickler to details and precision in project execution.

Noting that the multi-billion naira Secretariat complex, unarguably the best in the country, will not only save the government the huge annual cost of renting buildings for ministries which was the old order but will also ensure seamless operations as government business will now be done in one location, thus enhancing the ease of doing business as well as saving valuable time spent on moving from one ministry to the other across the state.

For the 8.5 MW independent Power Plant station which will supply electricity to the Prof Chike Edozien Secretariat complex and the adjoining complexes, this is another eloquent testimony of the Okowa administration,s foresight in ensuring that the state civil servants do their work in a conducive atmosphere of uninterrupted power supply.

While welcoming the Vice President and his Entourage to Delta, Omimi Esquire expressed optimism that his boss the Governor will not only finish strong but will continue to spread the dividends of democracy across the three senatorial districts of the state to the shame of color-blind critics.

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Delta ICT: Yep participants to receive starter packs soon – Adasen

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Participants under the recently concluded Delta lCT – Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP), will soon receive their starter packs once the modalities are worked out for disbursement.

They have therefore been urged to remain calm and patient while the details are being worked out.

Giving this assurance in Asaba, the State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Jennifer Oma Adasen, Esq, stated that as one of the legacy programs of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the lCT Youth Empowerment Programme is designed to boost the entrepreneurial fortunes of youths in the State as they will continue to enjoy government’s attention and funding under the present administration.

Noting that as a program designed to equip youths in the state with cutting edge ICT skills and competencies, there is no iota of truth whatsoever that participants at the program which was flagged off in February this year would be left without starter packs after completing the training about two months ago.

The Science and Technology Commissioner revealed that as in all government activities, due process must be followed in line with fiscal integrity that procurement of starter packs is involved in.

She added that in no distant time the issue of starter packs for this category of trainees, under the lCT YEP program, will be a thing of the past.

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Insecurity in the southeast made us move our tents- Supreme knight Ovueraye

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The eastern hemisphere of the federal republic of Nigeria has in the past few years agitated for a restoration of status quo before all protectorates were harmonized to modern-day Nigeria, these agitations have led to the evident insecurity milieu in the current-day southeastern region of Nigeria.

According to Supreme Knight Sir Diamond Ovueraye, KSM, Knight of Saint Molumba of the Roman Catholic Church In present-day Nigeria, the KSM Supreme Convention is an annual rotational event from one metro council to another until it goes round all 9 metro councils, but in this case, Asaba has had to host twice back to back, this year inclusive which was suppose to hold in Owerri because of the insecurity in the southeast.

Speaking further, Sir Ovueraye sited the that even NSE, Nigerian Society of Engineers was supposed to hold theirs in Enugu but changed location to Abuja for security reasons, vis a vis lawyers that moved theirs to Port harcourt, stressing that “All it takes is for one man to shoot a bullet into one of our buses and the rest is history and that could have been averted, and that’s the reason why we came back to Asaba.”

The Supreme Knight of Saint Molumba who at a media parley with journalists in Asaba to kick start the convention said that the relocation took 5 weeks to plan also said that the theme of the convention this year, is “Normalization of the abnormalities in the context of the Nigerian Society- An Enquiry”

While speaking, Sir Ovueraye stated that he was earlier quoted out of the contest on the “no PVC no communion catchphrase “ stressing that “I don’t support the idea of no PVC no communion, yes the church encourages people to go into politics but is not and will not stop eligible Catholics from receiving communion, as politics is a personal choice. The statement no PVC no communion was merely a figure of speech, just to show the importance of the PVC.”

While speaking on the state of the nation which will be further discussed in succeeding days of the convention, the supreme knight hinted that “We know that most of us no matter how highly placed you are, are feeling the pinch, and to that effect, we have cushioned up the effect through palliatives worth more than 100m during the covid earlier era to the less privileged, free healthcare amongst others he added.

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OPLEF to meet, drives support for governor Okowa to finish strong

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The Ogwashi Uku Political Leaders and Elders Forum, (OPLEF), will meet on Friday, November 26, 2021, to fashion ways towards attracting more development to Ogwashi uku kingdom, headquarters of Aniocha South.

it will, in addition, conclude on charting a clear course towards supporting Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in his redoubled task of finishing strong on his second term in office.

According to a statement signed by the group’s National Secretary, Nnamdi Peter Okozi, and the National Chairman of the forum, Chief A.C Okocha, said the all-important meeting is expected to be attended by political appointees in the Okowa administration, leaders, and elders as well as Councilors representing the three wards of Ogwashi uku.

The PDP elder statesman who stated that the OPLEF is strictly for political leaders and stakeholders of Ogwashi uku extraction, stressed the need for continuous brainstorming by members of the group as that will, in the long run, engender unity and enable them to speak with one voice in attracting the dividends of democracy to Ogwashi uku kingdom.

He listed the several infrastructural development projects embarked on and completed by the Okowa administration in Ogwashi-uku to include the council, agidiehe, hospital roads, and others ongoing that will be completed before the end of the present administration, as well as the Agro-industrial park that will boost immeasurably, the economic fortunes of Ogwashi uku in particular and the entire Delta in general.

The OPLEF National Chairman also added that the town is blessed with a roll call of its indigenes in various sensitive political positions in the Okowa administration, and as such will show gratitude by continuing to support the Governor.

The venue for the OPLEF strategic meeting which will commence from 3 pm prompt is the country home of the group’s National Chairman, Chief A.C Okocha, ACOM house, along the Isah road, Ogwashi uku.

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Police arrest 77-year-old suspect who construct firearms for criminals in Delta

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The operative of the Delta State Police Command have arrested a 77-year-old gun runner and recovered three double barrel and two single barrel gun.

The operative also arrest a 65-year-old suspect found in possession of one hundred and thirty rounds of live cartridges.

This was disclosed by the State Command Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, on Sunday, November 21, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Bright, he added that the command also arrest three suspected armed robbers and recover one locally made pistol.

He said “On 20/11/2021 at about 0500hrs following a distressed call that three suspected armed robbers were in the premises of one man (name withheld) along Ozoro/ Ughelli road. The DPO Ozoro Division CSP Ogedengbe Areguamen led a combined Police/vigilante to the scene. The suspected armed robbers on sighting the police teams took to their heels and the team gave them a hot chase during which one of the suspects named Emma Ighodalo ‘m’ of Irri village aged 28yrs was arrested with one live cartridge while two members of his gang escaped.”

“Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed that he threw his gun away somewhere in the bush as he was running and that he bought the said gun from One Michael Enipozi for the sum of #30,000. The suspect led the Police to Irri village where they said Michael Enipozi ‘m’ of Irri in Isoko south LGA aged 77yrs was arrested. Three double-barrel guns, two single barrel guns, and other tools used in producing guns were recovered from him. Preliminary investigation revealed that the 77yrs old suspect is a welder who produces guns for criminals and he admitted that he sold the gun to the suspect and that he has been in the business of producing guns for the past twenty years. Manhunt for the other two fleeing suspects is ongoing.”

Emma Ighodalo
Michael Enipozi

He also said “On 19/11/2021 at about 1630hrs Operatives attached to the Command crack squad in total compliance with the directive of the Delta state Commissioner of Police on continuous raiding of black spot/criminal hideouts acted on intelligence gathered over some time and raided a criminal hideout at Emevor Community in Isoko North LGA and arrested one Solomon Udanya ‘m’ aged 65yrs. The following exhibits were recovered from him; One hundred and thirty rounds of live cartridges, one single barrel long gun, three packets of tramadol, six bottles of codeine, and various contraband drugs. The investigation is ongoing.

Solomon Udanya

The Police Public Relations Officer added that “On 17/11/2021 at about 1700hrs Eagle net patrol team while on a stop and search duty along Bomadi-Ohoror road intercepted a daylong unregistered motorcycle with three occupants namely Promise Jonah 27yrs “m” of Mbiama in Ahoada West LGA River state, Friday Frank 29yrs “m” of Esampou Community in Ekeremor LGA in Bayelsa but resides in Bomadi and Bekus Ayibe “m” of Ekeremor LGA of Bayelsa State respectively.”

“Upon a painstaking search on the suspects, one locally-made pistol and two cartridges were recovered from Promise Jonah. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect Promise Jonah contacted the other two suspects and told them he has a gun and that they should look for a motorcycle to steal. The suspect Friday Frank who resides in Bomadi boarded a bike and took the unsuspecting bike man to GRA waterside in Bomadi where the other two suspects came out with the gun and threaten the bike man who submitted it it it the keys and fled. Luck ran out of them when the Police team intercepted them. The victim has identified all suspects as those who robbed him of his motorcycle. Suspects are currently in custody while the investigation is ongoing.”

Promise Jonah, Friday Frank, and Bekus Ayibe

Also, the PPRO said that the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+ has reiterated that Proactive Policing is his watchword and modus operandi because it is better to prevent crime than react to it. He said taking the battle to the den of criminals, arresting and prosecuting them will go a long way in deterring the minds of others who are thinking of going into crime.

The police image maker also said stop and search, intensive patrol, and continuous raid of black spots/criminal hideouts, and intelligence gathering is part of the proactive policing that the CP has directed Area commanders, DPOS, and tactical commanders to adopt. Stating that these proactive policing has continued to yield results as the command has recorded yet another major success against crimes and criminality.

In his word, he said “The CP has assured members of the public particularly residents of the state that the command will continue to do its best to see that the state is free from crimes and criminality while urging them to continue to partner with the Police by giving useful, credible, and timely information for effective policing.”

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Reno Omokri blasts Baba Fryo for criticizing why Davido give N250m to Orphanage

A former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has hit on ace Nigerian singer, Friday Igwe, popularly known as Baba Fryo, over his criticism towards Davido’s fund he donated to Orphanage, the money he received from friends donation when he called them for help recently.

This is coming after Baba Fryo revealed how he asked Davido for help but he once neglected him in time of need.

The singer said he was neglected by the music star when he was struggling with depression.

According to him in a video post he shared on his Instagram page on Sunday, Baba Fryo stated that he was neglected by other musicians too.

This is taking place days after Davido took to Twitter on November 17, to ask for funds for what he once characterized as “the clearance of his Rolls Royce vehicle at the ports” with a target of N100 million for the fundraising.

Two days after, it was gathered that Davido was able to amass up to N200 million.

The ‘Risky’ crooner said he will be adding N50 million to the fund and donated it all to charity.

Meanwhile, when Davido’s generosity brought into the world attracted a flood of appreciation from Nigerians on social media, Baba Fryo had jumped on his colleague for “neglecting” him in time of need and choosing to donate N250 million to the orphanage homes across the country.

He argumented that he once drew the kindness of music stars like Davido and 2Baba to his predicament but none of them reacted.

In his words, he said “There is something that I have been seeing on social media that someone gifted orphanages N250m. To me, the thing is funny. I remember when I was depressed, they tagged many of my colleagues; they tagged Davido, Tuface, and others but none of them responded,” he said in the video.

“It was people that have never seen me in this life, people that do not know me that responded.

“This N200m that I am hearing about and seeing on social media is surprising to me. If someone like me who is popular and well known was not helped, it is people and orphanages that no one knows that is being helped; they are been given N250m, it is so funny.

“I will advise Nigerians and Black people to be wise and stop all these things.

“White people do not do all these things. All that we are doing will look so funny to them. I am not saying that giving money to orphanages is a bad thing because I am an ambassador to an NGO that I do not collect a dime from.

“But funny enough, when I was depressed and had problems, the NGO did not respond. You see how we are. Now I am seeing N200m and they are posting it everywhere; Davido gives money to orphanages and inaugurates a five-man committee to distribute that money. Everything sounds funny to me.

“If I see someone doing good, I appreciate them; I am not saying it is a bad thing. I just want to ask people why someone like me that people know, who cried out; why did they not help the person that they know?

“It is the people that they do not know or can see their faces that they are helping out with N250m. Let’s all think; will we call that wickedness or ignorance?.

“I tagged the Delta, Rivers, and Lagos State government, none of them came to my aid. Is that wickedness or ignorance? But today I am seeing that N250m is going to be distributed to orphanages all over Nigeria. I will advise Nigerians to open their eyes.”

Reacting, retired presidential aide Reno Omokri said Baba Fryo is displaying an entitlement mentality. He then called on Baba Fryo to use his so-called popularity to help himself and allow Davido to help orphans as he deems fit.

He stated: “Honestly, I can’t believe the entitlement mentality that Baba Fryo displayed. How can you condemn Davido’s ₦250 million donations to orphanages because “someone like me who is popular and well known was not helped, it is people and orphanages that no one knows that is being helped”?

You say you are popular. utilize your popularity to help yourself, and allow the young man to help orphans who have no popularity to capitalize on.”

Scripture says “It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young”-Lamentations 3:27.

What did Fryo do for others when he was on top? No. Wrong question. What did he even do for himself when he was young?

Has he shown initiative? Did he even publish the account number as Davido did, and people refused to donate?

Other celebrities saw Davido’s action, and instead of complaining, they emulated him, published their account numbers, and got love from their fans. Including two twins who just reunited.

Wow! I have never seen such entitlement in my life. Help me because I am popular? Really? Davido is young enough to be Fryo’s son.

There is no better advert for the proverb that wisdom does not come with age than the case of Fryo and Davido. Use your youth well so you don’t end up like”

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Macaulay eulogies national president of SWS on her birthday

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The Functioning Permanent Secretary of Delta State Orientation and State Chairperson of Standup for Women Society (SWS), Comrade Mrs. Stella Macaulay has eulogized the sterling leadership qualities of the National President of SWS, Barr Mrs Deborah Ijadele Adetona as she celebrates her birthday.

Macaulay showered Adetona with the best of accolades against the backdrop that she had not only been fearless and focused leader, but had lived for others in terms of humanitarian services and career supports.

Her words were carefully chosen and put succinctly in a way that provokes teary emotions such as the ones below:

“TO MY BOSS
A true definition of indefatigability.

A trail blazer.

Beautiful, untainted and colourful as the rainbow.
A visioner & harbinger of good tidings – SWS.

Soft as the summer rain yet ever ready to whip an erring member into line – the mother she is, ability to balance love & discipline.

An achiever who did not stagger at the sheer enormity of fulfilling the VISION OF SWS thrust upon her, yet carried it like Abraham of old. A thought which crystallised into action sweeping through the land to become A TEMPLATE for other women groups.

A late bloomer not being ashamed of
her banana peel just so she can inspire others through it.
A DEBORAH of our time not fazed by odds nor negativity.

Ma, you stand as a legend & prodigy!

Happy birthday and many more glorious years in good health, prosperity and grace to snatch more souls from the dark habitations of wickedness into your father’s kingdom.

Best wishes now and always ❤”

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Psquare reunite after five-year controversy

The Psquare brothers, Peter ‘Mr. P’ and Paul ‘Rudeboy’ have finally ended up their five years disagreements.

The twin brothers were seen in a viral video shared on Instagram on Thursday morning by Nollywood actor, Mike Ezuruonye, confirming the new outcome with a brief headline “Psquare forever”.

According to the video, the two superstars were seen embracing each other in a room while others celebrated their reunion.

Also, in the viral video, Jude Okoye, their elder brother, and former manager of the defunct group were seen greeting the duo.

In 2016, the twins were said to have parted ways after an argument on the role of Jude, and the controversial split has placed the Okoye brothers on the public watchlist.

The music stars first indicated that they are ostensively back on good terms on Monday when they followed each other on Instagram.

In another development, Anita, the wife of Paul, had also shared a video wherein Peter could be seen shopping with his brother’s children in the United States.

In March, Mr. P had blamed the constant comparison from fans — over who is better between the duo — as part of the reasons they broke up.

“For those trying to troll us, if it is painful for you, it’s not painful for us. You guys don’t matter anymore. Let me say it openly if you are a P-Square angry fan, you guys don’t matter anymore. It’s not about you guys anymore, it’s about us. Go and deal with your sour,” he had said.

“Don’t let me hit on you guys because you guys don’t even deserve it. Because you guys are among the people that contributed to the break-up. Two brothers doing their own thing, you try to say one is better than one. Una don gets wetin una want.”

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Within 24-hours: Davido amasses over N150M after asking for help

Singer Davido has received a whopping sum of over one hundred million nairas after inciting a fundraiser on social media.

The singer on Wednesday took to his social media handles to share a post with his account details asking his followers to send him money if they’ve enjoyed his music over the years to help him facilitate the clearance of his Rolls Royce at the ports.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that within 24 hours, Davido is officially richer as his supporters have come through with a lot of donations as well-known personalities, entertainers, and other similar citizens flocked in on social media and started sending him money.

Among those who joined in the donation are a rapper, MI Abaga; businessman, Femi Otedola; socialite, Obi Cubana.

With a target of N100 million set for the fundraiser, Davido has received over N150 million within 24 hours as at the time of filing this report.

In 2012, Davido rose to fame after releasing ‘Dami Duro’, the second track of his debut album ‘Omo Baba Olowo’.

Between 2013 and 2015, he released several hits and signed a record deal with Sony Music in January 2016.

The hitmaker would later establish the record label DMW to which acts like Dremo, Mayorkun, and Peruzzi signed.

In July 2016, Davido signed a record deal with Sony’s RCA Records, releasing the five-track EP ‘Son of Mercy’.

Davido re-negotiated his contract with Sony in 2017, releasing five singles including the chart-topping ‘If’ and ‘Fall’.

He released his second album ‘A Good Time’ in 2019, supported by hit singles including ‘Blow My Mind’.

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NUT chairman, Titus Okotie describes Goodluck Ezejire’s allegations as spurious and ill-conceived

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The Delta State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Titus Okotie, has described the witch-hunting allegations leveled against him by a disqualified aspirant for the Isoko South NUT elections, Comrade Good luck Ezejire as spurious and ill-conceived.

Okotie, in a swift reaction over the allegations leveled against him by Ezejire who claimed that he was unlawfully disqualified from contesting the Isoko South NUT elections because he was part of those who allegedly participated in a peaceful protest by teachers under the aegis of Basic Education Staff Association of Nigeria, (BESAN), on 16th February 2021, said the allegations were not only infantile but aimed at disrupting the relative peace and unity of the NUT in Delta State

Specifically, the State NUT helmsman stated that upon receipt by BESAN vide a letter dated 8th February 2021, that the group would be protesting peacefully on the 16th of that same February 2021, the SWEC invited the aggrieved group for a truce meeting for 11th February which was turned down, even on the 15th February, the eve to their planned peaceful protest.

After all, entreaties to make the group see the reason why they could toe the line of dialogue, they still went ahead to protest, thus daring the industrial harmony that existed in the state NUT.

On the spurious allegation that he is being slammed a three-month suspension to deny him of vying for the position of Chairman of NUT Isoko South, Comrade Okotie stated that the embattled Comrade Good luck Ezejire was summoned before a duly constituted Committee of which he (Okotie), was not a member.

According to the State NUT Chairman, Goodluck Ezejire honoured the invitation of the three member committee , and it was based on the outcome of his presentation that the committee recommended him for suspension for a period of three months.

Furthermore, the number 1 teacher, said, the allegation by Ezejire, that a colleague from lka South, Comrade Jeremiah Okonta, who purportedly signed the protest letter in his capacity as BESAN Secretary, and was even a dramatis personae in the purported 16th February protest, has been given a clean bill of health and even contested as Secretary of lka South NUT, is one allegation too many.

Also, the State NUT Chairman said Comrade Jeremiah Okonta was among those invited by the committee, including Good luck Ezejire.

The Chairman said, the committee which submitted their report, indicated, that Okonta showed remorse for his action, stating that he was sorry for joining a protest that was held on the day the Governor, Senator Okowa, was laying his beloved father, Sir Arthur Uzoma Okorie, Okowa, to rest.

He added that the Committee recommended his pardon, hence he took part in the lka South NUT elections. I don’t know where Ezejire got the belief that l am fighting him. I am a father of all teachers in the State and will carry all along.

While warning that disciplinary measures will henceforth be enforced on erring members, Comrade Okotie thanked Governor Okowa for approving the 2020 promotion of secondary school teachers.

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Military affirms disappointment over Lagos #EndSARS judicial panel report

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The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has expressed disappointment over how the Lagos State #EndSARS judicial panel report was leaked out publicly.

Irabor expressed dissatisfaction to journalists in Benin City, Edo State on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, stating that he won’t comment on the report until a white paper is presented.

He stated that the report was released through the wrong channel adding that it should have first been treated by a convening authority before being accessible to the public.

On October 20, 2020, security forces fired on peaceful protesters at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos in a forceful attempt to dismantle the symbolic force of unforgettable demonstrations against police brutality.

Eyewitnesses revealed many casualties from the attack, but the government has run an antagonistic counter-campaign arguing no one was killed by security agents.

Meanwhile, a judicial panel of inquiry set up days after the shooting finally submitted its report on Monday, November 15, 2021, confirming the claims of eyewitnesses that a massacre happened.

The report fully indicted soldiers for the massacre of the peaceful protesters and recommended that perpetrators be punished.

But Irabor maintained that the Armed Forces are professional and remain committed to the constitutional mandate.

He said, “It would not be right to disparage men and women who have worked so hard to ensure that the territorial integrity of this nation is kept intact.

“So in the meantime, until I see the full extent of the report, I can assure that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are well-disciplined and we do not engage in any ignoble acts.”

The judicial panel established that at least nine protesters were killed, with four others missing presumed dead.

Dozens of others were also injured, first by the soldiers, and later by police officers who also tried to cover up their involvement.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has set up a four-member panel to review the judicial panel’s report and raise a white paper within two weeks.

The panel will be headed by the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN), with members listed as Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Segun Dawodu; Special Adviser, Works and Infrastructure, Aramide Adeyoye; and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Office, Tolani Oshodi.

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Navy reveals why comedian Cute Abiola is not missing

The Nigerian Navy has revealed that its personnel named OSCOMP Abdulgafar AA, popularly known as Cute Abiola, is not missing.

The Navy said its detained the popular skit maker for violating the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s social media policy.

This was made known by the Navy spokesperson Commodore Saluman Dahun in a statement titled ‘Cute Abiola is not missing navy.’

According to the statement, the spokesperson accused Abdulgafar of disobeying “particular orders” given to him.

The statement read: “The attention of the Nigerian Navy has been drawn to an online news story which claims that naval personnel, OSCOMP Abdulgafar AA, who incidentally is a popular comedian known as Cute Abiola, has gone missing.

“The Nigerian Navy wishes to categorically debunk this false news report currently trending online.

“OSCOMP Abdulgafar is currently under custody in his unit for breaching the Armed Forces Social Media Policy and refusal to obey particular orders. The Nigerian Navy wishes to avail itself of this incident to remind its personnel to comply with the provisions of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy in their usage of social media platforms.

“The Policy, amongst others, is emplaced to protect their safety and security as well as the information integrity of the activities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

On Tuesday, November 16, 2021, a fellow comedian, Mr. Macaroni, took to Twitter to express concerns about his whereabouts.

Mr. Macaroni stated that Cute Abiola was last seen on November 15 after he left for his office at Navy Town in Lagos.

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Five persons dead, 15 vehicles destroyed at Lagos gas explosion

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Five persons have repeatedly died at the gas explosion that occurred at Ojekunle Street, off, Ladipo Street, in the Mushin area of Lagos State on Tuesday.

The gas explosion also destroyed not less than 15 vehicles and damaged different houses.

It was gathered that the site where the incident occurred housed mechanics, panel beaters, gas retailers, and other traders.

It was also gathered that the workshop is a jumble of damaged blocks, wood, iron, cars, and hundreds of gas cylinders.

An eyewitness who narrated the incident said “The explosion happened when a woman, identified as Mama Emma, was frying puff-puff around 7:30 am and at the same time, a gas retailer identified as Sodiq, was dispensing from a cylinder to another for a customer. Sodiq usually sold gas to panel beaters in the workshop.”

The eyewitness also said, “While dispensing the gas, his customer received a call which triggered the explosion.”

“Sodiq, the customer, Mama Emma, and two others were burnt to death as their remains were bagged and handed over to their families for burial.”

Some traders who wept at the scene described the gas retailer as a hardworking man who did not deserve to die in such a cruel manner.

Also at the scene, over 15 vehicles of different brands whose engines were destroyed by the blast.

Also at the scene, some of the vehicles were buried in the rubble caused by the blast, as sheds used by mechanics were uprooted and fell flat on the shattered vehicles.

According to Tajudeen Olorunwa, a mechanic whose workshop was on the site explained that his car, a Toyota Highlander, and four others belonging to his customers, were affected.

Olorunwa said he had never experienced such losses in his 24 years at the workshop.

While speaking in Yoruba, he said, “I thank God for the preservation of my life. I had a vehicle in my workshop when the explosion happened and four others belonging to my customers. The vehicles were for repairs, but I have informed their owners and they have asked me to send photos of the damage.”

He noted that one of his apprentices was severely injured and had been rushed to a nearby hospital.

Another mechanic, who identified himself only as Ahmed, said he was at the workshop around 7 am shortly before the blast.

He said, “I was here sleeping in one of the vehicles when one of us was hit by a motorcycle. I and another apprentice rushed the victim to a nearby hospital and on our return, we saw that the explosion had occurred.

“I could have been burnt too if I didn’t rush the victim to the hospital. I used to sleep in one of the cars now destroyed by the blast. I will thank God forever for creating a way for my escape.”

An eyewitness, Juliet Nwokedi, who worked opposite the scene of the incident, said the body of the gas retailer was shattered by the explosion.

Another eyewitness, Pastor Micheal Ogunremi, who claimed to live close to the scene of the incident, said the workshop was once shut by the state government, but the lock was broken.

The South-West Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency, Ibrahim Farinloye, said 121 cylinders were recovered from the scene.

He said, “An LPG domestic retailing center located on Ojekunle Street, Ladipo Spare Part Market, exploded and resulted in casualties. Four adults – three males and one female – were recovered dead, while a 10-year-old boy rescued alive died before getting to the hospital.

“The scene was said to have been sealed because the side of the street was dedicated as a mechanical village on which no other user was allowed. But after some time, the seal and lock were removed before the incident occurred.”

The Director-General of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Oluwafemi Oke-Osanyintolu, while speaking at the scene of the incident, said a panel would be set up to investigate the cause of the incident.

He said, “After a rigorous and aggressive response, we put out the fire after one hour and we were able to bring out 10 injured persons, who were treated on the spot and discharged. But it is pathetic that we recovered five bodies, four males and one female. Recovery is ongoing and we are going to get to the root of the matter.”

The Chairman of the Mushin LGA, Emmanuel Bamgboye, who also visited the scene, said the council would set up a committee to investigate the incident.

The state Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, urged residents to stop receiving calls around gas depots.

He said, “This is a disaster that is completely avoidable; this is human negligence because what we heard was that the thing blew up when someone was trying to refill a gas cylinder while making a call.”

Also, an official of the Department of Petroleum Resources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “We gathered that a lady was frying early in the morning and that prompted the explosion in the gas depot.

“But what we observed was that the cylinders stacked there were not in tandem with what we use in the industry.”

See photos of the explosion:

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HURIWA tells Buhari to sack Lai Mohammed over false statements

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to dismiss, arrest, and trial the Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Lai Mohammed, for his obvious misconception alleging that nobody died at the Lekki tollgate which has now been opposed by the report submitted by the judicial panel of inquiry in Lagos.

The call came following the report of the Panel of Investigation set by the Lagos State Government to unfold the happenings of October 20, 2020, at the Lekki Toll Gate, Lagos State.

HURIWA made the demand in a statement in line with the final judicial report and verdict by the Lagos State Judicial Panel of investigations.

According to the panel report, it’s revealed that the police and soldiers of the Nigerian Army killed and injured harmless youths protesting against police brutality and bad governance in Nigeria.

But Mohammed, in a series of press conferences has repeatedly denied anyone was killed when soldiers invaded the protest scene at the Lekki tollgate.

Despite the Federal Government’s stance, the report shows obvious evidence that there was indeed a massacre at the Lekki tollgate.

The 309-page report submitted by the judicial panel detailed how the Army and Police violated their rules of engagement during the protest.

HURIWA recalled that Mohammed also criticized the claim by Amnesty International that no fewer than 12 protesters were killed in Lagos State by security operatives during the EndSARS protest.

HURIWA “is asking President Muhammadu Buhari as a biological father of many well-educated children, to order the arrest and prosecution of his minister of information Lai Mohammed for committing a grave and heartless offense that is equivalent to the denial of the Holocaust of the 6 million Jews by Adolf Hitler which is punishable by nearly half a century of incarceration. ”

HURIWA “is also commending the brave members and Chairperson of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on the #ENDSARS PROTESTS especially the circumstances surrounding the massive cases of extrajudicial killings by the Army and armed police when these armed forces opened fire with lethal weapons targeted at the unarmed protesters.”

The rights group has asked the President not to sweep the lawlessness of the security agencies under the carpets just as it said if the President allows his information minister to get away with the impunity of denying the massacre that happened before the eyes of the World captured live on video cameras, then he will be remembered long after he has retired from public office as a dictator who oversaw the genocide of young protesters and the generations unborn will never forgive him for this.

HURIWA affirmed that “President Muhammadu Buhari must note that as a Father of many Children he needs to ensure that impunity is never tolerated especially the extrajudicial killings of very youngsters of Nigeria by the Army just for protebrutalityice Brutality.”

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UNILORIN expels final-year student who beats his project supervisor to coma

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has expelled the final-year student, Salaudeen Waliu, who attacked a female lecturer and beat her to coma.

This was made known in a statement by the spokesperson of the institution, Kunle Akogun, on Tuesday.

He said Waliu attacked the lecturer identified as Rahmat Zakariyau in her office after she “refused to help him graduate” following his failure to do the mandatory students’ industrial Work experience scheme (SIWES).

The institution spokesperson said the verdict expelling Waliu was handed by the student disciplinary committee where the Microbiology student was arraigned and found guilty of assault on Monday.

He also said Waliu has 48 days to appeal against the verdict to the vice-chancellor of the varsity in case he feels unhappy with the decision.

Akogun said, “Salaudeen has since been handed over to the police for further necessary action.”

A letter written to Waliu by the university registrar read: “You will recall that you appeared before the student disciplinary committee (SDC) to defend yourself in respect of an allegation of misconduct leveled against you.

“After due consideration of all evidence before it, the committee was convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that the allegation of misconduct has been established against you.

“It has accordingly recommended to the Vice-Chancellor, who in the exercise of the power conferred on him, has directed that you Salaudeen, Waliu Aanuoluwa be expelled from the university.

“Accordingly, you are hereby expelled from the University with immediate effect.

“You are required to submit forthwith, all University property in your custody including your Student Identity Card to the Dean of Student Affairs or his representative and keep off the campus.

“In case you are dissatisfied with this decision, you are free to appeal to the University Council through the Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences to the vice-chancellor within forty-eight (48) days of the date of this letter.”

Meanwhile, Waliu had earlier opened up on why he assaulted the lecturer.

He alleged to have attacked the lecturer in her office and beat her to coma because she refused to help him following his failure to do the mandatory students’ industrial Work experience scheme (SIWES).

Waliu opened up on the series of events that prompted his actions as he claimed he had gone to the office of the female lecturer to beg her to help wave the mandatory SIWES course which he missed due to unforeseen circumstances.

He also said he met Zakariyau numerous times but it all ended with unfavorable responses before the attack happened.

He claimed that “months before the last Thursday incident, he was arrested and locked up for two months, thereby warranting his inability to attend SIWES duties.”

He said he had gone to Ikeja, Lagos to see a friend but was mistaken for a thief after he attempted to urinate near a car.

Waliu said a crowd meted out jungle justice on him and handed him over to the police who kept him for two months.

The final-year student said he approached Zakariyau to explain his difficulty and want help but the lecturer refused, asking him to join the next set which would result in an extra year.

”I got angry. I don’t know what came over me. I started arguing and she told me to leave her office. I told her if I don’t leave, what is she going to do? She threw a mug at me which injured me and I started beating her,” he said.

“I dragged her out and she ran. I chased and kept beating her before people came. I tried to run but was later caught by the school security.”

Salaudeen Waliu

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Judicial panel recommends rename of Lekki tollgate to EndSARS tollgate

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The Lagos State judicial panel set up to investigate the incident that occurred at the Lekki toll-gate on 20th October 2020 during the #EndSARS protests, has recommended that the Lekki toll-gate be renamed to #ENDSARS toll-gate.

The panel also recommended that October 20th of every year be made a toll-free day in memory of all those who lost their lives or those who were left injured on that night.

On 20th October 2020, officers of the Nigerian Army together with the Nigerian Police Force were deployed to the Lekki toll-gate and fired live ammunition at peaceful protesters who were protesting against police brutality despite seeing them waving the Nigerian flag and singing the National Anthem.

The panel reported that police officers from the nearby Maroko Police Station were instructed to enforce a carelessly declared curfew and to forcibly disassemble the protesters at the venue of the tollgate.

Meanwhile, after one year since the incident occurred, the panel in its 309-page report that was submitted to Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, November 15, 2021, recommends that the “Lekki Toll-gate Plaza be made a memorial site for END SARS Protest by renaming it to ‘END SARS TOLLGATE’.”

The panel also recommends that “October 20th of every year is made a “Toll-Free Day” at the Lekki Toll Gate as long as the tollgate exists.”

“That Oct 20th of every year be made EndSARS Day nationally for the remembrance of our falling youth.”

“That for restitution, healing, and reconciliation, the federal government needs to publicly apologize to the youth for abruptly undermining the protest with their state actors.”

In addition, the panel recorded that 11 persons were killed while about 24 others sustained gunshot injuries.

See the report:

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Police rescue’s 11 kidnapped victims in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has rescued eleven kidnapped victims from daredevil kidnappers.

The command also arrested an armed robbery suspect and recovered a stolen vehicle and a locally-made gun.

This was made known to journalists by the State Command Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Bright, he said “On 14/11/2021 at about 1936hrs, acting on information received that hoodlums numbering about five (5) on army camouflage uniform armed with AK 47 rifles came out of the bush at Idu roundabout along Ozoro/ Ughelli expressway opened fire on one Toyota Sienna with Reg. No. SMK 185 FU conveying passengers from Ozoro to Ughelli. The hoodlums abducted eleven (11) passengers. The DPO Oleh Division SP Paul Oboware mobilized and led a combined team of Police patrol teams, vigilantes, and hunters to the scene. They cordoned off and combed the surrounding bushes relentlessly which made the area uncomfortable for the hoodlums. Consequently, the suspected Kidnappers abandoned the eleven (11) victims and fled. The Eleven kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt and the vehicle was recovered. The effort is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing hoodlums.”

He also said that “On 15/11/21, at about 0700hrs, information got to the DPO Ekpan Police Station that a young man (name withheld) of refinery road Ekpan was being robbed by a gang of two suspected armed robbers. The incident occurred on the same date while the victim and his younger brother were going to work. The DPO Ekpan quickly detailed operatives to the area. The team on getting to the scene engaged the robbers in a gun duel along the NPA expressway by Niger Cat Ekpan, one of the robbers escaped while the other suspect named Ovie Maxwell 25 years old of Ekpan community was arrested and one locally-made gun with two live cartridges were recovered from him. A manhunt for the fleeing suspect is ongoing.”

Ovie Maxwell 25 years old of Ekpan community

While narrating another incident, he said “On 14/11/2021 a complainant who went to wash his vehicle at a car wash around Conoil filling station Effurun said that after washing his car, he and his brother while waiting for someone saw a group of four armed men who pounced on them, forced them into the vehicle and sped off. He further stated that the hoodlums later put them in the boot of the vehicle. On getting to a hold-up, they managed to open the boot and escaped. Information got to the DPO Ebrumede Division SP Bolarinwa Alabi who immediately detailed and led operatives and went after them. In a combined effort with the men of Ekpan Police station, they trailed the hoodlums to jakpa road. The hoodlums on noticing that the police were trailing them, abandoned the vehicle in the busy area of Jakpa and fled into the crowd. In order not to hurt innocent citizens, the team could not engage them, but the Lexus car ES 350 gold color with Reg. No. Abuja-YAB 262 KC was recovered. The effort is on top gear to arrest the fleeing suspects.”

Recovered stolen car

The police spokesperson further said that the Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, PSC(+) has directed all officers and men of the command to be on red alert and to ensure that their area of responsibility is well policed, ensure that criminally minded persons are chased out of the state.”

He added that patrol teams have been deployed to the highways to see that Travelers travel without fear, and to ensure safety on the highways.

Also, he said “The Cp also appreciates the efforts of officers and men of the Command in their effort in the fight against crimes and criminality in the state. He also thanked The state government and members of the public for their support in tackling the security challenges in the state. The Command is not relenting and below are some of the achievements of the command in the past three days.”

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#EndSARs panel in Lagos summit report after one year

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The Lagos State judicial panel on police brutality has submitted its report to the state government.

The report was submitted to the governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the government house in Ikeja, Lagos on Monday.

The panel submitted two sets of reports – a consolidated report on police brutality cases and the investigation of the Lekki massacre.

It was reported that on October 19, 2020, the Lagos state government inaugurated the judicial panel to investigate petitions on police brutality in the state as part of submissions put forth during the #EndSARs protests.

According to Sanwo-Olu after receiving the report, he said it is the beginning of the “difficult process of proper reconciliation and restitution”.

While speaking, the governor commended members of the panel for the work well done stating that posterity will be kind to them.

He added that the report will be submitted to the National Economic Council (NEC), for proper response to being given to the recommendation.

He also constituted a four-member committee headed by Moyosore Onigbanjo, the state’s attorney-general, to come up with a white paper on the panel’s recommendations within the next two weeks.

“I’m believing and trusting that this process will help us start the very difficult process of proper reconciliation, restitution, bringing together of anyone that must have been one form or the other being affected,” he said.

“By either the police or any of our citizens that must have been wronged by one form or the other, the process of healing, I imagine, with the submission of this panel report, will start that process.”

It was gathered that the sitting was originally meant to last for six months but the period of proceedings extended into one year.

The panel concluded its sitting on October 18, 2021, and said its findings and recommendations would be submitted to the state government.

According to Doris Okuwobi, the chairperson of the panel said 186 of the 252 petitions submitted were examined.

Also, in an infographic released by the panel, the sum of N409.7 million was awarded to 70 petitioners.

Though, the conclusion of the panel not to reveal its report on the incident of the Lekki shooting did not go down well with lawyers representing #EndSARS protesters including many Nigerians.

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Customer electrocuted at Obi Cubana’s club in Abuja

A fun-seeker identified as Susan Oleghe had reportedly died at Obi Cubana’s nightclub, ‘Hustle & Bustle’ in Abuja.

The 27-years-old lady got electrocuted after she fell on iron within the premises of the nightclub on Saturday, November 13, 2021.

The deceased was said to have arrived at the nightclub with some of her friends and was about to leave before the tragic incident happened, a source revealed.

The source also revealed that the deceased was walking out of the club when she fell on the iron.

The source said “They were about to leave the club and she tripped by a floor that wasn’t well laid. She fell on the metal rod. The metal rod has high voltage wires for lightning or whatever is in it. And it was covered with wire for aesthetic.”

Meanwhile, the management of the ‘Hustle & Bustle’ has shut down the service of the club following the sudden death of their clients.

According to the management in a statement, they wrote “We are closed till further notice. This is due to the loss of our esteemed client.

“We are deeply saddened by this situation and need time to heal from it. Our prayers are with the families of the lost soul.

May her soul Rest In Peace. We sympathize with the family on this unbearable loss. Kindly bear with us as we pass through this storm.”

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UNILORIN final year student beats his project supervisor to coma

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A 400-level student of the Department of Microbiology of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), identified as Captain Walz, has reportedly beaten a female lecturer of the institution to coma because she refused to help him.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Thursday, November 11, 2021, after the student have gone to the lecturer’s office to seek her help because he didn’t participate in the compulsory Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).

The lecturer whose name was given as Mrs. Zakariya happened to be the student’s project supervisor and was said to have refused to help him.

The refusal of the lecturer, made Walz become violent and assault her while causing serious injuries to her.

Mrs. Zakariya was subsequently rushed to the hospital for treatment.

While confirming the incident, the director of corporate affairs of the institution, Mr. Kunle Akogun, told Daily Trust that the lecturer is now in a stable condition.

According to Akogun, he said “Yes, the incident is true but the lecturer is now in a stable condition. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Abdulkareem Age visited her in the company of some Deans and other university staff.”

“They further described the incident as unfortunate and sad and assured that justice will be done on the matter,” he added.

He also said that the Vice-Chancellor of the university has approved that the victim be treated on the bill of the institution.

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Wizkid wins ‘Best African Act’ at MTV EMA award

Nigerian superstar, Wizkid has won the ‘Best African Act at the 2021 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMA).

The singer ousted his fellow contenders to win the award on Sunday.

Wizkid was nominated for the award category together with Tems, Amaarae, Diamond Platnumz, and Focalistic.

The awards event is being presented by Viacom International Media Networks to celebrate artists and music culture.

Recall in October 2020, Wizkid released his fourth album titled ‘Made In Lagos’.

MIL featured music heavyweight like Damian Marley, Skepta, H.E.R, Ella Mai, Burna Boy, Tems, and Terri.

Since the release of the album, he has been on tour selling out concerts across the world.

Also, in 2021, Wizkid dropped the visuals for the track ‘Essence’ and also followed it up with a remix featuring Justin Bieber.

‘Essence’ shot into the Billboard Hot 100 chart, banging into the top 10.

In mid-2019, Wizkid had featured on Beyoncé’s ‘Brown Skin Girl’, a track off ‘The Lion King: The Gift’ soundtrack.

This had gained him prominent global awards, as fans applauded him on social media.

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Olu Jacobs won lifetime achievement award

Nollywood veteran actor, Olu Jacobs, has won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

His actress wife, Ajoke Silva, shared the picture of them receiving the award on her Instagram page on Sunday with the caption “Lifetime achievement award winner, sir Olu Jacobs.”

AFRIFF, an annual showcase of the world of filmmaking, the event took place from November 7 to 13.

The annual event glimpses the participation of local and international actors, directors, film critics, buyers, distributors, visual artists, film students, and equipment manufacturers.

Before now, Jacobs has been in the news on different circumstances over death rumors.

In 2020, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) had referred the statements to “mischief-makers”.

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MultiChoice begins audition for Nigerian Idol Season 7

MultiChoice Nigeria has commenced the auditions for season seven of Nigerian Idol.

MultiChoice Head of content for West Africa channels, Busola Tejumola, made this known in a statement on Saturday, November 14, 2021, stating that the online audition for the music reality show will run from 14th to November 28, 2021.

According to her, she said season seven of Nigerian Idol is been sponsored by BIGi, while adding that the main viewing on DSTV and GOtv will begin in February 2022.

She also said interested contestants should upload a 60-second video of themselves singing any song of their choice on www. Africa magic. tv.

Tejumola added that the contestants must be between 16 and 30 years of age.

She explained that “MultiChoice remains committed to promoting and giving young music talents in Nigeria a platform to shine and actualize their dreams.”

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Police arrest car snatcher, suspect who raped two sisters, and notorious armed robber in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a car snatcher and recovered a suspected stolen car and also arrested a suspect who raped and defiled two sisters.

The command also arrested a suspected cultist and recover one locally made single barrel pistol and one live cartridge.

In another arrest, the command also arrested a notorious armed robber and recover one locally made pistol and seven live cartridges.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement by the spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright, on Saturday, November 13, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that “On the 10/11/2021 at about 0445hrs, acting on a tip-off, that one Morrison Godwin ‘m’ age 38yrs who has been terrorizing Sapele and its environs and is also on the security watch list in the state but residing at Ojolu area was sighted around Sapele. The DPO Sapele division detailed surveillance patrol team who swung into action stormed his house at the Ojolu area and arrested the suspect. Upon searching his house, one locally made pistol and seven live cartridges were recovered. The investigation is ongoing.”

Suspected armed robber, Morrison Godwin

He also noted that “The Command Eagle-net Special Squad on 10/11/2021 at about 1000hrs received a complaint from one woman (name withheld) of Okpanam road Asaba against one Mr. Jude Nduka ‘m’ age 35yrs of No. 10 Obi Onuwe Street behind Kowen Plaza Asaba. The Complainant alleged that the suspect raped and impregnated her daughter (name withheld) age 16yrs old and also raped and defiled her teenage daughter name (withheld) who is an age ‘13yrs’ The commander Eagle net detailed detectives to investigate. The detective swung into action and the suspect was arrested. Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to having committed the crimes. Medical examination on the said victims has been carried out. The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court on completion of the investigation.”

Rape suspect, Mr. Jude Nduka

Also, he noted that “On the 9/11/2021 at bout 1230hrs, Operatives attached to Agbarho Police station in a combined effort with Agbarho vigilante task Force arrested one Solomon Adama ‘m’ 25yrs of Maternity road Agbarho at Oguname street Agbarho. When the search was conducted on him, one locally-made pistol and one live cartridge were recovered. The suspect also confessed to being a member of the Eiye confraternity. On further interrogation, the suspect further stated that the gun was given to him by one Gregory Orhokpocha ‘m’ 37yrs of Oguname street Agbarho, the leader of Eiye confraternity in Agbarho, the suspect Gregory was swiftly arrested. Suspects have been transferred to State criminal investigation department for further investigation.”

Suspected cultists, Solomon Adama and Gregory Orhokpocha

In a similar case, he noted that “On the 8/11/2021 at about 0700hrs, the Divisional Police officer Oghara division acting on a tip-off detailed a combined team of police/vigilante to Otefe road at ijomi community where they intercepted a Toyota Corolla car with Reg. No. BEN 741 NK was suspected to be snatched with the two male and one female occupant. One of the male suspects escaped while the patrol team arrested the other suspect and recovered the car. The suspect gave his name as Lucky Enakpowo ‘m’ of Ofuoma Ughelli, he confessed that he and one Elvis Emmanuel ‘m’ snatched the car from a driver at Uselu in Benin City. The female occupant name (withheld) who hails from Plateau State a passenger in the car said she was assaulted, injured by the suspects and that they also attempted to rape her. The investigation is ongoing.”

Car snatcher, Lucky Enakpowo

Edafe further noted that the Delta state Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, PSC(+) has assured residents of the state that the Command under his watch remains committed to the protection of lives and properties in the state, especially during this ember months.

He said the CP has sent a strong message to Area commanders, DPOS, and tactical commanders on the need to sustain the temple in the fight against crimes and criminality.

He also said that the CP has urged them to intensify stop and search and for them to reactivate pin-down points while stating that security architecture should be well emplaced in their area of responsibilities.

Edafe explained that the commander is not relenting in the fight against crimes and criminality, he added that the CP has reiterated that officers and men of the command should ensure that the state remains hot for criminally-minded elements by taking the battle to their doorsteps.

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EFCC arrests former governor of Edo State, Lucky Igbinedion

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Chief Lucky Igbinedion, former governor of Edo State has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

He was arrested on Thursday for alleged criminal diversion of N1.6 billion, the funds belonging to the state during his tenure as a governor.

The ex-governor is being interrogated by detectives at the EFCC’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, a source revealed.

According to the source, the ex-governor reportedly arrived at the commission’s headquarters around 2 p.m. and was still under query as of the time of reporting this story.

Immediately after his tenure as governor in 2007, Mr. Igbinedion was indicted by the EFCC and found guilty of corruption.

Meanwhile, the new investigation, according to sources is based on new evidence that the former governor diverted a loan obtained by the Edo State government to resolve the financial indebtedness of a company in which he was said to have an interest.

According to Wilson Uwujaren, the spokesperson for the commission confirmed the invitation of the former governor but declined further comment.

Mr. Igbinedion, the former governor of Edo State from 1999 to 2007, was previously convicted for embezzling N2.9 billion being owned by the state in December 2008.

Following a plea bargain agreement he entered into with the EFCC, the 191 charges were reduced to only one count to which Mr. Igbinedion claimed guilty.

In exchange for his guilty plea, the Federal High Court in Enugu passed a sentence on him to six months’ imprisonment with an option of an N3.5 million fine.

The judge, Abdu Kafarati, now deceased also ruled the forfeiture of the N500 million, and three properties, including one in Abuja, seized from him.

EFCC had in response to the ruling expressed its disappointment with the option of fine given to him.

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Phyno releases his fourth album ‘Something To Live For’

Nigerian rapper, Phyno, has released his highly anticipated fourth album titled “Something To Live For”.

The rapper made this announcement known while sharing the album artwork on his Instagram page on Friday.

According to Phyno, while sharing his post, he stated that “I’ve failed more than I’ve won. But every single win covers all the failures and make the lessons and experiences.”

He also stated that “If I’ll do this all over again, I’ll enjoy every step in it more it’s worth it. It’s something to live for.”

In the album, he collaborated with other song stars like Olamide, Flavour, and Peruzzi.

He also collaborated with The Cavemen, Jay Teazer, JDees, Kojo, Bee Pee, and Anjulie.

The album contains 16 tracks which include ‘Chizoba’, ‘Stack’, ‘Belong To You’, ‘Ghetoo’, ‘I Do This’, ‘Do You Wrong’, ‘Winner’, ‘All The Smoke’, ‘Onye Nwa’, ‘No Love’, ‘Paracetamol’, ‘Ike Pentecost’, ‘Love Me Right’, ‘Gold Medal’, ‘Ain’t Nobody’, and ‘Bia’.

Before ‘Something To Live For’, his previous albums included ‘No Guts No Glory’ (2014), ‘The Playmaker’ (2016), and ‘Deal with It’ (2019).

Phyno began his music career as a producer in 2003, and is renowned for rapping in the Igbo language.

He has also worked with artists such as Wizkid, Davido, Timaya, Flavour, Ruggedman, Bracket, J. Martins, and Mr. Raw.

Listen to the tracks:

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World Science Day: Delta to take more proactive measures against climate change – Gov Okowa

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As the world comes to the ominous reality that climate change is becoming a serious threat to the lives of billions on the planet earth, Delta State Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has stated the resolve of the state to adopt more proactive measures against the ugly trend.

Speaking while declaring open the Delta State celebration of the 2021 world science day for peace and development at the ICT HUB in Asaba, Governor Okowa said, through the relevant MDA’s saddled with the implementation of relevant policies to mitigate the effect of climate change as well as appropriate legislation in place, the state is poised to become environmentally friendly and less prone to the devastating effects of the looming global scourge.

From left, Prof Patrick Muoboghare, Hon Evelyn Onoro Omavowan, Jennifer Oma Adasen, EA Beautification Olorogun Grace Aghoghovbia, and Festus Ochonogor, Housing Commissioner

Represented by the state Commissioner of Finance, Sir Fidelis Tilije Governor Okowa noted that life in itself is science and all that pertains to Technological Advancement is Science-Driven, and therefore, Deltans, in particular, must begin to find means to tackle headlong, the enormity of the effect of climate change by adopting environmentally proactive steps such as planting of trees, avoiding bush burning as well as open defecation, among others.

With Commissioner for the environment, Chris Onogba

The Governor revealed that talks have reached advanced stages with IOC’s operating in the state to stem the trend of gas flaring which has been attributed to be one of the greatest air pollutants and by extension, climate change.

Earlier in her welcome address the Honorable Commissioner for Science and Technology Jennifer Oma Adasen, ESQ said the World Science Day Celebration is an initiative of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) an organ of the United Nations Organization (UNO), of which Nigeria is a signatory.

The Science and Technology Commissioner said the theme for this year’s celebration which is “Building Climate-ready Communities” is timely, as climate change is gradually becoming a serious threat and the biggest environmental challenge facing society, threatening human lives as well as environments and economies.

Olorogun Jennifer Adasen revealed that science has proffered Mitigation Strategies including Retro-Fitting Buildings and how negative impacts associated with climates might be mitigated.

While noting that the Okowa administration places a high premium on the development and promotion of Science Technology Innovation (STI) the Commissioner particularly thanked the Governor for the special interest in science education and for approving the celebration of the event in the state.

The keynote address with the topic “Building Climate-ready Communities” was delivered by Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Chris Onogba, while the Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Patrick Muoboghare, Water Resources Development, Hon. Evelyn Obora Omovowan Dr. Amos Obi and Dr. Mrs. Kate Iloba delivered goodwill messages.

Highpoints of the World Science day celebration in Asaba which was also attended by the Commissioner of Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, his Housing and Secondary Education counterparts, Mr. Festus Ochonogor and Mrs. Rose Ezewu respectively, as well as the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Beautification, Olorogun Mrs. Grace Aghoghovbia and students from Play Learn, Royal Mira, Government Model School, Zappa Basic, west-end Mixed and Great Beginning among other stakeholders, included a roadshow, an hour play of a documentary, a plenary session as well as question and answer session.

Cross section of students at the event

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INEC declares Soludo winner of Anambra governorship election

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has declared the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chukwuma Soludo, as the winner of the Anambra governorship election.

The state returning officer, Florence Obi, announced on Wednesday morning.

According to her, the APGA candidate scored 112,229 votes to defect from his two major rivals – the PDP candidate, Valentine Ozigbo who got 53,807 votes, while Andy Uba of the All Progressives Congress (APC), scored 43,285 votes.

The candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), Ifeanyi Ubah, came next with 21,261 votes.

Meanwhile at exactly 1:51 am on Wednesday, Soludo, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was declared winner of the election.

Declaring the election result, Obi said “Charles Chukwuma Soludo of APGA, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner and returned elected.”

The collation of results, which ended days behind schedule, was earlier suspended.

The decision to suspend the election was taken a few minutes into Monday morning, with INEC declaring a supplementary election scheduled for November 9.

As of Sunday evening, Soludo was leading with a margin of 52,624 votes.

Following the announcement of the result on Wednesday, there was jubilation at Soludo’s residence.

The former CBN governor won in 19 of the 21 LGAs in Anambra state, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won Ogbaru and Young Progressives Party (YPP) secured victory in Nnewi north.

See the breakdown of the final result below.

Registered voters— 2,466,638
Accredited voters— 253,388

A— 2,054
AA— 83
AAC— 588
ADC— 324
ADP— 773
APC— 43,285
APGA— 112,229
APM— 301
APP— 139
BP— 186
LP— 2,802
NNPP— 117
NRM— 213
PDP— 53,807
PRP— 437
SDP— 842
YPP— 21,261
ZLP— 2,082

Total valid votes— 241,523
Rejected votes— 8,108
Total votes cast— 249,631.

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U.S offer $127k for digital documentation of Osun Osogbo shrine

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The United States embassy in Nigeria has revealed plans to spend a $127,000 grant on the Busanyin shrine in Osun Osogbo sacred ground for its digital documentation and conservation.

The $127,000 grant was awarded to a California-based non-profit, CyArk, through the U.S Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).

NAN reported that the U.S ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard, said this while signing the project’s memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Monday in Lagos.

According to Leonard, she said the AFCP was administered by the U.S department of state’s bureau of educational and cultural affairs.

She also said that the grant is to support and preserve the major ancient archaeological sites, historic buildings, monuments, and major museum collections that are accessible to the public and protected by law in their host country.

She said “Today, we’re proud to be launching our 2020 AFCP award to digitally document and conserve the Busanyin shrine located within the Osun Osogbo sacred grove,” she said.

“CyArk and its local partners were awarded a $127,000 grant under the AFCP small grant program to help document a series of shrines in the sacred grove and provide training to local professionals to build capacity and digital documentation skills and cultural heritage management.”

“The 3D digital documentation of the shrine is the necessary first step to provide the most accurate record of the current conditions of the site and effectively plan a restoration project that will increase resilience at the site during a natural disaster or extreme weather conditions.”

Leonard said that the Busanyin shrine, one of eight monuments within the grove, had been significantly damaged throughout the years due to extreme flooding.

The ambassador added that the US and Nigeria were also finalizing a bilateral agreement that would establish restrictions against the import of prohibited items of cultural property into the US.

This agreement, she said, would encourage public and private cultural institutions and law enforcement agencies in both countries to work together on repatriating trafficked objects and fostering cultural exchanges.

Also, the director-general of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Abba Tijani, said the commission had been collaborating with relevant stakeholders to protect, conserve and manage national assets.

He said one of such collaborations was that between NCMM and Clark in 2019 which led to a successful workshop on 3D documentation.

“This is a great opportunity to train some staff of the commission as well as carry out more works at the grove,” he said.

According to Tijani, the Osun-Osogbo sacred grove as Nigeria’s second world heritage site and primary rain forest is fast disappearing in the West-African sub-region.

In his explanation, he said “The grove is important to many of its devotees both within and outside the country and other stakeholders, hence, the need to keep it in good state of conservation at all times,” he added.

“This training program will not only empower the staff of the commission in 3D documentation of cultural heritage but also assist in conservation works to be carried out in the grove.”

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Kizz Daniel reveals date to drop his latest project ‘Barnabas’

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Kizz Daniel, has announced the release date for his highly anticipated extended playlist (EP) titled ‘Barnabas’.

The singer revealed November 19 as the release date while also revealing the tracklist for the EP.

The singer made this revelation on his Instagram page on Monday when he shared the EP Art cover containing the names of his production team.

Sharing the post, the music star accompany his post with a caption that read: “Allow me to feed your mind and soul this season.”

The EP contains 7-tracks which include ‘Pour Me Water’, ‘Addict’, ‘Eh God’, ‘Oshe’, ‘Burn’, ‘Lie’, and ‘Skin’. While the production credits go to Blaise Beatz, Reward Beatz, Young Jon, Roc legion, Philkeyz, and Coublon.

The EP project comes a few months after he dropped ‘Lie’, his chart-topping single, which was released to massive acceptance.

In 2013, Daniel signed a record deal with G-Worldwide Entertainment but left the label following a publicized contract dispute and court case.

Since the release of ‘New Dawn’, his first album, the father of two has created a base for himself in the Nigerian music scene.

In November 2017, he later established Fly Boy Inc, his record label, and has released two albums titled ‘No Bad Songz’ and ‘King Of Love’.

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Lawmakers impeached speaker six days after removal of deputy in Imo

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Lawmakers in Imo State House of Assembly have impeached its speaker, Paul Emeziem.

Emeziem was impeached on Monday after he was accused of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

According to the petition, 19 lawmakers out of the 27 lawmakers in the state signed the petition after it was read, adopted on the floor of the house.

After the removal of Emeziem, a member representing the Obowo constituency, Kennedy Ibeh was sworn in immediately as the new speaker.

It was gathered that the assembly staff, other lawmakers, and their aides were reportedly locked from gaining entry into the assembly complex.

Also, Goldennationblog gathered that Amara Iwuanyanwu, deputy speaker of the house, was removed from his position last Tuesday after Ekene Nnodim, lawmaker representing the Orlu constituency, submitted a petition against him.

The petition was signed by 18 out of the 27 lawmakers of the Imo assembly.

However, the suspension of the deputy speaker had reportedly caused a disagreement among the lawmakers.

Four out of the six suspended lawmakers, including Ibeh, who was observed by the assembly, had disassociated themselves from the suspension of the former deputy speaker.

The four legislators had declared that their signatures were falsified on the petition signed against the deputy speaker.

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Police arrests rape suspect, ATM snatcher, and rescue kidnap victim in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a rape suspect and recovered one locally-made gun and cartridges and also rescue a kidnapped victim and recovered a suspected stolen car, one fabricated double barrel pistol, and live cartridges.

The command also arrested a serial ATM snatcher and fraudster.

This was disclosed to journalists in a statement by the spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Bright Efafe, on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, in Asaba the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that “The Command on 8/11/2021 at about 0010hrs arrested one Ayuba Adavo ‘m’, he was arrested based on the strength of a case reported by a 25year old lady of Sapele Warri road (name withheld) who reported that on the same date at about 2000hrs while she was along Amagiya road Sapele, Suddenly the suspect who is age 34yrs blocked her way and dragged her to his room. Threatened to shoot her with a locally made cut to size gun and forcefully had carnal knowledge of her. That the suspect thereafter slept off because he was heavily drunk. The Victim on noticing that the suspect was fast asleep sneaked out and ran to the Sapele division where she reported the case. Consequently, patrol teams/detectives were drafted to the scene. The suspect was promptly arrested, one locally cut to size gun with one live cartridge was recovered from him. The investigation is ongoing.”

He also said “On 7/11/21 at about 2200hrs, Patrol team attached to Sapele Division while on operation show of force saw a Toyota Camry spider car with reg NO. GRA 291 RL was driven suspiciously, the patrol on the convoy went after the said vehicle and chased them to the Olympia area. The hoodlums on noticing that the police were chasing them opened fire on the teams which were replied by the police. The hoodlums who could not withstand the firepower of the police abandoned the said vehicle and flee into the bush. Upon searching the vehicle, one locally made double barrel pistol and five live cartridges were recovered. The investigation has commenced and efforts are on top gear towards arresting the fleeing hoodlums.”

Again, he added that “On the 07/11/2021 at about 1200hrs, Police patrol team from Agbarho division while on township patrol sighted a grey color Lexus 330 Jeep with Reg. No. KWL 841 BM, the Driver on noticing the police reversed and sped off. The team trailed the escaping Lexus Jeep to Sobotie Street Agbarho where the suspected vehicle fell into a ditch. The suspects quickly disembarked from the vehicle and ran into a nearby bush. One Media Efe ‘m’ of Abraka was rescued and he said that the hoodlums kidnapped him from Abraka and the Vehicle which belonged to the victim was recovered. Manhunt for the fleeing suspects is ongoing.”

Edafe further added that the Command also arrested one Ojo Amos ‘m’ aged 38yrs of Agbara- Otor, Ughelli North LGA who specializes in stealing ATM cards from unsuspecting victims.

He explained that “On 2/11/2021 at about 1300hrs, upon a tip-off that the suspect was seen in a POS Stand located beside First bank Ozoro branch. The DPO Ozoro Division detailed operatives who swung into action in conjunction with the chairman Olotu vigilante in Ozoro. They were deployed to the scene and arrested the suspect Ojo Amos ‘m’, thirty-three (33) ATM cards and a cash sum of Fifty thousand Naira (#50,000) were recovered from him. The suspect confessed that he stole one of the cards from one Rufai Abdulahi at zenith bank, Kwale branch, and left immediately. He said he later withdrew the sum of two hundred and fifty thousand nairas (#250,000) from the victim account. Preliminary investigations later revealed that the suspect usually stays behind his victims at the ATM waiting and targeting people who he feels are not too educated, old women/children and once he notices that they are having problem operating the ATM, he moves closer to them pretending to be a bank staff trying to help them and in the process, he swaps the ATM card. The suspect also confessed that he watches them as they enter their ATM pins, memorizes them and after swapping the ATM cards, he uses either a POS stand or ATM to empty their bank accounts. He said he has been doing this for the past four years.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police Delta State CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, PSC(+) while urging members of the public to be law-abiding also advised that they learn from the cases regularly reported by the command and also for them to be vigilant when making use of their ATM cards and ensure that only uniform bank staff be allowed to assist them when the need arises.

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INEC suspends Anambra governorship election results, say inconclusive

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Anambra state governorship election “inconclusive” after suspending the coalition and announcements of results.

This is coming after 20 out of 21 local governments area results have been announced to allow for a supplementary election that was scheduled for November 9, in Ihiala LGA, the outstanding local government.

The collation officer for Ihiala LGA, Ahmadu Umar, had earlier said there was no election in his area due to logistics challenges and insecurity.

He said there are 148,407 registered voters in the LGA, while also stating that there was no election in the entire LGA.

According to the results of 20 out of 21 LGA that was announced on Sunday, November 7, Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) secured 103,946 votes, followed by Valentine Ozigbo of the People Democratic Party (PDP) who got 51,322 votes, while Andy Ubah of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has gained 42,942 votes.

From the results announced so far, it was gathered that Soludo has won in 18 out of the 20 LGA that has been declared, while Andy Ubah of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has earned 42,942 votes.

Before declaring the election inconclusive, the returning officer for the election, Florence Obi, says “The outstanding result is for Ihiala LGA, where for various reasons, the commission could not deploy materials yesterday. Consequently, based on constitutional considerations and provisions of the Electoral Act, as well as revised regulations and guidelines for the conduct of election issued by the commission, the supplementary election is indicated for Ihiala local government area.

“First, section 179(2) of the constitution provides for a candidate to secure both the highest number of votes cast and 25 percent of the votes cast in at least two-thirds of the LGAs in the state to be declared the winner of the governorship election.

“Therefore, it is important to complete the election in Ihiala LGA to make this determination.

“Also, section 179(3) of the Constitution provides that a runoff election shall take place if no candidate meets the requirement of subsection 2 of the section.

“Such a runoff shall be between the candidate with the highest number of votes and one among the remaining candidates who secured a majority of votes in the highest number of LGAs in the state. This further underscores the importance of conducting elections in Ihiala LGA so that we shall cover all the LGAs to make the declaration.

“Secondly, section 26 of the Electoral Act envisages the postponement of an election where there is a cogent and verifiable reason to do so, especially threat of breach of the team. One major reason for not deploying for election in Ihiala on Saturday, 6th November, is due to security threats which led to staffing and transportation constraints, among others.

“Finally, clause 47 of the revised regulations and guidelines for the conduct of elections provides that supplementary election shall be conducted when the commission, due to logistical challenges, is unable to deploy on election day.

“Given the foregoing, it becomes imperative to bring Ihiala LGA at par with the other 20 LGAs in this election before we can make a valid declaration or take any further action based on the extant law.

“Therefore, I, professor Florence Banku Obi, in my capacity as returning officer for this election, hereby announce the suspension of the process of collation of results and declaration of a winner until a supplementary election is held in the 326 polling units in Ihiala LGA of the state.”

The election had been relatively peaceful across the state, with instances of vote-buying–a recurring theme in Nigeria’s elections these days–recorded as well.

There were also pockets of violence in some districts. For instance, the Returning Officer for Orumba North LGA, Dr. Michael Otu, said he almost got killed when thugs attacked the Local Government collation center.

He also said he was forced to endorse a fake, result sheet, amid tear gas smokes.

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NBA threatens to seize Malami SAN title over the invasion of Justice Odili’s residence

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Olumide Akpata, has said if Malami is found culpable in Justice Odili’s house raid, he might lose the office he occupied, the SAN title, and the privileges the profession has accorded to him as a lawyer.

The NBA President said this to journalists during a special press briefing in Lagos on Friday while reacting to the incident that occurred last week, when agents of the Federal Government invaded the Abuja house of Supreme Court Justice, Mary Odili.

The NBA President interpreted the undertaking as egregious and the gathering of an ominous cloud over the judiciary, saying it is reminiscent of how operatives of the Department of State Services in 2016 invaded the homes of seven judges and how a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen (retd), was “illegally removed from office,” ahead of the 2019 general elections.

He vowed that the NBA would stop at nothing to ensure that those behind the latest operation were unmasked and punished, to put a stop to “the assault on the judiciary.”

According to the President, he said the NBA would not accept the flurry of denials by the Attorney General of the Federation and the security agencies that they knew nothing About the operation.

Akpata said the NBA also rejected the panel being set up by the AGF to investigate the matter because the AGF himself has a case to answer and he could not be a judge in his case.

He, therefore, called on President Muhammadu Buhari, to set up an independent panel to unravel the actors behind the invasion of Justice Odili’s home.

Akpata said, “We are calling on the President, the head of the executive government arm of government, to set up an independent panel of inquiry, to look into this assault on the judiciary, which is another arm of government because there is a dark cloud hanging and all fingers are pointing at the executive as being behind this action.

“It behooves Mr. President to step in immediately, to set up this panel of inquiry, which, at the minimum, will have a judicial officer and the NBA involved so that we can get to the bottom of this issue and ask: who gave that instruction?”

Akpata said the NBA would also do its housekeeping, vowing that, “If we find that any lawyer was involved in this unfortunate incident, that lawyer will be subjected to our disciplinary mechanisms and that lawyer will face the music.”

The NBA President said, “We note that the Attorney General of the Federation has reportedly agreed to make himself available for investigation. This is consistent with the position of the National Executive Council of the NBA, to the effect that the Attorney General has questions to answer. However, he cannot subject himself to a panel that he sets up. This is why the panel to be set up by the President is very necessary.

“If the Attorney General is found culpable, then as a lawyer, we will take him before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee and the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee; because if indeed, he is found to have given the directives that led to the invasion of the home of the Justice of the Supreme Court, then he is not fit to hold the office he occupies presently and continue to be the recipient of the privileges the profession has accorded to him.”

While asked by a reporter if the NBA has the power to discipline the AGF, Akpata said, “There is a mechanism, and that is for us to bring him before the LDPC and what does the LPDC do? What is the ultimate sanction, amongst others? He can be stopped from practicing law. What does the LPPC do, amongst others? The LPPC can strip him of the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria and also the Body of Benchers can reconsider his life membership of that body. So, without mincing words, those are the steps that the NBA can take.”

In addition, the NBA President said the litigation was also being taken against the Abuja magistrate, Emmanuel Iyanna, who handed out the search warrant leading to the raid of Justice Odili’s home.

Also, he said “Questions must be asked of the quality and sufficiency of the materials placed before His Worship before issuing the search warrant in the first place. The NBA National Executive Council believes that even on a cursory reading of the materials placed before His Worship, there is prima facie evidence that the search warrant ought not to have been issued in the circumstance.”

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Police officer stabs colleague to death over misunderstanding in Bayelsa

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An off-duty police officer identified as Sergeant Akpoboloukeme has stabbed his colleague to death with a dagger knife over a minor misunderstanding in Bayelsa.

The incident occurred on Thursday in the Edipie area of Yenagoa, the state capital.

The spokesperson of Bayelsa State Police Command, Asinim Butswat, said this in a statement issued on Friday, November 5, 2021.

Butswat revealed the identity of the victim as Sergeant Sapele Eyerindideke.

According to the police spokesperson, he also said that the officer was trying to leave Bayelsa to another state after stabbing his colleague before he was arrested.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ben Okolo, ordered the detention of the officer.

In the statement, he said “An off-duty police officer stabbed his colleague with a dagger to death in Yenagoa, over a minor misunderstanding.

“The incident occurred on 4th November 2021, at about 1900 hours at Edepie, Yenagoa. It was reported that Sergeant Akpoboloukeme ‘m’ stabbed his colleague, Sgt Sapele Eyerindideke ‘m’ over a minor misunderstanding. The corpse of the deceased has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy.

“The accused suspect immediately fled the scene and attempted to flee to a nearby state before he was arrested at the Glory Land gate.”

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Amotekun arrests 18 bandits, recover guns with 500 daggers in Ondo

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The operatives of the Southwest Security Network Agency in Ondo State also known as Amotekun Corps, have arrested eighteen suspected bandits allegedly planning to invade the state.

The suspects were said to have taken off from Kastina State were arrested in Ondo town.

It was gathered that the bandits stormed the state in three 18-seater passenger buses.

According to the Commander of Amotekun in the state, Adetunji Adeleye said that two of the buses escaped while his men were able to intercept one of the buses after escaping from different checkpoints.

He said 500 daggers and different sizes of knives and guns were found hidden inside the bus.

Recall, Ondo has confirmed an increase in attacks by gunmen in recent times, with several persons abducted.

The aftermath shows up days after two pupils were abducted in Akure, the Ondo capital while waiting in their mother’s car upon returning from school.

In September, travelers who were on their way to Lagos were abducted by gunmen at the Idoani-Ifira axis of Ondo state — they were later rescued.

In another development, 45 youths who said they had come from the northern region for training in Ondo were arrested in front of a military barracks in the state.

However, Adeleye had said upon interrogation, it was discovered that the youths, who hailed from Kano and Jigawa states, were brought to the town for employment by a non-profit organization for purported security training.

At the time, the Ondo government had also said it would ensure that the youths were safely returned to their states.

See photos of the weapons recovered from the suspects, below.

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MTN, Airtel, get approval to operate as payment service bank

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Two telecommunication companies, MTN and Airtel, have been given a license to operate as Payment Service Bank (PSB) by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The two telecommunication giants disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

The two companies will be able to provide financial services through digital means to low-income earners and people that do not use banks or banking institutions for transactions.

According to the statements, Airtel will operate PSB via its Smartcash Payment Service Bank Limited while MoMo Payment Service Bank Limited will be MTN’s PSB. The essence is to bring more people into the financial inclusion space.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that about 36 percent of the adult population, representing 38 million citizens, do not have access to financial services in Nigeria.

Segun Ogunsanya, CEO, Airtel Africa, said, “I am very pleased that Smartcash has been approved in principle to operate a service bank business in Nigeria. We will now work closely with the Central Bank to meet all its conditions to receive the operating license and commence operations.

“The final operating license will enable us to expand our digital financial products and reach the millions of Nigerians that do not have access to traditional financial services. I am looking forward to working closely with the Government, the Central Bank, and traditional financial institutions to expand financial inclusion and meet the evolving needs of our customers and the economy.”

Uto Ukpanah, company secretary at MTN Nigeria, said, MTN Nigeria remained optimistic that it would eventually get the PSB license.

“This is the first step in a long process that would lead to eventual approval. In other words, MTN Nigeria would be required to fulfill several conditions, even as ‘the decision to issue a final approval is firmly within the regulatory purview of the CBN’,” the statement reads.

“MTN Nigeria expressed optimism that it would eventually get the PSB license, and reaffirmed its commitment to the financial inclusion agenda of the CBN in Nigeria.”

According to reports gathered, the two firms would be required to fulfill some conditions before CBN will grant an operating license.

Currently, three PSBs are operating in the country. They are Hope PSB LImited, a subsidiary of Unified Payments, Moneymaster PSB, subsidiary of Glo, and 9PSB, a subsidiary of 9mobile.

They got their licenses in 2020 from the CBN.

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Buhari administration is 20 times worse than Jonathan, says Harrysong

Nigerian musician, Harrysong, has alleged that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration became 20 times worse compared to his predecessor, Goodluck Jonathan.

Harrysong was comparing the Buhari government to that of Goodluck Jonathan based on his former campaign criticism against the latter.

The singer described Buhari’s government as disappointing as he said, in 2013, Buhari made numerous campaign promises, asking Jonathan to resign over insecurity while insecurity was still rampant in his reign after six years of his tenure.

He made this accusation while speaking on HipTV recently.

According to him, he said “I don’t know how to beat around the bush. I’m very disappointed at what FG has been doing and where we are. I remember the questions Buhari asked when campaigning against Goodluck Jonathan.”

“He spoke of how he’s the solution to Nigeria’s problems. Now, we are 20 times worse than when we were [before Buhari’s government] if we want to be sincere. For me, Nigerians are the strongest human beings globally.

“There are certain things other people won’t even take. Even light, they will fight and go to war.

“Nigerians are survivors, yet, they’re not being appreciated. We have very rich governors and politicians that come on national TV to say Nigeria is poor, even when they have 50 cars and several houses outside the country.

“The country that made them rich. We need to have a rethink; take away tribalism and religion and work as one.”

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Impatient landlord locks tenant’s apartment door with live snake

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An impatient landlord in Kenya identified as Samuel Kioko has locked the door of his tenant’s apartment with a live snake for failing to pay up their rent.

According to reports, the landlord secretly placed the snake on his tenant’s apartment door after they went to work in the morning.

The landlord who is from the Kunda Kindu area in Kitui town of Kenya shocked residents of the community after setting up a live snake to collect his rent arrears.

The snake which is said to be demonic was seen fixed and ceased to crawl away from the gate despite not being bound.

It was gathered that the tenants failure to pay up their accumulated rent arrears comprising September and October made the hot-tempered landlord to carry out such fierce strategy on them.

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South-east governors say criminals using IPOB’s name to kill innocent citizens

The South-East Governors’ Forum has revealed that criminals are now operating and killing innocent citizens using the name of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

The governors revealed this while calling on security agencies to protect the lives of citizens of Anambra State ahead of the governorship election that was scheduled for November 6.

This was made known in a statement by David Umahi, chairman southeast governors forum on Thursday, November 4, 2021.

In the statement, he said “We plead with all security agencies deployed for Anambra election to please secure the lives of our people in Anambra State while playing within the rules of their engagements.

“We are aware that the insecurity in South East has gone beyond IPOB. Cultists, armed robbers, 
and kidnappers have recruited themselves and are using the name of IPOB to be killing innocent citizens. We will not allow this to continue.

“We thank the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Independent National Electoral Commission for their determination to hold the Anambra election on 6th November 2021. We will give them every support and shall help them to ensure a free, fair, and violence-free election. We, therefore, ask our people to go out and vote for candidates of their choice as we have been assured of adequate security measures to secure their lives and properties.

“We are confident that through our mediation, that of religious leaders, Ohaneze Ndigbo and traditional rulers, IPOB will see reasons to call off all sit-at-home orders including the recent one of 5th to 10th November 2021. We as southeast Governors are committed to political solutions over the present situation in South East and this will be achieved faster if all the illegal sit-at-home orders and violence by the various state agitators are stopped in South East.

“We wish Anambra people a peaceful election on 6th November 2021.”

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Police vow to remain neutral in Anambra election

The Head of Police Election Duty in Anambra, DIG Zaki Ahmed, has said it would be neutral in carrying out its duties on Saturday’s Anambra governorship election.

He also said the police will provide an enabling atmosphere for all parties and the electorate to willingly go out and take part in the election.

Ahmed said this during an interactive session with the civil societies and media in Akwa on Thursday.

He assured election observers and the media of adequate security to enable them to monitor the poll.

According to him, he said that the police are ready for the election with security commands at the 21 local government areas.

He added that intervention squads had also been put in place to respond to emergencies anywhere in the state.

He further described the allegation that the police were planning to arrest some state government officials as ‘fake news.

Also, he said that Anambra would be locked down from 11.59 p.m. on Friday to 11. 59 p.m. on Saturday.

Ahmed calls on the media and observers to collaborate with the police to work for a peaceful election in Anambra.”

In addition, the Force Public Relations Officer, CP Frank Mba, urged the media to help check fake news, which could inflame society.

He advised journalists to “fact check information before sending them out”.

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Anambra election: What IPOB said after issuing 5-days sit-at-home

The Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), has announced that it did not call for the boycott of the Anambra governorship election that is scheduled for Saturday, November 6.

The group also mentioned that it has no interest in the Anambra governorship election stating that it is the choice of the people to vote or not vote.

The secessionist group further warned those who wish to exercise their voting rights to stay vigilant but reiterated that there is no going back on the sit-at-home directive to protest against the continued detention of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

This was announced by Emma Powerful, the spokesperson to IPOB in a statement that was obtained by SaharaReporters on Thursday, November 4, 2021.

According to the statement, it stated that, “We wish to correct some misconceptions, unfounded speculations and outright falsehood concerning our position on the forthcoming November 6 governorship election in Anambra State.

“First of all, we wish to reiterate that IPOB did not at any time issue an order or call for the boycott of the said election contrary to misconceptions in certain quarters. IPOB has nothing to do with the Anambra election. Nobody should therefore link us with the election. The freedom of our Leader is what matters to us and we don’t need distractions.

“The priority of IPOB is to secure the unconditional release of our Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu who has been illegally detained since his rendition to Nigeria. All we said was that if by November 4 those who abducted, renditioned, and illegally detained him fail to release him unconditionally, Biafrans shall embark on civil disobedience of a one-week sit-at-home beginning from November 5 to November 10

“This action has nothing to do with the Anambra election. We are not concerned if anyone wishes to participate or not to participate in the Anambra election. But our only advice to Ndi Anambra especially those contemplating to vote is to be very careful about their security.

“Thirty-four (34) thousand police officers excluding the Army, Civil defense, DSS (Department of State Services) and other security personnel have been moved down to Biafraland for an election or a continuation of the mass massacre of our people – young and old? The Nigerian Security personnel is using every opportunity to commit mayhem in Biafraland and then turn around to point accusing fingers at IPOB.

“We want to categorically state that IPOB has not asked anybody to monitor or enforce compliance to any sit-at-home as this is unnecessary because Biafrans willingly and consciously obey IPOB’s call for Sit-at-Home.

Our people are all fed up with their suffering and oppressive conditions imposed upon us by the contraption called Nigeria and do not need any persuasion to do the needful. We also wish to dissociate IPOB from a viral voice note warning hotel owners in Anambra to shut down from November 4. The said voice note never emanated from IPOB. It’s another handiwork of our oppressors in their desperation to implicate IPOB. We, therefore, urge members of the public to discountenance such rubbish. IPOB under Nnamdi Kanu is not the author.

“That voice note ordering all hotels in Anambra State to shut down must stop. We now order all our volunteers to unravel the monster behind this wicked voice note. It’s now very obvious that some traitors are out to demonize IPOB.

“Our people should know that the enemies in collaboration with some traitors and desperate politicians are coming up with various pranks and antics to cause confusion in our midst and possibly scuttle our struggle for independence.

“We, therefore, warn that anybody caught trying to use the name of IPOB to foment trouble in Anambra State or any part of Biafra land will regret his or her actions. IPOB has never told anybody or group to boycott Anambra’s election.

We are only interested in the freedom of our leader Mazi Nnamdi KANU.

“We have through intelligence, observed that some desperate politicians are sponsoring some hoodlums and miscreants to use IPOB’s name to dish out statements capable of creating confusion in their desperate attempt to pitch this great movement against our people.

“It is important to note and re-emphasize that IPOB has its channels of information dissemination, and any information purportedly coming from IPOB that is not passed through these channels is fake and should be disregarded. The public should stop linking us with any trash that doesn’t have the authority of IPOB Spokesperson.

“We still call on the federal government of NIGERIA to release our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally. He committed no crime to justify his illegal detention while Fulani bandits, terrorists, and mass murderers are busy having fun in the North.”

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The Cavemen says they can’t speak Igbo but can sing with the language

Nigerian highlife duo, The Cavemen, has revealed that they can’t speak the Igbo language but they can sing with the language.

They also said singing with language is the only way they can relate and connect with their culture.

They made this assertion during a chat with Joey Akan, a Nigerian music journalist on Wednesday, November 3.

According to the duo, they said they cannot speak Igbo fluently but can write and sing very well with the language.

They said “We don’t know how to speak the language but singing in Igbo is the only way we can connect with the culture,” they said.

“We write our songs ourselves in Igbo but we can’t speak the language. Sometimes when we encounter problems writing in the language, we call for help.”

The brothers, whose real names are Kingsley Okorie and Benjamin James, said they started as backup singers for several artists before carving a niche of their own.

Speaking on how they arrived at their stage name, Okorie said he got the inspiration during his stint at law school in Kano state.

“I was in Kano during my days at law school when the name just dropped on me. I think my experience at the law school just inspired the name,” he said.

“When I got back home, I told my brother about it and he accepted it and we started using the name.”

The highlife duo officially started music in 2018 and released their debut single, ‘Osondu’ in 2020. They also dropped ‘Roots’, their first album, in August the same year.

Last month, they released ‘Love and Highlife’, their sophomore album, featuring Cobham Asuquo, Made Kuti, Etuk Obong, and PC Lapez.

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Nigeria skit comedians are among the funniest in the world – Osibanjo revealed

Vice President, Yemi Osibanjo, has said that the federal government will create an enabling environment for the growth and development of youths in the country.

The vice president also said that the creativity and talents of Nigeria’s youth population are enough reason to believe in the future of the country.

He made this known when he received a delegation of young Nigerian skit comedians under the auspices of the Nigeria Skit Industry Awards (NSIA), led by its promoter, Hon. Bimbo Daramola visited him at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, November 3, in Abuja.

Osibanjo while commending the creativity of the Nigerian youths, the vice president says, “I strongly believe that what our young people are doing and what they are capable of, is what will lead our country to where we are meant to be.

“The future is not tomorrow, it is already here and we can see it from just everything you are doing, the global acclaim that you are getting; young people like yourselves, doing something good.”

Noting that he has watched some of their skits, Osinbajo adds that, “I think that we have incredible talent and we must do something about it …enable these talents, and we must ask ourselves questions on setting realistic goals that can enable these talents to flourish. I must say that just based on the sheer creativity around this, I don’t think that anybody anywhere is as funny as Nigerian comedians.”

Osinbajo urged the young skit comedians to use their huge following on social media and on the Internet to promote issues for social good and impact, stating that, “everyone with a large following also has a responsibility to draw attention to these issues.”

In the support of the government for the creative industry, the vice president highlights the work of the Technology and Creative Advisory group in shaping policies to encourage the growth of the sector.

“Why I think this engagement (with skit comedians) is important is because this is the way to go. Let us sit down and look at all the issues and come out with realistic positions that can then become policies, and what sort of support will be required,” he states.

The vice president also addressed a couple of issues raised by the youths, including the Twitter ban, the harassment of youths by the police and law enforcement officers and the need to improve the country’s public education system.

The delegation included Maryam Apaokagi, popularly known as Taooma; Josh Alfred (Josh2funny); Ayo Ajewole (Woli Agba); Adebamiro Adeyanju (Mr. Hyenana), Adeoye Adeyemi Elesho (Yemi Elesho), among others.

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After managing Brymo for eight years, his manager parts way with him

Lanre Lawal, the manager of Nigerian singer and songwriter, Brymo, has parted ways with him after spending eight years with the vocalist.

The music manager says in a statement he issued on his Instagram page on Wednesday night.

Lawal also disclosed that his management agency, The Bail Music Company, won’t be working for the self-acclaimed “most powerful artist in the world”.

He announced that the decision is a critical one that will see both of them transition to the next phase of their competitive careers.

He further said their eight-year business relationship has helped in enhancing the voice and talent of the singer.

The statement reads in parts “This is to inform the general public that The Bail Music Company, under the leadership of Lanre Lawal, is no longer responsible for the management of Olawale Oloforo, popularly known as Brymo,” he wrote.

“Over the last eight years as Brymo’s manager, we have built formidable relationships and partnerships with top music stakeholders in and outside Nigeria.

“Together, we have assisted in amplifying the strength and talents of the singer/songwriters (Brymo) through the smooth development and execution of projects that have grown the brand internationally.

“However, like every healthy relationship, there is a mutual decision to move on to the next stage of our professional journeys individually.

“We are proud of the years we worked together and find nothing more satisfying than to see Brymo reach the heights of his success.”

In 2009, after leaving Now Muzik, Lawal began his independent platform when he undertook Blarque Brotha Entertainment that grew into The Bail Music Company.

In 2015, he teamed up with Brymo — after the singer’s protracted controversy with Chocolate City, his former record label, was settled — to start an annual concert series called organized chaos.

Organized chaos became a well-known annual concert series in Nigeria which has created a platform for alternative music and musicians to thrive.

As of 2021, the Bail Music Company houses several Nigerian talents that are pulling the weights of fame in the African music scene.

They include Banky W, Sunny Neji, Olamide, Adekunle Gold, Femi Leye, and Waje, among others.

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See the first trailer for ‘Aki and Pawpaw’ remake

The teaser for the remake of ‘Aki and Pawpaw’ has been released.

Fileone Entertainment, the Nigerian movie studio released the teaser of the classic family comedy movie on Wednesday on its verified Instagram page ahead of December 17 that it will be released to the cinema.

The movie will see Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme rehash their roles as hilarious brothers (Aki and Pawpaw).

Other cast members include Toyin Abraham, Amaechi Muonagor, Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), Uti Nwachukwu, Stan Nze, MC Lively, Beverly Osu, Juliet Ibrahim, Hanks Anuku, and Chioma Okafor.

The film was produced by Chris Odeh and directed by Biodun Stephen.

The remake of the movie was first revealed in May when Ikedieze and Iheme shared an Instagram conversation about dropping the new project.

It got fans excited as they yearned for the return of the iconic duo to their screen after a decade and a half.

The two celebrated comic actors have attained greatness in the country’s movie industry with various awards and recognition.

In 2007, Iheme received the lifetime achievement award at the African Movie Academy Awards.

He was also honored as a member of the order of the federal republic (MFR) by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2011.

Ikedieze, on the other hand, grabbed strings of awards and starred in over 150 films in an outstanding pursuit.

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US threatens visa ban on those that will sponsor electoral violence in Anambra poll

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The United States has said it will not hesitate to take action against anyone found guilty of undermining the Anambra governorship election.

The governorship election is scheduled to hold on November 6.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, the US visa ban may be placed on those found guilty of instigating violence during or after the election.

Also, the US said it will be monitoring the exercise and looks forward to a peaceful and transparent governorship in the state.

The statement reads “The United States looks forward to a gubernatorial election in Anambra State on November 6 that is peaceful and transparent, with results that accurately reflect the will of the state’s residents,” a statement by the US Mission in Nigeria reads.

“We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections.

“We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.

“Under U.S. immigration law, certain violations also may lead to restrictions on family members.

“We call on citizens, electoral officials, party members, and security force personnel to do their part in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process.”

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Cross, ex-BBNaija housemate drops ‘Feeling Funky’ featuring Ajebutter22

Former Big Brother Naija’s “Shine Ya Eye” housemate, Cross, has joined together with Nigerian singer, Ajebutter22, for the release of his debut single ‘Feeling Funky’.

This was announced by the 31-year-old reality star on his Instagram page on Thursday morning.

The reality star had earlier revealed that he was working with Ajebutter on an Amapiano sound that would appeal to the cravings of his fans.

According to the singer, he said “I love music, I have something coming up with Ajebutter22 sometimes before the end of the year, it is called ‘Feeling funky’.

“It is an Amapaino sound. I’m just looking to take every human that gets to know me on a fast and interesting ride.”

In the less than four-minute track, the reality star talks about his penchant for party-inclined ladies.

“Give me the ginger (3), I’m feeling funky, are you feeling something(3). Who is in the garden, a little fine girl, can I come and see her:? No no no,” he sings alongside Ajebutter22.

Cross, whose real name is Ikechuckwu Okonkwo, was recently under fire after he shared a nude video of himself on Snapchat.

In the footage, a stark naked Cross could be seen showing off his tattoos and manhood.

Although he deleted the clip minutes after it was uploaded, it was too late as the post provoked a plethora of unfavorable reactions on social media, particularly on Twitter.

Listen to the song:

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Facebook is shutting down its facials recognition against one billion users

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Meta (formerly known as Facebook) has announced the termination of its Face Recognition feature and deleting faceprints of over one billion users following a long-winded privacy battle.

The company says the modification will be rolled out in the coming weeks. As part of it, the company will stop using facial recognition algorithms to tag people in photographs and videos, and it will delete the facial recognition templates that it uses for identification.

This announcement came after its public statement that it would be shutting down its facial recognition system due to concerns and criticism about the technology employed.

According to Meta in a blog post, stated that “We’re shutting down the Face Recognition system on Facebook. People who’ve opted in will no longer be automatically recognized in photos and videos, and we will delete more than a billion people’s facial recognition templates.”

Facebook had introduced facial recognition in 2010, enabling photographs uploaded by users to be automatically tagged with names. The feature was initially user enabled when it kicked off, but in 2019, Facebook made the tagging system opt-in.

The social media company owned by Mark Zuckerberg has faced political, legal, and regulatory scrutiny over its use of the software and privacy concerns and the use of its data.

In 2012, a Facebook application to introduce facial recognition in the European Union was withdrawn because there was no provision to gain user consent. In March, Facebook paid $650 million as a settlement in a U.S. class-action lawsuit.

The lawsuit was initiated by users who accused the company of creating and storing scans of their faces without permission. Several complaints were also filed with the U.S. competition regulator over possible violations of the Biometric Information Privacy Act.

In October, the company changed its parent company’s name from Facebook to Meta, pushing forward the concept of a metaverse, where users can represent themselves virtually via avatars.

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After divorce, Footballer loses properties he registered with his wife name

Former Zimbabwean and Orlando Pirates striker, Tendai Ndoro, has lost his house and fleet of luxurious cars to his South Africa wife, Thando Maseko, following their divorce.

The player is said to have gone bankrupt after he registered his properties in the name of his ex-wife.

The 36-year-old and his wife, who is a model used to live in South Africa in the footballer’s multi-million dollar Kyalami Estates in Johannesburg.

The wife kicked him out of the house and also keep the cars following their divorce.

It was gathered that Ndoro has spent the better part of his playing career in South Africa, where he played for Cape Town City, Orlando Pirates, Black Aces, and Ajax Cape Town.

He also made a lot of success when he earned a transfer to Asia, lining up for Omani top division side Al-Orouba.

According to a report by Zimbabwean portal Soccer24, the veteran forward has been struggling financially since his divorce.

A source close to the footballer is quoted as saying that all his properties have gone to his ex-wife since he registered them in her name.

“As you know, Tindo (Ndoro) was married to Thando. But they didn’t have the best of marriages, they were always fighting. Despite that, he registered the house he had here in South Africa and the luxury cars they had, under the lady’s name,” the source said.

“So when they had a fall-out, he lost everything to Maseko, which explains the situation he is in now.”

Meanwhile, the owner of Mpumalanga Black Aces, Geroge Morfou, has said to have helped Ndoro with some financial help.

Also, his Zimbabwean teammate and Aston Villa midfielder Marvelous Nakamba are reported to have given him some money too.

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See Wizkid, Tems got five nominations at Soul Train Awards

Two Nigerian music stars, Wizkid, and Tems have been nominated for five different awards categories each for the 2021 Soul Train Awards.

The organizers of award ceremony released the full of nominations for its 2021 edition recently.

According to the list of nominees, Wizkid’s and Tems had joint nominations in the ‘Song of The Year’, ‘Video of The Year’, ‘The Ashford and Simpson songwriter’s award’ and also for ‘Best Collaboration categories for their collaborative song ‘Essence’.

Wizkid was nominated for ‘Album of The Year’ for his 2020 project ‘Made In Lagos’ while Tems also bagged a solo nomination in the ‘Best New Artist’.

The Soul Train Music Awards honour the best in African-American culture music and entertainment. Its 2021 edition will air on November 28.

See the full list of nominees below:

Song of the Year

Blxst feat. Ty Dolla $Ign & Tyga – “Chosen”
Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak (Silk Sonic) – “Leave the Door Open”
H.E.R. – “Damage”
Jazmine Sullivan – “Pick Up Your Feelings”
Wizkid feat. Tems – “Essence”
Yung Bleu feat. Drake – “You’re Mines Still”

Album of the Year

Blxst – No Love Lost
Doja Cat – Planet Her
Giveon – When It’s All Said and Done… Take Time
H.E.R. – Back of My Mind
Jazmine Sullivan – Heaux Tales
Wizkid – Made in Lagos

Video of the Year

Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak (Silk Sonic) – “Leave the Door Open”
Chris Brown, Young Thug feat. Future, Lil Durk, Latto – “Go Crazy (Remix)”
H.E.R. – “Damage”
Jazmine Sullivan – “Pick Up Your Feelings”
Normani feat. Cardi B – “Wild Side”
Wizkid feat. Tems – “Essence”

Best R&B/Soul Female Artist

Alicia Keys
Doja Cat
H.E.R.
Jazmine Sullivan
Jhené Aiko
SZA

Best R&B/Soul Male Artist

Blxst
Chris Brown
Giveon
Lucky Daye
Tank
Usher

Best Collaboration

Chris Brown, Young Thug feat. Future, Lil Durk, Latto – “Go Crazy (Remix)”
Doja Cat feat. SZA – “Kiss Me More”
H.E.R. feat. Chris Brown – “Come Through”
Jazmine Sullivan feat. H.E.R. – “Girl Like Me”
Wizkid feat. Tems – “Essence”
Yung Bleu feat. Drake – “You’re Mines Still”

Best New Artist

Blxst
Capella Grey
Morray
Tems
Tone Stith
Yung Bleu

Certified Soul Award

Anthony Hamilton
Ashanti
Charlie Wilson
The Isley Brothers
Jam & Lewis
T-Pain

Best Dance Performance

Chloe X Halle – “Ungodly Hour”
Chris Brown, Young Thug – “City Girls”
Lizzo Feat. Cardi B – “Rumors”
Normani Feat. Cardi B- “Wild Side”
Usher – “Bad Habits”

Best Gospel/Inspirational Award

Brian Courtney Wilson
James Fortune
Kelly Price
Kirk Franklin
Maverick City Music
Tasha Cobbs Leonard

The Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award

“Can’t Let It Show” – written by: Kate Bush, Durrell Babbs (Tank)
“Come Through” – written by: Carl Mccormick, Chris Brown, H.E.R., Kelvin Wooten, Michael L. Williams Ii, Tiara Thomas (H.E.R. Feat. Chris Brown)
“Damage” – written by: Anthony Clemons Jr., Carl Mccormick, H.E.R., James Harris, Jeff Gitelman, Terry Lewis, Tiara Thomas (H.E.R.)
“Essence” – written by: Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, Oniko Eddie Uzezi, Oniko Evawero, Richard Isong, Temilade Openiyi (Wizkid Feat. Tems)
“Leave the Door Open” – written by: Bruno Mars, Brandon Anderson, Dernst Emile Ii, Christopher Brody Brown (Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic)
“Pick Up Your Feelings” – written by: Blue June, Chi, Audra Mae Butts, Jazmine Sullivan, Kyle Coleman, Michael Holmes (Jazmine Sullivan).

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After two days in custody, EFCC seized Obi Cubana passport 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has reportedly seized the passport of Obi Cubana, a popular socialite, and business mogul.

On Monday, the operatives of the EFCC arrested, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana for alleged money laundering and tax fraud.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the seizure of his travel document was to prevent him from leaving the country while under investigation.

Source revealed on Tuesday that the Anambra-born social media influencer is still with the anti-graft agency spending his second day at EFCC Headquarters inJabi, Abuja.

According to the source, he said “Obi Cubana has not been released, he is still having quality sessions with investigators over alleged money laundering running into millions of naira and tax fraud.

“He will be released when he has satisfactorily responded to all questions relating to his involvement in various illegal deals. As part of the investigation, his travel document has been temporarily seized pending the conclusion of investigations.”

Meanwhile, the spokesman for EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed that the suspect is still in custody, but said he does not know about the usurpation of his passport.

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Fela received a blue plaque just like Bob Marley in London

Late Nigerian Afrobeat legend, Fela Kuti, has been honored with a blue plaque in Shepherd’s Bush in London.

The honor was bestowed on Fela as the forerunner of Afrobeat by English Heritage, a charity that manages historic monuments.

The blue plaque was placed on 12 Stanlake Road residence at Shepherd’s Bush, a district of West London, where Fela first lived when he came to the UK to study music.

According to English Heritage, the blue plaques link the people of the past with the buildings of the present.

The plaque read: “Fela Anikulapo Kuti(1938-1997), singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and Nigerian activist. Lived in this house as a student in 1958.”

It was gathered that in 1958, Fela had arrived in London from Nigeria to study medicine but opted for the Trinity College of Music.

With the blue plaque, the late singer joins other notable artists who have been honored by English Heritage.

These celebrities include Bob Marley, the late Jamaican singer, who was honored with a blue plaque on the house where he and The Wailers finished recording the album ‘Exodus’.

Also honored was Jimi Hendrix, the guitarist who became an overnight star with the release of his band’s 1966 single ‘Hey Joe’.

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SWS calls on FG to stop the onslaught on Justice Mary Odili in whatever guise

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Standup for Women Society, SWS has condemned the invasion of the residence of Justice Mary Odili, a Supreme Court Judge based in Abuja who is also the spouse of former Rivers State Governor Sir Peter Odili.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by SWS National President, Lib Deborah A. Ijadele-Adetona, Esq, and its National Publicity Secretary, Lib. Bilkisu Ado Zango, on Tuesday, November 2, 2021.

The National President SWS, Lib. Ijadele-Adetona, Esq noted that the invasion by the security agencies and anti-graft agencies in whatever guise was totally unacceptable, unnecessary, and therefore condemnable.

Lib. Deborah Ijadele-Adetona declared that this continuous onslaught by Federal Government on Judges and by extension her constituency and on a female Judge was the height of impunity and demanded an unreserved written apology to Justice Mary Odili. No one seems to be claiming responsibility and no one seems to be offering further explanations on who is/was responsible for such a dastardly act of rascality and impunity.

It is even more abhorrent that the rationale for the present raid on Hon Justice Mary Peter Odili’s residence has not been explained or justified, the incident could therefore only be interpreted as an attack for her being a WOMAN, to intimidate and ridicule her.

The SWS President told the Media that the charade left bitter bile in the mouths of SWS members across the country. From the revoked warrant of search to a wrong address, that read no. 7 Imo River Street Maitama but they went to no. 9 Imo River Street, Maitama, Justice Odili residence. Or is it the case of the ID card of the Police Officer who led the operation that was signed by Malami?

Lib. Ijadele-Adetona declared that an injury to one Woman is an injury to all Women, and therefore joined in the calls by Rivers State Governor Barr Nyesom Wike, and Barr Mike Ozekhome, in demanding justice for Mary Odili.

We want to believe that it was a mistake as the state players claimed, but let it be on record that SWS will not fold it’s arms to watch any form of attempt to end Justice Odili career the same way the state players did with Onnoghen and others. We will arise and move.

SWS noted that though the Attorney General of the federation and Minister of Justice, Malami had denied involvement in the siege on Justice Odili’s residence, we are not fooled.

It is now more than 48 hours after the said raid and information is still scarce and far in-between as to the rationale for the raid on the residence of the second most senior judicial officer in Nigeria.

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“We are at the point where even middle-class may face hunger” – Okowa revealed

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The executive governor of Delta State, Sen Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has alleged that Nigeria is getting to the point where even the middle class may be affected by the food crisis.

The governor made this known on Monday while speaking during an interview on Channels Television.

According to Okowa, he said Nigerians know that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) will do better than the All Progressives Congress (APC) if the opposition party assumes power in 2023.

The Delta governor also said Nigerians can see the difference between the governance provided by the PDP and the APC, adding that the PDP came into power “when things were very difficult” in the country.

“In the first instance, we are not competing with them anymore. Looking through the years of PDP and looking through these past six years plus, the difference is clear,” he said.

“I believe that Nigerians can see for themselves that the PDP came in at a time when things were very difficult and we were able to build a foundation.

“We started building on that foundation that was laid by the Obasanjo administration and we went on.

“It appears that everything is tumbling down. Everything is just going in the reverse in such a manner that is not good for our nation.

“Look at the time the PDP was in power and when we were leaving — the naira to dollar level and what it is today. There are too many issues. We are getting to a stage now where we are not even sure of food even for the middle class not to talk of the very low class.

“Most of the things that we see today that have brought Nigeria on good strides were foundations laid by the PDP. And looking through the economic projections, you will find out that we have gotten it all wrong in this current administration.

“I believe that Nigerians know the truth and Nigerians do know that PDP will do better than APC. There is no competition. There is no comparison at this level because the truth is quite clear that we are not moving in the right direction under the APC governance.”

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Delta police command arrest armed robbery suspects, recover Ak-47, two cut-to-size guns

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested three armed robbery suspects and recovered one AK-47 magazine, twenty-six live 5.56mm ammunition, and two cut-to-size guns.

The was made known to newsmen by the spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Bright Edafe, on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the DSP Edafe, he noted that “On the 31/10/2021 at about 1330hrs, Operation Delta Hawk (OPDH) team 006 and 009 while on confidence-building patrol at Bonsaac General Area Asaba intercepted a blue color Qlink 150 motorcycle with Reg. No. Delta LEH 259 QN and Eng. No. QL162FNJ-1 with three occupants.

“The team on reasonable suspicion search the rider and the passengers.
Consequently, upon searching the suspects namely: Chuks Abah ‘m’ age 23yrs of No. 42 Zion Street Bonsaac Asaba, Ogbonna Micheal ‘m’ age 37yrs of St. Calistol Oju Oduke Asaba, and Amechi Mordi ‘m’ age 22yrs of Bonsaac Asaba.”

“One (1) locally fabricated double barrel pistol was recovered from a bag allegedly belonging to the rider Chuks Abah.”

In a similar operation, the police spokesperson also noted that “On the 27/10/2021 at about 1000hrs, a combined team of Policemen attached to Ekpan Police Station and Effurun community vigilante while on patrol at Aka Avenue of Jakpa road, sighted unidentified armed men suspected to be armed robbers, on sighting the policemen, the armed robbers opened fire on them and the combined team returned fire. During the gun duel, one of them sustained a bullet wound while others escaped.”

“The injured suspect was taken to the hospital where he gave up the ghost while receiving treatment. One (1) locally made pistol, one (1) expended cartridge, one (1) live cartridge, twenty-six (26) live 5.56mm ammunition, and one (1) empty AK 47 magazines were recovered. The investigation is ongoing.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, Psc+ has assured members of the public of the commitment of the Command in tackling crime and criminality in the state.

He also enjoined members of the public to continue to partner with the police in this fight by providing useful and timely information because the Police cannot do it alone, as security today should be taken as everybody’s business.

The Commissioner of Police has also directed all DPOS, tactical commanders to step up visibility patrol during this ember months, intensive stop and search, and continuous raiding of black spots.

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Boy survives after jumping from the collapsed building in Lagos

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A young man working in the 21-story building that collapsed in Lagos is lucky to be alive after he jumped off the building.

The boy coated in dust and sand was said to have jumped off the building into another compound while it was collapsing but he wasn’t critically injured as he was able to walk on his own.

According to a photo that was shared from the scene, people are looking at him in amazement.

See photo:

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IGP orders investigation into the invasion of Justice Odili’s residence

The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, has ordered a discreet investigation into the invasion of the residence of the Supreme Court Justice, Mary Odili, in Maitama, Abuja on Friday.

The IGP who directed the Force Intelligence Bureau to investigate the incident also said the perpetrators will not go unpunished.

It was gathered that a complement of police officers alongside operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission stormed Justice Odili’s residence on Friday, October 29, on the guise of a purported proof by a whistle-blower, Aliyu Umar, who claimed to have detected suspicious activities at the residence of the Supreme Court Justice.

Although, the invasion was reportedly resisted it occurred based on an order made by Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna, who approved the search warrant by a body identified as the Joint Panel Recovery unit in the Ministry of Justice on October 29, 2021.

According to media reports, the magistrate revoked the order saying, he was misled.

The incident has ignited an outrage with the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, absolving his office from involving in the operation.

However, the Force spokesman, Frank Mba, in a statement on Monday, said the police leadership was not aware of the raid, adding that the IG had directed the Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory, to strengthen the security on the street and residence of Odili to ensure her safety.

The statement titled, ‘Reported invasion of Justice Odili’s Abuja residence: IGP orders investigations,’ read in part, “The IGP, who noted that the leadership of the Force is not aware and did not at any time order police operatives to carry out such assignment, described the reported violation of the sanctity of the residence of the Justice of the Supreme Court as unfortunate and unacceptable.

“Consequently, the IGP has directed the Force Intelligence Bureau to conduct a discrete investigation into the incident. He assured the commitment of the Force to the safety and security of the members of the judiciary and Nigerians in general.”

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the panel members, leader of the operation, CSP Lawrence Ajodo, and the whistleblower, Umar, will face FIB investigators.

They are expected to shed light on the intelligence that informed the operation at Odili’s home, the activities and legality of the panel, and other relevant issues.

But sources said some influential persons who were abusing the AGF fiat may have had a hand in the raid.

Our correspondent learned that Malami granted fiat to some individuals to recover Federal Government properties across the country.

A ministry official stated, “The fact is that some people are using the fiat given to them by the AGF to perpetrate all manners of illegalities. Some of them were granted the fiat to recover government properties but they are using the authority for illegal deals and things that are totally at variance with the purpose of the fiat.

“I won’t be surprised if investigations linked them to the raid on Odili’s residence because these individuals have been involved in shocking illegalities.”

The media aide to the AGF, Umar Gwandu, did not respond to the allegation when contacted on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Senate on Monday said it would debate the Friday invasion of the residence of the Supreme Court Justice, Mary Odili, by security agents next week.

The red chamber promised to deal with the case as a matter of urgent national importance.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said this during an oversight visit to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Tanko Muhammad, in his office on Monday in Abuja.

According to the chairman, he said, “We cannot pretend not to be aware of the embarrassing situation regarding the invasion of the residence of Justice Mary Odili on Friday by security agents.

“Without joining issue with anyone, we will take the matter seriously by the time we resume the plenary session. We will discuss it as a matter of urgent of national importance.”

Bamidele also said the 2022 budget estimate for the judiciary was N120bn, which he said was N10bn higher than that of 2021.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria said there was no interference from the legislative and the executive arms of government on the activities of the judiciary.

Similarly, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State on Monday condemned the invasion on Justice Odili Abuja’s residence.

Diri defined the incident as an ill-advised sting operation and called on the Federal Government to investigate the incident and bring those found culpable to book.

The governor, in a statement, said, “Nigeria is not the Banana Republic that security operatives will just take the law into their own hands. The raid on Justice Mary Odili’s residence is highly condemnable and should not be glossed over by any responsible government.

“I urge the Federal Government to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and take needed actions against those found culpable.”

Likewise, NHRC, Ohanaeze, others seek perpetrators’ prosecution as the National Human Rights Commission on Monday described the raid as a violation of Justice Odili’s integrity and right to privacy.

The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu (SAN), in a statement said, “The perpetrators must therefore be made to account for their professional misconduct by arresting them, prosecuting them and she deserves a public apology from those responsible for their professional misconduct.”

Also, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in the South-East condemned the invasion, describing it as a “miasma.”

In a separate statement on Monday, Ohanaeze and the coalition of CSOs demanded that the Federal Government should tender an apology to Justice Odili, while those who carried out the invasion be brought to justice.

Ohanaeze in a statement by its spokesman, Alex Ogbonnia, said, “It is ethically reprehensible and globally unacceptable for the executive to invade the home of a senior member of the judicial arm of the government, in this case, a Supreme Court justice.”

The statement added, “The invasion of Justice Mary Odili’s residence is simply a mockery on democracy and a foul miasma on the image of Nigeria. The siege on her home is an assault on several institutions; womanhood, judiciary, democracy, rule of law, civil society, and indeed all facets of humanity.”

On their part, the CSOs in a statement said the “Gestapo invasion and raiding” were reprehensible.

It said, “The cabalistic government must have also seen her as a major threat in the post-Anambra’s kangaroo governorship poll’s litigation and a stumbling block to the repetition of the Imo Supreme Court infamy of January 2020.”

‘Democracy becoming unsafe under Buhari’

In addition, the Southern Nigeria Frontier on Monday said the invasion was the height of corruption and executive recklessness targeted at intimidating the judiciary.

The spokesperson for SNF, Olufemi Lawson, in a statement added that the abuse of power and threat to democracy under the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), was so obvious that democracy in Nigeria was becoming unsafe.

He said, “Despite the denial by the administration, particularly the office of the Attorney General of the Federation, we wish to let Nigerians, and the International community notes that this is another move by the administration, to intimidate, denigrate and ridicule the judiciary just like what was done to unceremoniously sack former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onoghen.”

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Latest update: EFCC arrest Obi Cubana over fraud

The Economic and Financial Crime Commission has arrested popular socialite and businessman, Obinna Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana, for money laundering and tax fraud.

The socialite is currently being interrogated by the operatives of the commission after he arrived at the EFCC headquarters Jabi, in Abuja, at noon on Monday.

Although, the allegation against the club owner is still sketchy as of the time of filing this report a source disclosed that his case borders on alleged money laundering and tax fraud.

According to the source, he said, “Obi Cubana was arrested and brought to the EFCC headquarters on Monday afternoon over allegations of money laundering and tax fraud. He is being grilled by detectives as we speak.”

Meanwhile, the EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, said he has yet to be informed on the aftermath.

Recall in July, Obi Cubana made headlines when he hosted a flashy burial for his mother in Oba, Anambra State, in which over 200 cows were reportedly killed.

The lavish display of wealth set tongues swishing with many Nigerians wondering about his source of wealth.

Also, different celebrities, businesspeople, and politicians came out in large multitudes for his mother’s funeral.

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Four dead, four rescued, others trapped inside a collapsed 21-story building

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While emergency responders are still on the ground trying to rescue workers trapped under the rubbles of a 21-story building that collapsed in the Ikoyi area in Lagos.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the incident happened around 2 pm on Monday and no fewer than four people have been rescued while four others were brought out dead from the rubbles at the 21-story building that collapsed on Gerard Road, Ikoyi in Lagos State.

The building was said to be under construction when it collapsed on the construction workers and other persons including the owner of the building.

According to a witness who spoke with journalists, Morris Ashiru said he and his friend came to work at the construction site, and they were working when the incident occurred.

He said a lot of people, including the owner of the building, were still trapped under the ruins.

“Everybody was working. A lot of people came here from Abuja,” he said.

“The owner of the building is inside. He brought some clients to inspect the building.”

Meanwhile, as of the time of filing this report, the rescue team comprising the Lagos State Fire Service, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the police, and the army are still working to clear the rubble and are also searching for survivors.

Also, the deputy governor of Lagos, Obafemi Hamzat, and Hakeem Odumosu, the Commissioner of Police were at the scene of the incident for an on-the-spot inspection.

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Comedian Ovkings bags ‘POCACOV Dependable Ambassadorial Award’ in Lagos

The Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices, POCACOV, has unmasked new ambassadors to boost its ongoing Nationwide Campaign against cultism, substances, drugs abuse, violent behaviors, and other vices.

The new ambassadors were formally unveiled by POCACAV national coordinator, CSP Ebere Amaraizu, during its engagement session on the occasion of JOKES APART, a comedy and entertainment gathering put together by its brand ambassador, Akpobasahan Ovuokeroye Samuel, better known as Comedian Ovkings under Ovkings Comedy at Hillsbay hotel arena, Lekki Lagos State on Friday, October 29, 2021.

Ovkings Comedy is a platform for self-discovery of young Nigerian talented entertainers and music artists.

While revealing POCACOV new ambassadors, Amaraizu thanked them on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force and POCACOV Stakeholders for taking the bold step of joining hands with POCACOV in the advocacy, awareness creation/sensitizations, mentoring, and reorientation of young minds for a better and greeter society using their various platforms as reflected in the Pocacov Ambassadors Standard Operation Procedures.

The National coordinator though reminded them that POCACOV is the Nigeria Police Force Community policing Initiatives working with different stakeholders and enhancing popular participation for problem-solving in line with the community-based crime prevention measures and approach of the Nigeria Police Force Under IGP Usman Alkali Baba.

He urged them to stay devoted and persistent as well as law-abiding as they are now role models and influencers to Nigerian Children and Youths.

Those that were unveiled include Tijani Babatunde Kolawole (DJ THUNERDEX), Wilfred Brown Chinedu, an Entertainer, Event manager, and Show promoter, Igwe Otuu Kingsley also known as VBANZ, and IGHOFOSE JOHNMARK Also known as King Omilinks.

Responding, Wilfred Brown Chinedu one of the newly unveiled POCACOV Brand Ambassadors said “On behalf of others I thanked the Nigeria Police Force on POCACOV initiatives which will go a long way in enhancing popular participation of youths in the community-based crime prevention approach and assured that they will all work with POCACOV in line with the stipulations of the standard Operation procedures of POCACOV Ambassadors.”

The apex of the event was the Award of Excellence conferred on Dependable POCACOV Ambassador, Comedian Ovkings on his persistent efforts in driving the campaign for youth value reorientation and self-discovery.

Also, comedian Ovkings while responding thank POCACOV for the honor and assured that “POCACOV being his family will always be strengthened through excellent participation using his platforms and that of other Brands Ambassadors.

See photos:

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Four Nigerian musicians nominated for ‘Artiste Of The Year’ award

Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and Omah Lay, has been nominated for the ‘Artists of the year’ category in the seventh edition of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA 2021.

Other African artists, who got the nomination, are Focalistic (South Africa), Aya Nakamura (Mali), Fally Ipupa (Congo), Makhadzi (South Africa), MHD (Guinea), Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania), and Blaq Diamond (South Africa)

According to a statement, the award event would hold at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos State in November and will be broadcast on 84 television stations in 109 countries.

The statement read in part, “It is less than one month to the seventh edition of the All Africa Music Awards 2021, and votes have long been stacking up for all 38 categories created to celebrate the best of African music. Public voting is ongoing and ends on Saturday, November 20, 2021, on AFRIMA’s website.

“The ‘Artiste of the Year’ category is one juicy nomination that, like the Midas Touch, if wielded by any artiste, has the power to turn almost every situation into gold. This year is quite interesting as it is not just a battle of the greats, but a battle that infuses some of the most prominent voices ever in Africa’s music scene.”

Past winners in the ‘Artiste of the Year’ category are Davido (2014 and 2018); Diamond Platnum (Tanzania, 2015); Wizkid (2016 and 2017); Wizkid (Nigeria -2017); and Burna Boy (2019).

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Army troops thwart the kidnapping of Bishop of Orlu Diocese

The troop of the Nigerian Army under Section 3, conducting Exercise Golden Dawn have prevented the kidnapping and robbing of Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma, the Bishop of Orlu Catholic Diocese.

The incident happened at about 2:30 am on Sunday at the Diocesan Secretariat at Orlu in Imo State.

This was disclosed by the director of Army Public Relations Officer, Brig-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

According to Nwachukwu, he said that troops in response to a distress call at about 2:30 am on Sunday, swiftly moved to the scene forcing the assailants to take to their heels.

He said the Bishop, his Secretary, and Assistant Secretary were safe and unhurt.

Nwachukwu said the Nigerian army troops would continue to deny freedom of action to members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) and other criminal gangs in the South West.

He added that the troops had remained resolute in ensuring the coming election in Anambra was safely conducted as well as the yuletide season.

“Members of the public are advised to report the suspicious movement of criminals as well as hideouts of the outlawed IPOB/ESN to law enforcement agencies as the group is only out to intimidate, steal and kidnap law-abiding citizens for ransom,” he said.

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House of Rep members condemn the blockade on Justice Odili’s residence

The House Committee Chairman on Judiciary, Rep. Luke Onofiok, a member of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, from Akwa Ibom State, has condemned the recent blocking on Justice Mary Odili’s residence by security agencies.

The lawmaker interpreted the action as an assault on the sanctity of Nigeria’s Judicial system.

He made this known in a statement on Sunday, in Abuja.

According to Onofiok, he condemned the action and pledged to ensure that the sanctity of the nation’s judiciary was protected.

The Lawmaker said “It is mind-boggling that at dusk on Oct. 29, 2021, the Judiciary was once again exposed to public opprobrium.

“This is due to the uncanny manner in which the residence of Justice Mary Peter-Odili of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, was invaded by law enforcement officials, purportedly on an assignment to execute a search warrant, issued by a Magistrate.

“Also disturbing is the fact that the said warrant was revoked by the issuing Magistrate, who had discovered that it was procured by the applicant on the premise of misrepresented facts.

“As a committee, we are currently interfacing with the Judiciary for judicial reforms and improved justice system.

“We wish to lend our voice once again, to the repeated call by His Lordship; the Honourable Justice Tanko Muhammed, CJN, on all Judicial officers on the need to exercise caution in issuing ex-parte, conflicting and questionable orders that are capable of bringing disrepute to our Justice system,” he said.

Onofiok also added that the development was a wake-up call to tighten administrative and supervisory control over the policies of law enforcement agencies.

He said that the Committee on the Judiciary was calling for discreet investigations, to unfold the persons behind the act, because it was capable of weakening the existing relationship between the Judiciary and the Executive arms government.

The rep thought back to an incident in 2016 when security agencies raided private residences of judicial officers, which subsequently turned out to be underserved.

He said that the judiciary harps on due process in the dispensation of justice and that the committee on the Judiciary would collaborate with the judiciary and other relevant stakeholders to secure the nation’s democracy.

According to him, the confidence and respect of citizens for the judiciary may likely wane if incidences of this nature continued unchecked.

Onofiok said, “We, therefore, condemn in totality such an ignoble act and pledge every effort at ensuring the sanctity of the nation’s judiciary, as well as our continuous support to the independence of the judiciary.”

On Saturday, October 30, 2021, some security operatives raid on the residence of the Justice of Supreme Court, Justice Mary Odili.

It was gathered that a panel, comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Ministry of Justice, was said to have obtained a search warrant from Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna of an Abuja court to search Justice’s residence after a whistleblower, Aliyu Umar, claimed to have observed illegal activities allegedly going on at her residence.

Meanwhile, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) has distanced himself from a raid on the residence of the Justice of Supreme Court, Justice Mary Odili over the weekend.

Malami, who spoke yesterday through his Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations, Dr. Umar J. Gwandu, said he was not in any way connected with the exercise.

This comes as President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olumide Akpata, described the invasion as an “affront” on the judiciary.

However, while the EFCC came out Friday to debunk the report of activities of its men, the police have kept mute.

Reacting to the situation via a statement, yesterday, Akpata said the fact that the EFCC and Malami have denied their involvement in the operation, “suggests the inference that the residence of the second most senior judicial officer in Nigeria was raided by rogue security agencies. The grave implications of this possibility leave a lot to be desired.”

He said: “When viewed in the context of a similar raid on the premises of Supreme Court justices in 2016, the rationale of which was never fully explained or indeed justified, the NBA interprets last night’s incident as a part of an orchestrated affront on the Judiciary, designed to intimidate and ridicule the Judiciary. The NBA will no longer allow this to continue.

“In case the law enforcement agencies have not learnt their lessons, events like this do nothing but erode the independence of sacred democratic institutions like the Judiciary, undermine the rule of law in Nigeria, and set the country back in the quest to instill confidence in citizens of Nigeria, Nigerian businesses, and foreign investors that Nigeria operates a democracy with an independent judiciary.

“I have spoken with my lord, Peter-Odili JSC, and I am happy to report that she is alive and well. Beyond that, however, it is my pledge to Nigerians that the NBA will get to the root of this matter.”

Malami said it was imperative to debunk the “mischievous publication” linking him to the exercise, in view of the media hype and the dimension the story was assuming.”

The statement read in part: “It is important to set the record straight that, as the Chief Law Officer of the Federation, Malami will not stoop so low to be associated with an apparent in-elegant and nasty court process on the strength of which the purported search warrant was procured.

“The media reports on the issue depicted too untidy a process that could never emanate from the office of the AGF.”

The Minister clarified that there was no such panel as “Joint Panel Recovery under the Ministry of Justice” in the Ministry of Justice.

“What we have is “Assets Recovery and Management Unit,” the mandate of which does not include sting operations.”

The AGF also noted that there were numerous inconsistencies in the documents being circulated in relation to the saga and which buttressed elements of criminal activities.

“All these deductions would have assisted a discerning mind to arrive at a reasonable conclusion of criminal undertones associated with the court process on the basis of which the purported search warrant was procured.”

The Minister noted that the AGF’s office has reached out to relevant authorities to investigate the actions for prosecution of perpetrators.

“The claim of the chief magistrate, as reported by a section of the media to the effect that he was being misled by office of the AGF into issuing the search warrant was also forwarded to relevant investigation agencies to ascertain veracity or otherwise of the purported association of the AGF or any staff in the office.”

Also, a Port Harcourt-based constitutional lawyer, Chief Festus Oguche, described the raid as bizarre and a violation of the justice’s rights.  “No matter the allegation, nothing furnishes a court of competence with the power to issue warrant for an allegation that is not defined.”

Oguche, therefore, blamed the assault on government’s determination to stifle the judiciary.

He said: “The first time, they hounded justices and judges at midnight in a manner that is akin to pursuit of armed robbers and treated them like hardened criminals.

“They are giving Nigerians another reason to be suspicious of their clandestine maneuvers to manipulate and hound the judiciary.”

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Chief Nwadialor Sponsors Medical Charity In Idumuje-Unor To Celebrate Birthday

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Chief Michael Brian Onyekali Odiakosa, the Nwadialor of Idumuje Kingdom in conjunction with Anioma Medical Professionals Forum, has organised a two-day Medical Mission in Idumuje-Unor to celebrate his birthday.

The Medical charity which held between 30th and 31st October, 2021, at the community’s Primary Health Centre had exactly 576 patients who were treated within the two days programme.

Speaking to journalists while issuing certificates of appreciation from the Nwadialor Philanthropic Foundation to the participating doctors, Chief Odiakosa thanked the AMPF for their sacrificial love to Idumuje-Unor community, adding that the doctors have become more patriotic than most reputable community service organizations both at home and abroad.

He said it was a normal thing to see people engaged in community services in America but not here in Nigeria.

However, Nwadialor expressed happiness that the young and talented medical doctors under the aegis of Anioma Medical Professionals Forum could be as patriotic as helping communities solve critical health issues through medical missions.

On the strength of their patriotism, Chief Nwadialor made a promise to make the medical charity an annual programme, in addition to other projects he is handling in the community.

His words, “I feel good doing what I am doing for my community. Though this medical charity is organised to celebrate my birthday, I think it’s a huge success that needs to be replicated.

“This is a touching project with direct bearing on the people’s health. I feel good about it and hope to make it an annual programme”, Nwadialor affirmed.

Speaking also, the Founder and President of the Anioma Medical Professionals Forum, Dr. Awunor Alexander Chidubem commended Chief Odiakosa for taking the singular initiative to organize such a massive health program for his rural people.

Awunor said it was a two days of intense work to get the huge number of patients attended to in various areas of free medical services, which include: Free Consultations and Counselling, Free Drug Distribution, Free Eye Screening and Dispensing of Lenses, Free Laboratory Assay (Blood Glucose, etc), Health Talks on Common Ailments, Nutrition Tips, etc, and Adequate Referrals.

The medical patriot however, said he looks forward to seeing more of Anioma people in the diaspora like Chief Michael Brian Onyekali Odiakosa to take such bold steps of sponsoring medical missions in their communities, insisting that nothing can quantify human and health empowerment to one’s people.

Meanwhile, the Traditional Ruler of Idumuje Kingdom, HRM Obi Charles Chukwunwike 111 was there on the first day of the Medical program to give credence to the philanthropic gestures of Chief Odiakosa to his subjects. He also used the medium to felicitate with the Nwadialor whose birthday was marked with such enormous medical charity to the community people, describing him as a well cherished illustrious son.

Equally, the Obi’s counterpart from Ubulu-Uno Kingdom, HRM Obi Kikachukwu Henry Afamefune JP was there too to boost the morale of Nwadialor, including the Esogba of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Fidelis Jigide, the Chairman of Fidelity Fortunes Group of Companies, Prince Ibe Ozoma, Chief Chris Biose and numerous other friends and well wishers of Nwadialor of Idumuje Kingdom.

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Why I believe African entertainers intentionally leak their sex tapes, not mistake – I Go Dye

Ace Nigerian comedian, I Go Dye, has dissed out reason why he believed that sex tapes leaks by African celebrities are done intentionally, not a mistake.

He said Africans are generally more reserved in the matters of sex compared to how it is at this moment.

The comedian made this revelation known on his Instagram page on Saturday, October 30, 2021, while speaking about the nude embarrassments that rock the entertainment industry recently.

I Go Dye said many Africans have lived with their parents in one-room apartments and despite this, African children hardly see their parents during their intimate moments.

According to him in his words, he said “The way we are expressly showing our nakedness and sex tapes as a mistake are intentional because it’s not a common mistake you can find in Africa parent’s DNA.”

“We follow our papa stay for one room, with 10 children.

“None of us see him yansh one day, am afraid because we are just breeding future porn stars. Amb Francis Agoda,” he added.

It was gathered recently how a Nigerian female musician, Tiwa Savage sex tape showing her new partner leaked online.

Before its leak, she had notified fans that some individuals were blackmailing her with the footage.

The video provoked different responses on social media, including criticism and support for the singer.

Not long after, Cross, an ex-housemate of the BBNaija reality show, posted his nudes on Snapchat.

Reacting to the backlash that followed, Cross said: “It was a simple mistake. It wasn’t a big deal.

“I’m not back on my phone but I use it once in a while. I didn’t know Snapchat had changed a lot of features.

“When I noticed, I deleted it. People should understand the kind of person I am. I’m a human being.

“I wear my heart on my sleeves. The entertainment industry lifestyle is new to me. Do’s and don’ts choke me.”

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How traditional ruler turns tenant after flood destroyed palace

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The traditional ruler of Atai Ibiaku Itam, a community in Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Eteidung Mkpong Okon Mkpong, who owns a 24-room apartment has now become a tenant in somebody’s house.

The monarch was sacked out of his palace due to flood that destroyed his community recently.

This was disclosed by the monarch during an interview with Patrick Odey while speaking about the predicament of his people.

How will you describe your community?

We have four families in Atai Ibiaku Itam, namely, Nnung Ekpa, Nnung Mbiabio, Nnung Ayan, and Nung Idiong Ukupekpe. All these families work hand in hand. Yesterday (Tuesday), the Sanitary Inspectors came, all the families were there. I was there as the family head of Nnung Ekpa, which owns Urua Ekpa road. That road was named after my great grandfather.

Your community has been in a perennial battle with floods. Can you describe what your experience has been like?

As a community head, the flood along Urua Ekpa road gives me sleepless nights. The latest floods overran the entire community. My 24-room palace was not spared and I have now become a tenant in a rented apartment. It’s not proper for me to leave my location and move into a rented apartment. How can a person like me leave his 24-room apartment and come and live as a tenant? A community head living as a tenant in somebody’s house! It is embarrassing and I feel bad for myself and my people. If you go to our community now you will see all the houses affected by the flood; many of my people have been forced to relocate from the community while some have died from the problem. I don’t feel fine at all.

Have you made any effort to bring the problem to the government’s attention?

So many efforts have been made; I can show you the documents so you can see what we have done. Right from 1992 to the regime of former Governor Victor Attah to the administration of Godswill Akpabio, we wrote a series of letters to successive governments. There was a time they came and filmed us right inside the water but nothing has been done. We are all members of the Peoples Democratic Party family but nothing has been done.

Your community has a lawmaker in the House of Assembly. What is he doing about it?

Well, I don’t know about him. What I know is that during his campaign he told us that the first thing he would do is to liaise with the relevant authorities to address the challenge. That was what he told us, but till now, this is three years on, we have not heard anything from him. Whether he is talking about it at the Assembly or not, I am not in the Assembly to know.

What efforts do you think the state government needs to make to tackle the problem?

About four years ago, they came and gave us relief materials like rice. They divided one bag of rice into four for a household. The last time they came, they gave us N30,000, which did not go around all the flood victims. They selected some people to give and that caused a lot of trouble because not every affected person got the money.

What do you want the state government to do?

Just to remove the water, award a contract to remove the water and let people go back to their houses and continue with their lives. All the businesses along that road have collapsed, there is no road to pass; the only access road has been blocked. My prayer is that government should come and help the people. That land that has been submerged in the only land my family has and we have children growing up, how would they survive?

The state government has said that it cannot tackle the flood alone and that it is waiting for World Bank-assisted projects at hand to finish before packaging another proposal to the World Bank for assistance. What do you say about this?

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Wizkid reveals release date for his new album ‘More Love, Less Ego’

Wizkid has announced the date he intends to drop his next album ‘More Love, Less Ego’.

He made this known on his Instagram page on Saturday, October 30, 2021, while sharing the album cover for the ‘Made In Lagos’ album and also celebrating one anniversary of the release.

In his post, he revealed that his next album ‘More Love, Less Ego’ will be dropping on the last day of his ‘Made In Lagos’ tour which he scheduled for January 22, 2022.

According to Wizkid, he said “1 year already! Thank you for riding with me. I’m just very grateful for all the love and blessings,” Wizkid wrote.

“Promised not to make you wait too long for the next one. ‘More Love Less Ego’ dropping on the last day of the tour!”

In October 2020, Wizkid released ‘Made In Lagos’ (MIL), his fourth album.

He has been on tour for the project, selling out concerts across the global west.

MIL featured big names in music like Damian Marley, Skepta, H.E.R, Ella Mai, Burna Boy, Tems, and Terri.

In 2021, Wizkid dropped a video for ‘Essence’, a track off MIL, and followed up with a Justin Beiber remix.

‘Essence’ shot into the Billboard Hot 100 chat, breaking into the top 10.

Wizkid had also released an 18-track deluxe version of the project, receiving global acclaim.

Also in mid-2019, Wizkid had featured on Beyoncé’s ‘Brown Skin Girl’, a track off ‘The Lion King: The Gift’ soundtrack.

This had won him major international awards, as fans are celebrating him on social media.

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The remake of Aki and Pawpaw film to hit cinema in December

The Nigerian film studio, Filmone Entertainment, has announced to release the much-anticipated film ‘Aki and Pawpaw’ modification to the cinema on December 17th.

The news of the release was shared by the corporation on its Instagram page on Wednesday, October 27, 2021.

Goldennationblog.com gathered from the details of the remake that Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme will repeat their roles as the amusing brothers, Aki and Pawpaw in the movie.

Also, the director of the remake, Biodun Stephen, has been named and the released date has been set for December 17.

According to the post that was shared on Instagram by Filmoneng while announcing the release, it was stated that “19-year-ago, they came into our lives; our resident Nollywood troublemakers remain the gift that never stopped giving! From Alaba to the big screens, your favorite duo redefines comedy in this holiday blockbuster Aki and PawPaw The Movie in cinemas from December 17th! Save the date. A Play Network Studios and Film One Entertainment Production. Director: Biodun Stephen.”

Toyin Abraham, Amaechi Muonagor, Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), Uti Nwachukwu, Stan Nze, MC Lively, Beverly Osu, Juliet Ibrahim, Hanks Anuku, and Chioma Okafor are among the other cast members.

In May, the modification of the film was initially disclosed by Ikedieze and Iheme when they discussed dropping the new project on Instagram.

It was gathered that fans were fascinated as they await the return of the popular duet to their screens again after a decade and a half.

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Niniola drops new single ‘I Did It (Bum Bum)’ featuring Lady Du

Popular Nigerian Afro-house acclaimed queen, Niniola, has dropped her new Amapiano single titled ‘I Did It (Bum Bum)’ collaborating with South African female singer, Lady Du, ahead of her upcoming extended playlist (EP) ‘Lagos To Jozi’.

The track ‘I Did It (Bum Bum) is the second single off her EP project.

Sharing the new release, Niniola in her words stated that “everyone knows this is my playground so I decided to make this project to keep you on the dance floor.” I Did It (Bum Bum) was produced by her frequent collaborator Magicsticks. It is a song about a girl who wants to enjoy her life on her terms.

Born December 15, 1986, Niniola Apata, better known by her stage name Niniola, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. She rose to recognition in 2013 after finishing third runner-up on the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa.

Upon the release of her breakthrough debut single “Ibadi”, Niniola was nominated in the “Most Promising Act to Watch” category at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. She currently has a record deal with Drumroll Records.

She is a native of Ekiti State but was born in Lagos State where she had her primary and secondary school education at Apata Memorial High School. She is an alumna of the University of Lagos where she graduated with a Bachelor of Education certificate.

At high school, she participated in several social activities and competitions. She competed in Season 6 of Project Fame West Africa where she placed 3rd Runner-Up. During the competition, she performed a live rendition of “Limpopo” with KCEE and also performed her composition “Itura” which was produced by Cobhams Asuquo. She cites Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, The Cranberries, Madonna, Beyoncé, and Angelique Kidjo as her musical influences.

On March 19, 2014, she dropped her debut single “Ibadi”, produced by Sarz. The song received positive critical reviews, topped national music charts, and gained extensive airplay. “Ibadi” and her single “Gbowode” were used as soundtracks in the Season 2 of the Nigerian television drama series Gidi Up.

In 2015, she was also listed on notJustOk’s “15 Artists to Watch in 2015” and was nominated in the “Most Promising Act to Watch” category at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Niniola depicts her style of music as “Afro-House”, a blend of afrobeat and house music.

Listen to the song below:

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University of Aberdeen return another Benin artifact to Nigeria

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The University of Aberdeen, Scotland, has handed over another bronze sculpture that portrays the head of Oba of Benin to Nigeria.

This happened on Thursday, October 28, 2021, in Scotland, days after Cambridge University, Jesus College returned some of the first antiques that were stolen in 1897 by the British.

His Royal Majesty, Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, in his response, thanked the University for handling the artifact while also urging other institutions around the world who have the bronze as part of their exhibition to reevaluate their responsibility by returning the stolen pieces to their rightful owner.

According to the Oba of Benin, he said, “Much has been said about the significance of heritage art and, despite the occasional attempts in some quarters to downplay their cultural and religious relevance, these works are often imbued with the spirit of the people from whom they were taken.

“Regardless of the resistance in some quarters, the return of stolen art is the right thing to do. Some say that they acquired their collections. This is like saying, ‘well, I know this item was originally stolen but because I bought it somewhere, then I’m okay. That notion is completely wrong and unfortunate.

“In any event, we thank the University of Aberdeen for this noble act of returning our bronze work. We hope that other institutions worldwide will see the injustice when they insist on holding on to items which in fact should be a reminder to them of the great injustice that was inflicted on a people so far away and so long ago”.

The ceremony, which was held on Thursday in Scotland, had the Oba of Benin represented by his younger brother, Prince Aghatise Erediauwa; the Obasuyi of Benin, Chief Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan; Director of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Professor Abba Isa Tijani; the Legal Adviser of the NCMM, Babatunde Adebiyi, and the Director, Museums, NCMM, Abdul Mohammed Gimba, present to take possession of the artifact.

The sculpture, which portrays the head of an Oba, is one of the thousands circulated across the globe and only the second to make a return to Nigeria in over 100 years.

It was gathered that the University of Aberdeen had acquired the bronze piece at an auction in 1957.

According to the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, Professor George Boyne noted the symbolism of the artifact portrayed stating that returning the bronze work was only the right and just thing to do.

He said, “Over the last 40 years the Benin Bronzes have become important symbols of injustice.

“It would not have been right to have retained an item of such great cultural significance that was acquired in such reprehensible circumstances.

“The University took a proactive approach to identify the appropriate people to discuss what to do and we are extremely grateful for the collective approach taken by the partners in Nigeria, which has facilitated this return.”

Others who attended the handing over ceremony were a Prince of the Kano Emirates, Prince Isa Bayero; Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria in the UK, His Excellency, Suleiman Sani; and a retired Director of the National Museum, Lagos Mrs. Edith Ekunke.

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Wande Coal drops new Amapiano sound ‘Come My Way’

Popular Nigerian music veteran, Oluwatobi Wande Ojosipe, better known as Wande Coal, has dissed out something new with an Amapiano song titled ‘Come My Way’ after a brief recess from the Afrobeat space.

The singer impresses his fans on his return, he tries the amapiano beat probably for the first time as he gifts us with his potential smash track ‘Come My Way’ on Friday.

The song is co-produced by gifted music producers, Burno and Screwface.

‘Come My Way’ serves as King Coal’s first official single for the year. It is a follow-up to his previous project, ‘The Realms’ extended play that was released in September 2020.

Wande Coal was born on 18 October 1985, in Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria, to Chief Ibukun Olufunto and Mrs. Omolara Oluwayemisi Ojosipe.

The first of two children, Wande had his primary school education at Staff Nursery and Ijaniki Primary School, and his secondary education in Federal Government College Ijanikin in Lagos State, before he proceed to the University of Lagos (Unilag), Lagos State, where he studied Curriculum Studies.

We, also known as Captain Mushin, is like most great musicians, who started singing in the teenage choir at his church.

He got his break in the Nigerian entertainment industry as a dancer. He continued and improved on his vocals skills and got signed to Mo’hits records in 2006. He featured on D’banj’s Rundown/Funk You Up album in singles such as “Loke”, “tonosibe” and “why me”.

Being a member of Mo’ Hits records, he was also a part of Mo’ Hits Allstars and took advantage of a major role in the released CV (Curriculum Vitae) album.

His first single of the CV album, “Ololufe”, has been characterized as one of the greatest love songs ever written by a Nigerian. Wande Coal later released his debut album ‘Mushin to Mo’Hits which was widely received across Nigeria, the UK, and the USA.

Wande Coal has also recorded tracks with other Nigerian artists including Ikechukwu, Naeto C, Dr. SID, D’Prince, Wizkid, and many more.

However, following a fallout between record label Executives Don Jazzy and D’banj in 2012, Wande Coal, Dr. Sid, and D’Prince signed on to Don Jazzy’s new Record Label Mavin Records with the addition of Tiwa Savage from 323 entertainment acting as the first lady of Mavin Records.

Later, Wande Coal left Mavin Records in 2013. In October 2013. He released a single called “Baby Face” and several others afterward.

On the 26th of October 2015, Wande Coal released his sophomore album #WANTED under his Black Diamond imprint.

Listen to the track here:

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Dr. Dolor new signee, Moonlight Afriqa drops single “Oroma”

Nigerian fast-rising recording and performing artist newly signed to Dr. Dolor Entertainment, Moonlight Afriqa, has dropped his new single titled “Oroma”.

The track “Oroma” motivates boldness and courage into women all around the world.

The track is produced by Vybe O, and it is a chilled groovy Afropop rhythm, which portrays “Moonlight Africa” expressing his love for every woman who finds confidence in herself in whatever shape or form.

With this new rhythm, Moonlight Africa is set to solidify his virtuosity as a musical artist.

He was born in March 1994 in Etsako East LGA Agenebode, Edo State, Nigeria.

He was raised in a Muslim and Christian household. His uncle initiated him into music, and at the age of four, he began playing the drums and taught himself to play the guitar as he evolved.

His music style continued as he began to hone his singing and songwriting skills.

According to him, he said “Music and charity in my life, this is where I’ve found my purpose”, he added.

Listen to the track here:

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Buju dropped new album “Sorry I’m Late” featuring The Cavemen

Nigerian sensational Afropop singer and songwriter, Daniel Benson, popularly known as Buju, has dropped his anticipated album “Sorry I’m Late” featuring The Cavemen.

The talented singer released the album on Thursday, October 28, 2021.

The 7-track album also features The Cavemen on the 5th track titled “Okechukwu” and gives production credits to Timi Jay, Rexxie, Denzi, Steph, and Periz.

The singer ever since his breakthrough in the music industry with his single “Lenu” featuring Burna Boy and “Spiritual” featuring Zlatan, the superstar has brought his A-game into every instrumental he has laid his vocals.

The singer has also served great sounds recently, ranging from his singles “Outside” and “Testimony” to his features like “Feeling” by Ladipoe, “Bling” by Blaqbonez, and Wizkid’s “Mood”.

Listen to the album below:

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Mr. Ibu says he intends to live up to 100 years

Ace Nollywood actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, says he is convinced that he would live up to 100 years.

The actor made this known while speaking on the occasion of his 61st birthday.

According to the actor, he said “I said I was going to go 100. It is by God’s power, not by man’s might. I don’t know what’s going to happen when I go 100. But I know I want to leave a history in this country.”

Mr. Ibu is deemed to be one of Nollywood’s most talented comic characters.

His comical acting is often marked for its hilarity and a quick disconnection from reality.

Ibu hails from Enugu state. After elementary school in 1974, he moved to Sapele to stay with his brother, after his father’s demise.

In Sapele, he did menial jobs so he could sponsor himself to school and support his family.

He then worked as a hairstylist, ventured into photography, and also worked in a company that produces crates.

After secondary school, he was admitted into the College of Education, Yola but pulled out due to finance.

He later enrolled in the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) as soon as he was financially buoyant.

Ibu has acted in more than 200 Nollywood movies including ‘Mr.Ibu’ (2004) and ‘Mr. Ibu and His Son’.

Also, other films he has stared in include ‘Coffin Producers’, ‘Husband Suppliers’, ‘International Players’, ‘Mr. Ibu in London’ (2004), ‘Police Recruit’ (2003), ‘9 Wives’ (2005), ‘Ibu in Prison’ (2006), and ‘Keziah’ (2007).

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Facebook rebrands itself with a new name

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Facebook has officially announced the change of its corporate name to ‘Meta‘.

This was made known in a statement issued by its founder and chief executive officer (CEO), Mark Zuckerberg on Thursday.

He said the modification of the name will reveal the company’s efforts to re-branding its future operations.

According to him, he stated that the name is “To reflect who we are and the future we hope to build, I’m proud to share that our company is now Meta.”

“Our mission remains the same — it’s still about bringing people together. Our apps and their brands aren’t changing either. We’re still the company that designs technology around people.

“But all of our products, including our apps, now share a new vision: to help bring the metaverse to life. And now we have a name that reflects the breadth of what we do.

“From now on, we will be metaverse-first, not Facebook-first. That means that over time you won’t need a Facebook account to use our other services. As our new brand starts showing up in our products, I hope people around the world come to know the Meta brand and the future we stand for.”

The rebranding of Facebook emerges as the social media giant proceeds to work towards building its futuristic “metaverse”, a virtual-reality space in which users interact with a computer-generated environment and other users.

The company has also invested heavily in virtual/augmented reality, developing hardware like its Oculus VR headsets, working on AR glasses and wristband technologies, and buying a bevy of VR gaming studios, including BigBox VR.

Also, Zuckerberg in his statement, he said that “When I started Facebook, we mostly typed text on websites. When we got phones with cameras, the internet became more visual and mobile.

“As connections got faster, the video became a richer way to share experiences. We’ve gone from desktop to web to mobile; from text to photos to video. But this isn’t the end of the line.

“The next platform will be even more immersive — and embodied internet where you’re in the experience, not just looking at it. We call this the metaverse, and it will touch every product we build.”

On the defining features of the virtual reality space, Zuckerberg also said users will be able to connect with friends and family, work, learn, play, shop, and create in a manner distinct from how people think about computers presently.

“In this future, you will be able to teleport instantly as a hologram to be at the office without a commute, at a concert with friends, or in your parent’s living room to catch up,” he said.

“This will open up more opportunities no matter where you live. You’ll be able to spend more time on what matters to you, cut downtime in traffic, and reduce your carbon footprint.”

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My father made us tough, Yul Edochie revealed

Popular Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie, has applauded his father, a colleague and veteran actor, Pete Edochie, for the discipline he has bestowed upon his children while they were young.

The actor who shared a photo of his father on his Instagram page on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, stated that his father strictness made him and his siblings strong.

According to his post, Yul narrated a situation where his father’s presence forced them to take drugs as kids.

He said, “Those days as kids when we had malaria, my mum could spend so long petting and begging you to take your Nivaquine drugs which were very bitter then.

“When that style no works, she’ll now send someone to go call Popsi.

“Omo, once my Dad comes into the room, standing at the door staring at you with his mean face and his belt in hand, bros you go rush your drugs instantly and be happy after taking them.

“And once he’s around, you must take your drugs with water, no matter how bitter it is, No drink for you, just water.

“Popsi was strict to a fault. He no gets time to pet you oo. No-nonsense man. Those days we dey fear am. Now I appreciate him so much.

“He made us tough. Ebubedike 1 of Africa @peteedochie. I love this man., My man, forever.” (sic)

Yul had earlier revealed his intentions to run for President in the forthcoming 2023 general elections, and his father has drummed up support for him.

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Ike Onyema reveals why BBNaija organizers blacklisted him

Ex-housemate of Big Brother Naija season four, Ike Onyema, has revealed why the organizers of the show blacklisted him because he refused to bend to their restrictions.

The former Pepper Dem housemate made this revelation on his Instagram page while announcing his new song titled ‘Foreign’ on Wednesday, August 27, 2021.

The reality star also alleged that social media tried to ‘cancel’ him since he was a contestant on BBNaija.

According to Ike in his words, he said “I’m back again. Social media has tried to cancel me so many times since BBN.”

He also added that “Africa Magic canceled me because I refused to kiss a$$ now. But I’m happy now to share the music I have been working on for so long.”

The former BBN housemate who has been busy with his new project further stated that “I haven’t been back home in over three years; chasing this dream, praying to become a success and I refuse to give up.

“Guys, don’t let this one flop. Honestly, if this music doesn’t work out its back to the streets.” (sic)

Recall, Ike was once romantically involved with his fellow housemate and winner of the contest, Mercy Eke, before they parted ways.

In June, Ike revealed a new lover as he also failed to celebrate Mercy on her birthday last month.

Meanwhile, Mercy had stated that her affair with Ike was horrible and also revealed that she had a new man in her life.

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Barcelona sacked its coach, Ronald Koeman

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Barcelona, on Wednesday after a defeat by Rayo Vallecano, leaving the club at ninth position in La Liga, has announced the sacked of its head coach, Ronald Koeman.

This was disclosed in a statement by the club after midnight in Spain on Wednesday.

According to the announcement, Koeman will say goodbye to the team this Thursday, the statement read: “FC Barcelona has dismissed Ronald Koeman as coach of the first team tonight.

“The president of the club, Joan Laporta, has informed him after the defeat against Rayo Vallecano. Ronald Koeman will say goodbye to the squad this Thursday at the Ciudad Deportiva.

“The FC Barcelona wants to thank him for his services and wishes him good luck in his career.”

Recall Barca have won only two of their last seven league games under Koeman, a run that included losing to Real Madrid in Sunday’s Clasico at Camp Nou.

Also, the poor start of the season has put up the chance of the team failing to qualify for next season’s Champions League, which would have huge impacts on the club’s already-dire financial situation.

However, the former midfielder of Barcelona, Xavi Hernandez, who is currently in charge of Qatari club Al Sadd, and River Plate coach Marcel Gallardo are reportedly among those under consideration to take over.

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EFCC displays content of 52,933-page evidence from Naira Marley’s iPhone

The Economics and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) has displayed the virtual presentation of a Compact Disc with a 51,933-page analysis of the iPhone being the property of Azeez Fashola, a popular Nigerian musician better known as Naira Marley.

The projection of the exhibits was done through EFCC’s second witness, a forensic analyst, Augustine Anosike, on Wednesday before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Marley is facing an 11-count charge bordering on conspiracy, possession of counterfeit credit cards, and fraud.

The singer was first arraigned by the EFCC on May 20, 2019, on the said charges to which he pleaded not guilty.

The court had, accordingly, granted him bail in the sum of N2 million, with two sureties in like sum.

According to a court sitting on Tuesday, his trial was adjourned to Wednesday at the federal high court in Lagos.

On Wednesday, the EFCC projected the CD through Augustine Anosike, a forensic analyst who doubles as its second witness.

Anosike, following EFCC’s analysis of Marley’s iPhone, had narrated to the court how different texts and chats containing credit card details were exchanged between the defendant and another recipient identified as Yadd.

When the trial resumed, the witness reiterated portions of his testimonies from the previous sitting.

He indicated the visual spots of those testimonies on the screen of the projected CD, typically identifying what was described as “message trafficking” between the numbers “+447426343432” and “+447548061528”.

Anosike told the court that the CD contained 51,933 pages of the analysis conducted on the defendant’s device.

The expert also presented a forensic report form named “Exhibit A” and the iPhone dubbed “Exhibit D”.

Olalekan Ojo (SAN), the defense counsel, during cross-examination, attempted leave of court to apply for a variation of its order.

He asked that the court take custody of Naira Marley’s iPhone which had been in the custody of the prosecution.

When the defense counsel asked the witness if his analysis had also covered the possible number of persons that had used the said iPhone of the defendant, the witness replied that the number of persons was not ascertained.

When asked to confirm if there is a difference between the owner and user of a device, the witness answered: “The names on a phone can be changed depending on what the owner chooses to use.”

Meanwhile, the presiding judge, Nicholas Oweibo, adjourned the trial until November 30, December 13, and December 14.

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Shatta Wale released from prison after 7-days

Ghanaian dancehall king, Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has been released on bail after he had spent about seven days in prison.

He was granted a self recognizance bail after his lawyer pleaded for it at the Accra circuit court on Tuesday, before the case was adjourned to November 9, 2021.

Granting him bail, he was
s asked together with his accomplices to pay the sum of Ghc 100,000 each.

It was gathered that the 37-year-old musician had been in police custody since October 19 when he was arrested for “falsely” claiming he was attacked by gunmen.

The dance hall king was charged with publication of fake news at the Accra circuit court last week Thursday which he pleaded not guilty. However, the presiding judge subsequently adjourned the case until this next hearing that was set for October 26.

Meanwhile, before his arrest, the dancehall singer had called for the arrest of Kwesi Appiah, the Ghanaian pastor who he claimed prophesied the gunshot attack on him.

Later, the pastor was arrested and charged for spreading information that could cause fear and panic.

Although, he was later released on Ghc100,000 bail with three sureties.

Thereafter on Monday, a video surfaced showing Shatta Wale entering the Ankaful maximum security prison in Ghana.

It was gathered that the Inmates at the correctional facility were seen jubilating in the open as the embattled Shatta Wale made his way into the prison yard.

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Davido’s cousin, Sina Rambo shares his court wedding photos

Sina Rambo, a rapper and cousin brother to the singer, Davido, has shared some of the pictures from his court wedding.

The rapper’s wedding with his heartthrob took place last Friday, October 22, 2021, having only close family and friends in attendance.

According to him while sharing the photos on his Instagram page, he wrote: “He will supply all our needs according to his riches in Glory.”

See photos below:

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INEC releases 81,778 new PVC cards for collection in Anambra

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released 81,778 newly printed Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) for collection in Anambra State ahead of its gubernatorial election that was scheduled for November 6.

The cards are for newly registered voters and those who applied for replacement or transfer of their cards.

The commission disclosed this in a statement titled ‘Update on Preparations For The Anambra State Governorship Election’ by Festus Okoye, the National Commissioner, and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee in Abuja on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.

According to Okoye in his statements, he said the new printed PVCs that were included, are for newly registered voters and those who applied for replacement or transfer of their cards in the state during the just concluded first phase of the Continuous Voters Registration in the state.

He said that the cards had been printed and would be delivered to the INEC office in Anambra State on Thursday.

The statement reads, “In our previous update, the Commission informed the public that a total of 138,802 Nigerians completed the registration in Anambra State.

“After a thorough cleaning up of the data, it was discovered that the number of multiple registrants was 62,698.

“Consequently, the number of valid registrants dropped to 76,104.

“During the same period, there were 5,674 requests for transfers, update of voter information, and replacement of lost or damaged cards, giving a cumulative total of 81,778 PVCs.

“These cards have been printed and will be delivered to our office in Anambra State on Thursday, October 28.

“The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Anambra State and his staff shall work out the most efficient means of ensuring that the voters concerned collect their PVCs in earnest.

“Fortunately, the Commission has the telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of all the new registrants. They will be contacted to make the collection seamless,” Okoye said.

The national commissioner said that the commission met on Tuesday to review preparations for the state governorship election including the submission of a list of polling agents by political parties.

“Section 45 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) requires political parties participating in elections to submit the names and addresses of their polling agents, accompanied by two passport photographs and sample signatures of each polling agent to the commission at least 14 days before the date fixed for the election.

“The last date for the submission of such a list for the Anambra Governorship election was 21st October 2021.

“In line with the Commission’s avowed commitment to deepen the use of technology in elections, a dedicated portal was designed for political parties to upload the names and other details of their polling agents for polling units.

Okoye said that it also included all the three levels of collation (Registration Areas/Wards, Local Government Areas, and State collation).

“A detailed breakdown of the submissions by political parties has been uploaded to the Commission’s website and social media platforms for public information.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the released summary of polling unit agents released by INEC indicated that details of 6,068 agents were expected to be uploaded on the INEC dedicated portal from each of the 17 parties participating in the election.

The summary showed that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) were the parties that uploaded details of their expected number of agents.

It showed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) uploaded details of its 6,012 agents, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 6,003, Young Progressives Party (YPP) 6,071, and Action Alliance (AA) 6,067 while Boot Party (BP) did not upload any details.

Okoye assured the people of Anambra State of INEC’s determination to proceed with the conduct of the election.

The commissioner appealed to all the critical stakeholders and citizens in the state to cooperate with the commission for a successful exercise.

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Ortom sign amended law that will permit security guards to carry guns

The governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has asserted an amended Community Volunteer Guards law of the state which empowers local guards to legally carry weapons.

The law was first passed in 2000 by the State House of Assembly and it was then assented to by the former governor, George Akume.

Attesting to the bill, Ortom explained that over 20 years after, it has become pertinent to amend the law to aid the guards complementing the “grossly inadequate” conventional security agents in the fight against insecurity.

He also explained that traditional rulers would oversee the recruitment of the guards as it is community-based.

Also, he said five persons would be recruited from each of the kindreds in the state, 10 at the ward level, while the local government would have representatives from council wards to ensure proper management and supervision of the guards.

According to him, he mentioned that “Those to be recruited must be within the age bracket of 18 to 50 years and should have a means of livelihood,” Ortom said.

“I warn that the guards do their work, devoid of politics.”

Ortom has on many occasions, asked the federal government to allow “responsible” Nigerians to carry “sophisticated weapons” like AK-47 in self-defense.

Ortom had also in another instance, asked the people of Benue to obtain licenses to carry Dane guns and defend themselves from invading gunmen.

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EFCC extracted credit card numbers from Naira Marley’s iPhone

On Tuesday, October 26, 2021, the Federal High Court in Lagos resumed the trial of Azeez Fashola, better known as Naira Marley.

The singer who sang the popular song “Am I A Yahoo Boy” was charged with crimes that related to conspiracy, possession of counterfeit cards, and fraud.

According to the anti-graft agency, the offenses were committed on different dates between November 26, 2018, and December 11, 2018, as well as May 10, 2019.

The EFCC alleged that Naira Marley and his accomplices conspired to use different ATM cards to defraud their victims.

The EFCC also said that the defendant possessed and used counterfeits credit cards belonging to different people with intent to defraud others.

It was gathered from on Tuesday trial when the court listened to the testimony of a second prosecution witness, Anosike Augustine, a mobile forensic expert with the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) who led in evidence by the prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo.

According to the evidence presented, Anosike revealed how about 2,410 short messages were analyzed from the iPhone of the defendant while also stating that different credit cards numbers were extracted from the iPhone.

While explaining, the witness said, the Apple iPhone is a sophisticated device capable of storing a large volume of information, adding that it is the sim card that identifies users of applications such as WhatsApp.

The witness also said 977 Short Message Service (SMS) and 1,433 chat messages, were discovered in the witness’ iPhone while adding that there were also seven pending status update messages.

The witness further read out some credit card numbers and messages sent from the iPhone on different dates and times, as well as OTP codes sent.

After his testimony, the prosecutor informed the court that all the analyzed messages were contained in a Compact Disc (CD) but that the prosecution had only printed out those portions which were material to its case.

The prosecutor then asked the court if he could play the CD, which was not objected to by defense counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Olalekan Ojo.

However, Justice Nicholas Oweibo, adjourned the case till Wednesday, October 27, 2021, for the CD to be played.

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Sylvester Stallone exit ‘The Expandable’ franchise after fourth film

Popular American multi-award-winning actor, Sylvester Stallone, has confirmed his exit from ‘The Expandables’ after he recently wrapped up the fourth film which seems to be his last.

The 75-year-old actor revealed this through a video post he shared on his Instagram page on Friday 15, October 2021 when he said “This will be my last day, I’m enjoying it, but it’s always bittersweet when something you’ve been so attached to – I guess since, well now it’s been about 12 years, and I’m ready to pass the baton on to Jason [Statham] in his capable hands.”

The star actor also speaks of his experience in making films as he added that “The greatest thing is being able to provide somewhat entertaining films and maybe there’s a little message in there because what I try to convey in my successful films is the human touch. Not so much the action, the action is self-evident, but it’s just relating to the audience in a way that they can identify with whatever the mission is with the characters at hand… Just providing some escapism and hoping there’s a little something extra in there.”

The series follows the titular Expendables, a group of elite mercenaries led by Barney Ross (Stallone) overthrowing a Latin American tyrant, pursuing vengeance against a rival mercenary, and dealing with a violent arms dealer has all been among the group’s assignments.

However, plot details for the fourth film are being kept under wraps at the moment.

Recall the first ‘The Expendables’ film was released in 2010 followed by series in 2012 and 2014.

Other actors with Stallone, including Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, and Randy Couture appeared in all three films, and the series has also had cameos from Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Antonio Banderas, Wesley Snipes, and Harrison Ford.

Megan Fox, Curtis Jackson aka 50 Cent, and Tony Jaa will join the cast of ‘The Expendables 4’.

It was gathered that the new series is scheduled to hit theaters in 2022.

Meanwhile, longtime fans of The Expendables franchise will be unhappy to see Sly go, but he left with some encouraging words that he will be “getting ready to accept the next challenge.”

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Ubulu-Uno agog as Adingwupu gives daughter out in marriage

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A People’s Democratic Party stalwart in Delta State, Hon. Paul Adingwupu has admonished his daughter’s husband and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Ekeanyanwu to make Jesus Christ first in their marriage.

He advised during the marriage ceremony between his daughter, former Miss Chidinma Adingwupu and Mr., Samuel Ekeanyanwu at their country home in Ubulu-Uno in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, adding that Christ alone would preserve their marriage even in trying times.

The renowned politician said, no one and not even him can take the place of God in the couple’s lives, as he would not always be there for them, hence, they should always trust in God to bring countless blessings to their union.

In the same vein, his wife, Barr Mrs. Imoh Adingwupu, enjoined the newly married couple to always add value to each other as that is the only way they can enjoy a Godly home.

She advised them, not to entertain any distractions from third parties; rather, they should learn to settle their differences amicably.

Also speaking, the mother of the groom, Mrs. Ngozi Ikeanyanwu, urged the celebrants to love each other and trust God for a brighter and glorious home.

Mrs. Ikeanyanwu prayed to God to bless their union with wonderful children and wherewithal to cater for them.

In his words, a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Leye Oyebade, admonished the couple to build their marriage on Jesus Christ as the solid rock that can never fail them, to attain greater heights in their union.

While advising them to build their marriage on solid rock, Oyebade said that with Jesus in their marriage, every stronghold of aliens and the red sea would give way.

On their part, the newly married couple, who disclosed that humility and care were what brought them together, pledged to remain united in love.

Expressing joy, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief George Okafor (JP), said it was a day he had been looking forward to.

Okafor advised them to avoid third parties in their union and prayed to God to help them build unity in their home, while also wishing them conjugal blessings.

The grand occasion witnessed the presence of the State Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa; Member representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu; Member representing Aniocha South Constituency in Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Austin Chikezie; Director-General, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Hon. Joan Onyemaechi; Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Chief Nkem Okwuofu; other top Government officials; Chairman, Aniocha South Local Government, Hon. Pastor Chukwunwike Jude Ugbah and Councillors of Aniocha South Local Government; Traditional Rulers and other dignitaries.

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Tiwa Savage released her sex tape to be relevant – Speed Darlington

Nigerian singer, Speed Darlington strumbled into Tiwa Savage’s sex tape saga, in which he alleges that the songstress, released the sex tape by herself to stay relevant in the music industry.

TheCable Lifestyle gathered that Speed Darlington revealed this through Instagram live video on Monday 25, October 2021, while contradicting Tiwa’s claim towards her sex tape.

According to Darlington, he said, “She did it herself. Tiwa released it on her own. All this talk about ‘somebody blackmailed me’ is a lie. I don’t believe anybody blackmailed Tiwa. Tiwa released that video on her own because she wants to stay relevant.”

This is coming after Nollywood actress, Georgina Onuoha, argued that celebrities did Tiwa a disservice for praising her over her mistake.

Also, Ossai Success, the aide to Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State, charged Tiwa to apologize to Nigerians for the leaked tape.

Recall, a few weeks ago, Tiwa Savage alleged that some individuals had a video of her sex spree, in which she had sworn not to succumb to the threats just for doing “something natural.”

Meanwhile, in the uproar video that circulated online, Tiwa Savage was filmed during her intimate moment with her new lover, and the circulation of the video has fascinated an outbreak of media commentaries, some showing support and others disapproving the claims of the songstress.

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My mum reacts whenever I said I’ll not get married – Burna Boy

Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has revealed his mother’s reaction whenever he said he’s not getting married.

He said his mother gets really angry every time he shuts down the idea of settling down.

The Grammy award winner made this known in a post he shared on his Instagram stories on Monday, October 25, 2021.

According to Burna Boy, his mother turns red every time he tells her he is never getting married.

In his words, he wrote “My mum hates it so much whenever I tell her I’m not getting married. She turns red. My issue is that now I’m too sure if I really mean it or I just say it to piss her off.”

See post:

With the singer’s statements, he had put to rest the rumors that he had secretly gotten married to his British girlfriend, Stefflon Don.

It was gathered from a video that went viral in September 2020, when Burna Boy was seen repeatedly calling the rapper his wife.

In the video, Burna Boy said “Look what my wife got me mehn,” he’s referring to a necklace he was putting on. “You see, you need a wife like my own, that’s the problem,” he added.

Meanwhile, before this video, there had been speculations about their engagement.

Recall in February when Stefflon Don shared a photo of herself wearing what appeared to be an engagement ring.

The two first went public with their relationship in 2019.

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Buhari officially launch the eNaira with over N500m mint

President Muhammadu Buhari has finally launched the eNaira platform with over N500m of the currency minted so far.

President Buhari said during the launching on Monday that the digital innovations along with the Central Bank Digital Currency can foster economic growth through better economic activities, increase remittances, improve financial inclusion and make monetary policy more effective.

He said, “Let me note that aside from the global trend to create Digital Currencies, we believe that there are Nigeria-specific benefits that cut across different sectors of and concerns of the economy.”

He added that “The use of CBDCs can help move many more people and businesses from the informal into the formal sector, thereby increasing the tax base of the country.”

While assuring Nigerians of the safety and scalability of the CBDC system, Buhari said the journey to create a digital currency for Nigeria began sometime in 2017.

He said that the “Work intensified over the past several months with several brainstorming exercises, deployment of technical partners and advisers, collaboration with the Ministries of Communication and Digital Economy and its sister agencies like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), integration of banking software across the country and painstaking tests to ensure the robustness, safety, and scalability of the CBDC System.”

From left to right, Vice President, Yemi Osibanjo, President Muhammadu Buhari, CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele, and Senate President, Ahmed Lawan during the eNaira launching

Speaking at the launching, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, described the digital currency as the first in Africa and one of the earliest around the world.

According to the CBN governor, he said, “Mr. President, today you make history, yet again, with the launch of the eNaira – the first in Africa and one of the earliest around the world.

“Mr. President, as you make groundbreaking reforms, there has been continuing debate on the true value of the Naira.

“Rather than worry today on the direction of the exchange rate, let us take a step back and analyze how we got here in the first place.”

Emefiele also disclosed that 33 banks have been fully integrated and live on the platform stating that over 2.5 million people visit the website daily.

CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele

The CBN governor also said N200 million has been issued to financial institutions while adding that over 2,000 customers have been onboarded and 120 merchants have successfully registered on the entire platform.

Also, immediately after the launching, Emefiele revealed that “customers who download the eNaira Speed Wallet App will be able to perform the following: onboard and create their wallet; fund their entire wallet from their bank account; transfer eNaira from their wallet to another wallet and make payment for purchases at registered merchant locations.”

He said the CBN, “will continue to refine, fine-tune and upgrade the eNaira” and he assured that “Nigerians should expect to see additional functionalities in the coming months”.

Some of the additional functionalities include accessibility and onboarding of customers without BVN and the use of the eNaira on the phone without the internet to further drive financial inclusion, making Nigeria one of the first countries in the world to deploy the CBDC via USSD on phones without relying on internet connectivity.

Another feature that will be deployed by the eNaira is the “onboarding of revenue collection agencies to increase and simplify collections and the creation of sector-specific tokens to support the Federal Government’s social programs and distribution of targeted welfare schemes in a bid to lift millions out of poverty by 2025”.

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Delta State Police Command change venue for the recruitment of constables

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The Delta State Police Command wishes to inform indigenes of the state that the computer-based test (CBT) scheduled to hold at the Delta state E-library has been changed to West Gate CBT by Wema Bank along Nnebisi Road, Asaba, the state capital.

This was conveyed to newsmen in Asaba by the state command Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, on Monday 25, October 2021.

DSP Edafe said the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) in collaboration with the Police Service Commission will be concluding the ongoing 2020 recruitment exercise nationwide.

According to the PPRO, he stated that candidates are advised to note the change of the venue while also stating that the date and time remain the same as SMS will be sent to the candidates.

He also said that the State Commission of Police while wishing candidates success in their exams also urges them to adhere strictly to all covid-19 protocols, and assures all candidates of adequate security.

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Police arrest a female suspect with gun in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command arrested a female suspect identified as Blessing Oghule, in possession of one fabricated English Berreta pistol with five rounds of live 9mm ammunition.

The command also arrested an armed robbery suspect with sixty rounds of 7.62mm (Ak47) live ammunition that was hidden inside a pair of canvas shoes and some suspected cultists who were also in possession of locally-made revolver pistols, battle-axe, and another exhibit.

This was disclosed by the Spokesperson of the State Command, DSP Bright Edafe, in a statement in Asaba, the state capital on Monday, 25, October 2021.

According to the statement, DSP Edafe noted that “On 24/10/2021 at about 1400hrs, The DPO Ufuoma division received a distressed call from vigilante that there was a cult clash between Aiye and Aro baggar cult group in Ufuoma Community. The DPO immediately led patrol teams to the scene, the cultist on sighting the police took to their heels but one Happy Ighorowhodje ‘m’ aged 32yrs of Aiye cult group who had been injured with a machete was arrested and one locally-made revolver pistol with five rounds of live ammunition was recovered from him. He was taken to general hospital Ughelli where he was treated and discharged. The suspect and exhibit are in custody while a manhunt for fleeing suspects is ongoing.” DSP Edafe added.

Happy Ighorowhodje

Again, the police spokesperson noted that “On 21/10/2021 at about 0900hrs Dragon Patrol team 29 while on stop and search duty along Warri-Sapele road by Mercy City Effurun intercepted one silver-colored commuter Toyota picnic space bus with reg no LSD 324 DO heading from Warri to Sapele. Upon search of the vehicle and occupants, sixty (60) rounds of 7.62mm (Ak47) live ammunition concealed inside a pair of canvas shoes was recovered from one of the passengers named Patrick Anthony ‘m’ aged 36yrs of Arunton quarters Escravos. The investigation is ongoing” he said.

Patrick Anthony

While explaining further, he also explained that “On 21/10/21 at about 1415hrs, the Command raider operatives in compliance with the directive of the Commissioner of police Delta state, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC+ raided black spots at Abraka axis in Asaba. During the raid, four (4) suspects namely Blessing Oghule ‘ft, Nweke Abudi ‘ft, Ebuka Paul ‘m’, and Sunday Inuse ‘m’ were arrested. One (1) English Beretta pistol with five (5) live 9mm ammunition, five (5) suspected stolen phones, one handbag containing weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, one (1) nylon bag containing substances suspected to be ice, and ten (10) wraps of substances suspected to be cocaine were recovered from Blessing Oghule.”

Blessing Oghule

He also explained that “On 20/10/2021 at about 2330hrs operatives of the Command Anti-cult unit (SACU) acting on a tip-off stormed Obiaruku in Ukwuani LGA and raided a suspected cultists hideout. During the raid, seven (7) suspects were arrested and one (1) locally made short gun, one battle axe, cutlass, knife, and charms were recovered from them. Suspects and exhibits are in custody while the investigation is ongoing.” The police spokesperson stated.

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Standup For Women Society To Inaugurate Delta Chapter October 27

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The Standup For Women Society (SWS), a group saddled with the responsibility of advocating for the rights of women in the society, has perfected all plans to inaugurate the Delta State Chapter on Wednesday, 27th October 2021, at Bellwood Hotel, adjacent to Shoprite in Asaba, at 10 in the morning.

According to the press release by the Local Organising Committee, the National President of SWS, Barr (Mrs) Deborah Ijadele Adetona will be present to inaugurate the Chapter Chairperson, Mrs. Stella Macaulay, a Director of Orientation and Functioning Permanent Secretary at the Delta State Orientation Bureau alongside other members of the Executive.

The Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogeh will be the Chairman of the occasion while the member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Igbakpa will be the Guest of Honour.

However, the Omu Anioma/Nneoha, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu who is the Special Guest of Honour will also deliver the Keynote Address.

The theme of the Inauguration Lecture is “Real Women Conversations: Real Stories of Our Pains, Strength and Triumph”.

Meanwhile, there will be panel discussions which will focus on the following sub-thematic areas: Making Lemonade of the Lemons life throws at us, Managing Conflicts in the Home, Stress Management (Emphasis on Burn Out and Self Love) and Purposeful Parenting and the Girl Child; while the discussants include Barr. Mrs. Deborah Ijadele Adetona (National President of SWS), Mrs. Joy Enwa (Accountant General of Delta State and SWS Matron), Dr. Mrs. Peace Ighowese (CMD of Asaba Specialist Hospital) and of course, Ogaga Darlington Ossai (Value Reorientation Coach, Africa’s Premium Kids, Teens and Parenting Coach). They will discuss various issues affecting women, including violence against women, while at the same time proffering solutions to them.

The Inauguration Ceremony will also feature the unveiling of the Psycho-Social Support Centre for Vulnerable Women.

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AMPF Lauds Prince Ibe Ozoma For Extending Scholarship To Members

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The Anioma Medical Professionals Forum (AMPF) has commended the Chairman of Fidelity Fortunes Group, Prince Ibe Ozoma for extending part of his annual scholarship fund to the group.

The group through its Founder and National President, Dr. Awunor Alexander Chidubem said, the renowned philanthropist made the announcement of N1 million scholarship to members of AMPF to further their studies during an interactive session with the Traditional Ruler of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Agbogidi Obi Nduka immediately after executing the IANA three-day Medical Mission in the community.

Awunor said that words were not enough to qualify the kind gestures of Prince Ibe Ozoma, adding that only God would continue to reward him in all he does for humanity.

The Medical Expert confirmed that though some of their colleagues who left the country to seek greener pastures in more labour friendly environments are making it big; however, those of them who had decided to stay back to help humanity are also fulfilling God’s purpose which in biblical terms encourages people to “Give and it shall be given unto you, good measures, pressed down, shaken together and running over shall men give onto your bosom”.

Dr. Awunor affirmed that Prince Ibe Ozoma by this benevolence was only fulfilling scriptural injunction, knowing fully well that while they give freely to various Anioma communities in terms of their expertise and resources, they also deserve reciprocity in prayers, support, and sponsorship in the area of programs and projects.

According to him, “Prince Ibe Ozoma has been one of our major benefactors in this humanitarian service. We have never had cause to regret each time we run to him for assistance and support.

“This particular scholarship appears monumental when you quantify the mileage it would give to our members, some of whom earnestly desire to engage in some professional courses that will advance their careers.

“We are indeed grateful to him, and we pray for the grace to continue to keep, cherish and respect this rare relationship. We say more strength to his elbows as he continues to support community efforts and extend his goodwill to humanity”, Awunor posited.

Prince Ibe Ozoma is a well known illustrious Issele-Uku son and Chairman of Fidelity Fortunes Group of Companies both in Nigeria and abroad. He has a Scholarship Scheme that supports the education of indigent Issele-Uku students and beyond from Secondary to Tertiary institutions.

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Buhari to launch eNaira on Monday

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President Muhammadu Buhari will unveil the country’s first digital currency known as eNaira on Monday.

This was disclosed in a statement made by the spokesperson of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Osita Nwasinobi, on Saturday.

Nwasinobi said the launching of the eNaira is a fulfillment of many years of research by the apex bank in improving the thresholds of payment systems and making financial transactions easier and seamless.

According to the CBN spokesperson in his statements, he said: “Following series of engagements with relevant stakeholders including the banking community, fintech operators, merchants and indeed, a cross-section of Nigerians, the CBN designed the digital currency, which shall be activated on Monday, October 25, 2021.”

“The eNaira, therefore, marks a major step forward in the evolution of money and the CBN is committed to ensuring that the eNaira, like the physical Naira, is accessible by everyone.

“Given that the eNaira is a journey, the unveiling marks the first step in that journey, which will continue with a series of further modifications, capabilities, and enhancements to the platforms.

“The CBN will continue to work with relevant partners to ensure a seamless process that will benefit every user, particularly those in the rural areas and the unbanked population.

“Since the eNaira is a new product, and amongst the first CBDCs in the world, we have put a structure to promptly address any issue that might arise from the pilot implementation of the air.

“Accordingly, following Monday’s formal launch by the President, the Bank will further engage various stakeholders as we enter a new age consistent with global financial advancement.”

He further added that the theme of the entire launch is ‘Same Naira, More Possibilities’.

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BBNaija season six housemate, Cross set to drop debut single

Big Brother Naija season six edition housemate, Cross, has revealed he will be dropping his new song ‘Feeling Funky’ featuring Ajebutter22.

He said he will be dropping it before the end of the year.

The reality star made this revelation recently during an interview with TheCable Lifestyle when he said the new single is an Amapiano sound that would appeal to the cravings of his fans.

According to the 31-year-old socialite also said that aside from his involvement in entrepreneurship, he is planning to organize a ‘Cross Over Night’, an entertainment festival that would hold across cities in the country.

He said “The Cross overnight thing is something that is going to be broad. I’m going to work with a lot of partners and teams. I want to take all my fans on a journey where they are going to see 24 hours of entertainment. It is going to be in different cities across the country.”

“I love music, I have something coming up with Ajebutter22 sometimes before the end of the year, it is called ‘Feeling funky’.

“It is an Amapaino sound. I’m just looking to take every human that gets to know me on a fast and interesting ride.”

Cross, born Ikechukwu Sunday Okonkwo, was one of the finalists at this year’s edition of BBNaija, he had earlier revealed how difficult it was to get the support of his mother, who is an evangelist, to participate in the show.

While explaining the difficulty of getting her mother’s support, he said “At first, she didn’t understand the show but when my sister explained to her, she decided to support me because of the love she has for me and my siblings. That’s how it happened.”

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Police arrest #EndSars memorial protesters at Lekki tollgate

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At the venue where the #EndSars Memorial Protest was planned to take place today at the Lekki tollgate, the operatives of the Lagos State Police Command arrested two protesters.

One among the two that were arrested identified himself as a journalist, Abisola Alawode, who currently works with Legit. ng while the other, Okechukwu Peter, was seen carrying a placard.

The police had reportedly warned that anyone seen at the toll-gate without an ID card will be arrested.

The journalist was said to have been arrested because he was unable to produce his ID card when the police officers requested it.

When the journalist produced another means of identification, it was said to have been seized from him before he was taken to the police van and driven away.

Another journalist from Arise TV was also said to have been harassed by security operatives for not hanging his ID card on his neck but he was not arrested as other journalists rallied around in his defense.

In October 2020, Nigerian youths took to the streets in some parts of the country to protest against the now-disbanded special anti-robbery squad (SARS), a unit of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF).

To celebrate the first anniversary of the movement, youths planned a series of activities, including protests at some strategic places across the country.

Meanwhile, some police commands including Lagos and Osun states, had, however, issued statements informing youths against the protests and threatening to arrest anyone who flouts the order.

In a bid to enforce the ban on protests issued by the police, security operatives, on Wednesday morning, were deployed at strategic points where protests were planned to be staged.

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FG tells TV stations to adopt the use of sign language interpreters

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The federal government has asked all television stations across the country to adopt the use of sign language interpreters.

The Minister of information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, made this known while responding to a complaint made by a former leader of the women’s wing of the association of the deaf at the 2021 annual lecture organized by the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) in partnership with the Albino Foundation and the European Union (EU).

According to NAN, Monsurat Abdulwasiu who speaks through an interpreter said persons with disabilities have suffered exclusion as they only look at images during news hours without understanding the message.

“Only the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) has a sign language interpreter during one of its news hours. In the other media platforms, there are no sign language interpreters. Even in the healthcare sector, no sign language in Nigerian hospitals,” she said.

“So, what happens to deaf people when they are reading news, and when they are sick and go to the hospital. Does it mean that we are not entitled to information and healthcare? The government needs to look into this.”

Responding to Abdulwasiu, the minister said he will direct all television stations to adopt the use of sign language interpreters during major broadcasts.

“I am very touched by the contribution of the young lady who said there is a need for sign interpreters during the network news and other major news belts,” he said.

“I am going to ask the NBC to direct all our television stations to ensure that there are sign interpreters in all television stations during their major news hours.

“This will not apply to only the Nigerian Television Authority. Whether public or private television stations, they must comply with the directive.

“This directive will work both ways. It means the complaint of exclusion will be tackled and the persons with disability of hearing will also be included in programs and policies of the government.”

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Brymo says he’s yet to receive a defamation lawsuit from 2baba

Nigerian singer, Olawale Ashimi, popularly known as Brymo, has revealed that 2baba has not dragged him to court yet over his intention to sue him for defamation.

The singer made this know on his Twitter page on Thursday, one week after 2baba threatened to sue him.

Goldennationblog.com gathered on October 5, 2021, that the 35-year-old singer had claimed that 2baba falsely accused him of sleeping with his wife.

The singer also alleged that he was attacked by men who he claims were loyal to 2baba over reasons not precisely established.

Meanwhile, 2baba in his reactions through his lawyers had described Brymo’s class as false and threatened to seek N1 billion in damages.

2baba had also vowed he would go to court if Brymo fail to recant his statement and apologize in 48 hours – beginning from October 7.

Also, Now Muzik, a record label and management of 2Baba, had earlier called on Brymo to be ready to substantiate his allegations against its client in court.

“What is unacceptable is making false and defamatory statements. Nothing can be farther from the truth than Brymo’s statements,” it wrote in a statement.

“Those who know [2Baba] will struggle to situate him in the spurious scenarios in the incredulous narrative Brymo has contrived.

“Brymo will have an opportunity to substantiate his claims with proof in court. If he fails to do that, the law will take its course, fully. 2Baba will not dissipate energy engaging Brymo in media exchanges.”

But Brymo in his response after about one week thought back to 2Baba that he had yet to sue him as threatened.

In his words, he said “Let it be public knowledge that I have received no documents of any kind pointing to my being sued by Mr. Idibia. Or his handlers or attorneys,” Brymo wrote on Thursday.

“The impunity with which he lied to all of society in the letter and public statement should rightly pose a setback.”

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OSL_NGO set for scholarship graduation ceremony 

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All roads lead to the Aniocha North Local government Council premises in lssele_uku, for the 2015 – 2021 Batch, Phase 1 Scholarship graduation ceremony for JSS 1- SSS 3 beneficiaries under the auspices of OSL_NGO.

According to a release made available, the ceremony will take place on Saturday, October 16th  from noon prompt.

Immediate past Executive Chairman of Aniocha North Local government Council, Hon Chuks Oseme, will be the Chairman of the occasion, while HRM Ayo lsinyemeze, the Obi of Ugbodu kingdom in Aniocha North, will be the Father of the day.

The Mother of the day is Chief Dame Nkem Okwuofu, Chairman, the Delta State Civil Service Commission, while the Special guest of honor is a former Council Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government and currently Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Ogbuefi Chukwudi Dafe (Agbalala), amongst other top government and community functionaries from far and near.

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“Everybody smoke weed but hypocrisy make marijuana not legalized in Nigeria” – Burna Boy

Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has said that everybody smokes weed but hypocrisy is the main reason why marijuana has not been legalized in Nigeria. 

He made this known when asked about legalizing weed in Nigeria during an interview with Home Grown Radio in Los Angeles.

According to him, he said “It’s not a zero-tolerance. It’s like everybody does it, but no one wants to be the one that is seen talking about it. 

He also said there have been some misconceptions surrounding marijuana which according to him, he said “It’s just kind of hypocritical out there. People try to make it seem like if you smoke weed, you’ll just go mad in Nigeria.”

He also explained that everybody smokes it while describing it as a topic no one wants to talk about.

According to the 30-years-old singer, he said “No one wants to talk about it; everybody is cool. Nobody wants to make it a thing to advocate for the legalization of weed.”

Also, when asked if people get arrested for possession of marijuana in Nigeria, the ‘Twice As Tall’ singer said it depends on who you are and if you can please the person that is stopping you at that time.

After his explanation, Burna Boy further said that he likes visiting Los Angeles because weed is legal in the state and that the best ones are found there.

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Basketmouth signs new records deal with Empire

Ace Nigerian comedian, Bright Okorocha, better known as Basketmouth, has signed a mega music contract with the executives of Empire, a US-based record label in San Francisco.

The award-winning comedian made this known through a post he shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday.

According to Basketmouth in his post, he stated that “Hey guys, did I mention that I have been signed by @empire? Well…I am (sic),” added.

The deal comes after Basketmouth’s successful album YABASI, released in 2020.

The deal will also give the comedian an improvement, a budget, and marketing support for his forthcoming project.

Empire is an independent record label that handles music licensing and distribution and boasts a lineup of successful Nigerian artistes such as Olamide and Fireboy DML.

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Seyi Shey reveals how Sound Sultan assisted her when she got into trouble

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, popularly known as Seyi Shey, has revealed what Sound Sultan did to her when she got into problems in the music industry.

She said the late singer who died in July after a four-year battle with blood cancer has always had her back in the industry.

The songstress revealed this revelation in a recent chat with Chude Jideonwo when she discussed the role the late singer played in her life at the time when she was facing hard times in the music industry.

She said Sound Sultan shouldered the responsibility of finding her a music deal when her girl band split up.

According to her explanation, she said “Why did I come back for music? I’ll blame Sound Sultan. When I met Sultan in 2011/2012, it was in a recording studio with Doc Def, a Nigerian producer based in the UK.”

“I was working with the producer shortly after my girl band broke up and I didn’t want to stop the music so I continued finding different situations that I could be a part of musically.

“Doc Def had a great studio I would often go to and record. I bumped into Sultan. He was playing his music to Doc Def and I was blown away. He asked to listen to my music and Doc Def played him what we had been working on.

“Sultan and I hit it off there and then. He asked me what I was doing with my career and I told him about my girl band; that we had just broken up. He said he was going to get me a deal; an investor so I could come to Nigeria.”

Seyi Shay also said she had moved to Nigeria and lived with the rapper for about a year.

“He said I should do my music there because Afrobeats was taking off. I moved to Nigeria and he teamed me up with Flytime. They had the biggest concerts for years. I lived with Sultan for like a year,” the songstress added.

“His passing hit me big time. He was my mentor and, at some point, it became less about music and more about friendship. He was like a small daddy and his wife became my small mummy.”

“When I started getting into trouble in the industry, he would be like my bailout and defender.”

Back to the beginning: Boadicea, From Above UK, Flytime

Goldennationblog.com gathered that in 2006, Shay had formed a girl band in the UK called Boadicea. They were managed by Ron Tom, the founder, and manager of All Saints, a Canadian girl group, and Sugababes, a British band. The band separated after two years.

Shay decided to partake in the From Above UK singing audition after which she became the group’s lead vocalist.

The group inked a record deal with the company of Mathew Knowles, a US music executive, after performing for him.

They underwent energetic vocal and dance training in Houston, US. The group later split up while Seyi Shay had an opportunity to continue her management deal with Mathew Knowles. She also secured a recording contract with Sony.

The songstress would, instead, join Flytime Music after getting an offer from the promotional company.

Seyi Shay, 35, has worked with several musicians, including Justin Timberlake, Brian Michael Cox, Darey, Bilal, Michelle Williams, Chip, Rob Knoxx, H-Money, and Cameron Wallace.

In January 2021, she signed a publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group, France in partnership with Universal Music France.

Also, in February, MultiChoice Nigeria unveiled Seyi Shay as one of the three judges of Nigerian Idol season 6.

Watch the interview:

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After his latest album, Olamide announces ‘Carpe Deim’ US tour

Nigerian rapper and YBNL boss, Olamide, has revealed his plans to tour nine cities in the United States in support of his revolutionary album ‘Carpe Diem’.

The ‘Carpe Diem’ US tour is taking place exactly one year after he released the album and he has also released ‘Uy Scuti’ his latest album.

The superstar made this revelation known on Tuesday, using his social media handles when he shared the poster for the tour.

The nine-city tour will begin on November 5, 2021, in Minneapolis and finalize on November 28, 2021, in the DMV [District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia].

Olamide’s ‘Carpe Diem’ tour will make nine stops across the United States. Between Houston and Dallas, Texas,

Olamide will go to Atlanta, Georgia, Phoneix, Arizona, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Providence, Rhode Island, and New York City.

The shows, which will be organized by the esteemed Duke Concept.

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Muslim Group threaten lawsuit against actor Odunlade Adekola’s latest movie

Islamic group known as Ta’awunu Human Rights of Nigeria has called for the withdrawal of ‘IKU NI’,  a Yoruba home video produced by Nollywood veteran actor, Odunlade Adekola.

The group alleged that the movie ‘IKU NI’ is not only malicious but an intent to puncture the Islamic practice of Women in veil. 

This was disclosed in a statement titled ‘Incitement Of Religious Violence Occasioning Sacrilegious And ill-befitting Picture Of The Muslim Faith By Veteran Yoruba Actor Odunlade Adekola.’

According to the statement, it’s reads “The Attention of Ta’awunu Human Rights of Nigeria has been drawn to Malicious Yoruba Home Video which is believed to have been produced by a veteran Yoruba Actor, Odunlade Adekola which for all intent and purposes is believed to be an attempt to puncture the Islamic practice of Women in veil.”

THURIST had discovered that in the viral home video titled ‘IKU NI’ in which a woman in veil boarded a commercial Bus claiming to be heading to a destination he referred to as ‘Iyanna Orun’ which is attempted at making jest of the veil women for the fact that there is no destination known as ‘Iyanna Orun’ anywhere in Nigeria.

As if that is not enough, the movie producer went further to portray the woman in veil in the said video as a mad person which attempt to assassinate the sanctity of Women in veil as a practice in the Islamic precept.

The Religious intolerance in the said video reached it’s highest ebb, when the producer scripted and acted the woman in veil holding a matchet and attempting a matcheting of people who come her way.

It is in view of this that THURIST called on the Theater Arts and Motion Picture Producers Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) and Mr. Odunlade Adekola seeking the following reliefs with immediate effect:

Stopping any further production of the said Video titled ‘IKU NI’ and expunging same from another viewing platform including YouTube within 7days

Sanctioning the Movie Producer Odunlade Adekola by the provision of the rules and regulation of TAMPAN.

Censoring all members and producers of home video from further production of movies of this nature

The movie producer should be mandated to issue a letter of apology to the Muslim community for such products through a publication that will be widely seen by all and sundry stating that reliefs sought in paragraph 1 have been met within 7days.

TAKE NOTICE that failure to comply with the reliefs sought, we shall be obliged to proceed on a serious legal action against the Theater Arts and Motion Picture Producers Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) and Mr. Odunlade Adekola to get these reliefs Judiciously.

Barr. Sulayman A. Tadese

Director-General

TOURIST- Nigeria

Cc:

The Inspector-General of Police

The Minister for Information and Culture

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC)

The National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA)

Theater Arts and Motion Picture Producers Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN)

The Muslim News

Ta’awunu Voice of Liberation

Jama’atu Ta’awunil Muslimeen

The Muslim Congress

Muslim Student Society of Nigeria.

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Usher welcome baby boy with his girlfriend, Jenn Goicoechea

American award-winning singer, Usher Raymond, has welcomed his fourth child with his girlfriend, Jenn Goicoechea.

The music star made this known on Tuesday when he took to his Instagram page to disclose the coming of his newly born baby named, Sire Castrillo Raymond.

According to the 42-year-old musician in his post, he shared a picture of the new baby and revealed that Castrello was born on September 29.

In his post, he wrote “Hi my name is Sire Castrello Raymond… I am the newest addition to the Raymond crew. I was born Sept 29, 2021, at 6:42 pm weighing 7lbs 13oz. Hear me roar … A.K.A Ra Ra,” he wrote.

This makes it the singer’s second child with Jenn Goicoechea, his girlfriend, who is a music executive.

In September last year, Usher and Goicoechea had welcomed Sovereign Bo Raymond, their first child together.

It was gathered that Usher has had a chaotic marital ride in the past and he also has two children — Usher Raymond V, 13, and Naviyd Ely, 12 — from his previous relationship with Tameka Foster, his first wife before their break up.

Emerging from the downfall of his marriage to Foster, the ‘Think of You’ singer tied the knot with Grace Miguel, his second wife, in 2015.

But in 2018 — about three years after their marriage — the couple parted ways.

At the time, the pair had released a joint statement wherein they stated that the decision arrived after much concern.

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Senate makes U-turn, adopt electronic transmission of election results

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The Senate has reexamined its position on the electoral act amendment bill and has permitted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to determine the best method to transmit election results.

With the approval, the electoral commission will now have to decide how to transmit election results either electronically or manually.

Both chambers of the National Assembly passed different versions options 43, 52, 63, and 87 of the Electoral Act of electronic transmission of results.

While the Senate version said INEC must obtain permission from the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) and the National Assembly before deploying technology during elections, the House version permits the electoral agency to use its discretion.

Many Nigerians chided the Senate. INEC also said the version passed by the Senate would compromise its independence.

The INEC insisted it could transmit election results across the country.

At plenary yesterday, the Senate examined the recommendations of the Conference Committee of both chambers which dumped the version of the amendment Act earlier passed by the Senate.

The Senate in plenary through voice vote okayed re-transmission of results by the electoral commission.

The Senate went further to endorse the proposal that INEC should be free to use electronic voting.

The Senate also approved an amendment, which provides that political parties would henceforth, use only the direct mode of primary to nominate candidates for elections.

The resolutions of the Senate followed a motion titled: “Motion for recommittal” sponsored by Senate Leader Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North).

Shedding light on the decision, Senator Basiru said the conference committee looked at four sections of the proposed bill-43, 52, 63, and 87.

In Section 43, he said the committee allowed INEC to deploy electronic machines while the party agents are also at liberty to inspect the machines.

The senator said Section 52, which has to do with the transmission of results, raised two concerns.

The first concern, in his view, is the possibility of disenfranchising the electorate in areas where there are no networks.

The second is the possibility of hacking the system.

However, the Senate spokesman pointed out that when the Act was reviewed, it was discovered that Section 63 of the bill passed in the two chambers had provided a clue.

Quoting a part of the section, Basiru said the implication is that the election must be concluded and the result entered on the form at the polling booth.

He said: “The result must be counted and recorded on the form. Therefore, it is not an automatic transmission. Results can only be transmitted after the conclusion of the election. The result must be on the form before the transmission.

Basiru added that while the recourse to the NCC has been discarded, INEC can resort to the technological method of choice.

He said: “We use the word transfer, not transmit, after the recording of results at polling units.”

Basiru also shed light on the provisions on direct primaries, stressing that INEC now had a constitutional duty to vigorously monitor the primaries.

He said political parties are now mandated by the law to furnish the aspirants and the electoral commission with the guidelines and the party membership register.

The spokesman said the issue of armophorous membership will become a thing of the past.

He stressed: “Accreditation will be based on party register. Any aggrieved person can go to the Federal High Court to challenge any aspect.”

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DSS finally release Chiwetalu Agu after four days of detention

The Department of State Service (DSS), has released ace Nollywood actor, Chiwetalu Agu, after spending four days in its custody.

The news of the release was made known by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) through its official Instagram page on Tuesday.

On Thursday, October 7, 2021, the movie star was first arrested by the soldiers for wearing an outfit themed after the flag of Biafra during which he was also assaulted.

Meanwhile, the army had in a statement said the comic actor was arrested after he publicly exhibited his solidarity for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a proscribed separatist group.

Amid the widespread criticism triggered by the army’s action, Chiwetalu was eventually released on Friday, after spending nearly 24 hours in custody.

But a few hours after his release by the army, he was arrested by the DSS for “further questioning”.

He has remained in the custody of the security outfit since then.

But in the statement, Monalisa Chinda Coker, AGN’s spokesperson, said the actor’s release followed efforts by Emeka Rollas, national president of the body, and other stakeholders.

The statement added that Chiwetalu was excited after his release while appreciating God as well as the AGN leadership for coming to his rescue.

The statement reads “The National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ejezie Emeka Rollas has yet again secured the release of Actor Chiwetalu Agu from the custody of the DSS,” statement read.

“On behalf of the Guild, I was at the DSS office with my colleague, the Senior Special Assistant on Military Affairs and Inter-Governmental Relations to President Steve Eboh to receive Mr. Agu today.

“The elated veteran Actor thanked God for surviving the ordeal and commended the leadership of the Actors Guild of Nigeria headed by Ejezie Emeka Rollas for their relentless efforts in securing his release from the detention.”

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Showmax debuts Trailer for new comedy-drama series ‘Ghana Jollof’

Showmax has released the trailer for its first comedy-drama series in West Africa titled ‘Ghana Jollof’.

The comedy-drama series is set to be premiered on African streaming service on Friday, 22 October 2021.

This was revealed in a statement by Onna Okafor, the Public Relations Consultant to Showmax in Nigeria.

According to Okafor, ‘Ghana Jollof’ is a sizzling story of two young Nigerians, Jasper (Funnybone) and Romanus (Akah Nani) who relocated to Ghana in search of greener pastures.

In the trailer, things startup with a first-time meeting between Nnamdi- Uzor Arukwe, who starred as dreaded crime boss Knight in Sugar Rush, Jasper -AMVCA-winning actor/comedian Funnybone), Kweku- heartthrob James Gardiner from Ghana’s popular telenovela Dede and Andomanus, AMAA nominee/Youtuber Akah Nani).

Thereafter, Jasper and Romanus head out to Ghana to Jollof, kicking off a series of adventures… and misadventures.

The comedy-drama series was produced by Nigeria’s King of Comedy, Basketmouth as Ghana Jollof served up a delicious ensemble cast from both Nigeria and Ghana.

The cast includes the likes of AMAA nominee Joselyn Dumas, leading comedienne Jacinta Ocansey, Mawuli Gavor (Chief Daddy), popular reality star Portia Freelove, model, and actress Brihanna Kinte, veteran actor Jackson Albert Davies (Beasts of No Nation), actress Korkor Oyeba Mensah, and multiple award-winning comedian/actor, Kalybos.

While giving insight about the project, Basketmouth said, “I have always wanted to create something that would be a collaboration between Nigeria and Ghana, and Ghana Jollof is a realization of that dream.

Basketmouth

“From the cast to the crew, everyone gave of themselves to create a show deserving to be Showmax’s first comedy-drama from West Africa.

“We all can’t wait for the fans to see what we’ve cooked up”.

Ghana Jollof is directed by Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award nominee Diji Aderogba, whose debut feature film “About A Boy” won the Audience Choice Award at Nollywood Film Week in Paris, France.

Ghana Jollof will be available for streaming across Africa and in the UK as the show will have 13 episodes to devour, with new episodes dropping every Friday from October 22, 2021.

Earlier in the year, Showmax broke first-day streaming records in Nigeria when it launched “I AM LAYCON, a reality show based on Big Brother Naija Season 5 winner Layton.

Showmax also produced the hit BBNaija-focused talk show “The Buzz” which was hosted by Toke Makinwa and became the second-most-watched show – after BBNaija – on the platform.

The Real Housewives of Lagos is also expected to launch as a Showmax Original in early 2022.

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What Michael Jackson son said after fans compare Drake to his father

Prince Jackson, the first child of the late pop king, Michael Jackson, has countered to an unusual comparison of Canadian rapper, Drake to his father.

The comparison came to be after Drake recently won the Billboard Artist of the Decade Award and also made history with his latest album “Certified Lover Boy” with nine of the ten songs on the album making their debut in the top ten of Billboard’s Hot 100 charts.

Prince in a recent interview with TooFab, when asked about Drake beating his father Billboard record that he previously held. Nine tracks from Drake’s album, Certified Lover Boy, reached the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 charts, a record that Michael Jackson Thriller held in 1982.

He said, “I mean everybody has their definition of great, and all respect to Drake everything that he does but what my father and my family accomplished in the time that they did it, is very unlikely never to be matched again.”

It was gathered that Drake has previously cited Michael Jackson as one of his major inspirations. He featured a sample of Michael’s vocals from an unreleased session with Paul Anka on his 2018 track, “Don’t Matter To Me.”

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Activists insist #EndSars anniversary protest must hold despite police threat

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Some activists in Lagos State under the aegis of the TakeItBack Movement have ripped into the decision of the state Commissioner of Police for authorizing that protest should not hold in memorial of the first anniversary of #EndSars.

The Human Rights group defended that they will go on with their protest.

This was made known in a statement titled ‘EndSars Anniversary: Lagos CP statement, an invitation to anarchy.’

The statement was signed by the activist’s Legal Adviser, Festus Ogun, who alleged that protest is a constitutional right.

According to the statement, it reads “The statement credited to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, warning citizens not to exercise their fundamental rights to protest during the commemoration of the #EndSars Massacre Anniversary is unconscionable, draconian and a reckless invitation to anarchy. Concerned Nigerians have taken his words like those of stand-up comedians.”

“CP Hakeem Odumosu has no such power, right, or authority to warn against, prohibit, or outlaw protests. That will be acting the fragile limits of his powers and against the constitution. He cannot, under our extant laws, interfere with the hallowed right to protest under any guise. The only legal duty he has is to ensure the security and welfare of all protesters; which must be professionally done.”

“#EndSars Memorial Demonstration is a constitutionally guaranteed right. Sections 39, 40, and 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as altered, safeguard, and guarantee the right to protest as a human right that shall be enjoyed by all citizens without arbitrary restraint or careless warning. Articles 6, 9, 10, 11, and 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Enforcement and Ratification) Act equally protect the right to protest. Additionally, Articles 18-21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948 fully protect the constitutional liberty to protest.”

“Emphasising the sacred nature of the right to protest is a constitutional democracy, the Court of Appeal in the case of IGP V. ANPP (2008) 12 WRN 65 held that “certainly in a democracy, it is the right of citizens to conduct peaceful processions, rallies or demonstrations without seeking and obtaining permission from anybody. It is a right guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution and any law that attempts to curtail such right is null and void and of no effect whatsoever”.

“A police notorious for extrajudicial killing, torture, extortion, and brutality lacks the legal and moral right to warn or caution victims on how to demand a better life. The audacity is provocative, scandalous, and insulting.”

“We shall not condone any form of harassment, intimidation, brutalization or arrest. We shall resist any attempt to encroach on our constitutionally guaranteed rights. The police and other security agencies are hereby put on notice and they should be guided accordingly.”

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Nigeria military set to begins local production of weapons

President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the defence ministry to set up a complex for the local production of military weapons.

The president said the local production of military weapons is an action taken to strengthen the security situation of the country.

The president made this known at the mid-term ministerial performance review retreat that was held at the statehouse conference center on Monday in Abuja.

Meanwhile, this decision is coming weeks after the federal government agrees with Equipment Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL), a Nigerian company, on the production of locally-made bulletproof vests and other security gadgets.

According to Buhari while listing the achievements of his current administration on improving security, he said the national command and control center, which was established in May 2021 to curb the proliferation of weapons, has been expanded to 19 states.

He also said “To address our over-dependence on other countries for military equipment and logistics, I have instructed the defense ministry to create a modest military-industrial complex for the local production of weapons to meet some of the requirements of the country’s armed forces,” he said.

“This is being implemented under the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), a military department responsible for arms manufacture.

“As part of the efforts towards strengthening our national security, we have increased investments in arms, weapons and other necessary equipment; expanded the national command and control center to 19 states of the federation; and established a Nigeria Police Trust Fund, which will significantly improve funding for the Nigeria Police Force.

“We have also approved the sum of N13.3 billion for the take-off of the community policing initiative across the country, as part of measures adopted to consolidate efforts aimed at enhancing security nationwide.

“It is gratifying to note that only recently, we received six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft as part of our efforts to boost the nation’s campaign against insecurity. The propeller-driven aircraft are being used for training, surveillance, and attack by the military.”

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Delta state CP warns officers to shun all forms of incivility

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+ has warned police officers to desist from all forms of corruption and incivility to members of the public after the command dismissed two errings officers

The command also arrested a suspected armed robber who hides a single barrel gun in a bag of garri and two other suspects.

This was disclosed to newsmen on Monday by the Delta State police public relations officer, DSP Bright Edafe, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he stated that the CP had an enlarged meeting with Area commanders, DPO’S, Tactical commanders, and other officers in the Command on 8th October 2021 and he reiterated the fact that the command under his watch will not tolerate any forms of corruption and incivility to members of the public.

He also stated that mercenaries have been put in place to check the activities of men posted and any erring officer will be dealt with accordingly while citing the two officers dismissed recently as an example to all.

The police spokesperson added that the CP also ordered that stop and search should be intensified, while constant raiding of black spot/criminal hideout should be sustained.

Edafe further noted that “On 11/10/2021 at 0740hrs, men of Ovwian Aladja Division raided criminal hideout/black spots in Ujvwu Community the suspects who gathered in a large number smoking Indian Hemp took to their heels on sighting the police, they were chased and two of them namely Godspower Alfred age 23yrs and Destiny Akwara 34yrs were arrested and upon search, a locally made cut to size gun and some wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp were recovered from them.”

“Similarly, on 10/10/2021 at about 1030 hrs, the patrol team attached to Ovwian Aladja Division while on stop and search duty intercepted a commercial bus carrying some passengers, operatives upon searching the passengers recovered one locally made single barrel gun concealed in a bag of Garri.”

“The suspect one Pigi Kelvin ‘m’ of Ututuoama town Ughelli South LGA age 42yrs was arrested. The investigation is ongoing.”

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AY revealed how he did not succeed in nightclub business

Ace Nigerian comedian and actor, Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has opened up on how he failed in a nightclub business, MVP Lagos.

The comedian stated that he entered into a business that he did not understand how works.

AY made this made known while speaking during an Instagram live interview monitored by Sunday Scoop.

According to the comic star in his explanation, he stated that “I once entered a business that I did not understand. I am very open, there is nothing to hide. There was a time I opened a nightclub. I opened a nightclub with the thought that ‘My name is AY’, I do shows at Eko Hotel, six thousand people attend. If I do my show in Abuja, thousands of people will also come. So I asked myself if I open a beer parlor, will I not be able to gather two hundred people in a weekend? I did not understand that it’s a different calling. That I can gather six thousand people at Eko Hotel does not mean I can gather two hundred people on a Friday night.”

The filmmaker also noted that the lesson he learned from his experience was that every individual should know their strength.

Speaking further, he said, “Because I did not understand how the Friday night business works, it was a fundamental failure; money was lost. What is the message here? I also have two of my friends who were solid in the nightlife business. They decided to have a show at Eko Hotel. It was a disaster. The message here is for everyone to know their strength. Know where you can function, know what you can handle.”

AY also advised young people not to always focus on what they could get when they meet someone who could help them.

He added, “You give someone your number, two days later the person has a house rent problem. You lose people like that when the relationship is all about how to milk them. You just want to go there with a bucket and begin to fetch from that well.”

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“I’m convinced 1999 Constitution is Nigeria glorified death certificate” – Pastor Bakare

The Senior Pastor of the Citadel Global Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to “tear down” the 1999 Constitution.

He clarified the Constitution as Nigeria’s ‘glorified death certificate’.

The cleric said this on Sunday, October 10, 2021, during his ongoing ‘State of the Nation’s address at his church headquarters in Lagos

According to him, he said those arguing on the 2023 election before restructuring “are putting the cart before the horse.”

He also said the wreckage of Nigeria’s actual political structure by the military is accountable for the country’s current socio-economic and political challenges.

He also augmented that the ethnic, religious, and secessionist agitations in the East, West, and North were evidence that the country was in terrible need of restructuring.

While explaining, he said, “I am fully persuaded that the 1999 constitution is nothing more than a glorified death certificate.”

Bakare also called on President Buhari as he stated “Mr. President, stop passing the buck to the National Assembly…Tear down this inhibitive concoction of a constitution. Tear it down so that we can build a nation.”

The cleric also urged the president to restructure the country before leaving office, saying ‘history will remember that you failed’ if he refuses to do so.

Pastor Bakare was President Buhari’s running mate in the 2011 general elections.

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IPOB bans consumption of ‘Fulani cow’ in South-East

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has banned the rearing and consumption of cattle in the southeast.

This was made known in a statement issued on Saturday, October 9, 2021, by Chika Edoziem, IPOB director of state.

The proscribed separatist group also said the ban will take effect in April 2022.

The proscribed group which has been enforcing its sit-at-home orders in the southeast further said the ban will put an end to the incessant attacks on the people of the southeast.

According to the statement, April 8, 2022, is the date. From that date, no more Fulani cow shall be allowed into Biafra land for any reason, not for burials, title taking, weddings, etc.

In the statement also, Edoziem added that “Only Efi Igbo (local cow) shall be consumed and used for all ceremonies in Biafra land.

Also, the group had said those who violate the law will “witness the type of madness that they never knew it’s existing”.

IPOB said ” If you are one of the #zoo animals suffering from an advanced form of Stockholm syndrome, may it kill you there? We in the East are not, have never been, and can never be slaves to any bunch of retards. Ask the British, the statement added.

Recall in February, IPOB threatened to enforce a ban on anti-grazing law in the region.

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2021 NUJ Delegates Conference: Ikeogwu Rejoices Over Election Outcome, Appreciates Delta Delegates

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The Chairman of the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, has expressed joy over the emergence of Comrade Christopher Ikechukwu Isiguzo, as the President of the union at the concluded 7th Triennial National Delegates Conference of the union at Umuahia in Abia State.

While congratulating others that were victorious in the election, Comrade Ikeogwu called on those that could not make it to join hands with the president in taking the union to the envisaged heights, adding that members should embrace the spirit of camaraderie among themselves to attract the much needed public recognition and acceptability from the public.

He said that Comrade Isiguzo had the administrative and leadership astuteness to continue to reposition the union, adding that Isiguzo’s first term in office was an index of his capacity to turn around the fortune of the union for the better in the country.

The labour leader congratulated delegates and observers from Delta State for conducting themselves in a most excellent carriage throughout the duration of the conference, stressing that not only had they made the council proud, but had proven the truism that Delta State is home to personalities with exquisite character.

Ikeogwu wished the delegates and observers from the state a safe journey back to Delta State.

It would be recalled that Comrade Isiguzo had beaten his rival, Yusuf Idris, with 666 to 15 votes, out of the total accredited 702 delegates, with 21 votes invalidated in the electoral process during the conference.

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“Someone threatened to blackmail me with my sex tape” – Tiwa Savage

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Tiwa Savage, has alleged that some persons who have a video of her intimate moment with her new lover are attempting to extort money from her.

The singer made this known during a recent interview with Angie Martinez, an American radio personality of Power 105.1 in New York.

According to music star, she said she got to know about the happening on Wednesday when one of her managers sent her the video while on her way returning from an outing.

She said the video was accidentally posted on Snapchat by her lover who deleted it after he realized his error but it had already been downloaded by a stalker.

Tiwa Savage maintains that she felt ashamed by the nude content, adding that such could affect her recent career steps.

She, nevertheless, swore that she would not agree to threats of blackmail for doing “Something natural.”

The musician said her “blackmailers” initially threatened to release the tape on Thursday night if she fails to pay an undisclosed sum of money.

“So, something happened and this was just yesterday (Wednesday). I was leaving a radio station and I was in my car when one of my managers sent me a message that I should check my phone which I did,” she said.

“When I checked, it was a video. I asked him where he got it from and he replied that he got it like 20 minutes ago. I’m not going to call it a sex tape but it’s a tape of me and the person I am dating right now and it’s gone out. It’s a recent video like two or three weeks ago.

“I said to myself I won’t pay because two months down the line, the person would come for more, and who knows even if I send the money, he would still release it anywhere. I’m not going to allow anyone to blackmail me for doing something natural.”

The singer said the thought of having her nude tape online has since left her unsettled, adding that it is not something she would want her mum and son to watch.

Tiwa Savage also said she decided to open up to control the narrative when the clip is eventually released and to prepare her fans as well as her team ahead mentally.

“The person I’m dating is a regular guy. He’s more concerned about me because he knows I’m going to get it worse. My dad just passed away so he won’t see it but my mum and son,” she added.

“I’m sharing this because I want to control the narrative. The person is not going to make any money from releasing it because it’s an intimate moment with someone that I’m dating.

“They have asked me to pay up, but I’m not going to do that, that where the issue is. So, he is going to put it out regardless…for me, it’s like why now? When the music is so good and I don’t want this to overshadow what I have going on at the moment.

“I have worked so hard with my team. But now, they have to regroup and I feel a little bit embarrassed. Nobody wants that. I keep looking at the video and I’m like this is so embarrassing.

“I don’t want my fans and family to see that side of me. I can’t believe it’s happening to me. I feel for my fans because they have to be defending me. I cried but I don’t want to be extorted.”

On how the video leaked online, she said: “What happened was that the person unsnapped and posted it by accident and deleted it but someone already got it before it was removed online.

“It’s very shot but it’s going to be out there forever. I couldn’t sleep last night because I kept thinking it’s going to come out, we tried to stop it but I resolved I’m just going to own up to it because I’m not ashamed of it, this is someone that I’m dating, I’m not cheating and he’s also not cheating, we’re grown-ups.”

Savage, 41, is one of the world’s biggest Afrobeats stars and is signed to Universal Music Group.

She is famous for songs such as Kele Kele and Eminado and was part of Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records in Nigeria, where she was known as First Lady.

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Efe opens up in his latest EP why BBNaija organizers blacklisted him

The winner of Big Brother Naija season 2, Efe Edjeba, has uncovered some shocking revelations on how he was treated after winning the reality show

The singer made the revelation in a lyric video of a song he released on social media from his new EP ‘Against All Odds.

According to the Delta-born reality TV star in the lyrics, he said after winning the Big Brother Naija in 2017, he refused to be ‘used’ and as a result of that, they tried to finish his career even after claiming that they love him.

In his words, “Man no be God, them for finish us.

I win Big Brother, them wan finish me…. I no gree make them use me, them wan evil me.

I dey do my best to put in all.

I’m sorry to my fans we are expecting more

I dey promise to give you joy, make una no give up”

Meanwhile, Nigerian Media personality, Noble Igwe has also provided an insight into why organizers of BBNaija allegedly blacklisted Efe after he won the reality show.

Igwe served a response after a Twitter user asked why Multichoice has allegedly shut Efe out even though he has “apologized and tried to make amends.”

According to Noble in a post, he shared on Twitter on Tuesday, October 5, 2021, he alleges that Efe sat in his car and asked for the head of Multichoice to meet him before he comes out.

Recall that Efe secured 57.61 percent of votes to emerge winner of the 2017 Big Brother Naija ‘See Goobe’ reality TV show. The Warri-born rap artist beat Bisola, who became the 1st runner up with 18.54 percent of the vote at the grand finale.

However, one can arguably note that Efe hasn’t hit the ground running with either his music or his reality TV career, and fans cooked up a theory that he might have offended a higher power.

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FBI arrests 33 Nigerians linked to BEC scam in Texas

Thirty-three Nigerians involved in series of cybercrime-related activities including Business Email Compromise (BEC) and romance scams have been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Texas, United States.

The Record gathered that the arrest took place last week and the individuals targeted are part of Black Axe, a transitional organized crime syndicate originating from Nigeria and operating across the world.

It was gathered that eleven suspects were charged in the Northern District of Texas and another 23 in the Eastern District, with one suspect charged in both districts.

According to the report, the suspects stole more than $17 million as stated by US officials who said the group had been active since at least January 2017 and engaged in a wide range of fraudulent schemes, such as business email compromise (BEC), investor scams, and unemployment insurance fraud.

The suspects also engaged in online romance scams, operating on dating sites such as Match.com, ChistianMingle, JSwipe, and Plenty of Fish.

In total, authorities said the group stole and laundered more than $17 million, funds they acquired from at least 100 victims, according to Court documents obtained by The Record.

Sources familiar with the group’s activities said the suspects were members of Black Axe, a known criminal syndicate tied to the Neo Black Movement, a college fraternity founded in the 1970s in Nigeria that slowly evolved into a secret society, cult, and confraternity across the country then spread across Africa and the world in recent years.

While NBM started with the goals of fighting racisms in the once British colony, the group, just like other Nigerian confraternities, adopted violent tactics and started delving into criminal activity.

Currently, NBM’s Black Axe is believed to be involved in prostitution, human trafficking, narcotics trafficking, grand theft, money laundering, and cybercrime (mainly email fraud), according to a 2020 Interpol report [Pdf].

NBM maintain that they do not have connections to Black Axe, however is essentially just a different name that acts as a nominal cover for the Black Axe confraternity.

Nigerian Confraternities emerge as Business Email Compromise Threat, 2018, CrowdStrike report [Pdf]


While members of the group have been arrested for cybercrime activities as far back as 2015, last week’s US arrests represent the biggest crackdown against Black Axe’s cybercrime operations.

The arrests also represent the second law enforcement crackdown against the group’s cybercrime operations this year, after Italian police also arrested 30 Black Axe members in April.

Furthermore, the Black Axe arrests in the US represent the second crackdown against an international crime syndicate’s cybercrime operations. Just days before, Spanish and Italian police arrested 106 members of four Italian mafia organizations on cybercrime-related charges such as SIM swapping, BEC scams, phishing, and money laundering.

The suspects arrested and charged in the Northern District of Texas include:

David Animashaun, 38 – arrested in DFW, charged with wire fraud conspiracy
Oluwalobamise Michael Moses, 40 – arrested in DFW, charged with wire fraud conspiracy
Irabor Fatarr Musa, 51 – arrested in the Eastern District of Texas, charged by the Northern District of Texas wire fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy
Ijeoma Okoro, 31 – arrested in DFW, wire fraud conspiracy fraud, money laundering conspiracy
Chukwemeka Orji, 36 – arrested in DFW, charged with wire fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy
Emanuel Stanley Orji, 35 – arrested in DFW, charged with wire fraud conspiracy
Frederick Orji, 37 – arrested in Dallas, charged with wire fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy
Uwadiale Esezobor, 36 – arrested in Lubbock, charged with mail & wire fraud conspiracy
Victor Idowu, 36 – arrested in Los Angeles, charged with mail & wire fraud conspiracy
Afeez Abiola Alao, 37 – wire fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy
Ambrose Sunday Ohide, 47 – wire fraud conspiracyconspiracy

The suspects arrested and charged in the Eastern District of Texas include:

Kingsley Ita, aka “Baron” “Sifk,” 42, of Dallas;
Irabor Fatarr Musa, aka “Fatai” “Head JJ,” 51, of Richardson;
Solomon Esekheigbe, 48, of Katy;
Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, aka “General,” 46, of Allen;
Edgal Iribhogbe, aka “Oseme,” 50, of Allen;
Damilola Kumapayi, aka “Luke Morris,” 33, of Dallas;
Ehiedu Onyeagwu, aka “Young,” 58, of Rosedale, Maryland;
Mathew Okpu, 57, of Temple Hille, Maryland;
Benedicta Atakare, 46, of Temple Hills, Maryland;
Segun Adeoye, 47, of Pearland;
Chisinau Okeke, aka “Steve,” 28, of Richmond;
Ngozi Okeke, 47, of Katy;
Nosoregbe Asemota, aka “Patrick Asemota,” 46, of Melissa;
Chigozi Ekwenugo, 53, of Grand Prairie;
Bukola Obaseki, 48, of Allen;
Stella Hadome, 43, of Allen;
Jequita Batchelor, 37, of Farmers Branch;
Osaretin Eghaghe, aka “Biggie,” 37, of Plano;
Ejiro Ohwovoriole, 29, of McKinney;
Isaac Asare, aka “Asarko,” 48, of Houston;
Gold Ude, 44, of Wylie;
Henrietta Oziegbe, 23, of Lexington, Kentucky; and
Kingsly Oziegbe, 25, of Edinburg.

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Nigeria Army reveals why Nollywood actor Chinwetalu Agu was arrested

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The Nigerian Army has revealed reasons why veteran Nollywood actor, Chinwetalu Agu, was arrested.

The army in a statement issued on its official Facebook page on Thursday, October 7, 2021, alleged that the actor was arrested for motivating members of the public and soliciting support for the Proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

According to the statement, “Troops of Nigerian Army (NA) have arrested one Chiwetalu Agu while inviting members of the public and soliciting for support for the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB),” part of the statement read.

“Dressed in a very well-known attire of the proscribed group, Chiwetalu Agu was picked up for questioning while inviting members of the public to join the proscribed group.”

“Though he attempted putting up some resistance when troops made effort to take him into custody, he was not assaulted or subjected to brutalization.”

The Army said Agu is in its custody for further investigation.

It would be recalled that the movie veteran was molested by men of the Nigeria Army on Thursday after he was spotted wearing a Biafran flag outfit.

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Ckay becomes first African artiste to debut on Billboard Independent Album Chart

Nigerian fast-rising Afrobeat musician, Chukwuka Ekweani, popularly known as CKay, has become the first African artiste to make a debut on the Billboard Independent Album Chart.

This is coming after the outcome of his EP ‘Ckay The First’ debuting at no. 24 on the Billboard Independent Album Charts.

The Billboard Independent Album Charts is a ranking of the highest selling independent albums in the United States. The chart focuses on artists who are not signed to any major label, like Ckay.

The rankings are compiled weekly and Ckay The First EP has debuted on the rankings of the week ending October 9th.

In 2019, Ckay The First EP was released and just recently, the album has debuted at no. 4 on the Billboard World Albums Chart.

The success came as a result of the rapid growth of his ‘Love Nwatiti’ song on TikTok which has gone viral.

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After 3-years: Mayorkun set to drop an album ‘Back To Office’

Popular Nigerian singer and DMW signee, Adewale Emmanuel, better known as Mayorkun, has revealed plans to dropped his much-awaited sophomore album ‘Back In Office’.

Mayorkun made this revelation known on his Instagram page on Thursday while revealing October 29 as the release date.

According to the musician, he thanks his supporters over the years and also asked them to anticipate the project’s release.

The singer in his caption on Instagram wrote “It’s been 3 years…finally my sophomore project – ‘Back In Office’ (The album) is coming October 29. Thank you for holding it down for me every time. Words ain’t enough.”

The upcoming project is Mayorkun’s first album since 2018 when he dropped ‘The Mayor of Lagos’.

The breakthrough album, which featured D’banj, Davido, and Patoranking, garnered massive numbers across streaming platforms and also brought the singer’s popularity. Ever since then, Mayorkun has continued to pull the strings.

The DMW signee has scooped different awards including the ‘Next Rated’ artiste at the 2018 edition of The Headies as well as ‘Artiste of the Year’ back in 2017.

Recall last year, he had put out a four-track EP remixing ‘Geng’, his hit track, featuring MI Abaga, Vector, and YCee.

In August, the 27-year-old musician also came through with the visuals for ‘Let Me Know’, his first single of the year 2021.

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SWAIAP appoints Okowa’s aide, Egware director of media

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The Governing Council of the Society For West African Internal Audit Practitioners (SWAIAP) has approved the appointment of Mr. Nelson Egware as Director, Media, and Publications.

The appointment was conveyed in a letter dated October 1, 2021, and signed by the President and Chief Executive Officer of SWAIAP, Patrick Nzechukwu.

By the appointment, Egware becomes a member of Council of SWAIAP.

Egware, a Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance as well as an MBA, MBF, MSC, and Ph.D. in view.

The new appointee, who joined SWAIAP in September as a Fellow, is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Economists of Nigeria.

A seasoned accountant and journalist, Egware holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the International Institute of Journalism in affiliation with the University of Maiduguri.

The SWAIAP’s new Director of Media and Publications will be reporting directly to the President and Chief Executive of the Society and is saddled with the responsibility of determining the best media outlet mix for promotional strategies, monitoring online and offline advert campaigns.

His mandate includes to build long-term relationships with the conventional, online media and social media influencers to promote the SWAIAP brand.

He will also be overseeing the publishing of all material needs of SWAIAP; organizing, launching and handling all publications related to SWAIAP activities.

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Soldiers brutalized Chinwetalu Agu for wearing a Biafra costume in Onitsha

Nigerian soldiers have beaten and arrested veteran Nollywood actor, Chinwetalu Agu, for wearing outfit colors of the Biafra flag.

The incident occurred on Thursday along Upper Iweka Road, Onitsha in Anambra state.

According to a viral video that was seen by Goldennationblog.com, the Nollywood actor’s vehicle was stopped by the soldiers who spent no time dragging him out.

Many Nigerians have condemned the circumstances on social media stating that ‘nothing happens to the popular thespian.

Recall, the Nigerian government has banned the display of the Biafra Flag in any part of the country.

Last month, Agu went viral on social media wearing a costume made of the Biafra Flag.

The Biafran flag is the official symbol of the South-East Separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, led by Nnamdi Kanu. The group has since been proscribed by the Nigerian Government.

They have been pushing for the eastern part of Nigeria to become a separate country and their campaign which was fraught with severe attacks and abductions in the region.

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2face threatens N1bn suit against singer Brymo over alleged defamation

Nigerian legendary singer, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2face, has threatened to file a lawsuit against Brymo, a fellow singer over his recent tweets on Twitter.

This was disclosed by Brymo on Twitter on Thursday, October 7, 2021, where he shared the petition he received from 2face’s lawyer.

According to the petition, 2baba through his lawyer has given Brymo 48 hours to tender an unreserved apology that was leveled against him.

The letter also stated that Brymo should withdraw all the comments he made about the music star from his social media handles.

Parts of the petition reads “The baseless and false accusation has caused unspeakable distress to our client and his family. You have also caused estimation to be lowered in the estimation of his friends, business associates, and wilder members of the public and further caused him a significant loss of business.”

It was gathered that Brymo in a series of tweets on Monday, October 4, 2021, accused 2face Idibia of physically assaulting him and allegedly accusing him of sleeping with his wife.

See the petition below:

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What White Money said about his cooking in BBNaija house

The winner of season six Big Brother Naija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ edition, White Money has said that his cooking and being in the kitchen while in the house was just a strategy.

The reality TV star also disclosed that he intended to spend four weeks in the house.

He revealed this during an interview with Ebuka Obi-Ochendu, the show host where he talked about his stay on the show.

According to White Money, being in the kitchen started as part of his lifestyle but decide to turn it into a strategy instead.

While explaining, the businessman said, “It was 80% lifestyle and 20% strategy. 80% lifestyle in the sense that the kitchen, washing the dishes, and everything is what I do. The strategy comes in the sense that it was my strength.”

Also, when asked him; “What was the goal before you came on the show? Where did you think you were going to get to?”

The BBNaija winner answered back; “The goal was four weeks max. I told myself, ‘If you could make it to four weeks, and showcase everything that God has put in you, then you’re good.”

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FEC approves N16.39trn for 2022 budget proposal

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The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the 2022 Appropriation Bill for an aggregate expenditure of N16.39 trillion that will be presented by President Muhammadu Buhari to the National Assembly on Thursday.

This was made known by the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Dr. Zainab Ahmed, while briefing State House correspondents on the aftermath of the Council meeting that was presided by President Muhammadu Buhari, on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to the finance minister, she said that the government will continue to borrow to fund infrastructure projects as it does not get enough from its revenues.

She noted that Nigeria’s revenues could barely accommodate services even as she emphasized that despite the concerns, its borrowings were still within acceptable limits

“If we just depend on the revenues that we get, even though our revenues have increased, the operational expenditure of government, including salaries and other overheads, is barely covered or swallowed up by the revenue.

“So, we need to borrow to be able to build these projects that will ensure that we’re able to develop on a sustainable basis.

“Nigeria’s borrowing has been of great concern and has elicited a lot of discussions, but if you look at the total size of the borrowing, it is still within healthy and sustainable limits.

“As of July 2021, the total borrowing is 23% of GDP. When you compare our borrowing to other countries, we’re the lowest within the region, lowest compared to Egypt, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico, the very lowest, and Angola.

“We do have a problem with revenue. Our revenues have been increasing. We just reported to Council that our revenues from non-oil have performed, like July, at the rate of 111%, which means outperforming the prorated budget.

“But our expenditure, especially staff emoluments have been increasing at a very fast rate making it difficult to cope with funding of government.

“So, what we have to do is a combination of cutting down our cost, as well as increasing revenue to be able to cope with all that is required for the government to do, including salaries, pensions debt service, as well as capital expenditure.”

The minister said that the Council noted the changes in the 2022-2024 fiscal projections based on implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and other necessary expenditures that should be accommodated in the 2022 Budget.

She also disclosed that the key assumptions and targets underlying the budget provisions included oil price – 57dollars per barrel; oil production – 1.88 Mbps; exchange rate – N410.15 to a dollar; Oil Revenue – N3.15 trillion and Non-Oil Revenue – N2.13 trillion.

Others she gave are: “Federal Government’s Independent Revenue of N1.82 trillion; Total Projected Federal Government Revenue of N10.13 trillion; Debt Service of N3.61 trillion; Statutory Transfers of N768.28 billion (including N462.53 billion capital component) and Personnel costs and Pensions of N4.69 trillion; (inclusive of N617.72 billion for the 63 GOEs).

“Overhead costs of N792.39 billion (inclusive of N451.0 billion for the 63 GOEs); and Capital expenditure (inclusive of the capital component of Social Investment Programme, capital in Statutory Transfers, capital of 63 GOEs, Capital Supplementation as well as Grants and Donor funding) of N5.35 trillion(inclusive of N647.08 billion for the 63 GOEs).

“The resultant deficit of N6.258 trillion which will be financed by new borrowings of N5.012 trillion (of which domestic – N2.506 trillion and foreign – N2.506 trillion); drawdowns on Project-tied Multilateral/Bilateral loans – N1.156 trillion; and Privatization Proceeds of N90.73 billion,” she stated.

On the approved 2022 Appropriation Bill for an aggregate expenditure of N16.39 trillion for 2022, she gave the components as the adjustments to the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework 2022-2024; Statutory Transfers of N768.28 billion and Debt Service of N3.61 trillion and Sinking Fund for Maturing Debts of N292.71 billion Naira.

Other is Recurrent Expenditure (Non-Debt) of N6.83 trillion, inclusive of N350.0 billion for the recurrent component of Social Investment Programme; and Aggregate Capital Expenditure of N5.35 trillion, inclusive of GOEs’ capital expenditure, multilateral/bilateral loan funded projects, Capital Supplementation, and Grants/Aid funded projects.

According to her, this represents 33% of the expenditure budget.

On special allocations for completion of legacy projects of the Buhari administration, the minister said: “The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing has a provision of N388 billion; the Power sector has about N377 billion; the Ministry of Agriculture has N98 billion; the Transportation Ministry has N189 billion.

“So, all the major projects are being provided for. The target is to make sure that we have some of these key projects completed and commissioned during Mr. President’s tenure.

“Currently, the agriculture sector contributes 23% of the GDP. We have a record of expanding the agricultural value chain; we’ve had very little or no processing in agriculture until this administration.

“We now have a very large number of fertilizer blending plants, about 42, that are operating at full capacity. We also have a large number of rice mills that didn’t exist before.

“We have a lot of Nigerians that have taken up agriculture as a business, but apart from agriculture, the President is also rolling out rail lines, some of which had been started several years ago, have been completed.

“The Lagos/Ibadan rail line is now put to use. We all know about the Abuja/Kaduna and also the Itakpe/Warri rail line has been completed. Work has kicked off on the Kano to Kaduna end of the Lagos/Kano/Ibadan rail line.

“So, Mr. President wants to leave these rail lines. Rail is very important because it is a major means of moving goods across the country.

“When the rail lines are completed, it will provide much-needed relief in terms of movement of goods that our roads now suffer by the use of trucks.

“We are also investing in the deployment of major roads. Some of them are completed, some are at various levels of completion.

“There’s also the 2nd Niger Bridge that is also going to be completed during the tenure of this administration.”

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Senate confirmed EFCC nominee who attended primary school before he was born

One of the nominees to board the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Yahaya Muhammad, has said to have started primary school before he was born.

President Muhammadu Buhari asked the upper legislative chamber to confirm Muhammad and four other nominees for the board of the anti-graft agency in September.

The other nominees confirmed by the senate are George Abang (secretary), Lukman Mohammed, Anumba Adaeze, and Bola Adesina.

While presenting his report for the consideration of the Senate on Tuesday, Kwari Sulieman, chairman of the senate on the anti-corruption and financial crimes committee, said all the nominees met the requirements to hold public office.

But Hassan Hadejia, senator representing Jigawa north-east, drew the attention of the senate to what he described as “discrepancies” in Muhammad’s credentials.

Hadejia said according to the nominee’s credentials, he started school a year before he was born.

“One of the nominees, Alhaji Yahaya Muhammad — according to the record before us, started his primary school before he was born,” the senator said.

“There is also an overlap in the sequence of his educational experience because here, he was born on 29th of September, 1969 and he started his primary school in 1968.

“He was in Borno Teachers College from 1975 and 1988 while simultaneously he was in the college of administration studies from 1980 to 1981.”

Still, Muhammad was confirmed after his nomination was put to a voice vote by Ovie Omo-Agege, deputy senate president.

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FG threatens to declare state of emergency in Anambra

With the recent wave of attacks and killings in Anambra, the federal government has threatened to declare a state of emergency ahead of the November 6 governorship election.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, made this known after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday at the presidential villa, in Abuja.

According to the minister, he said the government is determined to ensure a hitch-free election in Anambra despite the wave of the attack and killings in the state.

The minister said “When our national security is attacked, and the sanctity of our constitutionally guaranteed democracy is threatened, no possibility is ruled out,” he said.

“As a government, we have a responsibility to ensure the sustenance of our democratic order. As a government, we have a responsibility to provide security to life and properties.

“So, within the context of these constitutional obligations, of the government or the desire to establish democratic norms and order, there is no possibility that is out ruled.

“So, what I’m saying in essence, no possibility is out ruled by a government in terms of ensuring the sanctity of our democratic order, in terms of ensuring that our elections in Anambra hold.

“And you cannot rule out the possibility of a declaration of a state of emergency where it is established, in essence, that there is a failure on the part of the state government to ensure the sanctity of security of lives, properties, and democratic order.”

The minister said the government has resolved that the election will take place, adding that it will ensure the provision of security for the exercise.

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NCC restricts Nigerians below 18-year from obtaining SIM

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The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has restricted anyone below the age of 18 from registering and owning a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) in Nigeria.

This was contained in a draft copy of the modified Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations published on NCC’s website.

According to the modified regulations, the commission limits telecoms subscribers to only include anyone above the age of 18.

The regulations were made in line with the powers conferred upon the commission by section 70 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

By Section 57 of the Act, the NCC conducted a Public Inquiry on the Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations, alongside the draft SIM Replacement Guidelines and the draft Spectrum Trading Guidelines at its head office in Abuja on Tuesday.

NCC’s Executive Commissioner Stakeholders’ Management, Mr. Adeleke Adewolu, gave the opening remark at the event.

He said, “The public inquiry is an avenue that enables the commission to develop and review its regulatory instruments by incorporating the comments and suggestions of industry stakeholders.”

During the public inquiry, which was held physically and virtually, key stakeholders, including MTN, urged the commission to revise the age limit.

MTN asked the commission to make the age limit 14 years and above.

The NCC, however, insisted on 18 years and above for anyone who wants to own and register a SIM in Nigeria.

“Subscriber’ means a person not below the age of 18 years who subscribes to communications services by purchasing a subscription medium or entering into a subscription contract with a licensee.”

The Licensee refers to a provider of communications services that utilize a subscription medium in the Federal Republic of Nigeria’.

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Sanwo-Olu sign new law, bans police from parading suspects before media

The Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has signed the Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice (Amendment) Bill, 2021 into law.

The new amendment law is to prevent police officers from parading criminal suspects before the media.

The law ensures the fundamental rights of everyone that comes in contact with the justice system are respected.

TheCable gathered in July that the state house of assembly passed the amendment bill, which also makes provision for preventing the police from parading suspects before the media in Lagos.

Section 9(a) of the amendment bill states: “As from the commencement of this law, the police shall refrain from parading any suspect before the media”.

The Attorney-General of the state, Moyosore Onigbanjo, in a statement on Tuesday, said Sanwo-Olu approved the bill on September 30.

According to Onigbanjo, the prerequisites of the amendment bill include the conduct of criminal proceedings through audio and video conferencing platforms.

The bill also prescribes defensive measures for victims and witnesses, as well as the establishment of a crime data register and criminal justice sector reform committee.

“Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on the 30th of September 2021 assented to the Administration of Criminal Justice (Amendment) Law (ACJL) of Lagos State, 2021,” the statement reads.

“The ACJL was first passed in Lagos State in 2007 and amended in 2011 (more than ten (10) years ago) to ensure the fundamental rights of suspects and persons that come into contact with the justice system, as enshrined in the constitution, are protected.

“In a bid to further strengthen the justice system, promote the rights of victims and suspects as well as address the issue of delay in the administration of criminal justice in Lagos State, key innovative provisions have been introduced as amendments to the Law.

“This further reinforces the commitment of Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to the promotion of law & order, protection of rights of citizens, decongestion of our correctional facilities, and ensure a crime-free society in Lagos State.

“The ministry of justice, through a collaborative effort with stakeholders in the administration of criminal justice, will ensure the provisions of this law are enforced.”

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Avoid food items preserved with Formalin – NAFDAC warns

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has advised Nigerians to ignore frozen products and other food items that are preserved with formalin.

Formalin is a poisonous chemical used to preserve dead bodies in mortuaries.

Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, the agency spokesperson told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday.

According to Dr. Jimoh, he stated that unscrupulous business persons have been using formalin to preserve poultry products, chicken, and turkey.

He advised that formalin is capable of preserving such products for weeks before they get to consumers.

He said, “NAFDAC is alerting Nigerians about this practice. There are enough poultry products in the country than to resort to frozen chicken smuggled in, despite Nigerian government’s ban”.

Dr. Jimoh also called the attention of consumers to the economic import of patronizing business people who smuggled poultry products into the country.

He said if such business began again, indigenous poultry farmers and marketers would not grow as desired as money spent on smuggled products would only go to producers of the products.

He added that the business of imported or smuggled products would also continue to affect Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves.

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EFCC arrests Kano state governor’s wife, Hafsat over fraud

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The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) has arrested Hafsat, the wife of Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano state governor over reports of bribery and fraud.

It was gathered by Premium Times that the commission acted based on a petition presented by her son, Abdulazeez Ganduje.

Abdulazeez was said to have reported his mother to the commission for corruptly using family power and status for private enrichment.

The governor’s wife was arrested on Monday evening and was still at EFCC headquarters as of 6 am on Tuesday.

She was arrested after she failed to appear upon invitation at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on September 13.

It was also gathered that she visited the UK at the time to attend the graduation ceremony of her son.

Meanwhile, according to Abdulazeez in his petition, he explained how he was approached by a property developer to help facilitate the acquisition of some plots of land in Kano with some hundreds of thousands of US dollars and at least 35 million nairas as “facilitation commission”.

He was said to have paid the money to his mother.

“But three months later, the property developer discovered that the plots of land he wanted and remembered paid for had been allocated to other buyers. Thereafter, he requested to be refunded,” a source was quoted to have said.

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Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp back to normal after outage

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A global service outage has kept Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp offline on Monday.

The outage began just before noon and it took nearly six hours before it was resolved.

This is the terrible outage for Facebook since a 2019 incident took its site offline for more than 24 hours, as the rest hit hardest on the small businesses and creators who rely on these services for their income.

According to Facebook Inc in a statement, the company explained that the outage on Monday evening was due to a configuration issue, and the company says it doesn’t believe any user data was affected.

Bloomberg also reported that the company’s engineering team wrote in a blog post on Monday night, stating that “This disruption to network traffic had a cascading effect on the way our data centers communicate, bringing our services to a halt.”

The technical issue took Facebook’s core social network, its photo app Instagram and its WhatsApp and Messenger services offline for hours, marking one of the longest and broadest failures in recent memory. It had a seismic impact, immobilizing a suite of services that more than 2.75 billion people rely on daily to communicate, do business and consume news. The outage dominated news reports and sent people across the globe scrambling to other apps and services to stay connected and informed.

Chief Executive Officer
Mark Zuckerberg apologized on his Facebook page after the network had been restored. “Sorry for the disruption today — I know how much you rely on our services to stay connected with the people you care about,” he wrote.

Facebook’s internal tools and communications systems were impacted by the disruption, adding to the challenge for engineers working to identify and resolve the issue. Its internal work product, Workplace, was also affected. Fixing the underlying problem involved visiting a physical server facility and manually resetting some servers, a spokesman said.

“To every small and large business, family, and the individual who depends on us, I’m sorry,” Chief Technology Officer Mike Schroepfer tweeted Monday afternoon. His apology was reiterated by Facebook’s engineering blog.

Facebook’s loss turned into again for another social media. Twitter Inc.’s network stayed online, with CEO Jack Dorsey tweeting his endorsement of private messenger Signal as a WhatsApp alternative. Signal signed up millions of new users on the day, while Telegram, whose functionality closely mirrors that of WhatsApp, surged 55 places to top the U.S. iPhone download chart, according to Sensor Tower.

While it’s not uncommon for Facebook’s apps to have occasional glitches, they rarely last more than a few minutes. Downdetector, which monitors internet problems, said the Facebook outage was the largest it had seen, with more than 10.6 million reports worldwide.

Monday’s protracted outage was the latest in a cascade of difficult events for Facebook. A former employee turned whistle-blower appeared Sunday on CBS’s “60 Minutes” to accuse the company of prioritizing profits over user safety. The former employee, Frances Haugen, also handed over thousands of damning documents to U.S. lawmakers and the Wall Street Journal, which wrote a series of articles last month on Facebook’s struggles with content moderation and Instagram’s negative psychological impact on teenagers.

The whistle-blower is set to testify before a Senate subcommittee on Tuesday and plans to tell lawmakers the “frightening truth” about Facebook.

Read more: Facebook Insider Promises ‘Frightening Truth’ in Senate Showdown

“Facebook became a $1 trillion company by paying for its profits with our safety, including the safety of our children,” Haugen will tell the Senate Tuesday, according to a copy of her prepared testimony. “I came forward because I recognized a frightening truth: almost no one outside of Facebook knows what happens inside Facebook. The company’s leadership keeps vital information from the public, the U.S. government, its shareholders, and governments around the world.”

Facebook shares dropped 4.9% to $326.23 at the close in New York. They had declined before the service disruption was reported, hurt by the whistle-blower’s “60 Minutes” appearance.

The extent of Monday’s disruption was more severe. Some workers even struggled to use Facebook’s identity-badge system at offices during the outage.

In 2019 Facebook’s internal apps also stopped working following a dispute with Apple Inc. that halted some of the functionality of those apps on the iPhone maker’s platform.

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Despite changing voting pattern: BBNaija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ records over 1 billion votes

Despite the change in voting pattern, the just-concluded season six of Big Brother Naija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ reported an incremental vote of over one billion from fans for the first time since the show returned to the screen.

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, the show host made this revelation on Sunday, during the grand finale of season 6 as Fans from the United Kingdom also made part of the teeming audience.

The Show, despite its criticism, was able to attain such success amid the various complaints that wandered the season as well as the change in voting systems.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that weeks before the season started, the show organizers declared openly stating that there would be no paid voting as was the standard in earlier seasons.

The organizers while rejecting paid voting, also encouraged their fans to support their favorites housemates by voting using their online platforms which more votes will be allotted to the subscribers of their cable TV decoders.

Meanwhile, the ‘Shine Ya Eye’ season rounded up with an interesting finale show on Sunday, October 3, with guest performances from Made Kuti, Ajebo Hustlers, Lojay, and BBNaija alumni Avala and Laycon.

Unlike previous seasons, the ‘Shine Ya Eye’ season placed six finalists and the much anticipated physical audience for the finale show.

According to statistics the season six winner, Whitemoney made a landslide victory with 47 % of fan votes. Another fan-favorite Liquorose came second place with 22.99% of fan votes while Pere and Cross came in third and fourth place respectively.

Whitemoney takes home N90 million worth of prizes comprising N30 million cash, a house, and a brand new car.

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Delta State Police Command arrest suspected armed robbers recovers 340-round of ammunition

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The Delta State Police command has arrested suspected armed robbers and recovers three hundred and forty rounds of AK47 live ammunition.

The command also recovered one English double barrel gun and one locally-made gun and twenty-eight rounds of live cartridges.

This was disclosed to newsmen by the spokesperson of the state command, DSP Bright Edafe, in Asaba the state capital on Saturday, October 2, 2021.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that “On 01/10/2021 at about 07:30 hrs, Policemen attached to the Bomadi Divisional patrol team while on stop and search duty along Bomadi/Tuomo road intercepted a cyclist carrying one Solomon Ebe ‘m’ age 37yrs of Tuomo Community Burutu LGA Delta State carrying bag containing Garri.”

He said “The operative who was discrete in their responsibilities on reasonable suspicion decided to search the suspect and the bag. Upon search, three hundred and forty (340) rounds of AK47 live ammunition hidden inside the Garri were recovered.”

He also said the suspect was arrested and an investigation is ongoing.

Again, he said, “On 30/09/2021 at about 2015hrs, the DPO ‘A’ Division Warri acting on a distressed call that a tricycle with registration No FHR 600 QF has been snatched by four armed gangs at Hausa quarters and were heading towards Delta line, Warri/Sapele road Warri.”

He further said “The DPO deployed the Rapid response team of the Division to go after them. The team, sighting the hoodlums around Warri gave them a hot chase and in the process, one of the suspects named Efe David ‘m’ age 22 years jumped down from the tricycle and was arrested while the other three escaped with the tricycle.”

According to DSP Edafe, “Information was quickly disseminated to other Divisions and vigilantes which fortunately led to the arrest of one of them by vigilante with the snatched tricycle while two of the robbers escaped.”

Edafe also said, “The Vigilantes were overpowered by an irate mob who delivered instant jungle justice on the suspect. The tricycle, cut to size double barrel gun with two live cartridges, and some suspected stolen pieces of gold-plated jewelry were recovered. The investigation is ongoing, he added.

Also in another development, Edafe said “On 29/9/2021 at about 0300hrs acting on credible information Operatives attached to the Command raider squad raided Utuloho Street Ozoro, during which one (1) English double barrel gun and twenty-six (26) live cartridges were recovered in possession of one Ejiro Efemijoghor ‘f ‘, who claimed that the gun belongs to her husband. The investigation is ongoing.”

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Ndokwa Nation under my watch as PG NNU will regain her pride of place – Gen Mike Ndubuisi Rtd

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The repositioning of the Ndokwa Nation as a prime player in the scheme of things in Delta State in particular, and Nigeria in general, is the focus of the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU).

Giving the affirmation during an exclusive chat with selected newsmen recently, the President General of the Apex socio-political and cultural body for all Ndokwans, General Mike Ndubuisi (rtd), stated that the Ndokwa Nation deserved a commensurate share of the dividends of democracy, viewed against the obvious contribution of the region to the economic well being of Nigeria.

General Ndubuisi bemoaned the absence of a higher institution of learning in Ndokwa land, describing it as a slap on the peace-loving people of the oil-rich region.

The NNU President General said efforts are on to reach out to oil-producing and gas-related outfits who thrive in their businesses all over Ndokwa land, to make sure they deliver more on their various Corporate social responsibility (CSR) mandates in line with global best practices.

The NNU  President General said that since February 13tg 2021 when he was elected alongside his executive members, he had developed a “Ndokwa First” blueprint which aimed at sensitizing all indigenes of the area on the need to place Ndokwa first above personal considerations so that the age-long cultural and social values of the people will be brought to the fore.

He also disclosed plans to partner with the various local government Chairmen in the area in the area of security, stating that as Chief security officers of the there local governments of Ukwuani, Ndokwa east and west respectively, there was every need to liaise with NNU and the political class, to enable a holistic solution to any security challenge.

Gen Ndubuisi while assuring that under his watch the Ndokwa house permanent site in kwale will be completed, sued for the continued cooperation of all Ndokwa I indigenes both at home and the diaspora, to achieve set goals.

He commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration for the laudable infrastructural and human capital development projects in Ndokwa land, appealing that the area should be given more attention to benefit from more democratic dividends.

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Female student fainted three times after hearing her lecturer died of AIDS

An unnamed female student of an undisclosed tertiary Institution in Nigeria fainted three times after she got the news that a male lecturer in her Department died of AIDS, Acquire Immune Deficiency Syndrome.

According to the information gathered, the young lady is said to have received the news with shock and thereupon fainted on three different occasions.

This was made known by a young man on Twitter with the username @spendOGustavO, who tweeted: “My female coursemate fainted 3 times after she heard the news that our lecturer died of AIDs. I do understand why she faints”

Meanwhile, it is being rumored that the said lady had sexual affair with the deceased lecturer before his death and fears that she must have contracted the virus from him.

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After four years: Dbanj drops new album ‘Stress Free’

Ace Nigerian musician and entertainer, Dapo Oyebanjo, better known as Dbanj, has come through with his highly anticipated album titled ‘Stress Free’.

In the album, the award-winning singer joined Seun Kuti, son of Fela Kuti, the late Afrobeat legend; and Burna Boy, the Grammy award winner.

According to the album, it contains 8-track with songs like ‘Ikebe’, ‘Banga’, ‘Big Vibe’, ‘Welcome To Lagos’, and ‘Stress-Free’, among others.

Dbanj in the 27-minute album also taps stupendously from the Afrobeat sound made popular by Fela while also collaborate with the creative efforts of Kay Switch and Teni, Nigerian singers.

The ‘Stress-Free’ album come after the success recorded by his ‘King Don Come’ album he dropped in 2017.

According to Dbanj in a post, he shared on his Instagram page on Friday, revealed that it took him about two years to put the album together.

He wrote on Instagram, “I’ve been told that you can’t live a #Stressfree life without going through stress and that if only you hang in there you would move from the #Stress into the free part and that’s why with joy in my heart. I’m grateful to God and to Everyone that made this Album Come to life.”

Again, he said “I can’t thank you all enough. It took us more than 2 years or more to put this together and I know how hard and difficult it is Because I already planned the release of Stressfree for my birthday last year but the most stressful season in my life came unexpectedly but thank God for the grace to scale through and today finally it’s out.”

Dbanj with multiple awards and distinction has verified himself as a dominant figure in the global music industry.

Listen to Stress Free here:

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Burna Boy team up with Polo G in new single ‘Want It All’

Nigerian Grammy award winner, Burna Boy, has dropped a new single ‘Want It All’ featuring American musician, Polo G.

Burna Boy made this known in a post he shared on his social media handles in the early hours of Friday.

The track, less than four-minute is produced by two American producers, Smoke Ono and Sean Silverman.

In the track, the 28-year-old singer talks about his struggle from the bottom to the top, his accomplishments at the last Grammy Awards, and also the incredible things of life he has owned.

According to Burna Boy in his lyrics, he sang “Remember when they said they don’t believe in me no more| I was sleeping on the ground, on the cold floor| Whole time I was grinding| I been trying to achieve| Working night and day, you know my people no dey sleep| I got every Louis V collection from Virgil| Now my life a fashion show, no rehearsal| Dior from Kim Jones, Bottega from Daniel| 100K my ring so I’m not shaking no hands no,” he sings.

In 2012, the singer started to gain popularity after releasing ‘Like to Party’, the lead single from his debut album L.I.F.E (2013).

In 2017, Burna Boy signed with Bad Habit/Atlantic Records in the US and Warner Music Group internationally.

His third album ‘Outside’ marked his major-label debut. He won ‘Best International Act’ at the 2019 BET Awards.

His fourth studio album ‘African Giant’ was released in July 2019, and it won album of the year at the 2019 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and was nominated for ‘Best World Music Album’ at the 62nd Grammy Awards.

In 2021, Burna Boy would win the award for ‘Best World Music Album’ at the 63rd Grammy Awards.

Recently, Burna Boy asked Architectural Digest (AD), a prominent magazine in the United States, for a tour of his expensive mansion in Lekki, Lagos.

Listen to the song below:

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Buhari orders conditional lifting of the ban on Twitter

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President Buhari has authorized a conditional lifting of the Twitter ban in Nigeria that was imposed in June.

The president made this known on Friday while on national television to mark the 61st independence day.

According to President Buhari, he described social media is a very useful platform but regretted that some users have misused the platform to organize, coordinate, and execute criminal activities, propagate fake news, and promote ethnic and religious sentiments.

The President said, “Social media is a very useful platform that has enabled millions of Nigerians to connect with loved ones, promote their businesses, socialize, and access news and other information.

“However, recent events have shown that the platform is not just an innocuous platform for information dissemination.

“Rather some users have misused the platform to organize, coordinate, and execute criminal activities, propagate fake news, and promote ethnic and religious sentiments.

“To address these negative trends, the Federal Government of Nigeria suspended the operations of Twitter in Nigeria on June 5, 2021, to allow the Government to put measures in place to address these challenges.

“Following the suspension of Twitter operations, Twitter Inc. reached out to the Federal Government of Nigeria to resolve the impasse. Subsequently, I constituted a Presidential Committee to engage Twitter to explore the possibility of resolving the issue.

“The Committee, along with its Technical Team, has engaged with Twitter and has addressed several key issues. These are National Security and Cohesion; Registration, Physical presence and Representation; Fair Taxation; Dispute Resolution; and Local Content.

“Following the extensive engagements, the issues are being addressed and I have directed that the suspension be lifted but only if the conditions are met to allow our citizens to continue the use of the platform for business and positive engagements.

“As a country, we are committed to ensuring that digital companies use their platform to enhance the lives of our citizens, respect Nigeria’s sovereignty, cultural values and promote online safety.”

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Buhari uncovers ‘world’s largest photo book on Nigeria’s history [Photos]

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President Muhammadu Buhari has uncovered a photo book on Nigeria’s history titled ‘Discover Nigeria.’

The photobook, ‘Discover Nigeria’ has 392-page with illustrations covering the period from independence in 1960 till the present day.

The ‘Discover Nigeria’ which has been described as “the world’s largest pictorial book” was unveiled on Thursday at the statehouse banquet center in Abuja.

The pictorial book was designed by Buhari’s official photographer, Bayo Omoboriowo, who showcases traditional institutions, landscapes, farmlands, stunning waterfalls, and seas, among others.

According to Omoboriowo, the 60 sqm book is contending for the Guinness World Record largest photobook.

He said “The previous record for the largest photo book is 45 sqm. The ‘Discover Nigeria’ book has been printed and mounted as a 60 sqm giant frame book, 60 images, 60 pages, 60 square meters, celebrating Nigeria at 60.”

The president photographer also said that the book exhibition was invented as part of Nigeria’s diamond celebration.

The event was attended by governors, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps, the business community, and stakeholders in the creative industry.

Over 60 young Nigerians were said to have taken part in the construction of the giant frame book mounted at the statehouse conference center (formerly banquet hall), the venue of the event.

Sharing the news, the president’s assistant on broadcast media, Buhari Sallau, took to his Instagram page to share some photos from the event.

See more photos below:

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Delta CP deploys officers ahead of Independence Day celebration, assures adequate security

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+, has ordered massive deployment of officers across the state to provide adequate security before and after the independence day celebration and to ensure the protection of all residents, and the success of all the activities lined up to mark the anniversary in the state.

The CP also assured residents of the state of hitch-free independence day celebrations as the State and Nation, in General, marks her 61st Independent day celebration on 1st October 2021.

This was disclosed to newsmen by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, on Thursday, September 31, 2021, in Asaba the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that the CP has directed all Area Commanders, DPOS, and Tactical Commander to deploy men to all the venues of the Celebrations and other resorts centers to avoid any mischief-makers showing their ugly faces and causing any form of mayhem for law-abiding citizens resident in the state and to ensure proper supervision of their men deployed.

He also noted that the CP warns that any mischief-maker who goes about fermenting any form of hostility before, during, and after the celebrations will be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.

To this effect, the CP has ordered Continuous ‘OPERATION SHOW OF FORCE’ with effect from Thursday 30th September 2021 in all parts of the State to ensure hitch-free Independence day celebrations.

The CP further urged members of the public to be law-abiding while assuring them that the Command remains committed to its core mandate of providing security, maintenance of law, and protection of lives and properties among other duties in the State.

The CP on behalf of the Command’s management team wishes Deltans and Nigerians, in general, a hitch-free Independence day celebration.

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Wild boars attacked Shakira while in the park with her son

Colombian singer and songwriter, Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, better known as Shakira narrated how she was attacked by two wild boars while in the park with her 8-year-old son, Milan.

The pop star made this known through her Instagram stories on Wednesday, September 29, 2021, when she shared series of posts, informing her fans how she fought off two wild boars while trying to enjoy a day out at the park with her son.

According to her, the beast took her bag but she managed to battle it back, adding that the contents of her bag were damaged.

In the post, she showed fans her bag covered in mud and also showed two photos she took of the wild boars.

The 44-year-old singer stated in Spanish “Look how two wild boars that have attacked me in the park have left my bag.”

The singer added “They have attacked me, they have shattered everything…and they were taking my bag to the forest with my phone. And in the end, they left me the bag/purse because I confronted them.”

Meanwhile, the singer did not state where exactly the incident happened but it is likely to be in Barcelona, where she owns a house and where there are plenty of wild boars.

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Bill to empower rural residents passes second reading in Senate

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A bill seeking to empower poor Nigerians living in the rural areas with unfailing income and jobs that would provide 100 days of paid work per year scales through second reading in the Senate on Wednesday.

The bill titled, ‘The Rural Employment Guarantee Bill 2021, was proposed and sponsored by APC senator representing Niger East, Senator Mohammed Sani Musa.

According to Musa while justifying the bill, he explained that the bill among others attempts to provide livelihood security in rural neighborhoods by giving at least one hundred days of guaranteed wage assistance in every financial year to every family whose adult member volunteers do skilled manual work.

He said the bill when enacted into law would empower the rural poor through the procedures of a rights-based law.

He said it would ensure a strong social safety net for vulnerable groups, bolster the natural resource base of rural employment and serve as a model of governance reform that is docked on the principles of transparency and grass-root democracy.

He added that the National Rural Employment Guarantee bill aims to reduce poverty by providing extra work for those who need it, while also providing empowerment and insurance when other sources of work dry up.

Citing the Poor Employment Act of 1817 in Britain, and the New Deal Programs in the United States in the 1930s, Musa explained that the piece of legislation was similarly intended to be an intervention that makes government an employer of last resort.

He noted that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development would monitor the implementation of the scheme in association with state governments.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Smart Adeyemi (Kogi West), threw his weight behind the passage of the bill into law.

He said, having agencies backed by law to oversee the implementation of such schemes for the poor would ensure that they are not abused.

He said, “In our nation today, Mr. President, most of these palliatives that the present government has put in place have been abused because you have a situation where names are duplicated.

“It is even difficult for you to know those who are benefiting.

“The bill my brother is seeking is for us to have a formal agency for social security that will take care of all employment problems and even health problems of people who are not gainfully employed. It must be holistic.

“This bill is good, the intention is good, but I think this bill must go further to make it a holistic solution to the problem of unemployment in our nation, so that it is not abused, and so that in every local government in Nigeria, you have an agency in charge that will take care of unemployment of our people.

“In having the law, we must also have the punitive measures in place for those who would abuse it, so that people will know that this bill is intended to alleviate the suffering of people, and by extension, Mr. President, guarantee the security of our nation.

“Most of the people who are into crime today, are out of frustration of unemployment. We have a large number of unemployed people.

“Today, we have up to two hundred universities and polytechnics producing graduates.

“So, I think we must advise our government. Progressive as this government is to palliatives, let us formalize these palliative measures by having a social security agency in every local government of Nigeria, and let us put a law in place to make sure that nobody abuses it.”

The Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, suggested the bill to the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development for additional work after passing the second reading.

The Committee which is chaired by Senator Abdullahi Adamu was given four weeks to report back to the Senate.

In a similar action, the Smallholder Farmers Protection Bill 2021, also scaled second reading on Wednesday.

The bill sponsored by Senator Muhammad Enagi Bima (Niger South) was also suggested by the Senate President to the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development.

Also, the Petroleum Industry Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; Chartered Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2021; and Federal College of Agriculture, Shani (Establishment) Bill, 2021, passed second reading during plenary.

While the Petroleum Industry Act (Amendment) Bill 2021, was recommended to the Joint Committees on Petroleum (Upstream); Petroleum (Downstream); and Oil and Gas, the other two were suggested to the Committees on Establishment and Public Service; and Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND for further inputs, respectively.

The Committees were all given four weeks to turn in their reports to the chamber in plenary.

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Burna Boy hit new milestone, exceeds one billion views on Youtube

Nigerian Grammy award winner, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has crossed the one billion views on Youtube, a video streaming platform.

Burna Boy became the second Nigerian artist after Davido to have exceeded the one billion view mark on his Youtube channel.

The superstar was able to record 1 billion views, courtesy of a compilation of the views on all his music videos.

This was made known by Youtube on Burna Boy’s page, which shows the singer amassing a total of 1,006,338,859 views at the time of filing this report.

According to the statistics, his hit song like “On The Low” contribute a massive 225M views while “Ye” has 159M views.

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How police foils cult initiation, arrest suspected cultists in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has prevented Aiye cult initiation, arrest 10 suspected cultists, and recovers locally made revolver pistols, and cartridges.

The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, made this known in a statement on Tuesday, September 28th, 2021, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted “
On 25/09/2021 at about 0145hrs acting on intelligence gathered that members of Aiye confraternity a.k.a black axe were carrying out initiation in the bush at Onicha-Ugbo community in Aniocha North LGA.

“The Commander Delta State Anti Cult Unit (SACU) detailed operatives who stormed the venue of the initiation that night, they were able to foil the initiation process and also arrested ten (10), male suspects, while others escaped into the bush.”

“One locally-made revolver pistol with four (4) live and one (1) expended 9mm ammunition and two expended cartridges were recovered from two of the suspected cultist while some weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, one Honda accord car with Reg no. Lagos KSF 586 DU, five motorcycles, and a bag containing clothes were recovered from the scene.”

“Also, on 24/9/2021 at about 1610hrs, operatives of the Command Crack Squad acting on intelligence gathered raided criminal hideouts in Eri Community near Oleh in Isoko South LGA and arrested one Akpofure Lucky ‘m’ aged 37yrs with a locally made pistol and three live cartridges.”

“The suspect confessed that he is a member of the Supreme Vikings confraternity. They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded.”

Akpofure Lucky

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police Delta State Police Command CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, Psc+ calls on well-meaning residents of the state, parents, and guardians to caution their wards to shun all forms of cult-related practices.

The CP said, “Cultism is the bedrock of most prevalent crime in the society today and as such should not be encouraged in any way.”

According to the CP, he also said: “The command will remain committed to maintaining the already existing peace in the state, security of lives and properties.”

Also, the CP said the command will not tolerate anyone who goes against the law.

To this effect, the CP has directed Area commanders, DPOS, tactical commanders to ensure continuous raiding of criminal hideouts, black spots, and constant patrol of their area of responsibilities while urging them to ensure that men deployed should be properly supervised to ensure that they remain civil to members of the public and shun all form of corruption.

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How ‘man of God’ defrauded me of my life savings – Lillian Gabriel

Lilian Gabriel, a Nigerian actress, and singer have narrated how she lost her life savings to a self-proclaimed clergyman.

She said the incident occurred on her way back to a location during the filming of an undisclosed project in Asaba, Delta State.

According to the actress in a viral video, she said she had met an elderly man who asked her about a hospital address and she decides to ask someone around if he could help the elderly man locate his destination to which the person did.

The movie star said when she left the scene to get something to eat, the same elderly man came back and told her that he has a vision for her.

She said the man, who would later allege to be a reverend father, revealed personal details about her life and said she would encounter a miracle on her way back.

According to her, the man asked her to bring out her ATM card so he could pray on it for the miracle to manifest to which she obliged.

The actress said after the prayer, he advised her to wrap the ATM card in paper and put it inside her purse to ensure it would not be stolen from her.

Lilian added that unknown to her, the man had exchanged her ATM card while he was directing the prayer.

In the video, the entertainer said it was not long after the encounter with the elderly man that she started getting debit alerts from her bank.

She said, “When I saw a debit alert, I was like what did I do with my money because I didn’t visit any bank or use a POS machine before that.”

“I was still checking when I got another debit alert… behold, this man just debited my lifetime savings. The money that I have been saving all this while, he just collected it from me for no reason.”

Lillian said she had approached her bank but was told nothing could be done.

The actress went on to rain curses on the said “cleric” for stealing her of her life savings.

“I cried when I got home but I know it won’t solve the problem. I also went to the bank but they said they cannot do anything. They also said even if I report at the police station, nothing would be done,” she added.

“Then, I laid a curse on that man. I cursed him in the spirit of my late mum and dad because he used it against me and also used God’s name. I know he will come across this video, wherever you are, your cup is already filled up.

“This is your last bus stop and I pray God will surely judge you. The cry of an orphan will never go in vain.”

She also urged the public to borrow a leaf from her ordeal whenever they are in a similar circumstance.

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IPOB declares sit-at-home on Oct 1st, bans Nigeria flag in South-East

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has declared October 1st, Nigeria independence day a sit-at-home day and has also banned the Nigerian flag within the South-East region of the country.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement by the group Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, in Awka, Anambra State on Saturday.

According to the statement, Emma Powerful stated that “IPOB has declared 1st of October 2021 total shutdown in Biafra land as a sign of our rejection of the evil construct called Nigeria and there shall be no movement in Biafra land on this day.

He said “Also, IPOB has declared from today 25th September 2021 that all Nigerian flag mounted anywhere in Biafra land must be brought down, Banks exceptional. IPOB leadership will communicate to banks directly and give them the reason they must peacefully bring down Nigeria flag in their banking premises before we do it ourselves in our way.”

In addition, the group further stated that “In line with the Memorandum of Understanding and alliance between Ambazonia and Biafra nations, we wish to ask Biafrans to support and celebrate Ambazonia Independence Anniversary on October 1st, 2021.

“It is, therefore, the delight of the Directorate of State, of our great movement, IPOB, that we inform Biafrans all over the world of this upcoming Independence day celebration of our great ally and neighbor, the Ambazonian people billed for 1st of October 2021.

“We, therefore, urge world leaders to use the opportunity of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly meeting to discuss the sufferings of the two persecuted nations of Biafra and Ambazonia. Our people have suffered enough in the hands of our oppressors who are in bed with terrorists but derive pleasure in crushing peaceful agitators instead of addressing our genuine concerns.” the statement reads.

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Gulder Ultimate Search begins Sept 26

The organizers of Gulder Ultimate Search (GUS) have declared openly that season 11 of the show will start on Sunday, September 26.

This revelation was made known on Friday, September 24, 2021, through the official Instagram page of the show.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that this year’s edition of the survival reality show tagged ‘The Age of Craftsmanship’ was earlier billed to start on October 16 and run till December 19.

But in the latest surprise update, the organizers said the show will begin on September 26, while encouraging fans to anticipate its return.

According to the post that was shared on Instagram on Friday, it was captioned “It’s a start of a new journey. A new age is about to emerge! We are ready for it! Are you? 26.9.2021.

Although, the organizers did not provide details on the TV channels that will air the program.

In a similar post, Kunle Remi, Nigerian actor, and anchor for this year’s edition of the show also announced the development of his Instagram stories.

Also, Sade Morgan, the corporate affairs director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, had earlier said this year’s edition will be filled with surprises.

“The planning team has put in place everything necessary to give the fans exactly what they enjoy about the show, and I am confident that everyone will be pleasantly surprised and delighted with what we have in store,” she had said.

The Gulder Ultimate Search premiered in 2004 with contestants camped in the forests to battle among themselves and the wild for the ultimate prize.

But the show took a break from national TV in 2016.

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Know The Law: Police officers enforcing stop-and-search must be in uniform or present ID

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Law enforcement agencies, including the police, are expected to maintain law and order within the ambits of the constitution and respect fundamental human rights. Hence, when they act in contrast to the law, it often sparks public criticism.

The Cable reported that in Nigeria, the modus operandi of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has often come under intense public scrutiny, especially on the issues of arrest and detention.

On the issue of search/raids by the police, there have been several reports of abuse, harassment, and extortion of citizens.

Although police officers have the right to search for persons, public and private places, and vehicles when they are authorized to do so or suspect a crime, the method of enforcement in some instances appears to violate citizens’ rights.

In some cases, police officers search commuters as well as enter public places to carry out raids without the appropriate means of identification.

Some police officers even wear casual clothes to conduct raids.

WHAT IS THE POSITION OF THE LAW?

The Nigerian Police Act 2020 gives police officers the power to arrest, detain, and search a person or vehicle when there are “reasonable grounds of suspicion” of an offense.

Section 49 (1) states that “a police officer may exercise the power to stop and search in any: “(a) place the public or any section of the public has access, on payment or otherwise, as of right or by express or implied permission; or

“(b) another place to which the public has ready access at the time when he proposes to exercise the power but which is not a private residence.”

Section 49 (2) states a police officer may detain and search any person or vehicle where:

“(b) reasonable grounds for suspicion exist that the person being suspected is having in his possession, or conveying in any manner anything which he has reason to believe to have been stolen or otherwise unlawfully obtained.”

It also clearly states the conditions that should be met and the conduct of the police officers while enforcing a search.

Section 50 (4) of the act states that “for any police officer to exercise the power to stop and search, he shall be in uniform or
visibly wear a valid police identity card”.

This means that without the police uniform or a visible identity card, a police officer does not have the power to exercise a search.

The act also explains that before a police officer exercises the power to search a detained person or vehicle, he or she must fulfill the conditions stipulated in section 50 (3) of the act.

Section 50 (3) states that “before any search of a detained person or vehicle may take place, the officer shall give the person to be searched or in charge of the vehicle:

“(a) his name and the name of the police station to which he is attached;

“(b) the object of the search; and

“(c) his grounds or authorization for undertaking the search.”

The act also clarifies the action that should be taken before a search is conducted by a police officer.

Section 50 (1) states that “where a police officer is exercising the powers under section 51 of this Act, he shall be before searching, question the person about his behavior or his presence in circumstances, which gave rise to the suspicion.

“If the person to be searched has a satisfactory explanation which makes a search unnecessary or other circumstances come to the attention of the police officer that makes the search unnecessary, no search may take place.”

Section 51 (1) states that “reasonable effort shall be taken to minimize the embarrassment that a person or the
a person whose property is being searched may experience”.

The act also explains the exception of “reasonable grounds for suspicion” to search.

Section 54 states that “the following shall not be grounds for reasonable suspicions;

“(a) personal attributes, including a person’s color, age, hairstyle or manner of dress;

“(b) previous conviction for possession of an unlawful article; or

“(c) stereotyped images of certain persons or groups as more likely to be committing offenses.”

This story is published in partnership with Report for the World, a global service program that supports local public interest journalism.

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Burna Boy showcases his Lekki mansion [Video]

Nigerian Grammy awards winner, born Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has recently showcased his expensive mansion in Lekki, Lagos State, to Architectural Digest (AD), a prominent magazine.

AD is an American monthly magazine established in 1920. Its major subjects are interior design and landscaping, rather than pure outside architecture.

During the invitation, Burna Boy, the Grammy Award Winner was seen in a less than 5-minute video, in which he took AD through the two-story building, exhibiting to his visitors the designs that grace the house and the inspiration behind the structure.

The seven-bedroom mansion, which sits on a quiet 13,000-square foot, is designed by Akose Enebeli, a Nigerian architect, who had also constructed a 10-bedroom luxurious home for Jude Ighalo, the former Manchester United striker.

Inside the mansion, the multiple-award winner took AD to the exquisite living room, from the guest room to his room”, where old records, vinyl, and pictures of music legends, including that of Fela and Ebenezer Obey among others was hung, and also to his sisters’ rooms, and his highly-powered studio, which he called ‘the magic spot’.

It is assumed that Burna Boy is the first Nigerian entertainment personality to be featured on Architectural Digest’s Open Door series.

AD has given a visual tour of many top musicians’ homes including that of Kanye West, Big Sean, Lil Wayne, and Diddy.

According to an Instagram post by AD on Friday, September 24, 2021, it stated that “In early 2020, Grammy winner Burna Boy had just moved into a seven-bedroom home nestled onto a bucolic estate in Lagos—Nigeria’s creative and commercial capital.”

“His architect, Akose Enebeli, had constructed the two-story Lekki house in which Burna could simply be himself. But the story of this home, and how it came to be, goes back to 2017 when Enebeli was in the middle of building a 10-bedroom mansion for former Manchester United striker Jude Ighalo and got a call from an unknown number.”

Watch video below:

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Police prevent cult initiation, arrest suspected armed robbers in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has revealed how credible information led to the prevention of cult initiation and the arrest of suspected cultists and some suspected armed robbers.

The command also recovered a suspected stolen car, locally-made guns, and some live bullets.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP. Bright Edafe, in Asaba, the state capital on Thursday.

According to DSP Edafe, he noted that “On 22/9/2021 at about 1035hrs, men of the Delta State Police Command Rapid Response Squad while on stop and search duty along Benin /Asaba express road, Umunede, flagged down a Lexus 350 jeep with reg. No. WWR 343 MD, white with three occupants. The suspects on noticing the operatives stopped abruptly and disembarked from the vehicle, shot sporadically, and ran into the bush. The operatives returned fire and went after them. During the gun duel, one of the hoodlums was fatally wounded while the remaining two escaped with bullets injuries. Upon search, a locally made pistol loaded with a live cartridge and two expended cartridges were recovered from the injured suspect. The injured suspect was immediately rushed to the hospital where he gave up the ghost while receiving treatment. The Lexus 350 Jeep was recovered. Intelligence later revealed that the vehicle was snatched from the owner at gunpoint around Warri on Saturday 18/9/2021. manhunt for the fleeing members of the gang is ongoing.”

“On 22/09/2021 at about 1100hrs Men of Operation Delta Hawk Patrol teams stationed at Agbor received credible information that one Daniel Banjo ‘m’ aged 24yrs of No. 3 Baptist Mission Street Agbor was sighted in possession of a gun. They promptly swung into action and proceeded to the area where they arrested the said suspect. Upon search, one locally-made double barrel pistol with two (2) live cartridges was recovered from him. The investigation is ongoing”

“Similarly, same Operation Delta Hawk team on 19/09/2021 at about 1030hrs at Agbor received credible and actionable information that cult activities to initiate new members into Vikings cult confraternity was ongoing at Aliokpo power line off old Warri road Agbor. The teams promptly swung into action and proceeded to the area and getting to the scene, two male suspects were arrested namely Blessing Rex ‘m’ aged 30yrs of no. 50 old Lagos/ Asaba road and Lucky Wisdom ‘m’ aged 18yrs of no.4 Ijeh street Agbor while others escaped. Exhibits recovered at the scene include eleven (11) motorcycles and one Vikings confraternity flag. The effort to arrest the fleeing members is ongoing.”

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“Nigeria will tackle, reverse biodiversity Loss” – Buhari tells UN Assembly

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President Muhammadu Buhari has said in a video message that the federal government has introduced certain policies to undertake and overturn the serious trend of biodiversity loss which affects the whole world.

The president made this known while speaking on Wednesday in New York during the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 76), an event titled “Transformative Actions for Nature and People”.

According to President Buhari, while addressing the scourge towards biodiversity loss, he champions regional and inter-regional cooperation while also outlined other measures to include “Expansion of protected areas including the establishment of ten (10) new National Parks across the country as well as the creation of Marine Protected Areas pursuant to the 30X30 Agenda of the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD); and domestication of relevant International Agreements, Conventions as well as Laws and Policies for the protection and conservation of biodiversity.”

The president was quoted by his media aide, Femi Adesina in a statement noting that “leveraging the cooperation and partnerships of the Development Partners as well as International Organisations and Coalitions for concrete action against deforestation and biodiversity loss, and promotion and increased investments in climate-positive and nature-positive economy for sustainable environment and land-use practices” were other areas being worked on to confront the challenge.

He also demonstrated appreciation to the President of Costa Rica, His Excellency Carlos Alvarado Quesada whose country currently chairs the High Ambition Coalition for Nature & People (HAC) of which Nigeria is also a member and co-chair for the opportunity to be part of “this great event.”

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Davido official photographer is dead

Davido has again lost another of his close associate and this one happened to be his official cameraman, Fortunate Ateumunname Peter, better-known as Fortune.

It was gathered by Goldennationblog.com that Fortune drowned at a photoshoot location in Lagos on Tuesday evening.

The celebrity photographer before his death is 24 years old and he was the chief official photographer of Davido Music World (DMW).

According to a source, Fortune was born and raised in Bariga, Lagos but hails from Owerri in Imo state. He was the brain behind most of Davido’s photos on Instagram and a member of his crew.

Fortune happened to be the second close associate of the 30BG leader who has died this year. His death came just three months after the death of Davido’s chief logistics manager, Habeeb Ademola Uthman, popularly known as Obama DMW, who died as a result of a heart condition.

According to a check made on the Fortune social media page on Instagram, it was gathered that the celebrity photographer’s last post was shared on his birthday, which was July 10, 2021. Also, another check was made on his website, and it revealed he started as a graphic designer who later evolved from photography to video directing before involving in other forms of motion pictures.

He portrayed himself as a thoroughbred Lagosian, as the Afrocentric and hustling character of the Lagos life inspired his works.

As Davido’s photographer, this accorded him the opportunity to have toured over 50 cities around the world, including the Middle East, United Kingdom, South Africa, and other parts of Africa, spreading his love for his craft and documenting appealing images to the world of art.

Fortune co-founded a production company named Gracelle Productions with his partner David Olaleye. The production outfit serves as a hub where other creatives and artists can collaborate on projects. It also renders production solutions in diverse capacities.

Recall last year December, Davido’s bodyguard, Tijani Olamilekan aka TeeJay died after a battle with an illness. In October 2017, the Assurance singer lost three friends to death in one week.

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Nnamdi Kanu’s case adjourns till October 7 as FG is absent in court

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A high court in Abia State, presided by Justice K. C. J. Okereke, has adjourned hearing in the suit filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) against the federal government.

The judge adjourned the case to October 7, 2021, after observing the negligence of some of the respondents (including the Federal government) to file their rejoinders in the suit.

In a suit marked HIH/FR14/2021, Kanu had filed against the federal government of Nigeria (1st respondent), Attorney-General of the Federation (2nd), Chief-of-Army staff (3rd), Inspector-General of Police (5th), Director-General, Department of State Service (7th) and three others for allegedly violating his fundamental human rights.

Kanu, through his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, asked the court to compel the respondents to pay him N5 billion in damages as monetary compensation for the “physical, mental, emotional, psychological and other damages” suffered.

He is also seeking an order of the court declaring that his extradition, arrest, torture, and detention were unconstitutional.

At the court session on Tuesday, only two out of the eight respondents had filed processes in the matter – the DSS in Abuja and Umuahia.

Their processes were, however, filed out of time.

The judge subsequently adjourned the case to allow the other respondents to file their responses.

In his ruling, the judge said Kanu shall be entitled to certain reliefs against any party that fails to respond to the suit in time.

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Lagos State: Sanwo-Olu signs anti-open grazing bill into law

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has signed a law to ban the open grazing of cattle in Lagos State.

On September 9, the Lagos State House of Assembly had passed the bill during the plenary.

The speaker of the house, Mudashiru Obasa, had thereafter directed Olalekan Onafeko, the acting clerk, to disseminate copies of the bill to the governor for assent.

During the plenary after the anti-open grazing bill had scaled second reading, the House assembled a public hearing, with different groups asked to air their viewpoints.

During the hearing, the southwest chapter of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) had asked for more time to train its members on how to stop the practice of open grazing.

Mikuni Usman, zonal secretary of southwest MACBAN, said the members of the association need time to be educated on “how they will be breeding cattle in one place and not transfer to anybody’s land”.

Meanwhile, Lagos is the fourth southern state to sign the anti-open grazing bill into law, after Rivers, Ondo, Enugu, and Akwa Ibom.

Recall in May, the southern governors held a meeting in Asaba, Delta state capital where they decided that open grazing of cattle should be banned across the region.

Also at another meeting held in Lagos in June, the governors set a deadline of September 1 for the enactment of the law in the region.

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Angry youth burn kidnappers alive after invading their hideout in Delta

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Two persons suspected to be kidnappers within the Isoko community in Delta State have been captured and burnt alive by unhappy youth in the neighborhood.

The incident occurred after the community vigilante group tracked the gun suspect to their hideaways in the forest.

According to a source, six of the suspected kidnappers were neutralized by the infuriated youths in a bloody clash.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that members of the community vigilante group while operating in coalition with the police, were armed with weapons such as cutlasses and locally made guns.

Also, Goldennationblog.com gathered that the vigilante was said to have taken the arrested suspect to the police station until angry residents of the community were said to have mobilized in full force to the police station where they forcefully got hold of the suspects, beat them, and later burnt their bodies.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, when contacted said he was unaware of the incident as of the time of categorizing this report

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Buhari arrives in New York ahead of 76th UNGA

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Sunday arrived in New York for the 76th United Nations General Assembly.

Femi Adesina made this known on his official Facebook page on Sunday evening.

According to Adesina, the president landed in the United States on Sunday, September 19, 2021.

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Police issues warning, says no more night prayer sessions

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The Ogun State Police Command has warned the general public against organizing prayer sessions at night especially in the forest area to avoid being victims of kidnappers.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement signed by the Police Spokesperson in Ogun, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi, on Sunday, September 19, 2021, in Ota, Ogun state.

According to the statement, Oyeyemi pointed out that the state command has observed with great concern that despite the series of warnings and security tips from the command, some members of the public are still in the habit of organizing prayer sessions in the forest, thereby making themselves easy prey kidnappers.

The PPRO said in as much as the command is not oblivious of the right to freedom of religion, it is worthy of note that the present security situation in the country does not favorably dispose to organizing prayer sessions in isolated places.

The police spokesperson appealed to the public to refrain from creating opportunities for kidnappers to operate as the command is working assiduously to get rid of the criminal elements who turned kidnapping into business.

Again, Oyeyemi explained that security should be seen as everybody’s business while advising that we should always take advantage of our role in securing ourselves and our property adding that the scriptures even enjoined us to watch and pray.

He added that if there is any is serious reason to embark on such prayer sessions, the organization should report to the nearest police station for advice and security patrol of the area.

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Buhari Signed Petroleum Industry Bill, Incorporate NNPC, appoint new board member

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President Muhammadu Buhari has signed the Petroleum Industry Bill 2021 into law and has authorized that the National Petroleum Company Limited be incorporated.

He also authorized the appointment of the Board and Management of the NNPC Limited with Senator Ifeanyi Ararume as Chairman while Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer.

This was made known in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, who revealed that the President acted by the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.

The statement read, “President Muhammadu Buhari, in his capacity as Minister of Petroleum Resources, has directed the incorporation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

“This aligns with Section 53(1) of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, which requires the Minister of Petroleum Resources to cause for the incorporation of the NNPC Limited within six months of commencement of the Act in consultation with the Minister of Finance on the nominal shares of the Company.

“The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, has, therefore, been directed to take necessary steps to ensure that the incorporation of the NNPC Limited is consistent with the provisions of the PIA 2021.

Also, by the power vested in him under Section 59(2) of the PIA 2021, President Buhari has approved the appointment of the Board and Management of the NNPC Limited, with effect from the date of incorporation of the Company.

“Chairman of the Board is Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, while Mele Kolo Kyari and Umar I. Ajiya are Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, respectively.

“Other Board Members are; Dr. Tajudeen Umar (North East), Mrs. Lami O. Ahmed (North Central), Mallam Mohammed Lawal (North West), Senator Margaret Chuba Okadigbo (South East), Barrister Constance Harry Marshal (South-South), and Chief Pius Akinyelure (South West).”

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Ten dogs attack three-year-old child, kill him in Anambra

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A three-year-old child, identified as Obinna Ude, was attacked by ten dogs being owned by the Proprietor of Global Growth Academy, Amokpo, Umuanunwa, Nteje, in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The Punch reported that the 10 dogs jumped on the victim in the school premises and killed him when he and his uncle, Chima Ude, went for registration.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Wednesday, September 15, 2021, around 7:10 am.

According to the Punch, a resident of the community explained that the three-year-old boy walked off while his uncle was trying to fill out the forms to perfect the registration process.

It was reported that the resident said that the 10 dogs, on sighting the child, broke out of their cage, jumped on the boy, and ravaged him.

The dogs were said to be owned by the proprietor of the school, a United Kingdom returnee identified as Chinedu Oka, alias Chinedu-Okaa London.

The resident while narrating the ordeal said “The dogs dragged the little boy to their cage where about 10 of them tumbled on the three-old boy without anyone from the school management coming to his rescue.

“The Nteje community, where the incident happened, culturally prohibits rearing of dogs. It’s taboo to rear dogs here. The UK returnee proprietor was warned but he refused to adhere to the community’s instructions.”

It was gathered that the incident incited anger in the community, with a group of youth and vigilantes raging the school premises and shooting all the dogs to death.

Meanwhile, the traditional ruler of Nteje, Igwe Roland Odegbo, who confirmed the incident, said he backed the killing and burning of the dogs, adding that the proprietor had been handed over to the authorities for the law to take its course.

The monarch also said the proprietor was aware that rearing dogs was prohibited in the Nteje community but still went ahead to keep them.

According to the monarch, he said, “The young man knows that we don’t accommodate dogs in our community and he went ahead to surround himself with dogs despite warning from the community.

“To us, the young man committed murder and it is an abomination in our community to kill someone.

“We have handed him over to the appropriate authorities and we will make sure that justice is served because we don’t condone evil.

“The youths have killed and burnt the dogs and we are in support of their actions,” the traditional ruler stated.

On hearing about the tragic incident, parents hurriedly withdrew their wards from the school.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Ikenga Tochukwu, also confirmed the incident, in a statement, titled, ‘Animal Attack’ stating that the Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform the general public, especially Ndi Anambra, that investigation is ongoing into the unfortunate incident that led to dogs attack a child at Nteje in the Oyi Local Government Area.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that on 15/09/2021 at 0710hrs, one Chima Obi Ude M of Isiogu village, Nteje came with his nephew, Obinna Ude, 3 years, to the school for registration.

“The dogs within the school environment jumped out of the cage and attacked Obinna. The victim was rushed to the hospital and was confirmed dead by a doctor on duty. The body has been deposited at the mortuary.

“In view of the above, some angry youths within the area killed the dogs and set them ablaze, the statement added.”

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Delta State Police Command dismisses two officers for seriously assaulting Tricycle rider

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The Delta state police command has dismissed two officers of the command for seriously assaulting one Brodrick Omesan, a tricycle rider while on illegal duty.

The two dismissed officers identified as Sgt Felix Ebikabowei and Ndubuisi Abazie before their dismissal were attached to the ‘B’ Division Warri.

The spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Bright Edafe, disclosed this to newsmen in Asaba the state capital on Friday, August 17, 2021.

According to DSP Edafe in his statements, he said, On Sunday, August 12, 2021, the two officers after the closing of work conspired among themselves and engaged in Illegal duty along estate roundabout Warri where they accosted a Tricycle Rider one Brodrick Omesan ‘m’ age 36yrs of Oviri street Agbaroh.

He said an argument ensued between the policemen and the victim during which they allegedly pushed and beat him up which led to serious injuries on his head before the victim was rushed to the hospital where he is currently receiving treatment.

Upon receiving the complaint, the Commissioner of police immediately directed that the case be transferred to SCID for a discreet and unbiased investigation. An investigation later revealed that the two officers have a case to answer on the serious assault on the victim who is still in critical condition.

The CP also ordered that they should face internal disciplinary action and the command provost was directed to try them in an orderly room. The two officers who were tried for the offense of incivility to members of the public, disobedience to lawful order contrary to paragraph E(iii) first schedule of the police act and regulations 370 paragraph F of police action and regulations CAP P.9 laws of the federal republic of Nigeria 2004 were found guilty on both counts and have been dismissed from the force W.E.F 14/9/2021.

The CP while condoling with the family of the victim has ordered that the dismissed policemen remain in custody at the state criminal investigation department and they will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded.

The Commissioner of Police Delta state CP Ari Muhammed Ali, assures members of the public of the readiness of the command to deal decisively with any erring officer and is also using this medium to send a strong warning to officers of the command noting that abuse of human rights, incivility to members of the public and unprofessional conduct in all areas will not be tolerated.

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Ndokwa West council chairman, Obi-Nzete begins perimeter fencing of Secretariat

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The Chairman of Ndokwa West Local Government Areas of Delta State, Chief Goddey Obi-Nzete, has initiated the development of the perimeter fencing of the council Secretariat six months after he took over the mantle of leadership.

It was gathered that the perimeter fence of the council secretariat has been neglected by successive administrations.

According to Hon. Barth Ozah, the councilor representing ward 7 in Ndokwa West LGA, in a statement on Thursday, August 17, 2021 said, the chairman “When he took the mantle of leadership on 8th March 2021 as the executive chairman, Ndokwa West LGA, Chief Goddey Obi-Nzete, was very clear and focused about his vision to make the council a model.”

“He minced no words when he promised a complete overhaul in the running of the council. He made a firm resolve to run an administration where accountability will take a centre stage and guide the execution of government programs and policies.”

“Six months down the line, history has beckoned on him and he has broken the jinx, as the administration begins the perimeter fencing of the council secretariat, neglected by successive administrations.”

“Recall that the LGA started as an integral part of the defunct Aboh division which was then divided into two administrative units, Ukwuani district council with headquarters in Amai and Ndosumili district council, with headquarters at Ashaka.”

“However, what remained as Aboh division after the Nationwide boundary adjustments of 1976 was later christened ‘Ndokwa Local Government Area. The word ‘Ndokwa’ is an acronym derived from the amalgamation of the former administrative districts of Ndosumili and Ukwuani. It came into effect with the local government Edict of 1977.”

“In September 1991, following the creation of Delta State by General Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida’s military regime, the Ndokwa West and Ndokwa East LGAs were created with the headquarters in Kwale and Aboh respectively.”

“Since its creation till date, the council headquarters has remained a shadow of itself, but brighter days are here, at last, thanks to the emergence of Chief Obi-Nzete, whose commitment and determination to reposition the council, has rekindled the hopes of the people who are now willing to give him the necessary support.”

“Today, the council headquarters is wearing a new look. Besides the fencing of the secretariat, most of the dilapidated structures in the council, including the legislative building and works department, have equally been renovated.”

“One of his key strategies was institutionalizing accountability In governance.”

“Governing the third tier structure of administration in Nigeria, according to experts, is not only complex but also tasks, and since this tier of government is structured and designed to cater to the development of the rural areas, there are bound to be lots of bureaucracies and interests due to its nature.”

“Therefore, achieving set goals, requires a chairman who is focused, diligent, and above all, motivated and imbued with a strong spirit to rise above primordial sentiments.”

“On assumption of office, chief Obi-Nzete had made a firm promise to raise the bar and set the local government on the path of progress and development. That has remained his focus.”

“However, achieving this daunting task requires that accountability should take center stage, a principle that Chief Nzete has held tenaciously.”

“Today, the council has taken a new shape. There is a fresh spirit of service, commitment towards institutionalizing accountability.”

“Holding it to heart, the chairman has made it possible that government policies and programs are well executed, according to laid down procedures.”

“The chairman’s transparency
and openness in governance has given room for effectiveness amongst the workforce who are now eager to put in their best to actualize the set goals of the administration.”

“As part of Nzete’s commitment to institutionalizing accountability in his administration, the chairman made it possible for all political leaders and heads of various departments of the council to attend a workshop on, “Strict compliance with assets declaration and code of conduct for public officials,” organized by the Code of Conduct Bureau in Asaba recently.”

“The chairman’s philosophy is that accountability to the citizens is a fundamental principle of democratic governance which is not limited to accountability to seniors in hierarchy only, as part of the chain of command, but also the stakeholders including citizens and civil society.”

“He believes that government must work for the people at whose instance it was created. He believes in due diligence where shared responsibility and effectiveness reigns.”

“Nzete takes his inspiration from the words of a Psychologist, Alexander Haslam, who said, “Effective leadership is the capacity to mobilize a mass constituency to bring about shared goals.”

“Indeed, history beckons in Ndokwa West LGA as Hon. Obi-Nzete delivers good governance and quality leadership to the people”, He added.

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Fani Kayode reveals why he abandons PDP to join APC

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The former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani Kayode, has defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and has joined with the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC).

The APC caretaker committee chairman and governor of Yobe state, Mai Mala Buni presented him to President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa on Thursday in Abuja.

According to Fani Kayode in his decision to join the APC, he said, he was led by the spirit of God adding that he is devoted to the unity of the country and that he is against anything that would cause the breakdown of Nigeria.

The former minister revealed that he was the instrument that led to the defection of three People’s Democratic Party governors to the APC.

He named Dave Umahi of Ebonyi state, Ben Ayade of Cross River, and Bello Matawale of Zamfara as the governors he helped foster their defection to APC.

He revealed that he has colleagues across party lines and that he is presently recommending Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the governor of Enugu State, Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo state, and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi to join the ruling party.

It was gathered that the former minister’s defection comes several months after he passionately rejected dumping the PDP.

Recall in February, Yahaya Bello, governor of Kogi, had claimed that Fani-Kayode had crossed over to the APC but Fani-Kayode proved to the contrary against Bello’s claim, insisting that he was still a member of PDP.

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Southern Nigeria governors in closed-door meeting in Enugu

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The governors of Southern Nigeria states are currently in a closed-door meeting in Enugu.

Newsmen reported that nine governors and seven deputy governors had arrived at the Government House as of the time of filing this report.

The governors present are Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Nyesom Wike of Rivers, Emmanuel Udom of Akwa Ibom, Babajide Sanwolu of Lagos, and Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta.

Others are Governors Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo, Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun.

The deputy governors in attendance are; Mr. Bisi Egbeyemi of Ekiti, Mr. Rauf Olaniyan of Oyo, Dr. Kelechi Igwe of Ebonyi, Chief Ude Oko-Chukwu of Abia, Mr. Philip Shuaibu of Edo, Prof. Ivara Esu of Cross River, and Prof. Placid Njoku of Imo.

Southern Nigeria consists of 17 states in three geopolitical zones of the country; namely, the South-East, South-South, and South-West.

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Watch Olamide featuring Jaywillz ‘Jailer’ video

Popular Nigerian rapper and YBNL record label boss, Olamide has announced the release of the ‘Jailer’ video which features Jaywillz, a fast-rising singer.

The song ‘Jailer’ is the second track off his latest album ‘UY Scuti’.

Olamide made this announcement through a video post he shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday.

In the less than four-minute video, Olamide and Jaywillz crooned about their hungry desire for sexual exploits even as they demonstrate their exposure to assault.

To endow the mid-tempo sound in the video, the video vixens were seen dancing in numerous fancy costumes while romping seductively with the singers in the sharp visual.

In the video, Olamide and Jaywillz vocalized in English Language and Pidgin. Here are some of the lyrics in the chorus: “Nobody comes I don’t need no bailout | Seize my breath I need some inhaler| Cus the way you whine your body controller| I’m ready now| I’m ready to stay down| Weather hot/cold I’m ready to stay down| Enter my heart turn it to play ground| Cos the whine your body controller| I’m ready now| I’m ready girl| Jailer.”

Olamide had released the highly anticipated body of work in June.

Recall in 2011, the ‘Rock’ crooner came through with ‘Rapsodi’, his debut studio album, and has continued to pull the strings since then.

With numerous awards and recognition, the rapper has established himself as a prominent name in the Nigerian music industry.

Watch the colorful video below:

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Yoruba agitators say they’ll stage a rally when Buhari will address UN Assembly on Sept 24

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The Yoruba Nation agitators under the Nigerian Indigenous Nationalities Alliance for Self-Determination have vowed to organize a rally on September 24 when President Muhammadu Buhari will address the 76th Session of the high-level General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York.

This was made known in a statement by the NINASA Chairman and leader of IIana Omo Oodua, Banji Akintoye, through his Public Relations Officer, Maxwell Adeleye.

Akintoye was reacting to a statement made by the president’s media adviser, Garba Shehu, who on Wednesday said “For Nigerian diaspora groups to use the world’s largest platform – the United Nations General Assembly – to garner attention to their causes is not unexpected.

“It was, however shocking, to see ‘Yoruba Nation’ advocates yesterday (Tuesday) unequivocally throw their lot in with Indigenous People of Biafra.

“IPOB is a designated terrorist organization. It has now publicly revealed a 50,000 strong paramilitary organization.”

Shehu also begged the media to ignore the agitators at the UN Assembly but “focus attention on the core issues the President, the leader of the country has on his Programme”.

Reacting, Adeleye said, “The NINAS Million-Man Freedom March is a success. It rattles the Buhari Government. The Nigerian Government is now begging the media not to cover our events, trying to paint our march as an IPOB event.

“This is a divide and rule tactic that has failed. NINAS has nothing whatsoever to do with IPOB.

“We should now prepare for the 24th September 2021 when Buhari will address the General Assembly to stage another march.”

The Punch reported that the Akintoye-led group had gathered at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday “to alert the UN, and the rest of the Global Community that the Union of Nigeria has failed irredeemably; and is now at the verge of a violent disintegration with catastrophic consequences for global peace, and security as our population of over 200 million would become an Instant global refugee nightmare”.

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Nigerian Air Force mistakenly bombs Yobe community, killed many, others injured

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The Nigerian Air Force has mistakenly bombed Buwari village in Yunusari Local Government Area of Yobe state, a North-Eastern part of the country.

This is coming four years after the community of Rann, Borno, was similarly bomb in an operation the military said was a mistake and vowed a repeat will not occur.

It was gathered from People Gazette that dozens of the civilians were said to have been murdered and others injured after a military operation said to have happened by mistake.

It’s reported that an official said he was confused when the incident came because he started seeing dead bodies and injured persons arriving at the hospitals in Geidam and the capital Damaturu on Wednesday afternoon.

People Gazette reported that the actual civilian deaths were being examined as of early Thursday morning, but there were already fears that the numbers were in dozens.

According to the report, while reacting, the Nigerian Air Force was said to swiftly issue a statement alleging that the bombing did not occur. Meanwhile, the state government had opposed the military with a condolence message.

According to information received, the military had also barricades the scene of the attack Buwari, Yunusari LGA, and the two hospitals holding bodies and treating victims to prevent pictures from coming out.

However, the governor’s statement on the attack was released by his Press and Media Affairs Director-General, Mamman Mohammed, in a statement titled. Gov. Buni Mourns Victims of Air Strike, Assures Investigation of incident reads. “Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has commiserated with families of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate airstrike on Buwari village in Yunusari Local Government Area of the state.

He said although it could have been an accident or mistaken target, the government will join hands with the security agencies to unravel the root cause of the incident.

He also said governor Buni directed his special adviser on security affairs to liaise with the Nigerian Air Force and the Multi-National Joint Task Force to look into the unfortunate airstrike.

“Government will work closely with the security forces especially the Nigeria Airforce to establish what happened,” Governor Buni assured. “This is very important and necessary for us to guard against future occurrence and to safeguard the lives of our people.”

Also, he said that governor Buni assured the preparedness of his administration to work with all security forces to ensure the safety the state.

He further said that the governor has directed government hospitals in Geidam and Damaturu to offer free medical services to those who sustained injuries from the airstrike.

Again, he said the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been authorized to provide relief materials to cater to the immediate needs of the families of the deceased persons and other members of the community.

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FG gives assurance revealing when to lift the Twitter ban

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The Federal Government has revealed plans to lift the ban placed on Twitter saying ‘very soon’.

The Federal government also revealed that a lot of progress has been made in the ongoing dialogue with the microblogging platform.

The Minister of information and Culture, Lai Mohammed made this revelation to State House correspondents at the end of the Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the First Lady’s Conference room, presidential villa, on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to Lai Mohammed when asked to give an update on the ban and ongoing negotiations with Twitter said “The end for amicable resolution is very much insight. We appreciate the patience of Nigerians. I want to assure you that we have made very tremendous progress. We have met with Twitter both physically and in writing. We are almost there.

“The engagement has been extremely positive without any acrimony. We have made it clear what we want from Twitter.”

The Minister also acknowledged that some of the conditions the Federal Government gave Twitter are to establish a legal presence in the country by registering as a Nigerian company with an address.

Giving the assurance after 100 days of the Twitter ban, Mohammed said “Thank you very much. I think even Twitter itself two days ago gave what I will call a progress report on our talks with them. And I think if I want to quote them rightly, it has been productive and quite respectful.

“And as to how soon is soon, right? I want to assure you that the time that Twitter operation has been suspended, and when it will be restored is by far, much, much shorter. That I can assure you that it is by far. In other words, if the operation has been suspended for about 100 days now, I can tell you that we’re just actually talking about a few, just a few more days now.

“What we’re trying to do is the changes that have been going on, but we need to dot the i’s and cross the t’s. I can assure you that we’re mindful of the anxiety of Nigerians and both parties are working very hard to put a closure on the matter.

“And like Twitter itself said, the changes have been very, very productive on both parties.”

Also, when asked for a specifics date when the matter would be resolved, he said, “Honestly, we have gone very far, I won’t be specific but we have gone very far, and honestly, it’s just going to be very, very soon, just take my word for that.”

Stating further, he said, “Honestly, I can’t be more specific than what I’ve told you that it is going to be very soon. Thank you.”

Recall on June 4, the government had announced the indefinite suspension of Twitter’s operation following the deleting of tweets made by President Muhammadu Buhari, who had threatened to treat members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the “language they understand”.

The federal government had however attributed the suspension to “the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence”.

In August, the government said it had made “tremendous progress” in resolving the impasse following a series of meetings — and that an “an amicable solution is very much in sight”.

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Akwa Ibom state governor sign anti-open grazing bill into law

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Akwa Ibom State governor, Udom Emmanuel, has signed into law a bill that banned open grazing of cattle in the state.

The bill for the ban of open rearing and grazing of livestock was passed by the state House of Assembly earlier on Tuesday.

The bill which also provides for the establishment of ranches and livestock administration, regulation, and control was sponsored by Udo Kieran, a member representing the Oruk Anam constituency.

According to the governor, while signing the bill into law on Wednesday, he said the new law will ensure that justice is served on anyone whose livestock is involved in the destruction of farms.

He said persons found guilty would be brought to book, irrespective of how highly placed they are.

The governor also directed related authorities to ensure that the law is implemented and enforced.

Governor Udom Emmanuel

“The law will be used against you, irrespective of who you are. So, make sure you create ranches to take care of your livestock,” he said.

“It is very painful for a farmer to wake up and discover that the crops that he had toiled for several months have been destroyed by cattle.

“Just as you are rearing your animals to make profits, the farmer is also aiming for profits, and as such, you should not come and destroy his own business with yours.

“Once you are caught, such animals would be confiscated and the fine would add to the revenue of the state government, and shall also be used to settle the loss of the farmer.”

The law is also intended for at promoting modern techniques of animal husbandry, preventing the destruction of farms, while also reducing clashes between herders and farmers in the state.

Recall in May, the governors of the southern region, in a meeting in Asaba, Delta state capital where they agreed to ban open grazing and the movement of cattle by foot.

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What EFCC asks POS operators to do before transactions

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has appealed to Point of Sales (POS) operators to help in the fight against corruption in the country stating that they should always carry out proper documentation of their customers to help checkmate money laundering.

This was made known by the Zonal Commander of the agency in the Maiduguri office, Onwukwe Obiora, during a meeting with operators on Tuesday, September 14, 2021.

According to Obiora, he said “Operators should always carry out proper documentation of their customers before transactions are made.

He explained that there is a disturbing number of reported cases regarding fraudsters using POS transactions to clean people’s money or defraud them.

The officer while still explaining, he said carrying out diligence on customers will help to check money laundering in the northeast region, and Nigeria in general.

H said “There is a need for you to obey the ‘Know Your Customer policy in every financial transaction you make as required by law.

“This obligation is enshrined in Section 3 of the Money Laundering (Prohibited) Act 2011 (as amended) and if violated, you are liable to not less than three years imprisonment or a fine of N10million or both, in case of individual and N25million in the case of a body corporate,” he said.

Obiora further advised that ignorance of the law is not acceptable and that operators who validate transactions that turn out to be fraudulent will be penalized.

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Enyimba FC sign Finidi George as their new head coach

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Enyimba Football Club has announced the appointment of former Super Eagle player, Finidi George as their head coach.

Finidi George joined the eight times Nigerian champions on a two-year contract replacing Fatai Osho whose contract expired at the end of August.

ThisDay reported that his first official game as head coach in Enyimba will be the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round fixture against Senegaleses side Diambers FC in mid-October.

Speaking after signing the contract, the former Ajax and Real Betis winger said “I have to say it’s a great opportunity for the club to have this confidence in me. I want to thank the chairman, the members of the board, and the supporters for even thinking about me. On my own part, I will be here to just work and do the job. It’s never going to be easy but I’m here to work and make the team win.”

Also, the Chairman of Enyimba FC, Felix Anyansi, Agwu stated that the arrival of Finidi George represent a new chapter for the club.

According to him, he said “I believe that the time has come for us as a club to open up a new chapter, a chapter that will showcase the much hard work that has been going on behind the scene and usher in lots of success. For us to have engaged a coach like Finidi George who is coming from Europe is a clear statement of intent about our aspirations.”

Finidi George, a legend of Nigeria’s men’s senior national team, made 62 impressions for the Super Eagles in a distinguished playing career that lasted up to fifteen years.

He was a crucial member of the wonderful era that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994 and represented the country at two FIFA World Cups – the 1994 and 1998 editions.

Also at club level, George won the Uefa Champions League with Ajax in 1995 and went on to play for Real Betis, RCD Mallorca, and Ipswich Town.

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Apple doubled iPhone 13 Pro as the first iPhone with 1TB of storage

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Apple has declared openly that it’s new iPhone 13 Pro is the first iPhone to be ship with 1TB of storage.

The company said the 1TB of storage is an option that will allow users to store double the maximum capacity of 512GB on the regular iPhone 13.

This was revealed during the company’s California Streaming event which was held on Tuesday.

Before the company’s streaming event, Apple  has recently offered 1TB for iPad storage but has kept the 512GB maximum on the iPhone Pro side.

Meanwhile, speculations have suggested that we’ll get a 1TB iPhone this year, and it comes two years after Samsung shipped its Galaxy S10 Plus with a 1TB storage option for $1,600.

Apple is also bumping iPhone storage on the standard models. The base iPhone 13 model will now ship with 128GB instead of the 64GB storage found on the iPhone 12.

It was gathered that the iPhone Pro 13 will start at $999 and is shipping on September 24th. However, the 1TB storage preference will be available on the iPhone 13 Pro for $1,499 and $1,599 on the gigantic iPhone 13 Pro Max.

Watch the iPhone 13 event

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Gunmen kill Anglican priest for inviting soldiers to protect school in Imo

An Anglican priest identified as Rev Emeka Merenu has been murdered by yet-to-be-identified gunmen in Iheteukwu, Orsu LGA of Imo State.

The priest was shot in the church compound and his car was also set ablaze in the early hours of on Tuesday.

It was gathered that the priest, a native of Amaorji in Nkwerre in the Nkwerre Local Government Area of the state and until his death was the priest-in-charge of St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Iheteukwu.

The killing of the priest comes hours after gunmen invaded Comprehensive Secondary School, Nkume in Njaba LGA of Imo, and chased away students who were participating in the ongoing 2021 West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE), on Monday.

Goldennationblog.com gathered from a source that the gunmen attacked the priest in the church compound where he lived, killed him, and burnt his car for allegedly inviting soldiers to secure the mission school where he serves as the principal.

Meanwhile, when contacted the police spokesperson in the state, Michael Abattam, confirmed the incident and said that investigation is ongoing to arrest the suspects.

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Powa President empowers wives of police officers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty

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Hajia Hajara Usman Alkali Baba, the National President of Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) and wife of the 21st indigenous Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba Psc+ FDC, NPM, paid a three-day visit to Delta State command.

The POWA president arrived in Delta state on 9th September 2021 with a clear three-point agenda which are welfare, health, and education.

According to a statement signed and released to newsmen in Asaba, the state capital by the acting spokesperson of the State command, DSP Bright Edafe, on Tuesday, August 14, 2021, he noted that after a courtesy call to the Commissioner of Police Delta state CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, Psc+, the August visitor proceeded to Police Children Primary School Asaba where she commissioned the renovated classroom and E-library built by Rotary Club of Nigeria.

DSP Edafe also noted that at about 1530hrs of 9/9/2021, she paid a courtesy visit to HRM the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Joseph Chike Edozien, CFR (JP) at the Asagba of Asaba palace. Thereafter, she commissioned a borehole water project at ‘B’ Division barracks Asaba.

Also, Edafe noted “On the 10/9/2021 between 1000hrs to 1700hrs, the POWA National President visited three traditional rulers which include HRM, Obi Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II Oon the Obi of the Owa Kingdom and chairman Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sediso Oon (JP) the Abe 1 of the Uvwie Kingdom and the newly installed Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM Ogiama Atuwatsa III Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko.

The police spokesperson further notes, “As part of one of her key agenda which is health, On the 11/9/2021 at about 0900hrs, she mobilized police officers wife in the state and embarked on road walk around the Asaba metropolis. She later flagged off sanitation exercises at ‘A’ and ‘B’ Division barracks respectively.

He said “At about 1100hrs she paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Delta State His Excellency Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa at Government House Asaba before proceeding to the Unity Hall Government House Asaba.

Edafe said she announced that very soon, there will be a quiz competition for all police children and the winner of the quiz will be given a cash price of #10,000,000(ten million nairas).

It was gathered that during the meeting with POWA members, she empowered some widows of late police officers who died in active service and also empowered about 150 wives of serving police officers. After the empowerment, the POWA President in conjunction with police medical doctor Dr. Nonye had an extensive health talk with POWA Members.

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FG to give 1.6M households N10, 000 each every two months

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President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed the readiness of the Federal Government to undertake its N1.5 trillion infrastructure funds in October.

The Infrastructure Fund will be used to help alleviate the needy and vulnerable households with conditional cash of N10, 000 every two months per household.

President Buhari revealed this while speaking virtually at the opening of the 14th Annual Banking and Finance Conference of Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria held in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, titled ‘President Buhari says 1.6m households, eight million individuals benefiting from conditional cash transfers.

Adesina noted that President Buhari said the National Social Register of poor and vulnerable Nigerians had 32.6 million persons from even a million poor vulnerable households identified, imploring bankers to play a stronger role in improving livelihoods.

He explained that ongoing efforts to reduce poverty in the country continue to grow, with 1.6 million poor and vulnerable households, comprising more than 8 million individuals currently benefiting from the Conditional Cash Transfer program, while N300 billion has been disbursed to farmers.

“From this number, 1.6 million poor and vulnerable households, comprising more than 8 million individuals, are currently benefiting from the Conditional Cash Transfer program, which pays a bi-monthly stipend of N10, 000 per household,’’ he said.

According to him, the National Social Investment Programme was the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa and one of the largest in the world.

“Some of the various initiatives embarked upon to boost Agric trade in Nigeria include the Anchor Borrowers Programme through which the Central Bank of Nigeria had made more than 300 billion Naira available to over 3.1 million smallholder farmers of 21 different commodities including Rice, Wheat, Maize, Cotton, Cassava, Poultry, Soybeans, Groundnut, Fish, cultivating over 3.8 million hectares of farmland.

“It is on record that 80% of rice consumed in Nigeria is now produced locally.’’

The President said, in 2020, he approved the establishment of InfraCo Plc, a world-class infrastructure development vehicle, wholly focused on Nigeria, with combined debt and equity take-off capital of N15 trillion, managed by an independent infrastructure Fund Manager; to further strengthen recovery and empower more Nigerians.

“The Solar Power Naija project was launched in April 2021 to deliver 5 million off-grid solar connections to Nigerian households. In May 2021, the Rural Electrification Agency announced the planned deployment of solar-powered grids to 200 Primary Health Centres and 104 Unity Schools nationwide.

“Under the Family Homes Fund Limited, Social Housing program incorporated by the Federal Government of Nigeria, more than two thousand hectares of land with title documents have been issued by 24 states with the capacity to accommodate about 65,000 new homes. The Central Bank of Nigeria is providing an N200 Billion financing facility, with a guarantee by the Federal Government,’’ he said.

Referencing a report from the National Bureau of Statistics which revealed that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product grew 5.01 percent in the second quarter of 2021, the President said, “This is cheery news and an indication that the efforts of this administration at repositioning the economy are paying off.”

He urged bankers and financial institutions to leverage the abundant business opportunities to grow the economy.

He implored financial institutions to play a stronger role in making sure the Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises were fit for purpose, with support in the full implementation of the “Agreement”.

“Indeed financial intermediary could not be any more relevant than at a time like this. We need you, the banks, to drive value creation by developing new technologies, scaling payment infrastructure to serve the diversified economies expected to benefit from this Agreement,’’ he noted.

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I’m not married but I am searching for a wife – Iyanya revealed

Popular Nigerian R&B singer and songwriter, Iyanya Mbuk, better known by his stage name as Iyanya, has dealt with the age-long gossips surrounding his marital status.

He said he is still single and searching for a wife.

In the past years, different reports had alleged that the singer was entangled in a secret marriage in his native town in Cross Rivers State.

But Iyanya while speaking on the speculations for the first time said, he is single and searching for a wife. He revealed this to HipTv on Monday in a chat.

According to Iyanya, “I’m not married. I’m single and searching for a wife, not a girlfriend,” he said.

Earlier this month, Iyanya was appointed the senior special assistant (SSA) on tourism and entertainment to Ben Ayade, governor of Cross River state.

The music star also spoke on what he intended to achieve with the new political position.

“What that means is that I have to use all that I have to bring and shine some light to make sure that the entertainment and tourism are doing well. This is my obligation,” he said.

The Afropop singer hit the limelight after winning the second edition of MTN Project Fame, a music talent show, in 2008.

He had started his music career in the R&B genre, where he thrived with ‘Love Truly’ and ‘Iyanya’, two hit songs on ‘My Story’, his 2009 album.

Following the underwhelming accomplishment of the previous singles and the lack of commercial acceptability, Iyanya subsequently switched to Afropop.

After a journey with MMMG, a record label he co-founded with Ubi Franklin, Iyanya left the music label to launch his own in 2016.

However, the singer last week returned to the staple of MMMG, reuniting with Franklin after five years.

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Anambra governor, Obiano leads protest against IPOB sit-at-home order

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Governor Willie Obiano, on Monday, led a protest against the continued sit-at-home order by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the state government moved to some streets in Akwa, the state capital to enforce the return to businesses in the state.

On Monday, the governor led members of his executive council in protest and during the protest, he visited some banks and markets at the state capital.

The governor during his visit to Eke Awka market asked shopkeepers to open their shops.

He said, “The state must avoid giving urchins the chance to take over the helm of affairs. I chose to lead from the front to end this fear of molestation, harassment, intimidation.

In compliance with the governor’s action, Goldennationblog.com’s gathered that socioeconomic activities, including transportation, banking, and market activities start up around 1 pm in the region.

The Punch reported that on Sunday, the governor had threatened to seal banks and punish market and motor-park leaders who would dare stay at home on Mondays or any day so declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra.

According to The Punch, the governor directed banks, markets, and motor parks in the state to be in operation on Monday unfailingly.

He said the sit-at-home compliance adversely affected the Gross Domestic Product and the general economy of the state, stating that banks that failed to open on such days would be sealed for a week, adding that if such banks refused to open subsequently, they would be permanently closed.

Also on Sunday while addressing transport leaders at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, Obiano said “I advised the commuters to feel free to ply their usual routes across the state on Monday, whether they ride or drive motorcycles, Keke, shuttle, buses.

“If markets don’t open, I will sack the leadership of the market. If the market and park leaders don’t comply, their leadership will be changed within two weeks.”

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FG seeks Interpol to help recapture 240 inmates who flee Kogi prison

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The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, has revealed that a special task force has been “activated” to begin manhunts for inmates who flee from Kabba Correctional Center in Kogi State on Monday.

It was gathered that gunmen attacked the correctional center on Monday and not less than 240 inmates escaped from the facility.

While reacting, the Minister of Interior said the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has been put on notice to be cautious of any of the inmates who may attempt to flee the country.

According to the minister media aide, Sola Fasure, in a statement maintained that the minister said the public should remain calm and also added that the situation is under control.

Fasure also said the interior minister has asked residents in the communities around the prison to report any suspicious activities.

He said “The Kabba custodial facility had 294 inmates as of the time of the attack, many of whom escaped after the gunmen used explosives to destroy three sides of the perimeter fence. However, there remain 28 inmates who didn’t escape. Some have also voluntarily returned to the facility as of this morning.

“A Crisis Response Centre has been activated and Special Taskforce mobilized to recapture escaped inmates whilst an Inter-Agency Security Task Force is already on the trail of the gunmen who attacked the facility. The public is advised to stay calm as the situation is under control, he added

Meanwhile, the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has guaranteed the citizenry that Nigeria’s security forces will find the attackers and bring them to justice.

Aregbesola said “We shall leave no stone unturned to bring them back to custody. We are also putting INTERPOL on notice with their details, in case any of them attempts fleeing outside our shores.

Aregbesola also added “To the fleeing inmates, escaping from lawful custody is a serious criminal offense. Law enforcement agencies and citizens are lawfully empowered to use all necessary means to arrest and bring you to justice.

“You should therefore know what you are up against. You will however be eligible for mitigation if you wilfully surrender yourselves at the nearest law enforcement officer, he added.

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Omimi congratulates Gov Okowa, Delta PDP, on victory of Evivie at Isoko South Constituency 1 Bye-election

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The Political Adviser to the Governor in charge of Delta South, Omimi Esquire, has congratulated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the leadership and members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta, on the outcome of the Isoko South Constituency 1 bye-election which saw the emergence of Mr. Ovuakpoye Evivie as the winner.

Omimi also congratulated the new member-elect, Ovuakpoye Evivie on the landslide victory at the Saturday, September 11 polls where he scored a total of 6, 957 votes to emerge as the member-elect representing the constituency in the State House of Assembly.

According to the Political Adviser, the leadership efforts of Governor Okowa who led party faithful in the ward to ward campaign rallies before the bye-elections set the stage for the landslide victory of Evivie.

Omimi Esquire described the victory of the PDP flagbearer Evivie, as “well deserved, and a further confirmation of the party’s dominance in Isoko South in particular, and Delta State in general.

He, therefore, commended the people of Isoko South Constituency 1 for voting en masse for the PDP, assuring them that they will continue to benefit from the Okowa administration in terms of delivery of the dividends of democracy.

Said Omimi Esquire,” l hereby congratulate my boss and leader of the PDP in Delta, His Excellency the Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, on the landslide victory of the party’s candidate in the September 11 bye-election into the Isoko South Constituency 1 seat, Hon Ovuakpoye Evivie, on the landslide victory. Our Governor has shown leadership qualities by being at the forefront of ward-to-ward campaign rallies before the election in Isoko South 1. Our great party chairman, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso, l say kudos for being there always for our Governor. And for my dear brand new DTHA representative, Hon Ovuakpoye Evivie, l congratulate you and urge you to keep the party flag flying as you start from where our dear departed loyal member and your predecessor, late Hon Kenneth Ogba, stopped. It is my firm belief that you will make us proud by joining hands with his Excellency and the party in delivering dividends of democracy to your constituents. Once again, congratulations all.”

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CBN lists the benefits of its digital currency, e-Naira

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has explained that its soon-to-be-launched digital currency, e-Naira, will enhance the strength of the banking system as deposits will be more diversified when more people are banked.

The Central Bank also said its digital currency will also make it easier for the banking policy to conform with existing laws particularly anti-money laundering, customer protection against fraud, and assuring the safety and stability of the payment system.

This was disclosed by the CBN Deputy Governor of Operations, Mr. Folashodun Shonubi, at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) advocacy dialogue series 4 webinar held on Thursday in Lagos.

The theme of the event was tagged ‘Central Bank Digital Currencies: Insights for the 21st Century Banker.

According to the Deputy Governor of CBN, he said “The Central Bank in its implementation has ensured the e-Naira feeds our economy and provides greater value.

“The central bank digital currency offers all the benefits of cash but in digital form. Every single digital currency is an electronic version of the cash, the legal tender. When you make a cash payment, settlement is done instantly; digital currencies entail the same promises and even more.

“CBDC offers a safer option from the privately issued cryptocurrency which have been based on the possibility to enable cheaper transactions but have now been used for investment.

“The intention is not to eliminate other forms of payment but to complement the current areas of payment options, thereby ensuring the stability of the payment system in the long run. I expect in the coming days we will see rapid inclusion rates.

“For banks in developing nations, it will enhance their liquidity, efficiency in national remittances, and challenge the high cost of remittances as the world rebounds in the post-pandemic. I am of the view that the era of CBDC promotes greater opportunities, and the central bank must be aware of the risks and mitigate them.”

Also, one of the key players in the successful operation of the digital currency, speaking at the event is the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Lamido Yugudu, said that the e-Naira, which is about to be launched in October, would help improve the capital market when combined with vibrant inter-developmental policies, which would lead to financial inclusion, especially in the capital market.

The SEC boss said, “This is an opportunity for the fintech market to connect our people to existing opportunities in the financial market, connecting our people with investment opportunities in other climes. Once we do that, we would grow our market, Nigeria has 200 million people. We are blessed with a hardworking youthful population.

“This capital market would in turn finance the necessary infrastructure investment that this country needs today.”

Recall on July 27, 2021, the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, after the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, confirmed the launch of its digital currency (e-Naira) pilot program in October.

He also talked about the importance of eNaira in Africa’s largest economy which includes cross-border trade facilitation, financial inclusion, monetary policy effectiveness, improved payment efficiency, revenue tax collection, remittance improvement, and targeted social interventions.

Earlier in September, SEC, which had sought to regulate crypto because they qualify as securities transactions, disclosed that the recent launch of the country’s digital currency, e-naira, is the result of its engagement with the CBN.

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Arsenal FC signed 9-year-old Nigerian, Munnir Sada

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Arsenal Football Club has signed a nine-year-old Nigerian, Munnir Muhammed Sada, to its Kid’s Academy in London, United Kingdom.

The pictures of the nine-year-old boy during the signing of the document surface online and were seen by Goldennationblog.com.

In the pictures that surfaced online, Sada was seen kitted in an Arsenal jersey, with two women believed to be his parents.

Also, according to a post that was shared on Facebook by the Kaduna State Department of Public Affairs, Information Officer, Yunus Abdallah, revealed that the nine-year-old Sada is an Indigene of Zaria, Kaduna State.

Yunus Abdallah posted “Arsenal FC have signed a nine-year-old Nigerian. Munnir Muhammed Sada, an Indigene of Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State is expected to be playing for the youth soccer team of Arsenal FC.”

It was also gathered that Sada was said to have always dreamt of being a football legend like Lionel Messi.

Meanwhile, Arsenal has not issued any official statement regarding the resumption of the Sada to its academy.

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Texas enacts law that bans kicking users off social media based on ‘viewpoint’

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The Governor of Texas, Greg Abbott has signed the bill that regulates how social media companies moderate their content.

The new law, passed as HB 20 in early September, controversially prohibits banning (or demonetizing or otherwise restricting) content based on “the viewpoint of the user or another person,” whether or not that viewpoint is expressed on the social media platform itself.

TheVerge.com reported that the HB 20 also requires social media services to disclose how they promote and moderate content and mandates transparency reports similar to those produced by Facebook, Google, and other major web companies. If platforms are notified of illegal content, the law requires them to evaluate it within 48 hours, a policy that mirrors at least one proposal in US Congress. (Unlike Congress, however, a state legislative body can’t override Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act — which governs much moderation of illegal content online.)

According to TheVerge.com, companies that break the rules could face a civil lawsuit or action from the attorney general. The law applies to web services with more than 50 million active users that let people “communicate with other users for the primary purpose of posting information, comments, messages, or images,” not including internet service providers and news or entertainment sites.

The law also includes a section specifically aimed at email platforms — making it unlawful to “intentionally impede the transmission of another person ’s electronic mail message based on the content of the message” unless the company believes it contains malicious code, obscenity, illegal content, or violations of an existing Texas anti-spam law.

The Texas law is one of several Republican efforts to scare web companies away from removing objectionable but lawful content, a fight conservative politicians have framed as an anti-censorship battle against companies that are akin to phone companies or other communications utilities. It follows a similar Florida law covering social media, although it doesn’t include some of that rule’s more distinctive provisions, like protections for political candidates and an exemption for companies that own a theme park.

The rule’s future, however, is uncertain. It’s likely to face legal challenges from critics, and unlike the recent Texas abortion ban, it’s not tailored to evade judicial scrutiny. A judge blocked Florida’s social media law in June, saying it “compels providers to host speech that violates their standards.”

NetChoice, one of the plaintiffs in that Florida lawsuit, released a statement condemning the bill. “HB 20 has the same First Amendment flaws as the Florida law that a federal court blocked this summer. The same outcome will almost certainly occur in Texas,” said NetChoice president Steve DelBianco in a statement. So far, however, it hasn’t committed to a similar lawsuit there.

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What Buhari told South-East leaders during his visit to Imo

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President Muhammadu Buhari during his one-day official visitation to Imo State on Thursday told the South-East leaders in a town hall meeting that he will love to be remembered as the president who fixed Nigeria in the area of security, economic prosperity, and triumphs over corruption.

According to the president’s media aide, Femi Adesina, while quoting the Buhari in a statement titled, ‘I want to be remembered as a president who stabilized Nigeria, President Buhari tell South-East leaders.’

President Buhari said Security is number one priority stating that “If there is no security, there is nothing anyone can do no matter how much you try or the initiative you have.”

Adding that “Security is the number one priority and then economy. When people feel secure they will mind their own business.”

The president also told South-East leaders that while fighting corruption in Nigeria had become very sophisticated and difficult, he would continue to strive to leave a lasting legacy of integrity and accountability in the system.

According to Buhari in his explanation he said “Nobody can accuse me of having companies or mansions anywhere in the country and I thank God that I try to keep myself as clean as possible so that I cannot be taken hostage.

Buhari also said “I will do my best to ensure that Nigerians that try hard, succeed in their efforts.”

The president also talked about the 2023 election stating that it will be credible. The president reaffirmed his commitment to free, fair, and credible poll as he urges the leaders to honestly educate their constituencies on the need to hold their elected representatives accountable.

Talking about projects, he promised that the Federal Government would complete the ongoing projects in the South-East which includes the 2nd Niger Bridge as well as the railway lines and routes linking the region with other parts of the country.

The president said “I firmly believe that when you you get infrastructure right, Nigerians will mind their own businesses.”

He also added that as a group, the Igbos stand to benefit more from the ongoing development of infrastructure in the country because “they are more enterprising,” the president added.

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MI Abaga set to drop his new album

Popular Nigerian rapper and record producer, Jude Abaga, better known by his stage name MI Abaga, has revealed plans to release his 11th studio album.

MI Abaga made this revelation on Thursday when he shared a series of posts on his Instagram stories.

Although the rapper while sharing his posts did not reveal the date when the album will be released, rather he said, he had completed the work on the project.

He also used the opportunity to appreciate his fans for their supports during the production of the much-awaited project.

According to the 39-year-old music star while sharing his posts on Instagram stated that “I think I’m done… Anyone wey no sweet, una go manage am like that… Thank you guys for the messages. Project 11 on the way.”

The forthcoming project is coming after the success recorded by ‘Judah the EP,’ his 10th studio project, released last year, and ‘The Live Report’, his collaborative work with AQ.

MI Abaga has established himself as a household name in the Nigerian music landscape with numerous awards and recognition.

He is also known for his social consciousness, which has bared itself in some of his musical releases in the past.

He had last year announced his departure from Chocolate City, a record label he joined in 2007, to form Incredible Music, his music label.

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Breaking: Lagos Assembly enacts VAT, open grazing bills

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The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed the Value Added Tax Bill along with the bill that prohibits open cattle grazing in the state.

The Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday, directed the acting Clerk of the House, Mr. Olalekan Onafeko, to convey a clean copy to the governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for approval.

The two bills were enacted after collective votes by the lawmakers at the sitting where the bills were read the third time.

After the passing of the bill, the Speaker immediately commended his colleagues for their passion to see that the state continues to grow.

Obasi said, “I thank you all for this historic exercise.”

Recall on Wednesday, the house had held a separate public hearing on the bills, with stakeholders indicating authorization.

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Girl killed her husband for rejecting divorce three weeks after marriage

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A 19-year-old girl, Rumasau Muhammed, was arrested by the Adamawa State Police Command for allegedly stabbing her husband, Adamu Muhammed, 35 years, to death.

The suspect stabbed her husband after three weeks of marriage because her husband rejected to approve her request for separation from the forced marriage her parents urged her into.

This was made known by the spokesperson for the Adamawa State Police Command, DSP Suleiman Nguroje, on Wednesday in Yola while disclosing the arrest of the teenager.

According to DSP Nguroje, he said the state Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Alhaji, had ordered a clinical investigation into the case.

He said, “Police investigation so far reveals that the suspect was forcefully married to the deceased by her parents against her will on August 6, 2021, and the marriage lasted for only three weeks before the ugly incident.

“The suspect, Rumasau Muhammed, a resident of Wuro Yanka village, Shelleng LGA, stabbed her late husband, Muhammed Adamu, with a knife after seeking divorce and the deceased refused to pronounce such divorce.

“Angered by his refusal to divorce her after several requests by her, the suspect used a knife and stabbed him in his stomach, as a result of which he fell unconscious and was rushed to a hospital where he was confirmed dead.

The police spokesperson also said the CP, while frowning on forced marriage, directed the immediate prosecution of the suspect to serve as a deterrent to others.”

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After five years: Iyanya, Ubi Franklin reunite under record label

Popular Nigerian musician, Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, better known by his stage name, Iyanya, and his manager, Ubi Franklin, unite again under their records label, Made Men Music Group (MMMG), after five years.

This story of their reunion was made known by Franklin who shared series of posts on his Instagram page on Wednesday announcing their reunion under the brand after five years.

While sharing the post, Franklin wrote “How time indeed flies, it has been 165.6M Secs, 2.8M minutes, 46K hours, 1916 days, 274 weeks, 63 months, 5 years since the resolution of the contract binding two resilient and hardworking parties that felt the need to give themselves time and grow independently.”

“These parties having explored life differently in the same niche, various spheres and found a defining purpose to their missions have collectively decided to come as one body to reckon with.”

“We appreciate the effort of friends, colleagues and well wishers for the years of believing in our craft, supporting our purpose and encouraging our mission.”

“We also acknowledge the individual management over the past years and look forward to working as a large family. We hope that this re-emergence bring forth more successful years.”

Recall in 2016, Iyanya left MMMG, the music company he co-owned with Franklin over an argument he had with him.

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Armed robbers hijacked Sunday Igboho’s aide case file – DSS lawyer tells court

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The lawyer to the Department of State Service, Idowu Awo, has told the Federal High Court, on Wednesday that the case file relating to the Fundamental Human Rights Enforcement petition filed by the aides to Igboho was hijacked by armed robbers.

He said armed robbers attacked his colleague who was supposed to bring the case file to the court.

According to Awo while explaining before Justice Obiora Egwuata said his colleague boarded a vehicle belonging to armed robbers commonly known as ‘one chance’ and his belongings including the case file was hijacked by the Armed robbers.

Meanwhile, one of the lawyers to Sunday Igboho, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has posted on Facebook describing the claims that armed robbers attacked officials of the DSS as “shameful”.

Olajengbesi in his post on Facebook stated “We must stop this nonsense in this country. I am sick and tired. The Claims by DSS staff that they were robbed and case files missing on their way to court are ridiculous and shameful.

“If DSS can be robbed in the city of Abuja, what then is the faith of the common man. #Sickcountry.”

It was gathered that the 12 associates of Igboho had instituted the rights enforcement suit against the DSS for parading them in the media as common criminals.

According to the suit, the aides are seeking a ruling of the court that their arrest beyond 48 hours and their media parade without a court conviction constituted a breach of their fundamental rights.

They are also seeking an order of permanent injunction restricting the DSS from obstructing their liberty and freedom of expression.

Sunday Igboho’s aides further prayed the court to order the DSS to pay them N100 million for aggravated and exemplary damages, for what they described as a serial breach of their constitutional rights.

On July 1, operatives of the DSS raided Igboho’s residence in Oyo and arrested 12 of his supporters.

They were thereafter paraded and dragged to the Federal Capital Territory where they were imprisoned.

Later, the detainees, through their lawyer, Olajengbesi, filed an application asking the court to investigate the situations constituting the grounds of their arrest and detention since July 2.

Olajengbesi further asked the court that where it deemed fit, his clients should be admitted to bail.

Ruling on the application on August 4, Justice Egwuatu admitted all the applicants to bail.

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Nigeria and Ghana rated as highest countries watching pornography in the world

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Nigeria and Ghana have been ranked by PornHub as the highest porn-watching (blue film) country in the world ahead of United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, and many developed countries.

The two West African countries took the topmost positions after PornHub did a ranking of where most of their viewership comes from around the world.

Peacefmonline.com reported that the world’s leading pornography company released a list of viewers and subscribers from the top 25 countries across the globe that patronize their product, and interestingly, Nigeria came first on this tall list.

Ghana which was arguably tagged as the most religious country, if not a Christian county, has surprisingly been classified second as one of the top countries where its citizens are extremely in love with pornographic movies, pictures, and skits, while Kenya took the third position.

Meanwhile, North African countries like Egypt and Morocco where about 90 percent of their citizens are Muslims came fourth and fifth respectively to complete the Top Five.

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Imo State Government shut down banks for obeying IPOB sit-at-home

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The Imo State Government has shut down some banks in Owerri, the state capital for obeying the sit-at-home order imposed by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

On Tuesday, the government shut down all the banks along Bank Road in the state capital leaving bank customers stranded.

Some of the financial institutions that were shut down by the state government were Access Bank, Polaris Bank, First Bank, Eco Bank, and United Bank for Africa.

It was gathered from some of the bank employees that the officials of Owerri Capital Development Authority sealed the banks as early as 7 am, ribbons were used to seal the various banks in the area.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, has explained that the state government sealed the banks because they frustrated customers on Monday by refusing to open for transactions.

The Commissioner did not disclose when the government would unseal the banks when asked by a correspondent, rather he said it is left for OCDA and the banks to determine.

However, the OCDA General Manager, Innocent Ikpamezie, did not respond to multiple calls put across to his cell phones by our correspondent.

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Police arrests six additional suspects involved in the murder of the Prince of Orhuwhorun

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Six additional suspects included in the killing of the Prince of Orhuwhorun, Prince Eric Takerere, and two mobile policemen were arrested by the Delta State Anti-kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS).

The Police also invaded their armory and restored two AK 47 rifles, one Pump Action, four Magazines, and seventy-six rounds of the live bullet.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement by the acting spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, DSP Bright Edafe, in Asaba the state capital on Wednesday, September 8, 2021.

According to DSP Edafe in his statements, he noted “Sequel to the murder case under investigation in the Command where the Prince of Orhuwhorun, one Prince Eric Takerere, two mobile policemen were murdered and their rifles carted away and also the attempted murder of his brother prince Franklyn Takerere.The Command under the leadership of CP Ari Muhammed Ali never relented in its effort to arrest the other fleeing members of the gang.”

“On the 06/09/2021, police operatives from the Delta State Anti-kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS) carried out diligent and painstaking investigation on one Godspower Agabarhayowe “AKA” GANAGANA ‘m’ age 27 years and Tony Edwin ‘m’ age 27 years that were earlier arrested on the 09/07/2021 in connection to the murder.”

“They led the police operatives to their hideout in Udu, Warri and Aladja area were six suspects namely Onoriode Shefo “AKA” Chicago “M” age 36YRS, Omagbeosa Sholla “M” age 30YRS, Godwin Obukoemu “AKA” Million “M” age 30YRS, Ejime Mugagbam “M” age 34YRS, Ejiroghenen Nushe “M” age 24YRS and Echo Monday “M” age 28YRS.”

“They all confessed to being involved in the murder of Prince Eric Takerere, his two mobile policemen. They also led the operatives to their armory where two AK47 rifles, one pump action gun, one locally-made pistol, four magazines, seventy-six rounds of live ammunition, and thirty-eight rounds of live cartridges were recovered.”

DSP Edafe also noted another incident that led to the death of one-armed robber involved in terrorizing Obogo Community.

He said “On the 07/09/2021 at about 0420hrs DPO Ovwian Aladja received a distress call that armed robbers were operating at Obogo community. He mobilized Police Patrol Team and vigilantes in the community to the scene. The armed robbers on sighting the police patrol engaged the team in a gun duel but they could not withstand the superior firepower of the combined team.”

“During the gun duel, one of the armed robbers sustained a serious gunshot injury while two others escaped. The injured suspect was rushed to a nearby hospital but he gave up the ghost while receiving treatment. One locally made pistol with one live cartridge was recovered. The investigation is ongoing.”

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Cardi B and her husband Offset welcome second child

American rapper, Cardi B and her husband Offset have welcomed their second child together.

The rapper made these known on her Instagram page on Monday, September 6, 2021, when she shared a photo with her newborn in her arms, captioning the post with the date, 4 September 2021, as well as a blue and an elephant emoji.

Also, her husband, Offset later shares a photo on his account with his baby cuddle upon his chest.

Recall, in June, the couple who are already parents to Kulture Kiari, first announced they were expecting a baby when Cardi B joined the Migos rapper on stage at the Bet Awards revealing her baby bump.

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Suspected IPOB’s sit-at-home enforcers, burn truck of spare parts in Enugu

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A truck loaded with auto spare parts worth millions of naira has been set ablaze by some persons suspected to be enforcers of the suspended sit-at-home order imposed by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

It was gathered that the incident happened about 7:00 a.m yesterday, September 6, at Eluagu Obukpa, Nsukka Local Government Area in Enugu State.

According to a source who does not want his name to be mentioned said the truck was coming from Nnewi, Anambra State and was heading to Enugu-Ezike in the Igboeze North Local Government Area.

The source said the fire-setter came in a Sienna minivan and forced the truck driver to stop before razing the vehicle and its contents.

However, the source did not explain whether the hoodlums were IPOB members because according to him, he said “I don’t know if they were IPOB members. They were not wearing anything depicting them as members of the group but they were shouting, ‘No movement today! You must sit-at-home!”

The source also added that nobody was killed, that the driver escaped.

Also, the source said by the time men of the Enugu State Fire Service raced to the scene, goods estimated to be worth millions of naira had already been destroyed.

Meanwhile, the spokesman of the Enugu State Police Command, Daniel Ndukwe, said: “Information surrounding a truck found on fire this morning at Eluagu Obukpa in Nsukka LGA is sketchy, as the Command is yet to receive any formal report of the incident. We have, however, commenced a preliminary investigation.”

The sit-at-home, which had hitherto been canceled, has continued every Monday in the state, as IPOB members insist on hearing directly from their detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Also, in Imo State, many residents in different parts of the 27 local councils, stayed indoors, yesterday.

This came as Ebonyi State Governor Dave Umahi explained that residents have continued to comply with the order because of fear.

Umahi, who spoke to newsmen shortly after he met with President Muhammadu Buhari at State House, Abuja, warned that unless the matter is addressed, the region could become economically bankrupt.

Meanwhile, one of Kanu’s lawyers, Maxwell Opara, has demanded an N50 million suit against the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged rights violation.

The council, in the suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1018/2021), is praying the court to award him the sum as compensation for the infringement of his rights to dignity and human person, which allegedly occurred when he was invited to the agency’s detention facility.

He is also demanding a written apology by the respondents to be published in two national dailies. No date has been fixed for hearing of the suit.

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New viral disease breaks out in Ogun, affect Okada riders, Scavengers

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The Government of Ogun State has announced the outbreak of a suspected viral disease identified as ‘Gastroenteritis’ in the state.

The disease is also known as stomach flu and it broke out in Magboro, Ofada area of Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.

According to the State Ministry of Health, the disease is spreading among Okada riders and scavengers in the domain.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection marked by watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever.

It was gathered that the disease is usually caused by contact with an infected person or by ingesting contaminated food or water.

Medical practitioners explained that healthy people who suffered the disease may recover without complications but maintained that it could be “deadly” for infants, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.

However, the State Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, while confirming the outbreak in a statement revealed that the reported cases “were predominant among commercial motorcyclists and scavengers in the area.”

She said that the index case was said to have recently returned from a trip outside Ogun and that she has been connected to the source of the outbreak.

The health commissioner also said that a public toilet was the channel of transmission, adding that the toilet has been sealed up for sanitation.

“The causative agent cannot be confirmed yet because appropriate sample could not be collected as there was no active case yet to commence antibiotics,” the Health Commissioner stated.

She disclosed that several people “are currently receiving treatment to control the number of casualties.”

The commissioner blamed an unregistered clinic being run by a quack as having contributed to the outbreak, regretting that cases were being managed unreported.

To control the viral disease, Coker informed that the state government has set up a treatment center at the Magboro-Akeran Health Centre, where curative items have been made available by the Department of Public Health.

Also, she added that adjourning communities had been sensitized on what to do and where to seek care or report any wary cases.

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FG threatens to sanction TV, radio stations with ‘red card’

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The Federal Government has threatened to issue a red card to television and radio stations in Nigeria for alleged violation of communication ethics.

This was revealed by the Minister of information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, on Wednesday while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sal Island, Cape Verde.

It was gathered by The PUNCH that the National Broadcasting Commission recently invited presenters of Channels Television and threatened to sanction the broadcast station over an interview with Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom.

The interview, which attracted a harsh reaction from the president, was considered to be against the President, Muhammadu Buhari.

Meanwhile, the minister was said to be in Cape Verde to attend the 64th Conference of the UN World Tourism Organisation Commission for Africa and the Second Edition of the UNWTO Global Tourism Investment Forum.

NAN mentioned that the minister said the National Broadcasting Commission and other regulators would ensure that broadcast stations abide by statutory laws and ethics.

He said any station that violated the broadcast code and ethics would be “shown the red card.

“We agree that there are challenges but the government is doing its best in addressing insecurity, banditry, insurrections, and fixing the economy.

“What one expected from these leaders at this trying period is support and encouragement.

“It is, however, quite disturbing that they have thrown caution to the winds and it is no longer about leadership and maturity but about who can say something that can break this country.

“Certain words that we were afraid of using before such as genocide and ethnic cleansing, are now taking over the media waves.

“That is why it is important to call everybody to order to appeal to their sense of patriotism that they should understand that because there is a country called Nigeria, that is why they are leaders.

“If what they are praying for happens, they will no longer be leaders but servants in other countries.”

NAN also mentioned that the minister said, “In the last few weeks, the country has been awash, especially from the broadcast media, with very incendiary rhetoric which has created a sort of panic in Nigeria.”

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Bad news for traducers: LPDC gives former Attorney General, Mrakpor, SAN, clean bill of health

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In the wake of provocative petitions leveled against immediate past Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice of Delta State, the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Council, (LPDC), has formally dismissed the petition as lacking merit on “all fours”.

Under a petition submitted to the LPDC dated 30th October 2020 and titled : RE: CHARGE no A/2060/2019: INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE vs Chief Collins Uche Afuwah’ A case of flagrant abuse of office by the Hon Attorney general of Delta State and usurpation of powers vested in the Hon Attorney General and Minister of the federation, the LPDC asserted that Peter Mrakpor, SAN, indeed followed due process in pursuance of the matter.

The LPDC, therefore, acquitted the former HAG Delta of violating section 174 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria over the prosecution of the said charge which bordered on federal offense.

The LPDC held that the immediate past Attorney general of Delta State, Peter Mrakpor, SAN, had all legal rights in the matter under review.

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Olu of Warri dissolve traditional council, scheduled date for revalidation

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The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwaste III, on Tuesday declared openly with immediate effect the dissolution of all traditional authorities, committees, and subcommittees in Iwereland.

His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwaste III, made this known in a statement issued from the royal palace in Warri, stating that a revalidation and confirmation exercise would commence on September 2, 2021.

The Olu of Warri also backed the decision citing Section 25 of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Chiefs Law Capt. 2, Law of Delta State of Nigeria, 2008.

According to the 37-year-old Olu who ascended the throne of Warri Kingdom on August 21, 2021, said in a statement “I, Atuwatse Ogiame III, hereby, announce, for the information of the general public, the Delta State Government and particularly, the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Committees, the dissolution of all traditional councils, committees, sub-committees, and the scheduled exercise of revalidation/confirmation effective from 2nd day of September 2021.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Warri Council of Chiefs, the Olu-in-Council, all standing ad-hoc and sub-committees are dissolved forthwith.” the monarch added.

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How missing 13-years-old boy was found in Delta

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A 13-year-old boy whose photography you see goes missing but was later found by a team of policemen in Delta State while he was roaming along Abraka Orogun road.

The boy identified as Master Kachukwu Sunday, dark in complexion, is 3.5ft in height.

According to the boy, he said he hails from Agu Achara Community in Ishielu Agba Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

This was made known in a statement by the acting Delta State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Edafe Bright, on Tuesday, August 31, 2021.

According to the Police spokesperson, he noted that the child was found roaming along Abraka Orogun road by the State Anti -Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS) Asaba.

He also noted that any person (s) who knows the said boy should inform the parents or guardian to report to SAKCCS or PPRO’s office Police Headquarters, in Asaba, Delta State capital for identification.

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New Apple Watch delayed due to complications issues

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Apple’s upcoming smartwatch is experiencing complication issues due to the new design which is rumored to involve flat sides and a bigger screen.

The new Apple Watch complications could lead to the product being released later than expected as reported by Nikkie Asia and Bloomberg.

According to a Nikkei Asia report, a source disclosed that small-scale production for the Apple Watch had begun but revealed that it encountered “critical challenges in reaching satisfactory production performance. Apple and its suppliers work to solve the manufacturing issues ahead of eventual mass production, Nikkie Asia added.

Bloomberg also reported similar details that production has now been ” temporarily halted”.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported in his Power On newsletter on Sunday that the new Apple Watch is expected to be called the Apple Watch Series 7. It comes with a big screen size of about 41mm and 45 mm (a 1mm bump from the currently available options), a faster processor, and “a flatter display and edges.”

Gurman also reported that the Series 7 won’t bring any big health upgrades “until at least next year, ” meanwhile, Nikkie Asia added that the new Watch will add new features “such as blood pressure measurement.”

Last year September at an event, Apple announced the Apple Watch Series 6, and the company is expected to host another September product event this year. But if Apple does not host a September event this year, it might be because of the production challenges the company encountered because there is a possibility that the Apple Watch might not make an appearance.

However, Apple has not replied to a request to comment.

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Gunmen attack doctor, patients inside hospital in Bayelsa

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On Tuesday, gunmen raided Diete Koki Memorial Hospital in the Opolo area of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital.

The gunmen robbed the doctor on duty alongside patients of their money and other belongings.

It was gathered that the robbers scaled the perimeter fence of the state-owned health facility to gain entry from the back.

Narrating the invasion, Awudumapu Okeleghel, a medical doctor said the robbers are two in number and they took him unaware, as he was returning from his call room.

According to Dr. Okeleghel, he said: “My belongings and those of patients from the labor ward and their family members were all taken by the criminals.”

Also speaking is the Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Emmanuel Fetepigi, who described the act as barbaric and unfortunate.

He said the hospital management would work together with the Ministry of Health to assure that measures were put in place to forestall a recurrence.

Dr. Emmanuel Fetepigi also said it is the second time the hospital will be raided stating that some criminals had once stolen its generator.

Meanwhile, as of the time of filing this report, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, Asinim Butswat said the occurrence had not been reported to the police.

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Legendary musician, Sir Victor Uwaifo is dead at 80 years

Nigerian legendary and most educated musician, Prof Sir Victor Uwaifo, has died at the age of 80 years.

Sir Victor Uwaifo died on Saturday, August 28, 2021, in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Peter ‘de Rock’ Uwaifo, one of his children break the news of his demise on his Facebook page on Saturday evening.

According to Peter, he did not disclose the cause of his father’s death, he only expressed his sadness with a statement he wrote, “Daddy why did you leave us now? Prof Sir Victor Uwaifo has gone to rest. Black Saturday for me now. One week after collaborating with me.”

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) have also consoled the family of the late music maestro.

Buhari said the late Uwaifo has left a legacy of achievements in many areas of life, including education and administration.

In a statement titled ‘President Buhari mourns legendary music artiste, Sir Victor Uwaifo’ by the president’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, reads in part:

“The President joins the Nigerian music industry and performing artistes, home and abroad, in mourning the first Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism (Edo State), who was also the first musician and instrumentalist to be given a national honors merit, Member of the Order of the Niger, in 1983. The President believes the renowned musician, with global appeal and recognitions, lived for many firsts, which include an invitation to the State House by four presidents and heads of state, and winner of a gold disc in Africa for his song, ‘Joromi’, released in 1965 at the age of 24.”

He went on to pray for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for his many fans.

Expressing shock at the death of the icon who served as a commissioner under the administration of a former governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Obaseki, in a statement titled, ‘Obaseki mourns death of the legendary musician, Prof. Victor Uwaifo,’ said, “I received the news of the loss of legendary musician and art teacher, Prof Victor Uwaifo, with shock and sadness. He was talented, phenomenal, and an illustrious son of Edo State who wowed the world with his array of skills, notably his music talent.

Also, the state chapter of PMAN described the late musician as a great inspiration to others in the state. The state Chairman of the association, Eghe Nova, noted that ‘he inspired a lot of people. He was the most educated musician that we had so we had been using him to tell other musicians that musicians are not dropouts. At least, he was able to prove that. One doesn’t have to be a failure to go into music.”

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Apple Offers A Free Service Program For iPhone 12 And iPhone 12 Pro users

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Apple has announced to repair any iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro that has a sound receiver issue when making or receiving calls.

The tech company revealed on its website that “A very small percentage of iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro devices may undergo sound issues due to a component that might fail on the receiver module.”

“Affected devices were manufactured between October 2020 and April 2021.”

“If your iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro does emit sound from the receiver when you make or receive calls, it may be eligible for service.”

Furthermore, the company stated that iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max models are not part of this program.

According to the information gathered towards the qualifications to repair, the company maintains that the iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro will be examined before any service to verify that it is eligible for the program.

To access this program, find an Apple  Authorized Service Provider. Make an appointment at an Apple Retail Store. Contact Apple Support to arrange mail-in service via the Apple Repair Center. Adding that before service, back up your iPhone to iCloud or computer.

In addition, the Apple page stated “if iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro has any damage which impairs the ability to complete the repair, such as a cracked screen, that issue will need to be resolved before the service. Adding that in some cases, there may be a cost associated with the additional repair.”

Despite the new benefits of this program, Apple may restrict or limit repair to the original country or region of purchase. Stating that the worldwide Apple program doesn’t extend the standard warranty coverage of the iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro.

Meanwhile, the Apple page revealed that the program covers affected iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro devices for 2 Years after the first retail sale of the unit.

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“We buried 76 people in one day in Sokoto” – Sultan revealed

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The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, said the number of people killed by unknown gunmen across the country is underreported while referring to the killing of 76 residents who were killed and buried in one day, and 48 persons another day in Sokoto state

Abubakar also said the level of insecurity in the country has worsened while speaking at the 3rd quarter 2021 meeting of the Inter-Religious Council on Thursday, August 26, 2021, in Abuja.

He said, “These incidents were not reported.”

He wanted why the intelligence agencies have been incapable to recognize the culprits.

According to him “In eastern Sokoto alone, there was a day we buried 76 persons, who were killed in cold blood by criminals who came from nowhere, people don’t hear about that one. There was another day we buried 48 persons in the same Sokoto, but you didn’t hear about it,” Abubakar said.

“How can people, who do these things, be unknown? Where are our intelligence agencies? Don’t we have a proactive intelligence agency that will think ahead of the bandits?

“All the people committing such atrocities must be identified. The security agencies must up their game, find them, and take action on this kind of carnage. If we start doing so, all this carnage we see in this country will stop.”

Abubakar advised the government to seek help from “foreign powers to come and play the game we don’t know how to play”.

“I am making these comments with all seriousness because we are so disturbed by the way things are going,” he said.

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Delta State Police Command arrest suspected armed robber recovers one Ak-47 rifle with nine ammunition

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered one AK 47 rifle with nine live cartridges.

The suspected robber was arrested by the team of Safer-Highway that was stationed between Delta and Edo boundary along Sapele Benin road.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement on Friday, August 27, 2021, by the acting spokesperson of the State Command, DSP Bright Edafe.

According to DSP Edafe, the operation of stop and search that has been put in place by the Commissioner of Police Delta State command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+ has been vital in helping the command in fighting crime in the state and help nip crime in the bud.

In the statement, DSP Edafe said as part of proactive policing, on Monday, August 23, 2021, at about 07:00 am, Safer-Highway teams were stationed between Delta/Edo boundary along Sapele Benin road while on stop and search duty intercepted a white color Nissan Maxima Reg. No. JJJ 494 ES.

According to DSP Edafe, the vehicle was flagged down for search. Upon searching the vehicle one AK 47 rifle with breach No. 7165 with nine (9) rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition was recovered and the suspect one Davison Edehede ‘m’ 34yrs of Ugbor road Ukpaka area of Warri was arrested. The investigation is ongoing. Edafe added.

Davison Edehede Image by Delta State Police Command

Also, in another arrest that happened on the same date at the same time as the former, Edafe noted that the command while acting on credible information that a cultist has been trailing one (name withheld), said the Delta State Police Command Raider operatives were detailed to investigate and unravel the person behind the threat.

The police spokesperson noted that the operatives went on an intelligence-led investigation and one Ifeanyi Ajudia ‘m’ was arrested at Ibusa.

He also noted that a search warrant was executed in the house and premise of the suspect where one locally fabricated berretta pistol without magazine was recovered. He added that the investigation is ongoing.

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Alexx Ekubo wife-to-be calls off wedding, see what she said

Popular Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo, wife-to-be, Fancy Acholonu, a Nigerian US-based model canceled their engagement.

On Wednesday, August 25, Fancy removed all the pictures of her ex-fiance from her Instagram and also deleted their joint IG account @falexxforever that same day.

Fancy while announcing the breakup, took to her Instagram page on Thursday to confirm the stories that her betrothal with the actor has been called off.

According to her post on IG, she wrote: “Hey guys I am writing to inform you all officially that I have ended my relationship and I have called off the wedding with Alex Ekubo.”

She added that she was aware that the news would come as a shock to many, however, maintained that she had made the best decision for herself “because it is important that everyone finds their happiness and live in their truth.”

She also added “At this time my family and I ask you all to please respect our privacy. Thank you so much!”

Meanwhile, Alex Ekubo has remained notably silent with no statements on the circumstance from his end despite the buzz the news has resulted in.

Recall, in May this year, Goldennationblog.com gathered that the couple who had kept their relationship out of public eyes, officially announced their engagement which they also scheduled their traditional wedding to hold on November 20th in Imo State while the church wedding was slated for November 27 in Lagos State.

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Hushpuppi: IGP receives panel report on Abba Kyari

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The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali Baba, has received the report of the panel set up to probe the bribery allegations against the deputy commissioner of police (DCP) Abba Kyari.

This was disclosed in a statement on Thursday by the police spokesperson, Frank Mba.

According to Frank Mba, the report of the investigation panel was handed over to the IGP by the chairman of the panel, Joseph Egbunike.

The statement reads: “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc (+), NPM, FDC today, 26th August 2021, received the report of the NPF Special Investigation Panel (SIP) investigating the alleged indictment of the erstwhile Head of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT), DCP Abba Kyari by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The report was submitted by the chairman of the SIP, DIG Joseph Egbunike, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

“DIG Egbunike, while presenting the report, appreciated the IGP for the confidence reposed on him and the members of the Panel to conduct the probe. He noted that the Panel commenced investigations immediately after it was inaugurated on 2nd August 2021 and the report submitted is an outcome of a painstaking, transparent, and exhaustive investigative process. He further revealed that the report presented contained the case file of the probe, evidence, and findings as well as testimonies from DCP Abba Kyari and other persons and groups linked to the matter.

Recall, The panel was constituted to probe Kyari over his alleged relationship with Hushpuppi, the confessed international fraudster.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had earlier revealed how Kyari allegedly collaborated with Hushpuppi to jail one of his associates after a dispute over a $1.1 million scam on Qatari businesspeople.

The agency also claimed that the embattled social media celebrity-hosted the crack investigator in Dubai.

But the top detective denied the allegation, claiming that his “hands are clean”.

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Google releases OS app for YouTube music, available only on Samsung new watches

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After Google shut down Google Play Music on Wear OS in August 2020, the company has finally released a Wear OS app for YouTube Music to enable users to play their music offline.

The new app comes with specific stipulations and conditions as it only works on one of Samsung’s two new watches powered by Wear OS 3.

According to Google, these watches won’t be available until August 27th, stating that even if you want to try the new app right away, you won’t be able unless you have a Galaxy Watch 4 or a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic.

Google said if you are lucky enough to have one of the new watches, the YouTube Music Wear OS will let YouTube Premium subscribers download music right to their watch, meaning you can listen to tunes with just a watch and a pair of Bluetooth headphones, even when you don’t have an Internet connection.

The 9to5Google reported that the app is available today on the Play Store, the Wear OS version of YouTube Music offers up access to all of your playlists, mixes, and, of course, playback controls.

According to 9to5Google, “The headline feature, though, is support for offline music storage so your smartwatch can handle playback to Bluetooth headphones, enabling you to leave your phone at home.”

“Diving into the app, it opens up to a sign-in screen where you can select from the YouTube accounts on your watch. It won’t acknowledge any additional Google accounts on your paired smartphone.”

“After signing in, you’ll be presented with three distinct sections — Downloads, Recommended, and Library. These sections are mostly self-explanatory, but initially, the Downloads one will be empty. To download content for offline use, you’ll simply tap on a playlist or mix and be presented with a huge download button. You can’t browse a playlist’s content at all, with even downloaded playlists only showing a shuffle button when tapped.”

“Importantly, downloads can only happen when the watch is on a charger — there’s no way to do it otherwise. The app will also default to downloading solely on Wi-Fi, but you can toggle that if you wish. There’s a “Smart Downloads” feature in the Settings, which can be customized to download between 50 and 500 songs, depending on how much storage you have available. There’s also a toggle for “Restricted Mode” that filters out explicit content and a “Privacy & Location” page that exists only to tell you to deal with that on your phone.”

“Playback encourages using a Bluetooth headset by automatically opening that menu when you hit shuffle, but the app will play through the watch’s speaker if those Bluetooth headphones fail to stay connected. As far as I can tell, though, there’s no way to start playback without a Bluetooth audio device of some kind connected.”

“The playback controls page shows the time at the top with track and artist details below. The majority of the screen is dominated by large touch targets for play/pause, next, and previous track. There’s also a volume shortcut and “like” button at the bottom of the interface. On Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, the rotating bezel can also be used for constant volume control when this page is open. The UI also tweaks its color based on the song, presumably based on the album art.”

Meanwhile, the impact of the app is certainly diminished by its release availability because the app is solely available on Google’s new Wear OS 3 platform, which, for the foreseeable future, will only be available on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, 9to5Google added.

“Most current Wear OS hardware, won’t be updated to that new platform, and the ones that will be updated for several months.”

Meanwhile, Google hasn’t shared details about when the app will be available on other Wear OS devices.

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Facebook ready to launch digital wallet this year

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Facebook has declared openly to launch its digital wallet ‘Novi’ that would let users store cryptocurrency this year.

This was revealed by a senior executive of the company during an interview with The Information news site, a US media on Wednesday.

David Marcus, head of the Facebook crypto unit, told The Information news site that the company leaders “feel pretty committed” to launch the digital wallet this year.

Marcus said he would have wished to release Novi alongside Diem, a digital currency tied to the dollar that the company is also developing, but Diem’s timing was unpredictable.

Marcus also told The Information that “In theory, Novi could launch before Diem, but it would mean launching without Diem and that’s not necessarily something that we want to do.”

“It all depends on how long it’s going to take for Diem to go live and that’s not something I’m personally looking after.”

Recall, in 2019 Facebook announced its plans to introduce a cryptocurrency that at the time was called Libra. The project though faced regulatory resistance over concerns about security and reliability.

In December 2020 the Libra changed its name to Diem and moved its operations from Switzerland to the United States as part of a “strategic shift.”

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Video of Senator confessing how he rigs election surface online after his death

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A video showing former Deputy Senate President, Ibrahim Mantu, confessing how he rigged elections in Nigeria resurfaced on social media days after his death.

Mantu said in the video that has since gone viral, that he was a born-again politician after he graphically coated how he rigged elections for himself and his party.

The politician had made the revelation in March 2018 during a Channels Television’s ‘Hard Core’ program while responding to a question on whether he rigged elections in the past, the senator had said, “Yes, I did because I am now confessing the truth.

“I don’t have to go and change results but when you provide money, you give money to INEC boys to help if they see any chance that they should favor you. You provide money to the security (agents).

“All our elections in the past, I have been in this game for about 40 years and I tell you each time, it is not necessarily when I am contesting election but when my party sponsors a candidate, I will like the candidate to win an election.

“What we used to do before, we make provisions for INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission), we make provisions for security (agents), we make provisions for even agents of other parties so that they would not raise any objection to whatever we can get.

“So, whether I rig myself or not, by providing those resources, financial inducement to the officials, I am rigging.”

When asked whether there was any hope for a change in the political arena, Mantu had said it all depended on the players.

“If people who are born-again like me refuse to do it. If we, the players, unless we give before somebody will take. So, don’t give and you won’t get takers.

“You don’t even ask me why am I thinking this way? I am tired of being seen as a criminal in the streets of the world because I am a Nigerian. You assume that everybody is an innocent human being until his proven otherwise. But once you are outside this country with a green passport and they say you are a Nigerian, even if you are a Pastor or Imam, they assume that you are a criminal or you have criminal tendencies. That must change.

“I am tired of living in poverty amid plenty. I am tired. No matter how much you have, you see people coming every day, relations, friends, (saying) ‘my wife has given birth’, ‘my mother is in the hospital’, this and that, every day.

“But if everybody has enough to take care of his or herself they won’t come bothering you saying give me this, give me that. And I believe that we have the resources, that people can live decent lives without being beggars to those in government.

“We need good governance and good governance can be provided by good people who are truly repentant, who are there to serve the people, who are concerned about the primary wellbeing of the people.”

Many Nigerians including Leke Adeboye, son of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, have since shared the video of the Senator’s confession after his demise.

One Othniel Gongden who also shared the video on Facebook said the Senator “confessed his sins before he died. May God forgive and grant him eternal rest.”

“This confession should not be swept under the carpet,” another Facebook user, Bankole Olukunle noted.

Mantu, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party before his death, was a member of the Senate from 1999 to 2007. He had represented Plateau Central Constituency in the upper chamber and emerged Deputy Senate President in 2003.

The PUNCH had reported that the member of the PDP Board of Trustee died on August 16, 2021, at the age of 74.

Mantu had been actively involved in politics all his life before the annulled presidential election in 1993. He was the National Chairman, defunct Peoples Democratic Alliance; and National Publicity Secretary defunct United Nigeria Congress Party, amongst others.

Meanwhile, since the return to democracy in 1999, elections in Nigeria have never been devoid of malpractices and violence. Rigging is one of the electoral offenses provided for in sections 23, 24,117-132 of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended. Several penalties for the offenses are provided in the Act as well.

Also, the United States had in the past slam election riggers in Nigeria with travel restrictions.

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Google, Microsoft, others promise to help strengthen US cyber security

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The United States government said that the National Institute of Standards and Technology will work with the private sector to set guidelines to improve the security of technology supply chains, noting recent high-profile cybersecurity incidents.

Tech companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple, were among those who proposed plans to help address the US cybersecurity threat.

This was revealed on Wednesday after meeting with President Jor Biden at the White House.

The companies pledge very and they plan to spend billions on cyberinfrastructure offering supply-chain aid and education.

The high-profile meeting on Wednesday with tech CEOs happened as a result of the major cyberattacks against the United States government agencies and energy infrastructure like the Colonial Pipeline.

According to Biden during the meeting said, “The reality is, most of our critical infrastructure is owned and operated by the private sector, and the federal government can’t meet this challenge alone.”

During the meeting, Apple declared openly that it would work with suppliers to “drive mass adoption of multi-factor authentication” as well as providing new security training, incident response, and vulnerability remediation. Amazon plans to offer a multi-factor authentication device to all Amazon Web Services account holders for free and to make all of the company’s employees’ security awareness training available to the public at no cost.

Google said it would spend more than $10 billion over the next five years to strengthen US cybersecurity and the software supply chain.

Google also promised to train more than 100,000 Americans in data analytics and IT support through the company’s Career Certificate program.

Also, Microsoft said that it would invest $20 billion in five years making similar promises as Google.

The meeting was attended by Alphabet CEO; Sundar Pichai, Amazon CEO; Andy Jassy, Apple CEO; Tim Cook, IBM Chair and CEO; Arvind Krishna, and Microsoft CEO; Satya Nadella, along with representatives from other industries like energy and education.

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Group urge NBC to sanction BBNaija organizers over violation of smoking

The Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) and the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) have called on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction organizers of the Big Brother Naija reality TV show.

The group accused the organizers of violating the directives made by NBC against the display of smoking scenes on the reality TV show.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Executive Director of CAPPA, Akinbode Oluwafemi, and Programme Manager of NTCA, Chibuike Nwakorie, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the noted that housemates were shown smoking on August 2, 5, 10, 11, and 13, 2021, which could result in the assimilation of the habit by children.

The statement read, “The kids, generally impressionable, are enticed by what they see and are initiated into using tobacco products through advertising and subliminal promotion of smoking scenes in movies, music videos, and product placements.

The groups also noted the negative impact of advertising such habits, considering the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.

They said, “Big Brother Naija Show has a great impression on the youths, and, unfortunately, smoking scenes are being promoted at a time that research has shown that smokers are more susceptible to developing complications or even death if they contract the Coronavirus.”

Before the commencement of the show in July, NTCA and CAPPA had petitioned NBC to ban smoking on the show, after which the commission issued a directive restraining organizers from displaying smoking scenes.

They had referred to the National Tobacco Control Act 2015 and the National Tobacco Control Regulations 2019 prohibiting Tobacco Advertising Promotion and Sponsorship (TAPS) in Nigeria.

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TikTok reacts to viral milk crate challenge

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TikTok has taken action against a viral milk crate challenge that has recently caused a stir on the internet by removing the video from the platform.

The platform was criticized for letting potentially deadly challenges proliferate.

Fast Company reported that the video-sharing social media platform condemn the crate challenge that has gone viral describing it as a “dangerous act” while noting that it will remove content that promotes such an act.

The company also warned users to desist from acts that will endanger them.

According to the company’s statement, “TikTok prohibits content that promotes or glorifies dangerous acts, and we remove videos and redirect searches to our Community Guidelines to discourage such content. We encourage everyone to exercise caution in their behavior whether online or off.”

A fun challenge or a death trap?
The viral crate challenge has caused a stir on social media as the challenge appears to be causing more pain than fun.

The challenge involves stacking some milk crates into stairs and forming a pyramid with them.

The participant is expected to climb up to the top of the pyramid-shaped crates and climb back down without destroying the structure.

Unfortunately, it appears that people are destroying their rib cages rather than the structure, as most participants landed with a crash while attempting the challenge.

Only a few participants were able to go up and down the shaky structure while maintaining their balance.

Asides from TikTok, the challenge has caused a wave on Instagram feeds and reels, as people from different countries attempted the challenge.

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Kanye West to legally change his name to ‘Ye’

American rapper, Kanye West, has filed a suit to officially change his birth name to ‘Ye’.

It was gathered by TMZ that, born Kanye Omari West, has appealed to the Los Angeles courts to change his birth name to simply ‘Ye’.

The 44-year-old rapper had in September 2018 suggested that he intended to shorten his name, this is coming months after he used the moniker as the name for his eighth album, which he released in June 2018.

Kanye has once shown pride in his West family roots, which he often referred to himself as Mr. West in both song and person.

TMZ also reported that in California unless there’s evidence a name change is designed to commit fraud or other shenanigans, the judge will approve it. So with this, Kanye would likely get a sign-off by the judge.

Meanwhile, his estranged wife, the mother of his kids, Kim, still has ‘West’ in her surname after the couple filed for divorce.

The couple had four kids; North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm, in their almost seven years of marriage. They tied the knot on May 24, 2014.

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EFCC signals banks to investigate customers source of income

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asked banks to investigate the source of their customer’s income.

The EFCC chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa said this when members of the Association of Chief Audit Executives of Banks in Nigeria (ACAEBIN) paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja on Tuesday, August 24, 2021.

According to Bawa, he said some customers will receive a huge sum of money within two months of opening an account.

He said, “I will like to urge you to know your customers, know the kind of businesses they do before opening an account for them because some customers will open an account within a space of two months a huge sum of money is found in the account, so there is need for you to try and query this information including their linked accounts.”

The EFCC said the anti-graft agency will start holding banks liable for fraud in financial deposits, where there are established cases of complicity in the sector from September 1.

“Bawa implored the bank auditors to take issues of transparency in banking operations seriously, adding that starting from September 1, 2021, it will no longer be business as usual as the commission will hold banks liable where there are established cases of institutional complicity in fraud in the sector,” the EFCC chief was quoted in a statement.

While responding, Uduak Udoh, vice-chairman of the association, said some customers are conniving with bank staff to loot funds while seeking support from the commission.

Uduak Udoh said “Some customers are conniving with bank staff to loot funds. We want you to look into that area, not only the banks as we are ready to give you all the cooperation you need; we want you to trust bank auditors with information sharing because we cannot support fraudulent staff as they are a threat to the organization,” he added.

Recall in March, the anti-corruption agency asked bank employees to declare their assets — as a part of efforts to review the role of bankers in protecting funds acquired legitimately.

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Music & video: Burna Boy collaborate with Don Jazzy in new song ‘Question’

Nigerian Grammy and three-time Bet award winner, Burna Boy has teamed up with Mavin boss and legendary music producer, Don Jazzy, to reinvent a banging new tune ‘Question’.

The song ‘Question’ was produced by Don Jazzy and it is the second song released by the African Giant after releasing ‘Kilometer’ shortly after his Grammy win.

The song was accompanied by its visual and it was shot in Lagos, Nigeria, by TG Omori.

The visual opens with an endearing interaction in Pidgin English between Burna Boy and a group of children – a clear distinction once again that the African giant is doing things differently, charting a new musical direction that comes with its vision which is different from all classic Burna Boy visuals.

Burna Boy and a group of children

The song ‘Question’ evokes massive memories, taking us back to easier times as Burna Boy sings in a medley of English, Pidgin English, and Yoruba, “Question but dem no get an answer. Anything wey you wish, that be your portion. Na by the grace of God and Insha Allah we dey move am”. This new vibe is filled with grassroots authenticity shows off unashamedly of the talented singer’s roots.

Not only does Burna Boy have the admirable skill to turn every sound he touches into gold, but he also has the original ability to introduce freshness to his visuals; this takes guts, audacity, talent, and a natural inclination.

Also, while revealing legendary hitmaker Don Jazzy, who makes a cameo in this video, there are no wrinkles in the sheets with this Burna Boy visual as it is a delight to watch him modify this tune from individual emotions into a fluid discussion, using his voice as a guide to facing the unknown.

One of the most successful African artists on the continent and known for pushing the envelope on his sound, Burna Boy proceeds to achieve musical milestones, retaining his position as one of Africa’s outstanding musicians who is successively shaping the new Africa sound. So far, Burna Boy has had an irrefutably colossal year musically and his continuous stupendous musical takeover is a testimony to the talent and perseverance born out of Nigeria.

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Irabor condemns the attack on NDA, saying ‘This madness must end’

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The chief of defence staff, Lucky Irabor, has condemned the attack by bandits on the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna.

Irabor who said the attack is not a normal banditry operation described the attack as madness that must come to an end.

The attack which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday resulted in the deaths of two officers.

Speaking with journalists in Yola, Adamawa state capital on Tuesday, Irabor expressed concern over the attacks by bandits and gave the assurance that security agencies are on top of the situation.

According to Irabor in his expression, he said, “The incident in Kaduna has been undertaken by bandits, but it’s more of an armed robber coming to your house. The infiltration didn’t come by the normal banditry action. But these are things we’re already looking at, and in due course, you’ll get the details.”

“Suffice to say, any form of insecurity is a cause of worry for anyone. That’s why for us, we’re more determined than this madness must be brought to an end very swiftly.”

The Kaduna state government also condemned the attack in a statement issued on Tuesday by Samuel Aruwan, commissioner for internal security and home affairs.

The statement reads, “The Kaduna State Government has received with sadness the report of the unfortunate security breach at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna in the early hours of Tuesday 24th August 2021. The security breach at the Academy led to the death of two personnel and the abduction of one officer.”

“Being the host of the Academy and a partner in several spheres of national security and development, Governor Nasir El-Rufai has been briefed of the development, and on behalf of the Government and People of Kaduna State, has prayed for the repose of the souls of the personnel who lost their lives. The Governor conveys heartfelt empathy to the Academy, and the immediate families of the personnel, and also extends deep concern to the family of the abducted officer.

“Furthermore, the Government of Kaduna State extends its unreserved solidarity to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and all security agencies who are making immense sacrifices on different fronts.

“The Government hereby appeals to the good citizens of the state to volunteer useful information to the military and security agencies in the campaign against banditry and kidnapping, in the state and beyond.

“On its part, the Kaduna State Government will continue to take actions considered imperative in the campaign against bandits throughout the state.”

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Delta @ 30: Ughelli South congratulates Gov Okowa, Deltans

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The Executive Chairman of Ughelli South local government area, Hon Dr. Richard Kofi, has congratulated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and all Deltans on the 30th anniversary of the creation of the state climaxing on Friday, August 27th, 2021.

In a statement signed on behalf of the Council Boss by the Secretary to the local government (SLG), Joseph Okeoghene Ubrurhe, noted that Dr. Kofi recalled the sojourn of the oil-rich taste and applauded the efforts of the founding fathers whose track records have endured the stability of Delta at thirty.

Dr. Kofi’s congratulatory statement endorsed by the SLG Ubrurhe, states, “On behalf of the good people of Ughelli south, I Hon Dr. Richard Kofi, the executive Chairman of Ughelli South, hereby congratulates the government and people of Delta State led by our indefatigable EKWUEME, his Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, on the 30th anniversary of the creation of Delta. 30 years so soon? Your Excellency, we the people of Ughelli South are proud to be associated with you at a time like this.”

“We thank our founding fathers whose vision has matured into a Smart, Strong, and Safe Delta that our smart Governor is celebrating on August 27, 2021.”

“At a time like this, all and sundry must support our smart Governor for him to not only finish strong but finish bold and safe.”

“Thank God that Delta will always remain safe.”

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Bandits attack NDA, kill two soldiers, abduct one in Kaduna

Bandits have attacked the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna in the early hours on Tuesday, killing two officers and abducted one other.

Source told goldennationblog.com that the bandits broke into the academy around 1 am.

According to the source, two officers were killed while two others were abducted in the attack.

The source said ”On 24 August 21, at about 0125hrs, bandits in their large numbers attacked NDA Afaka and kidnapped 1 officer; Maj Datong while Lt Cdr Wulah and Flt Lt CM Okoronkwo were shot dead. 2Lt Onah sustained gunshot injury and currently receiving treatment at their hospital in NDA,”

Another source also said: “They came in, silently, through the part of the academy where we have barbed wire and not properly fenced. Unfortunately, there were no soldiers on guard duty at that end. So, the bandits sneaked in, through to where the officers were, and got three of them.

“It was when they shot one of the officers that everybody woke up, and before we knew it they had made their way outside and fled.”

“The attack is a big slap on our face. How could we have allowed that? They already knew there was no guard on duty and came in through that axis.”

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that the academy authorities will subject some soldiers to court-martial for failing to secure the area.

Meanwhile, Onyema Nwachukwu, the army spokesperson, did not immediately respond to a message seeking his comment on the incident.

Recall in recent months, communities in Kaduna and other parts of the northwest have been attacked by bandits.

The bandits had also attacked some schools in the region and abducted many students.

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IGP visits Delta State Police Command, task officers to be professional and civil on duties

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The Inspector-General of Police IGP Alkali Baba Usman PSC(+), NPM, FDC visited the Delta State Police Command headquarters and had a morale-boosting interactive section with officers and men of the command.

The IGP was accompanied by the Force Medical officer CP Olubunmi A. Ogunsanwo, and the Force public relation officer CP Frank Mba, on Monday, August 23, 2021.

During the visit, the Inspector General of Police had a power-packed lecture with officers and men of the command.

According to a statement released by the acting Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, noted that the IGP tasked the officers to be professional while performing their duties, shun all forms of corruption, and also be civil to members of the public.

On the welfare of personnel, the IGP assured officers and men of the command that the police under his administration is doing all within its powers to boost the morale of the men in terms of better welfare and also assured all that a better insurance scheme is on top gear.

The IGP also spoke on the need for officers to key into and take advantage of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to help get better medical care while also noting that the police will establish specialist hospitals in the six geopolitical zones.

The Inspector-General of Police encouraged officers and men to brace up and face hoodlums squarely because according to the slogan originated by the IGP (NEVER AGAIN WILL THE POLICE ALLOW THEMSELVES TO BE KILLED, NEVER AGAIN) noting that officers and men should be ready to give their best to preserve their life for them to be able to protect Nigerians.

Responding, the Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, PSC(+) thanked the IGP for his fatherly disposition, love, and care for personnel of the state, and also for the deployment of Mobile police force personnel for operation restore peace in the state which has brought Calm and successes against crime and criminality in the state.

The CP assured the IGP that officers and men of the command have already keyed into his policing strategies and as such the Command will continue to make him proud.

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“Open grazing is obsolete, stop looking for reserves in 2021” – Falana tells Buhari

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Human Rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to stop looking for grazing reserves in 2021 when all stakeholders have agreed that open grazing is outdated.

Falana stated these after the president has approved the review of 368 grazing reserves across 25 states in the country.

Last week, the presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu, said the president’s decision was informed by the recommendations of the federal government National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), chaired by Ibrahim Gambari, his chief of staff.

The committee was set up to provides for the ranching of livestock and to address the farner-herders crisis.

But while speaking on Sunday Politics, a Channels Television program, Falana wondered why the president would make the decision when all stakeholders have agreed that open grazing is obsolete.

Falana said “With profound respect, the point has to be made that we need a united action; we need a national resolution, we need a scientific solution to this problem,” the lawyer said.

“As far as the law is concerned, the president cannot, with profound respect, be talking of looking for grazing routes in 2021 Nigeria.

“The Northern Governors’ Forum, the Southern Governors’ Forum, even Miyyeti Allah, and other relevant stakeholders have concluded that open grazing is obsolete and no longer relevant.

“In this particular instance, apart from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the land in every state in Nigeria is vested with the governor on behalf of the people. The president cannot impose any land policy on the state governors.

“Under the Land Use Act, the president has no control over and outside the FCT, and I think that point has to be made very clear.

“As far back as 2018, the federal government came up with a policy called the National Livestock Transformation Plan, including ranching. This policy was adopted by the 36 governors.”

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Facebook to add video, voice calls into its main app again

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Facebook Inc has revealed its interest in bringing voice and video calling to its main app to fine-tune its message features after rolling off Messenger as a different app in 2014.

Bloomberg reported that some users, including those in the U.S were able to place voice or video calls from Facebook app on Monday.

The director of product management at Messenger, Connor Hayes, said the new feature is just a test, but it’s meant to reduce the need to jump back and forth between Facebook’s main app and its Messenger service.

According to Hayes, Facebook also started testing a limited version of Messenger’s inbox in the core Facebook app last fall. Adding that Messenger was once built into Facebook’s app, but the company spun it out seven years ago forcing users to download a separate app to send private messages from a mobile phone.

He said on Monday test is the latest in what has been low but the consistent effort done internally is to integrate all of Facebook’s apps and services. Facebook is starting to think of Messenger as a service rather than just a stand-alone app, Hayes added.

Also, Hayes said people can use the technology alongside other things. People relying on Messenger to video chat while watching videos or playing games on Facebook. According to him voice and video calls that use Messenger technology are available on other Facebook platforms, including Instagram, Oculus, and Portal devices.

Hayes further said “You’re going to start to see quite a bit more of this over time,” while describing Messenger as the “connective tissue for people to be together when apart, regardless of which service they’re choosing to use.”

Facebook first enabled messaging between its Instagram app and Messenger last September, and there are plans to bring the capability to its WhatsApp messaging service as well.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, has argued that integrating the company’s messaging services is a benefit to users, letting them reach more people and reducing the need to download or jump between separate apps.

Critics has also argue that Facebook is intertwining its services in a way that could make it impossible to break the company up. Federal regulators filed an antitrust lawsuit last week to try and force Facebook to spin off its Instagram and WhatsApp acquisitions.

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Efcc revealed why its operatives visited Dorathy Bachor’s apartment

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Monday morning broke into former Big Brother Naija ex-housemate,
Dorathy Bachor’s apartment.

Dorathy revealed this on her Instagram story lamenting about the tragic experience.

Narrating the incident, Dorathy expressed frustration at
how risky it is to be a Nigerian. Stating that the operatives broke the door to her house in the name of searching for someone who ran into her estate.

She said the incident left her shaken while her mother almost had a panic attack.

According to her, “At 04.45 am, I heard a loud sound and voices followed after. I rush(ed) out almost naked to see 5 fully armed @officialefcc men in my living room and one of them saying, ‘oh na that big brother babe be this’.

“In my confused state, I’m trying to understand what in the hell was going on, why did they break my door?

“Then, one of them said they were looking for someone who ran into my estate and I should lock my door, stay indoors and not say a word.

“I’m shaking at this point and so confused because how exactly is this even okay?

“Still shaking, I’m trying to close my already broken door when my sister screamed my name and I ran back upstairs to see my mom almost having a panic attack.

“I have never felt so helpless in my whole life.

“@officialefcc you now break into people’s houses and jump estate fences all in the name of doing your job. Shame on you all.”

Reacting, the EFCC, in a statement on Facebook, said Bachor’s apartment happened to be one of the flats in a building in Lekki, Lagos where its operatives arrested nine suspected fraudsters.

The statement was titled, “EFCC Explains Presence Of Operatives At Dorathy Bachor’s House.’

It read, “The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has been drawn to a post on Instagram by one Dorothy Bachor, alleging that operatives of the Commission broke into her home in the early hours of today, 23rd August 2021

“The Commission can confirm that operatives from the Lagos Command of the Commission, acting on verified intelligence, executed a Search Warrant at a block of flats located in the Lekki area of Lagos on Monday, 23rd August 2021 during which nine internet fraud suspects were arrested.

“Ms. Bachor’s apartment happened to be one of the flats in the building. EFCC operatives had knocked on her entrance door, identified themselves as being from the Commission on a mission to execute a Search Warrant. But they were refused entry, for several minutes by Bachor’s sister. The operatives were left with no choice but to force their way in, lest suspects escape or destroy vital evidence.

“It is important to state that law-abiding citizens have no reason to refuse the execution of a validly obtained Search Warrant. And, contrary to the information making the rounds in the social media, Ms. Bachor was not present during the operation and the anti- EFCC stories about her coming out half-naked among other fantastical details appear to have been invented to fit the pattern she and other internet-fueled stars so desperately want to push about the EFCC.

“It is important to reiterate that nine alleged internet fraud suspects were apprehended in the block of flats housing Ms. Bachor’s apartment.”

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See what Kizz Daniel revealed about fatherhood

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, better known by his stage name as Kizz Daniel, has said fatherhood has been so boring despite being responsible.

He said because he can’t use some words in his house anymore.

According to a short video, he shared on his Instagram story, the 27-year-old father noted that he can’t use the words fck and sht in the house because he receives a severe warning from the mother of the kids, not to corrupt their minds at a very tender age.

Kizz Daniel said in his post “fatherhood is good, you become more experienced and automatically become a better person because obviously, you want to be a very good role model to your kids even at baby age.”

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that he posted the video after some of his fans asked him how fatherhood has changed him as an artist.

Recall on Saturday, May 1st, 2021, the singer welcomed his twin, Jelani and Jalil on his 27th birthday.

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Reasons why attempt coronation of Sultan in Edo State failed

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Last week, the Government of Edo State issued a stern warning over some controversy that appeared to be going out of control in the state.

The controversy had to do with the complaints received from indigenes and residents of Edo State over the purported move to embark on the coronation of one Idriss Addano as Sultan of Shuwa Arab of Edo state. A traditional title reserved mainly for Muslims from the northern states of Nigeria.

Trouble started when news began making waves that plans are underway to install a Sultan in predominantly Christian Edo State, most folks went to town with conspiracy theories that the coronation was yet another attempt by Nigeria’s ruling class to “Islamise Nigeria.”

The controversy got heated in Edo State and the tension has spilled into the social media space, until Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki issued a bare-knuckled warning that any move to install a Sultan in a domain where the Oba has held sway for centuries, would constitute a direct assault on the traditions, customs, and culture of the people of Edo State.

Governor Obaseki accused the people behind the planned coronation of having”sinister motives” and of “trying to abuse the well-known Edo hospitality by their act of sacrilege.

Obaseki in a statement released on Friday, August 19, 2021, through the Secretary to the Edo State Government described the situation as “a potential threat to the peace and security of Edo State, with the capacity to cause a breakdown of law and order as citizens of the state are likely to be provoked by the obnoxious ceremony.”

While responding to the controversy after the government order, the leader of the Shua Arab in Edo State, Alhaji Idris Adanno, came out to say it was all a misunderstanding, and it wasn’t that deep as they comprehended.

Adanno said the controversy arose from the name, and that there was nothing sinister behind the move.

According to Adanno in his explanation, he said “The whole issue was misunderstood because of the language used. All the tribes from the north who are resident in Edo State are all under the Sarkin Hausawa but we all now have our sarkin like those of Kanuri, Nupe, and others.

“In our Shua language, Sultan is our sarkin and we only wanted to celebrate my appointment as the head of Shua Arab in Benin because we are the second-largest local ethnic group from the north.

“We are all under Sarkin Hausawa of Benin who gave us an introductory letter which we submitted before the Governor of the state, the Oba of Benin, and the Secretary to State Government.”

Adanno added that the coronation of a Sultan in Benin City has now been shelved to avoid trouble and a heating up of the polity.

“We are all law-abiding citizens and under the laws of the state. We are also loyal to our royal father the Oba of Benin who is father to all of us.

“We apologize to the state government for the mix-up and as law-abiding citizens, we have also canceled all the activities we wanted to do as directed by the state government,” Adanno added.

It was gathered that the leader of the Hausa community in Benin, The Sarkin Hausawa of Benin, Alhaji Adamu Isa also said that the people involved “are a community resident in Edo and they have a large percentage of their people here too. They are into cattle breeding and other businesses.

He said “The thing is a misuse of language from them.

While explaining he said “About five months ago, they came to me that since they are large, they want to have a traditional head so I told them to go and look for someone among them who is going to be their leader and so they came with one Idris and then some issues came up then I asked them to go and resolve it.

“I gave them a date to come back. And then we did the turban of their leader so that in case we have issues concerning them, we know who to hold responsible.

“The whole issue was misunderstood. I was born and bred here in Benin, my father was born and bred here in Benin so I understand the tradition and custom of the land and the laws of the state. It was just a misuse of language. Sultan in their language means sarkin.”

In any case, to forestall a recurrence, Governor Obaseki has warned that: “Under the Edo State Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, it is an offense for anyone to proclaim himself, or allow himself to be proclaimed as the holder of any traditional title not recognized under the said law and/or without the approval of the appropriate authorities.”

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FG reveals plans to deploy 5G network soon

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The Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy has revealed that it will soon deploy the Five Generation (5G) network to enhanced Internet connectivity in Nigeria.

This revelation was made known by the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami when he featured on “Forum” an interview program organized by the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

The minister explained that the conclusion to deploy the 5G network followed an outcome of thorough investigations, research, and trial absolving it of posing a security or health threat.

The minister also explained that the work on the national policy on 5G stands at 95 percent done and will be presented to the Federal Executive Council in the rightful time.

According to the minister, he said that the primary concern of the government is to ensure the security and welfare of Nigerians in their utilization of services in the telecommunications sector, blamed the delay in the deployment of the 5G network on conspiracy theories.

He said there were concerns that Covid-19 was associated with the deployment of the 5G communications network.

Also, he said “Our government is a listening one; so we listen to constructive criticisms, respect it and appreciate it and at least we value it.

“We’d reached an advanced stage of 5G, then, an issue came up that 5G was related to COVID-19; many people including the educated ones started circulating it without verification.

“Naturally, people are a bit scared and skeptical about technology.

“So we gave enough time to do more consultation, creating awareness in local languages to engage our citizens to address all the challenges.

“We set up a technical team that accommodated security, health, and environmental institutions, and the public sector so that we can be on the same page.

“I want to give you the assurance that the 5G communication network is in the pipeline.”

Pantami said that the ministry had started discussions with the Nigerian Communications Commission concerning spectrum for commercial purposes.

“From that spectrum, NCC will give it to mobile operators to start deployment; so, the policy is almost ready.

“I went to the National Assembly, I defended our presentation and they have accepted and they have also endorsed the deployment of 5G.

“They have also encouraged us to learn from other countries that have deployed 5G and we have already done that.

“The World Health Organisation has stated that there is no relationship between 5G network and COVID-19 and that addresses the health issue.

“Similarly, the International Communications Union (ICU), which is an arm of the UN, also issued another statement debunking any implications from the 5G,” Pantami said.

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Ovikings Open Mic: Comedy platform for youth empowerment and self-discovery

Delta State-born comedian and Ambassador of Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), Ovuokeroye Samuel Akpobashahan a.k.a Ovikings have prepared modalities to host community-driven and youth programs under the POCACOV scheme tagged Ovkings Open Mic.

The Ovikings Open Mic is a comedy competition on its second season and it’s slated to take place in Asaba, Plateau and Oyo State around September 2021.

Ovikings who is also known as MC Alleluya explained that his love for the open mic competition is borne out of his desire as POCACOV Ambassador to aid and set the direction for Young Minds (Nigerian Youths) which will, in turn, help them to remain positive and also create a platform of value reorientation, self-discovery, and strategic leadership direction.

Ovikings made these revelations recently while briefing the National Coordinator of POCACOV, CSP Ebere Amaraizu, on the state of preparation of the activity during a virtual meeting with Pacacov Ambassadors coordinated from the Pacacov resource center in Enugu.

According to Ovikings during his explanation, he said that the open mic competition is geared towards engendering a platform to empower and promote the self-discovery of Nigerian youth with extraordinary comic talents.

He further said, “The Open Mic Competition will elicit self-discovery and the winners who through modalities worked out from stakeholders, will be supported and encouraged to take up the talent and this will help them to remain focus, positive, and eschewing cultism, substance, and drug abuse, violent behaviors, and other vices and with time.”

“They will be employers of labor and create platforms for others to discover themselves, remain focus and positive.

“This is comedy and it is part of the entertainment, it brings peace, love, unity amongst community members and the whole world at large and brings new hope for Nigerian youths especially those with the hidden talents and pointing out that the Open Mic competition is open to every Nigerian citizens and resident with the regional audition slated to take place in September on a date and venue that will be later disclosed for Asaba, Jos and Ibadan”

“Those that pull through the regional audition will head to Lagos where five finalists and the best will emerge for the final events at Museums center Lagos from where they will be supported and empowered to take up the talents to the next level of strategic leadership direction”

“This is my way as POCACOV Ambassador towards helping youths to discover themselves and stay positive” Akpobasan stated.

Responding, the National Coordinator POCACOV, CSP Ebere Amaraizu appreciated the efforts of Ambassador Ovikings whom he described as the inspirer of the young minds with a mind-blowing and community-driven program that will offer a platform of value reorientation, self-discovery, and strategic leadership direction.

According to the National Coordinator of POCACOV, the OVikings Open Mic challenge is in line with the vision and mission of POCACOV as a community-driven program and public relations tool of the Nigeria Police Force using an activity base program of this nature to set out a direction that will not only mobilizing the youths and other stakeholders but encouraging popular participation for a peaceful, safe and secured community. He added.

It was gathered that Ovikings is a product of self-discovery after graduating from Delta State Polytechnics (Ogwashiukwu) where he studied Computer Science.

While in school, he discovered himself as a comedian and started the practice which earned him the best comedian under the then Student Union Government (S.U.G).

He is also an event manager and show host and has many Awards in entertainment and comedy and equally served as Comedy Radio Presenter in several Radio Stations in states like Delta, Ebonyi, Plateau, and Lagos and has been in Open Mic Comedy since after his Youth Service.

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Delta State Police Command arrested suspected cultists, armed robbers and recover guns

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested and recorded another major feat against daredevil armed robbers and suspected cultists who specialized in stealing phones and burgled houses in the state.

This was contained in a statement signed and released to newsmen on Sunday, August 22, 2021, by the acting Delta State Police Commands’ Police Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, in Asaba the state capital.

In the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Mohammed Ali, warned criminally minded people that Delta state will not be a safe place for them.

The CP said under his watch, the state police command will continue to go after them until Delta state is free of criminal-minded people who have nothing to offer other than to cause pain and havoc on the good people of the state.

The CP has also mandated area commanders, DPOs, and Tactical commanders not to relent in the fight against crime and criminality.

It was gathered that on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at about 0825hrs, the command received a distress call that a gang of four armed robbers is operating at MTN road by pipeline in Sapele.

The DPO of Sapele led the crack team in conjunction with vigilante and during the operation, four suspects namely; James Wisdom a.k.a young diamond ‘m’ age 25yrs, Peter Ayodele ‘m’ age 22yrs, Ikolo Michael ‘m’ age 18yrs and Francis Success of age 26yrs were arrested.

The items recovered from them include three (3) cut-to-size single barrels gun with eighteen (18) cartridges, a Lexus car with Reg. No. YAB 750 BP. The investigation is ongoing.

Also, in a similar development that occurred on August 18, it was gathered at about 1000hrs, the command received an information that three armed men burgled a house at Old Benin Road in Oghara at about 0200hrs and made away with phones valued at N400,000.

While acting on credible information, the Divisional police officer of Oghara swung into action, detailed operative to investigate and bring the armed robbers to book.

The Detectives through an intelligence led operation arrested three suspects namely Choice Macaulay ‘m’ age 26yrs, Endurance Ejokirehie ‘m’ age 27yrs and Junior Macaulay ‘m’ age 21yrs at Indian hemp joint.

The exhibits recovered from them includes: three phones, a dummy gun, and iron rod used for the robbery. Meanwhile the suspects confessed to the crime and the victims have identified their stolen phones.

On further investigation, it was discovered that one of the suspects Choice Macaulay who is the leader of the gang was arrested before and charged to court, but was later released.

Although, the suspect led the detectives to their hideout where one locally-made gun and two live cartridges were dug out from the ground where it was buried. The investigation is ongoing.

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Divorced: Rude Boy estranged wife, Anita demands N7.8m monthly support

The estranged wife, Anita Okoye of Nigerian music star Paul Okoye, better known as Rude Boy, has demanded $15,000 (N7.8M) from him as monthly spousal support.

Anita made these demands in the petition she filed before an Abuja High Court.

According to the petition, Paul will be responsible for the general welfare of their three kids in the United States of America.

Part of the petition reads “Payment of a monthly maintenance sum of $15,000.00 (US Dollars) for the general welfare, education, and health of the three children of the union who are presently in schools in the United States of America until they are of age.”

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that the news about the couple breaks up surface online on Friday, August 20, 2021.

Meanwhile, the court documents that were seen online by goldennationblog.com, have Anita requested the dissolution of their marriage.

According to Anita’s petition, she also advised her now estranged husband in the legal document to challenge the petition if he feels dissatisfied.

Recall, Anita first sparked divorced rumors in April when it was reported that she had relocated with their children to the United States of America.

Anita and Paul were University lovers who got married in 2014 in a very fancy wedding ceremony held in Port Harcourt.

In 2015, they welcome their first son, Andre, then later in 2017, they welcome Nadia and Nathan, who were set of twins.

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Army arrested Boko Haram fertilizer supplier in Yobe

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A man identified as Yusuf Salah has been arrested in Yobe State by the Nigerian Army for supplying urea fertilizer to Boko Haram insurgents.

This was made in a statement on Friday, August 20, 2021, by the director of army public relations, Onyema Nwachukwu.

According to the statement, Nwachukwu said the troops of sector 2 joint task force, north-east operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), arrested the suspect at Bayamari village in Geidam LGA of Yobe State.

Nwachukwu also said the suspect was nabbed by the vigilant troops with a total of 38 (50kg) bags of fertilizer following a tip-off.

In his explanation, Nwachukwu said the urea fertilizer has been banned by the federal government because it is used to manufacture improvised explosive devices (IED) by terrorists.

Also, he said, the suspect is currently helping investigators with useful information.

Nwachukwu further said, “Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have been commended for their vigilance and swift response in arresting the suspect.”

“They are also encouraged not to allow any form of distraction from the marauding terrorists whose ranks have suffered acute manpower depletion as a result of ongoing kinetic and none kinetic operations conducted by troops.

“Law-abiding people of North-East Nigeria are assured of the Chief of Army Staff’s determination to finally exterminate the Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province criminals from their hideouts.”

Nwachukwu also urged the people to continue to avail the troops with information that would enhance the execution of the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the region.

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Google is shutting down its Android Auto mobile app, recommend Google Assistant

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Google has confirmed its shutting down the standalone “Android Auto for phone screens” app with Android 12.

Google says anyone who wants a driving-friendly interface for their Android phone should use the Google Assistant driving mood which is available within Google Maps, or the native Android Auto Interface available in select cars.

Google said in a statement, “For those who use the on phone experience (Android Auto mobile app) they will be transitioned to Google Assistant driving mood.” Starting with Android 12, Google Assistant driving mood will be the built-in mobile driving experience. We have no further details to share at this time.

Google also said that the experience isn’t changing for anyone using Android Auto in compatible cars.

Google’s confirmation came after XDA Developers reported that some users were seeing a message in Android Auto for phone screens app that said service is “now only available for car screens” and pointed phone users towards Google Assistant driving mood as a replacement.

Meanwhile, 9to5Google reported that the Android Auto for phone screens app now says it’s incompatible with Pixel devices running Android 12.

However, Android Auto’s app history is a little bit messy, but it is a move that has been a long time coming. The saga started in 2019 when Google decided to build most of Android Auto’s features into Android 10 as a system-level feature, and discontinue the previously downloadable app. That’s fine for anyone with an Android Auto-compatible car, but anyone with an older vehicle would have lost access to the driving-friendly interface available directly on their phone.

The aptly named “Android Auto for Phone Screens” was launched in 2019 as Google was forced to delay Google Assistant Driving Mode. That feature, which finally started rolling out in 2020, continued earlier this year and has expanded since was supposed to replace the experience on phone screens. At the time, Google called this app a “stopgap” for users who needed an in-car experience but lacked a vehicle compatible with Android Auto.

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Rude Boy wife, Anita Okoye file for divorce

Anita Okoye, the wife of popular Nigerian musician, Paul Okoye, better known as Rude Boy, has filed a petition to divorce her husband.

This was made known through a leaked petition that was shared online on Friday, August 29, 2021.

According to the court document that was shared online, it was gathered that Anita is seeking a divorce to end their seven-year-old marriage due to irreconcilable differences.

Meanwhile, a source said their marriage broke down immediately after the birth of their twins, stating that they no longer share a mutual conjugal relationship as husband and wife.

According to a source, Paul denied her any form of companionship and love which are the integral components of all successful marriages.

Recall, Anita gets married to Paul in March 2014 after being together for 10 years. Their marriage is blessed with three children.

Although the two parties are yet to make a statement regarding it, information gathered revealed that Paul Okoye is currently on a press tour while Anita has moved to the United States where she is working on her Master’s degree as a graduate student.

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God is set to give Nigeria a new beginning – Osinbajo reveals

The Vice-President of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo has revealed that God is working on putting the country on a new path of growth and development, despite the current challenges.

The Vice-President made this revelation while speaking at the 25th annual convention titled “New Beginning” of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in the United States.

Osinbajo while speaking said, it is on God to create a new beginning and Nigeria is on course, regardless of all doubts.

According to Osinbajo in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Laolu Akande, on Thursday, August 19, 2021, cited the biblical story of Nathaniel who doubted whether any good thing could come of Nazareth.

He said, despite people doubting if anything good will come out of Nigeria, the country will experience a new beginning.

He said, “Today, many men are saying the same about our nation Nigeria, even men of God, but this is the textbook case of how God works. He is set to give Nigeria a new beginning,” Osinbajo said.

“Amid current travails, the God of new beginnings is about to change our story. He is about to do something new. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

“God did not create us to be independent of Him. He did not endow us with the strength to succeed without Him. The God of new beginnings did not create us to be self-sufficient. We need Him.”

The vice-president further explained that the ideal person ready for a new beginning requires the strength of God to show forth in their weakness.

The vice president who is also a pastor of the RCCG spoke at one of the sessions of the convention, which featured Enoch Adeboye, general overseer of the church, and other pastors of the RCCG.

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Buhari reveals what he will do to security chiefs, gives reason

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his readiness to change the security system in Nigeria.

He said he would continue to change the security system until he is satisfied with the outcome of his actions.

The President, who disclosed this at the National Security Council (NSC) meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, said the intended move is aimed at wiping out insecurity from Nigeria.

Buhari’s resolution was disclosed by the National Security Adviser, NSA, Babangana Monguno, in a chat with State House Correspondents after the meeting.

Munguno said the President was determined to win the battle against insurgency.

He said: “So, the president was briefed, the president is quite happy that there’s been a tremendous success, especially with the advent of the new service chiefs and Inspector General of Police.

“He has made changes and he is ready to make further changes if he is not satisfied.

“He is completely determined to ensure that there’s a turnaround in the fortunes in the theatre of operations.”

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Facebook add Workrooms to its Oculus new app “Horizon”

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Facebook has created Workrooms for the new app it’s building for Oculus Quest called “Horizon.”

The Workrooms is developed for a visual reality experience that will specifically bring people to work together.

The Workrooms are part of a bigger umbrella project Facebook is building for Oculus called Horizon. It aims to essentially be the full Facebook universe – a metaverse, you could say for virtual reality.

The Verge gathered that Mark Zuckerberg revealed this during a press briefing in virtual reality he held recently when he talked about the Metaverse.

According to The Verge, “I was sitting at a long, U-shaped conference table with a handful of other reporters, our floating torsos bobbing over our chairs, as the Facebook CEO beamed in. A giant, floating display nearby showed other Facebook employees dialed in from the non-VR world to watch us through their computer screens. It was there that Zuckerberg first appeared through his webcam before donning a headset and teleporting into a chair at the table as his legless avatar.

We were there to preview a new app, which Facebook is describing as an “open beta,” for the Oculus Quest called Horizon Workrooms. It’s the social network’s first stab at creating a VR experience specifically for people to work together in. After spending over an hour in Workrooms, I can see its potential as a more immersive way to communicate with people who are physically apart, but I don’t see it catching on beyond the most diehard VR enthusiasts anytime soon. That said, I can see this experience become compelling for more casual users, and potentially those who are new to VR, in the years ahead.

While an incremental update to Facebook’s VR efforts in its own right, Workrooms fits into the social network’s broader ambitions to own the next computing platform and build the so-called metaverse. Zuckerberg went so far as to recently said he wants Facebook to be primarily thought of as a metaverse company—a sci-fi concept that says we will all one day spend significant chunks of time in a fully immersive, digital space. Or as Zuckerberg puts it, an “embodied internet.”

What impressed me the most about Workrooms is the way that it brings parts of the outside world into VR. Up to 16 people in VR can be in a Workroom together, while an additional 34 people can join over video calls without wearing a headset. A companion desktop app lets you beam a live feed of your computer screen over your virtual table space. Thanks to the Quest’s hand-tracking and front-facing cameras, a virtual representation of your physical keyboard sits underneath your screen for typing into a barebones web app Facebook built for note-taking and managing calendars.

“I think it might be the most intense VR application that exists, in terms of how much we’re trying to put every bell and whistle from the headset into the experience you’re using,” Facebook’s top AR/VR executive, Andrew Bosworth, told us during the briefing, which was the first of its kind I’ve experienced entirely in VR.

For now, the process of getting into Workrooms initially is quite clunky. It oddly requires creating a separate Workrooms account through the web, downloading Workrooms in Oculus, and then pairing your headset to your Workrooms account by entering a code shown in the headset on your computer’s web browser.

Some features in Workrooms, like a personal drawing pad and a giant whiteboard that anyone can go up to and use, feel more gimmicky than useful. There were multiple times when the audio cut out or became garbled, and the Quest’s hand tracking isn’t perfect. At one point Zuckerberg had to leave and rejoin the room because his avatar’s mouth wasn’t moving at all when he spoke. The desktop companion app isn’t yet compatible with Apple’s M1 processor, so I wasn’t able to try it on my 2020 MacBook Air. (A Facebook rep told me support is coming soon for Apple M1 computers.)

Even with the bugs and relatively scaled-back graphics of the Quest compared to my MacBook screen, I still felt more present in Workrooms than I normally do in a traditional video conferencing setup like Zoom. Native arm and hand tracking, down to the movements of individual fingers, certainly helped. A larger factor is the Quest’s spatial audio. When someone talked in one corner of the room, it sounded like their voice was coming from that direction. At one point the seating chart was changed and I felt as if someone sitting behind me in VR was speaking from behind my head.

Facebook has been using Workrooms internally for meetings for about six months, according to Zuckerberg. “These kinds of experiences, where you can feel present with other people, are I think a much richer way to interact than the types of social apps we’ve been able to build on phones or computers,” he said.

Zuckerberg is right that VR feels more immersive than a phone or computer screen. But Workrooms — and the hardware that powers it — has a ways to go before it will be compelling enough to replace existing ways people work together and hang out at scale. But at the rate that Facebook’s Oculus hardware and software have been progressing, I expect experiences like Workrooms to be much more accessible and enticing in a couple of years than they are now. Other coming entrants into the space, such as Apple, will likely accelerate consumer interest in these sorts of headsets.

Workrooms are part of a bigger umbrella project Facebook is building for Oculus called Horizon. Originally teased a couple of years ago, Horizon aims to essentially be the full Facebook universe — a metaverse, you could say — for virtual reality. Workrooms will be part of it, and Facebook has in the past demoed games and world-building tools similar to Minecraft or Roblox.

Despite originally saying Horizon would debut in 2020, the experience remains in invite-only beta, and Facebook’s Bosworth declined to give me an exact timeframe for when that would change. He said the company has been focused on building more tools for creators, so they in turn can build things in Horizon for others.

That indicates Facebook wants Horizon to be a platform for other developers to build upon. Until Horizon comes out, Workrooms is the best glimpse yet at what Facebook means when it says it’s building the metaverse.

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Edo govt condemns planned coronation of ‘Sultan’, says act sacrilegious, a threat to peace, security

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The Edo State Government has condemned, in strong terms, the planned coronation of Idriss Addano as the ‘Sultan of Shuwa Arab of Edo State’, describing the purported move as sacrilegious and a threat to peace and security in the state.

This was contained in a statement signed and released by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie, Esq, on Thursday, August 19, 2021.

According to the statement, the state government assured citizens that firm and decisive action will be taken to prevent the actualization of the illegal and sacrilegious act.

The statement reads: “The Edo State Government has been inundated with complaints from indigenes and residents of the state over the purported move to embark on the coronation of one Idriss Addano as ‘Sultan of Shuwa Arab of Edo State’.

“The Edo State Government wishes to state as follows: That whether or not this event is held at the said, or any other location within the state, it would constitute a direct assault on the traditions, custom and culture of the people of Edo State, by individuals who clearly have sinister motives and are trying to abuse the well-known Edo hospitality by their act of sacrilege.

“That it is a potential threat to the peace and security of Edo State, with the capacity to cause a breakdown of law and order as citizens of the state are likely to be provoked by the obnoxious ceremony.

“Under the Edo State Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, it is an offence for anyone to proclaim himself, or allow himself to be proclaimed as the holder of any traditional title not recognized under the said law and/or without the approval of the appropriate authorities.”

According to Ogie, “The state government hereby wishes to assure all concerned that firm and decisive action will be taken to prevent the actualization of this illegal and sacrilegious act and that all persons found to have been involved in the conception and/or execution would face the full wrath of the law.”

“The Edo State Government, therefore, calls on all citizens to be calm, law-abiding and rest assured that government is firmly on top of the situation,” he assured.

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Tesla is working on humanoid robots – Elon Musk reveals

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The CEO of Tesla, Elon Musk has revealed that his company is currently working on a humanoid robot, saying that the prototype will be available “sometime next year.”

Elon Musk explained that the humanoid robot will influence Tesla’s experience with automated machines in its factories, as well as some of the hardware and software that powers the company’s Autopilot driver-assistance software.

Elon Musk also explained repeatedly his fears of uncontrolled artificial intelligence stating that Tesla is intending to be friendly,” adding that Tesla is “designing the robot at a “mechanical level” so that one can run away from it, and most likely overpower it.”

According to Elon Musk, the humanoid robot will be five feet, eight inches tall, weigh 125 pounds, and have a screen for a face. Adding that the code name for the bot inside the company is “Optimus”.

Also, he “I think essentially in the future, physical work will be a choice, if you want to do it you can,” because according to him the robots are designed to handle “tasks that are unsafe, repetitive or boring,” the company’s website reads, but little else, at least at first (There, the bot is simply called “Tesla Bot.”)

Elon Musk further revealed drawings of the robot near the tail end of his company’s “Al Day” event, where it showcased some of the artificial intelligence and supercomputer technologies that it’s working on with the goal of one-day powering self-driving cars.

He also revealed that the company has a mannequin version on the stage which wasn’t working.

Tesla’s history is littered with fanciful ideas that never panned out – like a solar-powered Supercharger network, battery swapping, or robotic snake-style chargers. So it’s anyone’s guess as to whether a working Tesla Bot will ever see the light of day. However, the company is where it is today because of Elon Musk’s sheer will.

When asked about the near-term economics of entering into the robotics industry, Elon Musk said, “though we will have to see.”

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Olu Of Warri-designate gift himself new Rolls Royce, Bentley 2021 model ahead of coronation

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Omoba Tsola Emiko, Olu of Warri designate has enriched himself with two brand new, custom-made cars, a Rolls Royce and Bentley 2021 model ahead of his coronation as the 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom.

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that Emiko will be ushered in with the customized Rolls Royce on Saturday of his coronation while later on Sunday, the Bentley would be used for the thanksgiving service.

According to a source in the palace, the Olu designate would ride from his isolation in Idaniken to Warri Club in the Rolls Royce on the day of his coronation.

The source also said, “On arrival at the Warri Club, he would walk into a waiting regatta boat and proceed to Ode Itsekeri, the ancestral home of the Itsekeri people.

It was earlier reported by goldennationblog.com that Omoba Tsola Emiko has been in isolation in Idaniken since April 5th and he is to be crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri on Saturday.

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Fresh trouble for R. Kelly: his trial takes a new twist, labeled as a predator

It becomes an opening disagreement on Wednesday in New York as Robert Sylvester Kelly, better known as R. Kelly faces his most serious court charges of sex trafficking.

R. Kelly, a 54-years-old R&B singer was accused of running a criminal enterprise, using his fame to lure young women and girls to engage in illegal sexual activity.

After long-delayed charges, the R. Kelly trial got a new twist as six ladies who are key to the federal government case have helped put his alleged predatory behavior in the spotlight including the late singer Aaliyah, whose marriage to Kelly in 1994.

On Wednesday during the proceedings, the Assistant U.S Attorney, Maria Cruz Melendez, claimed R. Kelly, then 27, married his protege after learning she was pregnant.

According to the Assistant U.S Attorney statement during the court proceedings said, pregnancy was a huge problem for R. Kelly.

Melendez said as reported by the New York Times “If she was pregnant that means there would be questions: At the very top of that list of questions – who is the father of that baby?”

Aaliyah in June 2001 at the 2001 MTV Movie awards in Los Angeles. (Photo: AFP via Getty Images)

The prosecution also alleged Kelly and his associates hatched a plan for the singers to wed to keep him out of jail. He said Kelly supposedly bribed a government employee in Illinois with $500 to obtain a fake ID for Aaliyah, and then married her in a hotel suite before going back on tour.

Though, their marriage was annulled less than a year later before Aaliyah, who was allegedly groomed by Kelly beginning at age 12, was killed in a plane crash in 2001.

Meanwhile, Kelly’s defense attorney, Nicole Blank Becker, cast doubt on the story during her opening statement and said there’s no evidence Aaliyah was pregnant, according to Insider.

“Aaliyah, God rest her soul, passed away,” Becker said, adding, “If Mr. Kelly was involved in a crime in 1994 would we be here today?”

Not all of the charges against Kelly — which include racketeering, sexual exploitation of a child, bribery, kidnapping, and forced labor — hinge on his marriage to Aaliyah. Kelly’s relationship with five other women, who were between ages 16 and 22 during the alleged crimes, will also be scrutinized. Four of those women are expected to testify. Two appeared in the documentary series Surviving R. Kelly.

“This case is about a predator,” Melendez told the jury, calling Kelly a manipulator who “used his fame, his popularity and a network of people at his disposal to target, groom and exploit young girls, boys, and women for his sexual gratification.”

Becker cast doubt on the women’s credibility, telling the jury they will hear “half-truths” and “exaggerated testimony” from people who have an agenda, per NBC News.

“They were fans. They came to Mr. Kelly,” she declared. “They will paint him as a monster, but you will hear some of these relationships were beautiful and long term. … They knew exactly what they were getting into and it was no secret that Mr. Kelly had multiple girlfriends.”

Kelly has been jailed since 2019 as his trial has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. He faces decades behind bars if convicted on all charges. The singer, who is also facing sex crime charges in Illinois and Minnesota, reportedly looked somber in court. The trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.

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Why I will not rest until social media is regulated – Lai Mohammed

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The minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has revealed that he will not rest until social media platforms are fully regulated.

The minister said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Washington, on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, stating that the dangers of fake news on social media must be taken seriously.

During the interview, the minister also debunks rumors about some online report which stated that he sneaked out of Nigeria to meet with Twitter executives’’ in the US.

According to the minister, he came to the US to meet with international media organizations and think tanks on the achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, and efforts made so far in tackling insurgency, banditry, and all forms of criminality.

The minister during his visit to Washington, D.C. also engaged with the BBC, Bloomberg, and Politico, but said he hasn’t met with Twitter.

While debunking the online report of him sneaking out of the country, the minister said “Can a minister sneak out of Nigeria without people knowing? When you say I sneaked out of Nigeria, are you saying I went to board at a terminal where nobody is, or I traveled to the Republic of Benin to fly out of the country?” he asked.

“I was at an international airport, where I presented myself openly and I was checked in at the counter like every other traveler of the airline. I boarded and passed through the checks by the immigration service and customs.

How can you come and say I sneaked out of the country? You and I have been here, have I met with any Twitter official­?

“When you talk about fake news and its dangers, we need to take it seriously, and I am happy that the entire world is now seeing what we saw more than two years ago. I can assure you that we will not rest until we regulate social media. Otherwise, nobody will survive it.”

Recall on June 4, the federal government announced the indefinite suspension of Twitter’s operations in Nigeria.

Although the suspension came hours after a tweet by President Muhammadu Buhari was deleted, the federal government said the decision was as a result of “the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence”.

Recently, the federal government said it is in talks with the microblogging platform, adding that the suspension will be lifted soon.

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Pinterest is adding search filters to enable users to easily find hairstyles for their types

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Pinterest has decided to introduce a search tool that will help people search for their hair idea and patterns.

The new filter option will appear under the search bar and it will enable users to search for hairstyles, for coily, curly, wavy, and straight textures, as well as shaved/bald and protective styles.

According to Pinterest, the filters should be particularly useful for people of color looking for styles tailored to their hair textures adding that they were created with Black, brown, and Latinx people in mind.

Photo credit: Pinterest

The Pinterest spokesperson also said the hair pattern feature uses computer vision powered objects to detect and determine which hair types are shown in the hairstyle pins, stating that “We built hair pattern search with in-house Al on top of our foundation computer vision technology that is used in visual search and shopping.”

The company further said its algorithm has detected hair patterns in over 500 million images on the platform.

Also, Naeemah LaFond, an editorial hairstylist and global artistic director of the Amika hair care brand, who advised Pinterest during the feature’s development, said “Just the simple idea that I don’t have to work twice as hard to find a hairstyle because of my hair type is a game-changer.

Ever since Pinterest engineers started with data from ModiFace’s Al library and adjusting the algorithm from there to improve things like its ability to properly categorize skin tones in low light. A new feature builds on Pinterest skin tone search filters which were introduced in 2018.

The company has made a lot of improvements to its in-house tech as it stated that its technology can now three times detect multiple skin tone ranges in top search results compared to previous technology.

Meanwhile, the company said the hair pattern search will be rolling out across desktop, iOS, and Android apps over the coming weeks.

The filters will be available in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand first before later it will expand to other countries in the coming months as revealed by the company.

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No plan to increase taxes in Edo, Obaseki assures

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured that his administration has no plan to increase taxes in the state, noting that the state seeks inclusiveness and participation from citizens in revenue generation and administration.

The governor gave the assurance after a closed-door meeting with stakeholders in tax administration at the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) head office in Benin City.

According to the official website, www. godwinobaseki.com, Obaseki’s visit to the EIRS office follows the expiration of the tenure of the board, led by Igbinidu Inneh.

He said the state’s revenue service needs to be re-energized before the appointment of a new board.

The governor said the ratio of people who pay taxes compared to the taxable population in the state is very small, noting, “There is no need to increase taxes. What we need to do is to engender citizen participation and achieve inclusiveness. Today, the ratio of citizens who pay taxes relative to the population is very, very small and the burden is only on a few persons who pay tax.”

“Everybody who has a source of income, by law, should pay money to the state. That is what we are trying to do by ensuring that everybody pays something directly to the state government’s treasury,” he said.

Obaseki continued: “We want to make sure that we re-energize the service. Right now, we are not meeting our budget in terms of revenue collection in the state. There are still lots of leaks. We believe that we can achieve better efficiency by restructuring the way revenue is collected in the state.

“The meeting today is to meet with members of staff of EIRS, work with them and redesign the revenue collection system in the state. Before now, it was quite centralized. What we are looking at is to have a team with almost semi-independent offices across the 18 local government areas of the state that will be responsible for all the taxes that will be collected in that area.”

“The other reform that we are looking at is to collaborate with the local government so that we can consolidate both the taxes the local government is supposed to collect and the one accruable to the state. That way, we can reduce the burden on our citizens,” he said.

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Delta State CP deploys 1000 Policemen ahead of the coronation of Olu of Warri, warns mischief makers to steer clear

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc+ has deployed One thousand police personnel ahead of the forthcoming coronation ceremony of the Olu of Warri to ensure watertight security before, during, and after the coronation.

The coronation ceremony is said to take place on 21st August 2021.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement signed and released by the acting Delta State Police Commands’ Police Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.

In the statement, DSP Edafe said that two bomb squad has been deployed to report 48hours before the coronation day and to sweep the venue to ensure it is completely rendered safe.

He said two units of Mobile police personnel and conventional police officers which include traffic personnel have also been deployed.

According to Edafe, the commissioner of police said, the measure is to ensure watertight security.

He also said the CP has warned mischief makers to steer clear as the command is more than ready to deal decisively with anybody who tries to disrupt or cause any form of mischief during the coronation.

The CP further said all that needs to be done to ensure that the event is itch-free and devoid of any form of violence has been put in place.

Also, the commissioner of police while wishing the people of Warri and Deltans a peaceful and hitch-free coronation ceremony has directed the Area Commander of Warri Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Operations Officers of the Command to leave no stone unturned towards ensuring thorough supervision of personnel deployed for the actualization of the peace and tranquility during and after the coronation ceremony.

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Adams Oshiomhole opens up on returning to office

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Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Com. Adams Oshiomhole has denied a suggestion that he was plotting to return to the office.

Oshiomhole, in a statement by his Media Aide, Victor Oshioke, in Abuja on Wednesday, described the speculation as untrue.

He, however, reaffirms his loyalty to the APC under the able leadership of His Excellency, Governor Mai-Mala Buni.

The statement partly read: “Our attention has been drawn to a statement credited to Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who’s now a member of the APC and self-styled aide of Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi.

“In the said statement wide­ly reported in the media, Chief Eze was quoted as saying that Mr. Festus Keyamo SAN, Hon. Minister of State for Labour and Employment and others were plotting to bring back Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as national chairman of the APC.

“Ordinarily, we would have ignored this nonsensical suggestion. However, it’s pertinent to set the records straight and put to rest this ridiculous falsehood being marketed by Eze Chukwuemeka Eze.”

“This is an opportunity to further reaffirm Comrade Adams Oshiomhole’s loyalty to the APC under the able leadership of His Excellency, Governor Mai-Mala Buni,” the statement added.

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Salesforce set to launch its streaming service

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Salesforce has disclosed that it will be launching a new streaming service known as Salesforce+.

The new streaming service will feature live and on-demand content for every role, industry, and line of business, all in one place.

The company has decided to move beyond CRM software with its new streaming service that will arrive during the company’s annual four-day Dreamforce conference that will be held in-person at the Moscone Center in San Francisco on September 21-23. An event that will be shown online.

The company said the Salesforce+ will be packed with content including live experiences, original series, podcasts, and other programs just like other streaming services.

According to the company’s President and CMO of Salesforce, Sarah Franklin explained in a statement how the company’s experiences during the pandemic led to the creation of its new streaming service, saying:

“We’ve put together a list of the best CRM software available. These are the best small business software solutions on the market. Also, check out our roundup of the best productivity tools.

“Over the last 18 months, we’ve had to reimagine how to succeed in the new digital-first world. We reimagined our events, shifting them to all-digital experiences, and introduced new, relevant original content. We’re not going back, we’re creating the future now. Just as brands like Disney, Netflix, and Peloton have done with streaming services for consumers, Salesforce+ is providing an always-on, business media platform that builds trusted relationships with customers and a sense of belonging for the business community.”

Meanwhile, ahead of the launching of the new streaming service, Salesforce Studios has also put together a team of writers, editors, directors, and producers, that will bring new original programming to Salesforce+.

The current Salesforce+ lineup includes a weekly program known which details how business leaders dealt with the pandemic, “Leading Through Change”, another series that showcases some of the world’s most innovative marketers from IBM, Levi’s, and other companies known as “Connections”, also another program about CEOs and their backstories known as “The Inflection Point” and also a career advice series called “Boss Talks” and a short-form video series titled “Simply Put”.

The company has also revealed that in the coming months, Salesforce+ will debut even more original content featuring leaders in fields such as sales and service as well as a new series trailblazers are re-skilling to find new career opportunities.

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AMORI @ 69: A birthday bash too unforgettable

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What turned out to be a “quiet” event snowballed into a carnival. The reason was clear and incontrovertible, the personae from the who is who to the not so who is who, they trooped in their mass, to felicitate with Chief Ighoyota Amori.

He in his 69-year pilgrim sojourn has come, seen, and conquered. And is still conquering.

The Odidimadi of the universe needs no introduction. Like wine that tastes sweet with age, he has become an oak tree, spreading his “wings” to accommodate the good, bad, and ugly, that mill around him for comfort, advice, support, and upbraiding, as the case may be.

Chief lghoyota Amori, a thoroughbred professional (Amodrill) and politician, consummate gentleman, father, husband, and community leader, has the clout and candor.

No wonder his Asaba residence was thronged by the be-all and all of society on his birthday, Sunday the 8th of August, 2021.

The banters, the convivial atmosphere, the backslaps, the “reconciliations”, the ambiance, not to forget the soothing music and comedy by the mc, as well as the inevitable sumptuous meals of all varieties, set the stage for the event.

Also, speaker after speaker ranging from Finance Commissioner, Fidelus Tilije, Hon Lovette Idisi, Barrister A.k Osawota, Michael “Ejele” Diden, Hon Ochoa Ochoa, Arthur Akpowowo, et al, paid glowing tributes to a man who they collectively described as a quintessential patriot and rare breed of humility.

They averred that Chief Ighoyota Amori with his unassuming legacy of “live and let live”, has remained a stabilizing rallying point in the political, social, cultural, and human sphere.

Wishing him a happy birthday, they prayed for God’s protection and grace upon the consummate politician and astute grandmaster, stating that his “river” will never run dry.

In his remarks, the elated celebrant had these words of appreciation “My 69th birthday celebration….. appreciation! appreciation!! appreciation!!!… I wish to sincerely thank and appreciate all those that made my 69th birthday celebration a huge success. The marking/celebration that took place simultaneously in my Abuja, Benin, Mosogar, and Asaba homes was electrifying. I must thank all those physically present and others that sent in goodwill messages too numerous to mention. The Speaker, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Dep Speaker, Hon Ochor Christopher Ochor with his wife, Hon Solomon Ighrakpata, Chief Of Staff, Hon Festus Ovie Agas, Hon Michael Diden aka Ejele, Hon Commissioners led by Arthur Akpowowo, Fidelis Tilije, Christian Onogba, Chief Julius Egbedi, Hon Shola Daibo & Mrs. Jennifer Oma Adasen- Efeviroro. The DC-23 Team is led by Chief Benard Edewor, Hon Lovette Idisi, Barr William Etubiebi, Dr. Chris Oharisi, Barr. Andrew Orugbo, Chief Mrs. Margaret Unukegwo, Dr. Mrs. Philo Oyearone, Hon Anthony Akpomiemie, Dcn Raymond Edijala, Chief Lucky Emojeya, Duncan Eghweree, Charles Abutoh, Philo Ededey, Dr. Mrs. Augustina & Chief Prosper Sarah, Engr Christabel Obiuwevbi, Chief Suru Salami, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Barr. Fred Majemite, Hon Ejaife Odebala, Abel Esievo, Dr. Amos Ighorodje, Chief Ochuko Sakpaide, Hon Taleb Tebite, Ese Omamogho, Festus Pemu, Ogbimi Benjy, The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency led by the D-G, Hon Mrs. Joan Ameachi Mrakpor, Dr. Isaac Willikie, the PDP family led by SOS, Chief Sunday Onoriode, Moses Iduh, Solomon Obareki, Atima Oviri Anthony, Mr. James Otubu, etc just too numerous to mention here. I appreciate you all. As you celebrate me God will allow you to be celebrated in .. Amen. Once again I say thank you, thank you & thank you. Chief (Sen) Ighoyota Amori(JP).

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Alleged pregnancy of Ugbah family member: Mrakpor absolves self, describes it as satanic agenda to tarnish his reputation

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The Attention of Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor SAN, has been drawn to publications on Facebook and other social media platforms about a purported Pregnacy /Child delivery for him by a member of the Ugbah Family of Ubulu Uku alleged to be a sister/Cousin/maid to Hon. Joan Onyeamachi Mrakpor ( nee Ugbah).

This was contained in a statement signed and released to newsmen by Akpovoke Otiti,
Media Aide to Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor SAN, Monday, August 9, 2021.

According to the statement, Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor SAN, wishes to inform all concerned that the said allegation is totally false and satanic agenda to destroy his hard – earned reputation as no person is pregnant for him or has a child for him as falsely alleged by a desperate group of disgruntled politicians and enemies.

Also, Dr. Mrakpor stated “It is pertinent to state that the marriage between Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor SAN and Honourable Joan Onyeamachi Mrakpor (nee Ugbah) broke down finally since July 2020 due to irreconcilable behavioral pattern.”

Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor SAN has also instructed his solicitor to commence legal proceedings against any further publications about such evil allegation and to formally dissolve the said failed marriage.

See statement released:

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Mother of two reveals why she bathed woman with hot water

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Joy Sunday, a 37-year-old mother of two has confessed to the police in Ogun State that she bathed a woman with hot water for accusing her of having an affair with her husband.

Ogun police spokesperson, Abimbola Oyeyemi, told newsmen on Sunday that the suspect was nabbed after a report was lodged at Agbado police station by an elder sister to the victim, one Kelechi Samuel.

Samuel had told the police that during a vigil at Spring of Life Global Ministry, Giwa, Agbado, the suspect came into the church with a container of hot water and poured it on her sister’s face, causing her grievous harm.

Samuel explained to the police that the suspect stabbed her on her left hand when she tried to hold her.

With the report, the DPO of Agbado Division, CSP Kehinde Kuranga, was reported to have detailed his men to the scene, where the woman was arrested.

“On interrogation, the suspect explained that the victim had been accusing her of sleeping with her husband for quite some time now, and all efforts to disabuse her mind from it proved abortive.

“On that fateful day, while they were in the church, the victim came as usual and started raining curses on her. While she tried to walk away from her, the victim pulled her back with her cloth and tore the cloth.

“It was that annoyance that made her to go home and boiled water which she brought back to the church and poured it on the victim’s face,” Oyeyemi said.

While saying the woman had denied dating the victim’s husband, police said the victim had been taken to Strong Tower Hospital for medical treatment.

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Mrakpor extols Amori @69, describes him as an astute, courageous leader

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The immediate past Commissioner for Justice/Attorney General of Delta State, Dr. Peter Mrakpor, SAN has congratulated the “Odidimadi of the universe” Chief Ighoyota Amori as he clicks 69, Sunday, August 8, 2021, in a grand style.

Dr. Mrakpor SAN, while felicitating with Chief Amori described him as a courageous, astute, and great leader who has helped in turning around PDP in Delta for good, adding value to encourage growth in the system as well as anyone that comes across him.

The Delta State immediate past Attorney General who’s a legal luminary showered encomium on Chief Amori who has remained resolute and want the state to move forward with tremendous support to Dr. Okowa’s administration lauded him for exhibiting his political prowess in building the party both from the local level, state and federal.

Dr. Mrakpor noted that Chief Amori is a distinguished personality whose contributions speaks volume to people of the state, even as he clocks 69. he’s still very strong full of energy he added.

He prayed to God to grant Amori more strength, better health, more wisdom, and grace to continue his leadership style as the Urhobo nation is proud of him always.

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Arewa Youths ask FG to ban Big Brother Naija

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The Arewa Youths Advisory Forum has asked the Federal Government to ban the Big Brother Naija reality TV show.

The Youth forum described the reality show as a calamity, saying it promotes immorality because some housemates are flaunting their nakedness in the show.

This was made known by the National President of the forum, Yerima Shettima, on Friday, August 6, 2021, while speaking with journalists.

According to Yarima Shattima in his explanation, he said “It is a calamity for me. I never believed in BBNaija and I don’t think it’s fair because the show is an act of immorality. Such a spectacle should not be encouraged.

I have often said that this show encourages immorality and that the Nigerian government should ban it. It should not be allowed to be broadcast in our country.

“A lot of people are watching to see acts of immorality, these sexual things flaunting their nudity, and they made it look like a ‘blue film’, so that is to be discouraged.

“I urge true lovers of the country to join hands and draw the government’s attention to the implication of this program which should be discouraged.”

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Another suspected murder of 50-year-old woman arrested in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested another suspected killer who allegedly killed a 50-year-old woman for ritual purposes.

The suspect identified as Akpoghene Idogo Shoemaker, a male, 20-year-old was arrested on Friday, August 6, 2021, in Kwale Town, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State following a tip-off.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday, August 7, 2021, by the acting Delta State Police Commands’ Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright.

According to the statement, it was gathered that some other suspects contacted Akpoghene and his friend, one Onos Simon to kill the woman who is a pepper seller with the sum of N100,000.

The Police statement read: “Sequel to the earlier arrest of one Onos Simon over the allege murder of one Mrs. Patience Komore aged 50 for ritual purpose, following a tip-off, the DPO Oleh SP Paul Oboware ON 6/8/21 led a combined team of police/vigilante and some community leaders to Kwale Town where one Akpoghene Idogo Shoemaker ‘M’ 20Yrs was arrested, the suspect has been on the run after the alleged murder of the woman who is a pepper seller alongside his friend who was earlier arrested, effort to arrest the remaining suspect who contacted and paid them the sum of #100,000 for the dastardly act is ongoing.

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NIN: Nigeria and Korea sign new project deal worth $13m

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The Nigeria Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy has signed a $13 million contract with The Republic of Korea.

The contract is meant to boost the e-government expansion and also increase access to the enrollment of the National Identification Number (NIN).

The contract was signed on Thursday in Abuja by Korea through it’s grant aid agency, Korea International Cooperation Agency office in Nigeria.

According to a statement by the KOICA office in Nigeria, noted that the new contract will help the implementation of the ‘Project for Building Foundations Towards Digital Governance in Nigeria from 2020 to 2026’.

The statement read: “The project, which is fully funded by the Korean government through grant aid, is expected to enhance capacity for the further execution of key initiatives of the National eGovernment Master Plan, improve competencies for e-government service delivery through capacity building programs, expand the delivery of government digital services through the activation of the government service portal, www.services.gov.ng, and create increased access for NIN enrolment through the establishment of additional NIN enrolment centers.”

While speaking during the event, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, also noted that KOICA’s aid disbursement for e-government remained the highest in Nigeria.

Recall, in July, the Federal Government prolonged the deadline for NIN connection to SIM data to October 31, 2021.

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Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II welcome quadruplets

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The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, and his fifth wife, Esosa Ewuare, welcome a set of quadruplets.

The traditional ruler made this known to guests on Friday at his palace in Benin City.

The set of quadruplets are three males and a female.

Esosa Ewuare is the youngest among the wives of the Oba of Benin.

Celebrating the set of quadruplets, the monarch paid tribute to God Almighty and the ancestors for the blessing.

Also, the presiding priest of the oldest West African Church, Holy Aruosa Church, Ohen-Osa Igbinoghodua Edebiri, offered prayers to God for wisdom and guidance for the newborns.

Meanwhile, the celebration of the babies existed side-by-side with the visit of the national executives of the Immaculate Conception College, Benin City, which is the alma-mater of the Oba of Benin.

Recall, in May 2020, the monarch welcome his first infant Prince after he ascended the throne of his ancestors as the 40th Oba of Benin from her Royal Highness, Iyayota Ewuare.

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2023: AREWA youths says sick, weak people will not be allowed

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The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, on Friday, issued a warning ahead of the 2023 presidential election.

National President of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, warned that the group would not allow the recycling of old, weak, and sick Nigerians as president.

In a statement he signed and issued to newsmen, Shettima said democracy does not encourage a weak, tired, and politically compromised leader.

According to Shettima: “Going forward, the AYFC will never allow the recycling of old, weak and sick citizens as leaders of this nation, moreso in a fast-changing and competitive world.

“Much as democracy gives everyone the right to contest for any elective office, it does not encourage the emergence of tired, weak, politically compromised, sick and overly unproductive persons as leaders of this modern society”.

Shettima’s comment is coming at a time when speculations are rife that former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar may contest for the presidency in 2023.

Atiku, who lost the 2019 presidential election to President Muhammadu Buhari, is believed to be nursing another presidential election.

Similarly, Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, is also believed to be nursing a presidential ambition in 2023.

However, both Tinubu and Atiku are yet to declare their intention, despite the speculations.

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“It is sin to share Buhari, son, wife wedding pictures online” – Kano Hisbah tells Muslims

Kano State Hisbah Board has prohibited Muslims from sharing the pre-wedding pictures of the daughter of Emir of Kano, Zahrah Bayero, saying it is a sin.

The pre-wedding pictures of Ms. Zahrah revealed her shoulders, and the pictures have since stirred much criticism by Hisbah, Religious police known for sanctioning people for ‘immoral behaviors.’

The Religious police say any Muslim that is sharing Ms. Zahrah’s wedding pictures and videos has sinned.

This was disclosed in an interview with BBC Pidgin by the Kano Commander General of Hisbah, Harun Ibn-Sina, he said “The Emir’s daughter is not above the law, but failed to set a good example to other Muslims.

Harun Ibn-Sina also said those Muslims sharing the Emir’s daughter’s wedding pictures and videos have sinned.

BBC Pidgin reported: “Hisbah boss Sheik Harun Ibn Sina says di Emir daughter na Muslim wey no dey above di law and suppose lead by example if she wan blessings for her marriage.

“Di Hisbah boss also criticizes Pipo wey dey share di fotos and videos from di event saying na sin to share di materials,” BBC Pidgin reported.

Recall, Hisbah had prohibited tailors, supermarkets, and boutique owners from using mannequins to display clothes in the state.

Also, in June, Hisbah apprehended 40 teenagers for peddling condoms and Marijuana in Kano.

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FG gives important information on fuel subsidy removal

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Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva has revealed that there is no set date for the removal of fuel subsidy.

He disclosed this in an interview on Channels Television seen by goldennationblog.com

Sylva said that government is making efforts to put structures in place to ease the effect of the eventual subsidy removal.

He said;

“I cannot give you a date for now. But the Vice President is actually leading the efforts and very soon, we will tell Nigerians what date the removal of subsidy will kick in.

“We must be considerate of our people; you cannot say because you have the muscle, box everybody down in the room. So, what we are saying is that before doing this, we need to put some structures in place so that the impact on the people can be minimized. We are trying to create an alternative that is cheaper and more affordable.

“We also think that there should be some palliatives.”

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Listen to Rudeboy latest album ‘Rudykillus’

Ace Nigerian singer and songwriter, Paul Okoye, better known as Rudeboy, has finally dropped his long-awaited album ‘Rudykillus’ under his record label, Fire Department Inc.

The album contains 12 tracks plus 3 bonus tracks with no guest collaboration.

‘Rudykillus’ is coming after the singer and record label boss release a single ‘Focus’ off the album a few days ago.

Chrisstringz, Sele B, Orbeat, Lordsky, and KingRudy co-produce the album. Listen to the album.

Listen to the album:

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Sultan of Sokoto laments, says things are not getting better

The Sultan of Sokoto and President of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Saass Abubakar III has cried out over the state of things in the country.

He said;

“We must tell ourselves the home truth and stop deceiving ourselves that things are getting better. The truth is, things are not getting better. Therefore, the earlier we know things are not getting better the better for us, so that we can sit down and find means and ways of solving our problems.

“We must work hard to tackle the insecurity, hunger, poverty, and all the negative things afflicting our great country. We have problems, yes we know we have problems and I have said it before that things are not just normal and right in this country, but we can make things normal and right by Allah’s wish, so we have to work hard.

“People are suffering and we have few people that have so much and too many people that have nothing, yet we are not helping the poor.”

The Sokoto Monarch called for adequate food supply and store, to sell at a much subsidised rate to the common man. According to him, without food, the country cannot experience peace, security, and development.

He added;

“And without development, we are just a bunch of people sitting down.”

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Twitter adds new features “co-host” to expand participants in Spaces

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Twitter has added a new feature to Spaces that allowed hosts to appoint up to two co-hosts for their social audio rooms.

The new updated Space will make it easier for the host of the audio space to help manage rooms and moderate conversations.

According to a post by Spaces on Twitter, “Once co-hosts are invited, the co-hosts have almost all the same moderation and managing privileges as the main host: they can speak, invite other members of the room to speak, pin tweets, boot people from the room and more.”

Although, there are few limitations as only the main host can invite or remove other users as co-hosts. One co-host cannot invite a second one, for example. Co-hosts also cannot end the room; only the original host is a privilege to do that.

The new co-host features also expand the number of participants that can talk at once in space: You can have one host, two co-hosts, and ten speakers all active in a room at once, as compared to the previous ten-speaker limit.

The new features are useful as it helps hosts keep Spaces under control especially for larger conversations. However, Twitter recently assigned the top area of users’ timelines in the app (where Fleets used to live) to the social features.

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Microsoft set new plans to unify OneNote for Windows-10 with OneNote desktop app

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Microsoft has revealed plans to merge its OneNote for Windows 10 and OneNote for the desktop app together.

The software company is aspiring to take all the modifications in its UWP OneNote for windows 10 and bring them over to the OneNote desktop app.

The modifications are said to occur in a series of updates in the next 12 months within the formal OneNote desktop app that was installed as part of Office.

The updates will include a visual refresh and some “key existing features that are currently unique to OneNote for Windows 10.” But it wasn’t clear which features from OneNote for Windows 10 will make their way over to the OneNote desktop app. Microsoft admitted, “We are working to ensure that all the most loved features continue to be a part of the unified OneNote.”

The new OneNote visual refresh.
 Image: Microsoft

According to The Verge, Microsoft also said existing users of the OneNote for Windows 10 app will be asked to upgrade to the desktop OneNote app in the second half of 2022.

Meanwhile, a source from the OneNote team at Microsoft explained that the advances in Windows and Office will allow them to unify the two apps so that users can have the simplicity of a single OneNote app on Windows while enjoying the interface and features which users are already familiar with.”

The source also revealed that Microsoft will not kill the UWP version of OneNote for Windows 10 immediately. Adding that the company said OneNote users should move to the desktop app by October 2025, when OneNote for Windows 10 support system will come to an end.

He furthermore said the OneNote modifications will not affect other Microsoft’s OneNote apps for macOS, iOS, Android, or web. Because according to Microsoft, it’s simply centralizing its different OneNote apps into something that hopefully has the best of the UMP and desktop worlds. The source added.

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Delta State Police Command showcase its achievement in crime control

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc, has said the Command will never relent in its effort to fight against crime and criminalities in the state.

He said the command will always sustain its force and ensure that criminally minded individuals will not see the state as a haven.

The CP made this known in a press briefing on ‘The Achievements Made By The Delta State Police Command from June 2021 to August 4, 2021, at the Police Headquarters, Asaba, the state capital on Wednesday, August 4, 2021.

According to the CP who revealed some of the achievements of the command said: “Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, I once again welcome you to this briefing which creates a platform for us to interact and to showcase some of the Command’s achievements in crime control and management in the state.”

“The successes recorded so far is a credit not only to the Police but to all well-meaning persons who have been assisting us by providing us with timely and useful information in the fight against criminal elements in the state. My primary assignment is to provide adequate security for the good people of Delta State and to ensure Delta state is safe for all.”

“Yesterday Tuesday 3/8/2021, I had another stakeholder meeting with Fulani herders and farmers in the state at the police officers mess, Okwe, with the DG on security to the Delta state government Hon David Tonwea representing the Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa. I emphasize the need for peaceful coexistence between the herders and farmers, I also looked at their challenges, and modalities have been put in place to see that the herders/farmers crisis come to a halt in Delta State.”

“In compliance with the State Government covid-19 imposed curfew in the state from 0000 hrs – 0400 hrs to stop the further spread of the covid-19 pandemic, raid/ restriction of movements are been carried out by the Command on daily basis and suspects arrested are being charged to mobile court set up by the state government. The command is aware of the danger of the covid-19 pandemic and the recent awareness by the federal government on the 3rd wave of the pandemic. The command will sustain its effort to ensure that there is no further spread of the covid-19 virus in the state while advising members of the public to comply with all Covid 19 protocols.”

According to the breakdown of some of the achievements in the recent past, the CP said: “The Command has rescue kidnapped victims, arrest three suspected kidnappers and recover two (2) AK 47 rifles, five magazines, forty-two live ammunition.”

The CP said “Sequel to earlier reported case of the kidnap of one Gloria Edowhouoro of Ekpuda ‘f’ on the 30/7/2021 in Otu-Jeremi, the DPO Agbarho Division acting on a tip-off that kidnappers were heading towards Agbarho area, mobilized and led a joint team of police and vigilante, intercepted the kidnappers who quickly reversed and sped off. The suspect one Joel Akatakpo ‘m’ 28yrs was chased and arrested. On 2/8/2021 at about 0530hrs the DPO Otu-Jeremi arrested two (2) additional suspects: namely, Eseoghene Ogbogbo ‘m’ 36yrs and Telneson Juma m’ 30yrs at Agbarho and Uwamugie communities in Ughelli North Local Government. When the search was conducted in Telneson Juma house, two (2) AK 47 rifles with breach Nos. 04174 and 30746, with NPF inscription written on it, forty-two (42) live ammunition loaded in five magazines were recovered. The victim was rescued unhurt while a manhunt for two other fleeing members of the gang is ongoing.

“Similarly on the 1/8/2021 at about 1842hrs, acting on the information received that Nine armed men emerged from the bush and kidnapped occupants of some vehicles on transit, the DPO Ofuoma mobilized and led police/vigilante patrol teams to the scene, the surrounding bushes were combed, the kidnappers abandoned the kidnapped victims in the bush and fled. The six (6) victims were rescued unhurt, the manhunt for the fleeing members of the gang is ongoing.”

The CP also explained the arrest of a murder suspect and ritualist: he said “Sequel to the missing person report received by the Command on 2/8/21 at about 1456hrs of one Mrs. Patience Komore aged 50yrs, who disappeared after leaving for Umeh market in Isoko south LGA to get fish. I directed the Divisional police officer Oleh to unravel the mystery behind her disappearance.

“The DPO Mobilized police operatives, vigilante, and community leaders who continuously worked together and gathered information regarding the case. Acting on a tip-off, on 3/8/2021 at about 1300hours, One Onos Simon m’ age 25yrs an Okada man was arrested, the Okada rider was the same person who carried the woman on that faithful day. On interrogation, the suspect confessed to the killing of the missing woman Mrs. Patience Komore in connivance with one Akpoghene Shoemaker ‘m’ now at large.”

“They raped her and robbed her of the sum of forty thousand before killing her using a machete. Not only did they kill her, but they also removed her eyes and private part for ritual purposes. The suspect also confessed that one lucky Daniel of Ohio town contracted them to bring the body part for him after paying them one hundred thousand nairas (#100,000). The decomposing corpse has been recovered and deposited in the mortuary. Members of the public are hereby urged to assist the police with useful information that can lead to the arrest of the fleeing Akpoghene shoemaker and lucky Daniel.” The CP added.

The CP also declared war against Cultism in the state as he said

“During the period under review, the command arrested over one hundred suspected cultists in Asaba, Ogwashi-Uku, Agbor, Warri, Sapele, and Ukwani LGAs. Exhibit recovered from them includes locally made guns, double barrel shot guns, and pump action. Some of them have been charged to court while others are still undergoing investigation. The command is doing everything possible to get rid of cultists in the state.”

Also, the CP revealed how the Command arrested a suspect who faked the disappearance of his daughter.

He said “On 20/7/2021 at about 1315hrs, a case of a missing person was reported at ‘B’ division Warri of a missing 21 yr Old girl by the name Stephanie Solomon Oghenevoke. On a quick reaction, the command issued a press statement to that effect. Members of the public who saw the publication on various online media and newspapers informed the police that she was seen around Okpaka in Udu local govt. The police moved to the area and arrested a friend of the girl, The suspect confessed that the father of the girl Mr. Solomon odjiwwuderhie asked to please allow the girl to stay with them for some time. The girl’s father was immediately arrested, and he confessed that he masterminded the girl’s disappearance because the mother of the girl is owing to the girl’s boss a huge amount of money close to the sum of fifty million Naira (#50,000,000). They believe that with the disappearance of the girl, her boss won’t have the guts to demand his money.”

The CP further revealed another development on how the command also arrested an armed robbery suspect and recover arms and ammunition, he said:

“On 3/8/2021 at about 1400 hours, acting on credible information gathered, surveillance team attached to GRA Division Asaba arrested one Abraham Umar ‘m’ age 27yrs, Ibrahim Abo m’ age 30yrs, and Nuru Ali ‘m’ age 20yrs all from Adamawa state. They were arrested at No. 1 Waterholic Street, off Midwifery road Asaba. Suspects while on interrogation confessed and led the operatives to their hideout where their operational weapon was kept. The exhibit recovered includes one English Barreta pistol, one locally-made revolver pistol, two cartridges, one round of 9mm ammunition. The investigation is ongoing.”

He said the command also arrest some suspected cultists and recover one cut to size single barrel gun.

“On the 26/7/2021 at about 2310hrs, Raider Operatives in collaboration with Anti-Cult Volunteer corps raided some black spots and criminal hideout in Sapele town two male suspected cultists by name This Gbamnido ‘m’ 30yrs and Bobo Otuma ‘m’ 30yrs when search one (1) cut to size single barrel gun, one (1) battle-ax, one (1) present IGP portrait and one (1) cutlass was recovered and both confessed to being Eiye confraternity members. The investigation is ongoing.”

The CP also mentioned another arrest of suspected armed robbers/kidnappers/cultists and how the command recovers a fabricated Barretta pistol with three 9mm live ammunition.

“ON 2/7/2021 At about 0925 hours, RRS operatives while on patrol along Udo road warri arrested the following persons namely prince Onotanare ‘m’ Age 22yrs, Gift Ogbeje ‘m’ age 19yrs, Lucky Egere ‘m’ age 22yrs old, Charles Eungu ‘m’ 25yrs, Joshua Onatseye ‘m’ age 22yrs old. During the search, a fabricated barrel pistol with three 9mm lives ammunition. They all confessed to being members of Aiye and JVC confraternity respectively.”

Also, the CP revealed the recovery of one AK 50 rifle, one magazine and 19 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

“On 15/7/21, the Commander RRS and team while on visibility patrol along Ibusa/Ogwashi-Uku/Issele Azagba road, on getting to a certain point after Ogwashi-Uku Poly, came across a group of four young men who emerged from the bush but On noticing the presence of the operatives ran back into the bush. The operative gave them a hot chase which led to an exchange of gunfire. However, realizing that the police had the upper hand against them, they threw away one AK50 rifle with breach no NA48333 containing a magazine loaded with nineteen rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. Manhunt for the fleeing suspect is ongoing.”

The CP further said the command also arrest OF suspected impersonators and recover a suspected stolen vehicle with a toy pistol.

“On 31/7/21 RRS operatives while on stop and search duty at head bridge Asaba intercepted a Ford vehicle with REG No. 9791F7 with two occupants, one Bankole Odusi ‘m’ of No. 19 Sango I joke street Lagos wearing a police uniform and Samuel Idowu ‘m’ 49yrs of No. 1 Olatunji Mall market Lekki Lagos who was wearing a T-shirt with police color. Upon search, A Toy Beretta pistol was recovered from them. On interrogation, they initially said they were police officers, but later admitted to being spy police. The investigation is ongoing.”

Lastly, the CP said the command also arrest some serial kidnappers and recover three single barrel guns, one locally made cut to size gun.

“On the 28/7/2021 at about 2100hrs, acting on intelligence gathered over a period concerning a kidnap suspect who has been terrorizing Agbor and its environs, the Area Commander Agbor detailed surveillance team to Alifikede. The operatives on arrival surrounded the area which made it impossible for the suspects to escape. The operation was a huge success as one Adamu Bayero ‘m’ 43yrs old who had a bullet injury sustained from the gun duel with Police during previous kidnap operation and one Mohammed Ahmed ‘m’ 26yrs old were arrested. Further investigation led to the recovery of three (3) single barrel rifles, one (1) locally made pistol, and nine (9) cartridges. The suspect took detectives to their hideout in Ogah bush, where their other gang members ambushed the police, serious gun duel ensued, the two suspects in an attempt to escape were caught up in a crossfire, sustained gunshot injuries. They were taken to the hospital where they gave up the ghost while receiving treatment. One additional locally made cut to size gun was recovered from the scene.”

However, from the achievement reviewed, the CP finally said “With the period under review, it will be observed that the command is not relenting in its tireless effort and fight against crime and criminalities. The command will sustain this force and ensure that criminally minded individuals will not see the state as a haven for them.” The CP added.

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Puma canceled its $2.67m deal with Athletes Federation of Nigeria

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Sportswear designing company, Puma has canceled its four-year contract with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria after the athlete’s failed to wear the brand at the ongoing Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

This was contained in a statement signed by the company’s director, Manuel Edlheimb, on Wednesday, August 4, 2021.

According to the Puma director, “We are referring to the licensing and sponsoring agreement signed between our company and your federation.

“As a direct consequence of the recent developments, particularly at the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020 and under clauses 9.2 and 7.3 of the Agreement, we hereby terminate the Agreement with immediate effect.

“PUMA especially declares to be discharged from any or all obligations towards all stakeholders involved and reserves all rights against these entities and individuals.”

It was gathered by Punch that PUMA kits including shipping bags of kits with 40 items each that were supposed to be given to the athletes in Tokyo through the Nigerian Embassy in Japan failed after several efforts were made.

It was gathered that the cancellation followed after the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development declared that athletes were not going to use the Puma kits for the Olympics. According to the ministry, the contract is a subject of a criminal investigation.

Meanwhile, Trouble started when the Ministry accused Mr. Gusau and former technical director of AFN, Sunday Adeleye, of refusing to disclose the contractual agreement they signed with Puma on behalf of AFN.

It was gathered that the AFN under the supervision of Ibrahim Gusau entered into a questionable $2.76m deal with Puma on July 24, 2019, in Doha. A deal that led to a major crisis that shatters the athletics body into two divisions, with both Gusau and Adeleye accused of sidelining other members of the board during the signing of the deal.

The deal, signed by Gusau-led AFN was expected to expire in 2022, and part of the contract is that PUMA will supply outfits to all age categories to Nigeria’s Athletics team for four years at no fee.

According to the contract, gold medalists at the Olympic Games will earn $15,000, silver medalists will get 5,000 while a bronze medal will fetch athletes wearing PUMA outfits at the games for $3,000.

However, the statement released by Puma did not reveal whether damages would be paid or kits already given to the AFN would be returned as of the time of filing this report.

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Man arrested while writing girlfriend’s exams dressed as woman

A student has been detained after he disguised as a woman to sit for national examinations on behalf of his girlfriend.

The Senegalese student who enrolled in a university in the northern part of the country and his girlfriend “were placed under arrest on Monday evening.”

The student whose age was not disclosed had moved to Diourbel to take the exams for his girlfriend, a student in a high school in the city,

Photos seen online by goldennationblog.com showed him wearing a red dress with black patterns, wearing a veil with the same colors, and a black shawl to deceive the invigilators.

It was gathered that invigilators caught him on the third day of the exams after noticing something wrong with his attire. They then reported him to the police.

Their lawyer, Serigne Ndiongue confirmed the man and his girlfriend will be tried for “exam fraud” on Thursday, August 5.

The prosecutor also said, “the couple is to be tried on (Thursday) August 5 for exam fraud and complicity in fraud by the court of Diourbel.”

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How court stopped DSS, Malami from arresting Sunday Igboho

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In Oyo State, a high Court stopped the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and the Department of State Security Services (DSS) from arresting Yoruba Nation activists, Sunday Adeyemo, better known as Sunday Igboho.

It was gathered that the presiding Judge, Justice Ladiean Akintola, on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, approved an ex-parte motion restraining the AGF, Malami, and the DSS from harassing, intimidating, arresting, and blocking Sunday Igboho’s bank account.

It was also gathered that the ex-parte motion was filed by Igboho’s lawyer, Chief Yomi Ali (SAN) who also said with the court order, Sunday Igboho’s bank account cannot be frozen.

Yomi Aliu said “With the order of the court, he must not be arrested, detained, or killed in the next 14 days. The court also said his account should not be blocked.”

Recall, in July, Sunday Igboho sued the Federal government and the DSS, and seek for N500 billion damage for the invasion of his house in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

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2023: Primate Ayodele reveals why APC will lose election, gives solution to party

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele,
on Wednesday, warned the All Progressives Congress, APC, ahead of the 2023 presidential election.

Primate Ayodele revealed that the APC will lose the presidential election if the economic and security challenges faced by the country at the moment was not addressed immediately.

In a statement by his Media Office seen by goldennationblog.com, the clergyman said Nigerians were tired with APC and that the “only way the party can redeem its image is by working on the many issues faced by the country or else, the presidential seat will be lost gallantly in 2023.”

He revealed that there will be a serious uprising against election rigging in the country in 2023, explaining that the party should seat up immediately.

Also, he warned the leaders to quickly address the legal issues facing the party if they don’t want to be cheaply sent out of their present strongholds in the country.

‘’If APC does not handle the economic and security challenges of the country well, they will lose the presidential seat in 2023. Nigeria is getting to a stage where rigging will be totally restricted by the citizens, this will be seen in the coming election in Anambra, if they don’t seat up immediately, they will lose the federal seat of power.

‘’Also, they should work on the legal aspect of the party or else, they will be cheaply sent out of their present strongholds,’’ he said.

Meanwhile, On the coming election in Anambra, Primate Ayodele stood his ground on his word that the ruling party will not win.

‘’In Anambra, APC should forget about it, the people don’t want APC, Nigerians don’t want APC. The only thing they can do is to make Nigeria move forward or else, God’s anger will be upon the leaders of the party,” he stated.

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Bella Shmurda record label sues him for breach of contract

Nigerian fast-rising artist, Akinbiyi Abiola Ahmed, popularly known as Bella Shmurda, has been sued by his record label ‘One Word Global Record Limited’ for copyright infringement.

The singer was accused of releasing, publishing, distributing, and promoting songs and videos without the knowledge of the record label, an action that contravenes the terms and conditions of his contract.

It was gathered that Bella Shmurda’s contract with One Word Global Records Limited will expire in 2022.

According to the record label boss, Prince Nkem Onyenwenu: “While his contract with One Word Global Records Limited is still in effect, the singer has gone so far as to announce that he has been signed to another record company known as Dangbana Republik.

Meanwhile, One Word Records Limited also accused him of collaborating with other artists without their permission. Adding that Bella Shmurda has failed to remit the royalties accruing from the exploitation of the songs he released under the label.

From the originating motion filed by One Word Records Limited, the label claims ownership of the trademark to the name “Bella Shmurda” as well as the copyright in all the musical works and recordings released under or in connection with the name.

The record label also seeks the Order of Court to restrict the singer from laying claim to the name and performing the musical works released under or in connection with the name.

The label also seeks the sum of N200 million damages for the singer’s breach of contract. According to the Chief Executive Officer of the label, “All efforts to get Bella Shmurda to listen to the voice of reason have proved abortive.”

The record label boss also threatened to file similar actions against any person or organization who aids, assist, or partakes in the violation of its trademark in the name and its copyright in the musical works released under the name.

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Hushpuppi: Abba Kyari appear before panel, justifies his indictment

The former head of the Police Intelligence Response Team, which was suspended for his involvement in a fraud crime, Abba Kyari, has appeared before the Special Investigation Panel, headed by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department, Joseph Egbunike.

Abba Kyari, during his appearance justifies his indictment to the SIP at the Force headquarters on Tuesday, August 3, 2021, in Abuja.

According to a source who does not want his name disclosed said the SIP ended its session around 8 pm, while added that the panel started sitting on Monday.

The source said, “Kyari appeared before the panel members today (Tuesday) during which he presented his defense to the indictment by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to the SIP members.

Recall that the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI alleged that Hushpuppi gave the suspended officer N8 million as a bribe to foster the arrest and imprisonment of his rival, Chibuzor Kelly Vincent after they fell out over a $1 million fraud deal.

Meanwhile, the Police Service Commission, PSC over the weekend suspended Kyari for his indictment in the fraud crime. On Monday, August 2, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, replaced Kyari with DCP Tunji Disu.

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WhatsApp introduces new feature that disappears photos and videos after one view

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WhatsApp has decided to add a new feature to its services known as ‘View Once‘.

The ‘View Once’ feature will delete photos or videos from your chat after the message has been opened by the receiver.

The photos and videos sent using this mode can only be viewed once, and they disappear from the chat after you dismiss the photo or the video.

When sending a photo or video, you can make it view once by tapping the “1” button to the left of the send button. After the receiver opened the message, it will be deleted. The receiver will be able to see that it’s a disappearing photo, but it’s still the type of thing one can use for people you trust to not take a screenshot.

According to WeBetaInfo, Mark Zuckerberg has in June confirmed that the feature would be coming, though details about when it would release were scarce as of then.

The feature is available today for all Android beta testers. If you don’t see this feature, please wait for the next updates that will help to get the feature.
Other people that didn’t join the beta program can only receive photos and videos set to view once. The activation for iOS beta testers will be following later.
Stay tuned to discover the latest news about WhatsApp for Android and iOS!

What you should know when you share a photo or video using view once:

If you disable read receipts, the recipient will still see if you have opened the photo or video set to view once, but you cannot see when the recipient opens yours. In groups, you can see when other participants open expiring photos even if you have disabled read receipts.
The recipient might save the photo or video taking screenshots or video captures, and WhatsApp won’t notify you because there isn’t a screenshot detection: be careful!

You can also share photos and videos set to view once in groups, and you can see who opened them in Message Info.
Blocked contacts in common groups can still open those photos and videos: in fact, they cannot message or call you but they can still interact with you in groups.
If you send a photo using view once to people that haven’t this feature enabled, the view once feature will still work and they can only view it once.

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“Unfreeze Raymond Dokpesi’s account” – court orders EFCC, gives reason

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The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has issued an order unfreezing the bank account of the Chairman of Daar Communications Plc, Raymond Dokpesi.

He gave the order on Tuesday, August 3, while delivering a ruling on Dokpesi’s application argued by Mr. Kanu Agabi.

The judge ordered that the account domiciled at First Bank be immediately “unfrozen” since the criminal charges which precipitated the restriction on the account had been dismissed and Dokpesi discharged and acquitted by the Court of Appeal.

The judge said that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had no basis to put a post, no debit order on the account given the subsisting and valid judgment of the Court of Appeal.

He held that there was no application by the EFCC for a stay of execution of the appellate court’s judgment which quashed the criminal charges against Dokpesi.

Justice Tsoho said that in the absence of a stay of execution, the court was bound by law to recognise the judgment of the appellate court.

He ordered that the freeze order and post no debit on the account be immediately removed in compliance with the appellate court’s judgment.

Ruling on the claim by the EFCC that it had appealed the appellate court’s decision at the Supreme Court, the judge held that the notice of appeal filed at the apex court could not in law stay the execution of the subsisting judgment.

He added that the anti-graft agency ought to have obtained a stay of execution of the judgment. He further ordered that all documents seized from Dokpesi should be immediately returned to him.

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YouTube announces new subscription plan ‘Premium Lite’ with ad-free

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Google has currently in some parts of Europe introduced a more accessible subscription plan for its Youtube service known as ‘Premium Lite’.

The new subscription plan will offer ad-free viewing, offline downloads, or background playback.

In a statement that was seen by Goldennationblog.com, YouTube subsequently confirmed its test and said, the new ‘Premium Lite’ plan was spotted by a user on ResetEra.

According to the statement, the ‘Premium Lite’ is currently being tested in Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden.

A spokesperson from YouTube said “In Nordics and Benelux (except for Iceland), we’re testing a new offering to give users even more choice.”

“The Premium Lite costs €6.99/month (or local equivalent per month) and it includes ad-free videos on YouTube.” In comparison, the YouTube existing Premium plan costs around €11.99 a month in Europe.”

“The Premium Lite includes ad-free viewing across YouTube’s main app on the web, iOS, Android, smart TVs, and games consoles, as well as in the YouTube Kids app. However, it doesn’t include any YouTube Music benefits like ad-free listening, and it doesn’t include Premium’s other features like background playback (for when you want to switch to another app while continuing to listen to audio from a YouTube video), or offline downloads.”

Also, he said “Speaking as someone who hates the number of ads on YouTube but isn’t too interested in Premium’s other features like offline downloads, Premium Lite sounds like a tempting proposition. But at its current pricing, it costs around 60 percent of the price of a regular Premium subscription, while only offering around a quarter of its benefits.” He added.

He further added that the current subscription is in a practical phase, adding that it’s contemplating rolling out more plans based on audience feedback.

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Amazon set date to premiere Lord of the Rings series

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Amazon Studio has announced that on Friday, September 2nd, 2022, one of its most anticipated originals to date and yet-unnamed “Lord of the Rings” series, will be officially premiered on Prime Video.

This revelation was made known by Amazon Studio while unveiling the official first image from the forthcoming series, which will be set in middle-earth’s Second Age.

According to Amazon Studio, the series has taken place thousands of years before the events chronicled in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings books, and it will feature characters “both familiar and new as they engage the long-feared reemergence of evil to Middle-earth.”

Amazon Studio also revealed that the image release is tied to the series’s production wrap after filming in New Zealand, but fans quickly speculated that the series will be set in Valinor, as the image depicts what appear to be the Two Trees.

Meanwhile, the untitled project is a huge investment by Amazon in its Prime Video streaming service. The series’s first season alone reportedly cost around $465 million to produce. For context about what a massive creative undertaking this series has been for Amazon Studios, the final season of Game of Thrones was reported to have cost as much as $15 million per episode (though its budget was originally around $5 million per episode).

The headlining cast of the series includes Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Robert Aramayo, Owain Arthur, Maxim Baldry, Nazanin Boniadi, Morfydd Clark, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Charles Edwards, Trystan Gravelle, Sir Lenny Henry, Ema Horvath, Markella Kavenagh, Joseph Mawle, Tyroe Muhafidin, Sophia Nomvete, Lloyd Owen, Megan Richards, Dylan Smith, Charlie Vickers, Leon Wadham, Benjamin Walker, Daniel Weyman, and Sara Zwangobani. Showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay are executives producing the show.

“As Bilbo says, ‘Now I think I am quite ready to go on another journey,’” Payne and McKay said in a joint statement. “Living and breathing Middle-earth these many months has been the adventure of a lifetime. We cannot wait for fans to have the chance to do so as well.”

Also, the series will premiere in more than 240 territories and countries when it arrives on Prime Video next year.

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Cow kills 2 months old baby, injures mother in Delta community

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Herdsmen on Monday fled the Ebrumede community in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State after one of their cows strayed and killed a two-month-old baby.

The mother of the deceased baby was said to be standing by the side of the road when the cow strayed and ran into her and the baby.

She sustained serious injuries while the baby died in the process.

Sensing dangers from residents and indigenes of the area, the herdsmen ran away from being attacked and possibly killed.

When contacted for comments on the matter, the Delta State Acting Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, confirmed the report in a telephone chat with newsmen

He said, “It is confirmed. Only one baby died,” he said.

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BBNaija: Boma emerges as new Head of House

The Big Brother Naija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ edition is on its second week and Boma has won the new Head of House contest.

Boma, emerged as the second HOH for the BBNaija season six after a keen contest ‘Game of Balls’ that was done on Monday 2, 2021.

The rules of the game are not too different from the last one they played, the only things that changed were the obstacles.

According to the rules of the game, the Housemates had to roll a ‘six’ from the ‘Start’ position immediately after the buzzer went off because the game had six colored stickers randomly placed on its steps, and each color represented an obstacle that players had to overcome until they reached the end zone.

During the game, the first Housemate to go was Saga, but he ended up starting the course late and barely making it through because rolling a six was challenging for him. The same fate befell Angel, Whitemoney, Nini, Tega, Jaypaul, Princess, Pere, Liquorose, Maria, and Saskay. While Jackie B had a fortunate break early on with a ‘Six,’ she couldn’t overcome the obstacles she faced. Sammie, Princess, Yerins, Niyi, Arin, Cross, Beatrice, Yousef, and Emmanuel had the same fate too. Boma was the most fortunate. He got an early start and was able to make it the farthest. Only Niyi was able to come a close second.

Winning the game, Boma happened to be the second Head of House after Peace has set the bar. Meanwhile, he won’t be running the House alone, he also appointed Jackie B as the Deputy new Head of House.

Boma takes over from Peace and becomes the second Shine Ya Eye HOH as he has huge shoes to fill.

However, the ‘Shine Ya Eye’ BBNaija Family will be on supervision for how he will deal with his responsibility.

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IGP appoints Dcp Tunji Disu as Head Police Intelligence Response Team

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The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc (+), NPM, FDC has today, 2nd August 2021 approved the posting of DCP Tunji Disu as the new Head of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT).

The posting of the officer is on the heels of Management’s decision to fill the leadership gap within the IRT and refocus the Unit for better service delivery.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement signed by the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, CP Frank Mba, in Abuja on Monday 2, 2021.

According to the statement, IGP stated that the IRT will remain focused on the discharge of its professional mandate.

To achieve the IRT mandate, the IGP has charged the new Head of the IRT to demonstrate his professional competence in his leadership of the Unit.

The IGP also assured citizens that the IRT will remain focused on the discharge of its duties in line with national statutes and international best practices.

Before his appointment, the new Head of the IRT, DCP Tunji Disu, was a former Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Lagos State, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Department of Operations, Force Headquarters, Abuja. He had also previously served at the State CID, Rivers State as the Deputy Head of the Unit. He was also a former Commander of the Nigeria Police Contingent to the African Union (AU) Peace Keeping Mission in Darfur, Sudan.

DCP Disu holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the Lagos State University (LASU) and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the Adekunle Ajasin University, Ondo State. He has also attended several professional courses both at home and abroad: Small Arms Smuggling Training in Botswana, Internet Fraud Training at the Cambridge University, UK, Strategic Leadership Command Course at the Police Staff College, Jos, Forensic Investigations and Criminal Intelligence Course at the University of Lagos, amongst others.

He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, and Chattered Institute of Personnel management, amongst other professional bodies. His posting is with immediate effect.

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Hushpuppi/Abba Kyari: Israel DMW reveals Davido’s plans to sack him over comment

One of DMW’s crew members, Israel, has pleaded with Nigerians to help him beg his boss, Davido, amid speculations that he is about to be sacked.

Davido has reportedly decided to sack Isreal DMW, after he lashed out at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), following their arrest warrant for a Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, for collaborating with suspected fraudster, Hushpuppi.

According to Israel, Nigerians are not helping with their negative comments about him on social media.

He claimed he was depressed, adding that he did not know the gravity of what he said.

In his words: “You people should kindly help me to beg my oga not to sack me, through his personal lawyer Jiggy, than adding to my current depression of pressuring him to send me off.

“What would be you people’s gains, after 9 good years? I never knew of the gravity of my actions, until Ubi Franklin, personally called to tell me. I am very sorry sir.”

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Oyedepo hit those asking him to build factory instead of church auditorium

Senior Pastor of Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, has hit back at those asking him to use money generated from his churches to build a factory instead of a huge church auditorium.

This is coming after the Senor Pastor sacked 40 pastors from his church. Two weeks ago, news broke that the clergyman sacked the pastors from his church and he was criticised online for his decision. In his earlier response, the clergyman said the pastors were sacked because they were ”unfruitful and blatant failures”.

While speaking in his church on Sunday, August 1, Oyedepo once again explained that the pastors were sent to rural churches with a task to win at least 12 souls a week and ensure that six come to church but the pastors failed in their assignments.

”Rural church is going on. All the offerings from Rural churches for the next 40 years cannot build what they are building for them. I learnt some fellows were saying that it is because they do not have offering that is why we said they should go.

It is because you are sick. You are unproductive. You have been plugged out. We sent you to go to the villages to reach out to a minimum of 12 souls in a week and ensure that a minimum of six of them come to church and then six months, you don’t have 10. You are unprofitable. Sound management brought us here.

Keeping unprofitable servant makes you a poor manager.’ You have the right to resign. We have the right to sack you. It is a system. It is like that everywhere. ‘he said

Oyedepo also responded to those saying he should have used the monies used in building different churches to build factories for his members.

”They are building one hundred thousand seat auditorium. Did they collect money from you? They should have built a factory. Do you budget for somebody’s resources? Keep quiet my friend and face your job. They enjoy hearing from me so I like speaking to them.” he said

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I’m a woman made by God and guts – Omu Anioma speaks on ‘The woman in you’

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The undisputable foremost Anioma culture promoter, cerebral public speaker, passionate image-maker, die-hard agitator for girl child education, resilient innovative leadership teacher, and undeniably lover of the Nigerian project, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu, the Omu Anioma/Nneoha has bared it all on the rough journeys of her life from birth to her present status.

Omu Dunkwu revealed the woman in her while granting an interview for a documentary – ‘The Woman In You’ with the Delta Broadcasting Service, DBS Asaba, anchored by Joy Ochei, and was made known to newsmen by Patrick Ochie, on Monday, August 2, 2021.

According to Patrick Ochie in his explanation, he said “The interview, it was noon and the clemency of the weather was friendly and bright. Radiating in her signature attire (Akwa Ocha), Obi Martha Dunkwu emerged from her inner chamber to welcome the DBS crew for a tour of the Palace before granting an interview.”

“First thing that caught the fancy of the visitors was the big bold signpost that read “Image Is Everything”. And while reading it aloud, the Omu responded to the presenter, saying that ‘Image is Everything’ remains her slogan and interprets her philosophy in the business of public relations.”

“After a thorough tour of both the Palace and its extension, the Omu told them the story of her life with a start that ‘All that glitters is not gold.”

A thorough tour with Joy Ochie (DBS Anchor) within the Palace and its extension before the Interview

The Omu Anioma while narrating about herself said “I came from a prominent family of the Dunkwus of Obodogba in Okpanam, but my parents were very poor in that lineage. I was told I survived premature birth and at age two, I was taken to live with an aunt in the North. We hawked to survive and there was nothing wrong with that because we needed to support the family income to eat and to go to school.

“However, we came back to Okpanam as a result of the civil war. We were the pioneer students of St. Murumba’s College (now Okpalani Secondary School).

“I came back to meet my parents still very poor. I was troubled as a little girl with siblings and I determined to break the chain of poverty. I moved to Benin City after my Secondary education where I worked as a clerk in the Ministry of Finance.

“I left Nigeria on study leave to England. I attended the L.T.C College of English and Secretarial Studies and later South West London College, England. I resigned from my appointment with the Ministry of Finance in England before proceeding from there to America where I also studied at Henderson State University, Arkansas, and the University of Nevada, United States of America.

“My sister, at the end of my studies and at the verge of receiving my green card to stay and work in America, I just picked my bag and said I was returning to Nigeria. My friends were surprised but my mind was made up.

“I returned to Nigeria without anything. I rented a house where I paid for three years and lived without a job. People here too were perplexed and gossiping if I ever traveled overseas or maybe I went there to do drugs.

DBS Asaba anchor, Joy Ochei and Omu Anoima during the interview

“Well, I eventually found a source of survival when I met some persons who were dealing with broken bottles. They introduced me to dealing with broken bottles and through this means I made money to finally set up my professional outfit – Afamat Nigeria Limited. It was at this point people began to understand my focus.

“I came back to go into politics and begin to change things just as it was boiling in my heart. I wanted to become a lawmaker. I never planned to be an Omu. Nobody becomes an Omu by choice; it must be by calling.

“At a point in my life I started having health challenges. People thought it was drug having returned from abroad as a young woman. When I was eventually approached and told that there was a call on my life to become an Omu, I doubted it. I couldn’t fathom me fitting into such a lifestyle. Then I was consulting for the Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, the Oba of Benin, and my relationship with him helped solved the puzzle. He advised me to answer the call on my head by accepting to be an Omu.

“Do you know that when I eventually agreed to becoming an Omu, all the health challenges disappeared. I never dreamt of becoming an Omu. Nobody wants to be caged. So it takes providence to cut off all the lifestyles you are used to. That is why I always say that being an Omu is a physical manifestation of a spiritual conclusion.

“Coming to the institution of Omu, this is a seat that our forefathers kept for over 700 years ago. Sometimes I marveled how our forebears were able to achieve a women-friendly disposition for over 700 years when in an actual sense, women’s inclusion started 100 years ago in the Western world. It shows that our forefathers were futuristic. And this is an institution that was created by men and managed by men even to date.

“The only difference is that I have been able to fuse the good of the old and the good of the new together, for what will definitely come – a bright new day. I have used my professional leaning as a media practitioner to promote the institution, the reason it didn’t go into extinction at my coming. I was crowned Omu of Okpanam on the 26th January, 2002. And because of my activities, the Anioma Traditional Rulers decided to create a central Omu seat for the purpose of helping to promote and propagate the Anioma identity in terms of culture, language, attire, food and other good things that make us unique as a people. For this reason, I was crowned Omu Anioma on the 15th January, 2010. And just last year, on October 19, 2020, I was crowned Nneoha (Mother To All and Mother Without Borders) by the Traditional Ruler of Nsukka in Enugu State.

“Now talking about the challenge of women, because even as an Omu, I still face challenges. Those who don’t want the good of our community still see me as a woman, competitor or even overshadowing them. However, I am not deterred. If I had swam through the Atlantic Ocean, the flood water around here can never swallow me. I am a woman made by God and guts.

“So I say to you, the major and only challenge of women is education, education and education. If you are educated as a woman, over 90 percent of your problem is solved. And that is why over the years, I have been advocating for Girl-Child Education. On this note, I had registered the Obi Martha Dunkwu Foundation to give scholarship to indigent Anioma girl children in both formal and informal education. Also, another registration is in the offing for the study of Omuship and Women Development in Anioma. These are my innovative thinking to help advance the academic course of women in Anioma.

HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu, the Omu Anioma/Nneoha

“Education is the universal key that opens all doors. It makes you a critical thinker and makes you always determined to pursue your purpose in creation. The world is patterned around man; and so, if you don’t have education as a woman, it becomes difficult to fit into the system and survive. And that is why again, I always tell the men that they are not doing a favour to women by not training them. When you train a woman, you not only favour her, you are doing favour to yourselves and our society, because it is the woman that trains the man who becomes anything in life.

“The ideal place to bring up a child is under the loving comfort of a father and a mother; that makes a complete home. And so the sanctity of the home must be kept at all times for the upbringing of healthy and morally sound children. I tell women that when you decide not to marry, you must live a decent unmarried life. However, if you are married, you must submit to your husband, become a confidante, a wife, a sister, a mother, a helper and a progressive partner to him.

“So, women must rise above board to help our nation. When a man is trained, it is an individual that is trained. But when a woman is trained, a nation has been trained. Women must discourage being used to pull down other women, because that is what society does. Who is society? Men. The men groom women to hate their kind.

“Never be tired of challenges. In life, challenge can jolt you, but it can take you to a higher positive level in life. In the midst of challenges, you can find your purpose and actualize it. Just believe in God and be kind to fellow human beings, because by so doing shall you find help and happiness.

“Let me tell you a story. I never married by choice but of recent, I have come to realise it was providential. Then as a consultant, it was carried in the media, ‘The Woman behind the Oba of Benin’. And to clear the misgivings and insinuations about that publication, the Oba during a media parley, brought out that paper and said, ‘I don’t need a subterfuge, I have always known her; as a matter of fact, we have a personal relationship’.

“In all of my life’s journeys, God has been merciful to bless me with an only child who is today a lecturer in the University of Benin. He is married with two children. What else can I ask of God, but the strength to continue to add value to the creation and succeed in my dream of giving scholarships to indigent girl children in Anioma”, Omu Dunkwu concluded.

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Arhavwarien Monarch, Okukeren 111, applauds Gov Okowa over appointment of subject, Oma Adasen as Commissioner 

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The Ovie of Arhavwarien kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty Solomon Onajeta Akporhiere, Okukeren 111, has applauded his Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, governor of Delta State, for the historic appointment of his subject, Barrister Jennifer Omamoya Adasen, as a member of the state executive council, as a sign of glad tidings for Arhavwarien kingdom.

In a message endorsed by the Arhavwarien monarch, Governor Okowa has demonstrated his love for the minorities in the state and opined that this first-ever elevation of his subject as a Commissioner will go down in history as the first-ever recognition of the invaluable support the people of the area have always made to the success of his administration by their total number of votes recorded during elections.

Okukeren 111, who described Governor Okowa as a leader with foresight and “roving eyes” determined to transform every nook and cranny of Delta to the best of his ability, expressed hope that the long-overdue Arhavwarien bridge project will be initiated and completed within the lifespan of the Okowa administration.

The Arhavwarien royal father while congratulating Barrister Jennifer Omamoya Adasen on her historic appointment, charged her to be a good ambassador of Arhavwarien in particular and Ughelli south in general, and strive to carry all and sundry along while giving utmost loyalty to the Governor who has allowed her to join him in the task of finishing strong through the administration’s  Stronger Delta vision.

He further thanked the various leaders in the local government for supporting the new commissioner for science and technology by recommending her for an appointment, praying that their labor of love for his subject will not be a source of regret to them.

According to the Arhavwarien monarch in his words, he said: “On behalf of my family, the Arhavwarien council of chiefs and the peaceful and law-abiding citizens of the great Arhavwarien kingdom, l, Okukeren 111, the Ovie of Arhavwarien kingdom, hereby place on record, our heartfelt gratitude to his Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Governor of Delta State, on his appointment of our daughter, Barrister Jennifer Oma Adasen, as a Commissioner in his administration. Words fail us to thank you your Excellency for this great honor and recognition of Arhavwarien. We are resolved to support you more than before to enable you to finish strong and have it reflected in the Arhavwarien kingdom. Also, as you have appointed our daughter, we know you will give us a parting gift as you promise to finish strong. Our bridge spanning less than 300 meters is what we appeal to you to drive its initiation and completion before you leave office on May 29, 2023. We are confident you will make us proud and give us a sense of belonging, your Excellency.”

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BBNaija: Yousef kisses Liquorose

The Big Brother Naija “Shine Ya Eye” housemate, Yousef kissed Liqourose on Sunday.

Yousef kissed Liqourose during a ‘Truth or Dare game when Cross dared him to kiss a female housemate for 10 seconds.

Yousef did not hesitate and immediately moved towards Liquorose and kissed her.

Recall, Yousef was made the first deputy head of the house of the BBNaija “Shine Ya Eye” after he was chosen by Peace who won the head of the house task last week.

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Telegram latest features on its group video calls now allow 1,000 viewers

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After launching group video calls in June, Telegram has again declared openly the latest features and improvements on its messaging app, revealing that the group video calls can now have up to 1,000 viewers.

According to the company’s blog post on July 30, 2021, revealed that the maximum number of people that are eligible to participate and broadcast to the video call remains at 30, but stated that you can have quite the audience for “anything from online lectures to live rap battles.”

The company also announced that its video messages will come through at a higher resolution, stating that you can now tap them for a larger view of the clip.

The company said when recording your video messages, the audio from your device will now keep playing as you do so, adding that, “so you can now sing along to your favorite songs or reply without pausing your podcast.” You can now zoom in when recording with your phone’s rear camera as well.

Other additional features include screen sharing for one-on-one video calls (with audio from the device of whoever’s broadcasting), also, is the option to auto-delete messages after a month – the longest option was previously a week and more precise drawing.

Also, Telegram has spruced up the user experience with animations for the passcode screen and when you send messages on Android but iOS users already got these message animations in a previous update.

However, you can check the full list of changes in the Telegram blog.

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NASS: Omo-Agege, Ossai, lead mid-term scorecards of Delta State, Lawmakers

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The representative of Delta Central Senatorial District and Deputy Senate President from the All Progressive Congress, His Excellency, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has emerged as the Best Senator from Delta State while the member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) came top amongst members of the House of Representatives from Delta.

This was contained in the 9th National Assembly Mid-Term Assessment Report conducted by Order Paper Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), dotCivics, and Coalition of Nigeria Compatriots (CNC) and made available to newsmen in Delta State.

The mid-term report indicated that Senator Omo-Agege of APC, sponsored the highest number of bills of 20, amounting to 83.33 % of all the bills sponsored by the three senators from the state.

His Excellency, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege

The report added that 16 of the bills were sponsored in the first legislative year of the 9th Assembly, prominent among which was the passed Sexual Harassment Bill.

It added that the duo of Senator James Manager and Senator Peter Nwaoboshi sponsored two bills each, representing 8.33%, adding that while Senator Manager sponsored a bill in each year, Senator Nwaoboshi sponsored both in the second legislative year.

The report aggregated the score cards of the three senators to represent 3.2% of the total 747 bills sponsored at the Senate in two years.

It stated that out of the 92 bills sponsored by the 10 representatives from the state, the member representing the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, Honourable Ossai Nicholas Ossai, had 44 to his credit, representing 83%, adding that 30 of his bills were sponsored in the first legislative year.

Honourable Ossai Nicholas Ossai

The report disclosed further that Honourable Efe Afe and Honourable Ben Igbakpa sponsored 12 bills each, amounting to 13.04%, adding that Honourable Afe sponsored three of his bills in the first legislative year.

It stated that Honourable Ndudi Elumelu, who is the Minority Leader in the House, sponsored nine bills, representing 9.78%, adding that they were all sponsored in the first legislative year, just as it said that Honourable Waive Francis sponsored eight, standing at 8.7%, with one of the bills in the first legislative year.

The duo of Honourable Thomas Ereyitomi and Honourable Victor Nwaokolo were reported to have sponsored three bills each, leaving Honourable Nicholas Mutu and Honourable Leo Ogor with no bills sponsored in the mid-term report, adding that it would be recalled that Honourable Mutu had been in the House since 1999 and was the Majority Leader in the 7th Assembly of the House.

In all, the representatives of Delta State at the 9th National Assembly scored 6.7% of the 1365 bills sponsored in the House of Representatives as indicated in the mid-term report of the National Assembly.

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Hushpuppi reveals new accomplices: He mentions Dino Melaye, Daddy Freeze, Linda Ikeji

Kemi Olunloyo, a Nigerian investigative journalist, has said suspected internet fraudster, Hushpuppi, allegedly mentioned ex-lawmaker, Dino Melaye, Daddy Freeze, Linda Ikeji, and some others as his accomplices.

This was revealed in a video she shared on Instagram using @Cutie_julls on Friday, July 30, 2021.

According to the investigative journalist, Linda Ikeji and Dino Melaye are guilty of the accusation leveled against them but said, Daddy Freeze had no idea what Hushpuppi was up to when he went to his house sometime to eat and enjoy with him.

Also, Kemi Olunloyo added that they all have no idea that Hushpuppi has mentioned their names adding that investigations will commence very soon just as Abba Kyari’s name was mentioned for accepting a bribe to arrest another fraudster.

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Breaking: veteran Nollywood actress, Rachael Oniga is dead

Popular Nollywood actress, Rachael Oniga, is dead at age 64.

This was revealed to Punch by Olatunji, the actress’s son on Saturday.

Olatunji told Punch that her mother died of malaria and typhoid on Friday night.

According to his words: “She passed last night around 10 pm. She had malaria and typhoid.”

Oniga featured in scores of Nollywood movies —both English and Yoruba— before her demise.

Born on May 23, 1957; the delectable actress began her career in 1993. Her first movie was the blockbuster, Onome, while her debut movie in the Yoruba speaking sector of the film industry was Owo Blow.

The 64-year-old actress used to work for a European engineering consultancy firm with its regional head office in Nigeria.

In an interview, she noted that she stopped working when she got married and started having children. Unfortunately, her marriage did not last.

So, after her separation from the father of her kids, she took up acting again.

She revealed in the interview that one of her regrets in life was that she did not fight for her marriage.

In the span of her career, which was about 27 years, the multiple award-winning actresses featured in movies like The Wedding Party, The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, 30 Days in Atlanta, Sango, Out of Bounds, among others.

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Hon. Ndudi Elumelu is a worthy representative, affirms former Aniocha North Chair, Chuks Oseme

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The member representing Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency and Minority leader of the house of Representatives, Hon Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, has been described as a worthy representative of the Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency.

This was the affirmation by the immediate past Chairman of Aniocha North Local government council, Hon Chuks Oseme, on the occasion of the commissioning of people-oriented projects initiated and completed by Hon Elumelu across various communities in the local government.

While commending the minority leader of the house of Representatives for touching the lives of his constituents with laudable projects thus spreading Democratic dividends and giving them a sense of belonging, the immediate past Aniocha North council boss, said Ndudi Elumelu is in touch with the people of his constituency, an attribute worthy of commendation and emulation by all stakeholders and political officeholders.

Hon Some noted that the federal lawmaker has shown commitment to the Aniocha/Oshimili people over the years by carrying them along in his worthy stint as their representative, and deserves more encouragement to be able to do more for them.

According to the former Council boss in his affirmation, he said: “I am very delighted to witness the harvest of projects commissioning initiated and completed by our worthy representative and Minority leader of the federal house of reps, Hon Ndudi Godwin Elumelu. He has demonstrated uncommon leadership qualities befitting of a lawmaker worth his onions. The continuous reach of his constituents and spread of projects across the Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency is a testimony of his kind heart and love for the well being of his constituents. From solar-powered street lights to boreholes to town halls to educational, DSS staff quarters, the clinic at Asaba, and other skill acquisition and human capital development initiatives he has shown to us what a true representative should be. He is true, a worthy representative of his constituents.”

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Girl reveals how her mother gave her rat poison to kill her father (photo)

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A video making rounds online has captured moment a girl confessed that her Nigerian mother reportedly gave her rat poison to put in her father’s food.

The girl who identified her mother as Chinwendu Ngolo from Ehime Mbano in Imo state confirmed that the aim of the poisoning was for her father to die. She however said that she told her father while serving him the food because she loved him.

Upon being questioned, the girl’s mother denied the allegation, claiming she doesn’t know where her daughter got the rat poison.

Facebook user, Ikwumelezeh Testimony James who shared the video wrote;

“For those who understand Igbo!

In case you’ve not heard, her mother gave her rat poison to put inside her Father’s food. The poor lil girl did as her mum ordered. Buh she did one thing extra. She told her Dad that her mother ordered her to do so before she now served him the food.

When they asked the lil girl why did you tell your dad that you put rat poison inside his food, she said” I love my Dad.

Marriage is getting scaring by the day”.

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Liquorose becomes first BBNaija housemate to hit 1M followers while in the house

Big Brother Naija season six “Shine Ya Eye” housemate, Liquorose has become the first housemate to hit 1million followers on Instagram while still in the house.

Liquorose also set a record with the development as she hit 1million followers within 5 days, beating Laycon’s record which was achieved after 69 days.

According to a post that was shared on Instagram by @liquorose, reads: “1 million amazing supporters. I am so humbled. Thank you so much team Liquorose. I will make you all proud, I promise.”

Meanwhile, before going to the BBNaija house, Liquorose had well over 700,000 followers on Instagram.

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BBNaija uncovers Maria, Pere as the Wildcards

After many assumptions and accusations in Big Brother Naija’s house, Mara and Pere have been revealed as the Wildcards of the “Shine Ya Eye” edition.

The two housemates were revealed after the Diary Room session where the Housemates were invited to make their predictions.

Within the week show, both Wildcards did a good job of blending in with the rest of the Housemates in the House. For Maria, it was all about vigorously partaking in the Task and making sure her voice is heard. Pere took a more laid-back strategy in the House. Right from his friendship with the rest of the guys to casually having discussions with the rest of the Housemates and even on course to nurturing a romantic partnership with Jackie B, he had his cover well maintained. His military experience must have come into play here. On a few occasions, both Wildcards spearheaded discussions about who the possible Wildcards were and pinpointed other Housemates as likely suspects. Speak about hurling people off your essence.

Maria was extremely shocked to discover there was another Wildcard in the House during her discussion with Biggie in the Diary Room. When asked if she knew who it was, she correctly suspected, Pere.

Meanwhile, she was worried that she had to fabricate and bolster a pretense with the other Housemates but she was optimistic she pulled it off. Pere on the other hand was pleased when he heard the disclosure of another Wildcard and thought it was either Maria or Nini.

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See what Olamide said about Fireboy DML

Popular Nigerian rapper and YBNL record label boss, Olamide Adedeji, better known as Olamide, has said no young artists in Nigeria can be compared with the kind of music that Fireboy Dml makes at the moment.

Olamide said this when he and Fireboy DML were featured in an interview with Okay Africa, an hour after they arrived in New York during their current promo tour.

According to Olamide, he was done with signing artists until he met Fireboy DML.

He said, “There are so many young artists out there but they’re nothing compared to the kind of music Fireboy makes. It’s just way beyond his age.

Meanwhile, during the interview when asked about how they first time met, Fireboy DML said “I remember. Because that was a big moment for me. I met him for the first time in person at a hotel in Lekki. We exchanged a few words — he’s a man of few words. But I think we started recording that same day, working on the album.

Olamide: His sound was just so unique. When I got to hear his music and see his video. I was like, this dude is dope. I was honestly done with signing artists, I was tired of it, but I just couldn’t resist.

What made him not only sign him but become his mentor?

Olamide said: “It’s the sound. Still today, for me, it’s the same. There are so many young artists out there but they’re nothing compared to the kind of music Fireboy makes. It’s just way beyond his age. I think Fireboy is 57 years old [Fireboy laughs out loud]. He writes like an old man. He’s one of those few people that I learn from sometimes. Like, ‘what does this dude think about when he’s writing?’

You’re 24, Fireboy, but how old do you feel?

Fireboy: Well, sometimes the experiences that we’ve gone through make us feel like we should be more than our age. I still feel young at heart. It is what it is.

Why the name Fireboy DML?

Fireboy: I first was just DML, from my name, Damola. It was the acronym I was using for a while. At that point, I had not found my sound. I was sounding like a regular Afrobeats artist, like what every pop Afro artist was sounding like at that time. But when I sat down, took some time to know what my sound was, I decided to rebrand. I went to Google ‘DML’ and I was like, ‘okay when you blow up what will people see when they look up DML?’ I saw ‘data manipulation’ and I thought, ‘Nah, this is not what you want for yourself!’ Fireboy is what a friend called me one time and it just had a nice ring to it. So, there you go. Nothing deep.

What drives you to get up each day?

Fireboy: Living in Lagos, Nigeria, is a flex. Because every day you see different reasons to want to make some money, make a name for yourself, or make success for yourself. So I think that’s enough. When I wake up where I live, I hear the sound of generators. I’m like, ‘oh my God, I need to leave this place and move to a place where there’s no noise and I’m just chilling.’ That drive is part of it.

Olamide: So many dreams to be achieved. So many lives to touch. So many aspirations. I know that when I wake up every morning, this is not where I want to be. I never get comfortable. There is no amount of money in my bank that can make me feel like I’ve done it. I’m never satisfied. I always want to get better. Be it in my business or in my way of life. I always want to get better, every day, every second, every minute.

What’s one thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

Fireboy: I thank God for waking up. It’s not necessarily a prayer. It’s like a declaration, ‘Oh, thank you, Father.’ It’s like instinct. My parents put that in me since I was a kid so I just thank God and then I pick up my phone and go about doing my stuff.

Olamide: I wake up and most times, I’m like, ‘Oh I’m up, okay, good.’ I meditate for an hour or two. Pick up my phone, start checking my emails, my WhatsApp messages, then Instagram.

How long have you been meditating?

Olamide: Almost forever. It’s just a part of me.

You’re both from different parts of Nigeria, where do you consider home?

Olamide: It’s like they say, home is where the heart is. I feel like I’m a global citizen. And I wake up some mornings and feel like being in Spain, and that’s home for me for two weeks. It’s how I feel. I’m like a chameleon, I adapt easily. I’m ready to go.

What does it mean to be Nigerian?

Olamide: Being Nigerian means being able to rise against all odds, being able to smile through your pains, your sorrows, and make everything look good, even when things are difficult for you. But really, I think, what I stand for, what I represent, is beyond being Nigerian. It’s being human. I just want to stand out and live my life to the fullest and not restrict myself to whatever ethnic group, whatever country, whatever image, whatever race. I just want to live my life to the fullest.

What’s been the hardest lesson you’ve learned?

Olamide: I think I was about nine years old. In 1999, when armed robbers came to my house. And they shot my dad. So I almost lost my dad then. My mom was a full housewife. And in my head, I was just thinking, if this man died now, there’ll be nobody to take care of me and all that. Since then, I’ve never, for once, wanted to rely on nobody. Since then, I’ve always been chasing all the things I want for myself. Not thinking about what anybody thinks about me or how I go about my dreams.

What was the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Olamide: I listen to so many people. There’s too much information that can trigger so many great things in my life. I must confess that I do listen to people. I seek advice. Today, I was asking my good friend Jesse [Serwer] what the “Julie” video should look like. I think most artists don’t want somebody else’s point of view. I listen. I pick one or two things that I feel fit in with where I’m going and apply them to what I’m doing.

How would you describe the music you make — Afrobeats, Afro-life….

Fireboy: Basically, I’m an Afrobeats artist. My Afrobeats can have some R&B in it, unique stuff in it, but it’s Afrobeats. Afropop. Afro-life is because, even though I do Afrobeats, my music is very different. You can hear that this person writes. This person takes time to be very intentional about the lyrics, which Afrobeats is not known for. So I’ve just believed that okay since music is different, it deserves its own identity. And that can just be a name. And that name is Afro-life.

Riffing off Fireboy’s first album, what gives you “Laughter?”

Olamide: Bank a lot!

Fireboy: Same thing, money. Money and music. Makes me happy.

“Tears?”

Fireboy: Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I cried. I get sad. More times than any human should. I don’t like the way it makes me feel vulnerable so I just killed that a long time ago.

Olamide: Spicy Jollof fries!

“Goosebumps?”

Fireboy: Beautiful music, man. Beautiful music melodies give me goosebumps every time.

Olamide: Good music and good shoes.

What makes you put your phone on “Airplane Mode?”

Fireboy: It’s just a feeling of wanting to be in your own space. Sometimes things can get overwhelming. You just want to shut everybody out. And the internet is a very, very powerful thing, so if you don’t put your phone in airplane mode it will fuck you up. The mind of the creative person is a very, very fucked up place. So, anything can trigger it.

Olamide: In most cases, it’s when I want to listen to music or read or watch a movie or play my game, I put my phone on airplane mode or do not disturb. Or when I just want to be with myself. Because I love myself so much. I’d rather spend a whole year with myself than be out there unhappy.

Best place to listen to music?

Olamide: Alone, in the house. I feel like the house is the best place to listen to music.

Fireboy: I turn off all the lights and stand on my bed. I just vibe out.

Best place to write music?

Olamide: My toilet. [Both laugh] I come up with the best melodies in the toilet.

Fireboy: For me, as long as I connect to the melody, it will come. Words come naturally to me, so as long as I connect with the beat, it doesn’t matter where I am. Mostly in the studio.

Olamide, you call YBNL a family, so if it was a sitcom, what kind would it be?

Olamide: They’re a bunch of serious guys, but there are so many other layers to the family. It’s a fun family, but we don’t joke with business, so it’s probably going to be like The Kardashians.

The thing you admire most about each other?

Fireboy: It’s the way he respects people and treats people with so much respect. He treats you like a human no matter who you are.

Olamide: His writing skills. Sometimes I wish I could make him understand, how dope he is when it comes to writing. I believe in him so much, maybe more than he does.

What is the biggest dream you had that has come true?

Olamide: In most cases, and I can’t speak for everyone else, but in most cases, I wake up, I live and I realize that I’m living my dream. They just happen. I just wake up and make this decision, I’m going to do this and I’m going to do that, on the spot, and they just happen. Everything is manifesting. It’s not like I plan for years or months. I just wake up and make a decision and everything just aligns for me. I’ve always known I want to be great in life. I want to play music. So I’d say music — being able to do this on a big stage and all that.

Fireboy: It’s pretty much the same for me.The first time I had a dream: I wanted to make music and to be heard, and it’s manifesting. And I realized that even in your dream there’s always more. So, having a dream is kind of limited to an extent, because there is always more. But I’m grateful that the one dream I had came to pass. The cars and the houses and those things that you want along the line, you work towards them. The material stuff.

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Arrest and detain Abba Kyari for linking with Hushpuppi – US court orders FBI

A United States court has issued a warrant of arrest for a Deputy Police Commissioner, Abba Kyari.

Otis Wright of the States District Court for the Central District of California reportedly ordered the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to arrest and detain the DCP who was accused of having ties with embattled Instagram celebrity, Ramon Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi.

According to reports, the development was contained in a court document dated July 26.

Goldennationblog.com recalls that the United States Department of Justice had earlier stated that an ongoing investigation revealed that Hushpuppi allegedly bribed Kyari to arrest one Mr. Kelly Chibuzo Vincent, one of his accomplices in Nigeria.

Reacting to the allegations, Mr. Kyari in a statement denied receiving a bribe from Hushpuppi.

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IPOB orders FG to release Nnamdi Kanu within 11 days, reveals plans

The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has given the Federal Government 11 days to free its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, unconditionally.

IPOB Head, Directorate of State, Mazi Chika Edoziem, said the Southeast would be totally locked down daily, if Kanu is not released before August 9, 2021.

Edoziem, in a statement he issued explained that the lockdown is to ensure the government released Kanu “hale and hearty.”

The statement reads partly: “The global community knows that self-determination is not a crime, the Nigerian government equally know that self-determination does not constitute any known offence stipulated in their constitution and therefore do not have any case against the leader of IPOB, Mazi Kanu.

“In recognition of the above fact and truth, the Directorate of State of IPOB, demands herewith an unconditional and immediate release of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on or before the 8th day of August 2021, failing which we shall commence a weekly Lockdown of Biafra land starting from 9th August 2021.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this total lockdown of Biafra land will take place every Monday until our leader is released unconditionally.

“This weekly lockdown is simply one of the measures we shall put in place to ensure that our leader is released hale and hearty.”

Kanu is currently detained under the custody of the Department of State Services, DSS.

He has been in DSS custody after he was rearrested and repatriated from an African country, believed to be Kenya.

Upon his return, Justice Binta Nyako of an Abuja Federal High Court had remanded him in the custody of the secret police.

On Monday, DSS, however, failed to produce the Biafra agitator in court due to reasons of logistics.

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PS5 sold over 10 million consoles, Sony reveals

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Sony has disclosed the success of its PlayStation 5 (PS5), after selling over 10 million consoles

The company sold more than 2 million as a top-up in addition to the 7.8 million sales that were disclosed in April.

The PS5 sales have surpassed the sales of PS4, making it the fastest-selling console in Sony’s history.

The PS5 sold well, but supply is restricted as it’s still impossible to purchase a console right now due to an extensive chip scarcity.

The President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, Jim Ryan, stated “While PS5 has reached more households faster than any of our previous consoles, we still have a lot of work ahead of us as demand for PS5 continues to outstrip supply.”

Also, Jim Ryan added, “I want gamers to know that while we continue to face unique challenges throughout the world that affect our industry and many others, improving inventory levels remains a top priority for SIE.”

According to The Verge reports, Sony has also shared some milestones around PS5 launch titles. Spider-Man: Miles Morales has sold more than 6.5 million copies since its launch in November, with Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart selling more than 1.1 million copies since its launch last month. Returnal has also sold more than 560,000 copies since its April launch.

However, while Sony continues to share console hardware figures, Microsoft has stopped sharing Xbox sales numbers in the Xbox One era. “We’re all in on games,” said Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella during the company’s earnings call on Wednesday.

Satya Nadella stated, “The Xbox Series S and X are our fastest selling consoles ever with more consoles sold life-to-date than any previous generation.”

Meanwhile, a senior analyst at Niko Partners, Daniel Ahmed, has shared estimates on Twitter that the Xbox Series X/S total sales were 6.5 million as of June 30, 2021.

He said the 6.5m is up from earlier estimates of 5.7 million for Xbox One, and 5 million for Xbox 360 in the same period.

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Joe Igbokwe reveals how Tinubu made Igbo people billionaires in Lagos

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A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Joe Igbokwe, has disclosed how Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the party made a lot of Igbo people billionaires in Lagos State.

He said that Tinubu convinced his Igbo friends to invest in Lekki Corridor, some years ago.

The aide to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said Tinubu’s persuasion led to a lot of Igbo people investing in Lekki properties.

According to Igbokwe, Igbo people who followed Tinubu’s persuasion are now billionaires.

He stated this in a Facebook post titled: “How Asiwaju BAT created many Igbo billionaires in Lekki Corridor Lagos.”

The post reads: “In those days LEKKI Corridor was begging for attention. Nobody saw the potentials of that investment hub. Nobody thought LEKKI will be what it is today. ASIWAJU saw the real potentials and began to speak to some people to take a look at that side of Lagos and invest there for tomorrow.

“ASIWAJU spoke to some of his Igbo friends in Lagos and told them that LEKKI will be the new Lagos anytime soon. He told them: “If you have the money go and buy property there and you will not regret it”.

“ASIWAJU knows what he is talking about because he, himself has been a real estate guru for years. Those Igbo boys and other Nigerians who took his advice are smiling big time today. They are big multi-billionaires their property keeps appreciating every day ASIWAJU BAT sees tomorrow.

“He sees what others cannot see. He plans ahead, he sows the seed. He keeps his friends and his head when others are losing theirs; he loves humanity. He creates and builds leaders every day hunts for talents with passion and grace. He loves other Nigerians. He loves Nigeria.”

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TikTok adds new features to Live video, include Event, Co-host, Q&Ss

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TikTok has announced a new live video feature emerging to the video app platform for both creators and viewers including “events”, “picture-in-picture support for iOS and Android, and group live streams with two users. It’s part of the company’s efforts to push users to create and watch live videos.

The additional features bring TikTok’s live platform up to par with other live video services, adding the ability for creators to schedule a stream in advance (which TikTok calls a “Live Event”) that viewers can register and receive notifications for.

Creators will also be able to add countdown timers to regular TikTok videos in the form of a sticker to help promote their upcoming streams too.

According to TechCrunch, TikTok is testing larger shared streams for the future which includes the ability to co-host a Livestream with a second person.

TikTok is also broadening the rollout of its already announced Q&A feature for live videos to make it easier for hosts to connect with viewers in the middle of a stream. In a similar vein, though, TikTok is adding new comment filtering options to ban specific keywords from live chats, and the ability to appoint moderators who can restrict and mute misbehaving viewers.

Also, the company is making it easier to find and browse live streams with a dedicated “Live” button that’s already started rolling out to viewers’ feeds.

TikTok also supports iOS and Android’s picture-in-picture modes, allowing you to continue to watch TikTok live streams even when not in the app.

TikTok’s live streaming features are still relatively new, especially compared to industry mainstays like YouTube or Instagram, but the new features that are rolling out today should help the social video platform better compete for going forward.

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Man flogged, fined one goat for trying to sleep with daughter-in-law (Photos)

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A 63-year-old man who has been making sexual progressions towards his daughter-in-law in Akero village, Bukedea district, Uganda was fined one he-goat and shs100,000 cash after publicly receiving 10 strokes of the cane.

Martine Okwii, a clan elder said that the accused identified as Moses Oluka was fond of sleeping with his daughters-in-law.

It was gathered that the victim, Alupo Jessica, and her husband, Akol Samuel, reported to the clan head, Akol Joseph about her father-in-law’s sexual advances.

On his part, Akol Samuel said that his father has been beckoning his wife against her will.

The clan leader summoned a meeting with the clan elders to take disciplinary action against the randy father-in-law.

The clan elders then proposed to subject him to 10 strokes of cane, a fine of one he-goat, and shs100,000.

The punishment was given to the accused on Tuesday, July 27.

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21-years-old girl declared missing in Delta

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A 21-years-old girl identified as Stephine Solomon Oghenevoke, resident of Okumagba Estate, Warri, Delta State, has been reported missing.

The girl is 5ft tall, dark in complexion, no tribal marks and she speaks Pidgin English and Urhobo language fluently.

This was contained in a statement signed by the acting Delta State Police Commands’ Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, on Tuesday, July 27, 2021.

It was gathered that the victim left home on Monday, July 19, 2021, at about 8:20 AM to work at Okumagba Estate and has not returned since then. All efforts made to trace her whereabouts proved abortive.

Anyone with useful information on the whereabouts of the victim should report to ‘B’ Division Warri, PPRO’s office Asaba, or the nearest Police Station.

Photo of Stephine Solomon Oghenevoke

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BBNaija: At 18, my first-time sex got me pregnant – Jackie B

One of the female housemates of Big Brother Naija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ edition, Jackie B, has on Monday revealed how she got pregnant the first time she had intercourse with her first boyfriend at the age of 18.

She also revealed some of the challenges she experienced as a young mum.

Narrating her experience, the 29-years-old mother said at that time, things were so tough for her.

She also said that her mum has been very supportive to her and her son is now 10 years old.

According to her words, she stated “I had my son when I was 19 years old. In 2010, I had my first sex with my first boyfriend and I got pregnant for him, it was a tough time but now I have the most amazing son who is like my best friend.

My mum was supportive while I was pregnant and didn’t disown me at that time. My son is 10-year-old and made this journey easy for me.”

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Herdsmen reject 5,000sqm land proposed by lawmakers, demands 30,000sqm in Delta

The Delta State chapter of the Cattle Dealers Association has rejected the 5,000 sqm of grazing land provided in a new bill by the state lawmakers.

During a public hearing on ‘A Bill for a Law to provide for the Regulation of Livestock Breeding, Rearing and Marketing and to Prohibit Open Grazing and related matters in Delta State on Monday, July 26 in Asaba, the herdsmen requested for at least 30,000 square meters of land in each local government area for livestock breeding and marketing across the state.

The hearing was organized by the state House of Assembly Joint Committee on Special Bills and Agriculture and Natural Resources.

A memorandum signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Musa Shuwa, said the 5,000 square metres designated as grazing areas contained in the draft bill was grossly inadequate, because of the facilities expected to be in the area.

He stated, “This (5,000 square metres) is only for the markets. Also, each market takes delivery of not less than 800 cattle every week. Our members hardly sell all their cattle at the market, hence the need to feed the cattle by grazing.

“With the intention of the draft of this bill being to ban open grazing, it is our respectful view that to have cattle within enclosed grazing (for the purpose of ranching) area would mean that a large space of area is needed for this purpose.

“While we acknowledge that the 5,000 square metres mentioned in Section 8(2a) is only the minimum, it is our modest view that even in the minimum, 5,000 square metres of land may not be the best starting point.”

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Immigration new Biometric cards to replace ECOWAS traveling certificates

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The Controller-General of Nigeria Immigration Service (CGIS), Mr. Mohammed Babandede, has said the traveling certificate of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), will be replaced with biometric cards.

This was made known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), by the newly appointed spokesperson of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Assistant Controller (AC) Amos Okoi, on Monday in Lagos.

According to Okpu, individual data will be linked with the new biometric card, a feature that the ECOWAS traveling certificate does not possess.

He said, “The new biometric card will encompass all information about the user.”

According to Okpu while quoting the CGIS said, “The biometric card advancement remains cardinal to Nigeria’s security architecture and economic development.”

“The service would involve traditional institutions to gather more information on migration management.”

“For instance, no foreigner must sojourn in the country beyond 90 days without officially registering with NIS.

“NIS will involve traditional institutions and other relevant groups and systems to gather first-hand information that will help the service in security management,’’ he added.

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Don Jazzy set N1m as giveaway, check how to participate

Popular Nigerian music producer and record label boss, Michael Collins Ajereh, better known as Don Jazzy, has announced that he wants to share one million nairas with his fans.

He said this on Monday, July 25, 2021, after a fan named Life Fabunmi said on Social media that the hardship in the country has caused him to stop doing giveaways.

According to Life Fabunmi, he tweeted “E don tey wey Don Jazzy share 100k sef, another proof that country hard gan.”

The record label boss while reacting did not start with his usual N100k giveaway instead he chooses to create a means for 100 lucky fans to get N10k each.

Don Jazzy tweeted through his verified Twitter page that he wants to share N1m and then gave instructions on how to qualify to be a beneficiary.

In his words, he wrote; “OK let’s share 1 million. Now Doing #10,000 each for 100 lucky winners through the Abeg app. Go to my profile on Abeg app @donjazzy to participate now.”

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Peace wins first HOH challenge of BBNaija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ edition

Peace has gained a victory of the first Head of House challenge in the Big Brother Naija, season six ‘Shine Ya Eye’ edition.

She was named the new HOH after winning the Head of House game on Monday, July 24, 2021.

During the game, each housemate was given 70 seconds to finish the course of the board game, where they have to throw a dice and start the game once the dice reveals number 6.

This game of luck intends to get the farthest within the time limit.

According to the policy of the game, the housemate that finishes the course, or goes the farthest, wins and becomes the Head of House.

Luckily, Peace was able to go the farthest among others, earning her the title of the very first Head of House for the Big Brother Naija season six edition tagged ‘Shine Ya Eye’.

After she won, she nominated Yousef as her Deputy Head of House.

Being the HOH, comes with honors such as to stay in the HoH lounge and immunity from eviction.

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Bbnaija initiate Wildcards as first twist of the show

Season 6 of Big Brother Naija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ started with a new dimension as Biggie introduce the first twist of the show.

On Sunday after the female housemates were introduced, big brother announced that two among the twenty-two housemates are Wildcards.

The wildcards are fake housemates that biggie planted inside the big brother’s house without the knowledge of the viewers and the housemates knowing who they are.

According to big brother, the wildcards are to go about their daily activities in the house without the housemates recognizing them but stated that on Sunday, August 1st, 2021, the housemates will be asked to figure out who the fake housemates are and they will be evicted.

Big brother also said that if the housemates guess correctly, the wildcards will be evicted but if they guess wrongly, the wildcards will be given the power to nominate on Monday and remain in the house to compete for the grand prize of N90 million.

Meanwhile by on Monday, if the Wildcards remain in the game, then, they will be given an exclusive power to nominate.

However, fans won’t have to visualize for long as biggie will reveal the Wildcards during a diary session on Thursday.

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Breaking: Buhari signs N983bn 2021 supplementary bill into law

President Muhammadu Buhari has signed the 2021 supplementary appropriation Bill into law on Monday.

The supplementary budget will be used to fund health and security and was figured at N982,729,695,343.

This was disclosed by the Senior Special Assistant to the President of the National Assembly, Umar El-Yakub while briefing State House Correspondents after the signing in Abuja.

The supplementary budget comes one month after the Federal Executive Council meeting presided by President Buhari approved a draft of the bill.

While giving reasons for the budget, President Buhari explained that it is for the procurement of equipment for the military and medical infrastructure as well as Covid-19 vaccines.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed revealed that the budget amount to N770.60 bn and will improve the capacity of the defense and the security agencies to address the current and emerging security challenges facing the country.

The minister explained that N83.56bn expenditure is set aside in the budget for the Covid-19 vaccine program covering 30 million vaccines from Johnson and Johnson and the logistics costs related to the deployment of the vaccines.

Also, the minister explained that the budget will provide N40bn to cater for the allowances to the health, education sectors, and other wage-related issues, adding that N1.69bn will be for the Nigeria Comprehensive AIDS Programme.

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Court adjourns Nnamdi Kanu’s trial till Oct 21, gives reason

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja has adjourned the trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu to October 21, following the failure of the Department of State Security, DSS to produce him in court today July 26.

When the matter was called up, Justice Binta Nyako said nothing could be done since the defendant, Nnamdi Kanu, wasn’t produced in court by the DSS. According to the prosecution counsel, Mohammed Abubakar, Kanu was not in court due to logistic reasons.

Justice Nyako then ordered the DSS to allow Kanu’s lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor access to his client and she also promised to work with lawyers to the prosecution and defence and head of the security team to work out a plan to allow Ejiofor access to his client who he, claims he hasn’t seen in eight days.

Justice Nyako then adjourned the case till October 21 but said the date could be brought back if the prosecution was able to obtain a directive from the court’s Chief Judge to allow proceedings during the ongoing vacation of the court.

Kanu is standing charges bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, unlawful possession of firearms, and management of an unlawful society.

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Check out the BBNaija season 6 female housemate profile

The 2021 edition of the Big Brother Naija reality show started on Saturday, July 24, and the host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu introduced the first 11 housemates who are all males.

The female housemates were later introduced and here is a list of all female contestants that made it into the house.

Meet Angel

With the introduction of the female housemates, Angel happens to be the first lady to enter #BBNaija Shine Ya Eye, she is adorned with 11 tattoos, Angel says that what you give is what you get.

Meet Peace

Peace is the 13th Housemate to enter Biggie’s House is Peace. She has a simple strategy for #BBNaija; have fun, stay in the game and win in the end.

Meet Jackie B

Jackie B is the 14th Housemate to enter #BBNaija Shine Ya Eye. Her strategy is to stay 10 steps ahead of her fellow Housemates.

Meet Tega

The Housemate number 15 to enter the #BBNaija House is Tega. She says she has found the perfect balance between being calm and being hot-headed.

Meet ARIN

Arin joins this year’s #BBNaija as the 16th Housemate. This boss babe is an economist who says she is spice and doesn’t need to do anything extra.

Meet Maria

Maria joins #BBNaija Shine Ya Eye as the 17th Housemate. Air hostess-turned-realtor plans to spice things up by making all the boys fall in love with her.

Meet Liquorose

The BBNaija Housemate number 18 is Licorice. She’s a content creator who admits she can be dramatic without realizing it.

Meet Beatrice

The 19th Housemate to enter BBNaija Shine Ya Eye is Beatrice. You will not catch this model fighting for food, a man, or what rightfully belongs to her.

Meet Sashay

Sashay’s full name: Tsakute Jonah. Sashay is a 22-year-old extrovert and lover of books. She enjoys all types of music and speaks of herself as “an embodiment of art”. Discovering her talents and skills and using them to impact others and improve her persona, while striving to find her space in the world, is what she considers to be a high point in her life.

Although she was suspended from school in 2015, Saskay is having the last laugh as a fine artist and has even won titles such as ‘Model of The Year’ and ‘Female Personality of The Year’ at her university.

She loves dancing, cooking and meditating, and believes her personality was made for a show like Big Brother Naija.

Meet Princess

Princess full name: Princess Francis is a 30-year-old e-hailing service driver and business owner. She lives in Abuja and enjoys cooking, traveling, and watching movies. She takes pride in being a lovable, caring, fun person – and confesses she can be a little dramatic sometimes. “I got the drama from my mama,” she says.

Princess is from Imo State and lists buying her very first car as the highest point in her life. Her lowest, on the other hand, is when she found out her dad passed away.

Princess reckons many things make her royalty, but none above her industriousness and the fact that she is a cool New Year’s baby!

Meet Nini

Nini’s full name: Anita Singh. 27-year-old Nini is an economist and fashion entrepreneur born and raised in Nigeria. She has four siblings and a supportive mother that she loves very much.

She currently lives in Abuja and is a graduate of the University of Abuja. Her hobbies include cleaning, cooking, traveling, and photography. She describes herself as being “curious, dramatic, ambitious and fun” and admits she loves to be the center of attention.

Nini is joining Big Brother Naija because she believes it is a huge platform that can change her life for the better. She is also keen to try out new things and feels this experience will help her face challenges head-o while having fun.

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What you should know about BBNaija season 6 male contestants

The Big Brother Naija reality show season 6 started on Saturday July 24, and is expected to end in 72 days with the winner carting away a whopping N90million worth of prizes.

The theme for this year season of BBNaija is tagged ‘Shine Ya Eye’ with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu as the host.

There are currently 11 male contestants in Biggie’s house and they are follows:

Meet Boma, 34

Boma is the first housemate to join the house. An only child, he was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. An indigene of both Rivers and Delta States is, he’s 34-year-old, a mixologist, model, and former footballer.

Meet Saga, 28

Okusaga, is 28-year-old, an engineer who hails from Lagos State became the second housemate to enter the house.

Meet Yousef, 29

Yousef Garba, a 29-year-old teacher, model, who loves looking good for the camera is the third housemate to be introduced.

Meet Pere, 30

30-year-old drama king, Pere, who is an actor and a real-estate agent dripped into the show bearing ‘violence and ‘spontaneity’ as well as ‘adventure’.

Meet White Money

White Money is a businessman who is into the sale of shoes.

Meet Niyi

Niyi is a former basketball who comes from Oyo State and he is married with a child. He is also a businessman who runs a fantasy game platform and event business in Cape Town, South Africa.

Meet Yerins, 27

27-year-old Yerins is a medical doctor who likes to eat even though it does not show on his body. He is also an artist. He described himself as a ‘polymath’ who has an undying love for many creative things.

Meet JayPaul, 29

29-years-old JayPaul comes from Calabar, Cross River state said he is a “social butterfly”.

He described himself as a complete entertainer who owns a tourism business. Jay Paul also acts and sings.

Meet Emmanuel, 24

Emmanuel is a 24-year-old model from Akwa Ibom State. He is the winner of Mr. Africa.

Meet Sammie

Sammie is from Kaduna state. He is studying Guidance and Counselling at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He is also a filmmaker.

Meet Cross

Cross is a fitness center and spa owner who insists he lives by “the rule of love”.

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Why death warrants should be issued to condemned inmates – Aregbesola

The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola has asked state governors to sign the death warrants of convicted criminals that are not embarking on any challenge to their conviction to decongest prisons in the country.

This was disclosed by the Minister on Friday in Osogbo, Osun State.

According to the Minister, he said the nation’s correctional facilities are being pushed to the limit by an overpopulated capacity of 18 percent stating that the facilities were built to serve 57,278 inmates but currently occupying 68,747 inmates.

He added that to remedy the decongested, convicts on death row who have used up all means of appeal must be expedited to the gallow.

Aregbesola said “There are presently 3,008 condemned criminals waiting for their date with the executioners in our meager custodial facilities. This consists of 2,952 males and 56 females.”

“In cases where an appeal has been exhausted and the convicts are not mounting any challenge to their conviction, the state should go ahead, to do the needful and bring closure to their cases.”

Also, he revealed that the Federal government is aiming to build additional correctional facilities in all the country’s six geo-political zones to complement the 3,000 capacity custodial centers under construction in Kano, Rivers, and Abuja.

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Multiple taxation takes in a new face in Delta

The imposition of the Passengers Welfare Scheme by the Delta State government has generated anger and anxiety on Delta State residents as passengers traveling within or outside the state were asked to pay additional N100 fare for insurance.

The State Government has asked all motor park operators in the state to ensure that all passengers traveling with their vehicles are insured on their trips in case of accident to enable the injured or dead passengers to be compensated by the scheme accordingly.

But an incident that occurred after the imposition was gathered by SouthernVoiceNews on Friday, July 23, as it reported that hell was let loose when suspected hired touts alleged to have been detailed by the Delta State Directorate of Transport, came out in their numbers to intimidate, harass, and forcefully impound vehicles belonging to a popular transport company in the state demanding a sum of one hundred nairas per passenger from the drivers.

SouthernVoiceNews, also reported that one of the drivers who was molested and beaten for not providing the said amount per passenger narrated that, “I was on my way to Ughelli with Seven passengers from the park, but when I got to Immigration junction, I saw a crowd on youths with sticks and clubs flagging me down. I have to stop. They requested my manifest which I gave to them, but they said the company manifest is useless that it must be the state government manifest, then I told them that I won’t be the one to come to your office to collect the manifest and there should be anything of such, it must be your officials that will serve it to my company, but not me. This he said; infuriated them and before he knew it they started dragging my passengers down and gave me several random slaps before forcefully taking my vehicle away to the Oshimili South LGA Secretariat”.

A passenger who also narrated her ordeal questioned why she should pay an extra fare to the government. Continuing she said; the way and manners they stopped the vehicle is even enough to call them thieves but alleged that they were doing this with the backing of some policemen who came with them.

Another commercial driver whose vehicle was also impounded, told this reporter that it is not the duty of the driver to task their passengers, adding that if the state government want to be collecting 100 from each passenger, it should come from them but not from the drivers or the motor parks.

When this reporter visited one of the parks in Asaba, the manager who does not want his name in print, showed a flyer alleged to have been sent from the Directorate of Transport and it reads;

“Delta State Government, Passenger Welfare Scheme. All motor park operators in the state must ensure that all passengers traveling with their vehicles are insured on their trips. Failure to comply will attract fines for both passengers and park owners. In case of an accident, the inured or dead passengers would be compensated by the scheme accordingly”.

The manager noted that implementation of such demands will be difficult for them as park owners, on the ground that they cannot convince passengers to pay extra one hundred nairas when traveling after their normal fare.

In his words, “Those proposing such laws or making such demands should come to the park, talk to the passengers themselves and possibly live their officials on ground for such collection, he suggested. Again he said, the state government ought to have also created much awareness and sensitization before coming out to enforce the law.

Some passengers who spoke with these reporters lamented such imposition, noting that the state government cannot force such obnoxious and exploitative law on them.

A lawyer who was on transit via the harassed vehicle upheld that on no account should the state governor approve such a thing considering the harsh economy faced by citizens. He questions the honesty and proper management of such a scheme and states that it is dead on arrival as Deltans will revolt against it.

All efforts made to speak with one of the task force proved abortive as he threatened to give this reporter a mob attack.

Meanwhile, the impounded vehicle and passengers were said to have paid the sum of Twenty Thousand Naira before allowing the vehicle.

As at the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the director ministry of transport has proved abortive as his phone numbers were switched off, but from what is stated in the flyer, it is the motive of whoever is creating this to insure the lives of passengers, but the question remains why now and how sincere will the scheme run.

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Tokyo 2020 Olympic kick-off under the shadow of Covid-19

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After a year-long pandemic postponement and a build-up downfall and contention, the long-awaited Olympics games, Tokyo 2020 starts with its opening ceremony today, Friday in a nearly empty stadium.

The Olympic celebration started with a stripped-back video showing athletes training at home during the pandemic before fireworks blast into the air above the Olympic Stadium.

The Games was declared open with just a few hundred officials and VIPs who were present in the stands of the 68,000-seat venue, including French President Emmanuel Macron, US First Lady Jill Biden, and Japan’s Emperor Naruhito.

It was gathered that the Olympic has encountered resistance in Japan over fear that the global gathering of 11,000 athletes could ignite a supper-spreader event despite taking place under strict virus measures.

For the first time in the history of the Olympic Games, fans from overseas were banned and trained observers were asked to watch the events at some of the venues. 

Athletes, support staff, and media are subject to strict Covid-19 protocols, including regular testing and daily health check.

Based on the restrictions that were made, the opening ceremony was far from the conventional high-spirited celebration.

According to an AFP report, every athlete that entered the stadium wear a mask, and the national committees of athletes parading around the stadium were far insignificant than usual, varying from just a few people to a few dozen.

The ceremony wove together considerations to both Japan’s traditional crafts and its globally prominent video games, with athletes joining the theme music from acclaimed titles.

– ‘Feels like the Olympics’ –

Polls have consistently shown Japanese people are opposed to holding the Games during the pandemic, but hundreds of people still gathered outside the stadium and cheered as the fireworks exploded overhead.

Mako Fukuhara arrived six hours before the ceremony to grab a spot.

“Until now it didn’t feel like the Olympics, but now we are by the stadium, it feels like the Olympics,” she told AFP as people snapped selfies nearby.

Inside, fewer than 1,000 dignitaries and officials were in the stands, and in a sign of how divisive the Games remain, several top sponsors including Toyota and Panasonic did not attend the ceremony.

Small groups of protestors demonstrated against the Games outside the stadium as the ceremony began, but their chants were drowned out as the music started.

Tokyo is battling a surge in virus cases and is under emergency measures that means bars and restaurants must shut by 8:00 pm and cannot sell alcohol.

Olympic officials have put a brave face on the unusual circumstances, with IOC chief Thomas Bach insisting canceling the Games was never on the table.

“Over the past 15 months we had to make many decisions on very uncertain grounds,” he said this week. “We had doubts every day. There were sleepless nights.

“We can finally see at the end of the dark tunnel. The cancellation was never an option for us. The IOC never abandons the athletes… we did it for the athletes.”

There are also hefty financial incentives in play. Insiders estimate the IOC would have been on the hook for around $1.5 billion in lost broadcasting revenues if the Games had been canceled.

The pandemic has not been the only hiccup in preparations though, with scandals ranging from corruption during the bidding process to plagiarism allegations over the design of the Tokyo 2020 logo.

The controversies kept coming right up to the eve of the Games, with the opening ceremony’s director sacked on Thursday for making a joke referencing the Holocaust in a video more than two decades ago.

When the full program of sport begins on Saturday, a new generation of Olympic stars are looking to shine after a decade dominated by the likes of Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps.

US swimmer Caeleb Dressel could target seven gold medals, and in track and field, 400-meter hurdlers Karsten Warholm of Norway and the USA’s Sydney McLaughlin are among those hoping to emerge as household names.

In gymnastics, Simone Biles will attempt to crown her dazzling career by equalling Larisa Latynina’s record of nine Olympic gold medals.

However, other new Olympic games that will be making their debut on display in Tokyo, includes surfing, skateboarding, sport climbing, and karate.

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FG denies stopping Nigerians from using Twitter

The Federal Government has denied claims that it has stopped Nigerians from using the microblogging site, Twitter.

According to reports, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and the Federal Government made the denial in a counter-affidavit they deposed to in response to an originating motion filed by human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong.

Recall that the Federal government on June 4, 2021, announced the indefinite suspension of the operations of Twitter in Nigeria. The government suspended the site operations days after it deleted a Tweet from President Buhari’s handle in which he referred to the civil war which many found offensive. The Attorney General had released a statement threatening to prosecute Nigerians still using the platform via VPN while the National Broadcasting Commission ordered all radio and television stations to stop using Twitter or picking content from the platform.

Opposed to the move by the Federal government, Human Rights lawyer, Inihebe Effiong, dragged the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, and the Federal government before the court. In a fundamental human rights suit marked FHC/L/CS/542/2021, Inihebe asked the court to amongst other things grant an order of perpetual injunction restraining the respondents from further suspending, deactivating, or banning the operation and accessibility of Twitter or any other social media service in Nigeria because the act violated his rights.

Effiong asked the court to declare as illegal the ‘threat of criminal prosecution by Malami and Lai Mohammed against Nigerians who violate the suspension or ban of Twitter, despite the absence of any written law.’

In an affidavit deposed to by Mr. Ilop Lawrence on behalf of the Federal Government and Malami, it was stated that the suspension of Twitter was not an abuse of human rights because Nigerians were still using Twitter despite the suspension. The government told the court that Nigerians are still free to use platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Tiktok, and others. The Federal Government also denied knowledge of Twitter deleting Buhari’s tweet on the Biafra civil which offended many Nigerians.

It said Twitter had made its platform accessible to elements like Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra; and had supported the #EndSARS protests of October 2020 which were later hijacked by hoodlums. The government further stated that Nigerians should direct their anger at Twitter and not the government because Twitter would not have been suspended if it complied with Nigeria’s laws. It told the court that the Twitter suspension would be lifted once the platform registers with the NBC and the Corporate Affairs Commission.

The affidavits deposed by the Federal government reads in part

“The applicant (Effiong) and the class he seeks to represent can still operate those Twitter accounts from anywhere in the world and even from Nigeria. Nigerians are still tweeting, even at this moment as the ban on Twitter is not aimed at intimidating Nigerians or an infringement on the rights of Nigerians to express their opinion.

The respondents (Federal Government and AGF) have never stopped the applicant (Effiong) and the class of persons he seeks to represent from voicing their opinions to access government information and offer criticism where necessary.”

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Mercedes Benz reveals date to go all-electric in its vehicles

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It seems 2021 happens to be the year of electrification for the automotive community as major automakers from all corners of the industry have made declarations to establish extensive modifications in how their products are developed, manufactured, and sold including a significant shift to electric vehicles.

With such a trend, Mercedes-Benz as a major automaker has signaled its electrification ambitions in getting ready to go all-electric by the end of the decade with a complete focus on developing EV-only platforms and technologies from 2025 onwards.

According to the automaker, it says that in 2022, it will offer an electric vehicle in every segment that it serves, stating that the real shift will come in 2025 and onward.

The company says all newly developed vehicle architecture from that point on will be electric-only and the company will offer an EV alternative in every vehicle it makes.

Mercedes revealed that it will roll out three EV platforms in 2025 which include:

MB.EA: It Will cover all medium to large passengers cars and will be a scalable, modular system.
AMG.EA: Dedicated performance EV platform
VAN.EA: Dedicated EV platform for vans and light-duty commercial vehicles.

To accomplish this ambitious project, Mercedes has decided to make some changes to its organizational structure and also investing billions of Euros into its facilities and technologies.

The company says it will reorganize its powertrain division to bring planning, development, purchasing, and production under one roof. Once that is complete, Mercedes Benz will bring development and technology for electric drive trains in-house including the acquisition of YASA, a UK-based electric motor company.

The company also stated that its vehicles will need a battery capacity of more than 200 Gigawatt hours and will construct eight Gigafactories to support that demand.

Also, the company said through its involvement and coalitions with targeted companies in the EV space, Mercedes-Benz will develop more efficient and flexible batteries acknowledging that it is in talks to develop solid-state battery technology.

In addition to the plans, the company says it will include financial and human resources considerations, with roadmaps for retraining employees and potential early retirement/buyout plans for some.

The company further added that it will create 3,000 new software engineering jobs to develop its new MB.OS operating system worldwide.

The company also emphasizes that its transformation to electrification will not come at the expense of its economic strength.

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Fireboy DML release new song ‘Peru’

Nigerian popular singer and songwriter, Adedamola Adefolahan, better known as Fireboy DML, has released a new song titled ‘Peru’.

The song ‘Peru’ was made known by Fireboy DML on Twitter on Wednesday when he tweeted that he is currently working on his album.

According to Fireboy, he tweeted “Still working on my album. Quick ting for my people dem, ‘Peru’.”

The song ‘Peru’ is produced by Shizzi who also announced on his Twitter page as he tweeted, “New @Fireboydml out now! Go run it up!”

Listen to the song:

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See what Oyedepo said after he sacks 40 pastors

Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church International, better known as Winner Chapel, has disclosed why he sacks 40 pastors saying they were unfruitful.

Oyedepo made this known while speaking to his congregation after one pastor Peter Godwin had claimed that the church sacked the pastors in Ekiti State for having a church growth index that falls below expectations.

The pastor said he was told by the management that the church doesn’t operate at a loss.

He said, “They told me that the total income that is being generated from my station should be able to cater for my welfare and accommodation, so as a result of low income, I’m hereby dismissed.”

The dismissal has led to many reactions on social media by some Nigerians who questioned the system at the Winner’s Chapel while others stated that the church was within its rights to sack the pastors.

While reacting, Oyedepo stated that he wondered why there was no buzz on social media when the church employed 7000 people.

According to him, “People are confused about his Ministry because he learned from some fellows that the sack pastors are not bringing income that is why he asked them to go.

“We asked you to go because you are unfruitful. Unfruitful! Blatant failure. Doing what there? We have no patience with failure here.”

Also, he said, “When we employed 7000 people at a time, social media was dead. We have more employees in this organization than most of the states. No one is owed a dime salary and we don’t borrow, we don’t beg. Ask our bank whether we take overdraft.”

He also said, “We are covenant bound, working in the light of God’s word, enjoying an open Heaven.”

Oyedepo further reacted to the allegations about money been an issue to his church, he said, “Money? Nonsense. We have never lacked it and yet we have never prayed for it.

He said they are simply obeying God and God is backing them on what He asked them to do.

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Amazon set to upgrade its Echo speakers to Matter

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Following the agreement between Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung, and dozens of other companies to make setting up smart homes easier with a cross-platform open-source gadget known as Matter, Amazon has revealed its commitment to upgrade almost every plug-in Echo smart speaker to support the device.

This was revealed during Amazon’s Alexa Live developer event on Wednesday.

During the event, Amazon revealed quite a few additional things that Alexa developers will soon be able to do. According to the company in its message to Matter developers said: “We will soon be rolling out tools that make it easy for you to build Matter certified devices, and are ready to start testing your Matter devices now.”

The company also revealed the smart speaker that will support Matter, which includes most Echo and Echo Dot speakers, and every Echo Studio, Echo Show, Echo Plus, and Echo Flex.

A representative from Amazon told The Verge that the only Echo smart speakers that won’t get upgraded to Matter are the first-gen Echo, first-gen Echo Dot, and Echo Tag.

Meanwhile, Amazon did not provide a timeline for the upgrading but the general idea is that Matter will be launch before the end of 2021, so it shouldn’t be long until the company’s newest or more popular devices receive the capability.

Matter, a gadget that will enable Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung, and other companies to work together in an open standard. A deceptively simple device that allows the connectivity of all smart home devices.

The bigger question is whether any of the companies will work as Matter hubs because, in May, Google announced to upgrade its Nest devices to Matter, stating that it would allow its devices that support the Thread protocol (like the Nest Wi-Fi, Nest Hub Max, and second-gen Nest Hub) to double as connection hubs for Matter, not simply as a voice assistant to control Matter gadgets.

However, while Amazon’s Eero routers were early to adopt Thread, Amazon Echo smart speakers were not.

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Instagram added new feature that automatically translates text in stories

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Instagram has announced a new feature on its service that will automatically translate text in story posts.

According to the company, when the service detects a foreign language in a post, it will display a “See Translation” option on the left side of the screen which users can tap to see a translation at the bottom.

Also, Instagram says that the new translation feature will be available globally as it currently supports over 90 languages to make sharing content with an International audience easier.

The new feature means there’s now parity between Instagram stories and traditional posts, a development that was previously reported by app researcher, Alessandro Paluzzi.

Recall in 2016, Instagram added automatic translations to comments captions, and user bios but failed to include the feature with stories which was launched a month later.

Meanwhile, the new feature can translate text but Instagram says audio translation isn’t available at this time.

Although when Instagram rolled out automatic captioning for English stories in May, it doesn’t seem outside of the realms of probability that one day it might be able to translate audio as well.

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Obi Cubana reveals how he made his first million

The Chairman of Cubana Group, Obi Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana, has declared openly how he made his first million nairas.

Obi Cubana said his breakthrough came after his National Youth Service Corps program in Abuja, a revelation he made during an interview with BBC Pidgin on Tuesday.

The political science graduate who graduated from the University of Nsukka explained that he underwent his NYSC program in Abuja where he was subject to a monthly allowance of over N100.

He said with the N2000 he earned from his Place of Primary Assignment at the National Assembly, he was able to manage with his friends and brothers in a one-room apartment in Zone 4, Abuja.

Narrating how he made his first million, he said during his days in Abuja, he was introduced to a real estate business where he met a client who wanted to furnish a house.

According to him after furnishing the house, the client gifted him N500,000, as he also made over N600,000 in profits for the job.

He said “That was the first N1.1 million I made before I joined contract work in Abuja. I signed a contract with PPMC, made a little money then bought my Mercedes V-boot.”

Also, he revealed that he invested the money he made into a garden beer parlour before he established Cubana which now gained national and international recognition.

He also urged people to desist from thinking that wealth must come through illegal means.

Obi Cubana further advised people in the same vein to be straightforward and be honest in their dealings, stating that their honesty will open more doors of success for them.

Recall, the business mogul for days has been a rave of the moment on social media as many raised eyebrows concerning his lavish display of wealth and how naira rain at his mother’s burial in Oba, a town in the Idemili South Local Government Areas of Anambra State.

In most videos that went viral, celebrities, business people, and politicians were seen spraying money indiscriminately during a concert held after the interment of his late mother.

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Nigerian pastor reveals why sex before marriage is no longer a sin

The founder of End-Time Revival Evangelical Ministry, Pastor Olakunle Beloved Jesukale, has said that sex before marriage is no longer a sin.

He disclosed this in a video he shared on social media platforms.

According to the preacher, he does not believe that sin exists to those who believe in the finished work of Jesus Christ because he has destroyed sin.

Pastor Jesukale who maintained that he believes in extreme grace, noted that “sex, whether it is before marriage, after marriage or during marriage is no longer a sin.” He also said why many believe sex should be had in marriage, is because it is a covenant but has nothing to do with righteousness, purity, and other godly virtues.

He also stated that any preacher saying that sex before marriage is a sin is an enemy of the finished work and is not real.

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Samsung set date to unveil new Galaxy Z fold and Z flip teaser

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Samsung has officially declared openly a date for the unveiling of the next version of the Galaxy Z fold 3 and Galaxy Z flips 3, both of which have already leaked relatively.

Samsung has not been shy about these possibilities as a quick look at its invite reveals the outline for both devices and has been set to hold its next unpacked event on August 11, 2021, at 10 AM ET 7 AM PT.

Samsung is also predicted to confirm its new Galaxy watches which would be the first to use the new combined Wear platform that Google I/O announced earlier this year.

The event will be held virtually on its website and it has promised to post more details on its live stream as it’s also keep up another Samsung trend of letting customers reserve its next flagship before been officially announced.

Also, Samsung says it will offer increased trade-in credit and 12 months of its Care+ at a discount rate for early reservations.

According to the images that were leaked by Evan Blass, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 looks very similar to the current iteration of the folding phone. The largest upgrade will be compatible with Samsung’s Pen stylus as Samsung itself has been telegraphing that it would add stylus support to the Fold line for a very long time now.

Meanwhile, the biggest update for Galaxy Z Flip 3, maybe on the outside, where Samsung will replace a very tiny screen with a slightly larger but still fairly small screen.

Samsung has done a better job with durability on its folding devices since it switched over to using “Ultra-thin glass” under a plastic sheet for these displays. However, the screens are still much more fragile than regular smartphone screens. If Samsung is intending to encourage users to poke at the Z Fold 3’s screen with a plastic stick, that folding screen will need to become more reliable.

Though it’s not likely to get top billing, the new Galaxy smartwatches are likely to be a bigger shift than the iterative updates to the folding phones. That’s because it’ll be the first Samsung smartwatch to run Google’s Wear operating system in over half a decade. Samsung had been using its Tizen-based OS on smartwatches, which had benefits over Google’s Wear OS but did not have an app library worth using. Now that the two operating systems are combined, this upcoming Samsung watch will be the first real look at what the new Wear operating system works.

However, customers are expecting both a Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 with a rotating bezel and a Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 4 which will be announced, both in multiple colors.

Also, It is always possible there will be more on tap — Samsung’s Galaxy Buds lineup could also be extraordinary for a new model as customers will find out on August 11th when Samsung kicks off its Livestream.

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Breaking: NUT incumbent chairman, get reelected with massive votes

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The incumbent Chairman of the Delta State wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, (NUT), Comrade Titus Okotie, has been reelected for a second term in office via a massive landslide victory.

Comrade Okotie during the election garnered 583 votes against an abysmal 5 votes recorded by Comrade Goodluck at the College of Education, Warri, venue of the State Wing of NUT delegates conference.

After the election, the jubilation that rent the air was a clear indication of the overwhelming confidence of the incumbent Titus Okotie to steer the ship of the entire teacher affairs in Delta for the next four years.

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“Na Film I dey Act”, Yul Edochie reacts to fans asking him for money rituals

Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie has cried out after getting a lot of inquiries from people on how to do money rituals.

He disclosed this in a post on his Instagram page, noting that some of the things that happen in movies do not translate to real-life situations.

Yul Edochie is also known for portraying ‘funny’ characters in movies and it appears this has given some of his fans a wrong idea about him.

Just like a veteran film star, Kanayo O. Kanayo, who constantly tells fans that he is not a money ritualist, Edochie also had to clarify social media.

The actor said a lot of people have been coming to his DM with enquiries on how to go about doing money rituals. He, however, explained that things that happen in movies are simply storylines and do not translate to real-life happenings. Edochie made reference to American movies and how a single actor can wipe out an entire city.

He wrote: “Some people are sending me messages begging me to show them where they can do money rituals.Come on now guys, come on. Na film I dey act. Just like American action films where one man will defeat a whole city of bad guys.”

Meanwhile, Fans reacted to Yul Edochie’s clarification Upon setting the record clear. Fans were seen in the actor’s comment section with mixed reactions.

Read what some of them wrote below:

babarex0 said: “@yuledochie show us way jor. We are ready. As kok no gree show us. U are our own. Just give us d address. The heads to use no b problem. Enemies plenty.”

luchydonalds said: “I wish someone can laugh out real on IG comments, see me laughing hard here. Please take them to church.”

iamkay_dee said: “You nor wan teach person wetin Kanayo teach u? Oga give update e leave story.”.

tina_chelle21 said: “Great acting oh..tell them to go to church.”

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Abba Kyari reveals why he attended Obi Cubana mother’s burial (photos)

Deputy Commissioner of Police and leader of the Inspector-General of Police’s Intelligence Response Team, Abba Kyari has described Obi Cubana as one of the most hardworking entrepreneurs he knows.

He disclosed this while giving reasons for attending his mother’s burial which was held at Oba in Idemili North Local Government of Anambra State.

The event, which was attended by businessmen, politicians, musicians, and actors stirred reactions online after Abba Kyari was spotted in the pictures.

But, Kyari in a post on Facebook, said he attended the funeral despite his busy schedule because of Obi Cubana’s good nature.

His post read: “Obinna Iyiegbu popularly known as Obi Cubana is one of the most hardworking entrepreneurs and Humble personalities that I’ve known for many years. He’s a brother and Good Friend.

“For his good nature and Good heart, I had to Squeeze out time from my busy schedule to honour him by attending the burial of his Beloved Mom In Oba town Anambra State.”

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Media Practitioners tell FG they won’t stop reporting terrorist attacks

Following the new order of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to broadcast media stations not report details of activities of bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers in their reports, the media chiefs in the country have said the media will not be restrained by the directive of the Federal Government.

This was disclosed to Punch in a separate interview on Friday by the President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mustapha Isah; the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Chief Chris Isiguzo; and the Executive Director, Center for Media Law and Advocacy, Richard Akinola.

During the interview, they said the media only reports activities and does not create events.

According to the media veteran, they advised the regime of President Muhammadu Buhari to tackle the security challenges in the country and desist from its attempts to gag the media through the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed.

The media veterans were reacting to a directive by the National Broadcasting Commission that television and radio stations in Nigeria should not “glamourize the nefarious activities of insurgents” during their daily newspaper reviews.

Broadcast stations in Nigeria review newspaper headlines daily before their breakfast shows.

But the NBC, in a letter dated July 7, 2021, issued to television and radio stations, stressed the need for “caution” by broadcasters while reporting security challenges in the country.

The letter titled, ‘Newspaper Reviews And Current Affairs Programmes: A Need For Caution’, was signed by the Director, Broadcast Monitoring, Francisca Aiyetan, on behalf of the new Director-General of the Commission, Balarabe Allah.

A copy of the letter obtained by Saturday PUNCH, partly reads, “Headlines of most newspapers daily are replete with security topics. While bringing information on security to the doorsteps of Nigerians is a necessity, there is a need for caution as too many details may have an adverse implication on the efforts of our security officials who are duty-bound to deal with the insurgency.

“The commission, therefore, enjoins broadcasters to collaborate with the government in dealing with the security challenges by;

“Not glamourizing the nefarious activities of insurgents, terrorists, kidnappers, bandits, etc.

“Advising guests and/or analysts on programs not to polarise the citizenry with divisive rhetoric, in driving home their point.

“Not giving details of either the security issues or victims of these security challenges so as not to jeopardize the efforts of the Nigerian soldiers and other security agents.”

According to Global Conflict Tracker, the insurgents have killed nearly 350,000 innocent women, children, and farmers in Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, amongst other volatile places, since 2009.

On the other hand, the information minister has in recent times attempted to muzzle the press in Nigeria by prodding the National Assembly to amend the Nigeria Press Council Act and the National Broadcasting Commission Act, one that has been fiercely opposed by media stakeholders who described the move as an information blackout akin to the infamous Protection Against False Accusations Decree, otherwise known as Decree 4 of 1984.

Reacting, NGE President, Isah said he agreed with the NBC that broadcast stations should not glamourize the activities of insurgents but stated emphatically that the government could not tell the media how to tailor its reports.

Isaiah said, “The NBC said broadcast stations should not glamourize terrorist activities which I agree with but I have a problem with the issue of ‘don’t report details of attack’. I don’t know what NBC means by that. If there is an attack and certain people die, are you saying that I should not report it? If there is an attack and 20 students are kidnapped, are you saying that broadcast platforms should not report the number?

“I have not seen any media house report details of a planned operation by the military on bandits and terrorists. The media does not do that for security purposes and I don’t think we will ever do that.

“The government cannot tell us how to do a how-to report. This is why we are clearly against the Nigeria Press Council Act.

“The media does not create events; we report events. If there is a terrorist attack, we will report it. If we don’t report it, that means we are not doing our job. We will not stop doing that, we will not stop reporting events despite the threats.”

Also, NUJ President, Isiguzo told our correspondent that the NUJ would ensure that the media space was not compressed in Nigeria under any guise.

He said, “This latest directive must be reviewed by the commission. The NBC must also ensure that its actions are in line with international best practices and must conform with time-tested models from other nations.”

Akinola also described the NBC directive as obnoxious and a subtle attempt to gag the press.

Akinola said, “It is quite unfortunate but it is difficult to gag the Nigerian Press going by its history, no matter the extrajudicial means. It is not possible. If the military failed, there is no way any government will succeed.

“The government has failed in the aspect of insecurity and this is a subtle effort to cover the inadequacy of the government.”

Also, the Socio-Economic Right and Accountability Project kicked against the NBC directive and asked the government to withdraw the directive.

SERAP in a statement posted via its official social media handle @serapnigeria urged President Muhammadu Buhari to withdraw the order.

“We urge President Buhari to instruct the NBC to immediately withdraw its illegal order to TV and radio stations not to divulge “details” of the activities of terrorists and kidnappers in their reports.

“We’ll see if this sweeping gag order is not immediately withdrawn.”

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Davido drops latest video ‘Shopping Spree’ featuring Chris Brown, Young Thug

Popular Afropop superstar, Davido, has released the music visual for Shopping Spree featuring Chris Brown and Young Thug off his ‘A Better Time’ album that was dropped in November 2020.

The singer announced the music video when he dropped a snippet of it on his Instagram page on Thursday.

The video ever since it was released, has gathered over 100k views since it uploads on YouTube.

The video was directed by Des Gray, and it is the second time Davido and Chris Brown would be shooting a music video together, the first being ‘Blow My Mind’ in 2019.

It was gathered that Young Thug featured in Davido 2017 single ‘Pere’ which also had Rae Sremmurd.

Watch video:

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Discord among Reps members during its Electoral bill session

The House of Representatives during its continuation of the Electoral Act amendment bill on Friday, went into a disorganized session when Deputy Speaker, Idris Wase, skipped clause 52, of the report.

On Thursday, the House had suspended its session after consideration of the bill followed a disagreement among members on the mode of transmitting election results.

Recall, the House had invited the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) to educate lawmakers on the implications and possibility of electronic transmission of results.

But immediately after officials of the NCC left the chamber, Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila declared openly the resumption of consideration of the report after understanding the comments of the NCC officials proceeding from clause 52.

Meanwhile, disagreement started when Deputy Speaker Idris Wase, who presided over the consideration of the report, skipped clause 52 which forced Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Toby Okechukwu to call for a point of order.

Hon. Okechukwu brought the attention of the House to the fact that the matter of assertion before the suspension of the session was the amendment to clause 52 and not the entire clause.

According to Hon. Okechukwu who said the recommendation of the Electoral Committee which leaves the mode of transmission of election results at the discretion of INEC was not voted on neither was a decision taken on the motion moved by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

But when Wase said there was no motion to that effect, the House became disorderly as some lawmakers were seen accusing one another almost leading to a fight.

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NBC latest order, sanctions TV, Radio stations from reporting terrorist attack

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The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has cautioned television and radio stations in Nigeria not to reveal details of the activities of bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers in their reports.

This was contained in a statement titled ‘Newspaper Reviews And Current Affairs Programmes: A Need For Caution’ which was signed by the Director, Broadcast Monitoring, Francisca Aiyetan, on behalf of the new Director-General of the Commission, Balarabe Allah, on July 7, 2021.

According to the statement that was issued by NBC to television and radio stations, it’s stressed the need for caution by broadcasters while reporting security challenges facing the country.

The NBC specifically directed radio and television stations not to glamourize the nefarious activities of insurgents during their daily Newspaper Reviews.

They claimed that broadcast stations in Nigeria now review Newspaper headlines daily before their breakfast shows, an unwritten custom, they said.

Some parts of the statements that were obtained by newsmen partly read, “Headlines of most Newspapers daily are replete with security topics. While bringing information on security to the doorsteps of Nigerians is a necessity, there is a need for caution as too many details may have an adverse implication on the efforts of our security officials who are duty-bound to deal with the insurgency.

“The Commission, therefore, enjoins broadcasters to collaborate with the government in dealing with the security challenges by;

“Not glamourizing the nefarious activities of insurgents, terrorists, kidnappers, bandits, etc.

“Advising guests and/or analysts on programs not to polarise the citizenry with divisive rhetoric, in driving home their point.

“Not giving details of either the security issues or victims of these security challenges so as not to jeopardize the efforts of the Nigerian soldiers and other security agents.”

The Commission also reminded the broadcast stations to be guided by provisions of Sections 5.4.1(f) and 5.4.3 of the NBC Code which states thus:

“The broadcaster shall not transmit divisive materials that may threaten or compromise the divisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria as a sovereign state.

“In reporting conflict situations, the broadcaster shall perform the role of a peace agent by adhering to the principle of responsibility, accuracy, and neutrality.”

For over a decade, Nigeria has been tackling insurgency, especially in the North-Eastern part of the West African nation. At various times, the Nigerian Army and the Presidency had claimed that Boko Haram fighters and those of its fragment group, the Islamic State in West Africa Province, had been defeated but the marauders continue to strike with crude savagery and unimaginable guts. According to Global Conflict Tracker, the insurgents have killed nearly 350,000 innocent women, children, and farmers in Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, amongst other volatile places, since 2009.

On the other hand, the regime of the President, Muhammadu Buhari, through the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has in recent time, attempt to silence the press in Nigeria by persuading the National Assembly to amend the Nigeria Press Council Act and the National Broadcasting Commission Act, one that has been fiercely rejected by media stakeholders who have described the move as an information blackout akin to the infamous Protection Against False Accusations Decree, otherwise known as Decree 4 of 1984.

Recall, on June 4, 2021, Twitter was suspended from Nigeria by the Federal Government stating that the platform has been used persistently for activities that are capable of destroying the country’s corporate presence.”

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Reno Omokri tells men the best time to marry, gives serious warning

Nigerian human rights activist and lawyer, Reno Omokri has advised men not to choose a wife if they haven’t found their purpose in life or found success.

Omokri disclosed this in a post on his social media handle.

According to him, a man is likely to run into trouble if he finds a wife before finding his purpose. His post reads

”Dear men,

If you have not found your purpose or success, don’t find a wife, because you won’t be able to fund her. If you find a wife before finding your purpose and success, most likely, you have found trouble. When you find purpose and success, the right woman will find you. God only brought Eve to Adam when Adam found his purpose (caring for the Garden of Eden). You do not need a wife simply because you have sensual urges. You need a wife when you have a life that is successful enough to accommodate other people”

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Nigerian Army confirms murder of General Hassan Ahmed, narrates ordeal

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the murder of Major General Hassan Ahmed, a former Provost Marshal.

A source close to the family said the ambush occurred around the Abaji area of Abuja, on Thursday, 15 July.

The aggressors kidnapped General Ahmed’s sister, Safina Ahmed (initially mistaken for the wife).

The siblings and the deceased’s driver, Sergeant Bukar were returning to the nation’s capital from Okene when they were attacked.

It was further gathered that General Ahmed made the trip without his guards.

Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu announced the death in a statement early Friday morning.

The spokesman said the incident happened when the top officer’s vehicle, “was attacked by gunmen while transiting along Lokoja – Abuja road”.

Nwachukwu disclosed that an Army delegation, led by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Anthony Omozoje, had visited the widow and other members of the bereaved family.

Members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), led by the Deputy National President, Stella Omozoje have also paid a condolence visit.

“The remains of the deceased senior officer will be accorded a befitting burial at the Lungi Barracks Cemetery on Friday, 16 July 2021 by 10 a.m.”, the statement added.

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Senate confirms Sani Adam as INEC National commissioner, gives reason

The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Prof. Sani Muhammad Adam, as National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) representing the North Central zone.

The confirmation of the nominee followed a presentation and consideration of a report by its Committee on INEC.

Chairman of the Committee, Sen. Kabiru Gaya (APC-Kano), in his presentation, said the request to confirm Adam by President Muhammadu Buhari was made by Sections 153(1)(f) and 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Following the suspension of the confirmation of the nominee by the Senate last Tuesday, Gaya said, the committee, in exercising its mandate investigated a petition against the nominee and received explanations regarding his personal life, work experience, suitability, competence, and integrity for appointment as National Electoral Commissioner.

“After a thorough investigation of the petition against the nominee, the committee found that the petition was weak and that the reason for his termination, not dismissal as alleged by the petitioner, was not based on gross misconduct, but on a rationalisation policy of the Federal Government.

“The court judgment was based on whether or not his appointment should have been terminated and this has nothing to do with his integrity or moral uprightness,” Gaya said.

Based on the committee’s recommendations, Adam was, thereafter, confirmed by the upper legislative house.

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Lawmakers reduce DSTV price, approve Pay-As-You-Go

The House of Representatives has agreed and adopted the Pay-As-You-Go plan for digital satellite operators and also slashes the price for subscriptions for DSTV and other cable TV service providers.

This was made known after the recommendations made by the Ad-hoc Committee on Non-implementation of Pay-As-You-Go and sudden Increment of Tariffs plan by Digital Satellite Service Providers was considered and approved by the House on Wednesday.

The Chairman of the Committee and member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep Unyime Idem, laid the report before the House during its plenary in Abuja.

Making the consideration, the House called on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency expedite action on implementing the content of the National Broadcasting Code and the Nigeria Information Policy of 2014.

According to the agreement reached by the House, they said the new policy would trigger healthy competition in the industry, adding that the entertainment industry had a wider spectrum with limitless job and wealth creation opportunities for the teeming youths.

The House also said the visible absence of competitors in the industry was tacit approval of monopoly by the present operators.

Also, the House suggested that timely application of government regulatory intervention measures already articulated would revolutionize the industry and meet the people’s yearnings for Pay-As-You-Go, Pay-per-view, and price reduction.

According to the recommendation, the existing laws that moderate operations in the industry is to be fine-tuned to meet the 21st- century regulatory laws of the industry that is dynamic to the entertainment industry.

The House said the National Broadcasting Commission that is saddled with the duty of licensing and supervising the activities of service providers must also have the power to moderate in the protection of consumers to guard against exploitation.

The House further said there was little or nothing a regulator could do if he was handicapped by laws that were not properly tailored to the needs of the society.

Furthermore, the report stated that price increase and reduction have always been contentious issues for producers and consumers in the business world.

The House also listed the factors responsible for the hike in subscription fees as the recent increment of VAT by 2.5 percent by the Financial Amendment Act of Jan. 13, 2020, and the fluctuating foreign exchange rate in the country that affects the cost of content.

Other contentious issues listed are broadcast equipment, experienced hire and technical infrastructure, increase in bouquets for a wider choice, inflation on the cost of production, and need to maintain the workforce.

They identified the need not to throw many young Nigerians who are gainfully employed by pay-tv into the labor market.

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Abducted DELSU students released, reveals how kidnappers killed co-student (Photos)

Two students of the
Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Divine Omajuwa, and Hamza Hussena Jennifer, who was reportedly kidnapped have been freed.

It was gathered that the students of Geology and Pharmacology were abducted by gunmen who also killed their colleague, Stephen Odje, on Sunday morning, July 11, along Oria, a community with less than 15 minutes drive to the university community.

According to reports made available to newsmen, the abducted victims had been released, unhurt.

A source said:
“The SUG wrote a letter to the police yesterday giving them 24 hours to work on the release of the abducted students; so with prayers, the kidnappers called and police went to pick them up (location unknown) around midnight. No money was given to the kidnappers and the students are in police custody as of this morning”.

Acting spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, DSP Bright Edafe, who confirmed the development on Wednesday afternoon, July 14, said the students were in good health.

“They have been released and they are okay. As for ransom, I can’t confirm for now” he stated.

Meanwhile, Divine Omajuwa has narrated their encounter with the kidnappers, who killed Stephen and abducted him and his girlfriend.

He said they were only on their way to Abraka from Warri when their vehicle was waylaid by the gunmen who had earlier missed their target, and, out of anger, swooped on them.

“I traveled with Hussiena to Warri while Stephen (the deceased) also traveled to Warri separately. While I was planning to return, Stephen called me and asked that he join me back to Abraka,” he told an Abraka-based online medium, Oasis Magazine (OM).

Omajuwa further stated that while approaching Abraka, they saw a vehicle parked on the road and had assumed that it was as a result of an accident, only to discover, after slowing down, that the car was used by kidnappers to block the road.

He disclosed that as he tried to reverse his Lexus SUV for a possible escape, the kidnappers engaged them in a shoot-out, adding that his girlfriend, Hussiena, was sitting in front of the vehicle, while Stephen was at the back seat.

Omajuwa said Stephen was killed accidentally by the gunmen in their attempt to escape.

“They shot my car tires while trying to shoot at us. They saw that he was already wounded and so left him behind. The kidnappers told me that we were not their targets. They said they trailed someone, but lost their target because they were distracted by a truck carrying farmers and so became angry and stayed on the road for any possible victim,”

“We were taken away to an unknown destination. They made contact with my parents before I was released,” he said, adding that he was not aware of his parents parted with a ransom.

Omajuwa, who was said to have wept profusely over the death of his friend, while relating his ordeal, said that the kidnappers conveyed them to a public school close to Abraka after they discussed with his parents.

Reacting to the latest development, the Student Union Government of DELSU, expressed appreciation for the release of the victims.

“We are grateful to God for their freedom from the hands of these evil perpetrators and the S.U.G also appreciate all Delsuites for their concern and their efforts in this trying time,”

A statement signed by Comr. Solomon Mukolo, President, SUG, and Comr. Gregory Media Ekrakene, Director of Information, SUG, also expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Stephen Odje, the entire students of Medical Biochemistry, and the entire staff and students of Delta State University.

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Obi Cubana receives 246-cows in support of his mother’s burial

Popular Nigerian businessman, Obi Cubana, while preparing for his mother’s burial over the weekend, received 246 cows as support from friends.

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that Obi Cubana lost his mother, Mrs. Ezinne Uche Iyiegbu in December 2020, at the age of 78, and he is planning to give her a befitting burial in Oba, Anambra State over the weekend.

According to a publication done by Yabaleftonline.com, friends of the chairman and owner of the popular Cubana Group have sent in their gifts to support their own and a total of 246 cows has been received so far.

Also, it was gathered that his former employee, Cubana Chief Priest sent 46 cows, while young Nigerian billionaire, Jowi Zaza also sent in ten cows, and others.

The video showing the cows has since surfaced online.

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NGF reject the planned sale of Niger Delta Power Holding Company

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Following the planned sales of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) assets by the Bureau for Public Enterprise (BPE), the Governors across the 36 states of Nigeria have kicked against the motion saying, there is no proper consultation.

This was made known during the 32nd teleconference meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on Wednesday.

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that on Tuesday, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE), Alex Okoh, had listed over 36 projects and transactions for concession this year across diverse sectors of the economy including the power sector.

Meanwhile, a communique issued by Kayode Fayemi, governor of Ekiti State, stated that the NGF will take a position on the planned privatization of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC).

According to the communique issued, “The Forum will take a position on the planned privatization of assets of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) which were listed by the Bureau for Public Enterprise (BPE) without due consultation with state governments who are shareholders of the company.”

The communique reads, “NDPHC is incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act as a private limited liability company with shareholding fully subscribed to by the Federal, State and Local Governments with a mandate to manage National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) in the country.”

The forum also backed the Southern governors’ recommendation on the proposed National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited.

They said the new entity that will emerge following the passage of the petroleum industry bill (PIB) should be owned by Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

The governors said they are in full support of the unbundling and commercialization of the NNPC — but concerned with the proposed ownership structure of the NNPC, which places ownership with the federal government.

“The NGF recommends that given that the three tiers of government own the corporation, the newly incorporated entity (NNPC Limited) should be owned by a vehicle that holds the interest of the three tiers of government – for now, the institution that is positioned to carry out this mandate is the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA),” the communique adds.

“This amendment as well as the proposed 3% share of oil revenue to host communities and 30% share of profit for the exploration of oil and gas in the basins will be responded to at relevant channels including the National Assembly and the National Economic Council (NEC).”

According to the communique, the governors also took position on executive order 10 and financial autonomy for state legislature and judiciary.

The forum approved a common template for implementing the memorandum of action signed with the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) and the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASUN) on the implementation of financial autonomy for the state legislature and judiciary.

“The template was developed following a meeting of the State Attorneys General and Commissioners of Finance which held on the 25th of June 2021 at the directive of the Forum.”

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FG gives N309bn road projects to Dangote as tax credit

The federal executive council (FEC) on Wednesday, July 14, approved the award of a contract to Dangote Industries to construct five roads totaling 274.9 kilometers at N309,917,717,251.35 to be advanced by the company as a tax credit.

Babatunde Fashola, Minister of Works and Housing, disclosed this on Wednesday, July 14 after the FEC meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The minister said the road contract which was the second approved for the ministry by the council and also consistent with funding options, will be executed on concrete and will be the larger of such project in the country.

He said;

“The second memorandum presented by the ministry was for the construction or the reconstruction, as the case may be, of five road projects in favor of Dangote Industries Limited, totaling 274.9 kilometers of federal roads, under the Federal Government Roads Infrastructure Tax Credit policy.

“Those five roads totaling 274.9 kilometres will cost N309,917,717,251.35 to be advanced by the Dangote Industries as ta ax credit.

“The roads, specifically, are Bama to Banki in Borno State for N51.016 billion with 49.153 kilometres; Dikwa to Gamboru-Ngala, 49.577 kilometres in Borno State for N55.504 billion; the Nnamdi Azikiwe Road, popularly known as a Western Bypass in Kaduna. 21.477 kilometres, from Command Junction to Kawu, in the sum of N37.560 billion.

“Others are deep seaport access road sections 1 and 3 in Lagos State, through Epe to Shagamu Expressway, 54.24 kilometres, that links Lagos and Ogun states, in the sum of N85.838 billion and the Obele/Ilaro/Papalanto to Shagamu Road, 100 kilometres in Ogun State, in the sum of N79.996 billion.

“Council considered and approved this memorandum to facilitate the construction of 274 kilometres of concrete roads. So, this will be the largest single award of concrete roads ever undertaken by the government of Nigeria in one award.

“First of all, the award is consistent with our multiple funding options, which includes engagement with the private sector.

“Secondly, the tax credit initiative was in existence in the last administration before this government but was not utilised. So, this administration has revised it, expanded it, and has used it to construct roads like the Apapa Wharf Road, the Oworonsoki to Apapa, through Oshodi Road, by the same Dangote Group.”

“The Obajana-Kabba Road, still the Dangote Group. The Bodo-Bonny bridges and road, which Council approved last week, through the NLNG.

“There was also interest by many other companies that are being reviewed. So, it’s not unique to Dangote. So, he’s the one who has applied and we’ve been in this process. So, this is the next batch of roads that they are taking up.

“They invest their money, and then instead of when their taxes come due for payment, they net it off. That’s the circumstance. This is not concessioning, this is tax credit policy, don’t mix them together.

“The policy says that anybody who wants to invest his personal resources, and it includes individuals, in any infrastructure that the public will have access to, can do so under certain conditions, which includes applying to the Ministry of Works.

“The ministry evaluates, and the Minister of Finance chairs a tax credit committee because they keep an eye on how much tax giveaway in one year, so that it doesn’t affect government’s revenue performance, once we take on the investment.

“So, it’s the committee that then approves and says go ahead, this is good, this is how much tax we’ll allow per year, and if the company is satisfied, then we go to BPP and then come to FEC.”

The minister also revealed that the Ministry also got approval to revise the total cost of the contract for the construction of Michael Imoudu/Ganmo/Afon Junction Road in Ilorin, Kwara State.

He said the original contract sum was revised from N1.691 billion to N1.896 billion and the completion period is now 12 months.

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PPP: Muoboghare visits NUJ, admits break In communication

The former Commissioner for Higher Education and Commissioner Designate in the second list of Governor Okowa’s new cabinet appointment, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare has admitted that break in communication orchestrated the recent misunderstanding between him and the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

This was contained in a statement signed and released by the State Secretary of the NUJ Council, Patrick Ochei, on Wednesday, July 14.

In the statement, the Professor who made a dramatic appearance at the NUJ Temporary Press Centre at DDPA Housing Estate Asaba affirmed he was supposed to defer to NUJ to brief the Press after his committee concluded its work on the newly created universities and made its recommendation to government.

According to him, “There was a break in communication as we concluded our assignment on the creation of the three new Delta universities.

“I was supposed to come to NUJ to brief the Press hence it was a new government project, but I didn’t do that. I have admitted that gap in communication. However, everything is sorted out and going forward, we will always do the needful”, Muoboghare admitted.

Speaking further, the erudite professor eulogized the Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for having done so much to leave behind as lasting legacies.

He said before now, no University in Delta was offering Architecture as a Discipline, but now, four of the Universities can now offer it. He also said two are now offering Medicine and another two offering Law, adding that such innovation was a product of hard and tedious mental work that had gained success.

Professor Muoboghare nonetheless, appreciated the NUJ Exco and members for their understanding, as he reassured that Public-Private Partnership proposed for the newly created universities was not intended to leave the Tertiary Institutions in the hands of private businessmen but to create sustainable opportunities for their viability and quality outputs.

His words, “The creation of the universities was not intended to be pandered towards politics. We were meticulous enough to spread the universities evenly, which we recommended to government. Thank God Asaba as the State Capital was factored in, because everything about the State Capital must be about public relations. We were just recommending officers who ensured that what was recommended was reasonable and justifiable.

“Again, I thank the NUJ State Exco and members for their comradeship. We must continue to build fences as partners in progress. I am one of you, and so I am home. Because the Press made me from my days as ASUU Chairman, I must not take that for granted”, the former Commissioner said.

Also, Dr. Arnold Ojugo, a lecturer at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE), who accompanied Prof. Patrick Muoboghare to the Press Centre, commended the Professor and NUJ leadership for the simplicity exhibited in straightening things.

He praised the both sides for recognising that they were not at warring path but only finding a common ground to coexist harmoniously and progressively.

Meanwhile, the State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu appreciated Prof. Patrick Muoboghare for coming to clarify issues, instead of believing that NUJ was fighting him and government by its Congress Communique and Press Statement that followed afterwards.

He reiterated that the Union had no intention to fight government but only carrying out its watchdog role, adding that what transpired had opened a new vista of synergy to work honestly for the good of society.

Ikeogwu called on members to continue to support the Okowa-led State Government towards actualizing its mandate for a Stronger Delta.

It could be recalled that NUJ during its June 24, 2021 Congress, came up with a Communique, questioning the rationale behind the proposed Public Private Partnership (PPP), initiated by the Prof. Patrick Muoboghare-led Management Committee for the running of the newly created universities.

After the communique, Muoboghare had gone to DBS Radio to denounce the position of NUJ, describing it as ‘mysterious information’. This was also countered in a Press Statement by the union, calling on him not to mislead Deltans.

In the light of the above, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, Dr. Arnold Ojugo and Comrade Michael Ikeogwu (NUJ Delta State Chairman) were invited to discuss the new universities on “The Matter For Ground”, a DBS magazine programme of Wednesday 14th July, 2021.

It was after the programme that Prof. Patrick Muoboghare drove straight to the Press Centre with the NUJ chairman to lay to rest every form of dispute or misunderstanding as the case may be. He was welcomed and given a rousing reception as a senior Comrade in union matters.

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See what 2baba said about Sound Sultan

Nigerian legendary singer, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2baba, has said he will never stop celebrating his late friend and musician, Olanrewaju Fasasi, better known as Sound Sultan who died after battling Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma.

Sound Sultan died at the age of 44 on July 11 and he has since been buried in New Jersey in the United States of America.

The late singer survived by his wife, three children, and siblings.

2baba, while responding to the sad news of his friend’s death, took to his Instagram page days later to condole with the family of Sound Sultan.

He wrote “Couldn’t bring me to do this but what can we do. Rest well. Till we meet again my dear friend and brother.”

Also, in his words, he said “Still so unreal. Will never stop celebrating u. I promise u your fam will be safe and good. #GRATEFUL for u and the blessings that u represented in my life.”

Recall, 2baba and Sound Sultan have recorded some songs together. Songs like Bush Meat, Enter The Place, Prayer, and others.

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Nigerian Soldiers lock up shoppers inside Mall over missing money (Photos)

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There was a commotion inside Abia Shopping mall as soldiers locked up shoppers over missing money.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that soldiers in mufti parked their RAV 4 vehicle at the parking space of the mall in Umuahia and went inside to shop on Tuesday, July 13.

After shopping, they raised an alarm, claiming their vehicle had been vandalized and money was stolen.

The soldiers were said to have called for reinforcement and their colleagues immediately arrived at the shopping mall in a Toyota Hilux vehicle.

It was reported that on arrival, the soldiers Locked up customers, preventing entry and exit from the mall between:4:40pm and 6:30 pm.

The soldiers insisted on having access to the CCTV footage to watch how the money, about 200,000 Naira, was stolen.

They were later said to have freed the customers and left the area.

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How cult group behead one, killed five others in Delta

Fear grip residents of Asaba, the Delta State capital, over the killing of six persons suspected to be secret cult members.

The six persons killed were done in a separate attack that appeared to be a reprisal attack which came after a former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, (NULGE), was shot dead on Monday in the state capital.

It was gathered by goldennationblog.com that one of the six persons killed was beheaded and the six persons were killed between 6 pm on Monday to 7 am on Tuesday including a 67-year-old surveyor in Asaba, Ifeanyi Nwokobia.

According to a source who pleaded anonymity, told newsmen that Nwokobia was killed in his house at Umuagu, opposite the Stephen Keshi Stadium around 6 pm while five yet to be identified others were killed in separate locations within the state capital in a reprisal attack.

Also, the source said the head of the person that was beheaded was found at the Oshimili South Local Government junction early Tuesday morning while his body was dropped at the Otuagu area of Asaba.

Meanwhile, the acting Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Bright Edafe, when contacted, confirmed the killings but said that the command was aware of three persons that were killed, not six.

He said, “The information we have at our disposal confirms that three persons were killed and it is about a cult-related matter.”

He also said the police are on the situation as the investigation is ongoing.

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Senate suggests new bill to punish electoral offenses, set 20-year-jail-term

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The Nigeria Senate has passed a bill for the establishment of the Electoral Offences Commission on Tuesday.

The bill is set to prosecute any person who uses hate speech to stir up ethnic, religious, racial hatred, social or political insecurity, violence against anyone or group of persons during electioneering.

The bill also prescribed 20 years jail term for persons caught snatching ballot materials during elections.

The approval of the bill establishing the commission followed the consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Also, the function of the commission includes investigating electoral offenses, prosecution of electoral offenders, and maintaining records of all persons investigated and prosecuted.

Meanwhile, Abubakar Kyari, senator representing Borno North, sponsored the bill in 2019.

Here are some key highlights of the bill:

Five years jail term or N10m fine for party officials who engage in electoral fraud

The senate in Clause 12 of the bill approved at least five years imprisonment or a fine of at least N10 million naira or both, for any officer or executives of any association or political party that engages in electoral fraud that contravenes the provisions of clauses 221, 225(1)(2)(3) and (4) and 227 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

Ten years jail term for selling voter’s card

The senate also approved ten years imprisonment for any person who sells a voter’s card, or in possession of any voter’s card bearing the name of another person, or prepares and prints a document or paper purporting to be a register of voters or a voter’s card.

Ten years jail term for election officials who prevent voting

The Senate also gave its nod to a term of at least ten years upon conviction for any elected official who willfully prevents any person from voting at the polling station, willfully rejects or refuses to count any ballot paper validly cast, willfully counts any ballot paper not validly cast, gives false evidence or withholds evidence, and announces or declares a false result at an election. The upper chamber in Clause 20(2) approved at least fifteen years imprisonment for any judicial officer or officer of a court or tribunal who corruptly perverts electoral justice, during or after an election.

Fifteen years imprisonment for influencing the outcome of elections

The senate also gave at least fifteen years jail term or N30 million naira fine for any security personnel or election official engaged by the Independent National Electoral Commission or State Electoral Commission who attempts to influence the outcome of an election.

Six months imprisonment for disturbing the peace

Any person found to disturb the public peace on Election Day by playing musical instruments, singing, or holding an assembly where a polling station is located shall be guilty of breaching electoral peace and liable to six months imprisonment or a fine of at least N100,000 or both.

Ten years jail term for defaming candidates

Any person acting for himself or on behalf of any organization or political party or candidate or his agent to prejudice the result of an election, damage or defame, in any manner, the character of any candidate in an election or his family member by making, saying, printing, airing or publishing in the print or electronic media false accusation on any matter shall be guilty of serious corrupt practice and liable on conviction to a term of at least ten years or a fine of ten million nairas or both.

Five years jail term or N10m fine for soliciting votes

Any person soliciting or giving votes for or against any political party or candidate at an election, or found to affix campaign materials on any private house, public buildings or structures, or prints posters and banners without the name and address of the political party to which the candidate or person belongs contravenes sub-clause (1) to (5) and guilty of an offense and liable to at least five years or a fine of at least ten million nairas, or both.

Twenty years jail term for snatching ballot boxes

Any candidate or agent who damages or snatches ballot boxes, ballot papers, or election materials before, during, and after an election without the permission of the election official in charge of the polling station attracts at least twenty years imprisonment or a fine of at least forty million nairas.

Fifteen years jail term for influencing voters’ choice

The Senate approved at least fifteen years imprisonment for any person who conveys voters to and from the poll; and three years imprisonment for any employee who directly or indirectly exerts undue influence on a voter in his employ.

Ten years or N20m fine for hate speech

The senate also approved at least ten years imprisonment or at least twenty million nairas fine or both for any person who uses hate speech to stir up ethnic, religious, or racial hatred, social or political insecurity, or violence against anyone or group of persons.

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TB Joshua: ‘I can’t be friends to all Ministers of God’- Oyedepo opens up

The General Overseer of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo has said that he loves all ministers of God but he can’t be a friend to all of them.

He disclosed this in a sermon shared on the official Facebook of the church.

The popular clergyman revealed that he can’t be friends or hang around with people who say nothing can work in Nigeria adding that he is a repairer of the bridge.

Oyedepo’s comment is coming amid complaints by some Nigerians that none of the top church leaders in Nigeria attended the burial ceremony of the late Prophet TB Joshua on Friday, July 9.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that dignitaries, ministers of God attended the main laying-to-rest service for the founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), however, several pastors, church owners, and religious leaders were absent at the event.

Many had expressed disappointment that top Nigerian pastors failed to identify with the deceased prophet even in death. Nigerians, however, have reacted to his statement with many supporting the man of God.

Read some of the comments below:

seundreams wrote:

“Don’t pretend, we all don’t have someone we don’t associate with but that doesn’t mean we don’t like or wish them well, some will still misinterpret him.”

leaddyskincare wrote:

“The point he is making is Positivity and Negativity can’t be friends! Black and white don’t mix. Don’t come and misinterpret him.”

kennedyexcel wrote:

“But Jesus Christ was a friend to everyone, That’s why I love TB Joshua. He’s a friend to everyone including those that hated him.”

eyebiokinoluwaseun wrote:

“Pure truth. You can’t be friends with everyone but you can love them from a safe distance.”

brideandmaidsfactory:

“Gbam!!!! When you understand the power of the tongue! You will stop saying nothing can work in Nigeria.”

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Shark kills man after he went to pee in the ocean

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A 51-years-old man identified as Marcelo Rochas Santos has been killed by a shark after he gets drunk and walked to pee at a beach.

It was gathered by Anaedoonline.ng that the incident occurred on Saturday, July 10, at Piedade Beach in the city of Jaboatao dos Guararapes in Brazil.

According to the report, the Shark tore off the man’s hand and bitten a large chunk out of his leg.

Anaedoonline.ng also reported that the mutilated corpse was pulled from the water after the shark had attacked him.

The report also claimed that Santos’s lifeless body was taken to a hospital in the neighboring city of Recife where he was later pronounced dead.

Narrating the ordeal, one Adriano Gomes, a mechanic told reporters that the victim had been drinking with his friends before he entered the water at around 2 pm when the sky is cloudy and while the sea was becoming turbulent.

Gomez said, “It was a friend of mine Glazier Ademir Sebastiao, who was in the sea with the person that was attacked. Suddenly, he saw the man struggling. There was a lot of blood in the water.”

Sebastian said “As the beach has no bathroom, he went into the sea to pee. I was beside him with the water up to our waists when the attack took place.

However, friends of Marcelo brought him out to the shore where he fell to the ground unconsciously.

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Anti-open grazing bill passes the first reading in Delta

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The Delta State House of Assembly has proposed a bill to prohibit open grazing in the state.

The bill passes its first reading in the State House of Assembly on Tuesday and it involves the regulation of livestock grazing, rearing, marketing, and other related matters.

The bill was moved by Oghenerume Yakubu, a member representing Ughelli South Constituency, and was seconded by Christopher Ochor, the Deputy Speaker of the House.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the House, Sheriff Oborevwori slated Wednesday, July 14, 2021, for the second reading of the bill.

Recall, on Monday, July 5, 2021, the 17 Southern Governors from their forum meeting held in Lagos recently has set a timeline of Wednesday, September 2021 for the promulgation of the anti-open grazing law in all member states.

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Zubby Micheal says he’s the biggest actor in Africa

Nollywood actor, Zubby Micheal has said that he is the biggest actor in Africa.

He disclosed this during an interview in a video he shared online.

When he was asked who he thinks is the Biggest actor in Africa, Zubby claimed he was the biggest actor in Africa adding that no actor is bigger than him.

”For now, I’m the richest actor and the last time I checked I make money more than other actors.

”Honestly, I don’t think anyone is bigger than me for now and I’m not saying it from a place of pride, Zubby is the biggest actor in Africa for now.

The actor said he believes God put him in his current position because he helps people adding that he doesn’t believe in tithes.

Recall that Governor Willie Obiano, of Anambra State, earlier appointed the actor as his Special Adviser on media.

The actor announced the good news on his Instagram page, where he shared a photo of himself holding what appeared to be his appointment letter.

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Senate rejects Lauretta Onochie’s nomination as INEC commissioner

The nomination of Lauretta Onochie as a National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has been declined.

Onochie’s non-confirmation followed the report by the Senate Committee on (INEC), Senator Kabir Gaya who said her nomination breaches Federal Character principles.

Kabir Gaya cited Section 14 (1) 3 of the Constitution, stating that somebody was already a Commissioner from her zone, and the law remains clear about that.

Onochie who is currently the Personal Assistant to the President on New Media was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2020.

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NSCDC mobilizes residents for CVR exercise in Delta

The Delta State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Iskilu Akinsanya, has advised members of the public and delta residents to take advantage of the early kick off of the continuous voters registration ( CVR) to avoid late hour rush.

This was contained in a press release signed by the Command Public Relations Officer, DSC Emeka Okwechime, in Asaba , Delta state, hinting that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC, Delta State Command under the leadership of Commandant Iskilu Akinsanya, has restated the commands readiness to Partner with the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration Exercise in the state.

The NSCDC described it’s partnership with INEC , as part of its corporate social responsibility and also believes that advocacy is part of Public Relations to mobilize the populace for the all important assignment.

According to the statement, the Commandant Iskilu advised residents of the state who have attained the age of eighteen and those without a Permanent Voter Card PVC to participate in the Continuous Voters Registration exercise to avoid late hour rush.

Commandant Iskilu Abiodun Akinsanya who stated that the NSCDC is a friendly and approachable security outfit, also hinted that members of the public can come forward with verifiable intel that can lead to the arrest of criminal elements in the state.

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Gov. Sanwo-Olu’s security convoy arrests three traffic robbers (Photos)

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The convoy of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State catches three suspected criminals who specialized in terrorizing motorists and road users in traffic.

The three gang robbers were arrested while making an effort to steal from a motorist on Monday.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Gbenga Akosile.

According to the statement, Akosile narrated how the gang of suspected criminals met their waterloo Monday while attempting to unleash terror on a motorist around Ojota in-bound Alausa.

He noted that “Help, however, came for the motorist as Governor Sanwo-Olu’s convoy approached the scene to rescue him from the three machete-wielding criminals who were at the time, trying to drag him out of his vehicle.

He said “The security personnel attached to the governor swooped on the suspects, retrieved the weapons from them, and arrested the three of them.

He also said “Sanwo-Olu reiterated his stance that Lagos would be no hiding place to criminal acts.

Also, Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that after his security personnel arrested the three machete-wielding criminals that the exercise was a warning signal to other criminal elements and prospective traffic robbers in Lagos that there is no hiding place for criminality in Lagos State.”

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Okupe fires Wike over PDP crisis, says they’re not mate in politics

A former aide to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, Doyin Okupe has bragged that Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State is not his mate in politics.

He stated that he has the right to call derailing members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to order as a senior member of the party.

This is coming after a recent public attack on Prince Uche Secondus, the National Chairman of the main PDP, at the weekend.

In a statement he shared on Twitter, Okupe said
“I believe I have the right and the merit to call our members to order irrespective of their status in the party”.

The PDP chieftain pointed out that those who can measure shoulders with him in politics in Rivers State are the likes of Peter Odili, Rufus Ada George, and not Wike, adding that he is a leader and senior to the current governor.

“For a fact, my contemporaries in the political hierarchy of Rivers State are former Govs Rufus Ada George and Peter Odili. So I am a senior and leader to our indefatigable Gov Wike politically.

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Gov Obaseki opens up on returning to APC, gives reason

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has maintained he would never return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Recall that Obaseki defected from the APC in 2020 to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

His decision came after the party disqualified him from seeking the ticket for re-election.

It was on the platform of the PDP he was eventually re-elected for a second term.

Obaseki, speaking in Abuja on Monday, said: “Nigerians must key into the e-registration exercise of the PDP as the party remains the solution to the myriads of problems confronting our nation today under the APC.

“From all indications, it is clear that the PDP remains the party that provides the appropriate platform, outlook, and sense of direction to return our nation to her pride of place in the comity of nations”.

Three PDP Governors, including Dave Umahi (Ebonyi); Ben Ayade (Cross River), and Bello Matawalle (Zamfara) have joined the APC in recent days.

Obaseki also described rumours making the rounds that he intended to return to the APC as laughable.

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“Our police system has failed, we need to decentralize” – Ekweremadu

The former Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, has joined the call for state police, calling for decentralization.

He said the police system had failed to tackle insecurity in the country.

He made this known on Monday, July 12, while speaking at the opening of Law Week 2021 of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja branch.

The theme for the 2021 NBA Law Week is tagged ‘The Nigeria of Our Dreams.’

Ekweremadu during his speech stated that the decentralization of the police had become expedient in the face of the rising wave of banditry and kidnapping across the country.

He said “Our policing system has failed woefully. There are no other federating states that have done what we are doing in policing.”

“It is no surprise that with the capsizing of the national police, the nation’s security has also collapsed,’’

Ekweremadu said that restructuring the police was no longer a matter of choice but a matter of urgency.

“In an instance where we have decentralized police, we will have a federal police system and 774 police systems in all the 774 local governments in the 36 states and Abuja.

“The implication, therefore, is that if the federal police fail, we have additional layers in 36 states; but right now, they are absent.

He stressed that “Now that the federal policing have collapsed because they do not have the resources, the funding, and the manpower, there is nothing to hold on to.”

Also speaking is the Chairman of the NBA branch, Mr. Bartholomew Aguegbodo, stated during his welcome address that there was no better time to hold the Law Week than now in the light of Nigeria’s current political climate.

Aguegbodo said “Sometime in 2004 or 2005 the then President Olusegun Obasanjo, set up a committee with the task of setting a national vision targeted at the year 2020 with all the dreams and hopes.

He then added that “The year 2020 has come and gone and the dreams are far from being realized.

Also, he said, “The founding fathers of this country had policies which would have birthed the Nigeria of our dreams if we had followed them to the letter.”

Aguegbodo further maintained that bad leadership and tribalism had, unfortunately, derailed the objectives of the nation’s founding fathers and set the nation backward.

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Governor Oyetola orders civil servants to wear uniforms to work

The Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, has made it compulsory for all public and civil servants in the State to wear uniforms once every week.

He declared every Thursday of the week “Adire Osun Day” and all public and civil workers are to wear the local fabric to work on the chosen day.

Recall that Governor Oyetola on Saturday, July 10, launched mass production, promotion, and marketing of Adire Osun.

He said the International Fashion Week and the Launch of Adire Osun were no doubt giant strides towards diversifying the State’s economy and creating jobs for the teeming youths.

Governor Oyetola said the introduction of Adire Osun Day is part of efforts to quicken the actualization of the set objectives of the initiative as Osun remains the leading light in African culture and tradition in the country.

“In furtherance of efforts of this Government to preserve and promote the production of Adire Osun, as well as bolster the image of Osun as a culturally correct and indigenous product inclined State, every Thursday has been declared Adire Osun Day. Consequently, effective from August 27, all Public and Civil Servants in the State shall wear Adire to work,” he declared.

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Primate Ayodele foresee clash between Buhari, Osinbajo, gives shocking prophecies

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Ayodele has foreseen a clash between President Muhammadu Buhari and his Vice, Yemi Osinbajo.

He disclosed this in a series of prophecies he issued in his church, adding that some of Buhari and Osinbajo’s aides will also clash.

Primate Ayodele also warned Buhari to be cautious with his movement from October to December this year because his convoy would be attacked.

The cleric urged the Nigerian government to ensure that the Presidential jet is put in order to avoid crisis.

“There will be threats in the Villa, I’m seeing confusion in the Villa, Buhari will lose one of his aides.

“There is going to be a clash between Buhari and Osinbajo and their aides, mark my word.

“Besides this, the people of Southwest will pick against Osinbajo because the people Tinubu groomed will cause problems for him.

“SWAGA will be swept away because they have not done any good plan, there is going to be problems in SWAGA. Apart from this, Tinubu’s efforts will not be appreciated.

“EFCC will expose a lot of things, Bawa will do a good job but will not be appreciated.

“Buhari’s ministers will be indicted and it will cause rancor among other ministers which will lead to the resignation of a minister in Buhari’s cabinet.

“Another prominent pastor will die.

“Buhari should be careful in his outings during the 10th and 11th and 12th months this year so they don’t attack his convoy.

“The presidential plane should be put in proper shape to avoid technical problems.”

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Buhari receives first ever made in Nigeria android phone

The first-ever made in Nigeria mobile phone was presented to President Muhammadu Buhari by the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, in the State House, Abuja.

This was made known on facebook by the Personal Assistant to the President on New Media, Bashir Ahmad, on Wednesday.

According to the post on facebook, Bashir Ahmed stated that “President Buhari receives a ‘Made in Nigeria’ android phone from the Minister of Trade and Investment earlier this morning shortly before the commencement of this week’s Federal Executive Council Meeting at the State House, Abuja.

“Are you ready to start using Made in Nigeria phones?”

Also while presenting the phone, Adebayo stated that an agency Model Skills Training Center of the Industrial Training Fund under the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment launched twelve indigenous mobile phones and it gives me great pleasure Mr. President to present you with one of them.

The mobile phone known as ITF Mobile was one of the 12 phones produced by the Electrical/Electronics Technology Department of the Industrial Training Funds (ITF) Model Skills Training Center using locally sourced components.

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Police rescue kidnap victim, arrest suspected cultists in Delta (Photos)

The Delta State Police Command has within the week rescue a 38-year-old lady from the hand of kidnappers and also arrested three suspected cultists with guns in the state.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement by the spokesperson of the State Police Command, Dsp. Bright Edafe, on Tuesday.

According to the statement, it was gathered that on Sunday, June 6, at about 9:45 pm, the Divisional police officer of Orerokpe Division received a timely distress call from an unknown caller that four armed men, suspected to be kidnappers shot sporadically at Biokoro extension and kidnapped one Efe Caroline ‘f’ 38 years.

The Police operatives through quick response, detailed to the area, sighted the hoodlums and gave them a hot chase while also engaged them in a gun battle at Okujorogun Community.

After been overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the police, the hoodlums abandoned the victim unhurt and flee while a manhunt for the hoodlums is still ongoing.

Also in the statement, it was revealed that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, ordered the State Anti-Cult unit (SACU) Commander, SP Christopher Igbaji to relocate to Ogwashi-uku and bring an end to the cult crisis in the area.

The SACU through an intelligence discovered a house where cultist usually converges, plan on their next move before attacking their fellow cult rivals in Azungu Quarters, Ogwashi-uku.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that on Sunday, June 6, at about 9:30 pm, the SACU commander mobilized and led a combined team of the State anti-cult unit and Special Tactical Squad STS attached to the Delta State Command to stormed the said hideout.

Getting to the hideout, the combined team arrested three suspects namely, Lucky Nwose ‘m’ 23 years, Somto Azubuike ‘m’ 18 years, Omali Maxwell ‘m’ 18 years all suspected to be members of Supreme Vikings Confrantanity aka Aro Bagger.

During the arrest, the Items recovered are one English automatic pump action gun loaded with two live cartridges while the investigation is still ongoing.

Also in another development, it was gathered that on Friday, May 28, at about 9:30 am, the police operatives from the Divisional Quick Response team attached to ‘A’ Division Warri while on a routine patrol at Ugbuangue community suspiciously sighted a young man holding a bag.

The suspect when approached by the team, hurriedly abandoned his bag and took to his heels. After searching the bag, one locally-made cut-to-size double barrel gun was found.

Meanwhile, on suspicion that the suspect might come back to carry his weapon, the team laid an ambush in the bush, and after a short while, the suspect resurfaced with intend to collect the exhibit.

The suspect, Joshua Godwin ‘m’ 28 years was eventually arrested while the investigation is still ongoing.

In a similar case, the Eagle-Net Patrol team while on patrol along Koka Ibusa express on Thursday, May 27, sighted suspicious motorcyclists making calls.

The team intercepted him but after a thorough search was conducted, it was gathered that a locally-made pistol was recovered from the suspect.

The suspect, Solomon Omachonu ‘m’ 27 years of Igbedo community in Nzam Olumbanasa Anambra West Local government of Anambra State was residing at Amusement Park in Koka area of Asaba was arrested.

Items recovered from the suspect include an army color belt and wristwatch with an unregistered motorcycle.

However, the Commissioner of Police has urged members of the public to continue, cooperate, and partner with the police for timely information in combating crimes.

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Omimi Pledges More Service Delivery After Inauguration As Political Adviser

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The newly inaugurated Political Adviser to the Governor of Delta State, Omimi Esquire, has pledged to redouble efforts towards the realization of Governor Okowa’s Stronger Delta vision.

Omimi made this known on Monday during an interaction with journalists immediately after taking the relevant oath of office at the unity hall in Government House, Asaba the state capital.

During the interaction, Omimi asked Deltans to continue to support the Governor in his task of leaving fruitful and lasting legacies in tandem with his finishing strong mantra.

According to Omimi, “Today, l can confidently tell you, incontrovertibly, that His Excellency is not only proactive but is also an astute administrator of men and resources. I am happy to be part of his team and hereby appeal for more support for our amiable Governor in his task of leaving lasting legacies to Deltans.

The newly inaugurated Political Adviser explained that he will do his best to build on the bridges of peace and development that is the hallmark of the people of Delta State so that at the end of the day, the value will be added to the Governor’s developmental initiatives.

Celebrating his reappointment as a Political Adviser, Omimi attributed it to the intake of leaders across the board in his area and sued for more cooperation across the board.

In a related development, the staff of the Political Adviser also congratulated him on his reappointment.

According to the various top management staff of the office of the Political Adviser who spoke, described Omimi Esquire is a humble and sure-footed personality who was always accessible to his staff at all times.

They described his reappointment as a demonstration of the Governor’s confidence in his ability and loyalty to the administration and prayed for his success in office

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“It is not within our power to arrest or prosecute Twitter violators” – NCC

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The Director of Public Affairs of the Nigerian Communications Commission has said that the NCC as a regulator, does not have the power to arrest and prosecute violators of the Twitter ban.

Ayinde made these known in a statement on Monday stating that the NCC as a regulator has limitations based on the order given to the commission.

He said the government only instructed them to disconnect Twitter but was not given the power to arrest or prosecute violators.

The statement read “The NCC is a regulator. It is not within our power to arrest or prosecute. Based on our statement, we limited ourselves based on the order given to us by the government, which was to instruct the operators to disconnect, which was what we did. So, the other aspects are not within our purview.”

Recall on Saturday the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, in a statement directed the Director of Public Prosecution to cooperate with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, the NCC, and other relevant government agencies to ensure the hasty litigation of offenders without any further delay.”

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Okowa inaugurates new SSG, eight other, urge them to shun complacency

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The Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has on Monday inaugurated Chief Patrick Ukah, as the new Secretary to the State Government, SSG, and eight other appointees.

The Governor during the inauguration at Government House in Asaba, charge the political appointees to shun complacency and redouble their efforts to help his administration deliver on its promises to Deltans.

The Governor also cautioned the appointees against abandoning their duties for politics of 2023, saying getting obsessed with 2023 politics could easily make them lose track that could lead to negligence and dereliction of duty.

According to Okowa, “It is inevitable that politics will be played but as much as possible, political appointees should endeavor to stick to their responsibilities and get a firm grip of the job at hand.

“At the end of his tenure, we shall all have reasons to celebrate the legacy of a Stronger Delta, standing on the tripod of prosperity, peace, and progress.”

While congratulating the new SSG and the Special Advisers on their appointment, Okowa restated the commitment of his administration’s determination to finish strong.

He also described Chief Ukah as an integral part of his S.M.A.R.T administration, now Stronger Delta Agenda.

According to him, Ukah has served as commissioner in two ministries in the state since the beginning of his administration in 2015.

“He, therefore, brings to the office of the SSG, working knowledge of our policies and programs and is well-grounded to see to their effective implementation in his current position.

“But beyond that, the new SSG possesses an unpretentious mien, humble outlook, and bubbly personality that I believe will serve him well in this new assignment.

“I have always said that the office of the SSG requires a person who can marry policy – where the administration wants to go – and politics – how it mobilizes resources, personnel, and the necessary support for the agenda of the government.

“The SSG must not only have the capacity and competence to drive the administration’s policies and programs, but he must also be a consensus-builder and adept at managing various persuasions and handling conflicts, internal and external.

“Hence, it is required of any SSG to be broad-minded, accessible and flexible, with a good sense of fairness and justice,” he said, adding that he was proud of the job Ukah did in the two years he spent at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the various committees that he had headed in the six years of his administration.

The Governor also expressed optimism that the SSG would continue in the same spirit of sacrifice, hard work, and dedication.

He said “no doubt, the office of the SSG will present a different kind of challenge. I have always been impressed by Ukah’s willingness to learn and ability to adjust quickly to situations. It is, therefore, my expectation that he will justify the confidence reposed on him with this appointment.”

While still speaking, he charged the Special Advisers to discharge their duties by section 196 (Sub-section 1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“All of you are well acquainted with the key policy thrusts of this administration, hence, I expect you to work with a greater sense of urgency, unflagging enthusiasm, more creativity, and innovative strategies to enable us successfully execute our policies and programs for the greater good of all,” he added.

In response, the SSG thanked Okowa profusely on behalf of the appointees for the honor dedicated to them and assured him that they will not betray the confidence rested on them.

Those inaugurated along with the SSG were Dr. Kingsley Emu, Chief Economic Adviser; Mr. Omimi Esquire, Political Adviser; Chief Isaac Anwuzia, Political Adviser; Emmanuel Okoro, Special Adviser; Kelly Penawou, Special Adviser; Chief Andy Asawota, Special Adviser; Chief Edwin Uzor, Special Adviser and
Chief Godwin Ogadi Special Adviser.

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Prophet T.B. Joshua is dead at 57 years

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Popular Nigerian televangelist and founder of The Synagogue Church Of All Nations, Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua has died.

Prophet T. B. Joshua died shortly after concluding his church program in Lagos on Saturday at the age of 57 years, a source revealed.

According to the source who disclosed this information told The Gazette that his remains had been deposited at the morgue before an autopsy will be performed.

Before his death, Prophet T. B Joshua is one of the Nigerian largest evangelists who use his SCOAN platform ‘Emmanuel TV to attract a large number of Christians from across the world, a television station available worldwide via digital and terrestrial switches.

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FG responds to Twitter, suspend its operations from Nigeria indefinitely

The Federal Government has announced the suspension of Twitter, a social media and microblogging site from Nigeria for removing President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweets threatening to punish secessionists amidst the ongoing unrest

The suspension came two days after the social media giant removed a post from President Muhammadu Buhari’s handle.

This was announced in a statement by the Minister of Information and culture, Lai Mohammed, on Friday.

According to the statement signed by the Ministry spokesperson, Segun Adeyemi, said the suspension is necessary based on the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence.

The Minister said in the statement that the Federal Government has also directed the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to immediately commence the process of licensing all OTT and social media operations in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, as of Friday afternoon, the Twitter website is still much accessible but it is not yet clear on how the suspension will work.

The suspension comes two days after Twitter deleted President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweet from his official account.

Recall on Thursday, the video of President Buhari was also deleted by Twitter from his official account.

According to Twitter, the tweet is no longer available because it violated the Twitter rules.

In his tweet, President Buhari tweeted and made referenced the Nigerian Civil war, threatening to treat Nigerians misbehaving in a language they will understand.

President Buhari made these threats known after receiving the security reports from the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on the series of recent attacks on INEC facilities nationwide.

The President said “Many of those misbehaving today are too young to be aware of the destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the Nigeria Civil War stating that those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand.”

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the President’s tweet has sparked up reactions from many Nigerians who interpreted the tweet as a threat to commit human rights violations.

While reacting to the tweet deletion on Wednesday, Lai Mohammed through a press conference in Abuja, accused Twitter of being impartial in its approaches stating that the social media giant activities are suspicious in Nigeria.

Lai Mohammed during the press conference also said “We have a country to rule and we will do so to the best of our ability. Twitter’s mission in Nigeria is very suspect, they have an agenda,” he said.

“The mission of Twitter in Nigeria is very suspicious. Has Twitter deleted the violent tweets that Nnamdi Kanu has been sending? Has it? The same Twitter during the END SARS protests was funding END SARS protesters, it was the first to close the account of the former president of the US, Trump.

“And you see when people were burning police stations and killing policemen in Nigeria during END SARS, for Twitter, it was about the right to protest. But when a similar thing happened on the Capitol, it became insurrection.”

The Minister stated that Twitter is biased during the #EndSARS protest which led to the looting and destruction of government and private property.

He asked what rule President Buhari had violated to warrant his tweet to be deleted.

According to him, Twitter may have its own rules but it’s not the universal rule.

The Minister said. “If Mr. President, anywhere in the world feels very bad and concerned about a situation, he is free to express such views. Now, we should stop comparing apples with oranges.

He also said “If an organization is proscribed, it is different from any other which is not proscribed. Two, any organization that gives directives to its members, to attack police stations, to kill policemen, to attack correctional centers, to kill warders, and you are now saying that Mr. President does not have the right to express his dismay and anger about that?

“We are the ones guilty of double standards. I don’t see anywhere in the world where an organization, a person will stay somewhere outside Nigeria and will direct his members to attack the symbols of authority, the police, the military, especially when that organization has been proscribed. By whatever name, you can’t justify giving orders to kill policemen or to kill anybody you do not agree with.”

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Ukah appointment as SSG, a collective victory – Delta NIPR

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The Delta State Chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Public Relations, NIPR, has commended its chairman, Chief Patrick Ukah, mnipr, on his appointment as the Secretary to the Delta State government (SSG).

The Delta NIPR facilitated with its chairman in a statement signed by its Vice-Chairman, Mr. Godfrey Osakwe on Friday.

According to the statement, Osakwe stressed that they are grateful to God Almighty and His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for finding it worthy to appoint the Delta State NIPR Chairman as the new SSG.

In the statement, the proactive Vice Chairman of the institution, a devoted Christian also prayed for Chief Ukah to shine more in his new role than ever before and to make them proud.

While congratulating the NIPR Chairman on his appointment, Mr. Osakwe also congratulates the institute on what he described as a collective victory stating that “Step by Step we are moving on. This new position is an exciting feat.” he added.

Also in the statement, Mr. Osakwe explained that the commendation came shortly after the current Head of Service and acting SSG, Mr. R.O.E Bayoko issued a public statement that His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has approved the appointment of Chief Ukah as the Delta State government secretary.

He also added that the inauguration ceremony will be conducted alongside nine other new appointees on Monday, June 7, at the unity hall in Government House, Asaba the Delta State capital.

Before his appointment, Chief Ukah who was a capable hand in the private and public sector was the former Delta State Commissioner for Basic Education and also the former Commissioner for Information in the Okowa administration.

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Makinde increase Corps members allowance from N5000 to N15000 (Photos)

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has announced to increase the monthly allocation of Corps members serving in the State from N5000 to N15000.

The Governor made this known when he visited the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Permanent Orientation camp at Iseyin on Thursday.

The Governor explained on Twitter how he visited the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp at Iseyin on Thursday evening assuring the corps members that his administration will address the issues raised by the Commandant about the state of the camp and also promised them on his intention to increase their monthly allowance from N5,000 to N15,000.

The Governor while speaking with corps members also recalls how it was during his national youth service in Port Harcourt, stating that he was an example of how the NYSC fosters national integration.

He said, “I also shared with them how it was during my national youth service in Port-Harcourt that I got a job and met and married my lovely wife, @iamominini. So, I am an example of how the national youth service could foster national integration. I wished them the best for the future.”

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Why we need to legalize Indian hemp in Nigeria – Akeredolu

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The Ondo State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, has said there is a need for Cannabis Sativa to be legalized in Nigeria.

He said there are a lot of benefits that could be derived from it particularly in the area of medicine and also as a source of foreign exchange to the nation.

Akeredolu made this known on Ondo State Radiovision Corporation during a live radio and television interview on Thursday while speaking at the commemoration of his 100 days in office for his second tenure.

During the interview, Akeredolu stated that there is nothing wrong with legalizing the cultivation of Cannabis for medicinal purposes.

He said we are only shooting ourselves in the foot because cannabis serves as foreign exchange for people outside the country adding that people want it, even the pharmacies want to develop it.

While speaking, the Governor narrated how he once traveled to Thailand to study the cultivation of cannabis for pharmaceutical use.

He said, “I traveled out of here and I was in Thailand to study the cultivation of cannabis for pharmaceutical use. We did all these; we even went there with the then chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, maybe he came and said what he went for was for a different thing but that was why we went there. I felt that let us look at the way they did it over there.

According to him “Everybody has a drug problem and the most country has the drug problem too but we are having it here, it is not as pronounced here as in other places but there are ways they went about these things that those who are involved in drugs; those who are selling, those who are exporting had other ways of doing things that they had to leave it. So, when we talk about cultivation, we are saying a monitored one, in which NDLEA will have an office (near the farms).”

Also, while expressing satisfaction over his 100 days in office, the Governor said his administration has been able to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Ondo State despite the inadequate funds.

He also said there will be zero tolerance for uncompleted projects stating that he only embarks on critical projects that will alleviate the welfare of his people.

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Why Nigerians will not support Igbo presidency – Sumaila

Abdurrahman Sumaila, a former Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari, has stated that no right-thinking Nigerians will support a presidential candidate from the South East in 2023.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement on Thursday in Kano.

According to the statement, Sumaila alleged that nobody will ever want to risk their lives for the southeast presidency noting that it has become clear that the motive behind the incessant attacks is to turn the country into anarchy.

In the statement, Sumaila maintains that the perpetrators of the attacks must understand that if the country is turned chaotic, nobody including the perpetrators won’t escape.

The ex-presidential aide further urged the elders in the Southeast to publicly condemn the incessant attacks by suspected members of the Indigenous people of Biafra, IPOB, or be regarded as an accomplice in the act.

He also advised the elite in the Southeast to consider borrowing a leaf from the Arewa Consultative Forum and the Northern Elders Forum for been persistent in condemning the activities of Boko Haram and bandits in the North.

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Senate propose new Bill for govt to continue abandon projects

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An APC lawmaker representing Kano North senatorial district, Senator Jibrin Barau, has proposed a bill to make it unlawful for a government to have abandoned projects in any part of the country.

The bill titled “Compulsory Development Planning and Project Continuity Bill, 2021 has scaled through second reading in the Senate on Wednesday.

According to Senator Barau, while delivering the bill to the Senate house explained that the bill will provide a sure remedy to the lack of a seamless developmental plan, adding that it will seek to make development planning compulsory for the tiers of the government.

Also, he said it will make provisions for each of the governments to organize and uphold project commission plans for projects within their region from the foundation to completion.

During the presentation, Barau explained that the noncompletion of projects and lack of continuity in government programs and policies are largely responsible for Nigeria’s lagging economic and infrastructural development.

Barau explained that government all over the world is continuum stating that ideally, once the baton of leadership of a nation is handed over to a new government, the onus lies on it to embrace the projects, policies, and programs of the previous administration without recourse to any person, party, or primitive involvements.

He said one major identifiable draw-backs to social, economic, and infrastructural development in Nigeria is the lack of continuity of policies and programs of government at the Federal, State, and Local Government.

According to him, the State resources are poorly managed as some political leaders often embark on white elephant projects that cannot endure the test of time at the end of their tenures.

He stated that the unfortunate tradition has badly characterized governance and induced corruption since 1999.

Barau recalled to the lawmakers that as of June 2011, Architect Ibrahim Bunu, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory who led the Presidential Projects Assessment committee reported that there are 11,886 abandoned projects in Nigeria both in the federal and state levels of government and suggested the completion cost be N7. 78 trillion.

Barau stated that the committee revealed that political and personal relations surpassed the national interest in the award of contracts.

He also explained how the committee had stated that the majority of the contracts were procurement driven rather than development driven.

Describing the situation, Barau said with this ugly political trend and worrisome disposition of some politicians, the nation is utterly consigned to retrogression if not urgently checked.

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Lai Mohammed accused Twitter of playing a double standard

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has condemned the action of the microblogging site Twitter of playing a game of double standard on issues affecting Nigeria.

The Minister described the role of the social media giant in Nigeria as not been reasonable stating that the company is playing a controversial role.

Lai Mohammed made these statements on Tuesday while reacting to some of the questions that erupted when President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweet was deleted.

Recall, on Tuesday, Twitter deleted President Buhari’s post for violating its rules after he has tweeted to remind Nigerians of the experiences during the civil war while also cautioned secessionists in the Southeast.

It was gathered that the President in a series of tweets on Tuesday, via his verified Twitter handle, @MBuhari, had tweeted “many of those misbehaving today are too young to be aware of the destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the Nigerian Civil War. Those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand.”

The Minister while commenting on the action made by the social media giant, explained that the company had conveniently ignored all the inciting tweets by the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, and his associates.

The Minister accused Twitter of exposing the President’s tweet as abusive stating that the company has displayed prejudices the same way it does during the #ENDSARS protest where government and private properties were destroyed and looted all in the name of the right to protest.

According to Lai Mohammed in his explanation said “Twitter may have its own rules; it’s not the universal rule. If Mr. President, anywhere in the world feels very bad and concern about a situation, he is free to express such views. Now, we should stop comparing apples with oranges. If an organization is proscribed, it is different from any other which is not proscribed.

Also, the Minister criticized the company for playing double standards in its operations stating that any organization that gives directives to its members, to attack police stations, kill policemen, attack correctional centers to kill warders, and you are now saying that Mr. President does not have the right to express his disappointment and bitterness, then you are the ones guilty of double standards.

He correspondingly said there is no way one can justify the killing of policemen or anybody by whatever name, according to him there is nowhere in the world where an organization or a person will stay somewhere outside Nigeria and decrees to its members to attack the symbols of government most especially when that organization has been proscribed

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Makinde reduce LAUTECH tuition fees by 25 percent

The tuition fees for Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), has been reduced by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

Makinde reduces the tuition fees by 25 percent when he visited the students in Ogbomoso on Tuesday, June 1.

During the visitation and interaction session with the students in Ogbomoso, Makinde stated that the deduction will cut across all students irrespective of their level and indigenity.

According to the Governor in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, stated that he was thankful to the students for giving him a friendly reception despite the unexpected nature of his visit.

The Governor while addressing the students, explained that he was happy to fulfill the promise of securing the sole ownership of LAUTECH for Oyo state.

Makinde said in the statement, “I am glad to be back among you. After the 2019 election, I should have returned to say thank you to you but I didn’t want to come until I fulfill what I promised you, which is the sole ownership of LAUTECH by Oyo State.

He continued “Let me tell you, the LAUTECH fee is still the lowest in the entire South-West. Having said that, I will reduce your fee across the board; whether indigenes or non-indigenes, even new students. There will be a reduction of 25 percent across the board, ”

Also, the Governor said after securing the sole ownership of the University that never again will four years program turn to eight years in LAUTECH.

The Governor also remembered the students of his campaign promises he made in 2019, stating that, during my electioneering campaign in 2019, I promised you that we will fix the U-Under-Stadium road so that none of the students will be killed on the main road. Now, the road is fixed and you have the street light installed.

The Governor during the visitation also inaugurated a High Dependency Unit of the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital.

He also comforted and committed 170 staff of the University Teaching Hospital who were relieved of their employment by the last administration stating that the current government will pay for their five months salary arrears.

He assured the students that his administration will construct a befitting flyover in Ogbomoso.

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Why I reduced my alcohol intake – Singer Waje reveals

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Aituaje Ebele Iruobe, better known as Waje, has revealed some details about her personal life and why she reduced her alcohol intake.

According to Waje, parenting has changed her ways of life, explaining that she reduced her intake of alcohol the day she got home drunk from an event and was welcomed by her daughter.

Waje made this revelation during a program with popular TV host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, known as ‘Rubbin Mind.’

During the program, Waje revealed that there was a time in 2013 when her daughter saw her drunk after returning from an event and it wasn’t great scenery.

She said, “There was one time my daughter saw me drunk and that was the reason I had to check myself. It was not a great sight and that was in 2013. I got home after an event. You know when you go to an event and you take one glass of champagne here and there.

“I got home and I was drunk. Guess who opened the door for me? It was my daughter. That is not something any parent should do. When your child is living with you, there are some things you should not do.”

Also, she explained how parenting has affected her personal life and her brand stating that her role as a mother made her reject some business offers as she never allowed anyone she was romantically involved with to visit her at home.

While explaining, she said being a mother affected her career because there are some choices that she had to make and there are things she could not do because she is always thinking about her child.

She mentioned how some brands could not collaborate with her simply because she had been recognized as a family brand, not minding whether she was single or not.

She said, “You are seen as a family because you have a child. Even my personal life was affected for a very long time because whoever I was in a relationship with, I don’t even allow to come to my house.”

“You do not come to visit because parenthood is that sacred; so, you have to be sure of your choices so that the kids do not do what they are told but what they see. So you have those boundaries.”

Also during the program, Waje gives a shout-out to her mother stating that when she had her daughter, Emerald, she did not stay with her until she was 13 saying “My mother helped me with the foundation and that is me being honest.”

She said “With parenting, there is never really a manual that would tell you how you should be. You just know that some of the knowledges that you have had will want to make you make the right foundations with your child when it comes to characters, principles, and how they live.

Explaining she said “It is not a job; so when you ask me that, ‘Waje how do you do it?’, I just do it.’ It is not a job. Music is what I do; acting is what I do, but a parent is who I am. I just do it. I do not know how I do it, but I just have to.

She also said the support system is very important, but one must personify the role when it comes because not everybody does that, but one must have to.

She said her daughter is in her final year now and she just like that.

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“Those who want my administration to fail will soon receive the shock of their lives” – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that those behind the attacks on national infrastructure, wishing his administration to fail will soon have the shock of their lives, adding that they have given them enough time.

Buhari made this declaration on Tuesday, June 1, after receiving a briefing from the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, and other electoral commissioners over the series of attacks on INEC facilities nationwide in Aso Villa, Abuja.

According to Buhari, these attacks are unacceptable and he will not allow those behind them to achieve their evil objectives.

Taking to Twitter, President Buhari said “I receive daily security reports on the attacks on critical national infrastructure, and it is very clear that those behind them want this administration to fail. Whoever wants the destruction of this system will soon have the shock of their lives. We’ve given them enough time.

Stating further he said “I received a briefing today from the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on the series of attacks on their facilities nationwide. These attacks are unacceptable, and we will not allow those behind them to achieve their evil objectives.

He assured INEC that he will make available to them everything they need to operate efficiently so that no one will say he doesn’t want to go, or that he wants a third term. Adding that, there will be no excuse for failure. We will meet all of INEC’s demands. He added.

Also, he said “In the area of security, we have changed the Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General, and we are demanding that they rise fully to the challenges confronting us. There must be zero tolerance for all those bent on destroying our country by promoting crime and insurrection!

He also said “Many of those misbehaving today are too young to be aware of the destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the Nigerian Civil War. Those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand.

Recall, in the last few months, gunmen attacked over 41 INEC offices, burn 11 offices,13 vehicles, 429 generators, destroyed police stations all in the South-East.

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Esquire celebrate Dame Okowa as she clock 60 years

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The political Adviser to the Delta State governor, Omimi Esquire, celebrated the First Lady of Delta State, Dame Edith Okowa as she marks her 60 year birthday.

According to Esquire in a statement, described the First Lady as a dependable partner and a strong pillar of support in the actualization of the Okowa administration.

Esquire, in his congratulatory messages, noted that without the support of the First Lady to her husband at home, it would have been difficult for Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to concentrate on impacting positively on the landmark infrastructures and human capital development as recorded in the six years of his administration.

Esquire said, Dame Okowa through her 05 initiative has brought succor and hope to hundreds of widows, orphans, physically challenged both children and elderly.

He said, “Dame Okowa in her generosity usually picked up medical bills of indigent parents who were blessed with children but could not pay their discharge bills, visit inmates with foodstuffs in the prison, give moral exhortation, conduct free eye checks, cataract operation including the provision of eyeglasses, the building of sickle cell unit at the Asaba specialist hospital and the improvement of other health facilities in the state.”

He added “On behalf of my staff and family, l heartily felicitates with a dependable mother, wife, grandmother, and indeed mother to all, Her Excellency, Dame Edith Okowa, on the occasion of her diamond (60th) birthday anniversary, today Tuesday the 1st day of June 2021. It is my prayer that the good Lord continues to imbue her with the grace, protection, and wisdom, to be not only a pillar of support to our award-winning Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, as he turns the fortunes of Deltans around with his stronger Delta vision but also in her quest, through her 05 initiative, to bring succor to the less privileged in society. Once again, happy birthday, mother of Delta, Dame Edith Okowa.”

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How economic activities were shut down on Biafra Day

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Yesterday, all economic activities were shut down in compliance with the sit-at-home order issued by the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, across the southeast States.

It was gathered by Vanguard that major streets, roads, cities and all markets, public and private schools, government offices, banks, petrol stations were shut down with keys following the Biafra day celebration on its 54th anniversary.

According to the report, all the roads leading in and out of the southeast states were ghosts of themselves as residents stayed away from them in compliance with the Biafra directives.

The ever-busy Onitsha-Enugu expressway of the Onitsha end of the Niger Bridge leading to Awka; the Onitsha-Owerri, Nnewi, and Okigwe road were all ghosts without a single-vehicle.

The commercial city of Onitsha and the industrial town of Nnewi both in Anambra State were in total compliance with the directive of the sit-at-home prescribed by the IPOB in honor of the Igbo heroes and heroines killed during the Nigerian Biafra Civil war.

Vanguard reported that in Anambra, the roads and streets were abandoned, no economic, political, religious, cultural, and social activities ever took place as residents stayed indoors all day.

It was reported that the Markets, banks, public and private schools were closed as compared to the past where street shop owners would be seen hanging around their shops to conduct sharp business transactions with their customers just as artisans did, but in this 2021 sit-at-home, traders, artisans, business owners, and shop owners did not come out of their homes, let alone visiting their shops or offices to hang around for any possible business transaction.

In Onitsha metropolis, all the major markets like Onitsha Main Market, Relief Market, Ochanja Central Market, New Motor Spare parts Nkpor and Obosi and Old Motor Spare Parts Nkpor and Obosi, and Building Materials Market and Concessionary Market opposite and other markets located in Ogidi were shut down. Small markets including foodstuff markets that never closed for business even on Sundays, namely, Ekene Junction Food Market, Coca Cola Food Market by Onitsha Enugu Expressway, and those located near Ochanja Central Market were closed.

None of the numerous banks in various locations in Onitsha opened for business. Schools both secondary and primary schools did not open for academic activities. Policemen were seen in over six convoys of vans patrolling major roads and streets without any seen at any checkpoint.

Correspondents moving around the ever-busy and congested Upper Iweka in Onitsha reported that all the motor parks of major transporters, like The Young Shall Grow, GUO Transport Company, Ifesinachi Transport Company, ABC Transport Company, MIC Merah Transport Company, and others, including private motor parks contracted to individuals by Anambra State Government, were stranded with no passenger seen for business.

In the report, it was gathered that thousands of touts were not seen within the ever-busy Upper Iweka, Iweka Road, Lagos Park, Owerri Road, Obodoukwu Road, Uga Junction, Atani Road and Niger Bridge Head, Niger Street, and all the streets around Onitsha Main Market, and other major markets in Onitsha and Edo Ezenewi, Bank Road, Owerri Road all in Nnewi, were nowhere to be seen.

Meanwhile at the Niger Bridge Head, an exit from Onitsha to Asaba, soldiers mounted checkpoints, and few pedestrians coming in and exiting Onitsha, were made to properly identify themselves before crossing. Nobody was harassed, intimidated, or maltreated. There was no single gunshot by the soldiers or Policemen seen patrolling the roads and streets of Onitsha.

The situation was the same at the Asaba end of the Niger Bridge Head, the border between Anambra and Delta States, near God, is Good Transport Company terminal and Edegbe Transport Company, as soldiers and Policemen of “Operation Delta Halks, OPDH, were seen conducting similar checks on pedestrians and few motorists on essential duties without any kind of harassment and intimidation of the people and occupants.

However, the two transport companies, God is Good and Edegbe Motors business premises were closed for business as no single passenger or vehicle except few grounded ones were seen at the terminals.

In Imo State, economic and social activities suffered a serious setback in all the 27 local council areas as everyone remained indoors in compliance with the sit-at-home order of the IPOB.

No single human and vehicular movement was seen on the streets especially Owerri, the state capital. All businesses were completely shut down.

An investigation revealed that apart from those who opted to respect the “stay at home order issued by the leadership of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB”, others stayed away for fear of being arrested by security personnel.

A respondent who spoke on strict grounds of anonymity, said: “Imo has been in the news for all the bad reasons. The level of insecurity in the state is palpable and nobody is sure of what happens in the next meeting.

“Before the sit at home order, stories were told about how innocent people were arrested by police operatives and branded bandits, IPOB and members of Eastern Security Network, ESN. We have also heard and seen how some hapless people were killed for puerile reasons.

In Enugu, there was total compliance to the sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, as economic and social activities in were paralyzed in the state .

It was gathered that Ogbete Main Market, New Market, Kenyetta Market, Garki were deserted. Schools, parks like Onitsha South Mass Transit, GOU, Young, Ifesinachi, Royal Mass Transit, banks, and shopping malls like Shoprite were abandoned and under lock and key.

At Okpara Avenue, Abakaliki Road, New Layout, Ogbete Market, Agbani, Abakpa, and other major towns and areas in the state were looked while commercial buses and tricycle riders were nowhere to be seen.

Other markets in the metropolis that were affected included Aria Market, Kenyatta Market, Artisan Market, Garki, and Akwata Market.

Also, academic activities at public and private schools in the metropolis were affected as no student was seen in schools visited.

In Ebonyi, it was gathered that hoodlums set motorcycles, vehicles ablaze with 100 percent compliance as shops, business centers, parks, stadiums, recreational centers, banks, universities, schools both private and public among others were not opened for activities. Vehicles and motorcycles were hardly seen on the road as the state capital was unusually in a state of quietness.

Vanguard also gathered that around Ozibo Development Centre, a group of young men was seen molesting passersby and motorcycle operators for violating the sit-at-home order.

Situation report within the axis of Nnodo, Abebe junction, and Ogbaga road revealed total compliance to the sit at home order in the state.

It was further gathered that all banks and shops along Ogoja Road and waterworks are under lock with key as streets were abandoned.

While in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, Social and economic activities were paralyzed in the Nsukka metropolis, following the sit-at-home-order to honor the Biafran fallen heroes.

It was observed that the popular Ogige Market in the heart of the university town and all the commercial banks and traders’ shops were locked.

There was equally no vehicular movement as residents retired to their homes except for a few who were peeping from secured corners in their respective streets to observe the situation.

The same situation was observed in the popular market at Obollo Afor, Udenu Local Government Area of the state as traders locked their stalls, leaving the market empty.

In Abia State capital, streets in Umuahia were empty and abandoned as residents remained indoors in total compliance with the sit-at-home order to mark this year’s Biafra Day.

Unlike previous years when the exercise recorded partial compliance in Umuahia where the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu hails from, the capital city was completely shut down. All shops in the street were under lock and key.

When the Correspondent visited the relief market beside Amuzukwu Primary School, no trader nor buyer was sighted as the market was completely deserted.

It was a similar situation at the ever-congested nearby Orieugba market which was a ghost of itself.

Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu had Sunday night said Abia traders would not be compelled to open their shops today if they chose not to do so.

But, Kanu in his early morning Facebook live broadcast on Monday both on other social media platforms, expressed rage over the non-compliance attitude of Umuahia, Enugu, and Abakaliki to similar orders in the past.

He warned them to ensure total compliance to the sit-at-home order this year.

Business centers in Aba, the commercial nerve center of Abia State were shut as residents observed the sit-at-home order by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, to honor Biafra’s fallen heroes.

The roads in the city were abandoned as motorists also complied with the order. Even the usually disruptive tricycle operators could not be sighted on the roads. Schools in the city had earlier warned parents to keep their children at home.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has commended Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra State; his Enugu State counterpart, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, and Gov. Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State for taking some proactive actions in memory of the Biafra Day celebration.

Kanu during the live broadcast on Monday morning via Facebook and other social media platforms also applauded the courage of Gov. Obiano in building a cenotaph in memory of fallen Biafra heroes.

He also commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for releasing members of the Zionist Biafra group crammed into detention for some months now.

The IPOB Leader also saluted the boldness of Gov. Ikpeazu in “speaking truth to power” when he declared on Sunday night that Abia traders would not be forced to open their shops today (Monday) if they chose not to do so.

Similarly, Kanu grudgingly commended the decision of Umahi to revoke his earlier threat to seize the shop of any trader in Ebonyi that closed shop because of the sit-at-home order.

Kanu stated that “for the first time” the governors had behaved in a manner that won his admiration.

“Maybe they are beginning to repent but I don’t want to be quick in saying they have repented until I’m sure they have. If they have repented, that will be nice for us all”.

Kanu called for unity among Ndigbo and other indigenous tribes that make up the Biafra republic, saying that unity of the people in Nigeria’s greatest nightmare.

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Gov. Okowa make new appointment

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The Delta State governor, Sen, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has announced the appointment of nine Advisers.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement released by the Head of Service and Secretary to the State Government, R. O. E. Bayoko, mni, on Monday, May 31.

In the statement, it is hereby announced for the information of the general public particularly Deltans that governor Okowa has approved the appointment of nine Advisers.”

According to the statement, the Advisers are Dr. Kingsley Emu, Chief Economic Adviser; Mr. Omimi Esquire, Political Adviser; Hon. Chief Isaac Anwuzia, Political Adviser; Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Okoro, Special Adviser; Hon. Kelly Penawou, Special Adviser; Chief Andy Asawota (Esq), Special Adviser; Chief Mrs. Mary Iyasere, Special Adviser; Chief Edwin Uzor, Special Adviser; Chief Godwin Ogadi, Special Adviser.

Also, Bayoko in the statement, noted that the date for the inauguration will be announced later.

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Why I dissolved my cabinet – Governor Okowa reveals

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The Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has said the dissolution of his cabinet is a result of distractions in the governance of the State, stating that he doesn’t want to have an Exco that is divided in the next two years of his administration because he wants to achieve his vision.

Okowa made this revelation while interacting with journalists at the quarterly media interaction in Asaba on Wednesday, May 18.

According to Okowa during the media briefing, admitted that many of the commissioners worked very hard in helping him to achieve the successes his administration had recorded in the last six years, but stated that the cabinet started getting divided, a development he said began to create a distraction in his governance.

While speaking, he commended all the former cabinet members for their contribution and disclosed that God would guide him towards the reconstruction of a new cabinet.

Speaking further, Okowa explained that “At some point in time in the course of an administration, there are always reasons to take some actions. If I tell you that there is no reason for the dissolution, then I would have fooled myself; then why did I have to dissolve the Exco?

“Of course, there are reasons. I believe that I have been in this administration in the past six years but two years in this tenure, while I have two years to go. There have been a lot of distractions among some members of Exco.

“They have been working effectively and strong and so many of them have been very useful to me and I must thank them as I did yesterday; I must acknowledge that a lot of them have worked with me to be able to achieve that which we have achieved.

“But the fact is, in the last two years, we needed to be able to ensure that we reduce the level of distractions in governance and if we do not take that action, I may have an Exco that may be divided in the next two years and that will not enable me to achieve my vision.

“So, I thought that there was a need to re-work the Exco in such a manner that we will operate within the least stress where those in Exco will know that their minds are focused more on what we can achieve in the next years rather than in their private ambitions and beliefs.

“And, that was a key factor, otherwise the gentlemen that worked with me, who also include the ladies, we’re very good; they worked hard, they meant well for the administration and I truly thank them for all that we have done,” he stated.

Also during the interaction, Okowa debunks allegations that he is planning to hand over to an Ijaw man stating that, “It’s only God Almighty that knows who will be the next governor after him.

He said, “I cannot pretend to be God, for I am not; I don’t know who God is going to bring and I don’t have the intention of playing the role of God.

“You will hear a lot more things just as they said I want to handover to an Ijaw man; I don’t think that I have the strength to play God but the issue is when the politics starts, politics will be played and God almighty will take the decision on who will be governor.

“But as I said, at some point in time as a political party, because I can only speak for my party, we will sit down to look at issues to find out what truly will be fair, what truly will be justified, and what should equity mean.”

When asked about power rotation and in which senatorial district the next governor will emerge from, Okowa further urged the people to pray for God’s intervention stating that, “There was no formal agreement signed and no formal meeting was held where the issue of zoning was discussed and agreed upon.

He continued that there was no legal meeting in which a gentleman agreement was reached, there was no former meeting of such and that is the truth as of today.

“It means that whatever we are doing or talking about today is about what is fair, what is equitable, and how to define what is fair and what is equitable and hinged on justice,” he said.

In addition, he also talked about the decisions of the Southern Governors meeting in Asaba stating that “All the discussions and decisions were in the best interest of the country.

He added that the decision was not for the South alone, but maintained that they were decisions that will help unite us the more as a country.

Also, he explained that the decisions will help to bring further development and improve the security situation in the country stating that the decisions reaffirmed the belief and unity of the nation.

In his reaffirmation, he said, “I believe also that the decisions will stimulate hope to our people across Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, Okowa who was with his deputy, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, thanked the media for their fair reports and for also partnering with his administration in the last six years.

However, in response, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, also thanked Okowa for making out time to brief the media on what he referred to as the “State of the State”

Ifeajika further commended the State journalists for their reportage on the activities of the government in the State.

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Buhari apply to lawmakers for N2.3trn external loan approval

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President Muhammadu Buhari has made a request to the National Assembly for its approval on the application of a 2.343 trillion Naira external loan to fund the budget deficit of the 2021 budget.

The loan will be sourced from the multilateral and bilateral lenders, the international capital market through Eurobonds issuance.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, during on Tuesday plenary.

According to the statement, it was stated that Buhari is seeking a resolution from the National Assembly to approve a new external loan of 2.18 billion dollars in the 2021 Appropriation Act to finance the budget deficit of N5. 602 trillion.

The President also stated that the request is in line with the provisions of sections 21(1) and 27(1) of the Debt Managemen Office Act, 2003 (DMO Act) which states that “No external loan shall be approved or obtained by the Minister unless it’s terms and conditions shall have been laid before the National Assembly and approved by its resolution while section 27(1) further states that “The National Assembly may by a resolution approved from time to time standard terms and conditions for the negotiation and acceptance of external loans and issuance of guarantees.”

Meanwhile, the statement was also sent to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, for the lawmakers to ascertain the request.

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Why Okowa ends 1999 politics in Delta

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The Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has decided to hold the bull by the horn to end the 1999 politics and restrategize to build up his legacies with his trusted associates before his tenure runs out.

It was gathered from an Investigative Journalist, Miracle Chinedu Enuji, who alleged with facts that some political appointees have hijacked the government with the notion that the governor cannot be everywhere. A fact he said can attest to itself.

Enuji, in what he described as Okowa Cabinet Purge, explained that every dynasty has its ends and the phase of 1999 politics gradually comes to an end in Delta State noting the immediate past appointees were not sincere to the governor, and in most cases, they never used their offices to reach out to Deltans in their regions.

Enuji revealed that most of the immediate appointees use their assignment to deceive their boss like Oga all is well, you’re doing well, no shaking, no more poverty, no dissenting voices, bla bla bla.

Also, Enuji revealed that if facts are to be told, a third of Deltans don’t truly like Governor Okowa’s administration primarily because of the conceived nepotism that was exhibited and repeated by the same persons he graciously authorized from the Central, South, and even from his North senatorial district in the state.

According to an article that was published in 2017 by Asaba Metro, revealed that Governor Okowa was once urged to use his first eleven before the 2019 general elections. A story that has resonated in the midterm of his second tenure.

Meanwhile, Enuji had recommended to Governor Okowa not to utilize pressure to kill the fly perching on his scrotum stating that he can run the government with just a few devoted hands.

He maintains that the multitude of Commissioners and political appointees cannot translate to be the best administrators.

He further encouraged and advised Governor Okowa as he ends the 1999 politicians dynasty to choose his own first eleven that will encourage him to finish strong and ignore the politics of concession, adding that there is no antidote for old age.

Recall, on Tuesday, May 18, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State terminated the State Executive Council while authorized all commissioners in the administration to hand over to their various permanent secretaries with immediate effect.

The termination also affected the SSG, Chief Of Staff, Special Advisers, and all Political Advisers in the State.

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How Nzete urges PDP exco to commence Ward Activities

The Local Government Chairman for Ndokwa West Local Government Area in Delta State and the immediate past Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Obi Goddey Nzete, has pleaded to the party exco to bolster its fold in the Wards level by promoting party activities.

Nzete made this known in Kwale when the Ndokwa West Local Government Area executive led by Chief Lucky Okwuji visited him at the LGA headquarters.

During the visit, Nzete appreciated the party exco for their assistance in the council election while also call on party leaders in the LGA to forgive one another stating that the party is supreme and should respect accordingly.

The council boss explained that his administration is prepared to work with all stakeholders to reinforce the party for it not to loses its member to the other parties as he call for partnership to move the party forward.

Also, he called on all stakeholders to join hands with his leadership to halt the endless killings of people in LGA which according to him have made several efforts towards settling cult-related killings in various communities since he attains his office stating that all hands must be on deck to end the unreasonable homicide of youths.

While responding, Chief Okwuji acknowledged God for the party accomplishment at the council poll and also requested the chairman to proceed thus stimulate the unity required to enable the party to centralize its grip ahead of the 2023 general elections.

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Latest: Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa dissolves cabinet

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has authorized all commissioners in his administration to hand over to their various permanent secretaries with immediate effect.

The decision which involves the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), all special advisers including the chief strategist of the Government, and the senior political adviser was made know after Gov Okowa dissolved his cabinet earlier today.

This was made known by the immediate past Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu while briefing the State correspondents in Government House, Asaba the state capital on Tuesday.

During the briefing, Mr. Aniagwu disclosed that the Exco meeting lasted a bit longer than they expected.

He said, “Let me from the beginning drop what may be the headline for today: the Exco has been dissolved and for so, I am the immediate past commissioner for information.”

Mr. Aniagwu explained that the Governor has asked all commissioners to hand over to their various permanent secretaries with immediate effect.

Also, he explained that all special advisers are to hand over to the person next to them.

Other affected public office holders are the Chief Of Staff, the SSG, and all senior political advisers.

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See how Fireboy DML performs at Black Africa Month celebration

YBNL signee, Fireboy DML, has been among those that performed live on YouTube during a celebration that was organized by Black Africa Month.

Fireboy DML did a 14 minutes virtual demonstration with his live band on Sunday, May 16.

During his impressive performance, Fireboy DML started with his hit single ‘Champion’ followed by Energy, Alone, and Tattoo, all in his sophomore album ‘Apollo’.

Watch video:

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Timaya celebrates his Fourth Child, See how he celebrated her

Popular Nigerian musician, Inetimi Timaya Odon, better known as, Timaya, has celebrated his fourth child’s birthday named Maya.

This was disclosed by Timaya in his post on Instagram on Monday, May 17.

According to Timaya’s post, he captioned the photos “Thank you so much @dunnieo, dear you special

It was gathered that Timaya and his third baby mama celebrated the birthday in the United States of America and was attended by close family members and friends.

Recall that Timaya already has three kids, Emma, Gracey, and Emmanuel from a previous relationship. His first baby mama, Barbara Nwokolo, the mother of Emma and Gracey, while Tamar, the second baby mama to Emmanuel.

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Dbanj declare openly that he is now born again

Ace Nigerian entertainer, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, better known as Dbanj, has openly declared that he is now a born-again Christian.

Dbanj made this declaration during a Christian concert when he speaks about accepting Jesus Christ as his saviour in Abuja.

According to a video post that was shared on Twitter by Instablog on Monday, May 17, Dbanj narrated how God had blessed him with two kids after his first child drowned in a swimming pool in his house.

See video

https://twitter.com/instablog9ja/status/1394314672506081280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1394314672506081280%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fd-2464386042259594460.ampproject.net%2F2104302228000%2Fframe.html

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Why Northern agitation against Southern Governor’s decision is illegal – Ozekhome

Mike Ozekhome, a Human Rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN in a statement, ent has to ask why Northerners are kicking against the decisions made by the Southern governors during their meeting in Asaba.

According to Ozekhome in his statement stated that the northerners are afraid that the south is now awake and may finally attain their independence.

Ozekhome statement titled ‘Why Some Northern Elite Are Suddenly Worried By The Southern Governors’ Asaba Declaration?’ was released on Monday, May 17.

The senior advocate in his statement alleged that the sudden unexpected kick by some Northern elite against the patriotic resolutions passed at the Southern Governors Forum in Asaba was quite worrisome but uncalled for.

He said, the kick is illegal, unconstitutional, and even immoral he added.

Describing the situation, Ozekhome stated that “The sudden hoopla and ruckus seem to suggest that these few vocal elements are suddenly scared. What are they afraid of? I do not know. Or do you? But, let me do some guesswork here. They may probably be afraid that the South has finally woken up and shaken off its Stockholm syndrome.

Also in his statements, he stated that they are scared that the assumed long-suffering ‘slaves’ of Nigeria may finally achieve their overdue liberation, liberty, and freedom, and attain their independence from the asphyxiating grip of perpetual overlords, ‘slave’ master, Neo-Colonialists, and territorial expansionist.

He further stated that under a true fiscal federation, anchored on the true principles of Federalism, everyone will now be required to contribute to the baking of the national chairman cake and not just merely sharing it.

Meanwhile, Ozekhome in his statements also faulted President Buhari who traveled to Paris for the African Finance Summit despite the rising case of insurgency in the country.

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Yung6ix got robbed while moving out of his apartment

Popular Nigerian rapper, Onome Onokohwomo, better known as Yung6ix, has been robbed while moving into a new apartment in the United States of America.

The rapper in a video he shared on his Instagram page on Monday, May 17, revealed the CCTV footage of the incident.

According to Yung6ix, while narrating the ordeal on Instagram stated that his car was robbed and he listed the items that were stolen from him.

He said in his words “My car got robbed. Had my whole life in that car. My laptop with my new album and mixtape. About $5,000 – $7,000 cash, Black Magic 6k camera, 4 iPhones, my PS5, and studio recording equipment while I was moving into my new apartment.

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Governors to implement Order 10, set date of the meeting

The Nigeria Governors Forum has announced its decision to meet on Wednesday to discuss the issue of implementing the controversial Order 10 which grants financial autonomy to the judiciary and the legislature.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the NGF Head of Media and Publicity, Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, on Monday, May 17.

According to the statement, he noted that the meeting would also consider updates on fiscal transparency and accountability reports with the concern about the third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Also, he noted that the meeting will cover lessons for states and actions for governors on sustainability as regards the adoption of SaaS E-procurement.

Bello-Barkindo further noted that the Director-General of the NGF, Asishana Okauru, will give feedback on the series of the Executive Order 10 meetings with the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, about the ongoing industrial action by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria and the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria.

But in regards to the implementation of Order 10, the chairman of the Governors Forum and Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, has given the assurance that governors are willing to implement the order which will grant financial autonomy to both the judiciary and legislature stating that the process will commence by the end of May.

Meanwhile, in the statement, it was revealed that the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Sabo Nanono, will be invited to brief the NGF on the second phase of Farmers Enumeration also with the Director-General of Bureau for Public Enterprise, Alexander Okoh, who will be presenting to the forum about the unlocking liquidity through sales/optimization of state-owned redundant/sub-optimal assets.

The statement further revealed that the NGF PTF committee led by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State that was charged with the responsibility of liaising between the committee and the forum will also brief the meeting on health matters arising from the third wave of Covid-19.

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Latest: How ex-Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed was arrested

The Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, arrested the immediate past governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatah Ahmed, in Abuja.

The ex-governor was arrested at about 10 am when he arrived at the EFCC headquarters on Monday in response to the petition raised to him by the agency.

A source disclosed that the ex-governor was under investigation with the EFCC over an alleged diversion of funds during his tenure as governor of Kwara State after Bukola Sariki when he was a Commissioner of Finance to the tune of N9 billion.

According to the source, the Ex-governor was investigated for over seven hours writing statements about N9 billion that was diverted from the Kwara State account when he was the governor between 2011 and 2019, and also when he serves as a commissioner for Finance under the administration of a former governor, Bukola Saraki.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed the incident that the former governor responded to the agency’s invitation but also decline further statements regarding the invitation.

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Gunmen attack police station, killed three security officers in Delta

Gunmen razed Nsukwa Police Headquarters in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State and killed three police officers.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Sunday at about 1:00 pm.

According to a source, the gunmen shot sporadically from the thick forest behind the station for almost an hour before arriving at the station by foot.

The source also said that the three slain policemen were Inspector, Sergeant, and a Corporal but the identities are yet to be known.

However, the situation of the detainee at the station is yet to be ascertained at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Spokesperson for the State Police Command, DSP. Edafe Bright has not responded to the incident as of press time.

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Buhari jet to Paris for four days official visit

President Muhammadu Buhari has jetted to Paris, France to attend a four days African Finance Summit hosted by the French President, Emmanuel Macron.

This was made known in a statement that was released by President Spokesman, Garba Shehu while revealing that the focus of the Summit is to review the African economy over the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic and also to get relief from the debt burden on countries.

According to the statement, the Summit will also attract major stakeholders in the global economic organizations and some Heads of Government who will discuss collectively the issue of external funding and debt procedure for Africa and private sector reforms.

The statement also revealed that the President will meet with Macron to discuss security challenges in the Sahel and Lake Chad region, political relations, economic ties, climate change, and partnership in the health sector most importantly in the areas of checking the spread of Covid-19 with more research and vaccines.

Also in the statement revealed that the President before returning to Nigeria will receive some key players in the oil and gas sector, both in engineering and telecommunications, the European Council, the European Union Representative for Foreign and Security Policy Commission, and members of the Nigerian community.

However, those that accompany the President is the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, Minister of Trade and Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, and Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire.

Others are National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Mohammed Monguno (rtd) and Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, the Director General of National Intelligence Agency (NIA).

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No going back on the ban for open grazing – Wike

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has made his stand to back on the decision of the Southern Governors ban on open grazing saying “No going back.”

Governor Wike made this affirmation on Saturday while speaking at a civic center reception organized by the Ogoni Ethnic Nationality in Bori, Khana Local Government Area of the State.

According to Wike, the decision has already been cast on the stone as there is no reason to go back.

Wike while addressing the audience said, “Look, I have been in government, I am in opposition, nobody can cow me, they know, their government cannot cow me. I will say what I will say and I will do what is right for my people. Nobody will do me anything. I will die the day God says it is my day. Nobody can take my life when it is not time for me to die. So, let nobody be afraid.

Also, he said, “Let me use this opportunity to say, all those who are saying why should Southern Governors ban grazing – I have taken further steps to fulfill what the Southern Governors said in Asaba. If anybody wants to die, go and die and hang yourself on an electric pole.

Wike also mentioned that they are not second class citizens of the country and they also own the country to partake in what is happening in the country stating that enough is enough because they have taken their position and they are not going to go back, He added.

While still speaking, Wike also calls on the Federal Government to move its office to Bori on its implementation of the Ogoni environmental cleanup exercise.

“You have said you are coming to clean Ogoniland, move your office from Port Harcourt, and come to Bori.”

He said, “You cannot talk about cleaning up a place and you keep your office in another area, bring your office from Port Harcourt and come and stay in Bori so that you can hear and see the feelings of the people. It is very important.”

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What we demanded are not new – Okowa tells critics over restructuring

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has said the decision of the Southern Governor’s Forum to ban open grazing and call for restructuring is only to re-echo the voices of the people.

Okowa explained that the things they demanded are not new stating that it is just the voice of the people that they are echoing.

The governor made this assertion during the inauguration session and empowerment of the constituents of the Minority Leader of House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, in Asaba on Saturday.

Okowa reaffirmed that the ban on open grazing and the call for restructuring was only geared towards strengthening the unity of the country stating that the Southern Governors met on Tuesday in Delta State to discuss fundamental problems, comprising the farmers-herders crisis which has caused pandemonium across the country.

According to Okowa comments, he said it is so unfortunate that when he read from the papers that somebody says they ought not to talk about certain things, despite being elected by the people.

Okowa made an explanation saying that if the voice of your people has been heard and they continue to talk and you are shying away as an elected person for giving further voice to their voices, then you ought not to be in that position that you occupied.

He said the issue of restructuring should not be condemned because they believe in the unity of the country and they take a step to address certain things that were needed to strengthening that unity as elected Governors and also as people.

He said the issue of restructuring is widespread and integrating as we may have different views, different approaches to the issue but added, when we all sit at the table and dialogue, we will be able to agree on what is best for Nigeria and what is good for the parts of it.

Also, he added that the issue of restructuring has been on the table for so long adding that both PDP and APC have endorsed it.

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Why I haven’t gone to church over four years – Peruzzi

Peruzzi during a session with Joey Akin in Afrobeats Intelligence revealed that he hasn’t gone to church since meeting with Davido but stated that he still believes in God.

According to Peruzzi, he hasn’t been to church for like four years while narrating how he was once a keyboardist in Assemblies of God Church during his days of being in the choir.

He said, “Yeah, Assemblies Of God Church, I play keyboard, Acappella if you are not playing instruments.”

Peruzzi explained that if you are playing instruments, it has to be the full thing because everybody is singing, backing up, and harmonizing.

The DMW signee also explained that he learned how to harmonize treble, alto, tenor, bass, everything that will make the music sweet.

The singer revealed that his whole life experience is based on his childhood foundation stating he has always seen himself as a star before meeting with anyone in the industry.

Peruzzi said, “I knew there was a wave, it been like that, I started preparing myself for it because I always knew that if you want to get somewhere, you need to prepare yourself for it. It wasn’t fake because I don’t rock any fake shit but I faked being a star.

He continued that, “I used to act like people are watching me. I didn’t have any drip but I’d make sure that I’m not wearing any fake Gucci, I’m not wearing any fake Versace. I wear a plain white shirt.”

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How Dickson commend police for functional operations despite poor funding

The Senator representing Bayelsa West senatorial district in the National Assembly, Sen. Seriake Dickson, has commended the Nigeria Police Force for performing their best despite frustrating welfare and functional challenges.

Sen. Dickson made the commendation when he paid a courtesy visit to the acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Usman Baba.

This was made known in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Frank Mba on Friday in Abuja.

According to the statement, Dickson explained that the visit was in solidarity with the police over the dastardly and criminal acts of terrorism unprovoked and coordinated attacks on the force.

Dickson condemned the murder of innocent police officers and the violent wreckage of security assets among other government infrastructure in various parts of the country.

The Senator, a two-time former governor of Bayelsa State called for the extinction of all elements of criminality and unpatriotic act against the police and government infrastructure in the country.

Also, the Senator mentioned that the police were not the problem of the country stating that they should not be seen as the enemy.

While felicitating with the new IGP on his appointment, Dickson also called for proper funding of the Force to improve its functioning.

The IGP in response commended the Senator for his solidarity and promised to continue devoted to its task of protecting lives and properties despite the insecurity in the country.

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Your opinions are wrong, it is against genuine agitations – Ogun Speaker tells Lawan

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The Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo, has faulted the Nigeria Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, over his opinions after condemning the decision of the Southern Governors who call for restructuring during the meeting of the Southern Governors Forum that was held in Asaba, Delta State capital.

Oluomo condemn the Senate President opinion during an interview with journalists after the successful celebration of Eid el Fitr on Friday, May 14, made this inclination.

According to the Oluomo, the Senate President is wrong and premeditated while doubted the action of Lawan stating that it is against the genuine agitations of the people towards the ongoing constitution amendment.

Oluomo said Lawan is not sincere about amending the constitution to suit the exigency of this time, stating that he did not expect him to fire back at the governors for airing the opinion of the people.

He explained that almost everybody in the country has been agitating for restructuring since they don’t know how they came together in 1914.

He also asked if there is anything wrong if everybody sat together and rearranging the union adding that, “When has it become a crime in the Constitution of Nigeria to say the mind of those who elected you?”

In a similar development, the Yoruba sociopolitical group known as Afenifere has also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure he restructures the country before the next election.

The group leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo stated this during the meeting of the group that was held at his residence in Ogbo, Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun state on Friday, a meeting that attracted delegates from across the country.

Adebanjo explained that there must be a country first before holding, elections while also, calling for the resignation of the President stating that Buhari doesn’t have a clue about the problems of Nigeria.

Adebanjo further explained that if the President failed to quit, the situation of the country would stumble into a crisis which nobody can foretell it’s ending.

However, during the meeting, Adebanjo was also revealed as the new leader of the Yoruba apex group after a caucus meeting.

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Victor AD drops new song ‘Olofofo’

Popular Afropop sensation musician, Victor Adere, better known as Victor AD, has released his latest song ‘Olofofo’ with the unveiling of his record label, Red Eye after disjoin from Sir. Justin World Entertainment (SJW).

Victor AD made this announcement on his social media page on Friday, May 14.

The song ‘Olofofo’ was produced by Kulboy, mixed and mastered by Swaps.

In the song, Victor AD talked about his move on how he tackled criticism from haters these days stating that he is not shaking again.

Recently the Wetin We Gain crooner had been involved in a viral rumor on social media that he claimed to have written the ‘Jowo’ song for singer Davido but he has since cleared the air on the story saying, he never wrote any song for him.

Listen to the song:

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See what Basketmouth reveals about his album ‘Yabasi’

Ace Nigerian Comedian and actor, Bright Okpocha, popularly known by his stage name Basketmouth, has revealed why he collaborated with over eight established artists in his ‘Yabasi’ album and how he meets Flavour and Phyno before embarking on the project.

Basketmouth made these revelations while speaking with the participants of the Tony Elumelu Foundation during an Instagram live session.

According to Basketmouth while explaining the reason why he collaborated the established artists stated that as long as you are partnering with the right person you can hardly go wrong. Stating that, he wasn’t selfish with the process and he wasn’t there in the album even as he rap.

He revealed that he needed numbers as well as people that have good followers because of the kind of music that he was going to make.

Basketmouth also revealed that he did not select any artists based on friendship while maintaining that he selected them based on who can deliver.

While still responding, he mentioned that the album is not about shaking bum because he needed an album that can be played by both young and old family members.

Also, he further mentioned that when planning for the album, the first people he talked to was Flavour and Phyno stating that, he didn’t do it over the phone but according to him, he went to visit them and told them the story, making them understand his goals and purpose before involving others.

He also said even though these guys might want to do it for him based on relationship and love, he also needs to give them something that will interest them stating that the first thing he did was to get the right producer, Duktor Sett, for the project.

Basketmouth described the ‘Yabasi’ project as a purpose-made music album that had all tracks produced by Duktor Sett.

In the album, Basketmouth collaborated with Flavour, Duncan Mighty, Ice Prince, Waje, Phyno, Peruzzi, ill Bliss, Umu Obiligbo, Ladipoe, and others.

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Six PDP members declare their intention for governorship race in Delta

Six aspirants from the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, under Delta Central Political pressure group also known as DC-23 have announced their ambitions to contest for the 2023 governorship election in Delta State.

The aspirants declared openly during the DC-23 meeting that was held to unveil the National Executive and members of the Board of Trustees for the Delta Central political pressure group in preparation for the 2023 governorship election and also to announce the date for the Inauguration.

The six aspirants, Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas, immediate past SSG, Delta State, Olorogun David Edevbie, Chief of Staff; Government House, Hon. James Augoye, Commissioner for Works, Delta State; Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Special Adviser to the Governor, Chief Kenneth Okpara, Former Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Abel Esievo, Former Auditor-General, Local Government, Delta State, and others made this revelation on Thursday.

At the meeting, the DC-23 National Chairman-Elect, Chief Ighoyota Amori, explained that the executive would be officially sworn in on May 22, 2021, at PTI Conference Center at 10 am, while urging politicians in Delta Central to attend the DC-23 Inauguration.

Chief Amori further stated that the group will visit Urhobo traditional rulers and the leadership of Urhobo Progress Union for proper briefing before it will begin it’s drive and lobby for the actualisation of Delta Central Governorship come 2023.

Also speaking at the meeting was the former Minister of Information, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, on his part he urged members of the group to continue to appeal to the political bigwig in other senatorial to see reasons with DC-23 on why the next governor should come from Delta Central.

Meanwhile, those announced for Inauguration on May 22, 2023 are Chief Ighoyota Amori, National Chairman, Hon. Solomon Igbrakpata, Deputy National Chairman, Hon. Reuben Izeze, 1st Vice Chairman, Chief Suru Salami, 2nd Vice Chairman, Hon. Dennis Omovie, 3rd Vice Chairman, Dr. Chris Oharisi, National Secretary, Dr. Amos Ighorodje, Assistant National Secretary, Mr. Matthew Tsekiri, Assistant National Secretary, Barr. Isaac Itebu, National Treasurer, Chief Pius Ovbije, Assistant National Treasurer, Hon. Taleb Tebite, National Financial Secretary, Chief Tony Oboroh, Assistant National Financial Secretary, Hon. Godwin Atose, National Organizing Secretary, Hon. Christian Onogba, Assistant National Organizing Secretary, Mr. Austin Opubor, National Welfare Officer, Mrs. Philomena Ededey, Assistant National Welfare Officer, Hon. Peter Uviejitobor, Assistant National Welfare Officer.

Others are Hon. Andrew Orugbo, National Legal Adviser, Mr. Stephen Akemu, National Youth Leader, Mr. Raymond Edijala, Assistant National Youth Leader, Mr. Benson Idje, Assistant National Youth Leader, Chief Mrs. Faith Majemite, National Women Leader, Hon. Best Okoromadu, Assistant National Women Leader, Hon. Elohor Urhobe, Assistant National Women Leader, Barr. Arthur Akpowowo, National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Sunday Apah, Assistant National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Festus Pemu, Assistant National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Anthony Akpomiemie, National Auditor, Hon. Donald Akpojohore, Assistant National Auditor, Hon. Abraham Whiskey, National Provost, Mr. Lawrence Ladu, Assistant National Provost, while Mr. John Otokwefor, Mr. Akpoufuoma Pemu, Barr. Idris Ekakitie, Hon. Doris Ejenavi, Hon. Ann Divine Iniovosan and Mrs. Oma Jennifer Efeviroro as Ex-Officials.

Also to be inaugurated for the Board of Trustees has Barr. William Etubiebi as Chairman, Chief Bernard Edewor, Deputy Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Ighomena, Secretary, Dr. Lucky Avweromre, Assistant Secretary, Chief Eddie Ono-Sorhue, Spokesman, Chief Hope Erute, Assistant Spokesman, Chief Robert Onome, Chief Chris Ometan, Rt. Hon. Evelyn Omavowan Oboro Esq., Chief Godstime Emashemigbe, Hon. Felix Anirah, Hon. Julius Egbedi, Chief (Mrs.) Margret Unukegwo, Barr. David Emakunu, Chief Mrs. Philomena Oyearone, Chief Mike Adiotomre, Chief Judith Enamuotor, Chief John Oguma, Chief Eunice Okoh, Chief Ernest Juweto, Barr. Moses Odibo, General Dominic Oneya (Rtd), Surveyor Terry Noah, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, Rev. David Otofia, and Elder Joseph Umukoro as members.

However, the meeting was also attended by the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Matthew Opuoru, Hon. Felix Anirah, member DTHA, Hon. Sunny Akpodiogaga Emeyese, Former House of Representatives member, Hon. Solomon Ahwinahwi, Former House of Representatives member, Hon. Samuel Mariere, PDP House of Representatives candidate in the last general elections, Hon. Evelyn Omavowan Oboro Esq., Former House of Representatives member, represented by Hon. Sunday Apah, Hon. Napoleon Gbinije, Former House of Representatives member.

Others are Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, Chief Western Author, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Mr. Austin Ayemidejor, Hon. Paul Etaga, Mr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivwe, and a host of others.

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Gbajabiamila did not oppose restructuring, Reps debunk rumors

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The House of Representatives has debunked stories whimpering that the speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila has opposed the decision of the Southern Governors call for restructuring.

This was disclosed in a statement on Friday by the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Benjamin Kalu while reacting to the situation that arises after the media reported that the Speaker attacked the Southern governors over the issue of restructuring which was reached at the Southern Governors Forum meeting that was held in Government House in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Benjamin Kalu, in the statement titled ‘The Speaker did not say he is opposed to the Southern governors call for restructuring’ revealed that from the beginning of the 9th Assembly, the House under the leadership of Rep Femi Gbajabiamila has stated its commitment for a thorough review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria stating that it can be seen in the composition and activities of the Constitutional Review Committee of the House.

According to the statement, the House of Representatives gathered that the allegations made against the Speaker after seeking his opinion on the issue are false and misleading, noting that Gbajabiamila did not oppose the governor’s decision on the call for restructuring.

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Delta: How neighbor and his six friends gang raped a minor

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A 14-years-old girl name withheld has been gang-raped by a group of seven able-bodied young men alleged to cult boys in Delta State.

It was gathered that the incident happened at Ogboli village in Isle-uku where the victim was beaten and repeatedly raped by one Aboy Nwaise, Sunday, Michael, Abraham, Uche, Jungle Boy, and another who were supposed to be her big brother.

According to the victim while explaining to the Delta State Child’s Rights Implementation Committee and Sexual Offences Unit of the Ministry of Justice after the police have obtained her statement narrated how the said Aboy’s mother had earlier threatened to deal with her through the son but according to her, the mother never envisage that it would be by violent rape.

Narrating the ordeal, the victim said they were tenants in Nwaise’s family compound at Ogboli village where they sometimes run errands for Aboy’s father and he usually gives them money to appreciate them.

She said, on that fateful day, Aboy’s father one Mr. Otu Nwaise had returned home from work after it had rained briefly. He noticed that there was water in their house and none of his children was home to help him clean up. He beckoned on the neighbor’s daughter (victim) to help sweep the water out of the house, which she did.

Then the next day, the man came back from work, called on the girl, and handed her N500 for helping him sweep the house the previous day. This was the money the wife saw him giving to the girl that made her accuse her of sleeping with the husband.

The girl including her mother and the woman’s husband was surprised because they had always lived as a family and the man had always given money to the children when they run errands for him.

The next thing she approached the girl, slapped her twice, and snatched the money from her hand. Even when the girl’s mother was begging her, she didn’t listen, instead, she was threatening to further deal with her.

Then a day after, she was returning home from their auntie’s shop where she had gone to pick her younger brother around 7 pm when the said Aboy accosted her and started interrogating her of what transpired the previous day between her and his mother. While she was trying to explain, Aboy told her to take the brother home and come back so they could resolve the issue sitting, instead of standing. So she obliged.

On returning, Aboy asked that they go to his friend’s house nearby to sort things out, and she followed him, trusting him as a big brother. She said on getting to the house there were two other boys in there, smoking. And she pleaded with Aboy to quickly explain things to him so she could leave because she was allergic to smoke. But he asked her to hold on a little.

Then again, four other boys came into the room and the next thing Aboy did was to lock the door and put the music that was playing on the highest volume. He then asked her to pull her cloth. At this point, she started pleading with him to allow her to go, but instead, he slapped her and hit her head on the wall, and forced her naked. That was when all the boys in the room started taking turns in raping her while the music was very loud that nobody could hear her screaming for help.

She said there was a friend of theirs who they didn’t allow in because he was telling them that what they were doing was wrong. It was this their friend that helped her home after they were done raping her and opened the door for her to go with a threat to kill her if she ever mentioned them.

Meanwhile, the sight was horrible when the mother saw her in her pool of blood. She had raised an alarm that attracted neighbors who assisted her to rush the daughter to the hospital around that time of midnight. From there they were referred to the Central Hospital in Asaba, but they had to report at the Divisional Police Station in Issele-Uku, where the DPO had to deploy a patrol team to accompany them to Asaba as at 3 am that day.

The case had since been transferred from Issele-Uku Police Station to the State Command and the police are on the trail of the alleged rapists, including Aboy’s mother who had run away too.

Interestingly, Aboy’s father, Mr. Otu Nwaise had been helping to track his son for an arrest. He had since disowned and condemned the actions of his wife and son, stating that they had been a thorn in his flesh. He prayed that his son is caught to face the law for his crime.

Mr. Otu even revealed how he had earlier reported his son to the Anti Cult outfit to arrest him and deal with him for being a cultist. He said the boy had severally threatened his life, calling him ‘a Ju man’.

However, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Peter Mrakpor SAN has said that the state must get justice for the victim.

He confirmed the effort of the government in ensuring she receives proper medical attention and then going forward, be rehabilitated including relocating her from that environment.

The AG then advised every parent who faces a case of rape and defilement of their children to report and leave the rest for the government.

In the same vein, a member of the State Child’s Rights Implementation Committee, Comrade Patrick Ochei who was detailed to follow up with the case, had commended the Attorney General for equally responding to the situation through the Sexual Offences Unit of the Justice Ministry.

He appreciated the Commissioner for Justice for taking care of all the expenses arising from the girl’s b in terms of rehabilitation and others going forward.

Ochei said that the victim being a child would get justice, just as the Committee is poised to do everything within its powers and capacities to prosecute the case to a logical conclusion.

He also affirmed that the Committee would come up with a program on how the girl would be rehabilitated against post-rape trauma, adding that this is the time to show her all the love she deserves including assigning a professional counselor to aid her emotional healing.

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How Delta CP deploys 1715 police officers, urge residents to be security conscious during Eid-el-Fitr

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc, has deployed 1715 police officers to all Muslim worship centers both the nooks and crannies of the state to step up secure lives and properties while maintaining peace and order at this time of Eld el Fitr celebration.

This was made known in a statement by the acting Spokesperson of the command, DSP Edafe Bright, on Tuesday, May 11.

According to the statement, the Commissioner extends his warmest felicitation to all the Muslim Ummah residents in the state who are celebrating this auspicious occasion of this year’s Eld el Fitr.

The CP stated that the month of Ramadan does not only bring blessing but also believed it instills the values of patients needed in our daily lives.

The CP explained that the lesson from the season will enable us to shun all differences and exhorts us to promote harmony with the aim of love and affection for each other according to the teaching of Allah.

Also, to maintain peace and harmony, the CP further urges members of the public to continue to assist and collaborate with the Police and other security agencies to enable them to serve the people of the state better.

CP Ari Muhammed also admonished the people of the state to be security-conscious and take appropriate measures towards personal protection and their personal effects, not only at home but also in public places such as markets, worship centers, shopping malls, and highways.

However, the CP enjoined everyone engaging in the celebration to please adhere to all Covid-19 protocols at all times, to help curtail the spread of the pandemic while also encourage everyone to spread the blessings and happiness of the Eid celebration.

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How 17-Southern-Governors meet in Asaba to tackle insecurity, ban open-grazing

The 17 Governors from Southern Nigeria under the aegis of the Southern Governors Forum of Nigeria had their meeting on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at Government House, in Asaba, Delta State.

The meeting was held to review the current security situation in the nation and also focus on agitation about restructuring, prospect for inter-state collaboration as well as a partnership towards the incidence of the Covid-19 Pandemic among others.

During the meeting, the Governors agreed on different rising issues and also focus on recommending several solutions to solve the nation.

At the meeting, the Governors confirmed that the people of Southern Nigeria remain committed to the unity of Nigeria based on justice, fairness, equity, oneness, and peaceful coexistence among its people with the focus on shared goals for economic development and prosperity in the region.

The Governors observed that the incursion of armed herders, criminals, and bandits into the Southern part of the country has presented severe security challenges such that citizens are not able to live their normal lives which include various productive activities leading to a threat to the food supply and general security.

Also, the Governors, explained that the development and population growth has put pressure on the availability of land which has increased the prospects of conflict between migrating herders and the local populations in the South.

The Governors after considering the scenario of the security challenges caused by the armed herders and various activities hereby agreed to ban open grazing of cattle across the Southern States of Nigeria and also the movement of cattle across the South by foot.

After the ban on the movement of cattle to the South, the Governors also recommended to the Federal Government to support willing States to develop alternative and modern livestock management systems.

Also, the Governors called for the progress of the nation and agreed that the Federal Government as a matter of urgency takes bold steps to restructure the Nigerian Federation which will lead to the evolution of state police, review of revenue allocation formula in favor of the sub-national governments, and also for the creations of other institutions which legitimately will advance the commitment of true federalism practice.

The Governors, based on the widespread agitations among various people from the region for greater inclusiveness in existing governance arrangements, recommended that the Federal Government as a matter of urgency make to convoke a national dialogue.

The Governors also recommended to the Federal Government to review the appointments into Federal Government Agencies (including Security Agencies) to reflect the federal character as Nigeria’s heterogeneous population.

However, to foster cooperation among the Southern States and the nation at large, the Governors resolved that Secretaries to the Government of the Southern States are to work together to develop and institutionalize a mechanism that will foster partnership towards the advancements of economic advantage and other interests of the Southern States.

The Governors also expressed concern about the continued gridlock on the Apapa Expressway and the chokehold it has caused on the nation’s economy being the sole outlet from Apapa Wharf.

The Governors also recommended the activation and establishment of ports in other states of the federation to create new jobs and promote socio-economy activities in the country.

Also at the meeting, the Governors cautioned against the implications of another lockdown on the country while suggested for greater coordination and cooperation between Federal and State Governments in evolving strategies for dealing with the pandemic.

The Governors during the meeting also expressed grave concerned about the security challenges which is currently plaguing the nation and strongly urge the President to address Nigerians on the challenges of insecurity to restore confidence in the citizens.

The 17 Southern Governors who attended the meeting includes, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State as the host, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, Governor of Ondo State; His Excellency Dr. Victor Okezie Ikpeazu, Governor of Abia State; His Excellency Chief Emmanuel Udom, Governor of Akwa Ibom; His Excellency Senator Diri Douyi, Governor of Bayelsa State; His Excellency Willie Obiano, Governor of Anambra State; His Excellency Prof. Ben Ayade, Governor of Cross River, His Excellency Engr. David Umahi, Governor of Ebonyi State; His Excellency Godwin Obaseki, Governor of Edo State.

Others are Governor John Olukayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, His Excellency Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governor of Enugu State; His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State; His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State; His Excellency Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola, Governor of Osun State; His Excellency Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, Governor of Oyo State and Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike of Rivers State.

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DMX posthumous album will drop in May, see date

A posthumous album titled ‘Exodus’ comprising all-new songs of late US rapper, Earl Simmons, better known as DMX will be dropping on May 28, under Def Jam Recordings.

The posthumous album will be dropped by his longtime producer and collaborator, Swizz Beatz, who also doubles as the executive producer and producer of the collection.

It was gathered by The Hollywood Reporter that his longtime collaborator, Swizz Beatz, announced the date on his Instagram page on Monday, May 10.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Swizz Beatz described DMX as a brother who was one of the purest and rare souls that he has ever met.

In his words, Swizz Beatz stated, “My brother X was one of the purest and rare souls I’ve ever met. He lived his life dedicated to his family and music.”

“Most of all, he was generous with his giving and loved his fans beyond measure. The album, X couldn’t wait for his fans all around the world to hear and show just how much he valued every single person that has supported him unconditionally.”

However, the posthumous album, Exodus’ is DMX’s first album after 18 years in Def Jam Recordings since he released his last one, ‘Grand Champ’ in 2003.

The posthumous album shares the same name as DMX’s son, Exodus Simmons, and the artwork is been photograph by Jonathan Mannion, a frequent collaborator.

Recall the rapper who also was an actor died on April 9, at the age of 50 years after suffering from what officials described as a catastrophic cardiac arrest.

During his lifetime, the rapper has sold over 74 million records worldwide and he has held the distinction of being the only artist in history to enter both the Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop charts with No. 1 debuts for his first consecutive career albums.

The five consecutive album includes, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot (May 1998, with “Ruff Ryders Anthem”), Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood (December 1998), … And Then There Was X (1999, with “Party Up (Up In Here)”), The Great Depression (2001, with “Who We Are”) and Grand Champ (2003, “Where The Hood At?”).

Meanwhile, the tracklisting for the posthumous album ‘Exodus’ was not available at the time of filing this report.

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Don Jazzy, Kanayo O. Kanayo meet for the first time

Popular music producer and Marvin Record boss, Michael Collins Ajereh, better known as, Don Jazzy, meet veteran Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo, for the first time and showed respect in kneeling to greet him.

Don Jazzy, in a video post he shared on Instagram on Monday, was seen kneeling as a sign of respect to greet the veteran actor, while Kanayo was also pleased to meet him as both were seen hugging each other with excitement.

In a mood for excitement, Don Jazzy caption the video post as, “I just met the legendary @Kanayo.o.kanayo for the first time. I’m star-struck. What a pleasant surprise. Thanks, @vintagedeluxeinteriors for the intro.”

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BBNaija confirmed Ebuka as host for season six edition

The organizers of the Big Brother Naija reality TV show have announced Ebuka Obi-Uchendu as the host for this year’s season six edition.

This was made known on Monday by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, on Instagram.

Ebuka, while announcing the news on Instagram, shared a video clip of himself from the previous edition with a caption stating that “Well, guess who’s returning as the host of the next season of BBNaija. Let’s go again, guys.

However, the announcement has made him become the host of BBNaija for five consecutive years since 2017.

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FG declares Wednesday, Thursday as public holidays

The Federal Government has declared public holidays for Wednesday and Thursday to mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, in Abuja on Monday.

The Minister while making the declaration called on all Nigerians to use this period of celebration to pray for unity and strength in the country.

According to the Minister during the declaration, stated that development cannot thrive in a rancorous atmosphere while urging Nigerians to be law-abiding and embrace the spirit of love, self-discipline, kindness, and tolerance as taught by the Holy Prophet Mohammed.

Also, the Minister called on security agencies in the country to be noble and patriotic as to conquer the war against insecurity.

The Minister further wish all Muslims a happy Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

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How Burglars attempted to break into Buhari Chief-of-Staff residence

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A yet be identified persons attempted to burglarize the residence of Ibrahim Gambari, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari.

It was gathered that the residence was located in a street next to the Aso Rock Villa and it was burgled in the early hours of Monday.

This was disclosed on Twitter by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, on Monday night.

According to Garba Shehu tweet, he tweeted that “The Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari has confirmed that there ‘was a foolish attempt’ to burgle his residence at 3:00 this morning but it turned out to be unsuccessful.

“Professor Gambari, whose house is on a street next to the Villa has assured that there is nothing to worry about from the incident.”

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INEC office burnt down in Abia

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC office in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State has been attacked and set ablaze by yet to be identified persons.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Sunday night and was confirmed by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Joseph IIoh.

This was disclosed in a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye Esq, on Monday, May 10.

According to the statement, the Commissioner revealed that there were no casualties on the part of the staff on guard but stated that furniture items and all electoral materials, office equipment as well as the building were destroyed.

Narrating the incident, the Commissioner revealed that the attack was not the first on the Commission in the state, adding that five months ago on December 13, 2020, the INEC office in Aba South was completely burnt down while on October 2020, that of Arochukwu LGA was vandalized and ransacked.

The Commissioner further recalls that last week, the commission reported an attack on its office in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Also, the Commissioner while narrating, expressed anxiety over the impact of the attacks on electoral activities which according to him involves the ongoing expansion of voter access to Polling Units, resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), pending bye-elections, end of tenure elections, and ultimately the 2023 General Election.

The Commissioner also explained that these facilities are national assets that must be protected while calling for an emergency meeting next week on Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Electoral Security (ICCES) to discuss the disturbing trend.

The Commissioner also reassure Nigerians that all activities about the ongoing expansion of voter access to Polling Units and preparations for the resumption of CVR as well as all scheduled elections will proceed as planned.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner also explained that the attack has been reported to the police for investigation.

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How Truck carrying live bullets fell off in Anambra

A Mercedes Benz truck carrying live bullets has spilled its content in Onitsha, Anambra State.

It was gathered that truck was moving the live bullets out of Onitsha to a yet to be ascertained location when it spill along Akwa Road in the early hours of Sunday, May 9.

It was also gathered the diver and the conductor of the truck sustained some minor injuries after the truck lost control and slipped off into a gutter with its content.

The Sun News, however, gathered that the driver and his conductor tried evacuating the content but could not do much before daybreak when some police operatives arrived at the scene.

Meanwhile, the police have reportedly arrested the driver of the truck while the conductor escaped in the process.

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Alexx Ekubo reveals his wedding date, see when

Popular Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo has revealed the date of his wedding with his fiancee, Fancy Acholonu.

The actor made this revelation through Instagram on Monday, May 10, while announcing the date of his wedding with his fiancee.

The actor revealed that the wedding will be happening this year and according to him, the traditional wedding will be in Imo State on November 21, while the white wedding will hold in Lagos on November 27, 2021, respectively.

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Oyedepo warn members not to take Covid-19 vaccine, see why

Bishop David Oyedepo, the General Overseer of the Living Faith Church International also known as Winner Chapel, has warned his members not to take the Covid-19 vaccine.

Oyedepo stated this on Sunday in Ota Cathedral during the 40th anniversary Thanksgiving service of the church in OGUN State.

During the anniversary, Oyedepo stated that an elder in the church who works with the World Health Organisation has attested that the vaccine circulating across the country has not been duly tested.

Also, he said, the side effects defeated the benefits of taking the vaccine stating that, “They wanted Africa dead. I heard them say it. When we didn’t die as they proposed, they brought out a vaccination scheme. You need to hear their proclamation that Africa will lack spaces to bury corpses. But today, the reverse is the case. Africa has the least casualty among all the other continents of the world.”

He also faulted the idea of vaccinators going to churches to get people vaccinated while insisting that the church is an anti-Covid-19 zone.

According to Oyedepo, it is an insult to the church because nobody has the right to enforce vaccination on anybody.

He said, the government should come to him for a lasting solution to the Covid-19 pandemic, asking them to come to find out how to deal with the Covid-19 at no cost, while recommending that a shot of anointing oil can kill the virus.

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How South Africa proposes a law to allow women to marry more than one man

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The Ministry of Home Affairs in South Africa has considered a new law that will allow women to marry more than one husband.

The law happens to function the same way the polygamous men are allowed to marry more than one wife.

According to a 67-page document also known as Green Paper on Marriage, stated that the legislation is discriminatory because it does not recognize Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, and Rastafarian marriage.

The current marriage legislation does not promote marriage equality rather it policy promotes the polyandry form of marriage to be legally recognized.

Also, in the Green Paper, the South Africa Ministry of Home Affairs proposed the option for a gender-neutral marriage regime that will allow favor both polyandry ad polygamy marriage.

Meanwhile, the Ministry also noted that the option for polyandry has ruffled feathers and South Africa’s traditional leaders have vociferously opposed the proposal, claiming that a woman being married to more than one husband is an “unacceptable practice because it is not of African origin.”

However, the document proposed has until the end of Jun for South Africans to comments on the context of it.

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Rema sign new deal with Monster Energy Drink

Popular Nigerian singer and Marvin Records signee, Divine Ikubor, better known as Rema, has announced his endorsement deal with Monster Energy Drink.

The singer during an exciting mood took to Twitter on Friday, May 7, to share an audiovisual announcing the ambassadorial deal in few words.

According to Rema in his post on Twitter, he stated, “Just bagged a deal with @MonsterEnergy My energy up x2.

See post:

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Gunmen attack security locations in Rivers, killed seven policemen

Despite the curfew imposed by the Rivers State Government, on Friday, May 7, gunmen in a security outfit attack different police posts in the state and killed seven policemen that are on duty.

It was gathered that the incident happened at 10 pm when two police stations in Obio-Akpor and Emuoha Local Government Areas were attacked.

During the attack at Elimgbu police station, three police officers were killed, while at Romaji, the Divisional Police Headquarters, two officers were also killed and a police patrol van was set ablaze.

It was also gathered that in another attack, the gunmen further attacked a security outpost known as C41 along the East-West Road and two police officers were also killed.

However, the Spokesperson for the State Police Command, Nnamdi Omoni, confirmed the incident but did not give further information about the attacks.

Also, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Eboka Friday, confirmed the attacks while leading a team of operatives to the various locations to ascertain the situation.

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Blaqbonez celebrate as his latest song hit number one on Apple Music

Popular Nigerian fast-rising music star, Emeka Akumefule, better known as Blaqbonez, has announced one of his landmark achievement as his song ‘Bling’ hit the number spot on Apple Music.

It was gathered that the song ‘Bling’ overtook Burna Boy’s latest song ‘Kilometre’ on the chart.

Revealing this achievement, the singer took to his Twitter page on Friday, May 7, to celebrate and thank his fans for all the massive support and love.

Also, he thanks Burna Boy for showing him love in the spirit of companionship.

According to his post on Twitter, he stated, “We fucking did it!! Number 1 song in the country!!!

Thank you to every supporter!!
Thank you to @burnaboy

See post:

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Burna Boy anticipate next album, see what he said

Grammy Award winner, Burna Boy, has revealed what his fans should expect from him in his upcoming album.

The award-winning singer in a series of posts he made on Twitter stated this on Friday, May 7.

However, the singer has confirmed having a new album but failed to reveal the title and the date he intends to drop it.

According to his post that he shared on Twitter, he stated that “I forever suffer. The full eyed masses hatred of anything they do not understand. I embraced my pain and turned it into the greatest weapon this world will ever know.

Also, he added that “This next album. I need you to hear the pain in my voice, The pain of an OUTSIDER, Forever marked by my skin, my past, and the place I come from No matter how skilled I am or how honorable I proved myself.

See his post:

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How Spiff role ends in ‘The Johnsons’

Popular Nollywood actor and award-winning superstar, Samuel Ajibola, better known as Spiff, has announced the end of his role in the TV series of ‘The Johnsons.’

The actor in a post he shared on Instagram on Friday, May 7, revealed this with a caption he made on the post.

According to him while sharing the post on Instagram, he stated that nothing lasts forever that this decision has been in his thoughts for few years while also being thankful for the opportunity and the exposure he derived from his character in ‘The Johnson’.

Spiff, in his words during his post stated, “For about 10 years now, I have sacrificed my time, dedicated my life as well as all the God-given creativity within me to serving the Spiff character on The Johnsons Television series which undoubtedly for me, has fulfilled its purpose in bringing entertainment, happiness, and joy to the African continent as well as bringing therapeutic healings to the mind of people from several testimonies I’ve heard.

Also, he said, “As we all know, nothing lasts forever. everything that has a beginning surely has an end. and as tough as this decision has been for me in the past few years, the time has come for me to move on and grow.”

Recall, he won the “Best Actor” in the Comedy category for his role as Spiff in the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award, AMVCA, in 2017.

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BBNaija Wathoni gift her Dad, Mom new car each

Big Brother Naija reality star for Lockdown season, Wathoni Anyansi, has announced the celebration of buying her father and mother a new car each, six months after leaving the BBNaija lockdown house.

The reality TV star, in a post she made on Twitter on Friday, May 7, sharing the photos of the cars, a Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla, while also gave thanks to God for being able to buy her parents a car.

According to the reality star in her post on Twitter stated that “Super thankful to God that in a space of 6 months I could do this for both my Mom and Dad.
Family is super KEY to me.

See her post:

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Delta police arrested fake soldiers, robbers, cultists, recovered weapons

The Delta State Police Command has announced the arrest of two fake soldiers for impersonation and also arrest some suspected armed robbers and suspected cultists in the state.

This was disclosed in a statement by the acting Spokesperson for the State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright, on Friday, May 7, in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the statement, it was gathered that on Wednesday, May 5, at about 1 pm, the DPO of Ogborikoko Police Division received information that Jemilia Suleman ‘of age 48 years, a native of Plateau State with one Monagor Charles ‘m’ age 61 years of Ndokwa East LGA Area of Delta State were found wearing military uniforms and lodged in Beji Court Hotel in Bendel Estate off Airport road Effurun.

Getting the information, the DPO of Ogborikoko Division, CSP Martha Ikong detailed and led surveillance operatives in conjunction with the military personnel to the hotel where the suspects were apprehended and items recovered from them include 10 pairs of military camouflage uniforms, six T-shirt, jungle caps, one T-shirt and singlet.

The lady suspect also confessed that she bought the military uniform in the market and use it in earning a living as the investigation is still ongoing.

Also, on Friday, April 30, at about 4:30 am, the DPO of Division Police Division received information from Elu vigilante member that one Etor Lucky ‘m’ age 20 years of Elu community and two other members of Viking Confrantanity were disrupting a social wake keeping and harassing guest in the community.

The DPO of Ozoro Division on quick response, mobilized the police patrol team to the scene and arrested the said suspect (Etor Lucky), and recovered a cut-to-size locally-made single-barrel gun while the investigation is still ongoing.

In another vein, on Monday, May 5, at about 2:30 pm, in Ughoton community, Okpe LGA Area, the DPO in Orerokpe Police Division received information from a distress call that one Efe Lucky and Ramson Akpojibu both ‘m’ of Ughoton community brought a patient name Christian Surname unknown ‘m’ to Moving Star Clinic Warri and where he was certified dead.

According to information gathered that the duo who brought the deceased were stain with blood on their clothes and was about to abscond when the detective from the Orerokpe Division stormed the clinic, view the corpse, and find out that there were signs of violence on the body of the deceased. The corpse was photographed and deposited at the Orerokpe General Hospital mortuary.

The Police however arrested the two suspects Efe Lucky and Ramson Akpojibu, they were taken to their premises for search and blood stained cutlass, hammer, and blood-soaked towel were recovered.

The suspect confessed that they were five in number that beat up the deceased to death over allegation of stealing their three thousand naira (N3, 000.00) and phones, while effort is ongoing to arrest the three other suspects. Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, has ordered that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

Also, on Wednesday, May 5, at about 4:05 am, the DPO of Oghara Police Division received a distress call from an Indigene of Ijomi village that in his compound at the above village, his dogs started barking signifying the presence of danger within the compound that he came out to inspect what was happening when he saw two armed boys.

The DPO in quick response deployed patrol team to the scene, suspects on sighting the police, took to their heels then ran into the nearby bush which was later combed by a combined team of police and vigilante teams where one Ugbaudu Williams ‘m’ 31 years a.k.a Beleke, a notorious criminal was found fatally shot on his right hand and was seriously bleeding and confessed that he was shot by one Desmond his partner in crime.

He was taken to his house for a search where another locally made barrel gun was recovered with two live cartridges, one expanded cartridge was also recovered before he was rushed to the General hospital Oghara for treatment where he was confirmed dead while receiving treatment. However, the manhunt for the fleeing suspect is ongoing.

While also on Wednesday, May 5, at about 1:30 pm, a patrol team from Okpanam Police Division during a stop and search exercise behind three upstairs Okpanam, a Bajaj (Boxer) motorcycle with Reg. No. AKM 705 VM conveying three persons were intercepted, the rider escaped while the other two accomplices one Friday Worfer, Sunday Panwal, and Emmanuel David all ‘m’ of Ogbe-Obi Quarters in Okpanam were arrested.

It was gathered that when the search was conducted on them, one locally-made pistol and one cartridge were recovered from the suspects, they were suspected to be among the syndicate who rob in Asaba and Okpanam axis mostly at night.

However, the investigation is still ongoing to arrest the other fleeing suspects.

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How host communities suffer setbacks, IOCs fail to implement MOUs

The Delta State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor, SAN, has expressed that the lack of commitment by the International Oil Corporation (IOCs), to implement the memorandum of understanding (MOU)
has been the major cause of setback within the host communities in the state.

The Honorable Attorney General made these statements when the executives and members of the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel (ICC) of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Delta State Council visited him at his Chamber in Asaba the state capital on Friday.

According to the law officer, he faulted the actions of the IOCs for not keeping up with the MOUs they signed with the host communities stating that their actions have bred tension in the communities and if not managed properly, it would cause a lot of hostilities, casualties, and inevitable shutting down of operations of the IOCs.

The Commissioner of Justice also explained that the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) if signed into law would uplift some components exceptionally that of the local content act which stakes full-fledged prosperity and sustainable development for host communities not only in Delta but also to other oil-bearing communities across the nation.

The Delta CJ further advised host communities to stand fast and united to shun divisive dispositions that will lead to discord while signing MOUs with the IOCs operating in their communities.

The Delta CJ furthermore expressed concern over the current insecurity situation that is looming in the country which he said is worrisome, stating that “security is everyone’s business. Let’s not be under the illusion that it’s the government’s business alone. So long as we live in a particular geographical location, we are duty-bound to be sensitive to happenings around our environment.”

Also while still speaking, the Honourable Commissioner of Justice and Senior Advocate further charged the media to be optimistic as partners in progress in their objectives by setting up strategic agenda for the betterment of the society.

In response, the Chairman of the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ, Delta State Council, Comrade Andrew Akpo Emephia explained that his chapel exco and members were on the visit to congratulate him on his elevation as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), by the Body of Benches.

Also, the ICC Chairman further sought for the Justice Ministry to partner with the chapel towards making inputs for the benefit of the people at the grassroots.

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Some high profile Nigerians are involved in financing terrorism – Malami

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, Abubakar Malami has revealed that some high-profile Nigerians are involved in the financing of terrorism in the country stating that such persons and institutions are being profiled for persecution.

He said that an ongoing investigation revealed beyond doubt that an undisclosed number of suspects have been arrested following a recent conviction in the United Arab Emirates, UAE, in connection to the financing of terrorism.

He made these revelations while briefing State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday.

According to him while explaining the extent of the prosecution stated that “As you well know, sometimes back there were certain convictions of Nigerians allegedly involved in terrorism financing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“That gave rise to a wider and far-reaching investigation in Nigeria and I’m happy to report that arising from the wider coverage investigation that has been conducted in Nigeria, several people, both institutional and otherwise, were found to be culpable.

“I mean reasonable grounds for suspicion of terrorism financing have been established, or perhaps has been proven to be in existence in respect of the transactions of certain higher-profile individuals and businessmen across the country.

“I’m happy to report that investigation has been ongoing for a long and it has reached an advanced stage.

“Arising from the investigation, there exists, certainly, reasonable grounds for suspicion that a lot of Nigerians, high-profile, institutional and otherwise, are involved in terrorism financing and they are being profiled for prosecution.

“In essence, it is indeed true that the government is prosecuting and it’s indeed initiating processes of prosecuting those high-profile individuals that are found to be financing terrorism. It is indeed true.”

Meanwhile, the Minister while speaking did not disclose the numbers of the suspects that are involved in the financing of terrorism in the country rather he stated that “As to the number, the investigation is ongoing and it has to be conclusive before one can arrive at a certain number, but one thing I can tell you is it is a large number and they are being profiled for prosecution.

“It is indeed a large number and I’m not in a position to give you the precise number as of now because the profiling and investigation are ongoing.”

Also, the Minister explained that the government is already in its fight to invoke the full wrath of the law on those culpable in the sponsor of the terrorism stating that, nobody is going to be spared, no stone will be left unturned.

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Some unscrupulous persons tried to undermine govt policy – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has said despite the closure of borders to control the smuggling of petroleum products, and to check the inflow of smuggled goods, arms, and ammunition, some unscrupulous persons still tried to undermine every policy of the government, irrespective of the good it was meant to achieve for the country.

The President also charged the government at all levels to go back to the basics, stating that a bottom-up approach is needed from ward to local council, states, and federal.

The President during the 6th regular meeting with the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC) that was led by Professor Doyin Salami, made these statements in Abuja on Friday.

The President, however, complained about how people still brought in arms and ammunition into the country despite asking security operatives to shoot anyone found illegally with an AK-47.

He said, “They still brought in rice in vehicles and motorcycles. They haven’t stopped, people must show consideration for their own country.

According to Buhari while explaining stated that when the Controller General of Customs called him, saying that 40 tankers filled with patrol had been seized, he simply asks him to sell both the fuel and the trucks and put the money in the treasury.

The President further revealed plans on how the Federal Government intends to develop irrigation facilities to facilitate more people into agriculture adding that agriculture is a good way to subdue the economic hardship rocking the country.

According to the President, he said, “We need to go back to the land because technology is doing away with petroleum and we are lucky that we have other resources, Gas, vast arable land which we not using enough.”

The President further maintains that only 2% of land cultivated is under irrigated while proposing that incentives are needed as an effort for private investors to go into the sector.

In response, the PEAC explained that the Nigerian economy has been out of recession but remains fragile with inflation, high rate of unemployment, and external account weak stating that there is an urgent need to address the challenges of inflation.

The PEAC also recommends an end to all forms of insecurity, mobilization of aids for investment, quick implementation of agricultural reform policies as well as the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) as a basis for breathing life into the industry.

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Buhari sack NPA boss, set up new Panel of Inquiry

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the recommendation made by the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, to set up an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the Management of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA.

This was contained in a statement signed and made available to newsmen by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, on Thursday, May 6.

According to the statement, it was revealed that the President set up a Panel of Inquiry to investigate the NPA while asking the Managing Director of the NPA, Hadiza Bala Usman, to set aside.

Also, the President approved Mr. Mohammed Koko to act in the position of the sacked Director accordingly.

The President further revealed that the Panel will be headed by the Director of Maritime Service of the Ministry while also approve the Deputy Director, Legal of the same ministry as the Secretary.

Other members of the panel will be appointed by the Minister

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Nigeria insecurity is caused by past leadership – Gov. Umahi

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi, has accused the past leadership of Nigeria as the main cause of insecurity in the country.

He said the past Nigerian leaders failed to address the future of young people in the country stating that it has led to the present state of what the country is experiencing today as regards insecurity.

The Governor made these statements during a session on Channels Television on Thursday, May 6.

According to him, it is not proper to blame the present administration for the high rate of insecurity in the country as the reason is systematic.

He said, “When people talk about the recent insecurity in our country, I keep saying that the insecurity did not just develop overnight. It has been a result of the failure of our past leaders to address the future of our youths. And this is the truth. So it’s not a question of blaming Mr. President or blaming Governors or blaming APC or PDP; it is systematic and it has been there for a very long time.

He further said “I think that we must deploy sincerity in our approach. We must deploy consultation, wisdom, and prayers. If all these are put together, I am sure that the insecurity in the country will be a thing of the past.”

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Davido first daughter get new car as birthday gift

Popular singer Davido, has surprised his fans again as he took to social media to share the news of his first daughter, Imade Adeleke, upcoming birthday with a brand new Range Rover Evoque.

The singer in a post he shared on Instagram on Thursday, revealed a picture and video of Range Rover Evoque that he bought for his daughter, Imade as she about turning 6 years.

According to his caption on the post, he wrote, “Happy early birthday @realimadeadeleke daddy loves u!! Enjoy ur MOTO.”

Meanwhile, in the post, his daughter Imade was seen with her friends inside the new car trying to test run it.

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Why I choose sex over love – Blaqbone

Popular Nigerian musician and Chocolate City signee, Emeka Akumefule, better known by his stage name as Blaqbone, has revealed why he chooses “Sex Over Love” and why he titled his latest album that he dropped on Friday, April 30, ‘Sex Over Love’.

He also revealed how he knew he was going to be a musician, his early life while growing up, and his debut song ‘Mamiwota.’

The singer made this revelation in a recent interview with Wale Oloworekende of Audiomack where he was described as the Paints Portraits of Nigeria Reality.

According to the singer during the interview stated that the album ‘Sex Over Love’ is theme-wise because to him, he was just putting himself out and trying to share where presently he is, stating that he realized love is not real to him, according to him, that’s not what he experiences daily.

He explained that all this while, love songs have been the norm in Nigeria, and they are more likely to blow up. It pressures artists to want to make love songs.

He said, “The album is me embracing who I am and singing about my life. I’m sure there are people out there who will relate to how I feel on this album” He stated.

While still speaking during the interview, Blaqbone explained that he is not a dedicated singer like Joeboy and Fireboy DML when asked if presently he will consider himself as a rapper or a singer?

He said, “I’m somewhere in the middle because I’m still a rapper, but I’m singing. I’m sure a lot of people will say I’m a rapper, but that’s fine; I’m not concerned about what people call me. I’m concerned about people loving what they think I am.”

See the full details of the interview where Blaqbone is been regarded as the Paints Portraits of Nigerian Reality.

No musician operating today confronts the reality of being young and alive in Nigeria with the searing candor of Blaqbonez. From the euphoric high of a night on the town to deal with the crippling uncertainties of upward mobility, Blaqbonez’s music presents an unfiltered perspective on 21st-century Nigerian youth identity. The music is rife with struggle, joy, hurt, ambition, and bursts of creativity.

That attention to detail and thematic rigor was birthed in the underground rap circles that provided a foundation for Blaqbonez’s now-ascendant career. “Being a battle rapper made me versatile and have range,” he tells me when we speak via Zoom. “Mentally, I feel like I am not limited in any way because there are so many things I can do.” The underground also instilled a fierce work ethic in Blaqbonez, who released over six mixtapes while still studying at university.

2018 marked a definitive turn in Blaqbonez’s life when he stepped out of the underground with Bad Boy Blaq, his debut album executive produced by rap legend M.I. Abaga, and ended the year with recognition from The New York Times as one of the new guards of Nigerian music.

Blaqbonez’s latest album, Sex Over Love, reckons with who he has become as a person and as a musician. On the project, he does away with the archetypal love tropes that dominate Afrobeats and settles for a conceptual focus on being loveless but fulfilled with where he is. Some may call it cynical, but Blaqbonez will always be true to himself.

How early in your life do you recall knowing you wanted to be a musician?

To be honest, I wouldn’t say early. I was 18. But I remember being challenged by someone who had heard a young rapper on the radio. He told me that someone quite young was doing this rap thing, and I couldn’t do it despite dissing Nigerian rappers. I told the guy that it wasn’t a difficult thing and that I’d go upstairs and rap. That’s how I wrote my first rap verse. From there, I started writing constantly and, at a point, I realized I was good at it and enjoyed it. It was an easy decision to go for it professionally from there.

Bad Boy Blaq marked a definitive turn for your career. What lessons did you take from making that project?

Bad Boy Blaq taught me how to be a profitable artist. Before Bad Boy Blaq, I didn’t know what it felt like to be a star. Or to have a song that is big enough for people to sing word-for-word with you. I didn’t know what it felt like to bring in money. Bad Boy Blaq made me realize, “Bro, this shit is real.” Seeing myself on the charts, seeing my numbers… it just made me realize this was serious.

That was an important moment for me because everything I do right now, I’m perceptive of how people react to it. That’s something I took from Bad Boy Blaq. When the project dropped, people gravitated towards “Mamiwota,” and it made me realize there was a particular thing people wanted. I just clocked that this was how the mainstream operated.

Speaking of how you’ve grown, you’re pretty hands-on with the day-to-day concerns of your brand and all the non-music stuff. Where does that come from?

It’s just how I am as a person. I don’t think it’s something you can fake. You either care about those things, or you don’t. Even before I joined Chocolate City, I was always meticulous about these things: planning stuff and tracking numbers. But that’s just me. As an artist, you don’t have to be the one doing all that, but there has to be someone on your team who is doing all that.

Are you a numbers guy or a passion guy?

I’m a numbers guy. I care so much about the numbers.

You talked about how “Mamiwota” showed you what the mainstream audience was interested in listening to, and since then, you’ve been messing with more melodies in your work. How much of a learning curve has that been for you?

It’s been a big one. Right now, I feel like you cannot know what to expect from Blaqbonez, and I think that sense of unpredictability is important in keeping the audience around for the ride. The songs don’t sound the same; the beats keep switching, I can try to sing, I can try to do the Mr. Boombastic style. All those little things have just helped to shape the artist I am right now, and it’s been exciting.

Do you see yourself presently as a rapper or a singer?

It’s funny. I was talking to A-Q recently, and he said something about me pioneering a new genre, sort of, where even when I’m singing, it sounds like I’m rapping. It’s not like I’m singing like a Joeboy or a Fireboy DML—those are dedicated singers.

I’m somewhere in the middle because I’m still a rapper, but I’m singing. I’m sure a lot of people will say I’m a rapper, but that’s fine; I’m not concerned about what people call me. I’m concerned about people loving what they think I am.

You’re pretty invested in internet culture. What’s your relationship with it like right now?

The internet is everything for me. Without it, I don’t know where I’d be. I try to maintain an active presence there because it allows me to maintain a direct connection with my fans. That’s where the love is. That’s where the numbers are. I try to advise other artists to find creative ways to engage people. It’s too important.

What’s your new album, Sex Over Love, about?

Theme-wise, it’s me just putting myself out there and trying to share where I’m at presently. All this while, love songs have been the norm in Nigeria, and they are more likely to blow up. It pressures artists to want to make love songs, but for me, with Sex Over Love, I realized love is not real to me. That’s not what I experience daily.

The album is me embracing who I am and singing about my life. I’m sure there are people out there who will relate to how I feel on this album.

Why do you think people have not pursued this sort of theme on their projects previously?

I think it’s just not a Nigerian thing. Our artists would rather sing about love, and many of the albums out of here don’t necessarily have a consistent theme running through them. Sometimes, they are the loving type in track one, and on track three, they are no longer loving, and by track five, they are back to being the loving type. No one is making the album about themselves—it’s just them picturing themselves in different situations. But I just wanted to be honest on this album and talk about myself, and I hope it works.

Creative direction and photos credit by Danielle Mbo, Styling by Dami Oke for Dami Oke Style.

Listen to Blaqbone album ‘Sex Over Love’

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How gunmen kidnap varsity students in Abia

A yet-to-be-ascertain number of Abia State University, Uturu, students has reportedly been kidnapped by unknown gunmen.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, John Kalu, on Thursday.

According to the statement, it was gathered that the incident happened on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at 7 pm – 8 pm along the Okigwe-Uturu Road when the students who were moving in a minivan unluckily ran into the hoodlums who were operating at that time.

It was also gathered that some yet-to-be-identified travelers were kidnapped along with the students and were taken into the nearby forest.

Also, information revealed that two of the kidnapped students escaped while others were still held, hostage.

Meanwhile, the state government has revealed plans of working with the Imo State government and all relevant security agencies in both states to ensure the rescue of the abducted students and others.

The statement read, “Abia State Government is currently monitoring an incident that happened in Okigwe, Imo State, yesterday which led to the suspected abduction of yet to be determined the number of students of the Abia State University, Uturu, who ran into a yet to be identified gang of hoodlums operating along the Okigwe-Uturu Road.

“Preliminary information available to us indicates that the students were moving in a minivan from Okigwe to Uturu between 7 pm – 8 pm when they ran into the armed gang who marched them into the nearby forest along with other yet to be identified travelers. Two of the students managed to escape from the hoodlums while others are still being held at a yet to be identified location.

“We are working with the government of Imo State and relevant security agencies in both states to ensure the rescue of the abducted students and others.

“Members of the public and ABSU community are advised to remain calm as we will spare no resources in ensuring the safety of the victims.

“No criminal operating within our environment will be allowed to escape justice as we take the job of protecting lives and property of Abians and visitors to the State very seriously.”

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Missing 13-years-old girl has been found, Delta Police Command revealed

The 13-years-old girl, Treasure Ofuya that was reported missing has been found in Oghara, Delta State

Currently, she is with the police and will be reunited with her family soon.

The acting Spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright, disclosed this to newsmen earlier today in Asaba the state capital.

Recall, Treasure Ofuya was announced missing after she failed to return from school on Friday, April 30, in Effurun.

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Pastor Adeboye loses his 42 years old son to death

The third son of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God Worldwide is dead.

It was gathered that the son, Oluwadamilare Temitayo Adeboye died in his sleep at the age of 42 years on Wednesday, May 5.

Confirming his death, the Head of Media and Public Relations of RCCG, Pastor Olaitan Olubiyi confirmed the incident on Thursday morning as reported by Punch.

According to Olubiyi, he stated that “It is true. The incident happened in Eket where he was based. I don’t have the details for now. Maybe before the end of today, we will issue a statement.”

However, as at press time, the church has not made any public statement regarding the death.

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Teenager girl goes missing after leaving home for school

A 13-years-old girl, 4.5ft tall, fair in complexion without a tribal mark, speak English and Urhobo language fluently, and identified as Treasure Ofuya, has been reported missing after she failed to return from school in Delta State.

This was made known to newsmen by the acting Spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright, on Thursday, May 6.

According to the report, it was gathered that the victim who leave at No. 9 Sunday Ogedegbe Street, Okuokoko, Delta State, left home on Friday, April 30, at about 8:00, am to New Era Modal School in Jakpa Road, Effurun in Delta State and has not returned since then.

Meanwhile, it was also gathered that all the efforts made to her whereabouts proved abortive as it is of public interest that anyone with useful information of her whereabouts should report to the Ekpan Divisional Police Public Relations Officer office or the nearest Police Station.

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CBN promise to distribute extra four million free prepaid meters soon

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, will soon begin the distribution of four million free electricity prepaid meters they promised earlier across the country.

This was revealed by the Minister of Power, Mamman Salah, to State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Wednesday.

The Minister while briefing State House correspondents, explained that the government is closing the distribution of its first one million meters which he tagged as phase zero, stating that they will soon begin the phase one distribution of four million others.

According to the Minister, he said, “It’s ongoing, we are almost rounding off. We have almost finished with phase zero, we are now going into phase one of the distribution of the meters, that is the remaining four million the Central Bank promised to augment with.

He continued that “The first set is one million, we’re about to finish with that, but you know it’s not the target, one million is very negligible compared to the demand of Nigerians.”

Also, the Minister explained that Nigeria is now ready to generate 5000 MW as opposed to the first 3000 MW.

While still speaking, he further revealed that the FEC has authorized $8.29 million for the implementation of six major electricity project in the country which according to him include the procurement of equipment, designs, and manufactures that are meant for the upgrading of Nigeria electricity facilities and to improve power supply across the country.

The Minister also stated how the Ministry of Power under his watch, summitted a six memorandum to the FEC stating that all six been approved.

He said, “The Federal Executive Council today approved six memos under the Ministry of Power. The first one is the award of a contract for the design, manufacturing, and supply of critical spare parts for Crompton Greaves 330 kV, 132 kV, and 33 kV circuit breakers to Messrs by Legen Engineering Nigeria Limited in the sum of N298,339,887.04.

“The second one is the award of the contract for the procurement of 50 sets of 400 AH battery banks, 30 to 50 volts and 30 number of 110-volt battery charges for the substation used by the TCN in favor of Messrs to DTS Transformers Electric Industry Limited at the sum of N644,805,953.10.

“The third award of the contract is for the procurement of 50 cents also of 132 kV isolators for the TCN in favor of Messrs. Leading Diagonal Engineering Nigeria Limited for $840,650 plus N53,900,000 within the delivery period of six months.

“The fourth one is the contract for the design, manufacturing and the supply of three 60/66 MVA 132kV power transformers with accessories and 15 number of 500 kV transformers, 33/0.415kV earthing transformers for the TCN in favor of Messrs. Zhenjiang Transformers Company Limited, in the sum of N1,296,953,044.55 with a delivery period of 12 months.

The fifth one is the award of the contract for the design, supply, and installation of Optical Wire (OPGW) and Universal Optical Transportation Network System (OTN) for some critical transmission lines in favor of Messrs. Xinjiang Power and Transportation Company Limited in the sum of $6,800,743.51, plus N668,843,634.74, with a delivery period of 12 months

“The last one is the upward review of the contraction for the design, manufacture, supply, installation, and commissioning of 1X 100MVA, 132/33kV power transformers at Ogba Transmission Substation, Lagos, in favor of Messrs. Power Control and Appliances Limited, for $648,038.31, plus N48,342,524.18, with the delivery period of six months.

The Minister explained that all these procurements are geared towards upgrades of the transmission system to the national grid so that Nigerians can have a sufficient power supply.

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How 25-year-old pregnant woman gave birth to nine babies

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A 25-year-old woman, Halima Cisse, from Mali has given birth to nine babies at once in Ain Borja clinic in Casablanca, Morocco.

It was gathered that the Malian woman gave birth to the babies in the cesarean section on Tuesday after being sent there for special care by the Malian government because hospitals in Mali are ill-equipped to provide adequate care for these exceptional multiple pregnancies.

According to the Mali minister of health, the woman gave birth to five girls and four boys after expecting seven and they are all doing well at the Moroccan clinic where the nonuplet was born, stating that, it is the first time on record that a woman had given birth to nine surviving babies at once.

However, the Director of the Casablanca clinic, Youssef Alaoui told Morocco State TV that when been contacted by the Malian doctors about the case a month and a half ago mentioned that they were not expecting nine babies.

He said, Cisse, gave birth prematurely at 30 weeks and is now in a stable condition after heavy bleeding for which she was given a blood transfusion.

He said the cesarean was ordered after Cisse had birth pains stating that the babies weigh between 500 grams and one kilogram (1.1 and 2.2 pounds).

Also, Alaoui told Associated Press that he was aware Cisse had not used fertility treatments, adding that the Malian health ministry did not provide any other information about the pregnancy or the birth.

Meanwhile, Associated Press had reported that Medical staff checked their status regularly in the neonatal ward wallpapered with cartoon characters, noting that the babies were seen wiggling their hands and feet inside the incubator on Wednesday in the Casablanca clinic, Ain Borja.

The Guinness Book of Records said in an email to the AP on Wednesday that it’s the current record for most living births at once is right and that it is verifying the Morocco birth, adding that the current holder of the Guinness record is American Nadya Suleman, who gave birth to eight premature but otherwise healthy children in 2009.

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Burna Boy track ‘Ye’ got Gold certification

Nigerian Grammy Award winner, Burna Boy, has claimed another glory to his name as his single ‘Ye’ got certified with Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

This was made known by the singer on Tuesday, May 4, on Twitter.

While sharing the news on Twitter, Burna Boy captioned “YE” off the Outside album is Gold in the US. I’m thankful for the love and support, we go again!

Recall, that ‘Ye’ was released under Atlantic Records on August 6, 2018, a track outside his album.

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How Davido, Ckay Storm Puma Store For Jerseys autographs

Nigerian superstar and DMW boss, Davido and Ckay, has on Monday, May 3, stormed the official Puma store in Lekki, autograph jersey for fans while also ask each crew member to grab a pair of Puma footwear for themselves.

This was made known on Instagram by The Davido Daily Show and also Davido’s page on Monday, May 4.

It was gathered that the store Owner hosted the singer for a jersey signing exhibition and also as an opportunity to meet and greet his fans in Lekki.

The singer while teasing his fans, seize the opportunity to also ask those who came with him to shop some designers Puma footwears from the store.

See photos:

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Soldiers break lawyer windscreen for having Biafra flag in his car

In a video post that has gone viral, a lawyer was seen lamenting how Nigerian Soldiers smashed his car windscreen because they saw a Biafra flag on his car in Imo State.

This was made know by Standard Observers on Twitter on Monday, May 3, 2021.

According to the video, the lawyer was seen explaining how he was stopped by the soldiers who were on patrol and questioned him on why he hoists the flag on his car along with some Biafra Newspapers at the back of his car seat.

The lawyer in the video stated that they invaded his privacy just before he could get a chance to say anything stating that they have already damaged his car and also intimidated him to kill him.

Also, he said they ask him to thank his God if not for the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA sticker that they saw on his car.

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Mosogar youth attack LG chairman, beat Security, abduct BEDC officials

The Local Government Council chairman for Ethiope West Local Government Area in Delta State, Hon. Oghenedoro Owoso has been attacked by angry youth over endless electricity blackouts in the community.

The youth during the attack, Injured the chairman’s aide and a policeman attached to him while also cart away the policeman’s rifle.

Also, the youth who were protesting over 8 years of electricity blackout, in the process abducted two officials of the Benin Distribution Company, BEDC, for hours before security men came and stormed their hideout to set them free.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that Mosogar Community in Delta State has been without electricity for over eight years, an issue that has led to the protest since November last year and thousands of residents taking to the Benin-Warri expressway in protest again in April, barricading the major expressway for hours.

However, the problem started again on Tuesday, May 4, when some of the youth who were fed up with the enormous promises from the community leaders to revive the electricity brought it upon themselves to abduct two BEDC officials who were on patrol.

According to one Anthony Akpotobor, who claimed to have witnessed the incident told Vanguard that “After the officials were abducted, they tried to force them to fuse the light but the police were informed and the Mosogar Divisional Police Officer, DPO, reached out to the chairman of the council who in turn drove in to appease them, that was when he was attacked.”

Also, one of the chairman’s aides who pleaded to the condition of anonymity to Vanguard that his boss passed through that process because he felt he could appease them, stating that, “They attacked us and disarmed one of the policemen attached to the chairman and in the process, one of the chairman’s aide was shot and the mobile policeman was abducted and taken away to a shrine close to the river – they were about taking them with a boat through the river when security men came to rescue them.”

While confirming the incident, Hon. Owosso told Vanguard that his car was shot adding that “My brother, we should thank God.”

He further said there are ways to push their grievances across stating that some of them have been arrested but let them bring the arms, everything is about dialogue that was why I went through to appeal to them so that we can collectively map out a way for them to have light.

Meanwhile, security men were seen patrolling the community while the busy streets have remained empty as at the time of filing this report.

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Mourinho is back, join Italian club, AS Roma for new season

An Italian club in Serie A, AS Roma, has declared openly the appointment of Jose Mourinho, as the new manager of the club for next season.

Mourinho who was sacked by Tottenham Hotspur in late April will return to the field next season after being introduced as the new manager of AS Roma. He will replace Paulo Fonseca, who will be leaving at the end of the season after two years.

According to Mourinho, he agreed to a three-year contract and will officially take charge ahead of the 2021-22 campaign.

He said, “After the meetings with the ownership and Tiago pinto, I immediately understood the full extent of their ambitions for AS Roma.

“It is the same ambition and drive that has always motivated me and together we want to build a winning project over the upcoming years.

“The incredible passion of the Roma fans convinced me to accept the job and I cannot wait to start next season.”

The 58-year-old manager will return to Italy where he enjoyed a successful two years as manager of Inter Milan, leading the Nerazzurri to two Scudetto and a Champions League triumph in 2010.

Currently, Roma sits seventh in Serie A with four games left in the season. The Italian club is coming off a 6-2 defeat in the first leg of its Europa League semifinal meeting against Mourinho’s former side, Manchester United.

Recall, Mourinho was relieved of his duty on April 19, where he was in charge of Tottenham for 17 months after his dismissal was confirmed six days before his chance of helping the club win its first trophy since 2018 in the League Cup final, but Spur went on to lose the match against Manchester City with the interim manager, Ryan Mason.

However, Mourinho had previously coached Chelsea, Real Madrid, and FC Porto.

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IGP order new appointment, redeployed Imo CP, reinstate another

The acting Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, has announced the appointment of CP Abutu Yaro, as the new Commissioner of Police in Imo State that will take over from CP Nasiru Mohammed who was deployed to the state in January 2021.

This was made known in a statement to newsmen by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Police Force, Frank Mba, on Tuesday, May 4.

According to the Inspector General of Police, stated that under CP Mohammed, police stations in Imo State were attacked repeatedly including the State Police Command Headquarters and the Nigerian Correctional Center which has led to the escape of hundreds of inmates from the correctional facility.

He said the appointment of CP Yaro as the new Commissioner of Police for Imo State is an effort made by the Police leadership towards strengthening security, tackling violent crimes, and reinforcing optimal coordination of police operations within the State.

IGP Baba stated that CP Yaro is an operationally minded Cop who was a fellow of the National Defence College and the immediate-past Commissioner of Police, Zamfara State Command.

Baba said, Zamfara State also has a new Commissioner of Police, CP Hussaini Rabiu while CP Nasiru Mohammed has been redeployed to Western Port Authority, Lagos.

Baba also stated other Commissioner of Police that were affected by the posting and redeployment stating that CP John Amadi mni, has been posted from Western Port Authority, Lagos to Airport Police Command, Ikeja, Lagos, while CP Anderson Bankole, posted to Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi, Lagos, also CP Joe Nwachukwu Enwonwu posted to the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA), Force Headquarters, Abuja as the Commissioner of Police, DFA.

Meanwhile, the IGP has charged the newly posted Commissioners to adopt their best experience in their practice to help improve the police and restore public confidence in their place of assignments.

Also, he further assured citizens of his intention to build up the strategies of the Force to improve public safety and tackles all forms of crimes in the country under his leadership.

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FG extends NIN-SIM verification, issue new directives

The Federal Government has approved the extension of the National Identification Number for SIM verification till June 30, 2021, as an effort to make it easier for citizens and residents to obtain NIN.

This was made known in a statement signed and released to newsmen on Tuesday, May 4, by the Director, Public Affairs Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, and the Head, Corporate Communications National Identity Management Commission, Mr. Kayode Adegoke.

According to a virtual meeting chaired by the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, FNCS, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Adeolu Akande; the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Dambatta, and the Director-General/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr Aliyu Azeez.

Also, Dr. Pantami stated that the postponement was based on the request by the stakeholders to make it easier for all citizens and legal residents to register.

However, he revealed that some significant progress has been made in the NIN-SIM verification process, for example he said, It was recorded that almost 54 million people have successfully obtained their NIN and this can translate up to 190 million mobile number since practical evidence revealed that each unique NIN maps to 3 to 4 phone numbers.

The Minister during the virtual meeting also revealed that the much-awaited Android enrollment system which has the potential to significantly accelerate the speed of enrollment is now ready for deployment.

Furthermore, Dr. Pantami stated that the telecom provider and other enrollment agents have also opened several centers across the country to make it easier for eligible citizens and residents to obtain and link their NINs.

He added that it is now compulsory to use the National Identity Number to access different government services as provided according to Section 27 and 29 of the National Identity Management Commission Act 2007, noting that the NIN is similar to the use of Social Security Number in the United States as well as the National Insurance Number in the United Kingdom.

Meanwhile, the Minister hereby wishes to thank Nigerians for their tolerance and adherence with the Federal Government’s mandates on the NIN-SIM enrollment exercise.

Also, he restated the government’s responsibility to continue putting up with decisions aimed at ameliorating the pains of the citizens about issues related to NIN and SIM registration.

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Buhari presides over security meeting with service chiefs (Photos)

President Muhammadu Buhari holds a security meeting with the service chiefs today, Tuesday, May 4, as a continuation of last Friday’s meeting that was adjourned.

According to the last meeting, the National security adviser, Babagana Munguno disclosed in a statement issued on Friday that President Muhammadu Buhari was determined to stem the insecurity in the country.

He said that President Buhari “made it abundantly clear that while the insurgents, bandits and criminals are still at it, he has no doubt that the Nigerian Security agencies and all of us as a nation will certainly overcome all the current security problems and defeat the forces of evil marauding about in different parts of the country.”

The meeting has in attendance, the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Minister of Defence, Major-General Bashir Magashi (Rtd), and the National Security Adviser, Major-General Babagana Monguno (Rtd).

Others present is the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Ibrahim Attahiru; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Awwal Zubairu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amoo, and the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, at the First Lady Conference Hall in Aso Rock.

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See open letter from former Senate President to Buhari

Puis Ayim, former Senate President, has advised President Muhammadu Buhari to set up a commission of inquiry into all the agitations in the country to profer solutions to the current state of insecurity.

Pius Ayim, made these appeals through an open letter he addressed to Buhari on Monday, May 3, advising him to make history.

According to him, the commission will help to de-escalate the current tension in the country and enable a platform for the exchange of ideologies.

He said the commission will serve as an alternative for citizens to share their concerns and be heard, stating that it will help build confidence and reduce hostility and mutual anxiety.

Also, he said, the commission will help identify the unexpected and remote causes of the recent challenges and procure a framework for their resolution.

Pius Ayim further stressed that the commission will provide a roadmap that can be used as a federal reference manuscript for future interchange and procedures for policy enactment.

He said such kind of manuscript will be the foundation for a new Nigeria because it will be centered on negotiated concession developed from citizen participation established on the credibility of the commission and its rightfulness.

However, in the letter, he also mentioned that every violence started as an agitation that originates from a non-violent agitation that was not attended to stating that the current situation of Nigeria is afflicted with violent and non-violent agitations.

Read below the full statement of the letter to President Buhari:

ANY PIUS ANYIM LLB, LLM

3rd May 2021

Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR

President

Federal Republic of Nigeria

Aso Villa

Abuja

OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI.

RE: THE STATE OF INSECURITY IN THE NATION:

MY SUGGESTION

Mr. President, you may recall that on the 5th of October, 2018, I had an audience with you in your office. In that meeting, with your then Chief of Staff, the late Mallam Abba Kyari, in attendance, we touched on several issues including the insecurity in the country, and about which you directed that I should do a short brief on my suggestion and forward to your Chief of Staff.

Mr. President may wish to know that I did as you directed and submitted my suggestion to your then Chief of Staff on the 20th of October 2018.

I have decided to do this open letter just to be sure that it will get to you because I suspect that the private one did not get to you. Most importantly, I would not have bothered to write you this letter if the unfortunate and avoidable circumstances we have found ourselves in, as a nation, have not continued to fester to the magnitude of threatening the fabric of the nation.

This letter, therefore, is to reconvey my earlier suggestion which, I want to believe, did not get to you.

PREAMBLE

The perilous threats to our national sovereignty at the time you took over the reins of power in 2015 were the Boko Haram insurgence in the North East; the armed agitation in the Niger Delta Region, and the IPOB agitation in the South East.

Mr. President, on your assumption of office the most striking promise you made to the nation was to tackle insecurity with emphasis on reclaiming the territories occupied by Boko Haram. I must admit that you did approach the insecurity challenge with commendable determination but unfortunately, the challenge, with time, became hydra-headed and no doubt went beyond your control.

Before I proceed with my suggestion, may I first put in perspective the basis of the position I will canvass in this letter. I wish to note that every violent agitation originates from a non-violent agitation that was not attended to. Today, Nigeria is bedeviled with violent and non-violent agitations.

It is also a fact that the current violent agitations originated from non-violent agitations e.g., Boko Haram started as a non-violent procession; the herders/farmers clashes which have degenerated into a deadly conflict with many states now bloody theatres of war; ethnic conflicts in Kaduna, Ebonyi, Cross River, Benue, Plateau states, etc., which are escalating to an unmanageable scale; armed banditry in virtually all states of the federation particularly Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Niger, Sokoto which has overwhelmed the law enforcement agencies, kidnapping which has become occupational in most parts of the country.

To worsen matters, Boko Haram, has acquired new impetus that they now overrun the military and have even expanded their base to Niger State. IPOB has become a regional challenge. On the non-violent side, agitations for restructuring are scaling up in momentum, ethnic consciousness and allegiance even among the elite are far eroding national concerns.

All these and many more coupled with gross downturn in the national economic, social and political space has become an apparent threat to our nationhood.

I am to add, that it must be known that military actions or even foreign help alone cannot bring permanent solutions to ethnic conflicts or nationality agitations. Mr. President, you need to create a platform to hear Nigerians out.

MY SUGGESTION

THE SEARCH FOR SOLUTION MUST INVOLVE THE CITIZENS

In the build-up to securing the Nigerian Independence, the colonial administration was confronted with reservations by minority tribes in the three regions of Northern, Eastern, and Western Nigeria about fears of domination by the majority tribes. In other to find a lasting solution, the colonial administration appointed a commission to “ENQUIRE INTO THE FEARS OF MINORITIES AND MEANS OF ALLAYING THEM”.

The Willink’s Commission of 1957, named after its chairman Mr. Harry Willink, produced a far-reaching report after extensive hearings of the complaints and suggestions from the people. It can be argued that no other document in the history of Nigeria has had a far-reaching impact on our political structure than Willink’s report.

It guided the debates in subsequent constitutional conferences before the independence; gave structure to the emergent Constitutions and indeed gave health to the socio-political structure of the nation at independence.

The greatest achievement of Willink’s Commission is that its report provided the colonial administration and the nation an in-depth understanding of the nature, dimensions, and magnitude of the fears of the minority tribes.

Accordingly, its recommended solutions became an official position and were easily accepted to be constitutionalized as a long-term measure.

There is no gainsaying that reservations about the continued existence of Nigeria are building up to a dangerous time bomb. I make bold to say that no solution except one birthed by an independently conducted engagement with fact-based recommendations arrived at with the participation of the citizens will provide an enduring solution.

The most outstanding recommendation of the Willink’s Commission as a long-time solution is the inclusion of a Fundamental Human Rights Chapter in the constitution. It was recommended that the inclusion of the Fundamental Human Rights Chapter in the constitution will protect all citizens, including the minority stock from any governmental and or majority bloc abuses.

I must say at this point that it was the recommendations of Willink’s commission that gave all the component groups in Nigeria the comfort to go into the union at independence. It has become apparent that the foundation of the various agitations in Nigeria today is that the comfort provided at independence by Willink’s Commissions Report is no longer working.

I make bold to recommend that Mr. President should make history by impaneling another commission of inquiry to inquire into the violent and non-violent agitations in Nigeria and make recommendations on the immediate-, short- and long-term solutions as a way of first de-escalating the rising tension in the land and a process for the renewal of our march to nationhood.

It is important to note that in a democracy, no action is deemed successful or completed until the buy-in of the people is secured through a democratic process. This buy-in- is an imperative that is yet to be pursued in the fight against violent agitations in Nigeria. I must say that as long as the people are not part of the process of finding solutions to the conflicts, a permanent solution will be a mirage.

THE BENEFITS OF SUCH A COMMISSION

The de-escalation of the current tension in the country and the creation of a platform for the exchange of ideas.

It is a natural governmental process of addressing challenges of public importance. The report of such a commission will put it in proper perspective and provide a basis for further action.

It will offer the citizenry the opportunity and platform to share their concerns and to be heard. This helps to build confidence and reduce animosity and mutual suspicion.

It identifies the immediate and remote causes of the current challenges and provides a framework for their resolution.

Such a commission will aim not only to unravel the remote and immediate causes but also to determine the various dimensions and define them accordingly. E.g. democratic agitations will be separated from violent crimes to the understanding of all. It will also capture the reasons for the agitations and the Justice thereto.

Such a Commission will propose immediate-, short- and long-term solutions and develop a roadmap towards addressing them. Such a roadmap used as a national reference document would guide further interactions and processes for implementation.

Such a document will be the foundation for a new Nigeria anchored on negotiated settlement derived from the legitimacy bestowed by citizen participation and the credibility of the commission.

The above is submitted for your kind consideration, Sir.

Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON.

Former Senate President

Federal Republic of Nigeria

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See James Ibori, Gbajabiamila spotted at Terry Waya’s birthday

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Nigerian billionaire, Terry Waya, father to BBNaija star, Kiddwaya, celebrates his birthday on Monday, May 3.

It was gathered that he organizes a dinner party to formally celebrate his additional year.

The celebration had in attendance the former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and others to came to celebrate with him.

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See why after 27-years-of-marriage, Bill Gates & wife announces divorce

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The founder of Microsoft Corporation, Bill Gate, 65, and his wife, Melinda Gates, 56, have announced that they are divorcing after 27 years of marriage with three children and a joint foundation known as ‘Bill & Melinda Foundation (a foundation on global health, gender equality, education, and others causes).

The announcement came from a joint statement they shared on their verified Twitter page on Monday, May 3, 2021.

According to the couple while announcing their divorce stated that “After a great deal of thought and a lot of work on our relationship, we have decided to end our marriage,”

“Over the last 27 years, we have raised three incredible children and built a foundation that works all over the world to enable all people to lead healthy, productive lives,” they wrote.

“We continue to share a belief in that mission and will continue our work together at the foundation, but we no longer believe we can grow together as a couple in this next phase of our lives.”

However, the statement did not offer additional details on why they are divorcing, rather, it stated “We ask for space and privacy for our family as we begin to navigate this new life.”

Meanwhile, Bill Gates, Melinda Gates, met at Microsoft in 1987, shortly after she joined the tech company and they married in 1994.

Bill Gates, a philanthropist started Microsoft Corporation when he was a teenager and he once be the richest man in the world.

He stepped down as Microsoft boss in 2018 to devote more time to philanthropy until he later left the board, keeping only the title of founder and technology advisor.

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How FG intends to create latest jobs, sign deal with Microsoft

The federal government has announced its partnership with Microsoft Corporation ompany to embark on a series of broad-based multi-faceted undertakings to adequately enable Nigeria in a more digital economy in the areas of internet connectivity, digital skilling, and digital transformation as a major pillar of Economic Sustainability Plan in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The partnership followed the virtual meeting between the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and Microsoft President, Brad Smith, earlier in January 2021.

These were made known in a statement by Laolu Akande, the spokesperson to the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.

According to a twofold announcement made by the government and the tech company on Monday, the Vice President Osinbajo stated that the partnership in the next three years intends to give rise to opportunities to many young people in the rural and urban areas as an invention strategy in the battle against crime, adding that the partnership will equip digital skills to five million Nigerians and also provide 27, 000 new jobs within the same duration.

The Vice President also stated to collaborate with various government agencies as implementing partners, including the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Nigerian Institute of Cultural Orientation, and various other local partners.

Also, he said the partnership will serve as a social function to maintain and stimulate prominent languages and to breathe life into the culture by making use of Microsoft’s Artificial Intelligence technologies and aids

The Vice President also stated that it will enable the six geopolitical zones to enjoy active internet connection and cloud services courtesy of the digital transformation plan.

Professor Osinbajo, while speaking with the tech giant, stated that the government was committed to bridging the knowledge, skills, and technology gap that exist in most of the communities.

Prof. Osinbajo explained that the government’s focus is on the Nigerian people, stating that with over 80 million regular internet users, there is no question that Nigerians have fully embraced technology, the internet, and their various uses.

He stated that these initiatives become institutions in their rights that will make a real impact in the lives of the citizens.

In response, Brad Smith explained that Microsoft believed in the future of Nigeria and was excited as a company to add to its investments.

Explaining the partnership with the Federal Government, Smith also stated “We are embarking on a series of broad-based, really multifaceted investments to better serve Nigeria in three areas of internet connectivity, digital skilling, and digital transformation.

“We will be providing digital skills to five million Nigerians over the next three years, and along the way, creating 27,000 new jobs during the same period.”

He explained that the company partnered with Tek experts to create a Customer Support Centre – a center in Lagos that employed over 1,600 people in 2018.

Furthermore, the tech company chief explained that they had another opportunity to broaden their investment even more by creating the African Development Centre.

The center, according to him, will employ over 200 software developers and engineers by the end of 2021 – people who are creating technology and Microsoft products to serve not only the people of Nigeria but the people of the world.

He said, “All of these is giving us the kind of confidence to want to invest even more, and one of the things that we have recognized as a company is the need to grow with communities and countries and not just buying for ourselves.”

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Alex Ekubo proposes to his long time girlfriend

Popular Nollywood Actor, Alex Ekubo has finally decided to settle down with his longtime girlfriend, Fancy Acholonu as he proposed to her in the United States.

While revealing the news, Alex Ekubo took to his Instagram page to revealed this today, Monday, May 3, with a post he shared and captioned.

The movie star while sharing the post on Instagram stated that “I asked the love of my life @fancyacholonu to marry me.”

In response, the wife-to-be also reposted the photo used by the movie star on the page and stated “& I said YES to the Love of my life @alexxekubo.

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Buhari establishes NCCSALW, new center for arms control

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the establishment of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), as a measure to help tackle insecurity in the nation and also appointed retired Maj. Gen. AM Dikko as the Pioneer Coordinator of the center.

This was made known in a statement by the Head of Strategic Communication, ONSA, Mr. Zakari Usman, in Abuja on Monday, May 3.

It was gathered that the NCCSALW was established to replace the defunct Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) working under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

The SALW in its expansion across federal borders in Africa and the Sahel region has ceased to function in its strategies to tackle insecurity and regulated treason in the country.

However, the NCCSALW will serve as the mechanism to lead a multi-stakeholder policy that involves government Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and the civil society in implementing all national, UN, and ECOWAS Plans of Action on the control of SALW.

Also, the NCCSALW will fulfill the regulations of the ECOWAS Moratorium on Import, Export, and Manufacture of Light Weapons as well as the UN plan to Action to prevent, combat, and exterminate the unlawful trade in SALW.

According to Usman’s statement, the NCCSALW will maintain a multinational coalition and also operate with zonal offices in the six geopolitical zones to ensure timely response and effective mobilization of resources.

Mr. Usman also confirmed the appointment of the Pioneer Coordinator, retired Maj. Gen. AM Dikko, his vast experience working with the ECOWAS and the UN structure noting that he is required to operationalize the purposes of the NCCSALW.

He said, Gen. Dikko earlier served as a Course Director at Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Center and as Chief Instructor of the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Center.

Mr. Usman also noted that Gen. Dikko was also a Military Adviser in the United Nation Office for West Africa and a Director for Peacekeeping Operations in the Defence Headquarters, Commander of Operations LAST HOLD as well as Commander, Operation LAFIYA DOLE.

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See those behind Imo State attack – Gov. Uzodinma reveals

The Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodinma, has revealed those behind the recent attacks on the state, stating that their names will be fully revealed in few days.

Gov. Uzodinma made these revelations on Sunday, May 2, 2021, at Government House Chapel when speaking with the congregation after the end of Church service.

According to him, the attack in the state was carried out by hoodlums, bandits, and a small percentage of IPOB members and aggrieved politicians who decided to sponsor violence to derail the government of the day.

The governor also said that he is not going to negotiate with criminals stating that, “Those who want to bring the state down must be prepared to be brought down as well.”

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Eedris call Keyamo senior advocate of nonsense in his new song ‘JagaJaga Ti Getie’

Ace Nigerian rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, has called out the honorable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, SAN, in his new song titled ‘JagaJaga Ti Getie’ after the Minister fire back on him via Twitter.

Eedris in his new song ‘JagaJaga Ti Getie’ refers to the Minister who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria as a Senior Advocate of Nonsense, calling him a SAN of rubbish with a statement “Keyamo Don dey Kolomo.”

The rapper’s new song that he dropped on April 30, revealed countless proclamations against the Minister on how he used Stephanie Otobo, a Canada-based singer to blackmail Apostle Suleman over a relationship scandal.

In the song, the rapper stated why he did a song title ‘Obasanjo Write Buhari Letter’ to help in the Buhari campaign process and how he thought in 2018 when Keyamo got his appointment that he (Keyamo) would use his appointment to effect change in the government, according to him, he thought Keyamo was still a comrade.

The rapper further explained in the song how a lot of people supported Buhari during his campaign but also stated that everyone regretted the action of their support adding that Keyamo’s government is full of propaganda.

Also in a line of his lyrics, the rapper mentions how Keyamo as a junior minister is fighting a senior minister because of his opportunity of getting into the cabal and also faulted Keyamo for trying to get a connection to link with former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The rapper also dished out in another line of the lyrics that extremism is the hallmark of Buhari’s government stating that Nigeria is no longer safe while also added that schoolchildren were been kidnapped and bloodshed in various villages and communities.

Further, while accusing Keyamo of joining the cabal, Eedris accused his government of trying to cover up the accusations against the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Hon. Isa Pantami on his alleged link to terrorists.

Recall the drama between the minister and the rapper started after when the musician accused the Minister of joining the present administration cabal in his recent song titled ‘Jaga Jaga Reloaded’ he released on April 22, 2021.

Meanwhile, the Minister in his response to the rapper’s song fired back on Twitter by exposing the rapper using their private chat of three years on how the musician in 2018 requested to join the media team of President Muhammadu Buhari and also narrate how the musician begged him for money, pleading that he help get him into the system and introduced him to some top government officials.

However, the rapper also responded to the Minister using his Instagram page and
explaining that the cabal which Keyamo belongs to was in pain over his ‘Jaga Jaga Reloaded’ that he released.

Listen to the song:

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21 Savage share new song ‘Spiral’

Popular American rapper, Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, better known as 21 Savage, has dropped his new song title ‘Spiral’.

The song ‘Spiral’ is done as a soundtrack for an upcoming movie titled ‘Spiral From The Book Of Saw’ and it happens to be the lead single among the soundtracks.

The rapper shared the snippet of the track in all digital stores on Thursday, April 27.

The upcoming movie ‘Spiral From The Book Of Saw’ will be dropping on theaters on May 14, 2021, and no news about others who also featured on the movie soundtrack, however with the rapper behind the project, it is bound to be a hit.

Meanwhile, the storyline of the movie is all about three police officers who are investigating a string of New York murders, the stars include Chris Rock, Samuel L. Jackson, and Max Minghella.

Listen to the song:

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Burna Boy revealed why he chooses greatness

During an interview with GQ Magazine, Nigerian Grammy Award winner, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy revealed why he chooses greatness that led to his recent success in the global space while revealing that at a point in his life, greatness is more important than death.

According to him, after several collaborations with African artists, he decided that he wanted it all stating that he wanted to be the greatest while also added, saying at that point, it has to be a do or die stuff.

While still speaking, the ‘Way Too Big’ crooner explained how winning the Grammy Award broke the mental revolution of people who felt that certain things cannot be accomplished recounting that he was not celebrating because of himself, rather he was celebrating as he knew he had broken a mental succession of people.

He said, “Our people had been very mentally oppressed to feel like they could not do certain things, and that certain things were unreachable.”

Speaking further, he also explained how he had to think for a whole lot of people stating that things are bigger than him and every day, he had to think for everyone basically for a whole generation before he could ever think for himself.

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Rick Ross features Cruel Youth in new song ‘No Bark When I Bite’

Ace American Rapper and business mogul, Rick Ross dropped his latest song titled ‘No Bark When I Bite’ in collaboration with Cruel Youth, a band overlooked by Teddy Sinclair and her husband who records albums with the name Natalia Kills.

The song is produced by Swizz Beatz, dropped on Thursday, April 27, 2021, and appears on the soundtrack of an upcoming season two of EPIX’s crime drama series, ‘Godfather Of Harlem’.

Also, the last part of the soundtrack includes DMX’s first posthumous song ‘Been to War’ with Swizz Beatz and French Montana.

The movie series ‘Godfather Of Harlem’ is a crime drama telling the real-life story of an infamous crime boss, Bumpy Johnson, who after ten years of prison, returned to find out his neighborhood where he once rules transit into chaos.

Listen to the song:

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Senate reveals new plans to reform Land transportation

The Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Senate Committee on Land Transportation, Senator Nicholas Tofowomo, has expressed the need to reform land transportation in the country.

Senator Tofowomo stated this while speaking at the launching of the Travellers Accident Insurance Scheme organized by the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria in Abuja on Friday, April 30, 2021.

According to him while seeking for the reformation stated that all hands must be put together to reform the land transportation system stating that the Federal Government and States have spent billions of naira in the building of airports and seaports yet no proper attention has been given to the land transportation except the building of motor parks in the country.

Meanwhile, the RITREAN National President, Alhaji Musa Tankobi also stated that the organization is mindful of reforming the transportation industry in the country while calling on the Federal Government to establish the Bank of Transportation and prioritize the budget for federal roads for private investors to come in.

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FG does not understand how Paystack, Flutterwave works – Mr. Chidoka

Mr. Osita Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation and member of the opposition, People Democratic Party, PDP, has said that the Federal Government cabinet does not reflect Nigeria status stating that they don’t understand how Paystack, Flutterwave, Kobo360, and others work.

He said they don’t know how technology start-ups make money, according to him they don’t know how to tax them, adding that the tax authorities taxed their revenue because they think that all the money received by the companies are revenue it’s generated without knowing that the companies received the money being an aggregator.

Mr. Chidoka stated this while speaking during a program organized by the Senior Pastor of Covenant Nation, Poju Oyemade, a program televised by Channel’s Television on Saturday, May 1, 2021.

According to Mr. Chidoka who asked about the average age of the Nigerian cabinet said, “What is the average age of our cabinet, Our cabinet does not reflect Nigeria. They cannot understand Paystack, they cannot understand Flutterwave. They cannot understand Kobo360.

“They don’t know how to tax them. The tax authorities are taxing their revenues because they think that all the money received by Kobo360 is revenue. No, it is money they are receiving as an aggregator.

“So we need young people like you to be the Chairman of the FIRS. That’s what we need. We need people who understand.

While still speaking, Mr. Chidoka accused the age range of the presidential cabinet and his APC government of being too old stating that they’re too old to understand how new crop technology innovators are working, according him, the technology is what he described as a new Nigeria called ‘Naija’.

Also, he added that all they understand is to borrow money from the Central Bank.

In his words, he stated, “We can’t help them. Mr. President cannot understand it. The APC government does not understand it. They are too old to understand it. What they understand is borrowing money from the Central Bank.”

He further advised that the new Nigeria needs to be unlocked from the hands of structuralists who keep deceiving Nigerians, stating that it is not the responsibility of the structuralist.

“We need to unlock Naija,” he said. “It is not the responsibility of the structuralists. They are deceiving us, to make us keep looking at that day when we will change our constitution and El-Dorado will come. No, they are planning how they will take over in that new El-Dorado. “

Watch the broadcast video:

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Man head chopped off, dumped within popular junction in Ughelli

A yet-to-be-identified man’s head that has been chopped off was found at Oghenevweta junction in Ughelli Delta State on Saturday, May 1, 2021, over an age-long crisis involving two communities.

The crisis involves the Otor-Iwhreko and Ekuigbo community fighting over who should be in charge of revenue collection from the main market in Ughelli.

It was gathered that the crisis recurred on Thursday, April 28, and had claimed the lives of three persons including a market woman that was hit by a stray bullet.

The crisis has been an aged battle between the Otor-Iwhreko community and the Ekuigbo community, two neighboring communities.

According to a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) worldwide, Hon. Abel Oshevire called on the two communities to encase their swords for peace to reign and allowed constitutional and traditional authorities to resolve the age-long crisis of who should be responsible for the control and collection of revenue in the market.

In the statement, the President-General of UPU, Olorogun Dr. Moses Taiga explained that the Urhobo people shared a common ancestry and blood link, stating that the tradition forbid the shedding of blood and destruction of properties, adding that no piece of land or property is worthy of any form of killing.

The statement further stressed that peace between the communities is crucial and a permanent solution is needed.

The union hereby calls for the Chairman of Ughelli North LGA and the State Government to urgently intervene in the unending crisis rocking the market.

The union while seeking lasting peace also appeals to all meaning sons and daughters of the two communities to step into the matter and call for normalcy.

Also, the union further call on political and community leaders of both communities to step in immediately not to allow the crisis to escalate beyond the present state.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright when contacted via WhatsApp over the discovery of the chopped human head, stated that he wasn’t aware of the incident.

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Gunmen kill two security officers, burn five vehicles in Akwa Ibom

A police station at Ibiaku Ntok Okpo in Ikono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State has been invaded by gunmen.

It was gathered that the gunmen suspected to be members of the Easter Security Network invaded the police station, killed two officers, injured a policewoman on night duty, set five police vehicles ablaze, and also seize the flag hoisted at the station around 3 am today, May 1, 2021.

According to a statement released by the Press Secretary to the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, Nsisong Ntuk stated that “Today, Saturday 1st May 2021, the chairman of Ikono LGA received a distress call about the invasion of the Police Station at Ibiaku Ntok Okpo by criminals alleged to be members of the Eastern Security Network by 3 am.

“In the ensuing melee, two police officers were killed, five vehicles burnt, a policewoman on night duty was critically injured, and a flag hoisted at the police station stolen.

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Kizz Daniel welcome baby Twins, reveals on his birthday

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, better known as Kizz Daniel, announced the celebration of his birthday with the arrival of his new babies.

The singer made this revelation in a post he shared on his social media handles while celebrating his birthday.

According to the singer’s post, it revealed that he has welcomed two boys namely Jelani and Jalil on Saturday, April 30, 2021.

In his post, he wrote, “There is no better way to celebrate my birthday than announcing the arrival of my sons… Jelani & Jalil.

https://twitter.com/iamkissdaniel/status/1388436066684882947?s=19

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Police latest order ban vehicles with tinted glasses, covered number plate

A Joint Security Team in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has announced a ban on the use of tinted glasses and unauthorized covered plate numbers as an effort to rid the territory of criminality.

This was made know in a statement on Friday, in Abuja by the spokesperson of the FCT Command, ASP Mariam Yusuf.

According to the statement, the criminal syndicates now uses tinted vehicles with covered plate number to execute their notorious activities, stating that it became necessary following the recent security threat conducted by the joint team.

The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Mr. Bala Ciroma hereby warns residents using unauthorized covered plate numbers and tinted glass on vehicles within the FCT to desists as violators will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

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Laycon releases his new album ‘Shall We Begin’

Popular Nigerian rapper and Big Brother Naija season 5 winner, Olamilekan Moshood Agbeleshe better known as Laycon, has released his latest album titled ‘Shall We Begin’

The album ‘Shall We Begin’ drops on Friday, April 29 in all-digital stores, having 12 tracks to its credit.

The 12 tracks album is the first bodywork after dropping several singles such as ‘Wagwan’, and ‘Fall For Me’ featuring YKB.

The album also encompasses his previously released singles, it opens with the track ‘And So She Spoke, and closes with ‘And So They Spoke’

In the album, Laycon also works together with outstanding artists like Mayorkun, Teni, Joeboy, and Terri.

Listen to the album:

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MultiChoice announce new date for BBNaija season six audition

The organizer of Big Brother Naija Reality TV Show, MultiChoice Nigeria has announced the date for its season 6 audition starting from Monday, May 3, till Sunday, May 16, 2021.

This was made known on the website of BBNaija on Friday, April 30, explaining that interested participants are expected to record a two-minute video of themselves stating why they should be picked to be a Housemate in Season 6 of BBNaija.

Also, interested applicants are advised to do a follow up by login into www.Africa magic. tv/BBAudition to fill out the online registration form and upload their videos, stating that the online process is free and open to interested male and female participants who are of Nigerian nationality with a valid identity document, and must be 21 years of age by June 1, 2021.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugba who promises to offer a bigger experience for this year’s season stated that “We are strengthening our investment in quality content with another season of BBNaija. BBNaija has become one of the most anticipated TV events across Africa and this season promises to be even bigger and more entertaining”.

Earlier, MultiChoice Nigeria has also announced a grand prize of N90 million for the return of season 6 which is the highest for the reality TV show on the continent as its already topped previous seasons.

Meanwhile, MultiChoice further revealed the sponsor for season 6 as ‘Abeg’ along with ‘Patricia’ as a partner of the sponsorship.

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It is a great injustice for FG to run NDDC without a constituted board – Okowa

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has expressed disappointment over the current situation of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, stating that it is a great injustice to the people of the Niger Delta region for the Federal Government to continue to run the commission without a constituted board.

He said there is a need for President Muhammadu Buhari to reconstitute the board of the NDDC without further delay, adding that the current sole administratorship of the commission is not recognized by the law establishing it.

Governor Okowa made these statements while speaking with his Akwa Ibom State counterpart, Governor Udom Emmanuel during the inauguration of roads, bridges, and schools in Agbarho and Oleh on Thursday, April 28, 2021.

Okowa said to continue the development of States in the South-South geopolitical zone, the NDDC board must be reconstituted to allow full representation of all the affected states and to address the various agitations of the countless communities and stakeholders that fall under the jurisdiction of the commission.

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FOI Act, not given its full implementation – NUJ tell Presidency

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The Chairman of Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of journalists, (NUJ), Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, has stated that the high level of insecurity in the country could be traceable to lack of strategic information.

Comrade Ikeogwu calls for the full implementation of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act that was passed into law in 2011 to strengthen responsive and accountable governance.

According to Ikeogwu, the principle surrounding the act is laudable but its implementation had thrown some doubt on the sincerity of those who were to make information available for the benefit of the public.

Comrade Ikeogwu stated this when the State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Chris Anyabuine made a courtesy visit to the NUJ temporary Press Center in Asaba, the state capital.

Giving assurance about the implementation of the FOI, Comrade Ikeogwu said, “The full implementation of the act would afford journalists the access to requisite information to educate the public on the policy thrust of government at all levels in the country.”

He also faulted the federal government for not giving proper attention to the act, according to him, “It runs against the grains of proper reasoning for government at the federal level to be claiming to support free access to information while also appearing to gag the citizenry from speaking up their minds on issues bordering on good governance.”

Furthermore, he commended the efforts of the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzor, for his stand against the Federal Government for its sanction on Channel’s Television, stating that if media outfits in the country were scared from featuring personalities on their platforms because of possible sanctions, the Freedom of Information Act would appear to be cosmetic.

The NUJ boss further shows its desire to strengthen the responsiveness of the act in the state as he expressed the willingness of the State Council to partner with the NOA in its advocacies, most especially the need for the public to get proper education on the FOI Act.

While responding, the NOA Director, Mr. Anyabuine applauded the NUJ boss for its partnership, explaining that it is wise to partner with the union in the state in its zeal to educate the public on the existence of the FOI Act, adding that the union is quite strategic in information dissemination,

Mr. Anyabuine maintains that there is an urgent need for Nigerians to get proper knowledge about the act, adding that it would add values to good governance when properly and fully implemented in the country.

The NOA Director congratulated the council for successfully hosting the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NUJ in the state and also presented a copy of the FOI Act to Comrade Ikeogwu.

Other members of the union present during the visit were, Comrade Salvation Ogono, Vice Chairman; Comrade Celestine Aforkoba, Internal Auditor; Comrade Emeka Chuwujindu, Ex-Officio 11, and some others.

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Davido new music video ‘La La’ cause commotion on social media

Nigerian superstar and DMW boss, David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has again caused a commotion on social media since the release of his music video on the song title ‘La La’ featuring another sensational Afropop singer, CKay.

The music video was shot in a stadium sporting Davido playing a football match alongside some other celebrities most especially the artists signed to his DMW record label and CKay.

The song ‘La La’ is the number 12 track among the songs in Davido’s album “A Better Time”.

While announcing the release of the music video on Thursday, April 29, Davido stated that “Creating this music video was an amazing experience, my whole career one thing I’ve always preached in my own words is “ We Rise by lifting others”! So in my little way, meet some of my friends all having fun doing something we all enjoy! #ABT #LaLa @ckay_yo you ready???

Again, social media users had taken it upon themselves to analyze and praise the singer for his creativity and concept while making music videos.

According to a user on Twitter @DanielRegal said, “I applaud the creativity behind Davido’s “La La” video, it’s not like most regular videos & the fact he used it promote other celebs especially upcoming artistes is exemplary. La La music video also reminds me of Shakira’s “Waka Waka” music video, it’s simple but entertaining.”

Another user, @Davidobrother said, “I am a wizkid fan but after watching this video can we now agree that Ckay is bigger than wizkid. Honest wizkid fan”

Watch video

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Tiwa Savage plan dropping her new EP ‘Water And Garri’

Popular Nigerian female singer and songwriter, Tiwatope Savage, better known as Tiwa Savage revealed plans towards dropping her upcoming Extended Playlist (EP) titled ‘Water And Garri’

The singer made these revelations through a post on her Instagram page on Wednesday, April 28, when she posted a video of herself and American singer, Pharrell Williams while listening to the EP.

According to Pharrel Williams after listening to the tracks describes that they’re not commercial songs but classic, stating that the soul in the songs was fucking crazy.

He said, “I will refer to it as Boat music, BBQ music, and self-reflection music. He applauded her that anybody that doesn’t get it shouldn’t be listening to music.

In regards, Tiwa Savage thank him stating that “Menh I can’t like I’ve got goosebumps cause I’ve not played it for so many people. I’m always scared cause I don’t.

However, Tiwa Savage while posting the video also uses an opportunity to seek from fans on when to drop the EP as she wrote:

Had @pharrell listen to my EP WaterAndGarri
I made music for the soul and one of my favs just confirmed it
@motownrecords @siphodlam I need a date to drop this.

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Burna Boy drops new song ‘Kilometre’ recount on his life journey

Nigerian Grammy Award winner, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has dropped his latest song ‘Kilometre’ on Thursday, April 28.

In the track, Burna Boy recounts his journey on how far he has gone despite the negative opinion by naysayers.

Talking about his journey on the track, the singer in some part of the lyrics asks a question that “When was the last time somebody did it like this? stating that, Too much ice on my bomboclat wrist, that’s why everybody hating on me like Chris.”

The song ‘Kilometre’ happens to be his first solo track of 2021 but isn’t his first track of the year because, in February, he teamed up with Becky G for ‘Rotate’ while he also featured on Justin Bieber’s new album ‘Justice’ in a track “Loved by You”.

However, during an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, Burna Boy revealed plan of dropping his next album this year at the same time he dropped his last album, according to him, “I’m trying to do that as long as I can”

The song ‘Kilometre’ is produced by Chopstick after he released his most recent studio album ‘Twice As Tall’.

Listen to the song

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Rivers Govt imposes dusk-to-dawn curfew over security concerns

The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike in a statewide broadcast has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on the entire 23 Local Government Areas of the state, prohibiting any human or vehicular movement within or any part of it from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. starting from Thursday till further notice.

This was contained in a statement issued by Kelvin Ebiri, Special Assistant to the State Governor on Media after an exhaustive deliberation by the State Security Council at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Thursday, April 29, 2021.

The governor after considering the recent attacks on security personnel in Ikwerre and Abua/Odual Local Government Areas, on Wednesday, April 28, at the State Security Council had to imposed a night-time curfew on all the state entry and exit points with Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Imo State stating that there are possibilities of further deadly attacks on hard and soft targets across the state.

According to the governor after the review of the present security situation stated that the measure and the decision at this time is a deliberate attempt necessary to secure the state and safeguard lives and properties.

Furthermore, he urged residents to be vigilant and promptly report every suspicious movement in their neighborhood to the security agencies for immediate action.

He said, “Accordingly, the State Security Council has, today, after exhaustive deliberation, decided and advised that a statewide curfew on human and vehicular movements be imposed as part of additional measures to prevent the faceless criminals from unleashing their deadly actions.

“Consequently, a night curfew is hereby imposed on the entire 23 Local Government Areas of the State prohibiting any human and or vehicular movement within or any part of the State from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. from today 29th April 2021 until further notice.”

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How Police Uncover Illegal Alcohol Factory, Retrieve Stolen-vehicle In Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has uncovered an illegal factory where fake alcohol is been produced and also announced the recovery of a stolen car in the state.

This was disclosed by the spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP. Bright Edafe, Ag, in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday, April 29, in Asaba.

It was gathered that on Friday, April 16, 2021, the commander of Delta State Police Command Special Anti Cult Unit, SP Christopher Igbaji, after intelligence gathering at about 8:30 pm mobilized operatives from SACU on a sting operation together with the civilian anti-cult volunteer corps and arrest one Kenneth Ajie ‘m’ of Amadaga village at Ovwia in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State and uncover an illegal factory where fake alcohol is been produced.

According to the suspect during interrogation alleged that he produces these fake wines without any license in his house and then sell the wine for the sum of N300 per bottle and three thousand six hundred nairas (#3600) per carton, stating that he bottles the wine himself, and also confesses that he uses bottles that have already been used and dispose of.

The suspect further confessed that he buys these bottles at Ten Naira (#10) per bottle and also buys the cork from the open market, according to his claims, he washes the bottles himself, cork the wines himself, and sells to members of the public, adding that he works alone and produces about one to three cartons daily.

However, the case is still under investigation while exhibits recovered from him include bottles of the drinks suspected to be fake alcoholic wine.

In another incident that happened in Warri, it was gathered that on Thursday, April 28, 2021, policemen from ‘A’ Division Warri receive a distress call from one of the police constabulary attached to ‘B’ Division at about 1:20 am that four suspected armed robbery gang in a Toyota Canmry (Pencil light) were operating at Ubor axis in Warri.

Immediately, the DPO ‘A’ Division, CSP T. Y. Mahmud swiftly responded, mobilized, and led the anti-crime patrol team in search of the hoodlums as they were later sighted between Ogwangwe and NPA, the police engaged them in a hot chase to Iyara where they (hoodlums) eventually abandoned the Toyota Camry Registration no. TE845 AAA, a car belonging to a renowned journalist, Felix Ekwu that was stolen at Ekuremu street in Warri on Thursday, April 22, 2021.

However, during the escape, several gunshots were released towards their escape route as it is believed that they went with bullet injuries after they abandoned the car with one locally made single barrel gun loaded with one live cartridge.

Also, the DPO ‘A’ Division further led men for a search party, where they recovered shoes, neck chain and phones charging chords at the escape route, meanwhile, the Iyara vigilante and indigenes of Iyara were also put on red alert to be on the lookout as effort is ongoing to arrest the fleeing robbers while the vehicle has been recovered.

Meanwhile, The State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC+ has promised to deliver and do everything possible to free the state from the hands of criminals while also commend men of the force for taking the battle against crime.

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Glo unveils new package with overabundance service

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Nigerian multinational telecommunications company, Globacom has roll-out a self-care app known as ‘Glo Café’.

Glo Cafe app is a one-stop destination for managing Globacom account, bill payments, mobile recharges, and checking usage.

The Glo Café app is also an entertainment app that enables its customers to access overabundance services such as video, music, sports, comedy, celebrity news, and gist.

According to a statement by the company, the Glo Café app is secure and convenient for a whole lot of functions in the digital space and available 24/7 for free.

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Four students kidnap by gunmen in Plateau, three escape after security reinforcement

Gunmen on Thursday morning attack Capro Secondary Mission School, an arm of Calvary ministry located at Gana Ropp in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, and abducted four students.

Three among the students, however, have escaped while one is still in captivity.

It was gathered that the gunmen broke the rear fence of the school to gain access into the school compound and abducted the students.

Confirming the incident, a global mission leader and President of Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, Reverend Gideon Para-Mallam stated that the gunmen drilled a hole through the rear fence of the school, broke into the school compound to abduct the students.

According to him, the intervention of the security agencies prevents what could have been another mass abduction, stating that three students escaped after the reinforcement of securities in the location.

Meanwhile, no statement has been made by the Plateau State Police Command on the incident but efforts are ongoing to secure the abducted student.

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NLC Delta Plans To Make History On Workers Day

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The Delta State Council of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, led by Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku has revealed plans to make this year’s May Day celebrations the best in history after considering to present awards of merits to some deserving veteran Labour Leaders who have paid their dues in the labor movement.

This decision was made known at the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the Chairman on Wednesday, April 28, at the Labour House, Asaba.

According to the decisions, this year’s May Day Celebration will hold on May 1, 2021, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, and the celebration would commence at 10 am.

The theme for this year’s May Day celebration is “Covid-19 Pandemic, Social and Economic Crisis, Challenges for Decent Jobs, Social Protection and People’s Welfare.”

The Chairman, Ofobruku while speaking informed members that this year’s celebration would feature lectures on the unity of labor leaders and their members, also with Labour to Government relationship and understanding.

Ofobruku mentioned that there will be a sideshow by garri processing company – Samvita, who during the event would create awareness on its product through cooking that would be served to interested members free.

Also, he urges all SEC-in-Session to mobilize their Union members to seat before the arrival of the Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, stating that the affiliate Union with the highest mobilization would win a trophy along with monetary attachment as a way of encouraging participation in labour matters.

However, the Chairman also noted that all Covid-19 protocols are expected to be observed during the celebration.

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Why Gov. Ortom accuses FG of being selfish over insecurity

The Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom has accused the federal government of being selfish over the rising cases of insecurity in the country while also advised it to seek external support stating that the situation has become so unfortunate that killing, kidnapping, and all other sorts of calamities occurred daily.

The governor explained that the situation has gone beyond the federal government’s capacity, noting that it will be better if the federal government seeks help from other countries.

The governor stated this during the induction ceremony of Army Day Secondary School, Effurun in Delta State on Wednesday, April 28.

While speaking, governor Ortom maintains that some governors whose state were being attacked had become helpless and frustrated, adding that the major problem of insecurity occasioned by banditry, Boko insurgency, and other violent crimes in the country.

According to Ortom, the federal government has not been proactive in providing the people education stating that it was painful that Nigeria was in such a terrible situation.

He said “If they were educated they would have found themselves something meaningful to do rather than occupying themselves with committing evil across the country.

“I say so because I believe in education and if you want to develop a people, give them quality education and so I must commend Governor Okowa for the quality school and for creating three new universities in Delta,” he added.

Also, while still speaking, governor Ortom commended Okowa for his hard work, diligence, commitment, and determination in adding value to Delta and the entire country.

He said, “Governor Okowa has demonstrated immense capacity and commitment to achieve the result in all tasks assigned to him and he remains our pride both in the PDP and in the Governors’ Forum.

“Without education, there cannot be any meaningful development and a single facility hosting about 3,000 students is a good deal and worthy of commendation.

“With the universities, you have created, it will be easier to absolve them when they finish their secondary education.

“I have so much to learn from you in adding value to our people in the remaining two years left of my administration.

“We have been watching you inaugurating several projects all over the state, I thank you for this great privilege and am not taking it for granted because we have 36 governors and you could have invited any of them but you chose to invite me to perform this great function,’’ Ortom stated.

Governor Okowa on his part said, his administration was doing a lot even though a lot still needed to be done.

He commended Governor Ortom for coming to inaugurate the projects, saying, “Despite the challenges we have in our country, especially in the North Central, you still made out time to be with us in Delta, it shows the friendship and love you have for us.”

Okowa said Uvwie Local Government was among the first beneficiaries of the nine new technical colleges being built in the state.

“We are doing a lot but we still realize that a lot still needs to be done even as we continue to build new schools and also completing the projects we inherited from the previous administration.

“We believe in technical education and we also believe that our people should be imparted with necessary skills to make them self reliant and to survive the challenging times.

“We are multiplying the number of Deltans that are gainfully skilled and empowered in their chosen vocations, adding, “A minimum of 4,000 Deltans are trained yearly in the various vocational centers in the state.”

“We will continue to empower our children to make them have sustainable means of livelihood,” the governor assured.

According to Okowa, his administration was committed to completing the storm drainage projects and the Warri-Sapele Road dualisation project in the Uvwie and Warri area.

He said, on the 7.9 km Oha-Orerokpe-Oviore Road and Bridge, Okowa said it was a dream come true and commended traditional rulers for their partnership in the development of the state.

He also revealed that he would forward a supplementary appropriation bill to the state assembly for the reconstruction of the Orerokpe-Oviore-Okpe-Aragba Road.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, said that the completion of the school would facilitate teaching and learning in the area.

He said that the school was founded in 1986, and was plagued with poor facilities before the state government embarked on the construction of the ultra-modern school in 2010.

Earlier in their welcome remarks, Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Mr. Ramson Onoyake, and his Okpe counterpart, Mr. Isaiah Esiovwa, had commended the governor for his giant strides in changing the face of Delta.

They lauded the governor for his strong determination to give Delta a new facelift especially in the areas of providing a conducive learning environment for students and construction of several roads across the state.

Also, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe 1, while speaking commended Governor Okowa for his outstanding accomplishments in his kingdom, stating that the inauguration of the project has shown Okowa’s passion for education.

The monarch also stated that the project is the second project to be inaugurated in the Uvwie kingdom in less than six weeks.

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Why Ovie Of Agbon commend Okowa for good governance stride

The Ovie of Agbon Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, HRM Ogunrimerime Ukori 1, has commended the Delta State governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for his overall development across the three senatorial districts in the state.

The royal father made the commendation on Tuesday 27th April, in his palace at Otorho Agbon, when the immediate past Local Government Auditor General of Delta State, Okakuro Abel Esievo, visited the royal palace to formally inform the King of his retirement from service after meritorious service.

According to the royal father, governor Okowa has done well judging from his prudent management of the state resources which gave rise to the construction and rehabilitation of roads, rehabilitation and construction of bridges, stormwater drainages as well as ensuring sports and airport infrastructural developments.

The highly proactive king thanked the state governor for the rehabilitation and commissioning of the Oviorie Oha Road, adding that it will further enhance transportation of goods and services.

Also, he urged the good people of the Urhobo nation and Deltans in general to give the state government the needed prayers, morals, and other necessary supports to enable him to accomplish his well-intended Stronger Delta Agenda.

HRM Ogunrimerime congratulated Esievo for servicing the state without blemish and offered prayers for his well-being, God’s guidance, and protection in his future endeavors.

The royal father also disclosed that the Isiokolo Divisional Police Headquarter is now under Ughelli Area Command based on his protest letter to the Inspector General of Police, IGP, adding that before now it was under Sapele Area Command.

Ovie of Agbon Kingdom thanked the IGP, Mr. Usman Alkali Baba, for using his good office to address the royal request and wished him well in his genuine efforts to reposition the Nigerian Police for better service to the government and people of Nigeria.

And on a lighter mood, HRM Ukori 1, recognized the presence of the Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Communications, Chief Barr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, JP, saying that the royal palace recognizes his communication prowess.

The EACGOV thanked Ukori 1, for the recognition and promised to visit the palace and the King at regular intervals, to sit under the tutelage of the wise and humorous royal father to tap from the King’s reservoir of knowledge.

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Gunmen kill two security officers at checkpoint in Ebonyi

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On Monday night, April 26, gunmen killed two soldiers and a civilian in Ebonyi State and also took out their rifles.

It was gathered that the incident happened at a checkpoint within Timber Shade Junction in Afikpo North Local Government Area at about 8:48 pm on Monday.

According to a source who spoke on anonymity said, the gunmen came with a white Bus when stopped by the soldiers for a check immediately opened fire on two of the military officers who died on the spot, a man and a woman officers while others ran away.

The source also disclosed that the situation threw the busy town into a graveyard as people hurriedly packed their goods and went home.

Meanwhile, the Army Commandant in the state has never said anything regarding the incident, while also, the Divisional Police Officer of Afikpo North Division had yet to notify the spokesperson of the State Police Command at the time of filing this report.

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2baba, Omotola, Musa, others offer free tickets to contest 2023 election

The National Chairman of African Democratic Congress, ADC, Ralph Okey Nwosu, has announced the willingness of the party to offer free tickets to Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Baba, Omotola Jelade-Ekeinde, Ahmed Musa, and DJ Switch to run for any elective office of their choice in the 2023 general elections.

The Chairman made this revelation while receiving the certificate of endorsement from the party as the one-party for Nigerian youths in the next election.

Mr. Nwosu explained that the reason for the choice of celebrities to run on the platform of the party is that entertainers have given back to the country more than elected politicians of today.

According to him, the endorsement will enable the celebrities to contest for any elective position namely, governorship, senatorial, or the presidential office on the ADC platform provided they meet the requirements stipulated in the 1999 constitution as amended or the guidelines provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The Chairman in his remarks also praised Ahmed Musa who after many years in Europe and the Middle East signed up to play for a local club, Kano Pillars.

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Reps urge Buhari to declare state of emergency, plan for security summit

The House of Representatives on Tuesday, April 27, has decided to call on President Muhammadu Buhari to declare a state of emergency, plan for a security summit over the rising state of insecurity while also condemned the attack on security personnel around the country and sympathized with families of victims.

This was made known by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila after emerging from a three-hour closed-door session in which he revealed that the lawmakers collectively adopted a series of resolutions.

When briefing journalists after the closed-door session, the Speaker stated some of the resolutions reached, according to him, the House resolved to organize a special security summit and invite the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd); the service chiefs, head of paramilitary agencies, and NIGCOMSAT.

Also, He revealed that the House resolved that the President should as a matter of urgency ensure financial autonomy for local government to ensure the protection of national infrastructure across the country.

The House, also calls for immediate recruitment of security operatives to help sustain the number of personnel while asking all security committees to immediately audit arms and ammunition of security agencies within four weeks.

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Gov. Okowa appoints Vice-Chancellors for three new universities

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The Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has approved the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor for the three new Universities established in the state.

This was made known in a statement released by the Secretary to the state government, Chiedu Ebie on Monday, April 26.

According to the statement, the newly appointed Vice-chancellors, Prof. Ben Emukufia Akpoyomare Oghojafor, in-charge of Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai, Asaba; Prof. (Mrs) Stella Chinye Chiemeke, University of Delta, Agbor; while, Prof. Jacob Snapps Oboreh, University of Science and Technology, Ozoro.

The statement also notes that the appointment is with immediate effect.

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Another attack on Imo police command by gunmen

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The Okigwe South Police Division, Orieagu in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State have been attacked by gunmen on Monday, April 26.

It was gathered that six police officers have been killed during the attack and prisoners were freed before setting some of the facility ablaze as reported by Punch.

According to a source who does not want his name to be mentioned stated that the gunmen on arrival opened fire on the officers who questioned them, freed all the suspects in the custody, and made away with weapons.

Meanwhile, the state police public relations officer, Orlando Ikeokwu revealed that five policemen were killed while one was missing, stating that the command has commenced an investigation into the invasion.

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Delta CJ inaugurate new financial board two weeks after JUSUN strike

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After two weeks of the ongoing nationwide strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, for judicial autonomy, the Delta State Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro, inaugurated the state Judiciary Funds Management Board, and also constitute a nine-member committee for Departmental Funds Management in Asaba

During the inauguration, the chief judge stated that the inauguration of the board and committee was under sections 3 and 8(1) & (2) of the Delta State Judiciary Funds Management (Financial Autonomy) Law, 2019.

According to the chief judge, the law was enacted by the Delta House of Assembly in 2019 and was declared open by the governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on March 24, 2020.

The Delta State Judiciary Funds Management Board has the State Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro as chairman while Acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Patience Elumeze as the vice-chairman.

Other members are Chief Registrar, Customary Court of Appeal, Mrs. B. Ojeikere; Secretary, Judicial Service Commission P. I. Uzonitsha, D. G. Delta State MultiDoor Court, C. N. Onyekwe, Director of Finance and Supply, High Court Mr. A. E. Onwatogwu; Director, Finance and Administration, Customary Court of Appeal I. Egbo; Director of Litigation, High Court J. C. Mrs. Edonwonyi and Augustine Chinenye Chiejina.

The Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice, Barrister O. Aforkeya is to serve as the Board’s Secretary.

For the Departmental Funds Management Committee, the Chief Registrar High Court Obomejero Aforkeya and Chief Registrar, Customary Court of Appeal, Mrs. B. Ojeikere is the chairman and vice-chairman, respectively.

Other members are Secretary, Judicial Service Commission Barrister Paul Uzonitsha, Director of Finance and Supply High Court, A. E.Onwatogwu; Director of Personnel Management, High Court, P. I. Idollo; DFA Customary Court of Appeal, I. Egbo; DPRS Customary Court of Appeal, Mrs. V. A. Aigbe, and Director, DSMDC Mrs. A. Egbuchua.

The Chairman of the Delta State Judiciary Management Board, Justice Umukoro, during the inauguration, explained to its members the objective of the law urging them to be accountable and transparent for the effective and efficient administration of funds accruing to the state judiciary as provided by Section 121 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

Juice Umukoro explained that the provision grants financial autonomy to the state judiciary by providing that funds accruing to the Delta State Judiciary from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the state be paid to heads of courts.

He said the function of the board, according to him, is to consider how funds of the judiciary accounts were applied for the services and administration of the Delta State Judiciary; submit quarterly reports to the Chief Judge; set, approve and amend monetary threshold for the judiciary; and approve award all contracts, procurements, and services above #10, 000, 000.00 ( Ten Million Naira ) only.

He said while section 8 (3) of the law provides that the Departmental Funds Management Committee shall perform its functions on all contracts, works, services, and procurements in the state judiciary up to the sum of #5,000,000.00 ( Five Million Naira) only.

“I hope that the members of the board and the committee will take this assignment with all sense of responsibility and ensure that funds are diligently applied for the overall good of the state judiciary.

“There is no doubt that the public, especially stakeholders in the administration of justice will be expecting a change for the better in the infrastructural facilities in the judiciary and general welfare of judicial officers and support staff.,” he admonished.

Also, the Chief Justice in his remarks cautioned that anti-corruption agencies were on the watch while charging members of the board and committee to shun every corrupt penchant or any act capable of bringing shame and dishonor to the name of the state judiciary.

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Did you join the cabal or not – Eedris ask Keyamo

Ace Nigerian rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem has hit back on the Honorable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for accusing him on Twitter on Saturday, April 24.

The rapper in his hit-back message on social media titled ‘Jaga Jaga TI Get E’, asked if truly Festus Keyamo join the cabal or not.

According to his post on Instagram, Eedris on Sunday, April 25, alleged that he thought Keyamo was a brother he could lean on in time of need.

In his post, Eedris recall that when Keyamo was in prison with other comrades, he stood by him and fought Obasanjo on behalf of all comrades that were in prison during which he released Jaga Jaga.

He said at a time he needed help when his mother was dying, he approached Keyamo as a brother to help him, or as one he thought was a brother and a comrade but instead, he (Keyamo) never helped because of the wickedness of his heart which makes him to chewed and kept personal details for three years.

While narrating, Eedris lamented that in 2018, he thought Keyamo was a comrade. Thinking that he might help effect change in the government he served instead, he joined the cabal, stating that, he became a member of the inner caucus who held the steering wheel that is spiraling Nigeria into doom.

Furthermore, Eedris faulted Keyamo for joining the cabal to crush the revolution of youths who mowed down at Lekki Toll-gate, stating that the issues he raised in the song ‘Jaga Jaga Reloaded’ are facts about the current state of the country which he noted that Nigeria never had it so bad.

He said the Jaga Jaga has taken a gargantuan dimension which he urged Nigerians to keep asking questions. We must keep asking the cabal questions, he added.

He said, “With a vexed spirit, I went again to the studio for Jaga Jaga Reloaded and the Blackmailer went to town. The cabal is awoken. The cabal is hit. The cabal is in pain. The cabal is failing. The cabal will Fall.

“The Blackmailer said I recorded a song for Buhari. The said song is titled “Obasanjo Write Buhari Letter”. Here is the link to that song, listen and you will phantom (Sic) the deviousness and deviousness of the evil SAN (Senior Advocate Blackmailer of Nigeria) called Festus Keyamo.”

Also, Eedris further revealed why Festus Keyamo is in pain because according to him, his next ambition is to be the governor of Delta State to localize grand looting, terrorism, murdering, raping of citizens, and kidnapping which his cabal have put on a pedestal and repackaged as banditry, sundry, and other mis-governance.

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Plenty of fake products worth N1billion destroy by Kano Govt

The Kano State Consumer Protection Council (CPC) in conjunction with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) razed plenties of substandard, fake, and expired products worth over N1billion.

It was gathered that the products were seized within three months, of which the seizure occurred day-to-day.

The state governor, Abdullahi Ganduje who were present to witness the destruction, stated that his administration is working hard to fight and safeguard the health of his people, according to him, the state is not only dropping from a high position in drug abuse in the country but that it’s free from drug abuse.

The Governor also stated that they are working towards the establishment of a law that would ensure that those engaged in selling fake, substandard, and expired products are brought to book with serious punishment.

While still speaking, the governor commended the tireless efforts of the acting Managing Director of CPC, who also doubles as the MD Kano State Road Traffic Agency (KAROTA), Mr. Baffa Dan’agundi, for ensuring that kano’s market was free from fake products.

However, Dan’agundi while responding, recalled that upon assumption of duty, the governor instructed him to do everything possible to ensure that those products are no longer in existence in the state, noting that, the items being destroyed were seized within the past three months when he took the mantle of leadership.

He said those items that were seized are so dangerous to health while revealing that they have in their warehouse another one waiting to be destroyed.

According to Dan’agundi during explanation suggested that in the next three months, they might not be able to make such kind of seizure because he knew that the perpetrators already know that they are ready to prosecute anyone, added that they have arrested some of them.

Also speaking, the State NDLEA Commandant assured the governor to partner with all relevant agencies in the fight against drug abuse and other related substances, noting how collaboration will help cleanse the state from drug dealers and fake products.

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Apc condemn attack on Gov. Uzodimma’s residence, mourn security

The All Progressive Congress, APC, has condemned the attack on the residence of the Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma as an attack on democracy while also mourn with the families of security officers who died during their service to the country.

The party also condemned the recent attacks on police officers and security properties in Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Rivers State while calling on the security services to fish out the perpetrators.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday, April 26, in Abuja by the APC National Secretary of its Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, CECPC, John James Akpanudoedehe.

According to the statement, “We stand with the Nigeria Police Force and families of the victims in this difficult time as we mourn the deaths of innocent and dedicated security personnel simply carrying out their duty of protecting life and property.

“In Imo state, the attack on the Governor’s residence is an attack on democracy and constituted authority serving the interest of the good people of Imo state.

“While we are still in shock over the ugly turn of events in the state, the party sympathizes with Sen. Hope Uzodimma and all affected in the bestial attack. We have since learned that there were fatalities with others injured and maimed during the attack.

“The party and indeed our security services will not watch helplessly as some persons and interests attempt to turn Imo state to a killing field. We call on the good people of Imo state to go about their legal activities without fear and resist these enemies of the state”, APC stated.

It said the security services must fish out the perpetrators of these attacks and their sponsors to face the full weight of the law to restore dignity to the citizenry and confidence in the system, particularly democratic and security structures.

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Police Inspector dismiss after firing man to death

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A police inspector identified as Jonathan Kampani attached to the Mounted Troop of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State has been dismissed after firing a 45-year-old man, Jelili Bakare to death.

It was gathered that Kampani killed Bakare, a 45-year-old businessman after demanding to know why he wanted to search him at a spot where he was relaxing at Quinox Lounge in the Sangotedo area of Lagos State on March 18, 2021.

In a statement by the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Muyiwa Adejobi stated that the Lagos State Police Command has dismissed one AP No. 278055 Inspector Jonathan Kampani attached to the Mounted Troop of the Nigerian Police Force for firing at and killed one Jelili Bakare at the Quinox Lounge, Sangotedo area of Lagos State, on March 18, 2021.

According to a letter numbered AR. 3100/LS/SPM/vol.2/321 dated April 16, 2021, that was conveyed to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, SCIID, Panti, Yaba, Kampani will be prosecuted as advised by the Department of Public Prosecution Lagos.

However, the State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu has promised that justice would be done in the matter after he ordered the arrest and organized room examination of the inspector after the incident.

Also, on Saturday, March 27, 2021, the CP had already instructed a team of senior officers on a condolence visit to the family of the deceased at the Chief Bakare’s House, Ajiranland, Eti-Osa Local Government Area. of Lagos State.

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Keyamo reveals why Eedris vent his frustration on him in new song

The Honorable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, SAN, after being blackmail by veteran rapper, Edris Abdulkareem on his latest song ‘Jaga Jaga Reloaded’ has decided to hit back with accusations on why the rapper hit at him.

In a series of post he made on his Twitter page on Saturday, April 24, Keyamo, revealed some shocking revelation about Eedris Abdulkareem at when he was anxious to join the APC for a price of N1.3 million and also ask to be given the connection to top government officials in 2018 when a song he did in support of Buhari campaign was not accepted by him.

Behind the accusations, Keyamo, alleged that Eedris Abdulkareem just released a song, ‘Jaga Jaga reloaded’, where he waxed the following lyrics on him, “where Festus Keyamo see? He don dey chop with cabal o”. according to him, he laughed out so loud and even danced to the rhythm too. But added, there’s a small story behind this poor attempt at blackmail.

While narrating the incident that led to blackmail, Keyamo stated, “In 2018, when I was named the Director of Strategic Communications for Buhari Campaign Organisation, Eedris waxed a song in support of Buhari & wanted to join us, albeit for a fee. He then made desperate efforts to see me through text messages from his phone.

“When I finally met with him, I listened to the songs, but told him I had no budget for such or any for that matter. I explained that my job was voluntary. It was the same thing I told so many other so-called activists-by-day-and-hustlers-at-night who secretly approached me.

“He then switched to the fact that he wanted a loan to pay for his hotel bills to the tune of N1.3 m & to cater for his ‘sick mum’. That was already running into more than N3m. However, one govt functionary called me to say he told him another story that his child was sick.

“He begged me to introduce him to Malami (AGF), Amaechi & the SGF and to paint a good ‘PR’ for him. He pledged that he was with us in the campaign with his whole ‘body and soul’. But at this point, I knew he was a desperate hustler who could embarrass me, so I ghosted him.

“Shortly after this episode when he could not penetrate the system to get the money he so desperately wanted, he then endorsed Atiku and called Buhari a ‘fraudster’. See one of the links here… https://t.co/WZbS4noVcH. But we decided to ignore his weak voice of opposition.

“After our victory, he went berserk and joined every protests against the same Buhari whom he wanted to serve with his whole ‘body and soul’, but needed money to do so. He has been mentioning my name specifically at occasions as if I am the cause of all his troubles in life.

“Now, the latest is the ‘jagajaga reloaded’ that he has waxed to vent his frustrations at not getting into the system. His reference to me as ‘chopping’ reminds me of the gaffe of then Minister Sunday Afolabi who infamously said Bola Ige was invited to Govt to ‘come and chop’!

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Nine people die on their way to wedding in Edo

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The Edo State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced the death of nine persons who died in an accident on their way to a wedding ceremony on Saturday at Ekpon Junction on Agbor-Ewohimi Road in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to the Sector Commander of FRSC, Edo Command, Henry Benemesia, explained that the five persons died on the spot while others passed away on their way to the hospital.

It was gathered that the accident occurred when the bus conveying the deceased from Benin to Ewatto in Esan South-East Local Government Area of the state clashes with a vehicle load with bags of cement heading to the South East.

Nine among the ten occupants of the bus died and their body later being deposited in the mortuary of an undisclosed hospital in Edo.

However, one of the survival of the accident, a 15-year-old male was reached to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital.

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DMX honored in new style during memorial, monster-truck carry casket

A memorial service held for the late rapper, Earl Simmons, better known as DMX, was performed on Saturday, April 24, at 4 pm, in Barclay’s Center, Brooklyn, after he died of a heart attack on April 9, at 50 years.

It was gathered that the memorial service was restricted to close friends and family because of the coronavirus, but it is scheduled to be live-streamed on YouTube on Sunday, April 25.

During the procession, a monster truck was seen carrying the casket followed by Ruff Ryder’s rap group along with hundreds of motorcyclists, and fans who took the sidewalk from his birthplace in New York to gather at the memorial service in Barclays Center.

The monster truck hauling the casket was inscribed with the words “Long Live DMX” along with the Ruff Ryders logo.

The memorial ride was tagged “The Ruff Ryders 2 The Rescue: Ryde 4 Life.”

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Zamfara Govt ban sales of petrol on containers, issues warning

The Zamfara State Government has declared a ban on the use of Jerry Can or any containers in the purchase of petrol products over rising insecurity.

The Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Magaji Dasara, made this revelation in a statement on Saturday, April 24.

According to the Commissioner, the government found it necessary to ban the activities of black marketers in the general area of Wanke, Magami, Dansadau, Dangulbi, Dankurmi, Bindin, Munhaye, Kizarah, lunch with Kalgo and their environs with immediate effect until further notice.

The Commissioner also warned all filling stations within the affected areas to desist from selling the petroleum products to Jerry cans or any other containers.

He said, only moving vehicles are allowed to take petroleum products from the filling stations, adding that, NUPENG and other associations on petroleum products are directed to advise their members to shun any act capable of sabotaging this government order.

Also, he directed all security agencies to ensure full compliance, stating that, anybody found violating this order should be dealt with accordingly.

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How notorious armed robbers were arrested in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has announced the arrest of some suspected armed robbers in Warri, Kwale, and Okpe Local Government Area of the State.

These were made known to newsmen in a statement released by the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP. Edafe Bright, Ag, on Saturday, April 24, 2021.

According to the statement, it was gathered that on Thursday, April 22, 2021, at about 7:30 pm, the DPO ‘A’ Division Warri, CSP T. Y. Mahmud, received a distress call from a town service bus driver (name withheld) who alleged that while he was on his routine transport business with passengers on board along Okere road Warri, a tricycle with registration number SGD 430 VC blocked his bus when one of the occupants brought out a cut to size gun and dispossessed him and his passengers of their phones and other valuables. He raised an alarm for help and in the process the suspects took to their heels with the stolen items while the driver of the tricycle one Kingsley Godday “M” age 23 years was arrested.

Interestingly, the same Godday was earlier arrested in connection with foiled armed robbery attack where policemen from ‘A’ Division Warri recovered a tricycle with two empty cartridges whom the said suspect rushed to the station and reported that armed men snatched his tricycle from him, and the tricycle was released to him after proving ownership, but luck ran against him on this time as he was caught in the act.

Meanwhile, interrogation and investigation with the view to arresting the fleeing members of the gang are ongoing.

In another case that was recorded in Kwale Division on Friday, April 23, at about 7:30 pm, it was gathered that the Divisional police officer Kwale Division, SP Adie Bissong, while acting on a tip-off and intelligence gathering mobilized patrol teams along with some members of the public who has been helping the police to crack down criminal elements in Kwale axis, arrested a member of a notorious armed robbery gang leader that specializes in robbery and snatching of motorcycles.

The suspect identified as Ossai Bright ‘m’ aged 21 was arrested along Adige street opposite Ndokwa West Local Government Council while attempting to snatch a motorcycle, a cut-to-size locally-made gun, a knife, and one cartridge was recovered from him. However, the investigation is ongoing while frantic effort is in place to arrest other members of his gang.

Also, on Saturday, April 24, at about noon, it was gathered that the operatives of Eagle Net Special Squad while on patrol along Aziza road in Okpe LGA Warri, sighted two men suspected to be armed robbers on a motorcycle with a bag, the suspected robbers on sighting the police, jumped down from the motorcycle and escaped into a nearby bush, they abandoned the blue motorcycle with Reg no. USL-784 VC registered in Edo State.

The motorcycle was recovered while efforts are on top gear for the possible arrest of the fleeing suspects.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC+ wishes to thanks members of the public for their continuous support in the fight against crime and criminalities in the state.

The CP also urging them to keep the tempo, shun all form of crime, report any suspicious movement to the police, and their identity will be treated with confidentiality, according to him, crime has no jurisdiction stating that it is the therefore collective effort of all, that will help fight it, as security is everybody’s business

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When planning for marriage, one should apply common sense – Omotola

Veteran actor, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, during an interview with BBC Yoruba explained why she does not support the idea of a lady getting married without having a source of income.

The actress in her statements while responding to a question whether she would allow any of her kids to marry at the age of 18, said she was at the age of understanding when she got married stating that, above all, she was mature and already working being a millionaire when she meet her husband.

The actress said currently she have only one child that is 18 years old and he is a boy. Stating if peradventure, he says he wants to get married, she will not allow it because he does not have his own money now, but she also added that if after all these factors, any of my child is still considering marriage, then we as parents would meet the person and if we like them, we would give them our blessings.”

According to her, the idea of a lady getting married without having any source of income is bad, suggesting that one should always apply wisdom or common sense in everything that they do.

She said people should not say because I got married at 18 years, therefore they can also do it, adding that if anyone does it, that person would be going into slavery. According to her, the question is, are you ready for the marriage?

She said, “At 18, I had my own money. I was not dependent on any man. Moreover, my father died early, so I was already responsible for my younger siblings. I was like their mother at that time, so I was very mature and financially prepared.

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Lawmakers support pay-per-view on cable TV for the second time

The House of Representatives Committee on Communication, which was set up to investigate tariff increment by cable/satellite television service providers in the country has revealed how Nigerians will soon be enjoying pay-per-view bouquets from Cable TV.

The Deputy Chairman of the committee, Unyime Idem, who representing Ukanafun/Orukanam Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom revealed these to newsmen.

According to the lawmaker while briefing journalists on Friday in Abuja stated that, he and two other lawmakers had sponsored a bill that has passed the second reading on Thursday to grant power to the National Broadcasting Commission to regulate tariffs imposed on subscribers by service providers.

The lawmaker explained that after the passage of the Bill, “the issue of price (tariff) increment that happens without the control of the regulator even when the product is not consumed is going to be a thing of the past.”

He said, “I want Nigerians to be happy, patient, and hopeful that in a short time, these issues are going to be addressed.

“Apart from the tariff, another thing the bill is seeking to address is the issue of monopoly. When this bill is passed into law, it would also give NBC the powers to open up the sub-sector so that more players can be brought on board.

“We need to broaden the system so that both local and international investors can come in and open up the system where we can have varieties. You can see what is obtainable today in the telecoms industry. Very soon, by the time the bill is passed, it is going to be a free market where everybody has a level playing field.

“Right now, there are a lot of investors that want to come in but the monopoly that is rocking that particular sub-sector cannot accommodate new entrants into the system. So, that is one thing the bill is also seeking to address. So that apart from giving Nigerians benefit for the money they pay, it would also add to the employment issue that Nigerians are yearning for. It is going to create a lot of employment opportunities.

“You can imagine the number of persons one outfit can accommodate in their employment. Then you can think of where we have so many companies coming in. At the end of the day, the number of employees that we are going to generate would be something that would help our economy. So those are the issues that we believe by the time the bill is passed it is going to address them.”

Recall on March 17, 2020, the House set up and mandated the committee to investigate DSTV and other cable television service providers in Nigeria.

The House had, again on June 2, passes another resolution, mandating the panel to invite DSTV to explain its tariff increment on June 1.

However, during one of the investigative hearing by the committee, Idem, noted that the investigation was based on protests by Nigerians against DSTV’s tariff hikes.

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MTN data recharge not to be available till Sunday

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MTN Nigeria, has announced that the purchase of data will not be available from Friday, 12 midnight April 23, till 6 am on Sunday, April 25, 2021.

These was made known on Twitter on Friday, April 23, by the telecommunications company.

According to MTN Nigeria, there will be a service upgrade between Friday midnight to Sunday morning.

The telecommunications company apologize for the inconvenience it’s customers will experience at this time.

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Okowa condole with Itsekiri people over demise of monarch

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The Executive Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has condole with the Itsekiri people in the state over the demise of their monarch, Ogiame Ikenwoli II, Olu of Warri while also congratulate Prince Tsola Emiko on his emergence as the new Olu-designate

Governor Okowa made these appeal when members of the Olu of Warri Advisory Council visited him at Government House, Asaba, on Thursday, April 22, to convey a letter to formally notify him of the demise of the monarch.

According to Okowa while speaking, described the departed Olu as an epitome of peace who built bridges across ethnic divides in the country, stating how the late Ogiame have contributed immensely to the peace and development of not only warri kingdom, but to the state and the country.

He said, “I want to truly condole with the whole of Itsekiri nation on the passing of Ogiame Ikenwoli, the king who believed in peace.

“He set out to visit other monarchs to establish partnership and friendship and these partnerships he built helped to improve on the peace in the state and helped to bringing various kingdoms together.

“We thank God for the life of his Royal Majesty who has gone to the great beyond and I pray that the Itsekiri nation will continue to work for peace because he was an epitome of peace.

“We appreciate his conduct as a royal father who was always with us at state functions along with his colleagues. He built bridges of friendship and played his role beyond the Itsekiri nation.

“We were not expecting this but only God knows why it happened so early. On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn with the Itsekiri nation on the passing of His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Ikenwoli, the Olu of Warri Kingdom,” he said.

Okowa also congratulate the Olu-designate, Prince Tsola Emiko, on his emergence and called on the Itsekiri people to give him their full support.

Also, the Governor urged the Olu Advisory Council led by the Iyatsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Atserunleghe, to do its best to unite everyone and ensure that there was peace in Warri Kingdom.

He said, “I thank God that you have been able to arrive at a decision in the interest of the people on the choice of a new monarch.

“I pray to God to lead the Itsekiri nation through these trying times even as we work towards giving the departed king befitting burial rites and as we also look forward to the presentation of the new king.

“Please extend my congratulations to the new monarch and we assure him that our prayers are with him just as we pray that the Itsekiri nation will remain united.

“It is only when there is peace that we can have development not only in Warri but the entire Delta State,” Okowa added.

Also, he urged all aggrieved persons in the process of picking a new Olu to sheath their swords to ensure that everything was done peacefully and in unity in the overall interest of Itsekiri people.

Speaking for the delegation, Chief Brown Mene, said its visit was to intimate the governor on the demise of the Warri monarch and the enthronement of a new one.

Chief Mene said, “Your Excellency, on the 5th of April, 2021, we got to a point where as a people, we gathered together to make a proclamation that our revered Ogiame Ikenwoli had been called to join his ancestors.

“And, because we know the king never dies, on that same day we proclaimed to the whole world that we have a new Olu-designate in the person of Prince Tsola Emiko.

“At the conclusion of the funeral rites of the departed King, we can then enthrone the new king,” Mene said.

The delegation likewise condoled with the governor on the demise of his father, Pa Arthur Okorie, who died in January.

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Delta Govt to revoke certificate for unused land within Asaba

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The Delta State Government has announced its plans to revoke the Certificate of Occupancy on any land within the proposed Asaba Industrial Estate that has not been used for the purposes for which it was given.

The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this on Tuesday, April 19, while briefing journalists about some of the key decisions that were reached at the State Executive Council meeting held at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba, which was presided over the Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.

According to the Commissioner while explaining some of the key decisions reached at the meeting, said, the approval of the status on the Asaba Industrial Estate was given support by the state exco, adding that, the exco was meant to examine the number of lands that was allocated previously to industrialists.

The Commissioner said the essence of the status is to ensure that the declarations level in line with the government’s intention in having a functional industrial estate.

Describes the attitude of those who might have decided to deploy some of the land given to them to other uses, Mr. Aniagwu, stated that, now they will have to use it for the proper purpose for which the land was given.

He said, “Such people (allottees) would have to come forward for revalidation, restating that those who had decided not to do anything at all on the land allotted them would have their C of O revoked by the state government.”

While still speaking, the Information Commissioner also said the Owa-Oyibu Sports Complex was approved for rehabilitation and some other works because of decay.

The Commissioner also explained how the road leading to the new Federal Road Safety Corps Training School in Owa-Alero, Ika North East Local Government Area of the state was also approved for total reconstruction and tarring in order to aid more access.

Other roads approved by the exco, according to the Commissioner, were Dorathy Street in Boji-Boji; Mbiri township road; internal roads in Kunukoma community in Warri South West as well as Akugbene main township roads.

Also approved by the exco according to the Aniagwu were the construction of community roads in Mosogar in Ethiope West, construction of some roads in Ughelli town, Bomadi roads and Ojobo/Torogbene Road in Burutu Local Government Area.

Mr. Aniagwu also added how the reconstruction of the Asaba Abattoir to a modern status was approved by the exco, stressing that the governor had directed the Ministry of Agriculture to synergise with council chairmen to ascertain the state of abattoirs across the state.

Mainwhile, Mr. Aniagwu revealed that the sum of 250 million naira was approved for the 2021 cassva development programme to be anchored by the Ministry of Agriculture, pointing out that it was aimed at enhancing cassava production in the state.

He said, “To enhance insurance on the roads especially for commercial transport passengers, the passenger welfare scheme was approved.”

He revealed that the governor also directed the health commissioner, Dr. Mordi Ononye to visit all government hospitals across the state to ascertain the state of facilities and personnel with a view to upgrade healthcare facilities when necessary.

Mr. Aniagwu also mentioned the approval for the amendment of the succession of Odion Ologbo of Ibrede kingdom in Ndokwa East was given by the exco, emphasising that from the approval, the heir apparent must be a graduate and first male son.

He said the approvals on road projects cuts across the state as part of measure to provide equitable amenities to residents in both coastal communities and upland areas, even as he sued for the support of all in building a new Delta.

Mr. Aniagwu revealed that the sustenance of curfew in the state at night was not only to curtail COVID-19 but an intentional effort to examine insecurity.

However the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, while responding to some questions at the briefing,
charged journalists to do more of investigative reportage and not fiction so as not to run foul of the ethics of the journalism profession.

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Fire outbreak at Police headquarters control room in Asaba

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The Delta State Police Command has announced a fire outbreak at the state headquarters control engine room today in Asaba.

These were made known in a statement by the Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright, Ag, on Thursday, April, 22.

According to the statement, the incident happened at 14:45 pm on Thursday, April 22, 2021, at the State headquarters engine room in Asaba, the state capital.

The Spokesperson in the statement, clarified that the fire only affected a part of the control engine room, stating how the timely intervention of fire service was called to immediately save the situation before it was put out.

DSP Edafe said, the cause of the fire incident was not yet to be determined but suggested it might be as a result of electrical spark from the communication engine room, adding that, investigation has commence into the incident.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Ari Muhammad Ali, has urge members of the public to ignore any rumor contrary to the actual fact stated by the Command.

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Kaduna APC adopt new approach, conduct test for chairmanship aspirants

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The screening for aspirants under the All Progressives Congress in Kaduna State, on Wednesday, April 21, take a new twist when all local government chairmanship aspirants were subjected to a written test and oral interview.

This type of screening exercise happens to be the first in the history of Kaduna State when a political party’s aspirants were subjected to write an examination.

In a report that was seen by goldennationblog.com, it was gathered that over 100 aspirants were seen going through the process at Stonehedge Hotel with a 17-man panel including four professors, several Ph.D. holders, and lawyers.

During the screening exercise that lasted for hours at the state capital, aspirants were asked to write a biographical essay on their lives, schools attended, work experience places lived or visited within Kaduna State, Nigeria, and Abroad.

One of the aspirants when asked about the nature of the exercise explained how they were made to make photocopies of their credentials for the panelists to evaluate while also ask them investigating questions.

He said, “We were told to write biographical essays about our lives, schools attended, work experience, places lived or visited within Kaduna State, Nigeria, and abroad.”

Also, it was gathered that the significance of the written exercise was to weed out those with incredible certificates and inadequacies of endangering the party to the post-election trial.

Meanwhile, within the screening process, it was also gathered that all the incumbent local government chairmen are embarking on reelection except the chairman of the Kachia Local Government Area.

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Nine suspects arrested over Soludo attack, new squad emerge – Obiano

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The Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, has revealed that nine suspects were arrested following the attack on Professor Charles Soludo, former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.

The Governor made these revelations on Wednesday, April 21, while speaking at the Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Center in Akwa, the State capital.

The Governor, while speaking, assures that his government is not going to take prisoners any longer than, adding that, “What happened last month is unfortunate. But let me tell you, we have re-strategize and we are coming out like a smoking gun.”

According to Obiano, nine persons have been arrested in connection to the attacked on professor Soludo and effort is on top gear to apprehend others.

Also, while still speaking, Governor Obiano mentioned that a special squad has been created to fight against such criminal activities in the state, adding that, they are already working everywhere.

Recall on March 31, how gunmen stormed a rally organized by Prof. Soludo at Isuofia community, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, and killed three security aides attached to him, and also kidnapped the Commissioner for Public Utilities, Emeka Ezenwanne.

Prof. Soludo, front line aspirants for the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 6, is a chieftain of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA).

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How fake Prophet connive with nurse to sell newly-born baby

A fake prophet identified as Ogaga Anthony Jeda and his accomplice, a nurse, identified as Princess Priscilla Chukwuedo, has been accused by a Human Rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe, of stealing a newly born baby from a lady who put to birth in Warri, Delta State.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, in Warri when a fake prophet and the fake nurse admittedly agreed that the woman gave birth to a baby at an orphanage home but refuses to disclose the whereabouts of the child.

According to a post that was shared on Facebook by a Human Rights activist, Isreal Joe, on Tuesday, April 20, revealed the story about the incident.

In the post, by Isreal Joe, he alleged that the Prophet and the nurse allegedly confessed to the police after been arrested that the pregnant woman gave birth to the child in Potter’s Orphanage along 3rd Marine Gate, Oilfield link road in Warri.

Narrating the ordeal, Isreal Joe explained how the prophet and the fake nurse admittedly connive to deceive the husband of the pregnant woman to discharge his wife from Regal Clinic to a quack house close to B Division Police station in Warri.

Isreal Joe also, mentioned that when the husband makes inquiries about the state of his wife’s condition, he was told by the prophet that his wife has successfully put to birth, asking him to go get some stuff ready for her.

Also, he explained that the woman after regaining her consciousness, ask after her baby whom she heard her cry after delivery but it happens that the baby was nowhere to be found, adding that, the husband also came only to discover that the child is nowhere to be found.

However, Isreal Joe said the prophet and the woman were later arrested and detained at the Area Command in Warri.

See below the statements released by Isreal Joe while explaining the incident.

In a post I made two days ago, I had given an alleged False Prophet along with his accomplice (a fake nurse) 48 hours ultimatum to provide the child who was given birth to, at a quack center.

The lady and the prophet have confessed to the police that the woman gave birth to the child in Potter’s Orphanage along 3rd Marine gate/Oil field Link road. At this point, we have to state the facts at our disposal.

The prophet and the woman have refused to disclose the whereabouts of the child. The child was birthed on Tuesday the 13th of April, this year. The husband to the woman who has the orphanage home where the child was birthed is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and has threatened to take up the police and ourselves. We are waiting for his court suit because disgrace awaits him.

The child according to the information available to us has been sold by the False Prophet and the fake nurse. The name of the False Prophet is Ogaga Anthony Jeda with phone number 08154683553 while the name of the fake nurse is Chukwuedo Princess Priscilla with phone number 07031101266. The owner of the Orphanage home where the woman delivered the baby has not been arrested by the police.

The false prophet and fake nurse had before the selling of the child defrauded the father of the missing child to the tune of 2million naira through frivolous prophesies and hypnotization. He had told the father and his wife never to tell anyone about the prayers being conducted on them because their enemies would die in few days not knowing they were targeting to sell their unborn child.

The picture of the false prophet and fake nurse is attached to this post as earlier promised. Families of both the fake nurse and the false prophet have been seriously begging the families of the victim and her husband to let go of the matter.

I can’t understand such an appeal when they haven’t told us the whereabouts of the child. We want to appeal to the police that extreme measures should be used against them, to compare them, into speaking out about the child’s whereabouts, since peaceful questioning has failed. If they sold the child to a politician or others for ritual purposes or adoption, we wish to know.

Depression has taken over the victim who poured hot water on herself because of the pain of the child’s disappearance. Attached to this write-up is the picture of the victim and Comrade Israel Joe.

We hereby call on the Delta State Governor, the Inspector General of Police, AIG Zone 5, Commissioner of Police, Area Commander Warri, and all well-meaning Nigerians never to take this case with trivial levity. Any attempt or pressure to frustrate and sweep this matter under the carpet would meet very strong resistance.

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14-year-old boy stabbed to death by mentally challenged woman

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A 14-year-old boy identified as Joseph Thomas had been killed by a mentally challenged woman in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Capital.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Tuesday morning, April 20, along Genesis Street, Okaka Road, Yenegoa.

According to a post that was shared on Facebook by one Romeo Trust, alleged that the woman, who seems to be mentally challenged stabbed the boy and was rushed to the hospital before he was confirmed dead.

Romeo Trust, while narrating the incident, also explained that the woman wasn’t mentally challenged as he thought after stabbing the boy.

In his post on Facebook, he wrote, “This morning this woman stab 14 years boy to death in front of me, we rush him to hospital but he didn’t survive. They said she is mad but later found out she is not. We don’t why she did this kind of terrible thing to an innocent boy. it happened at Genesis street Okaka yenagoa”

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After compulsory N50,000, NCDC failed to deliver QR code – 2baba

Nigerian legendary singer, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2baba, has expressed dissatisfaction over the frustration he encounters at the airport from Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC.

The singer in a video post he shared on Instagram on Wednesday stated how he and some other Nigerians were stranded at the airport in regards to Covid-19 test results.

According to 2baba’s post on Instagram, he stated that there is a compulsory Covid-19 arrival test portal that collects N50,000 per passenger but failed to deliver a QR code.

He said they were stranded at the airport because they cannot access the NCDC website or staff to help them generate the QR code that will validate their Covid-19 test results.

He also said that, when calls were made to the NCDC, they were not available to pick up calls, adding that, passengers were stranded. Business and personal commitment messed up despite paying N50,000 for the test.

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Olu of Warri’s death, not know to us – Delta Govt

On Tuesday, April 20, the Delta State Government revealed that it wasn’t aware that the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli has died.

The Government through the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, made this revelation to newsmen immediately after the State Executive meeting that was presided by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in Asaba.

According to the Commissioner while speaking to journalists stated that, the Delta State Government has not been informed that the Olu of Warri kingdom has passed away. He said, for us, we are not aware that the Olu has died.

The Commissioner also stated that “Each community in Delta State has its own laid down rules/tradition and ruling houses; so Itsekeri will not be different.”

Also, the Commissioner maintains that “To us, there’s no disagreement because we were not enlightened. The issue of the Olu of Warri is the same thing to all the communities.

Speaking further, Aniagwu mentioned that, “When a king dies, the community will write to the government, which will do all that is necessary for a smooth transition.”

He said, “It is not entirely the issue of once the father dies, the son takes over.”

Adding that, the council approved the amendment of the successor to the throne of the Odion-Ologbo in the Ebrede kingdom, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of the State.

The Commissioner also stated, “For anyone to ascend to the throne, he must be a graduate and a male child.

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Ex-policeman, Derek Chauvin was convicted for George Floyd murder

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The white police officer, Derek Chauvin who knelt on the neck of George Floyd leading to his death has been charged with murder by a Minneapolis court.

Derek Chauvin was charged with second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter for his involvement in the death of George Floyd on Tuesday, April 20.

According to the 12-member jury, in a deliberations that began on Monday and lasted just over 10 hours, Derek Chauvin, 45, was criminally liable in Floyd’s death last year after considering three weeks of testimony from 45 witnesses, including bystanders, police officials, and medical experts.

It was gathered through a confrontation captured on video that, Chauvin, a white veteran of the police force, pushed his knee into the neck of Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man in handcuffs, for more than nine minutes on May 25, 2020, when Chauvin and three fellow officers were attempting to arrest Floyd, accused of using a fake $20 bill to buy cigarettes at a grocery store.

However, the County Judge, Peter Cahill read out the verdict, Derek Chauvin who has been free on bail was remanded in the custody of the Hennepin County Sheriff. He was directed out of the courtroom in handcuffs moments after he was found guilty.

Chauvin might face up to 40 years in prison on the most serious charge of second-degree murder after sentencing.

Meanwhile, US president, Joe Biden says the verdict to unanimously convict Chauvin for the murder of Floyd is a step forward in the march towards justice in America.

He said: “Today’s verdict is a step forward. I just spoke with the governor of Minnesota, who thanked me for the close work with his team, and I also spoke with George Floyd’s family again.

Commenting on the verdict, the attorneys for George Floyd’s family released a statement following the conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin.

The Attorney, Ben Crump commented that “Painfully earned justice has arrived for George Floyd’s family and the community here in Minneapolis, but today’s verdict goes far beyond this city and has significant implications for the country and even the world. Justice for Black America is justice for all of America. This case is a turning point in American history for accountability of law enforcement and sends a clear message we hope is heard clearly in every city and every state.”

Also, Attorney Antonio M. Romanucci while commenting, stated that “Today’s verdict is so critical in that it not only holds Derek Chauvin accountable for his horrific actions, but it reinforces significant police reforms underway in Minneapolis including use-of-force reporting, a requirement to keep body-worn cameras on, and a policy for officers to de-escalate non-threatening encounters by disengaging or walking away. Now we call on Minnesota state lawmakers to pass.”

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Delta Govt set-up new task force to impound on vehicles

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The Delta State Government has set up a Joint Task Force to checkmate revenue leakage, illegal revenue collection, verification of Drivers licensed and Vehicle Owners particulars.

These were made known to newsmen in a statement issued by the Director of the State Ministry of Information, Theresa Adiabua Oliko on Monday, April 19.

According to the statement, the Delta State Joint Task Force has been mandated to checkmate revenue leakages to eradicate illegal revenue collection, verification of Driver’s license, Vehicle Owner’s particulars, and the misuse of government.

The Joint Task Force has also been mandated to arrest any illegal task force collecting revenue on behalf of the State government and also individuals who use the state government number plates illegally.

The government had also directed the Joint Task Force to impound any vehicle that its particulars and Driver’s license have expired while advising residents, Drivers, and vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicle particulars are up to date to avoid their vehicles being impounded

The government further noted that, where Owners particulars and Driver’s Licence have expired, the Joint Task Force has the mandate to impound such vehicles and ensure that the particulars are renewed before such vehicles can be released.

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Sarkodie announce to drop his new album ‘No Pressure’

Popular award-winning Ghanaian rapper and business mogul, Michael Owusu Addo, better known by his stage name Sarkodie, has revealed plans to drop his latest album ‘No Pressure’ which happens to be his 7th studio album.

The rapper, in an Instagram post on Monday, April 19, made this revelation while sharing a 55-second video post containing the details and artwork for the album.

According to the rapper’s post on Instagram, the album will be dropping on July 9, 2021, while also, uses the opportunity to thank his record label, Sark Nation for their patience towards the preparation of the project.

Sarkodie in his words on Instagram stated, “SarkCess music x @ceekvr presents my new Album “No Pressure” OUT 09 – 07 – 21 … Executive Producers: Michael Owusu Addo x KJ Spio @jaykjs. Cinematography and editing: Sam Mironko @mironkoproductions. Thanks for your patience SarkNation 😊🙏🏾 #NoPressure.”

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NGF reveals date to implement financial autonomy for judiciary

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Following the strike by JUSUN that started on April 6, 2021, over the non-implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary, the Nigerian Governor’s Forum has revealed the date for the implementation of financial autonomy for state legislative and judiciary.

These were revealed by the Chairman of the NGF, Dr. Kayode Fayemi after a meeting with the Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari at the State House on Monday.

According to the NGF Chairman, revealed that the Governor’s forum has never been opposed to the issue of financial autonomy and that the governors, the speakers, and judges are on the same page.

Also, he further revealed that Nigerians should expect implementation of the financial autonomy in May while adding that an agreement has been reached upon emerging from a meeting with the Solicitor-General of the Federation, the representative of the judiciary, the representative of the Conference of Speakers, and House of Representatives.

However, the NGF’s revelation came few hours after members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) staged a peaceful protest at the National Assembly in solidarity with judiciary workers who are protesting in favor of financial autonomy.

It was gathered that lawyers had earlier assembled at the Court of Appeal gate before proceeding to the National Assembly complex in their numbers before they were stopped by security operatives from entering the Assembly.

Meanwhile, in a statement on Friday by the leadership of the NBA, Olumide Akpata had earlier directed its branch chairmen nationwide to embark on a peaceful protest on Monday and all other subsequent Monday to their various state government house in the 36 states over the unwillingness of governors to implement financial autonomy for the judiciary until their demands are met.

In other to press the demand, the NBA President in the statement also urged the branch leaders to effectively mobilize their members towards the visit to the state government houses.

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Prince Philip laid to rest after 50-minute service (Photos)

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Prince Philip, the husband to British Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest on Saturday in the Royal Vault at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, West London after a 50-minute service.

The funeral for Prince Philip, the late husband of British Queen Elizabeth II began with a procession. A Land Rover carrying his coffin, follow on foot by his children, other members of the royal family, and royal aides.

It was gathered that the coffin was covered with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Personal Standard. On top were his sword, Naval cap, and a wreath of flowers.

The coffin, move by a Bearer Party founded by the Queen’s Company 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards.

The widowed Queen also followed her husband coffin and later sat alone at Quire of St George’s Chapel for the funeral

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After 30-years: Warri-Itakpe railway begins new commercial services

On Friday, April 16, the Federal Government announced the operation of commercial cargo service on its 320 km Warri-Itakpe standard gauge rail after it was abandoned by the previous administration for 30-years.

The announcement came as a result of the rehabilitation done by President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration and his commitment to link major towns and cities in the country with rail transportation.

According to the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi while speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Warri on Friday stated that the incumbent administration will continue to ensure that all critical infrastructure capable of bettering the lives of Nigerians that were abandoned by the previous administration will be completed and commissioned by the Buhari-led administration.

During the flag-off ceremony, Amaechi explained that “It is universally acknowledged that a developing country with a large population such as Nigeria must develop a robust transport system like a modern and functional rail system, which is undeniable instrumental to creating much needed socio-economic transformation and industrial development and in enhancing more efficient land-based, an affordable model for mass transit and cargo service.”

He stated that “We are here today, to flag off commercial cargo services on the standard gauge route that was abandoned for over thirty years but rehabilitated by this administration and put into operation.”

He continued that the project is for the benefit of Nigerians irrespective of political affiliation, stating that, “This laudable achievement will boost the Gross Domestic Product, GDP, and equally enhance the socio-economic development of the communities living along the route.

Amaechi also maintains that the construction and modernization of railway projects cut across all geo-political zones regardless of the political leanings of the states. According to him, the modernization of the railway in Nigeria is not confined or restricted to any geographical location in the country, adding that, this present administration intends to ensure that every part of the country is linked with a standard gauge railway line.

Also, he added, while the Federal Government continues to rehabilitate and maintain the existing narrow gauge, other states and zones are expected to modernize the railway project within their geographical zones.

Furthermore, the Minister also called on host communities where the facilities are located to help monitor them from possible vandalization.

While still speaking, the Minister explained that the cargo service is a partnership between the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC to move materials from the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipe project.

Meanwhile, the Board Chairman of NRC, Ibrahim Musa, went down the historical lane to recall the difficulty in bringing the Itakpe-Warri rail route back on stream.

The NRC Board Chairman explained that the event is a remarkable realization of a long-awaited dream that took many long years to come true, stating that, the long road to the construction of this railway line started in 1987, some 34 years ago.

The NRC boss maintains that the railway line which was planned to be completed within five years was originally designed for the transportation of Iron Ore from Itakpe to Abeokuta (Kogi State) and Aladja Steel Rolling Mills (Delta State) and also to transport processed steel to the port in Warri.

He said, “However, it became stalled for over 30 years due to paucity of funds. This central line of this railway line was revived and completed by the present administration under the supervision of the Honourable Minister of Transportation and commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari on 29th September 2020. It would have been the first standard gauge railway line in Africa if it had not been abandoned. There are plans to extend this line to Abuja.” he added.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transportation, Istifanus Gyang, express the readiness of the federal parliament to continue to cooperate and partner with the federal government to bring about a functional nationwide rail network to ease the burden of transportation on the nation’s highway.

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Okowa partner with FG on new deal, set to develop solid minerals

The Delta State Government has announced its concern to partner with the Federal government on the development of solid mineral resources in the state.

The governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa disclosed this after receiving the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, during a courtesy visit to Government House in Asaba on Thursday.

According to Governor Okowa, there is a need for a strong collaboration between the Federal government, the states, and the private sector to develop the solid minerals industry.

Okowa explains that if the sector was developed, states and the federal government would have fewer revenue challenges as they currently depended on oil minerals alone to develop the country.

Okowa while expressing his satisfaction over the outcome of the minister’s visit also said that the Minister has given him some briefs and he did not know that the appropriate ministries will be made to relate with his office.

He said the opportunity is necessary because it is an attempt by the federal government to have a structured approach to mining development rather than allowing it to be the way it was in the past years.

Okowa maintains that the Minister also briefed him about what is going on in some states and also some actions on how to undertake a public-private partnership in the development of Kaolin in the state while looking into other areas.

Okowa stated that the Minister also reassure him that whatever assistance he needed that they are willing to deal with it, stating that, “The honorable minister is paying a visit to a place where we have more than 500 persons in employment and it’s something that should interest everybody, including the state and the Federal Government.

Okowa also mentioned having a strong partnership with the Federal government, the states, and the private sector, adding that, it has become a combination of these two arms of government with the private sector to truly help develop the mineral sector the way it should be.

He said, “This is important because until we truly develop it, we will not be having the best of gains and revenue for our country Nigeria.”

The Minister, while speaking stated that, he was in Delta to brief the governor on his ministry’s commitment to developing the solid minerals sector.

The Minister said, “I am here today to pay a courtesy visit to His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, and acknowledge his wonderful works in the state.

The Minister also explains how collaborating with the state government will help diversify the economy, stating that, “Most importantly, to ensure collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and the Delta State government is to help leverage on President Muhammadu Buhari’s directive to diversify the economy using minerals and agriculture.

The Minister in his remarks, thank Governor Okowa for his assurance to collaborate with the Federal government on the development of its solid minerals.

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Watch new trailer for Fast & Furious season 9

The Producer for ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise, has announced the release of the trailer for its upcoming ninth series, ‘ F9’ a year after its original release in May 2020.

According to reports, the ‘Fast & Furious 9’ will be premiere in the US cinemas on June 25 while in the UK will be on July 8.

The upcoming movie starring Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, John Cena, Cadi B, Charlize Theron, Helen Mirren, and others.

Watch trailer

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Rapper CDQ released after being arrested by NDLEA

Nigerian indigenous rapper, Sodiq Abubakar Yusuf, popularly known as CDQ, has been released after he was arrested on Wednesday by the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency for violating its law.

It was gathered that the rapper was arrested at his Lekki residence on Wednesday, April 14, after an intelligence report.

According to an interview by NDLEA Director, Media, and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi stated that the case is still been investigated, adding that, some Cannabis substance known as ‘Loud’ was found in the rapper’s house.

In the interview, the NDLEA boss stated that he was arrested based on intelligence at his Lekki house and he was granted administrative bail on Wednesday night, stating that CDQ is expected to come back into custody because it is an ongoing investigation.

The NDLEA Director, also added that CDQ mentioned some names of some other big artists, adding that, the outcome of the investigation would determine what would happen.

While explaining the scenario of what might happen after the investigation, Babafemi stated that there are cases whereby the investigation shows some sufficient infractions, and then the case will go to court, adding that, there are other cases whereby if the quantity is insignificant, we will bring him in for counseling and possibly rehabilitation.

However, CDQ on Wednesday night has taken to his Instagram page to express his circumstance stating that, “No sleep for the wicked 👽 Vidyalaya yin o ni sun for dis Lagos… They tryna set me up today but Olohun way 🙏.”

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FG approves date for issuance of new sim registration

The Federal Government under the supervision of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy has announced a date to begin the issuance of new sim activation.

These were made known in a statement released on Thursday by Femi Ademiluyi, the Technical aide to the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, who stated that new sim cards will be issued by the guidelines and verification.

In the statement, it was stated that the issuance of new sim activation will begin from April 19, and the use of National Identity Number will be a compulsory condition for any new sim Acquisition and Activation, sim Replacement, New Sim Activation for Corporate and Internet-of-things / Machine-to-Machine (IoT/M2M) among others.

In the statement titled, “FG Approves the Activation of New SIM Registration with Mandatory NIN in line with the Revised National Digital Identity Policy for SIM Card Registration.” reads as:

The Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, Section 23(a), specifies the role of the Minister to include the formulation, determination, and monitoring of the general policy for the communications sector.

In line with this, on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, FNCS, FBCS, FIIM coordinated and led the development of a Revised National Digital Identity Policy for SIM Card Registration in collaboration with all other stakeholders.

An earlier policy was approved on the 4th of February 2020, while the Revised Policy was developed in early March 2021. The final amendments to the revised Policy based on the directives of Mr. President to make the use of NIN mandatory for all SIM registration were completed yesterday, 14th of April, 2021.
Before that, the key aspects of the draft Policy were presented to the stakeholders at the 4th Review Meeting of the Ministerial Task Force (MTF) on the NIN-SIM registration which was held on Friday, 26th of February, 2021. Key stakeholders and members of the MTF who joined the Honourable Minister at the meeting included the EVC/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), DG/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), DG/CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON). Others included the NCC Executive Commissioners for Technical Services and Stakeholder Management, MD/CEOs of MTN, Airtel, EMTS (9Mobile), NTEL, Spectranet, and SMILE, as well as the COO of Glo.

Dr. Pantami also presented the Revised Policy to His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR on Friday, 26th of March, 2021. Mr. President made further improvements and endorsed it for implementation. Mr. President also commended the Honourable Minister for his commitment to carrying out the responsibility of developing the digital economy sector, including championing the NIN-SIM registration process.

The Policy includes Guidelines on New SIM Acquisition and Activation, SIM Replacement, New SIM Activation for Corporates and Internet-of-Things/Machine-to-Machine (IoT/M2M), amongst others. The possession of a National Identity number will be a prerequisite for each of these categories. For the Corporate registration, institutions will be required to appoint a Telecoms Master (at the minimum of an Executive Management level) to provide the operational Primary NIN representation. The Telecoms Master will also be responsible to ensure that the users provide their NINs to serve as a Secondary NIN.

For IoT/M2M activations, SIM security protocols would be implemented on the SIM profile to ensure that SIMs can only be used for point to point data services specific to the URL they are working with. All other services will be barred. If a data-only service is particular to individual use (eg home car tracking, WiFi, MiFi services, etc), the standard NIN registration process will be followed. A Telecoms Master will also be required for Corporates requiring IoT/M2M activations. The full details of the requirements for each class of service will be made available in due course.

Significant progress has been made in the NIN registration process across the country. Nonetheless, the Federal Government is committed to supporting all Nigerians and legal residents to obtain a NIN. The biometric verification process has been slower than anticipated, owing largely to the non-adherence of many previous SIM biometric capture processes to the NIMC standards. The Revised Policy will ensure that operators conform to the required standards for biometric capture.
The Guidelines in the Policy have been painstakingly developed and while they are thorough, it should be noted that they have been developed that way in National interest since the SIM is essentially a national resource. Citizens and legal residents are encouraged to bear with the government as the process has been developed in the best interest of the country.

The implementation of the Policy will commence on Monday, 19th of April 2021. The issuance of New SIMs and other suspended activities will resume on the same date, as long as verification is done and the guidelines are fully adhered to. The Honourable Minister has also directed NCC and NIMC to ensure that the provisions of the Policy are strictly followed by all operators and subscribers.

Dr. Pantami wishes to thank Nigerians for their patience and compliance with the Federal Government’s directive on the NIN-SIM registration exercise. He reiterated the government’s commitment to continue taking decisions aimed at easing the pains of the citizens about issues related to NIN and SIM registration.

Dr. Femi Adeluyi
Technical Assistant (Information Technology) to the
Honorable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy
15th April 2021

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Oyedepo rename its staduim-like auditorium to ‘The Ark’

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Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church also known as Winners Chapel, has renamed its 100,000 seater auditorium to ‘The Ark’ and set to spend N160 billion.

Recall that the project was first announced in late 2015 as the ‘Faith Theatre’ however, the 100,000 seats stadium-like auditorium has officially be renamed earlier last month during a church service.

Meanwhile, Oyedepo has also revealed that members of the church will not be tasked to contribute to the project.

According to reports, N45 billion has been released for the project, and the project has already been kick-started to be completed in three years.

The project sited on about 1,000 hectares of land within the vast premises of the current church building.

It was gathered that the project when completed, will accommodate over 100,000 people including 24-floor Mission Tower (International Headquarters Facility) made up of two twin towers of 12 floors each.

However, the project when completed will enable the already existing 50,000 seaters Faith Tabernacle to be used as an overflow facility.

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Buhari returns from medical treatment after 15-days

President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to Nigeria from London after his 15-days medical check-up.

President Buhari landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja around 4.45 pm on Thursday along with some of his close aides.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Prof Ibrahim Gambari, along with other top government officials were at the airport to welcome him.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Muhammed Bello; the National Security Adviser, Major-Gen. Babagana Monguno (Rtd) were also among the top officials present at the airport.

Others were the service chiefs, the acting Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba; the Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Rufai; the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, and other presidential aides.

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How one student was shot dead during lecture at NDU

On Wednesday, a student of Niger Delta University (NDA) identified as James Okunmakpeye was shot dead at close range by a 300-level accounting student name African Innocent while receiving lecture.

It was gathered that Okunmakpeye was standing by the door of the lecture hall in the Faculty of Management Science in Wilberforce Island when he was shot at close range and dies on the spot.

The death of Okunmakpeye however, caused pandemonium in the institution as his coursemates and lecturer ran away in fear while his lifeless body was left in a pool of blood.

Narrating the incident, Mr. Inezi Idoni, the Public Relations Officer of the institution confirmed the incident stating that the management has commenced an investigation and had also contacted the relevant security agencies.

According to Idoni while narrating the incident stated that the student was killed during lecture hours, there was a lecturer in the class at the time of the incident. The deceased was shot by the door of the lecture hall.

He explained that the deceased was late to lecture and he was asked to come into the hall to offer reasons for his lateness and someone came from behind and shot him.

He said, the culprit after carrying out the act, ran towards the Ogobiri side of the institution where the perimeter fencing has failed and escaped.

He also said they are using this opportunity to call on the state government to assist the institution in completing the perimeter fencing to assist in the security of lives and properties on the campus.

However, the spokesperson for the Bayelsa State Police Command, Asinim Butswat also confirmed the incident stating that a suspect had been arrested in connection with the death of the student, adding that the command had mobilized men to hasten the security in the school.

The police spokesperson, while speaking stated that when they were alerted, a police team responded swiftly and one suspect, a 300-level Accounting student identified as African Innocent was arrested.

Mainwhile, Butswat stated that the victim, James Okunmakpeye was shot in the head at close range and was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

He also added that they have reinforced security on the campus, adding that, they will arrest more suspects that are involved in the murder.

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2022 National Sports Festival to be host in Delta – Minister

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare has announced Delta State as the next host of the National Sports Festival for 2022.

The Minister while congratulating Delta State for emerging the overall winner of the Games in the 2020 National Sports Festival stated this on Wednesday at the closing ceremony of the 20th edition of the festival tagged Edo 2020.

According to the Minister, he said, “Following the evaluation of the bids and the physical visitation to the prospective States, I hereby announce Delta State as the next host of the National Sports Festival in 2022.

The Minister also explained that the Federal Government received bids to host the 21st edition of the National Sports Festival in 2022 from six states namely, Delta, Ebonyi, IMO, Kaduna, Kano, and Ogun.

The Minister, while still speaking, congratulates the government and people of Delta State for emerging the preferred State also wishes them the best of luck in the organizing of the 21st National Sports Festival.

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Armed force college to award master degree in Security studies

The Nigerian Armed force Command and Staff College (AFCSC) had announced plans to begin a Master’s degree program in Security studies.

These were disclosed by the Commandant of the Armed Forces College, AVM Ebenezer Alade when he paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to the Commandant, he stated that the college had continued to review its curriculum which had to broaden its scope to be able to award Master’s degrees.

He said the college had requested approval for the Master’s program because what they do for the Armed Forces was sufficient to earn them Masters’ degrees.

Also, he said, but because they have not been given credit, according to him, they need to bring the table from the University and complete the course by adding so many units.

Alade further stated that the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) has looked through their programs and their curriculum and have agreed that what they have is sufficient to enable them to provide Master’s degrees in Security Studies.

He said, in terms of training, a lot has been achieved in the college, stating that, he want to intimate more emphasis on joint training among the services.

He also solicited more support from the Nigerian Army in the provision of accommodation to increase the number of its intake.

However, while responding, the COAS, Attahiru assures the commitment of the Nigerian Army to continue engaging in support and collaboration with the college to achieve its mandate.

Also, Attahiru commended the college for the transformation of its infrastructure and standardization of its training to enhance the operational manpower of the Armed Forces.

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35-year-old man stab Chief Imam to death, reveals why

The Chief Imam of Enagi town in Edati Local Government area of Niger State, Alhaji Attahiru Alhassan has been stabbed to death by a 35-year-old man, Umaru Jibrin for allegedly having sexual intercourse with his wife, Aisha Umar.

It was gathered that Jibrin stab the 48-year-old Islamic cleric in the neck when he called for peace talks after been caught in the act.

Jibrin, while narrating the incident after been arrested by the Police at the state Headquarters in Minna stated that, when he saw the cleric on top of his wife, said, Haba Imam why must you do this to me? While also making his wife what is she looking for?

According to Jibrin, he explained that he went out after asking them the question to see his brother, Abubakar Abdulrahman to inform him of what he saw.

But, he said, not quite long, the Imam sent for him for peace talk and plead that the matter is concealed from the public.

Jibrin while still narrating stated that, however, an argument ensued in the process which allegedly made him forcefully collect the rod in the hand of the Chief Imam and stabbed him in the neck.

However, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun told journalists that when the incident occurred, the suspect took to his heels but was later arrested at Batali village in Lavun Local Government Area of the state.

Also, Abiodun maintains that some youths mobilized to the police station in a jungle justice but the policemen had to intervene.

While still speaking, he advised the general public to desist from taking laws into their hands, stating that investigation into the incident was already ongoing, adding that the suspect would soon be charged to court.

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See why former Delta CP issued warrant against me – Gbagi

The former minister of Education and frontline Governorship aspirant of the People’s Democratic Party, Chief Barr. Kenneth Gbagi has revealed to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Ari Muhammed Ali, how his predecessor, CP. Hafiz Muhammed Inuwa was used by some who intend to contend with him to rubbish his reputation towards his gubernatorial race even when he is a man of peace.

Olorogun Gbagi revealed these to newsmen in a statement signed by his Media Assistant, Kenneth Orusi on Sunday, April 12.

In the statement, it was gathered that the top-tier governorship aspirant for the 2023 race revealed these when he visited the Police boss to brief him of his gubernatorial Intention.

According to Olorogun Gbagi’s briefings, he alleged that some persons who intend to contend with him allegedly went out of their ways with the consent of the former Commissioner of Police to purportedly forge a warrant of arrest on him just to rubbish his reputation.

Gbagi stated that Inuwa got carried away to forge a warrant of arrest on him stating that, the whole idea was to embarrass him just to show to the public that he was a criminal.

Gbagi explained that Inuwa undoes the case of people who stole in his hotel by demoting and posting DPOs to harass everybody, asking how will Inuwa disgrace himself to that level? What is so important in life? he added.

The industrialist also stated that the plan was harshed by those who are afraid of his 2023 governorship race stating that, there is no secret in this world.

He said, “I don’t have any secret. I am not a trouble maker. I am the biggest private investor in this state. I am the greatest industrialist in the state.”

Furthermore, Gbagi queried the warrant that was issued by the former CP, stating that, “The warrant of arrest has no division, it was not signed by a Magistrate and the then CP, issued this.”

While still speaking, Gbagi called on the CP to investigate the case of theft and come out with justice, urging the new CP not to support him rather, he should call for the case file and review it. That is all I wanted, he added.

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Sex workers to be repatriated from Bauchi, see reason reveals

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The Government of Bauchi State has revealed plans to repatriate all commercial sex workers operating in the state to their various places of origin.

These were disclosed during a pre-Ramadan sensitization workshop held at Bayan Gari Area by the Permanent Commissioner in charge of Hisbah in the Shariah Commission, Aminu Balarae Isah.

According to the Commissioner, the repatriation will be done in collaboration with their various states and local government areas stating that, before the repatriation, all the sex workers’ data will be collected through a headcount.

Adding that, the data would be used to provide economic empowerment for them, stating that seed capital will be provided for self-reliance and enable them to get a more decent source of livelihood.

While briefing the sex workers, Isah stated that the government is not planning to arrest them but to help repatriate them to their various local government areas and states of origin so that they can engage themselves in a meaningful and decent life.

Isah also revealed some information he gathered from a recent interview conducted by his office on why some of the sex workers were into the indecent trade, explaining that some allege it because of maltreatment from their stepmothers, poverty, and illiteracy.

Isah said, “We discovered that others were forced into the act by the activities of their co-wives.

However, while commending the initiative, one of the participants at the workshop who spoke on behalf of her colleagues, Hafsatu Azare commended Hisbah for organizing the educative and beneficial workshop.

She also assured that if the government would help them with a better source of livelihood, they would quit these indecent living adding that, their lives are always endangered as a result of what they do which is immoral, ungodly, and capable of exposing them to untold hardships and experiences adding that their health is being endangered.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner also promised that some of them who are Indigenes of Bauchi State would get suitable spouses, stating that, Hisbah would help in marrying them off and provide them with all the necessary marital beddings including furniture.

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How Rivers Govt arrest full truck of degraded ponmo imported from Madagascar

Two persons have been arrested by the River State Government for accompanying a truckload that contains degraded animal skin popularly known as ‘Ponmo’ in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area.

These were disclosed to newsmen in Port Harcourt by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Fred Kpakol.

According to the Commissioner, the arrest came following a tip-off that some canda meat was imported into the state, stating that, they went in and found out it was from the Onne Port that it came from.

The Commissioner also revealed that the invoice for the truckload shows that the products came from Madagascar into the country.

He stated that the truck which contains candy meat when intercepted was opened, and discovered that the products were degraded and smelling before it was seized and taken to the police area command in Eleme for further investigation.

However, the Police Area Commander, Martins Nwogu explained that those arrested with the truck claimed that the consignment contained raw materials for making shoes and bags, adding that one Alhaji owns the products.

He also added that it had begun an investigation into the incident

Meanwhile, at press time when contacted the spokesperson for the State Police Command, Nnamdi Omoni clarified that the command had yet to get a report but promised to contact the Eleme Area Command.

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See what Jonathan reveals about judiciary certifying political leaders

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Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan said, on Monday, that the Judiciary should not be made to select political leaders.

Dr. Jonathan made this known at a youth foundation program hosted by the founder of TOS Foundation, Osasu Igbenedion in Abuja, where he spoke as a guest.

He said, “The issue of the judiciary I don’t want to comment but one thing as a politician, let me reiterate what I have said somewhere that in Nigeria today, the judiciary selects political leaders. It is not the best.

“The ballot papers should be the basis of selecting political leaders. If it is the judiciary that will select, we are not yet there. It is delicate but I have made a public statement before and I will always make it.

“I am not saying the judiciary is not doing well, But I mean our laws should suppress the idea of the judiciary in returning a candidate. If a candidate that won the election is found wanting, that election should be annulled and a fresh election conducted.

“The ballot paper must decide who holds any office from counsellorship to the presidency and that is democracy. We must regret that sometimes our elections are too violent in Nigeria.

“I think in Africa we are among the top countries with violent elections. Even for party primaries, you see people going to break doors, windows, scatter ballot boxes, and so on.

“You hardly see it in other African countries and when we behave that way, of course, we are now giving the powers to the judiciary to decide who becomes the Governor, Senator, and House of Representatives member. I believe that as we progress maybe we will get over that. “The issue of the judiciary I don’t want to comment but one thing as a politician, let me reiterate what I have said somewhere that in Nigeria today, the judiciary selects political leaders. It is not the best.”

He said, “The ballot papers should be the basis of selecting political leaders. If it is the judiciary that will select, we are not yet there. It is delicate but I have made a public statement before and I will always make it.

Goodluck Jonathan explained that he is not saying that the Judiciary is not doing well, but maintain that our laws should suppress the idea of the court in returning a candidate, adding that, if a candidate that won the election is found wanting, that election should be annulled and a fresh election conducted.

Jonathan stated that “The ballot paper must decide who holds any office from counsellorship to the presidency and that is democracy. We must regret that sometimes our elections are too violent in Nigeria.

“I think in Africa we are among the top countries with violent elections. Even for party primaries, you see people going to break doors, windows, scatter ballot boxes, and so on.

The former President also explaining about the violent elections stated that “You hardly see it in other African countries and when we behave that way, of course, we are now giving the powers to the judiciary to decide who becomes the Governor, Senator, and House of Representatives member. I believe that as we progress maybe we will get over that.”

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Twitter establish its presence in Africa, chooses Ghana as Headquarters

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The CEO of Twitter, Jack Dorsey, has announced the establishment of its presence in Africa, choose Ghana as the new location headquarters.

These were made known in a tweet on Monday, April 12, by the CEO on Twitter.

According to the tweet done by the CEO, he stated that “Twitter is now present on the continent. Thank you Ghana and Nana Akufo-Adodo.”

It was gathered that the CEO, gave its reason why he chose Ghana to Africa’s headquarters, stating that, “As a champion for democracy, Ghana is a supporter of free speech, online freedom, and the Open Internet of which Twitter is also an advocate.

Dorsey added that Ghana’s recent appointment to host the headquarters of the African Continental Free Trade Area aligns with the overarching goal to establish a presence in the region that will support its effort to improve and tailor service across Africa.

Furthermore, Dorsey also added that “Whenever we enter new markets, we work hard to ensure that we are not just investing in the talent that we hire, but also investing in local communities and the social fabric that supports them. We have already laid foundations through partnerships with Amref Health Africa in Kenya, Afrochella in Ghana, Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) in Nigeria, and The HackLab Foundation in Ghana. As part of our long-term commitment to the region, we’ll continue to explore compelling ways we can use the positive power of Twitter to strengthen our communities through employee engagement, platform activation, and corporate giving.”

While responding, President Nana Akufo-Addo, welcome the news and revealed in a tweet that he held a virtual meeting with Jack on April 7, stating that, “The choice of Ghana as HQ for Twitter’s Africa operations is EXCELLENT news. Gov’t and Ghanaians welcome very much this announcement and the confidence reposed in our country. 1#TwitterInGhana#TwitterGhana.”

President Akufo-Addo also stated that these are exciting times to be in, and to do business in Ghana, adding that “As I indicated to @Jack in our virtual meeting of 7th April 2021, this is the start of a beautiful partnership between Twitter and Ghana, which is critical for the dev’t of Ghana’s hugely important tech sector. #TwitterInGhana#TwitterGhana.”

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Nollywood actor, Bruno Iwuoha died of diabetes at 68 years

After an elongated battle with diabetes, Nollywood veteran actor, Bruno Iwuoha died at 68 years on Saturday.

According to a statement released by the Director of Communications, Actor Guild of Nigeria, Monalisa Chinda Coker, stated that it is on a sad note that we announce the passing away of our elder colleague and active member of AGN Abuja, Bruno Obinna Iwuoha.

AGN revealed that he died in the early hours of Saturday after a prolonged battle with diabetes, stating that, Bruno Iwuoha survived by his wife and six children, adding that, he hails from Umunumo Umuanunu kindred in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

While commiserating with his immediate family members, friends, and fans on behalf of the Guild, the National President, Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ejezie Emeka Rollas prayed that God would comfort them at this moment of grief and that all the souls of all the faithful departed would rest in peace

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Mike Okri to release new album, sign deal with TuneAfrique

Ace Nigerian musician, Mike Okri has revealed plans to release his latest body of work ‘Lend A Hand’ featuring young singers such as Omawumi, Yemi Alade, and Seyi Shay.

These were revealed during a press briefing by Dr. Olakunle Oladehin, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TuneAfrique, a music streaming and distribution company.

It was gathered that the press briefing was organized as a result of the partnership entered between and TuneAfrique and the veteran singer, Mike Okri.

During the press briefing, the CEO explained the partnership as a strategic move that will provide necessary advanced funding support to help artists in their promotions, and also relieve the worry associated with lack of financial support, especially for independent artists.

Dr. Oladehin maintains that Mike Okri had a track record of delivering quality music, stating that, the decision to bank on him came from the review of his existing catalog and the projection of his current body of work, including his collaborations with other younger artists such as Omawumi, Yemi Alade, and Seyi Shay.

While still speaking, Dr. Oladehin stated that as part of the company’s growth strategy, it had appointed two new members of the team – Hembadoon Peter Thomas and Folami Ayedun to serve in the capacity of Artiste and Label Service Directors.

Meanwhile, Peter-Thomas also explained the activities that are in focus for artiste development in the organization, stating that the organization offers stand-out services, adding that, their goal is to bridge the gap and allow artists from every generation and every genre to benefit from their craft, as long as the content is viable.

He also said the organization is expanding its reach to the inner cities, stating that, recently, they visited underground artists in Jos and Makurdi.

Peter-Thomas further stated that the organization is also teaching people how to monetize their music and also provides the options that would enable them to do so.

However, Mike Okri, while expressing optimism about the partnership stated that it was a union of two forces.

He said when one has an idea, one of the key elements of bringing it to the lead is based on how the person makes the right impact.

According to Mike Okri, TuneAfrique has proven that they know the landscape, especially when it comes to streaming African music, adding that, so, it is a union of two forces.

He also added that “I am partnering with them because I know they are capable. In my yearly visits to Nigeria, I have been studying how the music industry has grown so far, and I have to know what needs to be done to add my quota.” Adding that, everyone wants to make money but this goes just beyond money for us. We want to make sure whatever we do is of good quality. He added.

The ‘Time Na Money crooner further talked about the damage being caused by pirates in the music industry, stating that, the situation had improved. Adding that “Things have changed for the better. It’s not like pirates cannot infringe on copyrights but it’s easier to detect now unlike in our days when one person could just take a compact disc and duplicate thousands of it, meanwhile the authentic CDs would not be making money.

Mike Okri, also share some of his thoughts on the type of music being stirred out by young artists, according to him, we need to understand that there would always be a club and dance music. But even then, poetry should be put into consideration.

He said, people, are not stupid. If they dance to a particular song without content because of the beat (melody), after some time, they would get tired of it and need a change. We are in the position of changing that. We don’t want to be radical but systematic about it. All artists should be able to play at least one instrument or the other.

However, TuneAfrique has flagged off its support partnership program with Mike Okri whose new project, ‘Lend a Hand’ would be exclusively be delivered to all digital platforms.

The company has pride itself as a distribution platform of choice for artists and labels within and outside Nigeria.

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Peruzzi releases his highly-anticipated new album ‘Rum & Boogie’

Nigerian musician and DMW signee, Tobechukwu Victor Okoh, popularly known as Peruzzi, has dropped his highly anticipated album, ‘Rum & Boogie’ on Friday, April 9.

While dropping the album, Peruzzi stated that “From a place where we had no stars, always know we were born to shine, stating that, we have no idea how or when.”

The ‘Southy Love’ crooner further stated that, “But you see brother, God is the greatest, already on my second album and I swear it’s all of me, Crazy shot ever, he added.

The ‘Rum & Boogie’ album contains 20 tracks including his previously released songs like Gunshot; ‘Southy Love’ featuring Fireboy DML and his most recent release ‘Somebody Baby’ featuring DMW boss, Davido.

The album also features Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal, Phyno, Don Jazzy, Patoranking, Set Up, and Boylexxy.

The album was produced by Speroachbeat, Show Beat, Zaki Amujei, M Eff, Freshvdm, V Stix, Clemzy, Lussh, P Prime, and Rexxie.

Listen to the album:

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WAEC set new date for exam, debunk postponement

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A new date, August 16, 2021, to September 30, 2021, has been announced by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) for the commencement of the 2021 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

This was made known in a statement issued by the Ag. Head, Public Affairs, WAEC Nigeria, Demianus G. Ojijeogu, anipr.

In the statement, Ojijeogu explained that Mr. Patrick Areghan, the Head of Nigeria National Office was misquoted when he said that WASSCE was postponed during a press briefing on Tuesday, in an attempt to announce the results for private candidates in the first series.

According to the statement, Ojijeogu stated that “The attention of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria has been drawn to publications in some national dailies and online media, to the effect that WAEC has postponed the May/June 2021 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This information was allegedly given by the Head of the Nigeria National Office of WAEC, Mr. Patrick Areghan, at a Press Briefing to announce the release of results of WASSCE for Private Candidates, 2021 – First Series on Tuesday, April 6, 2021.

He said “We wish to categorically state that the Head of National Office was quoted out of context, adding that, “The Head of National Office had in his address during the Press Briefing stated as follows:

“Let me also use this opportunity to dispel rumors being peddled about by some people regarding the conduct of WASSCE for School Candidates, 2021. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are still very much felt in the education sector. The academic calendar has been distorted. It will, therefore, not be possible to have the examination in May/June this year. A convenient International Timetable

He also said for the conduct of the examination will soon be released, stating that, “The arrangement is in line with the current academic calendar and was done in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education.

He said, “Consequently, the Council wishes to inform schools, candidates, and the general public that the examination will hold from August 16, 2021, to September 30, 2021. The International timetable for the conduct of the examination will be released in due course, while also advised stakeholders to be guided.

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American rapper, Dmx died of heart attack at 50

After being hospitalized on Friday, April 2, due to a heart attack, Earl Simmons, popularly known as Dmx died today at the age of 50 years.

The news of his death was announced by his family after spending one week in the hospital.

It was gathered that Dmx was rushed to the White Plains Hospital in New York where he received treatment in the intensive care unit on Friday, April 2, until his death.

The Ruff Ryder rapper died while still surrounded by close family and friends after suffering a heart attack at his home on April 2.

According to a statement by his family stated that “We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50 years old at the White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days.”

The family also explained in the statement that Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him.”

The family continued, “Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever. We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time.”

DMX began his musical career in the early 1990s and he released his debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ in 1998 to both critical acclaim and commercial success, selling 251, 000 copies within it’s first week of release.

DMX also featured in films like Belly, Romeo Must Die, Exit Wounds, Cradle 2 the Grave, and Last Hour.

He was married to Tashera Simmons in 1999 and survived by fifteen children.

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Stolen IIe-Ife artifact return to Nigeria from Mexico (Photos)

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On Thursday, the Federal Government announced the return of a stolen IIe-Ife artifact from Mexico.

These were made known on Twitter by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, who received it from Charge D’affaires of the Nigerian mission in Mexico, Yakubu Dadu.

According to the minister’s tweet, he tweeted that, he was presented with an ancient bronze sculpture by Dr. Yakubu Dadu, the Charge D’affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Mexico.

Also, he tweeted that the artifact was stolen from Nigeria and it was noticed at the airport by former Ambassador, Aminu Iyawa in Mexico.

The Minister explained that the former ambassador was suspicious of the artifact and alerted the authorities who played a significant role in ensuring it was returned to the country.

Onyeama, also thank the Mexican government for its role in the return of the artifact, stating that, he will present it at a later date to the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed.

Recall, late month, the University of Aberdeen said it will return a Benin Bronze to Nigeria after many years of its loot.

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Prince Philip, husband to Queen Elizabeth died at 99 years

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Buckingham Palace has today April 9, announced the death of Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, husband to Queen Elizabeth II.

According to the Palace in a statement, stated that Prince Philip passed away peacefully this morning in Windsor Castle.

The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.”

The Palace also revealed that he died at 99 years, stating that a further announcement will be made in due course.

However, Prince Philip was born into the Greek and Danish royal families. He was born in Greece, but his family was exiled from the country when he was an infant.

Phillip, after being educated in France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, joined the British Royal Navy in 1939, aged 18. From July 1939, he began corresponding with the thirteen-year-old Princess Elizabeth, whom he had first met in 1934.

During the Second World War, he served with distinction in the Mediterranean and Pacific Fleets. After the war, Philip was granted permission by George VI to marry Elizabeth. Before the official announcement of their engagement in July 1947.

Prince Philip and Elizabeth had four children: Charles, Prince of Wales; Anne, Princess Royal; Prince Andrew, Duke of York; and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.

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Lawmakers issue warning, plan warrant of arrest on health registrar

The House Committee on Health Care Services in the Federal House of Assembly has summoned the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, (MDCN), Dr. Tajudeen Sanusi to appear unfailingly on Friday or risk arrest.

It was gathered that the Registrar has failed to honor a question and answer session that was organized by the House Committee over the ongoing strike by the resident’s doctors and payment of house officers.

According to the Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Tanko Sununu disclosed that the Registrar has sent a letter signed by the director of Council to informed the committee at the last minute that he was attending a Medical Council tribunal.

The House Committee Chairman lamented that the Registrar failed to honor an invitation on a national emergency while attending a personal engagement.

The Chairman stated that, if he failed to honor the invitation by 9:00 am on Friday, the House will invoke all relevant laws and take the appropriate measures which may include possible arrest and other sanctions.

Narrating the disappointment, the Chairman stated that, “we sent out invitations to all major stakeholders to attend this meeting, unfortunately, he refused to appear.”

He said, “So because he is a major stakeholder, we have decided to call off the meeting today and summon him again.”

Sununu stated that they were informed that the Registrar is conducting a medical disciplinary tribunal, a meeting which they believe is the case of an individual.

Sununu also stated that people’s lives were lost during the strike, adding that, services were interrupted, accessibility to health care was also denied as a result of the ongoing strike.

He said, the economy has gone down, so to access healthcare is a big question, according to him, “We are here to address national interest because we cannot as representatives of the people allow the country to continue like this, stating that, to make matters worse, in Nigeria, 70 percent of healthcare procurement is out of pocket.

The House Committee Chairman also calls on resident doctors to temper justice with mercy, adding that, everybody believes that your demands are genuine but there are processes to achieve them. We cannot watch while people are suffering, he added.

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Why MTN makes u-turn, restore service with financial institutions

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After the temporary suspension of sales of MTN products through the banking channel on April 2, 2021, the telecommunications giant has restored its services on Sunday, April 4, with customers able to access all services.

The telecommunications giant explains the situation that trailed the suspension and restoration of the digital banking service.

According to MTN Nigeria, these were resolve in a series of meetings following the intervention of the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Nigeria Communication Commission, and the Central Bank of Nigeria to align on a longer-term pricing structure.

MTN Nigeria promises to provide a further market update once these discussions have been concluded, stating that, they undertook an international standard and best practice as the scale is built along distribution channels.

MTN Nigeria also explained it’s confident to work with partners in the banking sector to ensure a possible quick solution that will benefit the entire industry.

MTN Nigeria also explained that it would revert to its previous cost of sales structures with banking partners until a new long term agreement can be reached on a sustainable pricing structure.

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Pregnant wife, stab her husband to death, see reason why

The Delta State Police Command has reported that, a 30-years-old pregnant woman identified as Blessing Emmanuel have stabbed her husband, Jonathan Otomi Umamode to death in Ohoro town in Delta State on Easter day.

These were made known in a statement issued in Asaba by the Spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright stated that, one Chief Hon. Macpherson Igbedi of No. 4 Akanaweh Street Off Ekredjebo road Ughelli, reported the incident to the Divisional Police officer on Monday, April 5, and detectives were immediately mobilized to the scene, remove the corpse, and was deposited at the Central Hospital for autopsy.

According to the statement, Chief Macpherson alleged that the incident occurred around 11:45 pm on Easter Sunday at Ohoro town in Ughelli North local government area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the suspect, mother of seven was pregnant with her 8th child after she was arrested and later confessed to the crime that, she angrily stabbed her husband who she claimed does not take care of her and her children.

The suspect while narrating the ordeal stated that she sells fried chicken to take care of her kids, but on that faithful day, her husband came and demanded she go home with him which she refused, stating that, her husband gathered her fried chicken, poured kerosene, and set them ablaze, according to her, she angrily use the knife in her hand to stab the husband in his heart and ran away.

The Police Spokesperson, however, stated that the case is still under investigation.

Meanwhile, in another vein, the Police Spokesperson also explained that on Wednesday, April 7, at about 10:05 pm, a Police patrol team while on patrol in Giwamu street in Warri, sighted a tricycle with three occupants who immediately sighted the police team, abandoned their tricycle and ran into a nearby bush.

It was gathered that they were given a hot chase but because of the crowded nature of the environment, they made it difficult to arrest them, however, the effort is ongoing given arresting the fleeing suspects.

On searching the abandoned tricycle with Reg. No GUE 477 VC, it was reported that they uncover two locally cut-to-size single barrel guns.

The State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, PSC+ has pledged to reiterate a pin-down point and intensive stop and search tactics as one of the proactive ways to prevent crime in the state.

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Gbagi proposes new 100 industries in 100 days if elected

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Former minister of education and frontline Governorship aspirant of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi has resolved to establish 100 industries within hundred days if allowed to take over from Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa, stating that he possesses the best credentials to succeed him.

According to Olorogun Gbagi, he has taken an in-depth feasibility study on the various locations of the industries across the 25 local government areas of Delta State.

Gbagi made this revelation while speaking during an interactive session with journalists when he paid a visit to the temporary press center of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council in Asaba on Thursday.

The Legal giant and industrialist stated that “As one of the founding fathers of the PDP in Delta State, he is eminently qualified to build on the stronger Delta legacies that Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is bequeathing to Deltans.

The former education minister described Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as a thoroughbred administrator whose achievements are in job and wealth creation, roads and infrastructure, peace and security, education, and agricultural revolution among others.

He added that Okowa has placed Delta State on the national map, stating that, he intends to take it up from there and make it what Lagos is to Nigeria if given the mandate.

He said, his intention, is to clinch the PDP gubernatorial ticket for the 2023 elections, stating that, he is confident that Governor Okowa whom he knows will not hand over to anyone that cannot build on the legacies he is bequeathing to Deltans.”

Olorogun Gbagi explained that with his wealth of experience in the business sector and coupled with his vast contacts across the globe, the realization of the industrial revolution which will lift more Deltans out of poverty into gainful employment is sure-footed.

Gbagi also went down memory lane to recount when he was a minister of education, stating that, under his watch, the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Ughomro In Uvwie Local Government was actualized, while also stated that, countless federal universities, federal polytechnics, college of education, unity schools as well as Almajiri schools were built in all the Geo-political zones of the country.

The former minister and consummate Paul Harris fellow of the Rotary international also charged members of the NUJ to turn up their antennas in being a voice to the voiceless and engaged the political class to enable transparency in governance and public office.

While speaking, the Delta State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Mike Ikeogwu, stated that Olorogun Gbagi is the first Governorship aspirant who has visited journalists in the State, adding that, if become governor with his wealth of experience in politics, together with administration, and business, is confident that the front line governorship aspirant will do competently.

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New university ready for take-off – Gov. Okowa

The Executive-Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, said, the new University of Science and Technology, Ozoro that was created from State Polytechnic is now ready for the 2021/2022 academic session.

Okowa, while speaking at the grand finale of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) campaign ahead of Saturday’s House of Assembly by-election for the Isoko North Constituency seat on Wednesday, disclosed this in a statement.

According to the governor, who stated in the rally that he has inspected the facilities at the institution for its readiness to take off academic activities, also commended the development done by Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).

The governor stated that he was at the school to see what was on the ground and what was needed for the take-off of the university, stating that, a Project Management Committee had been inaugurated to ensure a smooth start-off of the institution.

Okowa said, with the extent of the facilities that they have, he was conceived that the place is ready to go fully as a University of Science and Technology.

According to him, there is no doubt that they have a few things that they will be needing in the future for expansion but insist that, with what they have, they are all fully set for the initial take-off.

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What Gov. Uzodinma revealed about Owerri prison break

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has alleged that the attacks on the correctional center and police headquarters in Owerri on Monday is been sponsored by aggrieved politicians.

Uzodinma alleged that aggrieved politicians are behind the attacks to destabilize the All Progressive Congress.

He made these revelations while speaking on Channels Television on Wednesday.

According to Uzodinma while speaking said, the correctional center and the police headquarters were attacked on Monday by gunmen who made use of explosives and also burnt many vehicles.

He said, the gunmen also set free 1,844 inmates during the attack as recorded by the Nigerian Correctional Service.

He said, “Their tactics is that they try to identify grievances of people in a particular area. If it is in Imo State and probably some IPOB people are not happy, they hire hoodlums from outside the state, they bring them in pretending to be IPOB and they commit these crimes and they go away.”

He also said, “So, it is not about IPOB. Yes, we agree, we have aggrieved IPOB members but I can tell you those who are doing this destruction, most of them were brought in from outside the IMO State.”

Uzodinma went further to say that, “What is important for Nigerians to know is the plot by a group of aggrieved politicians to destabilize the government of APC. “

According to him, he has done some thorough investigation and he reveals that he has some credible leads as to those who are sponsoring these activities of these hoodlums.

He said, he doesn’t want to pre-empt the investigations of other security agencies but insisted that they are working hard to ensure the sponsors of the acts are brought to book.

Meanwhile, the police have accused the Indigenous People of Biafra and its security outfit, Eastern Security Network of being responsible for the attack, an allegation the group denied.

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WAEC make plans to shift the 2021 certificate examination

The Nigeria Office of West Africa Examinations Council has announced that Nigeria is not yet ready for the 2021 certificate examination.

The Head of the Nigeria Office, Patrick Areghan disclosed this during a press briefing while announcing the release of private candidates’ results for the WAEC 2021 first series on Tuesday.

According to Areghan’s explanation, he said, “It will be calamitous to offer the exam to students in the first term; as we all know, the schools are running different terms. We do not know when the exam will be conducted, but we will conduct it if the government says so.”

He said the Nigeria federation is not ready for the 2021 exit exam, stating that, they were to start all over again because they are still struggling as some countries just started their educational system afresh, adding that, “If the government says, don’t conduct exams, we cannot do it.”

He said, “Nobody is ready for the exam due to COVID-19. If the government says we should conduct the exam today, we are ready for the exam. We can’t conduct it in April, May, June, but to obey the Nigerian government and in conjunction with the other four countries and then the international timetable will be drawn.”

Areghan also disclosed that the private examination was primarily to reduce the waiting time for results and for those candidates seeking admission into the tertiary institutions to beat deadlines.

He said, the analysis from the statistics of candidates performance shows that, out of the 7,289 candidates that sat for the examination, 2,938 which represents 40.31 percent obtained credit and above in a minimum of any five subjects with or without English Language and Mathematics, while 1,396 were male and 1,542 were female representing 47.52 percent and 52.48 percent respectively.

He further said, “Two thousand one hundred and ninety-five (2,195) candidates representing 30.11 percent obtained credits and above in a minimum of five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.

Also, he added that the results of 599 candidates representing 8.22 percent of the total number of candidates were being withheld.

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After Owerri prison break, another police station was attacked

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On Tuesday, another Police facility has been attacked by unknown gunmen, a day after attacking the Owerri Correctional Center.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Tuesday evening in the Divisional Police Command in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

According to a source, the gunmen came in buses and large numbers, shoot sporadically, freed all the suspects in detention before setting the facilities ablaze.

Recall on Monday, gunmen had also attacked the State Police Headquarters where they reportedly burnt almost all the vehicles that were parked.

The Spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, Orlando Ikeokwu confirmed the incident to newsmen.

He also stated, no casualty on the part of the police, stating that three vehicles were burnt, no arms were lost while insisting that, the armory at the station is intact.

Ikeokwu said, “Ehime Mbano Police Division has been attacked, no casualty on the part of the police, no loss of arms, three vehicles burnt.”

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Shoprite announces closure of its supermarket’s operations from Nigeria

The Chief Executive Officer of Shoprite Holdings Limited, Pieter Engelbrecht has announced the sales of its supermarket operations in Nigeria.

The CEO said, the company is waiting for approval from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission after lodging the transaction with the commission.

He said the company will shut down operations by disposing of a 100 percent equity stake in its retail supermarket in Nigeria.

The CEO, also said, the company management expects the transaction to be approved by the end of the 2021 financial year, stating that, the company has concluded the process of the franchise agreement for the Shoprite brand to remain in Nigeria and also an agreement to provide support to the new shareholders.

This was made known on the company’s website on Tuesday in its latest financial reports for December 2020.

According to the reports, the Chief Executive Officer said, “We are at the approval stage in terms of the sales of our Nigeria supermarket operation.”

He said, “From here, our capital allocated to the region remains at a minimum and we continue to manage costs as best as we can.”

The CEO also said that the statement of comprehensive income reflects the profit separately from discontinuing operations, stating that, assets and liabilities relating to the Nigeria operations are held for sale.

The CEO said the board decided to formally exit its operations in Nigeria over unfavorable market conditions, while stating that, the company in its half-year financial report in August 2020, announced that it would gradually shut down its operation in Nigeria.

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Breaking: Buhari appoints new IGP, sack Adamu

On Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari sack Mohammed Adamu before the expiration of his tenure extension and appointed a Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba to immediately take over as the acting IGP.

Recall how IGP Adamu’s tenure was extended after successful completion of his 35 years of service by three months on February 4, as the Inspector General of Police.

This was disclosed to newsmen in the State House by the Minister of Police Affairs, Maigari Dingyadi.

The Minister explained that the appointment was made after careful consideration on issues of competence, professionalism, and experience in service.

According to the Minister, the President has urged the newly appointed IGP to ensure policies that are fully prioritized in the police reform to promote peace in the country.

Before the appointment, Alkali, was DIG, Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (FCIID).

The new acting IGP was born in 1963 and joined the Nigerian Police Force in March 1988.

He has a master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA) and a BA (ED) in Political Science from the University of Maiduguri and Bayero University, Kano respectively.

Alkali has also held several strategic positions in the past which include Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone-5 Benin, Zone-4 Makurdi, Zone-7 Abuja, Commissioner of Police FCT, and Delta Commands amongst others.

Alkali was a member of the National Defence College and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

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Breaking: Academic activities shut down in all Polytechnics

Today, the Academy Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) announced the commencement of an indefinite strike.

The announcement was made known during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday by the ASUP President, Anderson Ezeibe.

Ezeibe mentioned that all academic activities will be shut down in polytechnic nationwide with effect from midnight.

Ezeibe said, last week, the Union had warned that it will go on strike on April 6, if the federal government failed to meet its demands.

According to him, the union demands were communicated to the ministries of education, labor, and other state governors but nothing was done about it.

He said the Federal Government have not paid 10 months’ arrears in the new minimum wage, stating that, some state governments had yet to implement the new minimum wage for their members.

He also gave other reasons including the Federal Government’s failure to address the non-reconstitution of the governing councils in the polytechnics.

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See what Don Jazzy revealed about Falz, Simi, Teni

Ace Nigerian music producer and Marvin Record label boss, Michael Collins Ajereh is popularly known as Don Jazzy, has revealed his regret for not signing Falz, Simi, Teni, at the early stages of their career.

Don Jazzy made these revelations recently while speaking during a session of the Bounce Radio series known as Black Box Interview, hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

During the interview, the record label boss explained how he lost Falz due to his affiliation with another manager and how he failed to choose Simi in a music contest he organized a year back.

According to him, “I can’t say I turned them down. For Falz, the working situation wasn’t just right. I run a firm that could handle almost everything he needed.

“But I think he had a management company set up already. It was like Tiwa Savage’s but I had to grow into that kind of scenario where I had to handle someone that had a record label, some blueprint process.

He also talked about Simi, stating that “I equally didn’t reject Simi. I did a Twitter contest for ‘Journey of A Thousand Miles. I also loved her cover because she was one of the people that participated but she didn’t win.

“I didn’t pick the winners. I liked her but you can’t sign anybody. That’s one person I also regretted, I won’t say regret. But I wish we worked on stuff together.

While speaking about Teni, Don Jazzy explained that he couldn’t sign her because she was based in Atlanta, USA at that time and he had not gotten to the stage of bringing people from overseas down to Nigeria.

Don Jazzy said, “We used to check up on each other but I had not grown to the point that I would move you from Atlanta to Nigeria for work. Now I can and we work before deciding if we are going to sign. Before I knew what was happening, there were faster people.

He said “She released records and I was like, ‘okay, we lost that one. Three hot stars.

He went further to say that the singer he never wanted to manage was Davido stating that, he knew he would become big.

Don Jazzy said, “The only person I didn’t want to sign was Davido I didn’t want to sign him but I knew he was going to be huge. They have money already now.”

Watch Video:

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Six Inmates return after escaping from Owerri prison break

Among 1,844 inmates that escaped from the Owerri Correctional Center in Imo State, six of them have voluntarily returned after the incident.

This was made known in a statement on Monday by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOs), Francis Enobore.

Enobore also disclosed that during the incident at the correctional center, 35 other inmates refuse to escape from the custody.

Recall at the early hour of on Monday, how gunmen reportedly invade the Owerri Correctional Center, as well as the State Police Command Headquarters, and free hundreds of prisoners in the process.

Enobore, who confirmed the attack an hour after the incident stated that the gunmen forcefully released a total of 1,844 inmates from the custody.

According to him, the attackers stormed the facility at about 2:15 am, gained entrance into the yard by using explosives to blast the administrative block.

He said they invaded the correctional center in their large number in several Hilux pick-up vans and Sienna Buses, armed with sophisticated weapons, and immediately engaged the security personnel on duty in a fierce gun battle after which they eventually detonated the explosives to gain entrance.

He further stated that, during the attack, one person suspected to be a fleeing inmate was hit by a bullet while carrying his travel bag. His lifeless body was visibly seen on the ground in front of the correctional center.

He also said, while the gunmen attacked the Imo State Police Command Headquarters, they burnt almost all the vehicles parked at the command headquarters.

He maintains that they were said to be chanting solidarity songs at the Government House Roundabout for about 30 minutes before the attacks on the correctional service and police facilities.

The Acting Controller-General of Corrections, John Marbury, while condemning the incident, ordered a comprehensive investigation into the attack.

He directed the commencement of search and recovery operations, in collaboration with other security organizations, to recapture the fleeing inmates.

Marbury further directed all officers attached to custodial facilities across the country to remain vigilant at this trying moment.

He also pleaded with the residents of Imo state and others to help with useful intelligence that would facilitate the recovery effort.

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Itsekeri council announces death of Olu, appoint new succession

The Itsekiri Traditional Council has announced the death of the 20th Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli along with the appointment of Prince Itieyinoritsetsola Emiko from the Ginuwa I Ruling House as the next Olu of Warri kingdom.

The death of the Olu of Warri was announced on Monday by the Iyatsere of the Warri Kingdom, who also doubles as the acting Ologbotsere, Chief Johnson Atserunleghe.

The death of the Olu was symbolically made known when the Iyatsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Atseruleghe broke three earthen pots containing white native chalk on the floor announcing “Ale-jefun-oooh” followed by twenty cannon shots.

Thereafter, the Iyatsere pronounced a mourning period of three months throughout the Itsekeri nation during which, there shall be no drumming, dancing or merriment of any kind anywhere within the land, all sons and daughters of Itsekeri were also advised to tie their wrapper upside down for the duration of the mourning period.

Also, during the announcement, Prince Itieyinoritsetsola Emiko was announced and introduced to the people as the new Olu of Warri.

Prince Etsola Emiko was born on April 2, 1984, to Prince Godwin Toritseju Emiko, the late Ogiame Atuwatse II, and Gladys Durorike Emiko in Warri.

The newly announced Olu attended NNPC Primary School in Warri and later Adesoye College, Offa, Kwara State for his secondary education between 1995 and 2001.

He then proceeded to Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, the USA where he bagged his Bachelor’s of Arts between 2002 and 2006, majoring in International Studies and Political Science while minoring in History and Economics. In 2007, he earned a Master’s of Science in Management also from Case Western Reserve University.

While returning home to Nigeria in 2008, Prince Tsola Emiko served in the Public Affairs Department of National Petroleum Investment Management Services for the NYSC scheme.

Subsequently, from 2009 to 2010, he worked as an officer at the Shell Nigeria Closed Pension Fund Administrator (SNCFPA) and later at Sahara Energy as Government Relations Officer between 2010 and 2012.

Prince Tsola Emiko, a serial entrepreneur, was the founder of Noble Nigeria Ltd. and Coral Curator Ltd. He is the Chairman of Ocean Marine Security Ltd. and Director, Gulf of Guinea Ltd and Vessel link Big Ltd while his business significance may be said to have flowed from his late father.

The newly announced Olu was happily married to Mrs. Ivie Uhunoma Emiko and blessed with children namely Oritsetsemaye, Oritsetemisan, and Oritsetimeyin Emiko.

The newly announced Olu is a go-getter who loves traveling, hiking, swimming, football, and basketball while he also enjoys movies Above all, he is renowned as a devout Christian, nation builder, and lover of History.

The event, however, was attended by Itsekiri sons and daughters from all parts of the country including the Regent of Warri Kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Okotie-Eboh; Chief (Mrs.) Olivia Agbajoh, the Egudeghe (Oyewumi) of Warri; Chief Solomon Areyenka, Chief (Dr.) Adams Timeyin, Chief (Dr.) Charles Ikomi, Prince Yemi Emiko, and Chief Brown Nene.

Among other dignitaries in attendance was the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, represented by two frontline monarchs from the South West, Oba Akinola Oyetade Aderere (the Olubosin of Ifetedo) and Oba Adekunle Adebayo Adeagbo (the Ore of Otun-Ekiti).

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Gunmen storm Imo prison, freed over 1500 inmates, burnt security vehicles

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At the early hour of on Monday, gunmen attacked the Owerri Correctional Center in Imo State capital.

It was gathered that the gunmen operated from 1 am to 3 am until they further freed almost all the inmates in the cells at the State Criminal Investigation Department of the command.

The gunmen also razed the Imo State Police Command headquarters that is situated in Owerri and burnt almost all the vehicles parked at the command headquarters.

According to a policeman that doesn’t want his name to be mentioned said, that the gunmen sang solidarity songs at the Government House roundabout for about 30 minutes before attacking the facilities.

The source discloses that the gunmen break into the prison facility with the aid of explosives and dynamite while ordering the inmates to go home.

The spokesperson for the State Police Command, Orlando Ikeokwu confirmed the outbreak and however assured the people of the state that the security agencies are on top of the matter.

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FG decentralized issuance of international Passport within all LGs

The Federal Government has unveiled its plans to decentralized the issuance of International Passport within the 774 local government areas in the country.

The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola disclosed in a statement on Sunday during the newly inaugurated Maitama Passport Express Centre in Abuja.

The Minister said in the statement that the Nigeria Immigration Service Passport Express Center was established in partnership with the private sector to make passport issuance more convenient and quick.

The Minister also said that the opening of the center, which signified the Passport Issuance Decentralization Policy of the administration, was the first of many more to be established in every local government area in Nigeria and designed to offer specialized services to Nigerians.

According to the Minister, a Passport can be issued in each of the 774 local government areas in the country to reduce the problem of getting it.

Aregbesola said, “The passport should be available in a maximum of 72 hours of a successful application. Where there are issues, the applicant must be notified within 48 hours.”

Aregbesola further said, “It is the future. The goal is to have a facility like this in every local government in the country. Every Nigerian has the right to a Nigerian passport and it is our responsibility to put it in the hands of anyone desirous of it within the shortest possible time, without stress

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Pyrates accuses Buhari medical trip to the UK

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The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has accused President Muhammadu Buhari of his latest medical trip to the United Kingdom.

In a statement signed by the NAS Capoon, Mr. Abiola Owoaja on behalf of the organization titled: “President Buhari’s Foreign Medical Trip: Symptom of a National Malady” stated that, if Buhari was to be a private citizen, he reserves the right to do as he wishes but as a President of Nigeria, “It is both unethical and embarrassing that the President would so publicly signal a vote of no confidence in the healthcare system of the country he presides over.”

The NAS Capoon stated that “We need no reminders that millions of Nigerians are left to the weak and inefficient healthcare system that their President so visibly disdains since they cannot have foreign medical trips paid for from the public treasury.

The NAS Capoon also said, “The timing of this latest medical tourism is tragically poignant, coming the same week the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) commenced an indefinite strike over the failure of the Federal Government to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it signed with the association and meet other demands which include payment of entitlements as basic as hazard allowance for routine professional hazards and the extraordinary demands of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Owoaja accused Buhari of not being able to fulfill his campaign promises to revamp the health sector and put a stop to medical tourism.

He said, “In the six years that he has been in office, President Buhari has abysmally failed to make hospitals in Nigeria functional to the extent that it can be entrusted to handle his health and that of other top government officials.

He said, “It is even more disappointing that the Aso Rock Clinic, the object of inexplicably huge budgetary allocations, is demonstrably incapable of meeting the demands of the most senior resident of Aso Rock Villa,”.

Owoaja faulted how successive administrations in the country have contributed to the parlous state of Nigeria’s health sector, while also challenging Buhari to use the remaining years of his tenure to work for the improvement of the healthcare delivery system.

According to Owoaja, “Successive administrations in the country had contributed to the parlous state of the health sector, but expectations by Nigerians that Buhari would revamp the health sector in line with his campaign promises.”

Owoaja said, “He should as a matter of priority put efforts in motion leading the charge and galvanizing state governments across the country to ensure the upgrading of public healthcare facilities in the country in line with global best practices.

He said, “His administration should summon the required will and mobilize the needed funds to address the structural problems in Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem. These include the conducive working environment, improved infrastructure, tools, eliminating the ongoing brain drain, improving the welfare of medical and healthcare workers in the country as well as strengthening the organic link between primary, secondary and tertiary levels of healthcare.”

He stated that “President Buhari’s preoccupation, as he enters the sixth year out of his eight-year tenure, should be how to develop Nigeria’s healthcare system such that no President after him would need to travel out of the country for a routine medical check-up. Nigerians want a leader who would inspire confidence in the country’s health facilities. President Buhari should strive to be such a leader if he cares about the verdict of history.”

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Unknown gunmen kill Prince, two security operatives in Delta

The Prince of Orhumwhorun Community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State and son of the Ovie (King), HRH Ighohwo Takerere, Okaka II, and his friend have been killed by unknown gunmen.

Two Policemen were also shot dead while in their vehicles, a Range Rover and a Mercedes-Benz GLK (EPE 289 FB).

The incident happened on Saturday afternoon in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.

According to a trending video, the cars were splattered with the blood of the victims.

It was gathered that on Saturday night, the gruesome murder has sparked wild protests, lootings, and destruction in the Usienfurun area of Orhumworun.

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Kukah didn’t speak like a man of God – Garba Shehu

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On Sunday, the Presidency faulted the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah for speaking against Muhammadu Buhari in his Easter homily, says, he did not speak like a man of God.

The Presidency, made these known in a statement titled “Kukah’s Buhari bashing is ungodly” by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.

According to the statement, Shehu faulted that, since Kukah professed to be a man of God, ideology shouldn’t stand in the way of facts and fairness.

Shehu also accused the bishop of playing politics in some of his submissions in the Easter message.

He accused Kukah of not saying the truth that Boko Haram terrorism is worse than it was in 2015, he said, he did not speak like a man of God. Stating that, Kukah should go to Borno or Adamawa to ask the citizens there the difference between 2014 and 2021.

The statement read in part, “All citizens have their ideologies, even their versions of the truth.

“But if you profess to be a man of God, as Father Mathew Hassan Kukah does, ideology should not stand in the way of facts and fairness.

“Father Kukah has said some things that are inexplicable in his Easter message.

“But, in saying that the Boko Haram terrorism is worse than it was in 2015, he did not speak like a man of God. Kukah should go to Borno or Adamawa to ask the citizens there the difference between 2014 and 2021.

“Furthermore, the Hijab issue in Kwara State on which he dwelt is a state matter which the courts of the land have adjudicated. They are matters that have appeared in several states as far back as the Obasanjo administration. In all of that, when and where did the name of President Buhari feature?

He is playing partisan politics by dragging the President into it.

“An administration that has created a whole Ministry, for the first time in the country’s history, appropriating enormous resources to it, to deal with issues of internally displaced persons cannot, in all rightfulness be accused of not caring for them.

“Some of the comments are no more than a sample of the unrestrained rhetoric Fr. Kukah trades in, which he often does in the guise of a homily.

“We urge well-meaning citizens to continue to support the ongoing efforts by the administration to secure the country and move it forward.”

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Mob beat man to death for killing betting-shop manager

On Friday, March 2, it was gathered that a betting shop manager, Henry Obi was reportedly been killed over a disagreement of N50 betting in the Aba branch satellite market near the Ehime Mbano council headquarters in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

In a statement released by the spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, Orlando Ikeokwu, said, “One Chidubem Mbamara walked into a betting shop, played his bet worth N600 but unfortunately wasn’t with enough money to pay.”

According to Ikeokwu, Mbamara was said to have paid only N150 deposited his phone to get the balance.

Ikeokwu continued, “But in return, he reportedly paid an additional N400, making it a total deposit of N550 while also promising to pay a balance of N50 on a later date.

Ikeokwu added, ” This led to a serious altercation between him and one Henry Obi (manager of the betting shop).

Ikeokwu also stated that “Sequel to the altercation, the said Chidubem Mbamara left, only to return some minutes later with a locally made pistol.

The Police Spokesperson noted that Chidubem Mbamara shot at Henry Obi, as a result, three persons were hit by the bullet, Henry Obi, Chibuike Iwunza, and Ebuka whose surname is unknown.

The Spokesperson also noted that the gunshots attracted a mob that pounced on Mbamara and beat him to death.

The Police Spokesperson also confirmed the death of Obi and Ebuka who died in the hospital on Saturday morning, while stating that Iwunza is in critical condition.

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Conspiracy in Itsekiri Kingdom over missing crown of 400 years

On Saturday, April 3, a high-ranking chief and some members of the Itsekeri Royal family, disclosed that the Olu crown which serves as the symbol of the Itsekiri monarchy had gone missing days after some parties in the succession battle invaded the palace in Warri, Delta State.

According to a statement by a member of the Ginuwa I Ruling House, which stated that “It is true; the crown has been taken away from the palace. We do not know who is responsible for this unfortunate activity. What I can tell you is that it is nowhere to be found in the palace.”

It was gathered that the missing crown was first worn by Ogiame Atuwatse (Dom Domingos) who reigned from 1625 to 1643), and it was said to be a parting gift from the King of Portugal after Dom Domingos completed his education in the European country in 1611.

It was gathered that the kingmakers consulted a fresh ife (oracle) and confirmed Prince Tsola Emiko as the chosen Olu-elect (Omoba) on Wednesday in Warri. But trouble started when the Ologbotsere rejected the Olu-elect in line with the 1979 edict which led to the suspension of the Ologbotsere.

However, the Olori-Ebi (administrative head of the ruling house), Prince Emmanuel Okotie-Eboh, had already presented Prince Tsola Emiko to a reconstituted Ojoye-Isan.

The reconstitution of the Ojoye-Isan was done after the Chief Ayiri Emami-led group of chiefs disqualified Prince Tsola Emiko, in line with the 1979 Edict. The Ojoye-Isan comprising the Ologbotsere, Uwangue, Iyatsere, the Ojomo (Chief Yahaya Pessu).

The reconstruction enables the Iyatsere of Warri, Chief Johnson Atserunleghe, to be elevated to take over the responsibilities of Ologbotsere in the search for a new Olu that would be presented to the Itsekiri General Assembly on Monday, April 5 at Ode-Itsekiri (Big Warri).

Meanwhile, a source disclosed that the missing crown and other dramas could impede a smooth transition of the new Olu, who is expected to proceed on Idaniken immediately after his presentation to the Itsekiri people on Monday.

The report of the missing crown has however cast a cloud of concern over activities line up for the ceremony as Chief Emami has debunked the purported completion of the process to select the Olu.

Also, the suspension of the Ologbotsere, Chief Ayiri Emami, has been challenged and annulled by the Otolus who averred that only an Olu has the power to suspend the highest-ranking chief in the kingdom.

According to Chief Benjamin Emiko and other Otolus said the 1979 Edict, which disqualified Prince Tsola in 2015, is still in operation, and therefore he cannot be Olu.

While addressing newsmen on Friday, Chief Emami also debunked the report of his suspension, insisting that he remains the Ologbotsere while also claiming that the General Assembly scheduled for Monday is null and void.

However, an effort to reach Prince Okotie-Ebon on his comment seems abortive as he stated that everything was going on very well.

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Reasons Davido fiancée, Chioma delete all his pictures on Instagram

Davido estranged girlfriend/fiancée, Chioma Avril Rowland, popularly known as Chef Chioma, has finally taken to Instagram to removed all the pictures of her baby’s daddy.

Chef Chioma decided to take a big step to ride off all of Davido’s pictures on her Instagram wall, but she left one of the pictures displaying the DMW boss with their son, Ifeanyi.

The picture she left, was used as the cover photo for the singer’s album “A better time.”

This happened after Davido was rumored to have abandoned Chioma and was spotted kissing an American model, Mya Yafai in viral pictures last week.

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How Nigerians in UK demands Buhari return home (Video)

Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s media aide, Reno Omokri, and a group of other Nigerians who reside in the United Kingdom have stormed the Abuja House, 2 Campden Hill, Kensington, London, demanding the immediate return of President Muhammadu Buhari to Nigeria.

It was gathered from a video post that was posted on Twitter by the former presidential aide, who mentioned that the eagle has landed to harass the ego out of London.

In the video, Reno Omokri and some group of protesters had assembled to chase the president back home, however, the police came but the #HarassBuhariOutOfLondon were not frightened and still went on with the protest.

Reno Omokri also tweeted that “It is happening people.” #HarassBuhariOutOfLondon is on, he further stated that “God willing, I see you at Abuja House, 2 Camden Hill, Kensington, London W8 7AD by noon.

He also stated that “We will observe #Covid-19 protocols even as we chase @MBuhari back home.

Recall on Tuesday, a Human Rights activist, Omoyele Sowore had also advised Nigerians in the UK to occupy the London hospital where President Buhari plans to have his medical checkup.

According to Sowore, he described the medical trip to London as a waste of resources, stating that the President should do his checkup in the world-class hospital he built in Nigeria since he came into power.

Sowore in his post on Twitter stated that “Nigerians in the UK must #occupy the hospital where sickly @MBuhari is wasting Nigeria’s resources and the Nigeria embassy as well as Abuja House in London, let Buhari return home and do a medical check in the world-class hospital he built since coming to power. #Buharimustgo.”

Also, recall that President Muhammadu Buhari left Nigeria to undertake a medical check-up in the UK on Tuesday.

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See why MTN stop subscribers from recharging airtime through banks

MTN Nigeria has blocked its subscribers from recharging their mobile phones or buying data using the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes.

This happened after the telecoms giant allegedly cut back on the commissions it pays out to banks and fintech on the sales of airtime and data.

In a statement to its partners, titled NOTIFICATION OF REVISED DISCOUNT STRUCTURE, made available to newsmen the telecommunication giant explained the reduction in discount with effect from 1st of April.

In the statement, MTN told its partners to “pacify customers and educate them to use MTNToplt, MoMo channels, as well as the debit card options on MOD or myMTN App.”

The statement read, “Dear Customer, Please be informed that you may not be able to purchase airtime, and data recharge via banks including MOD, and MyMTNApp.

The statement further read, “Please pacify My customers and educate them to use MTNTopit, MoMo channels, as well as the debit card options on MOD or myMTN App.”

According to one of the Telco’s partners, who prefers anonymity, alleged that the company singlehandedly decided to cut back on the commissions it pays out to banks and fintech on the sales of airtime and data without proper engagement.

She said, “I believe the way the process was handled is unfair and a dare to some of the partners. The Class C category, which has partners at the bottom of the pyramid was canceled and that takes effect from April 1, 2021.

“Aside from that, before slashing the commission, we expect the Telco to pay what they owe and not try to factor it into a new price regime so that customers will unknowingly pay for them. The fear is that if MTN succeeds, other telcos may follow the same path.”

However, efforts to reach MTN on the development were abortive, as a source in the Public Relations outfit that manages the brand disclosed that the Telco has not issued any statement in that regard.

Recall in three weeks ago, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced the introduction of new charges for customers using the USSD services.

The two regulatory agencies said that customers will pay a flat fee of N6.98 per transaction every time they use USSD services with effect from Tuesday, March 16, 2021.

The meeting between the CBN, NCC, deposit money banks, and mobile network operators (MNOs) over a protracted dispute concerning appropriate pricing for the USSD services has resulted in accumulated debt and a possible withdrawal of USSD services by MNOs.

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Gunmen attack former CBN governor, killed three security officers

At 5:30 pm on Wednesday, March 31, unknown gunmen stormed Anambra State, kidnap Commissioner for Public Utilities, Emeke Ezenwanne, and killed three policemen attached to a political gathering organized by the former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), Prof. Charles Soludo at a civic center in his hometown, Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area.

It was gathered that the former CBN governor, Prof. Charles Soludo was whisked away unhurt while some participants of the event were injured in the process.

According to a source, Soludo, happens to be a chieftain in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), also a frontline aspirant on November 6 governorship poll in the State.

The source disclosed that the gunmen arrived with three vehicles in a commando-style, stating that, Soludo left the state immediately after the incident. He added, “Nobody is safe here again.”

In another vein, an eyewitness also explained that one of the three slain policemen was a member of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in the state.

The eyewitness maintains, “A couple of minutes back, gunmen disrupted an interactive session between Isuofia youths and a former CBN governor, Prof. Soludo, at the town’s civic center.

He continued, “Three policemen, a former member of SARS, were shot dead at the meeting.”

According to an aide to the former CBN boss, stated that he could not explain the whereabouts of his boss because of confusion that erupted when the gunmen struck.

He said, “There was a stampede, I don’t know where Prof. Soludo is now, adding that the “Commissioner for Public Utilities, Ezenwanne, was taken away by the gunmen.”

However, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, Ikenga Tochukwu, confirmed the incident but stated, he was not aware of the number of casualties.

The spokesperson said that the incident happened at a political gathering in Isuofia. But added that, as of now (yesterday night) I’m still gathering information about the incident.

The State Commissioner of Police, Monday Kuryas, however, visited the community last night with his man, stating that, the command had already launched a manhunt for the gunmen. Adding that, the hoodlums would not be allowed to overrun the state.

The Commissioner also appealed to people and residents of the state to remain calm.

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Burna Boy nominated for ‘Best International Act’ at BRITs Awards

Nigerian Grammy Award winner, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has been nominated in the 41st edition of the BRITs Award for the “Best International Act” category.

Burna Boy was nominated along with American singer and rapper, Donald Glover, veteran music icon, Bruce Springsteen, Record producer, Tame Impala, and Canadian singer, The Weekend.

Burna Boy 5th studio album received massive international claim and appreciation for its innovation, Africanness, and authenticity.

The ‘Twice As Tall’ album broke into the music charts across the world, peaked at number 1 world album on Billboard charts, it also attained the number 1 spot in more than 59 countries on Apple Music, the number spot in more than 13 countries on iTunes, number 1 on the UK iTunes & Apple Music chart and also topped most music charts across Africa.

Burna Boy has changed the narrative about African music and he has also triggered the importance of Africa voices being heard on a global scale.

Burna Boy with his recent wins at the Grammy award for the Best Global Music Album, the MTV European Music Awards (EMA) for ‘Best African Act’s, the All African Music Awards album of the year and also winning ‘Best International Act’s for the Black Entertainment (BET) awards and the 2020 Dutch Edison Award for ‘World Alvin’s has exploded the Nigerian music scene.

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Pete Edochie reveals reason why women get beaten up in marriage

Popular Nollywood veteran actor, Pete Edochie, has accused women of the causes of domestic violence in marriage.

According to the actor who spoke at BBC Igbo stated that modern women lack basic skills like cooking to keep their husbands happy, stating that, women are usually to blame for the cases of domestic violence.

The veteran actor stated that any woman that cannot cook has lost the right to refer to herself as a woman.

He went further to say that, “Feminism isn’t something black people are known for, stating that, once a woman leaves her parents to meet her husband and takes his surname, she is to be submissive to him. Adding that, if she wasn’t married, she can do whatever she wants.

He said, “Women walk and show off their behinds, it’s so that men would find them, adding that, if you see such a woman and express your marriage interest, then she starts walking properly.

He said, “Our women now plunge into feminism nowadays. Stating that, they can’t even keep their husbands anymore. Did he ask, is that a good thing? According to him, these women are schooled but a lot of wives now can’t even cook – one thing that a woman should be good at is to be able to keep her husband.

He also revealed that his mother was not educated yet, she would cook all sorts of soups including bitter leaf, Oha, Ogbono, Okro, Egusi, Ukwa, and what have you. Stating that, his father would always get back home hurriedly to eat what his mother had cooked.

He continues that today, our wives can’t even cook anymore. Women who can’t cook aren’t supposed to call themselves women.

He reveals that feminism is what causes women to be beaten up in marriage, stating that, when you complain to a woman, she retorts.

He said, it becomes unbearable, so you stretch your arms and deal her a slap. Domestic violence starts. he also added that he doesn’t like seeing women crying because it hurts him deeply. But he also added that it is the fault of the woman herself a lot of times.

Pete Edochie said feminism has no place in Nigeria’s culture as he continues, “To be honest, the understanding of women is low. I’m not a misogynist but I’ve associated with them a lot, even at work. Feminism has no place in our culture, stating that, we don’t worship women at the white do.

He said in the west, women could join forces and accuse a male colleague of assault, the man resigns. Adding that, this can’t happen in our culture.

He said, as a young woman, if pedestrians don’t admire you, you would weep for fear of not being beautiful.

Pete Edochie also faulted the culture of kneeling to put a ring on a woman’s hand stating that it is not our culture. He said any man who does that transfers the headship of his family to that woman. Stating that, until his father died at 96, he never knelt to propose.

He referred to it that, it’s just like kneeling on entering a church because there’s a higher being to whom you’re paying respect. Adding that, men climb trees to tap palm wine, how does it look if a woman does the same? He added, today women dictate to men.

While still speaking, Edochie recalls that it was like that during his days how women talk to me nowadays isn’t how we were raised.

He said, “My mother was never beaten. My wife and I have been married for 52 years, I never beat her. My five married sons don’t beat their wife.”

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Crisis in Itsekiri land, see reasons why

On Tuesday, March 30, around 3 am an incident of Kingship tussle in Warri kingdom escalated with gunshots making over hundred of Itsekeri protesters mostly youth to occupy the entrance of the Olu of Warri Palace in Ajamimogha Road in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, protesting over the disqualification of the Omoba, Prince Tsola Emiko, son of the 19th Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwaste II.

The protesters, despite the heavy presence of security operatives, were still protesting using placards with different inscriptions like, “We must follow Ifa oracle.” another stated, “Itsekeri is not your property.” and “We are tired of waiting.”

It was gathered the protest occurred followed the declaration by the Ologbotsere (Prime Minister), Chief Ayiri Emami that Prince Tsola Emiko has been disqualified after which he has been chosen by the Ifa oracle to succeed as the 20th Olu of Warri kingdom.

In a statement by the Regent of the Warri Kingdom, Prince Emmanuel Okotie-Eboh said that the protest started when the kingdom’s prime minister (Ologbotsere) Chief Ajiri Emami disqualified Prince Tsola Emiko as the new Olu of Warri.

The Regent, while speaking with the protesters announced the suspension of Chief Ayiri Emami as the Ologbotsere (Prime Minister)

The Regent also stated that the Iyasere of Warri kingdom is to take over immediately the duty of the suspended prime minister.

Prince Toju Emiko, a member of the Ginuwa I Ruling House and Secretary of the Emiko Descendants Forum read the statement during a briefing with other elders of the Ginuwa I Ruling House.

The statement stated that “The Ginuwa I Ruling House, which is the only ruling house in the land and which has exclusive powers to nominate a successor to the throne, has been meeting in the last three months after a convocation of bonafide members of the house to nominate a successor to the throne.

The statement also stated that “In the end, Prince Tsola Emiko was picked as the most qualified person to sit on the throne at this time. This was done only after his name was submitted to the ruling house by a majority of the descendants of the last three Olu, even in compliance with this vexatious edict (of 1979).

The statement further stated that “Only on Monday, Chief Emami together with two of his known friends who he…brought into the Olu’s Advisory Council as temporary members, took an irrational decision declaring that they have disqualified Prince Tsola!

In the statement, it was revealed that “The edict does not give them such powers; they have no right whatsoever to disqualify any candidate presented to them by the Ruling House.

The statement also describes their functions stating that “Their only prescribed function is to summon the elders and senior officials of the Ruling House and in the presence of the regent consult the Ifa Oracle one last time.

The statement also condemned their action, stating that, “This singular illegal action of disqualification is now threatening the relative peace in the Warri Kingdom and almost tearing apart the very fabric of our existence…

It was also stated in the statement that they have reached a decision point stating that, “We have reached a tipping point in this matter and before it further degenerates into mayhem, the following urgent actions are to be taken: Chief Ayiri Emami, having exhibited actions and tendencies unbecoming of the position he occupies and has proven himself unworthy of the Ologbotsere stool, is hereby suspended from Warri Council of Chiefs.

The statement further asked Chief Ayiri Emami to set aside his duty stating that, “He is to immediately step aside as the Ologbotsere and stop parading himself as such. Adding that, “The Iyatsere who is next in command, and, the most senior chief who accompanied Ginuwa I from Benin to found the Warri Kingdom, is hereby appointed as acting chairman of the council of chiefs and the Olu’s Advisory Council.

The statement stressed that “He is to take over immediately and steer the remainder of the process to give us an organized, speedy closure…

According to the Regent, which stated in the statement that, “He takes these decisions as the regent of Warri Kingdom, duly elected by the entire Ruling House and officially presented to Chief Ayiri and the Advisory Council on February 5, 2021.

He said, “We reiterate our loyalty to the crown and commit to the Itsekiri people, land, and crown that we will not let them down in these very tempestuous times and will continue to stand for all the values we hold sacred.

He also said, “We again call on all youths to remain calm but resolute and trust that we will not betray them in this fight of good over evil.”

However, Chief Ayiri could not be reached to react to the allegations leveled against him and his suspension.

Chief Ayiri, did not pick his calls and did not respond to text messages sent to him as of press time.

The messages that were sent to his Whatsapp indicated they were read but no response to them as of the time of filing the report.

Meanwhile, the President of the Itsekeri National Youth Council (NYC), Comrade Weyinmi Agbateyinro stated that they rejected the disqualification of Price Tsola Emiko, stating that, it is unacceptable to Itsekeri youth and the people of the kingdom.

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Gunmen killed security officers, burnt their patrol vehicle

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An incident that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, had left Chief Superintendent of Police, Benedict Okoh Ajide, and other military officers killed by unknown gunmen.

It was gathered that the incident occurred in the same local government area where the Minister of Niger Delta, Godswill Akpabio came from.

According to the source, the policemen and the soldiers were said to be in the community for peacekeeping efforts.

The source said, ‘unknown gunmen attacked some police officers and soldiers today and their Hilux vans were also set ablaze.”

The source also revealed that some yet-to-be-ascertain military officers were also killed leaving many others injured.

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Woman without footwear trashes man in table tennis game

A barefoot woman wearing Ankara was seen in a video that has gone viral, outsmarting a man during a table tennis game.

The woman, whose identity could not verify at press time because of the low visual quality was identified by some Twitter users as Fathima Bello, a Nigerian professional tennis player.

According to the video that was posted on Twitter by @iamvictor_, the woman despite wearing a loose-fitted Ankara gown without footwear served the tennis ball at a great speed.

The woman with a quick action and service pass outsmarted her man opponent in the table tennis game by smuggling and sending her opponent to the constant trip of picking the ball whenever he failed to return service.

See video:

https://twitter.com/iamvictor__/status/1375533157987061768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1375533157987061768%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fd-533352751479561620.ampproject.net%2F2103122145004%2Fframe.html

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800 assets in UAE linked to 13 security chiefs, public officials

On Tuesday, March 30, during an event organized by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), with the theme; Fixing Financial Flow: A critical review of UK and UAE Policies, Laws and Practice in Financial and No-Financial Institution, had revealed how about 800 assets worth $400 million have been stolen from Nigeria by 13 Nigerian security chiefs and public officials to various cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

It was gathered at the event which was held at the Sheraton Hotel, in Abuja that, out of the 800 assets that were uncovered, the 13 security chiefs are to own 216, while the remaining 584 have been traced to other public officials.

At the event, It was also revealed that about N17 billion assets are being stolen from Nigeria annually and laundered in the UAE and the United Kingdom.

During the event, the chairman of HEDA, Olanrewaju Suraju said, the illicit financial outflows from Nigeria have contributed to hurt the vulnerable poor, fuel violence, and constitute threats to the motel authority of the Nigerian state.

The chairman also stated that the UAE and the UK have been facing attacks for failing to live up to international obligations in curbing illicit financial flow, mainly perpetrated by politically exposed persons.

The event also features other foreign and local development partners.

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How Nigerian man was arrested for allegedly acquiring Ghanaian Passport

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In a bid to secure a new Ghanaian Passport, a 28-year-old Nigerian man identified as Eugene Wisdom Iyamu has been arrested for illegally obtaining a Ghanaian passport and birth certificate in Spain through a friend but the passport got missing when he visited Nigeria.

Iyamu was arrested in Accra by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) officials when he appeared to go through processes of acquiring a new passport at the Passport Application Center (PAC) at Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Accra.

Iyamu pleaded guilty to all charges which include, illegal entry, attempting to obtain a Ghanaian passport, and possession and use of a Ghanaian birth certificate.

It was gathered that the Chief Superintendent of GIS, Mr. Adolf Asenso-Aboagye, said Iyamu submitted a Ghanaian passport application with a Ghana’s birth certificate and a Ghanaian passport number GT2038555, which he claimed was missing.

The Chief Supt. Aboagye also said the convicted also added a police report to the documents, adding that, officials at the PAC doubted his nationality and referred the matter to the GIS for further investigations.

During court proceedings, the Kaneshie District Court presided by Ama Adomako Kwakye ordered the repatriation of Iyamu and convicted him on all three charges.

According to the Prosecutor said that investigations at the GIS headquarters revealed that the convict was a Nigerian whose real name is Eugene Wisdom Iyamu and not Anthony Kwarteng as he claimed.

The Prosecution said, Iyamu was born in Agbor in Delta State and came to Ghana through an unapproved route at Ghana’s Eastern Border (Aflao).

The Prosecution said, Iyamu, revealed in his statement that he obtained Ghana’s passport and birth certificate while still in Spain through a friend. Stating that, he managed to return to Nigeria on holidays but his Ghanaian passport got missing, so he decided to procure a new Ghanaian passport.

The Prosecutor also said that Iyamu also revealed that he was introduced to one Joe in Takoradi who charged him ¢2,000 for a Ghanaian passport.

On the charges, Iyamu was convicted on illegal entry which the court ordered him to pay a fine of ¢840 in default and serve two weeks imprisonment.

The court also ordered him to pay in default ¢960 and serve two weeks imprisonment on the charge of attempting to obtain a Ghanaian.

The court, however further ordered him to pay a ¢840 or in default serve two weeks imprisonment for the possession and use of a false Ghanaian birth certificate, adding that, the sentences will run concurrently.

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See how armed robbers destroyed UBA branch in commando-style

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On Tuesday, March 30, the men of the underworld with different kinds of weapons including dynamite stormed the Issle-UK branch of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) leaving it devastated.

It was gathered that the armed robbers arrived at the Bank at about the closing hours in three vehicles as they were seen opening fire in a commando-style leaving the whole town in jittery condition.

According to a Correspondent that arrived at the scene immediately after the robbers left, gathered that about three persons were allegedly shot dead.

The Correspondent also alleged that the DPO of the Divisional Headquarters could not be reached at press time, stating that the road leading to the Police Division was also barricaded to prevent the police from disturbing them.

However, it will be recorded that the incident marks the third time UBA in Issele-uku was been robbed.

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See how Govt abandoned Okwuama community

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The Publisher of ‘The Story’, Comrade Kenneth Orusi, has called upon the Federal and Delta State Government to take dividend of democracy to the coastal communities especially the oil-producing state.

Comrade Orusi while addressing newsmen on Saturday, March 26, at Okwuama, Ehwu Clan in Ughelli South LGA made this revelation after he paid his last respect to his elder brother, late Onome Emmanuel Orusi, who died in a ghastly motor accident on Friday, February 5, 2021, along Ughelli-Asaba dual carriage road, Otor-Iyede junction, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Comrade Orusi stated that the Federal, State, and Local Government should pay more attention to the coastal communities where 80 percent of the revenue used to run the country and state are derived from, yet, they lack government presence.

We stated that “Up till this 21st century, there is no road to his community, Okwuama, stating that, there no power supply though there are poles with cables hanging on them, yet the community has no light for over 40 years and still counting.”

He went further to say that, “It is still heartbreaking that there is an overhead tank but it has never supplied water any day. Stating that my people still rely on the water from the stream for their daily lived. That is where they fish, drink, cook, wash, and take their bath. It is a life of slum.” He added.

He continued, “The healthcare center is not equipped to take care of pregnant women and can’t administer vital drugs when they are sick.”

He said, “Very painful the primary school, the teachers are just there to receive salaries without meaningfully impacting knowledge on the children. “

He faulted the purpose of NDDC and DESOPADEC stating that “What purpose was these commission created for.”

The Editor-in-Chief also expressed dissatisfaction over the community that is been ravaged by the flood with no one coming to their assistance, stating that despite having representatives at all levels of government.

The Editor-in-chief, while expressing his dissatisfaction, also called on the President Muhammadu Buhari and Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa-led administrations to put into consideration the people living in the riverine communities as they are Nigerians and Deltans who also deserves a better standard of living.

He stated, “I have to stay on the water for good 30 minutes with a speed boat or one hour thirty minutes on an engine boat locally called kpekpekpe by the people.”

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Shocking as 15 people announced dead after boat capsized

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On Monday, an overcrowded dugout canoe sank off the north coast in West Africa state in Guinea and over 15 people died.

It was gathered that the group had been traveling to a wedding on an island near Kanfarande when their boat capsized.

According to a Naval officer that was stationed in Boke, a city with about 50 kilometers (30 miles) to the east said he can’t tell how many people are still in the water but the navy brought out 15 bodies from the ocean on Monday stating that an unknown number of people had been aboard the boat while traveling to a wedding on an island near Kanfarande when their boat capsized.

Another official working in Boke’s regional government, who declined to be named, said the canoe left when the tide was high and the sea was choppy.

He said that a search operation is ongoing.

However, at Kanfarande town hall, another official who gave his name only as Rica said the authorities do not yet know how many are missing, stating that “We are in shock.”

He said, dugout canoes — or “pirogues” — are a common form of transport between towns along the intricate coastline of northern Guinea and neighboring Guinea-Bissau.

He said also said that accidents aboard these traditional wooden vessels are common.

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Burna Boy bags second-most highest award ‘DSSRS’ in Rivers”

Nigerian Grammy-award winner, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy has been conferred with the Distinguished Service Star of Rivers State (DSSRS) award by the Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike in Port Harcourt over the weekend.

According to reports, the DSSRS is the state’s second-highest distinction award given to anyone in recognition of their exceptional service or performance in any field of human endeavor.

The award came as a result of Burna Boy’s astounding win at the 63rd Grammy Award for his acclaimed album ‘Twice As Tall’.

The award was handed over to him alongside a plot of land in GRA in addition to funds to build a house on it by governor Wike of Rivers State.

Wike in his speech stated that the award was a token of gratitude and hope that it would serve as an encouragement to Rivers State for its people to strive to get to Burna Boy’s level.

However, Burna Boy in his remarks said, “I have collected honors everywhere in the world, but it feels different when you get it from home. This is my most humble moment and I thank every one of you. I thank the best Governor I have ever experienced. I don’t like politics and politicians but my Governor has shown me that there is hope for the youths and there is hope for us. This award is not only for me but for all of you and the future Burna Boys. I love you, Port Harcourt, everywhere I go, I carry you with me.”

This DSSRS award follows Burna Boy’s astounding win at the just concluded 63rd Grammy Award where he won the Best Global Music Album category for his album ‘Twice As Tall’.

This DSSRS award was conferred on him during the Burna Boy homecoming concert that was organized by the Rivers State Governor Wike in honor of his Grammy win.

Burna Boy won the “Best Global Music Album” for ‘Twice As Tall’ in the 63rd Grammy Award after performing an amazing 20-minute rendition of four of his hit singles.

Burna Boy beat out Brazilian-American pop singer, Bebel Gilberto, British-Indian sitar player and composer, Anoushka Shankar, Brooklyn-based Afrobeat band, Antibalas, and Tuareg collective, Tinariwen who won in 2012 for their album Tassili.

Other artists who also graced and performed at the Burna Boy homecoming concerts in Timaya and Duncan Mighty also received a monetary honorarium from the Rivers State governor.

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See how phone that fell into water kills 25-year-old lady

A 25-year-old Russian lady identified as Anastasia Scherbinina has died after her smartphone fell into the water while taking her bath.

It was gathered that the lady, an office worker, who work once as an aide with a local MP, was taking her bath when she was electrocuted at her home in Novosibirsk.

The tragedy follows warnings from the Russian authorities and police over a succession of deaths from electric shock by young people using phones in baths.

According to a report from law enforcement, which stated that the lady took a bath before going to sleep, and had her smartphone with her which was almost out of charge.

The report revealed that she used a power cable so as not to be apart even when taking bath before the phone dropped on the water before she was electrocuted.

However, in the report, the law enforcement officer stated in his words, “She took a bath before going to sleep and had her smartphone with her which was almost out of charge.”

The law enforcement officer, while stating further also explained that “It was almost out of charge, so she used a power cable, so as not to be apart with the smartphone even when taking a bath.

He went further to explained that, “She dropped the phone and was electrocuted. Adding that, “She died instantly.”

However, the Police are have explained to be investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.

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See why E-Money, Kcee will face N150m copyright infringement

A veteran Nigerian Catholic music singer and music composer, Jude Nnam, had filed N150m copyright infringement at the Federal High Court against the Five Star Music label boss, E-Money, and his brother Kcee.

Jude Nnam has repeatedly alleged that Kcee’s’ Cultural Praise’ Vol. 1 album has included his 2021 composition ‘Som Too Chukwu’ without his authorization.

It was gathered that Jude Nnam, compose the song only for private worship and liturgical purposes in the Catholic Church.

He also maintains that the song ‘Som Too Chukwu’ was performed in Abuja during the second visit of Saint Pope John Paul II’s to Nigeria, in 1988 whom he was the director of the “Papal Choir of a Thousand Voices.”

According to Jude Nnam’s lawyer, Micheal Amakeze stated that he had written to the defendant on the alleged copyright infringement but the plaintiff ignored and show no concern since January 28, 2021.

The lawyer in his document that was filed to the Federal High Court, part of it read:

“Nnam is seeking declaration “that the defendants jointly and severally infringed on his copyright “by adapting, producing, distributing, marketing, advertising, and performing” the song to the general public “without his consent or authorization (either written or oral).
“He is also seeking perpetual Injunction retraining, preventing and or prohibiting the defendants whether acting by themselves, or through their servants, agents, privies, legal representatives, or any other person howsoever from infringing on his copyright to the song.”

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Buhari jet out for medical check-up in London

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On Tuesday, March 30, President Muhammadu Buhari will proceed on medical check-up in London, the United Kingdom.

This was disclosed on Monday in Abuja by his spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, in a statement that was made available to newsmen.

According to the statement, the President will meet with the Security Chiefs first in the morning, after which he will embark on the journey.

The statement also revealed that the President will be back within the second week of April 2021.

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See how over 20 persons died after eating fried meat served by yahoo boy

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A source had said over twenty-person have died after eating some fried meat served at a bar by one suspected Yahoo boy.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Saturday, March 20, 2021, at a bar named Titi’s Concept in Alagbole-Akute, Ogun State.

A report that was seen by goldennationblog.com, reveals that the deceased persons ate noodles at a birthday party on Saturday, March 20 and after they got home at midnight, they started vomiting blood before giving up the ghost.

Meanwhile, some persons alleged that the food served was pepper soup which might have likely been poisoned.

However, a Twitter user, @UdehEmm22446501, who claims he stays in the area where the incident occurred said, “Last week, the candlelight procession for one of the dead victims was done in my area…the supposed birthday was done in a hotel, I still believe the hotel is functioning now. Someone was contacted to cook the food as I heard the person is on the run.”

In another vein, @Titi_Wunmi tweeted, “Happened around my area. Let’s just be careful) of how we eat at parties and please stop taking food home from parties just because it is free. It is risky. Someone lost 3 kids from this. It is very sad. I am so sure more than 50 people died because some must have come from faraway and must have died on getting home. Some said the celebrant left the country that same night, so it’s not (a case of) food poisoning.”

A source discloses that his apprentice was at the bar on the date when the incident happened, according to the apprentice, the yahoo boy drove to the bar on Thursday and ordered drinks for everyone which he repeated on Friday which is the following day.

According to the source apprentice, on Saturday, March 25, 2021, a suspected Yahoo boy cum ritualist drove into a bar, paid for bottles of beer while he announced its birthday.

The yahoo boy then went into his car where he got a cooler of fried meat and asked everyone to have a bite while sipping their drinks.

The source said it was the point of sharing the fried meat that his apprentice noticed his phone was missing, he said, the apprentice notice his phone was missing at the moment when he wanted to capture the scene, make a video or take pictures and post but he couldn’t find his phone, so he was more concerned about getting his phone than being involved in the sharing of the meat.

Although, the bar attendants already gave him a bottle of beer paid for by the yahoo boy and he drank from it before he left to look for his phone.

The source also claimed that nothing happened to his apprentice while stating that, his apprentice said, the cause of the death might be the meat because he brought it out from the booth of his car, no one knows where he got it from, he added.

The source also said 25 persons have been confirmed dead as from the people who ate from the meat as against the figure given on social media as 50.

The source further explained how the yahoo boy has come to the bar two days before the incident, stating that, a bar is a regular place where they drink, smoke as anyone can declare that he will foot others bills.

She said, “The story is very true, I think it is a ritual, not food poisoning.”

She continues that the yahoo boy has been coming to the bar; he said, a place is a place where they smoke, drink, anyone can declare that he will foot the bills, so it was not new when the guy came the first day to say he would pay for all the drinks, Guys there were happy; the second day, the same thing and the third day, he said, it was his birthday that he brought some fried meat in his car so he started distributing to them, telling them to use to step down (take it along with) the chilled beer he bought for them. Adding that, they were so happy and started eating.

She said, “From what I heard, at midnight, they would wake up and say, we ate last at City Concept, start vomiting blood, and die. Like 25 of them are dead now. 10 at Keredolu, another 10 at Jolasco close to Lambe, and another 5 at Alagbole. I can’t tell if the figure is up to 50 because some people who were not accustomed to going to the bar might have been there on that day to take a piece and return to their houses. None of them died at the bar, no one lodged in there, it is not a hotel.

She also said, “The Yahoo boy did not die; he simply ran away. He has been declared wanted. His car is even parked at Ajuwon there, some people wanted to burn his car but they were advised against doing such so that the culprit would be traced.”

She further said, “The police are aware of the incident, they even wanted to go and lock up the hotel but when the owner heard of it, she called them and asked why because she did not produce the beer in her hotel and the beer was opened for each person at their request. It was not like it was opened behind them and that was not the first nor second time they had come to the bar to drink.”

According to another source which said that a 19-year-old boy who was at the scene of the incident also vomited blood before he died.

The source claimed that the boy was the son of her mother’s friend and he has now been buried.

The source in her words said, “He was at the bar; he ate and drank beer too. He vomited blood and died; he has now been buried. His mother and my mother are friends.”

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See how death of 43-year-old Nigerian spark protest in India

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A 43-year-old Nigerian citizen, Leonard Lyeanyi, who resides in India had reportedly died at DDU hospital in west Delhi on Sunday over alleged assault by a cop.

According to reports by Outlook India, the death of the Nigerian national has sparked violent protests by his compatriots who alleged that a cop assaulted him in Tilak Nagar in West Delhi, an allegation denied by the police.

The report claims that the African nationals created ruckus following the death of Leonard Lyeanyi.

It was gathered that the mob attacked the local people and the police personnel, it reveals how the nationals also attacked officials of the High Commission of Nigeria who had come to them.

The report also claimed that the glasses at Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) hospital were broken, according to the report, the protesters were initially 20 to 30, but their numbers increased to 100.

The report also revealed that the protesters claimed that Lyeanyi died after being lathi-charged by the police.

A senior police officer said they received information from the DDU hospital about Lyeanyi’s death at around 3:30 am on Sunday.

The officer said the post-mortem reports of the victim are awaiting while maintaining that the victim was not hit by them as his medico-legal case (MLC) report showed no external injury on the body.

The police also said that they found CCTV footage wherein the victim could be seen stepping out of an auto-rickshaw and was sitting near a shop before he was collapsed and hit his head on the ground, claiming that there was nobody around him.

The police further said that two cases have been registered against the violent mob, stating that a probe is on the matter.

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Reason why Seyi Shay is under attack over rigorous comments

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, better known as Seyi Shay, has been under attack on Twitter over her harsh judgment on a young man during an episode of the Nigerian Idol, a television reality show.

According to Seyi Shay, who happens to be one of the judges in this year’s series of television reality shows, said to the singer on Sunday that somebody lied to him to come to the audition, asking the singer to go back to the person and tell him that he is not his friend.

The singer was nervous and devastated as he walked out after the judgment.

Seyi Shay said in her words, “Oh, you have a good talking voice, and it comes out in your singing voice, but your performance, terrible. You’re never going to make money being a singer.

While reacting to her judgment, some Twitter users have accused Seyi Shay of her shady comments as some advocate for her removal as a judge in the reality show.

Taking to Twitter, @endi4tim tweeted, “Such comments in some cases can lead to suicide. She shattered his hope. Seyi Shay should be removed as a judge from the #Nigeria idol.”

In another tweet, @Elvis_Vitalis1 tweeted, “Seyi Shay’s choice of words is worse than that boy’s performance.”

@realpault also tweet that, “How I wish that the young man will become successful and the video of Seyi Shay spewing nonsense on him will resurface. It will happen.”

@jaiyeoflagos tweeted, “It speaks of who Seyi Shay is, in no manner should she alter words of that magnitude to the boy. Some individuals don’t know communication skills and this is on whoever brought her on board.”

Meanwhile, some users also believed that the judge had passed the right judgment, according to @iam_m_mujeeb tweet, “Seyi Shay might sound harsh but she said the truth and if he(singer) wants to sing he has a lot to learn.”

@Anyisabali also tweet that, “Seyi Shay did no wrong. She was straight and real. She did great by acknowledging his a for music, but suggested areas he can thrive besides singing. Good judgment.”

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See why Resident doctors planned strike on April 1st

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The National Association of Resident Doctor, NARD, has issued an automatic date to embark on a nationwide strike if the federal government failed to attest to their demands.

In a communique taken at the extraordinary National Executive Council, NEC, meeting of the Association, the NARD President, Dr. Uyilawa Okhuaihesuyi give the resolutions, stating that, the only way to stop the strike is the immediate payment of all salaries owned to house officers including March salaries, regardless of the quota system, before the end of business on March 31, 2021.

According to the communique, the body of the Nigerian resident doctors has planned to embark on the strike based on poor welfare packages, unpaid salaries, and alleged ineptitude of the Registrar of Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, MDCN, Dr. Tajudeen Sanusi amongst other demands.

The NARD President lamented the inhumane treatment melted at the members in some State Tertiary Institutions who were owed months of salaries, and some of the Association’s members in GIFMIS platform who have not been paid salaries for four months due to the delay in biometric capturing by the IPPIS department.

The NARD President also demanded the reintroduction of medical super salary structure and specialist allowance for all Doctors as already approved for some other health workers.

In the communique, the doctors demanded the sack of Dr. Sanusi for his failure to demonstrate competence in the handling of the central placement of house officers.

The doctors faulted Dr. Sanusi for frustrating the effort of young doctors who are on horsemanship, some of whom they said have not being paid salaries for several months.

Calling on the sack of the MDCN Registrar, the doctors said, it will give room for smooth implementation of the central placement of house officers without further delay.

The doctors also highlight one of the factors attributed to brain drain in the health sector, demanding the immediate review of the Act regulating Postgraduate Medical Training in Nigeria in line with international best practices to remove the unnecessary rigors in Residency Training in Nigeria.

The doctors also demanded the immediate commencement of employment into all Government-owned hospitals to improve service delivery to Nigerians, enhance Residency Training, and curb the attendant brain drain in the health sector.

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Omo-Agege cautioned APC to learn from PDP’s mistakes

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During the All Progressives Congress, APC, South-South Town Hall Meeting for Constitution Review in Asaba, Delta State, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the Deputy Senate President of Nigeria, cautioned against past mistakes of the opposition party, People’s Democratic Party, stating that, Nigerians won’t vote for APC candidates if those in power did not deliver.

According to him, he said, the party should be guided at all times by a people-oriented constitution that will be positioned to provide an irresistible appeal to all persons desirous of inclusive and purposeful political participation,”

Omo-Agege also said, Nigeria has shown that it has come of age in terms of political maturity; politicians and political parties must deliver on their mandates and their promises or face removal, just as it happened in 2015.

He said Politicians must be given the enablement to perform. This is why we must provide a working manual (Constitution) that is fully integrative not only of the obligation and responsibilities of party men and women but also of their rights and privileges.”

Omo-Agege, charged the Constitution Review Committee, to consider all areas that had been contentious in the exiting party constitution.

While cautioning on the contentious areas in the constitution, the Deputy Senate President explained that by no order of importance is the need to strengthen the organs of the party with clear cut and non-overlapping duties amongst the organs.

The Deputy Senate-President also said that the devolution of power must be channel down to the grassroots, stating that the party has 12 million Nigerians that are strong and still growing.

He said, there is a need to review and give specific functions to the zonal structures of the party such that power trickles down to the ward levels.

He went further to say that, history will beckons on our great party because it is the first-ever opposition party to unseat an incumbent party in the life of our nation, Nigeria.

He said, “Fellow party men, remember that the PDP had confidently said that it would be in power for 60 years. It took the resolve and determination of a strong-willed nation and its people to upstage that confidence.

He then cautioned that “Now there is a lesson that we must bear in our subconscious and which should give centrality to our thoughts and deeds,” he said.

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Cleric caught his pregnant wife in bed with another man

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The Mapo Customary Court in Ibadan on Friday, March 26, dissolved a six-year-old marriage between a cleric, Abdulrasheed Olalere, and his wife Mariam for infidelity.

It was gathered that the Cleric filed for divorce against his wife after accusing her of infidelity.

Olalere caught his wife, Mariam in bed with another man when she was four months pregnant.

According to the Cleric, he said, he caught her with another man, still settled with her and accepted her back.

He said, “She was just four months pregnant when I caught Mariam in bed with another man. I was angry with her but we settled the matter.”

The Cleric further explained that the man also laid claims to the baby, he said, “I accepted her back after medical reports, revealed that the date given by the man proved him wrong about the date of the pregnancy.

News Agency of Nigeria reports reveals that the Cleric added that, after the interventions by different people, things started going on smoothly between them until his wife went back to her lover.

NAN reports that the man said, he caught his wife trying to escape with the same man again, the man said, Mariam, is wayward.

While reacting to the allegations, the woman didn’t deny that she attempted to escape with her ex-boyfriend rather she insisted that her husband is irresponsible and uncaring.

However, the President of the Court, Chief Ademola Odunade held the marriage be dissolved in the interest of peace, stating that, the marriage was not built on a solid foundation of love and trust.

The President of the Court, also directed the custody of the child to the woman, while direct the man to be paying N5, 000 for the monthly upkeep of the child.

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How Super Eagles whacks Squirrels of Benin Republic one nil

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After Lesotho and Sierra Leone draw 0-0 in Group L in Freetown on Tuesday of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, on Saturday, the Super Eagles of Nigeria had also beaten the group L rival, the Squirrels of Benin republic with a goal to nil in Port Novo.

Nigeria Super Eagles qualified for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and as the best qualifying team of group L in the ongoing AFCON 2021 qualifiers.

The Super Eagles defeated the Benin Republic with an extra-time goal that was scored by Paul Onuachu making Nigeria have eight points, Benin seven, Sierra Leone, four, and Lesotho three.

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19-year-old girl raped to coma by Anti-Cult member in Delta

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A 19-year-old girl has allegedly been raped to coma by a member of the anti-cult group in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the incident happened around 9:15 pm on Thursday, March 25, in an uncompleted building, a place where the Redeemed Christian Church of God worships at Apala street.

According to reports that were seen by goldennationblog.com, the suspect, identified as Efe and his three colleagues forcefully dragged the girl at gunpoint into an uncompleted building where he (suspect) allegedly had canal knowledge of her while others of his colleagues are watching.

The victim said that she raises alarm but no one came to her rescue stating that, only Efe raped her.

The victim was also rushed to a hospital for a medical check-up to ascertain her situation.

The suspects and his colleagues were arrested after a guy who they earlier threatened with their guns reported them to the police.

However, the Divisional Police Officer of ‘B’ Division, CSP Kelvin Zukumo, while commenting on the incident, assured to bring justice, stating that, the investigation is still ongoing.

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Burna Boy in Rivers, Wike celebrate him after winning Grammy

On Saturday, March 27, in Rivers State Government House, Governor Nyesom Wike alongside fans in Port Harcourt, received a courtesy visit from Grammy award-winning musician, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, his parents, Samuel Ogulu and Bose Ogulu, and his management team.

Wike congratulated Burna Boy for the pride he brought to Rivers State after news broke out that he won the Best Global Music Album category of Grammy award with his ‘Twice As Tall’ album, according to him, the entire state was elated.

Wike said, “There is no Rivers person that will say he or she is not happy with the kind of pride you’ve brought us. I am very happy and I can tell you whatever you think we can do to promote you, we will continue to do it.”

Wike also organizes a reception to celebrate his excellence in the music industry as the reception was also doubled as a concert which was tagged “Twice As Tall (Concert/Reception).

Governor Wike during the event also gifted him N100m with land to build in the Old GRA in Port Harcourt.

Wike also promises to give N10m each to every artist that performs during the Homecoming concert.

The concert was held at the EUI Event Center along Sanni Abacha Road in Port Harcourt on Saturday.

Burna Boy, however, noted that he deserved to win the prestigious award while also stated that he was relieved after he was announced the winner of the Best Global Music Album category.

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See what Governor Wike reveals on why he takes Covid-19 vaccination

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has debunked that speculations that he didn’t take the Covid-19 vaccination.

According to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kelvin Ebiri, made this revelation at Government House, Port Harcourt during a courtesy visit by the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 delegation led by the National Incident Manager, Dr. Mukhtar Muhammad.

Governor Wike in the statement said, “Nigerians like to play politics with everything. They will call the press to say, Governor this has taken, Governor that has taken. But let them not tell you that I have not taken. I did my own in the Government House Clinic quietly. So I don’t need to begin to announce it to the world.”

Wike further said, “Taking the vaccine is not undertaking any project for anybody to see that you have taken the vaccine. Stating that, some people said that I did not take my vaccine, I did, but am not into the public show.

He said it has turned into politics whom he said, assuming what I take is not the vaccine? He said Yes, I can pretend and they will put it on the news that I have taken the vaccine.

Wike also said ahead of the resumption of international flights at the Port Harcourt Airport that, his government would dissolve the tribunal set up to prosecute violators of Covid-19 protocols if federal authorities tried to influence the outcome of cases.

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Sowore tell agitators to focus on Nigeria Revolution now instead of battling for break up

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Omoyele Sowore, on Friday, March 25, called on those agitating for Nigeria to break up to make a rethink and embrace the revolution now.

He made this call while speaking at the People’s Alternative Political Party summit titled, “New Nigeria is Possible.”

According to him, many Nigerians joined the call for break up out of frustration and disillusionment arising from myriads of problems bedeviling the country.

He asked the agitators not to be carried away by the illusion that their problems would be solved the moment they break up the country.

He said, “Before the breakup, let’s have the revolution first so that those people who put us in this condition will not have the joy of going anywhere for comfort.

He also said, “How will you break up the hearts of those people who are destroying Nigeria, the same people who will now go back to their various new nation-states?”

Sowore went further to suggest that, it will be better to break up the hearts of the oppressive leaders rather than break up the country. According to him, it’s good to break up those who destroyed the country, those who inflicted untold hardship on Nigerians. He added.

Sowore maintained that the same mistake made by the British for not seeking the consent of the people would be made if such an agenda pushes through.

Sowore also indicates that the only workable option was to allow a revolution to take place, he also warned various ethnic groups to be circumspect in their agitation for self-determination

He went further to criticize the immortalization of past leaders for naming public roads, schools, and buildings after them, stating that they are the architects of the nation’s woes.

He said, “As of today, those individual has turned Nigeria into a superpower without power.” Adding that, they have made this country headquarters of the poorest people in the world, stating that, one of them was recently awarded an appointment at the World Trade Organization.

He went further to say that, he was saddened while driving on the roads named after former leaders such as Late Sani Abacha, Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida, and former President Olusegun Obasanjo among others.

Watch video

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Gunmen kidnap RCCG members on their way from Kaduna

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On Friday, March 25, about 8 members of Redeem Christian Church of God, RCCG, has been kidnapped along Kachia Road from Kaduna.

It was gathered that the RCCG members were on their way to Kafanchan before the incident happened.

According to a post that was shared on Facebook by one Eje Kenny Faraday, explained in a statement that all the passengers in the bus had been kidnapped along Kachia Road KM 63 from Kaduna.

He said in his words, “all the passengers in this bus are just kidnapped along Kachia Road KM 63 from Kaduna.”

When confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the RCCG, Pastor Olaitan Olubiyi confirmed the incident to newsmen.

In another vein, the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Kaduna State, Rev. (Dr) John Joseph Hayab also confirmed the incident stating that the RCCG members were taken away near Doka along Kachia-Kafanchan highway on Friday evening.

According to the Cleric, he said, he got the information when an unknown number called him on Friday, stating that, he was made to understand that they were more than eight persons that were kidnapped.

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Truck crashed three people to death in Ogun

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An accident that happened on Friday night, March 25, within the Abiola way close to Iyana Mortuary in Abeokuta, has taken the lives of three persons.

It was gathered that the accident happened when the motorcycle rider attempted to overtake the truck and its lost control.

According to Mr. Babatunde Akinbiyi, the spokesperson of the Ogun Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps ( TRACE), confirmed the incident to newsmen on Saturday in Abeokuta.

He said according to an eyewitness, the motorcycle rider, in an attempt to overtake the trailer, lost control and got crushed.

He said that the motorcycle rider and his two passengers were struck by the truck and died on the spot while the truck driver zoomed off.

Mr. Akinbiyi also said that the incident occurred around 8 pm on Friday, adding that, the deceased had been deposited at the mortuary of the State hospital in Ijaye, Abeokuta.

Mr. Akinbiyi also advised motorists to always drive carefully and ensure to obey traffic rules and regulations.

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See how Bandits killed over 50 vigilante members in Niger

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A source had disclosed that over 50 bodies of vigilante members were ambushed and killed by Bandits in the Dutsen Magaji forest near the Koton Kobo community.

The source said the bodies were recovered by soldiers and residents of Koton Kobo in the Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

According to the source, the vigilante men were returning from a search operation when they were ambushed by the Dogo Gide led banditry group operating in the Dutsen Magaji forest.

The source also said that the gunmen attacked a military post in the community and a soldier was killed.

The source further said that a reinforcement team that was sent to rescue men of the vigilante group that were abducted was also ambushed and were killed the same way their colleagues were killed.

According to the source, after killing the vigilantes, the bandits still refuses to grant access to pick their bodies until soldiers stormed the forest to collect the bodies on Thursday, it was gathered that the Dogo Gide-led banditry group was so powerful in that area to the extent of collecting taxes from farmers and herdsmen.

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University from Scotland set to return stolen Benin artifact

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The management of the University of Aberdeen has finally announced the repatriation of Benin Bronze sculpture to Nigeria after many years of its loot.

The announcement came after the unending calls for the repatriation of the artifact that was stolen during the colonization era in Africa.

According to the University senior management said that it is in the process of returning a stolen Nigeria artifact stating that the Benin Bronze belonging to Nigeria will be returning to the country within the next coming weeks.

The Benin Bronze is of an Oba (king) of Benin and was reportedly acquired by the University in 1957 at an auction.

It was gathered that the senior management of the University found it extremely immoral manner in which the artifact came into the University’s possession as a problem and have decided to repatriate the Benin Bronze.

The vice-chancellor of the university, George Boyne, admitted that it would not be right for the institution to retain an item of such great cultural importance that was acquired in such reprehensible circumstances.

He said it is a painful reminder of the prevailing injustice of western institutions to hold hostage of cultural knowledge from around the world.

According to BBC, the University is one of many western institutions that had received thousands of looted bronze sculpture by the British soldiers in Benin City (modern-day Nigeria)

However, Nigeria is not the only country that will see the return of its highly valued cultural artifacts as the University of Aberdeen has previously agreed to repatriate sacred items and ancestral remains back to Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Adding that the return of all looted artifacts from indigenous cultures around the world is admittedly overdue.

Recall last year, the French government voted in favor of returning hundreds of thousands of looted African artifacts. However, the process of repatriation is arduous and admittedly unfair. The host country has to prove that the artifact indeed was stolen and belongs to them. Such is the case with a 600-year-old Nigerian artifact that was smuggled into the Netherlands where the Nigerian government went through months of appeals for its return. The University of Abeerdan is reportedly the first university to fully repatriate the Benin Bronze which has put pressure on the British Museum to follow suit.

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Peruzzi share latest video ‘Somebody Baby’ featuring DMW boss, Davido

Popular Nigerian singer and DMW signee, Tobechukwu Victor Okoh, better known as Peruzzi, has shared his latest visual ‘Somebody Baby’ featuring DMW boss, Davido ahead of his long-awaited album ‘Rum & Boogie’.

The video is basically about trying to get out of the friend zone while pursuing one’s crush.

In the video, the magic touch is always on point as Peruzzi, and Davido were seen stunning and showing off their styling.

Peruzzi and Davido’s chemistry in the video is still seamless after collaborating on ten different tracks and indication is already
receiving positive reviews from fans on social media.

The ‘Somebody Baby’ video, happens to be the second single from the upcoming album “Rum & Boogie’ and it comes ahead of the release of the album that will be dropping on April 9 in all digital stores.

The long-awaited album ‘Rum & Boogie’ reportedly features Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML, Phyno, Patoranking, Don Jazzy, a lot of other artists.

Peruzzi is currently signed to Davido’s record label, Davido Music Worldwide. Recall how he was nominated at the Headies Awards in 2018 for ‘Rookie of the Year award, and ever since, he has been releasing hits.

Watch the ‘Somebody Baby’ video:

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How Delta State become state with highest universities

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On Friday, March, 25, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, NUC, Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, approved the three new universities established by the Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

The approval came after the Delta State governor leads top government officials to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja to present strategic documents of the universities.

The approval of the three universities to the already existing one has made Delta State have four universities to its credit, making Delta, a state with the highest number of universities in the country.

The state also has two federal universities, namely, Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, and the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun which also, double the number of universities in the state to six.

However, the approved universities are the Delta State University, Agbor, Dennis Osadebe University, Asaba, and the Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro are to commence the full academic session.

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Angelique Kidjo drops latest visual ‘Dignity’ featuring Yemi Alade

Popular Beninese-American and Grammy Awards winning singer, Angélique Kpasseloko Hinto Hounsinou Kandjo Manta Zogbin Kidjo, better known as Angélique Kidjo, has teamed up with popular Nigerian singer, Yemi Alade in a video for her latest song ‘Dignity’.

The music video ‘Dignity’ is cinematic storytelling that befits the message in the song.

Kidjo and Alade came together to inspire the visual with boldness and their undeniable presence making the video a powerful collaboration.

The music video opens on migrants who are working at a port and were unfairly laid off.

The video also reveals how the dance act as the organic force that liberates the song.

Yemi Alade, while interfaces with the song, brings a dynamic twist to the song as a passionate energy-driven activist who was directly involved in the EndSars movement.

In a statement towards the release of the music video, the Grammy award-winning singer, said, the song is an homage to the protestors of the #EndSars movement, according to her, many people think that police brutality only happens in America but it’s everywhere.

She said the song is against brutality stating that, the song is also about how we need to treat each other with dignity, treat nature with dignity, and treat ourselves with dignity.

He added, “because if we can’t see the dignity that Mother Nature gave to us, then we can walk tall? “

She maintains that the song ‘Dignity calls for the dignified treatment of Black people and also the dangerous attitudes of Africa leaders towards Black people.

watch video:

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Fear as FG releases new details, opens up why Nigerians will buy petrol at N234 per litre

The group managing director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mele Kyari has said that the federal government can no longer afford to subsidize the cost of buying petrol in the country.

It was reported that Kyari, who stated this on Thursday, March 25, during the weekly ministerial briefing at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, said the federal government spends about N120 billion on fuel subsidy monthly.

He also disclosed that the actual cost of importation and handling charges amounts to N234 per litre, adding that the government has been selling the product at N162 per litre.

According to him, the trend can’t continue, saying that Nigerians would have to pay the actual cost sooner or later. It was also reported that Kyari argued that market forces must be allowed to determine the pump price of petrol in the country.

Kyari said: “Our current consumption is— evacuation from our depots is about 60 million liters per day. We are selling at 162 to the liter. The current market price is 234, the actual market price today. The difference between the two, multiply by 60 million times thirty, will give you per month. “This is a simple arrangement you do. If you want exact figures from our book, I do not have it at this moment but it’s between N100billion and N120billion per month. We are putting the difference in the books of NNPC and we cannot continue to bear.”

Meanwhile, it was previously reported that a subsidy is likely to gulp around N102.96bn this month of March if the recent pricing template published by Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) is anything to go by.

It was also reported that the NNPC may spend N102.96bn on petrol subsidy this month, going by the recent pricing template for the commodity. The government agency pegged the expected new lower and upper prices for petrol at retail outlets in March 2021 at between N209.61/liter and N212.61/liter. It also put the ex-depot price of petrol for the month at N206.42/liter and pegged the expected landing cost at N189.61/liter.

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Reasons why Judge sentenced two brothers to death by hanging

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On March 25, in Ondo State, Justice Yemi Fasanmi sentenced two brothers and their accomplice to death by hanging.

Isaac Sunday and Isaac Lucky as well as their accomplice, Ovie Nana was sentenced to death by hanging after they were convicted to have used dangerous weapons to dispose of many residents of Bolorunduro in Ondo State of their belongings which include mobile phones, motorcycles, cash, and other valuables in December 2013.

According to reports, they were first arraigned on five count charges which centered on conspiracy and armed robbery until the charge was later amended to six.

While leading the prosecution team, the Chief Legal Officer, Justice Olusegun Akeredolu in the Ondo State Ministry of Justice, called in four witnesses to tendered confessional statements against the accused and they admitted to the accusations.

However the defendant’s lawyer, Samson IIuyemi also testified for them but tendered no exhibit.

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FG released N288bn out of N500bn budgeted for Covid-19 intervention

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On Thursday, March 25, the Federal Government had released N288bn out of the N500bn appropriated for the Covid-19 intervention programs under the Economic sustainability Plan.

This was made known in a statement titled “Over two million jobs saved, created, as FG releases N288bn for ESP,/COVID-19 implementation by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Laolu Akande.

According to the statement, 2.1 million jobs have been saved, including new ones created, while over 4000km of federal and rural roads are at least 30% completed since the program commenced.

The statement also included that the figures emerged from a meeting of the Economic Sustainability Committee on Thursday presided over by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.

In the statement, the Ministers and heads of agencies executing the Buhari administration’s Economic Sustainability Plan reported significant improvement in the implementation of the plan, as the Federal Government ramps up funding for projects across sectors to impact more Nigerians.

The statement reads “Already more than 50% of the appropriated sum for the ESP has been released.

“Under the Survival Fund scheme specifically, 1.3 million jobs have been saved, and another 774,000 jobs created from the Public Works Programme. This is apart from the total 26,021 jobs created from construction and rehabilitation works.

“Other highlights include the release of 100% (i.e. N5bn) appropriation for the COVID-19 Aviation intervention; 50% funding (N26bn) for the Public Works scheme hiring 774,000 persons across the country, among others.”

The statement also quoted the Vice President for commending the Ministers for a job well done.

The Vice President also urged the Ministers and head of agencies not to rest on their oars as he encouraged them to always implement key programs of government.

According to Vice President, he said, “It is important for us to continually bear in mind that we really must ensure that the vast majority of our people are not allowed to suffer.

“So, I feel we should be thinking more about the next thing that we need to do.”

The statement also highlights another key progress report which involves the release of N1. 25 billion (50%) of the National Commission For Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons for the implementation of programs for the vulnerable and displaced persons.

The statement stated that “The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development received N2.45 billion representing 7.5% of N32.45 billion for cash transfer to the poor and vulnerable, while the balance of N30 billion is being processed.

“In strengthening the health system, the minister said 52 Federal Tertiary Health Institutions received N23.57 billion (N853m each) for the establishment of ICUs, Molecular Laboratories, and Isolation Centres.

“The progress report presented by the minister showed that in 38 FTHs implementation is at an average of 47% completion with procurement process completed and equipment supply in progress.

“Expected outcomes from the interventions in the sector include 520 fully equipped ICU beds available in FTHs; 52 Isolation wards with an aggregate of 1040 beds and associated patient monitoring equipment and 52 molecular labs with the capacity to carry out a minimum of 150 PCR test a day.

“Other releases for the health sector, according to the minister include, N10 billion for the establishment of a bio-vaccine laboratory; N5.02 billion representing 50% to the Ministry of Health.”

Another key report in the statement was the report of digital skill support for youth and women, a program that will be anchored by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

The statement noted that the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mr. Clem Agba, reported that N1. 5bn which is 50 percent of the amount appropriated for the scheme primarily targeted for job creation has been released to the ministry.

Adding that the program intervention is for the training of 600 youths from each of the 6 geo-political zones on VSAT technologies who will also be supported with laptops and stipends.

The Minister also noted that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has received N625 million (representing 50% of appropriated funds) to implement an empowerment scheme for women through capacity building in innovation and vocational training.

For the Ministry of Youths and Sports, the minister was quoted as saying that N2.6 billion representing 50 percent appropriation was released for implementation of the youth employability improvement scheme.

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Reasons how Yusuf Buhari plans to marry Kano Princess, Zahra

The son of President Muhammadu Buhari, Yusuf Buhari, had planned to marry Zahra Bayero, the daughter of Nasir Bayero, Emir of Bichi in Kano State.

According to a source, preparations are on top gear for the big event because as tradition demands, the parents of the groom have to meet with the bride’s parents to express interest in the marriage.

It was gathered that the event would have taken place earlier but for the absence of the groom’s mother, Aisha Buhari, who recently returned from Dubai for a six-month medical trip.

The source further maintains that “Now that his mother has returned a few weeks to Ramadan [Muslim holy month], it is clear the wedding will take place after Sallah holidays.”

The source went further maintaining that the wedding ceremony would take place within the next two to three months.

Yusuf Buhari graduated from the University of Surrey, Guildford, the United Kingdom in 2016.

Recall, how Yusuf was involved in a terrible power bike accident around the Gwarinpa area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on December 27, 2017.

After a month, Yusuf was taking away from an Abuja hospital and flown abroad for treatment.

He returns to Nigeria after the medical trip after he miraculously survives the power bike crash on March 1, 2018.

However, Zahra Bayero is currently a student in the United Kingdom, studying architecture.

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How FG awards oilfield to 161 oil companies without revealing their names

After successful bidding of over 600 bidders that bid for the 57 marginal oil fields, the Nigerian government has announced the awards of 161 oil companies that won the bidding without revealing the names of the individual entities.

This was disclosed by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylvia, during the 2021 first quarter ministerial meeting of the executives of the agencies under the supervision of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in Lagos on Tuesday, March 23.

The meeting was held to inform the executives about the outcome of the bidding process and also to announce the winners.

The Minister said the process has been concluded that people have started paying for their signature bonuses, stating that, over 50 percent of signature bonuses had been received.

The Minister, while describing the bidding process also said, “I think this is the best we could have gotten clearly. If you followed the processes, we published, people applied, companies were pre-qualified, and companies went to the data room and of course, assessment of their bids was done by competent people.

He added that “There were consultants involved in the whole process and bidders emerged, and that’s all I can say. It was a very transparent process and I think a lot of people are also hailing the process.”

However, Timipre Sylvia did not disclose the identities of the winners of the bid as he told Nigerians that the government has received almost 50 percent of the signature bonuses. He said, “One hundred and sixty-one companies were allocated marginal fields and I will not give you the details of how many have paid. I’ve told you that up to 50 percent of those winners have paid.”

The Minister while still speaking said, on the performance of the ministry since his assumption of office, the ministry, through its yearly assessment, had achieved six of the nine mandate areas. While also accused marketers of selling petrol above the approved price of N162 per liter, the minister described it as unfortunate and wondered what the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) was doing about it.

According to him, he said, “It’s unfortunate, we hear that. I should be asking what the DPR is doing about it. There is no fuel (price) increment, I’ve announced that. The price remains N162 per liter.”

He also said the government was still in discussion with labor and other stakeholders while stating that until all the discussions were concluded, the government would not fully deregulate.

The Minister also charged the agencies to ensure that deviant marketers were sanctioned.

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6 Workers of Julius Berger Company abducted by Pirates

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Six Workers including a Captain of Julius Berger Construction Company were attacked on a barge by Pirates in Bonga oilfield a coastline between Delta and Rivers State.

The workers were said to be going from Warri to Bonny Island en route to the Bonga oil field.

A relative of one of the victims disclosed this on Wednesday 24 to newsmen stating that it’s been over one week into the kidnapping, yet the company had not made a statement on the incident while also maintains that, the company seemed to trivialize the abduction of the Nigerian citizens.

It was gathered that the pirate demanded $1.5 million (N600 million) after reaching out to the company.

According to the statement of the relative who said, “I have a brother among those who were kidnapped. There were a captain and six other Julius Berger workers. The kidnappers after seven days have contacted the construction company demanding $1.5 million.

“The company seems to be taking the ordeal of the Nigerian workers with levity as the victims continue to suffer in the den of the sea pirates. My bother and other workers were going from Warri to Bonny Island en route to the Bonga oil field when the incident happened last week Monday,” he narrated.

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Gov Ortom reveals what forefathers did to herdsmen in 1804, gives solution

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, on Wednesday, said the Tiv nation in 1804, fought and stopped the Fulani herdsmen from taking over the State.

The governor who spoke with BBC Pidgin at the Benue People’s House, Makurdi, insisted that they are not afraid to follow the steps of their forefathers.

He revealed that the herdsmen have a hidden agenda that is triggering their desire to flood the State.

According to Ortom, before the enactment of the law prohibiting open grazing in Benue, the Fulani herders were snicking into the State to enslave the citizens and take over the land.

The governor said: “They want to take over Benue and make us slaves. That is what they have been trying since the days of our forefathers.

“Our forefathers stopped them in 1804, they cannot take over our land.

“They are not coming to Benue to graze cattle, they are only using that as a way to gain access into the state.

“God opened my eyes to understand their intentions.

“I cannot be intimidated because no one can kill me, my life is in the hands of God Almighty because I know that I am doing the right thing”.

Ortom also lamented that the deteriorated security situation in the country, particularly the activities of the Fulani herders, is currently beyond the Federal Government.

“The issue is currently beyond the Federal Government and even the President, Muhammadu Buhari,” he said.

He, however, said everyone must come together to tackle the challenges confronting the entire nation.

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Big Brother Naija season 6 audition begins, N90m prize

The organizer of the most popular reality TV show in Nigeria, MultiChoice, has revealed plans to return for the sixth season of the Big Brother Naija reality show later this year.

The organizer made this revelation on Twitter on Wednesday, March 24, while also plan to offer to its customers on DStv and GOtv platforms an opportunity to be among the first to be auditioned.

The organizer also went further to revealed the grand prize for season 6 which already has topped previous seasons, stating that the grand prize will be N90m.

Giving the conditions to be considered for auditioning, the organizers stated that, Nigerian nationalities with valid passports, who are 21 years or older, will get an early audition when they pay for the DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Confam, Yanga package, or on GOtv Max or Jolli package between March 24 and March 31, 2021.

The organizer said that any interested participants are advised to make a two-minute video stating why he or she wants to be picked as housemates.

They also asked participants to send an email with their smartcard or IUC number to AfricaMagicEvents@ng.MultiChoice.com to receive a unique website link to complete registration.

Recall how the first season of the reality show was aired in 2006 and was won by a scriptwriter and production assistant, Katung Aduwak, who went home with the grand prize of $100,000. There was, however, a gap of 11 years before the second season (See Globe) of the show commenced on January 22, 2017. That season was eventually won by Warri, Delta State-born rapper, Efe Ejeba, who got the grand prize of N25m.

In 2018, the third season (Double Wahala) followed and was won by a pilot, Miracle Igbokwe. Igbokwe got N25m, a brand new Hyundai Tuscon SUV, home appliances worth N3m, and a trip for two to an exotic location, as well as a year’s supply of Pepsi and Aquafina water.

The 2019 season, tagged ‘Pepper Dem’, was won by a video vixen and entrepreneur, Mercy Eke, who took home N30m, an Innoson SUV said to be worth N25m, a trip to Dubai, and other prizes.

In 2020, despite the coronavirus pandemic, 30,000 Nigerians were said to have taken part in online auditions for BBNaija in 2020 which ushered in the fifth season of the show that was held amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and was aptly tagged the ‘Lockdown Edition’.

Season 5 was eventually won by another rapper and graduate of the University of Lagos, Olamilekan Agbeleshe, aka Laycon, who took home N30m, an Innoson Motors SUV worth N30m, a two-bedroom apartment, a trip to Dublin, Ireland, and other prizes.

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Magistrate immediately ordereth release of Lawyer after NBA plan sanctioning

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The Nigerian Bar Association after issuing a warning to review the order of the court with over 20 lawyers offering to take on the matter of the lawyer that was jailed by the Magistrate of Magistrate Court 2, Wuse Zone 6 in Abuja on Wednesday, Ibrahim Mohammed, the Magistrate immediately ordered the release of Eburu Barth that was arrested, handcuff, and imprisoned for interrupting and challenging court judgment.

It was gathered that the reversal came following the outcry and intervention of the NBA demanding to review the order of the court.

According to the statement that was released by the Secretary, Adebiyi Adetosoye, on Wednesday 23, stated that they applied to review the order of the court sentencing him to jail without a fair hearing.

They also demanded to reached out to the necessary authorities to ensure that the order of the court was reversed.

They also demanded to submit a petition against the magistrate and ensure the trend was permanently put to a final stop.

However, the branch committee on Young Lawyers Mentoring and Pupillage has been directed to come up with a work plan to address the recurring issues.

They also stated that “This incident has exposed the level of decadence in the system, particularly the attitude of some lawyers towards the court which leaves much to be desired.

They further call for the need to strengthen the relations between the Bar and Bench to curtail the reoccurrence of such matters in the future.

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Nigeria army shot women protesting, Kill one, injure others

The officers of the Nigerian Army deployed to Southern Kaduna to help restore calm, have opened fire on women, who protest over the continuous arrest of their children, kill one, while others injured

The woman killed by the soldiers was identified as Naomi John.

It was gathered that the soldiers have been arresting the youths in Goran Sagwaza, Goran Bafai, and Goran Gan communities, for defending them from the Fulani herdsmen.

According to the source, the women-only came to protest after hundreds of people have been arrested by the soldiers.

The source maintains that “Of late, you know the killings have not stopped in Southern Kaduna, yesterday, the women from Southern Kaduna staged a protest against the indiscriminate arrest of young persons in Goran Sagwaza, Goran Bafai, and Goran Gan communities.

“Military men were going from house to house, picking up young men. They arrested a lot of people. So the women felt why should you be arresting our young ones when in reality, when the Fulani herdsmen come to attack us, you are nowhere to be found but when our people mobilize to go after them, you now come to pick them.

“So the women told the men, we don’t want any man to join us, they now took to the street. The military now blocked the road and started shooting, in the process, they kill one woman and injure many others.”

The source further explained that despite the deployment of the various military teams to the area, the killings continue.

The source said, “Hundreds of people have been killed in the various Local Government Areas of the southern Kaduna in the past couple of years.

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How Police arrest 11 criminals in a gun battle, kill one, others flee (Photos)

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The Delta State Police Command has announced the arrest of 11 criminals from Oghor Community in the Udu Local Government Area, during a gun battle that led to the death of one suspect.

It was gathered that the police through a manhunt at about 02:15hrs stormed the hideout of the notorious criminals that had been terrorizing the Udu Police Command and its neighboring environment of armed robbery, kidnappings, attack on police officers, and carting away with their arms in the Oghor community.

According to a statement that was made available to newsmen by the spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP. Edafe Bright, on Wednesday 23, 2021, stated that the commander of Eagle Net Special Squad, SP Dimka Unman detailed the squad leader, DSP Inusa Danyaya, and some civilian Anti-Cult Unit, who stormed the criminal’s hideout.

In the statement, he explained that, on arrival, the police team and the civilian anti-cult ensued the criminals on a gun battle which led to the death of one suspect who sustains gun injuries.

The police spokesperson also maintain that one of the suspects led them to where the criminals are hiding, he also said, the police team had to arrest the suspects which include, (1) Henry Ogori ‘m’ 25yrs of NO. 18 Ifiha street UDU, (2) Kennedy Akpotu ‘m’ 19yrs of Oghor community udu, (3) Promise Ophiomo ‘m’ 24yrs of NO.35 Ogbe road udu, (4) Daniel Believe ‘m’ 19yrs of shell Qtrs DSC, (5) Daniel Sele ‘m’ 25yrs of Ogbe street udu, (6) Paul Zion ‘m’ 25yrs of other community udu, (7) Igah Aminu ‘m’ 27yrs of disco area warri (8) Philip Choice ‘m’ 26 of other community, (9) Joshua Ogunamen ‘m’ 21yrs, (10) Johnson Opiomo ‘m’ 22yrs of No.36 ogbe road and (11) Joshua God’swill ‘m’ 24yrs of jews arts du. One of the suspects, Igah Aminu later died due to a gunshot injury.

DSP Edafe also enlists the items recovered from the suspects, according to him, 2 English made beretta pistols, 3 rounds of live 9mm caliber of ammunition, and 6 mobile phones.

He also maintains that suspects have confessed to the crime and effort is intensified for possible arrest of the fleeing suspects who escaped with bullet injuries.

In another vein, it was gathered that the DPO from Oghara Police Command also mobilized policemen to a scene of armed robbery along Oviade road to Oghara after receiving a report by one of the Indigene of Ovade community at about 12:30hrs that he came across three boys armed with short barrel gun which they attempted to snatch his unregistered Daylong motorcycle after blocking the path as at 13:00hrs on Tuesday, March 23, 2021.

According to the reports, the policemen from Oghara met the suspect, one Gabriel Ogidi ‘m’ 35yrs who was already beaten to stupor where he was rushed to the hospital and confirmed died.

The statement also added that one short barrel gun with one live cartridge was recovered stating that, the investigation is ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.

It was also gathered that on Wednesday, March 24, at about 04:40hrs, the police from Ekakpmre outpost under Otu-Jeremi Division received a distress call that some members of Confrantanity cult group led by one Oghenerona Young Goddy ‘m’ alias King Jaja of Ekakpmre/Egbou-Hurie communities in Oti-Jeremi went to the home of one Ebeni Jelekun ‘m’ 29yrs of Ekakpmre, who belong to Aiye Confrantanity and shot him severally and fled.

According to the statement, the Divisional police officer of Otu-Jeremi, CSP Pius Eredei led a patrol team to the scene to arrest the suspects and as a result, two cultist Omoyevwe Emmanuel ‘m’ age 29yrs and Marcus Michael ‘m’ age 24yrs both of Usienfurun community were arrested with charms recovered from them while the investigation is still ongoing.

The Divisional police officer also recovered 6 expanded ‘AA’ cartridges from the scene while the victim was rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty and his corpse deposited in the Otu-Jeremi general hospital mortuary.

However, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Ari Muhammad Ali FCIA, PSC+, has vowed to make the state unbearable for criminal elements, while given directives to all DPOs to key into the desire into its plans.

The CP said that, through intelligence gathering, community policing, and vital information from members of the public, the command has successfully recorded success in the fight against hoodlums, and he pledged to continue to deliver on the promise of making Delta State safe from all form criminalities in the state.

The Commissioner also urges all members of the public to continue to support and help the police by giving vital information to the police and he also assured all that their identity will be concealed. Adding that, together let all make Delta safe for everybody.

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Reasons why Sheikh Gumi says Nigeria doesn’t have credible Legislators

During a Zoom conference organized by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies
today Wednesday, 24, an Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad, revealed why the federal lawmakers are not representing their people who voted for them.

He argues that their lack of credibility to address the security challenges has caused more danger in the country.

He also argued that Nigeria doesn’t have credible legislators in Nigeria? Because he asked, how did they get into their party? He said until we begin to vote credible leaders into the legislative arm of the government, the problems of insecurity cannot be solved.

Gumi faulted the lawmakers for failing in their responsibility to address the primary problem of their constituents which he said have contributed to the insecurity that is looming in the country.

According to him, the Senators and members of the House of Representatives have failed to listen to the plights of the people who voted for them.

He said the lawmakers are not good representatives of the people stating that the problems of insecurity cannot be tackled by the legislation.

While still speaking, Gumi also stated that the reason why he had been meeting with bandits to listen to them and give them a new orientation, was that the people are suffering and need to be heard.

He also advocates for multi-layered policing in the country as he calls for the devolution of central police in Nigeria, stating that, the state police should be supervised by the Federal Police for the state governors not to use to suppress people.

In his words, he said, “Do we have credible legislators in Nigeria? How did they get into their party? Until we begin to vote credible leaders into the legislative arm of the government, the problems of insecurity cannot be solved.

“Legislation cannot tackle insecurity. Listening to the grievances of the people at the grassroots level is very important which our legislators have neglected. And this is what I’m doing.

“We are talking about the legislation. What legislation are we talking about, when people are not called and listened to?”

“The state police with the supervision of the federal police will be needed but in a way that will not be used by the governors to suppress the people.

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Why final year students of DSPG protest over compulsory fee

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The final year students (HND II and ND II) of the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State have embarked on protest over a compulsory fee that they were asked to pay for a program that will enhance their proficiency in Computer Application and Marketability after graduation.

The final year students embarked on the protest today, Wednesday 24, after they were ask to pay for Microsoft Certificate Programme which the registration is N7000.

During the protests, the school entrance gate and the School road that lead to Azagba-Ogwashi was locked and blocked as students sing chanting songs while others were seen displaying their various placards.

It was gathered that the school management in a memo dated March 22, 2021, had informed the students (especially Final year Students ND II and HND II) that the Polytechnics Governing Council has approved ‘Microsoft Certificate Programme for all final year Students of the institution.

According to the memo, the program is meant to enhance Students’ proficiency in Computer Application, Marketability after graduation.

The memo also stated that the program is compulsory for all final year Students while mandating them to pay a registration fee of Seven thousand naira (N7000) in a session.

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Rick Ross reveals what happened to him while having sex

Popular American rapper and business mogul, William Leonard Roberts II, better known as Rick Ross, has revealed how he once passed out while having sex with a girl after getting addicted to Lean (a mixture of cough syrup, soda, hard candy, and in some cases, alcohol).

According to a video shared on Youtube by BigBoy TV, the rapper was seen in a live session narrating how becoming addicted to Codeine started affecting the quality of his life.

He said, “There a time, he started becoming too unconscious at the red light and at other inconvenient time and places.”

He also said, there was a time he once passed out while having sex, and he woke up to see the girl crying because she thought he has died.

Rick Ross explains in his words, “I was having sex before and I woke up and the girl next to me was crying that, she thought I was dead.”

Watch the video:

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APC plans to rule Nigeria for 32 years

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During the inauguration of the 61-member Contact and Strategy Committee on Tuesday at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja, the Chairman of the Caretaker/Convention Planning Committee of the All Progressive Congress, Mai Mai Buni, revealed plans for the party to work towards retaining power for at least 32 years.

The Convention Committee Chairman while explaining the needs why the party which to be in power for at least 32 years said, the party needs to be in power to consolidate the delivery of the dividends of democracy.

Buni who also doubles as the governor of Yobe state explained that the party under his leadership had achieved a lot.

He said, “The constitution of the Strategy and Contact Committee, therefore, is to consolidate the achievements we are making in building a strong party with a solid structure that would accomplish APC to stand the test of time.

According to him while explaining the vision of the newly inaugurated committee, he said, Our vision is to provide a wheel that will drive the party to go beyond the 6th, 7th, and even 8th terms of office to effectively implement the party manifesto, improve the lives of Nigerians and remain Nigeria’s leading political party.

He continued, “This committee is therefore very key to our process of transition towards successful congresses and national convention and to establish a very solid, reputable, and reliable future for the party.”

He also said the committee will be chaired by the Jigawa State governor, Badaru Abubakar.

While responding, Badaru pledged that the committee would take the necessary steps to achieve its objectives.

Badaru also revealed the success recorded by the Buni-led caretaker committee.

He said, “The APC had so far registered and revalidated the membership of about 36 million members across the country.

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Lawyer sent to prison after interrupting, challenging Magistrate judgments

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A lawyer, Eburu Ekwe Barth, has been arrested and bundled away into suleja prison after opposing and challenging Magistrate judgment.

The Magistrate of Court 2, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, Ibrahim Mohammed reportedly ordered the policemen at the court to arrest and handcuff the lawyer for challenging him on a summary of a case during court proceedings.

The magistrate thereafter sentenced Ekwe to two months in prison for contempt in the face of the court.

It was gathered that the incident happened yesterday March, 23 in Abuja, when the magistrate was giving judgment on an application filed by an opposing counsel when the lawyer interjected.

The interjection of the lawyer angered the magistrate and he immediately ordered his arrest and sentenced him for contempt.

According to the lawyer, the magistrate was ascribing what he never said to him in his ruling.

The lawyer questioned whether there was a conspiracy between the magistrate and the plaintiff’s lawyer.

However, the lawyer was taken to Suleja prison after appeals made by many lawyers were ignored by the judge.

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FG through BOA collaborate with international partners, plan $1bn loan support for MSMEs

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, through the Bank of Industry, has concluded a $1bn syndicated long term loan in conjunction with international partners to support Micro, Small, and Medium Scale Enterprises in the country.

These were disclosed to newsmen in Abuja on Monday, March, 23, in a statement issued by the minister’s media aide, Ifedayo Sayo at the Quantum Mechanics Limited MSME Survival Fund Capacity Building Programme.

According to the statement, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo, said the loan was aimed at improving the bank’s capacity to support MSMEs across key sectors of the economy with affordable loans of medium to long-term tenor, alongside moratorium benefits.

The Minister also said there was an ongoing discussion with Dunn & Bradstreet, a business service company to establish a Small and Medium Enterprises risk rating agency. Adding that, the SME Rating Agency of Nigeria is to provide an empirical basis towards analyzing the modalities of SMEs to access credit.

The Minister said, “I will like to reiterate that our ministry fully supports MSMEs, as demonstrated by our MSME Survival Fund Initiative, which was launched in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic by the Federal Government as part of the Nigerian Economic Sustainability Plan.”

While emaciating, the Minister also revealed how the Nigerian Export Promotion Council had launched the Export Expansion Facility under NESP, to support the resilience of new and existing MSMEs in responding to the shocks of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Minister, further said that the National MSMEs Clinics will support the growth of small businesses through the provision of infrastructure while maintaining that the survival fund was estimated to save at least 1.3 million jobs across the country.

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See how Slay Queen Caught on CCTV when stealing Phone

A yet to be identified slay queen has been caught on camera stealing a phone plugged inside the church building.

According to the footage that were released by HGS Media Plus on YouTube, the girl is seen pacing around where the phone was plugged to charge.

It was gathered that the lady paced over four consecutive times to make sure no one is watching until she quickly took the phone and put it in her back pocket before leaving the church.

The young lady stole the phone on Sunday morning after the close of the first service. She stole the phone inside Living Faith Church, better known as ‘Winners Chapel’ in Edjeba, Warri, Delta State.

See footage:

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Why N90bn agric program was approved by CBN to train Niger Delta youths – Akpabio

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The Central Bank of Nigeria has revealed plans to disburse N90bn within the nine states of the Niger Delta region in its Integrated Agricultural Programme to train youths in fishery, rabbitry, piggery, and others.

This was made known by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in his office during a courtesy call with the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Jerome Pasquier.

Akpabio, express the readiness of the Federal Government to collaborate with the French Government in the establishment of virology centers that will address and tackle the spread of infectious diseases in the Niger Delta region.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the ministry spokesperson, Patricia Deworitshe, titled ‘Establishment of virology centers in Niger Delta Region crucial.

Akpabio stressed the need to engage in soil remediation experts to help in restoring the soil to its natural pollution-free state, which will enhance soil usefulness and prevent endemic poverty in the region.

In the statement, Akpabio also assured the ambassador that its ministry will be prudent and transparent in any financial assistance offered by the French government.

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See why housewife was caught in bed with Church member

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A 21-years-old marriage has been dissolved by the Mapo Customary Court in Ibadan over infidelity and irreconcilable issues.

It was gathered that the Court dissolved the marriage between a businesswoman, Adewale Pius, and her husband, Emmanuel on Monday in Ibadan.

The man accused his wife of sleeping with their church member, according to him, his mother caught her.

The man tells the court, “My wife left home because my mother saw her in bed with a church member.

The woman while responding to the allegations, tendered some receipts and alleged that her husband refuses to pay their children’s school fees.

While explaining, she said, her husband has refused to take charge and be responsible for his family’s upkeep.

The woman said that her husband had turned her into a punching bag stating that, her husband is always fond of spreading lies against her.

In her words, she said, “Emmanuel turned me into a punching bag. He is fond of spreading lies about me, that he caught me in bed with another man.

“My husband refused to pay the children’s school fees. Because of that, my children stopped going to school.

However, Chief Ademola Odunade, the President of the Court, granted the divorce in the interest of peace.

The President of the Court also granted the custody of the children to Adewumi and ordered Emmanuel to pay N12, 000 as monthly upkeep.

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N4.4bn disapeared under Lawan, Gbajabiamila’s comfort – SERAP tell court

A Socio-Economic Rights group known as Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has filed a suit FHC/ABJ/CS/366/2021, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on the allegation of missing N4. 4bn budgeted for the National Assembly and to seek an order of the court to direct Ahmed Lawan and Femi Gbajabiamila to perform their constitutional duties.

The group accused the Senate President and the House of Representatives Speaker over their failure to probe the allegation of the missing N4. 4bn budgeted for the National Assembly.

In the suit, the group accused their refusal to refer the matter to the appropriate Anti-corruption agencies after the Auditor-General of the Federation has raised concern over the misappropriation of the funds.

In the suit, the group seeks to vindicate the rule of law, the public interest, and the promotion of transparency and accountability.

The group seeks to drag Government agencies and institutions for their responsibilities to a court of justice for the lawfulness of what they do.

The group argues that the court is the only judge, and that, the National Assembly has no legally justifiable reason to refuse to investigate the allegations documented by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”

In a statement by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, alleged that the National Assembly has a legal responsibility to ensure that the allegations of corruption and mismanagement were promptly, independently, thoroughly, and transparently investigated after been documented by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.

The statement also read, “The failure of the National Assembly to promptly and thoroughly investigate and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies the allegations documented in the annual audited reports for 2015, 2017 and 2018 is a fundamental breach of the oversight and public interest duties imposed on the legislative body by sections 4, 88 and 89 of the Nigerian Constitution.”

“This suit seeks to vindicate the rule of law, the public interest, and to promote transparency and accountability. Government agencies and institutions are responsible to a court of justice for the lawfulness of what they do, and of that, the court is the only judge. The National Assembly has no legally justifiable reason to refuse to investigate the allegations documented by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”

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Justice Rhodes-Vivour retire from Supreme Court after clocking 70 years

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After clocking 70 years old, Justice Olabode Rhodes-Vivour retired from the Supreme Court during a valedictory court session on Monday.

The apex court Justice retired out of the bench after attaining 70 years on Monday while maintaining in his remarks that corruption must be tackled headlong through genuine efforts to make life more meaningful for the citizenry.

The retirement of Justice Rhodes-Vivour has reduced the number of justices in the Supreme Court to 18 as Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili emerges as the second most senior justice of the apex court.

During the valedictory session, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, said, the retired justice is “Physically energetic and never gets frightened by any form of challenges.

Ibrahim Muhammad also maintains that “His amiable disposition and reticent outlook have made him a gentle tiger in the temple of justice.

Ibrahim Tanko also described Rhodes-Vivour as “Affable brother Justice” who diligently and meticulously offered unquantifiable services to Nigeria and humanity.

He said, “We are all here today to felicitate with an accomplished jurisprudential iconoclast that has offered the best of his intellect to the advancement of the legal profession through his several years of inimitable adjudications”,

He said, “His Lordship is a rare gem and unblemished symbol of humility and piety. His proficiency in the dispensation of justice, which is anchored on his mastery of the law, presents him as a man of honor and scholarship.

He also said “His judgments are not only incisive but also analytical and opulent by all standards. His robust contributions to the development of our jurisprudence are inviolable and fascinating. Adding that, “His impeccable attention to details in every matter before him is alluring and salutary as well.”

On his part, the retired Supreme Court Justice, Rhodes-Vivour expressed satisfaction stating that he has a testimony to make, according to him, he has never been absent from work as a judge due to illness. He said, I did have health challenges, but they were resolved during vacation, all medical procedures were uneventful.

He said in his words, “It is with humility that I have and will continue to give thanks praise, and glory to the almighty God. The Lord has been good to me, and I will forever be thankful.”

Justice Rhodes-Vivour also expressed concern over the rate of corruption which, he said, was still deeply rooted in Nigeria like any other country in the world.

He, however, maintains that concerted efforts must be put in place to reduce it to the barest minimum.

According to him, “Corruption exists in all the countries of the world. Nigeria is no exception. What should be done is to reduce it drastically thereby making our dear country an exception by building a credible and transparent system.”

The jurist also faulted the conduct of elections in the country, lamenting they are protracted because the stakes are too high.

Justice Rhodes-Vivour said that most elections are usually resolved by the courts simply because most politicians are never satisfied with the results announced by the electoral umpire.

However, he renewed his appeal that the country’s Electoral Act be amended to shift the burden of proof to the Independent National Electoral Commission that it conducted a fair and reasonable election.

According to information available on the Supreme Court’s website, between 1963 and 1968, Honourable Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour attended St. Gregory’s College, Lagos. In 1970, he wrote and passed his Advanced Level Certificate Examinations and proceeded to the University of Lagos for his undergraduate studies.

He graduated from the University of Lagos in 1974 with honors, and thereafter he was admitted into the Nigerian Law School, and was called to the Bar in 1975.

On the 18th of February 1994, Rhodes-Vivour was appointed to the Bench as a High Court Judge. After many years of experience on the Bench at the High Court, he was elevated to the Bench of the Court of Appeal on the 25th of April 2005.

In 2008 on secondment by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he was posted to Sierra Leone Judiciary as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone.

On his return to Nigeria, after this posting, he was appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the 16th of September 2010.

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Driver accused of killing Nicki Minaj’s father charged with a $150m lawsuit

A $150m lawsuit has been filed against the driver who was accused of allegedly killing Nicki Minaj’s father.

The $150m lawsuit was filed by Carol Maraj, the mother of Nicki Minaj, against the man accused of killing Minaj’s father in a hit-and-run crash last month.

It was gathered that the driver, Charles Polevich, 70, was accused of striking Robert Maraj, 64, on Long Island on February 12 and drive off without calling 911.

The driver, Polevich was arrested on February 17 on charges of leaving the scene of an accident and tampering with physical evidence.

The driver, pleaded not guilty and was freed on bail and ordered not to leave New York State.

In a report that was seen by goldennationblog.com,
Carol Maraj’s filed the lawsuit at Nassau County State Supreme Court earlier this month and Polevich was accused of being negligent, reckless, and careless when he hit Maraj with his car and allegedly left him at the scene.

According to Benjamin Crump, an attorney for civil rights cases and families of victims of police brutality representing Carol Maraj said on Instagram, Polevich was not only irresponsible and negligent but more concerned about running away and hiding than seeking help.

Speaking about the incident, Carol Maraj, the victim’s estranged wife explained that, “she was very, very, very happy about the arrest of Polevich” and she also said, all of Maraj’s children are pleased that the alleged culprit was caught.

However, Nicki Minaj has not made any public statement on the death of her father.

Marc Gann the attorney for Polevich in Mineola also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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See how 35-year-old rapist was arrested in Delta

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A man identified as Michael Ovie, in Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State had been arrested for alleged rape by the Delta State Police Command.

In a statement by the spokesperson of the command, DSP Dafe Bright explained why the suspect was arrest on Monday, March 22, 2021.

According to the spokesperson, the suspect, a motorcyclist, is specialize in picking young girls at night, and divert them to where he robs and rapes them with a knife.

It was gathered that the suspects were apprehended by a combined team of policemen and army after a discreet investigation.

The Police spokesperson also revealed the items that he stole from his last victims, according to him, the items include 9 mobile phones of different brands including an iPhone worth N400, 000.

Other items that were also recovered from the suspect include nine female handbags, two pairs of eyeglasses, five phone chargers, thirteen SIM cards, and two ATM cards.

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Timipre Sylva reveals plans why $1.5bn was approved For Port Harcourt Refinery

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The Minister of State for Petroleum and Resources, Timipre Sylva, has revealed why President Muhammadu Buhari approved the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery and why he wants it to function before leaving office.

The Minister explained how the Apc administration intends to leave a functional refinery as a landmark achievement during the Buhari eight years regime.

The minister made this disclosure on Sunday while speaking on Channels Television program, Sunday’s Politics.

The minister while speaking said the Buhari administration has focused on the rehabilitation that the FEC had approved.

He said the next stage is the discussion on the management of the refinery, adding that, the discussion will determine how long the contract for the operations and maintenance will last, depending on the modus of operation agreed, if it is to be by privatization, commercialization, or by concession. Stating that, there are a lot of options open for the government as he can’t discuss that now.

The minister also said, they are not lying to Nigerians, according to him, the process of the rehabilitation of the refinery will be in three phases, the first phase will be within the tenure of his administration, he asked Nigerians to hold them accountable if the rehabilitation does not get to 90 percent capacity within 18 months.

He said President Muhammadu Buhari wants to leave a functional refinery as a legacy. While maintaining that, that refinery will later be decided by Nigerians and by a future administration. He said these are what they are working towards in the next few months.

Recall last week, how the plan by the Minister of Petroleum Resources was approved and how $1.5bn was also approved by the Federal Executive Council for the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

However, there had been a lot of criticism by many Nigerians on the Federal Government’s plans to spend $1.5bn on the facilities which the minister had also directed Nigerians to hold the All Progressive Congress administration responsible for the rehabilitation of the Refinery.

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Interview: How Bella Shmurda rassle Nigerian music scene in 2020

Nigerian fast-rising musician, Akinbiyi Abiola Ahmed, better known as Bella Shmurda, has revealed how he rassled the music scene with his ‘High Tension’ EP putting his unique street-hop spin in the heart of music fans.

The singer during an interview talked about his growth from the streets and his experiences with its new-found fame and wealth.

According to him, everyday life, what people face, what they see, and the day-to-day activities inspire his music.

The singer after releasing the ‘High Tension’ EP, went further to release a freestyle song ‘Vision 2020’ with Olamide, a song which highlights the government inefficiencies and the plight of young people who dream big in a system that is been set up to oppress.

The singer went further to release one of his biggest songs of 2020 ‘CashApp’ where he collaborated with Zlatan. A song where he sang about the cybercriminals dominating the pop culture.

After the release of his biggest song ‘CashApp’, the singer’s status catapulted him to features on the albums of popular Afrobeat hitmakers, Davido, and Olamide.

The singer who got nominated for the Next Rated Award at the Headies Awards (Nigeria’s apex music award show) also began his 2021 with a bang, releasing another hit ‘Rush’ which spent several weeks at the top of Nigerian charts. ‘Rush’ focuses on his path amidst negative media representation.

The singer also spoke about the impact his mum had on his music, his upcoming album ‘Hyper-Tension’ and his growing up.

He said, “I’m writing more, I’m thinking more, I’m facing more and this is making my music and lyrics evolve. You can’t expect the old me, I’m evolving.”

When asked how life was when growing up, he said, “It was a life worth living, it was of learning, it was a life of evolving. I’m thankful for those times, it wasn’t easy though but I understand why I went through that path. If you want to be great, you’ll face great problems. it’s all good, it’s all blessings. It’s a tough life but I’m happy I’m representing it.”

He said Pasuma was his source of influence while growing up because his mum loves Fuji before he started listening to D’banj, Wizkid, Phyno, Olamide.

He further stated that his favorite is Olamide, given the reasons that he always delivers on what he wants to hear, he said he respects him.

The singer when asked if he faced any letdowns while starting his music path, said, “If you want to be great, you’ll face great problems… It’s a tough life but I’m happy I’m representing it.”

He also said, “The truth is music for me was just passion, was just love, I was not doing music to make it. I was in school, and at some point, I used to be a fashionista and I make clothes amongst other things. I just loved music, I love it when I hear myself. The way I listened to Pasuma or Wizkid, I wanted to hear my music like that. Mostly I did the songs for myself, I never thought of making it. I enjoyed it and improved on myself.”

According to him, “There was a point when my mum started listening to my music, she had it in her car and listened to it on her way to work or she’ll be in the kitchen singing my song. That made me feel that if my mum could vibe to my music, I should put more effort.”

Talking about his mum as a big influence on his music career, Bella Shmurda said, “She’s an educationist and a disciplinarian. She’s a single mum and their lives are different. She had a great impact on my life and my music.”

Bella Shmurda also talks about his inspiration behind the ‘Vision 2020’ and the story that lead to the breakthrough of the remix, he said, “I recorded “Vision 2020” in 2018 but people don’t know this. I released the first version on December 20th, 2018. At that point in my life, I was kinda confused. I wasn’t unsure of what path to take, either the music or school or whatever. I was just praying for better days ahead, “Vision 2020.” I brought around all my situations, I was in school then so I brought everything together and just poured out my mind on the song. Poco posted the song and Baddo reached out to me and we did the remix and sorted things out with ID Cabasa and boom.”

He also describes the High Tension as a mix of ‘desperation’ and ‘future efforts. He said, “Then I was desperate to make it, I want to buy things, do things. I was coming with fire. ‘I no dey look anybody face’ (‘I’m not going to allow others get to me). He added.

Bella Shmurda also talks about how he feels after working with two of the biggest album last year like Olamide’s Carpe Diem and Davido’s A Better Time, he said, “It’s a really big deal for me. While growing up I never thought I’ll end up here working with these superstars. It’s a great privilege to work with them, Shout out to Davido, Baddo, Runtown for giving me an opportunity. It was the start of a new Bella, an evolution for me.”

He said in his new evolution that he learns a lot. He also learns how to approach the public, control the crowd, and also a lot about the game and music from them.

While talking about ‘CashApp’ he said, “Like I always say, my music is conscious. I’m always trying to awaken everyone around me about the things we’re all going through, the wrong things that shouldn’t be, and how we’re meant to be in a better place. The system turned everyone into devils, into alligators and snakes. It’s just something conscious, for those who understand music, who can look left and right. If you’re conscious about the state of things you’ll get “CashApp.”

He said, “My music is conscious. I’m always trying to awaken everyone around me about the things we’re all going through, the wrong things that shouldn’t be, and how we’re meant to be in a better place.”
Speaking about things going wrong.

He also talked about Police brutality and how he had become a victim several times, he said, “Yes many times, before I became Bella Shmurda and after. Many times, both on the island and mainland. I sometimes have to get down and fight physically. I don’t like oppression. You can do any other thing but never try to cheat me. I’ve faced the police so many times and our government has to do something about it. The police system needs to be reformed, they need better pays, better barracks. You can’t expect the police team to feed their families and still stop crime on such terrible pay and lack of resources. They can’t protect anything. Garbage in, garbage out.”

Bella Shmurda further revealed his plans towards his new album and how people will relate to the sound, he said, “I have loads of projects coming. ‘Hyper-Tension’ is coming. The project would prove that I’m serious about this now, we are coming double this time. We want to shake everyone!

The singer in his remarks also plea for fans to understand him on where he is going and where he is coming from. As he said, “It’s easier to connect when the vibe is free when the vibe is true, and when that is what you’re feeling, it means we’re connecting to the music and that’s brought us closer.

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“I never believe I will have family in Canada” – Small Doctor

Popular Nigerian Fuji and Afro-pop musician, Adekunle Temitope, better known as Small Doctor has revealed he is married with kids and they reside in Canada.

According to the music star, he never believe to have a Canada visa, talk less of having a family there. He said there’s no limitations to what someone can achieve in life.

The singer made these revelations recently during a chat with Nancy Isime, a media personality on ‘The Nancy Isime Show’ when asked about his advice for anyone who is working hard to make ends need.

He said, “What will I say, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

He also said, “There’s no limitation to what someone can achieve in life.

He continued, “This is Canada that I can never believe I’ll have a visa talk less of having a family there.”

Recall Small Doctor rose to fame in 2015 following his debut single ‘Mosquito Killer’ and later his hit song ‘Penalty’.

Small Doctor had also released several hit songs including his collaboration with Davido and other artists.

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See why 27-year-old Bricklayer kill mother and 4-year-old son

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The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old Herbalist identified as Baoku Gbuyi and a 27-year-old bricklayer, Olamide Odulaja for killing a housewife, Modupeola Folorunsho, and her 4-year-old son, Peter, for a money-making ritual.

It was gathered that the Herbalist connives with the bricklayer to kidnap the decease and her four years old son.

According to a statement by the Spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi on Sunday disclosed that the suspects were arrested following a report by the bereaved husband, Abiola Folorunsho, who complain to the Ijebu-Igbo Divisional Police headquarters last week Sunday that his wife and son were missing.

In the statement, Oyeyemi maintains that Abiola complained that efforts to locate his wife and son who went out together did not yield any result.

He said upon report, a case of missing persons was recorded, and the Ijebu-Igbo Divisional Police Officer, SP Kareem Soltan, detailed crack detectives to unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of the victims.

Oyeyemi said, the detective embarked on a technical and intelligence-based investigation which led them to the arrest of Olamide Odulaja at Ibadan, Oyo State.

He said, upon interrogation, Olamide confessed that he a done herbalist abducted the female victim and her son on February 13, 2021, and that the victim and her son were killed for a money ritual at the house of the said herbalist.

Oyeyemi maintains that Olamide confesses that it was the herbalist who burnt the woman’s head, which he used for him.

On his confession, the detectives went after the herbalist, who resides on Araromi Street, Japara Ijebu-Igbo.

He said, on getting to his residence, it was discovered that the herbalist had taken to his heels having heard about the arrest of Olamide.

He further said, subsequently, all the adjoining divisions were alerted to be on the lookout for the fleeing suspect.

Eventually, he said, the suspect was traced to Kajola village where he was arrested by the DPO Awa Ijebu with the assistance of hunters and local vigilantes.

The herbalist upon interrogation confesses that it was Olamide Odulaja who approached him for a money-making ritual, following which he asked him to bring the head of a human being as one of the materials to be used.

The herbalist further said that they both conspired to abduct the woman and her son which they slaughtered for the purpose

The herbalist further confessed that he burnt the woman’s head with some other herbal material which he gave to Olamide to use.

When asked about the little boy, he said that his head and remains were dumped inside a pit latrine.

Oyeyemi maintains that the Commissioner of Police, Edward Ajogun, commended his men for their display of investigative intelligence.

The CP describes the situation as the height of man’s inhumanity to man, he warns those who look for the money-making ritual to desist as only hard work backed with prayer could lead to success.

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Doyin Okupa under attack over statements he made upsetting Igbos

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A former aide to Ex-Presidents, Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, Doyin Okupa has been under attack on social media over a comment he made upsetting the Igbos in preparation for the 2023 presidency.

The former presidential aide had revealed the reason why the Northerners will not support the Igbo presidency come 2023.

Okupa who made some tweets on Saturday explained why the Northerners are yet to forgive the Igbos over what happened as a coup in 1966 when Sardauna of Sokoto was killed.

Okupa maintains that “A national consensus for Igbo Presidency cannot evolve until the core north forgives the Igbos for the killing of Sardauna of Sokoto in 1966 coup by the Nigerian soldiers of Igbo extraction.

The former presidential aide further maintains that if the consensus is not achievable, he will run for president in 2023 by God’s grace.

He said the political situation is something only the Igbo leaders must spearhead and with the support of other well-meaning Nigerians which will be resolved with a high level of humility and political dexterity.

He said if this consensus emerges, in the interest of equity, fairness, and national unity, he will shelve his ambition and support whoever is chosen as his party candidate.

The former presidential aide, who declared his interest to run in the 2023 presidency, also pointed out that if the Igbo could reach a consensus with the North, he will shelve his ambition.

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See why 6 Yahoo Boys die while celebrating new car

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An accident that occurred on Friday night in Ughelli, has claimed the lives of six people suspected to be internet fraudsters popularly known as Yahoo boys.

It was gathered that the victims who were allegedly under the influence of some substances reportedly rammed their newly-bought Lexus GX 450 into a stationary truck which left the car damaged beyond repairs.

The incident happened around 8:00 pm along the Agbarho-Ughelli section of the East-West Road near Ekuigbo junction in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

A source told newsmen that the incident happened over a celebration of a newly-bought Lexus GX 450.

According to the source who explained that one of the victims had just bought the Lexus car about 5:00 pm and they were returning from a joint where they had gone to celebrate the arrival of the vehicle until the celebration turns sour.

The source also disclosed that the victims were allegedly under the influence of some substances believed to be hard drugs.

The source further disclosed that the newly bought vehicle rammed into a stationary truck along the expressway leaving six of them dead on the spot.

The incident, however, has not been confirmed by the Delta State Police Command at the time of filing this report.

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How 18-year-old girl stabs her elder brother to death

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An 18-year-old girl, identified as Idowu Biletiri, has reportedly stabbed her elder brother, Kehinde Biletiri to death after her brother demanded to know her whereabouts.

It was gathered that two of them were the only ones at home when the incident happened in Igbokoda, llaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

A source said the suspect had left home, and her elder brother queried her to know her whereabouts.

The source also said, the suspect instead of answering her brother, reportedly went into an argument with him which gone wrong, the suspect went into the kitchen, took a knife, and stabbed him.

The suspect, however, was arrested and bundled away by the officers of the Igbokoda Police Division.

While confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, Mr. Tee Leo-Ikoro, confirmed the incident to newsmen, he said the investigation is already in the process.

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Buhari approves payment of stipends to 774,000 job participants, gives warning

The Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Productivity, Festus Keyamo, on Saturday, announced that President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the payment of stipends to the 774,000 participants of the ongoing Special Public Works Programme across the country.

He disclosed this in a message he posted on his Twitter handle, @fkeyamo.

Recall that the programme designed to engage 774,000 unemployed Nigerians started nationwide on January 5, 2020, after several postponements.

While N52bn was appropriated for the scheme, each of the 774,000 workers is expected to earn N20,000 monthly for the three-month duration of the job, amounting to about N46.44bn.

Keyamo said he had directed the National Directorate of Employment to begin processing the payments.

He assured the participants that they will soon receive alerts.

The minister wrote, “President Muhammadu Buhari has graciously directed a release of the funds for the payment of stipends to the 774,000 participants of the SPW program.

“I have consequently directed the NDE to begin processing the payments and participants should begin to receive payments soon.

“In order to eliminate fraud and/or double payments, I have also directed that every payment to participants should be made using the BVN of their accounts so we can have an audit trail of every single payment.

“Those who registered with different names should not expect payments.”

The program commenced on January 5 contrary to a resolution by the House of Representatives that asked the Federal Government to suspend it.

The House had particularly asked Keyamo to suspend the exercise indefinitely until all issues the National Assembly had against it were resolved.

The program, designed to employ 1,000 Nigerians from each of the 774 local government areas in the country was initially scheduled for launch on October 1, last year but it ran into hitches following the power play between Keyamo and the then Director-General, NDE, Nasir Ladan, who was later sacked.

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How I made Amaechi Rivers Governor – Wike opens up

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has claimed that his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi became Governor of Rivers state through his assistance.

The governor who served as Chief of Staff during Amaechi’s tenure disclosed during an interview with BBC pidgin on Friday, March 19.

Wike stated in the interview that he wonders how someone he made Governor will turn around to call him an employee.

He said;

“Amaechi and I were in the same party, and in politics, everybody has his own ambition. He had his ambition to be governor, and at the time, I didn’t. So, we fought and supported him to be governor.

“Now he’s in APC, and you don’t expect me as a PDP person to support what he does.

“I was the one God used to make Amaechi governor. I will even give you a tape from what he said in the church; that after God, I’m next. But when he was talking the other day, saying I was his staff, his employee, I said no problem.

“We all sat to make you governor, and I was the one who championed it. How do you call someone who made you governor an employee? When he became governor, he asked me; how are we going to run this government, and he offered me to be commissioner of finance, but I said no, let me be in the chief of staff office.

“That time I made him governor, I had the power to choose. People know in this state.

“With his APC, did they even score 25 percent here during the 2015 and 2019 elections? His staff stopped him from winning Rivers for his presidential candidate? Stopped him from winning the governorship election for his candidate? Not even a senatorial seat?

“Well, we have passed that. He said over his dead body will I be governor, now I am looking for that dead body. I have been governor for eight years now. In 2015 when I won, they said PDP was in power, but I also won again in 2019 when APC was in power.”

Wike also accused his predecessor of mismanaging the state funds when he was governor. He reiterated that Ameachi allegedly sold the state’s gas turbine for $308,000 and left his government with $208,000.

The Governor said;

“See the monorail, just 1.5 kilometers, they said they spent N54 billion. I am not saying anybody is corrupt, but just see all these monies we have mentioned.”

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See reasons why Yung6ix ruins curse on Jeweler who got him arrested

Popular Nigerian rapper and hip hop artist, Onome Onokohwomo, better known as Yung6ix has taken to social media to curse the jeweler who got him arrested in 2019 after he was racially profiled in the United States.

According to Yung6ix
while narrating the ordeal, stated that the jeweler tries to frame him and he wishes him to confess or face hell on earth with his generation.

The ‘On a Daily’ crooner, made this revelation on Twitter on Saturday, March 20, 2021.

The rapper while narrating the ordeal also prayed that nobody should go through what he went through in the American cell, according to him, racism can cause more mental health issues than we know.

Recall how Yung6ix took to his social media in 2019 to share a video after he got out of jail when he was wrongfully accused by Kays jeweler, according to him, he was wondering if he was to be another innocent black man that will be getting f^^ked by the system.

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See what Apostle Okikejesu revealed about Vice President, Osinbanjo, Tinubu

Apostle Paul Okikejesu of the Christ Apostolic Miracle Ministry has asked Nigerians to pray God to forgive Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, because, according to him, the VP has allegedly committed many sins.

He also said that Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, may lose control of Lagos State because people are investigating and seeking his downfall.

“Thus says the Lord, People should pray for Osinbajo because he has committed many mistakes and sins that are not hidden from the Lord.,” he said in a series of prophecies he forwarded to newsmen on Saturday.

The cleric went on to claim that some people of Yoruba descent, who he described as saboteurs, connived with some individuals from the North to impeach the Vice President in order to destroy his political career.

“Thus says the Lord of hosts: Some Yoruba saboteurs who connived with Hausa because of their selfish interests and corrupt attitudes, intend to impeach Osinbajo in order to ruin his political career.”

Okikijesu said that God’s judgement will come upon former Presidents and Governors who are causing chaos in the country as from April 2021:

“Those who put Nigeria in pitch darkness will be punished and disgraced, says the Lord God of hosts,” he warned.

“Thus says the Lord: Bola Tinubu may lose the control of Lagos. People are investigating and seeking the downfall of Tinubu.

“Thus says the Lord: People are currently investigating him, and they are seeking his downfall. The people that are jointly controlling the government together said, ‘Instead of him climbing the ladder, we will pull him down from the ladder.”

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Teni drops her latest album ‘Wonderland’ says it’s a testament of dedication

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Teniola Apata, better known as Teni has released her long-awaited album ‘Wonderland’.

The album ‘Wonderland’ was released on Friday, March 19, 2021, as a testament to the dedication and an attempt to reach new heights.

The 17-track album was released follows his recent collaboration with Nigerian superstar, Davido on the single ‘For You’ which has gained international success and currently the number song in Nigeria.

The album ‘Wonderland’ was made across London, New York, Dubai, Orlando, Ondo, Lagos, and Abuja in two years.

The album was an expansion project created to reach out to different audiences as it was released to stir up emotions within the old and young people.

According to Teni in her statement said, “I want to see old and young people shed tear laugh, dance, relate and themselves in the songs and the videos to come.”

Teni who is well known for her blend of Afrobeat, pop, and R&B opens the album with an idyllic track ‘Maja’ that narrates the story of her life followed by her recent single with Davido ‘For You’ which had trading pitch-perfect vocals.

The album ‘Wonderland’ is currently available on all streaming platforms worldwide.

Listen to the album:

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Onnoghen finally revealed why he was sacked as CJN

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN) Walter Onnoghen, has revealed reasons why President Muhammadu Buhari removed him unceremoniously from office in 2019.

According to Onnoghen, he was removed from office as a result of rumors that he had a meeting in preparation for the 2019 general elections with former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

Onnoghen said, he never traveled to Dubai or held any meeting with anybody including Atiku, even as the rumor spread fast, he decided not to react.

The former CJN made this disclosure while speaking in Abuja at a book lunch titled ‘Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009, Practice Procedure, Forms and Precedents, a book authored by Chief Ogwu James Onoja, a renowned legal luminary.

The former CJN maintains that the Federal Government unlawfully come after him and his office despite having all the machinery to investigate the allegation but they never did.

Onnoghen stress that his trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal was arranged when the situation got to the peak even when he had not been invited or accused of any wrongdoing, stating that, “Democracy will be dead in Nigeria without a courageous judge.”

Onnoghen maintains that the period of his ordeal was the darkest era in the history of the Nigerian judiciary.

He also maintains that Judicial officers must be courageous not to be discouraged by what happened to them in the hand of the Executive arm of the government.

He said, emerging Nigerian judges should not go in the direction of injustice because, without courageous judges and justices, Nigeria is doom.

He said during his tenure as the CJN, the problem of Nigeria was not the Nigerian judiciary, but those who had no regard for the rule of law, adding that, we must therefore be committed to the rule of law and dispense justice without fear or favor.

He said, “Truth stands, crush it, it will stand because it is truth”

He went further to warn against politicizing the appointment of the judicial officers, stating that, “The appointment of judicial officers must never be allowed to be politicized otherwise, democracy and democratic governance will be dead.”

Onnoghen said before his suspension, he was never confronted with any allegation. He said, “There were rumors that I met with Atiku in Dubai, as I am talking with you today, I have never met Atiku one on one in my life. He added as if that was not enough, they said, I was also setting free high-profile criminals, whereas I seize to be a High court judge as far back as 1978.”

Onnoghen said in all these rumors and accusations, he was never allowed to defend himself stating that, “In the Supreme Court, they sit in panels.”

He said, “Let me make it clear that the office of the CJN was not for Onnoghen but for all Nigerians who had sworn to guide and protect the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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Fans blast Dorathy, Prince after they unfollowed each other

Rumour has it recently that BBNaija lockdown housemates, Dorathy Bachor and Prince Enwerem’s just unfollowed each other on social media on Thursday, March 18, 2021.

The incident happened two weeks after both were spotted in a video they shared online while having a good time during their trip to Kenya.

Remember Dorathy and Prince are considered to be best of friends both inside and outside of the BBNaija lockdown house, before lately they unfollowed each other which has since caused arguments.

In a post that was seen by goldennationblog.com, a lot of social media users has tendered their reactions towards the two reality star who just unfollowed each other on Instagram.

According to a post shared by @Sabiradio, Dorathy and Prince’s Instagram page were screenshots as evidence of how they both unfollowed each other.

In the post, @Sabiradio caption, “Ooouuu!! Besties, Prince, and Dorathy of BbNaija just unfollowed each other on Instagram.”

In the post, @Sabiradio went further to add to the caption asking, “Everything okay there y’all?”

However, a user on Instagram with the username @magnificent26 responded to the post in a brief, saying, “Pant has shifted, the scales are off, the forbidden fruit has been ravaged, the church has closed, everyone goes home.

After her comment, a lot of Instagram users have also taken to the comment section to respond to the post base on their perception.

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Gunmen attack security officers, burn security Van, kill two officers

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The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the death of a policeman who lost his life during a gun battle with some unknown gunmen.

A source told goldennationblog.com that some unknown gunmen on Thursday, March 18, 2021, at about 4:30 pm attacked police checkpoints at different locations killing some officers.

It was gathered that the unknown gunmen attacked a checkpoint at Okacha junction, Neni in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing two police officers while another soldier at Awkuzu in Oyi Local Government Area was also shot dead.

The source further revealed how a police Van was set ablaze at Neni and the gunmen carted away with their arms just as they did to the arms belonging to the soldier.

However, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attack in a statement to newsmen.

According to the Police spokesperson, there was an attack on a police patrol team at Okocha junction Neni, Anaocha LGA by yet to be identified gunmen while on nipping point on 18/3/2021 at about 4:30 pm.

The statement further stressed that the gunmen numbering over twenty with three Sienna buses and motorcycles engage the police in a gun-dual which lasted for over 30mins before reinforcement from the State headquarters.

The statement also added, “As a result, two police operatives sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to the hospital for medical attention where one was confirmed dead by a medical doctor.

The statement also revealed how the Commissioner of Police, CP MB Kuryas, visited the scene for assessment.

The CP also maintained that the investigation is ongoing and effort is underscored to unfold the perpetrators of this heinous act and bring them to book.

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Davido dished out some facts about his controversy with Wizkid

Popular Nigerian singer and DMW boss, Davido has given some explanations about his controversies with fellow singer Wizkid.

According to the singer during an Ionwannatalk podcast, share some statements regarding his controversy with Wizkid recently.

The singer during the podcast hinted amongst others that the fans played a big role in his controversies with Wizkid, stating that, they were using their lives for their entertainment.

The singer also narrated how the fans have formed different folks regarding the issues stating that the issues are no longer about the artists but the fans.

Davido went further to indicate how his crew members also play in the role between his controversy with Wizkid, which prompted him to say that, “If he and Wizkid were to sit down and discuss their differences, it wouldn’t be surprising that they did not have more than two or three problems with each other.”

During the podcast, Davido was also asked to share his thoughts if they will both collaborate but Davido disclosed that he and Wizkid use to be good friends but, surprisingly, they had never done a song together for the past 10 years. Adding that maybe is because they were not in the same place mentally.

Davido while maintaining his statements also said, “some people feel his controversies with Wizkid made them bigger while others are on the opinion that coming together will make them bigger.

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Tiwa Savage found love, got pregnant by Davido’s crew member

There are reactions on social media recently over a relationship and pregnancy accusation between popular Nigerian singer, Tiwa Savage and Davido’s crew member known as Obama DMW.

The accusations come after Tiwa Savage, left a message on Obama’s social media page praising his talent and Obama responded to her post calling her “Babe”.

According to the social media reactions, Tiwa Savage has been warming the bed of Obama DMW since she found love in him.

A post made by an Instagram blogger, Thetettleroomn, on Thursday, March 18, 2021, confirmed that both are in a serious relationship but they are keeping it on a low.

Thetettleroonng in his post, went further to alleged that Tiwa Savage is pregnant for Obama DMW even as both lovers try to keep it from the public eyes to avoid public scrutiny.

It was gathered that Obama DMW truly loves and respects Tiwa but he has never missed an opportunity to inform his followers that they are in together.

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“Atiku defeated Buhari in 2019 election, we have evidence” – Gov Bala Mohammed opens up

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has said there is evidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defeated President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the 2019 presidential election.

Recall that APC candidate for the presidential election and incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Buhari defeated his closest challenger and former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

The opposition headed to the court after the polls and challenged the results from the tribunal up to the Supreme Court, but could not upturn the victory of Buhari.

Bala Mohammed, who was a guest on” Channels Television’s Politics Today”, on Thursday, alleged that fraud on the part of either the electoral umpire or security operatives election.

The Governor said that Nigerians are not unaware of what happened during the last general elections, adding that the PDP has learnt its lessons.

“The general impression within the party and within the country is that we actually won the election and that we lost to a lot of fraud, to a lot of manipulations that were perpetrated by either the electoral umpire or by the security operatives.

“We do not want to be the whipping boys, we have looked inward to see what prevented us from winning the election. We have a lot of evidence, which we tendered but was not accepted.

“The issue now is that we know we are all Nigerians. We know the nook and cranny of Nigeria. We know what happened in 2019,” he said.

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See what 2baba said about Burna Boy 3 days after winning Grammy

After three days and a series of wishes from different celebrities around the globe, Nigerian legendary singer, Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2baba, has decided to throw a congratulatory message to celebrate Burna Boy after winning the Grammy award.

2baba while congratulating him, took to his Instagram page on March 18, 2021, to share a picture of the Grammy award.

In the post he shared, he also captioned it with a statement stating that “It was all a dream, now it’s reality @Burna Boy

According to the legendary singer, history had been made because what was once a dream for Nigerians has become a reality.

Recall on March 14, 2021, Nigerian superstar, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy won his first-ever Grammy.

See post:

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Commercial bus drivers attack LASTMA officials, killed one

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An officer of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Obasu Godwin, had been killed by commercial bus drivers within the axis of Bariga to the Oshodi area of Lagos State.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Thursday after when the officer and his colleague were already in mufti on their way going home after being completed their morning shift and closed for the day.

It was gathered that the officer, Obasu Segun Godwin, and Adeniyi Hakeem were attacked with machetes and other dangerous weapons by the drivers of the commercial buses.

According to the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olajide Oduyoye, while condemning the alleged murder, describes it as “senseless and unwarranted.”

Describing the incident, Mr. Oduyoye hinted that another officer, Adeniyi Hakeem, was assaulted by the operator of a Suzuki commercial bus otherwise known as ‘korope’s, and others at Anthony area of Lagos State.

Mr. Oduyoye said, “Obasu Segun Godwin and Adeniyi Hakeem were attacked with machetes and other dangerous weapons by the driver of a commercial bus with registration number FKJ 452 YC after his vehicle was apprehended for contravening the Traffic Law of the State along Bariga to Oshodi via the Ikorodu Road axis in companion with some other drivers.

Mr. Oduyoye in his words while describing the incident stated that “The sad fact about the whole saga was that the two officers were in mufti and on their way home, having completed their morning shift and closed for the day before the recalcitrant commercial bus drivers went berserk, seeking any LASTMA officers to attack for carrying out their statutory duties.

Mr. Oduyoye also hinted that “Obasu was struck severally with machetes resulting in deep injuries on the head and he eventually died, while Adeniyi Hakeem, who was also attacked similarly has been hospitalized and in a coma.”

Mr. Oduyoye went further to alleged that, some senior officers, who were in mufti around the area were also lucky to escape the mob attack. He added that seven of the culprits have been caught and handed over to the police while the driver of the bus and others are still at large.

The General Manager warned “all cultists doubling as commercial bus drivers that any traffic violation or infraction shall be punished or penalized as enacted by the Lagos State House of Assembly”

However, the LASTMA Director of Operations, Mr. Bolaji Oreagba in a statement by LASTMA Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Filade Olumide maintain that “the sad event could have been averted” while also adding that, the incident would not deter the agency from carrying out its functions and duties as laid down by the Law of the State.

According to the statement, Oreagba promised to ensure that the injured officer, who is still in a coma at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, is well taken care of.

Oreagba while lamenting also commiserate with the family of the deceased officer stating that “the state and the agency have lost too many good law enforcement officers to these lawless and recalcitrant motorists and this has to stop.

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See why Gov. Wike tackles FG for politicizing insecurity

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has accused the Federal Government to stop the politicization of insecurity in the country.

In a statement that was made available to newsmen on Thursday, March 18, 2021, his special assistant on media, Kelvin Ebiri maintains how Wike said politicizing insecurity has led the states into an unimaginable scale of banditry that will not end soon.

Gov. Wike, while stressing further recalls the experience he had in Rivers State about insecurity in 2015 when he runs to the FG, he maintains that, instead of the support that was to be given to him, the FG dismissed its plea out of hatred and desire to see the state been ungovernable.

The governor further maintains that “They didn’t send special forces to Rivers as they did to other states at the moment.

He continued, “They didn’t support me because they didn’t want the state to be governed.

Wike stressed that “Banditry will never end since they’ve politicized the issue of security. He added, I told them not to politicize the issues of security.

He also added, “They’re paying the price. Whatever you sow, you will reap. If you sow peace, you’ll reap peace, if you sow trouble, trouble will always be with you.”

Wike went further to blame the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff while insisting that, it is difficult to fight crime in situations when cultists are arrested, people go to Abuja to explain and bargain just to secure their release of the law.

While speaking further, Wike emaciated how $1 billion was allegedly diverted, the money meant for the procurement of weapons can’t be unaccounted for after it was successfully withdrawn from the Excess Crude Account. He said it is a shameful practice under the watch of a government that claims that they are fighting corruption.

Wike in his words said, “Now, the National Security Adviser claimed they misquoted him. I tell you, nobody is misquoting anything, we are aware that there was no weapon.

He also said, “The National Security Adviser says the $1 billion they took from our Excess Crude Account even without paying our 1 percent derivation is gone. According to him, they said they’ve not seen the weapons.

Wike also went further to say that, “Even the Chief of Army Staff said he didn’t collect money. So where did the money go?

He continued, even the press is not talking about it, even when they knew that the government said they are fighting corruption.

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Warri refinery under investigation over diversion of crude oil

The House of Representatives during a plenary on Wednesday, has decided to investigate issues affecting oil production at the Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

The House through frequent shutting down of the refinery has mandated its Committee on Petroleum to conduct an investigative hearing on the failure and refusal of the NNPC to address the haulage challenges affecting the Warri Refinery.

The directives were made after a motion was moved by Ben Igbakpa, a member of the House from Delta State who hinted that the Warri refinery and Petrochemical Company is mandated to produce refined products from local crude.

According to Igbakpa, the plants were operating at an output of around 115m3/hour, which translates to about 68 percent installed capacity.

Igbakpa also hinted at how crude oil that was hoarded for 14 days after delivery by ESCRAVOS tank farm for refining
were diverted through the refinery jetty to interested buyers who pay less or to specific companies they have special interests in.

The lawmaker went further to alleged that the economic sabotage was a result of the plant that was brought down when there was no crude to refine as it has been diverted.

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Omah Lay teamed up with Ghanaian artiste in new song

Popular Nigerian superstar Omah Lay and Ghanaian female artiste, Gyakie have teamed up on a remix song title Forever.

According to a post that was shared on Twitter and was seen by goldennationblog.com, Gyakie on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, tagged Omah Lay with a statement to catch the attention of his fans while promoting the link to the song.

In her post, it was revealed that the song will be dropping on Friday.

The singer wrote with a smiling emoji saying, “Hi, I’m so excited to share the remix to FOREVER which features Nigerian superstar @Omah Lay, this Friday!

While promoting the release of the remix song, the female artiste visited Nigeria for her first time to undertake a media tour.

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Lawmakers ask FG to halt sales of explosive device

The committee on Mines and Steel Development in the Federal House of Assembly has asked the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (retd.), and Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Olamilekan Adegbite, to stop issuing permits to sell explosive devices to oil companies operating in Nigeria.

The directives to revoke all permission were rised by the Committee Chairman, Michael Okon after an investigative hearing on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, he faulted the circumstances that surround the licensing and sales of explosive devices by chief executives of some oil servicing companies

Okoh alleged the hearing is based on the general compliance with the Explosives Act 2013 regarding how companies were permitted and licensed to sell explosive devices to end-users.

Okon and members of the committee, after taking the memoranda submitted by three companies namely AOS Orwell Limited, Halliburton Limited, and Enver Nigeria Limited, accused them of flouting the permission on their sale of explosives.

The lawmaker stated the need for individuals and corporate entities to comply with the use of explosives devices by the provisions of the law.

Representatives of the firms who were interrogated by the committee, however, insisted that they complied with the provisions of the law on the sale and usage of explosives.

It was gathered that the Managing Director of AOS Orwell, Mr. Femi Omotosho, said his company is careful in handling explosives, stating that, the majority of the company’s operations are onshore.

He further submitted the list of end-users of the explosives to the committee.

However, Okon consequently asked the secretariat to write to the other companies that failed to appear before the committee to appear unfailingly within one week after which they would be summoned to appear.

Okon asked the clerk to the committee to convey the resolution of the lawmakers on the matter to the relevant agencies via letters.

Some of the companies include; Hughes Limited, Drilling Technologies Limited, Geoplex Drilling Limited, Sterling Oil Exploration, Energy Production Company Limited, and Slarabare Oil Ltd.

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Tension in Ketu as 3 rival cult groups clashes

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The Lagos State Police Command has paraded 15 cult members in the Ikosi/Ketu area of Lagos State after a fracas that occurred between three cult groups.

A statement released by the spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, Muyiwa Adejobi, alleged that the incident occurred on Wednesday at 6 a.m March 17, 2021, when some members of the Eye, Aiye, and Buccaneer confraternity engage in a gun battle over who should collect revenue at the Ketu fruit market.

The incident that occurred allegedly halted all economic activities in the market and it was alleged that it took the intervention of the Lagos State Commissioner of police who deployed Rapid Response Squad to restore the situation.

In the statement, it read, “The Lagos State Police Command has restored normalcy to the Ikosi/Ketu area of Lagos State after a clash that occurred today Wednesday 17th March 2021 at 6 am amongst some suspected cult groups, Eye, Aiye, and Buccaneer, as fifteen (15) suspects were arrested. Two (2) locally made pistols, some live cartridges, assorted charms, etc were recovered from the suspects

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Hakeem Odumosu, who had deployed policemen including the Rapid Response Squad and Taskforce to the area to quench the crisis and restore normalcy to the area, has ordered that the suspects be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba for discreet Investigation.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the crisis was connected to the revenue generation at the Ketu fruits market, and efforts are in top gear to apprehend other fleeing members of the gangs that orchestrated a crisis in the area.

“The Commissioner of Police has however reiterated the command’s commitment to fighting crimes and criminality, especially cultism, in the state. He stated that the command will harness all legitimate means to suppress cultists’ activities in the state.”

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See what Drake revealed about Bow Wow after topping chart with his latest songs

Popular Canadian rapper, Drake just earned a historic Billboard Hot 100 debut after topping the chart with its three latest songs in his ‘Scary Hours 2’ EP he released recently featuring Lil Baby and Rick Ross.

In the quest of the celebration, Drake decides to host a 1-2-3 themed party to thank his inspiration featuring the top 10 from the chart and other notable guests which among them was Bow Wow, who appears in different Instagram stories with him recently.

The rapper shared a series of videos on his Instagram stories where he detailed the relationship between him and Bow Wow and what it meant to him.

In one of the clips he shared, Drake was seen showing gratitude to Bow Wow as he interjected with congratulations.

He said, “I had to link with Wizzle. Everybody wants to have drinks and everybody wants to celebrate and turn up and you know, I just had to see Wizzle. I had to see Wizzle in person as he said of Bow Wow.

He added, “If it wasn’t for you, there wouldn’t be no me. That’s why – you know the rest, that’s why I’m rock with y’all forevermore.”

However, Drake is set to release his highly anticipated album ‘Certified Lover Boy’ this year, and judging from the success of Scary Hours 2, it’s going to make a big splash when it finally arrives.

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Emanuella wins Favorite African Social Media Star award

Popular Nigerian social media comedienne, Emanuella Samual, better known as Emanuella has won the Favorite African Social Media Star category of Nickelodeon Kid Choice Awards 2021.

Emanuella won the award over five other nominees including Ikorodu Bois, Uganda Youth Dance Group; Ghetto Kids, South Africa Magician; Wian Van Den Berg, Kenyan social media sensation; Elsa Majimbo, and South Africa media personality, Bonang Matheba.

The comedian after winning the award through public voting, took to her Instagram page on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, to show gratitude to her fans.

In her words, she wrote: “Congratulations to me as I won the Favorite African Social Media Star category at the Nickelodeon’s Kids Choice Awards 2021. I am so happy to be a winner, thank you! To all my fans out there, I say thank you. To all those who voted for me, I love you so much, this win would not have been possible without you.

The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, is an annual American children’s awards ceremony that is been produced by Nickelodeon and it is also known as KCAs.

The Awards was hosted by Kenan Thompson (Kenan Saturday Night Live) and it’s recognized as the biggest and most entertaining stars across the world of film, television, music, sports, video games, and social media.

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Governor Wike attacks CBN over agriculture development loans to States

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has alleged that the Central Bank of Nigeria is playing politics with its agriculture development loans to states.

He disclosed this while hosting the Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development Mustapha Shehuri on Monday March 15.

The governor who revealed how the apex bank denied his state of the loan, stated that it is wrong to play politics with a scheme that will enhance food security, create jobs and promote youth empowerment.

He said;

“We are among the states being denied access to loans meant for agriculture development.

“It is wrong to play politics with certain issues, we should be dispassionate in implementing this kind of program

“This is a scheme that will enhance food security, create jobs and promote youth empowerment.

“In an atmosphere devoid of politics, we should be working together, we need to benefit from this loan.”

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Tension as gunmen kidnap Catholic Priest in Delta

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A Catholic Priest identifies as Rev. Fr. Harrison of St. John’s Catholic Church Obinomba in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen.

The incident happened around 8 p.m on Monday, March 15, 2021, Along Oria-Abraka road in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State.

Rev. Fr. Harrison was kidnapped from his Highlander jeep while trying to drive out from a bad spot along the Oria-Abraka road on his way returning to Warri.

According to a report that was seen by goldennationblog.com, the kidnappers were said to be shooting sporadically into the air to scare passersby away before kidnapping the priest, leaving his car at the scene of the incident.

It was gathered that the Policemen from the Abraka Division who came for the rescue mission were there strategizing the situation of the rescue but a member of the local vigilante group said that they heard gunshots, but there was no way they could combat with their ‘shoot and run’ guns.

The vigilante said, “It looked like they came to fight a war.”

“We have so far picked about 15 shells which are bullets from their AK-47 gun.”

However, the acting spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, DSP Edafe Bright, could not be reached at the time of filing this report.

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Police uncover baby factory, releases four young pregnant girls in Anambra (photo)

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The Anambra State Police Command has uncovered a baby factory operated in the Otolo Nnewi area of the state.

A statement released by Mohammed Haruna, spokesperson of the state police command, states that the baby factory which is operated as a brothel was uncovered during an investigation into the recent attempted kidnapping of a four-year-old boy.

It was gathered earlier that on March 11, there was a report at the Area Command Headquarters, Nnewi, that a four-year-old child of St Joseph’s School, Otolo Nnewi, was returning home from school in the company of his siblings when two men on a motorcycle grabbed the child and zoomed off with him. However, the child was rescued by some commercial motorcyclists who pursued and eventually arrested the suspects at Akamili Community, Nnewi.

Haruna said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects who were beaten to stupor by an angry mob (one has been confirmed dead), were sent by One Gladys Nworie Ikegwuonu, presently at large, who operated the baby factory and a brothel where she keeps young girls and gets them impregnated after which she sells the children to her waiting customers.

The police spokesperson gave the names of the two suspects arrested as Abuchi Ani, ‘M’, aged 32 years, of Ohazora, Ebonyi State, and Emeka Ikegwuonu, ‘M’, 49 years, of Akabukwu, Nnewi, Anambra State. He also gave the identities of the four pregnant young girls as

(i). Chisom Okoye, ‘f’, 20 years, of Mgbaneze Isu, Onicha LGA, Ebonyi State

(ii). Chinecherem Clement, ‘f’, 18 years, of Agbaebo Isu of Onicha LGA, Ebonyi State.

(iii). Blessing Ogbonna, ‘f’, 21 years, of Nkwagu Isu of Onicha LGA, Ebonyi State.

(iv). Blessing Njoku, ‘f’, 21 years, of Mgbaneze Isu of Onicha LGA, Ebonyi State, all residing at Cool Joint bar Nnewi.

Haruna added that the command is intensifying efforts to arrest the principal suspect to bring her and other accomplices to justice.

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Pete Edochie tells women how to handle their cheating husbands

Veteran actor, Pete Edochie, has advised women who have cheating husbands to form the habit of placing condoms in their bags before they go out.

He disclosed this known in a video posted on his Instagram account, where he said a cheating man who sees a condom his wife placed in his bag, will know she has his interest at heart and equally has a rethink whenever he wants to go astray.

The actor further urged Nigerian women to be creative in their marriages and stop emulating white women who divorce and remarry.

“A lot of women run out of their husband’s houses with the excuse that they are being cheated on.

“ I hope we all remember that Solomon had 1000 wives and 700 concubines so if a cheating husband decides to take many more wives, what will the wife do? Nothing! Absolutely nothing!

“My advice to women is this if you think your husband leaves the house and says he is going on a tour and he is going to have an affair outside, put a packet of condom in his bag.

“When he sees it, psychologically, he is going to think his wife has his interest at heart and this can automatically change his intention of doing anything on the contrary. He will immediately pull himself together.

“The problem is that our women keep emulating white women who keep on divorcing and remarrying. It doesn’t suit us. It doesn’t go down well with us. Our women ought to be creative,” he said.

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See what Skales did to his girlfriend on her birthday

Popular Nigerian musician, Raoul John Njenga-Njeng, better known by his stage name as Skales, has finally proposed to his girlfriend on her birthday.

The singer took to social media to reveal this on Sunday, March 14, 2021.

The singer while sharing a video on his Instagram page hinted that he was feeling nervous during the engagement while also recall the last time he had such feelings was his first time on stage.

In his words, he wrote: “The last time I felt this nervous was my first time on stage, Badman finally got loving, she said YES y’all.

However, the engagement was witnessed by both friends of the singer along with his fiancee.

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After nine-year: Agoloma community get new Amananaowei

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Agoloma Federated Community has thrown into the mood of jubilation as they officially coronated Retired AirForce Staff, High Chief Palmer Andrew Benaebi as the new Amananaowei.

It was recalled that after the sudden death of Late King Alexander Atie, the then Pere of the Kumbowei Kingdom about nine years ago in 2013, the community had been hunting for someone to be coronated as Amananaowei to pilot the affairs of the community for the betterment of all.

The Pere of Kumbowei Kingdom and member of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council His Royal Majesty Jackson Foubriowei Angalabiri (Egbain II) described the newly crowned Amananaowei of Agoloma Federated Community as a distinguished fellow, dogged, and astute leader and problem solver.

He said the community has begun a new regime with the hope of witnessing a tangible change and prosperity in all spheres, expressing confidence that the new Amananaowei will bring about the desired change and development the people of the community were yearning for over the years.

Describing Agoloma as a peace-loving community, he advised the people to work with the newly coronated Amananaowei to achieve the needed peace and addressing some of the loopholes observed that hindering the development of the community.

King Jackson said the coronation of High Chief Palmer Andrew Benaebi as Amananaowei in the community is a long-awaited dream come through adding that he is ordained by God Almighty.

He pledged to work with the Amananaowei in all ramifications in actualizing his set out goals and objectives on his reign on the throne.

Dr. Jackson prayed that no evil will survive around the newly coronated Amananaowei and Agoloma community.

It is historic to note that Late High Chief Asigo Ebizimor was the first appointed Amananaowei and succeeded by Late Pere of Kumbowei Kingdom, King Alexander Atie. Chief Ebizimor died in 2019 after a brief illness, while King Alexander Atie kicked the bucket in 2012.

The newly coronated Amananaowei of Agoloma Federated Community was born on the 10th of October, 1953 to the family of Benaebi in Krobarizi Quarters of Agoloma town, Patani local government area of Delta state.

High Chief Palmer Andrew Benaebi had his elementary education at the prestigious Ogidi Primary School where he obtained his first school leaving certificate in 1965. He later attended Government College in the present day Bomadi where he also obtained his compulsory West African Secondary School Certificate in 1972 with flying colors to the admiration of many at his tender age as a young and promising man.

After concluding his secondary education, High Chief Palmer Andrew Benaebi Akwasa II, Amananaowei of Agoloma federated community was enlisted into the Nigerian Airforce and went for a strategic training in the Airforce Training School Makurdi, Benue State, and also went for further training at the Nigeria Army Medical School, Ojo, Lagos state from 1980-1982, where he obtained a National Diploma in Store Keeping Management Services which was rare at the time.

The Amananaowei diligently served the Nigerian Airforce between 1974-1994 meticulously in various administrative and management capacities across the Airforce formations most especially Lagos State, Nigeria. He also briefly served the Ministry of Defence Lagos State during his active years of service.

Upon his retirement as gallant Airforce officer and tutor, the Amananaowei later employed to render his unflinching services to the Nigeria German Chemicals Plc, Sango Ota as a Chief Security Officer from 1995-2014.

It is heartwarming to note that on the zeal to expand the knowledge base, the Amananaowei of Agoloma Federated Community was briefly worked as a tutor with the Local Authority School in Bulu-Orua town in the present-day Sagbama local government area of Bayelsa State from 1973-1974 — that was exactly when Sagbama local government was created.

He is a passionate lover of music, sports and excellent in the word of God, which is the relying point of many Christians and lovers of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Even as a strong believer of the gospel, the Amananaowei High Chief Palmer Andrew Benaebi do not undermine or underestimate the highly valued customs and traditions of the Ijaw nation which gave him the edge to be coronated in the foremost and prestigious position in the Agoloma federated community, who will be henceforth the chief custodian of the custom and tradition most especially ensuring peaceful coexistence among the inhabitants without fear, favor or bias irrespective of the socio-economic and political status of the people.

He is happily married to his loving and caring wife, Mrs. Royal Benaebi with children and grandchildren.

The epoch-making event was marked with the crowning of the Amananaowei-Elect by the eldest chief of Agolomaowei Council of Chiefs, High Chief Amos Yereyere. While the presentation of staff of office was officially carried out by the Ebenanaoweii of Kumbowei Kingdom, Delta State, His Royal Majesty Jackson Foubriowei Angalabiri (Egbain II) also marks the climax of the ceremony.

As an ordained Amananaowei of Agoloma Federated Community, the anointing and consecration to the newly elected Amananaowei were ceremoniously carried out by Eminent Men of God led by Venerable Emmanuel Ugochukwu Nwaogazi and Venerable Churchill Enoya, and a host of others.

The historic event was featured with cultural dance, novelty football match, and appreciation dance which was led by the Amananaowei-elect and accompanied by the Council of Chiefs which signifies the beginning of a new era after nine years.

It observed that the ceremony was witnessed with the conferment of chieftaincy titles to outstanding and deserving sons and daughters of Agoloma Federated Community who have distinguished themselves in their chosen careers in life, whose contributions will be enormous towards the development of the community, and by extension the kingdom in particular.

It is pertinent to note that the coronation ceremony coincided with the Community’s annual festival which is ever celebrated every March, and boat reggae was displayed in the all-important occasion which attracted all and sundry within and outside Delta State.

Dignitaries that graced the historic occasion were the Delta State Commissioner of Power and Energy and former Deputy Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barr. Basil Ganagana, former commissioner of Local Government Service Commission, Bayelsa State High Chief Ombu Akubokapoj, former Patani local government chairman, High Chief Barr. Perez Omourn.

Another was the former vice-chairman of Patani local government council, High Chief (Dr.) Ebimobowei Ekpobetebe (JP), Executive Chairman of Patani Local Government Area, Isaac Aguana, royal fathers were from Sagbama federated community, and his counter Tungbabiri autonomous community, and the host. of others.

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See how Atiku Abubakar, Shehu Sani, reacted to Burna Boy, Wizkid’s Grammy Awards

Popular Nigerian singers, Burna Boy and Wizkid have been celebrated on social media by many Nigerians including former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku took to his Twitter account to congratulate them on their Grammy award wins. In two separate tweets, Atiku wrote: “Congrats @BurnaBoy! #Grammys. I am delighted and proud as a Nigerian at Wizkid’s Grammy win. Wizkid is the epitome of the talent that abounds in Nigeria. Congrats @wizkidayo.”

See post below :
https://twitter.com/atiku/status/1371208782710202369?s=19

On his part, former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani pointed out the significance of Nigerians winning the Grammy awards. Sani who express how proud he was of them stated that the Grammy wins have formally launched Nigerian-born artists on the advanced global stage.

Goldennationblog.com recalls that on March 14, 2021, Nigerian music stars, Burna Boy and Wizkid, won their first-ever Grammy Awards, and their colleague, Davido eventually reacted to the news.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian social media space was buzzing with excitement after the wins were announced and it came as no surprise that many people were awaiting a reaction from DMW boss, Davido.

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Why I recommended Bawa as EFCC chairman, AGF Abubakar Malami reveals

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami has explained why he recommended Abdulrasheed Bawa for the chairmanship of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Malami who debunked claims of singlehandedly picking Bawa to be the chairman of the EFCC in an interview with newsmen said four names were submitted to the president for consideration and Bawa was subsequently picked.

The AGF noted that Bawa “has held various authorities, inclusive of serving in various divisions as the head of operations, including Port Harcourt, Lagos, and Ibadan which are adjudged to be the high point”.

He also denied being related to the EFCC Chairman and further debunked allegations of Bawa’s appointment subverting some of the functions of the commission.

Malami said;

“I am happy that most of the comments made are not on his capacity, intelligence, competence, and associated ability to deliver. His capacity to deliver was never questioned across the nation.

“The question is whether justice has been served, whether public interest has been served having the chairman appointed with a particular regard to his capacity and ability to deliver.

“My answer is yes. He has the capacity, ability, and institutional history of the institution to do justice by way of bringing about added value.”

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Burna Boy latest album ‘Twice As Tall’ wins Grammy Award

Nigerian superstar, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has won the Best Global Music Album with his ‘Twice As Tall’ album at the 63rd Grammy Award.

Burna Boy won the award over four other nominees including Antibalas (FU Chronicles), Bebel Gilberto (Agora), Anoushka Shankar (Love Letters), and Tinariwen (Amadjar).

The award win marks Burna
Boy’s first Grammy Awards after being nominated and losing to Angelique Kidjo for the 2020 edition of the Grammy.

Burna Boy happened to be the first winner of this category after its name was recently changed by the Recording Academy in November as it was formerly known as Best World Music Album.

The Grammys nomination however described ‘Twice As Tall’ album as a masterclass in its vibes as its hustle has made Burna Boy an international musical force

The album ‘Twice As Tall’ which had Sean Combs as an executive producer also features a wide spectrum of international artists including Stormzy, Youssou Ndour, Naughty By Nature, and Chris Martin of Coldplay.

Watch video:

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Governor Ortom says no more amnesty for criminals, gives reason

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has stated that his government will no longer grant amnesty to criminals unless they come back and beg for forgiveness.

He disclosed this on Saturday, March 13 while speaking at the burial ceremony of Terkura, elder brother to former Governor of the State Gabriel Suswam, who was killed alongside his aide on March 2.

Ortom also expressed fears of insecurity affecting the state’s economy if left unchecked. He said;

“There is no more amnesty, no more negotiation with them (criminals), except they come back like the prodigal son and plead for forgiveness.

“You can see in Anyiin alone, we have Ashi Polytechnic, Ashi international market, a microfinance bank, and a rice mill. These are the things that we are using to woo investors to come and do business in the state because the government does not have the resources to do it alone.

“The late Suswam saw it, but unfortunately, he met his death right here in Anyiin, struggling to work and add value to the economic development of the community.

“From intelligence reports, some members of the community are supporting these criminals, which makes it difficult for security men.

“I want to assure youths in the state, not only in Sankera, that we are going to go after these criminals and by the grace of God, we will get them.’’

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Placing Delta state on the world map – NIPR Delta

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The Vice-chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Delta State chapter, Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, has acknowledged the need to place Delta state on the world map through the tourism industry.

Mr Osakwe hinted that amongst other industries, the tourism industry, if exploited adequately and not excessively will help propell the state further in the world map.

The Vice Chairman made these statements while taking a facility tour at Park Vegas Water Park, Ewuru of Agbor , Delta State alongside the Financial Secretary, Isaac Ogerugba; Treasurer, Florence Nwabuonwu; Welfare Officer, Ese Obote-Ogwu, and Esther Obisie as an active member of the great and distinguished Delta state chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.


During the tour, Mr. Osakwe commended the visionary of the project, stating that, it will enhance the tourism potential of the state, as well as place Delta State on the world map.

While acknowledging “the need to positively engage the mind to help improve the overall well being of an individual while also reducing and maintaining stress through relaxation.” the Vice Chairman also called on relevant stakeholders in the private and public sectors to partner and patronize the Park Vegas Water Park in Agbor.

Just before the end of the tour, Mr Osakwe while expressing his heart felt gratitude to the management for their warm reception during the tour, pledged the support of the Delta state chapter of the institute where and when it relates to awareness creation and strategic engagement.

During the tour, Mr. Anthony Ogadi, the Park Supervisor, showed the members of NIPR Delta state Chapter different segments of the Park which included a Wave Pool, Space Hole, Free Fall, Black Hole, and Aqua Tower splash.

Speaking For the management, was the Human Resource Manager of Park Vegas, Mrs. Joy Esho Shaba, who while expressing gratitude to members of NIPR Delta State Chapter, for honoring their invitation, also hinted that, they are members of the International Association of Amusement Park and Attraction (IAAPA) and also World Water Park Association (WWPA) stressed that the mission of the Park is to be “Number one in West Africa”.

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NIPRs visit Park Vega Water Park Ewuru (Photos)

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Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, the vice-chairman of Nigerian Public Relations (NIPR), has acknowledged the need to positively engage the mind to help improve the overall well being of an individual while also reducing and maintaining stress through relaxation.

Mr. Osakwe made this affirmation with members of the Executive Committee (EXCO) of Delta State Chapter of NIPR during an invitation to Park Vegas Water Park, Ewuru Agbor, Delta State.

Mr. Osakwe during the tour, commended the visionary of the project, stating that, it will enhance the tourism potential of the state, adding that, it will as well place Delta State on the world map, while also called on relevant stakeholders in the private and public sectors to partner and patronize the establishment.

The vice-chairman went further to expressed gratitude to the management for their warm reception during the tour while also pledge the support of the institution in the areas of awareness creation and strategic engagement.

Responding, the Human Resources Manager of Park Vegas, Mrs. Joy Esho Shaba, stated that the mission of the Park is to be number one in West Africa, stating that, they are members of the International Association of Amusement Park and Attraction (IAAPA) and also World Water Park Association (WWPA).

Mrs. Esho-Shaba, however, expresses gratitude to members of the NIPR for honoring their invitation while Mr. Anthony Ogadi, the Park Supervisor during the tour, showed the members of NIPR different segments of the Park which include a Wave Pool, Space Hole, Free Fall, Black Hole, and Aqua Tower splash.

Other members of the institute who embarks on the tour include Financial Secretary, Isaac Ogerugba; Treasurer, Florence Nwabuonwu; Welfare Officer, Ese Obote-Ogwu, and Esther Obisie as an active member.

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See what Broda Shaggi revealed on why he started comedy

Popular Nigerian Celebrity and social media comedian, Samuel.A.Perry, better known as Broda Shaggi has revealed why he started comedy, says he started comedy skits on social media out of poverty and hunger for fame.

According to an interview he had with Punch, Broda Shaggi revealed how his journey to stardom started after he relocated to live with his aunty in Lagos following the death of his father as he was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth.

He said, he discovered his talent while still living with his mother in the Makoko area of Lagos, he added, that’s where everything started.

Broda Shaggi also revealed how breaking into the showbiz industry seems to be like leaving one particular world to the other, asserting that, poverty is a bad thing.

He further stated that he came into the limelight following his humorous social media skits, he said, what has kept him going was his hard work, consistency, love for his fans, and who he is, adding that, he’s a product of hard work and consistency.

He further stressed that consistency is the hardest thing to do to get to the top stating that, you will keep trying every day never to give up on your dream. According to him, cracking jokes is a 24/7 job that kept him going, he said every time he woke up, he always thinks of new ideas to push out.

While enunciating how he generates his ideas, he said, he generates his ideas mostly at night when he is done with the day time struggle. In his words: “I write mostly at night but anytime I generate a new idea, you will start laughing and immediately break the good to my people before putting the idea on paper.”

Broda Shaggi also stated what prompted him into doing comedy was his desire to make people laugh anytime they watch him despite the situation of the country, stressing that, comedy is what he loves doing and he likes to make it real so that people can relate with it.

He said, there’s this joy that comes when being in the spotlight, that joy when you go out and people recognize you as one that has been bringing happiness to their homes, that joy when people want to take pictures with you as their role model. He added, he feels elated because it was something he never had before but after the recognition of the character called Broda Shaggi, he started having such.

Broda Shaggi also revealed how his late father who taught drama at Mayflower Junior School, Ikenne, motivated him into acting, he said, he has acted in many roles and played some characters like Inspector Perry, a policeman, Professor Dele, and Akonni Ibadan. According to him, this was before he went with the stage name, Broda Shaggi while still an undergraduate in Unilag until he reportedly took his comedy talent seriously.

According to him, he became popular after his unique style of comedy skits, “Oya Hit Me” on Instagram even though he knew he had a natural flair to be a comedian as a child, he knew he had always wanted to make people laugh.

Broda Shaggi also said, he never earned a living from selling artworks after studying Visual Art from the University of Lagos, rather, he was conceived with his brand of comedy while using social media as his launchpad.

He said, he didn’t take a long time before he started attracting the attention of corporate bodies and events organizers. Stating that, he has become a household name in the Nigerian showbiz industry with a lot of endorsement deals to show for it while adding that his massive presence on social media happened as a result of his consistency and it’s has really paid off.

Talking about his endorsement deals, he said, he intends to works with more brands by ensuring that he improves on those things they saw in him.

Broda Shaggi, he doesn’t call himself a comedian, is not only a comedian, but is also a singer, actor, and voice-over artist who sees himself as an entertainer that do anything that has to do with entertainment.

Broda Shaggi after making his debut in the entertainment scene has not looked back on his quest to dominate his own space, he has become a character who has come to stay.

He was currently ranked among the most successful and sought after entertainers in the country, he has over 7.1 million followers on Instagram after breaking new grounds and crossing boundaries with his craft.

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President Buhari congratulates Amaju Pinnick for successful FIFA election

After a successful election into the highest decision-making organ of world football, President Muhammadu Buhari rolled out a congratulatory message to celebrate the president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Pinnick on his election into the FIFA Executive Council.

President Buhari made this disclosure through his verified Twitter page on Friday, March 12, 2021, stating that, the world has taken notice by electing him into the FIFA Council as one of the vice presidents of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF).

According to President Buhari, while describing Mr. Amaju Pinnick on his new elective position said, he has proven himself to be more efficient with football administration through handwork, dedication, and consistency.

President Buhari said Nigeria has enhanced visibility and prestige in the international community following the recent elections of other qualified Nigerians into strategic and leadership positions in the international organizations.

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FG denies report of missing arms procurement funds, reveals what happened

Senior Special Assistant to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, has dismissed reports that funds budgeted for the purchase of arms and ammunition for the war against insurgents have gone missing in the Buhari-led administration.

According to him, things like that cannot happen under the Buhari-led administration.

Garba was reacting to the report by BBC in which Babagana Monguno, the National security adviser was quoted to have said the newly appointed service chiefs did not meet the funds approved for arms purchase when they assumed office in January. Munguno has since denied the report, saying he was quoted out of context.

Appearing on Channels TV on Friday night, March 12, Shehu said no part of the money earmarked for the procurement of military equipment is missing. He said the armed forces had made a lot of purchases, but the army has been having a bit of a problem with procurement which has been “coming in bits and pieces”.

“I imagine you are talking about the $1 billion taken from the excess crude account with the consent from state governors and was used for military procurements. I want to assure you that nothing of that money is missing. The reference by it in the interview of the BBC in Hausa service by the national security adviser, I think, has been misconstrued and mistranslated,” Shehu said.

The NSA made two critical points. One is that we don’t have enough which is a statement of fact, and two, procurements made have not been fully delivered.

In August 2018, they allowed the Nigerian government to buy 12 super Tucano aircraft suitable for the kind of war we are fighting in the north-east. In addition to that, other arms of the military have also made procurements. The navy has done nearly 100 percent of their procurement — equipment delivered.

The airforce has bought a number of attack helicopters — 35 helicopters from Ukraine. Some of them have been commissioned on national television. We have bought a lot of drones, but with the army, there have been problems with procurement. Equipment has been coming bits and in pieces.

This is not ideal. Our biggest procurement is coming from the UAE. As I speak to you now, it is held situation the only diplomacy will resolve. We were talking to them last week. The Nigerian Minister of Defence had a meeting with the ambassador of the UAE to Nigeria, and the idea is to resolve this so that the equipment held up will be released. We need them here.

So all these procurements are ongoing; nothing you can buy on the shelf. NSA did not make the accusations of misappropriation, because there is none in dealing with this matter.

I have heard an interview on the radio and I think, reasonably, I have a good understanding of it. At no point did the NSA say that money was appropriated and there are no arms to be seen. They have not been delivered. Yes, that is correct, but the thing is that they are things you buy on order, not off the shelf.

The minister of finance is in the position to give you all of the details and I hope in the coming days, she should be able to render a full detail. I think people are just being political. They want to draw a moral equivalence between the PDP and APC administration. Well, they are not the same. Things like this cannot happen under the Buhari administration.”

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Wike tells Apkabio to shut up or he’ll deal with him, opens up secrets

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has drawn the battle line with Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, over the latter’s recent verbal attack on South-South governors.

Wike threatened to deal with Akpabio if he dared speak negatively about Rivers State, insisting that Akpabio had no authority to talk about his state.

The Governor, who spoke on Friday when he inaugurated an office complex his administration built for the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Port Harcourt, alleged Akpabio was behind a recent publication by militant groups asking the South-South to account for N55trn derivation money.

The new three-story TUC building has a 500- seater auditorium, conference room, and fully furnished offices.

Wike said as a Governor, Akpabio carried himself like a god wondering why he failed an ordinary senatorial election if he had performed as a Governor.

Wike said: “It is unfortunate I read what the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akpabio said. I will tell him to talk less. We will tell him that when he was the governor he was acting like a king. There was money that time. The exchange rate was N150 per dollar. Today, it is N500 for a dollar.

“Akpabio had money but he had the temerity to ask South-South governors what they are doing with 13 percent derivation. Akpabio should not talk to Rivers State at all. He has no such authority. He is not qualified to talk to Rivers State.

“If he wants to talk he should concentrate in Akwa Ibom State or else we teach him a lesson here. Akpabio should know that enough is enough.

“If he should talk here I will teach him a lesson. I am not a sycophant and I am not an inconsistent person. I don’t give a damn. He cannot say he sees me in the villa.”

He added: “So if he wants to talk let him concentrate on his state not to venture again talk about Rivers. If he does it again, he will regret it. I am not one of those governors he can turn around. I am not that kind of person. People should say what they practice.

“I will show you a video where the President said they should come and learn from me what we are doing here. People forget they just come out and talk anyhow”.

Referring to Thursday’s inauguration of the permanent headquarters of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Wike said Akpabio failed to confirm from the South-South Governors the date that would be suitable for them.

None of the South-South governors attended the event, which occurred a day after Akpabio blasted them for demanding an inauguration of the board of the NDDC.

But Wike said: “He (Akpabio) went and asked so-called South-South militants that we should render an account of N55trilion naira. Where did he get the N55trilion from?

“If we got N55trn then he got N200trn. You came to commission a project you can’t ask the governors when is suitable for them. Later they said they boycotted the programme. Boycotted what?

“You promised you were going to partner with me when we were doing the Eastern bypass but you ran away and now you are enjoying it. Akpabio be careful.

“Don’t go and pay money to people to type propaganda against governors. You will suffer for it at the end of the day.

“We know what Akpabio was doing as a Governor. He saw himself as god then. Now he has the temerity to insult South-South governors. We will meet one day. If he did well, why did he fail his senatorial election?

“You will finish from Abuja and you will come here. When you were begging governors to come and talk on your behalf. Now you are fighting us. I will abuse you back at the appropriate time. I am only making an introduction today. What I will do be prepared.

“Now you have gone to look for trouble, I will give you trouble. You will never sleep again. This is why Nigeria cannot move forward. You ran to the other party for protection.

“The same party that says they are fighting corruption. You can just say anything. Abuse governors. Don’t dare me”.

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See why Sean Paul new album ‘Live N Livin’ features 21 male artists without female

Popular Jamaican legendary and reggae-dancehall musician, Ryan Francis Henriques OD, better known as Sean Paul, has released his new album ‘Live N Livin’ containing 16 tracks with collaboration from 21 male artists without including any female.

During an interview on Reggaeville’s Wha’ Gwaan Munchy, Sean Paul explain that ‘Live N Livin’ was dropped on his label Dutty Rock Productions where he has full control, adding that, he wasn’t troubled with the numbers of artists featured but in showing the unity in Dancehall.

He said, “I kinda just wanted to have a focus on this album especially with the brethren them, you know what I mean.”

The singer further explained that female dancehall artists will be featured on his next album ‘Scorcher’ which will be dropping in May, he highlighted two female artists Shenseea and Jada Kingdom who had been doing an incredible job for Dancehall. According to him, the women have been doing unprecedentedly in the past four to five years on their own.

The singer admitted that most of his successful collaborations have been with women, stating that, the message behind his new album was personal while emphasizing the clash culture as not being necessary for deejays to move forward.

He said, “Forget the clash let’s get the cash, ” adding that he understands clash culture as a big part of Dancehall but said he believes that it is not the most important aspect of the culture.

According to the singer, his priority is to lead by example and also sought out the younger male artists even though some of them had opposed each other. He said, getting Intence and Skillibeng to work on the same album was an example to show the unity that he is looking for.

The singer also enunciated the inspiration behind the last track on the album title Everest which was produced by Demarco and features Masicka and Skillibeng. In his words, he described the track as a way of promoting unity among artists, as Masicka and Demarco haven’t been gotten along.

He said, “To put this song on the album felt like climbing up a hill, it was a monumental task to put 21 Dancehall artists together in this pandemic and just put out the work. Good likkle vibe and it’s all about unity for me.”

The singer went further to explained how the effect of the pandemic and the lockdown offered him an opportunity to bring his vision to life. According to him, it was a vision that he had always been playing with and his conversations with Shaggy, Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Marley and Buju Banton gave him the affirmation that he needed to push it forward.

The singer also said he realized that he and other artists needed to do more work with each other, even though there is little chance of being able to tour fully for his new album, he thinks, it shouldn’t stop him from putting it out because people need music for hope as they continue to battle the pandemic. He added, “tours stop and lyrics ah pop and album fe drop.”

However among those featured on ‘Live N Living album were Busy Signal, Intence, Leftside, Buju Banton, Damian Marley, Chi Ching Ching, Govana, Serani, Jesse Royal, Mutabaruka, Stonebwoy, Bugle, Squash, Mavado, Agent Sasco, Masicka, and Skilling.

Live N Livin is available on all streaming services now.

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FG denies increasing pump price of petrol, issues stern warning

The Minister of States for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva has denied the increase in the price of petrol as announced earlier by the Petroleum Products Pricing Agency (PPPRA).

Recall that after the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation restated that the price of petrol has not been increased following an outcry the report incited, the PPPRA deleted the post from its website.

In a statement released later on Friday, March 12 Sylva averred that neither he nor President Buhari who is the Minister of Petroleum Resources has approved that the pump price of petrol is increased by one naira.

He apologised for “distress and inconvenience, the unfortunate information might have caused.” The statement read;

“Dear Nigerians, you are by now very aware of the news trending that the federal govt has increased the price of petrol to N212.6 per liter.

Irrespective of the source of that information, I want to assure you that it is completely untrue. Neither Mr. President who is the Minister of Petroleum Resources nor my humble self who deputises for him as Minister of State, has approved that the pump price of petrol should be increased by one naira. I would therefore urge you to disregard this misleading information.

You are all aware that for the past few months the govt has been in consultation with organized labour to find the least painful option to respond to the global rise in the price of crude, which in turn has inevitably led toan an increase in the price of PMS. It is unthinkable that govt would unilaterally abandon these discussions and act in the manner suggested by the information under reference.

Cynicism and deceit have never been the trademark of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

I would like to equally assure you that the engagement with organized labour and other stakeholders will continue even as the calculations to arrive at a reasonable price regime are being done; all in good faith, and you will be availed of the final outcome at the appropriate time. Until then, all marketers are strongly advised to maintain the current pump price of PMS before the emergence of this unfortunate information. Those who may want to take advantage of this unfortunate misinformation to extort Nigerians should not give in to such temptation as there are regulatory mechanisms that govt can enforce to protect its citizens.

In conclusion, I want to sincerely apologise to all Nigerians for any distress and inconvenience, the unfortunate information might have caused.

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Why I will win 2023 presidential race, Rochas Okorocha expresses confidence

The Senator representing Imo West Senatorial District, Rochas Okorocha on Thursday, said he will succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023.

The former governor of Imo State, stated this when a group of youth under the umbrella of ‘Forward with Anayo Rochas Okorocha (FOWARO 2023)’ visited him in Abuja, the nations capital.

Okorocha who stated that he had contested for the office three times but failed at the primary level, expressed optimism of winning the race in 2023.

He said he aspired to become president of Nigeria long ago, stressing that the first time he picked the presidential ticket was over 20 years back under the platform of ANPP.

“I have contested for the office of the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria three times.

“The first time, l ran when l was very young; 20 years ago, and l ran on the platform of ANPP. Later, l ran on the platform of the PDP where l came second and the last one was APC in 2014.

“So, l have been in the business of running for this office. This time, it will be the fourth attempt. I am hoping to be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Every time l started, l got stopped at the primary level, but this time around when l do run, l must win the race,” he said.

Goldennationblog.com recalls that Okorocha is one of the founding fathers of the All Progressives Congress, APC, which came into power before the 2015 general election in Nigeria.

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“For baby mama trends, I don’t do trends” – Koredo Bello

Popular Nigerian singer and Mavin Record signee, Koredo Bello, had revealed his plans not to follow the trend like other celebrities who have baby mama’s in the music industry.

The singer during a chat with Legit. ng also disclosed that he does not have plans to get married soon as he insisted on being himself in the music industry, adding that, he believes in marriage only if his partner sees it as a thing of partnership.

According to his words while enunciating about the baby mama said, “For baby mama trends in the music industry, I don’t do trends. I like being me. That notwithstanding, I believe in marriage; If your definition of marriage is a partnership then yes!”

Korede Bello maintains that, if allowed to turn back the hands of time, he would have loved to make a change to a whole lot of things. Stating that, he might not be able to change the past but he believes he can still influence the timeline of the future by taking advantage of the present.

He said, “Ah! If I could turn back the hands of time there’re a lot of things I would love to change but I guess there’s a reason we can’t do that because what will be will eventuality find a way of being. I might not be able to change the past but I can still influence the timeline by taking actions in the present that can change the future. So if I could, I would travel back in time and tell myself that I have the power to change the future with my thoughts and actions.”

The singer also explained how the pandemic has drastically affected his brand and how he has managed to strategize new ways to reach his fans. He said, his plans at the beginning of last year was to go on a tour to introduced his re-branded self to his fans before the Covid. According to him, he had to restrategize to come up with Micasa Sucasa, which means ‘my house is your house, adding that, with the help of TikTok, he was able to target a global virtual audience.

The ‘Table For Two’ crooner went further explaining how through his initiative, were able to establish a mental health foundation known as KBI which main focus is on celebrities’ mental health, adding that, it doesn’t matter how much money or fame you acquire, you need good health to enjoy it.

In his words regarding KBI, he said, “It was established when I realized that it doesn’t matter how much money or fame you acquire, you need good health to enjoy it. Especially mental health. So that’s why I started advocating for mental wellness as a priority. Nothing works effectively when our mental health is threatened.”

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Hon. Kennedy Ibeh reveals why Imo ladies are single, sponsors marriage bill

The member representing Obowo State Constituency in Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Kennedy Ibeh has sponsored a bill to regulate the cost of customary marriages in Imo State.

Presenting the bill for the second reading on Wednesday, March 10, during plenary, Ibeh said that outrageous marriage bills had caused many ladies to remain single as suitors can’t afford to pay.

He said: “A suitor coming to pay for a lady’s dowry may find it tasking to settle for the English wedding which again demands more expenses.”

He added: “It is quite unfortunate that this practice has caused so many of our marriageable ladies to remain single and men apprehensive of taking the bold step. This is wrong and we must discourage it at all costs.”

The bill asks that once a suitor pays and completes the bride price of a woman, a clearance certificate should be issued to the groom by the father of the bride, who will present the certificate to the traditional ruler of the community for the final issuance of Customary Marriage Certificate (CMC) at the cost not exceeding N1000.

It adds that no customary marriage in the state, including the final stage of the Igbankwu ceremony, shall exceed the sum of N180,000 with the exclusion of the bride price which shall not exceed N80,000.

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Petrol sells for N212 per litre days after NNPC rejected price hike

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Eleven days after the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) promised there would be no price hike for Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol in March, the price has hit N212 per liter.

On February 28, NNPC spokesman, Kennie Obateru, gave the assurance in a statement, in reaction to the long queues in some states.

“Contrary to speculations of an imminent increase in the price of PMS in the country, the NNPC has ruled out any increment in the ex-depot price of petrol in March”, he noted.

But on Thursday night, the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) released the latest guiding retail price.

In a template published on its website, the agency explained that the increment was due to the market determinants and importation costs.

PPPRA fixed the lower band of the new fuel price at N209.61 per liter and the upper band at N212.61 per liter.

The price was calculated on the approved average importer & exporter (I&E) Naira exchange rate per dollar of N403.80. The crude oil price at the international market is currently $70/barrel.

PPPRA said the average price per ton of the commodity is about $561.96, or N169.22 per litre, while the average freight rate costs $21.63 per ton, or N6.51 per litre. The ex-coastal price is N175.73 per litre.

For component charges, the average littering expenses cost N4.81 per liter; Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) charge N2.49 per liter; NIMASA charges N0.23 per liter.

Jetty Through Put charge is N1.61 per litre; Storage charge is N2.58 per litre, and average finance is N2.17 per litre, translating to an expected landing cost per litre of N189.61.

There is the wholesale margin of N4.03 per litre; administration charge of N1.23 per litre; transporters’ allowance (NTA) of N3.89 per litre; Bridging Fund cost of N7.51 per litre and Marine transport average (MTA) of N0.15 per litre.

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Fireboy Dml acquires new house after winning most Headies awards

Popular Nigerian singer and YBNL signee, Adedamola Adefolayan, better known by his stage name, Fireboy DML has gotten himself a brand new house after winning most awards at the 14th Headies awards organize recently.

The YBNL signee took to his Instagram page yesterday March 11, 2021, to share the news with his fans.

Fireboy DML share a stunning picture of himself celebrating the house with the caption “Blessed beyond.”

However, top celebrities had also joined the host of others in his comment section to also wish him a congratulatory message.

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Dispose off seized, forfeited properties, Reps order EFCC, gives reason

House of Representatives Adhoc Committee on Abandoned Properties has asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately commence the process of disposing of all seized and forfeited properties rather than leave them to deteriorate.

The Committee also wants the Commission to explain to the House why it transferred some of the properties to the Attorney General of the Federation and what instrument they relied upon to effect the transfer.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Admin Kuye, who gave the directive at the resumed investigative hearing on an abandoned property in the country, also asked the Attorney General of the Federation to cause an appearance before the committee to answer questions bothering on the transfer.

He said as long as the properties are kept, they will keep losing value and deteriorating, adding that such would not augur well for the country.

He reminded the commission that the Federal Government has said that part of the 2021 budget would be financed from sales of properties, adding that if these properties were kept without selling them, it would affect the budget.

Kuye said the EFCC should ensure diligent prosecution of all cases regarding seized properties before offering them for sale, and questioned the conditional right and purpose of transferring some assets to the Attorney General of the Federation.

Kuye said that the AGF was also invited to appear before the committee but failed, adding that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had also been summoned to answer questions.

The committee was dissatisfied with the documents tendered before it by EFCC’s Acting Director of Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Management, Aliyu Yusuf, and gave him two weeks to come with other supporting documents but was turned down by the committee.

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Governor Wike mocks Amaechi, says he taught him lesson in politics

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has mocked the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi who he claims taught a lesson in politics.

Wike in a statement issued by his Special Assistant (Media) Kevin Ebiri on Wednesday, March 10, noted that he has been elected twice as Governor of Rivers state despite the opposition of Amaechi who is his predecessor.

He said;

“They said we will not be Governor, we taught them a lesson in politics. In 2015, they said over their dead body will we be Governor, I’m looking for the dead body. 2019 they said we will not be Governor, that they are in power. I said you are not in power, God is in power. We defeated them. They are small kids in politics.”

Wike also alleged that the federal government is shielding Amaechi from prosecution despite his “inability to account for $308 million from the sales of the state-owned power plant and other critical assets when he was the Governor of Rivers State.”

He further alleged that Amaechi has consistently tried undermining the state government by “influencing who is to be posted as Commissioner of Police and General Officer Commanding of the Nigerian Army to Rivers State.”

Wike added;

“People gave you an opportunity. You (Amaechi) sold our property for $308 Million and kept $208,000 for us.

“But let me warn the man who thinks he has President, he has soldiers, he has police. You should have learned your lesson by now, that when God has left you there is nothing you can do again.”

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See when retired Police officers will begin registration for NHIS

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The Delta State Police Command has notified retirees of the force on the second phase of registration of retired police officers on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS.

The registration exercise will commence 8 hours daily from March 15, 2021, to March 18, 2021, and it will be done across all Area commands in Delta State namely Asaba, Agbor, Burutu, Ogwashi-Uku, Ozoro, Sapele, Ughelli, and Warri.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a statement signed by Dsp Edafe Bright, spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command on Wednesday, March 10, 2021.

The NHIS registration exercise is meant for all retired Police officers regardless of their ranks on retirement along with their spouses to enable them to have full access to all NHIS services and benefits covered by the Police Health Organisation (Police Maintenance Organization – HMO).

According to the statement, all retirees are requested to visit any Police Area Command nearest to them with their Letter of Retirement, Retiree’s I.D card, and one passport photograph belonging to the retiree spouse to complete the exercise.

However, the Commissioner of Police, Delta Delta State Police Command, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, FCIA, psc advises all retired police officers to take advantage of the golden opportunity that is been made possible by the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, NPM, mni.

The CP also advise retirees to make themselves available for the capturing, while adhering strictly to Covid-19 protocols such as maintaining social distancing, washing of hands, and use of face masks during the registration exercise.

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Police parade 11 suspected ritual killers with woman’s skull, body parts in Delta (Photos)

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Eleven suspected ritual killers and members of a kidnapping syndicate with a human skull and other body parts have been paraded by the Delta State Police command.

The State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali, paraded the suspects on Wednesday, March 10, at the Police Headquarters in Asaba.

Briefing journalists, the CP said the body parts are believed to be that of a 39-year-old woman identified as Joy Osameze, who was reportedly abducted while on her way back from the farm at Abraka Farm Reserve in Obiaruku, Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta, on February 5, 2021.

The incident was reported to the police and five male suspects, namely: Emmanuel Ojibe,18, Osam Ogolime, 21, Ossai Reuben, 22, Odigili Chukwutem, 33, and Ukpaka Confidence, 20, were arrested and transferred to the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crimes Squad (SAKCCS)

The Commissioner said that after the suspects’ confessional statements on March 7, 18-year-old Ojibi reportedly led SAKCCS operatives to the arrest of Razaq Ifamaye, 38 years and Gbenga Olawuyi, 50, both said to be from Ekiti State but resident at Old Market Road, Obiaruku as well as Samson Oduni, aged 31 years, who is a native of Obiaruku.

Razaq Ifamaye allegedly confessed to the crimes and on Tuesday, March 9, at about 4:00 p.m, led police operatives to Shegelo Beach, Obiaruku, where a bag containing human skull and other body parts suspected to be that of the victim was recovered.

CP Ari Muhammed Ali said the human remains were recovered in the compound of one 38-year-old indigene of Obiaruku, Chikogwu Isaac, alias Ikukwu.

The suspect, Chikogwu, when accosted, allegedly instigated four others, who are now at large, to attack the police operatives to obstruct the recovery of the body parts kept in his premises. He was later arrested and paraded alongside other suspects.

Meanwhile, the human skull and other parts of the deceased’s remains have been deposited at the Agbor General Hospital, while more investigations are ongoing.

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See what Buhari’s govt did to Ibori loot in Delta

A direct refund of the Ibori loot from the Delta State Government has been tactically ruled out
by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government.

An indication came to the fore in the remarks by Abubakar Malami, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, at the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom.

“In consonance with existing framework or model engaged in the management of previous recoveries, the Federal Executive Council directed that the instant repatriated funds should be deployed towards the completion of the following legacy projects: the Second Niger Bridge, Abuja – Kano expressway, and the Lagos – Ibadan expressway”, he said.

Malami said the spending is under the coordination of the Nigeria Social Investment Authority (NSIA) to ensure the integrity of the process, while a reputable Civil Society Organization has been engaged to monitor the execution of the projects.

In the MoU earlier executed in 2016, the UK agreed to release millions of pounds declared stolen by former Delta State Governor, James Ibori and associates.

Malami said the development was the threshold of another major milestone in Nigeria’s quest to attain full recovery of all looted assets, prevent abuse of recovered assets and ensure optimal utilization for citizens’ benefit.

The minister noted that the repatriation underscored the fact that international cooperation and mutual trust can yield great benefits for the citizenry in developing countries who are the direct victims of acts of corruption.

Malami recalled Nigeria assisted the British authorities while the prosecution of James Ibori lasted in London.

The AGF expressed confidence that the Nigerian and British governments remain committed to all affirmative actions to combat corruption/illicit financial flows and ensure looters do not find comfort.

Noting that the Buhari administration has established a reputation of transparency and accountability of utilization of recovered assets, the Ibori loot, he assured, “will in no way be different in terms of application”.

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Laycon release new Thriller video featuring three Bbnaija housemates

Nigerian rapper and winner of Big Brother Naija lockdown season, Olamilekan Moshood Agbeleshe, popularly known as Laycon has released a video he did on thriller alongside three BBNaija housemates in the quest of promoting his new song ‘Wagwan’.

In the video he shared on his social media page on Tuesday, March 8, 2021, Laycon was seen dancing joyfully with Nengi, Dorathy, and Neo in a car.

The BBNaija lockdown winner while sharing the video on Instagram, also captioning it with a statement using the lyrics of the song, “The money will look good on all of us @nengiofficial @thedorathybachor @neo_akpofure

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Governor Ben Ayade says Politicians have no conscience, gives reason

Governor Ben Ayade has said that politicians have no conscience and always fail to fulfill their promises to those who elected them.

Speaking at the flag-off of enrolment into the states’ Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), Ayade challenged national assembly members to reveal what they have done for members of their constituents.

The Governor said;

“After donations of Keke, they pay millions to national television to advertise instead of spending the money for the people.

“Let the politician show us what they have done for the people, stop abusing the poverty of the people, when the election comes you look for something to entice the people. When these people have an accident, they don’t have health insurance. Politicians have no conscience. I challenge national assembly members to show the report card of what they have done.

“They never come to Calabar until during elections; the citizens are waiting for you to tell us what they have done.”

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2023: Rochas Okorocha says it’s right time for Igbo presidency

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Imo West Senator, Rochas Okorocha has said 2023 is the right time for the Southeast to produce Nigeria’s President.

Okorocha said the mood of the country was ripe for a president of Igbo extraction.

The former Imo State governor made the remark yesterday in Abuja while playing host to a pressure group, Ndi Igbo Good Governance Initiative (NGGI).

He pointed out that denying Igbos presidency in 2023 would amount to injustice.

“It was morally just for the country to support the Igbos to produce the next president.

“The mood of the nation has changed and there is so much division, we are looking for somebody the North and the Yorubas can trust, and somebody who can care for the less privileged and the poor,” he said.

The lawmaker also urged political leaders of the zone to synergize with other regions to actualize Igbo presidency.

He stressed that Igbos were the most misunderstood section of the country, noting that people of the Southeast believe in the unity and oneness of Nigeria.

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EFCC chairman, Bawa reveals why he’ll be strict to staff, gives warning

Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, has charged all staff to be dedicated to duty.

Bawa in his first address expressed delight at the goodwill exhibited over his appointment, but warned against lateness to work, indecent or improper dressing.

He said though many were happy to have a chairman who is a friend to many, he would not tolerate indiscipline.

“The rule says you must be in the office by 8 am and close by 5 pm if you have no pending work. But it is unacceptable for you to come in by 9 am, close by 3 pm, and expect to earn a full salary,” he warned.

Bawa stressed that his mission was not to undo what had been done by his predecessors but to improve the fortunes of the commission.

He said all workers were important in the fight against corruption and urged them to come up with fresh ideas.

Bawa promised to prioritize welfare, and improve on application of digital technology and intelligence.

The chairman assured of regular staff training and disclosed that a Directorate of Intelligence would soon be created.

He further promised insurance cover to mitigate the dangers staff are exposed to in the discharge of their duties.

Assuring open-door policy for easy access, Bawa publicly gave out his telephone number.

The chairman visited the Abuja Zonal Office and the EFCC Academy for a similar meeting.

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See Erigga confession about his wife on women’s day

Popular Nigerian rapper, Erhiga Agarivbie, better known by his stage name, Erigga, has taken to social media to recollect the time he newly meets his wife 5 years ago.

According to the rapper’s post, while celebrating his wife on international women’s day, remarked that he had nothing at that time but his wife decided to be with him.

The rapper made this revelation through a post he shared on his verified Instagram page while having fun with his wife in a beach on Monday, March 8, 2021.

Erigga said he wouldn’t want to date himself at that time because of his brokenness but his wife agreed to be with him.

In his words, the rapper wrote:

“5 years ago I asked you out on a beach like this in Accra and you said YES, you will date me despite the fact say life wan finish me. You STILL NO MIND… I celebrate you today happy woman’s day una dey try… Even me for no date me that year. Hunger wan finish me but you saw love and happiness with me!!! GOD BLESS YOU, MY WIFE.”

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What Fayose must do for PDP to win in Ekiti, Odeyemi opens up

Former Acting Governor of Ekiti State, Prince Tunji Odeyemi has asked former governor Ayo Fayose to embrace peace initiatives to end the internal wranglings in the State’s Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Odeyemi at the weekend opined said the hardline posture of the former governor would not do the party any good.

He condemned attempts by certain forces to label former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola as an errand boy to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

“There is nothing unusual in what governor Makinde did. Even President Muhammadu Buhari at one time or the other engaged the services of former Nigerian leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, AbdulSalam Abubakar. Does that make them errand boys? Practically No. So the people are waiting for us to put our house in order. Because they are already fed up with the APC Administrations in the state and at the center. We have the opportunity and we must take advantage of it.

“That would be the most unfortunate statement ever. For me, only a nonentity will describe Oyinlola as a servant or errand boy to Seyi Makinde, it is a general thing as a sitting governor, you have the right to appoint whosoever to mediate in the crisis in your party. So long as you believe in his or her ability and expertise to handle the situation.”

Reacting to the statement credited to the Ekiti State PDP Publicity Secretary, Raphael Adeyanju on weekend rejecting the peace initiative of the Oyinlola’s panel, Odeyemi argued that the former Osun Governor deserves respect and commendation of all loyal party men.

Commenting on Ekiti PDP’s stance, Odeyemi decried the public embarrassment meted out to Prince Oyinlola on the matter, stressing that it was not only unexpected but condemnable.

”I think the PDP is dancing to the tune of their master( Fayose). But I want to make a passionate appeal to former governor Ayodele Fayose to please calm down on this matter. I don’t think it is right for anyone either in the SouthWest or in the PDP to refer to former governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola as an errand boy.

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How kidnappers abducted my sister after paying N650,000 ransom – Delta Chief reveals

The Iyase of the Otolokpo Kingdom in Ika-North East Local Government Area of Delta State, Chief Ogadi Hyginus, has narrated how kidnappers abducted and killed his sister after collecting N650,000 ransom from the family.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that late Mrs. Philomena Ogadi,53, was abducted by a nine-man gang.

Operatives of the state police command last week, exhumed her body from a shallow grave where it was buried by the kidnappers.

Chief Ogadi Hyginus who spoke to newsmen said his sister came back from where she went to process her palm fruits at the engine, and was already in her house with her husband when the gang forcefully burst the door open.

He disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded money and the new motorcycle that she recently bought.

“They were about going when suddenly one of them ordered her to enter the motorcycle. And immediately she entered on the motorcycle, they zoomed off. This happened at about 3: am.” he narrated.

Chief Hyginus also revealed that police have commenced investigation and several arrests made in connection with the case.

He pointed out that it was one of the suspects that took the police to where his sister’s body was buried.

Asked if the victim had a misunderstanding with anyone, Chief Hyginus said his sister was never in any disagreement with anyone, describing her as a peaceful and respectful woman. He added that his sister was good to all who knew her.

On his part, the traditional ruler of Otolokpo Kingdom, HRM Obi Collins Ezenwali when contacted, condemned the killing of Mrs. Philomena Ogadi, saying that those behind her death will surely be brought to book.

“You cannot kill someone and expect to walk freely. The perpetrators will be made to face the full wrath of the law when apprehended,” he stated.

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See what happened to 55 people for not wearing a face mask

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A mobile court in Abuja yesterday March 8, 2021, has charged 55 persons for not wearing a face mask.

According to reports that were seen by goldennationblog.com, the presiding magistrate Ebiwari Eremasi prosecuted and convicted the violators after pleading guilty to the charges.

Magistrate Eremasi however, fined each of the violators the sum of N2000 with an option to engage and supervised in community service

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Court of appeal reserves judgment on Gov Obaseki’s alleged certificate forgery suit

The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment in the appeal challenging the certificate presented by Governor Godwin Obaseki to contest the 2020 governorship election in Edo State.

The appeal was filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its chieftain, Williams Edobor.

In a report seen by goldennationblog.com, the court sitting in Abuja made the reservation after listening to arguments from both parties on Monday, March 8.

The APC and its chieftain argued that the purported degree certificate submitted by Governor Obaseki to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was false.

However, the legal team representing the Edo governor argued that based on the pleadings of the appellant, the false information alleged to be submitted by the respondent was on the fact that he did not graduate from the University of Ibadan in 1979 and he did resign from Afri investment limited.

According to another report, Obaseki’s lawyer noted that what did not contend at the trial court cannot be raised at the appellate court.

Recall that on January 9, Justice Ahmed Mohammed of the Federal High Court in Abuja had dismissed the alleged certificate forgery suit against Governor Obaseki.

The judge ruled that the plaintiffs relied on the photocopied document presented by the governor without getting in touch with the university to verify the authenticity of the said certificate.

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See why there’s no APC in Nigeria, Sule Lamido reveals

A former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido has said that there is no All Progressives Congress, APC, in Nigeria.

The former governor and presidential aspirant in the 2019 general election, noted that the ruling party has disintegrated.

Lamido said that the country was more divided under the APC-led Federal Government.

He stated this on Monday during the commissioning of Rumuji-Ibaa-Obele-Isiokpo road in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

“There is no APC in Nigeria. To us, it is the Nigerian President for the Nigerian people,” he declared.

Lamido, who lost the 2019 Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential primaries in Port Harcourt, was the Special Guest of Honour during the commissioning of the Rumuji-Ibaa-Obele-Isiokpo road in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, on Monday where he made the claim.

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YAGG applaud Delta State LG election, says it is a litmus test for 2023

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The Youth Advocacy For Good Governance has applauded the Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for ensuring peaceful polls.

In a statement signed by the Chairperson of  YAGG, Comrade Mike Uti Azukaego, PRO, Comrade Victor Egwuyenga, and the Publicity  Secretary, Comrade Chuks Golden while commenting on the election stated that “It is something to be regarded as a litmus test for the 2023 national election.

According to the statement, a successful inspection was carried out during the electioneering process across the 25 local government areas and the reports are to ascertain the level of success achieved in the just concluded LG polls.

In the statement, YAGG gives thumbs up to
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for accomodating women in the quest for good governance, while adding that “for the first time, that over 17 women were successfully voted to occupy the executive seats at the local govt level. YAGG also applauds Desiec for allowing the will of the people to prevail.

The advocacy group also went further to address the need for youth involvement in politics, berating them to actively participate in every election to elect only those they are sure of having the needed willpower to lead, while also urges youths to deviate from being an instrument used by politicians who masquerade themselves as leaders.

The group also frowns at the state of insecurity in the country, YAGG condemns the government Specifically at the center who is saddled with the responsibility of tackling insecurity in the country for doing little in addressing the security issues. While also reminding the ruling Apc and President Muhammadu Buhari to be conscious of the fact that Nigerians are expecting a lot from them.

The group furthermore reminded the govt to be conscious of the fact that Nigerians are expecting a lot from them one of which is the need to address the unending insecurity that is spreading like a wildfire and the urgent need to rebuild the already ravaged economy.

YAGG however congratulates the already elected LG chairmen and the councilors demanding them to be steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional duties as they pilot the affairs at the local councils.

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Dr. Abah tells men to be generous to women, gives reason

Dr. Joe Abah has advised men to be generous to their women so that God will look after them.

The Country Director of Development Alternatives Inc (DAI) discouraged men from being stingy and added that most stingy men are long-term single.

He tweeted: ‘All those “Stingy Men Association” guys are not baby boys o. Most are single…long term single o.

“Let me tell you a secret: Guy, give your woman money o. She needs it more than you do. As you are looking after your woman, God is looking after you. Trust me on this.”

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Gov Ikpeazu reveals why Pete Edochie is an icon of Nigerian movie industry

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has described ace actor, Chief Pete Edochie, as a living legend of the Nigerian movie industry.

The Governor spoke on Sunday, at the ceremony of the 74th birthday of the celebrated Nigerian actor.

He stated that Pete Edochie has used the platform of movies to solidify his place as one of Nigeria’s greatest actors, using movies as a powerful instrument of social engineering, societal reorientation, and cultural revival.

His words, “In the 1980s, I watched Pete Edochie for the first time in a movie. It was the adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s book, THINGS FALL APART on NTA, where he played the role of the book’s protagonist, OKONKWO. In powerfully playing that role and perfectly personifying Achebe’s Okonkwo, Pete walked himself into the mainstream of the Nigerian movie industry. Since then and till date, he has cemented his place in the First Eleven of the movie world in our country.”

Continuing, Ikpeazu said, “through the various roles he has played over the years in the countless number of movies he has featured in, Pete Edochie has become a powerful symbol of social engineering and value reorientation. Above all, he has shown that it is possible to excel in any chosen profession through sheer grit, hard work, commitment, and tenacity. He has grown to become a colossus in the industry with an unmistakable commanding presence in our movies “.

He further said Pete Edochie has inspired many young Nigerians to seek a career path in the film industry, thus becoming a living spring of inspiration for many.

Governor Ikpeazu on behalf of the government and people of Abia State wished Chief Pete Edochie a very happy 74th birthday and prayed the Almighty God to grant him many more years of service in the Nigerian movie industry.

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Sorrow as Supreme Court Justice, Sylvester Ngwuta dies few days to retirement

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Sylvester Nwali Ngwuta, Supreme Court Justice, is dead as confirmed by President Muhammadu Buhari and Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi.

It was gathered that Justice Ngwuta who was due to retire on attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 years on March 30, 2021, died in the early hours of Sunday, March 7.

Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha said Justice Ngwuta died around 2.30 am in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the National Hospital, Abuja.

Mustapha said;

“He felt sick and was admitted, last week, at the National Hospital, Abuja.

“Before he was moved to the ICU on Friday, he tested negative for COVID-19.

“Justice Ngwuta was due to retire on attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 years on March 30, 2021.

“His remains have been deposited in the National Hospital mortuary, pending the arrangement for his burial.

“May the late Hon. Justice Nwali Sylvester Ngwuta rest in perfect peace and may God grant his family, the Judiciary, and the apex court the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

President Buhari, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said the late Ngwuta served Nigeria well.

The statement read;

“President Buhari condoles with family and friends of Justice Ngwuta, who passed away early hours of Sunday in Abuja.

“The President joins people and government of Ebonyi State, Nigerian Bar Association and members of the Bench in mourning the legal luminary.

“He regrets that the death of the eminent Justice will leave a gap in the Supreme Court, considering his experience and dedication to the interpretation of the constitution.

“President Buhari believes Justice Ngwuta lived and served the country with his knowledge of the law.

“The President prays that the Almighty God will accept the soul of the departed, and comfort his family.”

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi state who also commiserated with the late Justice Ngwuta’s family, described him as a detribalised Nigerian. He said his death is another confirmation that life and death are only in the hands of God.

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After a successful poll, Okowa set to swear in elected local govt chairmen

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State will commence the swearing-in of all elected local government council chairmen and their vice.

The Directorate of Government House and Protocol, DGHP, disclose this in a statement.

Aaccording to the statement, it is scheduled to hold on Monday, March 8, 2021, at the State Cenotaph, along High Court Road, Asaba.

The statement also advises the elected Chairmen, their vice, senior government officials, and all guest to be seated on or before 10:30 am as the event is slated to commence by 11 am.

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Obaseki’s Deputy, Shaibu, opens up why he fell out with Oshiomhole

Governor Obaseki’s deputy, Philip Shaibu, who at a point was referred to as Oshiomhole’s first son because of their close relationship, yesterday, said he fell out with Oshiomhole to pursue his dream of ending poverty in the state and eradication of godfatherism in the politics of the state.

This is coming barely 24 hours after Governor Godwin Obaseki said he had no personal issues with his predecessor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, but with his style of politics.

Shaibu spoke at a reception in honor of the immediate past chairman of Egor Local Government Area, Eghe Ogbemudia, where he said he was severely brutalized in a bid to nail godfatherism and ensuring the then governor of the state, Oshiomhole had successful completion of tenure in office.

Shaibu said: “For me, people say I am loyal to Obaseki, I am loyal to a course, I was brutalised and injured and had my knees and everything replaced under Oshiomhole’s administration, all this was that some godfathers wanted to derail our making poverty history and we fought on the side of the people and the beneficiary of that struggle was Oshiomhole.

In the second fight, he (Oshiomhole) now became the new godfather trying to derail, making poverty history and I fought on the side of Governor Obaseki in making poverty history in Edo. So, the player doesn’t matter but what is constant is that whoever stands on not making poverty history in Edo will have all of us to fight and I will be in the forefront of that fight.”

Commending the outgone chairmen for their successful tenure in office, Shaibu said that some of them were among those who wanted to make poverty history in the state, stressing that they were not like some others who for one reason or the other chickened out.

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Presidency finally reveals truth on fire outbreak in Aso Rock Villa

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The presidency has reacted to the viral reports on social media that occupants of the Aso Rock Villa witnessed a fire outbreak in the premises on Saturday, March 6.

In a tweet seen by goldennationblog.com on Sunday, March 7, a presidential media aide, Garba Shehu, denied the claim and stated clearly that there was no such incident at the villa.

Shehu said the false report has spread to as far as outside the shore of Nigeria.

“I would like to clarify that there was no fire inside the Presidential Villa.”

However, Shehu admitted that there was an inferno in a bush behind the fence of the villa on the night of Saturday, but that through the intervention of firefighters, the flames were not allowed to make their way into the complex. Shehu went on to note that although thankfully no life was lost, the Federal Fire Service will give a statement on the cause of the fire upon the conclusion of its ongoing investigation.

He said: “In the evening of Saturday, March 6, a fire broke out burning shrubs between the outer wire fence and walls surrounding the Villa, precisely in the area between the Villa and the Barracks, towards Asokoro.

“The fire, as being speculated, might have started from a passerby dropping a burning cigarette. The Federal Fire Service will ascertain the reason for it when they complete their investigation. “It suffices to say that this bush fire, which started and ended outside the perimeter walls of the Villa, was seamlessly contained by fire stations of the State House and the one nearby from the Federal Fire Service. No loss of life, no loss whatsoever to building and property was recorded.”

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Tragedy as popular Nigerian record label boss commits suicide

Nigerian musician, Barry Jhay record label boss, Babatunde Oyerinde Abiodun, better known as Kashy Godson is dead.

According to the report, Kashy Godson died after committing suicide on Sunday, March 7, 2021.

It was alleged that the Cash Nation Entertainment boss died after jumping from the balcony of his house at the early hour of on Sunday. However, in a recent development regarding the death of the record label boss, his label’s frontline artiste, Barry Jhay has been arrested in Ghana in connection to his death.

It was gathered that Barry Jhay and Kashy Godson had a misunderstanding and this led to a fight, after the fight, Barry Jhay uploaded a video on his Twitter page showing his bloodied mouth before the death news of his record label boss surfaced online

In the video Barry Jhay posted on Twitter he captioned See the way this guy beat me, I didn’t do anything, I was recording. I’m done with Kash Nation.”

However, a source named Rina (Kashy Godson’s brother) shared some vital details on his Whatsapp status in respect to how the Cash Nation CEO died.

In a similar vein, a friend of Kashy Godson also shared a chat regarding the cause of his death as well.

However, the actual details of his death are still sketchy at the time of filing this report as there seem to be too many conflicting reports surrounding the details of his death as some allegedly reported that someone pushed him off the building.

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See how Nigerian pastor survived in terrible motor accident without injuries (Photos)

Rev. Ntia I. Ntia, the Senior Pastor, Full Life Christian Center, on Saturday, came out unhurt after his car somersaulted in Akwa Ibom.

The accident happened along IBB Way, Uyo, when the pastor was heading home after evangelism.

It was gathered that the church had held a Praise Session after which they embarked on evangelism then returned to the premises where they were dismissed for the day.

Pastor Ntia was said to have been driving when the car suddenly somersaulted.

After leaving the accident scene, the pastor went to an Uyo based hospital for a checkup where he was confirmed hale and hearty.

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Court orders Daddy Freeze to pay N5m for sleeping with man’s wife

Popular On-Air Personality, OAP, Ifedayo Olarinde, a.k.a Daddy Freeze, has been fined the sum of N5 million by a High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, for committing adultery.

In a court document with suit no PHC/403MC/2012, one Mrs. Benedicta Odekina filed the petition, her husband, Paul Odekina is 1st Respondent and Freeze is the Co-Respondent.

In the court ruling, which has now gone viral on social media, the court ordered Daddy Freeze, to pay the sum of N5m for committing adultery with Benedicta Elechi.

The controversial OAP, known for attacking popular pastors and religious clerics in the country, was ordered by the court to pay the money to Mr. Odekina, who was married to Benedicta Elechi at the time of the adulterous act.

Justice Akpughunum, who presided over the matter, ruled that the N5m was “damages for depriving Odekina amiable consort of his wife”.

The document read in part, “The sum of N5,000,000 is awarded against Ifedayo Olarinde (the 2nd Cross Respondent to the Cross Petition) as damages for depriving the Cross Petitioner of the amiable consort of his wife (Petitioner/1st Cross Respondent) and for the injury suffered as a result of his adultery with the Petitioner/Cross Respondent.

“An Order of Injunction is hereby granted, preventing Ifedayo Olarinde ― the Co-Respondent to the Cross Petition ― from having access or dealing whatsoever with the children of the marriage until they attain the age of majority.”

Justice Akpughunum also dissolved the marriage between Paul and Benedicta as a result of Benedicta’s adultery with Daddy Freeze.

Freeze is popular with his criticism of the payment of tithe and offerings in Churches.

Pastors such as Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Living Faith Church’s Bishop David Oyedepo, among others, have always been his targets.

Daddy Freeze had in some of his controversial posts condemned tithing saying it was a false doctrine for Christianity as Jesus nor his disciples never collected tithes.

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Davido pen down a remarkable message after watching his performance in ‘Coming 2 America’

It happened to be a thing of amusement for popular Nigerian musician, Davido after watching his performance in the masterwork of ‘Coming 2 America’ part 2 movie that just been released recently.

The ‘Fem’ crooner took to his Instagram page on Friday, March 5, 2021, to share a video of his excitement after seeing himself in the movie.

Davido when sharing the video of his excitement said, “It was an absolute pleasure sharing a set with a few legends that held the key to my childhood laughs.

According to Davido, the sheer effort, together with the work ethic, and the attention that goes into creating such astounding creation is something that he couldn’t have imagined. Adding that, he understands it from the experience he had while working with the legendary.

The singer went further to extend his appreciation to Amazon studios for offering him such an amazing opportunity stating that “It was an absolute pleasure and I’d do it all over again.”

The singer also went further to persuade his fans to go watch the movie likewise asking them to tag him after seeing his performance in the movie.

Recall goldennationblog.com reports earlier that Davido, Tiwa Savage, Tekno were among the Nigerian celebrities who featured in the official soundtrack for ‘Coming 2 America’ part 2.

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Mr. Eazi reveals how Wizkid supported his career (video)

Empawa boss and Banku music artists, Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, better known as Mr. Eazi has revealed the situation surrounding his first-time encounter with popular superstar, Wizkid.

The singer made these revelations recently during an interview session with Apple Music Radio.

The singer while narrating the first time encounter stated how Wizkid asked him what he wanted and he answered that he needed an offer.

According to him, Wizkid insisted on knowing exactly what he wants until he replied that he doesn’t want money but a chance to work with him as a family.

The singer also went further to explain how Wizkid offered him to join a track in the studio while trying to record a track. According to him, Wizkid handed him the track to him

Watch video:

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BBNaija’s Dorathy says it’s hard to find her bra size, gives solution to victims

Big Brother Naija’s Dorathy Bachor has finally confessed that getting a brassiere of her size is challenging.

The 24-year-old made this known in a recent Instagram live session while responding to questions after the launch of her lingerie company, My Full Chest (MFC).

Dorothy said, “It is hard to find my bra size, so I mean it is a struggle to find my size and I know how hard it is when I finally find one that is my size, I know how much I have to pay for it if I am going to buy I buy like two pairs and then that’s it so I am doing this from that point of view, I understand what it is so yeah it is more like giving the people what they want and still running a business.”

Continuing she said “it is affordable because it is a set and it is below 20 thousand Naira, we did not allocate like a particular pant to a bra we have different size of the items. I know that a lot of people struggle with what their sizes are so I had to do a tutorial video where you can take your measurements and be sure of your exact size so you don’t have issues replacing an order and all of that”, she said.

If she has always been confident in her skin, she said “I have always been that person that never had a problem with my skin or my body or anything but coming on the big brother show I think that boosted it like coming out of the house and seeing the reaction from people I didn’t expect that turnout because, in reality, we know these things but then again we know people saying ‘oh! you made me do this’, ‘I can come out now because you did it I want to do it’ so people see themselves through me now and that like boosted my courage more”, said Dorathy.

Dorathy who featured in Mr. Macaroni’s latest skit also spoke on her plans to go into acting. “It is something I am open too and for the skit, I grew up watching Patience Ozokwor ‘Mama G’ as we call her and I love her so much, so when Macaroni said I wanted you to do this with this person I didn’t think twice because acting or playing more of a role alongside somebody growing up was something I looked forward to and maybe is something am open too.”

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Reason why Burna Boy join Pogba on Pepsi Global Challenge

International footballer and Manchester United midfielder, Paul pogba have taken to social media to called on popular Nigerian singer, Burna Boy to join a duet with him on the Pepsi Global Challenge.

Pogba disclosed this on Friday, March 5, 2021, through a video he shared on Pepsi Global verified page.

According to the video he shared, the International footballer called on the Afrobeat star to join the challenge as both of them were featured in the new Pepsi advertisement.

https://twitter.com/PepsiGlobal/status/1367850005445349379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1367850005445349379%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fd-39910877993440179667.ampproject.net%2F2102200206006%2Fframe.html

Responding, Burna Boy took to his Twitter page pleading with Pogba to give him a couple of hours to join the challenge while also tagging the official Twitter page of Pepsi Globa and Pepsi Naija.

In his words, the Africa Giant wrote “Incoming bro @Paulpogba @Pepsi_Naija @Pepsigloba! Gimme a couple of hours lol”

Recall, Paul Pogba, Burna Boy featured on new Pepsi advertisement alongside football stars, Lionel Messi and Raheem Sterling.

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Fani-Kayode’s media aide reject allegations filed by his ex-wife, accuses her of adultery, others

Honorable Oladimeji Olaiya, Media consultant to former minister of Aviation, Fani-Kayode has denied claims filed in court by his estranged wife, Precious Chikwendu.

Precious in an affidavit she deposed in support of an originating motion brought under Section 69 of the Child’s Rights Act, 2003 accused the former Minister of beating her up on several occasions even while she was pregnant with their children. Precious in her summons also accused FFK of drugging her with the help of the DPO at the Asokoro Police station. She asked the court to grant her custody of their four boys.

Reacting to the claims, Hon Olaiya, in a statement released today Saturday, March 6, hinted that they will provide ”evidence” to the court why the children shouldn’t be in Precious’s custody. He also debunked the accusation that Precious was stripped and drugged. Olaiya accused Precious of attempting to kill FFK and their sons while they were living together.

The statement reads

“The statement of claim and affidavit that was filed in court by one Precious Chikwendu against Chief Femi Fani-Kayode is filled with lies and falsehood. Not one thing that she has alleged there is true. She is a pathological liar and a slanderer and we intend to prove this in court.

We also believe that she is unfit to be a mother and that she has shown nothing but cruelty to her children whom she has never taken care of or shown the love and affection of a mother. We believe that the children’s lives would be in danger if they are with her and we shall prove this in court.

For the avoidance of doubt at no time did Chief Fani-Kayode expose his children to danger and he has always provided them with the best of care including 12 nannies and nurses who did all the work even when their mother was in the house and whom she herself employed.

Chikwendu’s only pastime was to post pictures and words on Instagram and sleep with men outside. She also tried to seduce a number of Chief Fani-Kayode’s friends when he was in detention and extort money from them.

Neither is it true that she was ever beaten by Chief Fani-Kayode or anyone else in his staff and security team, either when she was pregnant or not pregnant and it is not true that she was subjected to any form of physical or mental abuse from them.

As a matter of fact, she was the abuser and not Chief Fani-Kayode or any of his security team or staff. On one occasion, she cut two people with a knife and almost bit off the finger of a third when she was trying to attack and kill her own children and husband with two knives. Thirty people witnessed this and we have it on video.

On another occasion when she was caught in bed with a married naval officer in a hotel she cut her own foot with a broken bottle and said she would tell the world that her husband did it. At least three people witnessed this. She and her lover begged not to be prosecuted for adultery even after there was evidence to show that they were planning to have Fani-Kayode murdered.

At a later date, she was committed to a mental health facility for one month. We urge members of the public to wait until the truth is revealed about Chikwendu, her mental and physical abuse of her own children, her mental illness, her numerous attempts to murder Chief Fani-Kayode and his four children, her adulterous ways, her unfathomable cruelty, her gold-digging ways, her violence and so much more before they make up their minds.

All this, with the necessary evidence, will be produced in court. Sadly because the matter of the court’s jurisdiction is still in question, we cannot say anything until that matter is settled.

Once it is and we file our responses and statement of defence and affidavits Chikwendu’s attempt to rubbish a man that has been her entire family’s sole benefactor for seven years and one that has shown her nothing but kindness and love shall be exposed.

And so shall her inexplicable ingratitude and greed. By that time her little pity party and false and misguided attempt at playing the victim, which she uses to sustain her wayward and disgraceful lifestyle, will come to an end and people will know her for the cheap harlot and desperate crook that she really is.

Even though Chikwendu’s plan was to ambush Chief Femi Fani-Kayode into surrendering custody of the children to her, an act that will be grossly inimical to the proper development and well being of the children, we will not respond to her other than to say that our client, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has expressed gladness that Chikwendu has purportedly approached a court.

This is an action that will leave our client with no other option but to expose Chikwendu’s lies, wicked and evil plots, and life-threatening actions against him over the years: issues he had hitherto kept to himself in order to save her from the horrifying indignity and whatever shame is left of her following such revelations.

These would surely be adequately supported with the necessary documents and videos. The world is about to be shocked with the truth about her inhumane actions and other deficiencies which our client has over the years endured from her and covered in order not to expose her to any indignity.

The only reason Chikwendu has not seen her children for close to seven months is because she has refused to come to the house to do so. She was given access to the children 7 months ago and visitation rights but she refused to exercise them.

She also speaks to the children regularly on the phone but is always threatening the lives of their staff and even screaming at the children themselves in an uncontrollable rage on many occasions. It is pertinent to note that she was never asked to leave the house or thrown out. She walked out on her own saying she was hearing voices even when the entire household was begging her to stay and she abandoned her husband and four young children to meet other men outside.

After she finished having her fun Chief Fani-Kayode refused to let her back into his and resolved to keep her out of his life. This is the best decision he has made in the last 7 years. Chikwendu claims that she was stripped and drugged. This is not true. Rather she was held down by a contingent of 4 policemen and policewomen in the presence and under the orders of the DPO of Asokoro police Station and in the presence of her Aunty Joy and at least 30 frightened and agitated police officers, workers and members of the household and family after which she was sedated with an injection by a Dr. from the psychiatric hospital.

This was after she attacked her husband and children with two very large knives and attempted to kill them and after she held them, hostage, upstairs in their rooms for three hours whilst in a drunken craze and threatening to kill everyone including the police who had been called to rescue their lives.

It is important to note that Chief Fani-Kayode and the children were not even present when she was rushed, apprehended and sedated by a combined force of male and female police officers because they had locked themselves upstairs hiding in their rooms in order to save their lives. This whole episode traumatised the children so badly that they needed professional care and till today they shudder when they see their mother.

This is made all the worse that on one occasion she beat her first son so badly that his face swelled up like a football and he had to be rushed to the hospital where she admitted her offence to the doctor. We have pictures of his damaged and badly swollen face.

His crime was that he had called one of his 3 nannies “mummy” and this angered Chikwendu who then flew into an uncontrollable rage and punched him in the face in front of 7 nannies. On a separate occasion in front of three Pastors, she also beat one of the triplets mercilessly simply because he had dared to cry during prayers. Again we have evidence of this and the Pastors and nannies will testify.

It was after the frightful event of her holding the entire household hostage with the two knives and threatening to kill everybody that, whilst sedated, she was taken to and admitted to a private mental institution where she was diagnosed as having severe bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia.

The doctors advised that she be kept there for at least three months for her own sake and for the sake of her family and those living with her in order to ensure that she did not kill herself or kill anyone else and that she gets the care and medical attention she so badly needed.

The entire event was filmed and on video. If she had not been sedated and rushed to the hospital she would have killed her husband, children, Aunty, and others in the house that day including the DPO and her policemen as it was obvious that she had lost her mind.

There is no doubt that she is a depraved and dangerous woman and her medical file will be produced by the hospital at the appropriate time. So will her file which documents all her adulterous atrocities at Asokoro Police Station. In the space of 4 years, Chikwendu had to undergo 5 different surgical operations, all of which Chief Fani-Kayode paid for, and in 7 years she had numerous extra-marital affairs. This was a lifestyle that was unacceptable to Chief Fani-Kayode and one which he found utterly repulsive and repugnant,” Hon Olaiya concluded.

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Buhari, Osinbajo receives COVID-19 jabs, gives serious advice to Nigerians (Photos)

President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Saturday, March 6, 2021, received the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine.

This is coming a day after the Federal Government launched the vaccination exercise in the country.

Both took the jab at the new Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

President Buhari urged all Nigerians to go ahead and get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Both leaders were later presented with electronic cards containing the details of their vaccinations by the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib.

The vaccination exercise was flagged-off on Friday by the SGF, Mr. Boss Mustapha, on behalf of the President at the National Hospital in Abuja.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that Nigeria on Tuesday received 3.94 million doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford COVID-19 vaccines, the much-awaited first batch of vaccines from the COVAX Facility.

According to reports, the country has thus far recorded more than 158,000 coronavirus cases and 1,954 deaths

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See Artists Who Featured In ‘Coming To America 2’

In a quest to capture the heart of millions of fans around the world, the producers of the highly anticipated original film, Coming 2 America part 2 has compiled 2 music album, music from the ‘Motion Picture’ and ‘Rhythms Of Zamunda’ to accompany the release of the film.

The two music album are curated differently as they are both available in all streaming platforms worldwide.

The music from the Motion Picture serve as the official soundtrack whilst music from the Rhythms Of Zamunda curated to serve as a Pan-African project that bridge the gap between countries and cultures

The music album from the Motion Picture contains 12 tracks featuring, Davido, Tekno, Tiwa Savage, Public Enemy, Gladys knight, MI Casa, John Legend ft Burna Boy and others.

The Pan-African album ‘Rhythms of Zamunda’ contains 16 track compilation from various African artists.

The album ‘Rhythms of Zamunda’ is set to introduce the synergy of African soundscapes to listeners all around the world as its traces the musical roadmap within West, East, and South Africa.

The ‘Rhythms of Zamunda’ album has its compilation curated by the CEO of Universal Music South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, Sipho Dlamini also supported by the Universal Music Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Kenya.

The Motion Picture album

The Rhythms Of Zamunda album

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Joy as 15-year-old Nigerian student wins global maths competition, defeats UK, US, Chinese pupils

Nigerians are proud as Faith Odunsi,15, emerged the winner of the Global Open Mathematics Tournament, an international competition with participants from Europe, Africa, America, Asia, and Australia.

Ms. Faith, an SS3 student from Ijebu in Ogun state shared her experience winning the global competition in an interview with newsmen.

According to her, winning the “tough competition” made her happy and honoured.

Faith narrated how she excelled in different stages of the contest to emerge the overall winner.

“In the first stage, there was a computer-based test and we had to answer many questions in one hour. My score in the test was 66. The second stage took the same format and I also scored 66. “The quarter and semi-finals were on Microsoft themes. We were asked questions and we put in our answers; the first to put in the correct answers got 10 points.”

Speaking about how she prepared, Faith said she made sure the
competition did not affect her academic activities adding that after school period , she had another class with her teacher who coached her for the contest

She also said she studied at night from 11pm to 12am.

As the winner of the contest, Faith was presented with a monetary award of $1,000 (N379,000, according to the CBN’s current exchange rate).

She added that the organisers said they would come for the official presentation of the award.

Before winning the global contest, Faith had in 2018 set a record in Cowbellpedia by answering 19 questions in 60 seconds.

She intends to study Computer Engineering for her tertiary education.

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2023: Goodluck Jonathan opens up on presidential ambition, makes pledge

Former Nigerian president, Goodluck Jonathan has finally addressed 2023 presidential topic.

Recall that many people are of the opinion that he would be running for president come the next presidential election.

Jonathan stated this when he paid a condolence visit to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa at Government House, Asaba, over the recent demise of Sir Okorie Okowa.

In a statement by the Delta state government made available to newsmen, Jonathan described the rumor as mere speculation.

He said: “On the rumour of my interest in the 2023 presidential election, it was mere speculation.” He also pledged to continue to serve God, humanity, Africa to the best of his ability.

In a related development, Jonathan called for synergy among key stakeholders in the security sector of the country. Specifically, he said President Muhammadu Buhari, the governors, security chiefs, and other stakeholders must all work together to tackle insecurity in the country.

He also said he believed that the president is doing his best to arrest the situation.

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Laycon engaged on blind date in new series of ‘I Am Laycon’

After a month of its first episode, the organizers of the ‘I Am Laycon’ reality show released the last five episodes of the show.

The new episode begins from the last scene of episode 5 when Laycon and Miwa were on a blind date.

The blind date as seen, show Miwa who brought up a topic concerning the evolution of Laycon’s relationship with Erica, a forbidden topic which he has carefully avoided.

Though, Laycon later explained what happened between him and Erica while also revealed his plans towards Miwa to Yomi.

In the new episode, Laycon was seen running around in his room, being scared of taking an injection from Sandra, a nurse who came to administer medication on him when he fell sick as a result of the stress from all the activities he had.

The new episode, showcase all the exhibition he got from his fans as a result of the smile they got from him.

The new episode also showcases Laycon talking about his house being the first compound anyone can see in the estate. The scene also shows the official presentation of the house he won from the BBNaija lockdown season and his appearance during the cutting of the ribbon.

Laycon also talked about how an Imam came to say a prayer for him and also how his father Memorial Day was proposed.

According to him, his brothers had planned a meeting for their dad’s memorial but it wasn’t possible due to several reasons including the current pandemic and the absence of some important family members.

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EFCC Boss, Abdulrasheed Bawa assumes office, reveals plans to fight corruption in Nigeria

The Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa has promised to drive the organization towards a proactive and intelligence-led investigation.

He disclosed this on Friday when he officially assumed duties at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The spokesperson for EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said in a statement that the new EFCC boss promised a paradigm shift in the agency’s approach to anti-graft war, from fighting corrupt persons to fighting corruption.

“There is a difference between fighting corruption and fighting corrupt people; and going forward, we are going to be proactive in our approach in the fight against economic and financial crimes.

“I will create a full-fledged directorate of intelligence that will spearhead intelligence gathering, which will ensure proactive response in the fight against corruption.

“We are going to digitalise our processes, and we are going to create a new full-pledged directorate of intelligence to enable us to gather intelligence so that we will be proactive in our fight against economic and financial crimes.

“And by so doing, we will also provide the government with necessary quality advice that will lead to good governance,” Bawa pledged.

He also assured stakeholders of the commission’s continued partnership.

“For our strategic partners across the shores of this country, we will continue to work together with you.

“We will continue to share intelligence, to see that the stolen wealth of this country is returned for the betterment of us all.

“But all of these, we will be doing it the way the EFCC is known to be doing its things.

“The provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extant laws of the country have always been and will always be our guide,” he said.

Bawa also pledged to prioritise staff welfare, stressing he was going to work on it, and also seek necessary support from the government.

“We know the problems and God willing, we are going to solve these problems,” he assured.

Earlier in his handing over remarks, the out-going Acting Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Mohammed Umar, said under his watch, the Commission prosecuted 804 cases and obtained a total of 583 convictions.

He added that substantial recovery running into billions of Naira was made, while various assets were equally forfeited through interim or final Order of Court.

He congratulated Bawa for a well-deserved appointment and wished him well in his new assignment.

“I am particularly delighted to be handing over the affairs of the Commission to Bawa.

“He is an officer with whom I have enjoyed close working relationship and who contributed immensely to our collective efforts in the war against Economic and Financial crimes.

“I have no doubt that he will do well, and I enjoin all staff to accord him the same support that I have received over the last seven months,“ he said.

The outgoing Acting chairman thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for allowing him to lead the Commission for about 7 months.

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FG gives important updates on COVID-19 vaccine to Nigerians

Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has stated that nobody is safe from COVID-19 infection until everyone is vaccinated.

He disclosed this at the formal rollout of COVID-19 vaccines at the National Hospital in Abuja on Friday, March 5.

He said;

“For us in Nigeria and indeed nations of the world, the lessons to be drawn from this lack of discrimination by the virus are numerous. They include the fact that we must approach the vaccine phase with the unity of purpose.

“We must understand that nobody is safe until everyone is vaccinated. We must recognise that vaccine hesitancy will impact negatively on our lives and those of our loved ones if allowed to foster.

“We must demonstrate at all times that this is a war for the survival of everyone. We must believe our government on the safety and efficacy of the vaccines brought to Nigeria.”

The Chairman of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 reiterated that frontline health workers will be prioritized in receiving jabs from the first batch of vaccine received, called on everyone to support the plan and systematic roll-out of the vaccine and mobilize citizens across states in the country.

He said;

“They have fought hard to save us. They laid down their lives for us. And in the ICUs and treatment centers, they became our last line of defense.”

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DJ Cuppy prepare for Master degree at Oxford University

Popular Nigerian disk jockey and musician, Florence Otedola is better known as DJ Cuppy has announced her master’s degree admission to study African Studies at Oxford University.

The singer announced in two different post she shared on her verified Instagram page on Friday, March 5, 2021.

The first post was a video of her informing her parents while the other post is when she share a picture of her admission letter.

According to DJ Cuppy who shared the picture of her admission letter from the University to study African Studies also revealed when she will proceed with her studies.

In her post, the singer while informing her parents about the development said, “Mama and Papa, I have news to share with you. Remember I applied at Oxford last year for my master’s? I got it. I am going to Oxford University, I am going to Lady Margaret Hall.”

The singer in her first video post further use the opportunity to ask her billionaire father, Femi Otedola if he would pay for her school fees saying, “I hope papa would just pay for my school fees,” a statement her father declined saying, “I have paid for your school fees long enough, I cannot afford to.”

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Buhari decorates new Service Chiefs, gives serious order (Photos)

President Muhammadu Buhari has on Friday, March 5, decorated the new Service Chiefs.

They were decorated at an event held in the Council Chamber at the State House.

The new Service Chiefs decorated are, Major General Lucky Irabor, Chief of Defence Staff, who is decorated as full General; Major General Ibrahim Attahiru; Chief of Army Staff decorated with the rank of Lieutenant-General.

Also, the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo is decorated as Vice Admiral; and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Ishiaka Oladayo Amao is decorated with the rank of Air Marshal.

President Buhari during the ceremony told the new service chiefs that they only have a few weeks to secure the country.

The new service chiefs were escorted to the State House by their wives and other senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He said he expects that before the rainy season, they would have secured the country to the level that farmers who had fled their farms in different parts of Nigeria would have developed enough confidence to return to their farms.

General Lucky Irabor, the Chief of Defense Staff, who spoke after the ceremony, told State House correspondents that Nigerians cannot continue to live in fear. He gave the assurance that the era of Nigerians living in fear will now be a thing of the past.

The decoration of the new service chiefs comes after the National Assembly confirmed their appointment.

Goldennationblog.com earlier reported that the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan during the confirmation advised the new service chiefs to take the insurgency war to the terrorists and bandits.

He reminded them to be conscious of the fact that Nigerians expect a lot from them to address the security problems confronting the country.

Recall also that the House of Representatives confirmed the Service Chiefs in February after they were called upon to share their portfolios as well as their visions.

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Drake drops new EP ‘Scary Hours 2’

Popular Canadian rapper and songwriter, Drake has dropped his EP ‘Scary Hours’ off its sixth studio album ‘Certified Lover Boy’.

The EP ‘Scary Hours 2’ which contains three songs also featured Lil Baby and Rick Ross.

According to Drake during Sound 42 station on Sirius XM live told everyone that he will drop 3 songs. Adding that he doesn’t have a release date for ‘Certified Lover Boy’ but insisted that it is already in the pot.

Drake also dropped a new music video on one of the tracks ‘What’s Next’.

Recall goldennationblog.com report DJ Akademiks reveal how Drake is preparing to release his new song this week

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Jay-Z sell Tidal for $297m deal says its game-changer

Square Inc, a financial technology company in San Francisco has announced its agreement to acquire ownership of Jay Z music streaming service Tidal.

According to the founder of Square Inc and co-founder and chief executive of Twitter, Jack Dorsey said, Tidal will operate as a distinct entity alongside the point of sale hardware and software payments company.

He said, Tidal has presented itself as the artists friendly alternative to other music streaming services, adding that the agreement with Square will take that phenomenon further for musicians just as it has for businesses with it’s financial systems.

Under the deal, Square Inc will pay a whopping sum of $297 million in cash and stock for the music streaming platform (Tidal).

The deal also offers Jay-Z to be among the board of directors as well as other artists who currently own shares in Tidal as shareholders.

While announcing the deal, Jack Dorsey said, it’s core purpose comes down to one simple ideas which is finding a new ways for artists to support their work.

However Jay-Z in a statement reveals how the partnership will be a game-changer for many, adding that he is looking forward to all new chapters the agreement has to offer.

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See why YAGG Sue For Peaceful election in Delta State

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The Youths Advocacy For Good Governance, YAGG, has echoed its support towards a peaceful credible free and fair election in Delta State.

YAGG in a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Mike AZ, Provost, Comrade Victor Egwuyenga, Publicity Secretary, Comrade Chuks Golden said, “Winning election into public office is not desperate, do or die venture as political actors have made politics a do or die affair which has paved it’s way to violence.

The statement however calls on Delta youth to be part of this year’s election process, while also urging them to come out en mass on Saturday, March 6, 2021.

According to the statement, “politics is anchored on the principle of Pro people manifesto, fresh ideas and all forms of pro-democratic principles.”

YAGG under the watchword of “Say no to vote-buying and ballot box snatching” calls on all Delta youth to shun any form of violence such as vote-buying, ballot stuffing, thuggery, and other forms of electoral fraud as a checklist before seeking the mandate of the people.

YAGG went further to encourage Delta youth to be part of the electoral process which will usher in another fresh beginning of local government councils. Adding that the political actors and the election arbitrator in Delta State are to ensure credible polls that will bring onboard credible candidates.

However, YAGG also calls on DESIEC to conduct a hitch-free exercise that will be devoid of any kind of electoral fraud.

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2023: Shehu Sani reveals what governors must do before contesting for Presidency

Former Kaduna lawmaker, Shehu Sani, has advised governors seeking to run for the presidency in 2023 after President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure.

He disclosed this in a post on Friday where he warned interested governors to seek opinions of family members and predecessors before going into the race.

His tweet read: “If you are a Governor in your second tenure, and some people are pushing you to contest for the presidency of this complicated country, seek the candid advice of your family who would bear the burden and consult your predecessors who were pushed by the same people.“

Goldennationblog.com gathered recently that banners and campaign posters of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State as a presidential aspirant for the 2023 election surfaced in Adamawa State.

The posters were seen on Thursday in some parts of Yola, the state capital.

One of the posters reads, ‘For a Generational Change 2023; Yahaya Bello for President’

However, It is not certain if the governor would run for the said position in 2023.

The Kogi governor had said that only God would decide if he would contest in 2023 or not.

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Fireboy Dml releases ‘Champion’ official video featuring D Smoke

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Fireboy DML has released the music video for ‘Champion’ featuring American rapper, Daniel Anthony Farris, known professionally as D Smoke.

The new video centered on the central message of the song ‘Champion’ which focuses on a scenario where Fireboy Dml is trying to show how he struggled through the street to attain success.

The new video has its setting opens on Fireboy Dml standing in a retrospect Africa environment, showing a lady riding a bike and a taxi driver carrying passengers.

The scene that followed shows Fireboy Dml jumping from a building and jogging into the desert and the forest. It went further to show D Smoke who brings up the enlightenment where he sings on a stage full of lights.

The song ‘Champion’ is the number one track among 17 tracks in the Fireboy Dml Apollo album that he dropped last year.

The new video is directed by popular Nigerian video director, TG Omori Filmworks, while the sound credit goes to another popular Nigerian music producer and songwriter, Phillip Kayode Moses better knows as Pheelz.

Recall how Fireboy Dml performed a medley of ‘Champion’ and ‘Vibration’ on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show.’

Watch video:

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Man confesses how he killed his girlfriend, says her spirit has been disturbing him

Collins Lucky Maduane, a South African man, who claimed to have been tormented by the spirit of his girlfriend he murdered more than 20 years ago has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

The man, now aged 52, was sentenced at the high court in Pretoria this week.

He was 31 years old when he strangled Florah Mahlo to death at his Soshanguve home and the deceased was 25.

Spokesperson of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Lumka Mahanjana said,

” On the night of September 3, 1999, neighbours had heard Mahlo’s screams coming from Maduane’s home. The next morning when they asked about Mahlo’s whereabouts, he claimed she was away, visiting relatives in Johannesburg.

“In the year 2000, while Maduane was detained in Bavianspoort Maximum Prison serving a 12-year sentence for attempted murder in another case, he was haunted by Mahlo’s spirit. He then called his sister and confessed.

“He explained in detail how on that fateful night, he had strangled her, then dragged her body to a nearby bush where he set it alight.

“The following day, he went to where he burnt the body and discovered that it was not completely burnt. He then decided to chop the body into two halves. He chopped the bottom part and threw it in the nearby drain. He then buried the remaining parts,” said Mahanjana.

Seven years after confessing to his sister, Maduane felt the need to also inform Mahlo’s family. He asked to meet her mother but suddenly backed out.

“Twelve years later, in 2019, the matter again came up. A fight broke out between Maduane and his niece and his sister was called. When the sister arrived, she found that he was still very emotional and uncontrollably angry.

“Maduane’s sister called a friend and when the friend arrived, she asked why he was always fighting. He asked them to switch off their phones before he spoke. The sister pretended to have switched off her phone and recorded everything,” said Mahanjana.

He told them that he was stressed because since Mahlo passed on, she is troubling him. He confessed. He said he wanted to take them to where he killed her.

After pointing out the places and confessing to the friend and the sister, he requested to meet Mahlo’s mother to confess to her as well. Indeed the mother arrived the following day, he confessed and pointed out as he did to the friend and the sister.”

Maduane, who had previously spent time behind bars for attempted murder, was then rearrested.

Two years later, the court finalised his case – more than two decades after the murder.

“The court believed that Maduane was indeed haunted by the spirit of the deceased because he had successfully evaded justice for years,” said Mahanjana.

He was handed a life sentence for the murder.

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Senate President, Lawan reveals those funding terrorism, banditry in Nigeria

Ahmad Lawan, President of the Nigerian Senate, has said that drug barons are funding terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.

He disclosed this when the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Buba Marwa, visited him on Thursday at his office in Abuja.

Lawan explained that the proceeds of the illegal drug trade were being used to buy arms and ammunition for terrorist groups like Boko Haram, as well as bandits and kidnappers.

“I believe that this agency needs restructuring now that you’ve taken over.

“My personal opinion is that NDLEA should be in the league of EFCC, ICPC, and therefore, the kind of support that those two agencies I mentioned receive, you should receive something like that.

“So, the National Assembly will work with you and will ensure that we do our best to give you the kind of support that’ll enable you properly to discharge your mandate.

“Drug peddlers pass their drugs – cannabis, heroin, and possibly even cocaine through Nigeria.

“We believe that this has to stop because the proceeds of such activities fund terrorism, they fund banditry, you wonder how the bandits have RPGs and these massive arms that they have.

“These are some acquisitions provided by some barons, not the bandits themselves.”

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See what Adekunle Gold revealed about Paw Paw

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Adekunle Gold has celebrated Nollywood actor, Osita Iheme popularly known as Paw Paw for his versatility.

The singer on Tuesday, March 2, 2021, took to his official Twitter page to describe the versatility of the actor.

According to the singer, the movie star has acted in numerous roles whose photos and videos are used as memes in every situation, adding that the viral usage of the memes showing Paw Paw doing different things cut across different facets of social situations.

The singer while considering the wide range of movies he has starred in, maintains that the movie star has starred in over 70 movies which his photos and videos are usually tapped from

Recall how Paw Paw came into the limelight in 2002 after his role in Aki Na Ukwa (Aki and Paw Paw) alongside his best friend Chinedu Ikedieze aka Aki.

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Police arrest two suspected ‘specialised Sunday burglars’, see their offence (Photo)

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested two burglary suspects, Jackson Oke-Oghene and Ikpomwonsa Osayande in Benin City.

According to reports, the suspects are members of a gang that specialise in breaking into people’s homes in Benin City on Sundays when everyone has gone to church.

It was gathered that one of the suspects Osayande, last Sunday, monitored the occupants of a house at Igo on upper Ekewan Road, Benin City, and allegedly forced his way into the house through the window when the occupants left.

He allegedly searched all the rooms in the house and stole a cash sum of 15,000 Euros, equivalent to 9 million Naira. The suspect was said to have taken the euros to a Bureau D change at Kings Square in Benin city to exchange to Naira.

According to the report, the Bureau D change operator, upon sensing that it was stolen money, allegedly gave the suspect the sum of 5 million Naira instead of 9 Million Naira.

The second suspect, Jackson Oke-Oghene, was alleged to have stormed different houses in the same area and stole items worth thousands of Naira.

However, luck ran out on him when he entered a home when the female occupants were around. They caught him and shouted for help.

The quick response of residents in the area helped in apprehending the suspect, who then named his cohort.

“l saw the man jump into my room through the window, and l calculated and held him for people to come.”

The victim, whose 15,000 euros was stolen appealed to the police to help recover the money.

“The 15,000 euros he stole was sent to me by my sister in Europe to handle some urgent family issues. I appeal to the police to help me recover the money and prosecute the thieves.” he said.

One of the suspects, Osayande Ikpomwonsa, in an interview, said he used part of the money he stole to buy a car and pay his father’s house rent.

“l entered the house when nobody was at home and met the 15,000 euros after l searched everywhere. The 5 million naira l got was used to buy a Toyota Camry car, two motorcycles, built shops in my father’s house for rent,” he said.

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AYF-W charges voters to vote their choices of candidates in Delta LG polls

Anioma Youth Forum (Worldwide), AYF-W, Thursday, told all qualified voters across the nine Local Government Areas of Anioma and the other 16 Local Government Areas of Delta State at large to come out en mass on March 6 and cast their votes for the candidates of their choices across all party lines.

AYF-W in a statement by its National President, Comrade Nnamdi Ofonye, Deputy National President, Comrade Sadik Nwachukwu, National Secretary, Frank Odum, and National Publicity Secretary, Elvis Ekwukwo, said: “Without any iota of doubt, AYF-W being the umbrella body of all Anioma Youths is committed to ensuring that our youths deviate from being tools used by political racketeers who pose as leaders to harass, intimidate, maim and in some cases kill their brothers, sisters and friends for peanuts as thugs and hirelings. That narrative must stop.

“So, as we file out yet again on Saturday, AYF-W charges Anioma youths to elect only those they are sure of having the basics and willpower to pilot the affairs of the local government and outrightly resist the old fashioned imposition of stooges who will serve as a conduit for looting and sharing of our common patrimony as regrettably witnessed almost in all the Local Governments during the tenures of the immediate past Chairmen and others before them.

“On the other hand, AYF-W notes with dismay the posture of DSIEC as it concerns free and fair election come Saturday. It is worrisome that a commission saddled with such onerous responsibility has not been able to come out open and assure Deltans of its readiness to conduct free, fair, and credible elections.

“It became more worrisome that despite several attempts and efforts to engage DSIEC as critical stakeholders, the commission has been evasive. Even when our application to be registered as independent observers for the exercise, DSIEC also failed to act on it leaving us with no option than to conclude that maybe, only those technically handpicked to serve their purpose might have been accredited.

“Finally, AYF-W is not unmindful of the critical roles of the security agencies in an election, hence we ask them to make professionalism their watchword all through the election periods by ensuring the safety of everyone taking part in the election while all trouble makers are dealt with severely.

“AYF-W wishes all the candidates in the election good luck as we wait to join in the victory dance but with only those credibly elected by the people.”

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Burna Boy Inducted To Perform Live On Grammy Awards

Popular Nigerian musician and Grammy nominee, Burna Boy has been chosen to perform alongside other celebrities at the 63rd Grammy Awards.

The Recording Academy made this revelation on its website ahead of the annual Grammy Awards that will be telecasted.

The event will be hosted by Jhene Aiko, current three times Grammy nominee as it will also feature several performances by current nominees, including Nigerian singer and songwriter, Burna Boy who also got nominated for the ‘Best Global Music Album’ (Twice As Tall).

The 63rd Grammy Awards will be streamed live internationally via Grammy.com, the event is slated to take place Sunday, March 14, 2021, on CBS at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m PT.

According to the organizers, the 63rd Grammy will be done virtually to ensure the safety of staff and guests. Adding that the event will be accessible to attendees as it will be stream all day on Sunday including during and after the Grammy Awards evening telecast.

The organizers also guarantee music fans remarkable digital access to the Grammy Awards contents that will be stream internationally on Grammy.com and via Facebook Live, the exclusive streaming partner of Grammy Live.

The Grammy live will take viewers behind the scenes with backstage experience, pre-show interviews, and post-show highlight from music’s biggest night.

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Zamfara schoolgirls reveals role played by school watchman during abduction

Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle has disclosed that the schoolgirls who were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Jangebe in Talata-Mafara LGA in February, alleged that their school watchman was involved in the incident.

He disclosed this while appearing on Politics Today, a Channels Television program.

Matawalle said the students alleged that the bandits told them that their watchman gave them the go-ahead to come.

He said;

“Even the watchman of the school…. The children have mentioned that when they were there; after releasing them, the bandits were telling them (the schoolgirls) to greet the watchman for them.

“They even mentioned his name that he is the one who gave them the go-ahead to come, so he was involved.

“They have said this in front of the commissioner of police in Zamfara state. The investigation will be carried out and all people involved will be known.”

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COVID19: FG reveals why no Nigerian will be mandated to take vaccines

The Federal Government has said Nigerians will not be mandated to take the COVID-19 vaccination.

Minister of State for Health, Olorunnimbe Mamora disclosed this yesterday during a chat on Arise Tv.

”Nothing will be made mandatory. It’s optional. The choice is yours. Nobody will be forced to take any vaccine,” he said.

Asked if it might become mandatory later, Mamora said, “If that happens, it would not be a decision of Nigeria.”

According to him, just like the Yellow Card certificate, countries might have to start demanding a COVID-19 vaccination certificate before allowing outsiders in.

He said Nigeria may be influenced by a demand by countries for a certificate of vaccination, adding that “it may just be something that will become global.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria had said Nigerians who received COVID-19 vaccines abroad must be tested upon arrival in Nigeria. Mamora added.

He explained that getting the COVID-19 vaccination does not immune a person from contracting the virus.

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See performance done by Davido on Jimmy Kimmel live

Popular Nigerian superstar, Davido had to performed live on an American late-night Tv show.

The late-night Tv show which was organized by Jimmy Kimmel is to give viewers a lively performance.

The show Jimmy Kimmel live feature Davido performed ‘Assurance’ from his “A Good Time” album and ‘Jowo’ from his “A Better Time” album as he was all back up with a full music band.

Watch video

https://youtu.be/oDl6ztgRyzc

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See what Okonjo Iweala did to 4-year-old girl who modelled her with Ankara cloth, many react

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The new chair of the World Trade Centre (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has acknowledged a four-year-old kid and other children who modeled her look.

In response to a collage of a kid with one of her photos, the WTO chief said all the children will all become great in life as she called the model beautiful.

Okonjo-Iweala also appreciated all those who have shown her huge support since her emergence. It should be noted that the kid’s photo was first posted by her dad, Sage Ugo, on his Instagram page. In the post made on Tuesday, February 16, he said: “Don’t they look alike? Abeg, someone should tell Madam Ngozi to come and carry her granddaughter o!”

See Okonjo’s tweet below:

Meanwhile, goldennationblog.com gathered some of the reactions her post got below:

@Naseer_Msnw said: “Ameen. We thank you Ma. May you continue to be great too.”

@PamSittoni said: “You’ve done it for all women! For all Africa and the world. Thank you!”

@MickeyGates5 said: “Keeping it African, keeping it classy like an African woman. Cheers to both Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the 4 yr old, for showing us pure Africanness.”

@RawUNO said: “Nwunyede you are an excellent role model. Our children can hardly find good ones nowadays.”

@Johnson99404261 said: “I’m so so Happy watching them modeling you, More grace to u maa!”

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Adekunle Gold drops new music video ‘Pretty Girl’ featuring Patoranking

Popular Nigerian musician, Adekunle Kosoko, better known as Adekunle Gold has released the visual for his ‘Pretty Girl’ collaboration with Nigerian reggae-dancehall musician, Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, better known by his stage name Patoranking.

The new video is all about a pretty girl whose beauty admittedly stirs up a spell. It focuses on the central message of the song.

The new video has a retro setting which opens in a colorful bar with vinyl hanging on the wall along with old posters.

The new video also shows how the supporters dressed in vintage-style with beer crates stacked on top of one another. The scene that followed show a rundown building, it’s a hallway, and its courtyard.

In the video, Adekunle Gold as a showstopper was surrounded by several pretty girls with energetic choreographer sequencing.

The new video also has Patoranking offering his synergy to bring the production together.

‘Pretty Girl’ is one of the tracks among 10 tracks in Adekunle Gold Afro Pop vol. 1 album that dropped last year.

The video for ‘Pretty Girl’ was directed by Nigerian video director, Olu The Wave.

Watch it here

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Drama as Sowore appear in court with ‘strange bodyguard’ (Photo)

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Omoyele Sowore, Politician and publisher of online news platform, Sahara Reporters, was accompanied to the Magistrates’ Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, on Tuesday by a man in a red and black striped sleeveless knee-length dress and a matching cap.

The man, who did not reveal his name, was among Sowore’s supporters who were in court to witness proceedings in his trial, along with four others, on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and incitement.

The man was described as Sowore’s spiritual advisor.

His dress had cowries, snail shells, and the small head of a fox emblazoned on it.

He carried a guard and a small horsetail with cowries in his right hand; a red cloth sack was strapped to his shoulder.

The man had chalk marks around his eyes. He was barefooted.

His appearance caused curious glances among the people around the court premises.

Like, others, who were with Sowore, the man, who looked like a seer character in an Igbo movie, was also allowed into the courtroom.

During proceedings, a prosecution witness, a police official, gave evidence about how the defendants were apprehended in the early hours of January 1, 2021, while allegedly engaging in an unlawful assembly and inciting public disturbance.

The witness said the defendants were arrested by a team of policemen at the Lokogoma junction in Abuja.

While being cross-examined by a lawyer to the defendants, Marshal Abubakar, the witness said he did not personally arrest Sowore but that he was a member of the team that effected the arrest of all the defendants.

Before adjourning further proceedings till March 7 this year, Chief Magistrate Mabel Segun-Bello varied the conditions attached to the bail earlier granted to the second to fifth defendants by permitting them to travel outside Abuja until the next adjourned date.

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FG gives fresh order on NIN enrolment, reveals why

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The Federal Government has approved the establishment of Sim swap centers by Mobile Network Operators, MNOs, across the local government areas of the country.

Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami disclosed the approval during a meeting of the ministerial Task Force on the NIN-SIM registration.

During the meeting, the federal government also approved the extension of the tenure of National Identity Number, NIN, enrolment Agent Licenses for MNOs from 1 to 5 years.

A statement jointly signed by Ikechukwu Adinde, Kayode Adegoke, Director, Public Affairs Head, Corporate Communications, Nigerian Communications Commission, and Nigeria Identity Management Commission, respectively, said the steps were to simplify the enrolment process for agents of NIN.

The statement reads partly: “Several resolutions were taken at the meeting, including the following: Approval was given to MNOs for the establishment of dedicated SIM Swap Centres across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.

“Approval was given for the extension of the tenure of NIN Enrolment Agent Licenses for MNOs from 1 to 5 years in consideration of their satisfactory performance, subject to continuous monitoring.

“This is a deliberate effort of the Federal Government to simplify the enrolment process for Nigerians and legal residents.

“The Technical Committee was mandated to complete the development of a new SIM issuance strategy that cannot be compromised. This will ensure that there is no repeat of the past process that was compromised through pre-registration by some agents.

“A Multi-Sectoral Adhoc Committee was tasked to immediately complete the review of the processes for new SIM activations for legal residents staying in Nigeria for less than 24 months. The membership of the Committee was drawn from NCC, NIMC, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON).

“Furthermore, MNOs that already have Service Centres in important and critical locations in LGAs, are expected to upgrade these Centres to a level where they can qualify as SIM Swap Centres in order to reduce the challenges associated with the SIM Swap/Replacement process for the citizens.

“The purpose is to bring SIM Swap Centres closer to Nigerians regardless of their location.”

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See Why 2baba Says Religion Is A Moral Gym

Legendary Nigerian singer and songwriter, Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2face has said that religion is meant to be a moral gym, augmenting that anything aside from that is a scam.

The singer made this known while describing religious arrogance in a series of posts he shared on his Instagram story on Tuesday, March 2, 2021.

According to his claim about being religious arrogance, he said most people do not understand what religion is meant to be and how it should be practice.

The legendary singer went further explaining what he means, he said anyone who wants to exhibit any religious arrogance, should try to understand how it is, he said, it is meant to be a moral gym. Adding that people who still claim to be fighting for God are downgrading and insulting God because God gave humans everything including brains.

He went further to state that, he respects every religion but nobody can tell him anything. while also gave prominence to anyone who wants to go to heaven to freely arrange for him or herself to go as he will find his way there too.

He also warns that people should not miss him with any religious arrogance because to him, God gives us brains and it is superior that we use them.

See his post

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Northern traders threaten to continue food blockade to South

Northern traders under the aegis of the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria (AUFCDN) have threatened to continue the food blockade to the Southern part of the country.

The union said this decision is despite being at risk of losing their perishable goods.

An official of the union Awwalu Aliyu, who spoke to newsmen stated that the aim of the food blockade is not to starve Southerners but to protest against the killing and destruction of properties belonging to Northerners.

Aliyu who restated the group’s claim of Northerners being killed and losing properties especially during the #EndSARS protest and the recent Shasha market crisis in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, added that it will be better for them to lose food items locked up inside trucks in Jebba, Niger state than losing their lives.

When asked if members of the union were not concerned about food items locked up inside trucks in Jebba, Niger state, going bad and leading to losses, Aliyu said;

“It would be better to lose the food items than to lose lives.

“You’re talking about losing goods; which one is better, to lose a life or to lose property? Losing property is better than losing a life.

“We prefer and our people will prefer to lose those farm items or goods than to continue losing their lives. If you are alive, you can plant another thing, you can rear another cattle. But if you’re dead, you can’t do that again. Only the living can go to the farm.

“We do not want to destroy anybody. We do not want to kill anybody. The number of Yorubas and Ibos that reside in Kano and Kaduna alone is far more than the number of northerners in the entire south-west, south-south, and south-east.

“Also, the investments of Yorubas and Igbos in Kano and Kaduna, running into billions of naira is more than the entire investments of northerners in the south-west, south-east and south-south if you remove Dangote. Our people are only petty traders, shoe shiners, fingernail cutters, wheelbarrow pushers, okada riders, and so on.

“Our people in the south don’t have what southerners have in the north. They have farmlands, buildings, and a lot of properties that run into billions. We do not intend to touch a needle out of it. We do not intend to destroy anybody’s property. What we want is to have our people protected from being killed.”

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Nigerian pastor beaten to coma for refusing to allow masquerade in church

There was a mild drama in a church in Kogi as youths beat up a clergyman for refusing to allow them to perform their tradition.

Angry youths numbering about 20 on Monday night, March 1, beat to coma Pastor Michael Samson, the clergy in charge of United Evangelical Church in Iyano community under Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.

It was gathered that the incident happened at about 11 pm on Monday.

It was gathered that trouble started when the pastor had during the day denied the youths access to the church with their masquerade while they were performing a ceremony.

Angered by the pastor’s resistance, the youths returned at night with weapons, with which they attacked the pastor while he was asleep.

They beat the pastor to a coma and he is currently admitted at Idah general hospital.

A pastor who narrated the incident to newsmen said: “They wanted to perform to the gods of the land which we call ‘Ane’ in Igala land. The pastor told them that this is not the right place to do it and they should leave. After leaving, they came back in the night fully kitted with dangerous objects to beat him to Coma.

“They were up to 20. We are praying right now that nothing should happen to our brother because he is currently in critical condition.

“The incident has been reported to the Police Division in Onyedega under Ibaji LGA.”

The police are reportedly investigating the incident.

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Commotion as CDQ attacks Burna Boy for taunting Obafemi Martins

Social media had been on fire following the uproar involving popular Nigerian singer Burna Boy attacking former International footballer, Obafemi Martins inside Quilox Club, Lagos.

The uproar started when Nigerian rapper CDQ made a post on his Twitter page on Monday 1, 2021 accusing Burna Boy of attacking Obafemi Martins.

CQD who brought the notice on social media accused Burna Boy and his boys of allegedly disrespecting Obagoal over a misunderstanding that occurred in the club.

However, CDQ asked Burna Boy and his boys to apologize to Obafemi Martins, adding that Obagoal is not their mate

Meanwhile, a Twitter user with the name @RMTHWAAT reveals the reasons that stir the commotion, according to him, the situation started when Burna Boy and Obagoal are in the same club (Quilox) and the DJ is playing Davido Fem when Burna Boy asked the DJ to change the song and Obagoal opposed. It was later alleged that Burna Boy slaps the DJ and Obagoal decide to slap him (Burna Boy).

A lot of people have taken to social media to express their opinions over the incident that occurred after which CDQ took the topic to Twitter.

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Senate President, Lawan tells new Service Chiefs to fight bandits, insurgents

Senate President Ahmad Lawan on Tuesday charged the new Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs to take the fight against bandits and insurgents in a renewed bid to ensure the security of lives and property across states in the country.

He gave the charge during plenary in his remarks after the Service Chiefs were confirmed for appointment by the Senate.

The new Service Chiefs are Major General Lucky Eluoye Onyenucheya Irabor – Chief of Defence Staff; Major General Ibrahim Attahiru – Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral Awwal Zubairu Agambi – Chief of Naval Staff; and Air Vice Marshal Isiaka O. Alao – Chief of Air Staff.

The Senate President, who lamented over the poor security situation in the country, emphasized that the confirmation of the service chiefs places squarely on them the responsibility of addressing the problems of banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency.

He said: “Let me take this opportunity to thank the former Service Chiefs for doing their best, and also advice the Chief of Defence Staff and New Service Chiefs that Nigerians expect so much from them.

“We are in a very serious situation. The security situation must be improved, and the buck is now going to stop on their tables as far as operations are concerned.”

Lawan while underscoring the importance of security in Nigeria assured of the continued support of the National Assembly to the new leadership of the military.

He described as “unacceptable” the recent activities of bandits which saw the kidnapping of students in Katsina, Niger, and Zamfara states, respectively.

The Senate President said: “We in the National Assembly, particularly in the Senate, will continue to support our Armed Forces in whatever way is possible.

“We believe that there is no better investment today in Nigeria, and, indeed at any time, than investing in the security of our country, to protect the lives and properties of our people.

“And, therefore, we will continue to support them, but we expect excellence. We expect them – our armed forces – to take the fight to the bandits.

“In a situation where bandits will come to a school, take over 300 hundred students on motorcycles, and disappear into thin air without any trace is not acceptable.

“Something has to give because apparently, this is becoming an industry. Some people are benefitting from this, and we have to unravel who these people are and fight bandits and insurgents until we rescue our country.”

Lawan, therefore, advised the newly confirmed Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs to foster inter-agency cooperation among security agencies.

“Let me also advise the Service Chiefs that there must be inter-agency cooperation.

“The Army, the Airforce must coordinate their activities because they are supposed to have complementary roles.

“I wish them all the success and we promise them, and indeed Nigerians that we will support them in whatever way is possible; that the parliament will come to their support,” he added.

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Two suspects arrested for raping 16-year-old vulnerable girl

Men of the Bauchi State Police Command have arrested two suspects for allegedly raping their neighbor’s mentally-challenged 16-year-old daughter.

SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, Spokesperson of the command, disclosed this in a statement seen by goldennationblog.com on Monday, March 1.

He said the suspects, Kabiru Nuhu, 20, and Ado Auwal, 19, conspired and raped the victim in an uncompleted building in Azare town, Azare Local Government Area of Bauchi state.

“On 11/2021 at about 1600hr one Muhammad Abubakar aged 50yrs of Tatari Ali quarters Azare reported that on the same date at about 1500hrs, one Kabiru Nuhu aged 20yrs and Ado Auwal aged 19yrs of same address criminally conspired and had unlawful carnal knowledge of his mentally challenged daughter, one Hasiya (not real name) aged 16yrs in an uncompleted building,” the statement says.

On receipt of the report, a team of detectives was drafted to the scene, the victim was rushed to General Hospital Azare while the suspects were arrested.

During interrogation, the suspects made voluntary confessional statements admitting to having committed the offence.

The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation and prosecution after which the suspects will be charged to court.

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DJ Akademiks says Drake will be dropping new music this week

Popular Jamaican content creator, Livingston Allen who is better known as DJ Akademiks has announced the arrival of new music from Canadian superstar, Aubrey Drake Graham who is popularly known as Drake.

Dj Akademiks made this revelation on his verified Twitter page on Monday, March 1st, 2021.

According to DJ Akademiks, Drake is working overtime on his next album ‘Certified Lover Boy’.

Dj Akademiks said, Drake, ask him to sit tight and relax while warming up for the next record.

DJ Akademiks also suggested that Drake told him last week that he will be dropping his ‘Certified Lover Boy’ album before April.

He added, he’s gonna let people know at least a week before dropping the album, stating that, he doesn’t want to put out a surprise project

He went further to say that, Drake also revealed to him that he’s shooting some music videos that he will be dropping as soon as possible.

In his words, he wrote: “Probably dropping something this week. The Goat is back. Aubrey Champagne Papi Drake Graham.”

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NBC blocks Radio Biafra signal, the arrest of “illegal station” operators in Lagos

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The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has blocked the Signals of a station reportedly said to be Radio Biafra broadcasting in many parts of Lagos.

The regulatory agency which directed security agencies to arrest operators of the illegal radio station, also warned the general public that anybody who attempts to operate broadcasting in Nigeria without legal authorization of the Commission, will be prosecuted and the equipment confiscated according to Law.

It also accused Radio Biafra of spreading fake, inflammatory, and inciting content. A statement released by the commission on Monday, March 1 read;

“The National Broadcasting Commission Act, CAP N11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 spells out in chapter 2, subsection 2, that: No person shall operate or use any apparatus or premises for the transmission of sound or vision by cable, television, radio, satellite or any other medium of broadcast, from anywhere in Nigeria, except under and by the provisions of this Act.

“Also, Section 15.4.1 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code provides that: The Police shall prosecute any person engaged in any form of broadcasting or in possession of any broadcast equipment or apparatus in the country without a Licence or Permit for the purpose.

“Consequently, the Commission uses this opportunity to warn the general public that anybody who attempts to operate broadcasting in Nigeria without legal authorization of the National Broadcasting Commission, will be prosecuted and the equipment confiscated, according to Law.”

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Abducted Zamfara schoolgirls released, arrives Govt House (Photo)

The abducted students of Government Girls’ Secondary School, GGSS, Jangebe in Talata Mafara Local Government Area, LGA of Zamfara State have been released.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the students arrived at the Government House, Gusau, at about 4 a.m. on Tuesday.

Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State who confirmed their release in a Tweet on Tuesday expressed happiness over their freedom.

He said “It gladdens my heart to announce the release of the abducted students of GGSS Jangebe from captivity. This follows the scaling of several hurdles laid against our efforts.

“I enjoin all well-meaning Nigerians to rejoice with us as our daughters are now safe.”

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See the song Justin Bieber did with Burna Boy

Speculation claimed that Burna Boy was also featured in Justin Bieber’s upcoming album alongside other artists.

This was made known on Twitter by Naija PR on Saturday, February 27, 2021.

According to the post brought in by Naija PR, Burna Boy was sighted in a studio with Canadian superstar, Justin Bieber smashing to their new song.

The song happens to among the tracks in Justice Beiber’s upcoming album, the album has a 16 track plus one additional song that will be on the Walmart version

The highly anticipated album seems to be due for March 19. If it drops as expected that day, other artists expected to be on the album include Giveon, Khalid, Chance The Rapper, Dominic Fike, bEAM, Benny Blanco, and others.

See the snippet:

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40-years-old Bawa, first trained investigator to chair EFCC, says PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said it has discovered that the newly confirmed Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Abdulraheed Bawa, is the first trained investigator to have chaired the Commission.

The party stated this in a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan.

PDP, while urging Bawa to avoid the pitfalls of his immediate predecessor, also advised the new Chairman to re-engineer and restore professionalism in the anti-graft agency.

Ologbondiyan urged Bawa not to succumb to pressures that may arise from politicians while he discharges his duty.

According to him, such tendencies can erode professionalism in the Commission and reduce the confidence the public imposed on it.

Ologbondiyan noted that the EFCC was established to fight corruption and not as a tool for oppression and intimidation of innocent Nigerians for political and other unjustified reasons.

“The PDP notes that for the first time, the Chairman of the EFCC is drawn from the pool of trained investigators of the commission.”

He also stated that Nigerians are looking up to the new EFCC boss to bring change to the Commission and restore professionalism in line with international standards.

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IGP monitoring team raids popular Cubana’s Night Club

Following a tip-off concerning a large gathering on the breach of covid-19 protocols, police officers attached to the Inspector General of Police monitoring team invaded popular Cubana’s Night Club.

The invasion occurred on Saturday night, February 27, 2021, following non-compliance on the open bar arrangement where guests can be served drinks and grills while listening to music.

A police source claimed Cubana opened its nightclub and allowed guests in where they were allegedly caught dancing with no regard to the social distancing policy.

According to the source, about 200 clubbers and fun-seekers were arrested and have been handed over to the Lagos Police Command for investigation and possible prosecution.

Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Police spokesperson while confirming the arrest also stated how the suspects were handed over to the command by the IGP Monitoring Unit. Adding that, the suspect would be paraded by the Commissioner of Police (CP) Hakeem Odumosu.

Recall, the Federal Government earlier permitted clubhouse with open bars and restaurants like Cubana to resume services with strict observance of all COVID-19 protocols.

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COVID-19: FG opens online registration portal for vaccination

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Nigerians have been directed to register for COVID-19 vaccination via the portal of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).

The federal government gave the directive after it was announced that Nigeria is expecting 3.92m doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on Tuesday March 2, from COVAX.

A tweet shared on the official handle of the Nigerian Government read;

Please visit the website https://nphcda.gov.ng and click on ‘COVID-19 Vaccination e-registration’ to register for #COVID19 vaccination.

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Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala resumes office as WTO DG ( Photos)

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Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been pictured on her 1st, day at work as Director-General of the world World Trade Organization.

The pictures which were seen online this morning March 1, captured moments she was received by some officials.

Recall that goldennationblog.com earlier reported that Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was confirmed for the job as the DG, WTO.

With this, she gives rise to the history as the first woman and first African to take up this post.

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NYSC reveals date for 2021 Batch A registration, provides tips on portal

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The National Youths Service Corps, NYSC, has disclosed the date for opening its registration portal for intending 2021 Batch A Corps members.


NYSC disclosed that the portal would be opened on Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021, for the online registration of Batch A Corps members.

In a series of tweets, the scheme also gave intending C corps members tips on how to go about their online registration.

The tweet reads: “NYSC Registration Portal opens on March 3rd, visit (http://nysc.org.ng) and click on the active link “Mobilization 2021 Batch A”. Fresh Registration link is for those registering for the first time.

“The Revalidation link is only for those mobilized in 2020 Batch B and previous Batches but did not go to the Orientation Camp.

“If you have registered previously and did not complete your Registration, do not create a new account instead click on “Login Here” to continue your registration with your previous Username and Password.

“Do not thumbprint by proxy, upload a clear passport photograph. Do not upload a passport photograph putting on NYSC crested vest, you will not be registered on camp if you fail to comply.”

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See how Kagara students, others were freed from bandits

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Sources familiar with the negotiations that helped to secure the release of staff and students of Government Science College Kagara in Niger State, have said that four members of the bandits’ gang were allegedly freed to secure their release.

Goldennationblog.com earlier reported that 27 students, 3 teachers, two non-teaching staff and 9 family members of the staff were kidnapped by the bandits who launched an attack on February 17. They were however released in the early hours of Saturday February 27.

The publication reported that reliable sources said the kidnappers who operate between Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State and Rafi Local Government in Niger State, had allegedly demanded the release of six members of their group arrested at different times by security agents. Four of the six named persons, were identified in different detention facilities in Katsina, Kaduna and Niger states.

One of the sources said on Saturday that “the process to perfect release of the other two was being concluded.”

Another source told newsmen that the bandits kept the victims deep in the forests, making it difficult to reach them with ease.

The source said;

“One of the bandits used in reaching out to the group had to ride on a motorcycle for nine hours to go and meet the Kachalla (leader) of the kidnappers. The Kachalla was persuaded to allow the victims to be set free even though not all the persons they wanted out from detention were released.

“Between the leader was and the location they hid the victims it was another long journey. It was therefore difficult even more for the abductees who had to trek for many hours to freedom.”

Niger state government however told newsmen yesterday February 27, that no ransom was paid for the release of the affected persons.
Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Muhammad Sani Idris also said there was no prisoner swap as strategies were deployed for the release of the students.

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Joy as Zamfara abducted schoolgirls released

Zamfara State government has confirmed that the kidnapped schoolgirls of Government Secondary School in Jangebe have been released.

The state government disclosed on Sunday, February 28.

At the time of filing this report, the number of freed students, as well as details of their release, are yet to be confirmed.

Zamafara state government has confirmed that the abducted schoolgirls have been released.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the schoolgirls who were kidnapped on Friday, February 26, are at the palace of the Emir of Anka waiting for transportation to Gusau, the state capital.

It was gathered that the girls were taken to a forest by bandits who reportedly disguised as security personnel. According to a source, the female students were kept in the forest between Dangulbi and Sabon Birnin Banaga in the Maru LGA of Zamfara state.

This development is coming more than 24 hours after some of the abducted female students reportedly escaped from their abductors. Seven out of the 317 female students escaped from the bandits while trekking along the forest.

A source from Jangebe on Friday evening, February 26, said the girls have returned home, adding that the escaped students revealed more had also escaped and are expected back soon.

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Mr. 2kay forgives Burna Boy after being attacked with thugs, reveals why

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, David Jumbo, better known by his stage name as Mr. 2kay has revealed why he decided to settle out of court with fellow singer, Burna Boy who allegedly sent thugs to attack him in 2017.

Mr. 2kay disclosed this in an interview with Sunday Scoop, a journalist at Punch Newspaper.

According to Mr. 2kay during the interview said, the incident occurred four years ago when Burna Boy allegedly sent thugs to attack him at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Mr. 2kay also explained how they both went back and forth on the case despite the arrest of the guys who attacked him. He said the guys were arrested and were locked up for over two years.

The singer also said that a lot of persons he respected were later involved in the persuasion of him terminating the case from court.

He said, the parents of the thugs and Burna Boy’s people keeping begging him, he added, his godfather, Tony Princewill, and his kinsmen also reached out to him and he had to respect them.

He went further to explain that Burna Boy also reached to him severally after the incident, especially when the case was still very hot, insisting that such part of the story wasn’t available in the media.

While answering back on what happened between them, Mr. 2kay said, he had taken his mind off it, as it was sometimes affecting his mental health whenever he heard the sound of the door opening or when he saw someone with a gun, stating that, he cannot give details of what happened but he recalls that it all started from after when they both exchange words on social media concerning a question he answered during an interview with a journalist, and Burna Boy decode the answer to the question in another dimension simply because he (Burna Boy) did not get it right.

When asked about collaboration with him in the future, the singer said he doesn’t have any direct contact with Burna Boy at the moment.
He added, “I cannot say for now but I am in talks with his mum, who doubles as his manager.

Mr. 2kay during the interview also talks about his second child that will be four years old this year. He said “My child, Alisha, and her mother, Gifty Powers is fine. He said, Gifty is now married but he’s still single.

Mr. 2kay who responds to Gifty’s claim, accusing him of not being the father of her daughter, said, “She (Gifty) cannot deny that I am not the father of the child. That is not possible.”

While still responding about the claim of his daughter, he was asked about getting married to an entertainer, he alleges that he cannot get married to an entertainer but he can date someone in the entertainment industry.

He added, “If, for marriage, I need to find someone that is far away from showbiz because it is a crazy space.”

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Court stops Tinibu’s daughter, 5 others from levying computer village

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Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, the daughter of All Progressives Congress leader Bola Tinubu and 5 others have been barred by a Lagos state high court from imposing levies on traders at the Computer Village, Lagos.

This is coming a year after the traders embarked on a protest after Folasade who is also the Iyaloja-General of Lagos State, reportedly imposed leaders on them who introduced new levies.

It was reported that the order which is sequel to a fundamental human rights suit marked ID/9039MFHR/19, also barred Mrs. Bisola Azeez, Mr. Adeniyi Olasoji, Nofiu Akinsanya, Tony Ikani, and the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State from imposing such levies.

The judgment which Justice Yetunde Pinheiro delivered, read in part;

“I find that the 2nd and 3rd respondents’ imposition of levies on the applicants is illegal, null and void and therefore amounts to a violation of their fundamental rights.

“Accordingly, it is hereby ordered as thus: The first to fifth respondents by themselves, agents, levy collectors howsoever called are restrained from imposing levies and fines on the members of the 1st to 5th applicants at the Ikeja Computer Village in the Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos State.”

In the letter titled, ‘Dear members, Our Court Victory against Iyaloja and Babaloja and Others in Computer Village, Ikeja’ and signed by the stakeholders’ Chairman and Secretary-General, Timi Famoroti and Jerry Mba, members were asked not to pay tax to Tinubu’s daughter or her representatives.

It read;

“This landmark judgement implies that the Iyaloja General, Chief Mrs. Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, Mrs. Bisola Azeez, And Mr. Olasoji Adeniyi or their representatives or agents cannot collect any form of dues, levies, or fines from the members of Ikeja Computer Village Market. Any collection in this regard is illegal.

“We, therefore, urge you not to submit yourself to any form of payment, intimidation, and extortion. It is your right to defend yourself and report to your leaders if there is a violation of your fundamental human rights.

“Please ensure your document with concrete evidence and report any breach of your right to your leaders. This will help our legal action/s against any violators when necessary. We, therefore, urge every member to continue to pay your agreed dues to your various associations accordingly.”

Traders were also asked to pay their personal and company income, taxes, levies, and others to the appropriate government agencies at the national, state, and local governments when due.

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Fani-Kayode reveals what will happen between southern and northern Nigeria

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has disclosed that the south would block oil supply to the north if the northern states stop the supply of food to the south.

According to reports, some northerners have decided to stop the transportation of food items, including cows to the southern part of Nigeria.

This, it was gathered, was as a result of the crises between southerners and northerners, especially the Shasha market riot in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital as well as the herders-farmers clashes in different parts of the region.

Fani-Kayode said if the north blocks food supplies to the south, the south will in return block the supply of oil, refined products, and oil money to the north.

The former Aviation Minister said this in a post on his social media handle on Saturday night.

He said: “If the north blocks food supplies to the south, the south will block the supply of oil, refined products, and oil money to the north. You touch me, I touch you! You do me, I do you! You Tarka me, I Daboh you!

“It’s called the law of reciprocity. Never start a dance you can’t finish!”

Goldennationblog.com recalls that the oil-producing states are in the southern part of Nigeria.

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Popular Nigerian music producer shot dead

Popular Nigerian music producer, Ayorinde Faboro better known as Dr. Frabz is dead.

This was made known by Samklef, a fellow producer who confirmed it to Punch on Saturday, February 27, 2021.

Samklef also disclosed it on his Twitter account wrote, “Rip legend! Ayo ( dr Franz) We spoke 2 weeks ago u asked how is Houston treating me? I came to Maryland yesterday only for me to hear that u are no more today. What a sad day! A brother is gone! another producer is gone! RIP!”

According to reports trending on social media, the prolific music producer was shot dead by unknown gunmen. Though, details of his death haven’t been known at the time of filing this report.

Dr. Frabz has produced hit songs like Dagrin’s “Thank God”, WizKid’s “Bombay”, and “Joy”.

He had also worked with various music stars such as Naeto C, Davido, Dagrin, YQ, Shank, Omawumi, and others.

He hails from Ekiti State, started music at age 6 when he starts playing the piano.

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NCPC denies appointment of Tonto Dike as Ambassador for peace building

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The Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has denied appointing Tonto Dikeh as an Ambassador for Peace Building.

The Nollywood actress had taken to her Instagram account on Friday to announce that she’s now a “proud Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) Ambassador for Peace Building.”

She also urged her followers to pray for her as she embarks on peace building across the six geopolitical zones of the nation saying that peace is indispensable.

The news, however, generated reactions from Nigerians on social media who thought that the controversial actress is not the right person for the position because of her lifestyle.

Reacting, the NCPC in a statement released on Friday disowned the appointment.

The statement read:

“The Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission NCPC wishes to state that King Tonto Dikeh paid an official courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission Rev Yakubu Pam on 25th February, 2021 at the corporate headquarters of the Commission in Abuja.

“As the founder of Tonto Dikeh Foundation, she expressed her willingness and interest in partnering with the Commission in the area of peace building.

“She equally cashed in on the visit to commend the NCPC boss for his positive and relentless peace initiatives across the country.

“However, we are suddenly clouded with claims the actress that she has been officially appointed as Ambassador of peace by this great Commission. This claim has gone viral in the media.

“The Commission frowns at this claim which is a clear misrepresentation of what transpired and wishes to state that it is a false information.

“The fact remains that the Executive Secretary of NCPC never appointed Tonto Dikeh an Ambassador of Peace for NCPC.

“Nevertheless, we appreciate her desire to partner with us in our peacebuilding initiatives and the area of pilgrimage sponsorship to the Holy Land.”

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Bank driver arrested over role in Delta robbery attack

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a driver of Wetland Microfinance Bank whose vehicle was attacked by gunmen along Udu Road in the Ovwian area of Udu Local Government Area of Delta State.

The gunmen numbering about ten reportedly ambushed the bank driver who parked and was making calls around the bank area.

The hoodlums were said to have shot indiscriminately and created tension in the area, forcing residents and customers to scampered for safety before they carted away millions of naira.

Although no life was lost in the incident that occurred around 4:30 pm on Friday, the entire area was said to have been thrown into panic as the armed robbers invaded the area in a commando-style.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mohammed Ali, told newsmen that he has ordered the immediate arrest of the driver owing to his alleged role in the robbery incident.

He said, “The robbery incident took place about 50 meters away from the bank. It was not the bank that was attacked.

“The driver of the microfinance bank was asked to collect money from a customer of the bank. He collected the money but, in his return, he parked 50 meters away from the bank instead of taking the money to the bank. He parked and was making telephone calls.

“For me, I see him as a collaborator. I have ordered his arrest. He’s the number one suspect. Why will you go and collect money from a customer instead of you delivering the money to the bank, you went to the park and was making calls?

“Nobody was injured. Where the incident happened was not the bank premises. Investigation is presently ongoing.”

CP Ali assured the public that he would not relent until the suspects were apprehended and brought to justice.

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Gov Ganduje sacks Special Adviser on Media, Salihu Yakasai for criticising President Buhari

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Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has sacked his Special Adviser on Media, Salihu Tanko Yakasai.

Muhammad Garba, the state Commissioner for Information, in a statement on Saturday, February 27, said the sacking followed Salihu’s “continued unguarded comments and utterances which are deemed contrary to the stand of the All Progressive Congress, APC, government which he is serving”.

According to the commissioner, the sack is with immediate effect.

Garba added that Salihu had failed to differentiate between personal opinion and official stand on matters of public concern and therefore cannot be allowed to continue to serve in a government he does not believe in.

The governor via the statement warned political appointees and public servants to guard against making statements capable of drawing superfluous controversy.

The statement reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ganduje to the policies and programs of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Salihu while reacting to the abduction of the Zamfara schoolgirls, asked the President Buhari-led administration to stop the insecurity or resign from office.

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Abducted Kagara students, others released

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The abducted students of Government Science College, Kagara, in Niger State, have been released.

Their relatives and staff also taken are now out of captivity. They all regained freedom Saturday morning.

It is unclear if the ransom was paid for their release. Goldennationblog.com gathered that the victims would be taken to the Government House in Minna.

The bandits had threatened to hold them as long as they wished if the government failed to meet their demands.

Recall that the bandits, dressed in military uniforms, stormed the school last week. They seized 27 students, 12 relatives, and 3 staff members.

On Friday, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) had condemned recent abductions. The opposition lamented the latest incident at the Government Girls Secondary School, Jangebe in Zamfara State.

PDP said kidnapping by bandits had become a money-making venture under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Spokesman of the PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement, said the party earlier alerted of a link between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the outlaws.

“It is unpardonable that the APC has failed to rein in their bandits, who they brought from neighboring countries to help them to muscle the 2019 election.”

Ologbondiyan said instead, APC allowed them to continue to invade communities and wreak havoc on Nigerians.

The party noted that acts of terrorism validate concerns that the ruling APC and its administration have become bereft of solutions.

The PDP said kidnapping of school children and other vulnerable people for ransom turned lucrative due to “the lethargic approach and compromises under the Buhari administration”.

The party told President Buhari to step out of the Aso Rock presidential villa and ensure the immediate rescue of more than 300 schoolgirls abducted.

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UN condemns abduction of Zamfara schoolgirls, gives serious order

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President of the UN General Assembly, Amb. Volkan Bozkir has strongly condemned the abduction of 317 schoolgirls in Zamfara State.

Bozkir in a tweet on Friday evening said he was shocked by the kidnapping of 317 girls from their school in northwest Nigeria.

“This is the third mass abduction of children since December in the country. No child anywhere should be afraid to go to school.

“I hope the girls are unharmed and will be freed soon,” he added.

In a similar tweet, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was appalled by the kidnap.

Describing attacks on schools as a heinous violation of human rights, the UN scribe demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the girls to their families.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari described the latest abduction as inhumane and totally unacceptable.

While appealing to state governments to review their policy of rewarding bandits with money and vehicles, Buhari warned that “this administration will not succumb to blackmail by bandits who target innocent school students in the expectation of huge ransom payments.”

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Banky W drops new visual ‘Final Say’

Olubankole Wellington, popularly known as Banky W, has dropped the visual to his latest song titled ‘Final Say’.

According to Banky W, while describing the song ‘Final Say’ and the video said, both will put a smile on your face.

He said, at a challenging time, when our hearts are full, our joy knows no bounds despite incredible tough times, adding that, the song will put a glimmer of hope in our hearts.

The song ‘Final Say’ was produced by Cobhams Asoquo, whilst the video was directed by Oladayo and Banky W’s wife, Adesua Etomi-Wellington.

Watch video

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Ric Hassani drops his latest album ‘The Prince I Became’

Popular Nigerian superstar, Ric Hassani has finally released his long-awaited album ‘The Prince I Became’.

The new album comes with a full package containing collaboration with home and foreign artists.

The 17 tracks album includes collaborations with Nicky Jam, Sauti Sol, Zoro, Frank Edwards, Kuami Eugene, Fumbani Changaya, and many others.

Recall, the singer made the revelation of his album a few days ago when he dropped his two singles “Thunder Fire You, ” and “Everything” the same day.

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Journalists attacked while visiting Zamfara school where female students were abducted

A vehicle conveying journalists to Government Girls Secondary School in Jangebe, Zamfara State where about 300 female students were allegedly abducted by unknown gunmen was attacked by a mob.

It was confirmed by the police that the mob who were infuriated with news of the abduction, created roadblocks inside Jangebe town and attacked the vehicle conveying journalists.

Journalists crew from Channels TV, TVC, Daily Trust, News Agency of Nigeria, and Thunder Blowers Multi-Media services were in the vehicle that was attacked.

According to reports seen by goldennationblog.com, the angry mob hurled stones at the vehicles and smashed part of the vehicle, causing injury to one of the cameramen who has been identified as Babangida Calipha.

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See the song title for MI Abaga, Vector collaboration

The two most popular Nigerian rappers, MI Abaga, and his counterpart Vector d Viper have teamed together for a collaboration after the age-long controversy between them.

This was made known by Vector, who share a post on his Twitter page on Thursday, February 25, 2021.

According to the rapper’s post on Twitter, the song titled ‘Crown Of Clay’ will be dropping soon.

Vector who posts, caption it with a reminder stating “You know what to do to your notification.

In the post, the duo was seen dressed like kings, smiling while sitting on a throne.

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Zamfara State Govt. confirms abduction of 300 schoolgirls by bandits

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A report from Zamfara State indicates that about 300 female students of Government Secondary School, Jangebe have been abducted by suspected armed bandits.

The schoolgirls were discovered missing on Thursday night after a headcount.

It was gathered that the Zamfara State Government has confirmed the abduction.

The confirmation was made by the Commissioner of Security and Home Affairs, Alhaji Abubakar Dauran in a brief interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gusau on Friday

The abductors in their hundreds invaded the town and took away the students at about 2 a.m.

“I can confirm to you now that we have sadly received the report on the abduction of the students of GGSS Jangebe and right now, I am on my way to the school.

“At this moment, l cannot say how many students were taken away by the gunmen until l get there, but we have already mobilized security men and members of the vigilantatè who are now in pursuit of the abductors,” the commissioner stated.

A staff of the school who spoke to newsmen on condition of anonymity said, “the gunmen in their hundreds invaded the town around 2 am on Friday, shot sporadically in the air to scare the residents before coming into the school.

“After taking away most of the students, we rounded up those that escaped or hid from the bandits and conducted a census where we counted 54 students and we are still searching to see if we can get more.”

Also, a resident who gave his name as Haliru Jangebe said the local vigilantes had tried to repel the invaders but were overpowered.

“The bandits were too many and they all seemed to be carrying heavy arms as we heard gunshots from all parts of the town and when the shots stopped, we heard that the students had been taken away,” he said.

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See what Davido revealed about his billionaire’s father

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Davido has revealed how his billionaire father, Adedeji Adeleke, onetime work at a fast-food restaurant before becoming successful.

According to him, his father went through life hurdles to be where he is today. Adding that his father didn’t just become successful all of a sudden.

Davido made this revelation in Washington when asked about his biggest inspiration during a video series of live performance on NPR’s Tiny Desk, hosted by NPR music.

He said, his father studied in the States while enunciating how he was once a manager at the Burger King, a fast-food restaurant operating in the United States.

However, Davido also revealed how he attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), a predominantly black college.

In his words, he said, “The inspiration for me has been my father, a Nigerian-American like me. He studied in the States. I studied there myself. I went to HBCU (Historically Black College and University), a predominantly black college.

“My dad used to work at Burger King. He was a manager at Burger King.

“I know a lot of people won’t believe this but he didn’t just become wealthy all of a sudden. He too went through certain life hurdles to be where he is today”

Recall goldennationblog.com reports how Davido recently visited his old apartment in the United States where he recollects old memories of how he and his two cousins, Sina, and B Red lived without money while growing up.

In the reports, he said, at that time, what he had was just his dream and how to make it big.

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Driver who knocked Inspector into pit gets arrested as police reveals offence

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A motorist who knocked a Police Inspector into a ditch while fleeing arrest for driving against traffic has been arrested, on Thursday.

A viral 52-second video showed moment the driver, identified as Sunday Okodo, 38, who was reversing to escape a team of officers hit the policeman, David Zapania, from behind and tossed him into the canal.

The video sparked outrage against the driver and the enforcement team with social media users condemning both sides for being lawless.

While the driver was rebuked for breaching the traffic law and attempting to evade arrest, the officers were condemned for being crude and in their manner of arrest with many wondering if they intended to bring the driver to book or make money for themselves.

Reacting to the video, spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the incident occurred around 5:30 pm on Wednesday along the International Airport (MMIA) Road.

He confirmed that the Inspector was rescued from the canal, rushed to the hospital where he was treated and discharged.

“The Police Inspector involved in an accident in a viral video where a driver of Toyota SUV hit and injured a policeman is alive and healthy.

“The incident occurred on Wednesday 24/2/21 at about 1730hrs when some LASTMA personnel backed up by the police on enforcement duty contravened a Toyota SUV, driving against traffic along International Airport Road.

“The driver resisted arrest and while trying to escape, a police Inspector, David Zapania was knocked down from the bridge. He fell into a canal and sustained a fracture on his left hand.

“He was rescued and rushed to the Lagos State Emergency and Trauma Center where he was attended to and discharged.

“The reckless driver, Sunday Okodo, 38, of Alose close, Bony Crescent, Apapa, has been arrested and his vehicle impounded. The driver will be arraigned before a mobile court at Oshodi.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Hakeem Odumosu, has sympathized with the policeman and restated his zero tolerance for gross violation of traffic laws and regulations in the state.”

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Court orders forfeiture of Rochas Okorocha’s properties in Imo (see locations)

The High Court in Owerri on Thursday ordered an interim forfeiture of all properties allegedly ‘acquired illegally’ by Rochas Okorocha, while he was in office.

Goldennationblog.com earlier reports that the Imo state police command arrested and released the senator representing Imo West constituency, for breaking into a government sealed ‘Royal palm spring estate’,

Justice Fred Njemanze gave the order following an application brought by Louis Alozie, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, on behalf of the state government.

The properties to be forfeited include:

“Eastern Palm University, Ogboko; Royal Spring Palm Hotels and Apartments; IBC staff quarters said to have been illegally acquired for Rochas Foundation College, Owerri; magistrate quarters, Orlu road/cooperative office/Girls Guide allegedly converted to private use housing market square, Kilimanjaro eatery; public building plot B/2 Otamiri South Extension Layout given to the ministry of women affairs for establishing a skills acquisition center for women, allegedly acquired for the benefit of Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha’s all-in stall, Aba road”.

“Plot P5, Naze residential layout, initially part of primary school management board but now annexed to All-In Stall, Aba Road, belonging to Nkechi Okorocha, and all the properties contained from pages 226 to 272 of the government white paper on the recommendation of the judicial commission of inquiry into land administration in Imo state from June 2006 to May 2019”.

However, addressing his followers a moment after he was released, Okorocha said that the Imo state governor Hope Uzodinma should be cautioned, noting that he (Uzodinma) will not win the war.

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Issele-Uku Indigenes residing in America/Canada to hold virtual launching of N40m Hospital project

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The prominent sons and daughters of Issele-Uku residing in the United States of America and Canada, have decided on a date to hold a virtual launching of the N40m rehabilitation and remodeling of St. Theresa’s Hospital in Issele-uku, Delta State.

The event scheduled to hold virtually on February 28, 2021, at noon in the United States while other cities and counties would zoom in according to their different time zones – Pacific Zone: 12 noon – 2 pm, Eastern Zone: 3 pm – 6 pm, GMT: 8 pm – 10 pm, Nigeria Time: 9 pm – 12 midnight.

Dr. Augustine Nwabuaze, the Convener of the Fundraising Committee, in a statement disclosed this in the US.

According to the statement, the launching will be done in segments both in the UK and Nigeria at a later date and time after the US version.

In the statement, the Obi of Issele-Uku, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka MNSE will be the Royal Father of the Day for the US segment wherein the Bishop of Issele-Uku Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Odogwu Elue, to be represented by Msgr. John Ike Aduba as the spiritual Father of the Day.

In the statement, Dr. Nwabuaze spoke about how terrible the hospital had become after its 65 years of existence, urging Issele-you sons and daughters as well as their neighbors to reciprocate the gesture of contributing towards the rehabilitation and remodeling of the hospital.

Dr. Nwabuaze, in the statement also recall why the hospital was built, he said the hospital was specifically built to serve the health needs of the Issele-uku community and its neighbors.

He said, the hospital has served Issele-uku and her neighbors monumentally, stating at this time, all hands must be on deck to give back to the community by giving a desired financial attention to the hospital project.

Dr. Nwabuaze, in the statement, also affirm about the history of the hospital. According to him, the hospital is first known as St. Theresa’s Maternity Issele-Uku, founded in 1957 by the Catholic sisters thereafter, it was later taken over by the Catholic Church, and the name change to St. Theresa’s Hospital, Issele-Uku in 1982.

He went further to say, when completed, “The facilities will serve to reduce women’s pregnancy and infants related deaths, post-partum hemorrhage deaths, noting that, it will also increase the survival rate of both newborns and infants.

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See what sex workers did to customer after working all-night without pay

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It was like a scene in one of the Nollywood movies when some angry sex workers threw caution to the wind in Akure, the Ondo State capital, molested and beat up one of their male customers.

It was gathered that the incident happened at the Oja-Oba area of Akure metropolis, after the alleged refusal of the customer to pay the sex workers for the service rendered.

The customer, simply identified as Niyi, was accused by the hookers popularly known as ‘Olosho’ in the state of scamming them after having a sex romp all night at a motel with him and two of his friends.

The sex workers who descended on Niyi within the market disclosed that after the all-night session, the two friends of Niyi took to their heels before they could wake up to demand their money.

However, luck was said to have run out on Niyi, who was deep asleep.

During the fracas, a shop owner beside the motel who tried to calm the situation was attacked, as one of the ladies used broken bottles to cut his head.

It took the intervention of the policemen from ‘B’ Division Area Command, Oke-Aro area of the state capital to calm the situation as they took the man to safety, while the sex workers were arrested and whisked to the command’s office.

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See what Reno Omokri revealed about ‘White weddings’

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Mr. Reno Omokri, the former aide of President Goodluck Jonathan, has accused Christians who still assume white weddings as Christians wedding.

According to him, it is a European cultural wedding because the scriptures do not say anything regarding how to have a wedding as nothing like a Christian wedding.

He said, the wedding is seen entirely as a family affair, and once your parents bless your wedding, it’s assumed that God has already blessed it. Because God does not focus on your wedding day rather he focused on your marriage life.

Reno, made this declaration on Twitter, Thursday, February 25, 2021.

He said Africans who have White weddings and then traditional weddings are in reality having 2 traditional weddings unknowingly to them. He added, even Muslims now do it.

Narrating further, he accused Africans of selling their future instead of sacrificing a day to secure their future.

Reno, faulted the foundation of their marriage, alleging that Africans are willing to go into debt to finance their wedding but instead, unwilling to secure loans to finance their businesses. He said that’s why their marriage has issues.

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Gov Bello cries out, says no help from FG to rescue abducted Kagara schoolboys

Governor Abubakar Bello of Niger State on Thursday said the federal government has refused to support his state in the rescue of 41 people abducted from Government Science College, Kagara.

Bello disclosed this while receiving the Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu in the state’s Government House.

According to Bello: “At the moment, we do not feel any Federal presence here.

“The Inspector-General of Police sent us four mobile units but we are to shoulder the financial responsibilities. So, where is the support? There is no support from anyone.

“Yes, we had a delegation (Federal Government delegation) that came to visit and commiserate with us but that was all.

“So, we are left to ourselves.

“We have already made a commitment that we will bring back the children safely with or without anyone.”

Goldennationblog.com earlier reported that Bandits had recently abducted 27 students and 14 others from the Kangara area of the state.

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Sagay faults Bawa’s confirmation as EFCC Chairman, reveals what AGF will do

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The Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), Itse Sagay has faulted the confirmation of the appointment of Abdulrasheed Bawa as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by the senate.

Sagay noted that Bawa and the Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami are both from Kebbi state and might even be related

He also stated that it is not a healthy thing adding that the chairman of the EFCC and the EFCC are supposed to be independent.

He added that if Bawa is related to the attorney-general, then there will be a problem because he will not be able to do his job freely because the attorney-general will certainly interfere.

Sagay said;

“This issue is a very big question because I noticed that they both come from the same state of Kebbi and they may even be related.

“For me, that is not a very healthy thing because the chairman of the EFCC and the EFCC are supposed to be independent.

“They are not politicians, they are trained, security officers. The attorney-general is a politician who has all the weaknesses and loads of a politician.

“He has people he is obliged to. He has people who are close to him. Some of them may be criminals who might have committed crimes. In fact, some of them may deliberately do things because they think they know the attorney-general.

“So, in such a situation, if Bawa is related to the attorney-general, then there will be a problem because he will not be able to do his job freely because the attorney-general will certainly interfere.

“He has already indicated his tendency to interfere in both the EFCC and the ICPC with the regulations he purported to make months ago. So, I am not comfortable at all that the possibility that they might be related.”

Sagay also raised an alarm of AGF Malami wielding too much power which has increased over the years. He further said that though he does not know the newly-appointed chairman of the EFCC on a personal level, he said he is however impressed by his curriculum vitae and background.

He added;

“Malami has never been inclined to allow the anti-corruption agencies to operate freely. He is always sitting on their neck one way or the other.

“I have complained about that several times and nothing has happened. He has become more powerful. So, I will not be comfortable if they are related. I don’t want any outside influence on the EFCC or the ICPC.

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Davido recollect the time he had no money despite being a billionaire son (Photo)

A switch in time as popular Nigerian superstar, Davido went down memory lane recollecting the time he had no money despite being a billionaire son.

Davido made this revelation during a post he shared on Instagram on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. When he recently paid a visit to the apartment he used to live with his two cousins, Sina, and B Red 12 years ago.

According to the singer, while recounting on the experience he said, they had no money and no support at that time but they were full of their dreams.

He also went further to encourage his fans and followers, urging them to never stop believing in themselves

In the photo, Davido was seen posing with enough $100 notes in his hands while sitting in the place he lived with his cousin when he was still struggling before fame.

See post

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“My late sister’s husband allegedly brought in another woman one month after her death” – Nigerian woman

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A Nigerian woman has narrated how her late sister’s husband allegedly brought in another woman to live with him a month after his wife died while giving birth.

According to the story shared by one Elder Olabisi Ekwueme on Wednesday, February 24, the deceased died at Isolo General Hospital while giving birth to their second child.

A month after her death, her family found out that a young woman moved in with the widower and upon confronting him, he told them that the woman was going to be his new wife.

The woman said that her sister’s second child named Beauty is being taken care of by their mother since birth while the husband is said to have married the other woman.

Read her story below:

“Although this didn’t happen to me, but to my blood which is my sister. I can still feel the pain anytime I remember the death of my sister and what happened one month after her death.

My sister died in Isolo general hospital after CS which later got complicated but the baby is alive.

In the hospital, I and my family and extended family spent a lot of money in the hospital clearing lots of bills and buried my sister the same day. Because we can’t bear the pain of seeing her lying down dead.

My sister’s late husband didn’t pay 1kobo because we understand he’s a teacher and broke at that time and my sister wasn’t working while alive.

We gave him pocket money the following day to take care of the first daughter which my sister have before she died.

The child that was given birth to at Isolo general hospital was given to my mum to take care of because this my husband’s sister begs me that she can’t allow his sister to take care of his child, and also his mum is old.

We collected the baby from him, gave it to my mum despite what she’s facing at that time, she first refused to collect the baby but after a lot of begging she did.

I can remember I did a lot of vigil on that child with my mum and dad. For about three weeks none of my late sister’s husbands brings common Pampers even the husband!

My mum who doesn’t work again, my dad who is security are the ones footing the bills of this child.

With all this, my Dad and mum are doing is not up to 3 weeks that my sister’s neighbor calls my mum that they are seeing a lady in my late sister’s husband’s house, they believe is our family.

Meanwhile, this lady they are seeing normally follows my late husband’s sister comes to visit the child we thought they are just colleagues. Not up to 3 weeks another lady is already sleeping on my late sister’s bed!

My mum asked he said she only comes to teach the firstborn lesson because the lady is also a teacher. But we said is too early for that, this lady is sleeping in your house!

We are not telling you not to have another wife, but think about these children’s future first, settle down first, respect your late wife first, respect the family first.

He responded In annoyance that we are not the ones that will tell him how to handle his family! With all my family does for this guy. Paying for half of his rent, giving them foodstuff, buying clothes for him, and many more before my sister died and after!

Come to the worst she bluntly said the lady is his wife that is going to give us wedding IV! My mum cries every day because of this insult and she has developed sickness due to this. This guy doesn’t have a single-family.

We only know his brother, sister, and mother which they are all the same. I have never seen such a family in my life. Nobody to report to apart from those three.

Now when the child was about nine months he takes us to Human right that he wants to collect his child, the human right said he had the right to collect his child as the father.

Meanwhile the first child according to her we saw an iron mark on her left breast, we asked what happened to her there? She said she was playing with iron 4 years child!

We said to the human right that the husband should charge us to Court, is the only court that can decide.

Since then we haven’t heard anything about the first child, he has not for once come to visit the second child.

My mum and my dad are the only ones struggling to cater to this child no one else. This guy doesn’t look back, the first child that is with him, we don’t know how she’s doing with the wife and the sister of this guy.

It is a girl we are worried about her, Because this guy’s sister doesn’t have a husband she’s staying with but she has 2 children and they are boys, this guy mum is in her 80s, the wife cannot be trusted after seeing that iron mark. We don’t know her whereabouts, where she’s staying presently.

We are only managing to take care of the second child who is a girl too and the burden is too much because I don’t have work now, is only my parent who are struggling to cater for her.

Also, this marvels me; the second wife is about 23 years of age the guy is 37, and not that this guy has money! Well, maybe my sister’s clothes, shoes, and properties she sees.

That’s not my concern. My sister’s daughters are our concerns now. That’s a true-life story and we are working on it every day. Help us pray for these two daughters. They are Alex and Beauty.

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Burna Boy Features In Pepsi Latest Advert Along Messi, Pogba (video)

Popular Nigerian musician and Grammy nominee, Burna Boy get featured alongside international footballers on Pepsi’s latest advert.

The carbonated soft drink brand shares the news on social media, using Pepsi Nigeria handle on February 23, 2021.

The newly broadcasted commercial titled “Fizz To Life” by the giants brand has the soundtrack of Becky G and Burna Boy with a beat done by DiGenius.

In the 50 seconds commercial, the video has International football players like Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba, and Jadon Sancho.

watch video below

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Police arrest fleeing driver with stolen car belonging to boss

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Men of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested one Eyo Eta on the Ijebu-Mushin/Benin Expressway while allegedly fleeing with his boss’ car.

Eta, who is a resident in Agege, Lagos State, was said to be running away with a Toyota Highlander SUV with number plate APP 467 GS when he was apprehended.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

Oyeyemi said the suspect was accosted by men of the Federal Highway Patrol team around 9.39.30 pm at the Imeri junction, Ijebu-Mushin while heading for Benin.

The PPRO stated, “When he was stopped by the policemen, he was unable to give satisfactory answers to all the questions posed to him and he was subsequently taken to the station for more questioning.

“It was at the station that he confessed to taking the car away to Benin City, unknown to the owner.

“The DPO, Ijebu-Mushin, CSP Hillary Simire, there and then put a call to the owner of the car, who identified himself simply as Omopariola, and explained to the police on the phone that the driver ran away with the vehicle from Lagos and that he had already reported the case to the police.”

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Joy as Oba of Benin appoints new priest for Holy Aruosa Cathedral

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The Oba of Benin, HRM Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has approved the appointment of Mr. Igbinoghodua Edebiri as the new presiding priest of a traditional worship Centre, the Holy Aruosa Cathedral in Benin, the Edo State capital.

The approval of the new presiding priest for the cathedral where the first-class monarch (Oba of Benin) worships was sequel to the recommendation of the elders’ council of the oldest worship centre in Africa established in 1506 by Oba Esigie.

The appointment was contained in a statement on Wednesday by the Secretary of Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor.

The newly-appointed presiding priest was directed to immediately open the Benin traditional worship centre, which was temporarily shut in view of the removal of the former presiding priest, Harrison Okao.

The cathedral, known far and wide, is an unusual worship centre where tradition and religion are practiced with the teeming worshipers having direct contact with God without going through any intermediary.

Part of the statement reads: “This decision is expected to bring lasting peace, sanity and tranquility to the holy spiritual environment that is imperative in the Holy Aruosa Cathedral of Benin, which has hitherto been absent in the Holy Aruosa Cathedral, because of the non-compliance with tradition and custom by Harrison Okao over many years.

“Consequently, all properties, paraphernalia of office as Ohenosa, and keys of the Cathedral should be handed over to Chief Esere, Head of Iweguae. Mr. Harrison Okao is also to refrain from operating the bank accounts of the Cathedral, with immediate effect.

“In order to avoid the breakdown of law and order in the volatile Niger Delta state, shortly after the suspension of Okao as the presiding priest, the Holy Arousa Cathedral was sealed, based on order from above.

“The traditional worshippers were also barred by security operatives from entering the worship center and the expansive premises with a large parking lot.”

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See When To Expect BBNaija Highlights From Previous Season

The Organizers of the BBNaija reality Tv show, have announced when to expect highlights from the previous episode and the commencement date for the reunion of season 5, Big Brother lockdown.

This was revealed by the organizers using all their social media handle on Tuesday, February 23, 2021.

According to the organizers, the reunion will usher in a new season, starting by showing highlights from previous seasons.

The reunion of the season 5 lockdown geng is slated to commence by March 1, 2021, and it will be exhibited at 22:00 WAT on the Dstv, Africa Magic channel 153 and 154 respectively

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See what APC chieftain, Eze told new Rivers CP, Eboka about Gov. Wike

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party, (NPDP), Chukwuemeka Eze has urged the new Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Mr. Friday Eboka not to be intimidated in any way by Governor Nyesom Wike and his actions but to do his best to secure the state from the hands of criminals.

Eze, in a statement signed and made available to newsmen on Wednesday, lashed out at Governor Wike for his alleged penchant for using police authority as willing tools in bulldozing perceived political enemies.

The APC chieftain recalled the horrific days of former now Retired Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Joseph Mbu whom he alleged, was used by agents of the past federal government to antagonize ex-Governor Chibuike Amaechi and the citizens of the state

The ex-PDP national spokesman alleged that Governor Wike is becoming afraid of the new Police CP who he described as a thorough professional, a versatile personality with an impeccable track record in crime-fighting.

According to him, “It is sad and unfortunate that Governor Wike who is afraid of his records with Mr. Joseph Mbu whom he used to torment and put Rivers State in a bad light is afraid that a gentle Officer like Mr. Eboka will act like Mr. Mbu in his infamous acts when he was in Rivers State.

“If we need a Commissioner of Police that will assist Rivers State to curb and tackle the menace of criminality growing rapidly in the state where kidnapping, assassination have become the order of the day, then Mr. Friday Eboka is that officer who has intimidating records in crime fighting”.

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AkA reveals his intentions after controversy with Burna boy

Popular South Africa rapper and songwriter, AKA has revealed that he doesn’t have any bad feelings towards Burna Boy over the controversy they had.

He also talked about collaborating with other African artists as a sign of unity.

The rapper made this revelation during an in-depth conversation with the UK broadcaster, Adesope Olajide on ‘Afrobeat Podcast’ concerning his brand new project, business deals, Tv shows, and lots more.

According to the rapper when asked about his social media disagreement with Burna Boy, quickly said, what happened between him and Burna Boy is just something that happens under the magnifying glass of the public.

He also said none of such stuff went down on him. Adding that, as brothers can fight, It is just that way and I don’t have any bad feelings towards him.

He went further to say that he hasn’t spoken to him for a while also insisting that he got mad love and respect for him and his art.

Talking about the collaboration, Aka explained that he wants to make music with everyone from everywhere.

He said it is not necessarily about him and Burna Boy alone. He said if you know about Amapiano now, it’s a big thing that is going into the continent.

The rapper also insists that he wants to keep up with the tradition of collaboration between artists from different African countries.

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40-years Abdulrasheed Bawa confirmed by senate as EFCC chairman

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The Senate has confirmed the nomination for the appointment of Abdulrasheed Bawa as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFFC.

The 40-year-old Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist was screened by the lawmakers at the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly today February 24.

Goldennationblog.com last week, reported that President Buhari nominated Bawa and asked the Senate to confirm him as the substantive Chairman of the Commission.

He assumes office as the first core EFCC official and non-police officer to head the agency.

Bawa also became the youngest person ever to serve as chairman of the anti-corruption agency.

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Joeboy reveals why he’s still single, says he’s not searching

Nigerian singer, Joseph Akinwale Akinfenwa, popularly known as ‘Joeboy’ has given reasons he is still single and not ready to get married.

Speaking during an interview with Beat 99.9 FM about his love life, the singer revealed that he currently has a sugar mummy.

He, however, said that he is perfectly alright with being a sugar boy to the unnamed woman.

According to him, he prefers the relationship he has with his sugar mummy because it gives him the room to live his life anyhow he wants it.

“I’m currently single and not searching but I have a lot of female friends.

“There’s also someone that only calls me when she wants something from me but I am not complaining and I like it like that.

“But the sugar mama stuff I talked about in my song is a true life story. I’m still a sugar baby. I cannot say her name but I promise you, I am.

“I wasn’t the one that walked up to her tho, she met me. I like what we share because it’s really really dope and we are super free. It’s also fun,” he said.

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FRSC set to clampdown all risky vehicles

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The Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has mandated officers to impound any risky vehicles.

The Zonal Commanding Officers and Sector Commanders have been directed to prosecute and arrest owners or operators of risky vehicles.

According to the statement on Tuesday, the Corps Public Education Officer, Bisi Kazeem stated that the clamped down was an effort to reduce road crashes across the country.

The statement further revealed how FRSC intends to lower the level of road crashes in 2021 by 15 percent while fatalities by 20 percent.

The agency also advised the public to report any risky vehicles sighted on the road via toll-free number -122. Adding that poorly maintained vehicles are the causes of traffic flow.

In his words, he said, “If drivers and vehicle owners will adhere to the constant maintenance of their vehicles, the safety of lives and properties will be enhanced”

However, the statement also notes the seizure of vehicles, payment of fines as compulsory for road safety education.

He went further to say that severe punishment awaits anyone that is been apprehended.

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Witchdoctor assistant arrested for allegedly raping female student seeking for ‘love charm’

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Police have arrested two witchdoctors in Mitooma district, Uganda for allegedly raping a female student of Kampala International University (KIU) and stealing Shs2.9 million from her.

The victim, a Social Work, and Social Administration (SWASA) student had reportedly gone to the witchdoctors’ shrine to ask for a charm to stop her boyfriend from dating another girl.

Spokesperson of the Greater Bushenyi Regional Police, Martial Tumusiime, identifies the suspects as Nazario Bazarwa, 72, and his assistant, David Bamwetaki, all residents of Nyantoma parish Kashenshero sub-county in Mitooma district.

The police spokesman says the two men told the student to spend the night in the shrine and that medicine would be administered in her private part the following morning.

However, during the night, the duo reportedly turned on the girl and raped her.

Tumusiime says that the two have been charged with rape and obtaining money by false pretence and the file is already at the state attorney’s office.

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Catholic Bishops raises alarm against looming breakup, says Nigeria is falling apart

Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised alarm over the looming collapse of Nigeria as a nation owing to the increasing level of insecurity ravaging the entire country.

The Bishops said that the country had remained together just by the grace of God, adding that the survival of the nation was presently at stake.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Augustine Akubueze, and the Secretary, Most Rev. Camillus Raymond Umoh in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the country is falling apart due to serious rising insecurity evident in widespread loss of lives and property triggered by the increasing number of bandits, Boko Haram, killer herdsmen, and other criminal elements across the country.

The Bishops stressed that the insecurity had forced people to believe that those who have assumed the duty and authority to secure the nation are either unable or unwilling to take up the responsibilities of their office.

The CBCN called on relevant authorities to quickly address the situation, adding that time is running out and the situation needs to improve!

The statement reads in parts, “The clamour for self-defense is fast gaining ground. Many ethnic champions are loudly beating the drums of war, calling not only for greater autonomy but even for outright opting out of a nation in which they have lost all trust and sense of belonging. The calls for secession on an ethnic basis from many quarters should not be ignored or taken lightly.

“Many have given up on the viability and even on the desirability of the Nigeria project as one united country. No wonder many non-state actors are filling the vacuum created by a palpable failure of government.

“The Federal Government under President Muhammadu Buhari can no longer delay rising to its obligation to govern the nation; not according to ethnic and religious biases but along the lines of objective and positive principles of fairness, equity, and, above all, justice.

“It is not too much for Nigerians to demand from Mr. President sincerity both in the public and private domain. There are no more excuses.

“We, of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, with members from all parts of Nigeria, are very highly disturbed about the present state of instability in the land.

“This must not be allowed to continue to fester and degenerate. We are raising this alarm because of our deep patriotic love for our nation, not for any sectional interests, be they political, ethnic, or even religious.

“Despite the persistence of crises around us; assassinations, Covid 19, kidnappings, murders, banditry, armed robberies, we sincerely affirm our faith in the viability and desirability of the Nigeria Project, as one prosperous nation under God.

“But we are also convinced that building such a nation, especially in our present circumstances, comes at a cost. We are also convinced that the alternative of tearing ourselves apart, comes with a cost that is far higher than what it takes to keep ourselves together.

“We must be ready to seek a common purpose with sincerity of mind. As individuals and as groups, we ought to be ready to make the necessary sacrifices that would enable us to manage our differences better and turn them into a positive rather than a negative force. Governments at different levels ought to lead the way”.

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See Why CDQ Accuses Headies Of Playing Industry Politics

Popular Nigerian indigenous rapper and songwriter, Sodiq Abubakar Yusuf, popularly known by his stage name CDQ has accused the organizers of Headies of playing industry politics.

He said, the choice of winner for the ‘Best Street Hop’ would have been Naira Marley, not Mayorkun. Adding that Naira Marley deserved to be the winner’s choice.

The rapper made this disclosure in a tweet he tweeted on Monday, February 22, 2021.

He said Mayorkun defeated Naira Marley, Rudeboy, Zlatan, Reminisce to clinch the award in that category.

According to him everyone belonging to that category is one family while criticizing the situation surrounding Mayorkun’s winning that category.

In his words he tweeted he said

“Headies you have started this obvious industry politics things again. How the hell una go carry Best Street Hop give someone else at the expense of Naira this year and conscience no judge una?

“Everyone in that category na family but ooto or o ni ka ma so ohun (We should speak the truth).”

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New service Chiefs confirmed by House of Reps

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The appointment of the newly appointed Service Chiefs have been confirmed by the House of Representatives.

The report of the Committee on Defence was presented by the Chairman, Babajimi Benson, during plenary today February 23, and considered by the committee of the whole, before it was adopted by the House.

According to the committee chairman, the nominees were thoroughly screened and certified fit for their positions. The service chiefs are also being screened by the Senate Committee on Defence.

The process had commenced last Wednesday when the new appointees were called upon to share their portfolios as well as their vision if they are confirmed to take on the new roles.

Their confirmation by the House of Reps today comes shortly after the Senate nominated the immediate past service chiefs as non-career ambassadors, despite criticisms in some quarters.

Recall that President Buhari had in January relieved the former Service Chiefs of their positions and appointed these new service chiefs. They assume office amidst growing concerns of insecurity in many parts of the country.

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Gov. Obaseki Expresses Satisfaction inspecting 8.3km Road Project (Photos)

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing dualization of the 8.3km road project in Ekehuan.

He said his administration remains committed to delivering quality roads that will stand the test of time.

The governor while inspecting the project, revealed this to newsmen on Monday, February 22, 2021.

According to him, there is a lot of progress in the project and the contractor has to remain focus to take advantage of the dry season. While also stating that the funding for the work is already in the bank.

He said that the contractors were anxiously taking advantage of the dry season.

In his words, he said; “Now that we have the dry season, we should get the contractors to move faster on the level of work; they have assured me they will. Unfortunately, the funding for the work is already in the bank.

He went further to say that, ” You see the quality of the drainage that is being constructed; if you don’t drain the land properly, the roads will not last.

He also stated that “One of the challenges of the past is doing a whitewash design to make one believe that the road would be of good quality, whereas the road will not last beyond a couple of seasons.

He stated that “It is important that we scientifically undertake proper drainage of the environment before constructing and covering the surface of the road.

While commending the project, Mr. Ferguson Enabulele, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure assured residents that the first three kilometers of the road would be asphalted before the end of April.

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BREAKING: See what Niger Delta militants threatened to do in Abuja, Lagos [Video]

The Supreme Egbesu Liberation Fighters, a
Niger Delta militant group has threatened to carry out attacks in major cities.

The militants said they would target infrastructure in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, and commercial hub, Lagos.

The threat was issued in a video posted on Tuesday by Africa Independent Television (AIT).

It showed several men dressed in military uniforms with covered faces. They danced around and brandished rifles, RPGs, HMGs, and GPMGs.

The group accused the federal government of marginalizing the South-South region. It also condemned the amnesty program.

The militants lamented that oil-producing states had no schools, no potable water, no light, no hospital, and access roads.

They decried the state of the Ogoni clean-up project, adding that government places politics above the people.

The militants demanded resource control for the South-South, the same way the federal government allowed Zamfara to control gold mining.

“The Nigerian government over the years has decided to handle the issues of the Niger Delta with kid gloves. They have betrayed the struggle and have left the people to their fate.

“Rather, what is visible is the presence of military gunboat and the numerous military personnel dispersed to the Niger Delta, who are killing, raping, and maiming the innocent people of the region”, one of the militants read from a paper.

The group noted that Nigeria’s territorial waters are being secured by an Israeli company, despite competent local hands.

“We are coming to destroy all your infrastructure in Abuja and Lagos…we will destroy the oil facilities both onshore and offshore in no distant time, we will be seen to be crippling the Nigerian economy.”

The militants nominated ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, and Edmund Daukoru, a former Minister and traditional ruler, to mediate between it and the federal government.

See the Video below

https://youtu.be/zGgmYBV-ndc

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Reasons why Edo Govt set to probe N30b Stormwater Project

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Following the decision made by the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki to probe the past administration over the Benin stormwater project which cost N30 billion, he has deployed security operative to safeguard the premises of the State Government Secretariat which house vital documents on the project.

The Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, Esq, discloses this in a statement on Tuesday, February 23, 2021.

According to the statement, the State Government received intelligence of a possible arson at the office of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability which housed vital documents on the project.

The SSG said, following the intelligence, the government had to protect the documents overnight, stating that security operative was deployed immediately to guide the ministry.

“The government immediately deployed security operative to guard the premises of the Ministry overnight to protect its assets.”

Ogie also notes that they have moved the vital documents to a different location.

“We have successfully evacuated the vital documents to a safe location to ensure their integrity and readiness for a probe.”

He said the government has vowed to bring all those who are culpable to justice. Adding that it will ensure it uncovers the details surrounding the project and its execution

He said “Government will ensure it uncovers the details surrounding the project and its execution. Stating that all those culpable are brought to justice.

He also said as regards the execution of the N30 billion stormwater project, it is right by the Edo people to always ensure that they get value for their money.

” We will do right by the Edo people as always and work assiduously to ensure that our people get value for our money as regards the execution of the N30 billion stormwater project.

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Niger state govt finally reveals position with abductors of Kagara students, others

The Niger State government says it is negotiating directly with the abductors of 27 students of the Government Science College, Kagara, their teachers, and family members, for their release.

The Secretary to the State Government, Ahmed Matane, disclosed this during an interview with newsmen.

Goldennationblog.com reported earlier that Bandits dressed in Military uniforms stormed the school on February 17, killing one student and abducting 27 others.

The SSG during the interview said there is no time fixed for the abductees to be released because negotiation is still ongoing with the bandits who abducted them.

“If anyone tells you he knows when the schoolboys will be released that person is lying; it may be today or tomorrow; nobody can say; we are still negotiations,” he said

Matane added that during the negotiations, the bandits presented their demands directly to the state government. According to him, the alleged high-handedness of men of the local vigilante was one of the reasons the bandits gave for taking up arms.

“They said that the vigilante members were killing their people and that government should stop this,” Matane said, adding that the bandits also complained of their neglect in the execution of the agricultural programs of the government.

He also said the bandits complained about the destruction of their houses and the killing of their cattle through aerial bombardments by the military, saying that they complained that they had lost their means of livelihood.

He denied reports that a popular Islamic cleric, was involved in the negotiation. According to Matane, Gumi only prepared the platform for the negotiation but is in no way involved in it.

”“Gumi only prepared the platform for the negotiation. He is not involved in the negotiation,”he said

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See what Duncan Mighty’s wife revealed about using ‘charms’

Vivian Nwakanma, the wife of popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Duncan Mighty, has revealed why she and her mother visited a sorcerer for a charm that will be used against the singer.

She said, that the singer left home and did not return, stating that the charm will be used to regain her position in the marriage.

She made this known during an interview she granted to BBC Pidgin.

According to her, she said the sorcerer asked her to bring her husband shirt, sand, boxer, and a cash of over N580,000.

Recall Duncan Mighty accused her wife and her mother of trying to kill him in order to take over his properties.

An accusation whom his wife and her mother, Charity Nwakanma, have previously denied.

However, Duncan Mighty while responding to the claim, released an audio message on instagram Tuesday morning
wherein a woman’s voice could be heard narrating how she went to procure a love charm.

He also added a caption stating that “even when I’ve forgotten about the things you [Vivian] did to me most especially for the fact that my recovery and healing is assured through the help of JESUS. Just Because you escaped the public disgrace in rumuokurusi after a police officer saved you. Instead of your mom to play the role of a mother You ànd your mom now went to @bbcnewspidgin and @nigeriainfoph to grant lies and deciete. my dear is too late . Click the link on my bio and hear Vivian’s confessions. Part 1. You carry the same money wey i give you go tie me down with deadliest sickness. Them no dey use Lion do sacrifice #THANKYOUJESUS.”

Meanwhile, Duncan Mighty released the audio after her wife was given an interview to BBC Pidgin and a local radio station in Port Harcourt.

In the voice note, the woman narrated how she went to do the charm because she didn’t feel loved by Duncan Mighty.

She also narrated how the sorcerer asked her to bring the man’s shirt, sand, boxer, and a cash of over N580,000.

Although one cannot authenticate whether the voice note is that of her wife Vivian but the voice sounded frightened and anxious in the audio as therein a close resemblance.

Listen to the audio confession

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Covid-19 second wave: Minister of Health, Ehanire Osagie reveals what will soon happen in Nigeria

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Ehanire Osagie, Minister of Health, has said that Nigeria might soon escape the second wave of the Coronavirus disease.

Speaking at a briefing by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Monday, February 22, Osagie said the country has been recording a decline in the number of COVID-19 cases.

The Minister also disclosed that the decreased positivity rate from sustained testing in states is synonymous with global trends.

He said;

“This trend in reduction compares with global observations of seeming decline in COVID-19 cases, signifying that the second wave may be receding.

“On 21st of February 2021, 521 new infections and 8 deaths occurred in 20 states. The sustained testing in states has decreased positively rate.

“We are, however, not drawing conclusions yet and certainly not declaring victory, but rather watching developments as they unfold nationally and internationally, ready to make use of comparative advantages that may emerge”.

On the outbreak of the Ebola virus disease in Guinea, Osagie said the Nigerian government is closely monitoring the situation and also collaborating with the West African Health Organization (WAHO).

He added;

“Nigeria is closely observing developments on the outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Guinea and working with West African Health Organization (WAHO) to contain it in the outbreak country of Guinea and prevent the spread to other countries in the region.

“We are pleased to note that the ECOWAS countries adjacent to the epicenter are taking strict measures with regard checking movement of persons.”

The Minister stated that though Nigeria has been classified as a moderate Ebola risk country because of its distance from Guinea, Port Health Service officers have been on high alert to step up border surveillance of travellers arriving by air or overland from destinations around the outbreak country to avert disease importation.

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Dino Melaye says “APC is now redemption camp”, gives reason

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Former Kogi lawmaker, Dino Melaye has said the All Progressives Congress, APC, is a redemption camp for politicians.

He made the comparison on his Twitter page on Monday

Melaye alleged that any politician that steals and joins APC will be forgiven and their corruption cases dropped.

”APC is a Redemption camp. Steal and renounce your party, join APC and your sins are forgiven, EFCC cases dropped, and seized passports returned. Jekinje party, ” he wrote.

This is coming after the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, raised the alarm that ”killers have joined APC”.

Aregbesola had said “Though the constitution allows everyone to register as a member of any political party, even if they are suspects, murderers, character assassinators, etc, but those who constitute the majority of the party membership must represent the core values of the party.

“There must be a clear distinction between jolly good fellows and fair-weather friends who will still leave our party when they sense a better opportunity elsewhere.”

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Faze mourns twin sister 2 days to their birthday

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Chibuzor Oji lost his sister two days to her birthday.

He said, his twin sister has left him two days before their birthday.

He made these statements using his instagram page on Monday, February 22, 2021. While stating that, her sister will never have to deal with this world problems anymore.

He also said that, her sister is in a better place.

However, the singer did not disclose the situation surrounding his sister’s untimely death.

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See Buhari’s reaction to military plane crash that killed 7 people

President Muhammadu Buhari has conveyed his condolences to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the families, friends, and colleagues of the seven victims of the military plane crash which occurred near Abuja airport on Sunday, February 21.

A statement by presidential spokesperson, Femi Adesina, indicates that President was deeply saddened by the fatal crash of the NAF’s Beechcraft KingAir B350i aircraft.

The Nigerian leader said he joined the Nigerian Air Force, the military, and other Nigerians in mourning the unfortunate loss of the dedicated and courageous personnel.

He noted that the investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing. He prays that God will comfort the bereaved families and nation, and grant the souls of the departed peaceful rest.

It was reported that the Nigerian Air Force’s spokesman, Air Vice-Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, confirmed the crash, adding that all seven personnel on board died. According to Daramola, the aircraft crashed while returning to the Abuja Airport after reporting engine failure en-route Minna, Niger state.

He said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal IO Amao, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, the unfortunate incident has also drawn mournful reactions and condolences from Nigerians.

Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, reacted on Twitter:

“I have just learnt of the crash of a military aircraft near Abuja. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those on board the ill-fated flight.”

Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, @ShehuSani, said: “For those who perished in the Abuja Plane crash, May their souls Rest In Peace. May the Almighty give their families the fortitude to bear the loss. Amen.”

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Youths are made to be bootlickers – Senator Omo-Agege’s Special adviser

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The Special Adviser to the Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege on legislative matters, Barr. M. O. Omonade has accused the Southerner government of not supporting the youth in the region.

He said, their greediness and wickedness is what is killing the youth.

According to him, the governments in the southern region are ruffle of coaching ‘dumb and dull’ bootlickers who at 50 years old will still be whirling chores for their girlfriends.

He said youths from the region are struggling to become a media aide. It is frustrating to grow in the South. As it involves everything that has to do with the South.

He said in his statement that he was once a victim and he is still a victim.

He made these statements on Thursday, February 18, 2021, using his Facebook page while referring to a post he made on February 7th, 2021.

He used the story of the two Bawa brothers, Hon. Bawa Hayatuddeen (38) and Bawa Abdulrasheed (40) from Jega Local Government Area of Kebbi State as a good case study.

He said the reason why the northerners are dominating every facet of the Nigerian society is that, when in the North, they find a rising star, the Northern governors identify, promote, and support them to grow. While in the South, the governors whenever they find a rising star, all they do is pull you down. Stating that, they will pull you down and kneel you on the neck.

He wrote:

‘Life is indeed a beautiful struggle. It is unpredictable’.

On the 7th day of February 2021, I wrote a piece titled ‘Life is indeed a beautiful struggle. It is unpredictable’.

In my write up, I talked about how in the South we pull down and kneel on the neck of our rising stars, while in the North, they identify, promote, and support their best to grow, which I said explains the reason why northerners dominate and will continue to dominate every facet of the Nigerian society.

The story of the Bawa brothers, Hon. Bawa Hayatuddeen (38) and Bawa Abdulrasheed (40) from Jega Local Government Area of Kebbi State is a good case study.

I was opportune to meet Bawa Abdulrasheed, the newly appointed EFCC boss when he was the Zonal Head of the Commission in Port-Harcourt. I was in one of the offices when he walked in and engaged my client in a conversation, but my client thought he was one of the junior officers in the Commission and didn’t know that Bawa was the person that would grant or refuse him bail. After he left, one of the Investigating officers told us, that the man who just left was their Zonal head. I was speechless. Then he was in his 30s but looked like somebody who was in his 20s. One of the officers told me that Bawa will one day head the Commission. That same day, I saw another young chap who should not be above 23 but command so much respect from his colleagues because Bawa was his mentor. I was told that they were preparing the young man to head one of the departments. (Mentorship)

Abdulrasheed Bawa graduated from the Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics (Second Class Upper) in 2001. He joined the EFCC as an Assistant Detective Superintendent (ADS) in 2004. He is one of the pioneer EFCC cadet officers, Course One of 2005.

Bawa had a steady rise in his career from Assistant Detective Superintendent (2004) to Deputy Detective Superintendent (2007), Senior Detective Superintendent (2010), Principal Detective Superintendent (2013), and Deputy Chief Detective Superindent (2016).

He was also at various times Head, Advance Fee Fraud Section Team L (the first EFCC Regular Detective to be appointed a Team Head), Abuja Zonal Office; Head, Counter-Terrorism and General Investigation/Pension Unit, Lagos Zonal Office; Zonal Head, Ibadan Zonal Office (comprising Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, and the Kwara States); Zonal Head, Port Harcourt Zonal Office (comprising Rivers, Bayelsa, Abia States); and Head, Capacity Development Division EFCC Academy, Abuja, a position he held until he was appointed EFCC chair.

Can you see his progression?. What about his younger brother, Hon. Bawa Hayatuddeen is 38 years old and a Commissioner in Kebbi State.

I can authoritatively tell you that there are a million and one Bawa’s in the North, who have been groomed to take over leadership at any time. But in the South, our leaders are grooming dumb and dull sycophants who at 50 years old will still be running errands for them and their girlfriends.

If the Bawa brothers were to be from the South, they will be struggling to be Media Aides.

The deceit, envy, greed, and wickedness in our region must stop, otherwise, we will go nowhere. We must help our youths to grow. We must avail them with all the requisite opportunities to gather enough experience that will make them eminently qualified to compete with their contemporaries anywhere in the world.

I have been a victim and still a victim. I know how frustrating it is to grow in the South. It cut across everything that has to do with the South.

If we don’t start investing in our youths and promoting them, then we should not be talking about any future in the South.

M.O Omonade, Esq.

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Police release Rochas Okorocha from custody, see why he was arrested

A former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, has been released from the custody of the state’s Police Command.

Spokesperson of the command, Orlando Ikeokwu on Monday, February 22 disclosed this during Channels Television’s programme, Sunrise Daily.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that Okorocha was arrested after he broke into an estate belonging to his wife which was sealed by the state government.

The Imo West Senator while speaking on his arrest had accused the state Governor, Hope Uzodinma of ordering his arrest.

However, the state police spokesman said Okorocha was released on Sunday night.

Ikeokwu also hinted on the possibility of prosecuting Okorocha if found guilty.

He explained that the former governor was only, “invited” for “questioning” over the unsealing of the Spring Palm Estate.

“He was released later at night. If anybody is found culpable, definitely, he will be charged to court.

“If investigation proves that he (Okorocha) has committed an offence, he will be charged to court,” he said.

Thank you for taking your time in reading through our Journal Today. We wish to always provide you with qualitative Stories as far as GOOD-JOURNALISM is CONCERN. But good journalism costs a lot of money and only good journalism can ensure the possibility of a good society, accountability democracy, and a transparent government.
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Mortuary attendant arrested over missing corpse of woman in Delta

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A mortuary attendant in Oghara, Delta State, has been arrested by the police flowing the missing corpse of a 58-year-old woman, Mrs. Patience Amughoro.

It was gathered that the deceased woman was said to have died late last year after a brief illness and her corpse kept in a private hospital mortuary at Oghara, while the family prepared for burial.

According to sources, the family was amazed when, on Saturday morning after all preparations had been put in place, they arrived at the mortuary only to discover that the body was missing.

A family member, who identified himself only as Okiemute, said the mortician had earlier presented a body to the family and on close observation, they found out it was not that of Mrs Amughoro.

“That was when he (morgue attendant) began pacing up and down, looking for the body. That was when he told us that the body was missing.

“We were shocked. We had made arrangements to give our auntie a good send-forth. It hurts that we don’t have her body,” Okiemute said.

He noted that the family later reported the incident to the police.

Another family member, who spoke on anonymity wondered how the body disappeared from the mortuary.

“The disappearance of her body is tormenting my family. I have never heard of a corpse developing legs and leaving a mortuary,” he added.

Meanwhile, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed the incident to newsmen.

The police image maker said the mortuary attendant was in detention, adding that the investigation was ongoing.

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Kidnappers of two women selling fufu demands N10m ransom

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Two women selling fufu has been kidnapped along the Ayetoro-Olorunda road in Imala, Abeokuta-North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

It was gathered that the two women produced the foods in wholesale and sell to retailers at the market every market day.

Two relatives of the abducted victims,
Abubakar Olateju of Emado quarters and Kehinde Adediran, residing at Obon Oselu, all in Ayetoro, reported the incident at Imala divisional Police headquarters.

According to a source, the kidnappers demanded the sum of N5million ransom each from the two victims before they could set them free

The source said that the kidnappers are suspected to be Fulani herdsmen, who entrapped the traders on Saturday, at about 4:45 am in an area around Olorunda, kidnapping about five people including the driver of the vehicle, one Kamorudeen Olateju, and the traders.

The source also said that the driver, who also known as Charger was whisked him away with the passengers he was conveying from Ayetoro in Yewa North LGA to Abeokuta, the state capital.

The source also revealed how the kidnappers took advantage of the failed portion on the road. Allegedly that, they emerged from the bush and took the two traders away into the bush as their commercial vehicle slowed down to navigate the failed portion.

However, Abimbola Oyeyemi, the spokesperson of the command, confirmed the incident on Sunday but said only two people were abducted.

He said that the officers of the command had arrested one of the kidnappers. Also stating that the suspect arrested is a Fulani man

Thank you for taking your time in reading through our Journal Today. We wish to always provide you with qualitative Stories as far as GOOD-JOURNALISM is CONCERN. But good journalism costs a lot of money and only good journalism can ensure the possibility of a good society, accountability democracy, and a transparent government.
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Fani-Kayode opens up on defection rumours to APC, persecution by party

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Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode has again commented on rumours of his plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress.

According to a Facebook post shared by FFK and was seen by goldennationblog.com, he said he never told anyone he was joining APC neither did he say he was going to remain in PDP which he claimed was prosecuted for seven years and also tried to jail him.

The politician who described himself as the voice of the voiceless and warrior, also countered claims of speaking to two APC Governors because he was broke by stating that he was born into wealth and has never lacked it.

FFK also disclosed that he has 55 domestic staff in his house and they all earn 70,000 naira and above per month.

He wrote;

THE LION THAT CANNOT BE CAGED

Over the last one week, millions of Nigerians have expressed concern about which direction I am going politically and much has been said.

Some have gone out of their way to reach out to me and offered their counsel out of genuine love and concern.

Others have not reached out to me and have written or spoken out of ignorance, hate, and malice imputing the worst motivations for actions that they claim I have purportedly taken.

This contribution is an attempt to provide answers to just a few of the oftentimes and absurd assertions and observations that the latter group has made.

Some say they warned me and that I have fallen into a trap whilst others say my voice has been silenced, I am a spy, and that this signals the end of my political career.

My response to them and others who have conjured up even stranger motivations and conspiracy theories when it comes to FFK is as follows.

To whom it may concern: spare me your crocodile tears and be rest assured that I am too big, too intelligent, too experienced, and too forthright to fall into any trap.

It is impossible to castrate a lion, render it impotent or silence its roar.

I stand on all my beliefs, core values, and principles. I am the voice of the voiceless, I am a warrior, I fear nothing, I fear no-one, I am as constant as the northern star and I will ALWAYS stand against evil.

Speaking to other leaders across party lines to build bridges, engender peace, foster stability and enhance national unity ought not to create such national and international rage, panic, and pandemonium.

Are we so divided that we can’t even talk to one another and take pictures together without causing a public stir and setting the Internet on fire?

You insult me and say I am scared of prison because I had a meeting with two APC Governors?

Do you know how many PDP and APC Governors and leaders I interact with and meet regularly? Do you know how many I talk to daily?

Do you know that I was prosecuted for 7 years by PDP Governments who tried to jail me simply for speaking out against them yet it did not deter me? Ask those that were in the Yar’adua and Jonathan administration.

After a while, they got tired because the more they tried to intimidate me into silence or make me flee the country the more I stood my ground and fought my corner till they gave up.

Does that sound like a man that is scared of death or prison?

You insult me and say I am broke because I had talks with two APC Governors.

Do you know that I spend more on my monthly salary bill in one month than some of these people that are claiming I am broke earn in 5 or 10 years?

I have 55 domestic staff in my house alone. Not one of them gets below 70,000 naira per month which is higher than the national minimum wage.

I do not owe salaries and I feed each of the three square meals every day. I do all this just to help them and to ensure they can look after and feed their families. Does that sound like a broke man to you?

That is my little contribution to the welfare of our people because I certainly do not need so many staff. I employ them just to keep them off the unemployment line.

Apart from that do you know how many people I give scholarships to and how many people’s children I feed and educate? Do you know how many other families I am responsible for in terms of day to day living?

The Bible says be your brother’s keeper and I do these things unto the Lord. I do them and I will never stop even when my good is repaid with evil.

The Lord has always provided for me and given me the fat of the land. He has always caused me to be a blessing to others though I do not make noise about it.

For the last 60 years of my life, He has been good to me. He has caused me to excel, prosper and flourish and from beginning to end He has always been with me and mine.

You say I make money through politics meanwhile I left public office in 2007 which is 13 years ago! Does that make sense to you? In any case, is politics my only source of income in the world?

Am I your conventional politician who craves for elective office? Do I even attend their meetings? I have been in this game since 1990! Do you know that?

I have been making my contributions to current affairs, political discourse, and politics for the last 31 years which is long before most of today’s Governors or Ministers even knew the meaning of the word.

And it was always a struggle that involved sacrifice. Where were my detractors when I was in NADECO and fought against the military rule?

The records are there and so are the essays and some of the people I worked with.

Where were they when we set up September Club in 1989 and some of the nation’s greatest leaders and elder statesmen and top politicians over the last 30 years, including Presidents, Governors, Ministers, and legislators across party lines, were members?

Where were they in the days of NRC, SDP, and Choice ’92 when politics was real, when the greats held sway and when men honored their word?

Where were they when we risked all for MKO Abiola’s stolen mandate and June 12th and even had to go into exile for years because of it?

Where were they when we stood against the annulment of June 12th and fought against the Government of General Sani Abacha?

Where were they when we formed the Progressive Action Movement in 1999 and some of the nation’s brightest and best young stars and minds made their contribution to national affairs?

Where were they when we fought against Senator Ali Modu Sheriff who was sent to high jack and destroy the PDP?

Where were they when I led President Goodluck Jonathan’s presidential campaign in 2015 and took the battle to the gates of the enemy?

Where were they when I stood behind President Olusegun Obasanjo and faced down ALL his detractors?

Where were they when I was targeted and almost assassinated on two occasions during the Obasanjo Presidency simply because I was the President’s defender in chief and armour bearer and was committed to his cause?

I did all this in the past and present and you say I am making money from it? Do you know the risks involved in these things?

Do you know I could have been killed together with members of my family long ago and most certainly would have had it not been for God?

Can my detractors give up so much and risk so much just for politics? Honestly, it’s the deepest insult.

Some of us were born into wealth and have never lacked it. We were born into politics too. We were born into the circles of power so nothing moves us.

For us, politics is a noble calling and not a profession. It is about preferring solutions to complex national issues and not about the acquisition of primitive wealth.

We gave up all for the struggle for democracy and the opportunity to help to develop our country and move her forward and now we are insulted and mocked and told we did it for money? Which money?

How much can I be bought or bribed with? All the money in the world could not move me because I have never lacked it.

What have I not had or enjoyed in life from a very young age? Where have I not been?

I came to the conclusion long ago that all is vanity and that material wealth means nothing. I would never sacrifice my principles or integrity for it.

Mallam Abba Kyari, the President’s late and powerful Chief of Staff, was my brother for over 40 years and we interacted regularly whilst he was in power.

I never asked him for ANYTHING from his Government just as I never asked or got ANYTHING from any of the previous Federal Governments between 2007 and 2021.

If I had done so I would not have been able to criticise those Governments publicly and I would have been exposed. You cannot criticise where you eat from.

I did not join APC when Abba was in Government and I did not compromise my principles when I could have asked him for anything I chose in return since he had the ear of the President.

I respected and loved him for who he was and NOT for the position he held and the feeling was mutual.

I opposed his Government despite our friendship and did not share his views yet we remained friends because our friendship was well above politics.

That is what civilised people do. They agree to disagree and respect each other’s views. They never let it come between their friendship.

I opposed Abba’s Government and risked losing an old and loyal friend and brother because I believed passionately in all I said. I believed all that I said then and I still believe it today.

All that and now you dare to question my resolve and consistency? It is laughable.

You say I am inconsistent Meanwhile, I have been more consistent in my views over the last 30 years than 95% of Nigerian leaders and I have stuck to my guns despite all manner of persecution and suffering!

You say I have no relevance meanwhile millions all over the world read my words avidly every day and follow my actions religiously because I inspire them because I have always had the courage of my convictions and I have always spoken truth to power.

Unlike most politicians, I inspire people and give them hope. And most important all they trust me and trust my judgment

They have also acknowledged the fact that more often than not my words are prophetic and I have displayed remarkable insight and foresight when it comes to national affairs.

How many of your so-called “relevant” leaders have done that? How many of them have displayed such courage under fire for years on end?

How many of them can have their newspaper columns in three national dailies closed over the years due to threats to the publishers from the Government and yet keep writing his essays on social media with millions of people all over the world still reading them and receiving the message?

How many of them can be blacklisted by the nation’s newspapers and television stations with threatening orders from above and still keep talking?

How many of them across party lines can mould the thoughts and guide millions in this way with their counsel, words, actions, and thoughts?

First 7 years of persecution under PDP then 5 years of persecution under APC! HOW many of your leaders can stand such fire and pain and still fight on?

Almost all of them ever do is sell you down the river, tell you lies, ignore your pain, deceive you, mock you, use you and give you crumbs in return for your acclamation, support, and loyalty but you love them for that.

You say I am scared of even more persecution. At the age of 60, you believe I am scared?

What more can they do to me that they have not done already? And what more am I looking for in life that I have not enjoyed over the years?

Yet you say I am scared! And those that say so can barely endure one-tenth of what I have endured.

Some of them make noise from the safety of other countries and stay away from Nigeria out of fear of being locked up yet they mock those of us that live on the doorsteps of our oppressors in Nigeria and dare them to their faces.

Some of them have not been able to face hardship or deprivation and neither can they bear it when their rights are being violated.

Yet too many of us this has become the norm and we are used to it yet we continue to struggle and fight the system regardless. Let me give you just one example.

Do you know that I have not been able to travel out of Nigeria for the last 13 years because my passport was first seized by a PDP Government for 8 and then by an APC Government for 5?

Do you know that I could not even go for medical check-ups outside the country because of that?

Did you ever hear me complain or did this ever stop me from speaking truth to power, standing firm against injustice, or speaking up for the weak, the persecuted, and the voiceless?

Do you know I was locked up by both PDP and APC Federal Governments for no just cause?

Do you know I was even locked up in Boko Haram detention centers with Boko Haram suspects and convicts?

Do you know that only terrorists were kept in the facility that they kept me? Do you know that place is worst than Gauntanamo Bay and that it was built by the British Government?

Do you know how terrifying that was and that I could have been killed or maimed whilst there?

Yet did you ever hear me complain about it, submit, compromise, give up or back down from criticizing the Government or previous Governments because of these trials and tribulations?

How many of your so-called “relevant” and “great” leaders can bear such torment and injustice without cracking? Did you ever see or hear me crack? Did I ever break?

Do you know what horrors my first wife Regina and my daughter Remi were subjected to by a PDP Government? Do you know why they had to go into exile and live abroad?

Do you know what hell my ex-wife Precious and first son Aragorn were subjected to by the APC Government?

Do you know the tears we shed secretly and the number of times we suffered and were forced to go underground for no just cause?

Do you know the kind of stress and torment this put us through? Do you know that all our bank accounts have been frozen for five years?

Did all that stop me or stop us from standing? Did we not endure and bear it all with dignity for years and continue to make our contribution to national affairs with zeal and passion.

Yet leaders like me that make these sacrifices and speak the ruth you describe as having no relevance, no consistency and you hate.

You mock, ridicule, insult and believe the very worst about us at the drop of a hat. Some even have the nerve and efforts to say we are not politicians simply because we have not run for elective office.

It is those who speak the truth and that is courageous enough to expose and confront the evil that you hate, judge, and always think and assume the worse off at the drop of a hat.

Do you know that despite facing the most vicious persecution and prosecution for 7 long years the court found me not guilty of corruption whilst I was Minister of Aviation and Minister of Culture and Tourism and acquitted and discharged me?

How many of your leaders can endure going to court for seven years before 4 different judges and amid a vicious media witch hunt in which most people who knew nothing about the case had declared me guilty?

How many of you could have survived that without capitulating, cracking, begging, and bending the knee?

Do you know that I have been facing prosecution for the last 5 years in two separate courts for doing absolutely nothing wrong except leading a presidential campaign against Buhari and for Jonathan in 2015 and as a consequence of politically-motivated and malicious charges which were filed only because of my bitter and vicious opposition to the Buhari Government?

Do you know that under my tenure as Minister of Aviation there were no plane crashes whilst the year before I came in there were 5 and 453 died in those crashes?

Do you know that I put a stop to those crashes and that I am the only Minister of Aviation in Nigerian history under which there were NO plane crashes?

Do you know that despite all the challenges and persecution I was recently polled by 85% of the readers of Vanguard Newspaper that I was the loudest and most consistent voice of opposition against the Buhari government over the last five years?

All this yet you label me a coward and someone that has achieved nothing?

Do you know that most of those leaders you rever and love so much are cowards who are unable and unwilling to risk all and speak truth to power?.

All they can do is mislead you and their followers to hate and insult those of us that care for you.

Honesty, some people need mental health checks and medical attention!

And for anyone to say I will not be welcome in a party that I have not publicly expressed a desire to join amazes me.

The joker that claimed I was rejected by the APC needs to tell me where and when I applied to join them and what my registration number was!

Did I tell you I am leaving PDP for APC? Or did I tell anyone that I will stay in PDP forever no matter what happens or no matter what they do to me or the country?

You see unlike most I am a one-man army and riot squad and I am accountable to noman or party. I am only accountable to God!

Unlike mos,t I do not do things in the dark and I do not shy away from speaking the truth or my mind once it is set.

When and if I ever choose to make a move I will be clear and categorical and I will let the world know, so hold your hate fire till we get to that bridge.

Yet know this: I owe no-one any explanation for what I will do or will not do tomorrow, I will gladly live with the consequences of my actions and decisions and I will defend myself and explain my actions when I choose to do so if I believe it is ever necessary.

I do not know what the details are yet but before 2023 there WILL be many realignments and new alliances. Both parties will see many shifts and many individuals will change sides.

This is because we must get it right in 2023 and we must ensure that whoever takes power at the center, regardless of party affiliation, restructures our country and takes our nation to the promised land.

We must build bridges and secure the peace, unit, and progress of this country,y and most important of all we must avoid civil war and do all we can to save our nation from armed conflict and fratricidal butchery.

That is the challenge before us today and that is the reality of Nigerian politics.

Whilst others meet secretly and hide from the cameras in their quest to achieve these objectives, I will not. I am the beloved of the Lord and I am a LION!

No man born of a woman can silence my roar!

I am who I am. I am FFK.

Thank you for taking your time in reading through our Journal Today. We wish to always provide you with qualitative Stories as far as GOOD-JOURNALISM is CONCERN. But good journalism costs a lot of money and only good journalism can ensure the possibility of a good society, accountability democracy, and a transparent government.
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Gov Matawalle reveals location of abducted kagara students

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Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State has identified the current location of the abducted students of Government Science Secondary School, Kagara in Niger State.

Goldennationblog.com reported that bandits in military uniform had last week abducted students at GSC Kagara in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.

The criminals invaded the school which has about 1000 students, overpowered the security guard, before whisking away some students and staff.

41 persons most of whom are students and staff of the school were abducted.

The governor who spoke on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, said, “The students of Kagara are located around Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State which I believe very soon they would be back home.”

According to him, cooperation from stakeholders is the key to unlock success in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and other forms of criminalities.

“As you are aware, the security issue needs more commitment from all stakeholders. We have two major problems of insecurity in the north with banditry and Boko Haram,” the Governor added.

Matawalle said all the leaders must come to terms with the challenges at hand and speak with one voice.

Thank you for taking your time in reading through our Journal Today. We wish to always provide you with qualitative Stories as far as GOOD-JOURNALISM is CONCERN. But good journalism costs a lot of money and only good journalism can ensure the possibility of a good society, accountability democracy, and a transparent government.
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Fireboy Dml grabs more Headies award, see full list

The 14th edition of the Headies award which was done virtually following the restriction of the Covid-19 protocols was held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The award was held on February 21st, 2021 has its nominees announced in December 2020.

The leading artists for the nomination are Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido while having Fireboy Dml secured several awards, including bigs wins for Best Pop Album and Best R&B single.

The award features performances from BBNaija 2020 winner, Laycon, alongside, DJ Neptune, Joeboy, Fireboy DML, the Cavemen and many others.

The award also have some of the favorite celebrities, like Wizkid, Falz, Pheelz, Simi and Mayorkun, picked up golden statues for their performances.

The award was attended by a lot of Nigerian celebrities like Wizkid, 2baba, Sound Sultan, AJ, AQ, iLLBliss, Bad Boy Tims, Omah Lay, Mayorkun, and others.

The award which was hosted by TV personality and actress Nancy Isime and comedian Bovi also saw winners in new categories such as Songwriter of The Year and Best Alternative Album.

The award also have Omah Lay and Bad Boy Tim’s pick up their award for the first time, having Omah Lay emerge as the Next Rated.

See full list of nominees and the winner for each categories:

Best Rap Album

God’s Engineering – A-Q – Winner
Illy Chapo X – Illbliss
YPSZN2 – Psycho YP
Cult! – Paybac Iboro
The Erigma 2 – Erigga

Best R&B Album

Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps – Fireboy DML- Winner
I like girls with trobul – Sarz(featuringWurld)
King – Praiz
Boo of the Booless – Chike
Celia – Tiwa Savage

Best R&B Single

Under the sky – Praiz
Duduke – Simi
Bad Influence – Omah Lay
Dangerous love – Tiwa Savage
Fireboy – Tattoo- Winner
Best Pop Single

Billionaire – Teni
Nobody – DJ Neptune (featuring Joeboy, Mr Eazi)- Winner
Lady – Rema
FEM – Davido
Joro – Wizkid
Skeletun – Tekno

Best Vocal Performance (Male)

Wurld – “Ghost Town”
Chike – “Forgive”
Praiz – “Under the sky”- Winner
Cobhams – “We plenti”
Nonso Amadi – “What makes you sure”
Johnny Drille – “Count on you”

Best Pop Album

Fireboydml – Apollo- Winner
Davido – A Good Time
Yemi Alade- Woman of Steel
Burna Boy – African Giant
Adekunle GOLD- Afro Pop Vol. 1

Best Vocal Performance (Female)

Simi – “No longer beneficial”
Lindsey Abudei – “One on the outside”
Niniola – “Addicted”- Winner
J’dess – “Chi Efo”
Yemi Alade – “Lai Lai”
Imanse – “Ajala”

Best Street Hop Artiste

Naira Marley & Young John – “Mafo”
Mayorkun – “Geng”- Winner
Reminisce (featuring Olamide, Naira Marley) – “Instagram”
Rudeboy – “Audio Money”
Rudeboy – “Audio Money”
IVD & Zlatan – “Bolanle”
Olamide – “Pawon”

Best Rap Single

“OGB4IG” – Reminisce
“Shut Up” – Blaqbonez
“Country” – Illbliss
“Get the Info” – Phyno (featuring Falz,Phenom)
“Bop daddy” – Falz (featuring Ms Banks)- Winner.

Best Collabo

“Know You” – Ladipoe(featuring Simi)- Winner
“Nobody” – DJ Neptune(featuring Joeboy, Mr Eazi)
“Sweet in the middle” – Davido(featuring Naira Marley, Zlatan & Wurld)
“Totori” – ID Cabasa(featuring Wizkid, Olamide)
“Get the Info” – Phyno(featuring Phenom, Falz)

Lyricist on the Roll

A-Q – “Eunice”
Blaqbonez – “Define Rap 2”
M.I Abaga – “Trinity”
Illbliss – “Country”- Winner
Phenom – “Get the Info”
Phyno – “Speak Life”

Song of the Year

“FEM” – Davido
“Nobody” – DJ Neptune (featuring Joeboy, Mr Eazi)
“Joro” – Wizkid
“Mafo” – Naira Marley
“Duduke” – Simi- Winner
Best Recording of the Year

“Ozymandias”– Brymo- Winner
“Smile” – Wizkid (featuring H.E.R.)
“Wonderful” – Burna Boy
“Dreamer” – Fireboy DML
“Ghost Town” – Wurld

Album of the Year

African Giant – Burna Boy
Apollo – Fireboy DML- Winner
Afro Pop Vol. 1 – Adekunle Gold
Yellow – Brymo
Boo of the Booless – Chike

Artiste of the Year

Burna Boy
Davido
Wizkid- Winner
Mayorkun
Tiwa Savage

Producer of the Year

Pheelz – “Billionaire” by Teni- Winner
SPAX – “Away” by Oxlade
Kel P – “Pull Up” by Burna Boy
Sarz – “Mad” by Sarz, Wurld
Best Music Video

“Eli” by Fireboy DML – Clarence Peters
“1 Milli” by Davido – Director K- Winner
“Smile” by Wizkid – Meji Alabi
“Billionaire” by Teni – TG Omori
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MFM’s Olukoya to receive N500 million as damages for case against blogger- Court

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The High Court in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has delivered its judgment in a N10 billion libel claim against UK-based Blogger, Maureen Badejo.

The Incorporated Trustees of Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries and its General Overseer, Dr. D. K. Olukoya, as the 1st and 2nd claimants respectively commenced the case on September 7, 2020, to claim sundry relief against Maureen Badejo, for continuous and sustained libel published by her through free-to-air broadcasts in the social media, particularly Facebook, You-Tube and Instagram.

In his judgment delivered on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, the trial Judge, the Hon. Justice Abiodun A. Akinyemi, while describing Maureen Badejo’s campaign against the claimants as “the worst case of reckless defamation and evil use of the internet and social media,” awarded the sum of N250million to each of the claimants (making a total of N500 million) as aggravated and exemplary damages for libel.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the court also ordered the defendant (Maureen) to immediately pull down and erase each of the offending online publications/posts concerning the claimants from the internet.

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See why two brothers died within seconds of threatening each other with incantations (Photos)

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Tragedy struck in Tse-Agbulu, Kunav, Segev council ward of Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, when two brothers who were quarrelling over their father’s land suddenly slumped and died within seconds of each other.

The brothers identified as Iorhemba Adóón and Jima Adóón, are said to be the eldest sons of late Adóón Agbulu.

According to a Facebook user, Udam Samuel Aseer Nts, who shared the story on February 18, said that, trouble started when Jima hired a tractor to plow his rice farm near river Benue but was confronted by his brother, Iorhemba, who dispersed the workers because the land was their father’s and as the eldest, he ought to have inherited it.

His action angered Jima, who claimed to have stood by their late father who experienced difficulties before he died.

The brothers were said to have exchanged words and resorted to charms as they made incantation in the full glare of the villagers.

While chanting incantation, the elder brother slumped and in a matter of seconds, the younger one also slumped. Both were rushed to a hospital where doctors pronounced them dead.

Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Catherine Anene, who confirmed the incident to newsmen said the corpses have been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.

Meanwhile, the wake keep and burial of the brothers is slated to hold on 5th March and 6th March 2021, at their ancestral home in Tse-Agbulu, Sengev District Gwer-West LGA Benue.

See the post shared by Aseer below.

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Many souls lost as military plane crash at Abuja airport

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A military aircraft named King Air 350 has crashed at the Abuja airport.

Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika announced this in a tweet seen by goldennationblog.com on Sunday, February 21.

According to the minister of aviation, the plane crash landed after experiencing an engine failure on way to Minna, Niger state. Sirika said the tragic incident was fatal and there is a possibility of all the passengers on board losing their lives in the crash. The minister, however, called for calm as Nigerians wait for the outcome of investigation by the military authorities.

He prayed for the departed souls if there is any.

“A military aircraft King Air 350 has just crashed short of our Abuja runway after reporting engine failure en route Minna.

“It appears to be fatal. We should remain calm & wait for the outcome of the investigation by the military, while we pray for the departed soul/souls if any,” the minister said in a tweet.

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How Police officers unlawfully shot mother of 5 (Photos)

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In a situation that looks like a breakdown of law and order, the members of the Nigerian Police Force attached to Zone 5, Benin, invaded Umunede Community at night, shot a mother of five in an attempt to arrest without warrant the Arum (Administrator) of IIenobu Community, Mr. Ifeanyi Ikem leaving his wife with a bullet.

The officers who came in three vehicles were said to come on mufti numbering between five and six allegedly made unsuccessful efforts to dismantle the burglary window into the house of Ifeanyi Ikem and opened fire on his wife before help could come from youth and family members in the community.

The incident occurred on Thursday 18th February 2021.

The incident occurred following the heels of an age long-disputed Ozone Community land that is suited on the right side of the express when coming from Umunede.

According to the report, the purported land is been sold by the people of Emuhu Community, Agbor, Ika South local government areas of the state.

The trouble start when the renewed land took a new dimension when the police officers from Zone 5, Benin pulled down the window burglary of Mr. Ikem’s residence of house No. 113 Old Umunede /Agbor Road, then Old Lagos/Agbor Road.

Narrating his ordeal, Mr. Ikem said, “On Thursday 18th February 2021, I just put off my generator so I could go to bed that night. I was about to lie down on my bed when I heard footsteps and my dog was barking when I saw two men, one was wearing complete native attire while the other was in Jean trouser and Jean jacket. They requested to know the occupants of the house but I kept quiet because I don’t know them.

According to him, his wife then answered from inside to know who they are and they replied that she should call her husband that somebody is looking for him.

He said, “My wife told them that her husband is already asleep. And they asked is he the one that just off the generator that you are telling us is asleep? In the process of my wife interrogating them, they frequently mentioned one Sunny. They said we had some discussions and arrangements.

He said, “My wife came in to ask me if I know anyone with the name Sunny, I said there is nothing like that. They walked away, got to where the well is located. One of them was pressing his phone, so I thought they gave them my number thinking that they would call me, I reached out to my phone and placed it on silent. Stating that since he assumes the Arum, many things have been going on and he has been watching them.

He went further to say that, “So, after that my uncle came out and was questioning them on why they should come at this time to arrest someone. He added that about three persons came back to my gate and were asking if I don’t want to open the door. We will open it by force. Why are you telling us that he is sleeping whereas he is not sleeping? They kept shaking the front burglary. By then the window was opened because I wanted fresh air to come after I put off the generator.

“So, I decided to close it quietly. So, I thought they had gone, surprisingly, they returned and started forcing the glass on the window and they pulled down the burglary. I told my wife and children to shout. Their shouting made people hear that something is happening around this area. Three men entered first, so we were struggling together. I saw them with guns and I thought within me that these people want to kill me.

“After the first three persons, another three entered through the window again, making it six, they kept dragging me. They opened the back door and we started struggling with each other including my wife. I asked them to tell me what I did before following them. They said there is something that I did. They said one Prince Paradise sent them that I destroyed the car and building and I told them that I don’t know anything about it.

He also stated, “As they saw that people were coming, they started shooting a gun and they were still dragging me but my wife didn’t allow them to drag me away. So, they shoot her, as my wife was shouting I have been shot, I held onto them, they started shooting and they ran into their vehicles and zoomed off.

He alleged that they came with about three vehicles, one black Jeep, a Tundra and one ash color Sienna, that was what happened last night”.

Meanwhile, l, the victim’s wife who was shot Mrs. Ebere, hinted that “About 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm, two men came and knocked on our gate. When I came out, I asked them who they were and who they are looking for. They asked if my husband was around I said yes. They said I should go and call him that someone is looking for him.

“I told them that he has slept, they started shaking and forcing the gate. When they couldn’t bring it down, they went to the window and succeeded in pulling it down. They were dragging my husband, as I was holding my husband to prevent them from taking him away, they shot me”.

However, Chief Azubuike and Chief Augustine Aghulor who spoke condemned in strong terms the invasion of the residence of the Arum and the shooting of his wife, saying it was an alleged murder attempted on the couple and also warned that the police and whoever contracted them would not get away with the act.

According to Chief Azubuike, “the victim’s Uncle, elder Ignatius Ikem came out and was shouting and asking them who they are. The invaders said they are policemen before he could finish, they smashed the house, broke down the window and protector, forced themselves inside the house, held him, and tried to pull him out. The wife held the husband, we came out but in the heat of the scuffle, they shot the wife severally on both legs.

He said, “They ran inside their car and drove away. The youths came out to the police station but the DCO told us that they are officers from Zone 5, on mufti. Eventually, the DCO accompanied them to Kifa Clinic and Maternity where the woman was treated”.

In a similar statement, Chief Aghulor, said: “We were told that one of the persons who led them to this place is a manager of Prince Paradise. He bought our land without our knowledge. The matter is in Umunede High Court before it was transferred to Agbor. No warrant of arrest, they said they don’t need any assistance from the Umunede police station.

“We are putting one Eze of Emuhu community, the owner of Prince Paradise Estate on notice that they are not going to get away with the mayhem on the Arum and his wife. Maybe, they want to intimidate us after acquiring a huge part of our land measuring 1000 plots from people who don’t have the land”.

Also speaking, the Owner of Kifa Clinic and Maternity in Umunede, Dr. Ikifa, confirmed that they were at his hospital where he treated the victim of gunshot.

However, the Umunede Divisional Police Officer (DPO), declined comment when reached. But the Assistant Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Edafe Bright, confirmed that the policemen were from Zone 5.

However, the report stated that the officers from Zone 5 officially arrive at the Command’s headquarters and the Umunede Divisional Police Station.

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Minister of Interior Affairs, Rauf Aregbesola says killers have joined APC

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Rauf Aregbesola, Minister of Interior, has said that killers have been admitted to the All Progressives Congress.

He disclosed this while speaking at his Ifofin, Ward 8, Ilesa East Local Government Area after he revalidated his APC membership on Friday, February 20.

Aregbesola said,

“Killers have joined our party and the law guiding our party doesn’t say we can’t admit them when a law court has not convicted them. You know the killers or you don’t know them?

You know miscreants or you don’t know miscreants? If we will be in the same party, we will not accept anything that will denigrate Bola Ige. He was our father. In this area, Bola Ige was our father.

Are you happy that Bola Ige was killed? I am a son to the late Bola Ige. Whoever denigrates Bola Ige is our enemy. Whoever wants to use Bola Ige’s tomb to climb to a higher height would not achieve his aim. When we want to aspire for a position here, your name and antecedent will determine how you will be treated.”

This is coming days after a former deputy governor of the state Iyiola Omisore, defected from SDP to APC.

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Delta CP decorates Newly Promoted Officers, Issue Warning (Photos)

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Mohammed Ali on Friday 19th, 2021 decorated officers who got promoted in the State Command.

This was made known to newsmen by the assistant spokesperson of the Command, Dafe Bright.

According to the statement, the CP said that the result of promotion is hard work, stating that, there is no hiding place for those promoted, as he said, more ranks means more responsibilities.

He further stated that they should do their best to avoid query which might as well affect them in their future promotions. He also urged them to remain focused and diligent as they are growing in the job tasking them to be more careful as they have been saddle with more responsibility.

He also warns all officers to take the supervision of men posted under them seriously. Adding that, they will not be held vicariously liable.

However, the CP wished all promoted officers the best.

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Delta State Government plan to revoke undeveloped land in Asaba

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The Delta State Government has explained that it will soon withdraw the ownership of any undeveloped plot of land in Asaba and other urban areas in the State if no development commenced in the next three months.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner of information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who gave the warning in Asaba, stating that some persons deploy the attitude of acquiring land from the state government but left such lands undeveloped for some time, saying that such situation was affecting the transformation of the environment through urban renewal efforts of the state government.

He said that the state government had decided to invoke Section 5 of the Land Use Act to drive the process of reclaiming undeveloped plots of land.

He said that nobody in government is looking for land to buy from those he termed as “land bankers’’ but rather the interest of the state government was to develop the state in all spheres.

Aniagwu also said that the Okowa administration was determined to its Urban renewal programme aimed at ensuring employment creation, strengthening of security and advancement of socio-economic development.

He said, with a Certificate-of-Occupancy from the state government, it would be counter-productive to leave an acquired land undeveloped after three to 10 years of acquisition.

He added, “Individuals who had acquired lands from the state government with Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) have turned themselves into land bankers.

“This means that instead of such individuals to develop the acquired lands, they leave them hence we still see bushes all around our cities.

The Commissioner said that the decision was not meant to witch-hunt anybody, he said some undeveloped lands had become kidnappers den for robbers aside defacing the state capital and other cities in the state.

He warned that anybody with a C-of-O of two years and above on a parcel of land acquired from the state government, but without any sign of development, will have such land taken over by the government for better development.

He went further to say that, the government have not employed anybody as a land banker. Saying that

“you have been given a land with a C-of-O and you have refused to develop the land, the land will be revoked and given to those who need it.

He also added, “it is our interest to develop our state, to bring employment to our people and above all, providing security for our people in the cities.”

He said for clarification purposes, the lands involved are the ones in urban areas in the state that were acquired from the state government with C-of-O.

However, he also reveals the duration of time that the government will commence operations. Saying, “Three months is the maximum time for a land owner whose C-of-O is over two years to commence development, failure of such means that the C-of-O of such land will be revoked or taken back by the government

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E-Money gift relatives with cars on his birthday (Photos)

Popular celebrity business mogul and socialite, Emeka Okonkwo, popularly known as E-Money, gift cars to relations while celebrating his birthday.

The business mogul said that gifting friends and family cars have become a symbolic part of his birthday celebration.

He gifted his sister and friends with a car as a gift.

These were revealed by music star, Kcee, his brother upon celebration, took to his Instagram page on Thursday, February 18, 2021, to celebrate him.

Kcee who posted the picture of cars, captions it as “Like you, all know every 18th of February is my brother E-money’s Birthday which is symbolic with the gifting of cars and other valuable items to worthy and deserving individuals,”

This year is not an exception as I am handing over the cars and other gifts to the beneficiaries on behalf of my brother who is presently not in town.”

“Happy Birthday to the best brother anyone could have, I pray for more of God’s blessings over you! @iam_emoney1 HBD to you again ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😂”

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Port Harcourt International Airport blocked as Union workers protest attack on members (photos)

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Members of Fright Forwarders Transport Association have blocked the Port Harcourt International Airport Junction, stopping vehicular movements.

The members of the Association blocked the roads with their containers in protest against an attack on one of their members by security operatives at a checkpoint around the airport junction.

The incident took place Friday night after an argument broke out between a security agent and a driver.

As of press time, there is no vehicular movement around the Airport junction as members have vowed to remain at the junction.

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Man inside court stab lover over marriage proposal

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A man identified as Adamu Enock while requesting the refund of his dowry and other expenses incurred over a failed marriage proposal, stabbed his estranged lover within the premises of Yola Criminal Area Court while proceedings are still ongoing.

Adamu, a widower and also a father of three, proposed marriage to his lover Hosea Ashini, a divorced woman with four children, and the marriage failed to occur.

Adamu then approaches the court where he instituted a suit against his lover on the charge of deceitful marriage.

He informed the court that he fell in love with Ashini who accepted his marriage proposal but later declined after he had extended his funds to seal the marriage.

According to reports, Adamu sought the refund of N120,000 he incurred in an attempt to consummate the marriage.

The first hearing of the case came up on February 4th and later adjourned to Thursday, February 18th after the counsel to Ashini pleaded with the judge to allow the parties to resolve the matter.

However, trouble started when Ashini’s counsel, Ibrahim Saidu, later sought for the reversal of the settlement bordering on a refund of all expenses incurred on the failed marriage.

Adamu, angered by the proceedings at the resumed hearing, resorted to self-defense by stabbing Hosea repeatedly with a knife and also stabbed four other persons.

An eyewitness who is familiar with the incident said, “After the settlement, the court adjourned the case to February 18, 2021, for payment. But when they resumed sitting on Thursday 18, the unexpected happened when the counsel to the woman urged the court to reverse the earlier arrangement reached. Alleging that it is not in the best interest of his client.

Though it was learned from the family member of the lover that Adamu had been paid N35, 000 out of the N120, 000 leaving a balance of N85, 000 before the court appearance on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Ashini was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yola, for treatment while Adamu was apprehended by security men within the court and handed over to the police.

Adamu, who was later arrested and taken to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department which they said, he attempted to commit suicide by jumping from the staircase of the one-story building.

DSP Suleiman Ngurore, spokesperson of the Adamawa State Police command confirmed the arrest stating that “The brief I have is that he was apprehended and taken to the station. All of the five persons he stabbed with a knife sustained some degrees of injuries and the police have taken them to the hospital where they are responding to treatment.

He also said, “The lady is not dead but the injuries are grievous.

However, the State Commissioner of Police has directed a discreet investigation for the law to take its cause.”

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FG says no ransom will be paid for release of abducted kagara students, staff

Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, has said that the Federal Government won’t pay ransom to secure the release of the abducted students and members of staff of Government Science College, Kagara.

He disclosed this after an unconfirmed report alleged that the federal government paid N800m to secure the release of the abducted students and staff of the school.

Reacting to this on Saturday, February 20 in a Channels Television program, Lai Mohammed who was asked if government had paid ransom said “No.” He also added that they will employ kinetic and non-kinetic measures in securing their release and won’t throw away the invitation to engage.

“We employ kinetic and non-kinetic (measures), you don’t throwaway invitation to engage but the overall strategy you keep to your chest.”

Continuing, he said, “Bandits all over the world work with psychology of people. Deliberately, they target women and children because this is what will attract a lot of global outcries. That is exactly what bandits do all over the world.

“The government has put in place, all along, various strategies to contain banditry, to fight insurgency, to fight kidnapping. Some of these measures are kinetic, some are not kinetic. We didn’t get here overnight and that is why it is difficult to get out one day.

“Criminality in any form will not be tolerated by government. At the same time, government has a duty to look at the underlining causes of some of these criminalities in other to address them.

“I was in Minna with my colleagues, the Ministers of Interior and Police Affairs, the IG, and the National Security Adviser on Wednesday to get a firsthand information on the abduction of these Kagara schoolboys. I can tell you that as of today that the government is on top of the matter.”

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Fresh case as FBI links Hushpuppi to North Korean bank robbers, money launderers

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI has linked Instagram celebrity, Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, a.k.a Hushpuppi, to North Korean hackers said to be the biggest bank robbers in the world.

The Justice Department in a detailed statement released on Friday, February 19, alleged that Hushpuppi took part in a “North Korean-perpetrated cyber-enabled heist from a Maltese bank in February 2019.”

According to the statement, his role was as a collaborator with a North Korean money launderer, Ghaleb Alaumary, 37, based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

“Alaumary agreed to plead guilty to the charge, which was filed in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on Nov. 17, 2020.

“Alaumary was a prolific money launderer for hackers engaged in ATM cash-out schemes, cyber-enabled bank heists, business email compromise (BEC) schemes, and other online fraud schemes. Alaumary is also being prosecuted for his involvement in a separate BEC scheme by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia.

“With respect to the North Korean co-conspirators’ activities, Alaumary organized teams of co-conspirators in the United States and Canada to launder millions of dollars obtained through ATM cash-out operations, including from BankIslami and a bank in India in 2018.

“Alaumary also conspired with Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, aka “Ray Hushpuppi,” and others to launder funds from a North Korean-perpetrated cyber-enabled heist from a Maltese bank in February 2019” the statement read

Recall that Hushpuppi was arrested in Dubai in June 2020, and extradited to the US where he is being charged by the United States Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles with conspiring to launder hundreds of millions of dollars from “business email compromise” (BEC) frauds and other scams.

His trial was to have commenced late last year but was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the full US Justice Department statement on Hushpuppi’s alleged involvement with the three North Korean military hackers

“A federal indictment unsealed today charges three North Korean computer programmers with participating in a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy to conduct a series of destructive cyberattacks, to steal and extort more than $1.3 billion of money and cryptocurrency from financial institutions and companies, to create and deploy multiple malicious cryptocurrency applications, and to develop and fraudulently market a blockchain platform.

A second case unsealed today revealed that a Canadian-American citizen has agreed to plead guilty in a money laundering scheme and admitted to being a high-level money launderer for multiple criminal schemes, including ATM “cash-out” operations and a cyber-enabled bank heist orchestrated by North Korean hackers.

“As laid out in today’s indictment, North Korea’s operatives, using keyboards rather than guns, stealing digital wallets of cryptocurrency instead of sacks of cash, are the world’s leading bank robbers,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Demers of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

“The Department will continue to confront malicious nation state cyber activity with our unique tools and work with our fellow agencies and the family of norms abiding nations to do the same.”

“Today’s unsealed indictment expands upon the FBI’s 2018 charges for the unprecedented cyberattacks conducted by the North Korean regime,” said the FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate.

“The ongoing targeting, compromise, and cyber-enabled theft by North Korea from global victims were met with the outstanding, persistent investigative efforts of the FBI in close collaboration with U.S. and foreign partners. By arresting facilitators, seizing funds, and charging those responsible for the hacking conspiracy, the FBI continues to impose consequences and hold North Korea accountable for its/their criminal cyber activity.”

“The scope of the criminal conduct by the North Korean hackers was extensive and long-running, and the range of crimes they have committed is staggering,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tracy L. Wilkison for the Central District of California.

“The conduct detailed in the indictment are the acts of a criminal nation-state that has stopped at nothing to exact revenge and obtain money to prop up its regime.”

“This case is a particularly striking example of the growing alliance between officials within some national governments and highly sophisticated cyber-criminals,” said U.S. Secret Service Assistant Director Michael R. D’Ambrosio.

“The individuals indicted today committed a truly unprecedented range of financial and cyber-crimes: from ransomware attacks and phishing campaigns to digital bank heists and sophisticated money laundering operations. With victims strewn across the globe, this case shows yet again that the challenge of cybercrime is, and will continue to be, a struggle that can only be won through partnerships, perseverance, and a relentless focus on holding criminals accountable.”

The hacking indictment filed in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles alleges that Jon Chang Hyok (???), 31; Kim Il (??), 27; and Park Jin Hyok (???), 36, were members of units of the Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB), a military intelligence agency of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), which engaged in criminal hacking. These North Korean military hacking units are known by multiple names in the cybersecurity community, including Lazarus Group and Advanced Persistent Threat 38 (APT38). Park was previously charged in a criminal complaint unsealed in September 2018.

The indictment alleges a broad array of criminal cyber activities undertaken by the conspiracy, in the United States and abroad, for revenge or financial gain. The schemes alleged include:

Cyber attacks on the Entertainment Industry: The destructive cyberattack on Sony Pictures Entertainment in November 2014 in retaliation for “The Interview,” a movie that depicted a fictional assassination of the DPRK’s leader; the December 2014 targeting of AMC Theatres, which was scheduled to show the film; and a 2015 intrusion into Mammoth Screen, which was producing a fictional series involving a British nuclear scientist taken prisoner in DPRK.

Cyber-Enabled Heists from Banks: Attempts from 2015 through 2019 to steal more than $1.2 billion from banks in Vietnam, Bangladesh, Taiwan, Mexico, Malta, and Africa by hacking the banks’ computer networks and sending fraudulent Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) messages.

Cyber-Enabled ATM Cash-Out Thefts: Thefts through ATM cash-out schemes – referred to by the U.S. government as “FASTCash” – including the October 2018 theft of $6.1 million from BankIslami Pakistan Limited (BankIslami).

Ransomware and Cyber-Enabled Extortion: Creation of the destructive WannaCry 2.0 ransomware in May 2017, and the extortion and attempted extortion of victim companies from 2017 through 2020 involving the theft of sensitive data and deployment of other ransomware.

Creation and Deployment of Malicious Cryptocurrency Applications: Development of multiple malicious cryptocurrency applications from March 2018 through at least September 2020 – including Celas Trade Pro, WorldBit-Bot, iCryptoFx, Union Crypto Trader, Kupay Wallet, CoinGo Trade, Dorusio, CryptoNeuro Trader, and Ants2Whale – which would provide the North Korean hackers a backdoor into the victims’ computers.

Targeting of Cryptocurrency Companies and Theft of Cryptocurrency: Targeting of hundreds of cryptocurrency companies and the theft of tens of millions of dollars’ worth of cryptocurrency, including $75 million from a Slovenian cryptocurrency company in December 2017; $24.9 million from an Indonesian cryptocurrency company in September 2018; and $11.8 million from a financial services company in New York in August 2020 in which the hackers used the malicious CryptoNeuro Trader application as a backdoor.

Spear-Phishing Campaigns: Multiple spear-phishing campaigns from March 2016 through February 2020 that targeted employees of United States cleared defense contractors, energy companies, aerospace companies, technology companies, the U.S.Department of State, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Marine Chain Token and Initial Coin Offering: Development and marketing in 2017 and 2018 of the Marine Chain Token to enable investors to purchase fractional ownership interests in marine shipping vessels, supported by a blockchain, which would allow the DPRK to secretly obtain funds from investors, control interests in marine shipping vessels, and evade U.S. sanctions.

According to the allegations contained in the hacking indictment, which was filed on Dec. 8, 2020, in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles and unsealed today, the three defendants were members of units of the RGB who were at times stationed by the North Korean government in other countries, including China and Russia. While these defendants were part of RGB units that have been referred to by cybersecurity researchers as Lazarus Group and APT38, the indictment alleges that these groups engaged in a single conspiracy to cause damage, steal data and money, and otherwise further the strategic and financial interests of the DPRK government and its leader, Kim Jong Un.

Money Launderer Charged in California and Georgia

Federal prosecutors today also unsealed a charge against Ghaleb Alaumary, 37, of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, for his role as a money launderer for the North Korean conspiracy, among other criminal schemes. Alaumary agreed to plead guilty to the charge, which was filed in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on Nov. 17, 2020. Alaumary was a prolific money launderer for hackers engaged in ATM cash-out schemes, cyber-enabled bank heists, business email compromise (BEC) schemes, and other online fraud schemes. Alaumary is also being prosecuted for his involvement in a separate BEC scheme by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia.

With respect to the North Korean co-conspirators’ activities, Alaumary organized teams of co-conspirators in the United States and Canada to launder millions of dollars obtained through ATM cash-out operations, including from BankIslami and a bank in India in 2018. Alaumary also conspired with Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, aka “Ray Hushpuppi,” and others to launder funds from a North Korean-perpetrated cyber-enabled heist from a Maltese bank in February 2019. Last summer, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles charged Abbas in a separate case alleging that he conspired to launder hundreds of millions of dollars from BEC frauds and other scams.

Accompanying Mitigation Efforts

Throughout the investigation, the FBI and the Justice Department provided specific information to victims about how they had been targeted or compromised, as well as information about the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) used by the hackers with the goals of remediating any intrusion and preventing future intrusions. That direct sharing of information took place in the United States and foreign countries, often with the assistance of foreign law enforcement partners. The FBI also collaborated with certain private cybersecurity companies by sharing and analyzing information about the intrusion TTPs used by the members of the conspiracy.

In addition to the criminal charges, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Treasury, today released a joint cybersecurity advisory and malware analysis reports (MARs) regarding North Korean cryptocurrency malware. The joint cybersecurity analysis and MARs highlight the cyber threat North Korea – which is referred to by the U.S. government as HIDDEN COBRA – poses to cryptocurrency and identify malware and indicators of compromise related to the “AppleJeus” family of malware (the name given by the cybersecurity community to a family of North Korean malicious cryptocurrency applications that includes Celas Trade Pro, WorldBit-Bot, Union Crypto Trader, Kupay Wallet, CoinGo Trade, Dorusio, CryptoNeuro Trader, and Ants2Whale). The joint cybersecurity advisory and MARs collectively provide the cybersecurity community and public with information about identifying North Korean malicious cryptocurrency applications, avoiding intrusions, and remedying infections.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI also obtained seizure warrants authorizing the FBI to seize cryptocurrency stolen by the North Korean hackers from a victim in the indictment – a financial services company in New York – held at two cryptocurrency exchanges. The seizures include sums of multiple cryptocurrencies totaling approximately $1.9 million, which will ultimately be returned to the victim.

Jon, Kim, and Park are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit computer fraud and abuse, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

In relation to the case filed in Los Angeles, Alaumary has agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation of Jon, Kim, and Park was led by the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, which worked closely with the FBI’s Charlotte Field Office. The U.S. Secret Service’s Los Angeles Field Office and Global Investigative Operations Center provided substantial assistance. The FBI’s Cyber Division also provided substantial assistance.

The investigations of Alaumary were conducted by the U.S. Secret Service’s Savannah Field Office, FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, and the U.S. Secret Service’s Los Angeles Field Office and Global Investigative Operations Center. The FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division also provided substantial assistance.

The case against Jon, Kim, and Park is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anil J. Antony and Khaldoun Shobaki of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section, with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Scott Claffee of the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Antony and Shobaki are also prosecuting the case against Alaumary, in which the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia and the Criminal Division’s Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) provided substantial assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Antony and Shobaki, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Galatzan of the Asset Forfeiture Section, also obtained the seizure warrants for cryptocurrency stolen from the financial services company in New York.

The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs assisted with these investigations, as did many of the FBI’s Legal Attachés, as well as foreign authorities around the world.w Numerous victims cooperated and provided valuable assistance.”

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Reasons why Laycon’s reality series breaks record on Showmax

BBNaija reality star, Laycon has a broken record with his show ‘I Am Laycon’ on Showmax as the most viewed show on its first day.

The reality series which is the first original shot produced by Showmax in Nigeria has the highest first-day views ever on the streaming service in Nigeria.

Showmax Public Relations Officer in Nigeria, Onna Okafor disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

According to the statement, the show remains in the number one most-popular spot on Showmax after a week of it’s released in Nigeria.

The show was exclusively premiere on Showmax on 10th of February with super fans known as iCONs staying up to watch the first five episode with the #IAmLayconShowmax hashtag.

The ‘I Am Laycon’ series is made up of Laycon and his crew, mostly his close family and friends.

The next episodes will be available on Showmax for streaming exclusively on 4 March.

The ‘I Am Laycon’ series is currently been stream in 26 countries outside Africa including the United Kingdom, Italy, France and Germany.

Other countries include, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Gree, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

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Delta APC faults Okowa on poor road construction

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The Delta State All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a swipe at Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa’s led administration over poor road construction that is been executed in some parts of the State.

The Party in what it’s described as “chop I chop road” said, it is disheartening, immoral, and criminal of the State Government to award humongous amounts to road projects yet the quality of the roads is far from the funds allocated.

This was made known to newsmen in a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Sylvester Imonina, Esq, on 19th February 2021.

According to the statement, the Party decried the quality of work on the recently rehabilitated Orhuwhorun road in the Udu Local Government Area of the State. Stating that, the road is already collapsing even when rain is yet to start due to the bad engineering work.

The Party also faulted that, it is an embarrassment to Deltans because, for the past fifteen years, the Effurun/Sapele Road in Uvwie Local Government Area of the State has been under construction. They said the road which is less than ten kilometer has become “Isuzu” to every PDP led administration in the State, stating that any rehabilitated section of the road does not survive the vagaries of weather for one year.

The Party also expressed shock over the recently constructed Okpe-Isoko/Orie/Ofagbe road in the Isoko area. They said the road which was supposed to have several culverts because of its typography/swampy nature was only graded, sand fill, then asphalt was added to it. They said, there was no excavation carried out. They also said that the road is less than two inches thick, it has potholes because of the poor job done by the contractors that handled the projects. According to them, the road is an eyesore that might not be unconnected with “Kick back and kick front” for what the government is known for.

Also, the Party lament over the poor nature of the Otokutu main road in Ughelli South Local Government Area. They alleged that the road is a product of “my Oga dey Asaba to protect, nothing dey happen” as a result, quality is been thrown to the dustbin whenever the road is been constructed or rehabilitated, stating that, irrespective of the substandard nature of the road, some persons see the road project as their yearly source of income.

The Party called on the State Government to change from its callous disposition towards the good of Deltans. They said, why are Deltans so unlucky when it comes to governance of the State.

However, the Party also calls on Deltans to always demand a bill of quality of projects being executed in their domain. They urge Deltans to stake their destiny in their hands and demand the best since the State Government is not ready to guarantee quality roads.

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2023: Akwa Ibom Deputy Speaker, Bassey reveals why only female president can change Nigeria

The Deputy Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Felicia Bassey, has advocated the emergence of a woman as president of Nigeria

Bassey made the call following the emergence of Ngozi Okonjo Iweala as the head of the World Trade Organisation and
Kamala Harries as Vice President of the United States of America, USA.

She said Nigerian women have the intellectual capacity and other endowments to lead the country.

In an interview on Friday, the lawmaker said the perennial issue of insecurity and economic downturn in the country would be a thing of the past if women are given prominent elective positions as they have the capacity of restoring peace in the country.

She said, ‘Nigeria should emulate the United States of America by considering handing over the presidency to women if the eluded development is to be attained.

“We, the women are ready to make a big difference. Try us; try a woman and Nigeria would be better. If the world can accept Ngozi Okonjo-iweala, a Nigerian, a woman, a black as the head of WTO, we are not talking of Nigeria or even African organization here, but the whole world organisation, then is it Nigeria that we cannot rule?

“We have intellectuals; we have women with fear of God; we have women with conscience. All these cabal issues are not for women. We are mothers; we know what is good for our children and we know if Nigeria is in a woman’s hand, peace would be a priority.

“We will not be party to anything that would lead to the shedding of blood. It wouldn’t be war upon war all the time but peace all through. And where there is peace, there is progress.

“Nigeria should try a woman and all will be well; economically we will manage well; there would be zero tolerance for corruption. Let Nigerians know that we, the women are ready. They should try us as State governors or even as vice president and let the men listen because women would not go there for competition rather to bring peace when the heat is on.”

She also expressed hope that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would take over power at the federal level in the nearest future, adding that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is already exhausted.

“There is the tendency for us taking over our power. People in APC are even tired; they know. APC has realized that their soup is salty, and they cannot swallow it. Forget about any name someone answers. Nigeria will speak with their votes and that would end the suffering we are in today because both the APC and PDP are crying due to the current bad governance.

“So PDP is coming back, and I’m warming up to celebrate,” she said.

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EmPawa Boss Mr. Eazi drops new EP ‘Something Else’

Popular Nigerian multi-talented singer and songwriter, Mr. Eazi has released his latest EP ‘Something Else’.

The singer described the EP as the “calm before the storm” stating that the 5 track EP will have you swaying and humming along in no time.

The project which features producer Spellz and Jerzee also have Kenyan-based artists Xenia Manasseh who is one of the emerging artists handpicked by Mr. Eazi during the participation of the #EmPawa30 talent incubator.

Listen to Something Else

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Primate Ayodele reveals shocking statement about Buhari’s govt, faults Gumi-bandits meeting

The leader of INRI Evangelical Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration knows the identities of those terrorizing Nigeria.

The cleric disclosed this in a statement on Friday in condemnation of Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s meeting with bandits in Niger State.

Primate Ayodele criticised the government’s negotiation with terrorists and bandits as a means to tackle insecurity in the country.

The Christian leader said the government was playing politics with the lives of citizens by not taking decisive actions.

He warned that peace talks with outlaws will worsen the situation, adding that such an approach encourages criminals.

“The government knows who the terrorists are, but some leaders in the country are making money from the insecurity situation, hence, making it difficult to truly attack it.

“Why must Sheikh Gumi negotiate with bandits? Why are they playing politics with the lives of the children? The terrorism in Nigeria is physical and political. The APC government has failed the country by working with terrorists.

“We need to pray to God to expose those truncating the progress of Nigeria. If the government negotiates with kidnappers, another one will definitely happen; just like the one that happened in Katsina. Why must we negotiate?

“How can a man who isn’t a security personnel be people are using all of the government? Nigeria can overcome Boko Haram but people are using it as a means to make money.

“With this, Gumi should be arrested with immediate effect. The government knows the bandits, does it means they are sponsoring them by asking Gumi to negotiate?” the statement added.

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Gov Bello rejects release reports of Kagara students in Niger State

Governor Sani Bello of Niger State has rejected reports that the Kagara students and teachers who were abducted by suspected bandits on Wednesday, February 17, have been released.

There was rumours making rounds on social media that the abducted students have been released from captivity.

Governor Bello who Dismissed this claim at a press conference on Friday, said

”“Everything that is being said out there is rumour and in situations like this, we cannot work with rumour, it has to be confirmed. Yes, we’ve been receiving different rumours from different people within villages but we are still treating those as rumours until processed and confirmed” he started.

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Marvin Records signee Johhny Drille drops new song ‘Bad Dancer’

Nigerian alternative rock singer, Johnny Drille has dropped his anticipated single ‘Bad Dancer’, ahead of his debut album.

The singer describing ‘Bad Dancer’ said, “The most beautiful love song you will hear this year. According to him, the song makes him feel loved and happy.

He added, “this one part of me that I wish to share. Share with someone you love or admire.”

The singer who delayed the release of his studio album said, “What I have heard lately is that Nigerians don’t appreciate albums as much as they used to before. I don’t know why that is.

“I think because of the rise in the internet we don’t listen to albums anymore.

He also said that Nigerians appreciate it more when it gets on iTunes.

He also promised to release his album this year as he said,

“I can assure you that there would a project this year, maybe a collection of songs or an EP.”

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Don Jazzy reveals why he cannot be with one partner

Popular Nigerian record producer and record label boss, Michael Collins Ajereh, better known as Don Jazzy says he commends those who stick to one partner.

He said, he can not be with one partner even if his woman is beautiful, he said, it doesn’t stop him from admiring another woman that is also beautiful.

According to him, he said, some people have the strength of when attracted to somebody and the thing that makes you attracted to them is been turns off by other people.

Adding that, people will run away from him for being truthful but he believes that he is not strong enough to be with one person.

He also said that he cannot be dating someone and tell her that she is the only one he’s dating.

He disclosed this in a chat with Nancy Isima, a media personality during the new premiere of her show ‘The Nancy Isima show’

Don Jazzy, who is the CEO of Mavin Records said in his words

“I don’t believe I’m strong enough to be with one person. I think people will run away from me for being truthful. I cannot be dating you and tell you that you are the only one am dating, ” he said

“Some people have the strength of when you are attracted to somebody, the thing that uses to make you attracted, other people turns off… I hail you, people.”

He went further to say that, “You are a beautiful woman, but it doesn’t stop me from admiring madam over there. She’s still beautiful.”

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Ex-pension boss, Maina says his leg may be amputated if not granted bail

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A former boss of the defunct Pension Reformed Task Team (PRTT),
Abdulrasheed Maina, on Friday, told the Federal High Court, Abuja, that his leg might be amputated if not granted bail to have adequate medicare.

Maina, through his Counsel, Sani Katu, SAN, told Justice Okon Abang at the resumed trial.

Katu said his client was taken to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, because of his worsening health condition and the medical report was exhibited in the bail application.

The lawyer, who said that Kuje Correctional Centre where Maina was kept did not have the facility to attend to his state of health, said if not granted bail, his kneel might be amputated.

It was reported that Maina had, on Jan. 20, approached Justice Abang for another bail after his arrest for jumping the first bail.

Maina, in a motion on notice dated and filed on December 24, 2020, brought by one of his lawyer, Anayo Adibe, said the application became necessary over his worsening health condition.

In the motion, the ex-pension boss told the court that he had reasonable and responsible sureties who were willing to act as sureties if granted bail.

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Edo Government House stormed with corpse of man allegedly killed by herdsmen

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Residents of Ovia Northeast Local Government Area of Edo State stormed Government House, Benin, with the body of one of the seven persons reportedly killed in their area by criminal herdsmen.

The protesters arrived at the government house on Thursday evening, Feb 18, where they gave Governor Godwin Obaseki a three-day ultimatum to ensure adequate security of lives and property.

They said they resorted to taking the body to the State’s Government House because when they reported to the police in their area, they were simply told to deposit the body in the morgue.

The protesters said they had experienced the frequent killing of innocent residents by herdsmen in the last few weeks.

Seven persons were killed by criminal herdsmen in the farming communities of Ugboke, Oshodi, Okokodo, Ariyan, and Yoruba camp in the LGA.

The leader of the protesters, Michael Idahosa, said residents of the affected communities could no longer bear the incessant attacks by the criminal herdsmen.

He said: “We are here to protest the killings by herdsmen in our communities. Governor Godwin Obaseki came to Ovia Northeast LGA in 2017 when herdsmen killed one of our persons and he promised to tackle the problem of herdsmen in our area, but the Edo State government did not address the issue.”

Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, who received the protesters, reassured them that the state government would intensify efforts at providing adequate security to check the criminal activities of killer herdsmen in the state.

Shaibu said: “As a state, we have made up our mind not to lament, but to look for solutions on how to protect our country and our state.

“There was also an attack in the early hours of today in Niger State. It is a national problem. As we speak now, Governor Obaseki and other governors are in Abuja to discuss this insecurity issue in our country.

“You will remember that we are bringing in local vigilance members to collaborate with law enforcement agencies. We are strengthening our system and we will still need your support.

“We do not want to take laws into our own hands, but at the same time, we cannot fold our arms and watch the people kill us. Take it easy; some bodies are yet to be found, I have discussed with the security agencies. Their personnel will move into the area.

“I can assure you that they will recover the bodies of all the victims and we will intensify the security in the area.

“We will categorise the area as one of the flashpoints in Edo State. So that you can sleep with your eyes closed.”

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Shocking moment as Omah Lay’s items got stolen in Airport

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Omah Lay has expressed shock over the loss of his items that were stolen from his box at the airport.

According to him, his laptop, audio interface, and microphone were stolen from his box while going to undisclosed location.

The singer made this revelation via his Twitter page on Wednesday said “So they stole my laptop, microphone, and audio interface from my box at the airport LMAO, you are looking for a hit record or what?”

However, the singer did not disclose the name of the airport, neither the name of the airline that the incident happened.

The 23-years-old singer is one of the most influential Nigerian Afrobeat singer who released Ep in 2020. His recorded hit singles include ‘You’ and ‘Bad Influence’.

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Rochas Okorocha attack Gov Uzodinma for renaming his university

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Former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha has reacted to Governor Hope Uzodinma’s announcement of renaming the Eastern Palm University to K. O. Mbadiwe University.

This is coming shortly after the son of the late politician and ambassador, Greg Mbadiwe decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The senator representing Imo West senatorial district who stated that the university was set up based on a public-private partnership between the state and the Rochas Foundation, added that it will be contemptuous for Governor Hope Uzodimma to rename the Eastern Palm University.

Okorocha also faulted the State assembly’s repealing of the law establishing the university. He said;

“The law establishing the University prescribed the PPP arrangement.

“Since that was the setting, the Assembly, therefore, defaulted or had acted in contravention of the law by not getting the consent or agreement of the two parties involved, on the reported repeal.

“In other words, the repeal only existed in the imaginations of those behind it.”

The Senator who revealed that he established and got licences for five universities and four polytechnics while he was governor, accused the lawmakers and the state government of disregarding a pending court case on the matter.

Okorocha added;

“For both the Assembly and the government to be taking one-sided decisions on the fate of the university, without reference to the main party and the court matter, has only made their actions questionable and contemptuous.

“A university is not a street one can rename or change its name at a polling unit where he had gone to revalidate his membership of APC. So, the claimed renaming of the university does not add up in reality.

“The purported repeal of the law establishing the university without recourse to the position of one of the parties has also made the Assembly a willing party in the matter in court.

“Until the court decides on the matter before it, there is nothing anybody can do about that.”

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Gov Akeredolu gives order to arrest any cow seen on Ondo streets

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, of Ondo State has ordered the arrest of cattle found loitering the streets of Akure.

He said the order was to reiterate his administration’s resolve to ban open grazing in the State.

Akeredolu who disclosed this in a chat with newsmen said,

”We are banning open grazing. If I see a cow I will arrest it. They can’t move to Akure town. We wouldn’t allow it. It is not going to happen. We must put an end to it,” he said.

The governor’s decision followed recent criminal activities linked to herdsmen in the State.

It was gathered that recently, suspected Fulani herdsmen had killed a cousin to one of the Media Aides to Akeredolu.

The deceased identified as Dayo Ibiye was killed in the Ajowa community in Akoko North West Local Government Area of the State.

Ibiye, who was a farmer and cousin to the Senior Special Assistant to Akeredolu on New Media, Gani Muhammed-Ajowa, was killed on his farm in Ajowa community.

The incident occurred about 24 hours after a member of the Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, was also killed by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen in Iju Community, Akure North Local Government Area of the State.

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Accident kills four including infant as truck rams into mini-bus in Delta

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An accident involving a mini truck and a bus on Asaba-Ibusa -Warri road, in Delta State, has on Thursday killed no fewer than four persons, including an infant.

The Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in the area Mr. Uchechukwu Wihioka, confirmed the incident to newsmen in Asaba.

Wihioka noted that the accident which occurred at about 8.30 a.m. as a result of brake failure.

The FRSC boss noted that 16 persons – six male adults and 10 female adults — were involved in the accident.

He said that four persons and an infant died instantly while the rest of the passengers sustained some injuries.

“The crash involved a mini truck with registration number ABH-534XA and a bus with registration number AJL-551YQ

“The brake of the mini-truck failed, the driver lost control of the vehicle and rammed into the bus,” he said.

He said the injured had been taken to the hospital before the arrival of the FRSC rescue team.

While wishing the injured quick recovery and condoling with the families of the dead, Wihioka urged motorists to ensure regular maintenance of their vehicles.

“Drivers need to ensure that their vehicles meet the minimum safety standards before putting it on the road to avoid crashes on our roads,” he said,

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See reasons why married woman starts up secondary school education at 38

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A married woman with young kids identified as Mrs. Folashade Alabi but popularly known as Mummy Shade just started her secondary school education at 38 years old.

According to her, the idea to always acquire formal education to at least the level of being able to speak the English language fluently has been her dream.

She said, not until a few years ago, she attended Adult Education class to be able to read and write a few things

Mummy Shade as she is fondly called, is a fashion designer who also sews small bags as souvenirs used at different celebrations.

She said the reason she attends class at 38 is her desire to speak the English language fluently. Adding that most of her friends whom she grew up with had the opportunity to go to school at a very tender age and they speak English fluently.

She said, it’s bothered her whenever she sees her friends whom she grew up with speaks and she couldn’t at all, so she made up her mind to go back to school. Because she also wants to communicate too.

According to her, she made her intention known to a family friend, who got excited about the idea and took her to meet an official in the Kwara State Ministry of Education. Who instead of starting her from JSS1, she was placed in JSS 2 at Ilorin Grammar School along with the Sawmill Area of the state capital.

Though she had earlier attended Adult Education school, where she was able to learn to read and write but her inability to speak English remained a big concern.

Madam Alabi, who is not yet proficient in the English Language had to speak in Yoruba Language stating that her determination to make a success of her ambition is not in doubt.

She said, “My dream is to learn, I want to be able to speak the English Language fluently like my friends, many of them are educated. When I finish my education, whatever God wants me to use the certificate for, He will provide then.

In her words, she also said, “I have been longing to go back to school but there was no time for me, but thank God I am finally here now to learn. I have attended adult education school where I obtained my first school leaving certificate. By the grace of God, I am enjoying my studies here in school. The students here are very happy to see me in their midst and there’s a cordial relationship between us.

“I have children at various levels of education, that doesn’t bother me because it is my life ambition. I am happy to inform you that all of them including my husband supported my plan to return to school.

Madam Alabi has commenced the learning of English Language, Mathematics, Social Studies among others and she’s enjoying it. Saying that her determination to achieve her aim didn’t make her bother about her size and age among other pupils in her class who are not even up to her children’s age. She commends the cooperation she has been getting from the pupils in cordiality.

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Native doctor reveals how he built mansion after answering “the gods” (Photos)

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Decency Emeka Ofiaeli, a Nigerian native doctor, has shown off the mansion he built after worshipping his ”queen mother”.

He said the mansion he built is just one of the promises his ”gods made to him after answering their call.”

He wrote;

My brother’s and Sister’s help me to thank the Gods

I don’t suppose to show this here because some may think that am so full of my self, but, if you tell people where you are going, tell them when you get there,

They have completed one of their promise to me, for answering their call,

The Queen mother is a great woman, she has wiped away my sorrows and gave me joy, she has picked me up from disturbing and make me king,

Queen of riches, mother that blesses the poor and make them rich, mother that makes the baring woman mama ejima, mother that never discriminate, mother of all

Help me to say thank you to the Queen mother SOBALI, one of the kindest spirit ever SOBALI Igwe

SOMALI BABADUDU SOBALI DUDUBABA SOBALI KALICHA KALICHA SOBALI Igwe

Look below and see where I started and see where I am

As she has done for me so shall she do for you

E dey play E dey show

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Adekunle Gold launches new acrylic paint company

Nigerian singer and songwriter Adekunle Gold has announced the launch of a new premium acrylic paint company called Shade.

The singer made this announcement on his official social media page on Wednesday stating that “It’s the perfect way to bring your colorful ideas to life.

He said, he has been working on it for years, and that he wanted to give people a way to express themselves through colors.

According to him, the paint is made with modern and refreshing palettes as he describes its uses to be for bold and creative expressions.

Simi who also shared a post on Instagram to support her hubby’s efforts captioned its post as “My husband is selling paint guys. And whatever Adekunle Kosoko does, he does very well. I ask that you kindly support this business – Shades, The Paint Company – he has worked so hard on, to give you the best. Thank you

The singer went on with the hashtag #FindyourShade also advises fans to redesign their space.

https://twitter.com/adekunleGOLD/status/1362040741065818114?s=19

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Buhari appoints Ogbonnaya Orji as NEITI Executive Secretary

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President Buhari has approved the appointment of Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji as the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).

The Director of Information, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Willie Bassey, on Thursday, February 18
disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

The statement said that Orji’s appointment was for a single term of five years.

“In accordance with the provision of Section 12 (2) (a) and 6 (3) of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (Establishment) Act, 2007, Orji’s appointment is for a single term of five years.

The appointment takes effect from 19 February 2021.” the statement in part reads

Orji takes over from Waziri Adio, whose tenure expires today. Until his appointment, Orji was the agency’s Director of Communications and Advocacy.

He began his career at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and also worked with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where he managed several donor-funded projects.

Orji holds an M.Sc degree and Ph.D. in Political Economy and International Development from the University of Abuja.

NEITI was established in 2004 as the key anti-corruption agency at the Presidency and is responsible for enthroning transparency, accountability, and governance of the country’s oil, gas and mining industries.

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Identities of kidnapped Kagara students, teachers released by Niger govt

Niger State government has released names of the students and teachers of Government Science College, Kagara abducted by gunmen.

It was gathered that no fewer than 27 students of Government Science College Kagara, 3 teachers, two non teaching staff, and 9 family members of the staff staying in the quarters were kidnapped on Wednesday morning.

The names of the abducted students are Jamilu Isah, Shem Joshua, Abbas Abdullahi, Isah Abdullahi, Ezekeil Danladi, Haliru Shuibu, Mamuda Suleman, Danzakar Dauda, Abdulsamad Sanusi, Bashir Abbas.

Others are Suleman Lawal, Habakuk Augustine, Idris Mohammed, Abdullahi Adamu, Musa Adamu, Abdulkarim Abdulrahman, Abubakar Danjumma, Abdullahi Abubakar, Bashir Kamalideen, Mohammed Salisu, Yusuf M Kabir, Polineous Vicente, Lawal Bello, Mohammed K Shehu, Isah Abdullah Makusidi, Mubarak Sidi and Abdulsamad Nuhu.

The identity of abducted teachers are: Hannatu Philip, Lawal Abdullahi, and Dodo Fodio while the non teaching staff are Faiza Mohammed and Mohammed Musa.

The names of abducted family members include Christiana Adama, Faith Adama, Maimuna Suleman, Nura Isah, Ahmad Isah, Mohammed Mohammed, Khadizat Isah, Aisha Isah, and Saratu Isah.

The student who was
shot to death by the bandits in the school premises was identified as Benjamin Habila.

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Shocking reason why woman killed her husband because of phone calls

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The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a woman identified as Queen Beatrice who killed her husband, Emmanuel Ikujuni for receiving a call from another woman.

The circumstance occurred at Omotosho in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

According to reports, the husband was attacked for receiving a call from another woman in the presence of his wife, a situation that emerged in which the woman uses a plank to hit her husband on the head.

Reports revealed that the
the husband was rushed to a nearby hospital by neighbors but he was reported dead before he could be admitted.

The reports also revealed that the corpse has been deposited at the mortuary while awaiting autopsy examination.

ASP Tee-Leo Ikoro, spokesperson of the Ondo Police command confirmed the report and said that investigation has commenced.

Meanwhile the deceased sister, Imoleayo Ikujuni, also narrated that the wife challenged her late brother for calling another lady.

She said, “During the fight, she hit him with a plank and he died instantly. They have arrested her. The suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, SCIID, in Akure for further investigation”.

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Female student caught with gun, reveals plans to shoot teacher (Photos)

A student of Government Secondary School in Ikot Ewa, Cross River State,
was caught in school with a local gun.

The girl allegedly planned to use the gun in shooting her teacher in school.

It was gathered that she was asked by a teacher to cut her colored hair and she was allegedly angered by this.

Subsequently, she arrived at school with a gun.

According to photos shared online which were seen by goldennationblog.com,
soldiers were invited after the student was caught with a gun in the school.

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Petition to reinstate Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow almost complete

The Petition to reinstate Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow in the proposed sixth Pirate of the Caribbean film is almost complete.

The petitions which have a goal of 500, 000 signatures, have written 477, 263 signatures and still counting.

The petition which started more than two years ago continues as Depp makes more headlines and bumps in interest.

Although Disney has reportedly blocked him from returning to the franchise, his fans started the petition on change calling for Depp to be reinstated as Jack Sparrow in a proposed sixth Pirates of the Caribbean film.

This film is separate from the Margot Robbie-led spinoff that is also in the works.

Despite his fans’ fervent base, bringing back Depp is a tricky prospect as some in the industry have called him toxic to work with. An industry insider has said that it’s challenging to work with him, given the events as his box office power has waned considerably.

However, Depp has maintained a group of vocal fans. He emerged the role of Jack Sparrow in the film ‘Curse of the Black Pearl’ in 2003. He later went on to play Jack Sparrow in four more movies based on the iconic ride at Disney World while the fifth film, ‘Dead Men Tell No Tales’ came out in 2017 and received mixed reviews from critics on its way to make nearly $800 million worldwide.

Though, things have changed for Depp since 2017 as he has been embroiled in an ongoing legal battle with his ex-wife Amber Heard. Both Heard and Depp allege that the relationship was both physically and emotionally abusive.

The pair settled their divorce, but litigation has continued in various forms. The most recent ruling against Depp in the UK prompted WB to ask Depp to resign from Fantastic Beasts 3,

In another vein, The Crimes of Grindelwald touted Depp as one of its co-leads, but that film failed to garner much audience interest as the situation spurred WB’s decision to replace him with Mads Mikkelsen. It remains unclear if Disney would even be willing to give Depp the chance to return. If a major studio like Warner Bros is unwilling to work with the onetime Hollywood powerhouse, it is unlikely the House of Mouse would be on board. Or it may just be time to retire from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.

Despite the petitions from fans who seemingly want Depp to come back as Jack Sparrow, the sixth film of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise may be too tainted and past its prime stage for him to come back.

According to reports, the untitled sixth film from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has been in the works since 2017, a development which ostensively stalled as Disney searches for a way to move forward without Depp.

The Robbie-led spinoff is one way to do that, but only time will tell if that film can drum up much excitement as Robbie herself is at the top of her game.

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NSA, IGP, Minister of Police, others storms Niger state to rescue abducted students

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The National Security Adviser, Babagana Munguno, the Inspector General of Police, Adamu Mohammed, the Minister of Police have stormed Niger state for a rescue mission of the abducted students of the Government Science College Kagara.

The personal assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Bashir Ahmad, disclosed this in a tweet seen by goldennationblog.com

The tweet reads

”The National Security Adviser (NSA), IG of Police, Interior, Information and Police Affairs Ministers are currently in Minna, Niger State as part of the Federal Government rescue operations of students of the Government Science College, Kagara, abducted by bandits last night.”

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Dmx reveals names of artists in his upcoming album (Video)

American ace rapper and songwriter, Earl Simmons, better known by his stage name DMX has finally revealed the names of artists he featured in his upcoming album.

Dmx, who is pulling out all stone for his upcoming album while on the Drink Champs podcast, spill the beans about other artists that will be featured in his project.

Dmx when asked about who will be featured on his album, he said “I got Lil Wayne. I got Snoop. I got the LOX. I got Bono. The U2 nigga, X.

Dmx also gives credit to Swizz Beats, calling him a “magician” after being asked how the Bono feature came about.

He said, “The Bono’s joint is ‘Skyscrapers’. Shit crazy. It got a Miami to feel to it. I feel like I want to shoot the video here”

He added Alicia Keys and Usher are also set to appear on the project. An excitement which particularly surprises X to ask his team for the snippet of the song

According to him, when he first did the song ‘Letter To My Son’, the only problem he had was the piano. Before his friend, Ryan King Joseph came to play the violin. He said.

“It was just piano on the song and I never did a song with one instrumental before. It’s out crazy, it hit you. And then I heard Joseph’s work and put him on the joint.

Meanwhile, he ended the session by marveling at Bono’s bridge – ” all muthafuckas need to do is listen to it and we good.”

Dmx, who began rapping in the early 1990s and released his debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot’ in 1998, selling 251,000 copies within its first week of release.

Dmx since his debut has released seven studio albums. He released his best-selling album, ‘And Then There Was X’ in 1999 when he includes the hit single “Party Up (Up in Here)”.

Watch the full episode of the Drink Champs below

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“Bawa has no corruption record,” EFCC reacts to allegations on new chair-designate

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has said that its newly-appointed chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, has no record of corruption.

Some Nigerians had alleged that he was arrested sometime back on allegations of corruption.

This is coming shortly after President Buhari nominated the 40-year-old Bawa as the substantive chairman of the agency on Tuesday, February 16.

The spokesperson of the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, in a statement, said the report is untrue and unfounded.

The statement reads;

“The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been drawn to a report by an online publication, Peoples Gazette, alleging that Mr. Adulrasheed Bawa, the Chairman-designate of the Commission, was arrested and detained by the Agency under former Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, over illegal sale of 244 forfeited trucks to proxies in Port Harcourt.

The publication claims that the illegal sale was uncovered by the suspended Secretary to the Commission, Ola Olukoyede, who alerted the former chairman, Ibrahim Magu, leading to Bawa’s detention and subsequent redeployment to the EFCC Academy, Abuja.

The Commission wishes to state categorically that, Mr. Bawa was never arrested or detained over the sales of any assets. As Zonal Head of the Port Harcourt Office of the Commission in 2019, Bawa’s responsibilities did not include the sale of assets as the Commission has a full-fledged directorate of Assets Forfeiture and Recovery Management, which remit such matters reside.

For the avoidance of doubt, the disposal of finally forfeited trucks in the Port Harcourt Zonal Office through pua public auction, as conducted after the exit of Bawa as Zonal Head. It is therefore illogical for him to have been indicted over an auction that was not superintended by him.

The auction of trucks at the Port Harcourt Office was among the issues examined by the Justice Ayo Salami Panel, leading to the suspension of some officers of the Commission.

The commission, therefore, enjoins the public to disregard the false publication which is believed to be sponsored by mischief makers to impugn the integrity of the EFCC Chairman-designate.”

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NNPC rejects alleged plans to hike pump price

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on Tuesday said there is no plan to hike the pump price of petrol in the country.

Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Dr. Kennie Obateru, dismissed rumours about an imminent upward review of petrol price.

He said “NNPC has not increased its ex-depot price. I am certain that NNPC is not likely to increase its ex-depot price in February.”

According to him, NNPC has a stock of petrol that can last for over 40 days. He allayed fears about the scarcity of the product.

Obateru urged the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) to clamp down on the marketers hoarding petrol.

“We have sufficiency for almost 40 days. If people are hoarding or increasing their prices, it is for the DPR to look into it,” he said.

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) urged the Federal Government to return subsidy to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) as landing cost has soared to N180 per litre.

IPMAN’s National Vice President, Alhaji Abubakar Maiganidi, said the government should either deregulate the product fully or subsidise it.

Maigandi was reacting to the latest fuel scarcity in Lagos.

Asked whether there was an upward review of the pump price, he said: “Most of the private depots are selling petrol for between N160 and N164 per litre instead of N148 per litre.”

The Major Oil Marketers of Nigeria (MOMAN) denied that there was an increment in the pump price of petrol.

It wondered whether any fuel marketer was getting supply from any source other than the NNPC

MOMAN Chairman, Tunji Oyebanji, said none of his members has hiked fuel price, adding that all marketers currently source products from the NNPC.

He said since the Federal Government claimed it has deregulated the downstream oil sector, marketers were at liberty to sell at any price reflecting their operational cost.

He said if the unilateral fuel price hike had come from some of his members, the government would have wielded the big stick.

Oyebanji said the Federal Government desired to deregulate the downstream oil sector, adding that if that had taken place, the price would have gone up astronomically.

He said the government was in consultation with Labour to avoid a steep rise in petroleum products prices.

Consumers resorted to panic buying of petrol products across some states, resulting in fuel queues along some routes in the Lagos metropolis.

Many fuel stations adjusted their fuel pump prices from N162.50k to N165 per litre, while others went as high as N170.00 per litre.

Some filling stations shut their outlets altogether.

In Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, the queues that returned to petrol stations at the weekend subsided yesterday.

At the First Blessing filling station along Satellite Campus Road, Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, petrol was sold at N175 per litre, while at NNPC retail outlet along the popular Bank Road in the city was sold at N65 per litre.

In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the product was still being sold at between N162 to N162.50 per litre, which is still within the N160 and N165 band set by the government when crude traded just above $43 per barrel four months ago.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for March traded above $60 yesterday, while the Brent April contract on the Intercontinental Exchange settled at $63. Both added over 12 percent in value since the beginning of February.

Maigandi said the existence of different prices was an indication of a shortfall, which the marketers are asking the government to subsidise.

“The Federal Government should bring back the subsidy or deregulate the petrol market completely since the landing cost is N180/litre”.

Asked why the marketers are not patronizing the NNPC depots where the price is still official, he said: “You cannot get the product from NNPC depots. NNPC depots will ask you to queue up at the depot.”

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Invictus Obi sentenced by US court to 10 years imprisonment

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Nigeria national, Obinwanne Okeke better known as Invictus, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison by US court.

Okeke was sentenced by the Chief District Judge, Rebecca Smith on Tuesday for his involvement in a computer-based intrusion fraud scheme that caused approximately $11m.

The announcement was made known by the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Raj Parekh, and Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office.

According to Raj Parekh, Okeke through subterfuge and impersonation engaged in a global business email and computer hacking scheme. A scheme he used in targeting Unatrac Holding Limited, an export sales company for Caterpillar heavy industrial and farm equipment.

However, Brain Dugan added that the FBI will not allow cybercriminals to reign free in the digital world to prey on U.S. companies.

Stating that this sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to working with our partners at the Department of Justice and our foreign counterparts to locate cybercriminals across the globe and bring them to the United States to be held accountable.”

In April 2018, a Unatrac executive fell prey to a phishing email that allowed conspirators to capture login credentials.

Okeke who sent fraudulent wire transfer requests also attached fake invoices in victimizing Unatrac totaling nearly $11 million, which was transferred overseas.

Additionally, Okeke engaged in other forms of cyber fraud, including sending phishing emails to capture email credentials, creating fraudulent web pages, and causing other losses to numerous victims.

He also obtained and compiled the credentials of hundreds of victims, including victims in the Eastern District of Virginia.

According to court documents, Obinwanne Okeke, 33, operated a group of companies known as the Invictus Group based in Nigeria and elsewhere.

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Couple gets married after serving as ring bearer and flower girl years ago (Photos)

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A couple, Che Marci Bollah and Bongani Bollah have been joined together in holy matrimony.

They got married years after they served as the ring bearer and flower girl in a wedding function.

According to a post shared and was seen by Goldennationblog.com, the newlyweds have known each other since they were kids.

They recently shared their wedding photos alongside a photo from decades ago when they were kids, walking down the aisle at another wedding where they were the ring bearer and flower girl.

See photos below:

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Magu reacts to appointment of Bawa as EFCC Chairman, says it came as shock

Former acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, has reacted to the appointment of Abdulrasheed Bawa as the new Chairman of the commission.

Tosin Ajaomo, the lawyer to Magu, said the appointment made by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday came as a shock.

Goldennationblog.com yesterday reported that Buhari asked the Senate to confirm Bawa as substantive EFCC Chairman.

But Ajaomo told newsmen that justice has not been served in the allegations of corruption levelled against his client, Magu.

“Sincerely, I need to tell you that this appointment came to me as a shock. There is still an unfinished assignment that was pending,” he said.

“I was expecting that the issue of Magu would have been sorted out before moving to another stage.

“Unfortunately, we just got this news today that a new Chairman has been nominated by the President and his name has been forwarded to the Senate.”

Recall that following a series of corruption allegations against the former EFCC boss, Magu was on July 10, 2020, suspended from office by President Buhari.

Mohammed Umar, the EFCC Director of
Operations had earlier taken charge of the activities of the agency.

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Man sentenced to death for killing Jumia delivery agent

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A man named Sodienyem Mbatumukeke killed Chukwuma Eleje, a 37 old delivery agent who works with Jumia in Port Harcourt about four years ago.

Eleje died when he went to deliver an ordered iPhone to Mbatumukeke’s house.

According to the investigation, his remains were later found in a septic tank in the house, and Mbatumukeke and one Excel Destiny were charged for the murder of the victim.

Justice Chigozie Igwe of the Rivers State high court sitting in Port Harcourt while Delivering his judgment on Monday, discharged and acquit Destiny but found Mbatumukeke guilty as charged.

The Judge sentenced Sodienyem Mbatumukeketo to death either by hanging or firing squad.

Justice Igwe described Mbatumukeke as a hardened criminal that deserves no mercy, adding that he was not remorseful.

Justice Igwe announced that “You are convicted for the murder of the Jumia delivery agent on March 25, 2017, and sentenced to die by hanging. You are to be tied hands and legs and hanged on your neck until you die, or by firing squad, and may your sin be on your head.”

Although the convict’s defense said they will appeal the judgment but Reacting to newsmen after the judgment, Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Ibiene Ibano who prosecuted the trial on behalf of the state expressed satisfaction with the judgment, noting that it will serve as a deterrent to such killers.

Meanwhile, Destiny when asked how he got into the case said “I do a tattoo for a living, all the tattoos on the Sodienyem’s body were drawn by me. I came to his house that faithful day to do my normal home service work before I got myself into this mess.”

According to him, he was about to raise the alarm on seeing a pool of blood when Mbatumukeke rushed at him with a gun and told him to shut up.

“He then directed me to begin to clean up the mess with him, and I did amid fear and panting,” he added.

Meanwhile, the deceased wife, Blessing, who was in court with her three children, expressed gratitude to God, for the outcome of the case.

She said, “I am grateful to God, the state, the court for how the case has ended, although my husband is no more, the law has taken its course on the killer of my husband by this judgment today.”

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Sorrow as Nollywood Actor Victor Decker seen dead in his home

Nollywood actor Victor Decker, who is known for his role as the Galadima of the Kowa Emirate council, in the “Sons of the Caliphate” series, is dead.

Decker who died at 72 was found dead in his apartment on Monday, by his neighbours at about 5 pm.

According to Jesse Nazareth, the Mayor of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abuja, said that the actor’s neighbours had to break down the door to his apartment before they found his lifeless decomposed body seated in his sitting room.

“I just got a call that his neighbours did not see him for days so they got concerned. They went to his house, knocked on his door but got no response so they had to break down the door. That was when they saw him sitting on his chair lifeless. He was already smelling as he was decomposing,” Nazareth said.

Maina Marcus, the Vice President, Actors Guild of Nigeria, North East, confirmed the news in a telephone chat with newsmen.

“Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abuja regret to announce the death of one of our veterans, Elder Victor Decker, his remains were found in his house at Kubwa on Tuesday and have been deposited in a morgue at Bwari this morning,” Marcus said.

Reacting to the news of Decker’s death, actor Uzee Usman, wrote on his Instagram page: “Speechless! Can’t believe I’m typing this! But a reminder that this is not our home, we’re all on a journey! This is how I chose to remember you! Goodnight general! Rest In Peace!”

Until his death, Decker was a member of the Abuja branch of the Actor’s Guild of Nigeria (AGN). The septuagenarian had starred in films such as “Double Strings”, “If I am President” and “Lotanna”.

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FG approves installation of CCTV cameras on highways

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The Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammad Dingyadi has announced plans by the Federal government to install Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on all major highways across the country.

He said this is as part of measures to check the increasing spate of kidnapping across the country.

Dingyadi disclosed this in an interview on Channels Television on Tuesday morning February 16.

The Minister said President Buhari has approved the project and the Federal Government has entered into an agreement with NPS Technology Company to re-fix the abandoned CCTV project.

“We are moving forward, like you are aware, the 470million CCTV project that has been abandoned. Mr. President has now given us the go-ahead to resuscitate the project and we have already entered into a concession agreement with NPS technologies. They are there trying to re-fix the entire system to resuscitate it.

By the time this system is put in place, we will have a lot of technology to manage this crisis – particularly this issue of kidnapping. We will ensure that we reduce the number of kidnappings in this country,” the Minister said

When asked if the CCTV will be in only major cities like Abuja, the Minister said

“The CCTV is going to be on all the major highways in all the states of the Federation, it is everywhere in this country.”

Dingyadi said the company in charge of the CCTV project is already purchasing the needed equipment for the project.

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Court dissolves marriage as man claims his wife still meet her ex-husband

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A farmer identified as Abdulahi Onilari on Tuesday told a Mapo Customary Court in Ibadan that his wife, Rofiat, was still involved in a romantic affair with her ex-husband.

In a divorce petition, Onilari told the court to dissolve the 5-year-old marriage.

“My wife holds romantic meetings with her former husband,” he alleged.

“Rofiat is also arrogant. She disobeys all my instructions and family guidelines.

“She dresses provocatively. Rofiat stopped covering her head with veils and vowed not to observe the five daily prayers.

She sends and receives romantic messages from her former husband, Lord.”

On her part, Rofiat consented to the suit.

She said,” He is a pathological liar. I saw my former husband over ten years ago. I do not have anything to do with him.”

However, delivering his judgment, the court’s President, Chief Ademola Odunade, dissolved the union in the interest of peace.

Odunade granted custody of the two children to Rofiat and instructed Onilari to pay N10,000 as a monthly feeding allowance.

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Runtown reveals date for his first-ever virtual concert

Popular Nigerian musician, Runtown is set to unveil his first-ever virtual concert along with his band.

According to him, the virtual concert is scheduled to take place on 2nd April 2021.

He said, the virtual concert will be powered by Lives Connections, and tickets will be available nationwide by 1st March 2021.

The singer, who goes with the hashtag on Twitter #CountdowntoRuntownLive made these revelations on Monday.

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Buhari appoints 40 years old Abdulrasheed Bawa as EFCCC chairman

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President Buhari has written to the Nigerian Senate asking for the confirmation of Abdulrasheed Bawa as substantive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a letter to the President of the Senate, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, the President said he was acting in accordance with Paragraph 2(3) of Part1, CAP E1 of EFCC Act 2004.

Bawa, 40, is a trained EFCC investigator with vast experience in the investigation and prosecution of Advance Fee Fraud cases, official corruption, bank fraud, money laundering, and other economic crimes.

He has undergone several specialised trainings in different parts of the world and was one of the pioneer EFCC Cadet Officers in 2005.

Bawa holds a B.Sc degree in Economics, and Masters in International Affairs and Diplomacy.

He is to take over from the suspended embattled chairman of the antigraft agency, Ibrahim Magu.

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COVID19: Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire unveils risk contained in vaccines, gives warning

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The Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, has informed Nigerians that the COVID19 vaccines carry a certain amount of risk when applied.

On February 11, the World Health Organisation (WHO) released a document detailing the use and risks associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine. According to the Health organization, people with a history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine should not take it,” and it is also not recommended for persons younger than 18 years “pending the results of further studies”.

Ehanire at the press briefing by the presidential task force (PTF) on COVID19 on Monday, February 15, said arrangements have been made for effective distribution of the vaccines that are expected to arrive in Nigeria by the end of February.

“It is important to stress that all COVID-19 vaccines carry a certain amount of risk, and any vaccine not approved by the federal ministry of health through its agencies cannot be used in Nigeria.

The government will not be responsible for the safety or efficacy of vaccines given outside the framework of the government. All the needs of Nigeria have been carefully calculated by NPHCDA, and it is possible to accommodate all interests in the framework.

We have continued to work on the rollout of our COVID-19 vaccines when they arrive. This morning, I inaugurated the vaccine coordination committee, an inter-ministerial, multi-sectoral committee to address diverse issues peculiar to COVID-19 vaccine acquisition by Nigeria. Their function is to advise on coordinating access to acquisition and distribution of vaccines when available, and on our immunisation strategy.

The ministry of health also engaged the Africa Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), who informed us of the free allocation of 1.4 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine, of which 500,000 doses are expected by the end of this month, courtesy of MTN donation of seven million doses to Africa. The balance of 900,000 doses for Nigeria is expected by the end of March 2021. Other sources of vaccines are under negotiation.”Ehanire said

The Minister disclosed that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has received dossiers for vaccines manufactured in Russia, India, and China for evaluation and validation for use in Nigeria, with some of them nearly ready for results.

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How Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made Anoima Nation proud – Omu Anoima

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The Royal image-maker of Anioma Nation, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu has congratulated Dr. (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the newly appointed Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

She said being the first female and African DG of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has consistently made Anoima Nation proud insisting that it deserves overwhelming celebration.

The cultural mother of Anoima Nation, who also doubled as the Nneoha (Mother Without Borders) disclosed this in a statement she signed and made available to newsmen.

She said, being the first female and African DG of the World Trade Organization, she deserve overwhelming celebration as this is the time to rally around Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to show the world the way to maximize growth and development in doing peaceful business.

The Omu Dunkwu who continuously feels optimistic about the education of a girl-child also called on Government and progressive communities to begin creating opportunities for girl children to showcase their innate potentials and fulfill their God-given purpose on earth.

In her words, “The future of peace is in the hands of women. Only women can bring peace to the world and help to redirect the paradigm in politics, the economy, and the rest of the world. This is because, women think holistically with everybody in mind, but men are individualistic and that is why the world had not moved on in peace with men alone.

She went further to explain the Chinese proverb which says, ‘Train a male child and you have train an individual, but train a female child and you train a nation.

According to her, Obi Prof. Chukwuaka Okonjo would be watching from the Great Beyond and smiling as his daughter had become the cynosure of all eyes in the world.

However, she commended the countries that believed in her capacity, experience, and diligence most especially America as it is shown that; the delay was never denied.

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Mr. Macaroni reveals why he joined other protesters

Popular social media comedian, Mr. Macaroni has finally revealed why he joined other protesters on Saturday under the hashtag #Occupylekkitollgate.

Mr. Macaroni who was arrested on Saturday along with other protesters revealed that he joined others because he knew people would be there and in good conscience.

He explained that he knew people would die and words would not get out. People would have died because nobody would know where people were or who arrested them. He added.

He further explained that, when they were arrested, they were taken to Adeniji, beaten up, and stripped naked. He said the current situation of the country is a ‘deep shit’ as everyone is scared for their lives.

According to a video he shared on his social media platforms, he said, initially, “I was scared because I had received series of phone calls from my parents, siblings, and friends not to join the protest but I later join because I knew people would be there as they were not there to fight but just to ask why the toll gate should be opened.”

He also stated that the police officers who arrested the protesters said they would have killed them if everyone has not known of their arrest.

He said, 39 persons were arrested and they stood on their grounds. According to him, the 39 persons arrested were the ones that gave him the ginger to join the protest as they seem to be the real heroes.

He furthermore denied the allegations that former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar was the one bankrolling him, stressing that he never collected money from anybody to protest.

Mr. Macaroni in his gratitude, called for unity among celebrities, urging people to desist from creating division among themselves based on who joined the protest or not.

He thanked the youths for speaking up while also expresses joy over Nigerians who rally support for him and other protesters.

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EndSARS: IGP Adamu attacked over alleged molestation, arrest of protesters

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The Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Muhammad Adamu who had been under ‘fire’ recently over his tenure elongation by President Muhammadu Buhari, has received fresh attacks from Nigerians.

This is coming after the arrest of EndSARS protesters at Lekki Toll Gate on Saturday.

The EndSARS protests that led to the death of many Nigerian youths across the country in late 2020, resurfaced when the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry which was set up by the state government to investigate the alleged extrajudicial killings by the Nigeria Police, ordered the reopening of the Lekki Toll Gate where Nigerian Military allegedly killed many protesters on October 10, 2020.

Following the reopening of the facility, the protest organizers with the hashtag #OccupyLekkiTollgate scheduled a fresh protest which commenced on Saturday.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that despite threats from the Federal Government to forestall the resumption of the EndSARS protests, many youths stormed the toll gate on Saturday morning, vowing to shut down the facility.

It was reported that the Nigerian Police arrested a popular comedian, Debo Adebayo, also known as Mr Macaroni, and many others during the #OccupyLekki protest in Lagos.

In a video making the rounds on social media, the arrested protesters were allegedly brutalized by men of the Lagos State Police Command.

The arrest and brutality have triggered reactions from many Nigerians as many have ascribed the development to the IGP’s incompetence in handling such cases.

A member of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, Mr Dare Falani told newsmen in Abuja that the alleged order by the Nigerian Police to arrest and ‘brutalize’ unarmed protesters was condemnable.

“Are the policemen not Nigerians? Are they not affected by the innumerable hardship? Are we not using the same market or is their own price different?

“I don’t see any reason why the youth will be demanding an end to bad governance which has affected all of us negatively, then another fellow will beat them up just because they (officers) want to please their boss who has no regards for humanity,” Falani stated.

Mrs. Elizabeth Chukwu, a trader in Wuse Market Abuja also said, ” As far as I am concerned, the office of the IGP is currently vacant. Adamu has completed his tenure and should have been made to vacate the office while we trust God for a competent successor

Reacting to the arrest and molestation of the protesters by some police officers, a legal practitioner in Makurdi, (Name withheld), told newsmen that every Nigerian has the right to protest. According to him, “Protest is simply the expression of disapproval and objection. It can come in different forms, verbal, written, physical, gesture, social media, and others. Both under the constitution of Nigeria and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, persons in any part of Nigeria have the fundamental human right to privately and publicly protest over any issue, any time and any day.

“This right is captured under section 39(1) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, it provides that ‘every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.

“Protests play an important part in the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural life of all societies. Historically, protests have often inspired positive social change and improved protection of human rights, and they continue to help define and protect civic space in all parts of the world.

“Protests encourage the development of an engaged and informed citizenry and strengthen representative democracy by enabling direct participation in public affairs,” he said.

Meanwhile, Abdulaziz Muhammed, a Civil Servant in the Federal Capital Territory, argued that the protest was needless, stressing that their grievances had been registered in the 2020 EndSARS protest, hence the Saturday protest was unimportant.

“I really can’t imagine we are talking about EndSARS this 2021 after the shock we had in October last year.

“They claimed they are protesting against bad governance and I ask, can they point to one thing that has changed since the Lekki shooting and the killing of protesters when the protest was hijacked by hoodlums?

“And if nothing has changed, then why stimulating something you know that would still lead to pains.

However, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu, has condemned the molestation of the arrested protesters and demanded an immediate investigation into the incident.

The Lagos CP in a statement on Sunday ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State CID, Panti, DCP Adegoke Fayoade, to analyze the viral video which captured some officers maltreating the protesters and figure out the offenders.

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See what Flavour revealed about himself (Video)

Popular Nigerian highlife musician, Flavour N’abania in an exclusive interview with Bounce Radio Lives talked about his general life.

Flavour who was a guest in an episode of the ‘Black Box’ talks about his life, how he grew up in Enugu, his early musical career, his life in lockdown, his women, his marriage, and the music industry.

The ‘Black Box’ interview was performed by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu as an in-depth series that gives viewers a one-of-a-kind peek about celebrity life.

In the interview, Ebuka who is the host, speaks extensively to people most especially celebrities that define culture by asking them some probing questions to unfold the mystery surrounding them.

Watch part one:

Part two:

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Nigerian doctor dies in serious motor accident two months to his wedding (photos)

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A medical doctor identified as Chidera Alexander Ifudu has died in a motor accident two months to his wedding.

The accident involving his Lexus SUV occurred on Friday morning, February 12, along Port Harcourt/Aba Expressway.

Details of the accident are sketchy, however, it was gathered that he was trying to avoid hitting a pedestrian when his car veered off the road and crashed.

The deceased who worked at ESUT Teaching Hospital, Enugu, is reportedly the only son of his father.

Dr. Ifudu and Judith Ogochukwu’s traditional marriage was scheduled for Tuesday, April 6, 2021, in Umuahia-South Local Government Area of Abia state, and the church wedding on Saturday, April 10, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Independence Layout, Enugu.

Below is a tribute posted by his friend, Aguli Daniel Okechukwu:

Sundown and Dusk @ Noon:

Adieu, Dr. Chidera Alex Ifudu.

“(Alone son of his father)

What a cruel world we’re living in. How can someone’s wedding card be used to trace his remains after soul departure in a ghastly motor accident?

“Brother, as die-hard believers, even though it’s hard to believe and accept, we can only say Goodbye with Prayers for God knows it all.

May God give your Dad, Siblings, and other relations the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. Our thought is with them. It’s hard to take but Blessed be the name of God on those who have faith in Him for he who has high Faith and Trust in God will always find comfort through the opium that sedates of our emotional worries and pains in the challenging life. God is Hope.

“For us the fortunate fast livers, the earlier we begin to have a deep thought on our lives concerning death, the better for everyone.”

“Dera May the Almighty in his unreserved Mercy, and means in which you departed the mother earth grant you a peaceful repose and give you a place in Elysium.

Amen”

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Davido records as the most-followed Africa artists

Popular Nigerian superstar, Davido, has been recorded as the most-followed artists in Africa as he continues to maintain his number one spot on social media.

Recently, he proved he’s the most popular African artists after he garnered over 19 million followers on IG alone.

Davido is still ahead of his fellow superstars like Wizkid, Burna Boy among other top-rated artists as he never stops being bigger among his peers when it comes to being in the news always.

However, Davido has been at the top since he speedily rose to 14 million followers on Instagram.

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Breaking: Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala appointed as new DG of WTO

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The General Council of the World Trade Organizations has finally appointed a Nigerian candidate, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the new Director-General.

WTO members decided to appoint Ngozi Iweala after a special meeting by the General Council following the selection process that involves eight candidates from around the world.

Ngozi Iwela finally made history as the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO.

According to reports, her tenure starts on the 1st of March, 2021.

https://twitter.com/wto/status/1361334551285534722?s=19

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Use social media for national unity, Ikpeazu tasks youths

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Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has advised Nigerian youths to use social media in propagating ventures and discourse that promote national unity

He disclosed this on Sunday in Umuahia during the Abia Social Media Converge, an event organised by the state government with the theme, “Social Media for Good Governance”.

The governor said the average Nigerian youth “is industrious and has the capacity to give meaningful contributions that will engender socio-economic development”.

He said that the speed, coverage, and visual attributes that the social media offers could be used to promote the efforts made by the government to improve the citizens’ welfare.

“If you understand the agenda of the government and that its agenda will add value to the society, then promote it through social media.

“This understanding will enable you to offer constructive criticism to the government when it begins to move in the wrong direction.

“We need to stop emphasising those things that separate us along religious, political, and ethnic lines.

“I advise social media users to emphasis things that unite us as a nation,” Ikpeazu said.

Speaking, Mr. Femi Adesina, the Media Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari, commended the state government for organizing the event and described the theme as timely.

Adesina said that the importance of engaging stakeholders in maximising the benefits of social media for positive impacts could not be over-emphasized.

He said that the damage caused by deriding either an individual or institution on social media in most cases was irreversible.

Adesina said that the power inherent in social media could be used to build society and promote positive causes.

“We must apply personal responsibility in the usage of social media so that we don’t run foul of the law.

“There is a lot of self-development that can be gained through the use of social media.

“Social media should be seen as a creative and constructive feedback tool where the citizens contribute to governance,” he said.

Adesina urged government agencies to be consistently active on social media to give regular updates about government activities.

Earlier, Chief Chinedum Orji, the Speaker of Abia House of Assembly, said that it was unfortunate that social media was being used for destructive purposes.

Orji urged the youth to utilise their various social media platforms as effective tools to give constructive criticisms and to keep their leaders in check.

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Tonto Dikeh ex-husband confirms marriage to another actress

popular Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill has confirmed his marriage to another actress, Rosy Meurer.

Churchill made this revelation in a post to Rosy Meurer on her birthday via his verified Instagram page.

According to Churchill on his stunning birthday message he posted, he referred to Rosy Meurer as ‘Mrs. Churchill.’

Recall that Tonto in an interview, once allegedly that Rosy was sleeping with her ex-husband and she being the main issue behind their split. An accusation that was earlier denied by Rosy but the birthday message by Churchill to Rosy prove Tonto right.

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Pastor Giwa reveals shocking message to Buhari, APC

The Senior Pastor of Awaiting The Second Coming Of Christ Ministry, Adewale Giwa has said that the days of President Muhammadu Buhari and his political party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, are numbered and that nothing can stop God from rising against them.

He said that only people who don’t think rationally will continue to believe that the APC has the ability and capability to turn Nigeria around.

Giwa who stated this while addressing his members in Akure on Sunday urged Nigerians who still expect sudden miracles from President Buhari to go to the Synagogue Church of All Nations.

According to the cleric, waiting for Buhari and the APC to put smiles on people’s faces is like expecting a woman who has gone through sterilization surgery to get pregnant.

Giwa said he knew President Buhari would disappoint Nigerians when his administration wasted more than two years to blame his predecessors.

“He criticised the previous governments as if he was not part of the system that brought calamity upon Nigerians.

“You know what? In history, I have never seen a heartless government like the APC. They do nothing for the poor than to oppress them with security operatives.

“President Buhari and leaders of the APC are mendacious politicians who got into power to suppress the will of the people.

“Many of you saw what they did to protesters in Lagos on Saturday. Their days are numbered, and nothing can stop God from rising against the oppressors.

“Nobody would believe that Nigeria is blessed with the number of Police personnel deployed to Lekki while criminal herdsmen continue to kill innocent Nigerians without bringing them to justice.

“Even some of the religious and political leaders who sold President Buhari to us knew he could not control his constituency let alone leading a nation.

“Do they talk now, I mean those who created this mess? They cannot, because of what they get from the government.

“The events that will rewrite the history of this country will happen in no time. The Lord shall see Nigerians through. May His peace reign forever and ever,” Giwa stated.

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Nigerian Army starts recruitment exercise, reveals how to apply

The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of online registration into 81 Regular Recruit Intake for both Trades/Non-Tradesmen and women.

A statement by the Nigerian Army said the online registration would commence on February 15, 2021, and that interested Nigerians should visit http://recruitment.army.mil.ng.

The online exercise was made public in a statement posted on Nigerian Army’s verified Facebook page.

The statement reads partly: “This is to inform the general public that and all interested and qualified candidates that the online registration for 81 regular intakes for both Trade? Non Tradesmen and women will commence on 15 February 2021.

“Method of Application

“Interested candidates are to:

“Apply online at the recruitment portal: http://recruitment.army.mil.ng

“Log on to the above-mentioned link using the username and password.

“Complete the application form, submit online and print a copy, then, print and complete the Guarantor Form as appropriate.

“Ensure you bring with you copies of the application and guarantor forms to the designated state recruitment center.”

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Nicki Minaj’s father killed by a hit-and-run driver

Robert Maraj, the father of popular American rapper, Nicki Minaj has reportedly been killed by a hit-and-run vehicle.

The accident happened around 6 PM ET on Friday evening around Roslyn Road and Raff Avenue.

According to reports that were seen by goldennationblog.com reveals he was walking on the road between Roslyn Road and Raff Avenue when he was hit by a vehicle heading northbound.

Robert in his critical condition succumbed to his injuries and passed over the weekend at the age of 64 after he was taken to an area hospital in critical condition.

The Nassau County Police in New York says the driver then fled the scene without a meaningful description from witnesses.

The Homicide Squad investigating the case are asking for public help in identifying the responsible party since there wasn’t a decent description of the suspect vehicle provided.

However, Nicki has not made a public statement but a rep for Nicki confirmed her dad’s death but did not give further comment at this time.

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Ric Hassani drops two new songs the same day

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Ikechukwu Eric Ahiauzu, popularly known as Ric Hassani has released two new singles ‘Everything’ and ‘Thunder Fire You’.

The artists released the two single off his forthcoming album “The Prince I Became”.

The album which features kuami Eugene, Sauti Sol, Fumbani Changaya, Frank Edwards, Zoro, and Nicky Jam has 17 tracks and is scheduled for full release on February 26.

The singles, ‘Everything’ was produced by Sammy Keyz, Kenneth ‘Tedy Keny’ Godwin, Hope Dennis ‘DeeYasso’ Yasso, and Ric Hassani. While ‘Thunder Fire You’ was written by Ric Hassani with co-written by Odor Michael ‘Tchalla Onyinyechi.

However, the mixing and mastering credit go to Hope Dennis ‘ Deeyasso’ Yasso.

Listen to the tracks

Everything

Thunder Fire You

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Diamond Platnumz recalls how he almost broke featuring Davido

Popular Tanzanian singer and songwriter, Diamond Platnumz explained how featuring Davido in 2013 almost got him bankrupted.

He explained how he spent ten times more than what he used to spend on his previous music projects featuring Davido on the remix of ‘Number One’.

The singer in an exclusive chat with Nairobi News said, it was wise to spread his fame to west Africa having conquered East Africa and Davido was the best option for his project.

He said that the money he used to feature Davido was too much for him that he had to approach several banks for loans to enable him to finance the video shoot for the ‘Number One’ remix.

He said “I took loans from Tanzania banks to finance my video and collaborate with Davido in Lagos because I had to travel there with my crew”

According to him, he spent KSH 326, 000 for his first video version of ‘Number One’s which was done by Ogopa Djs in Nairobi but I went ten times higher and spent KSH 3.3 million or thereabouts to fly Ogopa Djs video crew to Cape Town, South Africa and shoot the video. Stating that the outcome was amazing which gave him the green light to approach Davido for the remix”

However, the singer also noted that he may have spent a lot on the project and nearly went broke but he does not regret the move as his collaboration with OBO opened new doors for him, offers him a new market and opportunities which gave him the money to jump-start his label WCB.

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Tanker Driver burnt to death in Ogun explosion

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A tanker driver carrying diesel has been reportedly burnt to death following an explosion that occurred at Atoyo, Ijebu Ode along the Ijebu Ode Ogbere expressway in Ogun State.

It was gathered that the accident occurred at 10:45 am on Friday, due to the recklessness of the tanker driver who was alone in the truck.

According to reports, the spokesperson of the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement, Babatunde Akinbiyi told Channels Television that the accident occurred at 10:45 am and was caused due to reckless driving by the driver of the tanker who was alone in the truck.

Akinbiyi said;

“The driver of the Diesel laden tanker was driving recklessly when it suddenly lost control and fell on its side with its content spilling on the road before it exploded.

“The driver, according to eyewitness account was the only occupant in the vehicle when the unfortunate incident happened and was burnt to ashes before rescue
the effort could reach him.”

Akinbiyi also revealed that the registration number of the tanker could not be confirmed because of the level of explosion

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Police arrest Mr. Macaroni at Lekki Toll Gate, seize his phones

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The Lagos State police command has arrested popular comedian and activist, Debo Adebayo, popularly known as Mr. Macaroni at the Lekki Toll Gate on Saturday.

The comedian arrest came after the Federal Government had warned against violence in the planned protest on Thursday.

According to reports seen by goldennationblog.com, the comedian had joined other protesters at the toll gate to oppose the decision of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry to reopen the facility and hand it over to the Lekki Concession Company

Mr. Macaroni after his arrest, during an Instagram Live, while in a police van before his phone and that of other protesters were later seized by the police while ending his Instagram Live session said:

“Na military regime we dey?” 

“If na military, make we know sey na military, so make everybody dey hide.”

Recall the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed had warned against violence in the planned protest, going further to urge the organizers to cancel their demonstration. Also stating that

“At this time, the chances that any peaceful protest will be hijacked are very high.

“Anything resort to violence in the name of #EndSARS will not be tolerated this time.”

But there is no evidence that the protesters arrested on Saturday were violent.

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See what Erica said to her fans after Laycon talked about her

Big Brother Naija reality star, Erica Nlewedim finally speaks after Laycon opened up on why he often talked about her after she turned him down

The ex BBNaija housemate told her female fans not to ever settle for less. She advises ladies amid the first episode of Laycon’s show ‘I Am Laycon’ which center on her sour relationship with her.

Erica who got disqualified from the BBNaija lockdown edition, made the statements on Twitter a day after Laycon opened up on why he couldn’t stop talking about her while they were in the house, despite the fact that she couldn’t reciprocate the feelings he had for her.

Recall, Laycon talked about Erica on his first episode of ‘I Am Laycon’ saying “So in a house, where we were just twenty of us and I’m sorry, how was I supposed to deal with that issue if not talk about it? Cause even when I’m outside the house, I talked about it.

“I needed space, I need space. I try to give space as much as possible but in the house…that we were together in, that was hard for me. And talking about it kind of helped me mentally go through it. So, that’s that”.

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Teni drops latest music video featuring Davido, reveals why

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Teni has dropped his latest visual ‘For You’ featuring Davido off his upcoming album ‘Wondaland’.

The “For You” video shows Teni behind bars while comically relaying the love story that leads to her re-arrest as Teni’s carefree energy and Davido’s high spirits carry the humorous story right up until the end.

‘For You’ video is centered on a prison escape, showing Davido and Teni teaming up for a thrilling visual escapade. The visual also shows how Davido plays the lover who visits her and breaks her out of jail but the freedom lasts for a short while.

According to reports that were seen by Goldennationblog.com,
Teni’s debut album ‘ Wondaland’ is set to drop on March 19th, explaining that the album has been in production for over two years and it has cut across three continents and inclusive of major cities such as London, New York, Orlando, Ondo, Lagos, and Abuja.

Teni also explained the inspiration behind the song, why she collaborated with Davido, and why she endorsed her songwriting skills to Davido’s 2017 track “Like Dat”. saying:

“For You” is a record I made to celebrate the essence of love, sacrifice, and the reaffirmation to always be there for that special someone who means the world to you. I always wanted to make a record like this with Davido especially because of my admiration for him as an artist, father, and someone with a big heart.”

Teni’s previous hits include “Askamaya,” “Case” and “Uyo Meyo” which have made a mark on the Nigerian music scene.

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Burna Boy drops new visual ‘Onyeka’ (Video)

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Burna Boy has dropped his highly anticipated visual for ‘Onyeka’ off his ‘Twice And Tall’ album.

The visual was shot in Ghana and directed by K production for prior Gold picture, is a celebration of modern-day highlife, good vibes, and the authenticity that is uniquely West African.

The video which is unscripted and undiluted shows Burna Boy outdoes himself by creating an awesome storyline that is pleasing to the soul. This classic and fan-favorite holds a special place in black women’s hearts, celebrating black queens everywhere.

‘Onyeka’ is the fifth video release from the internationally acclaimed album ‘Twice As Tall’ dropping in line with previous videos like ‘Wonderful’, ‘Monsters You Made’, ‘Real Life featuring Stormzy’ and ‘Way Too Big’.

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Pete Edochie endorses son, Yul’s 2023 presidential ambition, gives reason (Video)

Veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie has endorsed his son, Yul’s 2023 presidential ambition.

Yul disclosed this in a tweet via his verified Twitter handle.

Sharing a video of his father speaking, Yul wrote: “My Father Chief Pete Edochie endorses my 2023 Presidential ambition.

“God Almighty, take absolute control.”

In the video, Edochie said: “One of my sons who incident is an actor has decided that he wants to be a politician.

“Most youngsters have been bugging my phone asking me to go endorse my son for president and I get amused.

“They keep insisting we want Yul to be the president of this country because he is disciplined, sympathetic, and concerned about people.

“They have bothered me so much that I have decided today, I am hereby presenting him to you, Yul has my blessing, he has my endorsement.

“Any day he decides to veer off from the discipline he was raised I will withdraw him from the fight I give you my word.”

The Nollywood actor had last year indicated interest to run for the presidency in an undisclosed political party.

Video:

https://twitter.com/YulEdochie/status/1359899221546201091?s=19

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Mother dumps newborn baby, leaves shocking note (Photos)

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An unknown woman has dumped her newborn baby along a road with a handwritten note begging whoever finds the child to take care of her and name her “Barira”

The baby girl was found at about 1:20 AM on Friday, February 12 inside a carton at Unguwar Amare, an outskirt of Daura Town in Katsina State.

The woman expressed her regret over her action, claiming that she was deceived by an unnamed man who impregnated her and dumped her after he promised to marry her.

According to one Yawale Musa Kallah Daura, the baby was taken to the police station by the good samaritans who found her and later took her to the hospital.

The note reads: “ASSALAMU ALAIKWANNAI WANNAN BAIWAR ALLAH DA NA AJE WANNAN JARIRIYA BA DAN SAN RAINA BA ?ADDARA CE, WANI YA YAUDARE NI YA CE ZAI AURBARARAA MIN WANNAN CIKIN YA GUDU YA BARI NA HAIFETA SHI NE NA KAWO TA NA AJIYE TA ALLAH YA HA?A TA DA HANNU NA GARI AMIN, SUNANTA BARIRA ALLAH YA SHIRYI YAN BAYA KUMA ALLAH YA RAYA MANA ITA AMI”

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2023: Senator Ekweremadu reveals why churches should involve in politics

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, a former deputy Senate president of Nigeria, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has urged churches and devout Christians to actively get involved in politics.

He described the indifference of churches toward politics as self-exclusion from nation-building.

The PDP chieftain disclosed this in a paper titled ‘The role of the church and politician in politics and democratic nation-building’, which he delivered at the standing committee forum of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Church), in Onitsha on Thursday, February 11.

He said active involvement of the church in politics would foster development, national identity and create stability in society.

The senator also enjoined Christians in politics to be exemplary and lead by biblical principles. He said: “Oftentimes, you hear Christians say that the church should not be involved in politics. That, by extension, is self-exclusion in the task of nation-building,” Ekweremadu was quoted as saying in a statement by his media aide Uche Anichukwu. “It is important that the church does not remain aloof, but should play a decisive role in the task of nation-building. In doing so, she helps to foster development, national identity, and create stability in society.

“It is this lack of national identity and instability that has brought our country to where it is today. It is the lack of national identity that has fostered the divisiveness in our country and created the insecurity which we now experience.”

Ekweremadu said the church could participate in politics and nation-building without being partisan by engaging in political education and mass mobilisation for political participation.

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Fela Anikulapo Kuti got nominated for 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

The nominees for the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, had on its lists Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the Afrobeat originator.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame which announces 16 nominees for its 2021 class of inductees, has offers some satisfaction for fans who have long lobbied to see their favorite artists get on the ballot.

According to a statement, by the chairman of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, John Sykes said, “This remarkable ballot reflects the diversity and depth of the artists and music the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates. These Nominees have left an indelible impact on the sonic landscape of the world and influenced countless artists that have followed them.”

At of the 16 nominees inducted on the list is Afrobeat originator Fela Anikulapo Kuti who has been eligible for some time and finally being recognized for the honor.

Fela Kuti released his first recording in 1970 isn’t originally classified as a “rock n roll singer” and so there had been insignificant complaints concerning his exclusion until recently.

Jay Z and Foo Fighters also make it to the list for the first time as they both release debut albums in 1995, landing them in the eligibility zone that requires nominees have a catalog dating back at least 25 years. Other nominees who made their appearance on the ballot despite being previously eligible to include Dionne Warwick, in addition to Iron Maiden and the Go-Go’s.

Others who returned to contention after having been previously nominated: Mary J Blige, Late Bush, Devo, Chaka Khan, Carole King, LL Cool J, Rage Against the Machine, Todd Rundgren, and Tina Turner.

Meanwhile, the class of inductees in 2020 has been resolve to a taped HBO special. While the Hall for 2021 is optimistic about the coronavirus situation to enable the success of a live induction ceremony that is been set for the Fall.

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Man reveals why he damaged wife’s eye as ‘punishment’ (Photo)

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Barnabas Zarurayi, a Zimbabwean man has been accused of damaging his wife’s eye during a fight that ensued between them.
over “lack of respect” from her.

The woman identified as Tsitsi Mabwedza recalled being continuously assaulted by her husband in their 14-year marriage which is blessed with 5 kids.

According to her, they fought after his husband tried sleeping on the bed with his shoes on.

“I told my husband to remove his shoes when he was about to sleep on the bed so that he doesn’t make the blankets dirty and he ignored.

“After that, he started using the bedroom as a toilet, and when I noticed that I tried stopping him and he said it was his house and no one could tell him what to do.

“I was thrown on walls. I tried to run away and he caught me and started hitting my head on stones resulting in my eye being plucked out.”

Meanwhile, Barnabas who accused his wife of lacking respect, however, claimed he does not remember what led to the fight.

The man said he was later surprised to see his wife’s eye bleeding, and also added that he doesn’t like people making him angry because he doesn’t know how to control himself.

An eyewitness who corroborated what Barnabas’ wife said, revealed that he (Barnabas) passed through a muddy road on his way home from work. The eyewitness added that after Barnabas’ wife told him to remove his dirty shoes, he started boasting that no one should tell him what to do in the house. He later urinated in the bedroom and all over on the floor before his wife confronted him, leading to a fight.

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Ned Nwoko opens up on alleged plan to assassinate him

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A former member of the House of Representatives, Prince Ned Nwoko has alleged that some people are planning to assassinate him.

He said that the plan is connected to a piece of land in his community in Delta state in which he was setting up a university. He added that a tussle about who becomes the next king of his community is also another factor.

He disclosed this on Thursday in a press briefing he organised alongside his wife, Regina Daniels in Abuja.

According to him, the issue of who becomes the next king in his community had been settled by the elders, and that the allocation of the land to him followed due process.

Speaking further, Nwoko revealed that the assassination plan was exposed on social media by an inmate in Kuje Prison, Abuja, who overheard two fellow prisoners discussing the plot. He said the matter had been reported to the Nigerian Police Force.

The politician claimed that the inmate, who was later released from the prison, received series of threat messages and died mysteriously after three weeks and an autopsy was being carried out.

He said the inmate was able to get the information on social media and the attention of his wife, Regina was drawn to it.

“I then reported the matter to the police and Department of State Security (DSS) and they went and interviewed the inmates involved. The inmates mentioned the name of one businessman who deals in the oil and gas sector as the master minder.”

He said the family of the late inmate would have been at this conference but due to fear for their lives, they refused to come.

Meanwhile, he said though security around him and his family had been tightened, but added that the conference was necessary to let the world know about the assassination plot.

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Wike reveals how NDDC duped Rivers govt of N400m

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Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has revealed how the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) allegedly duped the State of N400 million.

He said the State Government was duped over a failed partnership to develop the Mother and Child hospital in Port Harcourt.

The Governor made the claim while addressing visiting House Committee on NDDC, led by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo at the Government House, Port Harcourt on Thursday.

“NDDC fraudulently duped us over the Mother and Child hospital. They had an agreement with the State government to build a regional hospital called Mother and Child hospital. They agreed that it will be N1.7 Billion Naira,” He told lawmakers.

“State government was to bring N800million, NDDC N900 million. The state government at the time paid their N800million. NDDC mobilised the contractor with N400 million of the N800 million we brought, then abandoned the contract, and the contractor left the site,” he added.

Wike said when his administration came on board, he stopped the partnership and demanded a refund of the N400 million, and according to him, “it became a problem. Politics came in.“

The Governor further claimed that NDDC mandate governors are being sidelined by the Commission, noting that the ruling party on the federal level dictates what happens in the Commission, making the NDDC act as a state on itself and refuses to interface with the Governors to strategically develop the region.

He said since the inauguration of the NDDC Advisory Council last year, the President Muhammadu Buhari government has ensured that the governors remain sidelined in the affairs of the commission.

“Even when we are inaugurated, we were not involved in anything that happens in NDDC. Which is most unfortunate,” Wike lamented.

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Laycon talks about Erica in his first episode ‘I Am Laycon’

Popular Big Brother Naija season 5 winner, Olamilekan Moshood Agbeleshe, better known as Laycon, has finally addressed the rift between him and former BBN housemate Erica Nlewedim in his first episode of ‘I Am Laycon’

In the first episode of ‘I Am Laycon’ which was premiere on Showmax, the reality star reveals how he genuinely loves Erica and how he manages to move on during the show. He also revealed how he left a five-month relationship for the reality show.

According to the rapper, being enclosed in a space with twenty housemates made keeping to himself quite difficult. he tried to move on when he realized Erica wouldn’t reciprocate his feelings.

In his words;

“So in a house, where we were just twenty of us and I’m sorry, how was I supposed to deal with that issue if not talk about it? Cause even when I’m outside the house, I talked about it.

“I needed space, I need space. I try to give space as much as possible but in the house…that we were together in, that was hard for me. And talking about it kind of helped me mentally go through it. So, that’s that.”

The episode also introduces the rapper’s team members as he takes the viewers through his daily schedule.

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D Smoke shares amazing moments with artists in Nigeria (Photos)

American rapper and songwriter, Daniel Anthony Farris, popularly known as ‘D Smoke’ has shared photos of the warmth treatment he received in Nigeria.

The rapper has reportedly been in Nigeria for a while and the superstar seems to be having the time of his life exploring the country and its vibes, the hood, good food, and the overly talented artists.

The rapper captioned a photo he shared on Instagram, “Don’t be fooled. We relatives ”.

He was spotted with Afrobeats star Fireboy DML and other creative artistes such as Falz who said, “we cooked up some meal last night” Shiiii”.

The rapper was also sighted with Mavin Records boss Don Jazzy and other label members like Ladipoe.

D Smoke had also enjoyed the famous Nigerian suya as well as some noodles and spent time at the popular Oniru beach in Lagos. “Oniru Private beach, thank you for showing me your home, your hood, and your love. Inglewood to Lagos,” he captioned the photos from the beach which revealed how he bonded with the residents.

Meanwhile, Nigerians have been known for their hospitality towards artistes who had visited the country. Cardi B’s visit, for instance, the rapper had such a fun time, she got a Nigerian name for it. Naomi Campbell, J Cole, and many other international superstars have also visited the country and one thing they all have in common is that they each had a great time with great people.

Photos of all D Smoke has been up to since he visited Nigeria were seen by goldennationlog.com

See photos below:

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Man caught trying to write Teacher’s exam exercise for his wife

Operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have arrested a man identified as Adekunle Aremu for impersonation.

He was caught trying to write the recruitment examination for his wife, Oyinade Sade Adegbite,
during the Osun Teacher’s recruitment exercise at the CBT Center of Ilesha College of Education.

The Information Officer at the Ministry of Education, Roseline Olwawuni, who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, February 10, said: the
“He was caught after his passport photograph was said not to have a Civil with the photo records of applicants stored on the database of the Ministry of Education,” she stated.

Reacting to the incident, the State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Folorunsho Oladoyin condemned the act of impersonation, stressing that it is shameful that a prospective teacher could be found committing such crimes.

“It is shameful that somebody who wants to teach students academically and morally could be involved in fraudulent malpractice, what example is such a person going to set for the students, the commissioner queried. This is rather unfortunate,” said Oladoyin.

“I am using this opportunity to warn our young people to desist from cutting corners, they should know that integrity pays and it’s the only way to success. The suspect has however been handed over to the law enforcement agents for further investigation and prosecution,” he added.

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IGP fight to cover corrupt practices with double standard — source

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The embattled Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu is fighting media organizations and anti-corruption crusaders who uncover his corrupt practices especially the bribery scandals and N10 Billion Naira which was earmarked for the construction of Nasarawa Police training school, in Nasarawa State, a source revealed.

A source at the Police Headquarters, who pleaded with the condition of anonymity said the IGP who is acting in “double standard” by defending alleged missing sum of USD 2.5 Billion under the Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, which was published in Sahara Reporters by Dr. George Uboh to protect high profile individuals.

The source said the actions by the Inspector General of Police were to cover scandals and corrupt practices by suing people that do not concern him or his office especially the defamation of character case against the CBN Governor Mr. Godwin Emefiele.

The source confidentially said the IGP who was threatening to jail and imprison anti-corruption crusaders like Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters and presidential candidate in the 2019 general election, and George Uboh for defamation cases against high profile members rather allegations of corruption against himself, is acting to protect his criminal tendencies.

The source advised the embattled Inspector General of Police Mr. Mohammed Adamu to clear weighty allegations leveled against him and stop incessantly arresting people for speaking the truth.

The Source said, “This is a tale of “Double Standard” employed by the Inspector-General of Police in Prosecuting George Uboh and Omoyele Sowore on publications by Sahara Reporters, among others.

“Double Standard: A double standard is the application of different sets of principles for situations that are, in principle, the same. It is often used to describe treatment whereby one group is given more latitude than another.

“On August 13, 2020, it was widely reported that Dr. Alex Izinyon (SAN) wrote a letter to Sahara Reporters and Omoyele Sowore threatening to sue Sahara Reporters and Sowore on behalf of the IGP for N10 Billion Naira over the Nasarawa Police training school report by Sahara Reporters, asking Sahara Reporters and Sowore for retraction and apology.

“But wait a minute. Is the same IGP not prosecuting Dr. George Uboh for an article published by Sahara Reporters in 2019 against Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the CBN Governor? Recall that Uboh was detained at Kuje prison from July 5, 2019, to September 16, 2019, for defamation of character of Godwin Emefiele premised by a letter Uboh wrote Emefiele with evidence attached captioned “Over USD 2.5 Billion Missing under your Watch”, asking Emefiele to return the funds to TSA.

“Why would the IGP prosecute Uboh on a matter published by Sahara Reporters (not Uboh) regarding someone else (Emefiele) which IGP deemed defamatory against Emefiele, but has never prosecuted anyone at Sahara Reporters for publishing more than once matters concerning the IGP himself which the IGP deemed defamatory?

“Is it that the IGP loves Emefiele more than himself in choosing to detain Uboh for 78 days on an issue concerning Emefiele (defamatory) published on Sahara Reporters, but refused to detain anybody at Sahara Reporters on the same issue (defamatory) when it concerned him the IGP?

“Why the double standard? Recall that the letter Emefiele wrote the IGP it was Sahara Reporters Emefiele mentioned that he suspected bugged his phone, but it was George Uboh that was arrested,” the source stated.

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Reps set up joint Committee to screen appointment of new Service Chiefs

The House of Representatives yesterday set up a joint committee to screen the appointment of the new Service Chiefs.

The committee is made up of 40 members of the House.

This is coming following the appointment of the chiefs and the subsequent letter to the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari to give their nod to it.

The speaker of the house, Femi Gbajabiamila announced members of the committee on Wednesday’s plenary.

Members of the committee included the Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of Standing Committees on Defence, Army, Air Force, and Navy among others.

Recall that the new Service Chiefs included Maj. Gen. Lucky Eluonye Onyenuchea lrabor – Chief of Defence Staff; Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru – Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo – Chief of Naval Staff; and Air Vice Marshal Isiaka O. Amao – Chief of Air staff.

In the letter addressed to the speaker, Buhari had requested that the appointees be screened in line with the provisions of extant laws.

“In compliance with the provisions of Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act. Cap A20 Laws the Federation of Nigeria 2004, I hereby forward for confirmation by the House of Representatives, the appointment of the under listed officer as the Chief of Defence Staff and Services Chiefs of the Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I hope that the Honourable House will consider and confirm the nominees in the usual expeditious manner,” Buhari said in the letter.

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Three students reportedly die in EBSU’s suffocated exam hall ( Photos)

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Three students of the Ebonyi State University (EBSU) have been reported dead.

It was gathered that the students on Wednesday, February 10, allegedly died after they suffocated while attempting to write a GST exam inside a crowded hall in the school.

According to footage shared online, hundreds of students were seen struggling to get a space in the hall for the exam.

During the struggle, eight students reportedly fainted, some got injured, and some suffocated to death.

In another footage, students were also seen rushing unconscious students out to the open space for ventilation, while some allegedly never regained consciousness.

Meanwhile, Twitter users and some students reacted to the shocking incident.

Below are some reactions gathered by goldennationblog.com

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Senate President, Lawan tells Nigerians to take case to National Assembly

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Nigerian Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, has told Nigerians to take whatever issues they feel strongly about to the National Assembly especially now that the process of the constitutional review is in progress.

He disclosed this on Wednesday when a delegation of the Enugu State Committee on the creation of Adada State visited him in his office at the National Assembly.

The delegation which included former Minister of Information and the immediate past President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, was led by Chief Vita Abba.

The meeting was facilitated by Senator Chukwuka Utazi who is currently representing Enugu North Senatorial District.

Lawan told his guests that they were in order by taking their request to the National Assembly.

“You are in order. You are at the right place. This is the people’s Assembly, saddled with the responsibility and mandate of receiving and listening to Nigerians who desire one form of legislative Intervention or the other to ensure that Nigeria is stable, peaceful, that people live in harmony and trust.

“So your quest for the creation of Adada, you are welcome. We are going to give you every opportunity and support that will be necessary for the creation of the Adada State.

“It is a constitutional and legitimate agitation. Nigerians should take the opportunity of the Constitutional review process that the ninth Senate and indeed the National Assembly have embarked upon.

“This is about the creation of Adada state. But there are so many other opportunities to better a lot of our people through a constitutional amendment.

“So I am taking this opportunity to appeal to Nigerians who feel strongly about certain issues – how we live together, how we secure our people and any other matter under the sun that Nigerians feel very strongly about, that the constitution should have or should not have.

“This is the time to take that opportunity to come to the National Assembly and make the case. We are here for Nigerians,” The Senate President.

He assured his guests that “we are going to be supportive of your cause.”

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Okowa fix private burial for Father, appreciates Nigerians

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has expressed the desire of his family to ‘hold a private burial’ for his late father, Sir Arthur Okorie Okowa, the patriarch of the Okowa’s family of Owa-Alero in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He disclosed this in a statement he signed and was made available to newsmen.

Okowa said private burial would be conducted this month (February), public reception to celebrate the life of his late father would hold later in the year in August, with the hope that the curve of the coronavirus infection would have dipped remarkably by then.

The governor, however, expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians for their uncommon show of love and condolences following the demise of Pa Okowa, thanking all those who came to condole with him and those who called or sent messages of condolences to him and his siblings.

He said,
“in view of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, we have opted to hold a private burial ceremony some time this month, while a Celebration of Life event will take place on August 21, 2021.

“Hopefully, by then the current challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic would have given way to a freer and more assured environment,’’ he stated.

He described his late father as a “huge pillar of support”, and said that he would miss his wise counsel.

“On behalf of the Okowa family of Owa-Alero, Ika North East Local Government Area, I wish to thank all who have taken time to commiserate with us on the death of my beloved father, Sir Arthur Okorie Okowa.

“Ever since the news of his demise, our family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of goodwill from a wide spectrum of political, business, religious leaders as well as the mass of Nigerians.

“My siblings and I are deeply grateful for the show of solidarity, which have, in no small measure, helped us to cope with Papa’s passing.

“Although he died at what may be considered a good old age, the death of someone so dear cannot but leave one with a sense of void.

“My late father was a strong pillar of support all through my political/public service career.

“I drew immeasurably from his fountain of knowledge and wisdom, and he was very passionate about the growth and development of our beloved Delta State.

“As a family, we will greatly miss his physical fellowship but we thank God that he lived a good and full life; he has etched his name in gold with his legacy of hard work, selfless service, discipline, godliness, love for others/community, and passion for positive, lasting change,” he said.

“Once again, I thank all those who have called, visited, prayed for us, and issued statements in solidarity with our family. May God richly bless you,” the governor added.

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Why I don’t reply to critics – Wizkid Opens up

Nigerian Afrobeat superstar and label owner, Ayodeji Balogun popularly known as Wizkid, has revealed why he doesn’t reply to criticisms from either trolls or fans.

The singer noted that people cannot be pleased adding that it is not smart when one chooses to reply to every critic on social media to prove a point.

The singer who disclosed this in an interview with ThisDay said as a person who understands his importance, he can’t live his life based on people’s
Opinions.

The Grammy nominee said,

“It’s very easy. Only a stupid man will go around trying to prove a point to the world and even at that, you’ll find that you can’t please everyone, that you cannot live off of people’s opinions.”

“I think once you understand yourself and your true essence, nothing will faze you, people’s opinions won’t faze you. I’m just more of a private person, and I handle situations in that manner.”

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Gold Collins drops new single ‘Me and You’ reveals why

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer, Efecha Collins Gold, popularly known as “Gold Collins’ has officially released his anticipated single ‘Me and You’.

The artist was to release the long-overdue music in 2020 but was postponed due to covid-19 challenges across the globe.

“Me And You” which was produced by Prof Beat, is the remedy to a true emotional feeling, born out towards partners. The music looks towards human feelings and how emotions could be expressed in relationships across the world.

He releases his anticipated EP ‘The Storyline’ in an energetic style last April. The passion for music developed by the artist was louder than reasons and has no bounds.

The media personality had developed a passion for arts at a young age, which gave him the advantage to discover his love for writing. He blends Afro House music
but happens not to have limitations between style and genre in creating music.

Meanwhile, the singer developed a passion for singing from self-expression and was a member of the defunct B-Series, a music group he created with his friend ‘Cameo Cy’ at teenage until they formally go solo.

The singer and Entrepreneur is a self-determined young man who chose to learn and grow in an ever-changing world of music.

He’s a graduate of Mass Communication and Journalism from the prestigious Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku.

His creative components include the combination of Reggae, Hip Hop, and Afrobeat which offered him a vast attraction within different demography.

The music can be downloaded at all digital music stores.

Click the link below to download the music:

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Keyamo reveals alleged chaos over registration in Delta APC, issues warning

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The Minister of State, Labour and Employment Festus Keyamo (SAN) has revealed that membership registration and revalidation exercise in Delta State may lead to chaos if not well handled.

He asked the committee managing the exercise to ensure a balance of all delicate interests in Delta State.

The minister alleged that there are plans to hijack the exercise in the state by an unnamed political leader.

Keyamo raised the alarm in a protest note dated February 10th, 2021, to the National Chairman of APC Caretaker Committee, Mai Mala Buni, the Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, chairman of the registration exercise in the state, Austin Wilson Anyaegbu, and other top party leaders.

He said there should be no discrimination in the distribution of registration materials in the state.

He said as a Minister, he is not asking for any undue advantage during the registration.

He said: “As you are set to distribute your materials to the LGA coordinators on Wednesday, you must bear in mind the need to balance all the delicate interests within the APC in Delta State in such a way that you don’t put the entire materials meant for any LGA in the hands of two coordinators solely nominated by a particular political leader in the state, including myself.

“That will be unfair, unjust, and unacceptable and will be a recipe for chaos in the state. My sources tell me that this is exactly what you plan to do. You need to stop.

“The evolution of APC in Delta State is unique to the extent that a clear Party leader has not emerged under whom everyone has agreed to congregate. At least, no such decision has been taken by stakeholders in Delta State.

“I can say this confidently because I am a founding member and a leader of the Party in the State. The fact that the stakeholders have not been able to do this is a testament to the different tendencies that exist within the Party in the State.

“Whilst we all respect and defer to positions of authority that some of us have been privileged to assume at the national level, political leadership back home is a different ball game.

“As a result of this, all party faithful throng after different leaders in the State.”

Keyamo asked the APC registration committee to be fair to all tendencies in the state.

He also said he should not be favoured by the registration committee.

He added:” It is therefore imperative that these different leaders and their supporters have easy access to these materials for registration. This will not happen if you put the materials in any LGA only in the hands of a particular tendency within the party.

“Since we are not using the party structures to drive the process, then you must fall back on these leaders and their nominees to drive the process.

“Even as Minister representing the entire State in the Federal Cabinet, I am not asking for any undue advantage: I am only asking for fairness and equity to be administered to everyone.

“You are therefore advised to first identify the leaders (like you have done in the last few days). Ensure that no one leader has two nominees in any particular Local Government Area (LGA).

“Also ensure that there is no such disparity between the number of nominees the leaders nominate for the exercise in all the LGAs.”

The Minister asked the Chairman of the Registration Committee in Delta State, Austin Wilson Anyaegbu not to bow to pressure.

He said: “I know that you, like all the members of the committee, were nominated to serve by certain leaders. I also nominated a member.

“It is an open secret. No need to play the ostrich. However, we understand that unwholesome pressure has been mounted on you to sideline all other members of the committee in the discharge of your assignment.

“Perhaps this led to the abrupt resignation of the erstwhile Secretary.

“However, may I respectfully remind you that regardless of who nominated you, is time to serve the Party and not individual interests.

“If you skew the process to favor a particular person/leader, I will be mobilizing all other leaders of like minds in the state to reject your committee and call for its total disbandment. I rest my case.”

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Court remands Lil Frosh in prison over alleged assault, adjourns case

Nigerian singer, Sanni Wasiu, popularly known as Lil frosh, has been remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

He was remanded till March 2021 over the alleged assault on his girlfriend, Okeoghene Iyomaterie.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had earlier reported that Lil Frosh was recently arrested over an alleged physical assault on her ex-girlfriend.

It was gathered that in October 2020, the singer who was at the time signed under Davido’s record label, DMW records, was called out for subjecting his woman, Okeoghene, to physical and verbal assault while they were dating.

Okeoghene in a post shared on her Instagram page said she had been in a relationship with the musician since January 2020 and that anytime they had a disagreement, he would violently attack her, leaving her with serious bodily injuries.

“He consistently slapped me on the face, kicking, pushing me on other sensitive parts. The recent attack happened in September 2020, when he attacked me and rained blow on my head with bruises on my face. I partially lost my sight and had sleepless nights. He repeatedly boasted that since he is a well-known musician he is untouchable.”

A suit against Lil frosh was filed before the Lagos state Magistrate court in Yaba with the help of the International Association Of Women Lawyers, Lagos State branch.

At the hearing on Tuesday, February 9, the Magistrate, Adeola Olatunbosun, adjourned the case till March 9, 2021, and ordered that he be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Center.

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Rep Member, Kalu reveals why Nigerian lawmakers are dying

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Benjamin Kalu, a House of Representatives member, has revealed that pressure from constituents for various needs is killing Nigerian lawmakers.

He disclosed this to newsmen after the House adjourned sitting to mourn Rep Ossy Prestige (APGA-Abia).

Prestige, 56, passed away in Germany during an illness.

The All Progressive Congress (APC) chieftain in Abia, said that members of the National Assembly were under pressure for various needs.

He said this had deteriorated the health conditions of many of his colleagues.

“These guys here are suffering, they are under stress that is why most of the sickness they are passing through is a heart attack and failure of organs due to stress for their constituents.

“That is the truth and the truth must be told, whether you want to understand it or not, let the press know that the pressure from constituents is killing members of the National Assembly.

“That is the truth, the pressure is too much, people are receiving pressure from constituents on issues that are way out of the scope”, He was quoted as saying.

The lawmaker also regretted that lawmakers were asked to build roads, hospitals, and others.

He said most members who do not know how to explain to their constituents carry the pressure with them.

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Delta Education Ministry begins digital test Item generation

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The Delta State Commissioner, ministry for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah has said its ministry has initiated a process of examination digitalization for online generation of test items.

He disclosed this in Asaba during the opening ceremony of a workshop for the generation of test items for 2021 Cognitive/Placement and Basic Education Certificate Examinations.

Ukah said that the workshop was aimed at generating test items that would measure the teaching and learning outcomes in adherence to the provisions in the school curriculum.

The commissioner noted that the initiative would create a platform to review the past evaluative instruments to generate new ones for the enrichment of the question banks.

He reiterated that in tandem with the provisions and regulations of the National Council on Education (NCE) on examinable subjects, the ministry considered and approved new subject areas for the school system effective 2018/2019 academic year.

The Director of Examinations and Standards, Mr. Sunday Egomagwuna, said that assessment instruments to be generated must cover all the three learning domains such as cognitive, affective and psychomotor.

He stressed that the items must be valid, reliable, usable, and effective as instruments capable of measuring required standards.

Egomagwuna disclosed that each participant was expected to generate 50 multiple choices, five essay types, two practical types, and two project type questions as applicable to their subject areas, and underscored the importance of uniformity in the scoring of test items in all the marking centres in the state.

The director also revealed that some pupils who sat for the last cognitive placement examination found it difficult to shade properly on the Optical Marks Reader (OMR) sheets.

He explained that they were not using HB pencils and called on parents and other stakeholders to educate their children on how to shade their answer sheets in future examinations.

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Group calls for peace between two warring communities in Delta

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The President, Peace Development Security, and Human Rights Association of Niger Delta, Comrade Mike Tiemo, has called for a cease-fire and dialogue between Igbide and Emede communities in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

He made the call while briefing newsmen recently in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Tiemo noted that peace was needed for the overall development of the two warring communities.

Meanwhile, Comrade Ohwahwa, Lucky Ovigue, Sunny Anireto, and others who also spoke to newsmen urged leaders of both communities to embrace peace saying that peace is one of the interests of the development of the area.

As part of efforts to bring peace, the group appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and well-meaning Deltans to join hands with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in the settlement of the dispute between the communities.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had earlier reported the community clash between Igbide and Emede communities which led to the massive destruction of properties and other valuables.

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Ika monarch receives award of Excellence, described as peace initiator

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The Obi of Abavo kingdom in Ika North Local Government Area of Delta State, His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Uche Irenuma, has been conferred with an award as a peace initiator.

The President-General of Abavo Kingdom, Comrade Jonathan Agbejiawe, disclosed this during an award-giving ceremony to honour some illustrious sons and daughters as well as friends who have contributed their best in the development of the community.

He commended the efforts of the obi, for uniting warring parties in the tussle for leadership adding that the gesture had brought peace and rapid development to the kingdom.

Agbejiawe noted that the award ceremony was designed because of the peace initiative of the monarch. He reiterated that the kingdom was now more united, and exuded more strength, judging from the large crowd that came out to honour the award ceremony.

The president also said that a lot of Abavo sons and daughters had performed credibly toward the development of the kingdom stressing that few of them had been chosen for this year’s award and that others would-be awarded later.

He, therefore, urged sons and daughters of the kingdom to continue to do their best in their various life endeavors.

Meanwhile, the Obi of Abavo kingdom received the award of Peace Initiator amidst cheers and great ovations.

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Okowa swears in two Special Advisers, gives reason

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Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa on Monday swore in two new Special Advisers.

The new appointees, Dr. Augustine Obidi and Chief Ebikeme Clark were sworn at the Government House, Asaba.

Okowa who performed the ceremony said that his administration would achieve its set goals before the end of his tenure.

He said that his government would continue to give responsibilities and portfolios to people with experience in governance for the attainment of a “Stronger Delta” as conceived.

The governor said he had known the two new appointees as grassroots politicians with considerable experience in governance adding that a lot was expected from them in the development of the state.

According to the governor, Obidi and Clark have worked very closely with the government and are grassroots politicians, having contested and won elections to the local government council in the past.

“At this point in time, we are looking for men to enrich the course of governance and I believe that they have their contributions to make in the improvement of governance in Delta State.

“We are about closing in on the second year of the second tenure of our administration, and definitely, we require a lot of efforts and a lot of contributions to be able to achieve the things we set out to achieve.

“It is on this note that we thought it necessary to approve these appointments with stronger portfolios to those who have been working with the government, and I do hope that this will help to energise you to stay more committed in the contributions to government, ” he was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, Okowa urged the new appointees to be hard-working, dedicated and prayed that their confidence will not be lost in the course of time.

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Money used in buying 20 bags of rice allegedly turns into paper in Delta (video)

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The money used by an unknown customer in buying bags of rice from a shop has reportedly turned into white papers

It was gathered that the customer had entered a shop to purchase 20 bags of rice in Ogwashi-uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State.

This is contained in a video posted on social media by an eyewitness and was seen by goldennationblog.com

The video which has gone viral online alleged that the buyer who left in a Sienna SUV paid over N400,000 in cash for the 20 bags of rice he bought.

As what may be referred to as a Nollywood film trick, the money paid by the buyer, however, allegedly turned into paper after he left with the 20 bags of rice.

Watch the video below;

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EndSARS: #OccupyLekkiTollGate trends as another protest loom in Nigeria

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Many Nigerians have taken to Twitter to protest that those who carried out the alleged shooting of innocent citizens must face the law before the Lekki tollgate can be reopened.

This is coming following the approval to reopen Lekki Tollgate by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry set up by the Lagos State government to investigate the October 2020 Lekki shooting incident in the state.

According to Twitter sources, “The #OccupyLekkiTollGate which is another wave of protest against injustice and government’s silence over the Lekki shootings is scheduled to kick off on 13th February 2021”.

It was gathered that the nine-man panel on Saturday returned the control of the tollgate to the Lekki Concession Company, the operators.

The company, through its counsel, had been praying the panel to allow it to take over the plaza for repair and insurance claims since December 2020.

Over the last four months, an outpouring of support for Nigerian protesters has played out on Twitter, with various hashtags, but predominantly #EndSARS.

Speaking against the reopening of Lekki tollgate where a countless number of youths were said to have been shot by security operatives, human right activist, Omoyele Sowore, wrote on Twitter:

Other Twitter users also called for justice for those who were killed during the EndSARS protest.

Below are some reactions from Twitter as gathered by goldennationblog.com

https://twitter.com/Kaylechi_/status/1358739010093465601?s=19

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Man to be empowered after beaten for stealing clothes in Delta (Photos)

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A man identified as Stanley Kolokolo who was beaten mercilessly for alleged theft has been found after a woman showed interest in empowering him.

According to a report, the young man last week stole clothes from a shop located at cemetery road in Sapele, Delta State.

Stanley who claimed that he was sent by some street boys to steal clothes for them, was caught and beaten to pulp by the shop owner and other people.

A video of the boy in a pathetic condition following the beating he received was posted online. A Facebook user, Kate Keke was moved and decided to help him.

“Sometimes our situation leads us to do things that are not right. We would like to empower him. Please help us get this boy.” she said.

The boy was finally located by Sapele Times and his photo was shared on Facebook.

“We just won inform una say, the boy wey we dey find, we done finally see am. He name na Stanley Kolokolo and na urban area he dey stay.
By the grace of God, the NGO and good samaritan wey won help empower am, go visit am soon. Abeg, make we all commot hand from bad thing, if you nor get, try to borrow from your neighbors, don’t steal to avoid shame and disgrace. Thank you very much Kate keke, for your love and support.” they wrote.

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Ex-council chairman arrested for aiding bandits (Photos)

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The former caretaker chairman of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina state, Haruna Musa Mota has been arrested.

It was gathered that Mota was arrested by the state’s police command over alleged links with bandits.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the command, SP Gambo Isah, revealed that Mota was arrested for allegedly aiding and abetting bandits operating in the state.

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EndSARS: Peter Okoye, human rights activist clash over Lekki toll gate

Popular Nigerian singer, Peter Okoye of the defunct Psquare and human rights activist, Kenechukwu Okeke, have clashed over the reopening of the Lekki toll gate in Lagos.

The clash between the duo on Sunday, February 7, was in a series of tweets shared on Twitter and was seen by goldennationblog.com

It was gathered that the Lagos state panel of Inquiry on Saturday, February 6, permitted the Lekki Concession Company, LCC to repossess the tollgates which were shut down since the October 20 gunshot incident.

Reacting via his Twitter handle, Peter who is against the move, wrote

”If una like make una go hand over lekki tollgate to Jesus! No justice NO LCC #EndSARS #NoMoreTollGate”

Activist Kenechukwu who made news last year when he sued Davido, Pastor Adeyemi, Aisha Yesufu, and others over their involvement in the EndSARS protest, kicked against Peter Okoye’s position to the reopening of the tollgate. He wrote

”My attention has been brought to the antics of one Mr. Peter Okoye

@PeterPsquare whose shenanigan is to incite riots, and breach of public peace. One begins to wonder why a private citizen would constitute himself as being superior to a Tribunal established by law.”

Responding to Kenechukwu’s tweet, Peter wrote

”Use that your attention and wipe that your dirty asshole!”

Read their exchange below:

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CBN opens up why cryptocurrency was banned in Nigeria

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reacted to blames following its directive to Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) to stop the transaction of cryptocurrencies in the country.

The Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Osita Nwanisobi in a statement on Sunday, clarified that the CBN circular of February 5, 2021, did not place any new restrictions on cryptocurrencies.

He recalled that all banks in the country had earlier been forbidden, through CBN’s circular dated January 12, 2017, not to use, hold, trade, and/or transact in cryptocurrencies.

Nwanisobi noted that the CBN’s position on cryptocurrencies is not an outlier as many countries, central banks, international financial institutions, and distinguished investors and economists have also warned against its use.

He said China, Canada, Taiwan, Indonesia, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Bolivia, Kyrgyzstan, Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iran, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Cambodia have all
placed certain levels of restrictions on financial institutions facilitating cryptocurrency transactions.

CBN said in China, cryptocurrencies are completely banned and all exchanges closed as well.

Nwanisobi said even famed investor Warren Buffett has called cryptocurrencies “rat poison squared,” a “mirage,” and a “gambling device.”

“Mr. Buffett believes it is a “gambling device” given that they are most valuable because the person buying it does so, not as a means of payment; but in the hope, they can sell it for even more than what they paid at some point.

During an online forum hosted by the Davos-based World Economic Forum a few weeks ago, Andrew Bailey, the Governor of the Bank of England, highlighted the extreme price volatility of cryptocurrencies as one of the biggest flaws and explained that this flaw makes it impossible for them to be used as a lasting means of payment.

“It is not surprising he would take that position because, Bitcoin, the best-known cryptocurrency, hit a record high of $42,000 per unit on January 8, 2021, and sank as low as $28,800 about two weeks later. This is far greater volatility than is found with normal currencies.”

CBN listed the justifications for CBN’s recent policy reminder.

Nwanisobi said first, because they are issued by unregulated and unlicensed entities, their use in Nigeria goes against the key mandates of the CBN, as enshrined in the CBN Act (2007), as the issuer of legal tender in Nigeria. In effect, the use of cryptocurrencies in Nigeria is a direct contravention of existing law.

He highlighted the critical between a Central Bank issued Digital Currency and cryptocurrencies, adding that as the names imply, while Central Banks can issue Digital Currencies, cryptocurrencies are issued by unknown and unregulated entities.

“Second, the very name and nature of “cryptocurrencies” suggests that its patrons and users value anonymity, obscurity, and concealment. The question that one may need to ask therefore is, why any entity would disguise its transactions if they were legal. It is based on this opacity that cryptocurrencies have become well-suited for conducting many illegal activities including money laundering, terrorism financing, purchase of small arms and light weapons, and tax evasion.

“Indeed, many banks and investors who place a high value on reputation have been turned off from cryptocurrencies because of the damaging effects of the widespread use of cryptocurrencies for illegal activities. In fact, the role of cryptocurrencies in the purchase of hard and illegal drugs on the darknet website called “Silk Road” is well known. They have also been recent reports that cryptocurrencies have been used to finance terror plots, further damaging its image as a legitimate means of exchange.

“More also, repeated and recent evidence now suggests that some cryptocurrencies have become more widely used as speculative assets rather than as means of payment, thus explaining the significant volatility and variability in their prices. Because the total number of Bitcoins that would ever be issued is fixed (only 21 million will ever be created), new issuances are predetermined at a gradually decelerating pace.

“This limited supply has created a perverse incentive that encourages users to stockpile them in the hope that their prices rise. Unfortunately, with a conglomeration of desperate, disparate, and unregulated actors comes unprecedented price volatility that has threatened many sophisticated financial systems. In fact, the price of ether, one of the largest cryptocurrencies in the world, fell from US$320 to US$0.10 in June 2017. The price of Bitcoins has also suffered similar volatilities.

“Given that unlike Fiat money, which is accompanied by full faith and comfort of a country or Central Bank, cryptocurrencies do not have any intrinsic value and do not generate returns by themselves. When one buys a stock, say of a conglomerate in the Nigeria Stock Exchange, its price reflects the activity and production of that conglomerate and the value people place on their goods and/or services. This price may rise as the conglomerate produces better goods/services and probably gains greater market share.

“The reverse would be true if the conglomerate does not innovate to improve the quality of its goods/services. In other words, the price of that stock reflects market fundamentals. In contrast, cryptocurrencies do not have fundamentals and would never have fundamentals. Investors only buy in the hope that its use and acceptability will rise, thereby pushing up its demand and price. But since new versions of cryptocurrencies come on stream with new mathematical models, an infinite supply may someday crash the price to zero.

CBN stressed that its actions are not in any way, shape, or form inimical to the development of FinTech or a technology-driven payment system.

The apex bank said to the contrary, the Nigerian payment system has evolved significantly over the last decade, leapfrogging many of its counterparts in emerging, frontier, and advanced economies propelled by reforms driven by the CBN.

The statement said this was evident from the variety of participants, products, channels, cutting-edge technology in the payments system.

CBN said the system was validated by the astronomical growth of volume/value of transactions and the fact that Nigeria is an investment destination of choice for international financial technology companies because of CBN policies that have created an enabling investment environment in the payments system.

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Man reveals why he killed his wife, child in Anambra

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An artisan, Chukwuemeka Obijiofor, of Ofufe Nza village in the Ekwusigo LGA of Anambra State who last month killed his wife and child said he killed the woman because he found out she was cheating on him with some unknown men.

The 28-year-old also confessed to killing his child because his wife confirmed to him that the boy was not his and that he may have been gripped by unknown spirits, which compelled him to kill both of them.

The suspect who killed the victims with a shovel was on Saturday paraded before journalists at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters, Amawbia by the spokesperson of the Command, CSP Haruna Mohammed.

Obijiofor who spoke to newsmen said, “On that fateful day, I had gone to borrow money from a client to take to her (wife) so that she can cook food early and not wait for me to come back before cooking.

“When I came home to give her the money, I saw two strange men in my house. When I queried my wife, she took me to the backyard, telling me to calm down.

“Please, I want you people to forgive me, what happened was a mistake. She was trying to calm me down when I noticed that the men had left. They left without even greeting me. So, I got annoyed and left my wife and child. I told her to leave me and let me go on my own since she has already chosen the people she loves.

“I went my own and sat somewhere to smoke my hemp, but my wife was still following me about and dragging with me. She did not want me to continue my work, so after I had taken my hemp, I found out that it made the matter even worse. That was what happened.”

Asked why he also killed his innocent child, Obijiofor said his late wife disclosed to him that he was not the biological father of the child.

He blamed his action on some evil spirits who possessed him, saying that his condition was aggravated by Indian hemp he smoked before the incident.

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Anambra PDP governorship aspirant’s sports event invaded by thugs

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Political thugs reported to be loyal to a governorship aspirant in Anambra State on Saturday invaded St Andrew’s DCC compound, Nnewi.

The thugs reportedly stormed the sports event venue organized by Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, a governorship aspirant under the platform of the People Democratic Party, PDP.

According to reports,
the sports event was scheduled to begin at 7 am, when at about 6:20 am, thugs numbering over 20 invaded the venue destroying some of the facilities to be used for the event.

The facilities destroyed include; the podium, chairs, tables, and many others.

At press time, it was not clear which governorship aspirant the thugs were allegedly loyal to but there are rumors that the suspected mastermind may be afraid that Ozigbo could win the hearts of his people, who form his number one support base.

Meanwhile, Mr. Ozigbo and Hon Chris Azubogu have condemned the action, saying that it was not Anambra-like.

Ozigbo who addressed supporters after a seven-kilometer walk in the industrial city of Nnewi said the violence was uncalled for. He said the event had been organized to improve the health of the people of the state.

Azubogu also in a press release condemned the attack, saying he was billed to be at the event but couldn’t make it because he was touring the state. He wondered why anyone would attack a peaceful gathering in the state.

“He (Azubogu) would have been part of the ‘Walk For Life’ event in Nnewi, his hometown, if not for his scheduled ongoing LGA tour, and he was already on his way to Awka North LGA when he received the news of the attack.

“The member representing Nnewi North/Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, on hearing about the attack, placed a call to Mr. Ozigbo, stating also in a message that such behaviour does not represent Ndi Nnewi or PDP.”

He called for the arrest of those involved, describing the attack as condemnable and does not represent the actions for which the People’s Democratic Party is known.

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Angela Samuda opens up why she doesn’t kiss in Movies, encounter with Directors

Nollywood actress and producer, Angela Samuda has revealed that she will not kiss in a movie

The actress who gave her reasons for her decision revealed that kissing in movies will create a problem with her husband.

Samunda who disclosed this in an interview with the Sun said that she finds it very difficult trying to convince her husband to allow her to play romantic roles in movies.

She said that she can do anything else with the opposite sex on set but not a kissing scene.

According to the Akwa Ibom State-born script-interpreter,
“It’s not always easy convincing my husband for me to play romantic roles like that, but then, in the long run, he’s cool. He knows it’s my career. However, he would not accept any kissing scene.

I don’t like it, though. I can peck, smooch, lie on the same bed with the opposite sex, and all but kissing is a no-no for me. If I am given a role with lots of kissing scenes and the story would be better portrayed with the actual kissing scenarios, I would have to explain to the director. I would suggest he should give the role to another actor. I am not sentimental or desperate when it has to do with my work. If I can’t do it, I’d suggest you give it to another.”

Meanwhile, Samuda who also spoke on her sexual harassment encounters said,
“Oh yes, a lot. That’s one of the primary reasons I stopped acting for some time. I couldn’t own up enough to speak my mind; instead, I cry back home feeling so bad and how much have disappointed myself. When I thought it over and was woman enough to speak out, I bounced back. The moment you let them know that you know your worth and why you are in the industry, they have no choice but to respect you and know you are different. I don’t need to sleep with a producer, director, or actor to prove my worth and capability. God has been on my side so far.’

On her New Year resolution, the actress said, “My New year resolution is good movies only. Everything good. I also want to help as many people as I can. I always want to be me, do my very best, and leave the rest to God. To produce as many good movies as I can and help aspiring actors with promising talents.”

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Emir of Anka says polygamy has affected Nigeria’s Education standard

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Dr. Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmed, Emir of Anka and Chairman of Zamfara State Council of Chiefs has again warned against polygamy.

The monarch claimed that polygamy is responsible for the falling standard of education in the country.

He disclosed this during a meeting with seventeen emirs of the state.

The chairman, Zamfara State Universal Education Board, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu Maradun in Gusau, the Emir of Anka who had earlier linked poverty to polygamy, urged Muslim Ummahs to ensure they give their children quality and quantitative education in western and Islamic education.

He furthermore reiterated the traditional rulers’ support to providing quality education to the people through the Universal Basic Education Board in Zamfara State.

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Lil Frosh detained by police, to be arraigned over domestic violence on ex-girlfriend (Photo)

Nigerian singer and rapper, Sanni Goriola popularly known as Lil Frosh who was involved in a domestic violence dispute with his ex-girlfriend Gift in 2020 has been arrested by the police.

He was reportedly detained by the police since Thursday, February 4 on charges of assault/battery and will be arraigned in court on Monday, February 8.

Meanwhile, singer Zinoleesky, who is a friend and colleague to Lil Frosh has reportedly taken to Instagram to call for his release.

He disclosed this in a photo he shared with Lil Frosh on his Instastory with the caption “Free my bro, God is with you bro”.

Recall that Lil Frosh’s ex-girlfriend Gift, had gone public with the domestic violence allegation and also shared photos and videos of the injuries she sustained, but Lil Frosh reportedly denied it.

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Atiku condemns ban on cryptocurrency transactions, gives solution to Buhari

Former Vice president of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has condemned the closure of cryptocurrency transactions in Nigeria by the federal government led by President Muhammadu Buhari.

This was disclosed on Saturday in a tweet posted on his official Twitter handle and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

The former presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP warned that urgent steps must be taken to opening up the economy and create more jobs for the teeming Nigerian Youths as unemployment remains one challenge facing the country.

Atiku laments that unemployment is one major factor affecting the Nigerian economy and also a major cause of insecurity in the country.

Goldennationblog.com reported recently that the CBN placed a ban on crypto accounts in the Nigerian Banks, warning that “breaches of this directive will attract severe regulatory sanctions.”

Responding to the ban, Alhaji Atiku noted that there is immense pressure on the youths because of the rate of unemployment. He said it is a wrong timing to ban cryptocurrency in the country and advised President Muhammadu Buhari’s led administration to revisit the policy.

“The number one challenge facing Nigeria is youth unemployment. In fact, it is not a challenge, it is an emergency. It affects our economy and is exacerbating insecurity in the nation.”

Meanwhile, Alhaji Atiku affirmed sadness over the recent NBS report which revealed the low inflow of foreign capital into the country.

He said, “What Nigeria needs now, perhaps more than ever, are jobs and an opening up of our economy, especially after yesterday’s report by the National Bureau of Statistics indicated that foreign capital inflow into Nigeria is at a four year low, having plummeted from $23.9 billion in 2019 to just $9.68 billion in 2020.”

“Already, the nation suffered severe economic losses from the border closure and the effects of the #COVID19 pandemic.

He faulted the timing of the ban and called for a reversal of the ban saying “there is a certain way to deal with criminal elements abusing the scheme in the country.

“This is definitely the wrong time to introduce policies that will restrict the inflow of capital into Nigeria, and I urge that the policy to prohibit the dealing and transaction of cryptocurrencies be revisited.

“It is possible to regulate the sub-sector and prevent any abuse that may be damaging to national security. That may be a better option, than an outright shutdown.

Atiku stressed that it is the job of the government to create jobs to ease the pressure caused by unemployment on the Nigerian youths.

“There is already immense economic pressure on our youths. It must be the job of the government, therefore, to reduce that pressure, rather than adding to it.

“We must create jobs in Nigeria. We must expand the economy. We must remove every impediment towards investments. We owe the Nigerian people that much.”

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Why SSANU, NASU proposed strike is illegal – Chris Ngige

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The proposed strike action by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities has been described is illegal.

This was disclosed in a statement by the minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, and was seen by goldennationblog.com

Ngige who asked the two unions to give the federal government three months to forward a supplementary budget to the National Assembly to cover arrears of the minimum wage that have not been paid to them, said it will be illegal for them to proceed on strike when discussions to sort out some of the contentious issues were still ongoing.

The Minister warned that if the negotiation and what has been agreed is not obeyed, then the ministry might have to refer the dispute upwards from the industrial arbitration panel to the national industrial court.

According to the statement, Ngige said,
“We will not claim ignorance of the fact that three unions in the University system, the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU, the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities, SSANU, and the National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT had given us notice of strike.

“The first two unions SSANU and NASU did that under the umbrella of Joint Action Committee, JAC, and as government, we have moved to apprehend the strike because we just came out from a strike that lasted for nine months that was executed by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU.

“So in consonance with the labour laws, we have apprehended both strikes. They gave us a Trade dispute notice, we scheduled meetings with them after apprehension, we held a meeting with NASU and SSANU last week Tuesday, and the government position was explained to them.

“They have a lot of issues mentioned as their grouse, issues like IPPIS. They said IPPIS has amputated some of their allowances, they also have the issue of consequential adjustment that was paid to all civil servants as a result of the new minimum wage of N30,000 for staff above Grade Level One, that is starting from Grade Level two up to level 17.

“Those in the University system have not received their own, that was an inadvertent omission and it was explained to them and even without their prompting, without their trying to go on strike, the government on its own has computed the amount involved up to January with effect from 19th April 2019 when the minimum wage took effect to January 2020, that is the allowance or the consequential amount that was missed in the 2020 budget.

“We explained that government plans to put that in the Supplementary budget of 2021 which will be submitted by the National Assembly as soon as the Minister of Finance resumes from vacation. On the issue of IPPIS, we explained to them that it is something that is of general application, a lot of civil servants, public servants had complained that some of their allowances were omitted in the payment of their emoluments.

“IPPIS office explained that it was work in progress, they are putting back those allowances and they showed evidence that they have put back so many. So these two issues are the cardinal issues in the points they have made.

“So in the main, after conferring with Mr. President, we are telling the unions not to carry out the action because that action will run counter to ILO Statute on Social Dialogue and Principles at work because their employers have listened, they have brought them to the table. So for SSANU and NASU, we are imploring them not to carry out their threat which they said will take effect from this midnight.

“Moreso, when the meeting adjourned from their instance. Just this morning I received a letter from them giving us a new date for the continuation of the dialogue, they proposed a new date of Thursday 11th of February and my office has communicated to the back that we will be ready for them at that time because as they claimed they needed time to consult with their constituency and come back on the fresh issues that have cropped up from the discussion. So I briefed Mr. President on that.” Ngige said.

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Breaking: CBN warns banks to close cryptocurrency accounts in Nigeria

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has directed banks and other financial institutions to shut down all cryptocurrency-related accounts in the country.

This was disclosed on Friday, in a letter addressed to all Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), and other financial institutions (OFIs).

The letter which was jointly signed by Bello Hassan, Director of banking supervision, and Musa Jimoh, Director, payments system of management department, banned all financial institutions from facilitating cryptocurrency payments in the country.

The apex bank said “breaches of this directive will attract severe regulatory sanctions.

“The CBN circular of January 12, 2017 ref FPR/DRI/GEN/CIR/06/010 which cautions DMBs, NBFIs, and OFIs and members of the public on the risks associated with transactions in cryptocurrency refers.

“Further to another regulatory directive on the subject, the bank hereby wishes to remind regulated institutions that dealing in cryptocurrencies or facilitating payment from cryptocurrency exchanges is prohibited.

“Accordingly, all DMBs, OFIs, NBFIs, are advised to identify persons and /or entities transacting in or operating cryptocurrency exchanges within their system and ensure that such accounts are closed immediately” the letter reads.

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Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee visits Health ministry, Correctional service, advocates for children

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Delta State Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Kevwe Agas, and the State’s Child Rights Implementation Committee, has paid an advocacy visit to the Commissioner in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye.

The visit was to discuss issues concerning rights of survival, development, and protection of children in the State.

The Committee requested that the Commissioner approves the creation of a Desk Officer at Government Hospitals to ensure that victims of gender violence get quick attention in the state.

The Committee also requested for a waiver of payments of medical bills from indigent victims of violence for seamless protection of rights of children in such circumstances.

Responding to the committee’s request, Ononye asked the Director of Hospital Services to see him to work out the modalities assuring that the Desk Officer’s request would be approved at least for Government Hospitals in urban areas.

The Committee also visited the Correctional Service where they requested that issues of underaged inmates and challenges of children born by female inmates be resolved. They requested that the Magistrates be advised that children in conflict with the law be remanded only at the Remand Home.

The Controller of Correctional Service, Mr. Ovie Friday Esezobor, explained that they had always ensured children were not kept in Correctional Centres adding that children delivered by female inmates were only kept for one year and six months before being sent to their relatives or religious bodies until their mothers finish their sentences.

Esezobor however, noted that the Social Welfare Officers must be involved to legally take care of the children and commit them to any of the orphanages until their mothers were done with their jail terms.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary (Mrs. Agas), who is the Chairman of the Committee promised to provide details of the Social Welfare Officers in different local government areas of the state for quick action.

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Okonjo-Iweala becomes WTO only candidate as South Korea withdraws

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South Korea’s candidate for the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Yoo Myung-Hee, has said she will withdraw from the race.

It clears the path for Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala who the General Council announced late last year as the consensus candidate.

The World Trade Organization’s General Council Chair David Walker announced in last October Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala had garnered the most support among WTO members to become the next global trade chief but her appointment was vetoed by the United States.

Korea’s Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee announced on Friday that she would withdraw her candidacy for the next World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General.

Korea will continue to work with responsibility for the restoration of the multilateral trading system.

NOI, as she is fondly called, will be the first female and first African to head the WTO if affirmed by its 164 members.

Myunghee1’s withdrawal does not mean @NOIweala immediately becomes the WTO’s next Director-General.

That appointment is taken in a formal decision by the WTO’s 164 members.

Since the U.S. is the only WTO member blocking Okonjo-Iweala’s candidacy, it remains to be seen whether the Biden administration will reverse the Trump administration’s veto and support her.

If there is no opposition from any WTO members, the chairman of the WTO general council, David Walker, can announce the resumption of the WTO suspended October general council meeting to consider the appointment of a new Director-General.

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Three suspected fraudsters arrested for selling non-existent land to victim

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Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Benin Zonal office have arrested three suspected fraudsters for allegedly being involved in a land sale scam.

The suspects identified as Monday Evboumwan, Adams Edigin, and Charles Amenaghawon, were paraded at the Commission’s office.

It was gathered that the suspects allegedly sold a non-existing plot of land for N6 million to an unsuspecting victim.

Spokesperson of the antigraft agency, Wilson Uwujaren, said they have made useful statements arraigned adding that the suspects would be arraigned in court as soon as investigations were completed.

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Woman caught in airport with illegal drugs under her wig (video)

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A woman whose name is yet to be identified has been caught at an airport with illegal drugs hidden under her wig.

In a video that is currently making rounds on social media, the woman could be seen sitting as security officers transferred the drugs into a container.

According to the video which was seen by goldennationblog.com, officials of the airport communicated among themselves as the drugs were being taken out of the woman’s wig.

Watch the video below:

https://twitter.com/Mowiththesauce/status/1357390053207650307?s=19

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Oba of Benin suspends Chief Priest of Holy Aruosa, gives reason

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The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba Ewuare II, has approved the suspension of the presiding priest of Holy Aruosa Cathedral, Ohen-Osa Harrison Okao.

In what appears like a royal judgment, the Priest was suspended for alleged unauthorised ministration with the ancient long tradition of Benin City.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Secretary, Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor, and was seen by goldennationblog.com

According to reports, the decision was jointly taken by the traditional head of the church, HRM Oba Ewuare the second, joint elders committee, and top palace chiefs after Okao was found guilty of violating the long-standing rules of the church.

Irabor said the removal of the former top priest of the church would restore sanity and lasting peace to the foremost Benin national church.

“The decision is expected to bring lasting peace, sanity, and tranquility to the holy spiritual environment that is imperative in the Holy Aruosa Cathedral of Benin, which has hitherto been absent in the Holy Aruosa because of the non-compliance with traditions and customs by Harrison Okao over several years,” Irabor said.

The statement further ordered Okao to hand over the church property in his possession as the Ohenosa to the head Mr. Esere.

Okao was also warned to stop any financial transaction within the cathedral.

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Harrysong set to wed fiancee, reveals wedding date, location

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist, Harry Tare Okiri, popularly known as Mr. Harrysong is set to tie the knot with his fiancée, Alexer Peres Gopa.

He disclosed this in an Instagram post on Thursday, 4 February, and was seen by goldennationblog.com

According to the post, the singer revealed that his wedding ceremony is scheduled to take place on the 27th of March, 2021, in Warri Delta State.

The reggae-blues crooner uploaded his wedding invitation card that showed details of the event venue and colour of the day.

He posted,


“ALL SHADES I got it perfect this time. March 27th at the KFT event center Warri delta state. Photo by @kolexor #tarex2021.”

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BBNaija’s Ozo becomes Pointek’s new brand ambassador (Photos)

Nigeria’s leading retail store for technology products, Pointek has unveiled Big Brother Naija’s star Ozoemena ‘Ozo’ Chukwu as its new brand ambassador.

The Managing Director, Pointek, Emeka Oguchi, disclosed this during an interactive hybrid launch event at the company’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos.

Under the agreement, the reality television star will headline Pointek’s extensive list of trusted quality phone brands and accessories while also driving its reputation as one of the most reliable consumer electronic chains in the country among millions of Ozo fans.

“Apart from our intensive focus on providing consumer satisfaction, innovation in service delivery remains essential for the Pointek brand,” said the Piontek MD. “Ozo captures these qualities – especially with the successful transition and growth that we have all witnessed since the Big Brother Naija television show concluded. Over the new few weeks, we will unveil a series of interesting activities with our new brand ambassador. Our customers, spread across the country, should also watch out for exciting rewards and discounts as we celebrate this new partnership”.

“Over the years, Piontek has consistently invested in supporting our communities, including through training and job creation. Apart from our previous empowerment program for 1,000 young Nigerians, we will also be employing new technicians for our stores across the country”, he confirmed.

The company’s range of services is designed to ensure optimum convenience and customer satisfaction with the retail process, including the best price guarantee, dedicated customer service support, and many other premium services. Pointek also offers the popular ‘Pay Small Small’ package for mobile phones, laptops, gadgets, and electronics, which allows customers to pay in installments over 3 months.

“It is exciting to join such an important and industry-defining legacy. With a strong presence in the market built through consistency and immeasurable excellence, Pointek has grown to become Nigeria’s mobile phones and technology industry heavyweight. I look forward to creating value for my fans and Pointek customers through this new relationship”, said Ozo.

“Apart from providing excellent services in our stores, our CSR remains an important way to connect with our customers. Due to the pandemic, we had to suspend several tech training we initially planned”, said Jimoh Mustapha, Business Manager, Piontek. “But we are implementing our plans to recruit and support young technicians in the country. In addition, our customers should watch out for amazing prices and discounts this year. We recommend that they follow Pointek’s social media handles for regular updates”.

The tech sales brand serves a massive retail customer base that continues to grow exponentially, offering products that span various categories, including phones, computers, home appliances & many more.

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BREAKING: IGP Adamu’s tenure extended for three months

President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday extended the tenure of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Mohammed Adamu for three months

Maigari Dingyadi, The Minister of Police Affairs, made this known while briefing State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The minister said Buhari’s decision to extend the IGP’s tenure for another three months was to properly select the new, helmsman.

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Man dies after jumping from 6th floor as EFCC storms 1004 estate in Lagos (photos)

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A man whose name is yet to be known has reportedly died after he jumped from the 6th floor of the 1004 Estate in Lagos.

It was gathered that EFCC officials stormed the Estate this morning to arrest some suspected fraudsters.

According to eyewitnesses, the EFCC operatives went from one apartment to the other, knocking, and if denied access, they would break into the apartment.

The eyewitnesses revealed that upon hearing that the operatives were around the Estate, the deceased allegedly became apprehensive and jumped from the 6th floor and reportedly died

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BBNaija’s Laycon set to premiere reality show, reveals date [Watch Teaser]

Popular Big Brother Naija’s season 5 winner, Olamilekan Moshood Agbeleshe, better known as Laycon, is set to return to the screens with his anticipated reality show, ‘I Am Laycon’

The reality show will premiere on February 11 exclusively on Showmax as the streamer’s first-ever Nigerian production.

‘I Am Laycon’ which was shot in Lagos, will see the reality star as he settles into his new celebrity life. The show will also showcase Laycon’s relationships and an insight into his blossoming music career.

Meanwhile, ahead of the show’s premiere, a new teaser featuring former BB Naija’s season 5 stars, Vee and Lilo has been released.

Watch the teaser:

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Siblings charged to court for role, death of makeup artist (Photos)

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Two siblings have been arrested for the roles they played in the death of a missing makeup artist.

The death of Ijeoma Neke, the missing artist last November, shook social media when it was reported that she left home on Nov 11, 2020, for a makeup job and wasn’t seen again.

The alert of the missing artist circulated Twitter as users begged for help in finding her.

In response to the request, Twitter users explained that Ijeoma had requested to know the venue where she was to do the makeup job but was simply instructed to meet the prospective client at a bus stop.

Her body was later found and it was claimed she had been doused with acid.

Twitter users called for justice for Ijeoma and it appears that is about to be served as a sister and her brother have been arrested and charged with her death case.

The siblings identified as Ifezue Chiamaka and Ifezue Emeka were on Wednesday, Feb 3, arraigned at Enugu State Magistrate Court for the murder of makeup artist, Ijeoma Nweke.

According to reports, Chiamaka conspired with her brother to kill Ijeoma for allegedly having an affair with her boyfriend.

Chiamaka allegedly lured Ijeoma by inviting her for a makeup job.

On getting there and suspecting foul play, Ijeoma quickly sent a message to a friend, before being forced to drink a poisoned substance.

The two siblings then allegedly poured acid on Ijeoma.

An eye witness who was present in the court said he saw Emeka Ifezue pour acid on the body of Ijeoma after they dumped her corpse at the Maryland axis of Enugu Metropolis.

Also present in court was the boyfriend who was willing to testify against the two siblings.

The case was adjoined to February 24, 2021.

Goldennationblog.com gathered some Twitter reactions after the siblings were arraigned.

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Amazon releases new “Coming 2 America” trailer, as Akeem chooses heir

Amazon has released the official trailer of the long-awaited “Coming 2 America.

The new Coming 2 America trailer features a bulk of beloved casts from the 1988 installment and brand new comedic additions, with new characters including Akeem’s daughters and long-lost son as he tries to choose the rightful heir to the Zamunda throne.

Starring Eddy Murphy, Coming 2 America will be released on Friday, March 5, and will be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Set in the lush and royal country of Zamunda, Coming 2 America continues to follow newly-crowned King Akeem and his trusted confidante Semmi embark on an all-new hilarious adventure that has them traversing the globe from their great African nation to the borough of Queens, New York – where it all began.

The sequel will feature the return of original cast members Eddie Murphy as Akeem, Arsenio Hall as Semmi, James Earl Jones as King Jaffe Joffer, Shari Headley as Queen Lisa, John Amos as Cleo McDowell and Louie Anderson as Maurice, and the motley barbershop crew. Joining this star-studded ensemble are Wesley Snipes, Leslie Jones, Tracy Morgan, Jermaine Fowler, Bella Murphy, Rotimi, KiKi Layne, Nomzamo Mbatha, and Teyana Taylor.

Coming 2 America is directed by Craig Brewer from a screenplay written by black-ish creator Kenya Barris, Barry W. Blaustein, and David Sheffield, with story by Barry W. Blaustein, David Sheffield, and Justin Kanew, based on characters created by Eddie Murphy. It is a co-production by Paramount Pictures, New Republic Pictures, and Eddie Murphy Productions. The producers are Kevin Misher and Eddie Murphy, executive producers are Brian Oliver, Bradley Fischer, Valerii An, Kenya Barris, Charisse Hewitt-Webster, Michele Imperato Stabile, and Andy Berman.

The original film was directed by John Landis in 1988 and starred Murphy as a wealthy African prince who comes to Queens, New York posing as a poor man to search for a bride. It became a box-office hit with a worldwide gross of more than $280 million.

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2023: APC denies alleged plan to project Jonathan

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied speculations that it was wooing former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2023 Presidential Election on its platform.

It was reported last week that a group of Northern Governors was working towards making Jonathan contest the elections to serve a single term of four years after which power will return to the north.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, who is also the Interim National Chairman of the APC, denied the report in an interview with the Hausa Service of the British Broadcasting Corporation on Wednesday.

He said, “Those peddling such information are afraid. But for now, there is nothing in the APC that has anything to do with the aspiration for 2023.

“Even if someone wants to base his assumption on our recent visit to him during his birthday, we were there to pay respects to him in his capacity as a former President of Nigeria.

“Again, even if there is nothing when we are talking of peaceful coexistence, we must give credit to former President Jonathan on the issue of peace. How he accepted defeat in 2015 and resigned to fate. That has qualified him to be a statesman and he is now among our fathers.”

The APC chairman said it was customary for politicians to visit one another and exchange pleasantries.

“Our visit to Jonathan was pronounced because of his status as a former president. That could be why some may think there was something beneath.

“There are numerous such visits to leaders of PDP, APC. Why are others not being mentioned but Jonathan?”

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Joeboy drops tracklist for debut album, reveals release date

Nigerian singer, Joseph Akinfenwa popularly known as Jeoboy, has released the tracklist for his anticipated debut album.

The debut album titled ‘Somewhere Between Beauty and Madness’ is set to be released on Thursday, 4 February 2021.

In the light of the scheduled album release, the singer promised that the album will bring happiness to his fans.

Speaking in an interview with Audiomack, he said, “the debut album “sounds like a beauty. It sounds like magic. It is an exciting album. It has a lot of smash hits on it. It’s different when it comes to singles. With singles, you have to do it in a particular way, but when you have a body of work, you can try different things. I think this album will showcase my versatility to a large extent”.

While revealing the tracklist on his social media platform, the singer said ;
“Being able to create records that are life-changing is one of the greatest gifts to humanity; I’ve lived in the music to a point where I found myself immersed in all of its rhythms – YL 2021”.

The Production which was credited to Beatsbyko, MOG, Kelly, and others has the following song titles:
“Lonely“, “Consent“, “Count Me Out” “Oshe“, “Oh“, “Sugar Mama“, “Police“, “Better Thing“, “Runaway” and “Celebration“.

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Teni reveals details of next album” Wondaland”

Popular Nigerian
award-winning Afrobeats singer and songwriter, Teniola Apata better known on stage as Teni, has finally revealed the name and release date for her forthcoming album.

The singer and social media sensation disclosed this in a post where she said the new album is titled “Wondaland”. She also said the album is to be dropped in March 2020, but no specific day was disclosed yet for the release.

This comes after the Dr. Dolor Entertainment signee shared a sneak peek from her collaboration with superstar Davido, thanking him for making an appearance in her video shoot for what appears to be a track on the album.

According to the post which was seen by goldennationblog.com, Teni titled the expected album with a fairytale-like teaser which she captioned, “The time is near….. And the album shall be called “WONDALAND” MARCH 2021 🦋# MARCH 2021 #WONDALAND.”

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Suspected ritualists caught trying to use girl for ritual in Edo

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Three suspected ritualists in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State ran out of luck after they were allegedly caught trying to use a girl for money ritual.

Eromose Eboghoye, Igueben LG chairmanship aspirant, disclosed this in a post he shared and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

According to the post, the three ‘strange’ young men wearing white gowns were caught in Idumeka community on Tuesday, February 2.

“WATERLOO. Three strange young men caught in Idumeka, Igueben trying to use a girl for ritual” he wrote.

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Davido reveals plans to float bitcoin company

Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known by his stage name as Davido, has revealed his intentions to float a bitcoin company.

He disclosed this in a tweet he shared on his verified Twitter handle which was seen by goldennationblog.com

“Thinking of starting a bitcoin trading company… let’s see…”

Recall that Davido had always made it known to his fans that he plans to retire from music in the future and it appears he is taking steps towards that goal.

About a month ago, his tweet revealed that he contemplated quitting music, “I go leave this music for una,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, the “Fem” crooner recently took to his page on Twitter with a tweet in which he noted that he’s gradually becoming a member of his father’s Pacific Holdings company.

“Omo nah 2021 I don Dey Chook head small small.” He wrote.

The pop star who is a father of three is one of the biggest singers in Nigeria and Africa at the moment. He has always mentioned that he will not do music forever.

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Hopes alive as Buhari tells IG Adamu to hand over

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There were strong indications Tuesday night that President Muhammadu Buhari has asked the Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu to hand over.

Adamu completed his 35 years of service on Monday.

He was expected to have handed over to the most senior officer at the close of work on Monday, but he did not, fueling the feeling that he might be granted an extension of service.

Tuesday, Adamu was at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport to receive President Buhari who returned to Abuja after a four-day trip to his hometown Daura.

It was learnt that the IG was told of his fate after President Buhari’s arrival.

A top source said: “The IGP has been asked by the President to handover.

“Adamu was waiting for the presidential directive. He would have left on Monday but it will be discourteous to have exited without a clear-cut directive from the President and Commander-In-Chief.

“He may likely handover to the most senior deputy inspector-general of Police. I am aware Adamu was yesterday putting finishing touches to his handover note.”

There were speculations on Tuesday that AIG Zanna Ibrahim might be appointed IGP.

It was learnt that there was jubilation at the Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State, Tuesday by some officials of the college.

“He is an egghead, we have been jubilating since we heard of the likely choice.

“We have not seen him but his personal assistant came to his office this evening to clear a few things from his desk, “a lecturer said.

Attempts to speak with Zanna on Tuesday were unsuccessful.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Mr. Femi Adesina, simply said: “I don’t have any information yet on that (new IGP),” when contacted.

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Man dies in fatal car accident 12 days to his wedding (photos)

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A Nigerian man identified as Emmanuel Onyekachi Amakor from Ngor Okpala in Imo state has died from a fatal car accident.

This was disclosed by a friend to the deceased in a social media post seen by goldennationblog.com.

According to the post, Prince Oscar Raymond, who took to Facebook to mourn the deceased, said Amakor died in a car accident along Owerri-Aba Road on Monday, February 1.

Lamenting the terrible incident, Mr. Raymond also disclosed that the deceased was set to tie the knot with his fiancee, Veronica Ocheze Nwanoruo, on Saturday, February 13.

He wrote; ‘GOD WE WON’T ASK WHY BUT YOU KNOWETH ALL THINGS, WE JUST LOST THIS BROTHER IN A CAR WRECK ALONG OWERRI ABA ROAD YESTERDAY WHOSE WEDDING IS COMING UP ON THE 13TH OF FEBRUARY 2021 BUT DIED ON THE 1ST OF FEBRUARY 2021 MAY HIS GENTLE SOUL REST IN PEACE AMEN.’

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DJ Cuppy threatens Davido’s aide for libel, gives reason

Popular Nigerian singer, Ifeoluwa Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy, has threatened to sue Davido’s Personal Logistics Manager Isreal Afeare, for libel and defamation.

She disclosed this in an Instagram post which was seen by goldennationblog.com

DJ Cuppy revealed that she’s suing Davido’s aide over claims he made concerning her rift with singer Zlatan Ibile.

“For the record…..There have been no breaches of my contractual agreement regarding the song Gelato as confirmed by lawyers.

“However as @IsrealDMW publicly inaccurately declared I owe an artist money, I am suing him for libel and defamation. See you in court Isreal.”

Recall that DJ Cuppy tweeted that Zlatan had blocked her on every social media platform for over 10 months for unknown reasons despite featuring on her hit 2019 hit ‘Gelato’.

She wrote at the time, “10 months later and I sometimes still wonder why Zlatan Ibile blocked me on WhatsApp and Instagram without ever saying why; we were friends…AND “Gelato” was a hit! I’m human and I have feelings too”

Zlatan on his part ignored Cuppy’s tweets and then denied knowing her when he was asked in an interview what caused the rift between them.

Meanwhile, Afeare Isreal claimed that Cuppy refused to pay Zlatan a dime after the collaboration on ‘Gelato’.

He alleged that DJ Cuppy invited Zlatan to Abuja for a fundraiser where she allegedly made billions of naira but did not pay for his accommodation and upkeep. Isreal DMW claimed Zlatan had to cater for himself and his team with his own money.

Israel, described Cuppy as a fake friend who was just taking advantage of Zlatan because her father is wealthy.

He wrote: “kudos to someone like Zlatan, who took a bold step by flushing out a fake friend like Cuppy, who was just using his head, all in the name of my papa na Otedola.

“Zlatan did a hit collabo with her, ordinary one kobo he no see. She also took Zlatan to Abuja for her fund-raising, where she made billions of naira and didn’t even remember Zee for one kobo till tomorrow.

“No accommodation, no feeding. Zlatan had to even spend his money at Transcorp Hilton to carter for everyone including me. Dis na 2021 abeg.”

Recall that “Gelato” was released in 2019 and has gathered over a million YouTube views across the world.

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COVID-19: Why Everyone must be vaccinated — FG reveals

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The Federal Government has said every Nigerian was at great risk of contracting the COVID-19, declaring that everybody has to be vaccinated to defeat the pandemic.

Chairman of the Presidential Taskforce PTF on COVID-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF, Mr. Boss Mustapha, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja during a sensitization meeting on COVID-19 vaccine introduction with the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and other Christian scholars.

He said: “The arrival of vaccines has given hope to humanity that a solution has been found. This does not however mean that the Non-pharmaceutical interventions NPIs would be discarded. Going forward it shall be NPIs + vaccines for everyone to completely get over the pandemic.

“I wish to make it abundantly clear that nobody is safe around the world until everyone is vaccinated. That is why we are now gathered here today, to sensitise you and seek your inputs on the strategy to be jointly adopted and the role you will play in carrying the message on vaccines to all adherents of the Christian faith.

“I urge us to be frank, innovative, and adopt common objectives of collaboration and determination to overcome the pandemic by reaching out to all adherents of our faith on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines. Every Christian should be an advocate for the vaccines.’’

Meanwhile, Yobe State governor and Chairman, APC Caretaker Extraordinary/ Convention Planning Committee, has charged members of the party to observe the COVID-19 protocol as the party commences its membership registration and revalidation.

Buni gave the charge in a statement issued yesterday by the Director-General, Press and Media Affairs, Yobe State, Mamman Mohammed.

“I call on both the officials conducting the exercise and our members seeking to register to please observe the COVID-19 protocol throughout the registration exercise,” he said.

Buni explained that as the ruling party, APC would always support and work towards the success of all policies and programmes of the government.

The governor noted that “as a party known for due process and rule of law, our members are always law-abiding and this will not be an exception.”

While he assured that the party has deployed adequate materials for the exercise, Buni also cautioned members against attempting to deny others from registering.

“We have made provision to ensure everyone is registered and no one is disenfranchised.

“In this registration, it will be a futile exercise for those nursing the idea of hoarding the materials to create scarcity and deny others from registration because, we have adequate back-up materials to ensure the success of the registration,” he stated.

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Police summons hotel owner for placing cameras in guests’ rooms

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The Ogun State Police Command has summoned a hotelier after guests found cameras hidden in guest rooms.

The police said it has commenced an investigation into the actions of Pavillion Hotel, located in Ayepe, in the Odogbolu area of the state.

This comes after several actors and actresses called for an investigation after guests of the hotel discovered at least five cameras hidden in ACs in different rooms.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said: “The owner of the hotel stays in Lagos and the Divisional Police Officer in Odogbolu has invited him. We are expecting him to come and state his reasons for doing so.”

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Basketmouth premiers episode 8 (Q&A) of comedy series, “Papa Benji”(Video)

Nigerian superstar comedian, and actor, Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basketmouth, has premiered episode 8 (Q & A) of his comedy web series “Papa Benji”

The comedy series follows the life of its eponymous character, (Papa Benji), an industrious Igbo man who took a loan to start his pepper soup joint, which attends to many other interesting characters that come into the joint.

The Zing Network production company, “Papa Benji” comedy features comic characters such as Nedu Wazobia, Broda Shaggi, Buchi, Senator, Ekwutousi, Maleki, Sound Sultan, Jemima Osunde, Romeo_WJ, OG Tega, Real Warri Pikin, and Basketmouth himself.

Basketmouth who has made name for himself in the entertainment industry had organized popular stand-up comedy concerts like Basketmouth Uncensored across the globe.

Enjoy the rib-cracking dialogue and exchanges of customers and staff at the famous Papa Benji pepper soup joint.

Watch the new episode below:

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BREAKING: FG extends deadline for NIN registration

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The Federal Government has extended the National Identity Number, NIN, registration deadline by 8 weeks

This was contained in a statement signed ​​​by Mr. Kayode Adegoke​​, Head, Corporate, ​Nigeria Identity Management Commission, NIMC and was seen by goldennationblog.com

“The ongoing National Identification Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) integration exercise has been extended by 8 weeks, with a new deadline of April 6, 2021,” the statement said.

More details later.

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What will happen if Nigerians fail to wear face masks – presidency threatens

The Presidency has warned Nigerians to obey all the COVID19 protocols which include wearing a face mask to avoid the government from imposing another lockdown.

The warning is contained in a statement signed and released by Garba Shehu, senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity. The presidency said it is worried by reports of non-compliance with the executive order signed by President Buhari on January 27 that mandates the use of face masks and social distancing. The law stipulates that any defaulter of the COVID19 protocols will be asked to pay a fine or sentenced to 6 months in jail or both.

According to the statement, President Muhammadu Buhari signed the executive order with the best of intentions and not with the motive of punishing citizens.

“The Presidency is worried by reports of non-compliance with just signed an executive order that makes mask-wearing and observation of social distancing in the public mandatory, appealing to Nigerians to give their maximum cooperation for the success of the policy,” the statement read.

President Muhammadu Buhari introduced the order with the best of intentions and not with any motive to punish citizens.

The Presidency appeals to state governments, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to play active roles in the sensitization and enforcement of the executive order.

The Buhari administration is most reluctant to lock down the country and continues to emphasize the non-pharmaceutical measures and the only way to avert lockdowns is to observe these measures as put in place by the Presidential Task Force.

Nigerians have come a long way from the dreaded lockdown and the administration is unhappy about any prospects of bringing it back as many citizens will not have food on the table without venturing out on a day-to-day business.

We have a duty to protect ourselves and others in this difficult global health crisis; no one has immunity against this pandemic. Ignoring health warnings and refusing to comply with safety measures does more harm than good” the statement read.

Garba noted that although there is a vaccine for the virus now, the fact that many people do not wear a face mask weakens the fight against the virus. He urged Nigerians to ignore baseless conspiracy theories that seek to deny the reality of the pandemic by complying with the order to wear masks.

”Though vaccine availability is within reach, the propensity of the public for noncompliance weakens the fight against the virus.

Nigerians must ignore baseless conspiracy theories that seek to deny the reality of the pandemic by complying with the order to wear masks.

We have a duty to protect ourselves and others in this difficult global health crisis; no one has immunity against this pandemic. Ignoring health warnings and refusing to comply with safety measures does more harm than good.

The COVID19 pandemic is a major threat to public health and wearing masks, social distancing in public places and basic hygiene are necessary measures that have to be taken to safeguard the well-being of our citizens.

Nigerians must always have it in mind that the COVID-19 pandemic is not only a threat to the health of the population but it is equally so to the national economy and every aspect of our everyday life.

Protecting public health is one of the sacred duties of any responsible government and the administration will not abdicate that responsibility.” the statement read

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IGP Adamu, Lamorde, others expected to retire from police today

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The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, and many other top officials of the Nigerian Police Force are billed to retire on Monday, after spending the maximum number of years in service

The IGP, who joined the service on February 1, 1986, will attain the mandatory 35 years in service.

Adamu took over from Ibrahim Idris who retired in January 2019.

Aside from the IGP, three Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and 10 Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) are also due to retire from the police.

The DIGs are former EFCC boss Ibrahim Lamorde, Aminchi Baraya, and Nkpa Inakwu.

The AIGs are Nkereuwem Akpan, Olafimihan Adeoye, Agunbiade Labore, Undie Adie, and Olugbenga Adeyanju.

Others are Asuquo Amba, Mohammad Mustapha, Jonah Jackson, Olushola Babajide, and Yunana Babas.

The amended Police Act, signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari recently, pegs the retirement age of police officers at 60 years of age or 35 years of service.

By precedence and practice, a replacement for the IGP ought to have been announced few days before his retirement.

However, sources in the police have said the IGP is expecting a tenure elongation, just like the immediate past military chiefs.

The immediate past heads of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) also got tenure extensions beyond their retirement ages.

President Muhammadu Buhari, in September 2020, assented to the Nigeria Police Bill, 2020, which was passed by the National Assembly.

Amongst others, the new Police Act stipulates that a person to be appointed IGP shall be a senior police officer not below the rank of an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG).

It also says such a person must have an academic qualification of not less than a first degree or its equivalent in addition to professional and managerial experience.

Part 111 Section 7 (6) of the Act prescribed four-year single tenure for a person appointed to the office of the IGP.

Some lawyers have argued that based on the subsection mentioned above, any senior police officer who has less than four years to retirement cannot become an IGP while others are of the opinion that the four years only count from the date of appointment.

The amended police act, however, did not explain elaborately on the eligibility.

Going by the amended Police Act which permits only the appointment of only officers on DIG and AIG cadres as IGP, the president would have to choose from the current DIGs and AIGs.

With the retirement of three DIGs and 10 AIGs, the race has now been limited to 33 eligible officers.

Out of the officers, five are DIGs while the remaining 28 are AIGs. If an AIG is appointed, all the other DIGs must go on compulsory retirement.

The eligible DIGs are Sanusi Lemu, Usman Baba, David Folayiwo, Joseph Egbunike, and Moses Jitoboh.

The AIGs are Garba Umar, Bello Sadiq, Illiyasu Ahmed, Dibal Yakadi, Zaki Ahmed, HH Karma, Baba Tijjani, Hafiz Inuwa, Lawal Ado, Austin Abonlahor, and Isaac Akinmoyede.

Others are Awuna Donald, Uba Kura, Johnson Kokumo, Zana Ibrahim, Murtala Usman, Maurice Abimbola, Bala Zama, Basen Dapiya, Haruna Mshelia, Aishatu Abubakar, Garba Umar, Aminu Pai, Gwandu Abubakar, Ajani Olasupo a, and Dasuki Galadanci.

The president is expected to pick one amongst the eligible senior officers to replace the outgoing IGP.

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Pastor Adeboye reveals when he will die, issues serious warning

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The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said he would live to 90 years before preparing for death.

Adeboye remarked while urging his followers not to celebrate his birthday now.

He said if Jesus Christ does not return soon, he would not die young.

Adeboye, who is currently 78-years-old, spoke while addressing his members at a special service at the church’s headquarters along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

The clergyman noted that it would be a lie to think that he would die soon.

He promised to hold an elaborate birthday ceremony at the age of 90 years before his death.

According to Adeboye: “I am not going to die young. Some people were laughing when they heard me say that don’t worry yourselves celebrating any birthday for me now. Wait till I am 90; then we will celebrate for a whole month.

“They think I am joking. Unless the Lord returns before then, at the age of 90, I am going to celebrate for a whole month.

“At the age of 90, after that celebration, then I can begin to get ready to go. But, that I am going to die soon, that’s a lie.”

Meanwhile, the RCCG G.O. had warned Nigerians against nudity on social

Adeboye warned that those displaying their nudity on social media were chasing away the Holy Spirit.

The clergyman made reference to Bible verses in backing up his caution.

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Gunmen assassinate man, pardons others in Delta (photos)

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A man identified as Emeke Ojere, at Ugbomro community in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, has been killed by gunmen suspected to be assassins.

It was gathered that the father of three, who hails from Oyoko-Abavo in Ika South Local Government Area of the state but resides in Warri, was shot dead in his car on Saturday, January 30.

One Mr. Egbehon who drove the G-LK Mercedes Benz car told newsmen that he was in the car with his “Oga” (the deceased) and another occupant when gunmen accosted them.

“We went to Ogbomro community to visit one of our townsmen but suddenly gunmen blocked us and asked us to lay down. Oga was shot before they left.” Egbehon said.

Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, who confirmed the incident to newsmen, said operatives are improving efforts to arrest the fleeing gunmen.

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Suspected female kidnapper arrested for alleged attempt to abduct 3 school children (photo)

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Operatives of the Ekiti State Police Command have arrested a suspected female kidnapper, Mrs. Kazeem Tawa.

She was arrested for allegedly attempting to abduct three school children in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

Sunday Abutu, the spokesperson of the command, who confirmed the incident on Friday, said the suspected woman attempted to kidnap the children by asking them to help carry her bag containing some items to an unknown destination.

Items recovered from the suspect include charm, soft drinks, oranges, drugs, adult/children slippers, fresh banana, Maggi, garri, clothes, INEC jackets, among others.

Abutu said the investigation was ongoing and the suspect would be charged to court once concluded.

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Jim Iyke reveals why he prefers Davido to Wizkid

Nollywood superstar, James Ikechukwu Esomugha, popularly known as Jim Iyke
has revealed his choice between two Nigerian leading Afro-pop stars — Wizkid and Davido.

He disclosed this recently in an interview with Net and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

The acclaimed Nollywood “Bad Boy” announced his respect for wizkid and Davido, but when pushed, he pitched his tent with Davido.

Revealing the reasons behind his choice, Jim Iyke said Davido has made a huge success of himself regardless of his background, which ordinarily should have made him lazy.

According to him: “It’s not easy to be a rich kid and still go on and work. I don’t think I will be this hardworking if my dad was a billionaire.”

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NUJ Delta mourns death of Benue State council chairman

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The Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has condoled with the NUJ Benue State Council over the painful and unexpected death of its Chairman, Comrade Victoria Asher.

This is contained in a statement issued by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, Chairman, and
Comrade Patrick Ochei,
Secretary,
Delta State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists.

The statement which was made available to goldennationblog.com described the death of Benue’s NUJ chairman as a rude shock.

The statement reads in parts :

“Please, kindly accept the condolences of Delta State Council, even as we pray that God grants the family and the Benue Council the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss of a dear Comrade in the struggle.

“We also use this medium to console the NUJ Zone D, the National Executive Council, and the National Working Committee over the death of their member, as we also pray that such unfortunate news will never be part of our history again.

“Please, kindly accept the assurances of Delta State Council in any regard that our input will be needed to give our dear colleague a befitting burial.

It was gathered that Comrade Asher died after an unsuccessful surgery.

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Confusion as music artiste, one other commits suicide in Delta

Two people including an upcoming music artiste based in Warri and a father of four children have allegedly committed suicide in Delta State.

The music artiste, Starboy Fizzy, allegedly committed suicide over a cleric’s revelation that he planned to use his mother for ritual purposes.

It was gathered that the incident occurred late on Wednesday on Atare Street, Alegbo area of Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

He reportedly drank a pesticide believed to be Sniper.

Fizzy was said to have taken his own life after he returned from a church vigil with his mother.

But a Facebook user, identified as itz mhiz pretty berry, who claims to be a sister of the deceased, however, denied the report that a pastor’s revelation led his brother to commit suicide.

She, however, did not state what led to his death or the manner in which he died.

Residents mostly kept silent when newsmen visited the area yesterday. Everyone contacted for information in the neighbourhood directed the reporter to someone else.

Some who managed to speak confirmed that the young man died, but they could not confirm that a pastor’s vision led to his death.

A resident who spoke to newsmen disclosed that Fizzy’s Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card was missing at the time he was discovered dead, adding that he was a very lively young man.

“One cannot say what really happened. If he committed suicide, there was no note or evidence that indicated so. If they had seen his SIM card, maybe it would have given a clue to what happened.

“He was a very calm boy. In fact, the family members are calm. We don’t just know what happened,” a resident said.

Efforts made to find out the name of the church were unsuccessful.

Some reports had claimed that the young man decided to end his life because a pastor in the church he attended told his mother that he saw a vision that his son, the deceased, would use her for money ritual.

The upcoming artiste allegedly got depressed by the gossips that made the rounds about the pastor’s revelation and chose to end it all.

Checks on YouTube revealed that the deceased had a music video titled “Fire,” with MBA records, and did a song titled ‘Fire and Oil Dey my Head’.

In a related development, a young man, simply identified as Mimi, has also committed suicide by hanging himself to a ceiling fan.

It was gathered that the incident happened last Saturday in his residence located on Uti Road in Effurun.

According to reports, the man, a father of four children, owed some unidentified persons an undisclosed amount of money and could not pay back.

A source said around 5 am that Saturday, the wife discovered that he had hung himself in their sitting room, using his belt.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Delta Police Command, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, said neither of the cases was reported at the Ebrumede Police
Division, which oversees the areas.

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Lawyer drags Governor to court over multi-million naira ‘gifts’ to judges

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state has explained why his administration consistently share
car gifts and other items to judicial officers, especially judges.

A statement released by Wike’s media, Kelvin Ebiri, on Friday, January 29 revealed that the clarification followed a lawsuit filed against the Rivers state government by a Port Harcourt lawyer.

Wike said in the statement that the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice told him one lawyer in Port Harcourt went to court against the State Government.

The lawyer said Rivers government had no business in building houses for judges or providing cars for them. “He said we have no business in building courts for federal institutions and that I have no right to even contribute to the structures in Nigeria law School.” In his reply to the lawsuit, Governor Wike explained that his reason was to help improve the administration of justice in the oil-rich south-south state.

Wike queried: “What will be our contribution to the administration of justice when the structures are dilapidated? That lawyer is saying that what we are doing is not budgeted for. Everybody parades as if they know the law even when they don’t know the law. “People who are ignorant about the budget will just wake up in the morning and tell you the governor has no right to donate money somewhere. They make all kinds of allegations without having the facts.”

In a video also shared on his personal Facebook page, the governor knocked those he described as misguided people who were spreading wrong information about his action.

“These misinformed lawyers politicise issues of justice administration and sometimes resort to legal battles without a clear understanding of the position of the law on such matters.”

Goldennationblog.com recently reported that Governor Wike told judges in Rivers state to shun acts of corruption.

He made the call on Monday, August 3, 2020, while presenting cars to judges in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital.

Wike also accused some judges of insubordination and negligence of duty.

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Primate Ayodele reveals those to replace IGP Adamu, says APC, PDP will break

The leader of INRI Evangelical spiritual church, Primate Elijah Ayodele has revealed what he described as God’s mind on the next Inspector-General of Police.

This is as the tenure of the incumbent IGP, Mohammed Adamu gradually comes to an end.

The senior pastor also spoke briefly about 2023 politics, revealing that he foresees that the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, will break and that a third force will arise.

There have been several talks on who takes over from IGP Adamu and Primate Ayodele has said that God has given him the names to be selected as the new police boss.

According to the prophet, the appointment will be among three people in the police force namely Dig Usman Alkali Baba, Fdc, AIG. Dasuki Galadanchi Mni and AIG. Moses Ambakina Jitoboh Mni.

In a statement made available to newsmen on Friday night, the cleric made it known that if Buhari appoints anyone of the three of them, the security situation of Nigeria will stabilize.

“The best candidate for the appointment of the new Inspector General Of Police after Mohammed Adamu is between Dig Usman Alkali Baba, Fdc., Aig. Dasuki Galadanchi Mni and Aig. Moses Ambakina Jitoboh, mni.

“The security network in Nigeria is troubled, in the next two months, things can go wrong if care is not taken, one of these people is the one thaa t can help stabilize the security situation of Nigeria. One of them will cause a change in the country’s security system,” he said.

In 2023, Ayodele added, “APC, PDP will eventually break, and a third force will arise.

“The leading parties are confused, the third force is coming, it will be a youth party.”

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Mercy Chinwo condemns ‘silhouette challenge’, gives serious advice to women (post)

Gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo has condemned the viral x-rated silhouette challenge.

In a post on Instagram seen by goldennationblog.com, the singer urged women not to follow every trend online, but instead carry themselves with dignity.

She also asked women to desist from imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around them and be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit as she quotes the bible (Romans 12:2 ).

The singer wrote: “Dear women, you don’t have to follow every trend. Carry yourself with dignity, know your worth.. this is why you are different. “

“Let your light so shine before men so that they may see your good works (Lifestyle, character) and glorify your Father in heaven.. #ISTANDAGAINSTSILHOUTTECHALLENGE.”

“Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes.
Romans 12:2. “

Read her post below:

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Davido, Mayorkun releases “The Best video”(Video)

Nigerian singers, David Adeleke popularly known as Davido, and his protégé, Mayorkun, have joined together to deliver “The Best video”.

The video is certainly one of the most anticipated visuals from his most recent album as the singer gave his best for the video.

Although Davido’s album has a plethora of A-list artists, both internationally and locally, the song, The Best, seems to be the best song on the album for most of his fans.

Shortly after the release of the album, the song made its way to various chart platforms and stayed on the number one spot for weeks.

It seems the visuals will also receive commercial success.

Like the comic book duo, Batman and Robin, the collaboration of Davido and Mayorkun have always resulted in a hit song and this is no different.

The video for The Best has a Japanese Samurai theme with a cameo appearance for the ace singer, Wande Coal, as his name was mentioned in the song several times.

Directed by Dammy Twitch, the visual of the song sees Mayorkun reading a scroll while on a quest. He stumbles on a damsel sitting pretty as she plays the saxophone. As he initiates a conversation with her, even though she is beaming with smiles and interested in talking with Mayorkun, her Shaolin guards accost him and beat him up.

The video, basically a Japanese action movie, in his quest to revenge for the beating he received, goes to Davido’s Shaolin temple, where Wande Coal is one of the teachers.

He makes gestures, apparently explaining his plight to his new master – Davido – who immediately begins tutoring Mayorkun on how to fight and become a fierce warrior.

This part of the video where he teaches Mayorkun how to fight syncs with Mayorkun’s part of the chorus in the song which says, “I learned from the best o, the best; David o, forget o. Mo bad. Forget now.”

After his intensive training, he returns to restore his honor in a fight in the presence of the damsel. He wins the fight and his proud master, Davido, hands him a samurai sword as a gift.

The video pays attention to details as the costumes are a replica of the Japanese attire.

The huts and Shaolin fighters had a close semblance with the Japanese culture.

Also, the concept of the video aligns with the theme of the song which is that Davido is the best and he learned the craft by himself, while Mayorkun learned from the best, Davido.

The video, which was released some hours ago, has garnered over 700,000 views.

Watch the video below:

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One killed, others injured as APC lawmaker attack suspected armed robbers

In what many people will describe as a Nollywood type of story, a suspected armed robber has lost his life at the hands of a Nigerian lawmaker, Abdullahi Salame.

The member of the House of Representatives who is a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), disclosed that he shot dead a suspected armed robber when he came to attack his residence in Sokoto with his gang members. The lawmaker who represents Gwadabawa and Illela Federal Constituency said he was attacked by the suspected robbers at his Bado residence in Sokoto metropolis,

He said: “All thanks be to Almighty Allah, today at about 3 a.m. I was attacked in my House in Sokoto by Armed Robbers but by Allah’s powers, I was able to shoot and killed one and injured some. I am grateful.”

Meanwhile, the police in the state confirmed the news through the state’s spokesperson Muhammad Sadiq.

In another development, goldennationblog.com gathered that in a sign of total disrespect to the Nigerian authority some people have engaged in a physical fight at the House of Representatives during a public hearing at Room 028.

The fighters are believed to be members of the oil host communities who had come to make presentations on the bill.

Also, following calls by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the sacking of former speaker of House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the lawmaker is yet to join its fold.

The APC denied claims by the PDP that Dogara has defected to the party. It was gathered that the ex-speaker, who was elected to the House of Representatives at the last general election on the platform of the PDP, reportedly defected to the APC last year.

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Unical student dies in her sleep before wedding (photos)

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A 21-year-old student of the University of Calabar has died in her sleep.

Ruth Ogar, a 300 Level student of Accounting, was set to get married.

In a post seen by goldennationblog.com her fiance, Amber James Asuk took to Facebook to mourn her after her death.

He wrote: “Ruth Ogar I am short of words. I don’t even know where to begin. You were not supposed to be the one to die. I am the older one and you were just barely 21. We have already made plans for your 22nd birthday. everything just happened so fast. I don’t even know what to blame. I am deeply sorry you had to go so soon. it hurts me deeply. I love you with all my heart. we were about to get married and I only came to see your parents. then suddenly the cold hands of death took you.
I know there’s nothing I can say or do that will compensate for your loss but I swear with my life to honour your memory till the day I die. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH.”

Ruth was to turn 22 on Feb 3. Unfortunately, she died in her sleep.

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Buhari tells National Assembly to confirm Service Chiefs in office

President Muhammadu Buhari has communicated the appointment of the Service Chiefs to the National Assembly for confirmation.

His aide on National Matters (Senate), Babajide Omoworare, made this known in a statement on Friday.

The former Senator said
the letter addressed to the President of the Senate, was dated January 27.

Nigerians are accusing Buhari of bypassing the legislature in the appointment of the Service Chiefs.

But Omoworare explained that the President did not disregard the federal lawmakers.

He insisted that Buhari sought the endorsement of Maj- Gen. Lucky Irabor, Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, Rear Admr Awwal Gambo, and AVM Isiaka Amao as Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and Chief of Air Staff respectively.

“It is on record that this same procedure was adopted when the immediate past service chiefs were appointed,” the SA added.

“But the reverse should be the case. The National Assembly should have first grilled the Service Chiefs before assuming office.

In the last 24 hours, the military heads have taken their seats at their respective headquarters.

Last Friday, the United States Senate confirmed President Joe Biden’s Defense Secretary nominee, retired Gen. Lloyd Austin, before he resumed.

Three days earlier, the Senate Committee on Armed Forces interviewed the new Pentagon chief

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Covid-19 Second Wave: Delta govt imposes fresh curfew

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Delta Government has imposed a fresh curfew in the state taking immediate effect as part of measures to check the resurgence of the ravaging pandemic.

Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, in a statement, said the curfew was from 10 p.m. – 4 a.m. daily, calling on residents of the state to comply with the restriction in the interest of public health. He said security agencies had been directed to fully enforce the directives

He said: “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public, particularly Deltans and residents in the State, that as a result of the rising incidence of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic currently being experienced in the country, the Delta State Government will commence the enforcement of the nationwide COVID-19 curfew imposed by the Federal Government from 10 p.m – 4 a.m daily with effect from Friday, 29th January 2021.

“In view of this, the State Government wishes to reiterate that the guidelines earlier issued on the closure of night clubs across the state still subsists and should be complied with.
“In the same vein, the government wishes to restate the standard COVID-19 protocols for the guidance of all and these include:

“Wearing of face masks in public places; avoiding crowded places; physical distancing; regular handwashing with soap and water or use of alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

“Deltans, residents and owners/operators of public places and establishments are strongly advised to comply with these directives as there shall be strict enforcement by security agencies in line with the Federal Government Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health Protection Regulations 2021 signed into effect by the President Muhammadu Buhari on 26th January 2021.”

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Sorrow as Governor Okowa loses father

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Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, lost his father on Thursday.

Sir Arthur Okorie Okowa was born in 1932.

Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege sent condolences through his spokesman, Yomi Odunuga.

He noted that the deceased meant a lot to the people of Owa-Alero in Ika North East Local Government Area.

The late senior Okowa was popularly called ‘AOU’.

Omo-Agege consoled the governor, the family, and the people of Owa-Alero.

“May God Almighty grant his soul eternal rest and grant all whom he left behind, fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

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Anambra-based Prophet, Onyeze Jesus arrested for alleged criminal conducts

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The Anambra State Police Command has reportedly arrested controversial prophet, Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as Onyeze Jesus, the founder of Children of Light Anointing Ministries located at Nkpor, Idemili North local government area of the state.

This is coming days after the Anambra State Government condemned the ‘criminal and indecent’ conduct of the prophet after a viral video showed him and his followers in a river, where they bathed naked while he sprayed them with N50 notes.

A source who pleaded anonymity said the prophet was reportedly arrested on Wednesday, January 27.

“Onyeze Jesus is in police custody. He was arrested on Wednesday, 27th January 2021, and will likely be arraigned for various offences on Thursday, 28th January 2021.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, Haruna Mohammed, confirmed the arrest but declined to give further comment.

The Anambra State Government through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Don Adinuba, said that Onyeze Jesus promotes superstitions and strife by telling his gullible followers that their misfortunes are caused by family members, relatives, and business associates.

The statement also condemned the destruction of the naira notes by the pastor, an action which contravenes the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN Act of 2007.

Following condemnation and backlash over the viral video, the prophet apologised to Nigerians and the Anambra State for abusing Naira notes and sharing nude videos of people online.

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Defaulters risk jail as Buhari signs COVID-19 regulations

President Muhammadu Buhari has signed Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health Protection Regulations 2021 as part of efforts to improve the COVID-19 response in the country.

The introduction of the Regulations is a welcome development, according to Nigerian Medical Association and other stakeholders in the health sector.

In a statement seen by goldnnationblog.com, Buhari said the regulations, which would take immediate effect, were given urgent consideration to safeguard the health and ensure the well-being of Nigerians, especially in the face of rising COVID-19 cases in the country.

The guidelines state that any person that contravened provisions of the regulations commits, upon conviction, risking a fine or a term of six months imprisonment or both in accordance with Section 5 of the Quarantine Act.

The President directed the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, and other relevant local government, state, and Federal governments’ agencies to enforce the regulations, warning that any officer that failed, neglected, or refused to enforce the provisions of the regulations would be subjected to disciplinary actions.

“Any person who, without reasonable cause, contravenes a direction given under Parts 1 and 2 of these regulations commits an offence. Any person who, without reasonable cause, obstructs an authorised official from enforcement of these regulations commits an offence,” the document states.

According to the regulations, persons confirmed positive for COVID-19 by an NCDC accredited laboratory, may not refuse isolation and or admission to a designated health establishment for management of the disease.

The regulations also state that physical distance of no less two metres shall be maintained at all gatherings between persons and no gathering of more than 50 persons shall hold in an enclosed space, except for religious purposes, in which case the gathering shall not exceed 50 per cent capacity of the space.

It also stipulates that all persons in public gatherings, whether in enclosed or open spaces, shall adhere to the provisions of the regulations, which may be varied by guidelines and protocols as may be issued, from time to time, by the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 on the recommendation of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

Others are that no person should be allowed within the premises of a market, mall, supermarket, shop, restaurants, hotels, event centres, gardens, leisure parks, recreation centres, motor parks, fitness centres, or any other similar establishment (hereinafter collectively referred to as “establishments”) except he wears a face covering that covers the nose and mouth, washes his hands or clean the hands, using hand sanitiser approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and his body temperature checked.

It reads, “Any person found to have a body temperature above 38 degrees Celsius shall be denied entry and advised to immediately seek medical attention. Every establishment occupier shall make provision for regular hand hygiene for any person coming into the premises during opening hours. This includes a hand-washing station with soap and running water or hand sanitiser approved by NAFDAC.

Regarding places of worship, the regulation states that all worshippers and users of places of worship shall comply with the provisions of Parts 1 and 2 of the Regulations and should, where and whenever possible, avoid sharing worship items such as mats, bottles, and hymnal materials, among others.

“It is the responsibility of the person in charge of a place of worship to ensure compliance with the provisions of these Regulations within the worship centre,” the Regulations states.

In workplaces and schools, all persons are also required to comply with the provisions of Parts 1 and 2 of the Regulations.

The Regulations add that it is the responsibility of the person in charge of a workplace or a school to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Regulations.

On banks, it stipulates: “All employees, customers, and visitors of banks shall comply with the provisions of Parts 1 and 2 of the Regulations. All banks shall comply with the guidelines, mode, and scope of operations issued by the Central Bank and Federal Ministry of Finance as it relates to the COVID-19 response. All banks shall develop a schedule for regular cleaning of buttons and surfaces of Mantrap Entrance Doors, ATMs, and other commonly used areas.”

All operators and passengers of public transportation vehicles (referred to as operators), shall comply with the provisions of Part 2 of these Regulations and ensure adequate spacing in between passengers.

Managers of hostels, boarding houses, nursing homes, correctional centres, remand homes, holding cells, military detention facilities, and other similar centres are required to ensure compliance with the provisions of the regulations.

It asked managers of such facilities to ensure that suspected cases of COVID-19 are promptly and appropriately separated from others and are reported to medical officers of the state ministry of health for necessary action.

It asks state governors to issue regulations on further steps as may be considered necessary.

Nigerian Medical Association’s (NMA) President, Prof. Innocent Ujah, told newsmen that the President took a necessary step towards checking the spread of COVID-19.

“We thank Mr. President for this Law on COVID-19 and compliance with the NCDC Protocol. Enforcement of the provision of the Law will be tested for compliance.”

Similarly, the President, African Fertility Society (AFS), Joint Pioneer IVF in Nigeria, and Medical Director of Medical Art Centre (MART), Lagos, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru, described the Regulations as a welcome development.

He said it would ensure the proper use of face masks and social distancing and reduce infection transmission.

“It should give a downward slope to several infected cases and death.
It would have been nice if the government added the recommendation of immune boosters and other preventive prophylaxis such as Vit D, Zinc, and Ivermectin.

“Furthermore, there is a need to plead with pharmaceutical shops not to overprice such preventive drugs and masks. If possible, such drugs should be made available in all local government primary health care clinics, doctors clinics, and hospitals.”

A public health physician, member of Lagos State COVID-19 team, and former Chief Medical Director, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Akin Osibogun, said: “This is a step in the right direction.”

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Ikorodu traditionalists must stop fortifying cultists – Lagos Commissioner of Police warns

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Traditionalists in the Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos state have been warned to stop fortifying cultists and criminals in the area.

The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Hakeem Odumosu, Wednesday, January 27, gave the warning while speaking at the 2021 Ikorodu Town Hall Meeting on Security held in the community.

He said community leaders must also contribute their quota in ensuring the safety of all and sundry in their environment by exposing all criminal elements.

“The Local Government Councils in Ikorodu must occupy the front line in combating crimes in the area. Their constitutional responsibilities cannot be jettisoned in the fight against cultism and crimes in general.

“The traditional institution in the division must be up and doing in condemning the activities of the bad boys (cultists), instead of supporting and celebrating them and their criminal acts.

The members of the public, especially landlords must key into this fight against insecurity in Ikorodu by screening those to be accommodated or their houses.

“The traditionalists and traditional worshippers in this area must stop promoting and protecting the criminals in Ikorodu axis and Lagos State in general. The ideas of fortifying the bad boys and providing native charms for them are counterproductive to our security architecture in this area. Their powers must be used to assist us not to jeopardise our efforts.

“The religious bodies must use all their platforms, links an,d ideological perspectives to promote peace and security in the state and Nigeria at large. The idea of preaching prosperity at the detriment of salvation is counterproductive to the security of lives and properties in our contemporary society.” The police chief said

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Buhari meets new service chiefs in Aso Villa (photos)

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday met with the newly appointed service chiefs in Aso Villa, Abuja.

The President had on Tuesday, appointed four new service chiefs after much pressure from Nigerians that he brings in fresh hands to pilot the country’s anti-terrorism war especially against Boko Haram in the North-East.

The new service chiefs are Major-General Leo Irabor as Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General Ibrahim Attahiru as Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral A.Z Gambo as Chief of Naval Staff; and Air-Vice Marshal I.O Amao as Chief of Air Staff.

Also in attendance at the meeting on Wednesday include the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Femi Adesina; as well as the Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari, amongst others.

Although details of the meeting were unknown as of the time of filing this report, it might, however, not be unconnected to the nation’s anti-terrorism war in the North-East.

The failure of the immediate-past service chiefs to conquer the insurgents had ignited the clamour for their removal.

For over 10 years, the Boko Haram terror group had killed hundreds of Nigerians in the North-East. The sect had also burnt down and bombed scores of villages as well as churches. The Nigerian Army and the Presidency had at several times claimed the group had been ‘technically defeated’ and ‘weakened’ but the Abubakar Shekau’s bloodthirsty faction continues to strike with daring effrontery and crude savagery.

Prominent Nollywood actor Ernest Asuzu reported dead

Popular Nollywood actor Ernest Asuzu is dead. It was gathered that he slumped and died on Tuesday night.

The president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, confirmed his death.

“Yes, Ernest Asuzu is dead. I am trying to reach his wife to get the full details. I will get back to you.” Rollas said.

Asuzu began his acting career in the ’90s and rose to prominence after he starred in the 1997 Nollywood classic, ‘Rituals’.

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Pastor Giwa frowns at new service chiefs, says “nothing will change”

Following the resignation of former service chiefs, the senior pastor of Awaiting The Second Coming Of Christ Ministry, Adewale Giwa says Nigeria is left with a decision between two evils.

The cleric particularly described the newly appointed Chief Of Army Staff, Maj Gen. Attahiru, and his predecessor, Tukur Yusuf Buratai as lesser evils.

In a statement which was made available to newsmen on Tuesday, evening, the Pastor said the change in military leadership was long overdue, adding that,
“The appointment of the service chiefs is like pouring the same old wines in brand new bottles.

“You should be ashamed of yourself commending someone who couldn’t listen to Nigerians in changing his failed service chiefs for five years.

“Within the five years, Nigeria’s security architecture has gone from bad to worse. Specifically, on the newly appointed Chief Of Army Staff, the choice is between the two evils.

“The new evil is better than the old one, nothing will change. It’s very easy to fool Nigerians. Do you think they would give us competent hands that can crush Boko Haram in a minute?

“There are young vibrant soldiers who can handle Nigeria’s security effectively, but they can’t allow them to smell the positions.”

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Gani Adams claims he was targeted for arrest with Sunday Ighoho

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Gani Adams, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland has claimed that security operatives
who burnt Sunday Igboho’s house was also after his life for political reasons.

He disclosed on Tuesday while speaking on AriseTV’s, morning programme which was seen by goldennationblog.com

“It was not only Sunday Igboho that security operatives targeted for arrest, but I was also the number one person for arrest, I was targeted for some political reasons.”

The Yoruba leader noted that some politicians have infiltrated the struggle despite the genuine concerns by Sunday Igboho to fight for his people.

“The same people who attacked and condemned us in 2015 using social media are now coming to portray themselves as activists to use Sunday Igboho.

“Now, we woke up to hear his (Sunday) house got burnt. Who are the people that went to burn Sunday Igboho’s house and not in the forest?

“The issue with Sunday Igboho’s braveness now is that he has been used to destroy some political enemies.”

When asked if he and Sunday Igboho have spoken in connection with the plight of Yorubas on criminal herdsmen, he said: “I have only met Sunday Igboho once and that was at a function. The other times we spoke were on phone.

“I started this struggle when I was 23 years, OPC was not even formed then, I risked everything for Yorubaland. I didn’t surrender … how can Sunday Igboho use his bravery of one day to destroy somebody who has been in the struggle for 28 years?

“Yoruba always destroy their warriors in the end. You know what happened to Abiola now even as the 14th Aare of Yoruba land.

Goldennationblog.com had reported that the youth leader, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, on Tuesday, shared that his house in the Soka area of Ibadan, was burnt by unknown men.

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Okowa request Delta Assembly to upgrade 3 higher institutions to University levels

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has requested the upgrade of three higher institutions to the university level.

This is contained in a request sent to the speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and was read on the floor of the house, during Tuesday’s plenary.

According to the statement which was seen by goldennationblog.com, the institutions to be upgraded to university level include:
Delta State College Of Education, Agbor, to Delta State University of Education, Agbor, Delta State University Anwai campus, to Delta State University of Science and Agriculture, Anwai- Asaba, and Delta State Polytechnic Ozoro to Delta State University Of Science and Technology Ozoro.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had recently reported that Governor Okowa will on February 2, inaugurate some completed roads and schools in Warri and Effurun, both in Delta State.

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BREAKING: Buhari sacks service chiefs, appoints new hands

President Muhammadu Buhari has finally sacked the service chiefs with immediate effect.

Femi Adesina, the special adviser on media and publicity to the President, made this known in a tweet on Tuesday, which was seen by goldennationblog.com.

Adesina wrote, “PMB appoints new Service Chiefs. Maj Gen LEO Irabor, CDS, Maj Gen I Attahiru, Army, Rear Adm AZ Gambo, Navy, AVM IO Alao, Air Force.

“He congratulates outgoing Service Chiefs on efforts to bring enduring peace to the country.”

Buhari also appointed new hands to take over the batons of piloting the security affairs of the country.

More to follow later

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Why men should respect women for becoming housewives – Mary Njoku

Nollywood actress ,and entrepreneur, Mary Remmy Njoku has shared her opinions on women becoming housewives for men they marry.

She disclosed this in an Instagram post she shared and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

The actress stated that women who give up their childhood dreams to build a home so their man can focus on their dreams, deserve commendations.

According to Mary, women who end up being housewives sacrificed everything for that. She described it as the most difficult thing to do because “‘it is easier to go out and make money than to be a full-time housewife”.

She wrote;

Dear husbands, Being a mum is just one of the dreams a girl has. And if she ends up a housewife, she has sacrificed EVERYTHING for you.
And it is the most difficult job.
It’s easier to go out and make money than to be a full-time housewife. Trust me, I have done both.

Respect your housewife. E no easy to give up everything.

Good morning.

respectyourwife.

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IGP Adamu says EndSARS protesters want to join police

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The Inspector-General of Police, Adamu Mohammed, has said that the youths who participated in the #EndSARS protest want to join the Nigeria Police Force.

The #EndSARS protest which occurred in October 2020 saw youths take to the streets across the country to demand an end to police brutality and bad governance.

Mohammed who spoke on Channels Television’s Newsnight on Monday said the same youths have shown interest in joining the Force.

He said, “The youths who participated in the #EndSARS and the rest of them, many of them want to join the police.

“Many of them will come and say, ‘Please, we want to join the police,’ because the service the police provide is a service of God.”

The IGP, however, pointed out that officers in the Force don’t have the required logistics needed to operate.

He said if they are given the same logistics as their foreign counterparts, they will perform better.

“If you put Nigerian police officers side by side with even police officers from advanced countries, give them the same logistics, you will see Nigeria police officers performing better than those that are coming from the so-called advanced countries,” he said.

“It is only in Nigeria that you have police officers that don’t have the required logistics that they need to operate, they struggle and make the society peaceful.

“When you take them out of the country to an international environment where those logistics that are required for you to do policing job are there, you will see them performing wonderfully well. That is why Nigerian police officers are claimed to be the best in the world.”

On hospitals requesting police reports before they attend to victims of gunshot wounds, Mohammed advised them to save lives first before any other thought.

“Save life first… lives must be saved first before thinking of any other thing to do… there is no issue of asking for any police report before you treat anybody with gunshot wounds,” he said.

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Suspected arsonists blamed for fire at my Ibadan residence – Sunday Igboho

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A youth leader, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho has reacted to the fire that destroyed parts of his house in Ibadan.

The house located in the Soka area of Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, was said to have suddenly gone up in flames between 2am and 3 am on Tuesday, January 26.

Igboho in a tweet confirmed that his property was indeed razed down. The activist who shared pictures of the damaged building blamed suspected arsonists for the incident. He said: My house at Soka Ibadan razed down by suspected arsonists.”

https://twitter.com/SundayIgbohoo/status/1353961448502947840?s=19

However, at press time, goldennationblog.com learned that neither the fire service nor the police had made any statement about the cause of the fire.

Igboho has been in the news recently after he issued an eviction notice to herdsmen in the Ibarapa area of Oyo State.

The ACF has stated that this may breed serious ethnic clashes and could even deteriorate into another civil war if something drastic is not done immediately. In a statement signed on Saturday, January 23, by its national publicity secretary, Emmanuel Yawe, the group called on state governors and the federal government to put an end to the incessant attacks on herders.

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Joyful moment as BBNaija’s Laycon meets Don Jazzy for first time (Video)

Big Brother Naija star prize winner in the 2020 edition, Olamilekan Moshood Agbeleshe popularly known as Laycon has melt hearts with his recent first meet-up with Don Jazzy.

The 27-year-old had visited the Mavin Records studio for the first time on Saturday, January 22, 2021.

In the emotion-filled video shared on Instagram by the seasoned producer Don Jazzy, the reality TV Star appeared to be overjoyed as he struggled to stand properly while he passed the doorway – he seemed to have made staggering steps of some sort.

Upon sighting Jazzy, Laycon attempted to prostrate, a typical culture with the Yoruba tribe as a way of showing respect, but was held up by the star-maker who described him as a big man. The amused producer reacted saying, “See this big man oh, abeg oh, come on get up”, and then followed it up with a warm embrace.
The video which has since gone viral has got fans and viewers emotional while the purpose of the visit remains unknown.

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How ‘I ended up marrying my biological daughter with two kids’- Nigerian Man

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A Nigerian man has narrated how he ended up marrying his biological daughter and
having two kids with her.

The man who called in during Gbenga Oyato’s radio show last week recounted how he lost contact with a lady he was dating in 1996. The Nigerian man who later relocated to the United States said he married a lady he met there for papers but fell in love with her and they ended up having two kids together.

However upon getting to Nigeria for a visit in 2020, his wife decided to take him to her mother. The caller disclosed that he realized the neighborhood looked familiar and he got shocked when they arrived at his father’s house.

The man disclosed that he found out that his father was now married to his former girlfriend who he lost contact with and they now have a child together. He also revealed that she never informed him that she was pregnant with his child (which is the lady he gathered to in the United States) after they went their separate ways.

He concluded the complicated story by saying only he and his wife’s mother know about the true situation of things.

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Ex-minister, Dalung hits APC, says party has failed Nigerians

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Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, has revealed that the All Progressives Congress, APC, has failed Nigerians.

He disclosed this on Sunday, 24 January 2021 in an interview with the Hausa section of the British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC.

Dalung said the government had not fulfilled its promises to Nigerians.

He said despite being a member of the APC, it was his responsibility to speak out if things were not right.

Lamenting the high rate of insecurity in the north, the former minister said the situation was such that people fast and pray for days before embarking on a journey.

According to him, farmers had to pay gunmen before going to the farm and nobody has ever experienced this kind of situation.

Dalung said: “In the north, if you are a Muslim and you want to travel, you must pray, fast for days before embarking on the journey. If you are a Christian and you want to travel, you must fast and pray for days before you travel.

“Even if the journey is successful, you will still go to the hospital because of high blood pressure arising from fear during the journey. We have never experienced this kind of situation. Imagine in the north, before you go to your farm, you will have to pay gunmen to allow you to farm. If you want to harvest your farm produce, you will still have to pay gunmen before they allow you to harvest.

“So how can there be farming in the north? We have never experienced this kind of situation. It is our APC government, but this government has not addressed the needs of Nigerians.

‘’It is our government, but if we are not doing the correct thing, it is our responsibility to speak out because we spoke against some people in the past and we need to speak to ourselves too.”

He said the failure of the APC government was so glaring that “everybody knows.”

Dalung said he was not afraid to speak out, insisting that even if he was the president, he will still speak, if things were not going well.

He said: “You know me and everybody in Nigeria knows me. Whether I am still a minister, even if I am the president, whatever I see that is not right, I must speak out, not because of myself, but in the interest of the generality of the people.

“If for example, Solomon Dalung collapses and dies today, without speaking out against what is happening today, don’t you think God will question me for abusing Jonathan and not speaking out on our failure? That is what I am afraid of, not anybody.

“Our party, the APC, is like a dying party because, as I am talking to you right now, they have dissolved the party completely, it has no members, even the President is not a member.

“The caretaker committees are the members of the party, the party has no members because membership of everybody has been dissolved. So, right now, we are not members of APC until they bring membership cards for us to join the party, like army recruitment.”

“So right now, even the President is not a member of the APC until he appears before this committee.”

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Naira Marley reacts as Amotekun arrest school kids branded “marlians” (photo)

Nigerian singer, Azeez Adeshina Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has reacted to the viral video of some school children being arrested by Amotekun operatives.

According to reports, the students were arrested for modelling themselves as ‘Marlians’.

In the video which has gone viral on social media, a lady who is supposedly a teacher in the school described the boys as criminals.

The teacher tagged the leader of the group as ‘Naira Marley, and a bad influence on the other children.

She stated that they were a bush but failed to state their wrong acts.

The video caught the attention of Naira Marley who strongly condemned the arrest of the students, describing it as ‘Child Abuse’.

He wrote; “Guys look what’s happening in stupid Nigeria.How can you arrest school kids? This is child abuse. The teachers and these stupid uncles with guns need to get arrested.”

The ‘Malian’ leader demanded the address of the school as he expressed his desire to meet the students.

“I want to meet all these kids, I owe them, please help me with the name of the school or link me up with any of my Marlian Kids. I want to see the witch behind the camera self. What is amotekun self? If they treat your child like this, what would you do? Did you see the slap? You calling someone child criminal? Omoo I’m so angry. Give me the school name, please. I need to go there.”

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Confession: Pastor Adeboye reveals what happened in RCCG 40 years ago

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Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian of God (RCCG), is a definition of grace that has sustained him for 78 years as a human and 40 years as a General Overseer.

As the respected cleric celebrated his 40th anniversary as head of one of the biggest churches in the world on Thursday, January 21, he recalled some old memories.

In a video interview, Adeboye admitted that when he was told he would become the General Overseer by the late Founder of RCCG, Reverend (Pa) Josiah Akindayomi, he said ‘God forbid’.

He explained: “I preferred the quiet life and I still prefer the quiet life. The quiet life, as far as I am concerned, is the sweetest and I knew then that becoming the general overseer will expose me a lot.

“If you like a quiet life, you don’t want to head an international organisation and my father in the Lord told me clearly that I would travel all over the world.

“I told him I was willing to serve as a pastor under a General Overseer and I will do my best, but apparently what is written is written. So here we are.”

According to him, the first years as a young GO were full of challenges from senior pastors who were there before he became born again and probably saw me as an upstart.

“The church was started in 1953, I joined the church in 1973. Many of these pastors were my teachers, workers in training and baptismal classes.

“So just coming from nowhere and being catapulted above them all; one could understand that it was not too pleasant. Initially, the cooperation was not too robust.

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Police arrest woman for allegedly killing children’s father with shoe heel in Delta (Photo)

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a woman who reportedly killed the father of her two children with the heel of her shoe over alleged infidelity.

The incident happened on Saturday afternoon, January 23, in Ugbuwangwe community, Warri South Local Government Area of the state.

It was gathered that the suspect allegedly used the heel of her shoe to hit the deceased identified as Sylvester Etsebaghranro after accusing him of infidelity. He slumped and died on the spot but she has since denied the allegation.

Spokesperson of the command, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, who confirmed the incident told newsmen that the suspect has been arrested.

“We arrested her to keep her in protective custody. And so that we can find her whenever she is needed. The lady has made some confessions to the Police about the incident. But nobody from the family or around has come to report the matter. So we are going on with the statement of the woman that she didn’t use her shoe on him till we get anything different. The investigation is on.” she added.

Onovwakpoyeya said the remains of the deceased had been deposited in a morgue.

It cannot be confirmed if the deceased was legally or traditionally married to the suspect, however, community sources said the couple, had been living together with their two children.

“I don’t know if they had fulfilled all marriage rites but they have children and have been living together. The wife as we call her used the heel of her shoe to hit the husband’s head from the back and he slumped and died. She accused him of extramarital affairs. His corpse is in the mortuary now as we speak. And the wife has been arrested.” The source said.

Meanwhile, a Facebook user has taken to the platform to mourn the deceased while pointing out the risk of staying with a violent partner.

Read the post below.

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NIN: What applicants must do before deadline – FG reveals

The federal government has commended network subscribers who have successfully linked their Subscribers Identification Module (SIM) with the National Identification Numbers (NIN) for their painstaking efforts and commitment.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has asked the subscribers who have linked their SIM to dial *346# to retrieve their NIN from the mobile numbers they enrolled with. The NIMC said via its Twitter page, @nimc_ng, that the SIM can be linked to different telecommunication operators using these codes: MTN: *785#; Airtel: 1211#; Glo: 109NIN#; 9Moble: 2008#.

The commission also urged the subscribers to dial *346# using the mobile number they registered with or visit any of the NIN enrollment centers with their tracking ID to print their NIN slip.

NIMC said: “Good afternoon. Kindly dial *346# using the mobile number you registered with or visit any of our NIN enrollment centers with your tracking ID to print your NIN slip. Thank you.”

The government agency, however, warned that the enrolment is free, adding that the NIMC management frowns at all forms of extortion of the applicants.

It stated: “Good morning. Enrolment is FREE. The NIMC management frowns at all forms of Extortion. Kindly Report extortion via actu@nimc.gov.ng or call 08158691214, 08157691071. Thank you.” Some applicants have, however, expressed disappointment over the conduct of some staff of NIMC in many states.

A NIN applicant, @ChidiAOpara, said that the NIMC office in Port Harcourt does not attend to people, alleging that they have agents who collect N50 for forms and N5,000 for registration. He further stressed that the woman in charge at the Port Harcourt office of the NIMC does not care about the people.

He tweeted: “NIMC office in Port Harcourt does not attend to people, they have agents who collect fifty naira for forms and five thousand naira for registration. The woman in charge does not care.”

Meanwhile, it was previously reported that the deadline to link NIN to SIM card was pushed to February 9, but this does not mean that subscribers should wait until the last minute to complete the process. It was reported that there are helpful guides that will show the applicants all the necessary steps you need to follow to link your NIN to your SIM card.

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BBNaija’s Ike reveals why relationship with Mercy Eke crashed

Big Brother Naija, 2019 reality star, Ike Onyema has revealed why his relationship with Mercy Eke crashed.

Recall that Ike and Mercy, BBNaija 2019 winner started a romantic relationship on the reality show.

The relationship became stronger up until sometime in the latter part of 2020.

There were rumors that the lovebirds broke up after the couple engaged in an argument.

However, Ike, finally confirming their break up, took to Twitter revealing why the relationship did not last.

He wrote: “I am single because I showed more love in 2020 than I ever got back and I’m alright with that.”

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BREAKING: Buhari cancels contract initiated under Jonathan

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President Muhammadu Buhari has canceled the Secure Anchorage Area (SAA) contract which is an arrangement established by the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

According to the terms of the contract, vessels berthing in Nigeria pay money to a private company for security inside a ‘Secure Anchorage Area’ within the Nigerian ports.

A source from the presidency confirmed, that the contract handled by Ocean Marine Solutions Limited (OMSL) has been terminated.

The ownership of the company had also become a subject of controversy between two business moguls in the last few weeks.

The president was said to have caved under pressure to cancel the contract in the face of the public spat by the two businessmen. The source said: “The president has directed the Navy to cancel the contract and return the security of the ports to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).”

It was gathered that a civil society group on the platform of Conduct and Due Process Group had raised an alarm alleging that the peace enjoyed by oil-producing areas may soon come to an abrupt end if the conflict between the two businessmen is not settled.

According to a statement signed and was seen by goldennationblog.com, the chairman, Conduct, and Due Process Group Comrade Adediran Raymond, the group said it has been observing a situation that could quickly result in a conflict that would send the Niger Delta region into the dark ages.

The groups, Nigeria Young Professionals Forum (NYPF), the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC), and other civil society organizations made the demands during a press briefing in Abuja.

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Governor Okowa to inaugurate roads, schools in Delta

Delta State Government has said it would on Feb. 2, 2021, inaugurate completed road and school projects in Warri and Effurun.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye, shortly after inspecting the projects in the company of his Basic and Secondary Education counterpart, Mr. Patrick Ukah.

The projects will be inaugurated in continuation of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s statewide projects.

Two roads and schools in Warri South and Uvwie Local Government Areas both in Delta state will also be launched.

According to Augoye, the roads for the inauguration are; double-carriage Ubeji road, Access road from NPA Expressway to Warri Refinery while the schools are Army Day Secondary School, Effurun, and Ighogbadu Secondary School, Warri.

The commissioner said that Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa would inaugurate the projects at the invitation of Okowa, adding that the 4.5-kilometer Ubeji road was constructed by Ark Marine Engineering Limited.

“It is fully completed though with minor maintenance which the contractor will carry out from Monday next week because we intend to inaugurate that road on Feb. 2.

“His Excellency is inviting the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, to inaugurate the Ubeji road and the access road from NPA to Warri Refinery, which is also completed and awaiting road markings which will commence tomorrow and will be completed within three days.

“It’s a very good job they did for us and we are very happy about it.

“Governor Okowa believes that Deltans should benefit from his administration despite the challenges that go with the COVID-19 pandemic,’’ he said.

Augoye said that the projects were economically viable, adding that the first one was a link to Warri Refinery and Petrochemicals Company while the Ubeji road connected five oil tank farms.

On his part, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, said that Army Day Secondary School was one of the 12 model secondary schools embarked upon by the previous administration in the state.

He said Governor Okowa believed that government was a continuum and decided to complete the project which was at a 30 percent stage when he assumed office.

“We are happy to say that it is one of the model schools we have in the state today and you can see the population that we have there.

“The Ighogbadu Secondary School is an executive response from the governor. It was one of the products of the town hall meetings we had with the people of this area and the governor assured that he was going to construct a secondary school here.

“Today I am happy to report that the school is completed now and over 200 students have resumed classes here.

“I am also happy that some of the roads have been constructed and we will do all within our powers to see that the school entrance is put to good use.

“We are happy that the schools are well constructed and it’s a good environment for teaching and learning,” Ukah said.

Meanwhile, On compliance with COVID-19 preventive protocols, Ukah said that he was impressed with the schools he had visited.

“What I have seen in the few schools I have gone to, I am quite impressed because I saw most of the pupils and the teachers with their face masks.

“It is not easy to monitor children because some of them will pull it off, because it is very inconveniencing; so it behooves the teachers to always remind them to wear it properly.

“We need to give them constant reminders to ensure that they become used to it.

“So far, I am impressed, but in some places, you still see some laxities and that is why we have told teachers that before they start any lesson, they must go through the COVID-19 protocol.

“The idea is for the teachers and students to become apostles in carrying out the COVID-19 message from the homes to the community that COVID-19 is real.

“Our prayer is that God should keep protecting us so that no teacher or student will contact this ailment,” Ukah stated.

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‘Fine girls are always single’ – BBnaija’s Dorothy expresses tiredness

Big Brother Naija lockdown housemate, Dorothy Bachor, has disclosed that beautiful girls are always single.

The star who lamented on the issue facing beautiful girls expressed tiredness explaining to those people who do not believe.

This was disclosed when a confused fan in a post asked whether “it’s true, fine girls are always single or it’s just something people have made up”, asking all the fine girls to give her an answer.

Responding to the question, Dorathy said it’s true fine girls are always single but also lamented that she’s even tired of explaining that half the time to others who think otherwise.

“Fine girls are always single, is something we all have heard but as to whether it’s true or not, we can’t tell but Dorathy is confirming to us that it’s true.”

https://twitter.com/Thedorathybach/status/1351578453729013760?s=19g

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Many feared dead, others injured in Delta gas plant explosion (Photos)

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Many were reportedly feared dead after a gas plant located near Untouchable bus stop along Lagos-Asaba expressway in Agbor community, Delta state exploded on Friday evening, January 22.

According to eyewitnesses, the fire allegedly burnt some persons to death while several buildings located near the scene of the incident were burnt.

Many other persons were injured during the fire outbreak.

A video shared online and was seen by goldennationblog.com showed some of the burnt victims being rushed to the hospital where they are being treated.

At the time of filing this report, the cause of the explosion is yet unknown.

See more photos of the incident below:

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DJ Khaled to host MTV Africa Music Awards in Uganda

American record executive, songwriter, record producer, Khaled Mohamed Khaled, better known as DJ Khaled, has been announced as the international host for the 2021 MTV Africa Music Awards in Kampala, Uganda.

The awards, which will broadcast live globally in 180 countries for the first time on February 20, will see DJ Khaled, who is best known for his hip-hop and R&B hit anthems host the virtual event from the confine of glamourous home, alongside African co-emcees for the star-studded Kampala 2021 event.

The Grammy Award-winning global sensation artiste will host the virtual awards ceremony from his home in Miami, Florida, alongside African co-emcees for the star-studded Kampala event.

Responding to the choice of DJ Khaled as host for MAMA Kampala 2021, President of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events for ViacomCBS Media Networks, Bruce Gillmer said:

“Africa is home to some of the world’s most dynamic talent and we’re excited to spotlight these artists as the MAMAs broadcasts in 180 countries for the first time in MTV history,”

“With Grammy Award-winning powerhouse, DJ Khaled, at the helm, we’re certain this will be an incredible, must-see global event.”

Similarly, the Senior Vice President and General Manager, ViacomCBS Networks Africa, Monde Twala, said:

“We are thrilled to have DJ Khaled as our international host for MAMA Kampala 2021. With his global success achievement and over 22 million followers on social media, he will inspire youth across the continent and attract an even bigger international audience to the virtual event.

“We can’t wait to showcase the latest African musical stars and culture to the MAMA themed MTV World Stage.”

Meanwhile, reacting to MTV, Dj Khaled revealed that Africa has always been a great partner adding that he jumped at the opportunity to host this year’s MAMAs.

“I can’t wait to celebrate the incredible music that comes out of Africa, which has inspired me throughout my career.”

A major force in the music industry, DJ Khaled has made dozens of chart-topping hit records featuring JAY-Z, Kanye West, Drake, Chris Brown, Ludacris, T.I., French Montana, Future, Big Sean, Rick Ross, John Legend, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Wayne, among others.

He has been nominated for and won, numerous music awards, including 13 BET Hip Hop Awards, one MTV Music Video Award, and most recently, a Grammy.

The MAMA Kampala 2021 event will celebrate African talents across 20 award categories, including Best Male, Best Female, Best Song, and Best Collaboration.

The contribution of artists from Portuguese and French-speaking Africa will also be recognized in the Best Lusophone and Best Francophone categories.

More so, new categories have been included in the MAMA award ceremony like; Generation Change Award, Best Fan Base, Alone Together Best Lockdown Performance, and Personality of the Year.

Sixteen categories of the awards have been announced so far and voting has been declared open on the official website and affiliated Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts. Voting in all categories closes on 31 January 2021.

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Hope gone as Supreme Court gives final judgement on Abacha loot

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The Supreme Court has dismissed a case filed by the Sani Abacha family seeking access to looted funds loaded in foreign bank accounts.

Sani Abacha, the late military head of state, was reported to have looted and stashed funds in several foreign banks before his death on June 8, 1998.

The court in its verdict on Friday, January 22, ruled that the case filed by Ali Abacha, the younger brother of the late head of state, lacked merit.

A five-man panel of the court, in a unanimous judgment, declared that Ali Abacha’s suit was statute barred as at when it was commenced in April 2004 at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. The court ruled that the case was not different from that of a son of the ex-dictator, Abba Mohammed Sani, which was earlier dismissed by the apex court on February 7, 2020.

According to reports, the lead judgment was prepared by Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, but read by Justice Ejembi Eko.

Justice Ejembi Eko stated that: “It is pertinent to state at this juncture that a case with the same facts and issues was decided recently by this court in SC. 68/2010 Alhaji Abba Mohammed Sani Vs the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Attorney-General of the Federation. “Although the appellants are different, the facts and issues in contention are the same. Both had their bank accounts in Switzerland and other countries frozen as a result of the authorisation given to the Swiss law firm by the respondents.

“In conclusion, I find this appeal to be devoid of merit. It is hereby dismissed.”

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How my life changed after I stopped having sex – Uche Ogbodo

Nollywood actress Uche Ogbodo has said her life took a new turn after she stopped having sex.

She disclosed this in a post on her official Instagram page which was seen by goldennationblog.com.

The 34-year-old actress commending herself for not been sexually active, said she has been celibate for two years.

According to her, she has not gone close to a man in the past two years.

The actress said she was happy to keep her body for such a long time as it made her life better.

She wrote: “Since I went back to being a virgin, my life has indeed taken a new turn. Two years Celibacy no be Beans. I am so happy.”

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Why pigeons released by Buhari refused to fly – Adesina reveals

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Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina has explained why the white pigeons’ President Buhari released during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Abuja last week, refused to fly.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had earlier reported that President Buhari trended last week on social media after the pigeons refused to fly despite several attempts by the President.

Many Nigerians on social media described the incident as a “bad omen”. Some even said the pigeons refused to fly because they weren’t sure of their safety outside the cage.

In an article titled ‘Reflection from a wreath-laying ceremony,’ Adesina described the pigeons’ refusal to fly as “a natural phenomenon”. His article in part reads;

“Now, something for those who twist my word, turn it upside down, to generate hatred. Something for them to wail about. The release of the pigeons.

“At every Armed Forces Remembrance Day, after the laying of the wreaths, the sitting President releases some pigeons, to symbolise peace in the land. Emblems of National harmony. It was not different last Friday.

“The pigeons had been kept in a cage. For how long, I do not know. And when birds and some other roaming animals have been circumscribed for a while, they get accustomed to their new status as lawful captives. Therefore, when you offer them freedom, they first balk, thinking it’s too good to be true. It’s a natural phenomenon.

“President Buhari opened the cage that held the pigeons, about a score or so. One hesitated, then flew, followed by another. The others temporised a bit. And then, two, three minutes later, they all took to the sky. Nothing extraordinary in the development, you would think.” Adesina said.

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Driver sentenced to two years imprisonment for spending N2m wrongly sent to his account

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Adetunji Tunde Oluwasegun, a 45-year-old driver, has been sentenced to two years imprisonment for spending a N2million that was mistakenly transferred into his account.

The Ilorin Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had on Monday, January 18, 2021, arraigned Oluwasegun on a one-count charge bordering on stealing before Justice Sikiru Oyinloye of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin.

The offence contravenes Section 286 and punishable under Section 287 of the Penal Code.

The charge reads:

“That you, Adetunji Tunde Oluwasegun, sometime between the month of July 2020 and 21st of August, 2020 at Ilorin, Kwara State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court dishonestly took the sum of N2,000,000.00 (Two Million Naira), the property of Sherifat Omolara Sanni, which she erroneously transferred to your bank account 0008383333 domiciled with Guaranty Trust Bank plc, without her consent and thereby committed an offense contrary to Section 286 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 287 of the same Penal Code”.

The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

Justice Oyinloye found Oluwasegun guilty of the offence and sentenced him to two years imprisonment with a fine of N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira).

The judge also ordered the convict to repay to the victim the sum of N2million before he finished serving his jail term.

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Covid-19: James Bond’s latest film “no time to die”, others, delayed for third time

The release of the next James Bond film, “No Time To Die” has for a third time been delayed due to coronavirus pandemics.

The movie had already been pushed back twice, and will now debut globally on 8 October.

Hollywood, stated their decision to shove back their slate of films — including James Bond’s latest outing No Time To Die, the Uncharted movie, and Ghostbusters: Afterlife.

According to “Exhibitor Relations”, ‘No Time to Die ‘now has a release date of October 8th, Ghostbusters will be pushed back five months to November 11th, and Uncharted now won’t arrive until 2022.

The third delay of the anticipated movie, was enough to force theater chains Regal and Cineworld to close all their US and UK locations.

Bond’s ” no time to die” was originally slated for April 2020, then got pushed back to November 2020 and now to April 2021.

However, instead of releasing the movie on streaming, as other studios have been doing, MGM seems adamant on premiering the movie in theaters — but by the time it’s safe to do so, there may not be as many of them.

Meanwhile, AMC had warned investors that it’s about to run out of money, and other theaters also might not survive past the middle of 2021, lamenting that the Bond franchise moving to the end of the year is not a good sign.

More films are probably expected to be delayed as delay piles on top of delay since only a certain number of films can successfully premiere at physical theaters in any given period as a result of the dreaded covid-19.

https://twitter.com/loudmouthjulia/status/1352427748179009537?s=20

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Primate Ayodele says Joe Biden will face health challenges, gives warning

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The Founder of the INRI Evangelical Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele has congratulated Joe Biden on his inauguration as President of the United States.

The cleric, however, advised the Democrat to take good care of his health.

The Christian leader, in a statement on Thursday, said God was involved in Biden’s emergence.

He noted that the new administration will engineer global development.

“God will sustain him to finish well, his emergence is a fulfillment of God’s word. I want to urge him to rule with the fear of God.

“His first term will be faced with health challenges. He will complete his first term and perform well. No matter the health challenges, God will stabilize him,” he said.

Ayodele advised the former VP to be wary of mistakes, and listen to prophetic warnings that can guide him.

Goldennationblog.com had on Wednesday, reported Biden-Harris’s inaugural ceremony, as the 46th President and Vice President of the United States of America.

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Delta Online Publishers Forum opens admission for applicants

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The Delta State Online Publishers Association has announced its admission into the forum.

This was disclosed in a statement made by the forum and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

According to the statement, Chief Executive Officers of a legally registered media website should have a communication background or an Editor with a journalism or Communication Background.

Interested applicants were advised to purchase the forum’s admission form, bearing in mind the guidelines following their membership.

The statement reads:

“This is to bring to the information of interested media practitioners, that admission into the above-named organization is open with effect from Monday, 11 January 2021, till Sunday, 28 February 2021.

“Interested persons should take note of the below Guidelines before applying,

” The website should be a legally Registered one and not a BLOGSPOT

“The website should be operating under a legally registered company, with the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC.

” The Chief Executive Officer should have a communication background or an Editor with journalism or Communication Background.

” The website should have run for one year.

” form should be obtained by the operators of the NEW publishing organisation, with the sum of N20,000.00.

” Date for screening shall be communicated to those shortlisted.

“To obtain the form, a non-refundable fee of N20, 000.00 should be paid into the Forum’s Account with Zenith Bank PLC, Delta Online Publishers Forum, Account: 1015448281.

“Forms can be obtained by contacting the following committee members.

a) Mr. Albert Ograka – 08024026716, 08037644337

b) Mr. Okpomor Okies – 08037487077

c) Mr. Abel Johngold – 08038373377 / 08077875155
Thanks, for your patronage”. The statement ends.

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COVID-19: FCTA issues warning over fake inspectors, fraudsters

Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Thursday, alerted residents of the activities of fraudsters who allegedly move around to extort money from event planners and other residents in the guise of COVID-19 protocol enforcers.

Head, Media, and Enlightenment of FCT COVID-19 Enforcement Taskforce, Comrade Ikharo Attah who admitted of being inundated with such negative reports, warned the public to be wary of such criminal elements who parade themselves as agents of government.

While he discredited the rumours that members of his task force were involved in the criminal act, he also disclosed that FCT Police Command has launched a manhunt for the criminal syndicate.

He further stressed that neither the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 nor the FCTA have authorised anyone to penalize violators of the health guidelines.

Attah added that it is only the Mobile Courts constituted by government that has the right to penalize violators.

He advised residents that any group of persons found extorting money from members of the public under any guise should be reported to the appropriate authorities, emphasizing that such activities remain illegal.

His words: “We actually work on the platform of integrity having been set up together by the FCT Minister, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello under the chairmanship of the FCT Police Commissioner, Bala Ciroma; we don’t go out asking people for money on issues relating to COVID-19 guidelines.

“We actually avoid going to meet people to ask them to give us money for whatever. But it’s quite disheartening and disturbing that we have heard such rumours before now, that people go round in the name of COVID-19 enforcement.

“We don’t have any office or any person like COVID-19 inspection officer, who we have assigned to go round. The commissioner of police who is our chairman has not approved such kind of officers to round. All those in this act should desist from it. The PTF at the national level had given the COVID-19 guidelines and protocols for us to observe.

“There are events that they have allowed to operate here, and many events including schools are opened, but it’s just that they have some restrictions on the number or whatever that people should do.”

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US: Read Joe Biden’s inaugural speech as he unveils plans (Full Text)

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President Joe Biden has Wednesday, called on Americans to overcome their divisions, declaring in his first address in office that “without unity, there is no peace.”

In his inaugural speech, Biden also pledged during his remarks that he would be honest with the country as it continues to confront difficulties, saying that leaders have an obligation “to defend the truth and defeat the lies.”

In his address, the president asked those who did not vote for him to give him a chance. He said, “Hear me out as we move forward.”

Just like he did during the campaign, Biden reiterated that he will be a “president for all Americans” and will “fight as hard for those who did not support me as for those who did.”

He added, “We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue.”

Meanwhile, Goldennationblog.com compiled a remark provided by the White House.

Read the full text below:

Chief Justice Roberts, Vice-President Harris, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Vice-President Pence. My distinguished guests, my fellow Americans.

This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages, America has been tested a new, and America has risen to the challenge. Today we celebrate the triumph, not of a candidate but a cause, a cause of democracy. The people – the will of the people – has been heard, and the will of the people has been heeded.

We’ve learned again that democracy is precious, democracy is fragile and, at this hour my friends, democracy has prevailed. So now on this hallowed ground where just a few days ago violence sought to shake the Capitol’s very foundations, we come together as one nation under God – indivisible – to carry out the peaceful transfer of power as we have for more than two centuries.

As we look ahead in our uniquely American way, restless, bold, optimistic, and set our sights on a nation we know we can be and must be, I thank my predecessors of both parties. I thank them from the bottom of my heart. And I know the resilience of our Constitution and the strength, the strength of our nation, as does President Carter, who I spoke with last night who cannot be with us today, but who we salute for his lifetime of service.

I’ve just taken a sacred oath each of those patriots has taken. The oath is first sworn by George Washington. But the American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but all of us. On we the people who seek a more perfect union. This is a great nation, we are good people. And over the centuries through storm and strife in peace and war, we’ve come so far. But we still have far to go.

We’ll press forward with speed and urgency for we have much to do in this winter of peril and significant possibility. Much to do, much to heal, much to restore, much to build, and much to gain. Few people in our nation’s history have been more challenged or found a time more challenging or difficult than the time we’re in now. A once in a century virus that silently stalks the country has taken as many lives in one year as in all of World War Two.

Millions of jobs have been lost. Hundreds of thousands of businesses closed. A cry for racial justice, some 400 years in the making, moves us. The dream of justice for all will be deferred no longer. A cry for survival comes from the planet itself, a cry that can’t be any more desperate or any more clear now. The rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism, that we must confront and will defeat.

To overcome these challenges, to restore the soul and secure the future of America, requires so much more than words. It requires the most elusive of all things in a democracy – unity. Unity. On, another January on New Year’s Day in 1863 Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. When he put pen to paper the president said, and I quote, ‘if my name ever goes down in history, it’ll be for this act, and my whole soul is in it’.

My whole soul is in it today, on this January day. My whole soul is in this. Bringing America together, uniting our people, uniting our nation. And I ask every American to join me in this cause. Uniting to, fight the foes we face – anger, resentment, and hatred. Extremism, lawlessness, violence, disease, joblessness, and hopelessness.

With unity, we can do great things, important things. We can right wrongs, we can put people to work in good jobs, we can teach our children in safe schools. We can overcome the deadly virus, we can rebuild work, we can rebuild the middle class and make work secure, we can secure racial justice and we can make America once again the leading force for good in the world.

I know speaking of unity can sound to some like a foolish fantasy these days. I know the forces that divide us are deep and they are real. But I also know they are not new. Our history has been a constant struggle between the American ideal, that we are all created equal, and the harsh ugly reality that racism, nativism and fear have torn us apart. The battle is perennial and victory is never secure.

Through the civil war Depression, World Was setbacks, through struggle, sacrifice, and setbacks, our better angels have always prevailed. In each of our moments, enough of us have come together to carry all of us forward, and we can do that now. History, faith, and reason show the way. The way of unity.

We can see each other not as adversaries but as neighbours. We can treat each other with dignity and respect. We can join forces, stop the shouting and lower the temperature. For without unity there is no peace, only bitterness, and fury, no progress, only exhausting outrage. No nation, only a state of chaos. This is our historic moment of crisis and challenge. And unity is the path forward. And we must meet this moment as the United States of America.
failure to do that, I guarantee we will not fail. We have never, ever, ever, ever failed in America when we’ve acted together. And so today at this time in this place, let’s start afresh, all of us. Let’s begin to listen to one another again, hear one another, see one another. Show respect to one another. Politics doesn’t have to be a raging fire destroying everything in its path. Every disagreement doesn’t have to be a cause for total war and we must reject the culture in which facts themselves are manipulated and even manufactured.

My fellow Americans, we have to be different than this. We have to be better than this and I believe America is so much better than this. Just look around. Here we stand in the shadow of the Capitol dome. As mentioned earlier, completed in the shadow of the Civil War. When the union itself was literally hanging in the balance. We endure, we prevail. Here we stan.d, looking out on the great Mall, where Dr. King spoke of his dream.

Here we stand, where 108 years ago at another inaugural, thousands of protesters tried to block brave women marching forswearing-into vote. And today we mark the swearing-in of the first woman elected to national office, Vice President Kamala Harris. Don’t tell me things can change. Here we stand where heroes who gave the last full measure of devotion rest in eternal peace.

And here we stand just days after a riotous mob thought they could use violence to silence the will of the people, to stop the work of our democracy, to drive us from this sacred ground. It did not happen, it will never happen, not today, not tomorrow, not ever. Not ever. To all those who supported our campaign, I’m humbled by the faith you placed in us. To all those who did not support us, let me say this. Hear us out as we move forward. Take a measure of me and my heart.

If you still disagree, so be it. That’s democracy. That’s America. The right to dissent peacefully. And the guardrail of our democracy is perhaps our nation’s greatest strength. If you hear me clearly, disagreement must not lead to disunion. And I pledge this to you. I will be a President for all Americans, all Americans. And I promise you I will fight for those who did not support me as for those who did.

Many centuries ago, St Augustine – the saint of my church – wrote that a people was a multitude defined by the common objects of their love. What are the common objects we as Americans love, that define us as Americans? I think we know. Opportunity, security, liberty, dignity, respect, honour, and yes, the truth.

Recent weeks and months have taught us a painful lesson. There is truth and there are lies. Lies told for power and profit. And each of us has a duty and a responsibility as citizens as Americans and especially as leaders. Leaders who are pledged to honour our Constitution to protect our nation. To defend the truth and defeat the lies.

Look, I understand that many of my fellow Americans view the future fear and trepidation. I understand they worry about their jobs. I understand like their dad they lay in bed at night staring at the ceiling thinking: ‘Can I keep my healthcare? Can I pay my mortgage?’ Thinking about their families, about what comes next. I promise you, I get it. But the answer’s not to turn inward. To retreat into competing factions. Distrusting those who don’t look like you, or worship the way you do, who don’t get their news from the same source as you do.

We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, rural versus urban, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts if we show a little tolerance and humility and if we’re willing to stand in the other person’s shoes, as my mom would say. Just for a moment, stand in their shoes.
Because here’s the thing about life. There’s no accounting for what fate will deal with you. Some days you need a hand. There are other days when we’re called to lend a hand. That’s how it has to be, that’s what we do for one another. And if we are that way our country will be stronger, more prosperous, more ready for the future. And we can still disagree.

My fellow Americans, in the work ahead of us we’re going to need each other. We need all our strength to persevere through this dark winter. We’re entering what may be the darkest and deadliest period of the virus. We must set aside politics and finally face this pandemic as one nation. And I promise this, as the Bible says, ‘Weeping may endure for a night, joy cometh in the morning’. We will get through this together. within folks, all my colleagues I serve within the House and the Senate up here, we all understand the world is watching. Watching all of us today. So here’s my message to those beyond our borders. America has been tested and we’ve come out stronger for it. We will repair our alliances, and engage with the world once again. Not to meet yesterday’s challenges but today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. And we’ll lead not merely by the example of our power but the power of our example.

Fellow Americans, moms, dads, sons, daughters, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. We will honour them by becoming the people and the nation we can and should be. So I ask you let’s say a silent prayer for tho, so who lost their lives, those left behind, and for our country. Amen.

Folks, it’s a time of testing. We face an attack on our democracy, and on truth, a raging virus, a stinging inequity, systemic racism, a climate in crisis, America’s role in the world. Any one of these would be enough to challenge us in profound ways. But the fact is we face them all at once, presenting this nation with one of the greatest responsibilities we’ve had. Now we’re going to be tested. Are we going to step up?

It’s time for boldness for there is so much to do. And this is certain, I promise you. We will be judged, you and I, by how we resolve these cascading crises of our era. We will rise to the occasion. Will we master this rare and difficult hour? Will we meet our obligations and pass along a new and better world to our children? I believe we must and I’m sure you do as well. I believe we will, and when we do, we’ll write the next great chapter in the history of the United States of America. The American story.

A story that might sound like a song that means a lot to me, it’s called American Anthem. And there’s one verse that stands out at least for me and it goes like this:
‘The work and prayers of centuries have brought us to this day, which shall be our legacy, what will our children say?

Let me know in my heart when my days are through, America, America, ve my best to you.’

Let us add our work and prayers to the unfolding story of our great nation. If we do this, then when our days are through, our children and our children’s children will say of us: ‘They gave their best, they did their duty, they healed a broken land.’

My fellow Americans I close the day where I began, with a sacred oath. Before God and all of you, I give you my word. I will always level with you. I will defend the Constitution, I’ll defend our democracy.

I’ll defend America and I will give all – all of you – keep everything I do in your service. Thinking not of power but possible abilities. Not of personal interest but public good.

And together we will write an American story of hope, not fear, of unity not division, of light, not darkness. A story of decency and dignity, love and healing, greatness and goodness. May this be the story that guides us. The story that inspires us. And the story that tells ages yet to come that we answered the call of history, we met the moment. Democracy and hope, truth and justice, did not die on our watch but thrive.

That America secured liberty at home and stood once again as a beacon to the world. That is what we owe our forbearers, one another, and generations to follow.

So with purpose and resolve, we turn to those tasks of our time, Sustained by faith, driven by conviction, and devoted to one another and the country we love with all our hearts. May God bless America and God protect our troops.

Thank you, America.

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Why I Kidnapped my ex-boyfriend- Female kidnapper confesses

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Operatives of the Kano state police command, have arrested 23 -year -old Maryam Mohammed for kidnapping her ex-boyfriend who refused to marry her after years of courtship.

The lady, who is popularly known as Hajiya was arrested by the police at Jaba quarters, Ungogo local government area of Kano state.

Maryam was arrested while negotiating a ransom with the family of one of their captives last Tuesday, January 12.

She said she was introduced into the crime by her uncle, one Hamza Dogo of Butsa village, Gusau local government of Zamfara state after she had parted ways with her ex-boyfriend.

“I was introduced into kidnapping by my uncle called Hamza from Butsa village, Gusau local government of Zamfara state and the first person we kidnapped was my ex-boyfriend who refused to marry me despite my efforts to get him convinced during our years of courtship.

“After he had dumped me, my uncle asked me to bring him so that we could hold him until he pays money before we could release him.

“When we kidnapped him, his family paid N5m to secure his freedom, and out of that amount I was given N800,000 with which I rented that house at Jaba quarters” Hajiya confessed.

Meanwhile, parading the suspects before newsmen, the spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said Investigation conducted by the police revealed that Maryam’s former husband, one Sani Ismail, of Bidda LGA of Niger State, was a notorious Cattle Rustler who was killed in Butsa Village, Gusau LGA of Zamfara State while carting away rustled cows.

“After the death of the husband, her brother, one Hamza Dogo of Butsa Village, Gusau LGA of Zamfara State, also a notorious kidnapper relocated her to Kano where she rented apartments in Unguwa Uku, Panshekara and Maidile Quarters.

“She later moved to Jaba Quarters and rented another apartment for Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N600,000.00), per annum, which she turned into a kidnapper’s den.

Other partners in crime are; Sani Ibrahim and Shamsudeen Suleiman both of Butsa Village, Gusau LGA, Zamfara State as well as Ishaq Khalil, alias Baban Basma of Rijiyar Lemo Quarters, Fagge LGA of Kano State.” Police spokesman, Kiyawa said.

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John Legend attends Biden’s Inauguration, performs “Feeling Good”(Video)

American singer, songwriter, record producer, and philanthropist, John Roger Stephens professionally known as
John Legend, performed at President Joe Biden’s inauguration event, Celebrating America.

He performed, seated at a piano at the foot of the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, and belted out an excellent cover of the soulful Nina Simone classic “Feeling Good.” which has kept making waves since the 1960s.

Meanwhile, earlier at the inauguration event, Lady Gaga sang the National Anthem before the official swearing-in ceremony.

Jennifer Lopez sang “This Land Is Your Land,” and Garth Brooks sang “Amazing Grace.”

Other artistes, who performed at Biden and Harris’ honor, include Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons, New Radicals, Katy Perry, Demi Lovato, and others.

Recall that John Legend who doubles as a theatre director had his most recent studio album “Bigger Love ” released last summer.

During the DNC’s virtual convention last year, Legend had previously performed, giving another colour to the event.

Watch video below:

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TikTok tests Q&A feature, allows creators to answer questions by text or video

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TikTok is testing a new video Q&A feature that enables creators to a great extent directly respond to their audience’s questions with either text or video answers.

The company disclosed this in a tweet posted on Twitter, stating that currently, creators can respond to individual questions in their comments by publishing a new video with an answer or they can leave a reply text comment.

The company confirmed the feature to TechCrunch, which said it’s currently only available to select creators via an opt-in test.

Meanwhile, Q&As are for creators who want to engage with fans when live streaming. It can be hard for creators to respond to thousands of questions on the existing live chat interface, so the Q&A option will let them easily and directly respond to more questions.

Available, users can tap the Q&A button in a video’s comment field or submit questions directly through a Q&A link on a creator’s profile page. Creators can then view all the questions in one place – and there’s no limit to the number of questions the creator can receive. creators don’t have to reply to every question.

The feature was first spotted by social media consultant, Matt Navarra, who posted screenshots of what the feature looks like in action, including how it appears on users’ profiles.

During the test, the new Q&A feature is only being made available to creators with public Creator Accounts that have more than 10,000 followers and who have opted in to the feature within their Settings.

The new feature confirmed to TechCrunch, will be rolled out globally in a couple of weeks as announced by TikTok.

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Sorrow as Kenny Ashaka, The Sun ex-editor dies days after wife’s death

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Former assistant editor of The Sun Newspaper, Kenny Ashaka is dead.

This was disclosed by a friend to the family, Asaju Tunde in a statement seen by goldennationblog.com

Ashaka reportedly passed away on Wednesday after a prolonged illness.

The journalist died a few days after he lost his wife, Dorothy.

He joined The Sun in 2003. He headed the North West Bureau until 2008.

The deceased was transferred to Abuja and later to Jos, Plateau State capital, as North Central Bureau Chief.

Ashaka was promoted to Assistant Editor and worked at the Lagos head office.

He is survived by three children, Onome, Onoriode, and Arizona, and three grandchildren.

“Rest well my friend and brother. You fought an enviable fight. May God comforts your family”, a friend, Asaju Tunde posted on Facebook.

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Biden-Haris sworn in as America’s 46th President, Vice-President

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Joe Biden has been sworn in as president of the United States, pledging to unite a deeply divided nation rolling from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Raising his right hand and placing his left on a Bible, Biden took the oath of office on Wednesday during a scaled-down inauguration due to the coronavirus, which has killed more than 400,000 people in the US.

“This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve,” Biden said in his first address as president.

“Today we celebrate the triumph, not of a candidate, but a cause – the cause of democracy.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the first woman and first person of colour to hold the post, was sworn in shortly before Biden.

In an extremely rare move, Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, chose to not attend the ceremony.

Goldenationblog.com had earlier reported that Trump left the White House early on Wednesday morning, travelling on the Marine One helicopter to a farewell ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, before flying to Florida.

He briefly spoke to reporters, calling his term the “honour of a lifetime” and an “amazing four years”.

“I will always fight for you. I will be watching. I will be listening,” Trump said, adding: “We will be back in some form.”

The inauguration took place amid ongoing security concerns in the US capital in the aftermath of a deadly riot on January 6, when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol building as Congress met to certify Biden’s election victory.

Trump was impeached last week by the US House of Representatives for “incitement to insurrection” about the Capitol attack.
Thousands of security forces were deployed in Washington, DC for the inauguration, giving a strange feeling to what is normally a celebratory event enjoyed by thousands of people.

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Woman, child allegedly killed in an accident by police van chasing after Yahoo Boys in Delta (Photos)

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A nursing mother and her baby have died after the tricycle they boarded was reportedly rammed into by a police vehicle said to be chasing suspected internet fraudsters in Warri, Delta State.

The accident happened today, January 20, 2021, at PTI junction in Effurun by officers said to be attached to the Ebrumede police station.

The spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, Onome Onovuakpoyeya, said an investigation has been launched into the incident.

Meanwhile, goldennationblog.com gathered that irate youths set the police van on fire and blocked the road in protest over the unfortunate incident.

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Man electrocuted while disconnecting Christmas lights in Delta

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A 35-year-old man popularly known as Jaja has been electrocuted while dismantling Christmas light decorations in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

It was gathered that the incident happened along Nnebisi Road on Monday, January 18.

The victim, a staff of Abba Solar & Digital Tech Ltd, was said to have been engaged by a contractor to the Asaba Capital Territory Development Agency on beautification, to dismantle the decorations.

A colleague of the deceased who confirmed the incident said that Jaja was disconnecting the decorations when one of the wires on the street light poles suddenly snapped, touched the ladder he was standing on, and electrocuted him.

He was reported dead on the spot.

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Omah Lay speaks on moving to Lagos, arrest in Uganda, next album (Video)

Nigerian singer and producer, Stanley Omah Didia, popularly known as Omah Lay has talked about his relocation to Lagos and Uganda experience .

He disclosed this in a recent episode of “Rubbin Minds“, with Big Brother Naija host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

The rising star in the interactive session, talked about music and his recent arrest while performing on a show in Uganda.

Omaha Lay talked about moving to Lagos in 2019 after getting a deal, following the release of his song “Hello Brother“.

The Port Harcourt born and bred singer also talked about his career blowing up during the pandemic and how he was not able to do so much at that time.

Speaking on his unexpected growth in the music industry, the “Bad Influence ” crooner said:

“It was shocking actually, but that had always been the dream. Had plans to take things slowly but you know, it just happened the way it happened and I’m a grateful man.”

Meanwhile, on his recent arrest and experience with the Ugandan police, Omah Lay said:

“Uganda was such an experience you know. It’s a lot that happened. I went to Uganda for an event… we went legally. Completely legal. It happened the way it happened. I really cannot start picking out details but there was supposed to be COVID clearance. Everything, as you know, was sorted out before we got there as a matter of fact. The police were present and everything, and we did the whole thing. But you know, it has happened. It happened the way it happened. It’s something that I learned a lot from and I’ve moved past it already so.

Omah Lay when asked the lessons he learned from his experience, gave a glimpse of what to expect from his coming album.

“Details of it is in my album. I’m trying not to talk about it so much. I’m channeling the energy to making music with it. The whole experience and how it all happened so yeah, my album, it’s just coming up,” he said.

Watch the conversation with Ebuka below:

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BREAKING: Trump, wife takes off from White House

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Outgoing US President Donald Trump has left the White House today, January 20, 2021.

Trump took off from the lawn of the White House in company with his wife Melania.

The helicopter which conveyed the President took him around the premises of the White House to give him a final view before arriving at Joint Base Andrews.

The event took place ahead of the inauguration of the incoming President Joe Biden and incoming Vice President Kamala Harris.

Biden who defeated Trump at the US presidential election of November 3, 2020, will be sworn-in today at 17:00 GMT.

The event will not be attended by Trump who continues to maintain his claim that the election was stolen from him.

The inauguration will, however, be graced by the outgoing Vice President Mike Pence, Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell and other GOP leaders.

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WAFU U-17 Cup: Hard-luck as Golden Eaglets loses to Cote d’ Ivoire

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The Golden Eaglets of Nigeria have on Monday failed to lift the cup after their narrow defeat to the Young Elephants of Cote d Ivoire.

The Eaglets came close producing a shocking comeback from three goals down before losing 2-3 to their Ivorian counterparts in the final of the WAFU U-17 Cup tournament in Lome, Togo.

The Baby Elephants, who had won all their previous three games in the tournament (1-0 over Nigeria; 3-1 over Ghana and; 1-0 over the Niger Republic), raced to a 1-0 first-half lead and then added two more before the 70th minute, leaving five-time world champions Nigeria unhappy and looking out for ways to get back into the game.

However, the Eaglets pulled themselves together and scored two quick goals late in the game to earn a respectable result, as both teams proudly picked tickets to the 2021 Africa U17 Cup of Nations scheduled for Morocco from 13th -31st March.

Meanwhile, in the third-place match fixture, Burkina Faso’s Baby Etalons, who lost 0-1 to Nigeria in the semi-finals, grabbed the tournament’s bronze medal after an 11-10 penalty shoot-out win over the Niger Republic following 1-1 draw.

It was gathered that the Golden Eaglets’ contingent is expected back in the country today.

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Drake breaks record, becomes first artiste to hit 50b streams on Spotify

Popular Canadian rapper, Aubrey Drake Graham simply known as Drake has become the first artiste ever to surpass 50 billion joined streams on Spotify.

In a tweet by “Chart Data” which was seen by goldennationblog.com,
Drake is one of the streaming service’s most popular artists with his 2018 song ‘God’s Plan’.

The Chart Data website, which keeps regular records on chart activities and streaming figures, announced that Drake has surpassed 50 billion streams on the music app.

The Toronto rapper’s next album, titled ‘Certified Lover Boy’, is set to be released this year. It had been thought that the record could emerge this month, but no announcement has been made as to that effect.

The tweet posted by the Chart Data reads:

“@Drake has now surpassed 50 billion streams on Spotify across all credits. He is the first artiste in history to hit this milestone.”

According to a breakdown of data by ChartMasters, Drake is credited as the lead artist in 35,704,203,269 streams for songs on the music app.

For songs on which Drake is credited as a featured artiste, he’s amassed a whopping 14,297,795,559 total streams.

The total amounts to 50,001,998,828 billion streams.

Drake marked the new feat via his Instagram story.

Following the release of the album, the Spotify numbers are expected to increase by the end of the year.

https://twitter.com/OVOSound/status/1320149082506186758?s=20

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Why Buhari will be remembered like Trump – Fayose reveals

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Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has said Nigerians would remember President Muhammadu Buhari like Americans will recall the distasteful administration of the outgoing President of the United States, US, Donald Trump.

Fayose made the remark while describing Buhari as a “low budget Trump.”

Trump’s tenure would expire in the next few hours as the US President-Elect, Joe Biden would be inaugurated.

However, Fayose said Nigerians can’t wait to see the end of Buhari’s regime just as Americans look forward to Trump’s exit.

In a series of tweets, the former governor wrote: “As Americans look forward to the exit of Trump, Nigerians too cannot wait to see the exit of Buhari.

“The two can’t be forgotten in a jiffy. Buhari will be remembered like Trump because he is the low budget Trump when compared to their countries.

“Everything that matters has been destroyed under the watch of Buhari. All the values that we share as a country – economy, security, human rights, the rule of law, credible elections and unity of the country have been destroyed.”

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US: Burna Boy’s song makes Biden-Harris inauguration playlist

Popular Nigerian singer, Burna Boy’s hit track ‘Destiny,’ has been included in Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ inauguration playlist.

‘Destiny,’ is about the power of providence and divination. It is the 13th track on Burna Boy’s Grammy-nominated ‘African Giant’ album.

Burna Boy is the only Nigerian and African artiste on the playlist.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee’s CEO, Tony Allen, explained the criteria behind the song selection in a statement, published and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

He said the playlist is meant to ”honour music as a consistent vehicle that has kept us connected through a challenging year”.

“These songs and artistes reflect the relentless spirit and rich diversity of America. They are the score to a new chapter and will help bring people together as the Biden-Harris Administration begins its important work to unite our country,’’ he noted.

According to reports, Burna Boy has become a fixture on the playlists of high-profile American politicians. In August 2020, he appeared on former US president Barack Obama’s summer playlist alongside fellow Nigerian stars Davido, and Wizkid.

Other international stars on the playlist including Bill Withers, (‘Lovely Day’), Marvin Gaye (‘Got to Give It Up – Pt. 1’), Bruce Springsteen (‘We Take Care of Our Own’), Kendrick Lamar (‘Now or Never’), Bob Marley & The Wailers (‘Could You Be Loved’), Jill Scott (‘Golden’) and Dua Lipa (‘Levitating’), among others.

Biden and Harris’s inauguration will be broadcast live on Wednesday and includes a star-studded lineup of performers.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had reported that the inaugural committee announced that Lady Gaga will sing the American national anthem while Jennifer Lopez will also perform some of her songs at the inauguration ceremony.

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US: Military forces rehearse ahead of Joe Biden’s inauguration (Photos)

US Military troops were spotted on Tuesday morning, January 19 rehearsing in full gear ahead of Joe Biden’s presidential inauguration on Wednesday, January 20.

The inauguration rehearsal comes after a false alarm briefly interrupted the rehearsal after a fire in a homeless encampment roughly a mile away sent a plume of smoke into the air and caused security concerns in an already worried city.

The event will be without crowds as the US Secret Service and National Guard has put the safety of incoming president Joe Biden as its topmost priority following information that some armed groups planned to protest around Washington on Inauguration day.

Trump will not be present on Inauguration day as he will fly to Florida on Wednesday morning.

By 12 pm, Wednesday, Trump will cease to be the US president and the nuclear codes will be collected from him.

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Sean Paul reveals how he dealt with Jay-Z’s jealousy over Beyonce

Jamaican dancehall recording artist and producer Sean Paul, has revealed how he handled the long-lived conspiracy that he and Jay-Z had beef over Beyoncé, and the artists to expect on his new albums.

He disclosed this while speaking with radio announcer Wesley “Burgerman” Burger in an interview on the Two Live Crew program on Radio Jamaica and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

Sharing how he handled the long-lived conspiracy that he and Jay-Z had over Beyonce, the singer noted that he had to draw upon his innate ability to be diplomatic, after realising that Jay-Z did “not want him anywhere near Beyoncé” when they were promoting their Baby Boy single back in 2003.

When the host brought up the subject midway through the discussion,
Burger told Sean Paul, “One a di time when Baby Boy did come out, mi did vex yuh nuh, caw mi a seh a wha happen to dem people deh ova suh? Like dem nuh rate our artiste, you know dah likkle video suppm deh. Mi neva feel good bout it enuh, but mi a seh, mi like how di General (Sean Paul) deal wid it though.”

“Yuh si weh you seh? You neva feel comfortable. Me neva feel comfortable needa, but mi jus use my needs may all di while an guh roun any likkle obstacle weh me have inna life,” Sean Paul responded.

Burger then pressed on adding that he believed that Jay-Z felt discomfiture about having Sean Paul in Beyonce’s presence for protracted periods because he was threatened by the Dutty artiste’s good looks and the fact that he was Jamaican man.

“To me, dat man (Jay-Z) neva want you around dah lady deh yuh nuh,” Burgher said, to which Sean Paul responded: “Yes, to me that was something that was apparent at the time,” before adding: “Wi know that artistry is artistry suh a nuh every time dem ting deh gwan.”

Recall that Jay-Z earned the wrath and ridicule of Jamaicans back in 2003 after news surfaced that he demanded that Sean Paul not be featured on the pop queen’s 2003 MTV Video Music Awards performance, as he was jealous that his then-girlfriend (now wife) might become attracted to Sean Paul.

Beyoncé In an earlier live performance had gyrated on an unassuming Sean Paul to cheers from a pleased crowd, perhaps triggering Jay-Z’s jealousy.

Later in a 2012 article, MTV noted that although Sean Paul appeared in the Baby Boy video, which was directed by Jake Nava, “he and the pop queen were filmed separately”.

Years after that imbroglio, Sean Paul had described suggestions that he and Beyoncé had ‘a thing going on’ as a rumor.

“The general public blew it up in certain things. I just remained quiet about it for years because it was doing its work. There was just a lot of controversy…She’s an amazing artist, the song was at number one for like nine weeks, so that was a very special time for me and for dancehall,” the article Sean Paul as saying.

In 2016, Yahoo News UK reported in an extensive article that Sean Paul had opened up about working with Beyoncé and the controversy surrounding the nature of their relationship. At the time Sean Paul described Beyonce as an amazing, focused, and very talented person.

“The first time I heard Baby Boy I was like: ‘Woah, it’s pretty dope’. I did my part and she called me to go to Miami to record another part. It was cool to be able to work stuff out with her right there,” the article said.

Baby Boy was an early hit for Beyoncé after Destiny’s Child split and she went solo. The song spent several weeks at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and also propelled Sean Paul’s global profile

During the interview, the Grammy Award winner also revealed plans to drop two albums in 2021, Live and Living and Scorcher. Live and Living will be all collaborations with Jamaican Dancehall/Reggae artistes such as Buju Banton, Busy Signal, Serani, Masicka, Bugle, Intence, Squash, Mavado, and Chi Ching Ching, while Scorcher will feature American singer Gwen Stefani, Australian singer-songwriter Sia, Shenseea, Jada Kingdom and Stylo G.

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Onyeme pledges commitments to staff training, retraining

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The Chairman, Delta State Internal Revenue Service, Sir Monday Onyeme, has reiterated its commitment to building the capacity of the workforce for greater efficiency and effectiveness in the discharge of their duties.

He disclosed this in an address he delivered at the opening ceremony of the Joint Tax Board, JTB, final course for chief inspectors of taxes which was held at the conference hall of the service headquarters in Warri.

Onyeme revealed that the signing into law of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service Law 2020 by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, had made it more imperative to build up the knowledge base of the staff of the service to deliver on the mandate of increasing the internally generated revenue of the state.

The chairman commended the Secretary of the JTB, Madam Aisha-Nana Obomeghie for granting special approval for the course to hold in Delta State, instead of the usual practice of holding it at the JTB training school, Abuja,

He enjoined participants not to see the course as “just about acquiring a certificate, but an opportunity to gain knowledge” and impact positively on the revenue generation drive of the state government.

On her part, the Joint Tax Board Secretary, Madam Obomeghie, who declared the training programme opened, stated that capacity building programmes were designed to address gaps in personnel’s knowledge base.

According to her, the JTB Inspector of Tax Courses was one of the fundamental ways of filling gaps and equip revenue administrators nationwide with knowledge on the multiple facets of tax administration.

Obomeghie went further to emphasize that the 10 weeks training programme would introduce participants to new and better ways of managing revenue-generating processes and procedures required for the optimal harnessing of the inherent revenue potentials in their jurisdictions.

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Impact on academic performance, behavioral changes of students – Ukah tells Teachers

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Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, has advised teachers to create practical methods towards enhancing the academic understanding and behavioural change of children.

He gave the advice in Asaba while monitoring the resumption of schools for the second term academic session.

Chief Ukah who described teachers as vital stakeholders in driving the education sector, said that as key players in the sector, teachers should strive to add more value to the lives of the children through effective teaching.

He said COVID-19 had eaten deep into the school academic calendar globally, urging parents, teachers, pupils, and students not to come to the school premises without wearing face masks.

The commissioner reiterated the need for strict adherence to all necessary COVID-19 preventive measures such as regular hand washing, hand sanitising, use of face masks, and constant temperature checks.

Ukah expressed satisfaction with measures on the ground in schools visited aimed at preventing the disease in the event of a possible outbreak, just as he decried a situation where parents usually sought admission for their children midway into the academic session.

On the cancellation of the recent transfer of 4,500 teachers by his ministry, the commissioner said that if such posting was allowed to take effect, it could impact negatively on the already affected academic calendar as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

He however frowned at situations where teachers stayed for ten years in one school without transfer, saying that such was not ideal.

The basic and secondary education commissioner restated that his ministry would continue with its advocacy and mentoring programmes.

Schools visited by the commissioner included Government Model Secondary, West End Mixed Secondary School, Asagba Secondary School, Osadenis Mixed Secondary School, and Isioma Onyeobi College, all in Asaba.

The monitoring exercise continues as the commissioner and his team will pay visits to more schools in the state.

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Instagram comedian, Sydney Talker proposes to BBNaija’s Nengi (Photos)

Former BBNaija Lockdown housemate, Nengi Hampson has reportedly accepted the proposal of popular Instagram comedian/influencer, Sydney Talker.

The comedian who disclosed this sharing photos of the alleged proposal on his Instagram page said he proposed to Nengi and she said yes.

Reacting to the proposal, Nengi Hampson was also seen in the comment section, gushing over the comedian. She commented “mine” with love emojis, while the comedian replied with a kiss emoji.

Following the alleged proposal to Nengi, some fans believe that the comedian might be planning a skit with the reality TV star, while others have sent in their congratulatory messages to the duo, wishing them well as they allegedly embark on the new journey.

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IGP Adamu reject alleged plot to sell Police Officers’ Mess in Lagos

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The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has rejected claims that he planned to sell the Police Officers’ Mess at Onikan in Lagos.

Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, in a statement on Monday, accused “mischief authors” of concocting lies.

He said the Mess was built to cater for the welfare of Police officers, serve as transit accommodation for personnel on transfer or special assignments, and provide a social environment for their relaxation.

Mba noted that over time, the property has degenerated and shown structural defects requiring a massive renovation or outright rebuilding.

The spokesman said to restore its lost glory, the IGP, and the Management Team decided to upgrade it “to a world-class edifice”.

Mba disclosed that the renovation will include the development of a world-class three-star hotel, office spaces for lease, and a shopping complex.

The PRO said the new Mess will not only cater for the welfare of the officers but also provide an alternate stream of income for its maintenance and sustenance.

“Upon completion, the project which is wholly owned by the Police and financed by the Police Cooperative Society, would improve the aesthetic value of the Onikan waterline, provide one of the best water view facilities on Lagos Island and improve social interaction with the public.

“It is also expected to generate additional employment opportunities for teeming Nigerian youths, boost the internally generated revenue of Lagos State, and generally improve the economy of the State.”

The IGP advised Nigerians to beware of rumour-mongering and those seeking to discredit the project.

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Ycee prays over heart break from Igbo women in 2021

Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter Oludemilade Martin Alejo, popularly known as Ycee has prayed for him not to pass through heartbreak at the hands of Igbo women in the year 2021.

He disclosed this in a tweet via his handle and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

The musician has gotten his heart broken by women from the south-eastern part of Nigeria known as Igbos.

Ycee who took to his Twitter handle on January 18, 2021, prayed that his heart is saved from Igbo women this year.

He tweeted;

”2021, Igbo women will not break my heart this year …. so help me God”

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MTV Base premieres new reality TV show “Celebrity Bumps”, features BBNaija’s Mike Edwards and wife, Perri

MTV Base has announced the premiere of its UK hit reality show, ‘Celebrity Bumps’, in Africa.

The reality TV show named “Mike + Perri Celebrity Bumps” will be featuring the first runner up and former Big Brother Naija ‘Pepper Dem’ housemate, Mike Edwards, and his wife, Perri (Shakes-Daylon).

For the first time, the reality TV show, is set to air on MTV Base, DStv Channel 322, and GOtv Channel 72, on Tuesday, 19 January, 8 pm WAT.

The show will take viewers through the pregnancy journey of first-time parents, whose love story captured the hearts of millions across the continent.

With deep-dives into their baby shower, dealing with the pandemic, gender reveals party, doctor visits, and other priceless moments with friends and family; Mike and Perri will be sharing their unique and unfiltered experience as expectant parents, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This season of the reality show is filmed as an extended pregnancy vlog, in compliance with all health and safety protocols.

Mike + Perri Celebrity Bumps first premiered on MTV UK, and viewers cannot wait to experience the fresh and unique content.

Watch episodes of Mike + Perri Celebrity Bumps on MTV Base DStv Channel 322 and GOtv Channel 72, every Tuesday at 8 pm WAT.

Meanwhile, for more on this week’s episode, follow @mtvbasewest on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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NDDC: Akpabio reveals bribing Malami with $5million

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The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, has responded to reports of him paying $5million bribe to the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

According to reports, Akpabio allegedly bribed Malami, who is the Minister of Justice with $5million to secure the appointment of a Sole Administrator for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

But, Malami had denied the report, saying those behind the report should provide evidence to back up their claim
The
Reacting, Akapbio also described the report as false We.

A statement by Akapbio’s Chief Press Secretary, Anietie Ekong, insisted that the report was the handiwork of mischief-makers.

The statement which was seen by golden nationblog.com
reads,

“Senator Godswill Akpabio said his attention has been drawn to a piece of fake news which claimed that he paid $5 million bribe to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami and others to secure the appointment of a Sole Administrator for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

“The Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs stated categorically that ‘this is a piece of malicious concoction manufactured from the pit of hell by mischief-makers. It is a figment of the imagination of the author of the fake news. Senator Akpabio denies the story in its entirety. The authors of the fake news should be ready to back up their claim or face the full wrath of the law.’” the statement ended.

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Shatta Wale in serious fight with Burna Boy, gives him warning (Video)

Popular Ghanaian artiste, Shatta Wale has slammed Award-winning Nigerian singer, Burna Boy for gossiping him.

He disclosed this in a post on his Instagram page and was seen by goldennationblog.com.

He said Burna Boy should have called him if he had any issue to settle with him instead of gossiping around town.

Shatta Wale alleged that Burna Boy was upset because he told people he housed the Nigerian star in Ghana and allowed him to drive his cars sometime back when he had an issue with fellow Mr 2kay in 2017.

According to Shatta Wale, the Ye crooner should not have felt bad because he told people about the help he did for him.

The Ghanaian artiste said he would always be informed about anything Burna Boy talks to anybody in Ghana.

He, therefore, warned that the Nigerian singer should stop talking about him.

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Reactions as Buhari shares N500 each to kids

Nigerians have reacted after pictures of president Muhammadu Buhari sharing Naira notes with children caused a stir on social media.

The pictures appeared online following the creation of the Stingy Men Association of Nigeria (SMAN).

The fun group was created as a form of funny revolt from men who have had enough of giving their hard-earned money to female counterparts.

The trend which started with just a few social media users has now gathered momentum with several notable male personalities in the entertainment industry using their voices to amplify the existence of the association.

Some Nigerians on social media assigned roles to Buhari under the stingy men association as he was seen sharing what appears to be two pieces of N500 notes each to the kids,

https://twitter.com/bunmifasae/status/1349342866401759233?s=20

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Police arrest suspected yahoo boy with girlfriend’s corpse in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a suspected Internet fraudster popularly called yahoo boy with the corpse of his girlfriend.

According to reports, the boy was caught attempting to dump the body of the lady, Blessing Akpovwovwo, in a bush.

The suspect, said to be a resident of Urhuoka, Abraka in the Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state, is cooling his heels in police detention.

Sources said the suspect, whose identity has yet to be ascertained was nabbed by a passerby on Thursday evening, as he (the suspect) was attempting to dispose of the lifeless body of Blessing.

It was gathered that though the lifeless body of the lady was intact. Sources said she might have been used for rituals.

Other sources claimed that the deceased was pregnant and it looked like a case of forced abortion to get the fetus for ritual purposes.

It was further gathered that the corpse had blood in her private parts.

Confirming the incident to journalists, the Head of Ugono-Abraka community, Chief Samuel Umunadi, said he was intimated of the lady’s murder by some vigilantes late Thursday night, adding that the sad development had thrown the community into mourning.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, could not be reached for confirmation of the incident as of press time.

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Onyeka Onwenu reveals why she rejected Fela’s marriage proposal

Nigerian singer, Onyeka Onwenu has revealed that Music legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti approached her for marriage in the eighties.

She disclosed this in her new autobiography, titled My Father’s Daughter.

Onwenu however, said she rejected Fela’s proposal during her visit to his club because of his other wives.

According to her, she is a possessive lover and did not understand Fela’s love for women.

Narrating how Fela proposed marriage, Onyeka wrote: “The second time I saw Fela was in 1984, a few years after I had returned from the United States. He had just been released from jail.

“He was arrested for attempting to travel with his band for a gig in London with the sum of 1,600 pounds for their hotel accommodation. At the time, carrying any amount of foreign currency was against one of the many decrees promulgated by the Buhari/Idiagbon military junta.

“After he was released from prison, Fela sent a mutual friend, the journalist Onuorah Udenwa who is now a US-based pastor, to bring me to his club. I thought that he probably wanted to thank me for speaking up for him, but that was not it.

“He never even mentioned the article I had written in solidarity with him. Fela wanted to marry me, and I was flattered. I thanked him for the honour of wanting me to become his consort, but I turned him down all the same.”

The music legend added that while she waited at the club to see him, she noticed that his Queen (dancer-wives) had been looking at her with scorn.

“They passed by often, whispering comments about me. They were downright hostile and quite obvious about it.

“I pointed this out to him and told him that I was a possessive lover and would not be able to cope as an appendage to his harem but Fela laughed.

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See what Fans did to Burna Boy after King Manny slammed Wizkid FC

Burna Boy’s right-hand man King Manny has been blasted after he took to his social media page to slam the fans of Wizkid.

Manny had taken to social media to call out Wizkid’s fans whom he accused of always slandering his boss.

King Manny who is the PA to the singer, had stated that the fans of Wizkid are responsible for scandals Burna Boy experienced in the past.

According to the post, manny revealed that they planned to teach them a lesson this year but have canceled their plans because Wizkid is now part of their camp.

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200L student shot by armed robbers for resisting rape attempt (photos)

The Student Union Government President, Rivers State College of Health Science and Management Technology, Comrade ThankGod Nlenya Igwe, has visited the young lady who was shot by armed robbers for resisting rape attempt.

It was gathered that the victim, Jeremiah Blessing, a native of Akwa Ibom and a 200 level student of the institution, was shot by armed robbers on Wednesday night, January 13, at about 9:00 pm in front of the public toilet close to the school at Ikwerre road, Mile 4, Port Harcourt.

Miss Jeremiah has thanked the men of the State Police Command, students, and security guards of the institution for coming to her aid.

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PDP reacts to Presidency’s ‘wait on God’ comment, hits Buhari’s govt

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has condemned President Muhammadu Buhari’s Special Adviser In Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, for saying only God can resolve the insecurity challenges in the country.

PDP’s spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan said Adesina’s comment has exposed Buhari’s government as completely helpless and incompetent.

Adesina had said Nigerians should handover the insecurity issues in the country to God.

Reacting, PDP said Adesina’s remark was an admission of Buhari’s failure.

A statement by Ologbondiyan said: Buhari administration is “completely helpless and has come to its wits end in governance; a development, which validates the position of majority of Nigerians that President Buhari is grossly incompetent and should step aside.

It further goes to confirm that the Buhari’s administration has outlived its usefulness if it had any and that the promises and assurances made by President Buhari, on the fight against insecurity amount to mere lip service.

“While we believe in the powers and interventions of God, our party restates that such comes with the commitment, determination, and show of responsibility on the part of those in leadership positions; an obligation in which the Buhari Presidency has completely failed.”

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Reps reject school resumption, suggests three-month postponement

The House of Representatives has blamed the Federal Government for giving schools the go-ahead to resume on Monday despite the increasing cases of COVID-19.

The House said government officials did not consult the relevant committees of the National Assembly, contrary to their claim that all relevant stakeholders were consulted before arriving at January 18, 2021, resumption date.

It, therefore, demanded postponement of resumption for three months, where necessary safety measures weren’t put in place and compliance with protocols low.

Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, disclosed these in a telephone interview with newsmen.

“They did not consult us; at least in my committee, nobody from the ministry spoke to me. I have been in Abuja. And I am not sure that they spoke to any of my members. They just don’t see us as part of the critical stakeholders,” he said.

Ihonvbere, in a statement, he issued in Abuja on Saturday, on behalf of his committee, opposed the Monday resumption date.

The statement was titled “School resumption: Are we truly prepared?”

It read, “The Committee on Basic Education and Services, House of Representatives, has received with concern the decision of the Federal Government to reopen schools on January 18, 2021.

“We are particularly concerned that when the infection rates hovered around 500 and under, schools were closed; but now that it hovers well above 1,000 infections daily, schools are being reopened. Why are we rushing to reopen schools without adequate verifiable and sustainable arrangements to protect and secure our children?”

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D’Banj releases latest music, titles it “Ikebe”

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo,
Popularly known as D’Banj has released his latest song titled; ‘Ikebe’.

The singer disclosed the release of the song in a social media post seen by goldennationblog.com

D’Banj has won several music awards, including; Best African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards, artiste of the year at the MTV Africa Music Awards, Best International Act: Africa at the 2011 BET Awards, best-selling African artiste at the 2014 World Music Awards, and many others.

He adopted the stage name D’banj, a combination of his first name, Dapo, and his surname, Oyebanjo. D’banj is known internationally for his chart-topping hit song “Oliver Twist” which was released in 2012.

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Reactions as teenager reveal why she set her boyfriend ablaze

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Nigerians on Facebook and Twitter have reacted to the confession of a 17-year-old prospective Law student of the Benue State University, Makurdi, Alex Esther ohowowo

Esther, set her boyfriend, Chidinma, ablaze after he allegedly made her abort three pregnancies.

Esther, who said she couldn’t explain why she killed her boyfriend, said, “I was just angry over all the issues we had.

“Our relationship was really serious to the extent that we had to take a blood oath before I allowed him to deflower me.”

However, Esther’s confession has generated a lot of reactions on social media, while some people supported her actions, others condemned the act.

Chemex-Azuka Umeh, on Facebook, wrote, “It is so sad anyway. But judging by the lady’s testimony. Men should always realize that they are dealing with humans that have feelings. You can’t be treating a lady the way you freely want and expect to always go free. Until we learn to respect and value each other emotions and feelings, this kind of ugly experiences will not stop.”

“Actions and reactions are equal and opposite, even though I do not support the action she took, it’s undeniable that their relationships had problems. Nobody just wakes up one day and decides to burn another person alive. The lady was as much a victim as the guy himself,” Ephraim Obaze wrote.

@Chinwe10395567 Tweeted, “At 17, not only do you have an intent to Kill but also went to actualize it. The law profession isn’t for the type of you. The profession is a noble one, not one that breeds a bunch of inhumane people. The young lady needs a psychological evaluation at this stage of her life.”

Another Twitter user @BOtunuga said, “It seems the guy was sexually exploiting her. She’s still a minor and has had three freaking abortions for him. She felt used and worthless. You could see her immaturity in being unable to process her anger, thus leading her to murder.”

“She is trying to evade justice by claiming to be 17yrs. Record of her age should be properly investigated. She should desist from claiming she is minor,” Ghazali Isgogo wrote on Facebook.

Ijele Nkechi Udeala wrote, “She’s a minor; this girl may have been abused. She says they beat her up sometimes. This case has to be investigated. She needs mental health evaluation too.”

Prince Leo Ozomma stated that “No matter the height of provocation, please never take laws into your hands. Baby lover girl, go face your day in court.”

@cyrilemeka tweeted, “Aborted three pregnancy already by age 17.. Took a blood oath and killed the guy as a result of, according to you “forced sex”. The courts won’t see it that way. There was more to it.”

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Omawumi says only credit alerts make her ‘smile’

Popular Nigerian singer-songwriter and actress Omawumi Megbele popularly known by her stage name as Omawumi has revealed that he only smiles when she receives credit alerts.

She disclosed this on her Instagram page as she shared a photo of her looking at the credit alert she received on her phone while wearing a smile.

The multa Guinness Brand Ambassador said love messages or funny videos do not make her happy stating that credit alert can only do that.

Omawumi wrote:

“ANYTIME YOU SEE ME SMILE LIKE THIS DEY LOOK PHONE JUST KNOW SAY I DON GET CREDIT ALERT 😊… (HUSBAND PLEASE TAKE NOTE 🤣)… SOME OF UNA GO JUST SEE FUNNY VIDEOS OR LOVE TEXT, UNA GO DEY SHINE TEETH ANYHOW 😜”

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Award of Excellence: Uvwie Monarch hails Urhobo Voice

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The Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso, Abe 1, has commended The Urhobo Voice Newspaper over its receipt of an award of excellence.

The Isoko Mirror Newspaper had during its anniversary celebration given an award of ‘The Pioneer Best Grassroot Newspaper in Delta State and South-South Region’ to the Urhobo Voice Newspaper.

Speaking during the award presentation, the Uvwie monarch in his message of felicitation to The Urhobo Voice Newspaper, noted “Your discipline, diligence and wholesome devotion to news coverage earned you the award.”

“It is an award well deserved. Do not rest in your oars.”

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Davido hosts Stonebwoy ahead of Headies Awards

Popular Nigerian musician, David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has welcomed Stonebwoy to his home in Nigeria ahead of the Headies Awards.

The Headies is a music awards show established in 2006 by the Hip Hop World Magazine of Nigeria to recognize outstanding achievements in the Nigerian music industry.

The annual ceremony features performances by established and promising artists. It is broadcast live on HipTV to viewers across Nigeria.

Stonebwoy and Davido teamed up to release ‘Activate’ which is enjoying massive airplay globally.

Davido recently had arrived in Ghana for the Activate Party he co-headlined with Stonebwoy premised on the Activate collaboration they worked on. He was reportedly hosted by Stonebwoy, in Ghana.

Davido is reciprocating the gesture after the warm reception he received from the Ghanaian Dancehall artiste.

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Democratic Process should be checkmated – Juan Governor tells group

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To strengthen the nation’s democracy, the outgone Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Council, Mr. Juan Governor has called for regular and proper checkmating of the political class.

He made the call in his opening remarks as the Chairman on the occasion of the official inauguration of “Oganisu Political Forum” and launching of her 2021 Calendar.

The former council chairman who commended the concept of the political group said,

“I commend the effort of the leaders and members of Oganisu Political Forum; I am happy about this group because it will serve as a shade for us politicians, for checkmating both the leaders and the led. I advise you to sustain it.”

Governor expressed joy that such PDP political pressure group was formed during his time in office and pledged to identify with the leaders and members.

He charged the new exco members to shun all forms of maladministration, such as distrust, self-centeredness, and insincerity, adding that they should be open, transparent, and accountable to other members.

Speaking further, Mr. Governor advised them against unnecessary and selfish pressures capable of mortgaging the original purpose of forming the forum.

“Do not yield to politicians against your conscience so that you won’t sell out to selfish, greedy, and money bag politicians.”

Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Chika Ossai who also spoke at the occasion as a special guest of honour congratulated the new executive members of the forum and the organizers.

Hon. Ossai charged them to guard against what he referred to as “Fizzling Out” of the forum soon, saying that the political group should not be tied to a particular individual or political groups if they want it to stand the taste of time.

He charged the leaders to pilot the ga roup for the good of Ndokwa East Local Government Area and beyond.

The commissioner requested for a wider spread of the group for political reasons using the occasion to solicit the people’s maximum support for the present State (PDP) Government of Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Executive Governor of Delta.

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Armed Forces Remembrance Day: pigeons released by Buhari refuses to fly (Video)

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The white pigeons released by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony refused to fly despite multiple attempts by the President.

The refusal of the pigeons to fly has thereby sparked a debate on social media on Friday.

The President had opened the birdcage at the National Arcade, picked up one of the doves, and thrown it into the air but the bird landed on top of the cage and refused to fly.

Buhari, who was eager to let the white pigeons fly, opened the roof of the cage in a bid to send them all out but the birds remained adamant and decided to sit on top of the cage’s roof.

The President, who appeared tired of trying, soon left the birds and returned to his seat. Moments after the President had left, however, some of the birds flew.

The ritual of releasing doves is to commemorate the life of a departed loved one and is common at significant events like funerals or memorials. It also signifies peace.

Studies show that domesticated doves which are used to living in cages are not always keen on flying.

The Vatican stopped the ritual in 2014 when Pope Francis released two birds that would not fly out of the window of the papal apartment and required several attempts to get the birds to fly out over a crowd of spectators.

A similar incident occurred just the year prior at an event where Pope Benedict XVI released doves during a Holocaust remembrance event. The doves were attacked by a gull, with one dove being singled out and injured, according to Wikipedia.

In 2014, the doves refused to fly when former President Goodluck Jonathan freed them. The Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry Enugu, Rev Fr. Ejike Mbaka, described the incident at the time as a sign that God had abandoned Jonathan.

The refusal of the birds to fly on Friday, however, sparked thousands of comments on social media.

A former presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, Adamu Garba, said the birds should be eaten if they cannot do what they were trained to do.

“The pigeons are tired and overtime became lazy, they don’t want to fly the spirit Crowe Nigerian Flag. We should roast them at Suya joint and deploy Crowwe for action,” he said.

Social media personality, Morris Monye, said the Department of State Services would have arrested the pigeons for embarrassing the President if they could.

“I guarantee you… If it was possible, the DSS would arrest the pigeons for such an insult on the President. But really, is there peace, harmony, and security in the land?” he asked.

A former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, who is a known critique of the President, also tweeted, “Hmmm. Even the pigeons in Nigeria.”

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NUJ cries out over assassination attempt on member

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The River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has cried out over an unsuccessful assassination attempt on the life of Mr Segun Owolabi, a member or the state’s NUJ.

This is contained in a statement signed by the State Chairman, Stanley Job Stanley and Secretary, Ike Wigodo, and was made available to newsmen.

According to the statement, Owolabi who is the Business Manager of Silverbird, Rythym 93.7 FM Station, escaped attacks on Monday night when a group of people suspected to be murderers stormed his house in Port Harcourt.

The union expressed worry over the resurgence of insecurity in the state and called on the relevant security agencies to be proactive towards tackling the menace.

Security agents in the state were warned to ensure that the assassination attempt on Owolabi is thoroughly investigated and the culprits brought to book.

The statement further urged the state government and security agencies to work closely to secure the lives of citizens living and doing business in the state.

“the resurgence of insecurity in the state is worrisome. We are concerned about the security of our members and other citizens living and doing business in the state.

“The government and the police should work closely and be more proactive towards tackling the insecurity situation in the state”, the statement noted.

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Police arrest 4 men for stealing church instruments

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4 men allegedly involved in a burglary case at a church have been detained at Akyem Ofoase Police in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

The suspects identified as Kofi Adu, a 30-year-old driver, Stephen Frimpong, a 27-year-old farmer, Anane Blabo, a 25-year-old illegal miner operator, and Bismarck Adu, a 25-year-old jobless man were arrested for making away with church instruments.

The four suspects reportedly broke into both the Assemblies of God Church and Open Bible Church in the Akyem Ofoase community and looted the churches’ keyboard and amplifiers.

Akyemansa District Police Commander, DSP Ransford Nsiah said the suspects were nabbed after taking the stolen appliances to Akyem Oda to sell them. The suspects are to be arraigned in court today, January 15.

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Another protest as Amotekun operative kills 23-year-old boy

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Commercial activities were stopped for hours in Mokola, Ibadan, Oyo State capital yesterday morning as some residents staged a peaceful protest against an operative of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, named Amotekun, who killed a 23-year-old man, Tosin Thomas.

Commuters had a hectic time passing through the commercial centre of the town as protesters blocked roads and condemned what they called unprofessional handling of arms by Amotekun operatives.

Thomas, it was gathered, was said to have engaged the Amotekun operative in a hot argument and anger, the local security guard pulled the trigger and shot Tosin. Some residents who tried to prevail on the operative were threatened.

Thomas was pronounced dead at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, where he was rushed to. No fewer than five persons have been killed as a result of clashes between Amotekun operatives and hoodlums in the state lately. Late last year, a police officer was shot by an Amotekun operative, though in error, as the police confirmed. A few days after, a clash occurred between Amotekun operatives and some youths in Tapa town, leaving two persons dead. Also, three people were reportedly killed during a clash between operatives of Amotekun and some hoodlums in Aiyete in Ibarapa North Local Government Area of the state last week.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Olugbenga Fadeyi, confirmed the killing yesterday. He said: “A report was received from one Alamu, ‘m’ at Mokola Police Station at 9:10 a.m. alleging that one Tosin Thomas, ‘m’, aged 21 of Ode Oolo area of Ibadan while going home at Total Filling station, Mokola, on Wednesday around 11:30 p.m., was hit by bullets from a gun fired by Amotekun operatives.

“He was rushed to University College Hospital (UCH) for immediate medical attention and thereafter was confirmed dead by medical personnel. Investigation has commenced into the matter and further development shall unfold.”

However, a statement by the commandant of the security outfit, Col. Olayanju Olayinka (rtd), explained that “around 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, operatives of Amotekun, led by Team Leader George Idowu, got an alert of a purported armed robbery operation at Total Filling Station, Mokola.

“Following the distress call, the team leader and his team of seven members stormed the scene. On arrival, it turned out that it was not an armed robbery operation, though a crowd had gathered.

“The team leader, sensing no immediate danger to anyone at the scene, immediately proceeded to speak with the station manager. While he was with the manager, he heard a gunshot.

“As it turned out, one of his team members, by the name Afolabi Kazeem, who felt sufficiently threatened by the crowd, which included some hoodlums armed with cutlasses and other dangerous weapons, opened fire to supposedly scare away the crowd. Unfortunately, his shot hit one Mr. Tosin Thomas, 23, who was subsequently confirmed dead.

“The Corps has found that Afolabi Kazeem with Ammunition Number AM031849 acted outside the Amotekun Corps’ protocols. For this reason, he has been summarily dismissed from the Corps and handed over to the police for prosecution. Also, his Team Leader, George Idowu, is being thoroughly investigated and will face all necessary sanctions.

“We want to reassure members of the public of our internal mechanisms for dealing with erring officers. We will continue to train and retrain our officers on best practices and rules of engagement. The Corps deeply regrets the loss to the Thomas family, and we are already in touch with the family.”

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Get ready for death, says Chief Imam

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Lagos State Chief Imam, Sheikh Sulaimon Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, advised Muslims to prepare for death, as it comes unannounced.

This was disclosed during the Fidau (prayer) for the former president of the Eko Club and Arowosadini of Lagos State, Chief Abdul Ganiu Williams, at the Eko Club, Lagos.

Abou-Nolla advised Nigerians to increase their good deeds and ensure a good relationship with God.

“Preparing for death is a lifetime’s job. It begins from the day you were born till the day you eventually die. Death is inevitable, every soul shall taste death; so let us be well prepared for our death because all our deeds will be accounted for after our death. Do not allow your love for wealth and worldly affairs to ruin your hereafter,” he added.

He described the late Williams as a peace lover, who was never found wanting when it came to promoting good deeds and peace in the state.

Hakeem and Jibola Williams described their father as a God-fearing, honest, loving, and caring man, saying he was just when dealing with family, relations, and friends. A relative of the deceased, Alhaja Oluwafunmike Eletu, said the late Williams was a humble man, who ensured that the bond between family members was upheld.

“He laid a good example in the family and I hope his wives and children will emulate him”, she said.

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COVID-19 second wave: FG confirms school resumption date, gives warning

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The Federal Government has finally decided to go ahead with the January 18, 2021 resumption date for schools nationwide.

This is despite the pressure being mounted by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other stakeholders that schools should remain shut amid the second wave of the pandemic.

On Monday, the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, during the press briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 said the January 18 resumption date was not sacrosanct.

However, in a statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Bem Goong, Adamu explained that the decision to maintain the resumption date was the aftermath of “extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including state governors, commissioners of education, proprietors and heads of institutions, staff unions and students”, respectively.

The Minister, however, urged parents and respective institutions to ensure full compliance with COVID-19 protocols.

The statement read in full: “Sequel to the hint given during the press briefing on 12 January 2021 for the review of the proposed resumption date of 18th January 2021, the Federal Ministry of Education has undertaken a comprehensive appraisal of the situation.

“After extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including State Governors, Commissioners of Education, Proprietors and heads of institutions, staff unions and students, the consensus is that the resumption date of 18th January should remain, while parents and respective institutions must ensure full compliance with COVID-19 protocols including- (i) Compulsory wearing of Facemasks by all students, teachers, and workers in all schools (ii)

Temperature checks and handwashing facilities at strategic locations in all schools (iii) Ensuring a constant supply of water and sanitizers (iv) Enforcement of maintenance of social distancing and suspension of large gatherings such as assembly and visiting days. (v) Avoiding overcrowding, including limitations in class sizes and hostel occupancy (vi) Availability of functional health clinics with facilities for isolation and transportation of suspected cases to medical facilities (vii) Adherence to all other non-pharmaceutical protocols, restrictions, and containment measures as may be prescribed/ approved by the PTF from time to time.

“These measures which are to ensure the safe reopening of schools for academic activities will be subject to constant review as we urge teachers, school administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance.”

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Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, others to feature in Biden’s inauguration

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Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez will be performing at the swearing-in for US President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on January 20.

Presidential Inaugural Committee disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

Gaga, 34, will perform the national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner, which will be held on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol building. On The Floor singer Jennifer, 51, who endorsed Biden, and took part in a virtual chat with the president-elect during the campaign, is also on-board to give a musical performance at the event.

The ceremony will begin with an invocation from Father Leo J. O’Donovan, a longtime friend of Biden and his family, before a poetry reading by Amanda Gorman, who was named the first-ever National Youth Poet Laureate in the U.S. in 2017.

Biden’s inauguration will also feature a tie to the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), a union that has long supported Biden, and was the first to endorse him in the 2020 race.

See the lineup:

Invocation: Father Leo J. O’Donovan, a Jesuit Catholic priest who was Georgetown University president from 1989 to 2001.

Pledge of Allegiance: Andrea Hall, president of International Association of Firefighters Local 3920. She’s been a firefighter for more than 20 years in Fulton County, Ga and was the department’s first African American woman to be promoted to captain.

National Anthem: Lady Gaga, one-of-a-kind artist, performer, and trailblazer in beauty and fashion.

Poetry reading: Amanda Gorman, named first-ever National Youth Poet Laureate by UrbanWord and the Library of Congress.

Musical performance: Jennifer Lopez, one of the most influential Latin artists in the country.

Benediction: Rev. Dr. Silvester Beaman, pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Wilmington, Del. He has known the Biden family for 30 years and is a confidant and friend of the president-elect.

Presidential Inaugural Committee CEO Tony Allen said the participants “represent one clear picture of the grand diversity of our great nation.”

“They are also committed to the President-elect and the Vice-President-elect’s steadfast vision of a new chapter in our American story in which we are an America united in overcoming the deep divisions and challenges facing our people, unifying the country, and restoring the soul of our nation.”

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Gunmen attack Delta shopping complex, kills senior pastor (photos)

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The General Overseer of Kingdom Advancement Christian Centre in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, Kelvin Orumor has been killed by suspected armed robbers.

According to reports, the cleric was reportedly shot dead by the assailants at the Edjeba area of Warri on Tuesday, January 12.

It was gathered that Orumor was killed during an operation by the gang at a shopping complex in a neighbourhood where he had visited.

He was rushed to a government hospital where he was confirmed dead by doctors.

“We heard he walked into them when they were robbing a plaza. They shot him. He died before he got to the hospital.” a source said.

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US: Trump impeached for second time as American President

United States president, Donald Trump has been impeached for the second time as president.

He was impeached by the US House of Representatives led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Trump who only has few days to the expiration of his tenure was impeached after he incited his followers to attack the capitol in an effort to stop the certification of Joe Biden’s presidential election win. The Democrats alongside some of their Republican colleagues voted to impeach the controversial president on allegation of “incitement of insurrection”.

The resolution passed 232 to 197. With this, Trump has made history as the only American president impeached twice.

10 members of his party who vote to impeach him include Rep. Dan Newhouse of Washington Rep. John Katko of New York Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler of Washington Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois.

Rep. Fred Upton of Michigan Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming Rep. Peter Meijer of Michigan Rep. Anthony Gonzalez of Ohio Rep. Tom Rice of South Carolina Rep. David Valadao of California However, it is unknown when the House will send the article of impeachment over to the Senate. After the Senate receives the article, a trial will take place and if enough senators vote to convict him, Trump will be removed from office. The senators can also vote to ban him from taking public office again.

Meanwhile, the trial might not take place during Trump’s administration as he is set to leave office in some days’ time. Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell is expected to determine when the trial will take place.

The declaration was issued on Monday, January 11, over security reports of possible plots to attack the Capitol building ahead of Joe Biden’s inauguration scheduled for January 20. Trump’s declaration will enable the federal authorities to coordinate with local authorities in assisting if any emergency occurs.

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Delta presents 378 special constabularies for community policing

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Delta State Government has presented 378 special constabularies who recently finished training as part of efforts towards establishing community policing in the state.

The executive governor of Delta, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa made the presentation at the Community Policing Sensitisation Awareness Campaign held at the Events Centre, Asaba.

Okowa, who was highly represented by Secretary to the State Government, Chiedu Ebie, said that with the overwhelming increase in crime rate, the need for community policing has become inescapable.

In a keynote address, Okowa urged the special constabularies to see their engagement as a clarion call to serve their communities.

“Today’s sensitization/awareness campaign is underscored by the need to bring to the fore the roles and duties of the 378 (three hundred and seventy-eight) newly trained Special Constabularies, who will be deployed to their various Local Communities in the State, where invariably they would cultivate closer ties and affinity with community leaders and hopefully ensure the security of citizens at the local level.

“You will recall that not too long ago, this same venue played host to Leaders of the South-South Region, the IGP and the Police
high command in the form of a town hall meeting and interactive session wherein issues of security were extensively discussed and
the IGP rolled out his plans on the concept of community policing in the face of rising insecurity and crime.

“I am glad that today, the issue of community policing has progressed from mere thoughts into a reality recruitment and training of over 10,000 Constabularies Nationwide and I must commend the IGP, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu on this feat.

“Clearly, the evolution of Community Policing in Nigeria places a demand on the police to better appreciate the needs of citizens, who expectedly look forward to a more trustworthy relationship
with them.

“I there, therefore, all the newly recruited Special Constabularies to see their task as one that places a responsibility of trust and service.

“In understanding the sociology of crime in our society, it is apparent that criminal activities are initiated mostly at the local level and as such your deployment to your various localities of origin to serve would ensure that the Police becomes part of the neighbourhood,” Governor Okowa said.

He restated the support of the state government to the Nigeria Police for this laudable initiative designed to change the agelong approach to tackling crime through a new strategy of employing partnerships and problem-solving techniques to proactively deal with the immediate and largely localized conditions that stimulate crime and other social disorder.

The governor appreciated traditional rulers in the state for their support towards ensuring adequate security in their domains.

He congratulated the constabularies on their successful training and also congratulated the outgoing Commissioner of Police on his new posting as AIG Zone 13, Awka, Anambra State.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Police Commissioner in the state, AIG Hafiz Inuwa said that with the successful passing out of 378 special constabularies, additional manpower had been added to support policing in the different local government areas.

“The creation of the Special Constabularies is a way of involving the community in the policing architecture as envisioned by the Inspector General of Police in the domestication of Community Policing strategy to strengthen the operationalisation and intelligence gathering of the Force.

“The intending Special Constabularies here in Delta were jointly screened and shortlisted by the Local Government Community Policing Advisory Committee (LGCPAC) and Divisional Community Policing Committee (DCPC) from the twenty-five government areas in the state in conjunction with the Council Chairmen,” Inuwa stated.

Chairman of the occasion, DIG Sotonye Wakama (Rtd) said that the police force had been quite concerned about its ability to perform effectively in an atmosphere of rising population and increasing crime wave.

He said that community policing was adopted worldwide because it embodies the characteristics and traits of other policing strategies.

He said the essence of Community policing entails taking a retrospection on where we were and where we are now and urged police officers to change their style of coercive force.

DIG Wakama said that community policing, a component of the partnership, people problems solving organisational transformation was already embedded in the new Police Act and urged the police and the citizenry to work together to curb the rising crime wave in the country.

In his remark, the Chairman, Traditional Rulers Council and Co-Chairman State Community Policing Advisory Committee, (SPAC), Delta State, HRM Obi Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II said that community policing became essential because security has become an essential ingredient of governance.

He congratulated the Constabularies on their successful completion of course and training which he said will bring peace and harmony to the state and show a good example for others to follow.

“On behalf of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, we congratulate you hoping that you will not fail,” Efeizomor said.

He urged the police as an establishment to carry out an image cleansing, adding “Nothing will stop this country from having a viable and productive Nigeria Police and it is on this note that the establishment of Community Policing becomes very imperative.

“The uniform is only a mark of identification otherwise the work of policing belongs to all and sundry. This opportunity demands that all of us must place our hands on deck to ensure the success of community Policing in Delta.

“Delta Traditional rulers commend Governor Okowa for his outstanding contributions in setting up this Special Constabularies to ensure attainment of peace in the state,” Obi Efeizomor said.

Course Leader of the Special Constabularies, Monday Chukwuji, appreciated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the government and the people of Delta for their support to the Constabularies.

He said they have been adequately trained to embark on the task ahead, adding that they will not disappoint the government and the people.

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Civil servants to begin seven-weekend course – Delta govt

A seven-weekend course for senior management officers in the Delta state civil service has been announced by the Office of the Delta State Head of Service in collaboration with the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON).

This is contained in a statement signed by the State Director of Information, Mrs Theresa Oliko, and was made available to goldennationblog.com in Asaba.

According to the statement, the opening ceremony for the programme is scheduled to hold on Friday, January 15, 2021, at the Association of Senior Civil Servants Hall, along Maryam Babangida Way, Asaba, at 10.30 am prompt.

Nominated officers for the program were advised to be seated at, the venue by 10.00 am and to ensure strict adherence to the COVID-19 safety protocols and guidelines as recommended by the federal government.

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Police arrest suspected fraudsters who pose as ‘spirits’ to defraud people (photos)

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The Katsina state police command has arrested the duo of Kabiru Bashir, 27, and Sadiq Ashiru, 30, both of Danbatta LGA of Kano state.

It was alleged that they hustle by defrauding ignorant members of the public through phone calls posing as spirits (ALJANU).

A statement released by the spokesperson of the state police command, Gambo Isah, said nemesis caught up with the suspects when they stole the ATM card of a lady identified as Rabi’atu Garba of Mani LGA of Katsina state.

”The suspects started calling her that they are spirits (AlJanu) and asked her to avail them with her ATM card PIN. The suspects deceitfully told her that they are about to bless her by sending one million naira to her account and directed her to go to her bank, the UBA branch in Katsina, and update her account. She became suspicious and reported the matter at the Central Police Station, (CPS) Katsina. In the course of the investigation, the suspects were trailed and arrested.” the statement read.

Isah said the suspects confessed to committing the offence and stated that they have defrauded several unsuspecting persons in the state through the same mode of operations.

He said one white Honda Ham pane, with Chassis No. JHMGD173025215012, NSCDC ID card bearing one Kabiru Bashir, two (2) ATM cards, four (4) GSM handsets, and the sum of one hundred and twenty-six (N126, 000:00K) were recovered from the suspects.

Isah said they will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.

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Man sees wife sleeping with his friend, takes selfie for in-laws (photos)

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A selfie a man took after he reportedly caught his wife sleeping with his friend in their home, has gone viral.

The pictures went viral after being shared online.

Twitter user, @oluwatayorhoda who shared the photos alleged that the man took the selfie for his in-laws after he caught his wife in the act.

She tweeted;

“Lol so this guy found his wife sleeping with another man in his place and took a selfie for the in-laws, I stan.

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BREAKING: 2020 NECO results released as 12 schools get blacklisted

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The National Examinations Council (NECO) has released the internal Senior Secondary School Examination (SSCE) results.

There has been a two percent increase in candidates who made five credits and above in all subjects.

NECO also derecognised 12 schools for their involvement in mass cheating and cases of malpractice.

The Registrar, Professor Godswill Obioma, confirmed this at the NECO Headquarters in Minna.

Obioma said the schools derecognised include four schools in Adamawa, two in Kaduna, two in Kastina, Two in Niger, one in Taraba, and one in FCT.

He said that 24 supervisors were blacklisted for various offences ranging from poor supervision, aiding and abetting, connivance with non candidates to write answers on chalkboards.

A support line officer confirmed the news and the customer care assistant said: “Yes, it is true. The results have been released.

“To check, visit result.neco.gov.ng and input your details”.

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Conflicts in Delta PDP over alleged method of primaries

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The tempo of political activities in Delta State has increased over the past month, following the announcement by the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) of its intention to conduct local government elections on March 6.

Within the ruling PDP in Delta State, it has been absolute bedlam since its chairman, Kingsley Esiso, during a visit to Sapele executive committee members announced that the party will not conduct primaries, but ‘select’ candidates for the local polls.

Judging from the agitations by aspirants over the party’s decision, it would appear the directive is an unpopular one. Esiso said the move was to forestall rancour within the party, especially amongst defeated aspirants after the primaries.

He said many aspirants may not take kindly to a loss, especially after paying huge sums of money for non-refundable nomination forms, hence the decision by the party’s leadership not to hold primaries.

His words: “We decided as a party that we should use our head, do some thinking and come up with a novel idea considering two things; one, that the money paid for the forms is not refundable and because it is not refundable, let us avoid the old practice when we allow everybody that want to aspire to come here and buy forms.

“Secondly, that the process was to forestall incidences that may cause rancour in the party after the primaries due to the huge amount paid for the purchase of forms.”

Esiso said that the party had, in view of these considerations directed ward leaders to lobby all aspirants for the different positions on the need to allow only one person to pick up the only nomination form, adding that the same applied for chairmanship aspirants where the local government leaders were directed to play their role in limiting the purchase of the party’s ticket to just an individual by conducting a process where whoever emerged would be the choice of the people.

He, however, stressed that the outcome of the exercise does not vitiate the ambition of any member, especially individuals not satisfied with the process.

His words: “This does not preclude any other person from coming to buy the form, we will not stop you from buying forms, when that is done, the party will conduct primaries in that ward or local government area. That is to say that they did not agree in that local government area or ward and on the 25 and 26, we will conduct primaries for them.

“It will be noted that when aspirants emerge as the party’s candidate after the primaries, they will then proceed to acquire DSIEC form of which the price is yet to be revealed. What we are doing is the internal affairs of our party and our arrangements for the forthcoming local government elections in the state. DSIEC has released the timetable for the elections and we have set down our guidelines for our members in accordance with our party constitution.”

But, the decision to allow party leaders a major role in selecting candidates has triggered unending protests, allegations of imposition, and threats of a boycott by some aspirants across the three senatorial districts of the state.

Recently, two councillorship candidates for Ward 13 and 14 (Ward 8 Kiagbodo) in Burutu Local Government Area led a protest to the State Secretariat of the PDP in Asaba to register their dismay over the alleged imposition of candidates after they had emerged as the party flag bearers for the March 6, 2021, local poll.

Paul Oruma, the PDP councillorship candidate for Ward 13, and Perebi Godwin Gbogiemi, councillorship candidate for Ward 14 in Burutu LGA said they were in the State PDP secretariat to present their petition against the imposition of a candidate in any guise.

They said they participated in the councillorship primaries where the PDP guidelines were used as the template to conduct the primary election and they emerged as the PDP flag bearers for Wards 13 and 14.

The councillorship aspirants said they will resist any attempt by Chief EK Clark to hijack the collective will of the people who elected them as PDP candidates by imposing his nephew on the people.

They noted that Chief EK Clark ought not to attempt to impose candidates on the party which he resigned from in 2015, stressing that he is not a member of the PDP having renounced his membership of the party.

Added to the aforementioned protests from Delta South senatorial district, another pressure group in Isoko North LGA, Isoko Renaissance Group (IRG) appealed to Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to give room to the people of Isoko North LGA to choose their candidate for the PDP.

The group, in an open letter Monday, December 28, 2020, to Governor Okowa, alleged that the trio of Leo Ogor, Tim Owhefere, and Godwin Ogorugba have perfected plans to subvert the will of the people through the imposition of their chairmanship candidate.

In the letter titled, “As The Search For Council Boss In Isoko North Rages”, signed by its Publicity Secretary, Aghogho, the IRG urged the governor to kick out any candidate brought forward by the trio to safeguard the interest of the party in Isoko North ahead of 2023.

In Warri North LGA, Delta South senatorial district, the ruling party is in turmoil as ex-lawmaker, Misan Ukubeyinje along with other party leaders, rejected the consensus candidate, adding that the leadership has not picked a consensus chairmanship candidate for the March 6, 2021 council elections in the state.

He said leaders and stakeholders of the party had not met to zone or cede the chairmanship ticket of the party in the council to anybody or tribe.

There had been reports that leaders and executive members of the party have already reached a consensus to cede the chairmanship position to Ijaws in Warri North.

But, the former lawmaker described the development as illegal, baseless, and unconstitutional.

He stressed that PDP has not conducted the primaries for those jostling to fly the party’s flag in the council election.

Ukubenyinje called on Governor Okowa and the leadership of the party to disregard the purported consensus candidate as it has no backing of critical party leaders including the immediate past governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

He noted that former Governor Uduaghan, who is also the coordinator of the committee for the convention of critical stakeholders meeting to fine-tune arrangement for a PDP in-house selection of a consensus candidate was not also consulted.

He added: “Only a few minute persons without the requisite mandate and authority in Itsekiriland took that decision without involving critical stakeholders in the Council area. No meeting was called, but a few minute persons of Itsekiri extraction met and allegedly concede the Chairmanship seat to one Smart Asekutu of Ijaw extraction.”

Ukubeyinje added: “That decision is illegal, baseless and unconstitutional as the only proper thing to do is to conduct the party primaries and called on the State party exco and the Governor of the State, Sen, (DR) Ifeanyi Okowa to conduct the same to avert a crisis.
The authors of the chairmanship concession agenda are only bent on creating an unwarranted crisis in the council and make it ungovernable for Governor Okowa.”

He maintained that conceding the chairmanship position to Ijaws is not a panacea for peace but a recipe for maximum chaos.

He added: “A decision of such magnitude can only be taken by His Majesty the Olu of Warri in –Council after a critical stakeholder meeting with the relevant authorities. As a critical stakeholder and legal adviser to PDP in Warri North, no such meeting of critical stakeholders was called.

“Therefore, for anybody or group to say one Ijaw candidate has been picked and a PDP nomination form also issued to him is not only illegal, unlawful and unconstitutional but smacks of imposition with impunity and an insult to our collective conscience as a people.

“This is a democracy. Everyone has a right to contest on a level playing ground. Our amiable Governor should conduct a primary for all interested aspirants and good luck to the winner of the primary.”

In Delta North, cries of imposition have been rampant with no less a personality than the father of Delta State, Governor Okowa, accused of allegedly imposing his preferred councillorship candidate in ward 10 in Aniocha South LGA.

It was gathered that the electoral college of the PDP had in line with the party guidelines, unanimously endorsed a popular candidate, Peter Sorokwu as the party’s flag bearer.

A party source said: “But to our greatest surprise, the governor’s father ordered the State PDP Chairman, Kingsley Esiso and PDP Chairman Delta North Senatorial district, Moses Iduh to replace Peter Sorokwu’s name with his relative in the ward, one Paul Ezeenweiwe, who hails from an Ika community.

“Sorokwu had undergone different screenings and emerged party candidate, and been certified by the ward and LGA chairmen of the party as the councillorship candidate for the election.

“The LGA leaders have gone to see the PDP chairman, Esiso he directed us to go and see Okowa’s father and appeal to him, which we did twice but the governor’s father refused to bulge. They want to scatter the party.”

But, Esiso and the Delta North Chairman, Mr. Moses Iduh denied the allegation, saying it was impossible for someone to impose a candidate in another local government.

Esiso said: “I’m not from that local government, so I don’t know what you are talking about, we have 500 wards in the state, is not possible for me to know the names of councillorship candidates that emerged at the ward level.”

The scenario in Delta Central is no different, following allegations of imposition by a pressure group under the auspices of “The Natives of Ughelli North”.

The group warned of mass protest should there be the imposition of aspirants for the chairmanship position in Ughelli North LGA in local polls slated for March 6, 2021.

The group, in a statement by its president, Daniel Awusa, and scribe Olokpa Felix maintained that it has uncovered plans by an unnamed political party to impose a candidate against the will of the people.

They said the plan is a failed attempt to disenfranchise the electorate of their voting rights.

Part of the statement reads: “Your Excellency, rumour has it that some leaders in Ughelli North are planning to impose a candidate on the people of Ughelli North. We are saying no to such a plan because it will not happen.”

It stressed that the incumbent administration elected in 2017 with the hope of optimal performance, “but the reverse was the case.”

Azusa noted that as the elected administration under the chairmanship of Godwin Adode winds up, the people are poised to frustrate his return for a second term and “would not allow anything that can put Ughelli North into the second phase of pains, hunger, and insecurity as experienced in the tenure of the outgoing council chairman.”

Continuing, he added: “We are saying that it will not happen because the few leaders are doing so for their selfish end. In the event of an imposition, we are ready for a repeat of the recent #EndSARS protest.”

It urged political parties to conduct free and fair primaries for all aspirants by ensuring a level playing field.

But, another group, Ughelli North Concerned Group for Good Governance (UNCGG) passed a vote of confidence on incumbent chair Godwin Adode, noting that the locality “witnessed tremendous development and has been nearly absolute crime-free since assumption of office almost three years ago”.

But, a chieftain of the party who preferred anonymity accused Okowa of undermining democratic values and killing competition within the party since he assumed power.

He maintained that allowing party leaders to select candidates was a ploy by the governor to get his loyalists into positions at the local government level to pave the way for his stooge to become governor in 2023.

He argued that since Governor Okowa assumed office, his preferred method has been selection rather than allowing free and fair primaries, adding that self for the PDP primaries which brought him to power, no primaries have been conducted in the state.

But, in a swift reaction, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olise Ifejika debunked the allegations that the local government elections is a ploy to pave the way for Okowa’s stooge in 2023 governorship elections.

Ifejika said the consensus method is a unique culture entrenched in the PDP across to the nation to select leaders, stressing that it has eliminated rancour and acrimony in party affairs.

His words: “PDP has a culture of adopting consensus in selecting its leadership. What is a consensus? It is everyone agreeing on an issue. It is a uniquely PDP culture. The simple reason is to discourage people from wasting money, the whole idea is to tone down animosity. It is not fair to insinuate that the issue of consensus is to pave the way for Governor Okowa to plant his stooge in office in 2023. Most times, the governor does not play any role in who emerges; he allows the leaders in the area to make the decision. The PDP system allows leaders in their areas to choose who they find most suitable. It is wrong to insinuate that the consensus method became the preferred method under Okowa. It is even under Okowa there has been a measure of sanity in the party. In the past politicians lost their lives due to violence, but this has diminished.”

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Why Garba Shehu should be sacked now – concerned elders tell Buhari

Concerned elders across the country have requested the sack of President Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.

The elders’ demand follows Shehu’s comments claiming that the tenure of Service Chiefs was dependent on the “pleasure” of the Commander-in-Chief.

Shehu had appeared on television and made the utterances while responding to questions on the President’s reason for retaining the Service Chiefs despite the worsening insecurity in the country.

He had claimed that no part of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 stipulated any tenure for the military high command.

However, the elders, who operate under the aegis of Conference of Concerned Nigerian Elders (COCNE), took strong exception to the presidential spokesperson’s submission, describing it as unprofessional in scope, insensitive in content, shameful in form, and reckless in nature.

While admonishing Shehu, the elders said the President’s spokesperson ought to weigh his utterances and the mood of the people, especially when discussing security and public safety.

The elders in a statement signed by Prof. Tunde Banjo for South West, Dr. Achike Nwachukwu for South East, Barr. Jackson Spiff for South-South, Alhaji Baba Usman Funtua, North West, Prof. Shehu Bulama for North East, and Dr. Isaiah Terhila for North-Central zones, respectively, warned the presidential aide against incurring the wrath of Nigerians following the current security situation.

“We are alarmed by a rather reckless, insensitive, shameful and unprofessional statement credited to Garba Shehu, President Muhammadu Buhari’s media adviser, to the effect that the Service Chiefs, who have remained in office despite a glaring lackluster record of performance, serve at the ‘pleasure’ of the Commander-in-Chief.

“Only those who derive personal benefits from the status quo will support its retention, as Shehu has continued to shamefully do.

The concerned elders said the sack of Shehu will serve as a deterrent to other presidential appointees, who may want to act and speak as Shehu does.

The elders, however, clarified that they have nothing against the military heads, who they claim did their best during the early days of their appointments.

“As concerned elders, we observe that this is not the first time Shehu will be supporting the retention of Service Chiefs, against glaring failure to secure lives and property.

“From a patriotic position, therefore, we are calling on our dear and amiable President to show Shehu the way out without further delay.

”We reiterate our call for the removal of the Service Chiefs and consequential replacement with senior officers with new ideas and perspectives on how to check the hydra-headed monster of insecurity”.

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AY becomes social media most followed comedian in Africa, gives details

Nigerian Comedian and actor, Ayo Makun popularly known as AY has confirmed himself as the most followed comedian in Africa.

He disclosed this in a social media post on Monday, 11th January and was seen by goldennationblog.com

AY, in a photo he posted on his Instagram account captioned the photo; “Thank you for supporting the AY Brand.”

Giving a breakdown of his followers across various social media platforms, AY revealed that he has 2million followers on Twitter, 6.8million followers on Facebook, 10million followers on Instagram, and over 740k subscribers on his YouTube channel.

The comedian cum actor hails from Ifon, Ose local government area in Ondo State.

Recall that the comedian is the host of the popular AY live shows and AY comedy skits.

See post below:

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Governor Diri removes BBNaija’s Nengi as Face of Bayelsa Girl Child, appoints 1st class lawyer

Big Brother Naija star, Nengi Hampson, has been removed by Bayelsa Governor, Duoye Diri as the Face of Bayelsa Girl Child.

Nengi was reportedly replaced with Ebizi Blessing Eradiri, a First Class graduate of Law at the Niger Delta University (NDU) who also repeated the same feat at the Nigerian Law School.

This came after many Nigerians faulted the appointment of the reality show star while also pointing out that Eradiri has not only made Bayelsans proud but the entire Izon nation with her excellent performance at the Niger Delta University and the Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus.

Governor Diri on Monday, January 11, announced that Ebizi Blessing Eradiri is the New Face of Bayelsa. He also gave her automatic employment of lecturing at NDU’s Faculty of Law.

Diri also condemned the politicization of Nengi’s appointment and further stated that his administration’s investments in the education sector would remain a top priority.

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COVID-19: FG releases condition for fresh lockdown

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The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, has said that the compliance level of Nigerians will determine whether a fresh lockdown will be imposed, amid the second wave of the pandemic.

PTF National Coordinator, Dr Sani Aliyu, stated this while featuring on TVC on Tuesday.

Aliyu insisted that no decision has been made on a fresh lockdown.

“The behaviour of the public when it comes to these rules matters. We have countries abroad that have very strict non-pharmaceutical intervention measures and everybody follows it.

“The flights are coming in, schools are open, churches are open, and they don’t have COVID-19 problems because everybody observes the rules

“We definitely don’t want a lockdown and because we don’t want to lock down, we need to make sure we do everything we can to prevent ourselves from reaching that state where the government will have to take action,” he said.

The Federal Government ordered a lockdown in March 2020 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States for over five weeks during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It led to job losses as airlines, hotels, banks, among others cut their workforce due to the crushing economic effect of the lockdown.

Last week, the federal government admitted it would have no choice than to impose a fresh lockdown in the country, if the number of COVID-19 infections continues to spike.

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See when Buhari will sack service chiefs, Presidency reveals

A presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, has said it is entirely up to President Muhammadu Buhari to decide when to make changes in the appointment of service chiefs.

According to reports, Shehu told a TVC programme on Sunday, January 10, that Nigerians should allow the president to make the changes whenever he deems appropriate to do so. He, however, pointed out that Buhari has kept the current security chiefs in office because he sees what Nigerians do not see.

Shehu explained that the military commanders serve at the pleasure of the president, noting that there is no part of the law stipulating their tenure of service.

He said: ” It is not a tenured appointment. There is no part of the law that says chief of army staff must serve for two years. Then, after two years, he must go. “He serves at the pleasure of the president. Now, the president has said again he will make changes. When will he make those changes? It is entirely up to him. I think Nigerians should give him the benefit of the doubt.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s chief of army staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, on Monday, January 11, told applicants seeking to serve in the army that they must be ready to move to Sambisa forest at the end of their training.

Buratai noted that the recruits should be ready to serve their country anywhere they are deployed as a soldier.

He made the disclosure at Falgore forest training camp during the final screening for 80 regular recruits in Kano state.

In another news, the Coalition of Northern Patriots (CNP) has hailed General Tukur Buratai for the success of the Nigerian army’s Operation Sahel Sanity.

The group in a statement signed by its president, Nurudeen Dodo, and seen by goldennationblog.com said Buratai and his troops’ commitment to restoring peace have reduced crime in the northwest. Dodo said the operation, since its launch, has generated positive results and helped in bringing about the much-needed peace in the region.

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Tragedy as gunmen kills councillorship candidate, kidnap two others in Delta

Gunmen have shot dead a councillorship candidate in the forthcoming local government elections in Delta State, Mr. Elliot Offa.

The gunmen also abducted two others who were with the deceased at the time of the incident.

The incident occurred along the Jesse/Oben road, a boundary between Delta and Edo States.

It was gathered that the deceased and the two others were returning from the Office of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC, Asaba when the gunmen ambushed, shot sporadically, and killed the deceased.

The deceased was the immediate past Supervisory Councillor on Environment of Ethiope-West Local Government Council.

When contacted, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the report saying,” They said it happened in Edo State, not Delta State.”

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Why FG will stop train services — Amaechi reveals

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The Federal Government says it will shut down the Lagos-Ibadan and the Abuja-Kaduna train services should there be any case of COVID-19 among passengers.

The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, stated this yesterday while featuring on NTA Good Morning Nigeria programme.

He said train users must comply with all COVID-19 protocols from the beginning of every trip to the end.

The minister said: “If we see that we are conveying passengers who have Covid-19 from Lagos to Ibadan and Ibadan to Lagos, we will stop it just like we threatened to stop the one from Kaduna to Abuja if people don’t comply with COVID -19 protocols.

“Don’t forget that on Kaduna-Abuja, we convey 4,000 passengers in a day. Imagine that about 20 percent have Covid-19, they can transmit COVID-19 to the entire passengers.

‘’The rate of transmission will be high. The same is applicable to Lagos. Everybody must comply with the COVID-19 protocols, wear your masks till the end of the journey.”

The minister also added that the $1.6 billion Lagos-Ibadan railway project, which would be completed this month would be inaugurated virtually by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation had in December 2020 commenced operations for the Lagos-Ibadan railway, a standard gauge rail covering a distance of 156km.

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FG reveals why NIN registration should be suspended

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The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora, has revealed that the ongoing National Identification Number (NIN) registration may be suspended over COVID-19 risks.

Mamora Stated this while speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday.

He urged the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to go back to the drawing board and re-order the process to avoid large crowds at its centres nationwide.

Mamora who is also a member of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, said trust must ensure citizens are protected at all times.

“I don’t feel good-looking at the picture where people have gathered in multitude; super spreader event which we don’t like.

“But I’m also aware that the relevant ministry which is the communications and digital economy is looking at this.

“My understanding is that the whole process may be suspended, to reorder the whole process in terms of management of the crowd,” Mamora said.

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BREAKING: Sowore granted N20m bail with conditions

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A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail to Sahara Reporters’ publisher, Omoyele Sowore in the sum of N20m.

Four other activists, who were arrested with Sowore on New Year’s Eve in Abuja for holding a protest against bad governance, were also granted bail in the sum of N1m each.

Sowore and Juwon Sanyaolu, Peter Williams, Emmanuel Bulus, and Damilare Adenola are standing trial for alleged unlawful assembly, criminal conspiracy, and inciting public disturbance.

Chief Magistrate Mabel Segun-Bello while ruling on the bail application on Monday filed admitted Sowore to bail in the sum of N20million and two sureties in like sum.

The court also ordered Sowore to remain in Abuja and must physically report to the court registrar every Monday and Friday pending the hearing and determination of the case against him.

The court further ordered that one of his sureties must be a civil servant not below grade level 12.

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See why Nigerian man married twin sisters (Photo/Video)

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Photos and a video which have gone viral on social media, have captured the moment a Nigerian man traditionally married twin sisters.

It was gathered that the twins married same man because ‘they can’t live without each other’ and it also looked like one is already pregnant.

Twitter user, @ph_obidon who shared the photos wrote;

They are twins, he got married to them because one cannot live without the other. Yeh or nah?

Watch video below:

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Tragedy as House on The Rock pastor dies of Covid-19

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One of the Pastors of Lagos-based church, House on the Rock, Pastor Yinka Akinbami, has died after contracting the novel Coronavirus.

The cleric was reported dead on Friday, January 8.

Senior Pastor of the church, Paul Adefarasin, announced his passing on social media and paid glowing tribute to the late clergyman who he described as a good man.

Pastor Adefarasin in his tribute warned Nigerians to take the COVID19 pandemic seriously and adhere to all the protocols.

“Yesterday, I received the rude and shocking news of someone deeply dear to me and all of the House on the Rock family. The passing of Pastor Yinka Akinbami has become most painful because if there truly were good men, he was certainly one.

“Till his passing, Pastor Akinbami was one of the senior presbyters of our church and has been with us for over 25-years, serving in the Family Life Directorate, coaching many exemplary men and women as they embarked upon the journey of building families.

Egbon Yinka,

“your sudden passage is hard to understand, yet we bow respectfully to the sovereignty of God while we remain thankful for the decades of impactful work along with the exemplary life you lived while you were with us. As a dear egbon to me, even though you were older, we were close friends and I thank you for allowing me to be your pastor and spiritual father. The thought that I will return to church and not see you again on this side of the divide, is unbelievable. I have not been able to process this loss, however, I am sure of how much we will all miss you.

“Family, kindly allow me to solicit your intercession for his dear wife of over 30 years; Pastor Tolu, his children, his children-inlaw, and grandchildren. We can only at best imagine how much pain they are feeling. We share the pain of his loss but they will feel it a lot more. So, please pray that God’s peace and strength envelopes them especially in this difficult moment.

“It’s important to remind the community about the deadly nature of Covid-19 and its mutant virus strains. Please do your part by following all the recommended precautions. That way, you are able to protect yourself and others who become proximal to you. God bless and keep us all.

“To my brother, Yinka Akinbami, sleep well till we meet to part no more.

“Adieu to our fellow soldier

Grace to the whole family.

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BBNaija’s Gifty opens up why she’s hiding her American husband

former Big Brother Naija contestant, Gifty Powers, has continued to keep her fans guessing about not only the identity of her baby’s father but also her marital status.

In an interview with Sunday Scoop, Gifty, however, stated that she was married to an American man. She said, “I am married and the reason I still have not revealed his (husband’s) identity is that my personal life is extremely priceless and not for sale. My husband is an American and a month after we got married, he suggested that since I am a Nigerian, he would love for us to live in my country. But I declined, due to personal reasons. However, I still have my house and businesses in Lagos and Abuja. The world is deep and for one to have a long-lasting relationship, one must keep it off social media.

“Also, I deliberately kept the birth of my second child a secret for two reasons. One, because I am proud of my two kids and two, I am full of surprises. Not every part of my life is meant for the media. A mother should always be able to protect her children at any cost because the world we live in is delicate. It is better to be safe than to say ‘had I known’.”

Speaking on celebrities who had been accused of snatching people’s spouses, Powers said, “On the issue of celebrities who have been accused of having relationships with other people’s spouses or snatching other women’s husbands, I feel life is full of issues. Everyone has got their stories, so who am I to judge them? As much as it is a sin, there is a story behind every situation. One just has to hear the other side of the story.

“Also, as shocking as it may seem, I am proud of all the mistakes I have made. I have no regrets. But, there is one mistake I am not so proud of. I cannot give many details but it happened in October 2019.”

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FRSC says no NIN, no vehicle registration from April, issues warning

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says the presentation of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) would be compulsory for all categories of vehicle registration from April.

Bisi Kazeem, Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM), Corps Public Education Officer, made the announcement in a statement on Saturday.

On December 21, 2020, FRSC mandated that all applicants for the National Driver’s Licence must present their NIN before being captured for any class of licence.

Kazeem said the commencement was in full compliance with The Federal Government’s directives on harmonisation of citizens’ data.

“Beginning from the second quarter of this year 2021, If you want to register your vehicle, it is going to be compulsory for you to provide your NIN.

“This is part of the security checks. So, once you provide your NIN, it makes the matter easier and helps the government in national planning”, the spokesman noted.

FRSC warned that there will be no waivers for anyone, irrespective of their status in society.

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Breaking: Nollywood Actor Jim Lawson reported dead

Veteran Nollywood actor, Jim Lawson Maduike is reportedly dead.

Maduike died after complaining of body pains at around 12 pm on Saturday, January 9, 2020.

The Nollywood actor, radio broadcaster, writer, voice-over artist, filmmaker, and television personality featured in more than 150 movies.

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Soyinka says Amotekun must not become another SARS, gives warning

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Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has said the South-West Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, must not morph into another Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigeria Police Force.

Soyinka disclosed this while featuring on an Arise TV programme seen by goldennationblog.com

He said the men of the Amotekun Corps must be trained on the issue of ethics so that they don’t become more brutal and ruthless than the officers of the defunct police unit.

Recall that Ondo and Oyo States have launched the security outfit endorsed by the governments of the six South-West states last year.

However, of late, there have been allegations of recklessness and extrajudicial killings against the security outfit, especially in Oyo State.

Speaking on Saturday, the noble laureate said the minds of the Amotekun operatives must be trained to understand the essence of their job.

He said, “I have told them anytime you want us to come and assist, we will come even if it is just on the ethical session so that as you are training them to defend us, we are also training their minds so that Amotekun does not become another SARS, very important. We must do everything together.”

Soyinka, who said some South-West states were late in inaugurating their Amotekun Corps, urged other states yet to launch their security outfits to do so quickly as the challenge of insecurity has reached a “stage of desperation”.

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COVID19: Why state governors will take vaccine on live television – Governor Fayemi

Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti state has said that state governors will be taking the COVID19 vaccines on live television.

The governor who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), said the action is to demonstrate to their residents that the vaccine works.

Governor Fayemi disclosed this to state house correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Buhari where security, the economy, and vaccine management were discussed.

When asked if governors will also take the vaccine on live television, Governor Fayemi said

“Absolutely. We too will like to demonstrate to our citizens that we believe that vaccines would work. Don’t forget, we have a lot of experience on this. Governors Forum managed the polio vaccines administration in the country and we have garnered a lot of experience”

He also noted that the president has agreed to convey to the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the need to use influencers such as religious leaders, entertainers, and athletes to engender the confidence of citizens at the state and local level.

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BREAKING: Donald Trump’s Twitter account banned permanently – Twitter gives reason

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Social media giant, Twitter Inc, has permanently banned United States President Donald Trump’s personal account for repeated rules violations.

This marks the most high-profile punishment to the social-media company has ever imposed.

“After close review of recent Tweets from the @realDonaldTrump account and the context around them — specifically how they are being received and interpreted on and off Twitter — we have permanently suspended the account due to the risk of further incitement of violence,” the company wrote in a blog post on Friday.

The company announced the ban two days after Trump was initially suspended Wednesday for posting a series of tweets that misled users about the presidential election results, and appeared to encourage violent rioters who had mobbed the US Capitol.

One, include a video message of Trump expressing love for the insurgents and calling the election “fraudulent.”, Bloomberg reported.

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Wizkid releases music video for “Ginger”, features Burna Boy (Video)

Nigerian Afropop singer Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has shared the video for ‘Ginger’, a track off ‘Made in Lagos’, his 2020 hit album.

The multiple-award winner took to his social media pages to announce the release of the project featuring Burna Boy, another music heavyweight, on Friday.

The less than four-minute video sees the music stars appealing to their women to allow them to express the depth of their love.

The Meji Alabi-directed video also sees the singers flanked by different models who could be seen dancing and posing in different styles to further provide visual appeal.

Since its release, ‘Made in Lagos’ broke several African streaming records. It became the first African album to debut on the Spotify Global Album chart, and within the top ten at that.

Nine days after release, the album surpassed 100 million streams across five platforms and also received global recognition.

With several beautiful projects, awards, and honourary mentions, Wizkid and Burna Boy have established themselves as household names in the Nigerian music industry.

Made in Lagos is Wizkid’s fourth studio album. It was released on October 30, 2020. The album features guest appearances from British artists, Skepta and Ella Mai, American R&B singer H.E.R, Jamaican artists Projexx and Damian Marley, and Nigerian artists Burna Boy, Tems, and Terri.

“Ginger” is the third single from Wizkid’s Made In Lagos album which dropped back in October last year.

Watch “Ginger” below:

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See what Sanwo-Olu gave to LASU’s best graduating student

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has donated N5 million to Lagos State University (LASU)’s best graduating student, Dimeji Shotunde.

The governor also offered Shotunde automatic employment into the state’s public service.

This was disclosed in a tweet posted in the official Twitter handle of the governor and was seen by goldennationblog.com

Meanwhile, it was reported that in what will come as a big blow to those who are top contenders for the seat of Lagos state University vice-chancellor, Sanwo-Olu, made a critical decision concerning the selection process.

The decision was made following petitions against the selection process by the governing council.

According to reports, Sanwo-Olu directed that a fresh process that would terminate in 45 days should commence immediately.

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Delta govt announces date for school resumption, issues warning

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The Delta State Government has directed all public and private primary and secondary schools in the state to resume on January 18, 2021.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, and was made available on the official Twitter handle of the state government on Friday.

This is a change from the January 11 date earlier set by the government for the resumption of schools in the state.

Chief Ukah advised parents to ensure their guardians are prepared for the resumption date as they will immediately face tests on January 20, 2021.

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Delta Police arrest man over abduction of 12-year-old girl found in soakaway

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a carpenter in connection with the abduction of 12-year-old Blessing Imeh in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.

It was gathered that Blessing was found alive inside a soakaway with her throat slit five days after she was announced missing while running an errand for her parents.

The spokesperson of the command, Onome Onovwakpoyeya, who confirmed the incident on Friday, January 8, said the suspect identified as General was arrested while a manhunt is on to apprehend his accomplices.

“The young girl was stabbed at the back and her throat was slit, but she’s alive and receiving treatment at the moment. She said three people lured her but she could identify one who is a carpenter and their neighbour. The carpenter called General, has been arrested and effort is being made to arrest other suspects.” she stated.

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Nao releases new track with Adekunle Gold, titled “Antidote”

London singer-songwriter Nao has released a new track with Nigerian artists Adekunle Gold.

The collaborative track from the English and Nigerian artists is titled “Antidote”

Nao disclosed this in a press statement which was made available to newsmen recently.

She wrote:

“Antidote” is the remedy to 2020; it’s a song born out of lockdown which was something that affected everybody’s lives all over the world. Both Adekunle and I had daughters born weeks apart during this time, they lifted our vibrations and we wanted to share that good energy with the rest of the world.

On his part, Adekunle Gold added:

“This song is a perfect description of how I feel about my daughter. Love usually feels like a concept, sometimes invisible, but with her, it’s so tangible because she’s right there. I’m so obsessed with her that if she wasn’t around me, I wouldn’t be OK, I guess that’s what antidote is, a cure, a loving cure to the things that ail me.

It was gathered that back in August 2020, Nao teamed up with Lianne La Havas for their joint track “Woman.” Nao’s most recent studio album was 2018’s Saturn. Adekunle Gold released Afro Pop Vol. 1 last year.

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Police officer dies, others injured as Trump supporters invade US Capitol

A US Capitol Police officer has reportedly died of injuries sustained during clashes with a mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters who overran a session of Congress.

It was the first law enforcement death stemming from the violence at the Capitol on Wednesday which saw flag-waving crowds overwhelm police and break into the legislature.

Four protesters died, including a woman who was shot by police. Three other deaths were reported on the Capitol grounds, but the circumstances remained unclear.

Officer Brian Sicknick, a 12-year veteran of the force, was “responding to the riots on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at the US Capitol and was injured while physically engaging with protesters,” Capitol Police said in a statement.

“He returned to his division office and collapsed. He was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries” on Thursday night, it said.

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Davido reveals truths about early years as struggling singer

Nigerian singer, David Adeleke popularly known as Davido, has revealed that before becoming successful, he stayed at Mohits Record for a year.

Some fans of the singer were left amazed as Davido recently shared some interesting new piece of information about his early days in his music career.

Mazi Ibe, a Twitter influencer, had earlier tweeted about Davido not having any trying period before he became successful.

Being a son of a billionaire, it is hard to picture Davido as a struggling musician.

Responding to Ibe’s tweet, the Jowo crooner said he stayed in Mohits record label for days.

“I did o. We all did. I was in mohits house for a year.”

According to Ibe, Davido never had any pre-fame stage in his musical journey. Ibe opined that it had been song hits from the getgo.

See post below:

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Aniocha South council Boss Anwuzia, hands over office (Photos)

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The Executive Chairman of the Aniocha South Local Government Council, Delta State, Hon Chief Isaac Anwuzia has handed over office to the Head of Personel management of the Council secretariat.

During the handover ceremony, which took place at the Council Secretariat in Ogwashi-Uku, on Thursday, 7th January 2021, the out-going chairman glorified God for the preservation of life and peaceful coexistence in the Local Government.

Chief Anwuzia credited the success of his administration to God adding that his administration recorded massive and verifiable laid down projects which will boost the council revenue and provide job opportunities.

The Chairman prayed to God that his successor will surpass the records of his out-going Administration adding that as he moves to the next level by the Almighty Grace of God, he will continue to project the affairs of his Local Government.

He urged the Head of Personel Management to maintain a good working relationship with the Council staff and ensure he synergizes with the Security Agencies, and Traditional Rulers, most especially during this forthcoming of the second surge of covid-19.

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See why 2021 Grammy Award was postponed – Organisers

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The 2021 Grammy’s initially planned for January 31, have been postponed to March 14 due to panics over the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The new date was confirmed in a statement released and was made available to newsmen.

According to the statement, they arrived at the new date after serious discussions with health experts, the host, and artists planned to appear.

‘‘The deteriorating COVID situation in Los Angeles, with hospital services being overwhelmed, ICUs having reached capacity, and new guidance from state and local governments have all led us to conclude that postponing our show was the right thing to do. Nothing is more important than the health and safety of those in our music community and the hundreds of people who work tirelessly on producing the show,’’ the statement read.

The Grammys had already planned on a limited show for 2021, forgoing an audience completely and only allowing presenters and performers on-site during the show.

They said nominated artists wouldn’t have been allowed on-site either, likely leading to a situation similar to the 2020 Emmys where nominees appeared and accepted awards remotely.

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NIN: ‘No mass disconnection of subscribers’, NCC reveals

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said the fears of mass disconnection of telephone subscribers over National Identity Numbers (NIN) registration are not true.

It enjoined subscribers not to entertain any fear.

The regulatory body said the current linkage of SIM registration records with the NIN was aimed at enhancing general safety and helping the government to plan for national development.

NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, said the clarification became necessary as many subscribers had become jittery that their lines might be disconnected over NIN registration.

He advised the public to ignore speculations of mass disconnection being circulated in some sections of the media.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Adinde explained that the commission had to “issue this clarification to allay the fears of subscribers and the general public”.

He said most of the publications “are based on the erroneous assumption that for every network or SIM connection, there is one unique human subscriber”.

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BBNaija’s Dorathy gets new endorsement deal with luxury hair brand

Dorathy Bachor, BBNaija lockdown housemate, has recently signed a new deal with a luxury hair brand.

She disclosed this to her teaming fans on her official Instagram and Twitter pages on Wednesday, January 6th.

Breaking the news, the beautiful reality TV star cum serial entrepreneur wrote:

“Dorathehairxplora! Everyone around me knows how finicky I am when it comes to my hair game. Irrespective of the occasion; casual or formal, It has to be laid! I mean, LAID to perfection!!! A bad hair day? Y’all know I can’t relate.

“My mood largely depends on how good my hair looks. Once my hair looks good, then I’m halfway ready to take on the world.

“I am super excited to be joining Lucious Hair family as Brand Ambassador.
Is bone straight? Curly? or Wavy? @luciousvirginhair got you!

“Explores, it’s now a level playing field to see if any of you can match my hair game
Dora The Hairxplora #Dorathehairxplora #DoraLuciousvirginhair”

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BREAKING: Joe Biden officially confirmed as US president – US Congress

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The United States Congress has confirmed Joe Biden as the country’s President.

Lawmakers who officially confirmed Biden as the country’s 46th president and Kamala Harris as Vice President, were under heavily-armed guard after police regained control of the Capitol in Washington.

Recall that Biden had defeated the US outgoing President, Donald Trump in the last presidential election.

Despite the defeat, Trump had vowed never to concede defeat.

He had claimed that Biden rigged the presidential election.

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BBNaija: “Don’t Let Pride Rule Your Life” – Ozo hits Kiddwaya

BBNaija lockdown housemate, Ozoemena Chukwu, otherwise known as Ozo has knocked out billionaire son Kiddwaya after he trolled on Twitter.

In a tweet, Ozo knocked Kiddwaya, where he said:
‘Don’t let pride, hubris, and bravado rule your life. Do your job and let it speak for you’.

Ozo made this statement after Kiddwaya trolled him on Twitter earlier.

Kiddwaya in his tweet earlier told an Ozo fan to tell him to allow him (Kidd) to fly him and his team to Dubai, to change their lives.

See the Tweet below;

This is coming after Kiddwaya tweeted that he was going for war and an Ozo fan replied with,
Quote
‘Wahala be like clout chaser‘.

In the 5th edition, BBnaija’s housemate (Ozo) seems to be holding his ground and not allowing the billionaire rich kid to kick him off the guard.

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Davido takes retirement step, joins father’s company as director

Nigerian singer David Adeleke professionally known as Davido has revealed his plans to retire from music in the future.

It appears he has now taken a step towards that goal as the FEM crooner took to his page on Twitter with a tweet in which he noted that he is gradually becoming a member of his father’s Pacific Holdings company.

The music star has been brought on board as a director in his billionaire father’s company

Davido accompanied his post with a picture that seemed to have been taken within the premises of the company.

Though the singer is yet to make it official, but a visit to the official website of the company shows that the singer has now been brought on board as a director.

Davido’s name was listed alongside other executives in the company. His sisters, Sharon and Ashley, were listed as executive directors while the singer’s elder brother, Adewale, was also listed as a director in the company.

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Uplifting Abah-Unor must be your priority, Delta monarch tells Excos

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The traditional ruler of Abah-Unor Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, Obi Ndubuisi Maduabunachukwu II has advised the newly elected executive members of Abah-Unor Development Union (ADU), to perform their duties without fear or favour.

He gave the advice during the formal inauguration of the members at Abah-Unor

Obi Maduabunachukwu II said the executive must ensure they move the community to a greater height adding that peace and unity should be their major concern.

While saying that upliftment of the community should be paramount in their agenda, he urged them to carry everybody along in their leadership.

In his speech, the newly elected chairman of Abah-Unor Development Union, Mr Victor Adibeli, thanked God for the success of the election which gave him victory as the chairman.

The chairman promised to work hard with his executive, to justify the confidence reposed on them, adding that the community would be moved to an enviable height in his tenure.

Adibeli lauded the traditional ruler and the people of Abah-Unor for finding them worthy to serve, calling on the entire people of the area to give the needed support to the obi.

Other elected members were Friday Ujeh, Vice Chairman; Mrs Joy Okonji, secretary; Mrs Florence Mozor, Treasurer; Mr Maxuel Ilom, Provost; Reuben Ogugua, member; and Friday Onwuseuka, member.

Others were Onwegoekwu Chukwuka, member; Godwin Chenumuya, member; Prince Ogochukwu Madu, member; and Mrs. Eunice Oliseku, member.

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Why I faked my kidnap to get money from my dad – School teacher

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A classroom teacher Medinat Ibrahim Wednesday narrated why she faked her alleged kidnap.

She disclosed that lack of fatherly care and loss of a dear mum informed her decision to conspire with two other accomplices to extract money from her dad.

The 24-year-old Medinat who hails from Oyo state accused her step-mother of maltreatment since her mother’s demise.

She added that she decided to fake her kidnap to enable her to get money to offset her debts allegedly incurred during COVID-19 lockdown.

She said her business had collapsed, adding that salaries at the private school she teaches are not regular.

Parading Medinat and her accomplices Amudalat Wahab and Hammed Lekqn in Ilorin, the state capital, command’s spokesperson Ajayi Okasanmi said the suspects would be charged for criminal conspiracy and kidnapping.

According to him one Nurudeen Sholagberu reported the Kidnap of Medinat Ibrahim at Oko-Olowo area of Ilorin through the command’s emergency telephone line.

He said the newly constituted state anti-Kidnapping team was directed to take over the investigations.

He explained that during investigations it was discovered that the said Medinat conspired with her sister Amudalat Wahab to arrange her kidnap.

He said a bank account belonging to one Hammed Lekan was used to cash the ransom of N250,000.

The commissioner noted that during interrogation the said Medinat Ibrahim confessed to have faked her own kidnap to enable her get money from her father.

He assured the determination of the command to send away criminal elements from the state.

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Delta community leader kidnapped by suspected gunmen

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The CDC chairman of Bomadi, headquarters of Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta state Mr. Henry Gomeromo has been allegedly kidnapped by suspected gunmen.

It was gathered that the gunmen abducted Gomeromo from his residence located at the GRA axis of the town around 3:am on Wednesday, January 6.

According to an eye witness:

“They struck the area around 3 am with shootings and whisked the community chairman away through Olomubou, the site of the seemingly abandoned Bomadi Polytechnic project, which has different bush paths.

“Those bush paths lead to other neighbouring communities in Burutu local government area of the state,” he added.

The community secretary, Mr. Dennis Alade, who confirmed the incident said they are in an emergency meeting over the situation.

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Rema announces release of next album, promises ‘bangers’

MAVIN artist, Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema
has announced that his debut album will drop this year, 2021.

Rema disclosed this via his Twitter page. He wrote, “Album, yes.” He also promised that he will release bangers all year in another tweet.

At this time, the album title and release date are still unknown.

Recall that within his first eight months as a signed artist, after bursting into the stage in 2019, Rema released three bodies of work. The projects are Rema EP, Rema Freestyles EP, and Bad Commando.

Meanwhile, in 2020, Pulse Nigeria named him as one of the top 10 hottest Nigerian artists of the year. He also released three hits, ‘Beamer,’ ‘Ginger Me’ and ‘Woman.’ He ended the year with a lukewarm track though.

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Burna Boy performs ‘Way Too Big’ on ‘Late Night With Seth Meyers’ (Video)

Nigerian afrobeat superstar, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu professionally known as Burna Boy has appeared on the latest episode of Late Night With Seth Meyers.

The singer performed ‘Way Too Big’ from his 2020 album, ‘Twice As Tall’.

Burna Boy wore an all-white outfit and was elevated on a makeshift podium as he appeared on last night’s episode (January 4).

Backed by a live band, the Nigerian singer oozed confidence as he relayed the song’s themes of his run-in with success in the music industry, singing “I’m way too big/Way too big to be fucking with you, to be fucking with you/Because I’m way too smart/Way too smart to be falling in your trap”.

Twice as Tall landed in August 2020. The album features a number of notable guests, including Coldplay’s ,Chris Martin, Stormzy, Youssou N’Dour, and more.

As well as ‘Way Too Big’, the album featured the lead single ‘Wonderful’ along with 13 other tracks.

In October 2020, Burna Boy released ’20:10:20′, a tribute to protesters in his native Nigeria who were killed in the Lagos massacre at the city’s Lekki Toll Gate.

In the song, Burna Boy condemned the police brutality by the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

Providing a statement at the time of the song’s release, Burna Boy said, “The proceeds of this song will be used to support families of victims and people suffering affliction as a result of the Lekki shootings.

“Rest in peace to all the beautiful lives lost.”

Burna Boy clinched the award for Best International Act at the 2020 MOBO Awards last month.

See video below:

https://youtu.be/C883ERGyd3w

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Why I killed my stepson, Osun housewife reveals

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A 24-year-old housewife resident in Ede, Osun State, Mariam Musa, has confessed to killing her stepson because her husband cared more for the boy’s mother.

Mariam, a tailor, was one of 12 suspects arrested for various crimes across the state.

They were paraded on Tuesday by the new Osun State Commissioner of Police, Wale Olokode, in Osogbo.

The suspect said the three-year-old boy, Rokeeb, left his mother and came to her room on the day she committed the act, adding that she put insecticide in the victim’s mouth, which killed him.

Mariam, who is five months pregnant, said the mother of the deceased used to disrespect her because she was the favourite of their husband.

She also said after committing the act, she felt remorseful and confessed to her husband.

“Greed and jealousy made me to kill the son of my husband’s second wife. She had a male child and I was not happy that our husband was showing her more care,” Mariam said.

The police commissioner also paraded two suspected kidnappers — Idris Quadri and Quadri Okanlawon — who allegedly abducted passengers in a Kwara State-bound vehicle on December 30, 2020.

He said, “The 12 passengers in a Sharon Volkswagen were coming from Ekiti State, and heading for Offa in Kwara State. On getting to Asi along Oyan Road, in the Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State, they were attacked by gunmen and kidnapped

“The intensive combing of the bush led to the arrest of two members of the gang, and the kidnappers were forced to release the remaining six victims on Friday. The victims have since reunited with their families.”

Also paraded were Garuba Lukman, Tajudeen Monsuru, Hamsat Akeem, and Yusuf Awayewaserere, who were arrested for murder, conspiracy, and selling of human parts in Iwo town.

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Why Politicians can’t seize power in America – Joe Biden reveals

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United States’ president-elect, Joe Biden, has maintained that politicians cannot seize power in the country, because power has to be given by the people.

“In America, politicians can’t assert, take, or seize power. It has to be given by the American people. We can’t ever give that up.

“The will of the people must always prevail,” Biden tweeted on Tuesday.

The 78-year-old Democratic candidate emerged winner in the November presidential election.

Biden’s comment comes as Georgians take to the polls for two closely-watched US Senate runoffs.

The polls could shape the first years of the new Democratic presidency.

US President, Donald Trump and Biden are in Georgia for the battle of the Senate seats.

For nearly 20 years, Georgia had voted reliably Republican in the presidential election and Senate contests.

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9ice, wife, and daughter spends vacation in Dubai after cheating (Photos)

Popular singer, Abolore Akande otherwise known as 9ice, is currently in Dubai for a vacation with his wife, Olasunkanmi.

Going by the pictures making rounds on social media, the couple is in the company of their daughter, Michelle.
The couple has since shared lovely photos from their time in the luxury city

This comes after the music star, openly admitted that he cheated on his wife, hence he apologised in a video that went viral.

Prior to 9ice’s apology, a video of the singer caressing another woman had surfaced online, generating heated controversy.

The ‘Gongo Aso’ crooner also pleaded with the public to help beg his wife to forgive him.

But with his recent posts on Instagram, it seems 9ice has reconciled with his wife, and they are now living happily.

The singer captioned the photo with a couple of heart emojis.
9ice also shared a photo of himself with his wife and daughter waiting to dine at a fancy restaurant.

Olasunkanmi also shared a lovely family photo of them getting ready to enjoy a meal together.

It was gathered that in December, the singer sparked cheating speculations after a video of him with a woman surfaced on the internet.

Although it is uncertain if the video was made before or after his marriage – third marriage to one of his baby mamas, Olasunkanmi Ajala, the video which went viral online caused mixed reactions amongst Nigerians.

The singer in a video shared on Instagram by Ijeomadaisy said that Nigerians appreciate him because of his solid backbone which had always been his wife.

He had shown why he may still be the winner of the Grammy at 2Baba show.

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See what Kwara governor did to his cabinet except SSG

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Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has dissolved his cabinet with effect from December 31, 2020.

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, stated: “His Excellency especially commends the cabinet members for their contribution to the development of the state, while also wishing them the best in their future endeavours.”

While the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Mamman Jubril, retained his seat, the governor directed the former cabinet members to hand over to the most senior officers in their respective ministries.

The female-dominated cabinet, which was inaugurated on December 14, 2019, had the country’s youngest commissioner. Two members of the cabinet had, some months ago, resigned their appointments, citing personal reasons.

Besides, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state had alleged exclusive composition of the cabinet by the governor.

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774,000 jobs: Keyamo reveals when jobs will finally kick-off

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Festus Keyamo, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, has revealed that the Special Public Works Programme which would engage 774,000 unemployed Nigerians will finally kick off nationwide on Tuesday after several postponements.

He said that President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the commencement of the initiative.

Keyamo made this known in a tweet via his Twitter handle on Sunday night.

His tweet read: “President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the take-off of the Special Public Works Programme (engaging 774,000 unemployed itinerant Nigerians) to begin nationwide on Tuesday, January 5, 2021. All NDE state structures are already in top gear for the take-off ceremonies.”

Recall that the programme designed to employ 1,000 Nigerians from each of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria was initially scheduled for launch on October 1, 2020.

The programme ran into delays after the power play between Keyamo and the Director-General, National Directorate of Employment, Dr Nasiru Mohammed Ladan Argungu, who was sacked last December.

Everyone of the 774,000 workers will get N20,000 monthly for three months duration of the job.

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BBNaija’s Laycon receives chieftaincy title in Ogun ( Video)

Olamilekan ‘Laycon’ Agbeleshe, winner of the 2020 edition of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), has beendonerred with the traditional title of Akeweje of Ipokia kingdom, Ogun state.

The 27-year-old rapper received the chieftaincy title from Yisa Adesola Olaniyan, the Onipokia of Ipokia, on Sunday during the 2021 Opo Day celebration held at District High School.

During the title installation, the onipokia lauded Laycon as an indigene of Ipokia who “truly deserved the title of Akeweje.”

Apparently excited, the reality star took to his Twitter page to break the news to his numerous fans alongside a video clip from the installation ceremony.

“Chief Olamilekan Agbeleshe, Akeweje Odo of Ipokia kingdom, president of the iCONs,” he wrote.

In another tweet, he revealed that his mother is an alumna of the school where the chieftaincy ceremony was held.

“Fun Fact: The venue where I was given my chieftaincy title is District High School, Ipokia, where my Mum schooled. On every transcendental being that is valid,” he added.

Laycon has continued to make headlines with his tremendous achievements since he won this year’s edition of the reality TV show.

Recall that goldennationblog.com reported On October 6, 2020, the appointment of Laycon as a youth ambassador, gifted a three-bedroom apartment and sum of N5 million by Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun state.

Watch video below:

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Delta CP redeploys all Inspectors out of Sapele

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In the wake of the recent cult-related killings particularly during the yuletide season in Sapele, the outgoing Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hafiz Inuwa has ordered the transfer of all Police Inspectors from the Sapele Police division.

Also affected by the transfer are all Police sergeants and rank and file in the division.

According to a wireless message dated. December 31 and signed by an Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Sa’ad Ibrahim with the caption “Reorganization Inspectors/Rank and File,” the transfer is to take effect with immediate effect.

The statement which was seen by goldennationlog.com also hinted that 45 personnel from various divisions across the state have also been deployed to take over the duty posts of those affected.

Though the message did not disclose the reason for the mass transfer, the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onowakpoyeya while confirming the transfer when contacted yesterday, debunked claims that the redeployment is as a result of the cult-related killings in the area.

According to the police spokesperson, “The transfers have nothing to do with the security situation in the area but just internal police issue, else why was the DPO not removed as well?”

However, a police source from the Sapele Police Area Command disclosed that the exercise was among efforts by the police to restrategise in curbing the increased spate of cult-related killings in Sapele.

It was gathered that two persons were killed on the eve of the New Year’s day celebration after a hairstylist was also gunned down four days earlier at his shop.

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Obasanjo reveals why God spared his life from Covid-19

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Saturday asked Nigerians who survived COVID-19 and witness the New Year to thank God for His mercies.

Obasanjo said he knew why God spared his life to witness the New Year despite the turbulence and challenges posed to humanity in 2020 by COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the ex-president, he was spared by God purposely to “serve Him and humanity more and more”.

Obasanjo, the Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Ogun State, spoke at the second annual thanksgiving service of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta.

The former president said he survived 2020 not because he was more righteous or cleverer than any of those swept away by the pandemic in Nigeria, Africa, and the rest of the world.

He said it dawned on him that God purposely kept him alive to serve Him and humanity more and more.

He said, “We must give thanks to God. You will be the most ungrateful person if you do not perform the duty of giving thanks to God.

“In all circumstances, give thanks. Therefore, if you fail to give thanks, you are failing a very significant duty of yours as a Christian.

“The last year 2020 was a very challenging year not only for us in Nigeria, not only for us in Africa but for the whole world.

“The fact that you are alive calls for giving thanks to God. It doesn’t matter which way you look at it, that those who you know as a result of Covid-19 are no more here with us. It is not because you are better than they are, more knowledgeable than they are, it’s just by the grace of God.

“And if God gives you that grace, to remain on earth, maybe for a purpose, I believe part of the purpose is for you to continue to serve humanity and to serve God. You cannot be a servant of God if you cannot give thanks to him.

“The purpose of being here is to perform our duty as Christians by giving thanks to God,” he was quoted as saying

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Reactions as beautiful bride die 3 hours to her wedding (photos)

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A bride, Fatima Hassan Fari has died on her wedding day in Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State.

It was gathered that Fatima died at 7:am on Saturday, January 2, 2021, three hours to her wedding Fatiha slated at 10:am.

She was buried at 2:pm same Saturday, according to Islamic rites.

Meanwhile, friends and family members have taken to Facebook to mourn her death. A school friend, Mallam Muhammad Sani Isah described Fatima as an upright lady and a humanitarian.

“Farewell to my school friend Fatima Hassan Fari , who left us today’s morning to go to a better place where there is no pain and she can join her father,’ he wrote.

“I truely had her in a million, she was a perfect upright ledy and total humanitarian. No matter what people said or if they did her wrong she would not judge but look for an amicable solution. She faced foe with a brave heart and would not retreat from the cause until all parties were happy. I at times accused her of making excuses for the devil. Her motto was “even if the other person is wrong you do what is right!”

“Innallahi wainnailaihirajiun Fatima is no more May Allah SWT forgives her shortcomings and reward her good deeds with Jannatil Firdaus. My sincere condolence to her family and Especially Asacosa’s members. May Allah SWT give them the fortitude to bear this great loss.”

Muhammad Sani isah

2nd January 2021

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Abstain from drug abuse, Delta commissioner warns youths

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Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has warned Nigerian youths against drug abuse, because of its psychological damage to users and society.

A statement on Saturday, in Asaba, quoted the commissioner as giving the advise at the Annual General Meeting of Akumazi Youths Association in Akumazi, Ika North East Local Government Area of the state.

Aniagwu said that many persons had lost their destinies and purpose to illicit drug use, adding that drug addiction had never favoured anyone, so the youths should strive to seek other meaningful and profitable enterprises.

In his remarks, the National President of the association, Mr. Udoka Anene commended the Obi of Akumazi, HRM Obi Henry Jegbefume I, for his support, saying that the association had created more branches since he took over the mantle of leadership.

Anene said that the association would continue to adopt various strategies to ensure the growth and advancement of its members.

Dr. Matthew Chukwuma, in a lecture, entitled, “Drugs: Its Effect on Youths Social Behavior”, said that drugs were substances that affected the functions of a whole or part of an organism, especially the central nervous system.

He observed that the majority of youths in the present-day society depended on drugs to carry out various activities, while hard drugs could cause an individual to exhibit some socially unacceptable attributes.

“Suicide, murder, madness, and involvement in unlawful acts are among what hard drugs can lure one into. That is why all drugs are to be recommended and should be administered with caution, in acceptable doses and under the supervision of an expert,” Chukwuma said.

The traditional ruler, HRM Jegbefume I, described the topic as timely and relevant while urging the youths to shun drug abuse and acts inimical to their growth and the development of society.

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Dbanj welcome birth of new daughter two years after child’s death

Popular Nigerian entertainer and businessman, Dapo Oyebanjo, professionally known as Dbanj, and his wife have welcomed the birth of their daughter.

The singer took to Instagram to announce the birth of his baby girl with a series of photos. In one of the images, the proud father was pictured carrying his newborn, while others showed his wife showcasing her baby bump.

In the spirit of celebrating the safe delivery, Dbanj calls his wife a strong woman saying he couldn’t imagine the stress she passed through in carrying another human in her body and still taking care of them all.

He disclosed that his wife has proven to be the best gift God has given to him. Reassuring his love for his wife as he wishes her a happy new year stating that 2021 is full of grace.

Recall that Dbanj and his wife lost their first child,
And welcomed another son, named Zane in 2019.

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New Year’s Day: Gunmen release Kidnapped Owerri Catholic Bishop

The kidnapped Nigerian Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Moses Chikwe, and his driver Robert Ndubuisi, have been released.

According to a statement of the Archdiocese of Owerri, made available to newsmen, Bishop Chikwe and his driver were released on the evening of the New Year, 1 January.

“With gratitude to God, I hereby inform all Christ’s Faithful and People of Goodwill everywhere that at about 10:00 pm on 1 January 2021, His Lordship, Most Rev. Moses Chikwe and. Mr. Ndubuisi Robert, his driver, who were abducted in the evening of Sunday the 27 December 2020 were finally released. I personally visited and saw Bishop Chikwe in his residence at about 10:45 pm, looking very weak from the traumatic experience. Nevertheless, we continue to thank Almighty God for His goodness to us. At the time of my visit, Mr. Ndubuisi Robert, the driver, was unavailable because he had been speedily taken to the hospital for the treatment of a deep cut he received on his hand from the kidnappers,” said the Archbishop of Owerri, Anthony Obinna.

In remarks following the Angelus prayer on New Year’s Day, Pope Francis appealed for Bishop Chikwe and his driver’s release.

“I sincerely thank the Holy Father, Pope Francis for mentioning the captivity of Bishop Moses Chikwe and. Mr. Ndubuisi Robert and praying for their release at his New Year Angelus Message at the Vatican just hours before they regained their freedom,” said Archbishop Obinna.

Earlier in the week, there was heightened concern and alarm for the well-being of Bishop Chikwe and his driver when a fake news post spoke of the discovery of the body of Bishop Chikwe. The Archdiocese of Owerri was forced to quickly reassure the faithful that, “This information is unconfirmed, misleading and does not come from the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri”.

In the meantime, Archbishop Obinna has thanked the Imo and Anambra State Governments in Nigeria, together with their security wings for their efforts to secure the release of Bishop Chikwe and his driver.

“I gratefully acknowledge that the Imo State Government through the Directorate of Security Services and the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Nigeria Police Force and the Anambra State Government through the Chief Security Officer of the State combined their efforts to attain the release of Bishop Chikwe and. Mr. Ndubuisi Robert, his driver.

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BBN’s Nengi receives range rover from fans, huge money cake from Ozo for Birthday [video]

BBNaija star Nengi has shared photos of her birthday as she received a brand new Range Rover from fans, huge money cake from Ozo.

The Lockdown star clocked 23 and she took to her official Instagram page to celebrate her big day.

Nengi who celebrated her birthday on January 1, 2021, was in the mood of celebration, as she shared beautiful photos of herself displayed in beautiful outfits.

Meanwhile, Nengi got different surprises from her best friend Ozo, her fans, and singer Davido.

In a video shared on her Instagram story, the beautiful young lady was spotted in a beautiful room with colorful balloons. Inflatable balloons were also used to spell out her name as a saxophonist played different tunes.

In the video, Nengi was spotted with a huge money cake that is reportedly from Ozo. There is no doubt that the young lady was amazed by the gift as she kept on smiling while she posed with her gift.

The reality star also received a brand new Range Rover Evogue with a customized plate number from some of her fans. Meanwhile, Nengi was showered with gifts by her fans a day before her birthday.

The reality star was present at the unveiling of her gift and she was pleased with the huge gift.

Nengi also got a birthday shoutout from Davido. It is no surprise that the singer spared some time to wish the reality star a happy birthday as she featured in his music video Jowo.

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See 34 scary prophecies released for 2021 by Mountain of fire

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The founder and General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, MFM, Daniel Olukoya, has released his prophecies for the year 2021.

Olukoya released 34 prophecies themed 2021, the ‘Year of Restoration and Revival’, during the crossover service of his church.

The clergyman urged Nigerians to be prayerful to achieve the results they desire.

Olukoya said there would be great distress that only God can solve, adding that 2021 would be a year of strange rebellion and conspiracy.

He, however, said Nigerians must possess holiness, the presence of God, and be prayerful in 2021.

According to Olukoya: “This is a year of the valley that must be approached prayerfully to get desirable results.

“So, the three keys to tackling this year of valley are the presence of God, aggressive holiness, and aggressive prayers.”

Full text of the prophecies read below:

  1. Is a year where serious prayers are needed to confront the fruit of this pandemic. The pandemic is yielding terrible fruits.
  2. Is a year of aggressive engagement of the enemies in violent warfare.
  3. A year of terrible temptations.
  4. A year of deep distresses that only the balm of Gilead can solve.
  5. Is going to be a year of strange rebellion and conspiracy.
  6. A year where John 10:10 will play out aggressively.
  7. Unless we pray very well, there will be a breakdown of structures and protests.
  8. A year of wilderness wandering and vagabond. Many will wake up and discover they’ve destroyed their lives.
  9. It will be a year of multiple-magnified multiple problems.
  10. Anyone who has come from a polygamous family should pray very well in 2021 because the effect of that polygamous will be hugely dramatised.
  11. Is a year of programmed controversies.
  12. A year we need to pray against the rage of waters.
  13. A year we should pray against strange environmental disasters.
  14. A year of very strange confrontations.
  15. It will be a year of strategically inspired battles and wars. The beautiful thing is that all these things can be arrested on the altar of prayer.
  16. The Almighty God Himself wants this year to be a year of emotional and mental refreshments for those who key into it.
  17. The hissings and bitings of envious children of God shall backfire.
  18. Is a year you must seek for divine encounter. You must allow the words of Job 42:5 to manifest in your life.
  19. Is a year of cleansing of our household from idols and abomination. Carryout a spiritual sanitisation of your house.
  20. A year we need to raise altars and call on the name of the Lord frequently.
  21. Is a year where if you do your restitution, it will yield dividends. If you’ve restitution to make, kindly do so quickly.
  22. As people are getting closer to God and praying, it will be a year of multiple appearances.
  23. It’s going to be a year where sacrifices and obedience will be tested, that is, whether you’re sacrificing to the things of God or not.
  24. A year were investing your skills and creativity will yield multiple dividends to you.
  25. Is a year of the 7 Ds: Desire, Determination, Discipline, Discipleship, Discernment, Deliverance, and Dominion.
  26. It will be a year of chastising the sons and humbling the proud.
  27. Is a year to avoid these seven assassins: Selfishness, Pride, Parental disobedience, Lack of holiness, Unforgiveness, Stubbornness, and Prayerlessness.
  28. It will be a year of mighty miracles for many.
  29. It’s a year you must deploy your gifts to serve the Lord.
  30. For young men and women, it’s a year of divine mandate to raise prophets among the youths.
  31. It’s also a year where the Lord will be raising young Esthers both in the public sphere and church of God so as to leave a landmark.
  32. It will be year of dominion over our troubles.
  33. Is a year of Goshen where the Lord will put difference between those serving Him and those who are not serving Him. Also, is a year of going back to Bethel to seek the face of God.
  34. Is a year we must pray seriously that God will invade our nation.

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Oyedepo says there is nothing in Covid-19

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The Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide aka Winners’ Chapel, David Oyedepo, says the devil is using the COVID-19 pandemic to attack the church of Christ and that there is nothing in the novel Coronavirus.

Oyedepo who has consistently condemned the protocols put in place to contain the spread of COVID19, said this while delivering his new year’s eve sermon in his church in Ota, Ogun state.

“When the church goes against a man, his destiny is finished. When the church goes against a system, that system will crash.

“Men and brethren, there is nothing in Covid-19. One of the governors was making some statements recently and said, ‘We have only had five cases since the noise began. So, where is Covid-19?

“One governor was also quoted as saying, ‘I saw people at National Identification Card area, no distancing, no nothing and how much more the church of God where there is order’.

“There is no Covid-19 in National Population Card Centre. There is no social distancing in the market. There is nowhere to wash hands or wash nose and even the officials who are in charge are also buying things there.

“What I think they don’t know is that the church has changed level. When the church launches an attack against anyone or system, that system crashes. Thank God we have prevailed.”

Oyedepo’s comments come amid the second wave of the pandemic and the call for the closure of religious centres to curb the rising number of Covid infections recorded daily by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control of late.” he said

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New Year’s Day: jubilation as 52 escape death in Anambra accidents

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No fewer than 52 people escaped death in an accident involving six vehicles on Ihiala road, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra as the New Year 2021 began on Friday.

Mr. Andrew Kumapayi, State Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), confirmed the incident to newsmen in Awka.

Kumapayi said the accident which occurred at about 2 p.m., was caused by speeding and loss of control.

“The multiple crashes involved a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number AGB268ZT, a Mark Trailer with registration number GWA456YR, and another Toyota Hiace bus with registration number NEN106XQ.

“Others are an Acura MDX Jeep with registration number NZM764LK, a Marcapolo Luxury bus with registration number AKD483XF, and a Hyundai Jeep with registration number EG172SMK,” he said.

The commander said that the witness report reaching the FRSC indicated that the driver of one of the vehicles was speeding, lost control of the vehicle, and rammed into the other five vehicles.

“A total of 52 people were involved in the crash – 38 male adults and 14 female adults. No life was lost.

“11 people out of the 52 sustained some degrees of injuries and were taken to Obijackson Foundation and Our Lady of Lourdes hospitals in Ihiala for treatment by the FRSC rescue team.

“Meanwhile, the FRSC rescue team from Ihiala were on the ground controlling traffic as the obstructions were been cleared,” he said.

While wishing the injured people speedy recovery, the sector commander warned motorists against speed limit violation and urged them to drive safely and stay safe to avoid accidents.

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Why I threw my daughter inside well, 20-year-old woman reveals

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A 20-year old mother has been arrested in Kaduna for killing her one-year-old daughter.

Faith Alhassan allegedly threw her child into the well to enable her marry her former boyfriend who was not ready to accept her with a baby.

Faith, who is a Secondary School certificate holder, said has no idea what came over her.

Kaduna State Police command disclosed that on 28th December 2020 at about 7 am, the corpse of a baby girl was found in a well at Gantan village of Kachia local government area of the State.

The police further informed that, upon receipt of the report, an investigation was carried out and it was discovered that the mother of the dead baby girl was the culprit.

According to the police, the culprit went into Gantan village with her baby girl to meet her former boyfriend by the name Dolan Yakubu whom she jilted years back.

The police said Faith told them that while at her ex-boyfriend’s house, his father complained of the baby so she went quietly in the night to dump the baby in the well.

Speaking to journalists at the Kaduna State Police Command headquarters where she is currently undergoing investigation, she denied killing her daughter because she wanted to marry her former boyfriend.

The young lady who said she stays with her grandmother, also disclosed she doesn’t know the whereabouts of her dead daughter’s father.

When asked why she was at the police command, she said, “I am here because of my daughter that I threw into the well and she died. I don’t know what came over me when I carried out the act”.

Asked whether it was because she wanted to marry her ex-boyfriend that she killed her daughter, she said in tears, “I did not kill her because I want to marry, I just don’t know what entered me, I am not happy for doing it.”

The Kaduna State Police Commissioner, CP Umar M. Muri said she will be arraigned in court upon completion of the investigation

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Gbajabiamila says 2021 will be better year for Nigeria

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Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives, has expressed optimism that the new year, 2021 will be better than the previous years for Nigerians.

In a New Year message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Lanre Lasisi, the Speaker urged Nigerians to keep hope alive in the year 2021.

He said Nigerians should use the experiences of the preceding year, 2020, which he described as very challenging, to work towards a better 2021.

The Speaker said he was optimistic that the year 2021 holds a lot of positives for Nigeria and Nigerians, hence the need for the citizens to remain positive.

Gbajabiamila also called for continuous unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, saying “we have no other country than Nigeria; this is the only country we can call ours.”

He added that “It is my hope and prayer that the year 2021 will be better than all the preceding years of our nation’s history.

“In this New Year, let’s remain resolute and determined in our nationhood. Yes, we may be going through challenges as a nation, but with our collective determination, we shall overcome”.

The Speaker also wished Nigerians a year full of prosperity.

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Commotion as Runtown claims he wrote Davido’s Aye

Nigerian artiste, Douglas Jack Agu, popularly known as Runtown has disclosed that he wrote Davido’s hit song “Aye”.

He made this disclosure during a question and answer session he had with his followers on micro blogging platform, Twitter on Wednesday, December 30.

During the interactive session titled #AskRunTown, an inquisitive fan asked Runtown who wrote Davido’s hit song Aye?

Replying to the fan, Runtown disclosed that he not only wrote the song but also co-produced it.

In his words, “I wrote it. And also co-produced it. Nothing wrong with using songwriters if you write a song for me and I like am I go sing am”.

However, there have been controversies surrounding who actually wrote the song.

Davido in a video discredited the Afrobeat singer and said Tspize wrote and produced “Aye” for him.

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Approach 2021 with great optimism, Okowa urges Deltans

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has urged the people of the state to approach the new year, 2021, with great optimism for more and greater positive impact on their lives by his administration.

He made the call in his New Year Message to the people of the state and remarked that 2020 was a very challenging period for the state, its people, the nation, and even the international community.

In the message contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika in Asaba, Okowa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing quality and enhanced service delivery to Deltans and expressed confidence that God would perfect everything concerning Delta and Nigeria in the new year.
He urged the people of the state to remain prayerful and trusting that God would do new things for them and the state in the new year.

“With profound gratitude to God Almighty, I welcome you all to a brand new year, 2021. I join you all in giving thanks to God for His guidance and protection all through 2020.

“I appreciate immensely the unalloyed support and cooperation that our administration has enjoyed from Deltans, which has been our source of courage and strength to the government.

“I salute our collective resolve to continue to live together in peace in spite of the economic and health challenges posed by the vagaries of climate and other indices, especially COVID-19 pandemic, which is still ravaging our country and the rest of the world.

“For COVID-19, which is making a rather unfortunate ‘return’ after what appeared as respite in its ravaging effect on our people and the nation, I appeal to all residents to eschew complacence and resume full compliance with the protocols to check the spread of the virus as prescribed by National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

“I urge everyone to stay safe by wearing the face mask while in public places and to limit congregating,’’ he said.

The governor added that his administration had in the last despite kept faith with his promises to the people despite the continued shortfall in revenue projections.

“We have been doing our best to ensure that the developmental needs of the state are attended to by applying the level of prudence and ingenuity that the present challenges demand,” he said.

He urged Deltans to remain peaceful and live in peace with their neighbours which, according to him, is the core element of the Stronger Delta agenda.

“My dear people of Delta, as I have always said, there is no meaningful development that can take place in an atmosphere of strife and acrimony. It is therefore imperative that we continue to live in peace with our neighbours so that government can channel the little resources at its disposal to the development of our communities.

“By the grace of God, the year 2021, promises to be a year of God’s blessings to our people and my prayer is that the Almighty will meet every Deltan at the point of his or her needs.

“Be assured that we will continue, as always, to ensure that Delta remains secured just as social services, including the provision of adequate infrastructure, will be given adequate attention in the new year,” the governor stated.

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Breaking: President Buhari signs 2021 Budget of N13,588trn

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja signed the 2021 Appropriation Bill of N13,588,027,886,175 into law.

The president’s action followed the earlier passing of the bill by the National Assembly on Dec. 21 during an emergency session convened for the purpose of passing the budget.

The signing of the budget is also in line with the president’s promise to return the nation to the January to December Budget circle.

The budget estimate was increased by the sum of N505, 607,317,942 from the estimate of N13, 082, 420, 568,233 presented to the joint sitting of National Assembly by President Buhari on Oct. 8, 2020.

The signed budget comprises total Capital Supplementation of N1,060,751,051,650.

Statutory Transfer stands at N496,528,471,273; recurrent Expenditure of N5,641,970,060,680 and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 3.00 Per cent.

The signed budget comprises total Capital Supplementation of N1,060,751,051,650.

It also provides N3,324,380,000 trillion for debt servicing while N5,641,970,060,680 is for Recurrent Expenditure; and N4,125,149,354,222 for Capital Expenditure.

The president also signed the 2020 Finance Bill into law.

Those who witnessed the signing of the budget include the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Ahmad Lawan and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Others at the Council Chamber were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, some cabinet ministers as well as few top government officials.

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Davido puts Twitter on fire, sets N2m ‘Tule’ challenge

Popular Nigerian singer, Davido, has set Twitter one fire after he launched a challenge titled ‘Tule‘ with a pledge of N2 million for the winners.

The Afropop singer had recently shared a video on social media wherein he could be seen screaming ‘Tule’. This was shortly after rumours had swirled that he fought with Burna Boy at a nightclub in Ghana.

Not long after, fans were already mimicking the 28-year-old musician, making ‘Tule’ videos of their own, which appeared to have pleased Davido.

In an attempt to reward a few of his loyal fans, the ‘FEM’ crooner took to his Twitter page on Wednesday to launch the new challenge for the slang while staking a N2 million prize.

“Tule Challenge 2m Naira! Make sure U tag #TuleChallenge. E get y,” he wrote as the slang continues to generate euphoria across Twitter.

Davido’s motive for doing the video and the real meaning behind it are yet to be determined, although there are suspicions about the possibility of a forthcoming single with ‘Tule’ following after the success of ‘Fem‘.

‘Fem’, which was initially perceived as a diss song, gained prominence as a protest track during the campaign against operatives of the special anti-robbery squad (SARS). It has since amassed numbers across streaming outlets.

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2023: Delta community gives conditions to gov aspirants

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Notable leaders of Okpe Kingdom in Delta State rose from the community summit, on Wednesday, declaring that anyone who wants to succeed Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, in 2023, must be prepared to develop the state.

This was contained in a resolution jointly issued by Patrick Akpotor (President General), Kingsley Akpederin (General Secretary), and Atari Abu (National Publicity Secretary) at the end of the summit.

The community leaders insisted that anyone who desires to be governor of Delta State come 2023 must commit to addressing the developmental challenges of the state especially as it concerns the Okpe kingdom.

The community leaders said, “It is also regrettable that many of the link roads for Okpe towns and villages are still untarred despite the huge contributions of mineral resources in revenue generation to the federal and much-talked-about. Both the NDDC and DESOPADEC hardly much-talked-about the communities of Okpeland.’’

On the much-talked-about restructuring of Nigeria, the community leaders declared, “We call on the Federal Government and stakeholders of the Nigerian federation to take the issue of restructuring and devolution of more governmental powers to the federating units of the country seriously.

“We believe that it is with a restructured Nigerian federation that the current myriads of problems bedeviling the country like security and economic development issues can be resolved for progress.”

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Lagos to fine crossover night service defaulters with N500,000

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Lagos state government has warned that Lagosians who violate the 12 am to 4 am curfew imposed by the Federal Government and other protocols would be fined up to 20,000- N500,000 when caught.

Residents of the state were advised to comply with all restriction measures imposed by the authorities to curb the spread of the coronavirus amid the second wave of the pandemic.

The state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, stated this in an interview with newsmen on Wednesday.

The government stated that all churches in the state must respect the curfew in place and avoid physical crossover services and large gatherings on December 31, 2020.

He said, “If you disregard any of these rules, you can be fined. You will be taken to court and the magistrate will decide on the sanction. The fine can be between N20,000 and N500,000. It depends on the magistrate’s discretion.

“But it is not just about punishing people. People are being advised to take responsibility. The regulations were rolled out as an advisory and people have been obeying while people who have disobeyed have faced the consequences.”

However, the commissioner expressed optimism that religious leaders in the state would comply with the directive of the government on the crossover services.

Omotoso said, “With what we have been seeing, I don’t think churches will flout the protocols. CAN (Christian Association of Nigeria) agrees with the government. Covid cases are going up, and everybody is worried. Some of the big churches have also announced that they won’t be holding physical crossover services.”

Furthermore, the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lanre Majola, said the commission would be working with men of the Lagos State Police Command to enforce all restrictions announced by the government, especially during the New Year period.

Majola, who also spoke with newsmen on Wednesday, said the commission would not wait till the night of December 31, 2020, to swing to action.

“We are not waiting till tomorrow (Thursday). There is an ‘Operation No Tolerance’ and we have had a meeting with the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force and Governor’s Monitoring Team. We will start patrolling tonight and the patrol will be two-ways – we will begin to warn people to observe the curfew and after the curfew, we will then start clampdown.

“For the churches, Mr. Governor has made it very clear that there should be no crossover services. There is already an advisory from CAN that the churches should close very early by 11 pm and join virtually into the New Year.

“Enforcement is going to be on another level this period. We are working very seriously with the police on this,” he said.
The director-general also urged well-meaning Lagosians to alert the commission of any contravention by churches in the state.

“Our men will be on the road patrolling the streets and these locations, and if people find these places, they can always call us, and we will send operatives there to enforce the protocols,” he stated.

Lagos, which is one of the epicentres of coronavirus management in Nigeria, has recorded over 26,000 infections and more than 200 associated deaths since the country’s outbreak.

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Dismiss death rumour of Abducted auxiliary bishop – Catholic diocese of Owerri

The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri has dismissed reports that an abducted auxiliary Bishop, Moses Chikwe, has been killed by his abductors.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had reported that the clergyman and his driver were abducted by gunmen who ambushed and attacked them while driving along the World Bank – Umuguma road in the evening on Sunday, December 27.

According to reports, some news outfits on Tuesday, December 29, claimed the clergyman has been killed.

However, in a statement released, the Archdiocese said the report of the killing of the cleric is unconfirmed and so should be ignored.

Read the statement below:

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Don’t touch Bishop Kukah face terrorists – Apostle Suleman warns

Apostle Johnson Suleman, Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide, has warned those planning attacks against respected Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah to desist from it.

Suleman issued the warning on Wednesday morning December 30 via his Twitter page.

The warning is following attacks from Northern groups on the cleric over his Christmas day message.

Suleiman tweeted

“Nothing must happen to Bishop Kukah, those who are planning it know what I am saying. Let’s not trigger what would snowball into more drama, leave unarmed critics and deal with armed terrorists. Don’t touch Bishop Kukah. When you touch God’s ministers, God would reply you.”

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FG issues new directives on NIN registration

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With effect from Wednesday, December 30, National Identification Number (NIN) applicants will be required to do the registration exercise through a booking system throughout the country.

The new guideline was issued on Tuesday, December 29, by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC),

The NIMC’s spokesman, Kayode Adegoke, in a statement released on Tuesday disclosed that applicants will now be enrolled only through a number-issuing queue system to achieve orderliness in line with new COVID-19 protocols.

The statement reads: “The Commission wishes to announce that it has adopted a couple of measures to contain the spread of the virus whilst ensuring its services to Nigerians are not entirely interrupted.

“Effective December 30, 2020, attending to applicants would be based on Booking System. For Bookings, applicants are to visit any of the NIMC Offices closest to them during stipulated business hours (9 am – 1 pm). “Once admitted into the office, a Number-Issuing queue management system will be in place to ensure orderliness and strict adherence to Covid-19 Protocols.”

Meanwhile, many persons trooped out at the headquarters of the NIMC offices in Lagos and Abuja with no regard for social distancing. Journalists in both cities of the country observed that very few persons were mindful enough to at least wear face masks. This came at a time when the government is coming up with restrictions and fresh measures to ensure that persons within the shores of the country and those coming in are safe.

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CAN, Adeboye, Oyedepo drop Crossover Night services, give reason

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), and Living Faith Church Worldwide (a.k.a. Winners Chapel) have backed down on their insistence to hold Crossover services in churches tomorrow.

They announced, on Tuesday, adjustments in their programmes to ensure that none of their members violates the 12 midnight – 4 am curfew imposed by the Federal Government as part of measures to contain COVID-19 spread.

The CAN aligned with government’s ban on watch night (crossover) service that usually heralds the New Year.

The association said the service, which normally extends to midnight on the first day of the year, should not hold so that Christians can maintain strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

But the Osun State government reviewed its position on the countdown to the New Year.

“The government has decided to allow crossover religious gatherings, being sensitive to the mood of the season. But any organisation holding crossover service must note that they are expected to close the service early and everyone must be off the streets by 1 am,” Osun Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, said.

CAN’s National President Rev. Samson Ayokunle advised state chapters to adhere strictly to directives by relevant government authorities on the crossover night service.

“There is no sacrifice that is too much to put an end to the Coronavirus pandemic in the interest of all and sundry,” Ayokunle said in a statement in Abuja yesterday.

Already, the Ondo State government has vowed to prosecute any church leader that may violate its ban on the midnight service.

However, in Lagos State, the local chapter of CAN and the state government agreed that services should end by 11 pm tomorrow.

In a memo to all parishes signed by its Assistant General Overseer (AGO) in charge of Admin/Personnel, Pastor Johnson Odesola, the RCCG said it will do live streaming of the Crossover Service tomorrow night.

It urged members to link up virtually on Dove Television and other on-line platform.

The January 8 Holy Ghost Service (HGS) will also be conducted by the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, virtually, Odesola said in the memo.

According to him, the mission took the decision in compliance with the government’s directive.

It was also learnt that Winners’ Chapel service and Bishop David Oyedpo’s sermon scheduled to kick-off from 6 pm tomorrow, will be streamed live and viewed by members at all viewing centres affiliated to the church.

Winners’ Chapel will stream He said: “Where the government places an embargo on the Crossover Night service, churches may meet earlier to praise and give God praises for the gift of life despite the pandemic and to place their requests for 2021 before God.

Ayokunle, who urged Christian leaders to cooperate with the government, said the directive was understandable. “We understand the unfortunate state COVID19 infection has put everybody world over, which caused some state governments to place a total ban on crossover night service and we are not happy that we would not be able to enter into the New Year prayerfully in joint fellowship with our brothers and sisters.

“We, however, urge you all to abide by the directives of each state government on this to prevent the spread of the infection. One thing that is certain is that the end of COVID-19 is here at last in the mighty Name of Jesus Christ.

“In those states, services should be closed about 10:30 pm or at most 11:00 pm to enable worshippers to return home on time. It is a passing phase and this too shall pass away in Jesus Name. Very soon, the pandemic will become history and we will return to our usual routine services in Jesus’ Name.”

Ondo State government warned church leaders against violating its directives to avoid prosecution.

It read the riot act in response to a statement by the state chairman of CAN, Rev. John Oladapo, that churches should hold cross over service in defiance of the state government directive.

Oladapo was reported to have called on Christians to disregard the government’s directive because relevant stakeholders were not consulted.

But, the Chairman of the Ondo State Inter-ministerial Committee on COVID-19, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi, said COVID-19 was primarily a health issue and not a religious issue.

Lagos CAN chairman, Bishop Steven Adegbite, who backed down on earlier directive to members that they end the service by 12.15 am and that members who could not return home should pass the night in churches till daybreak.

In a statement, Adegbite supported the government’s directive that the crossover service should terminate by 11 pm.

Lagos State Government had previously ordered all worship centres to suspend night services, vigils, and crossover events.

The state also announced a 12 am to 4 am curfew as part of measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

Adegbite said: “As part of our responsibility as a law-abiding organisation and in response to the appeal made to us by the state government, we hereby direct that all churches should ensure their services on 31st of December, 2020 end at 11:00 pm so as to allow attendees get to their respective homes and places of rest on or before midnight when the curfew will start.”

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How brave female POS operator disarmed two armed robbers in Edo

A female Point of Sale (POS) attendant disarmed two suspected armed robbers who tried to steal her money.

The incident reportedly happened at Uhogwa, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo state.

According to reports, the suspects, Andrew Adubu and Destiny Olu, came to the POS shop, located at the entrance of the IDP Camp on Monday, December 28, pretending to be customers, and requested to withdraw the sum of N200, 000 from their account.

When the female operator inserted their ATM card into the POS terminal, the hoodlums brought out a locally-made pistol and ordered her to give them the cash and her mobile phones.

However, the woman struck the hand of the one pointing the gun at her and the weapon fell off his hand. She then raised an alarm that attracted security agents stationed inside the IDP camp, who in turn, responded swiftly and arrested the suspects.

Upon interrogation, the suspects confessed that they were trying to raise money to take care of their family needs during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

One locally-made pistol, three cartridges, and an unregistered motorcycle were recovered from the suspects.

SP Chidi Nwabuzor, spokesperson of the State Police Command, who confirmed the incident, called for effective partnership from members of the public.

He disclosed that policemen have been placed in strategic positions to deal with criminal elements across the state.

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Man dies during sex with married woman in hotel

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A married man simply identified as Eyom has reportedly died in Ekori, Yakkur Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Eyom was reported dead during a sex romp with a married woman known as Grace Odi.

It was gathered that Grace and her husband Mr. Odi left their community, to the neighboring Ekori for a wedding ceremony but midway into the wedding, Grace gave her husband a flimsy excuse and went straight to meet her lover in a prearranged guest house.

It was learnt that midway into the sex romp, Eyom allegedly started jerking and foaming in the mouth and eventually gave up the ghost.

“He told some of his friends that he was going to give his girlfriend who is married a good time and so needed to increase his performance by taking some sex-enhancing drugs”. A source in the area told newsmen.

As of the time of filing this report, the police have since detained the woman for further investigation while the body of the man has been deposited at the Ugep General Hospital mortuary.

Meanwhile, spokesman of the Cross River State Police Command, Ms. Irene Ugbo, said she is yet to be briefed on the incident.

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Dino Melaye cautions Buhari against arresting Bishop Kukah

Former Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, has warned President Muhammadu Buhari against attempting to arrest the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Mathew Kukah, over his Christmas message.

It was reported that Kukah accused President Buhari of crass nepotism like never experienced in the history of Nigeria.

Bishop Kukah, in his Christmas message titled, “A Nation in Search of Vindication” delivered in Sokoto on Friday, noted that President Buhari had succeeded in sacrificing the dreams of Nigerians on the altar of nepotism by pursuing Northern hegemony.

According to him, there could have been a coup or war in the country if a non-Northern Muslim became president and does some of the things Buhari had done.

Following the development, the Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, launched an attack on the Bishop.

MURIC accused Kukah of being a first-class blackmailer.

Reacting, Melaye in a Tweet warned Buhari against arresting or embarrassing Bishop Kukah.

He also said the President will be shown that the government isn’t owned by him but the people if he fails to heed the warning.

“Arrest or try to embarass Bishop Kukah and we will prove to you that Government is not owned by you but the people.

“They want to scare everybody Kill fear and speak the truth to power,” he wrote.

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Marriage ends at wedding reception as groom says his people didn’t eat

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The intended peaceful marriage of a couple, held yesterday, Dec 28, ended at the wedding reception because the groom was upset his people were not served food.

A wedding guest, who said she’s a member of the bride’s family, narrated how the incident happened in a tweet.

She tweeted: “Omo the wedding I attended today ended in PREMIUM TEARS. I have never witnessed such before wtf!!!

“So the groom was angry they didn’t serve his people food. So the bride went to console him and calm him down next thing he shouted at her in front of everyone that she should get out of his sight.

“She left quietly and went to sit down, the next thing he came to meet her and asked her if she is still going with him. The bride said she is not marrying again, the groom said him too is not marrying.

“In conclusion bride and groom’s family clashed. Everyone parted ways including bride and groom.”

She added: “How will I tell people now that I’m part of the bride family.”

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Gunmen kidnap Catholic Bishop of Owerri Archdiocese

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The Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri Catholic Archdiocese in Imo State, Moses Chikwe has been reportedly kidnapped by gunmen.

This is contained in a statement released by the Catholic Secretariat, Archdiocese of Owerri and was made available to newsmen.

It was gathered that the bishop was kidnapped at the site and service area of Owerri, the state capital.

He was reportedly kidnapped on Sunday, December 27, 2020.

The statement signed by Owerri Archdiocesan Secretary-General, Rev. Alphonsus Oha called for prayers for the safe return of the cleric.

As of the time of this report, there had been no official reports of any correspondence with the kidnappers.

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Delta community celebrate son, Oseji on elevation as justice of supreme court

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The idumuje-Unor community in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State has celebrated its illustrious son, Justice Samuel Chukwudumebi Oseji over his promotion as Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The reception at the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Obi Charles Chukwunwike Anyasi 111, the Obi of Idumuje-Unor was great with the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in attendance.

While congratulating Oseji, Okowa said it was not easy to go through the ranks of High Court, Appeal Court, and now Supreme Court.

The Governor recounted that he had been in Idumuje-Unor for two times – the first being to commission the Idumuje-Union road linking Idumuje-Ugboko and then Issele-Uku, while the second now was to honour Justice Oseji who was recently elevated to Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The governor noted that the demands of the community in terms of road infrastructure and rehabilitation of the community Secondary School, praying he would have the opportunity to visit a third time.

Governor Okowa promised to work closely with the community to better evaluate the Idumuje-Unor/Onicha-Uku road in the interest of doing a proper project that would last the test of time.

He further stated that there must be something to remember him for visiting the community when Oseji was honoured, assuring he had already taken note of those projects he would do to leave his imprint on the community.

He commended Justice Oseji for bringing honour and pride to his community, praying for God’s grace to continue to shine forth on him for more honours.

He also praised the Monarch of the Idumuje-Unor Kingdom for his exemplary leadership in bringing his subjects together for peace, unity, and progress, assuring him that despite the economic downturn in the country, there would be a reason to glorify God in the coming year.

Meanwhile, Justice Oseji was emotionally appreciative of the kind gestures of his community to host him to a grand reception of such magnitude.

Cultural dance

According to him, “I feel honoured and humbled today. Though I never expected to be a Supreme Court Justice, I believed that God directs the steps of the righteous.

“I pray to meet up with expectations. Just a week after our swearing-in ceremony, we were inundated with cases. There will be challenges definitely; however, when God blesses one, such does not look at the mundane things of the present, but instead look at the future.”

He further narrated the journey to the exalted position of the Justice of the Supreme Court, revealing that his name was even on the reserved list and not the priority list during an interview at the presidential panel.

He said he had never lobbied anybody before, neither had he visited the Supreme Court more than once before in his life, but he was eventually nominated and called for swearing-in after much delay from October 2019 to December 2020.

In his fatherly prayer for Justice Oseji, Obi Anyasi prophesied that Justice Oseji would one day be appointed the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

He gave a succinct description of the personality of Justice Oseji, eulogizing him for his sterling qualities that have continued to bring honour and matchless pride to the community.

The Traditional Ruler also appreciated the Jurist and wife, Dr. Mrs. Minnie Oseji for standing solidly behind him and his NGO – Uniblood.

Moreover, the community through another of their illustrious son and SSA to the Governor on Media, Comrade Norbert Chiazor, presented a well sculptured Olympian portrait of Justice Oseji to him.

The former Delta State Council Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), told Justice Oseji that he would have to place the portrait in a strategic corner of his home or office adding that this will serve as an identity of the source.

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End SARS: Family of killed Police officer seeks Okowa’s support

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The family of a Police corporal Stanley Etaga, who was slain during the #EndSARs protests in Ughelli, Delta state, have reached out to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for assistance.

A rights group, Conference for the Actualization of Human Rights (CAHR), who spoke on behalf of the family, disclosed this in Warri, Delta state.

The group demanded that late Etaga be declared the “hero of the Nigeria Police Reform, 2020 at least in Delta state” and a N30 million compensation be paid to the family.

Other demands are scholarships for the late officer’s four children to university level and employment within the state civil service for his widow.

National adviser of the group, Comrade Edewor Egedegbe told newsmen that efforts to get the Delta State Government to offer the necessary aid, like its Lagos, Anambra, and Rivers counterparts, have been unsuccessful.

A letter which was addressed to the governor by the group on behalf of the family described late Etaga’s case as “sheer murder”.

The letter was signed by Egedegbe and the national secretary, Comr. Atiku Sunday and made available to newsmen.

Corporal Stanley Etaga, with force number 504636, served under the Delta State Police Command, ‘A’ Division, Ughelli.

The Urhobo-born native of Assah, Ewu, Ughelli South joined the Police Force on October 17, 2011, and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant seven days after his death on October 8, 2020.

“He was mobbed to death in Ughelli by professed protesters, he was deployed to protect which was the reason he did not pull the trigger, even when it was obvious he was going to die,” the letter stated.

The rights group, however, berated the state government for keeping mum, adding that it is a “deliberate insensitivity to the plight of a citizen”.

Parts of the letter read, “the family has through our office petitioned the state panel on police brutality and extortion whereupon the panel decline jurisdiction on the ground the petition to enforce the right of the slain police officer is outside the scope of the committee/panel.

“To this end, therefore, we call on the Delta state government to treat this case as a special case by reaching out to the family of the late Sgt. Stanley Etaga to assuage their pains in damages as her counterpart states of Lagos, Anambra, Rivers, and others have demonstrated or on the alternative extend the scope of the panel to accommodate cases of murder involving Police officers.

“Be reminded that by fiat, the Lagos State government paid thirty million nairas each to deceased policemen who didn’t even hail from the state, and in Delta State, a Nigerian Police officer of Delta State origin was killed and Your Excellency is silent denying his family the needed attention.”

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“I go leave this music for una” – Davido threatens

Nigerian music star, Davido, has threatened to leave the music industry.

The ‘Fem’ crooner stated this in a tweet on Monday.

“I go leave this music for una,” Davido wrote.

It is the first time he is saying anything after the purported fight with Burna Boy in a Ghanaian nightclub yesterday.

Davido’s comment comes as a music producer, Paulo, appealed to him, Wizkid, and Burna Boy to reconcile their differences.

Paulo, in an Instagram post, pleaded with the music superstars to end their fight to advance the Africa music culture.

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Senate president receives Igbo chieftaincy title in Orji Kalu’s community (photos)

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Nigerian Senate President Ahmad Lawan has been honored with a High Chief title of Nwannedinamba 1 (our number one Brother in Diaspora) and as a member of Ezumezu Circle of Igbere Ebiri in Abia state.

Lawan received the honour on Sunday, December 27, in Igbere, where he attended the 10th memorial anniversary of the father of the Senate chief whip, Orji Uzor Kalu.

The Senate president who shared photos on his Twitter handle made a strong case for Nigerians to be united. According to him, more can be achieved when people are united.

“Nigeria is designed by the Grace of God to be a nation of many people of different orientation, different sentiments but we must be a people with a common purpose and common destiny and this is what we are trying to achieve.”

He thanked the traditional rulers and the entire Igbere community for honouring him with the title.

According to him, with his cap signifying the title conferred on him, he can stand anywhere, in any part of Nigeria proudly and say he is from Igbere community.

https://twitter.com/DrAhmadLawan/status/1343296229715959808?s=08

His followers were spotted in the comment section congratulating him.

@geothegoodguys commented:

“Congratulations… Hope they gave u a piece of land because that’s a prerequisite for any title?
I lied. Congratulations once more Yawale with the Twitter handle @ShuaibuYawale1 wrote:

“Congratulations Sir. A well-deserved title! May God continue to be your strength.”
@wasiu_mudashiru added:

“Congratulations sir, I wish u all the best and, the ability to discharge your responsibility as required from u, sir.”

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How Metuh’s release will restore hope in democracy – S’East PDP

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Southeast Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the Court of Appeal Abuja judgment of December 16, 2020, which quashed its former National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh’s conviction renewed hope for the PDP and all Nigerians, who believe in constitutional democracy.

Chief Ali Odefa, National Vice Chairman of the party in the Southeast, in a statement, yesterday, stated that a careful examination of the High Court processes and judgment that sentenced Metuh to a seven-year jail term was a predetermined decision from Justice Okon Abang’s innermost recess to please some undemocratic forces.

“In building a progressive democratic society, patriots pay heavy prices with some even paying the supreme price. Metuh’s 10-month sojourn at the Federal Correctional Centre, Kuje, Abuja, was part of the price our party has to pay for building a viable democratic culture where the rule of law takes precedence over individual and personal interests and fantasies.

“As the party that piloted the affairs of the Nigeria’s transition from military rule to democratic governance, the PDP is not new to the oppressive tactics and anti-democratic forces including using some judicial officers to carry out their predetermined ends in the cloak of serving justice.

“We are, however, consoled and at the same time given hope by the patriotic conduct and decision of the Court of Appeal, which has restored hope in our judicial system,” Odefa said in the statement.

He said the Appeal Court’s decision had once demonstrated that Nigeria was bigger than individual or clique interests, adding that the PDP was committed to Nigeria’s democratization process and the singular justice served in Metuh’s case had further strengthened the belief and resolve to make Nigeria work again for all.

The PDP, therefore, enjoined Nigerians to keep faith with the party, adding: “We are determined to lead our people to the promised land, a nation where merit is promoted over mediocrity, a country guided by its laws and where its citizen can aspire to greatness through a dint of hard work, patriotism, promotion of our collective interests.”

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2023: Bamgbose slams Primate Ayodele, says prophecy fake, not from God

A chieftain of the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP, Olusegun Bamgbose, has countered the 2021 prophecies reeled out recently by the leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Ayodele.

Bamgbose showed interest in the area where the cleric emphatically stated that the North will still retain power come 2023.

Being a presidential hopeful for 2023, Bamgbose believes that the prophecy won’t come to pass, adding that Ayodele should go back to God in prayer and seek His face because God is not the author of confusion.

Speaking in a chat with newsmen, the senior lawyer who was angered by the prophecy, said “I believe God Himself will resist such. It’s very imperative that power must shift to the South come 2023.

“Any plan for power to be retained by the North come 2023 will fail. I don’t believe any patriotic and lover of one Nigeria from the North will ever support that power will still be retained by the North come 2023.

“In essence the prophecy by Primate Ayodele is fake. I think the North is trying to use him against the South. The truth however is that it won’t work.

“This possibly could be the handiwork of the North to use him to retain power, it won’t work. No man from the South will believe such a prophecy. I doubt if that prophecy is from God. It’s a mere prediction that won’t come to pass.

“I wonder how power will be retained by the North given these agitations by ethnic groups to secede. Those Northerners scheming to use Primate Ayodele should better forget it. It won’t work. It will be unjust and inequitable for the North to retain power come 2023.

“If Buhari has not really satisfied the yearnings of Nigeria and they still want a Northerner to take over from him, that will be absurd. The unity of Nigeria will be shaken to her root if such happen.

“Tambuwal, Saraki, Atiku should not bank on Primate Ayodele prophecy to contest 2023 Presidential elections, it will be an effort in futility. Power must shift to the South for the sake of our unity.

“Let them equally be informed that we from the South will be on the lookout for any Northerner that will show interest in becoming the President of Nigeria come 2023. Such will be labeled enemies of one Nigeria. It’s as serious as that.”

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FG mourns Chico Ejiro’s death, says huge blow to Nollywood

The Federal Government has mourned popular Nollywood filmmaker, Chico Ejiro.

The producer’s death was said to be a huge blow to the Nollywood industry.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, and was made available to newsmen.

The government commiserated with the family and friends of the deceased and to the entire industry.

“The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has described the shocking death of veteran film producer Chico Ejiro as a huge blow to the nation’s Creative Industry in general and Nollywood in particular,” the statement partly read.

The Minister said the late Ejiro was “a prolific movie director and a shining star of Nollywood, which has through his movies stamped Nigeria’s creative presence all over the world.”

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2023: Why Igbo presidency may suffer setback, Archbishop Ibezim reveals

The Anglican Bishop of Awka Diocese and Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger, Alexander Ibezim, has revealed why the Igbo presidency may suffer a hardship.

The clergyman, who spoke with journalists in Awka, insisted that Igbo people were being marginalized.

He said Igbo Presidency may suffer setbacks with the growing marginalisation against the ethnic nationality in the federation.

Ibezim noted that the presidency should not be about equity and competence rather than being a gift to the Igbo nation.

“There is no need to talk too much about it, anybody that is a good Nigerian knows that an Igbo man is marginalized.

“We have been marginalized for a long time. So, anything that comes to an Igbo man is like a gift.

“That is why some people are talking about restructuring Nigeria today. It is not an individual affair, but a collective pursuit. The presidency is not about being an Igbo man or not.

“The main thing is to maintain equity and justice so that people in the land will be happy,” he said.

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BBN’s Khafi and Gedoni tie the knot (Photos)

Former housemates of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality TV show, Gedoni Ekpata, and Khafi Kareem have tied the knot.

Khafi broke the news in a post via her Instagram page where she shared lovely pictures from the wedding event.

On her Instagram handle, Khafi added: “On this day last year, I woke up engaged to the love of my life. The worst thing happened this year but through the tears and sorrow, the best also happened too.

“And that is signing on the dotted line to spending the rest of my life with you. We couldn’t celebrate this year (next year loading!) but genuinely, I celebrate and thank God every day for you @Gedoni. Cheers to married life.”

“Getting married during a pandemic was a choice we decided to make. If this year taught us anything it was to take nothing for granted and each day is a gift. We weren’t able to have friends and family there apart from our witnesses but we know that by God’s grace we will be able to celebrate with our loved ones and family once the pandemic is over.

“It’s simple when it’s right”. We didn’t see anything stopping us so we went for it. My brother’s death also made us realize that life truly isn’t promised so we didn’t want to wait. We have always known, we wanted to stay forever together so we just kept on thinking, why delay forever from starting? she had stated.

Khafi also revealed that she looks forward to having twins, “Looking forward to a life of growth, expansion, learning, positive changes, happiness, twin babies, and more. God talks so much about two heads being better than one and I’m ready for us to put that in action!! It is just an amazing thing to know you have someone who you are doing life with and I’m ready for whatever life may throw at us.

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Okowa mourns with Kwankwaso over father’s death

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has commiserated with former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso, over the death of his father, Alhaji Musa Sale-Kwankwaso.

The deceased reportedly passed on in the early hours of Friday at 93 years.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa described the late patriarch of the Kwakwanso family as a “patriotic and respected elder statesman”, who contributed immensely to the growth and development of Kano State. He was Majidadin Kano and Makaman Karaye.

“We received the news of the demise of your beloved father, but we are consoled by the fact that he lived a life of dedicated service to his people, state, and country.

“We share in your sorrow and pains at this period and we pray that God will grant you and the entire family, the courage to bear the loss even as we pray for the repose of the soul of your departed father.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I mourn with my dear brother, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, on the passing of his beloved father, Alhaji Musa Sale-Kwankwaso.”

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Falz reveals how Law helped him become better artiste

Nigerian rapper Folari Falana, popularly known as Falz has said that some of the skills he acquired as a lawyer have been of great help to his music career.

He disclosed this during an Instagram Live session with his fans. He said, “(On the skills helping me as an artist), I would say analytical mindset because as a lawyer one has to critically analyze things. My lyrics usually have a lot of depth. I do not just make music, I make sure it has a lot of meaning.”

The rapper, who is a graduate of the University of Reading, England, said he decided to take an active part in the #EndSARS protests.

“It was something that had to be done. I felt that we were left with no choice. The #EndSARS hashtag is not new. It had been online for years and every time we complained about those things, nothing was done. So, I thought it was time to take to the streets. I had seen a tweet by Runtown saying he was going out (to protest), so I called him and told him I was interested. I put out a tweet saying that we would march on a specific date for a certain cause. We were expecting 50 or 100. We got out there and started marching, and by the time we got to the end of the road, thousands of people had joined. It was unbelievable. I had never seen anything like that. It gladdens my heart how everyone came out.”

Falz also noted that his involvement was not because he wanted to go into politics. He said, “Going into politics has never been the plan. I have never said to myself that I would run for any (public) office. My motive for activism is just for the sake of humanity. A lot of people ask if I am going to run for any office but I don’t have any such plans. I have never registered with any political party. I just believe the ‘ordinary’ citizens need to be as motivated as I am about humanity. There is no ulterior motive. I want to see that there is a certain standard of living that the ordinary Nigerian is enjoying. I want to see that there is light, food, jobs, and an enabling environment.”

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Eschew message of disharmony, FG Urges religious leaders

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The Federal Government has advised religious leaders in the country to
avoid igniting the embers of hatred and disunity.

The Minister of Information and Culture,
Alhaji Lai Mohammed said this in a statement issued in Lagos on Saturday and was made available to newsmen.

He warned that
resorting to scorched-earth rhetoric at this time could trigger
unintended consequences.

”While religious leaders have a responsibility to speak truth to
power, such truth must not come wrapped in anger, hatred, disunity and
religious disharmony,”

The minister noted that it is extremely graceless and impious for any
religious leader to use the period of Christmas to stoke the embers of hatred, sectarian strife, and national
disunity adding that Christmas season is known for peace.

”Calling for a violent overthrow of a democratically-elected
government, no matter how disguised such a call is, and casting a
particular religion as violent is not what any religious leader should
engage in, and certainly not in a season of peace,”

Alhaji Mohammed
also said that instigating regime change outside the ballot box is
not only unconstitutional but also an open call to anarchy.

The minister revealed that while some religious leaders, being human, may not be able to disguise their national leadership preference, they should refrain
from stigmatizing the leader they have never supported anyway, using
well-worn and disproved allegations of nepotism or whatever.

He however revealed that
the problems of Nigeria can be handled when all leaders work together, adding that arrogantly engaging in
name-calling and finger-pointing most especially in critical times like this, will not move the country forward.

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Three arrested for alleged robbery, rape, murder of woman in Edo

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The Edo State Police Command on Friday, December 25, confirmed the arrest of three suspects who killed a female trader after robbing and gang-raping her.

The incident happened along Evbuosa Road, near Obozogbe in Orhionmwon local government of the state while the woman was on her way to the market.

It was gathered that the suspects dispossessed the deceased of N30,000 before dragging her into a nearby bush, where they took a turn to rape and later left her with life-threatening injuries which resulted in her death.

The vigilante group in the area said some persons who were on the farm heard the woman screaming but could not find her when they got to the scene because the suspects dragged her further into the bush.

According to a vigilante member, a shirt was found in the area which was used to trace the owner in the community.

The owner later identified as Destiny Osa was subsequently arrested by the locals and handed over to men of the Ugo Police Division, who in turn handed him over to men of the Anti Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Unit of the Edo State Police Command for further investigation.

Upon interrogation, Destiny Osa told the police how they attacked, robbed, raped, and took the police to arrest two other members of the gang, Etim Zion and Samuel Jeremiah, both from Akwa Ibom state.

Osa later led the police and another investigative team to the site the woman was gang-raped as her wrapper and hair attachment were recovered.

Confirming the arrest, the spokesperson of the command, Chidi Nwabuzor, said the body of the trader was deposited in the mortuary for autopsy and further investigation.

Nwabuzor said no one had come to claim her body and advised anyone whose family member left home since Saturday, December 19, 2020, to Evbuosa and had not returned home to contact the office or, the Anti Kidnapping/Cyber Crime Unit of the Edo State police command in Benin city.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson assured that the suspect would be charged to court for prosecution.

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Catholic bishop blasts leaders, says some have overstayed their welcome

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The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Anambra State, Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor, has said the trouble with Nigeria is that many of its leaders have expired.

Ezeokafor, who spoke at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka, while delivering his Christmas message, wondered why Nigerian leaders would stay glued to their seats even when it had become obvious that they had nothing more to offer.

He said, “Some leaders have overstayed their usefulness. Most of our leaders have expired. It’s part of corruption if you refuse to leave office when it’s due for you to do so. Our leaders should learn to hand over power to young people with fresh brains and ideas.

“Every generation has a special blessing of God. Our leaders should fashion ways to encourage young ones to succeed, even if it means setting up junior parliament.

“The standard of living of our youth should be raised. You don’t empower the youths by giving them Keke (tricycles) or okada (motorcycles). It’s rare for any person who started as a Keke or okada operator to rise to become a commissioner or a minister. The youths should be empowered with education.

“If we don’t treat our youths well now and allow them to determine their future, #EndSARS is one thing; the next will be #EndBigMen. When a revolution starts, it doesn’t end so easily.”

The bishop alleged that certain individuals were feeding fat on the nation’s insecurity situation, insisting that firing the service chiefs would reduce corruption.

He said, “I know that the fundamental responsibility of government is security and welfare of the people; where such responsibility is lacking, it is expected that those in charge should resign. When Buhari came in, he promised to tackle insecurity. The same promise he repeated in his second term. Yet we keep witnessing insecurity on a daily basis.

“First was the kidnapping of Chibok girls, followed by the Dapchi girls. Now, it is the Kankara boys. To travel by road now is near impossible. Unfortunately, travelling by air is expensive. Yet our budget on security is alarming.

“We’re just making a mockery of ourselves before the international community whose eyes are on us. Besides, when we negotiate with these criminals, we’re reinforcing them because they will use the ransom proceeds to buy more ammunition.

“I don’t feel comfortable with the Presidency because of the service chiefs. Pampering them is unhealthy, having exhausted their ideas. If these things are not checked, they will keep recycling. If the service chiefs are sincere, they should resign. But since they’re feeding on it, it will be difficult for them.”

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PDP hits APC, warns party to stop attacking governors

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has cautioned the running All Progressives Congress against attacking its governors and their states as a ploy to divert attention from the failures of the APC-led regime.

The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan, said this in a statement on Friday titled, ‘APC Is Bitter, Envious of Our Governors, Says PDP…Cautions Akpanudoedehe.’

Ologbondiyan alleged that the APC leaders were embittered over the sterling performance of PDP governors, which he said had further endeared Nigerians to the opposition party.

The statement read in part, “Nigerians can see the frustration in the APC leadership, which has now resorted to vicious smear campaigns and media attacks on our governors and leaders, having failed in all their sneaky plots to lure them to look the way of the defunct APC.

“It is therefore not strange to us that the Secretary of the APC’s illegal National Caretaker Committee, Senator James Akpanudoedehe, has been detailed as new APC spokesperson, to commence a coordinated attack on our governors.”

According to the PDP, APC leaders should know that the party they are clinging to is nothing more than “a failed association masquerading as a political party; plagued with internal wrangling and illegal leadership,” which nobody wants to associate with.

The PDP spokesman equally said the only legacy the APC would be remembered for when it levels the presidency in 2023 is that of “corruption, treasury looting, turning our nation into a failed state, instituting poverty and hardship, and supporting terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers ravaging the people.”

Ologbondiyan stated that governors elected on the PDP platform had over the years shown capacity through deliverables in projects and programmes that had a direct impact on the lives of most Nigerians, in virtually every sphere of human endeavour.

He said, “It is therefore imperative to state that our governors, by all ratings and ramifications, cannot be in the same class with non-performing APC governors.

“In that regard, we counsel the APC Caretaker, as the new undertakers of the APC, to steer clear of our party and concentrate on their task of winding down the APC, which began with the collapse of their structures nationwide.”

When contacted, the Secretary of the Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary National Convention Planning Committee, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, said, “We wish all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”

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Delta Assembly Speaker says Jesus Christ is an epitome of humility, sacrifice

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Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Friday described Jesus Christ as an epitome of humility and sacrifice, urging Christians to focus and reflect more on the reason for the celebration of Christmas by embracing and emulating the virtues .of Jesus Christ.

Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dennis Otu, called for total reflection on the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and told Christians to work hard towards emulating the exemplary lifestyle of love and unity of Jesus Christ

He said: “I greet the peace-loving people of Delta State in this season of the joy of the birth of Jesus Christ. Let us continue to believe that this yuletide season will usher in good tidings as the year 2020 has remained largely challenging”.

Oborevwori appealed to well-meaning Christians to show love to the less privileged and the widows in this season, adding that; “In the spirit of the yuletide, let us give a helping hand to one another in the best way we can; we should share joy and love of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of mankind.

“We cannot run away from peaceful coexistence and therefore we should show love at all times, tolerate one another and be prepared always to make sacrifices for mankind. As we celebrate, we should be mindful of the second wave of the Covid 19. We should avoid elaborate celebrations because Covid -19 is real. We should do to shun drinking and driving in the guise of celebrating Christmas to avoid road mishaps and perhaps fatalities”.

While wishing Christians in the State and beyond Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance, the Speaker called for more prayers to le the government to achieve set goals and the Stronger Delta vision of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration.

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PDP ex-spokesman Olisa Metuh, out of prison

Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh, was released from Kuje Prison Thursday evening.

Hours earlier, the Federal High Court, Abuja, admitted him to N250 million bail.

Justice Nkeonye Maha gave the order following a motion on notice with charge number: FHC/ABJ/CR/05/2016.

It was filed on December 21 by his lawyers led by Oyechi Ikpeazu.

Justice Maha ruled that the surety must be a responsible citizen and owner of landed property/properties within the jurisdiction of the court.

The value should not be below the bail sum.

The surety must depose to an affidavit of means and submit a recent passport of himself/herself for record purpose.

The judge ordered that once the bail conditions were perfected, the registry of the court shall bring the release warrant for her signature to order the Superintendent of Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS), Kuje, to free Metuh.

The judge also granted Metuh’s application to travel within and outside the jurisdiction of the court for 45 days only.

This begins from the date of the order.

Maha ordered the conditional release of Metuh’s international passport from the court registry as soon as the bail conditions were fulfilled.

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Covid-19 second wave: Okowa limits gathering to 50℅, gives serious warning to Deltans, residents

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has directed the general observance of several COVID-19 protocols and guidelines which include the mandatory use of face masks, hand washing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and social distancing.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Chiedu Ebie, and was made available to newsmen in Asaba.

while wishing Deltans and residents in the State the compliments of the season, governor Okowa said based on the advice of medical experts on the resurgence of a second wave of the covid-19 pandemic which is reportedly more infectious, there have been serious health concerns across the globe.

The governor stated that given this development, and in line with the recent Federal Government advisory, in the meantime, all night clubs are closed with effect from 25th December 2020. Furthermore:

He also said all informal and formal festivity events including weddings, burials, conferences, congresses, office parties, concerts, seminars, end of year events shall be restricted to not more than 50 persons.

According to the statement, All bars, lounges, restaurants, eateries, event centres, cinema houses as well as recreational venues are to operate at not more than 50% capacity.

The statement also advised drivers to ensure good sanitary conditions of vehicles adding that overloading of vehicles should be discouraged.

The statement also added that :

“All public spaces should run on 50% capacity basis; virtual meetings should be encouraged for business purposes and among social groups. All government staff below grade level 12 are to proceed on extended Christmas holidays till further notice

” All markets, shopping centres, and other business centres must adopt the earlier mentioned protocols and guidelines in the use of face masks, hand washing, and social distancing.

” All gatherings linked to religious activities are to operate at not more than 50% capacity of the facility in use and ensure mandatory use of face masks, hand sanitizers, and social distancing. Where possible, multiple services should be adopted.

“Public and Private Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Institutions are to open on Monday, 11th January 2021.

“All persons above the age of 60 years and/or with comorbidities are to be encouraged to stay at home and avoid crowds.

“Members of the public are advised to call the toll free numbers below to report suspected COVID cases: 08031230480, 08031230481, 08031230528, and 08031230529.

The statement also revealed that the government will continue to monitor the impact of this second wave through the Ministry of Health stressing that additional guidelines will be issued when considered necessary.

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Gunmen kidnap Urhobo gospel Singer, Jerry Ekpekurho, demands N15m ransom

Popular Urhobo gospel singer, Evangelist Jerry Ekpekurho has been allegedly kidnapped by unknown gunmen.

The singer was reportedly kidnapped along the Osubi/Eku Road in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.

According to a source who disclosed this to newsmen, the incident occurred on Tuesday when the singer was heading to his farm along the route and arms-wielding abductors were said to have ambushed him and took him to an unknown location.

Ekpekurho’s vehicle was left behind by the kidnappers along the road which prompted relations to suspect it was a case of abduction.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the abductors were said to have contacted the family of the musician demanding for N50 million to free him. The abductors were learnt to have reduced the ransom to N15 million after much pleads from the family on Wednesday.

His colleagues who are also musicians in Urhobo confirmed the abduction of their colleague on Wednesday.

Police sources in Osubi and Orerokpe also confirmed the incident, saying a rescue team has been launched to secure the release of the musician.

The Urhobo music legend hails from Ewhrenene and Ekiugbo communities in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the report but could not give details of the incident at the time of filing this report.

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How I stole to raise money to feature Davido, Runtown – suspected car thief

A 23-year-old student of the Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, Dare Williams, who was recently arrested for snatching a vehicle from a hailing service driver, has said he turned to armed robbery because he was desperate to gather enough money to pay Davido or Runtown to feature in his album.

According to the police report, Williams, who is an upcoming artiste, lured his friend, Bethel Chukwuocha, 18, to snatch the Toyota Corolla car from the driver, Clement Aniegbe, on Monday night December 21. Armed with a kitchen knife, the suspects ordered a ride from Lekki to Gbagada. While on their way to their supposed destination, they threatened the driver with the weapon and then sedated him, making it easy for them to cart away his car and mobile phone.

Wiliams who claimed he had gone around seeking help to raise money for his music project, said he planned to sell the vehicle for a million naira and use the money to advance his music career.

Parading the suspects before newsmen, the Lagos state Commissioner of Police (CP) Hakeem Odumosu said:

“They used a knife and some substances suspected to sedatives to weaken the victim. The suspects claim to be students of the Federal College of Education, Yaba-Lagos.

The suspects were arrested by police detectives attached to Sabo Police Station, Lagos State, on Tuesday, December 22, at Sabo while on their routine patrol. The detectives recovered the car and the knife used for the operation from them.

The case is under investigation and will be transferred to the State CID for further investigation.”

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Wike reveals how APC has failed Nigerians

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has said the worsening insecurity in the country confirmed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration has failed Nigerians.

Wike said the Progressive Governors Forum would not only acknowledge, but also accept the fact that the ruling party disappointed the country due to its abysmal performance.

He said this was because the APC-led government promised to offer better governance that would ensure the safety of life and property of all Nigerians.

Governor Wike asserted the unveiling of Woji and Obagi roads in GRA Phase Two in Obio Akpor Council, which ceremony was performed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

He lamented that virtually everything has collapsed in the country under the APC administration and that if Nigeria were truly a democratic country, nobody would be a proud member of APC.

“I hear the Progressive Governors Forum saying there is insecurity. Who is responsible? They should come out openly and say that the party in power has failed. Nigerians gave APC mandate at the Federal level and therefore, they must own up to the fact that they have failed Nigerians.

“Everything has collapsed in the country. Security has collapsed. The economy has collapsed. Nothing is working in the country. All over Nigeria, there is insecurity everywhere,” he said.

Wike maintained that until the Federal authorities apologised to Rivers State for what they did to the state, God will not forgive them, insisting that he had not disappointed Rivers people in improving their quality of living, upgrading infrastructure, and securing of life and property.

On his part, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, said with evidence of Wike’s performance, it would be difficult to convince Rivers people to abandon the PDP for another party.

He noted that development projects are an integral part of democracy because it is used to measure the level of progress a society makes under such democratic leadership and the Wike government has committed to that task.

“Right-minded people like to identify with progress irrespective of their personal feelings towards the initiator. Development is a big part of democracy and every project counts towards the overall progress of the country,” he said.

Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Elloka Tasie-Amadi said the Woji and Obagi roads were reconstructed 12 meters wide with streetlights and built to standard.

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Celebration as 200 couples in Anambra community marry in mass wedding (photos)

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Two hundred couples got married the same day at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church, Uzoakwa, Ihiala in Ihiala Council Area in Anambra State.

The biannual mass wedding held on Friday, December 18, was presided over by the Auxiliary Bishop of Umuahia, Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. Michael Ukpong.

In his homily during the Pontifical High Mass, Most Reverend Ukpong described a proper marriage as one that shows unity in Christ and Church.

He reminded the couples that the union is a journey of no return and therefore, should abide by the promises made to each other and particularly charged the grooms to love their wives and brides to obey and respect their husbands.

Addressing the gathering during the reception, the Anambra State Governor’s wife, Dr. Ebelechukwu Obiano represented by the Transition Committee Chairman of Ihiala Local Government Area, Mr. Jude Obiwuru defined the wedding as a great thing aimed at channeling the minds of the couples to raising Godly children, who will be a good ambassador of the state.

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Woman reveals how co-wife poured boiling water on her

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A woman identified as Justina Peter is currently on the run after she allegedly poured boiling water on her co-wife, Iklima Musa in Plateau state.

The incident happened at Gindiri town in Mangu Local Government Area of the state. The victim is currently receiving treatment at a specialist hospital in Mangu.

The police officer in charge (OC) of Gindiri Police outpost, Barnabas Zumji, who confirmed the development, said the police were waiting for the victim to recover to get some information from her, adding that the suspect, would be tracked and brought to book.

Speaking to Daily Trust, the victim said that the incident occurred on December 9, in their matrimonial house when she was trying to pack her clothes.

“By the time I bent down to gather the clothes, I didn’t know my co-wife was coming towards me with bad intention. I didn’t expect something of such because we have been separated after fighting on that day. As I was getting up, she poured the boiling water on me. So, I started screaming.”

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DSS raises alarm on alleged bombing plans during Yuletide

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The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised the alarm over the “plot to bomb some places” during the Yuletide.

In a statement yesterday, the agency asked Nigerians to be on the alert, saying it is taking steps to prevent attacks nationwide.

The DSS spokesman, Peter Afunanya, however, advised those planning to disrupt public peace to desist from such.

“The Department of State Services (DSS) wishes to inform the public about plans by some criminal elements to carry out violent attacks on public places, including key and vulnerable points during the Yuletide seasons.

“The planned dastardly acts are to be executed through the use of explosives, suicide bombing, and other dangerous weapons.

“The objective is to create a general sense of fear among the people and subsequently undermine the government.

“Against this backdrop, citizens are called upon to be extra vigilant and report strange movements and indeed, all suspicions around them to security and law enforcement agencies.

“On its part, the Service is collaborating with other sister agencies to ensure that adequate measures are put in place for protection of lives and property,” the statement added.

Afunanya provided emergency response numbers which he asked Nigerians to take advantage of.

“To further achieve this purpose, the Service has provided these emergency response numbers 08132222105 and 09030002189 for urgent contacts. It is also using this opportunity to unveil its interactive website www.dss.gov.ng for public communication support.“Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of these platforms and similar ones provided by related agencies to timely reach and avail them (security agencies) of required information,” he stated.

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Woman allegedly killed as “Operation Delta Hawk ” shoots boys in Asaba

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A newly launched security outfit, “Operation Delta Hawk ” has yesterday, Tuesday, December 22, reportedly shot dead an innocent woman within Summit junction in Asaba.

It was alleged that a team of the Operation Delta Hawk, stopped two boys who were driving a vehicle without a plate number. It was speculated that the vehicle was said to be newly purchased.

According to information gathered, the police harassment of the young men got them scared as the boys drove off for their safety.

It was also gathered that the police started shooting directly at the boys living one of them injured while one of the bullets hits and kills a woman who was doing her normal business in the area.

At the time of filing this report, the body of the woman has been deposited in the mortuary.

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Delta Govt. to begin construction of 13 roads, flyover, says Exco

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The Delta State Executive Council on Tuesday approved the construction of thirteen roads across the state and a flyover along Ibusa Road at Koka junction, Asaba.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a post-exco briefing in Asaba.

Aniagwu said that the conclusions at the meeting on the projects and other issues would impact positively on the lives of Deltans.

Meanwhile, his Works counterpart, Chief James Augoye, said, “today, at Exco meeting presided by our Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, a lot of projects were approved for construction and with me here is my brother the Commissioner for works who will brief you on the road projects.

He revealed that the Ministry will complete the procurement processes for the projects by the end of January 2021.

Aguoye listed the approved roads to include Rehabilitation of 11.85km Odimodi, Ogulaha road in Burutu at a cost of N2.1billion,

“Construction of rigid concrete pavement of 2.025km Stadium Road, Ugborodo in Warri South-West Local Government Area for N1.2 billion and Construction of 6.7km access road to Ekuku Bridge in Otefe-Oghara in Ethiope West Local Government Area for N1.01 billion,”

Others include, “Widening and rehabilitation of 12.6km Jeddo, Ughoton road with a spur to Egbokodo in Okpe Local Government Area for N1.8 billion.

“Construction of 5.2km Alizomor, Alizor, Omumu Road in Ika South Local Government Area for N1.4 billion; Construction 11.6km Owa-Alero Umunede Road in Ika North East Local Government Area for N3.2 billion

“Construction of 10.6km Boji-Boji Owa, Otolokpo road in Ika North East Local Government Area for N3.1 billion; Construction of Isheagwu Ewulu Road in Aniocha South Local Government Area 9.1km N2.5 billion.

Augoye further said the “Construction of 500meters bridge with five stands across Orere River with access roads of 4.3km in Orere Town in Ughelli South Local Government Area for N9.8 billion

“Reconstruction of 24km Ellu, Ovrode, Ofagbe, Orie-Irri, Okpe-Isoko, Uro-Irri and Ada-Irri road in Isoko North and Isoko South Local Government Areas N4.3billion

“Construction of flyover along Ibusa Road by Koka Junction, Asaba Benin Expressway N6.2billion; Completion of the construction of 4.1km Akwukwu-Igbo, Ugbolu Road Phase 2 for N2.8 billion; Flood control measures along Madonna College Road in Asaba Oshimili South Local Government Area N1.8 billion and rehabilitation of Eku Agbor road, Section 1 Agbor to Umutu 41.2km at a cost of N424.4m whole section 2 from Umutu to Eku 35.2km will cost N382.8 million,”

Speaking further, he said the State Government will engage two contractors to ensure that the road was completely rehabilitated by the end of January.

Aniagwu also said Exco approved the sum of N1.379 billion to fund the 2020/2021 Job cycle for the Office of the Job Creation Bureau for the recruitment, training, and distribution of starter packs for trainees to be handled by the Job Creation Office.

“Our job creation efforts remains one of our star projects and a major component of our Smart Agenda which is today targeted at creating a stronger Delta.

“Exco approved N227m for the Ministry of Health upgrade of the Clinical building at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital Oghara and the expansion of Mother and Child Hospital in Ekpan, Uvwie Local Government Area.

“Exco approved the appointment of Obi Boniface Uyanwanne as the traditional ruler of Ubulubu kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area and the appointment of HRM Emmanuel Onobrakpeya Okumagba as the Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom in Warri South Local Government Area,”

The commissioner further said Exco also approved the amendment to the law guiding the succession of the throne of the Obi of Owa Kingdom to include that at the event that the Obi dies in the Owa Kingdom without a male son, the eldest surviving brother will be crowned king.

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Coming 2 America’s trailer released, brings back Eddie Murphy’s King Akeem

Coming 2 America’s hilarious first trailer has arrived as an early Christmas present ahead of its 2021 release.

The long-awaited comedy sequel brings back Eddie Murphy’s King Akeem as he heads on an all-new adventure with his trusted confidante Semmi (Arsenio Hall) as they go back to where it all began: Queens, New York.

And the first trailer has revealed that the thing that’s bringing him back to the US is his father’s (James Earl Jones) revelation that the newly-crowned King Akeem has a son and so, despite Semmi’s objections, they set out to find him.

The trailer also gives us glimpses of all the new characters King Akeem will meet, as well as the old favourites that are returning, including Murphy and Hall’s multiple roles as Randy Watson (Murphy), Reverend Brown (Hall), Clarence (Murphy), Morris (Hall) and more.

Coming 2 America will be released on Prime Video on March 5, 2021, after its planned cinema release this December was delayed.

The comedy sequel also brings back Coming to America stars James Earl Jones, Shari Headley, John Amos, and Louie Anderson as they reprise their roles, alongside returning writers Barry W Blaustein and David Sheffield co-wrote the sequel with Kenya Barris.

They’re joined by an all-star collection of newcomers that includes Wesley Snipes, Leslie Jones, KiKi Layne, Tracy Morgan, Jermaine Fowler, Bella Murphy, Rotimi, Nomzamo Mbatha, and Teyana Taylor.

Coming 2 America will be released on Prime Video on March 5, 2020.

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Sorrow as 23-year-old only son drowns in hotel swimming pool

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A 23-year-old man, Chinecherem Nwankwo has drowned in the swimming pool of a hotel in Anambra state.

The deceased said to be the only son of his parents and student or staff of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, drowned at Trig Point Hotels in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area of the state on Sunday, December 20.

However, friends and family suspect foul play as the deceased fondly called Chyboy was said to be a great swimmer and diver.

His cousin Cronel Onyedikachukwu Nkemakonam, who confirmed the incident on Facebook, said there was no trace of water or bruises on the body when he saw it.

“I still don’t know how to join in spreading this kind of news! My cousin Chinecherem Nwankwo passed on at Trig Point Hotel, Nibo swimming pool? How? An only son? Just like that? At 23? What kind of talk is this? what is happening! Chy boy is a pro diver as far as I know! No trace of water! No bruise! It’s well. Rest in peace nnaa.” he wrote.

Another friend wrote: “Ahh! Its been long I felt this bad and pain, this dude doesn’t deserve to die, not now and just like that, he was such an awesome dude; respectful, ambitious, and friendly, as I know him, if only I afforded one last goodbye! Your death just awakened a lot of questions in my mind concerning life! This life, with painful tears and pains, I join to say rest in peace nwannem, your soul will find rest in God’s peaceful bosom. What a December! What a year! “

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FG extends NIN registration by six weeks, cancels USSD charges

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The Federal Government has extended registration for the National Identity Number (NIN) by up to six weeks, from Dec. 30 to Feb. 9, 2021.

The use of Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) charges for verification across the country was also canceled.

The National Task Force on the NIN and Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) registration made the announcement on Tuesday, in Abuja, in a statement jointly signed by Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman, Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) and Engr Aliyu Aziz, Director-General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

The action followed resolutions adopted at a meeting chaired by Dr. Isa Pantami, Minister of Communications and Digital economy.

According to the resolutions, there would be a “Three weeks extension for subscribers with NIN from Dec. 30, 2020, to Jan. 19, 2021. Six weeks extension for subscribers without NIN from Dec. 30, 2020, to Feb. 9, 2021, while USSD and verification charges remain suspended during these extensions”.

Pantami said: “NIMC has provided strategies to enable citizens to attend the registration in full compliance with COVID-19 protocols, particularly the use of facemasks, which remains mandatory, and maintenance of social distancing”.

He disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari has commended Nigerians for their patience and commitment to update their Identities and thanked all stakeholders for their compliance with the directives.

The President also commended the efforts of the task force and urged all stakeholders to take advantage of the extension to link their SIM cards with their NIN, the minister said.

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COVID-19 part 2: Buhari to meet PTF as partial lockdown begins

President Muhammadu Buhari will meet with members of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 today.

This was contained in an announcement by the Presidency on Tuesday via its official handle.

“@MBuhari will meet with the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 this afternoon,” @NGRPresident tweeted.

This comes less than 24 hours after the federal government announced a partial shutdown for the next five weeks, in a bid to stem the second wave of Coronavirus across the country.

The PTF Chairman, Boss Mustapha, issued the advisory on Monday at the PTF briefing in Abuja.

According to Mustapha, Buhari had authorised the Presidential Task Force to engage with the states and the Federal Capital Territory to assume full ownership of this stage of the response.

He said that bars, night clubs, hotels and event centres, and recreational venues were considered super-spreaders of the virus.

States and the FCT are to shut down all informal and formal festivity events including weddings, conferences, congresses, office parties, concerts, seminars, sporting activities.

Churches and Mosques should not be filled beyond 50 percent of their installed capacity during worship and prayer time while face masks and social distancing are compulsory.

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Comedian Aproko wins ‘Next Naija Comedy Star; gets N5m, car gift

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Nigerian upcoming comedian Aproko has won the 2020 edition of the ‘Next Naija Comedy Star’ going home with a cash prize of N5 million and a brand new car.

This is coming after weeks of delivering outstanding performance on the show.

The comedian was declared the best as he won the admiration of viewers and judges for his composure when telling his jokes.

The show was reportedly organised and executively produced by the comedian AY and judged by Ali Baba, I go dye, and MC Shakara.

See video of his outstanding performance at the show.

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Man seen dead after checking in with ‘side chic’ to guest house

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A man was reported dead in a guest house in Ghana after checking in with a 25-year-old lady believed to be his ‘side chick’

It was gathered that the man, 66, who gave his name as William Agyei to the receptionist, drove a red Toyota Corolla with registration number ER 1614 -17 to the guest house with the lady on December 19, 2020.

According to the receptionist, she found the man lying motionless the next day, Sunday, December 20, when she forced her way into the room to clean after knocking for several minutes with no one answering.

The lady who checked in with the man was nowhere to be found when the receptionist went to the room.

The owner of the guest house in Koforidua in the Eastern region reported the incident to the Effiduase police.

Investigators who went to the scene reportedly found several sex enhancement drugs including viagra for men, deep heat spray, unirob polar ice, bendroflumethiazide tablets, and several other used tablets were seen in a bag found in the room.

A red bag containing the personal clothes of the deceased including some regalias and a black handbag containing an amount of GH¢2000 were also found.

During an external inspection of the body, no marks of violence were found except foaming on the mouth.

The body has since been deposited at the St Joseph’s Hospital Morgue for preservation while awaiting autopsy.

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Aisha Buhari opens up on alleged abandoning of Aso Rock for Dubai

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Wife of President Muhammadu Buhari, and First Lady, Aisha has responded to reports that she left Nigeria for Dubai due to security issues in the Presidential Villa.

Mrs. Buhari disclosed that she travelled out of the country for medical checkup.

The First Lady disclosed this through one of her aides, Kabiru Dodo, in Jalingo, Taraba State over the weekend when her foundation presented some items to widows.

Representing Aisha Buhari, Dodo said the First Lady left her children, traveled, and family in the country.

According to Dodo: “The First Lady travelled for her medical trip, she did not flee the country because of insecurity.

“She left her children, her husband, and her family in Nigeria.

“What people are saying is baseless and worth nothing to be considered.

“I want to tell the whole world that I do speak to her daily and she is ready to return to the country as soon as she is done with the medical treatment abroad.”

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Woman drags man to court for not marrying her after 8 years of dating

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A Zambian woman has sued her boyfriend for not marrying her after eight years of their dating.

Gertrude Ngoma, 26, from Ndola, Zambia, launched legal proceedings against her boyfriend Herbert Salaliki, 28, the father of her child who she claims had promised to marry her, after 8 years of dating.

Ngoma told the court she was tired of waiting and demanded her boyfriend outline his plans for the future. She also added that she doubted his loyalty after catching him texting another woman.

“He has never been serious, that is why I brought him to court because I deserve to know the way forward and our future,” she told the court.

Salaliki, in his defence, said that he wants to marry Ngoma but can’t afford to, and claimed that they don’t communicate because she doesn’t give him enough attention.

Ngoma told the court that she now feels Salaliki is not serious about their relationship despite him already issuing a dowry payment.

In Zambia, it’s traditional for men to pay a lobola or “appreciation fee” to the family of their fiancée as a sign that they will look after their wife. Despite the payment being made, the couple has never lived together even though they share a child, with Gertrude remaining with her parents.

But Salaliki defended his decision by saying that he’s not financially stable enough to afford a wedding. He also said he was reluctant to get married, blaming Gertrude for not giving him the attention he thought he deserved.

Judge Evelyn Nalwize, presiding over the case at Kabushi Local Court, advised Gertrude to sue for breach of marriage contract but said the authorities could do little more to intervene. The magistrate instead ruled that the two should attempt to reconcile their differences out of court.

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Davido appears as ‘best man’ for his driver’s wedding, trills audience (Photo/Video)

Nigerian singer, David Adeleke popularly known as Davido, followed through with his words as he showed up for his driver, Tunde’s wedding ceremony to his lady-love.

The singer had taken to Twitter to announce he was going to be the best man at his driver’s wedding.

A new photo shared on the singer’s Instagram and Twitter account shows that Davido is indeed a man of his words.

In the photo shared, the singer is pictured with the couple and some other guests who attended the beautiful ceremony.

Sharing the post, he wrote: “E choke!!! Love u Tunde. Happy married life!!!” See post below:

The singer attending his driver’s wedding has left many fans impressed

Some took to Twitter to hail the singer.

A Twitter user shared a video of the singer keeping the wedding guests excited and used the opportunity to emphasize the need to be kind to workers, both skilled and unskilled.

Watch the video below:

See more reactions :

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Traditional cleansing as Delta community places curse on cultists, ritualists, others (Photos)

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The traditional ruler of Idjerhe Kingdom in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, His Royal Majesty, Monday Obukowho Whiskey, and people in the community have laid curse on criminals especially cultists behind killings in the area.

The traditional cleansing ceremony performed on Friday, December 18, was as a result of the rising cases of cult-related killings alongside cases of internet fraud, kidnappings among other crimes in the community.

It was gathered that more than 5 persons have died from cult-related issues since last month with some of their bodies brutally mutilated.

Native doctors from 42 communities of Idjerhe Kingdom gathered in Jesse, the traditional headquarters of Idjerhe on Friday, where they offered traditional prayers using duck, a puppy, and a cock while they pour libation against the development.

During the ceremony, the traditional ruler and members of the community lamented the growing cases of death as a result of cultism and internet fraud, asking the gods of the land to visit perpetrators of heinous crimes in the kingdom with calamity.

They publicly warned indigenes who partake in the crime-related activities to immediately repent or strange illness will befall them.

See photos of the traditional cleansing exercise below :

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See why governor Obaseki should resign now – APC reveals

The state caretaker chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Edo State, Col David Imuse Rtd. has called on Gov. Godwin Obaseki to immediately resign from office over security challenges in the state.

In a statement, Col Imuse alleged that Obaseki had run out of ideas on how to govern the state.

According to him, the call has become necessary because the Governor is failing in his duty of protecting the lives of Edo people, he has shown gross disregard for the rule of law and his personal interest is clashing with his official interest.

‘He has failed in duty to uphold his oath of office to protect the lives and properties of Edo citizens, his penchant for disobeying court orders and his decision to plunge Edo state into more indebtedness with his recent clandestine borrowing of N25 billion from the capital market as the reasons for his call’

‘No one is safe in Edo. The state is under siege. We have a governor who has lost focus. Fear and insecurity have become the order of the day, yet the Governor takes N700 million monthly as security vote. And so far he has not been able to deploy this huge amount to mobilise the security agencies in the state to fight criminality”.

On the recent ruling by Benin high court, Col Imuse noted that the governor does not have an iota of respect for the judicial and legislative arms of government or the rule of law but regularly runs to the courts on the most frivolous of excuses.

‘A court recently ruled that the duly elected chairman of Etsako East Local Government Council who was illegally removed from office should go back to his seat. But the Governor, in disobedience of the Court, mobilised thugs to seal up the entrance of the Council Secretariat at Agenebode, denying the Chairman access’

‘Because Edo state is designed to be governed by relevant laws”, Col Imuse said, “Edo APC is ready to take the bull by the horns, as it can no longer condone a governor who has no regard for the rule of law”.

The Edo APC Chairman who also blamed Governor Obaseki for making Edo the third most indebted state in the country wondered why he would clandestinely resort to borrowing the sum of N25 billion from the capital market without telling Edo people.

‘This loan is unacceptable to Edo people and Governor Obaseki must urgently return it or cancel it outrightly because it is to be repaid by Edo taxpayers and to make matters worse, his own company, Afrinvest is the stockbroker for the facility. This action of the governor is not only illegal, there is a clash of interest he added.

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NUJ Delta visits HOS, brings case for new Departments for information Ministry

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Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has emphasized the need for the Head of Service of Delta State to grant the request of the Ministry of Information to create two more departments.

The state’s information ministry had requested the creation of the Department of New Media and the Department of Field Information.

Delta NUJ Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu during a visit to the HOS, appealed to him to use his office to ensure that the two departments were added to the Ministry of Information.

He explained that the importance of the departments cannot be overemphasized based on the realities of the time, adding that it would bring about efficiency and effectiveness for service delivery in the state.

The chairman who said that the Ministry of Information is key to the effective publicity of government’s policies and programmes noted that the two departments will enhance proper information management thereby bringing good governance to the state.
and beyond.

Comrade Ikeogwu while commending the HOS for his distinct achievements since assuming office, maintained that with his (HOS) experienced career in civil service, governance would always be administered with ease.

Responding, the HOS, Mr. Reginald Bayoko thanked the NUJ State Executive for visiting, saying it would be out of place for any Government not to take seriously criticisms and suggestions of NUJ as a critical stakeholder in society.

The HOS acknowledged the receipt of a letter from the Ministry of Information requesting for the two aforementioned departments to be created, affirming the matter was being looked into and that the needful definitely would be done.

Bayoko congratulated the Executive for their victory at the State Council election, stressing that such contest was necessary to bring out the best in leadership.

He further told the Union to ensure practitioners are put in check within the confines and ethics of the journalism profession, especially as it pertains to providing chances to all parties in their reports.

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Nigerians express fear as man shares pictures he took with lions (Photos)

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A Nigerian man, Sani Yusuf, has set social media on fire with photos of him posing with a pack of lions.

He captioned the photos with “Conquer your fears. Achievement unlocked”.

While goldennationblog.com cannot at the moment of writing this report verify the pictures, a closer look at Sani’s profile shows he is a voracious traveler who has been to 62 cities in 33 countries.

In the first frame, the ‘stood’ some meters behind a lion and its lioness as he held a stick that looks like the one used by shepherds.

The second picture has the lioness standing on a tree and the other lying at the foot of the same tree. In the third shot, the animal was captured in a motion mode as Sani ‘walked’ behind.

https://twitter.com/saniyusuf/status/1338832993503338503?s=19

When his photos surfaced on Twitter, many had a lot to say, asking why he would even dare go close to wild animals.

Goldennationblog.com compiled some of the reactions below: @thereal_chike asked:

“Thought they said lion don’t climb trees, wetin I dey see so?”

@peterdgenius1 replied: “Lions climb short trees o.”

@Samuel0X_ wondered: “Lmao. Is it the stick or you’re just too skinny for them to feed on?”

@MahmoudTokura said: “Cowards live longer. Let the bush remain between me and them Amen.”

@LKrukrubo shared a similar experience: “Twas a scary experience but I’d do it over and again… There’s something magical being so close to those lions… Tigers tho are a different story, even the feeders and breeders don’t dare stray to the Tiger’s den. Tigers are way too deadly and unpredictable.”

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BREAKING: Gunmen kidnap Edo Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowan, kills driver

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Edo State Head of Service, HoS, Anthony Okungbowa has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

Okungbowa was kidnapped on Saturday evening along Oza Road, off Benin Asaba expressway in Orhiomwon Local Government Area of the state.

During the incident, his driver was reportedly killed in the process of kidnapping the Head of Service.

The HoS was said to be coming from a social event organised by a politician in the LGA.

According to staff within the state government, who spoke with newsmen on the condition of anonymity said: “He was kidnapped on his way back to Benin City after attending a local event in Oza. His driver was killed.”

The effort to confirm the incident from the state Police Public Relations Officer, Chidi Nwabuzor, was not successful as he did not pick up calls and he was said to have traveled for an official course.

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Why kidnap, release of Kankara students, fake – Ohanaeze

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Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council, OYC, Worldwide, has defined the abduction and release of the 344 students of Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, Katsina State as an award-winning drama of the year, 2020.

The Okechukwu Isiguzoro-led Ohanaeze group wondered the rationale and idea behind the drama.

According to the OYC, the display may have been carried out to make the service chiefs appear capable or “resist the idea of sacking them from office.”

OYC, in a statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, its President General, and Mazi okwu Nnabuike, Secretary-General, also said the leader of Boko Haram, Abubakar Shekau provided the new blankets displayed by the 344 abducted students.

“The evidence of (provisions of) new blankets for over 344 pupils of Kankara boys by Boko haram insurgents makes the abduction fake or jankara and organizers of the drama as amateurs.

Northern leaders have refused to accept their leadership failures in governance, most of their political leaders are behind the insecurity situations in the north and are benefiting immensely from the huge budgetary allocations mapped out for insecurity challenges, the Kankara boys abduction is business as usual for Northern leaders.”

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Jubilation as Delta CP, Hafiz Inuwa promoted to AIG

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Delta State Commissioner of Police Hafiz Mohammed Inuwa has been promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG).

This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Asaba, on Saturday, December 19, 2020.

According to random statements from security observers, Mr. Inuwa as the Chief Security Officer of the Police hierarchy in the State brought far-reaching innovations into policing.

It was reported that as soon as he was deployed to Delta, he quickly swung into action, paying courtesy visits to stakeholders and brainstorming on the best ways to arrest the ugly situation of kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery in the state.

It is on record and believed that CP Hafiz Inuwa had done excellently well both in crime prevention and control, responsiveness, and human face community policing.

The police boss, according to those who have interacted with him in the line of duty, was commended for his human relations disposition which is worth desiring for a satisfactory police/public relationship.

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Mr. Eazi exceeds 1 Billion streams on spotify

Popularly Nigerian Afrobeats star, Oluwatosin Ajibade, professionally known as Mr. Eazi, has paid his dues in the music industry.

Mr. Eazi who has continued to churn out hits has been greeted with good news by Chat Data who posted that the artiste has surpassed 1Billion streams on Spotify across all platforms.

“@chatdata @mreaszi has now surpassed 1Billion streams on Spotify across all credits”.

Reacting on Twitter, Mr. Eazi who has been thankful for the achievement said “Thank You God For Keeping Things Running Smoothly!!!! Quick reminder, Mans still an Independent African Artist!”

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Why I threw my step brother inside well – Ten-year-old girl confesses

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A 10-YEAR-OLD girl (names withheld) has been paraded by men of the Ondo State Police Command for killing her step brother.

The suspect was said to have thrown her step brother inside a well because their father showed much love for him.

She was said to have lied that the boy was kidnapped. The incident happened at Owode, behind Central Mosque, Akure.

Ondo Police Commissioner, Bolaji Salami, said the girl threw the baby identified as Usman Abubakar into the well out of annoyance that he got more care from their father.

Salami said the girl later confessed that her brother was inside the well.

He said the baby’s corpse was later recovered from the well.

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BREAKING: Lagos restrict worship centres to two hours, bans carnivals, clubs, others

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has returned the order limiting the operations of churches and mosques in the state.

This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday.

Sanwo-Olu who ordered that no congregation must exceed 50 percent of the maximum capacity of the venue, added that worship centres are not to hold services for more than two hours.

The governor also banned carnivals and street parties in the state

According to the statement, “Night Clubs have not been allowed to open yet. All Night Clubs in Lagos must immediately shut down, until further notice. He said.

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See how airport staff was nabbed after stealing from travelers (video)

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A staff of Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport has been nabbed after stealing from the luggage of travelers.

The shamefaced staff was reportedly busted for stealing a number of electronic gadgets from travellers by security personnel.

It was further learnt that the airport worker who was nabbed with 10 mobile phones, was handcuffed to be taken to the Police station for further questioning.

Watch the video below;

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Division in church as Pastor marries his secretary four months after wife’s death

The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe is reportedly divided following the wedding of a Pastor and his secretary, four months after the cleric’s wife died.

It was reported that Reverend Amon Chinyemba wedded his secretary Nyaradzo Chibhememe last weekend, in an elaborate ceremony which was officiated by Rev Manyika in Hatfield. Reverend Chinyemba is said to belong to an AFM faction led by Reverend Cossum Chiangwa.

The wedding ceremony left many with mixed feelings as they wondered if it was appropriate for Chinyemba to marry so soon after the death of his wife Siphiwe Chinyemba.

While there are speculation of the two being romantically involved before the death of the reverend’s wife in August, others said the Reverend got married so quickly because he needed a wife to be eligible to challenge for AFM presidency next year.

Reverend Peter Kefias, spokesperson for the Reverend Chiangwa led AFM however debunked the claim and further insisted that there was nothing untoward about the wedding because Reverend Chinyemba had followed all cultural and traditional protocols following the death of his wife.

He said;

“Rev Chinyemba had no pressure to marry his new wife Nyaradzo Chibhememe who has been widowed for the past 20 years.

“The two fell into a relationship for one and half months before tying the knot and his three daughters-Prudence, Patience, and Precious-are grown-ups and married.

“Yes, Prudence was supposed to be married according to custom on 12th December 2020. The date was moved to next year to allow the wedding to take place.”

On speculation of Reverend Chinyemba being romantically involved with his secretary before his wife’s death, Kefas revealed that Chinyemba had tried to wed a widow from another Pentecostal church ZAOGA. It was gathered that he turned on his secretary after the marriage plans with the widow didn’t work out.

The spokesperson added;

“Rev Chinyemba’s marriage was not a secret and at one time he met Dr. Ezekiel Guti to be allowed to marry one of the ZAOGA widows, but it was not God’s will. (sic)

“He saw it best to take his secretary as his wife since she has been widowed for some years and he took AFM Council co-workers as part of his bridal crew.

“Those who are making noise about this wedding could of the other faction as you know that the AFM split is still pending before the courts of law.

“We would like to suggest that church politics is at play here and might be the other faction members who are up to tarnish Rev Chinyemba’s name.”

Reverend Kefas Mujokori also insisted that there is no law in the AFM’s constitution which bars widowed or single members from contesting for any church position.

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Buhari meets released Katsina students, see what he told them (photos)

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President Buhari on Friday afternoon, December 17, met with the rescued 344 Kankara schoolboys in Katsina state.

At the meeting, the President who spoke in Hausa thanked God for their safe return, and appealed to them not to allow the traumatic experience to deter them from going to school.

See more photos from the meeting below…

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How NIN/Sim card reg will lead to large COVID-19 death in Nigeria – HURIWA

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has warned that the new directive on Sim card registration would cause “a catastrophic second wave of COVID-19” in the country.

HURIWA, a frontline Rights group issued the warning while rebuking the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami for directing telecommunications companies to compel their subscribers to re-register their mobile numbers by linking them to their National Identity Card numbers.

The Federal Government had given a 14-day ultimatum to Nigerians to register their lines or lose their mobile number.

Recall that the Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, had ordered telecommunications companies to halt the sale and activation of Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) not linked to NIN

NCC had warned that non-compliance by network operators could lead to the withdrawal of operating licenses.

Following the directive, the federal government had unveiled lists of organisations to conduct enrollment of Nigerians under the new arrangement.

However, HURIWA wondered why Pantami would order Nigerians to conduct another registration of their Sim Cards at a time the country was battling with COVID-19.

Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator of HURIWA, in a statement, described Pantami’s directive as “grotesque and an irregular attempt at causing massive catastrophic health emergencies of unimaginable dimension.”

Describing the directive as one done in a military fashion, HURIWA urged the National Assembly and Nigerians to “resist this coercive and arbitrary directive.”

Onwubiko insisted that the directive was a threat to the “enjoyment of all the constitutionally protected and guaranteed fundamental freedoms.”

He noted that the Minister’s directive was callous, wicked, and crude.

He said, “The directive was an impediment on the national human rights of Citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, including the Right to life (section 33(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria given that the demand on over one hundred million subscribers to return for another round of verification and registration with a presentation of the so-called National Identity Card numbers will expose Nigerians to the much talked about and much-dreaded second wave of the CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC which according to medical experts is much more virulent and devastating.

“It is unbelievable that a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will be so callous, capricious crude and tendentious by issuing a public directive on another round of SIM CARDS REGISTRATION at a time that the World over, nations are adopting and taking scientific, medical and precautionary measures to stave off the dreaded and grave consequences of the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic with stricter enforcement of the World Health Organisation’s Protocols such as wearing of face mask and social distancing.

“Does the Nigerian Minister of Communication plan to generate mass suicide by Covid-19?”

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Omah Lay shares horrible experience in Uganda prison, beg fans, others

Nigerian singer, Omah Lay has shared his horrible experience in Uganda after he was arrested and locked up in prison.

Recall that the singer was arrested for flouting COVID-19 guidelines while performing on Saturday night at a concert held at Speke Resort.

Following diverse reactions from Nigerians and an immediate call for their release by the Nigerian government, the Ugandan police on Tuesday announced that the duo have been released.

According to the police, ”Omah Lay and Tems regained their freedom following a ruling by Okumu Jude Muwone, Chief Magistrate of Makindye.”

The duo arrived Nigeria on Thursday.

The singer took to his Twitter account to share his experience in Uganda, describing the past few days as the toughest days of his life.

He also claimed he was treated like a common criminal after his arrest.

According to him, the show promoters confirmed and proved they’d secured all clearances, including COVID-19 compliance, proving that it was ok for him to go ahead with the event.

”The past few days have been some of the toughest of my life and I wouldn’t wish them on anyone.

“Out in a new country with some beautiful people, and then from nowhere I’m being treated like a common thief

“Firstly, I want to thank all the amazing fans that came out to see me in Uganda, the smiles on your happy faces that evening would be one of my happiest memories.

“Also I wanna clarify that putting you in harm’s way was never my intention! Before we came out to Uganda, the show promoters confirmed and proved to us they’d secured all the clearances including the Covid 19 compliance.

“At that point, my priority became to make myself available to be taken to the venue and entertain, which I did in the full protection of the Ugandan police.

”Secondly, to my mom, my family, my team, my fans, friends that I caused sleepless nights waiting and praying for me, I apologize for putting you through all that and I can’t stop thanking you enough. I almost lost my mind but your prayers and messages kept me going.

”Finally, I would like to say a big thank you to everyone for your efforts, prayers, messages, tweets. You all went hard.

“Big shout out to my fellow musicians, fans, my family, my friends, my Label, The Nigerian Mission in Uganda, The Presidency, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Madam Abike. Thank you all so much!

”I have put this behind me and back to what I know how to do best. One Africa. Omah is home,” he wrote.

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Trump expresses disappointment over Supreme Court judgment

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US President Donald Trump has expressed disappointment in the country’s Supreme Court after the apex court rejected a Republican lawsuit that sought to overturn the victory of Democrat Joe Biden in last month’s presidential election.

“I am very disappointed in the United States Supreme Court, and so is our great country!” the Republican incumbent tweeted on Friday.

“Democrats would never put up with a Presidential Election stolen by the Republicans!” Trump also alleged.

But the president-elect said Trump has had full opportunity to contest the results in court and “in every case no cause or evidence was found to reverse or question or dispute.”

Biden, whose victory was formally confirmed by the Electoral College this week, also lashed out at the Republican party for standing behind Trump’s evidence-free claims of mass fraud. But he said the Supreme Court last week sent “a clear signal.”

“Let me be clear: The United States of America has always set an example for the world for the peaceful transition of power — and we will do so again,” Biden, who would be sworn in next January, tweeted on Friday.

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See how to link your phone numbers with NIN to avoid being blocked

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Following the two weeks directives given by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to the telecommunications operators in the country to block all SIM cards that are not registered with the National Identity Numbers (NIN), succour has come the way of Nigerian subscribers.

Goldennationlog.com reported that the NCC had threatened that failure to do so would lead to people’s lines being blocked or disconnected by December 31, 2020.

The steps to link the phone numbers with NIN are easy to undertake.

Complete the NIN linking form by entering your name, phone number, NIN, and email address.

Submit the form as soon as you’re done. Wait for feedback from the network. Airtel Users To link your NIN to your Airtel phone number, follow the steps below:

  1. Dial *121# on the Airtel line you wish to link. 2. Type 1 for “NIN Capture” and send. 3. Enter your 11-digit NIN and send. Wait for the message confirming your submission. If you get an error, just wait for some time and try again. Other networks (Glo, Mtn, and 9mobile)

For other lines, simply visit the nearest office of your service provider (be it Glo, 9mobile) to register/link your NIN. Just go along with NIN and your SIM pack. If you do not have your SIM pack, you probably should be prepared to swear an affidavit. To be on the safer side, you can call your service provider’s customer care.

Meanwhile, it was reported that the NCC mandated the telecommunications operators across the country to block all the SIM cards not linked with National Identity Numbers (NIN).

It was reported that the NCC director of public affairs, Ikechukwu Adinde, disclosed on Tuesday, December 15, in a statement in Abuja.

Adinde said the new rule applies to new Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards, stressing that those not linked with NIN will be disconnected in two weeks.

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FG denies announcing the return of abducted Katsina students, says account was hacked

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Abike Dabiri-Erewa has reacted to a viral tweet purportedly from her handle announcing the rescue of the abducted Katsina schoolboys.

Shortly after the tweet was posted, it was deleted.

In an update post on her handle, the Dabiri-Erewa said she lost control of her handle and that no one should credit such information to her.

She wrote;

”Pls don’t credit any post on katsina boys to my twitter handle. I lost control of my handle in the last couple of minutes, along with my Instagram. I have recovered and changed my password”

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BREAKING: 333 Kankara students released – Buhari Govt

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The Nigerian government has announced the release of 333 boys abducted from Government Science Secondary school, Kankara, Katsina State.

NIDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Arewa disclosed this on her official Twitter page.

She, however, did not give details of their release.

Her tweet read: “Yaay, the 333 boys captured in katsina have been rescued. Alhamdulillah!

“Buhari administration has brought back our boys. BringBackOurBoys. Our boys are back.”

It was gathered that Boko Haram leader, Shekau claimed responsibility for the kidnap of the school boys.

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Reps reject bill seeking age limit for President, other political office holders

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A bill seeking to put a 70-years age limit for anyone running for the office of the President and 65-years age limit for those running for a spot in the National Assembly has been rejected by the House of Representatives members.

The bill which was sponsored by Bede Eke, the lawmaker representing Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala federal constituency in the House, was rejected before he could even debate the bill. It took the intervention of the Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila for the debate to be allowed.

Bede stressed that the bill is an extension of the Not-Too-Young-To-Run bill and the #EndSARS protests.

He said;

“We had some challenges recently with the Endsars protests, and we are aware of their demands. Our youths will celebrate this house if we should pass this bill.

“You cannot talk about Not Too Young To Run when people are occupying the places.”

Minority leader, Ndudi Elumelu however opposed the bill on grounds of it being discriminatory and inconsistent with section 42 of the 1999 constitution.

Also debating against the bill, another lawmaker Uzoma Abonta said instead of putting a limit, the age bracket should be expanded to accommodate more people by reducing the age to contest to 23 years.

The bill was subsequently withdrawn by its sponsor after being advised to do so by other lawmakers.

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Delta council Boss remanded for allegedly attacking commissioner

The Chairman of Patani Local Government Council, Perez Omoun, has been remanded in Ogwashi-Uku Correctional Centre by a Magistrates Court in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Omoun was sued by the police on a four-count charge, including intent to cause grievous harm and unlawfully injuring Ebikapade Tuesday, who tried to prevent him from attacking Basil Ganagana and his family.

Ganagana is the Delta state Commissioner for Energy.

Magistrate V. O. Okonta ordered that Omoun be remanded in the Ogwashi-Ukwu correctional facility till December 30 pending the determination of his bail application and the issue of jurisdiction raised by the prosecutor, F. O. Itua.

Omoun was also charged for malicious damage of eight cars belonging to Ganagana, his family members, and the Ministry of Energy, valued at N199.9 million.

He was also charged for maliciously damaging the iron gate of Ganagana’s house and for attempting to commit suicide.

The prosecution prayed the court to remand Omoun in custody since the court lacks the jurisdiction to adjudicate on the suit, a request the court granted after entertaining objections from the defence lawyer and adjourned further hearing till December 30.

Omoun allegedly broke into Ganagana’s compound about 3am on December 13, pulled down his gate, and vandalised cars parked inside the premises.

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Block subscribers without NIN, Nigerian Govt. orders MTN, others

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The Federal government of Nigeria has authorized all telecommunication service providers to ask all subscribers to provide their National Identification Numbers (NIN).

This was contained in a statement as the resolution reached at a meeting between the minister of communication and digital economy and stakeholders in the communication industry on Monday, 1 December 2020.

The resolution was disclosed by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) in a statement on Tuesday.

Subscribers who fail to provide their NIN within two weeks are to be blocked from using their SIM cards.

The major telephone networks in Nigeria are MTN, Globacom, Airtel, and Etisalat.

The meeting affirmed the earlier directive to suspend the registration of new SIM cards by all operators.

“Operators to require ALL their subscribers to provide valid National Identification Number (NIN) to update SIM registration records.

“The submission of NIN by subscribers to take place within two weeks (from today December 16, 2020, and end by 30 December, 2020).

“After the deadline, ALL SIMs without NINs are to be blocked from the networks.

“A Ministerial Task Force comprising the Minister and all the CEOs (among others) as members is to monitor compliance by all networks. Violations of this directive will be met by stiff sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license.

“The general public is hereby urged to ensure that their NINs are captured in their SIM registration data. All inconveniences which might be occasioned by this directive are deeply regretted.”

At the meeting, the need to consolidate the achievements of last year’s SIM registration audit and improve the performance and sanity of the sector was discussed and all stakeholders agreed that urgent drastic measures have now become inevitable to improve the integrity and transparency of the SIM registration process, the NCC said.

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Deltans blasts Oshimili North monarchs for involving in dirty politics

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The endorsement of Hon. Innocent Esewezie by Oshimili North Traditional Rulers for the office of the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, made in-road into the social media as Deltans across sections disputed the approval.

They concluded that the actions of the supposed Royal Fathers were childlike and belittling, allegedly accusing them of compromise to get involved in dirty politics.

While most of them who spoke to newsmen on conditions of anonymity may not like Senator Peter Nwaoboshi as a person, they advised Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as the Governor of Delta State to steer clear from Oshimili North politics and give Nwaoboshi his due regard as the political leader of the local government area.

They affirmed that bringing the former Council’s Transition Chairman, Hon. Esewezie was the candidate of PDP after the party had already picked one Ambrose Elofu Dike-Elue as their candidate was just steering the hornet’s nest.

One of the respondents said, “Okowa should respect Nwaoboshi as the political leader of Oshimili North and stop using Esewezie, Pat Ajudua, and Dr. Obidi to steer the murky waters of Oshimili North politics.

Again, another traditional ruler in Delta North whose name is not proper to mention to avoid unnecessary royal rumbles had lambasted the Royal Fathers of Ibusa, Akwukwu, Okpanam, and Atuma for that charade called royal blessing for Esewezie.

He maintained that the Traditional Rulers had just brought themselves low by taking an electoral position when the actual election had not even come.

The vocal monarch said, now that these traditional rulers had chested out for a PDP factional candidate, what then becomes of other of their children in the race from other political parties; maintaining that they had just eroded the confidence of this set of politicians in them.

He equally lampooned the visiting traditional rulers for making themselves subservient to their host colleague when they stood holding Hon. Esewezie while their host was sitting and praying.

Speaking to a political leader in Ibusa, he said Innocent Esewezie’s desperation cannot take him anywhere.

The grassroots politician revealed that a proper meeting of the party was called by Senator Nwaoboshi as the leader and 10 out of the constituted selection committee members of the PDP were present, including the LGA Party Chairman, Chief Nduka Ogwuda, his Deputy, Secretary, Woman Leader, Youth Leader and every other stakeholder where Mr. Ambrose Elofu Dike-Elue was picked as the party’s flag bearer for the March 6, 2020, LG Election.

His words, “The kangaroo meeting called by Hon. Pat Ajudua where Esewezie was made a candidate will not hold water. They just don’t have respect for the leader of the party in the area, because of their desperation”, he said.

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Lawyer, pregnant wife brutally murdered by alleged Fulani herdsmen (Photos)

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A popular Benue lawyer, human rights activist, Moses Udam, and his pregnant wife have been brutally murdered by unknown men suspected to be Fulani herdsmen.

It was gathered that the attackers stormed their residence in the middle of the night while they were asleep and slaughtered them.

A third person identified as elder Nyikyor Mazugu was also murdered while three people are being treated for severe injuries sustained during the attack.

Governor Samuel Ortom, who confirmed the incident on Wednesday, says Benue State under his watch will not succumb to attacks by ”terrorists whether they are jihadists or militia herders whose sole target is occupation of the state and destruction of lives and property.”

The Governor made this position known while addressing journalists when he visited the scene of herders’ attack on Agboughul community.

Gov. Ortom entourage

He stated that the pattern of the attack and killings barely four days after a similar incident at Tse-Angbande was unfortunate and bore the handwriting of mindless jihadists who had set out to overrun the state.

The Governor noted that the series of attacks was a grand plan to whittle down operations of Livestock Guards and Agro Rangers who are doing very well in containing attacks on communities and enforcing the ranching law of the state.

Ortom lamented that developed climes globally with a higher number of cattle compared to Nigeria have no cases of conflicts between herders and farmers due to ranching which is also being practiced in Benue, stressing that he would continue to speak against impunity in the country.

Udam had in 2015 contested for Makurdi Local Government Chairmanship seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

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Conflict in Anambra as police station is set ablaze

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An angry mob has set ablaze a police station in Igboukwu, Aguata local government area of Anambra state.

It was gathered that the attack on the police station occurred on Wednesday morning, December 16. A source said the attack was carried out by commercial motorcyclists who were protesting the alleged killing of a colleague by policemen over extortion.

The eyewitness said: “As I’m talking to you the place is in flames. The mob, made up of commercial motorcycle operators, are moving to Ekwulobia police station now to also set the station there ablaze.”

The Anambra police command confirmed the incident in a statement by its spokesperson, Haruna Mohammed. The police said the motorcycle rider was unfortunately killed following an altercation with police operatives over some impounded motorcycles. The police said: “…The situation degenerated into chaos which led to an accidental discharge that hit one motorcycle rider and the burning of the Igboukwu police station by irate youth. “The Commissioner of Police, John Abang, is deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident and has ordered the detention of the policemen involved and full-scale investigation into the matter.”

Meanwhile, it was also gathered that the police have arrested Nicholas Makolomi, a videographer accused of making a video that sparked the EndSARS protest. According to the report, Makolomi was taken to the Nigerian capital by a team of operatives from the Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB). His lawyer, Ekenemolise Osifo stated that the rearrest of his client at Asaba despite the Federal High Court ruling against his initial arrest and detention, was a gross violation of the rule of law.

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See the location of kidnapped Kankara schoolboys, Primate Ayodele reveals

Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of INRI Evangelical spiritual church, has disclosed the location of the recently kidnapped Kankara schoolboys.

Ayodele, in a statement to newsmen on Wednesday, said they were currently between the Niger Republic and Nigeria.

He warned that actions should be taken as soon as possible to avoid the deaths of the abducted students.

The prophet said that God showed him where the children were being held hostage in a vision and that it was a mere setup to terrorize Nigeria.

“The kidnapped children are between Niger Republic and Nigeria, that is where they are, let actions be made so they won’t kill them, we appeal to Katsina state governor, chief of defense staff and army staff to work immediately.

“Those who kidnapped them are terrorists, the government should act fast. I appeal with their parents to have patience and hope in God, by His grace, they will be rescued.

“The kidnap was a set-up, there are some people behind it just to terrorise Nigeria, that is why I said those who deep hand into the destruction of Nigeria, covid-19 has come to take them away. So many things will still be exposed to the public,” he said.

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BREAKING: Buhari holds FEC meeting virtually from Daura

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President Muhammadu Buhari has linked up with the week’s virtual Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, holding in the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, from his Daura home in Katsina State.

The Meeting, being presided over by the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), took off at about 10:04, with the National Anthem and prayers, said by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno (Rtd), and the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire.

The Permanent Secretary, Ecological Funds Office, Mrs. Habiba Lawal, is standing in as scribe of the meeting for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF Mr. Boss Mustapha, who is currently self-isolating.

Mustapha, with other members of his household, including his wife, proceeded on self-isolating over the weekend after some members of his family tested positive to COVID-19.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo

Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, is among those physically in attendance at the meeting.

Among ministers in physical attendance at the meeting are those of Transportation Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi; Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed; Education, Adamu Adamu; Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola; Agriculture, Sabo Nanono; and Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mohammed Bello.

Others are Police Affairs, Muhammad Dingyadi; Environment, Dr. Mohammad Abubakar; Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami; Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (Rtd); Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika; Industry, Trade and Investment Otunba Niyi Adebayo; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva; Minister of State for the Environment, Sharon Ikeazor.

The Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, and other ministers are participating in the weekly council meeting from their various offices in Abuja.

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Sack lecturers without qualification, research capabilities – Gov. Wike tells universities

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has said if universities must improve on the quality of graduates they turn out to, teachers who do not possess the right qualification and problem-solving research capability should not be retained by universities.

Governor Wike made this assertion in his address at the 32 convocation and 40th anniversary of the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt on Tuesday

He has also suggested that the university curriculum must begin to address the issues of skills, linkages to industries, and relevant competencies for job creation or self-employment of the graduates.

He said, for the universities to be reckoned internationally as serious citadels of learning, creativity, and innovation, stakeholders must find the means to address the problem of declining quality of graduates.

Governor Wike said while the State government will continue to address issues of faculty shortage, the universities must do something serious about their curriculum, quality of teaching staff, and research outputs, which must be at par with international standards.

“There is no use employing or keeping on the payroll teachers who do not possess the right qualification, competence, character, and commitment to quality teaching and problem-solving research if our universities must improve on the quality of graduates they turn out.”

The governor stated that the zeal to expand access to tertiary education has informed the unprecedented investments that have been made since he assumed office in 2015 to upgrade and expand educational facilities in the State University.

Wike said his administration has completed and equipped long-abandoned buildings of faculties of Environmental Sciences, Management Sciences, Technical and Science Education, and Law in the University.

He stated that his administration has also initiated the College of Medical Sciences for the institution and approved the conversion of the Braithwaite Memorial Hospital to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. He also said the medical facilities have been upgraded to the required standard as a first-rate Teaching Hospital.

Governor Wike said funds for the provision of necessary infrastructure and take-off of academic activities in the three new campuses of the University in Emohua, Ahoada, and Etiche Local Government Area of the State are already provided in the 2021 budget.

“Our responsibility there, therefore, ensures that this University develops into becoming one of the best tertiary institutions in the country to serve our people, our nation and mankind.”

Governor Wike congratulated His Royal Highness, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), Emir of Lafia and Chairman, Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, on his appointment as the new Chancellor of the University.

The governor revealed that he did not hesitate to endorse the recommendation for his appointment which is expected to help the University to attain new heights as a university of values, high learning, research, and service.

The Vice-Chancellor Nlerum Okogbule disclosed that a total of 5486 graduands were certified to be worthy in character and learning. Among them, are 34 students who bagged first class and 209 Doctor of Philosophy.

He commended the governor for appointing Justice Bage as the 4th Chancellor and expressed hope that his wealth of experience will greatly impact the running of the affairs of the institution.

Justice Bage (rtd.) thanked Governor Wike for counting him worthy to be Chancellor of the University and assured him that he will use the opportunity to advance the frontiers the rich impartation of knowledge for which the institution is reputed.

The Pro-Chancellor, Hon Justice Iche N. Ndu (rtd) said Governor Wike will be remembered for his monumental feat in initiating the College of Medical Sciences of the University and recruiting some of the best brains in the medical field to run the college.

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774,000 Jobs: Don’t release funds to Keyamo, Reps tell Minister of Finance

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The House of Representatives has instructed the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, to suspend the ongoing 774,000 special works programme.

The House mandated the Minister to revert to the list of beneficiaries generated by the National Directorate of Employment, NDE.

The Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed was also directed not to release funds to the Ministry of Labour and Productivity until the conditions are met.

President Muhammadu Buhari was also urged to reinstate the sacked Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) Nasiru Mohammed Ladan Argungu.

These resolutions followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Olajide Olatunbosun on the 774,000 special works programme.

Olatunbosun in his motion accused Mr. Keyamo of circumventing due process in the allocation of slots for the special work.

He said that “Nigerians who submitted their names at the NDE offices have been unjustly excluded from the programme,” adding that “to allow the programme will set a bad precedent for the country.

Speaking on the motion, Luke Onofiok, said the decision to sack Mr. Arugugu was ill-advised. He noted that the President was not given proper counsel.

This is not the first time the House will be intervening in the special works programme. In July, Keyamo and the National Assembly had a series of back and forth on the programme.

While ruling on the motion, the Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila referred the motion to the Committee on Labour and Productivity for legislative compliance.

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Community Estate provides self with Transformer after two Years [video]

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There will be no more darkness as ‘The Elite Estate’, along Okpanam road, behind the Cornerstone School – took the bull by its horn by providing a transformer for itself.

The transformer was provided to restore electricity supply to the Estate after two years of living in darkness.

The Secretary to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Patrick Ochie disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Asaba.

While thanking the committee for work adequately done, he said that the development was accomplished through the steps of the Landlords and some cooperating Tenants who came together and inaugurated an Estate Exco to seek a solution to the perennial electricity challenges facing the area.

Ochei said a Real Estate expert and a landlord in the Estate, Mr. Peter Kifordu was appointed Chairman light committee to spearhead the task of getting a transformer for the Estate, in synergy with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company, BEDC.

Swinging into action, the Committee within one month, raised N3.5 million out of which N3.350 million was expended as landing cost of procuring the transformer.

It was gathered that the Committee initially set a target of N5 million for the purchase of the transformer, buying other accessories, paying a contractor to install the transformer, repairing the existing lines, and other logistics.

As of today, It was learnt that the Estate has exceeded the N5 million target as landlords and tenants are cooperating well, having seen the transparent way the Committee is handling the self-help project of the Estate.

On his part, Chairman of the Light Exco, Mr. Peter Kifordu commended the landlords and tenants in the Estate for believing in him to champion the self-help project of having electricity restored in the Estate after two years.

Kifordu, therefore, called on the Government and BEDC to always live up to expectations in meeting the necessary needs of the people, stressing it was the sole responsibility of government and BEDC to provide electricity for the citizens.

According to him, “We pay our taxes and having given the leaders our collective mandate, it is our right to enjoy dividends of democracy. We are not asking for too much; all we ask is to give us constant electricity, give us good roads, provide standard education for our children. Therefore you will see the citizens playing their part towards national unity and progress.

“I want to commend the landlords and tenants in the Estate for a job well done because it was their collective effort that yielded positive results”, Kifordu said.

Other members of the committee were the Chairman of landlords in the Elite Estate, Comrade Frank Omoko, Mr. Stephen Francis Orizu, Comrade Uche Urchman, Mr. Airueghian Lastborn, Mr. Blackie Umukoro, Mr Momodu O Moses, and
Dr. Jaybee

It is on record that a 500KVA Transformer had been installed by Engr. Henry Isicheli of Mupec Electrical Ventures while the lines are being worked on to ensure every house gets light when the transformer is finally energized.

Meanwhile, the transformer was switched on Sunday 13th December to enable the Estate to experience the presence of a New Dawn of a lighted environment, while the light will fully come on stream on Thursday 17th December.

See video below:

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Ughelli youths fight for Oke Unit football cup

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Football lovers in Ughelli North Local Council of Delta State will be treated to days of entertaining matches this festive period when the Oke Umurhohwo Football Cup kicks off.

The competition, which is organised by Oke Umurhohwo, a communications expert, is a way of giving back to society and helping showcase the talents of
young people in Ughelli to the world.

According to the organiser, football clubs within the council are encouraged to register for the competition at no cost and have the opportunity to contest for the prizes lined up for excellent performers.

The winner of the competition will receive ₦120,000 cash and a set of jerseys, while the runner-up team will go home with ₦60,000 and a set of jerseys. The team that comes third will get ₦30,000.

On his part, the initiator of the competition, Umurhohwo said he is organising the competition to motivate young people in getting serious with their talent, adding: “I do not doubt that this competition will provide a great platform for a lot of people to showcase their talent and possibly go on to achieve their dreams

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Why rape is increasing every day – Commissioner for Women Affairs, Lami Ahmed

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The Adamawa State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs Lami Ahmed, has blamed the increasing rape cases in the country on the devil.

She disclosed this in an interview with newsmen admitting that there’s a breakdown in family values resulting in a higher rate of divorce.

Ahmed said;
“To me, the reason why the cases of rape are increasing every day is because rape is the handiwork of the devil. There’s a breakdown in family values resulting in a higher rate of divorce.

“Situations such as the separation of the father and mother can sometimes expose the child to abuse either from a family member or neighbours.”

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Lawmaker faults Katsina state negotiations with bandits

The Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Mr. Adejoro Adeogun, has faulted the Katsina State Government for granting amnesty to bandits in the state.

Appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, December 13, Adeogun recalled how Governor Aminu Masari granted amnesty to cattle rustlers and armed bandits on August 1, 2019, stating that it was an acceptance of failure.

He said;

“Negotiating with bandits or thinking of amnesty for bandits is an acceptance of failure. It is a vote of no confidence in the capability of the security forces that we have to sit down with criminals to negotiate.

“Then that is the situation we have found ourselves and I think the governor of Katsina State was helpless and he took that measure.

“It has failed; it is not going to work. When you are offering amnesty, you offer amnesty to someone who has been defeated not someone who is saying I want to fight to die. I think we are adopting the wrong procedure.”

On the way forward, the lawmaker who represents Akoko South East/South West Federal Constituency asked the Federal Government to build the capacity of the nation’s armed forces to effectively tackle insecurity in the country.

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Woman sentenced to jail for feeding employer’s child with her urine (photos)

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A Ugandan househelp, Vicky Abiria has been sentenced for feeding her boss’s baby with her urine.

Abiria was sentenced to four years imprisonment by Kira division court on Friday, December 11.

Hope Chica, the mother of the baby told the police that she got suspicious after noticing that Abira had kept the baby’s bottle packed with urine in her bedroom.

Upon interrogation, she confessed that she was giving the child her urine.

“I found my baby’s bottle full of urine and when I asked her she confessed that she was feeding my baby with her urine,” she said.

Chica added I took my daughter to the hospital, the doctors found out that my baby had syphilis. I am now trying to treat my child and make sure that she doesn’t get other complications.”

She further added that she always saw these kinds of acts on social media and television and didn’t think that they were true.

“I have always heard that house helps do these kinds of things, now that it has happened to my child, I even fear maids. I don’t ever want to hire one. I have always treated this girl well but I don’t know why she decided to do such a thing,” she said.

Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) Spokesperson Patrick Onyango had on Thursday, December 10, confirmed that they arrested Abira and charged her with spreading dangerous diseases after tests on the child proved that it had been infected by a urinary tract infection.

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Why ‘I want to be buried beside my wife’ – Senator Ndoma-Egba

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Former Senate Leader Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba SAN CON has informed the Catholic Bishop of Ogoja diocese, overseeing the Parish in Akparabong, Ikom local government in Cross River State that his wish, whenever he dies is to be buried beside his wife, late Amaka Lauretta Ndoma-Egba.

Ndoma-Egba, former Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission, made the wish at the interment service held at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Parish in Akparabong, Ikom before the body of the late wife was interred in a mausoleum within the premises of the Church.

He praised his late wife as a woman who was beautiful physically and at heart. “She was devoted to service to humanity and she did not only established public infrastructures such as schools and the Catholic parish where she was buried. She developed many individuals. No one comes to our house as a none graduate and leaves without being a graduate”.

He noted that many sorrowful things have happened to him this year and people have asked God why. ” I can’t question God because He has blessed me many times in a year and he never questioned why the many blessings. I am grateful for that Amaka, though lived a short life but it was a fulfilled life.”

He thanked the Catholic Bishop for the approval given for the wife to be buried in the church premises adding that the implication is that he must be buried beside his late wife anytime he is dead.

In a sermon, the Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, Rev. Fr. Dr. Donatus Akpan, stated that many times, great people usually die young just as Jesus Christ, John the Baptist, and several other great people had died.

“No one can escape death. Some would say why wouldn’t she had live longer than died”.

He described late Amaka as a peaceful individual who treated people with honour and showed no disdain to people who go close to her

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Young man nearly burnt to death by jilted lover in Benue

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One subject of public discourse that has refused to go away all week in Benue State is the story of a woman, simply identified as Ashi, who allegedly set her lover, Jude Atoza, on fire in Gboko town on Monday, December 7, 2020.

It was gathered that Atoza had reportedly told Ashi he wanted to quit the relationship.

Many people in the state find the incident particularly troubling because just three weeks earlier, a man identified as Nicodemus Nomyange, said to be in his 40s, set himself and his girlfriend, Shininenge Pam, on fire in Makurdi, killing both of them. In this case, Pam had angered Nomyange, who had a wife and children, when she refused to accept his marriage proposal.

Atoza survived but he suffered severe burns to nearly all his body.

He lay asleep, helplessly on a bed in a private clinic in his area where he was taken by neighbours.

After the incident, during reporters’ visits, an unpleasant smell pervaded his bed area which became worse with each step that got reporters closer to him.

Yellow pus seeped down several parts of his body, as he cut a pitiable, lonely picture.

A man named Freeman Shimatu, identified as a kinsman of Atoza, as they are both from Ushongo Local Government Area, said Atoza had had difficulty speaking since the incident.

He added that though the suspect fled to her village in the neighbouring Buruku Local Government Area of the state after setting Atoza on fire, she had been arrested by the police.

According to him, Ashi had been living with Atoza for three years as a live-in lover before the incident occurred. He added that Atoza had earlier told him on the day he was allegedly burnt by Ashi that he had a disagreement with his lover and asked her to move out of his house.

“He thought that was the end of it but he was wrong. About 1.30am, the girlfriend reportedly returned to the compound with three men. They tore open the window net and started pouring a substance suspected to be petrol into the room through the window.

“Jude told me that he saw his girlfriend as she was trying to force the net open. He said his estranged girlfriend threw a container filled with liquid into the room where he was with his mother and a two-year-old child and immediately lit a match and took off.

“The whole room caught fire, and the young man, confused and helpless, battled to save his mother and the little child in the room.”

Ashi was said to have locked the entrance door from outside and taken off on a motorcycle.

Another neighbour, Tony who gave his name as Torkwa, said it was Atoza’s cry for help that alerted other people living in the compound to the arson.

“We were asleep when suddenly we heard a loud cry from his (Atoza’s) room and we all rushed out to see what was happening.,” Torkwa said.

“To our surprise, we saw that a room was burning and some people were struggling to escape from the fire. Although all three persons in the room are still alive, the young man had severe burns while his mother and a child living with them sustained minor burns.

“He told us that his girlfriend threw a container with fuel into his room, lit a matc,h and ran away.”

As at the time of filing this report, Benue State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Catherine Anene, said she heard (though informally) that Ashi had been arrested.

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Buhari reacts to Katsina abduction, orders army, police to rescue students

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President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the army and the police to go after the bandits who attacked and abducted students from the Government Science Secondary School, Kankara in Katsina state.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by a presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu on Saturday, December 12. The statement noted that Buhari charged the security forces to ensure that no student is missing or harmed.

The president who condemned the attack said he has directed the reinforcement of security of all schools in line with the policy of his administration to keep schools safe.

He said: “I strongly condemn the cowardly bandits’ attack on innocent children at the Science School, Kankara. Our prayers are with the families of the students, the school authorities, and the injured.” The Nigerian leader pledged to continue to support the police and military struggle against terrorists and bandits.

The president stated that he has been receiving briefing from the Katsina governor Aminu Bello Masari, and the chief of army staff, General Tukur Buratai, about the ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted students.

He disclosed that the military, supported by airpower, has located the bandits’ enclave at Zango/Paula forest in Kankara. Buhari said security forces are battling the bandits and that so far, there has not been reported any student casualty.

Meanwhile, in efforts to tackle the rising spate of criminality and insecurity in the country, President Buhari has called on all governors in the federation to partner local communities.

The president said it is necessary for the governors to work more with traditional rulers and community members.

According to Buhari, in a statement released by his aide on media, Garba Shehu, this will help improve local intelligence gathering. He said most importantly, this will aid the work of security agencies in tackling the insecurity menace.

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BREAKING: Buhari sacks pondei, appoints interim administrator for NDDC

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of an interim administrator to oversee the affairs of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

According to the statement, Mr. Effiong Okon Akwa the Acting Executive Director, Finance and Administration of the Commission, is to assume headship till completion of the forensic audit.

The statement said that Mr. Akwa is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

It further said, “The development became necessary as a result of a plethora of litigation and a restraining order issued recently against the Interim Management Committee of the NDDC by a Federal High Court in Abuja.”

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600 students reportedly missing as gunmen storms Katsina school

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The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed the attack that occurred at Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, in the early hours of Saturday, December 12.

A statement released by the spokesman for the command, SP Gambo Isah, said 200 of the students have returned to the school.

“On Friday around 11:30 p.m, gunmen in their numbers attacked the school with dangerous weapons.

They began to shoot and engaged our men guarding the school in a duel. That gave some students an opportunity to jump over the fence and run into the town for safety. The gunmen also shot one of the security guards at the gate who is presently responding to treatment.

The Divisional Police Office in Kankara quickly mobilised security personnel and moved to the area with Armoured Personnel Carrier and engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel, forcing the gunmen to retreat.

More than 200 students who jumped over the school fence into the town to hide have returned” he said

Isah said that the police and school authorities were working together to find out the exact number of students that have not returned.

“We cannot say that some students have been kidnapped because we believe they are still coming back from their hiding places,” he said.

Meanwhile, journalist, Jaafar Jaafar says 600 students are reportedly missing from the school after the attack.

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Lekki: CNN rejects Lagos Judicial panel’s invitation, gives reason

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The Cable News Network, Inc. (CNN) has objected to the request by the Lagos Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution of Victims of SARS Related Abuses, for its team of reporters to appear before it on Saturday, December 12, to give evidence on their reportage of the #EndSARS Lekki shooting.

Recall that the international media outfit carried out a detailed investigation into the October 20 gunshot incident at the Lekki tollgate and shared its findings in a two-part documentary released in November. In the reports, the media house alleged that the military did fire live ammunition at the #EndSARS protesters, an allegation the Federal government and the Nigerian Army have consistently denied.

At the ongoing panel of inquiry investigating the October 20 incident, the media house was invited to come and give evidence on the findings of its independent investigation.

In a letter written by its lawyers, Messrs Olumide Babalola LP, the international news outfit said the Panel lacks jurisdiction to summon its staff since they are not in Nigeria. The media house filed the objection dated 4th December 2020 at the Tribunal on December 9, 2020.

The letter of objection reads in part

“Since the Objectors are not “persons in Nigeria” as envisaged by the provision of section 5(c) (of Tribunals Of Inquiry Law Of Lagos State, Cap. T6), then this Honourable Tribunal is, with respect, bereft of territorial jurisdiction to compel their attendance to give evidence before it.”

Babalola said the panel invited him into its Private Hearing Room this morning and subsequently excused CNN from further proceedings or appearing before the Panel.

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Young doctor drowns in hotel swimming pool hours to finish his housemanship (photos)

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A young medical doctor, ThankGod Odo has reportedly drowned in the swimming pool of a popular hotel in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital.

The deceased was until his death, a medical house officer doing his housemanship with Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki.

He was said to have rounded up his one-year housemanship and due to sign off on Friday, December 11, or Saturday, December 12.

The incident happened on Thursday, December 10, when the Ebonyi State University graduate went to the hotel to swim with his friends.

It was gathered that Odo, said to be a good swimmer was teaching his friends how to swim that same day when he suddenly got drowned.

Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee of the hospital, Dr. Ewa Richard, who confirmed the sad incident said Odo was doing his one-year housemanship with the hospital and was due for graduation for his National Youth Service Corps.

“Dr. ThankGod is one of the house officers dedicated and hardworking. Most of them will finish on the the12th that is tomorrow and am sure he would have been among those finishing today, or tomorrow because they have started signing off to move on to the next level which is national service,” said Richard.

”If he had finished that one year today or tomorrow he would have seized to be staff as we have signed him off. We don’t have information of what killed him but what we heard was that he went for an outing with his friends in one of the hotels in town and was swimming with other people and the next thing he was drowning and eventually they brought him to the hospital but by the time they reached the hospital he was already dead. His body has been deposited in the mortuary.” he added.

The spokesperson of the Ebonyi State Police Command, Loveth Odah, who confirmed the incident, said the deceased was confirmed dead in the hospital.

“The DPO B division reported that on 10th December by 5 pm, there was a distress call from a hotel that a doctor has got himself drowned in a swimming pool and he rushed there and the doctor was brought out but unfortunately getting to the hospital a fellow doctor on duty confirmed him dead,” she stated.

“Nevertheless the commissioner of police has ordered a full investigation to unveil what warranted the death. No arrest has been made, for now, it is recorded as a case of sudden unnatural death (SUD) but we are not relying on that, police is investigating the matter.”

Meanwhile, friends and colleagues have taken to Facebook to mourn him. Nwangele Peter described the young doctor as a genius.

“The nothingness of this world

Life is not just fair at all

How can I just say RIP to Doctor Odo ThankGod

EBSU medical school has lost a genius.

A fresh graduate

A fresh Doctor

He was just too dedicated to all he venture into

This is heartbreaking.”

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Education Minister Adamu, slams Nigerian graduates, says many can’t read or write

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Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, has expressed concern about the decline in the standard of education in the country.

Adamu, who spoke in Yola, Adamawa State, during the official commissioning of completed projects in the college, said several graduates can neither read nor write in a tolerable manner.

The minister who was represented by the Director of Tertiary Education in the Federal Ministry of Education, Hajia Rakiya Gambo Iliyasu said the situation was a cause for concern, adding that students and teachers need to sit up and face their tasks squarely if the situation is to be reversed.

“Some graduates of tertiary institutions across the country cannot read or write applications,” he said.

The minister further stated that students and even graduates had been found to be unable to write one full sentence without multiple corrections needing to be made.

The minister urged all stakeholders in the education sector to sit up to ensure that the decline in the value of education is bridged within the shortest time possible.

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How Adeboye predicted my victory over RCCG pastor Ize-Iyamu — Obaseki

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Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has shared the testimony of his victory at the governorship poll with a multitude of believers at the ongoing congress of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

In the election held in September, Obaseki polled 307,955 votes to defeat his main rival, Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who had 223,619 votes.

Mr. Ize-Iyamu is a senior pastor of the RCCG in Benin, the Edo State capital.

Although Mr. Obaseki won his first election in 2016 as a candidate of the APC with the support of Adams Oshiomole, the immediate past governor and former chairman of the APC; the relationship between the duo nosedived. Mr Ize-Iyamu was then the candidate of the PDP.

In the course of Mr. Obaseki’s first term as the governor, he became estranged with Mr. Oshiomole causing an epic political battle that capped off with his victory in the September election.

The battle contributed to the fall of Mr. Oshiomole as the chairman of the APC. But Mr. Obaseki also could not get the APC’s ticket which made him defect to the PDP with his deputy, Phillip Shaibu.

Meanwhile, at the ongoing week-long annual meeting of RCCG members held in Lagos, Mr. Obaseki shared his testimony at Friday’s event.

“You all know my testimony. You all are witnesses of what the Lord did for us in Edo State and proved that only He has power when it all looked impossible. When men tried to play God, He came out to say God is God. And only He has power and only He has power.”

He also spoke about his other encounters with the General Overseer of the church, Enoch Adeboye, who, he said, predicted his victory.

“But the other side of the testimony those people don’t know about is that, about the time the crisis started, more than a year ago, I came for the Holy ghost service with my wife and after the service, I went to see Daddy G.O, discussed what was going on with him and asked him to pray for me. He did pray and said, ‘my son, it is well’. He said, ‘don’t be afraid, you will overcome. You will win’.”

“A few months before the election, I came again to see him and we prayed together. I want to use this opportunity to thank Daddy and Mummy G. O and all the men of God in this church, who continued to have us in prayer and who prayed fervently day and night,” Mr. Obaseki said on Friday night.

He urged the congregation to continue praying for his family and Nigeria, recalling Mr. Adeboye’s prophecy that more challenges will come after his victory.

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Wike reveals position on defection to other parties

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Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has said he cannot defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or any other political party.

He disclosed this in a statement sighted by newsmen on Friday, December 11. In the statement which was released by his media aide, Kelvin Ebiri, Governor Wike said since he cannot defect to the APC or another political party, he will continue to do what he can to ensure the survival of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The governor said this after claiming that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP is causing disunity in the party and are not interested in taking over from the APC in 2023. His words: “I will not allow anybody to kill PDP. They have the capacity to move to APC. I don’t and I cannot move to APC. “So, anybody that tries to do something to destroy PDP, I will not allow you. Anybody that I see that has the trait to destroy the PDP, I will not allow it.”

Meanwhile, in another report, Governor Wike has said that his Benue counterpart, Samuel Ortom, has no plan to return to the APC, contrary to unverified, viral claims.

Wike made this declaration while he commissioned road projects completed by governor Ortom in Makurdi and Guma area of the state.

However, it was earlier reported that Bello Matawalle, governor of Zamafara, hailed his colleague Dave Umahi of Ebonyi over his defection from the PDP to the APC.

through his spokesperson, Zailani Bappa, on Friday, November 27, in a statement, Matawale commended the Ebonyi governor’s defection, saying there is “bad blood in the present Peoples Democratic Party.” Matawalle, while commending Umahi for “taking a bold decision”, also said he has been having “a very bad experience of recent from some of my PDP Governor colleagues.”

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Groom dies in motor accident few days after introduction (photos)

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A Ugandan man identified as Mugole Omusaja has died in a fatal accident a few days after his wedding introduction ceremony. 

According to a friend, he was killed in the accident alongside one other person on Thursday, December 10. 

It was gathered that the deceased was set to wed and the introduction ceremony was held at the home of the bride on Friday, December 4.

One Buyinza Zaina posted photos from the ceremony and accident scene on Friday, December 11. She wrote;

“Weraba mukwano, we attended the introduction ceremony on Friday 4/12 but he has passed away. bye bye mugole”.

See photos below:

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Female kidnapper allegedly beaten for kidnapping kids (photos)

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An angry mob in Nasarawa State has allegedly caught and beaten to pulp a suspected female kidnapper identified as Mrs. Lisa.

The incident reportedly happened three days ago in Laminga, Nasarawa Local Government Area of the state.

According to a report by Facebook user, Ismail Samai, the woman specialises in kidnapping children and selling them to ritualists.

Samai shared photos of the suspect and wrote;

“A warning message to the parents please be aware of this dangerous people this is the suspected woman called Mrs. Lisa was caught and arrested yesterday in Laminga nasarawa local government nasarawa state she’s kidnapping small children selling them for money ritual. She said that they are everywhere please and please take note don’t allow your children to go far and for those going to school should also careful with these dangerous people. thank you for bearing with me on this medium.” he wrote.

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Delta Govt. calls for stoppage of gas flaring, visits Ebedei Power Gas

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Delta State Government has requested more efforts from stakeholders at reducing gas flaring in the country.

Hon. Basil Ganagana, Delta State Commissioner for Energy, made the request when he led top government functionaries on a visit to Power Gas, Ebedei in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State.

The power gas was reported to have commenced the production of compressed natural gas (CNG).

The commissioner who noted that gas flaring had not only worsened the climate condition of impacted communities of oil and gas exploration and exploitation, commended Power Gas Ebedei Ltd for being among the few companies that had started converting wasted gas to compressed natural gas.

Hon. Ganagana noted that the visit had enabled him to have a first-hand experience of what the company had on the ground, saying that it had created employment for Deltans and added to the state’s IGR efforts.

The commissioner, who expressed delight with what he saw on the ground, noted that the coming of the company had added to the list of potential off-takers the 8.5 megawatts power plant, soon to come on stream in the state, would be patronizing.

The Chairman, Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA), Hon. Paul Noah, called for synergy between the Delta State Government and investors.

Hon. Noah who accompanied Hon. Ganagana to the Ebedei power gas station said that the Compressed Natural Gas Plant had opened up a new form of power generation that would help boost activities of local industries.

He noted that the state would soon perform the ground breaking ceremony of a Tower Manufacturing Plant that would require a supply of gas for their daily operations and so can serve as buyers for their product.

He noted further that the far-reaching effect of the plant on the state economy and Deltans, in general, could not be over-emphasized.

“As a state, we are happy to be part of the project and His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s government will continue to partner with investors to boost the economy of the state,” Noah stated.

Mr. Mike Okolo, the Project Manager/Plant Head, Power Gas Ebedei Ltd, on his part said that he was elated by the visit of the Delta State Government Team.

He noted that the company had been able to maintain a steady supply of the products to their customers, explaining that it currently had 21 trucks used for supply and was expecting delivery of another 26.

He thanked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for providing a conducive environment for them to operate.

He, however, pleaded that in addition to the massive road constructions going on, the state government should include the revamping of the road within the company, which according to him, would contribute to reducing the wear and tear on its truck.

On the entourage, were the Director-General DIDA, Chief Lucky Oghene-Omoru, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Dr. Francis Onojeta, and top management of the Ministry of Energy and DIDA.

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“This is my decision on return to Psquare”- Mr. P reveals

Nigerian music star, Peter Okoye, also known as Mr. P, has opened up on the chances of the P-Square band coming back together again.

He disclosed in a lengthy post on Instagram saying anyone nursing the hope that P-Square will unite again should better kill it and move on.

Mr. P pointed out that nothing lasts forever, reminding P-Square fans that other music groups such as Plantashun Boiz, StylePlus, Mohits, and Remedies also split.

“Let me get this off my chest before some people start their usual preaching. Every day nothing lasts forever and change is constant! Every day they continue barking!

The music star was addressing those asking him to apologize to his brother so that P-Square can return and fans who have insisted that they don’t know Mr. P and Rudeboy but only know P-Square.

He suggested that he has liberated himself by leaving the band, and is now following his dreams.

“Go back! Go don’t! Go back!!! and do what exactly? after saying I don’t know how to sing?

“And again! Going back is it not for me to make more money? Since you know better! So why is that your problem?”

Mr. P said he wrote an official resignation letter four years ago, making it clear he was no longer part of the group!

“I am no longer part of the group! Please this page is for me and my dear fans team P!” he insisted.

“We have since moved on and y’all should do the same! Support who you wish to support and move on. It is not a competition, and I am not even giving any room for that.”

He called on fans of the defunct P-square to get used to the fact that the group will never exist again, adding that “nothing lasts forever! Again, change is constant.”

“This is no longer about what you want! It is about what we want, so respect our decisions. It’s already a closed Chapter.

“We are not the first group to split or make such decisions! Plantashun Boiz, StylePlus, Mohits and Remedies[did same thing]

“So enough of the time-wasting! Blood is thicker than water! Blood is thicker than water! Please my wife and children are they the water or Zobo?”

Paul and Peter Okoye are identical twin brothers. They produced and released their albums through Square Records.

But on 25 September 2017, report that they had disbanded filled the airwaves after Peter reportedly sent a resignation letter to the group’s lawyer.

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PFN to honour governor Okowa with ‘Kingdom Defender Award’

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The National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Dr Felix Omobude has said the body will honour Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, with the “Kingdom Defenders Award”.

He disclosed this recently during the PFN Delta State annual thanksgiving and the foundation laying ceremony of the Alpha and Omega State Secretariat at former Nkoyo Ibori Children Referral Home, Agbarho, with a theme, ‘Magnify the Lord with Thanksgiving’.

Dr. Omobude explained that the reason for the award was for assisting PFN Delta State to expand the Kingdom of God and in leading the good people of the state.

He commended the state governor for the role he played in expounding the kingdom of God in the state, adding that the ‘Kingdom Defenders Award’ was for Christians who, in business, governance, or profession, still remember their faith and did something exceptionally outstanding for the kingdom of God.

“Let me specially thank Governor Okowa for this gesture. We, the PFN at the National level have recognize this effort. We have set at the national office, a platform, an honour role for those in business, or governance and profession, who still remember their faith.

“Those who did something exceptionally outstanding for the kingdom, what we called the ‘Kingdom Defenders Award’, is given to such persons in Nigeria.

“I also convey it to His Excellency that we appreciate his efforts in leading the good people of Delta State and the role he has continued to play in expanding the kingdom of God. So, this award will be officially presented to his Excellency at a later date,” he said.

The PFN president who was the guest speaker at the event, in a message title: ‘How Can I Forget?’, and reading from 2nd Samuel 6:16-23, admonished Christians to always remember their past, where they were coming from and use the same to appreciate their present position in life.

He said, “if you don’t know your past, you will not be able to appreciate your present position and you may not be able to focus for a better future.”

Dr. Omobude, based on all that happened in recent times all over the world, where it was erroneously predicted that the coronavirus would kill Africans like chickens, said all Deltans should be grateful to God for keeping them alive.

He described King David in the Bible as a man who always acknowledged the goodness of God in his life, who lifted him from a nobody to the position of a king, which prompted him to dance graciously in the sight of the people of Israel.

Omobude said, on the contrary, King David’s wife, Micah attracted the punishment of God to herself when she displayed an attitude of complete disregard and forgetfulness of the goodness of God by despicably speaking against her husband.

He lauded the Delta State Chairman of PFN, Bishop Kingsley Enakirerhi for his commitment and selfless service to advance the kingdom of God in Delta State.

The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Christopher Ochor assured PFN of the governor’s support to move the body of Christ forward at all times.

Meanwhile, in his address, the State Chairman of PFN, Bishop Kingsley Enakirerhi expressed joy that one of the visions and dreams for which God made him the chairman of PFN was being fulfilled.

The PFN chairman urged everyone present to join hand with the state’s PFN to build the state Secretariat, which he described as a city of refuge where all may come and find rest.

The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries in the body of Christ which included the Immediate past National President of PFN, His Eminence, Papa Ayo Oritsejafor;
PFN National Vice President, South-South, Bishop Simeon Okah; His Grace, Archbishop Goddowell Avwomakpa; the Rivers State PFN Chairman, Apostle Zilly Aggrey, and a host of others.

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Policeman allegedly kills Keke Napep driver over N100 in Port-Harcourt (Video)

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An awful incident occurred this morning in Rukpokwu community of Rivers State as a young Keke Napep driver was allegedly shot dead by a policeman.

Instagram user @Jordiithegreat who shared videos from the scene, alleged the commercial driver was shot dead after he refused giving the policeman N100.

He wrote;

“Happening live in rukpokwu and rumodumaya community of Port Harcourt, Rivers State… As police officer shoots and kill a small boy who is a Keke driver over 100 naira…
The policeman asked the Keke driver to give him 100 naira and the boy said he doesn’t have 100 naira to give to them, after much argument the police officer shoots the young boy and they ran away.

“What else are we going to do in this country na… The young boy is dead now.

“Police just killed a young boy in rukpokwu community of Rivers State, Port Harcourt, for just 100 naira the Keke boy refused to give to the police officer, the police officer shot him dead.

See video below:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIm9IKEAwBN/?igshid=pzl33fbno5gz

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Breaking: Abdurasheed Maina slumps in court (video)

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Former Chairman of the defunct Pension Reformed Taskforce Team, Abdulrasheed Maina, collapsed in the dock during the resumed hearing in his N2bn money laundering trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday morning, December 10.

Today’s sitting was scheduled for the hearing of his no-case submission, following the close of the prosecution’s case with nine witnesses earlier on Wednesday, December 9.

His lawyer, Anayo Adibe, was briefing the judge, Justice Okon Abang, that his team had yet to receive the records of proceedings requested from the court’s registry when Maina suddenly slumped.

Prison officials immediately rushed towards him to resuscitate him and get him proper medical care.

Watch a video of him being attended to after he slumped below…

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Tension as five dies, houses burnt in renewed Emede, Igbide land fight (Photos)

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At least five persons have been reportedly shot dead in a refreshed clash between the people of Emede and Igbide clans in Isoko South council area of Delta state.

Though the cause of the renewed hostilities remains uncertain, community sources revealed that the cultivation of a disputed land known as Oruzu, by both parties, triggered Tuesday and Wednesday’s attacks.

Photos of the dead, many persons quitting their homes and houses destroyed in Emede, were seen by newsmen, Thursday.

Recounting the ordeal, an Emede source claimed that the armed persons from Igbide were dressed in military camouflage, as well as black and red outfits.

“On Tuesday afternoon, Igbide people attacked Emede with sophisticated weapons like AK47. We never planned for the war. The next day (Wednesday), they attacked. They shot till dawn even withdrew and came back again. Most of them put on military uniforms and some wore red and black when they came to attack. They burnt so many houses in the outskirts of Emede.

“The problem has been existing from the time of our forefathers. You know their occupation is fishing, so Emede gave them a small place to stay. The people that we gave land are now dragging it and destroying most of our crops in the bush. They want to claim Emede. They say they don’t have enough land, but God will never allow it.

“They have killed up to five people. Since yesterday, if not for the military men in the environment, there would have been another fight. I know the war has not ended because, by the time the military men depart, they will attack again. People living in those areas have deserted their homes.

Efforts to speak with the president-general of Igbide, Dr. Patrick Oboghor, were unsuccessful as his phone line was switched off.

However, an indigene of Igbide who spoke in confidence explained that the land in dispute was a court matter between Uruwhre and Ezede Quarters of Igbide and User (another Isoko clan) respectively, which the former got judgement in 1952.

“Recently, they (Igbide) went to the Oruzu farmland and discovered that Emede people were cultivating the land. Around two weeks ago, Igbide people decided to cultivate the whole place.

“But while they were doing this, Emede people blocked the road and started harassing our people passing by. Enwhe (another boundary community) people blocked the other side but later withdrew. They (Emede) blocked the Oteri axis and the Olomoro side too. For now, we have people with injuries, save for son persons that were held on the highway that has not been seen”.

President general of Emede clan, Mr. Okah Avae, while reacting to reports that the cultivation of Oruzu land caused the crisis, said “those are formulations,” adding that the leadership of both communities had been called for a security meeting Tuesday morning.

“The Oruzu is, let me use the word, a disputed land, but it is an Emede land which we allowed them to plant in some time ago. They went there and destroyed all the crops that the Emede people planted, claiming that the land belongs to them.

“That was the beginning of what happened about two weeks ago. We reported the case to security agencies and even the chairman of the local government.

“That was why they called us together and we agreed that land is not something to fight about. That Tuesday morning, we formed a committee that is supposed to be meeting over the issue.

“Suddenly, they attacked Emede in the afternoon of that same day. They have killed some people and burnt some houses. We don’t even know how many. They were killed by gunshots, sophisticated weapons,” the PG said.

Recall that the people of Emede and Igbide started a bloody communal war which led to the death of over 100 persons and the destruction of properties from 1985 to 1988.

The Delta State Police Command could not be reached for comments as of the time of filing this report.

While the Police Commissioner, Hafiz Inuwa, did not take repeated calls to his phone line, the spokesperson of the Command, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya’s phone switched off.

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FG reduces data cost by 50 percent

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The Nigerian government has announced that the price of data has been reduced by more than 50 percent.

The announcement which was made on Thursday December 10, came after the Nigerian communications commission (NCC) was directed to put in place measures to that effect. With the new directive, the price of data of 1GB has been reduced from 1000 naira to 487 naira beginning from last November.

Minister of Communications and digital economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami’s Technical Assistant, Mr. Femi Adeluyi confirmed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday.

It read;

“The Honourable Minister had inaugurated a committee that developed the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (2020-2025) on the 16th of December, 2019.

“The Plan was unveiled and launched by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on the 19th of March, 2020.

“One of the goals of the Plan is to reduce the average cost of 1GB of data to a maximum of N390 by 2025.

“With the January 2020 baseline of N1,000 per GB, the maximum projected steady decrease for the end of each year was as follows: 2020 (N925), 2021 (N850), 2022 (N775), 2023 (N700), 2024 (N545) and 2025 (N390).

” In line with Dr. Pantami’s commitment to under promise and over deliver, the measures have caused the current cost of data to reduce significantly beyond the December 2020 projection of N925.

“Based on the Report by NCC, the average cost of data as of November 2020 was N487.18, which amounts to 47.33% lower than the projected value.

” The Report also indicates that the cost of data in November 2020 was less than 50% of the cost of data in January 2020.

“The Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, through the NCC, will continue to ensure that consumers enjoy a price regime that supports fairness and is friendly to consumers.

“Policies are in place to ensure that operators adopt competitive pricing that eschews unjustifiable margins. The general public may also wish to note that complaints about rapid data depletion are also being investigated.

” For more enquiries, the Honourable Minister has directed NCC to respond to all issues raised by our citizens and customers.

“All hands will remain on deck to achieve the goals of the Broadband Plan as the Ministry supervises its implementation in line with our National Digital Economy Policy for a Digital Nigeria.”

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Covid-19: Nigeria to accept vaccine from Jan. 2021- Okonjo Iweala

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Nigeria’s former Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has guaranteed Nigeria and other African countries access to COVID-19 vaccines from the end of January through the first quarter of 2021.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

Okonjo-Iweala was quoted as disclosing this after a closed-door meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama in Abuja.

“As long as one person has it in the world, no one is safe. And that is why poorer countries, lower-middle-income countries like Nigeria, need to get it as quickly as possible”, she was quoted as saying

The former minister is currently the African Union Special Envoy on mobilising international economic support for the continental fight against COVID-19 and Nigeria’s candidate for the Office of the Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

She disclosed that the international initiative involved the World Health Organization, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), GAVI, and the international community, to get vaccines delivered to developing and poorer countries, in an affordable manner and quickly.

According to her, the Pfizer vaccine and the AstraZeneca were presently being negotiated so that poor countries don’t have to stand in a queue behind rich countries.

The former finance minister described Africans as blessed, for not having the same incidence rate of COVID-19 as other continents, but warned African nations against complacency.

Okonjo-Iweala recalled that a platform called the COVAX facility had been developed with 186 countries on board, saying that the side interested in serving the poor countries had 92 countries, for which resources have been raised to try and get the vaccines to them quickly.

“So, the Pfizer vaccine, the AstraZeneca, those are being negotiated now so that poor countries don’t have to stand in line behind rich countries.

“So, we hope they are starting by the end of January. We will be able to reach these countries, including most of the African countries, Nigeria included, will be able to and access to some of these vaccines.

“Initially, it will be for frontline health workers, followed by some other target groups – older people, those with underlying conditions a, and then, from there, the rest of the population. I think the COVAX facility can cover maybe 20-23 percent of the population by the end of next year,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

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Okowa warns social media influencers on fake news

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has charged social media operators to constantly cross-check their facts if they were to deserve satisfactory prestige like the conventional media.

He disclosed this in his remarks at the 2nd edition of the Delta State Strategic Communication Workshop held for media aides, journalists, social media influencers, and bloggers at the Orchid Hotel, Asaba.

The workshop with the theme “Effective Communication and Media Crisis Management in Governance: Challenges and Solutions was designed to enhance the potentials and skills of participants.

Okowa who was represented by the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the theme of the training was apt and would help to a very large extent reduce the friction between the government and social media operators.

He asserted that the ethical standards in conventional media was absent in social media platforms and thereby portraying the new media, as a battleground for all kinds of rumours, fake news, half-truths, and propaganda peddled against persons, organisations, institutions and governments.

The governor urged media practitioners, both in public and private sectors, to go about their duties diligently but with a deep sense of responsibility and patriotism.

He noted that his administration has taken advantage of the so media to communicate to the people of the state especially the young and upwardly mobile people.

“I am pleased to be part of this workshop aimed at sensitizing, improving and sharpening the knowledge and skills of media aides in this administration, including social media influencers and bloggers in line with government agenda in the area of human capital development, skills acquisition, vocational training and effective communication through appropriate channels.

“The media can be very powerful and play multi-faceted roles in nation-building as the watchdog of the society. Its relevance is buttressed in section 4 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

“The theme of this year’s strategic communication workshop, Effective Communication and, Media Crisis Management in Governance: Challenges and Solutions is apt, because there is need for media practitioners, both in public and private sectors, to go about their duties diligently but with a deep sense of responsibility and patriotism,”

He said the workshop provided ample opportunity for those who are not trained journalists in addition to their trained colleagues, to upgrade and freshen up their skills and be able to use their time and data on social media to earn a living.

He stated that his administration had enjoyed tremendous good working relationships with members of the press, adding that the synergy between the government and the press will continue to flourish while also ensuring objectivity and constructive criticisms in the discharge of their assigned responsibilities.

He said such partnership is mutually beneficial as society is better served, because of the unanimity of purpose, shared visions of sustainable development and, a peaceful clime.

“The social media has become vibrant and almost competing with the conventional media, except for the fact that there are no gatekeepers in the social media platforms.

“The ethical standards in conventional media are aware absent in social media platforms and this has portrayed the new media, as a battleground for all kinds of rumours, fake news, half-truths and,propaganda being peddled against persons, organisations, institutions and, governments.

“There is the, therefore, the constant need for cross-checking so that social media will earn a reasonable reputation like the conventional media,” he stated.

Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief David Edevbie said communication is a very essential and integral part of the government and called for the development of a communications policy in the state.

He said as members of one government there was the need for government information managers to always speak with one voice to avoid multiple reports of government activities.

Chief Trainer at the workshop, Professor Ralph Akinfeleye said communication and information was a catalyst for any successful government, adding that it can provoke and unprovoked people to act in a manner that could cause a crisis in the society.

He said as government information managers, it was their duty to adopt the gatekeeping theory to ensure that information going out to the public does not cause damage or crisis to the society.

Earlier in his welcome address, Executive Assistant on Communications to the governor, Fred Latimore, thanked the governor for the opportunity given to the participants to learn.

He said the essence of the programme was to train the social media bloggers to work in line with the ethics of journalism.

He said instead of enacting more laws to muscle freedom of speech and freedom of the press, Governor Okowa opted to train these media influencers in order to avoid fake news and other tendencies.

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Nigerians reacts as Buhari sacks director-general, NDE

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President Muhammadu Buhari has sacked the director-general, National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Dr. Nasiru Mohammed Ladan Argungu.

According to reports, Dr Argungu was relieved of his post in a memo issued last week Friday, December 4, taking effect from Monday, December 7. Also, the minister of state for labour and employment, Festus Keyamo, has been mandated to appoint an acting director-general from the senior directors of the agency to replace Argungu in acting capacity.

The news comes days after President Muhammadu Buhari approved the appointment of Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim as the new director-general of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

The appointment was announced in a statement issued by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu and seen by newsmen.

A holder of BSc (Sociology), Masters of Arts (Management), and Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degrees, Mrs. Sulaiman-Ibrahim, hails from Nasarawa state.

Meanwhile, some Nigerians have been commenting on the sack of the NDE boss.

James Michael wrote: “We are at it again, we asked for the sack of the security chiefs, not the NDE director.”

Ojabe E wrote: “Why not sack all the service chiefs? Their continued stay in office is dangerous to our internal security.”

Saheed Yusuf wrote: “Sack service chiefs baba.”

Muhammed Musa Hunter wrote: “Sack the chief of staff also.”

Sharafa Busayo Shonde wrote: “As a matter of urgency, President Muhammadu Buhari should sack all the service chiefs and heads of intelligence agencies. Their incompetence is grossly felt by an average Nigerian.” Ibrahim Zayiwulu wrote: “When are you gonna sack the service chiefs for taking huge pay and not doing their jobs? A lot of families can’t even sleep in their homes today because of kidnapping activities that has been legalized.”

Meanwhile, President Buhari has directed the disbursement of relief materials to families affected by the recent attack in Borno state which claimed the lives of 44 farmers.

The minister of humanitarian affairs and disaster management, Sadiya Farouk, is saddled with the responsibility of carrying out the executive order.

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Prof. Mahmood Yakubu sworn-in for second term as INEC chairman

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The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has been sworn in for a second term.

Yakubu was sworn-in at the Council Chambers of the State House, on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Yakubu said elections in Nigeria were getting better.

“We have demonstrated in recent elections that elections are getting better and better and elections will continue to get better and better,” he said.

On his confirmation by the senate, the INEC boss described it as a privilege”.

He promised to carry out his duties in line with the “oath of office” he swore.

“It is a big responsibility. It is history. No Nigerian has been so privileged to serve as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission twice,” he said.

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Emetulu tells youth to take part in governance as NYCN LGA Excos sworn-in

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Honourable Charles Emetulu, member representing Ndokwa West in the Delta State House of Assembly, has called on Nigerian Youths to make themselves marketable for leadership positions.

He made the call during the official swearing-in of newly elected members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, (NYCN) local Government executives across Delta State.

Emetulu stated that the saying of “youths being the leaders of tomorrow” was outdated, calling on the youths to start leading now.

The House of Assembly member expressed delight that the female folks were represented among Delta State NYCN.

“We should continue to encourage our female folks to join us in youth activities so that there will be a balance in the society,” he added.

Hon. Emetulu, however, charged the newly elected officials to see their emergence as a clarion call to steer the course to the group to greater heights.

“Your positions are not called to supremacy. You must carry everybody along, both the good and the bad,” he said.

While describing their positions as a prelude to future leadership opportunities, he congratulated both elected officials and those that lost during the election.

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Ifeanyi Egwunyenga, who was represented by Mr. Dioru Sheho, admonished the executives to let the people’s interest come before theirs.

He urged them to always work together to advance their collective objectives and reminded them that his doors were always open for consultation, counseling, and other services.

The Chairman of Delta State NYCN, Comrade Kenneth Okorie, congratulated the various executives that were sworn in.

“I must remind you all that you may not be the best, it is by privilege. I charge you to discharge your duties with fairness and love,” Okorie stated.

Emetulu charged them to try at all times to perform within the confines of the constitution in the discharge of their duties.

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Buhari says borders to be reopened soon, gives reason

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday, met behind closed doors with the nation’s 36 state governors on the security challenges across the country.

He explained that the closure of the nation’s land borders was partly an attempt to control the smuggling of weapons and drugs.

Although state governors did not speak with State House correspondents at the end of the meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja,

The Presidency issued a statement quoting Buhari as asking the state governors to work more with traditional rulers and community members to improve local intelligence gathering that will aid the work of security agencies.

The statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, was titled “President Buhari charges governors to work with traditional rulers for local intelligence.”

“Now that the message has sunk in with our neighbours, we are looking into reopening the borders as soon as possible,” the President said.

Shehu said the President, who listened to presentations by a governor from each of the six geo-political zones on their specific security challenges, recalled that in the old order, communities identified newcomers and passed information to constituted authority.

“The sub-region is no longer safe, more so with the collapse of the former Libyan leader, Muammar Gaddafi’s regime and the cross border movement of weapons and criminals.

“Governors must work with traditional rulers. Try and work with traditional rulers to boost intelligence gathering,” Shehu quoted the President as saying.

He also said while giving an overview of the security situation in each of the zones, the President said his administration had done well in the North East and South-South, adding that the South-South situation was still worrisome.

“Every day I get situation reports about illegal refineries and the blowing up of pipelines. You must stop local rogues from sabotaging oil installations,” the President reportedly told. the governors.

While addressing the issues of banditry and kidnapping reported in each of the geo-political zones, Buhari said “security is important and we must secure the whole country. We are thinking very hard on the issue of kidnapping. We will make it possible for the military to get to the bandits and kidnappers and eliminate them.’’

Buhari also assured the governors that the country’s military will continue to get the support they needed to fight criminals.

“I am not going to the public to speak about the vehicles and equipment we have ordered. What I can say is that the military received armoured cars and other equipment and they are training the trainers. More of such equipment, including military aircraft, will come in,” he said.

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Ndokwa West Youths begins yearly cup competition

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Umusadege youths in Ndokwa West local government area of Delta State, have commenced their yearly unity cup competition.

The sports competition which is sponsored by the Adage Youth is being played at the Owessei Primary School Ground, Kwale.

It was gathered that the sporting event which holds every December is the brainchild of the current Umusadege Youth President, Comrade Osondu Ezeoba since its inception into office in 2018.

Speaking at the occasion the youth president said that the competition was an avenue to unite the youths and also campaign against cultism, which he said, had yielded good results owing peace in the local government, adding that there were lots of on-going road projects which would soon be completed.

In the opening match, Umu Akala defeated Umu Eleke by two goals while
other contestants lined up for the competition included Umu Eboh versus Umu Beneku, Umu Nze versus Umu, and Alama Ossai versus Umu Achi.

According to the organizers, the winner of the first position will receive a cash gift of N200,000.00, the second position will take home the sum of N100,000.00, while the third position will receive a cash gift of N50,000.00.

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Man allegedly puts public notice, says no longer wants to be called “Buhari”

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A man has reportedly put up a public notice to inform people that he no longer wants to be called by the name “Lawal Buhari”

In the notice shared by a popular Hausa news portal on Monday, it seems the man wants to be called by the name “Lawal Dan-Idi” henceforth.

It’s not clear if the reason for the change of name is because of President Buhari as the notice is written in Hausa. However, from the comments by Facebook users, it seems so.

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Kidnapped man with hunchback found dead after two weeks (photos)

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A man with a hunchback who was declared missing two weeks ago has been found dead in a suspected case of ritual killing.

Mr. Suberu Dada, of Obeiba Ihima, Okehi LGA, Kogi State, was kidnapped on Nov 22. Unfortunately, his decaying body was found today, Dec 8, at Iruvochinomi, Ege, Adavi LGA in Kogi state.

Kogi politician, Natasha Akpoti had taken to Facebook two days after his kidnap to share a “missing person” post, begging the public to reach out if they have information that could lead to his rescue.

She explained at the time that he was “abducted by gunmen in a black SUV while waiting to cross the road leading to Oride mosque, beside St. Paul’s Church Obeiba, Ihima.”

Well-wishers prayed for his safe return. Sadly, that was not to be.

It is suspected that Subaru Dada was murdered for ritual purposes because of his hunchback.

His death comes years after Nigerian hunchbacks cried out that their lives are endangered because of the belief that their condition makes them potent for rituals.

“The fear of being kidnapped for money rituals is greater than the shame of being a hunchback,” Saheed Oyedokun, who lives with a hunchback, said in 2014, adding: “Using hunchbacks for money-making rituals is common. How many hunchbacks do you see around these days? They seem to have been driven underground by the evildoers.”

It was gathered that years ago Adeoye Dowo, a 22-year-old with a hunchback, was murdered after his female friend lured him into a bush at Ago Alaye, in Odigbo Local Government Area in Ondo State. He was strangulated and his hump removed by three men.

In that same vein,
Taibatu Oseni, 22, allegedly suffered the same fate. She was killed and the hunch on her back was removed by her murderers.

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Youth leader flogged for raping vulnerable girl in Delta (photos)

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A young man was publicly flogged for raping a young girl at Ekpan community, in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the suspect identified as Erumu, was caught in the act on Monday morning, December 7.

The suspect was among the outgoing youth central executive of the Ekpan Development Committee and an aspiring Vice President.
He is also said to be from a prominent family in the community.

The community President, Stephen Akemu a.k.a Hon. Astone, who confirmed the incident said that Erumu has been automatically disqualified from contesting in the upcoming election. He also ordered the flogging of the suspect to serve as a deterrent to others.

Meanwhile, a member of the Committee, Franklin Ochuko Akemu, warned that such acts will not be tolerated in the community.

“Ekpan community has passed the level of ignoring wrong act and it was displayed again today when Erumu was caught in the act of raping a helpless girl,” he wrote.

“Trump was an outgoing central executive and an aspiring vice president but because of this singular act, he has been disqualified from all and severely disciplined. This post is a warning message to all who have the habit of wrong acts that there is no impunity, fear, or favour when caught so everyone should repent from wrong acts. Before you do think ooh” he added.

See more photos and the video below…

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FG reduces petrol price by N5 per litre

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The Federal Government on Monday night announced the reduction of petrol price by N5 per litre.

But the reduction will take effect from next week Monday.

Recall that the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, had told the government negotiation team led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustapha, that until the fuel price was taken back to the initial price, there would be no meaningful discussion.

At the Monday night social dialogue between the Federal Government and the organised labour, at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige said that an agreement was reached for a slight-down in fuel price.

But the reduction will take effect from next week Monday.

However, the reduction did not interfere with the deregulation of the petroleum sector.

Senator Ngige, who briefed journalists after the meeting, said the price slide down would lead to a cut of about N5 per liter of petrol.

According to him, “This cut will take effect from next week Monday. This cut maintains the deregulation in the industry because it is not a cut on the price of petrol but a cut on the areas where the importers and the main importer, the NNPC have agreed that they can cut costs. Areas like demurrage, large freighting, and other commercial areas of the pricing.

“We put in experts to do this for us and because we don’t want this hullabaloo all the time, we set up a committee that has members of labour and NNPC, PPRA, Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF), Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Finance, the unions, PENGASSEN, NUPENG, NLC, TUC to stand in, and this time, reappraising the market forces and every other thing that will make for stability in the industry.”

The minister directed members of the committee to liaise with all the marketers to make sure that the cap “is always maintained.”

He said the maintenance in the cap would make some marketers sell below the price of N162.44k, adding that the fuel price committee would report back to the main committee on January 2021.

On the proposed electricity tariff adjustment, Ngige said the electricity committee was still at work.

He said, “They have come down. There is a price now. They are now touring the DISCOS. They are going all over the country. They have been to Lagos. They have been in Ibadan. They are supposed to be in Kano now, but two members of the committee had taken ill and so, they could not continue.”

He, however, assured that the electricity committee would continue after yuletide and report back again on January 25, 2021.

Also speaking on the issue of palliatives, the Minister said, “The palliatives have been rolled out and all hands are on deck to see that the workers start getting the effects as quickly as possible.”

He announced plans by the Federal Government to engage many urban workers and give them stipends every month for the next twelve months as part of the conditional cash transfer.

Earlier in his remark, the SGF lauded the leadership of the organised labour for exhibiting the spirit of collective bargaining and negotiation despite the demands of their office to cater for the welfare and good of their members.

He said that the overall interest of the nation has not been sacrificed in the negotiations undertaken in the last few months they had to deal with this issue.

Mustapha further said the peaceful resolution of the matter showed that the interest of the nation was fundamental and uppermost in their minds in finding a password to the issues that affect their people.

He also said that the primary responsibility of everyone at the negotiating table was to provide for the well-being and good of the Nigerian people.

He commended the steadfastness of leaders of the organised labour to the negotiation, which he described as the hallmark of leadership and commitment to the good of the nation.

Other members of the Federal Government delegation were the Minister of State, Labour, and Employment, Festus Keyamo (SAN), his Petroleum counterpart, Timipriye Sylva, the Group Managing Director (GMD), NNPC, Mele kyari, and the Managing Director of Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Ahmad Salihijo.

President of NLC, Ayuba Wabba, and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Quadri Olaleye led the organised labour to the meeting.

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Resident Doctors storm Okpanam on campaign of breast, prostate cancer [photos]

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The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), FMC Asaba Chapter, yesterday, December 7, stormed Okpanam community in Oshimili North LGA of Delta State, to create awareness on the dreaded Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer.

This was as part of the ARD’s 2020 Annual Medical Outreach programme.

The doctors numbering about 10, apart from giving consultancy services and examining multitudes, also treated and dispensed drugs to over 70 patients with cancer-related issues.

The ARD’s Publicity Community Chairman, Dr. Alexander Awunor, gave glory to God for making this year’s AGM that culminated with the medical outreach despite Covid-19 and other challenges of the year.

He acknowledged that the medical outreach programme was solely sponsored by the Association.

Awunor raised a concern to the effect that most rural dwellers were not even aware of their health status, with Okpanam as a case study.

He stressed that it could be as a result of ignorance or low standard of living; therefore advising the Government, corporate entities, and well-to-do individuals to create platforms that would help grassroots people to regularly check and access medicare for themselves.

Dr. Awunor said the people of Okpanam who came out for the health programme were exceedingly happy and wished for them to come back again.

He said; “Yes, the government is doing their best, but they need to do more especially in the adequate motivation of healthcare workers to prevent the massive brain drain being experienced in the country today. They also need to make huge investments in the health sector by putting up health institutions that will meet international standards.

“It’s because doctors are driven by passion, that is why you see us doing all of this to complement the efforts of the government. We are enjoying our job, but then we need more support, care, and attention from the government to enable us to measure up to an extent with our colleagues abroad. It is painful seeing how we undergo so much stress to perform our duties with motivations that are not commensurate. If the government could seriously bridge this lack of motivation gap, it will reduce the brain drain.

“Doctors are trained to always be responsive, humane, and to treat people with empathy. This is a very important part of the profession as it draws us closer and makes our patients comfortable.

“However, factors like stress, working conditions, and other environmental issues can have effects on these attributes. But in all, doctors always have empathy for their patients. That is part of our hypocritical oath and we always uphold our oath”, Doctor Awunor explained.

Earlier before the medical outreach, the Association of Resident Doctors visited leaders of Okpanam – HRM Michael Mbanefo Ogbolu, the Ugoani of Okpanam, and HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu, the Omu of Okpanam to intimate them of the programme.

The outcome was the approval to use the town hall and the vigilante group was alerted to be on the ground.

The doctors thanked the community rulers for providing the enabling environment for them to carry out the programme.

The patients were excited as the doctors carried out blood sugar screening, dispensed drugs for hypertension, diabetes including analgesic, and free medical consultations.

Responding, the patients who were filled with joy, thanked the doctors for such humanitarian gestures, and prayed for them to return.

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Professor’s son dies few hours after his wedding (photos)

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Family and friends have been thrown into mourning ng following the death of a young Ugandan man just few hours after his wedding

It was gathered that Roy Jairus Watuulo died in the early hours of Sunday, December an hours after he tied the knot with his wife, Anitah Nabuduwa on Saturday, December 5 in Kampala.

According to close friends and relatives, Roy started complaining about feeling unwell moments after the wedding reception. He was rushed to the hospital and pronounced dead a few minutes past midnight.

The deceased is said to be in his late 20s and the son of a University professor. They had their traditional in November 2020.

Meanwhile, friends and and colleagues have taken to Facebook to mourn the late Roy. A colleague, Lutoto Martha, wrote;

“With Deep Sorrow And Shock , Our Friend, Colleague And Brother Roy Jairus Watuulo Has Passed On.

“He Wedded On Saturday 5/12/2020 And Immediately Went To Be With The Lord On Sunday, Just A Few Hours After.

“Son To Dr. Watuulo Richard & Lydia. Rest In Peace Comrade. May God Strengthen You Anitah Nabuduwa”

See more photos and comments below…

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Woman locked by brothers for getting pregnant outside wedlock

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The Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State has rescued a 35-year-old woman over the weekend.

The woman who was identified as
Saratu Ayuba of Bolari quarters in Gombe metropolis was rescued following a tip-off by neighbours after they learnt of the inhuman condition she was subjected to while locked up at the family house.

Witnesses said Saratu was chained and locked up for 5 months, alongside her two-month-old daughter inside an unhygienic single room at their family house at Bolari quarters.

Saratu, who appeared visibly emaciated without proper clothing, said she was only given tea and bread once a day for the last five months she had been locked up in the room.

Due to her unhealthy condition, she couldn’t produce enough breast milk to feed her daughter, she said.

She said her former husband was responsible for the pregnancy, adding that he did it deliberately to force her brothers to get her back to their house. She said her former husband “mistakenly” divorced her twice.

She said she has two other children, Alkasim, 10, and Fatima, 8, from her first marriage.

However, Saratu’s elder brother, Muhammad Tajudden, told newsmen that they locked her in the room after she was diagnosed with mental illness.

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See 3 reasons why President Buhari should be impeached – PDP Reps

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in the House of Representatives have argued in favour of President Muhammadu Buhari’s immediate impeachment over the insecurity in the country.

It was reported that Kingsley Chinda, the leader of the PDP caucus in the House has given three reasons why an impeachment proceeding should be commenced against the president.

Chinda in a statement pointed out that Buhari should be impeached over 1. For alleged incompetence. 2. For alleged persistent and continuous breach of Section 14 (2) (b) of the 1999 constitution (the section stated that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government).

  1. For alleged incapacity to discharge the functions of the office of president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The statement by the caucus read in part: “The PDP caucus also wants members of the Federal Executive Council to invoke the provisions of Section 144 (1) of the Constitution by declaring that the President is incapable of discharging the functions of the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

It was also gathered that the PDP lawmakers asked Nigerians to compel their representatives in the National Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against the president over the insecurity in the country.

They accused the president of failing to lead and protect Nigerians from the terrorists and bandits, while the economy is crumbling.

Meanwhile, it was reported that the festering insecurity across the 19 northern states in Nigeria has turned the northern establishment against President Buhari.

According to the report, the regional leaders, who hitherto were supporters of the president, are now of the view that Buhari had woefully failed in meeting the yearnings and aspirations of the region, especially regarding the security of lives and properties.

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Governor Ikpeazu suspends his Chief of Staff

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The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu has suspended his Chief of Staff, Anthony Agbazuere.

Secretary to the State Government, Chris Ezem, announced in a statement on Sunday.

The suspension takes immediate effect. No reason was given.

Ezem said the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Alozie Odoemelam, will assume the Chief of Staff position until further notice.

Last Wednesday when Ikpeazu approved payment of Consolidated Health Salary Scheme (CONHESS) for local government workers, Agbazuere signed the statement.

He said the governor has also directed the resolution of arrears of salaries owed by some government parastatals.

“It is also the position of government that workers will be paid by hand to checkmate debilitating and illicit sharp practices.

“It is expected that health workers and others will reciprocate this goodwill of the Governor by putting in their best in the service of our State”, Agbazuere noted.

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Pastor stripped naked, beaten for defiling his three daughters

Pastor of a new generation church in Igbo-Etche, in the Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, has been stripped naked by members of a vigilante group for allegedly defiling his three daughters.

The cleric, who confessed to the crime in a viral video seen on social media, was stripped by the group known as the Onelga Security, Peace and Advisory Council.

He was also beaten in the presence of his wife and son for the act.

The pastor’s son reported the matter to the security guards after he learnt that his mother had been covering up the crime.

The local guards were said to have mobilised to the pastor’s residence, took him outside, and stripped him naked.

In the video seen, a member of the group asked why the suspect defiled his daughters.

Responding, he said, “It is because of a witchcraft force. My mother told me not to marry this woman (pointing to the wife), but I continued to marry her. So, my mother did that to punish me and disgrace me.”

Asked the name of his church and how many members he had, the pastor said, “My church is in Chuwuta in Igbo-Etche. I have many members but I have not had sex with any of the women in my church.”

Angered by his explanation, a man suspected to be the leader of the vigilantes, slapped the cleric, while two other members flogged him with canes.

A member of the group turned to the suspect’s wife, who said she was 56 years old, demanding what she did after discovering the crime.

“I cannot do anything because I love my husband and I cover him. But I told him not to do it again. I cover him because of love,” she replied.

When asked to speak, the pastor’s son, who reported the matter to the vigilantes, said his father laid a curse on him for exposing the secret.

The leader of the vigilantes compelled the suspect to reverse the curse, and he was later taken to a nearby police station.

A spokesman for the state police command, Nnamdi Omoni, confirmed the incident but expressed anger at the way the vigilantes treated the matter.

He said, “All those involved in the matter, including the vigilantes, will be arrested for taking the law into their hands.

“They compounded the situation by not reporting to the police. The Divisional Police Officer in charge of that area has been mandated to bring all those behind it to justice.”

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Buhari reveals why terrorism is Africa’s major problem

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President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the major challenge Africa faces is the threat of terrorist activities and other crimes.

He disclosed at the 14th extra-ordinary session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) on ‘Silencing the Gun’, held virtually on Sunday.

Buhari said the continent must achieve a new trajectory of peace, security, and stability.

He urged African leaders to promote the implementation of arms control instruments and embargoes.

The Nigerian leader said the increasing number of peace agreements and efforts in conflict situations across Africa demonstrated a resolve to chart a new course.

He called for the monitoring and evaluation mechanism to gauge the implementation at the continental level.

Buhari said the intra/inter-state resurgence of conflicts in Africa underscores the imperative for the AU Mediation Support Unit to be strengthened.

“Threats of terrorist activities, other trans-organised crimes, and external interference in the internal affairs of African States are increasing.

“We also see maritime security threats, including the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and the challenges of the porous border are also visible.

“It is in this regard that we blame the slow implementation of the African Common Defence Policy, hinged on the establishment of the African Standby Force,’’ Buhari said.

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Okowa tells Buhari to reconstruct NDDC board, laments over condition

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Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has decried the condition of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

He spoke on Saturday at the launch of a book on Resource Dependence, Violent Conflict, and Economic Development in the Niger Delta.

Okowa lamented that some individuals appointed to the agency have derailed in office.

The governor urged President Muhammadu Buhari to reconstitute the board and inject credible persons.

The Chairman of the South-South Governors Forum noted that the agency has not been active as expected.

The governor declared his dissatisfaction with recent projects by the NDDC.

“They ought to embark on inter-regional projects and also build major roads that connect one part of a state to another and not one kilometer of roads as the case may be.”

“Unfortunately, some of our people, when appointed, go there for the wrong reasons. We must appoint people that can be held accountable for their actions during their tenure.”

On Amnesty Programme, Okowa said aside from the stipends paid to ex-militants, the federal government should help the youths become entrepreneurs.

The governor regretted that many skill acquisition centres have been abandoned.

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Governor Ikpeazu’s Chief of Staff sprays money on Prophet Odumeje in Office (Video)

A video of Anthony Agbazuere, the chief of staff to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, spraying Naira notes on Onitsha-based clergyman, Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere aka Odumeje the ‘Indaboski’, is trending online.

In the video shared on Twitter by @Enwagboso, Agbazuere has seen spraying naira notes on the clergyman who was dancing. The date when the video was recorded isn’t certain but it appears to have been shot in Agbazuere’s office.

Nigerians on Twitter are however knocking the politician for carrying out such an act inside his office.

Watch the video and see reactions below…

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Amaechi reveals why he supported Buhari, rejected Jonathan in 2015

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Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, has alleged that former President Goodluck Jonathan offered him every opportunity to stay in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, but he rejected it.

Amaechi said that whatever he says in Rivers State would happen, adding that he would soon return to declare prayers in the state.

The minister claimed that God gave him victory over Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.

“You know, when Goodluck fought us, he was not fighting me, he was fighting God and I knew he would fail.

“Tell them from next year prayer will start, I will come to Port Harcourt like I used to come and I will say this will happen and it will happen.

“Let me tell you who I am; I do not drink, I have never tasted alcohol in my life, I don’t smoke; I am not tribalistic. Whether in Rivers State or Nigeria, I am not tribalistic.

‘If I were tribalistic, President Goodluck Jonathan offered me the opportunity to remain in PDP, he offered me all sort of opportunities and I said that I have given my allegiance to Buhari because I am not tribalistic.”

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Panic as 7 kidnappers with AK47 sighted in Delta communities

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Some concerned villagers have allegedly alerted the Police over the movement of not less than seven kidnappers bearing AK47 rifles, matchets añd sticks in Obomkpa, Ezi, and Onicha-Olona bushes, both in Aniocha North local government area of Delta State.

It was gathered that these kidnappers who used to terrorize the areas had returned to unleash terror on innocent citizens going about their daily businesses.

According to security observers, the already demoralized Police and unassisted vigilante groups might not be able to muster the courage to face these marauding criminals who have laid siege on Aniocha North Communities.

Aniocha North had overtime been declared ‘kidnappers’ den’, however, the police in collaboration with the vigilante groups had been putting up a good fight.

Being Christmas season, opinion leaders within the local government are insisting the Aniocha North Chairman Hon. Chuks Oseme must do well to support the security agencies this time, to have something standing as a testimonial for him as he winds down on his leadership of the council

Efforts made to hear from the Chairman of the council, to share some security reports with regards to his local government being surrounded by armed bearing kidnappers, was proved abortive as he didn’t pick his calls.

Also, the DPO in charge of Olona Police Division, when contacted to confirm this heightened fear in his jurisdictions was equally proved abortive.

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Bayelsa: 3 policemen on election duty drown in Southern Ijaw river

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Three yet-to-be identified police officers have reportedly drowned while on their way to Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The officers were on their way to monitor the Senatorial Bye-election holding in two senatorial zones of the state today, December 5, when the boat they were traveling in overturned.

The spokesman of the Police Command in Bayelsa, SP Asinim Butswat who confirmed the incident, said the boat capsized on its way to Oporoma, Headquarters of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. He, however, added that they were yet to ascertain the total number of Police officers involved in the incident.

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Soldier beats, strips lady naked, for “indecent dressing “(video)

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A soldier was filmed beating and stripping a woman naked because he considered what she was wearing to be indecent.

The incident occurred at about 9:46am today, Saturday, December 5, at Oju-Ore, Sango Ota, Ogun State.

The woman was trekking, wearing a pair of shorts and white knitted coverup when a soldier inside a commercial bus saw her, alighted, and attacked her for how she was dressed.

In a video shared online, the woman is seen bending at the knee, seemingly pleading with him as he drags her cover-up off her body.

He also slapped her and pulled her by her braids, according to eyewitness reports.

Passersby intervened when he attempted to remove the woman’s bra and he only freed her after pleas from multiple people.

This comes one month after a soldier was filmed flogging a woman for dressing “indecently” in Beere, Ibadan.

See a video of the incident below:

https://youtu.be/lo803aYa2HY

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Lekki Shooting: “There was no single corpse, protesters saw double”- Buratai

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Chief of army staff, Tukur Buratai, says that contrary to what some persons have reported, there was no single corpse at the Lekki tollgate on October 20 when the military came and fired shots while #ENDSARS protesters gathered to demand an end to police brutality.

According to him, some people saw double during the shooting incident.

The Army Chief shared this opinion when he spoke at the decoration of 39 newly promoted major-generals on Friday, December 4. He opined that a spiritual warfare seminar held by the army helped in preventing deaths at the protest ground.

He said;
“I am glad that we held the Spiritual Warfare Seminar on Wednesday and most of the decorated generals today are graduates of the seminar,” he said.

“I must say that the spiritual warfare seminar we had last time helped us during the last #EndSARS protest to the extent that their was-abiding corpse, but some persons were seeing double at Lekki toll gate in Lagos state.

“We will continue to protect every law-abiding Nigerian anywhere in the country and we will do that by the rules of engagement and confines of the constitution.”

He also cautioned the Army Generals against lobbying for appointments.

“Democracy has come to stay. We will not tolerate any agent of destabilization. The years of military misadventure in politics have never can carried us anywhere. It is over,” he said.

“Do not lobby with politicians. At this rank of two-star generals, do not lobby for an appointment, If you want to lobby for an appointment, lobby the chief of army staff, and you can only do this through hard work, discipline, and loyalty.

“The crop of officers (39 major generals) decorated yesterday will never be dragged into any interest that is contrary to the sustenance of democracy in our nation.

“All our eyes are on you. We know there are several moves to get your attention. You must make sure that whatever you are doing, and when some persons approach you, you must act within the confines of the constitution.”

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Why I planned with gang to kidnap my boss wife – Sacked driver

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A driver, Tigidam Bright, has been arrested for his conspiracy in the kidnapping of his boss’ wife, Mrs Gift Topba, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He was apprehended alongside two suspected kidnappers – Isaac Michael, Leerathe Barisua by operatives of the Inspector-General of the Police Intelligence Response Team.

It was learnt that some gunmen kidnapped Gift, the wife of an Ogoni, human rights activist, Gani Topba, on August 25, 2020, at the entrance of an estate where she lives and took her to their den in the Khana area of the state.

They reportedly demanded N100m ransom initially but later reduced it to N500,000, which was paid by the family before she was released.

IRT detectives investigating the incident were said to have traced a mobile phone the gang used for negotiating the ransom to an unnamed man who assisted them in arresting Michael and Barisua.

It was gathered that in the course of interrogation, the duo mentioned Bright as the mastermind and he was also picked up.

In an interview with newsmen during the week, Bright having to orchestrate Gift’s abduction but confessed to having got N100,000 from the ransom.

He said he told his friends (Michael and Barisua) how his boss of eight years allegedly sacked him unjustly and they promised to help deal with him.

He explained, “I am from Khana. I left secondary school in 2006 and went to learn how to fabricate metals. When I completed the apprenticeship and couldn’t secure a job at an oil I went to work with Chief Gani Topba as his driver. When the COVID-19 pandemic started and there was a lockdown, Chief (Topba) was in Abuja. He asked that his Port Harcourt office should be shut down and I dropped his keys with his secretary.

“He paid my salary one month into the lockdown but after the lockdown, he refused to take me back as his driver. I tried all I could to get back the job but it wasn’t possible. I learnt that the chief sacked me because I diverted a business contract he was supposed to execute to someone else. But I traveled such a thing.

“Sometime in August 2020, I traveled to Khana to visit some of my friends. They asked if I was still working with the chief and I told them that he fired me over an unfounded allegation. Then they promised to deal with him on my behalf. I learned now that they planned to kidnap his wife. I learnt that she was kidnapped and after she was released, I was given N100,000 as my share of the ransom.”

Bright claimed that he collected the money because he was scared his friends might kill him if he failed to cooperate with them.

Michael, 37, said he was introduced to kidnapping by a friend at large, identified simply as Mark, who in turn linked him up with Barisua, to form a four-man gang.

The father of two confessed to having participated in three operations since he joined the gang in July 2020, adding that they freed one of their victims without collecting ransom because he was a pastor.

He said, “We kidnapped a woman at Rumuporisi area of Port Harcourt and took her to our camp in Kaani-Kor community (Khana area) in Mark’s car. She spent three days with us and was released after N2m was paid a ransom to secure her freedom. I got N300,000 as my share.

“My last operation was the kidnapping of the wife of Chief Gani Topba. His driver brought the job to our gang and he was also the person who showed us his house in Port Harcourt. He also told us the colour and brand of car, his wife drives. We kidnapped her on August 25, 2020, and kept her in our camp, while one of my phones which I later sold was used for the ransom negotiation.

“A ransom of N500,000 was eventually paid and I got N100,000 as my share. I know Chief Gani Topba; he is from my community but his driver claimed he treated him badly which made us kidnap his wife.”

Barisua, a graduate of Electrical Engineering, said he went into kidnapping after losing his job at an oil company in Port Harcourt, but insisted that he did not participate in Gift’s abduction.

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2023 Elections: Jonathan reveals stance on Presidential contest

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Nigeria’s former president, Goodluck Jonathan, has finally spoken on the speculations regarding his possibility of contesting the 2023 presidential election.

He made this known to newsmen on Friday, December 4, after attending an event organised by the Commonwealth Community Choir in Abuja where he said it is too early to talk about his interest in the 2023 elections.

Jonathan said there are still other issues to focus on ahead of the next general election. When asked if he would be joining the presidential race in 2023, he said: “It is too early to talk about that.”

Earlier, it was reported that supporters of President Muhammadu Buhari were allegedly considering backing Jonathan for the number one seat in 2023. The thinking of the loyalists was that Jonathan’s presidency would satisfy the increasing clamour for power shift to the South. They reportedly believe that Jonathan will be the best man for the position if power were to shift to the south.

The possibility of the Jonathan 2023 presidency resurfaced again when some APC governors, led by Mai Mala Buni, governor of Yobe state and caretaker chairman of the ruling party, with other party stalwarts visited him on Friday, November 20.

Though the visit coincided with the 63rd birthday of the former president, there were speculations that it had to do with the political permutations ahead of the 2023 presidential election.

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Fourth Mainland Bridge: 795 houses to be destroyed in Lagos

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The federal government and the Lagos State Government have said 795 houses might be demolished to pave the way for the construction of the proposed 37-kilometer Fourth Mainland Bridge.

The Federal and State Governments said a lot of efforts were put into reducing the number of affected structures from about 9,000 to less than 800.

The state government assured that owners of the affected property would be adequately compensated.

It said all stakeholders would be satisfactorily considered in the execution of the project.

Speaking at the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Stakeholders’ scoping workshop with the Federal Ministry of Environment in Lagos, Environment Minister Mamoud Abubakar said there should be a sincere commitment on the part of Lagos State government on the compensation for owners of affected properties.

The minister, who was represented by a director in the ministry, James Kolawole, explained that though the project would have about 16 alignments, the best had been selected.

“There was an alignment that will affect about 9,000 structures along the corridor, but we have reviewed it and gone for the alignment that will affect about 795 houses, instead of the one that will take more houses. It is an ongoing thing on how best to minimise the negative impact,” he said.

The State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development said the bridge, which will connect Lagos and Ogun states, will pass through Abraham Adesanya in Lagos and Sparklight Estate near the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State.

A town planner in the ministry, Mr. Abayomi Omolola Amos said the alignment of the project had been carefully designed to reduce the number of houses that should be demolished.

The Federal Government said the proposed bridge will boost economic growth and enhance international trade.

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Truck hits man to death in Port Harcourt (photos)

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An unidentified man was killed on Friday morning December 4, after a truck ran over him in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital.

The incident occurred East-West at the Slaughter Market at Eliozu, along East-West Road.

According to eyewitnesses, the man said to be a Keke driver, was attempting to cross the road when the sad incident occurred.

It was gathered that the truck driver attempted to flee but he was apprehended by traders in the market and almost lynched.

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Just In: 15 Lekki shooting victims appear before Lagos Panel

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Protesters who suffered gunshot wounds during the #EndSARS protests in Lagos have visited the Lagos State Court of Arbitration and Mediation in Lekki, venue of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Enquiry and Restitution for Victims of SARS related abuses and other matters.

14 of them were said to have been shot at Lekki Toll Gate on the evening of October 20, while one was said to have been shot Ojodu at Berger.

In their entourage is Mr. Nathaniel Solomon, whose younger brother About Solomon was said to have been shot dead at the toll gate.

The deceased has since been buried in his hometown in Mubi Local Government Area of Adamawa State, and Aiyedungbe Olufunmi Grace, whose brother died at LASUTH after suffering gunshot wounds to the head.

Grace told newsmen that after her brother’s death, the hospital authorities changed the story and said he died of COVID-19.

The Nigerian Army has denied allegations that it shot at peaceful protesters, stone-throwers fired blanks into the air to disperse stone-throwers.

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Three ‘IPOB suspects’ arrested for bombing Wike’s father’s church

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The Rivers state police command has said three suspects arrested for allegedly detonating explosives in Governor Nyesom Wike’s father’s church have confessed why they carried out the act.

According to the Rivers state commissioner of police, Joseph Mukan, the members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) said that they attacked because they were promised juicy appointments whenever the Biafra republic is realised.

It was reported that the suspects made the confessional statements when they were paraded at the police headquarters, in Port Harcourt.

The police commissioner said investigations indicated that the IPOB suspects were behind the bomb attack. He said those arrested will be charged to court while the police are making efforts to arrest three other suspects who were also involved in the attack. The police boss said: “They will soon be charged to court while we are trailing their sponsors. IPOB has assured them that if IPOB is achieved they will be policy makers in the government.” One of the suspects, Owudinjo, confirmed their membership of the proscribed IPOB, adding that they were contracted to carry out the act.

Another suspect named Apuro Victor claimed they were sent by one Chinedu.

He said: “The whole thing was programmed. We were sent by one Chinedu. I don’t know where he came from. I am a member of IPOB.”

Meanwhile, in efforts to stop the ongoing killings by cultists in Rivers State, Governor Nyesom Wike has imposed a 24-hour curfew on parts of Port Harcourt.

According to the governor, the curfew would last for two weeks. He said the curfew covers the entire area around the Okoro-Nu-Odu flyover in Rumuokoro. The governor said the curfew was declared due to an upsurge of cult activities and related violence.

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Zabarmari Massacre: CAN drags Buhari, security agencies

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Friday condemned the killing of Borno rice farmers in the strongest terms.

More than 40 Zabarmari indigenes were slaughtered by Boko Haram last Saturday and buried on Sunday.

CAN President, Samson Ayokunle, in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Oladeji, told President Muhammadu Buhari and security agencies to crush the terrorists before they murder more Nigerians.

The body lamented that criminals now operate with impunity all over the country, especially in the North-East and North-West regions.

CAN said, as usual, the number of victims of the Koshebe attack remains disputed by the federal government.

“To us at CAN, 43 casualties was not only frightening but inexcusable by those who should have prevented it. The massacre was wicked and completely satanic.

“A situation where farmers are being taxed by the terrorists and bandits before they are allowed to work on their farms is unprecedented and it must be stopped by the government before it is too late.)

“We are in a recession in the country, yet, criminals are still preventing farmers from going to the farm to harvest. We are not aware of any country where similar lawlessness is taking place without being adequately checked.”

CAN urge the government to think out of the box and take adequate steps to bring the terrorists to their knees.

Noting that mass burials without a full-scale war are unprecedented and unacceptable, the Christian leadership regretted that killings and kidnapping had become the norm in Nigeria.

“Why should we be watching for a nation well situated by God to become a land that is swallowing its inhabitants?”, the statement quipped.

The assured that continuous sympathy through press statements and condolence visit after many souls have been wasted is no longer acceptable.

CAN assured that it would continue to advise the authorities. It prayed that God will comfort the relatives of the deceased.

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Two killed, many abducted on Edo highway

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The ever-busy Benin-Auchi highway yesterday came under attack as gunmen suspected to be kidnappers laid siege to the road and kidnapped a sizable number of persons traveling
on the route.

Two persons were killed while over 20 others were abducted at gunpoint by the gunmen at Obagie community on the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi road in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of the state.

The dead victims of the attack included a member of the local vigilante group and one of the passengers on a commercial bus that was used to barricade the road by the gunmen.

It was gathered that the gunmen emerged from the bush and forced the commercial bus to stop at gunpoint and then whisked away passengers into the bush.

The driver of a truck who refused to stop after it was flagged down by the kidnappers rammed into the bus, killing one of the occupants. The development was said to have caused gridlock on the highway as motorists had to abandon their vehicles and scampered to safety.

A source told newsmen that 10 persons were kidnapped and that security agents have been deployed to the area.

Benin-Auchi road had for a long time been a den of robbers, kidnappers, and other criminal elements. It was gathered that the gunmen had first attacked a commercial bus at the Urhokosa/Obagie end of the road, abducting several passengers.

The kidnappers, who were operating in groups, got a group to lead the first set of the victims into the bush en-route to the kidnappers’ den, while a second group caused the driver of the bus to use the vehicle to block the road.

A trailer driver refused to stop and rammed his articulated vehicle into the bus. Other vehicles, which ran into the traffic jam, occasioned by the blockade, were attacked by another group of the kidnappers, who selected victims and marched them to join the earlier captured passengers.

A member of a vigilante group in the area, who acted bravely by confronting the gunmen, was shot dead by the kidnappers, according to an eyewitness, who narrowly escaped into the bush while the confusion reigned on the road as the gunmen operated without challenge.

The escaped victim, who claimed that he had to abandon his vehicle to run into the bush, added that he met some other persons who also escaped in the bush, just as the gunmen were shooting sporadically for a long time without any resistance from the security agents.

The Police Public Relations officers, SP Chidi Nwanbuzor, said: “Yes, the command is aware of the kidnap, but we are yet to ascertain the number of passengers that were kidnapped.”

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Buhari will finish tenure despite calls for resignation – Lai Mohammed

The minister of information and culture, Lai Mohammed has said President Muhammadu Buhari will finish his tenure despite the calls for his resignation.

He disclosed this while speaking in a meeting with the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigerian (NPAN) in Lagos on Thursday, December 3, 2020.

Mohammed said the calls for the president’s resignation were political describing it as cheap and irresponsible to ask a president to resign before he completes his tenure over the killings of some farmers in Borno state.

“In the wake of the killing, there have been calls in some quarters for Mr. President to resign. “Well, let me say here that this call amounts to playing dirty politics with the issue of security, and it is cheap and irresponsible. Mr. President was elected in 2015 for a four-year term and re-elected in 2019 for another four-year term.” He insisted that no amount of clamour for resignation will stop the president from serving his term.

The minister said it amounts to needless distraction and cheap politicking to demand the president to step down anytime there is a setback in the war on terror.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has been advised to strengthen security agencies. The advice was given by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) over the insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings in the country. The elders said this will help avert wanton killings in the country.

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the Director of Publicity and Advocacy of NEF appealed in a statement on Wednesday, December 2, 2020, in Abuja. The forum faulted the federal government over the claim that the military had reclaimed territories from the terrorists.

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Group decries move for second #EndSARS protest

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A Civil Society Organisation, Association for National Development and Growth (ANDEG), yesterday condemned alleged plans to mobilise for a second round of #EndSARS protest across the country.

The group warned that such moves may lead to unprecedented disaster if not shelved or resisted by the government.

President of the group, Rauf Aroyehun, said it got information that youths were proposing to stage a second phase of the protest against police brutality on December 7, which is expected to ground activities in the states.

ANDEG said intelligence reports it gathered showed that the proposed December 7 protest has been hijacked right from its planning stage by those who want to use the gathering to instigate massive civil unrest that can compel regime change and disintegration of the country.

He said: “There are plans to use the exercise to set more police stations on fire, burn BRT buses, attack the airport and effect wanton destruction of lives and properties to destabilize the government. The demands in the second phase of the exercise will call for the resignation of the president and several other top government officials over insecurity and the current state of the economy.”

He added that efforts are being made with other CSOs to see that the Federal Government responds favourably to the legitimate and noble demands to end police brutality in the country, free all #EndSARS protesters, compensate victims of police brutality, resolve ASUU crisis, and provide job opportunities for youths among other demands.

While calling on the government to do everything within its powers to stop the protest, Rauf appealed told the youths to stay calm and be patient for the government to roll out its programmes.

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Kidnapped Chinese expatriate released after N100m ransom

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The Chinese expatriate who was kidnapped by gunmen in Ado-Ekiti has been released after four days in captivity

The Chinese man simply identified as Wang, was one of the Engineers handling the dualisation of the new Ado-Iyin road.

He was abducted last Friday evening, November 27, at the site. His kidnappers also killed a policeman attached to him.

A source close to the road construction company told newsmen that the abductee was released around 11 pm on Tuesday, Dec 1, after payment of N100 million ransom.

He explained that the ransom was collected at a place in Kwara state and the expatriate was released around Ilawe-Igede road in Ekiti state.

He said: “The Chinese was released very late yesterday (Tuesday) after payment of ransom to the kidnappers.

“The N100 million was taken to a bush in Kwara state where the kidnappers collected and confirmed it before the man was released here at a very difficult location along Igede-Ilawe road.”

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Ekiti state ASP Sunday Abutu confirmed to newsmen that the Chinese expatriate has been released but denied payment of ransom.

He revealed that the release was made possible after a serious manhunt embarked on the kidnappers by security operatives.

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FG commits 17,000 youths in rabbit farming

The Federal Government has revealed that its programme on rabbit farming which has officially commenced will engage 17,000 youths across the country.

Executive Secretary of National Agricultural Land Development Authority, Paul Ikonne who made the announcement said the programme had already commenced in some states which include Imo, Abia, Cross River, and Oyo states, and is expected to engage more participants in the southern part of Nigeria.

Ikonne disclosed that the agency would provide the rabbits, cage, vaccine, and training for participants free of charge, and further added that the first set of beneficiaries would be required to bring back the kitten from the rabbits they train to be used in the empowerment of other youths.

He said;

“The President had inaugurated the national young farmers’ scheme, and we intend to take in 774,000 young Nigerians into the entire agribusiness. This programme has started implementing the first leg, which is our animal husbandry.

“In this segment, we are doing goat and rabbit rearing. A lot of people do not know the potentials, the benefits, and the money they can make from rearing rabbits. Rabbit has an entire value chain, nothing is a waste farming rabbit.

“So we are engaging our youths into rabbit farming, NALDA has designed a programme to take in 17,000 rabbit farmers especially in the South, and we have commenced the engagement in some states.”

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Nine injured in Anambra road accident

Nine persons were on Wednesday injured in a road crash in Anambra State.

The accident which occurred on the Awka-Nteje-Onitsha expressway involved a Toyota Hiace and a Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle.

Eyewitnesses said the crash occurred as a result of excessive speeding and wrongful overtaking.

The Anambra State Sector Commander Federal Road Safety Corps, Andrew Kumapayi, who confirmed the incident, said no life was lost.

He said, “Nine people got injured in the crash involving a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Onitsha South Transport Company with number plate, BDG 313 XQ, and a Lexus Jeep with registration number, AWK 71 EX .

“The crash occurred at Igbariam, opposite Micado Factory along Awka- Nteje- Onitsha expressway.

“It involves a total of 18 people, comprising 11 male adults and seven female adults. Nine people, five male adults and four female adults who sustained varying degree of injuries were rushed to FRSC Clinic Nteje by the rescue team from Nteje unit command while obstruction is being cleared.”

Kumapayi warned motorists to desist from excessive speeding and abide by the speed limits set by law.

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Girl arrested for selling her 4 months old baby for N300,000

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The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old sex worker. Zainab Adamu, for allegedly selling her four months old baby girl for N300, 000.

Spokesperson of the command Isah Gambo, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday, December 2, said that the suspect, an indigene of Adamawa state but residing at Kofar Kaura Layout area of Katsina, was arrested on November 26, based on a tip-off.

“Zainab conspired with her friend, one Ruth Kenneth, 32, of Kofar Kaura Layout, an indigene of Delta state and sold her four months old baby girl to one Chinwendi Omeh, 43, of Ekwusigo LGA of Anambra State at the cost of three hundred thousand naira (N300,000:00K),” said Gambo.

“In the course of investigation another suspect, one Chukwudi Elias Nnali, aged 45yrs of the same address, brother to Chinwindi Omeh, was also arrested for aiding and abetting the commission of the offence. The sums of one hundred and sixty-five thousand Naira, (N165,000:00) and eighty-five thousand Naira (N85,000:00) were recovered from Zainab Adamu and Ruth Kenneth respectively as proceeds of the sale of the baby. Investigation is ongoing.” he added.

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Suspected kidnappers with military uniforms arrested in Plateau

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A joint operation conducted by the Special Military Task Force, Operation Safe Haven, Department of State Service, the Nigerian Police Force, and Vigilante Group of Nigeria, have successfully smashed and arrested three members of a notorious kidnap syndicate in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau state.

Commander of the task force, Maj. Gen. Chukwuemeka Okonkwo, who confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday, December 1, said the kidnap syndicate is also responsible for the rising banditry in the area.

He gave the names of the arrested suspects as 37-year-old Abdullahi Abubakar, Rabiu Ahmadu, 35, and Akilu Zubairu, 32.

Items recovered from the suspects include one AK 47 Rifle, one Magazine, 3 Rounds 1.62mm Special, 1XBarreta Pistol & Magazine, Camouflage Uniform, and 9 SIM cards.

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President Buhari told to resign over Zabarmari killing

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Tuesday, December 1, been told to resign from the seat of power following the spate of attacks and rising insecurity in the country, with the government seemingly appearing helpless.

Making this demand is the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) which slammed the presidency for being insensitive to the attacks on Nigerians living in local communities. The forum, which spoke through its spokesperson Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, said lives under the current government are valueless, and the most expected of a helpless leader is to resign honourably.

“Under this administration, life has lost its value, and more and more citizens are coming under the influence of criminals. We do not see any evidence of a willingness on the part of President Buhari to honour his oath to provide security over Nigerians. “In civilized nations, leaders who fail so spectacularly to provide the security will do the honourable thing and resign.”

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has urged President Buhari to have a rethink on war against terrorism.

Speaker of the House, Femi Gbajabiamila, made the call during a plenary on Tuesday, December 1, amid continuous reactions trailing the killing of the rice farmers in Borno state on Saturday, November 28, by Boko Haram. Addressing his colleagues on the November 28 attack, Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila said the death of the 43 farmers has brought “untold grief .”

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Buhari initiates health insurance committee for retirees, elderly

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The Nigerian government on Monday in Abuja inaugurated a ministerial committee that will develop a framework for the provision of health insurance for retirees and the elderly.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, explained that it was part of the present administration’s commitment to improving access to healthcare in the country.

According to him, the new development “underscores the resolve and commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to promote the wellbeing of aging citizens through the provision of health insurance.

“The President subscribes to the view that elders who have served the country be treated with respect and dignity.

“The President commits to investing in older persons in recognition of the contributions they continue to make to family, communities, and the nation.

“This aligns with global best practices in healthcare for older persons,” he said.

Ehanire commended the collaborative efforts of the ministry and that of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in ensuring timely and successful inauguration of the committee.

“I shall inaugurate this committee, as part of Mr. President’s commitment to improving the quality of care of the elderly, through the provision of health insurance, with the following Terms of Reference (TOR).

“The committee is to assess the current situation of health insurance coverage and access to healthcare for retirees and senior citizens (over 60 years) in Nigeria.

“It is to develop a National Framework for effective Health Insurance Coverage for retirees and senior citizens and undertake any other activity that will facilitate the Health Insurance Coverage,” he added.

He also announced Mr Linus Awute, a seasoned officer, now retired former Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Health as Chairman of the Committee.

Responding, Mr. Linus Awute, in his acceptance speech, thanked the government for giving him the chance to serve and promised to justify the confidence reposed in him and members.

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Okowa signs 2021 Delta’s budget of N383bn

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Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa on Monday in Asaba assented to the state’s 2021 Appropriation Bill of N383 billion.

The bill tagged, ‘Budget of Economic Recovery’ is made up of N210 billion capital expenditure and N173 billion recurrent expenditure.

The Delta House of Assembly increased the budget figure of N378.48 proposed by the governor to N383 billion.

Signing the budget, Okowa assured the people that the state would strive to recover from the economic challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The governor commended the state house of assembly for the speedy passage of the bill.

He said signing the budget would avail the state government the opportunity to further plan towards its implementation from January 2021.

He said that the state government would remain focused on the implementation of the budget as passed, for the benefit of the people.

Okowa said, “You have just witnessed my signing into law, the 2021 Appropriation Bill, and as I said on October 27, during the presentation of the bill, we are in very difficult times this year.

“The second wave of the pandemic will create a further challenge for the recovery of the economy of our nation.

“However, we are optimistic that in the 2021 fiscal year, things will gradually improve and we will be able to get back to the desired levels of infrastructural and human capital development for our people.

“There is a lot of unemployment and our people are generally getting restive nationally.

“I pray that God will help us and this nation to rediscover ourselves and to commit every work of our people and our state and nation for the common good of all our citizens.”

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ASUU denies agreement with federal government

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU has denied plans to call off the eight-month-long strike.

Last night, social media was agog with reports that the academic union had concluded plans to call off the strike after meeting with the Government negotiation team led by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige on Friday, November 27.

The Federal Government had a meeting with the union at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Labour and Employment where it reportedly increased its offer for Earned Allowances EA to university-based unions and funding for the revitalization of public universities from N65 billion to N70 billion.

Reports last night claimed the union would call off the strike after the Federal government pledged to pay N40 billion for Earned Allowances and N30 billion for the revitalization of the university system bringing the total payment to N70 billion. It was further reported that the Government agreed to settle the salary arrears of the aggrieved lecturers before December 31. The report also noted that ASUU was expected to report the agreement to its organs and then communicate their decision to the government after which a date for the calling off of the strike would be announced.
However in a chat with Vanguard, the president
of ASUU, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, denied knowledge of any agreement to call off the strike, stressing that at least
the meeting, it was only agreed that the union should convey Government message to their organs and get back to Government.

” I am not aware of that. All I know is that we had a meeting and we are going to report to our members. But I don’t know about suspension of the strike.” Ogunyemi said

Minister of Employment, Chris Ngige, told newsmen after the meeting that he is positive that all issues relating to the strike will be resolved in its next meeting with ASUU.

“Many issues were discussed at the meeting including salary shortfall, the payment system, and revitalization of the university system. I am positive that all the issues would be resolved at our next meeting.” Ngige said.

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Why ‘We’ll never allow another violent #EndSARS protest’- IGP Adamu Mohammed

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The Inspector-Genveral of Police (IGP), Adamu Mohammed, says going forward the force will never allow another type of #EndSARS protest again.

The police boss stated this when he spoke at a meeting with commissioners of police in Abuja, on Friday, November 27. He said the force is ready to face anyone who organises or participates in such protests across the country.

“Remember, even our constitution does not accept violent protests, so, those people that are planning to come up with another protest, if they’ve planned it to be a violent one, they should re-think, otherwise, we have prepared to face them.

“We will never allow this type of #EndSARS protests again. It was violent. Peaceful protest is allowed in our constitutions. When this process started peacefully, we provided security for them. We were moving with them to make sure they were not molested by any group of people and it was going on well until it turned violent.

“When it turned violent, they then attacked the people that were even giving them protection. So, we shall never allow any violent protest in this country again. When you talk of peaceful protests, yes, it is allowed but violent protests, never!

“We’re to protect this country from hoodlums. We’re to protect this country from violence, and we want every Nigerian to work with us, to prevent what had happened in the aftermath of the end of SARS in terms of destruction of public properties, loss of lives, businesses of individuals were crippled, corporate institutions were destroyed.

“Well-meaning Nigerians should join hands with us to prevent recurrence of such. We have made a lot of arrests of those people that escaped from prisons. Some were even arrested in Kano and Kaduna. When they escaped, some of them went back to their business of robbery.” he said

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ASUU submits to call of strike over agreement with FG

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has agreed to call off its strike which has lasted for 8 months.

The union leadership reached the agreement during a meeting with the government team led by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, on Friday, Nov 27, in Abuja.

The Federal Government also pledged to increase the total payment to the union to N70 billion.

This comes one week after the FG accepted the demand by the ASUU that they be exempted from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System.

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School teacher on the run for allegedly beating student to death

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A school teacher identified as Mr. Emmanuel is currently on the run for allegedly beating his student, Boluwatife Omelaja, to death, in Ikorodu, Lagos state on Thursday, November 26.

Ridwan Oyewenmi, brother to the deceased, disclosed this while calling on Nigerians on social media to help him seek justice after the school teacher who killed his brother.

According to his tweet, Emmanuel said the teacher beat Omelaja due to his inability to answer a question.

His tweet reads; “Twitter NG I just lost my brother to School Teacher Brutality. Mr. Emmanuel (frame 1) is a Sec school teacher at Elihans college, Ikorodu in Lagos. He beat up my brother Boluwatife Omelaja to death on the 6th of November on the school premises because he couldn’t answer a math question he was asked correctly.

“The school initially made us believe he slumped and died while he was trying to answer the question on the board, a boy who wasn’t ill or showed any sign of sickness before.

“He was brought home in the school’s bus by the school proprietress and principal, along with Mr. Emma-whom we didn’t know was the killer at that time, and he was buried few hours according to Muslim doctrine.

“Meanwhile Bolu’s other brother, Lateef Omelaja was prevented from leaving the school premises, to prevent him from spreading the true news to us at home and to buy Mr. Emma more time to run away.

“We believed the cock and bull story the school fed us not until Lafeef phone at around 5 pm rated what happened at the school to us.

“We also confirmed this from other students of the school including classmates of Boluwatife.

“The painful part is, the school keeps trying cover-up for Mr Emma claiming he didn’t beat Bolu.

“Mr. Emma is on the run, nowhere to be found.

“I know no amount of punishment for him will bring back my brother but, I just want Mr. Emma located and justice served.

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Welcome return of police to duty, Delta govt begs youths

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Youths of Delta State have been told to gladly welcome the return of police to duty in the state.

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) Security, to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, Engr. Emmanuel Udoka disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

Engr. Udoka stated that based on coded intelligence, some youths are still angry seeing police carrying out their statutory duties on the roads and streets.

He also affirmed that the police had learned their lessons with the #EndSARS Protest, adding that its consequence had been frustrating to them.

“Even the Government and every leader holding one position or the other had learned one lesson or the other. The #EndSARS Panel of Enquiry is equally doing a great job which will bring peace, reconciliation, and compensation to everyone that was unjustly victimized by SARS.

“However, we must give peace a chance. The country belongs to us all; we are still trying to find our feet economically, which is why we shouldn’t destroy the little we had managed to build.

The security aide said;
“Our youths must understand this. They must understand that they had made their point and now should allow our leaders to learn their mistakes and correct themselves going forward”.

In the interest of growth and development, it was gathered that the SSA Security had been going around the local government areas, meeting with various security agencies and community leaders on the best way to initiate peace processes and build on them.

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Why I’ll appoint more Nigerian women in governance – Buhari

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja assured of more inclusion of women in governance.

He also reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to end child marriage and boost girl-child education.

Buhari spoke when a group of Nigerian women led by the Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, visited him at the State House.

The Nigerian leader said he understood that when women hold strategic leadership positions both in government and the private sector, the development will be accelerated.

“I want to reassure you that this administration remains resolute to not only meet the 35 percent National Gender Policy but to exceed it across key decision making roles in government.’’

He advocated that the on-going Constitutional Review processes at all levels institutionalize accountability mechanisms and frameworks in the implementation of the National Gender Policy.

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Hate Speech: Lai Mohammed denies increment in fine from N500,000 to N5m (video)

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Nigeria’s information minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has denied announcing an increase in the fine for hate speech despite the video clip that shows him making the statement.

The minister in response to a motion filed by Inibehe Effiong, human rights lawyer before a Federal High Court in Lagos, to challenge the imposition of the fine stated on oath that he never made such an announcement. Back in August, Mohammed had announced the decision of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to increase the fine for hate speech from N500,000 to N5m.

He clarified that the amendments were necessitated by a presidential directive, in the wake of the 2019 general elections.

However, the information minister in a counter-affidavit deposed by Sunday Ojobo, a litigation secretary at the federal ministry of information and culture, explained that Mohammed never announced such a fine. The affidavit reads in part:

“Paragraph 19 is denied. The 2nd defendant (Mohammed) did not announce an increment in any fine for hate speech from N500,000 to N5,000,000 or any other because there is a governmental body or institution mandated to regulate and enforce the Nigerian Broadcasting Code.”

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See what will happen if Buhari does not listen to Nigerians – Governor Wike

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Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has pointed out the need for President Buhari to listen to the wish of Nigerians.

The Governor disclosed this on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, November 26, two days after the federal government met with leaders of the South-South region who demanded restructuring of Nigeria in line with the principle of true federalism.

He stated that Buhari will be putting the country on fire if he doesn’t listen to the people.

Wike said;

“We must understand in this country that political leadership is very key. Having the political will to implement what the people want is very serious.

“I don’t want to talk about the issue of distrust or no trust in government. People have raised such issues, that they don’t think that nothing will come out of all this dialogue. I don’t agree with that. I believe that if the president does not do, given the opportunities he has now, then, he will be putting Nigeria on fire.”

Wike also talked about the over-politicisation of governance in the South-South region and why Nigeria should implement state policing structures.

Reacting to Omo-Agege’s criticism of the bloc’s governors for not consulting with federal representatives from the region before coming up with their demands, the Governor said;

“The problem is that we play politics with everything.

“Unfortunately, you have the South-South zone, where you have PDP governance. It is unfortunate. Now, as I speak to you, I have a Minister . . . he has never one day said ‘what do we do for the state, look what I’m thinking’.

“So that opportunity has not been there. We are playing politics, saying these Governors are not members of my party, and so I don’t need to talk to them. And that’s the problem we have always had.

“And we have said, that is not correct, politics have come and gone, we are talking about governance, what affects the people of Niger-Delta. When the time for politics comes, then everybody will go your own way.”

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Widows empowered with melon shelling machines in Delta

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The Delta State Government, through the Office of Widows’ Welfare Scheme, has put smiles in the faces of widows by distributing Mellon Shelling Machines and power generating sets to them.

Chief Isioma Okonta, chairman of the scheme, distributed the equipment to the beneficiaries at Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area.

The chairman was accompanied by members of his management team, such as Dr. Emmanuel Mafiana, Hon. Jerry Eruvwede, Hon. Humphrey Uzuakpundu, Hon. Mrs. Iroro Onyearo, Hon. Tony Onah, Hon. Nkechi Chukwurah, Hon. Dele Akpatashi, Hon. Ikechukwu Uwagwu, and the host of others.

According to him, the widows who benefited from the scheme, cut across the Nine (9) local government areas of Delta North, stressing: “This special empowerment programme implemented by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa through the Office of Widows’ Welfare Scheme is in collaboration with the state Job Creation Bureau, led by professor Eric Eboh.”

Chief Okonta also disclosed that widows from Delta Central and South senatorial Districts had taken their turn a few months ago at Government House Annex, Warri.

Receiving the equipment, the widows who could not hide their joy, commended and prayed to God to strengthen and bless Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the team administering the scheme beyond measures.

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Why I tried selling my three-months-old baby for N150,000 – Arrested woman

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Anambra state police command has arrested a woman identified as Emilia Sunday for attempting to sell her three-month-old baby boy.

The woman who claims to be 21 from Akwa Ibom State, told police operatives that her decision was predicated on the hardship of life on her.

It was gathered that she attempted to sell the baby for N150,000 before she was arrested by the police on a tip-off.

Spokesperson for Anambra State Police Command, SP Haruna Mohammed who disclosed this to journalists said further investigation on the matter had been opened, while the baby has also been taken from her.

“On the 24/11/2020 at about 6:pm, following intelligence report, Police operatives attached to Ojoto Division in Anambra State arrested one Emila Sunday ‘f’ who claimed to be 21 years old from Akwa Ibom State, with a three months old baby boy at Ire-village, Ojoto.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the woman is attempting to sell her three months old baby boy which the suspect claimed was due to hardship.

“The baby was rescued in good health and investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the matter,” Mohammed said.

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Delta Commissioner Aniagwu, charges youth on talent development

The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu has called on youths in the state to key into the prosperity agenda of the State Government.

He made the call while playing host to an upcoming comedian, Dome Bright who paid him a courtesy in his office recently.

Aniagwu, told the youths to develop their talents and acquire skills that will make them productive members of the society as well as employers of labour stressing that this will help reduce unemployment in the society.

The commissioner pointed out that apart from keying into the numerous state government skills acquisition programme, which he said had benefited many Deltans, some youths had taken it upon themselves to develop their God given talents, adding that such had impacted positively in the life of Deltans economically and socially.

He further stated that apart from the economic gains, comedy was also a cure to ease stress and heaviness occasioned by certain life challenges.

Aniagwu, urged youths to strive to develop their talents, saying that the society had evolved to the extent that no talent should be wasted.

“When people are entertained and energized, they have a way of contributing their quota to the development of the society and it goes a long way in promoting peace,” Aniagwu said.

The information boss therefore urged other youths to copy comedians like Dome Bright, whom he said was following the footsteps of notable comedians such as Ali Baba and Frank D Don, among others, stressing that the comedy market had huge business potentials.

Earlier, Dome Bright notified the commissioner of his forthcoming comedy show in Agbor, which according to him, would attract prominent comedians of Delta State origin.

The comedian called for the commissioner to be present during the occasion in December, 2020 as well as lend his support to ensure the success of the event in Agbor, Delta State.

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Suspected thief set ablaze for snatching phone with toy gun in Delta (photos)

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A suspected thief was beaten to death and set ablaze by a mob in Idjerhe community, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State on Tuesday morning, November 24.

According to reports, the suspect, who was part of a two-man gang accosted a lady with a toy gun and snatched her mobile phone and an undisclosed sum of money.

When the victim discovered that it was a toy gun, she raised the alarm and the suspected robbers fled.

The alarm attracted the attention of a mob in the area, who pursued the suspects. They caught one of them, beat him to death before setting his body ablaze.

Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed the incident.

See graphic photos below…

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PDP senator Elisha Abbo, quits party for APC

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The senator representing Adamawa North in the House of Assembly, Senator Elisha Abbo has left the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

News of defection of the lawmaker was announced via a letter which was read at today’s plenary session.

According to Abbo, he defected to the APC due to the mismanagement of the PDP-led administration of Governor Umaru Fintiri.

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Lekki Shootings: CNN wants to escape now – Lai Mohammed

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Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, has stated that the Cable News Network (CNN) are “desperate” and “trying to escape”.

He disclosed this while speaking on NTA, in response to CNN’s second video report on the alleged shooting by the Nigerian Army at #EndSARS protesters at the Lekki toll gate on October 20.

The minister insisted that CNN was not fair and balanced in their report and did not reach out to the federal government.

“They (CNN) were caught spreading fake news and they are trying to escape.

“We are accusing them (CNN) of basing their stories on videos sourced on social media. CNN has been inconsistent. It also doctored the video it got.

“We are confident in our position,” Mohammed said.

Mohammed again asked CNN to provide the evidence of dead bodies allegedly killed by soldiers.

Recall that in October, the #EndSARS protests took place around the country and ended with the shooting of peaceful demonstrators at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos.

CNN’s investigative reports claim the Army shot at people with live rounds and witnesses of the Lekki shooting have accused military officers of taking away the bodies.

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Man caught with human skulls, other body parts

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A 55-year-old man, Yesiru Salisu, has been taken into custody in Ogun State after police said they found human body parts on him.

According to police, those parts included four skulls, three jaws, and two hands.

The suspect was seen with a bag slung over his left shoulder in the Ago-Iwoye area of the state and was accosted by residents who demanded to know what he was carrying in the bag.

Upon being questioned, he dropped the bag and ran into the bush.

The Divisional Police Officer, Ago-Iwoye Police Division, Paul Omiwole led detectives to the scene and found the bag filled with human parts.

The detectives also fished out Salisu from the bush and apprehended him.

Police spokesman Abimbola Oyeyemi said Salisu said he will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID) for further investigation and prosecution.

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Burna Boy gets another Grammy nomination

Burnaboy’s latest album ‘Twice As Tall’ has gotten him a second chance at winning a Grammy.

The talented singer, on Monday, got a World Music Album nomination alongside Antibalas, Bebel Gilberto, Anoushka Shankar, and Tinariwen.

Burna Boy, 29, lost in his first attempt to win a Grammy award after being nominated in the best world music album category in January 2020. Beninese music legend, Angelique Kidjo, won the award.

‘Twice As Tall’ which is Burna Boy’s fifth album was released in August. Burna Boy, his mum cum manager, Bosede Ogulu, and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, were the executive producers.

The album was produced by Telz, P2J, Timbaland, Leriq, Rexxie, Skread, Andre Harris, Jae5, Mike Dean, and many more.

The 63rd Annual Grammy Awards will hold on January 31, 2021, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

The award will recognize the best recordings, compositions, and artists of the year.

The Grammys award is hosted by South African comedian, writer, producer, political commentator,Trevor Noah.

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How three missing children were found dead in police officer’s home

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The bodies of three children were found in a car parked at the home of a retired police officer at Ugwu Ogede in Itchi, Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State on Monday, November 23.

The victims identified as Chibugo Eze, Chinenye Eze, and Ebuka Ene, were reported missing after they went to fetch water at a commercial borehole owned and located at the home of the former police officer.

It was gathered that two other children named Kingsley Eze, and Mmasichukwu were equally rescued from the same car.

Upon resuscitation, they claimed that three hooded men abducted them and left them in the car. The hoodlums reportedly returned in the middle of the night to take them away but they couldn’t open the faulty car doors, so they abandoned the kids and ran away.

The parents of the children had raised a search team when the five kids who had gone to the borehole at about 8 am on Sunday, November 22, did not return home as usual.

The traditional ruler of the community, HRH, Igwe Ike Oke, who confirmed the incident said that he also mobilised personnel of vigilante and Forest Guard groups who joined in the search of the missing children.

“We were almost frustrated in our search when a community member who went to fetch water heard the voice of a little child calling her name. She traced the voice to a car that had been parked for over six months in the compound where she discovered the children and raised the alarm,” said the monarch.

“We found three of the children already dead by the time we opened the car. I think they suffocated to death because the car doors were stiffed when we tried to open it at first but we engaged an artisan who forced it open. One of the two children rescued said they went to fetch water but didn’t meet anyone at the borehole because the owner and the entire members of the family had gone to church service,”

“He informed us that they were about going home when three hooded men came from a hill beside the scene of the incident and abducted them into the car and left. He said they were all dressed in red clothes. He also said that the hoodlums returned in the middle of the night to take them away but they couldn’t open the car doors because they were stiffed. We are still investigating the incident and the dead victims have been deposited in the mortuary. The owner of the house has been arrested by police,” he explained.

Also confirming the incident, the youth leader of the Nkalagu Obukpa community where two of the victims hailed from, Ifeanyi Eze, described the news as shocking.

Eze added that leaders of the community are working toward unraveling the circumstances which led to the mysterious death of the children.

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Sorrow as 17-year-old girl who got 7 A1s in WAEC dies (photos)

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A teenager who got 7A1s in the 2019 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has died.

Chisom Chukwuneke, made straights A’s in the entrance exam and emerged the best student from her school, Graceland college in Enugu last year. She went on to win numerous academic awards in her school.

Chisom was reportedly sick and was already making a recovery before she died.

A photo of her as she sat on her hospital bed has been shared online.

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Police arrest 19-year-old, friend for setting ex-lover’s house, girlfriend ablaze

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The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a Nineteen-year-old girl identified as Jemila Ibrahim and her friend, Fatima Mohammed, for setting her ex-lover’s house ablaze.

It was gathered that Jemila and her friend stormed the residence of her ex-lover, Mohammed Yusuf, at the Monkey Village, FESTAC area of the state.

They stormed the area
around 5.30 pm on November 18 and set the house ablaze, while his girlfriend, Rabi was inside.

It was also learnt that Yusuf, who got to know about the incident, rushed home to rescue Rabi and took her to hospital, where she died on Saturday around noon.

It was alleged that Mohammed left Jemila over alleged infidelity on her part.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Monday, said policemen from the Satellite Division arrested the suspects, adding that the state Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, had ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Panti, for further investigation.

The statement read in part, “The duo of Jemila Ibrahim and her friend, Fatima Mohammed, of Monkey Village, who accompanied Jemila to commit the heinous crime, has been arrested by the police operatives attached to the Satellite Division of the command.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Hakeem Odumosu, who condemned the crime, has ordered that the matter be transferred to the SCIID, Panti, for discreet investigation. The CP also vowed to go after those, who engage in crimes and social vices, and to rid the state of criminals and criminality.”

The CP, however, urged the residents of the state to avoid taking the law into their own hands.

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Lekki : CNN releases footage of shooting, confirms live bullets

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CNN has released CCTV footage of the Lekki Toll Gate Shooting and Brigadier-General
Taiwo’s confirmation of live bullets being brought to the protest ground by soldiers.

The Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed was also called out by the American news network which stated that there’s been shifting narratives since the shooting.

Videos of those who sustained injuries from the shooting were also shown as they recounted how it happened. CNN concluded by stating that it stands by its previous report of the Nigerian army shooting unarmed protesters, despite Lai Mohammed alleging that they were misinformed.

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US Election: Trump finally allows power transition to Biden

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After two weeks of grandstanding, US President Donald Trump has finally accepted to allow a transition of power to his potential successor, Joe Biden.

In a Monday evening tweet, Trump said he had recommended that the General Services Administration (GSA) “do what needs to be done” in that regard.

The president’s tweet came amid reports by local media that the GSA has determined Biden to be the winner of the Nov. 3 presidential election.

GSA Administrator, Emily Murphy, sent Biden a letter earlier on Monday to inform him that his transition could now begin.

ABC News quoted an unnamed official of the Biden transition team as confirming that the former Vice President had received the letter.

With this, the president-elect’s transition team can now access government resources, including funds, for a smooth transition of power.

The GSA is a federal agency responsible for enabling the transition of power from one administration to another, and it controls the funds for the process.

By law, the head of the agency must first “ascertain” the winner of a presidential election before setting the transition ball rolling.

But with Trump’s refusal to concede, the GSA administrator, who was appointed by the president in 2017, had held back from starting the process.

Murphy had come under fire from Democrats and other critics, who accused her of allowing political influence to interfere in the agency’s independence.

Defending her decision in the letter to Biden, the GSA head denied being influenced by the White House or official of the executive branch of government.

“I have dedicated much of my adult life to public service, and I have always strived to do what is right.

“Please know that I came to my decision independently, based on the law and available facts.

“I was never directly or indirectly pressured by any Executive Branch official—including those who work at the White House or GSA—about the substance or timing of my decision,” she said.

In his tweet, Trump said he advised the agency to start the process because he did not want Murphy, her family, and employees of the GSA to continue to suffer harassment and abuse.

“I want to thank Emily Murphy at GSA for her steadfast dedication and loyalty to our Country.

“She has been harassed, threatened, and abused – and I do not want to see this happen to her, her family, or employees of GSA”, Trump said.

The president, who is in court challenging the election results in key battleground states, said his case would continue.

“Our case STRONGLY continues, we will keep up the good fight, and I believe we will prevail!” .

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Gbagi is still wanted for other alleged crimes, says Delta CP

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Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hafiz Mohammed Inuwa has revealed that a Delta PDP gubernatorial aspirant cum former Minister of Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi is still wanted by the Police.

He disclosed this in a statement on Monday, 23rd November; 2020, when members of the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Asaba.

He said that the gubernatorial aspirant will surely be arrested in due time, stressing that “nobody, not even me or Gbagi is above the law.

Mr. Inuwa hinted Gbagi having used an excuse an elder sister’s burial, escaped out of the state and cunningly rushed to Abuja by road to obtain an interim injunction to restrain him from arresting him (Gbagi) while trying to blackmail him the CP,

He said, “the day I set my eyes on Gbagi ‘i will arrest him myself’, perhaps he thinks the court injunction will save him, yes it will but for a different charge entirely, but he will be arrested for many other charges against him.”

“Let me tell, you dear friends until we start demystifying these-called led big men who think they are above the law, they will not understand how a bitter pill tastes. He could have been playing people all along, but not with me. Let him keep running, all I know is that he is still being wanted by the Command”

The Commissioner who stated that Gbagi was on the run for an alleged criminal offence, stripping his female workers naked, including married women, was also alleged to have criminally obtained money from the staff after dehumanizing them in the presence of other staff.

Meanwhile, the CP also hinted that the Endsars protest was engineered by criminally-minded elements, he further hinted that the major cause of the protest which started in Delta state was as a result of fake news and that all persons involved have been charged to court.

CP Inuwa further stated that it’s painful that since January 2019 till date that 37 police officers have lost their lives in the line of duty at the hands of a hit and run drivers as seen during the covid-19 lockdown era, kidnappers, armed robbers, bandit, armed hoodlums, and a host of others.

CP Inuwa further commended the executive governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for his proactive approach towards handling the affairs of the state mostly in these trying times, hinting that “maybe it’s because he’s a doctor; you know doctors are always proactive and ready to save lives”

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Dr. Anu of Med Contour suspended over alleged deaths, unskilled practice

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Dr. Anu Adepoju of Med Contour clinic has been suspended from the medical profession in Nigeria following multiple claims of malpractice and botched surgeries.

It was gathered that several women who went to the clinic for cosmetic surgery complained about having complications that they still suffer from. One particular patient was rushed to LUTH and eventually died after being operated upon by Dr. Anu.

Earlier this year, LUTH petitioned the medical panel following the death of the victim of Dr. Anu’s procedure who died after being transferred to its hospital.

Also, this year, popular social media personality, Omotola Taiwo Temilade, popularly known as Omohtee, called Dr. Anu out following a botched surgery that left her with complications.

Dr. Anu has continued to insist that she’s a qualified cosmetic surgeon and has undergone the necessary training. She said she is a graduate of the University of Lagos College of Medicine Class of 2015, after which she went abroad to study cosmetic surgery, making her a Physician member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.

She added that she has performed over 300 successful surgeries and blamed patients’ complications on their failure to follow post-surgery care guidelines that she gives because they think they know better.

Dr. Anu was pictured in court in July 2020 when the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, arraigned her before Justice Mohammed Liman of the Federal High Court, Lagos, over her services which allegedly resulted in the death of Nneka.

She has now been suspended from the medical profession in Nigeria and, according to popular medical doctor, Dr. Olufunmilayo. He said she cannot practice anywhere else in the world.

Dr. Olufunmilayo shared the news, writing: “Dr. Anu of Med Contour has now been suspended from the medical profession in Nigeria. Remember her viral story was all over social media when Omohtee said she ruined her buttocks. Dr. Anu was alleged to also killing a beauty queen in 2018 who she did surgery on.

“Dr. Anuoluwapo Olufunmi Adepoju has been suspended from the medical profession in Nigeria with effect from 5th November 2020. The suspension Order was issued by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel under powers conferred on it by section 15(3)c of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act Cap M8 LFN 2004.

“She graduated from College of Medicine Unilag 2017. By December 2018 she carried out a Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery procedure on a patient who developed complications and went on to die from the complications.

“She was a House Officer when she carried out the procedure. Her suspension is till further notice. It is pending the determination of the case by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.”

Dr Olufunmilayo added: “If you read the Dr Anu story earlier this year on Twitter, this is to confirm she has now been suspended from medical practice. She only graduated from The College of Medicine UniLag 2017. Then she did butt enlargement operation on a beauty queen in 2018. Sadly the patient died.”

On whether Dr Anu can practice elsewhere, the doctor said: “Some people say ‘well Dr Anu can practice elsewhere even if suspended in Nigeria’ Actually NO. She cannot. As a Nigerian-trained doctor, To work anywhere in the world, You need a ‘Certificate of Good Standing’ from the Medical Council, Nigeria. And you can’t get that if suspended.”

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Sorrow in Port-Harcourt as police officer kills security guard (photos)

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A Marine Police officer
attached to a company at Abonnema wharf in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Sunday, November 22, allegedly shot dead a 28-year-old man identified as Gospel Gbaraka.

It was gathered that the deceased, was until his death, a security guard attached to Bulk Strategic Reserve Limited, a company located at the Abonnema Wharf area of the state capital while the alleged killer police officer, one Inspector James, serves at the Marine Base Police Station in the city.

Details about what led to the incident are still sketchy at the moment, however, eyewitnesses claimed that Inspector James shot Gbaraka dead with his AK 47 assault rifle.

Comrade Legborsi Yamaabana, President-General, Ogoni Youth Federation/President, Rivers State Ethnic Youth Leaders Coalition, who confirmed the incident in a statement shared photos of the deceased’s father weeping after seeing his body, while demanding for justice and thorough investigation into the killing.

The statement reads;

“The Ogoni Youth Federation (OYF) worldwide today Sunday 22nd November, 2020 received a distressing and shocking news of the extra-judicial murder of one of its youths and shining lights, Mr. Gospel Gbaraka at the hands of a gun-wielding member of the Nigerian Police Force, one Inspector James, serving at the Marine Base Police Station in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, now being detained at the Mile One Police Station,”

“Late Gospel Gbaraka, prior to being untimely cut short through the barrel of a gun was a 28 year old native of Gwara Community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State and a Security Staff with Bulk Strategic Reserve Limited, a company located at the Abonnema Wharf area of Port Harcourt,”

“Gospel Gbaraka was on duty at his security post this morning. The said Inspector James is also a police security personnel attached to the company. There were no altercations, riot or crisis situation at the company involving groups of persons requiring the use of live bullets to disperse crowds, neither was there any existing problem between the deceased and Inspector James.

“Eyewitness accounts state that Inspector James mistakenly or deliberately discharged his AK 47 assault rifle and thereby killed Mr. Gospel Gbaraka in cold blood.

“As a youth body, we are incredibly pained that the life of this young man has been taken, particularly now that Nigeria is at a crossroad and the world has been awoken to the demands of #EndSars protesters whose focal point is to end the recurring decimal of police brutality and extrajudicial killings. This is one of too many as other Ogoni sons/daughters have been killed by the Nigerian Police in like manner.

“The Ogoni Youths immediately demand for justice over the life of Gospel Gbaraka. We call on the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command to cause an investigation into this horrific incident and ensure that the erring officer is prosecuted and brought to book. The family of the deceased, at least deserves the consolation that their son’s life was not wasted unjustifiably for nothing.

“Conclusively, OYF invites media outfits to a PRESS CONFERENCE with the parents of Gospel Gbaraka on the above subject matter tomorrow 23rd November, 2020 by 9am at Ernest Ikoli Press Centre (NUJ Secretariat) Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.”

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How ‘I sold my goats, pigs’, other properties to pay ransom ― father of Kidnapped student

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A father who paid a ransom to Kidnappers in a Kaduna forest before his child was released on Saturday, said he sold his goats, pigs, and other valuables to raise the money.

The father, who was thankful to God for the development, was among other parents whose children were the 9 Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria students that were kidnapped along the dreaded Kaduna-Abuja highway last week.

Speaking to newsmen, the happy father who would not like his name to be mentioned, said: “Some parents paid N1million, some paid over N1million, some paid N2milion, some paid over N500,000, depending on how each parent bargain with the kidnappers because they spoke separately with us.”

“Some parents were asked to drop their money at a particular place at Abuja junction and leave the place then somebody picked the money, counted it and notified the people in the bush that the money had been paid.”

“Four of us went to deliver the money but we didn’t know that we were all victims. After a series of bargaining, they said I should pay N1 million but I told them that I cannot afford to raise that amount. I told them I have over N500, 000 and they asked me to bring it. I sold my goats, pigs, and other belongings to pay the money,” he said.

The parents said that they took the ransom to the kidnappers in the forest late hours Saturday.

“The amount varied from N500, 000 to N4million to get each of the children released …..while some were made to hand their ransom to members of the kidnap syndicate in Kaduna, others were contacted separately,.We were united by the kidnappers through phone calls at the Abuja junction. We were made to convey the ransom to the kidnappers’ enclave in the bush along the Kaduna-Abuja road.

“The kidnappers also asked us to bring Maltina and milk together with the money.

Another parent said, “they called on Saturday and said if I am not able to pay N1 million, they will kill my daughter or marry her or use her as a sex slave.”

“On arriving Kaduna we were told that security personnel was monitoring the bandits in the bush, but surprisingly, the bandits called us and told us to come and wait at Abuja junction.

“They sent us a telephone number to call. We called the number and the person came to take us to a car. Unknown to me the owner of the car is also a victim’s parent; his daughter was among those abducted.

“We drove along the Kaduna – Abuja road around 11 pm to deliver the ransom and other things. The Kidnappers also demanded crates of Maltina and cartons of milk from each us.”

“When we got to Dutse, we stopped at a junction leading to the bush. We met soldiers there and they stopped ordered us to sit down. The soldiers observed that all of us were carrying nylon bags and the items and they asked what were in the nylon bags. We told them that we are carrying money to pay ransom for the students that were kidnapped. The soldiers wished us safe journey to the bush and we parked the car at the junction. We trekked far inside the bush from Dutse and handed over the money to the Kidnappers and they released the girls to us.”

According to another father,” some of us paid N1million, some paid over N1million, some paid N2milion, some paid over N500,000, depending on how each parent bargain with the hoodlums because they spoke with every parent.”

“Some parents were asked to drop their money at a particular place at Abuja junction and leave the place then somebody picked the money, counted it, and notified the people in the bush that the money had been paid. Four of us went to deliver the money but we didn’t know that we were all victims,” he said.

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Pregnant woman, two others died in Rivers accident

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A pregnant mother and two others were feared dead when a commercial bus rammed into traders at Rumuodara junction in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The bus was reportedly being chased by another vehicle when it veered off the road and rammed into traders and passers-by.

An eyewitness said: “The incident happened about 6 pm on Saturday. The driver was speeding when he lost control and hit some people standing by the road. One expectant mother and two traders were injured.

“The expectant mother lay on the ground faced down for a long time before she and others were rushed to the hospital.”

But a tricycle rider said one of the victims he rushed to a nearby hospital was confirmed dead by the doctor.

He said: “The bus came from Eliozu area on hath speed. I guess another driver was chasing the driver and in the process, he lost control of the steering and hit people standing by the road.

“The girl I rushed to a nearby hospital was confirmed dead. After the accident, the driver rushed to seize the key of the driver who was chasing him before policemen from Okporo station came to arrest them.”

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Police officer, patrol team members in trouble over bribe

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A Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kayode Popoola, and his team members have been arrested for taking N100,000 bribe.

Adebayo Taofiq, Head of Public Affairs, Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force, said this in a statement on Sunday.

Popoola is the leader of the Task Force team operating on the Lekki-Ajah axis of Lagos.

Taofiq said the bribe was paid by one Didi Ekanem.

She owns a Toyota Venza with number APP 775 GJ and was caught driving against traffic around Lekki Ajah Expressway.

“After the transfer, the vehicle was then released to Ekanem. They will be sent back to the Lagos State Police Command for further disciplinary actions,” Taofiq said.

The spokesman confirmed that the Task Force Chairman, CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi ordered the arrest of Kayode and others.

Egbeyemi warned motorists to desist from driving against traffic, adding that culprits will be charged to the Lagos State Mobile Court.

He told citizens to stop inducing officers with money and reminded them that both the giver and receiver are liable in law.

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Wike puts 24-hour curfew in affected areas over rivers cult clash

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has condemned the increase of cult activities, violence, and killings around adjoining areas of the Okoro-nodu flyover in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.

In a broadcast Sunday evening, Wike recalled that the administration repeatedly warned misguided youths that engaging in cultism is abhorrent anti-social behavior.

He vowed that anyone who disturbs peace and security in Rivers neighborhoods will be dealt with.

“As part of measures to tackle this menace, Government has imposed a 24-hour total curfew for two weeks on the entire area along and around the Okoro-nodu flyover up to one-kilometer radius from Saint Emmanuel Anglican Church, Rumuokoro, extending to the Rumuodomaya Slaughter and Local Government daily market with effect from Monday 23rd November 2020.

Wike stated that no form of trading, human or vehicular movement would be allowed within the mentioned restricted areas until further notice.

Only staff and vehicles belonging to Julius Berger Nigeria Limited are exempted from the curfew.

Wike directed security agencies to enforce strict compliance with the curfew, arrest , and prosecute any person, trader , or vehicle that violates.

The governor warned that community leaders allowing cultism and unrest to thrive in their domain would be treated as collaborators and punished.

He urged citizens to report suspicious cult acts, including gatherings and initiations in or around their neighborhoods to law enforcement.

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Yuletide: Army assures Deltans of security, flag-off crocodile smile six

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The Nigerian Army has assured residents of Delta State, particularly those residing in the waterside areas of adequate security and safety ahead of the yuletide.

The Commander 63 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Jallo, gave the assurance, Saturday, during the flag-off of Operation Crocodile Smile Six at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), jetty in Warri, .

Present at the occasion were Chairmen of Warri South, Uvwie and Udu council areas, Dr. Michael Tidi, Hon Ramson Onoyake, and Chief Jite Brown.

The Warri Area Police Commander, ACP Ibrahim Argungu, was also in attendance.

Speaking at the occasion, Brig-General Jallo explained that Operation Crocodile Smile has become an annual event in the calendar of the Nigeria Army.

He noted that the exercise was aimed at providing adequate security for residents of the state during the yuletide and to consolidate on the gains achieved so far, in the year.

The Army General disclosed that the main event was earlier flagged off at Asaba, the state capital, under the chairmanship of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, adding that it was taking place simultaneously in Koko and Ughelli towns.

Jallo emphasized that the exercise was for the benefit of Deltans, stating that the Army would spare no efforts in ensuring peace and security across the state during the coming Yuletide.

He urged other security outfits to abide by the rules of engagement while maintaining professionalism throughout the exercise.

On his part, the Commander, Sector 1, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Col. Sanni Ahmed, assured that his troops would carry out their assignment professionally, diligently, and within the ambits of the law.

Ahmed attributed the success recorded in the past to the synergy the Army enjoyed with other security agencies and promised to sustain it.

On his part, Area Commander of the Nigeria Police Force, ACP Ibrahim Argungu, pledged the cooperation of his men towards the success of the exercise.

Earlier, the Commander, 63 Brigade had inspected the Guard of Honour mounted by men of the 3 Battalion of the Nigerian Army, Effurun.

Warri South Chairman, Dr. Tidi, who spoke on behalf of his Udu and Uvwie counterparts, commended the army for its commitment towards the security and safety of lives and properties in the state, positing that the exercise would boost the confidence of residents and investors in the state.

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Reps speaker Gbajabiamila, visits family of vendor killed by his security aide (photos)

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has visited the family of Ifeanyi Okereke, the newspaper vendor who was shot dead by one of his security aides in Abuja,
Thursday, November 18.

Gbajabiamila condoled with the wife and family of the late vendor at Kwata village, Madalla-Suleja, Niger State, and pledged to ensure justice is served.

After the incident, the speaker released a statement in which he pledged to cater to the wife and the immediate family he left behind. He also identified the security aide as Abdullahi Hassan, whom the SSS has since detained.

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Lekki Shootings: Suspicion as LCC’s video footage stops at vital part

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It was a different game of disappointment, anger for those following the proceedings at the Lagos State Judicial Panel on Restitution for Victim of SARS Related Abuses and Other Matters yesterday when the video footage submitted by the Lekki Concession Company (LCC) stopped abruptly at the controversial portion, where soldiers allegedly fired at the armless #EndSARS protesters.

The three-hour video, which was played before the Justice Doris Okwuobi-led panel in a review of the Lekki Toll Gate incidente, was unable to capture the shooting that took place at the Lekki Toll Gate.

As witnessed by newsmen, the proceeding showed that the recording, which started at 5 pm ended at 7:59 pm on October 20, 2020.

The audience at the panel also expressed dissatisfaction that the video lacked audio and intermittently zoomed into different directions at the scene of the protest.

In the first one hour of the footage, the video showed protesters at the scene walking about. It also showed a road blockage towards the tollgate from the Victoria Island axis.

As recorded in the video, at about 6:46 pm, six security patrol vans were sighted approaching the tollgate from Victoria Island axis.

The video began to show night images at about 7:20 pm with protesters still at the scene.

At about 7:48 pm, the video showed burning tires and remained fixated on the scene for minutes. By 7:59 m, when the video ought to have ended, it continued to play but remained fixated on two security vehicles.

When a counsel drew the panel’s attention to the fact that time coverage of the video had elapsed, Justice Okwuobi insisted the video should continue.
However, at about 8 pm, the video ended, to the disappointment of many who had expected to see the LCC’s CCTV video version of the shooting at the tollgate.

Counsel to some of the #EndSARS protesters, Adeshina Ogunlana, told the panel when the video ended that there was a missing portion in the footage.

Okwuobi took note of his observation and said the matter would be looked into when the panel returned from a short break.

Shortly after recess, the panel ruled on the counsel’s argument as to who to cross-examine, whether the Nigeria Army or the Lekki Concession Company.

The representative of Nigerian Army and the LCC boss claimed to have engagement but was delayed because of the panel.

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EndSARS: Why bodies of protesters are not allowed for release – Mainland Hospital

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The management of Mainland Hospital, Lagos, says it received a directive from the state Ministry of Health not to release corpses of suspected #ENDSARS protesters.

This was disclosed following a visit to the Mainland Hospital after the Chief Coroner of Lagos State, Mrs. Mojisola Dada, via a public announcement, directed relatives who had lost loved ones between October 19th and 27th to visit the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to identify and claim bodies of their loved ones.

The #ENDSARS protests had lasted between October 7th and 20th in Lagos and several other states of the Federation.

While the protests lasted, relations, friends, and associates of missing persons claimed their relations had either been killed or held incommunicado by security agents.

Of particular concern was the Lekki toll gate shooting of Tuesday, October 20, where peaceful #ENDSARS protesters were shot at by security agents, leading to a yet-to-be ascertained number of casualties.

The shooting incident had attracted national and international outcry, with the Lagos State and Federal governments being urged to unravel the identity of the shooters and who deployed them.

The public notice by the Lagos State coroner did not, however, state if the bodies that had been scheduled for release also included those of persons who died during the #EndSARS protest.

It reads in part, “This is to notify the General Public that the Chief Coroner of Lagos State, Hon Justice M. A. Dada (Mrs.) under Section 15, Coroner’s System Law of Lagos State, 2015 the Pathology Team would want all those who have lost loved ones between 19th – 27th October 2020 (that is, next-of-kin of the victims) to provide relevant information that would assist the identification exercise.

“The next-of-kin should kindly contact the Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Oba Akinjobi Way, Ikeja for the identification exercise of the Deceased.

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Lekki Toll Gate: Gen. Taiwo says soldiers had live ammunition, but…

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Brigadier General Ahmed Taiwo, Commander of 81 Military Intelligence Brigade, Victoria Island, Lagos, Saturday revealed that soldiers who left Bonny Camp military base to #EndSARS Lekki Tollgate protest scene on October 20 had live ammunition.

The General while being cross-examined on his earlier testimony however said the live ammunitions were not used by soldiers who engaged protesters at the scene of the protest.

Asked by a counsel to some of the #EndSARS protesters, Olumide Fusika what the soldiers left Bonny Camp with, General Taiwo, said ‘Vehicles and riffles

When further asked if the soldiers’ rifles had only rubber bullets as he had earlier testified, the General said they had live bullets, but that it was meant for back up measures.

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Prophet, mother, and son remanded for allegedly killing LASU student

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An Osun State High Court sitting in Osogbo on Friday, November 20, remanded a prophet identified as Segun Philip, a lady identified as Bola Adeeko, and her son, Owolabi Adeeko

It was gathered that they were arrested over the alleged murder of a 400-level Lagos State University student identified as Favour Daley-Oladele.

She was declared missing after she left home to an undisclosed destination in 2019. After the suspects were arrested, Owolabi narrated how he used his girlfriend to prepare a ritual meal for himself and his mother who according to him was ‘broke.’

The suspects who had no counsel when the case was brought up in court, were charged on two counts of conspiracy and murder contrary to section 319 and 324 criminal Code Laws cap 34, Laws of Osun State.

Justice Grace Onibokun adjourned the
matter to March 3 and 10, 2021 for hearing and ordered that they should be remanded in prison.

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EndSARS: Lagos panel views protest video footage captured by LCC’s CCTV

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Proceedings at the Lagos State #EndSARS panel continued Saturday with the panel Chairman, Justice Doris Okuwobi (rtd) directing that the CCTV footage of the protest at the Lekki Tollgate captured by Lekki Concession Company CCTV camera be played for parties to watch.

The video footage was submitted at an earlier sitting of the panel by the Managing Director of LCC, Abayomi Omomuwansa.

Following the agreement reached by all counsels at the panel today, Justice Okuwobi directed that the video footage covering 5 pm to 7:59 pm on October 20, should be viewed.

The retired judge noted that it was necessary for the army representative to watch the footage to be abreast with the information already provided to the panel by LCC.

LCC boss, Omomuwansa had told the panel during his testimony that his company’s cameras were initially not tampered with until around 8 pm when they stopped recording due mostly to network issues.

He also pointed out that the power outage on the night of the shooting was because its staff was withdrawn from office locations after the announcement of the curfew by the Lagos State Government, so they could not switch on backup generators when power was interrupted.

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See why there will never be credible elections in Nigeria – PDP reveals

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Friday, revealed that elections in Nigeria will never be credible until there are improvements in the country’s electoral laws.

Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, National Publicity Secretary, to the party disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja on Friday.

Ologbondiyan also said that the party resolved to constitute a broad-based committee to work with the National Assembly and other stakeholders on the Electoral Act amendment to make Nigeria’s elections free, fair, and credible.

“We are also going to engage the civil societies on electoral reforms.

“As a party, we have seen that the issue of electoral frauds, abuses, hijack of the electoral process can only be redeemed if every Nigerian agrees in unison that we must amend the rules.

“This is why the PDP has agreed to work in concert with CSOs, faith-based organisations, community leaders to entrench a law in the system in which the people can truly elect their representatives,” he said.

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Lekki Shootings: Why Sanwo-Olu must appear before panel- #EndSARS Lawyer

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Counsel for some #EndSARS protesters in Lagos State, Mr. Adesina Ogunlana, has said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will have to appear before the Judicial Panel of Inquiry probing the alleged killing of #EndSARS protesters by soldiers at the Lekki tollgate on the night of October 20.

Ogunlana said since the military claimed before the panel that their operation on that day was on the invitation of the governor, it would be important for the governor to appear before the panel, particularly to demonstrate his professed belief in the rule of law.

The Commander of 81 Military Intelligence Brigade, Victoria Island, Lagos, Brigadier General Ahmed Taiwo, had during his cross-examination on Saturday said the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, ordered the deployment of soldiers to the tollgate and other parts of the state that day following a request by the governor.

“He (the governor) called the Chief of Army Staff, following which 81 Division, Nigerian Army was ordered into phase four of internal security operation; the call was in the afternoon, before 4 pm,” Taiwo told the panel.

Meanwhile, in an interview with newsmen on Friday, the lawyer was asked if the appearance of the governor was important to the case of his clients and whether he would be pushing for the governor’s appearance before the panel.

But Taiwo, who testified for the Nigerian Army before the panel on November 14, said soldiers used only blank bullets, which they fired into the air.

“Blank expended ammunition contains only gunpowder, which just makes noise and a flash,” Taiwo said.

The general said a blank bullet “can do no damage to the flesh and you have nothing to fear except you take a rifle, put it against your eye and fire. Even if you put it against your skin and fire you will only have burn marks to show for it.”

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NNPC GMD Kyari, claims Buhari never controls operations

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The group managing director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Malam Mele Kyari, said that President Muhammadu Buhari never infringed on the operations of the Corporation.

He disclosed this in a char with the National Association of Energy Correspondents in Abuja, on Friday. He said that the corporation had the full support of the president to operate effectively for the growth of the industry. He said that migrating to the deregulation of the downstream oil sector was a huge challenge and difficult decision for the president as he understood the pain it would put ordinary Nigerian through.

According to him, the president supported the decision because the government can no longer afford subsidies with harsh economic impact of COVID-19. The GMD said that the Corporation’s new focus was on gas development as the most resilient source of energy in the energy transition process.

Whenever the managing director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Malam Mele Kyari, said that President Muhammadu Buhari never infringed on the operations of the Corporation.

He disclosed this in a chat with the National Association of Energy correspondents in Abuja, on Frida where he said that the corporation had the full support of the president to operate effectively for the growth of the industry.

Kyari said that migrating to the deregulation of the downstream oil sector was a huge challenge and difficult decision for the president as he understood the pain it would put ordinary Nigerian through.

According to him, the president supported the decision because the government can no longer afford subsidies with harsh economic impact of COVID-19.

The GMD said that the Corporation’s new focus was on gas development as the most resilient source of energy in the energy transition process.

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Police returns woman’s lost purse containing big amount (photos)

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The Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) has revealed how officers recovered and returned a woman’s purse containing a large sum of money.

The police said RRS officers were on patrol around Igando when they saw a lady’s red purse fall from a bike. They picked it up and tried to signal the bike rider but he didn’t stop.

They went after them and made sure the woman got her purse back.

Sharing photos of officers handing the woman’s purse back to her, the RRS tweeted: “RRS officers while on patrol this evening around Igando saw a red purse fall from a lady on a bike. They picked it up and tried signaling the rider but he mistook it for an attempt to arrest him.

“Gradually they followed the bike to her destination then handed it over to her. She confirmed the sum of N115,000 and a Tecno phone inside the purse were all intact. #TheGoodGuys.”

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Gbajabiamila reveals how his security aide shot newspaper vendor

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A police aide attached to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has shot dead a newspaper vendor in Abuja.

In a statement personally signed by the Speaker, he said a full investigation into the incident has been launched.

It was gathered on Thursday evening that the incident happened at about 3 p.m. around the federal secretariat, which is the closest establishment to the Three Arms Zone.

The victim, Ifeanyi Okereke, was rushed to the National Hospital by his colleagues after being hit by the bullet.

The spokesperson of the National Hospital, Tayo Haastrup, confirmed that the victim died after sustaining a gunshot injury to the head.

Gbajabiamila’s version
Contrary to the report, Mr. Gbajabiamila said, “shots were fired into the air when some unidentified men obstructed his convoy”. He said the victim was hit by a stray bullet.

“A horrible incident has taken place. This evening as I left the national assembly, I stopped, as usual, to exchange pleasantries with the newspaper vendors at the corner. Many of them have known me since I first moved to Abuja and it was a friendly exchange.

“Unfortunately, after the convoy set out in continuation of the movement, unidentified men obstructed the convoy which got the attention of security men in the convoy who shot into the air to disperse them.

“Some hours later, after getting to our destination, it was brought to my attention that someone was hit by a stray bullet, contrary to an earlier report by men in the convoy that they applied their security discretion to shoot in the air.

“I have caused a report to be made to the local police station and an investigation has commenced.

“In the meantime; the officer who fired the fatal shot has been suspended from the convoy pending the conclusion of the investigation.

“My value for human life and my respect for all people – irrespective of social-economic status – is what endeared me to these vendors and these are the reasons why I stop my convoy quite often to connect with them.

“For one of them to have been shot by my security detail is horrific and I cannot begin to imagine the grief and loss Ifeanyi’s family must feel on this sad day. No family should have to go through this.

“I am personally distraught about this incident and my deepest sympathies go to the victim, his family, and Abuja vendors,” the Speaker said.

The Shehu Shagari Way, which is adjacent to the National Assembly entrance, is a known spot for newspaper vendors.

Most of the vendors receive various gifts from lawmakers and other dignitaries who stop by the traffic light.

The sullied reputation of the Nigeria Police Force suffered more blows after youth across the country, weeks ago, took to the streets in protest against police brutality, particularly the activities of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The case of the newspaper vendor is one of the many extrajudicial killings carried out by the police.

The SARS had long been accused of unlawful arrests, torture, extortion, and extrajudicial killings.

The protests, which initially started peacefully, turned violent, after a government clampdown with hoodlums taking advantage of the situation.

Dozens of people, including peaceful protesters and police officers, have been killed while public and private facilities were attacked.

Arguably, the worst of such incidents was the attack on protesters at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos when soldiers shot at peaceful protesters, who gathered there. At least two people were killed in the Lekki incident.

Though the government had made some concessions, including announcing the dissolution of the notorious SARS unit and the constitution of the judicial panel by several states to investigate police abuses, the protests had continued with the protesters widening their demands to include calls for reforms across the country’s entire police system.

At least 56 people died during the #EndSARS protests, the human rights group, Amnesty International, said. The government has downplayed the killing of peaceful protesters including a CNN report which detailed the atrocities of the Nigerian security forces during the Lekki incident.

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Magu: Buhari receives final report from Justice Salami-led probe panel

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, November 20, received the report of the Justice Ayo Salami-led probe panel on alleged corruption charges against suspended Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu.

At the brief ceremony which was held at the Executive Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja, Justice Salami handed boxes of documents said to be volumes of the report to the President.

Recall that after Magu was accused of corruption and abuse of office by the Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, the panel was constituted by President Buhari and given 45 days to carry out the assignment. The time frame was however extended further after the panel requested more time.

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Two allegedly arrested in Delta with corpses of two girls in coffin (Video)

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Two suspected ritualists have been arrested by the police after they were caught on Wednesday night with two dead bodies and a coffin in ogwashi-uku, Delta State.

It was alleged that the suspects killed the girls and placed them in a white coffin to use the dead bodies for rituals when they were caught by residents of the community.

Video footage of the incident has surfaced on Instagram where residents could be heard screaming at the two suspects as they were forced to carry the coffin on their heads.

Watch video below :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxkiL5khD6s

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Man arrested for killing his two children, says it was “act of God”

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The Niger State Police Command has arrested a man who allegedly hacked his two biological children to death and hid their corpses in the bush.

ASP Waisu Abiodun,
spokesperson of the command confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday, November 20.

He said the suspect Abubakar Maidobo confessed to the heinous crime, claiming that it was an act of God.

“On 14/11/2020 at about 0200hrs, based on information received, Police operatives attached to Nasko Division arrested one Abubakar Maidobo ‘m’ of Maidabo village via Salka, Nasko Magama LGA,” said ASP Abiodun.

“The suspect was arrested for allegedly killing his two (2) biological children with a cutlass, one Umar Abubakar aged 8yrs and Shehu Abubakar aged 4yrs while he hid the corpses in the bush in separate sacks. During interrogation, suspect confessed to the crime and claimed that the incident was an act of God. The corpses were taken to General Hospital Nasko for autopsy. Case under investigation.”

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Lekki Shooting: ‘We stand by our report’, CNN reacts to FG’s sanction threat

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Cable News Network, CNN has responded to the threat of sanctions from the Federal Government, insisting that it stands by its report.

A statement by its spokesperson read, “our reporting was carefully and meticulously researched, and we stand by it.

The foreign news outfit said its report was based on testimony from dozens of witnesses and verified footage of soldiers appearing to shoot in direction of protesters.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had reported that Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed had in a press conference earlier on Thursday called for sanctions to be placed on CNN for the report, maintaining that the military fired blank bullets at the Toll Gate and not even at protesters but into the air.

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US Election: Trump treks as Biden wins Georgia recount

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Democratic candidate in the United States Presidential election, Joe Biden has won the vote recount in Georgia.

According to BBC reports, the former Vice President beat President Donald Trump by 12,284 votes, according to the audit required by state law.

The recount found the error rate was a maximum of 0.73 percent and that Biden’s gap of victory over Trump remained at under 0.5 percent.

Biden had said Trump knew he was not going to win and had shown “incredible irresponsibility”.

The Democrat’s margin in overall votes in the November 3 poll exceeds 5.9 million.

The former Senator’s triumph by the US Electoral College system is projected to be 306 to 232.

Georgia’s Secretary of State, Brad Raffensperger, insisted that the hand audit of ballots did not favour Biden.

In a statement on Thursday, the Republican said Georgia’s historic first statewide audit reaffirmed that the state’s new secure paper ballot voting system accurately counted and reported results.

“This is a credit to the hard work of our county and local elections officials who moved quickly to uperiodomplete such a momentous task in a short period”, Raffensberger noted.

The General Services Administration (GSA) is yet to recognize Biden as the President-elect.

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Police arrests three for cyber-related offences, opens portal to report cybercrime

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Flowing the arrest of 3 people for cyber-related offences, the Nigerian Police Force has now launched a cybercrime reporting portal.

This was revealed in a statement released by Police spokesperson, DCP Frank Mba, and was made available to newsmen.

The 3 suspects identified as Onwuka Emmanuel Chidiebere a.k.a Ceeceeboss TMT 32yrs ‘m’ currently residing at Lekki, Lagos State, a native of Aro-Ikpa in Abia State, Ikechukwu Ohanedozie a.k.a Dozzy 34yrs ‘m’ and Onuegwu Ifeanyi a.k.a SSGToolz 35yrs ‘m’ of Prof’s Avenue, Umudagu, Mbieri, Mba-told LGA, Imo State were arrested by the Nigeria Police Cybercrime Unit, INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja.

The three suspects were arrested following an intelligence report received from the INTERPOL Cybercrime Directorate in Singapore on global attacks by Nigerian cyber gangs who engage in mass email phishing campaigns and distribution of malware aimed at stealing authentication data from browsers and email headers.

The Cybercrime Reporting Web Portal which the Nigerian Police Force unveiled can be accessed by clicking on the link https://incb.police.gov.ng/. It is said to be part of efforts directed at ensuring ease of crime reportage by members of the public to enable prompt investigation, arrest, and prosecution of perpetrators of cybercrime and other related offences.

The statement released by the force’s spokesperson, Frank Mba read;

“The Nigeria Police Force has unveiled a Cybercrime Reporting Web Portal. The portal which can be accessed by clicking on the link https://incb.police.gov.ng/ is part of efforts directed at ensuring ease of crime reportage by members of the public to enable prompt investigation, arrest, and prosecution of perpetrators of cybercrime and other related offences.

“The portal caters to complaints about cybercrimes. With this, victims/complainants can now report cases of cybercrime online, at any time, and from any part of the world. The cases are promptly attended to by the Cybercrime Unit of the Force domiciled with the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Force Headquarters, Abuja, and the newly created Cybercrime Unit at the INTERPOL Annex, Alagbon Close, Ikoyi, Lagos. The new portal will provide updates on achievements being recorded by the Nigeria Police and will, among other things, avail the citizen’s knowledge of basic cyber-related issues such as emerging cybercrime trends, the modus operandi of the cyber crooks and offer tips on how citizens could make themselves less vulnerable within the cyberspace.

‘The Force urges potential users of the portal to ensure that only correct and accurate information, devoid of deliberate falsehood, misrepresentation, and misinformation, are provided when filing their complaints.

“Meanwhile, three (3) suspects, namely Onwuka Emmanuel Chidiebere a.k.a Ceeceeboss TMT 32yrs ‘m’ currently residing at Lekki, Lagos State, a native of Aro-Ikpa in Abia State, Ikechukwu Ohanedozie a.k.a Dozzy 34yrs ‘m’ and Onuegwu Ifeanyi a.k.a SSGToolz 35yrs ‘m’ of Prof’s Avenue, Umudagu, Mbieri, Mba-told LGA, Imo State have been arrested by the Nigeria Police Cybercrime Unit, INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja.

“The three suspects were arrested following intelligence report received from the INTERPOL Cybercrime Directorate in Singapore on global attacks by Nigerian cyber gangs who engage in mass email phishing campaigns and distribution of malware aimed at stealing authentication data from browsers and email headers.

“Findings so far reveal that of the three suspects, Onuegwu Ifeanyi a.k.a SSGToolz specializes in creating, designing, selling phishing links, and hosting malware on websites used by the gang for phishing and hacking purposes. He collects charges running into several millions of naira from other fraudsters he mentors and improves their phishing capabilities.

“Onwuka Emmanuel Chidiebere a.k.a Ceeceeboss TMT, a graduate of Business Administration from Imo State University specialises in business email compromise and hacking. Comprehensive forensic analysis reveals that he had in his laptop-computer over 50,000 email accounts and websites including passwords of various individuals and corporate entities across the world. He recruited the third suspect Ikechukwu Ohanedozie a.k.a Dozzy, a medical student of Imo State University, into the gang. Ikechukwu Ohanedozie sorts and profiles e-mail accounts to determine the financial strengths of prospective victims and pass on information obtained therefrom to Onwuka Emmanuel Chidiebere. All the suspects will be charged to court after the investigation and prosecuted in line with the Cybercrime Prevention/Prohibition Act, 2015.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Muhammed Adamu, reaffirms the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force in protecting cyberspace and bringing all cybercriminals to book.

He reassures the confidentiality of all reports and complaints made to the Police through the cyber portal.

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Widow’s tongue, nose sliced for refusing to marry in-law’s relative

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Three people have been arrested for allegedly chopping off the nose and tongue of a 28-year-old widow in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

On November 18, 2020, police said that the victim allegedly refused to marry a relative of her in-laws as per their demands.

The widow has been identified as Guddi Devi, a resident of Jagiron Ki Dhani in the Sankra block of Jaisalmer.

She was admitted to a hospital in Jodhpur for treatment, said Kanta Singh, station house officer at Sankra police station in charge of the case.

According to the First Information Report filed by the victim’s brother Baseer Khan, Guddi married Koje Khan about six years back who died a year after the marriage.

After her husband’s death, Guddi continued to live with her in-laws as per Indian tradition.

However, Guddi’s sisters-in-law began forcing her to remarry another man from their family, which she refused.

On November 17, the woman’s sister-in-law came to her house, with a couple of people, including Janu Khan, whom they were asking Guddi to marry.

Angered by her repeated refusal to remarry, they attacked her with a sharp weapon and chopped off her tongue and nose.

Based on the widow’s brother’s complaint, three people identified as Janu Khan, Anwar Khan, and Nawab Khan were arrested by the police.

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See what mother did to 14-year-old daughter after seeing her with guy (Video)

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A mother has been accused of brutalizing her teenage daughter after seeing her with a guy.

This was revealed by an Instagram user, @Shammah_Yinse who alleged that the girl had gone to the school with bruises as captured in the video she shared online.

The lady who placed the age of the girl between 14-15, called on people who can help to reach out. She wrote;

CHILD ABUSE!

A girl just came to a school I work at now with all these bruises….this is Child Abuse!

“Her mum saw her with a guy and decided beating her like an animal is the best way to correct her. Mother indeed! Egbami! Lai Seranko! Don’t view and pass abeg… Please repost and tag all the Child Rights organization before this woman will decide to kill her. Thank you!
if you know anyone that can help, please let me know so I can send the girl and school info.

watch video

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‘I joined APC because of Buhari’, Gov. Dave Umahi reveals as he paints PDP (Video)

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Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State has finally opened up on why he defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking while featuring on Arise TV on Thursday, November 19, from Abakaliki, Ebonyi state capital, Engineer Umahi described as “absolute rubbish” the claim that “PDP made me what I am.” The governor, who has since become the darling bride of the APC household after his defection, stated that he was convinced to join the APC because of his boss”( President Muhammadu Buhari).

The governor parted ways with the opposition block in what has left a huge vacuum in the PDP because he was a leading light for the party. Umahi, who is the chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum (SGF), has since been attacked by top members of his former party including Nyesom Wike who said he defected to pursue a presidential ambition. But clearing the air on his defection, the governor rubbished the claim that the PDP made him what he is, saying he has contributed immensely to the opposition party including raising the idea of bringing Godwin Obaseki into the fold during his turbulent moments at APC.

“It is the people that made a party. I have tributed to making PDP not the other way round. I have been a peacemaker and negotiator.

“PDP wants me to be castigating Mr president. But I have no other boss other than Mr president. He (Buhari) remains my boss, my father, my friend, and I have no regret about that.

“He has always been fair to those who criticise him, that is why he is a father, So, I am happy doing what I am doing.”

Meanwhile, the ruling party is reportedly planning a massive raid on the PDP in Chairmanship to lure some of its bigwigs in the southeast following Umahi’s defection. According to a credible source, the APC leadership under the caretaker Chairmanship of Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe state has directed the party’s members from Southeast to reach out to mo, re governors and National Assembly members in the region.

Top men being aimed are Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu, and Willy Obiano of Anambra state.

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Police confronts midnight attack on Ex-Governor Dickson’s home

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The men of the Nigerian Police force have confronted a midnight attack by gunmen at the country home of the former Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Henry Seriake Dickson on Wednesday night in Toru Orua.

It was gathered that a gallant police team successfully prevented the gunmen who attempted to invade the compound through the Forcados River from gaining access.

Unfortunately, a Police officer who led the operation was killed in the hit and died in the attack.

The former governor and his family were not in the compound during the attack having been away in Abuja and Yenagoa for about three weeks.

Reacting to the attack Chief Dickson condoled with the immediate family of the late police officer, the Inspector General of Police, the Bayelsa State Commissioner of police, and the entire police team on the death of the gallant policeman.

He also lamented that this period was indeed a trying one to the country, the police, and the security agencies calling on the society to give them the requisite support to effectively carry out the sensitive duty of securing the society.

Chief Dickson also said that the Commissioner of Police and heads of other security agencies have commenced immediate investigation to unfold those who perpetrated the terrible acts.

He promised that no stone would be left unturned in the bid to fish out those behind the cruel act.

He called on his supporters across the Ijaw nation to give relevant information to the police to aid their investigation into the crime

The former governor advised everybody to remain calm to await the outcome of the police investigation on the matter.

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Lekki Shooting: CNN to be sanctioned over report – FG threatens

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The Federal Government has threatened to sanction a foreign media, CNN, over its report on the alleged shooting of End SARS protesters by soldiers at the Lekki toll plaza on October 20, 2020.

Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, disclosed this at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, where he described the report by the foreign news medium as “irresponsible journalism”.

He interpreted the event of October 20, 2020, as a “massacre without bodies.”

The minister also defended that not a single body has been produced or a single-family has come out to claim their family member was killed at the Lekki toll gate.

Mohammed also alleged that CNN relied on social media video without verification to produce its report.

“Like everyone else, I watched the CNN report. I must tell you that it reinforces the disinformation that is going around, and it is blatantly irresponsible and a poor piece of journalistic work by a reputable international news organization.

“CNN engaged in incredible sensationalism and did a great disservice to itself and journalism.

“In the first instance, CNN, which touted its report as an exclusive investigative report, sadly relied on the same videos that have been circulating on social media, without verification.

“This is very serious and CNN should be sanctioned for that.

“CNN merely said the videos were ”obtained by CNN”, without saying wherefrom and whether or not it authenticated them.

“Were CNN reporters and cameramen at the Lekki Toll Gate that evening? If the answer is no, on what basis were they reporting?

“If CNN had done its investigation properly, it would have known how fake news and disinformation were trending during the End SARS crisis.

“The BBC even reported on this, and we recommend that report to CNN. Talking about the BBC, a reporter with the BBC’s Pidgin Service, Damilola Banjo, was at Lekki Toll Gate protest ground that night.

”She was quoted as saying soldiers were indeed at the Toll Gate but they shot ‘’sporadically into the air’’ and not at the protesters. CNN that was not at the scene reported otherwise.

“In its jaundiced reporting, CNN was blind to the fact that six soldiers and 37 policemen were killed in unprovoked attacks.

“CNN did not consider the security agents human enough,” he said.

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Expect ‘harmonised’ 2021 budget December 3 – Senate

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Senator Jibrin Barau, Chairman Senate Committee on Appropriation, has revealed that the Nigeria Senate would get a harmonised 2021 budget from its Committee on December 3.

He disclosed this on Wednesday, in Abuja where he explained that the timetable of December 3rd would be adhered to strictly, to enable the Senate Committee of the whole to begin debate as soon as possible.

“We look towards the submission of the asset on December 3″, he insisted.

He said some Chairman of Committees has submitted their budget reports on agencies of government, which were quite satisfactory.

The senator was optimistic that cases of omission of some agencies of government who are ill-prepared would be solved before the expected date, adding that some agencies which were asked to put their budgets in proper perspectives were working seriously with Senate’s timing handed to them.

“The budget proposal is a very wide process, talking about estimates of expenditures that are going to be undertaken by the Federal Government.

“So, you have several expenditures and there is room for the omission. But that is why we are here.

“We told our committees to go and scrutinise the budgets of ministries and report back to us.

“Whatever you see in the budget, whether or not it is an omission, our work is to get the report and engage our expert here,” he said.

The chairman stressed that the Senate will use their professional accountants and economist to correct any error if there was a need to do so.

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EndSARS: 18 Jailbreakers, 14 suspected robbers, 16 cultists arrested – Edo Police

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The Edo State police command had on Wednesday, November 18, paraded 18 persons who escaped from the two correctional centers in Benin City, 14 suspected armed robbers, and 16 suspected cultists who have been part of the killings across Benin City.

This is in line with the recovery process and building public confidence after the #EndSARS protests and the near breakdown of law and order in the state.

The state’s Commissioner of Police, Johnson Kokumo stated this while briefing journalists at the state command of the police headquarters.

He said most of the escapee prisoners were re-arrested while committing other crimes, while two were re-arrested in Ondo state and another in Lagos State.

CP Kokumo also said some of the suspected robbers were among the robbery gangs that have been terrifying residents in Benin City.

He said despite the outcome of the #EndSARS protests that led to the destruction of several police stations and cart away arms and ammunition, “we are not folding our arms and watch the hoodlums have a field day. Our main concern now is geared towards re-arresting the escapees and recovering the looted and other illicit arms and ammunition in circulation.

“To this end, the police and other security agencies in conjunction with the State Government put machinery in place to checkmate the activities of these rampaging hoodlums, which have yielded some positive results.”

The police boss said among the suspects, were those who went destroyed the Oba Market police station and carted away its arms and ammunition.

He noted that the exhibits recovered were two AK 47 rifles; four locally made guns, one Toyota Yaris Saloon car with Reg No. UBJ-447-SZ, one Toyota Highlander SUV Reg. No. DGE-524-AH and 21 live cartridges.

Kokumo promised adequate security during the Yuletide saying “as we approach the yuletide season, the Police will not rest on its oars until all the arms and ammunition carted away by the hoodlums are recovered and escapees are equally rearrested. The criminal elements themselves will not know peace.” he said.

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See CNN’s investigation into shooting at Lekki Toll Gate (Video)

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It is about a month after the tragic events at the Lekki toll gate which came after the 2 weeks long peaceful protests held across Nigeria against Police brutality, harassment, and extrajudicial killings.

On October 20, 2020, Nigerians witnessed what can be described as one of the darkest times in Nigerian democracy as peaceful protesters were shot at while they sang the National Anthem and waved the flag.

From the rejection of the Nigerian Army, of their presence to later admittance at the Judicial Panel that they were present at the Lagos State Governor’s request but didn’t fire live rounds, to Babajide Sanwo-Olu‘s claim that only two people were shot at and a host of other varying accounts from different government bodies, and alleged harassment of protesters supporters of the #EndSARS movement, a lot has happened.

Opposite to the alternating statements of the authorities, an investigation by CNN has proven that more happened on that night than the authorities are willing to take responsibility for.

CNN confirmed from multiple videos with timestamps that the military was present at the toll gate and pieced together a timeline that shows that shooting by the army lasted from 6:43 pm to 8:24 p.m., according to video evidence. CNN also spoke to several witnesses as well as family members of victims from that night.

Although the Nigerian Army continues to deny shooting live rounds at the protest, CNN was able to link live bullet casings found at the scene to the Nigerian army and traced them to purchases made from Serbia.

CNN has examined bullet casings found at the scene and confirmed with current and former Nigerian military sources that the bullet casings match those used by the army. Two ballistics experts have also confirmed with CNN that the shape of the bullet casings indicate they used live rounds, which contradicts the army’s claim they fired blanks.

And working with the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network, CNN has established that several of the bullets from the Lekki toll gate originated from Serbia. Export documents CNN has seen show that Nigeria purchased weaponry from Serbia almost every year between 2005 and 2016.

CNN says the Nigerian army and Lagos state officials refused to comment on the Investigations when reached out to, claiming that it would be sub-judicial to do so as the matter is now before a panel of inquiry.

Watch video showing the investigation by CNN below:

https://twitter.com/Gidi_Traffic/status/1328971408035237889?s=19

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Governor Diri gains victory over Supreme Court judgement

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The Supreme court has declared the election of Governor Douye Diri as the duly elected governor of Bayelsa State.

A seven-man panel of the apex court led by Justice Sylvester Ngwuta, today November 18, dismissed six appeals filed against the governor and his deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Delivering his judgment, Justice Ngwuta predicated the dismissal of the appeals on the withdrawal of the six appeals by lawyers of the appellants. The appeals dismissed were filed by the Alliance for Democracy, Advanced Nigeria Democratic Party, Accord Party, and Labour Movement.

Recall that Governor Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party came second in the November 2019 governorship election in the state. He was later declared the elected governor of the state in a subsequent Supreme Court judgment disqualifying the All Progressives Congress’s candidate David Lyon who earlier emerged the winner of the election in the state.

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Man arrested for locking up wife in cage for three years, calls her ‘witch’

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The Delta State police command has arrested a 41-year-old man, identified as Ame Edjeket, for locking up his wife Gladys in a cage for over three years.

When arrested, Edjeket insisted his wife was a witch and mentally challenged adding that she has been the one responsible for their financial misfortune in their home, in Orerokpe, Delta State.

Following series of allegations leveled against her, Edjeket said he had returned his wife who is the mother of eight to her family but they rejected her to him.

Human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, who brought the case to light, said the man got his wife pregnant three times while he caged her.

He said the victim was locked up in the cage where she defecated and also urinated.

At the time of filing this report, the victim was receiving medical attention at the Orerokpe General hospital in Delta state.

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Why we demand apology from presidency – South-South Governors

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South-South leaders on Tuesday requested an unreserved apology from the presidency for abruptly canceling a stakeholders meeting scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt.

Recall that the presidency had fixed a meeting for Tuesday with the Governors and other leaders of the region to discuss burning national issues, including the aftermath of the #EndSARS protest.

The federal government delegation was supposed to include all the Ministers from the geopolitical zone.

However, after the meeting was adjusted twice from 11 am to 1 pm, Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari, put a call through to the Chairman of the South-South Governors Forum, Ifeanyi Okowa and canceled the meeting.

Okowa said the people of the region have been embarrassed, disgraced, and disrespected.

He stated that the South-South geopolitical zone is a very important part of the nation and the governors feel insulted because the traditional rulers who had gathered for the meeting, deserved to be revered.

“As governors, we feel very touched and very sad about what has happened. And having also listened to our youths, we can feel the anger. As a mark of respect for our people, because you are the stakeholders of our region, we felt we needed to consult with you before taking any decision, if we take our decision without consulting with you, then we would have added to the disrespect that has just been meted on you.

“We call for a public apology, not for the governors alone. We call for a public apology because this meeting was not called at our instance. It was called at the instance of the Presidency. The time was changed last night. We understood and we talked to our people. Some of us did not sleep in trying to put things together. We have gotten to a very bad start. So we are going to convey this message to the chief of staff to the president.

He added: “We deserve as a region unreserved public apology to the region, particularly to our traditional rulers and the leaders in this zone, which include our Christian leaders, opinion leaders, our women, and our youths, and also the governors of the zone who were voted into office and that is the least that we expect for us to accept the reconvene of this meeting’.

Present for the canceled meeting were Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River; Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom; Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State; and Godwin Obaseki of Edo State.

Others were the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga; former President, Nigerian Bar Association, Onueze Okocha (SAN), among others.

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EndSARS: See what I will do to prevent another protest – President Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday revealed that the Federal Government will carry youths along in policy formulation and implementation to prevent a repeat of the issues that led to the #EndSARS protests.

He disclosed this during the National Security Council (NSC) meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Muhammad Dingyadi, Minister of Police Affairs, briefed newsmen on the deliberations.

He said the Council is concerned about the worsening security situation in the North and emphasised the need to better equip the police.

“The meeting note with concerned increasing cases of armed banditry, particularly in the Northwest and Northeast.

The meeting agreed to be more forceful in dealing with the situation in a more decisive manner.

“The meeting noted the need to pay greater attention to the police in the discharge of its functions to maintain peace in the country, in the areas of equipment and modern technology.

“Mr. President assured Nigerians that he will do whatever it takes to ensure the repeat of ENDSARS protests does not occur in Nigeria again.

“He reassured them that all stakeholders will be involved in the process of maintaining peace in the country, particularly the youth, community leaders, traditional rulers, politicians, public servants, religious leaders, and others.

“The Federal Government will continue to maintain its bureaucratic, humane, and just postures in handling security matters in the country,” Dingyadi said.

Asked whether the Federal Government plans a crackdown on protests, the minister said: “On the issue of #EndSARS that you have raised, what we are saying is that government will continue to dialogue.

“It will continue to listen and will continue to carry all stakeholders along in ensuring that there is no repeat of what happened that destroyed a lot of properties, public and private, individuals in this country.”

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Boss Mustapha, Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari and Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) was at the meeting.

Ministers of Defense, Maj. Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi (Rtd.); Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; Foreign Affairs Geoffery Onyeama and the Police Affairs Muhammad Dingyadi were also present.

Service chiefs present included the Chief of Defense Staff, General Gabriel Olonisakin; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sadique Abubakar; Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu; Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) Ahmed Rafa’s Abubakar and the Director-General of the Directorate of State Services (DSS) Yusuf Magaji Bichi.

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Why ASUU will not call off strike now – NLC tells Senate

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The Nigeria Labour Congress on Tuesday said it would be hard for the Academic Staff Union of Universities to call off its ongoing industrial action.

This was disclosed by the president of the NLC, Ayuba Wabba while appearing before the Senate Committee on Aviation to present the position of the union on the six bills being considered by the panel to transform the agencies in the sector.

Wabba explained that ASUU could not call off the strike when the issue under consideration remained.

Asked if NLC would advise ASUU to resume while negotiations continue, Wabba said, “That is not how negotiations are done.”

“ If before the action commences, we were able to reach a negotiation, then we would have resolved the issues.

“We are already on the action before those issues arose. I don’t think that is the best way to go. Government should show enough commitment to resolve the issue once and for all.”

On the fuel hike, Wabba said, “What we said in our agreement is that all the palliatives must be implemented with a timeline and that has not been done.

“We have since communicated to government and our next line of action would also be communicated to Nigerians”

Speaking on the aviation bills, Wabba urged the Senate to look into some areas which the NLC was not comfortable with.

He cited the case of replacing authority with the administration in the nomenclature of the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria.

The NLC boss also kicked against the provision for interim board members in the management of the aviation agencies.

Apart from that, he said that the organised labour had discovered that the bills did not address the issues of industrial relations, professionalism, and workers’ core interest were not accommodated in the bills.
He also faulted plans to designate the aviation sector as essential services.

The Senator Smart Adeyemi-led committee promised to look into the concerns raised by the NLC but pledged to add values to the bills.

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Okowa urges Army to be humane in discharge of duties

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State on Tuesday, November 17, told officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces to be humane in the discharge of their official responsibilities.

Okowa gave the advice while flagging off the Nigeria Army’s Operation Crocodile Smile VI at the army super camp located at kilometer 11, Asaba/Benin expressway, Asaba.

The governor was, however, represented at the ceremony by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Chiedu Ebie.

The exercise had earlier attracted criticisms from some segments of the society, especially in the Niger Delta region, but Governor Okowa says it is necessary as the yuletide approaches. Festive seasons most times comes with a high rate of crime in the country, hence the stance of the governor.

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Seun Kuti reveals FG’s plan to close Afrika Shrine (letter)

Nigerian Musician, Seun Kuti has revealed that the government has threatened to shut down the New Afrika Shrine located in the Ikeja area of Lagos State.

Seun disclosed this in a post on his Instagram page on Monday

The singer said plans had been underway to hold the event tagged Mass Meeting #EndSARS Movement, Lessons, and Tasks, today.

It was gathered that the government had reached out to Seun’s eldest sister, Yeni Kuti in a letter threatening to close the shrine if the event takes place.

In line with this, Kuti said although he respects his family’s decision not to hold the event any longer, adding that he will still go ahead with “all the other organizations to launch The Movement Of The People tomorrow to start a political resistance to the tyranny of the oppressive regime.

The singer condemned the government for what he described as their plans to ban citizens’ right of association, stressing that “this is just a meeting”.

“Why are they afraid of the people organizing? What is democratic about this act? The last time we tried to launch the government quickly called curfew and this time they have used threat but you can’t stop the will of the people,” he added.

Seun Kuti has been one of the prominent voices in the #EndSARS movement as well as in the calls for an end to police brutality and better governance in Nigeria.

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Police stops family members, media from entering court as trail begins for EndSARS Frontliner (Video)

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There was drama in the morning of Tuesday November 17, as the Police were reportedly spotted stopping family members and media from entering Yaba Magistrates Court where the case of #EndSARS frontliner, Eromosele Adene was to be heard.

It was reported that they observed that the Police had used their vehicle to create a barricade on the street leading into the court.

In a video shared online, some family members were also seen confronting some officers over their refusal to allow them into the courtroom. A woman said she was already inside and she just came out to meet someone, only to be prevented from going back in, whereas her belongings were inside.

Watch video below:

It was gathered earlier that Eromosele on November 7 arrested in Lagos, before being taken to Abuja for interrogation.

He was returned to, Lagos on Sunday evening to fa face charges of criminal incitement, cyberstalking, provoking breach of public peace and conduct likely to cause breach of peace.

This is coming following an allegation of the police seeking to detain Eremosele for 30 more days and secretly meeting the magistrate without his lawyer’s notice.

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Withdraw license from Heritage Oil now, Delta youths tells FG

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Angry youths from Oil-producing Communities hosting the Oil Mining Licence (OML) 30 field in Delta State have told the Federal Government to withdraw the license of operation issued to Heritage Oil Services Ltd.

Speaking with newsmen, at Uwheru community, the angry youths placed their grievances on the negligence of the oil company to meet up with their demands and needs.

A youth leader who sought anonymity said, “All we are saying is that we are tired of Heritage Oil Services Ltd.
The company should pack out of our land. Since this oil company took over the management of oil facilities in OML 30 from NPDC, we discovered that this company is worse than NPDC in terms of community relations and service delivery. All agreed terms in the GMoU are sidelined by the company management. As we speak, we even heard that the CDB has shut down all the flow stations in the OML 30.


“This is just the beginning of their troubles. Do you know that, all through the year, the company won’t do anything like an empowerment program or skill acquisition training for the youths? In this case, if we are annoyed and say, we won’t allow the company to operate, then the government will say the youths are too violent. All we ask the Federal Government to do for us to avoid further agitations is to withdraw the license of operation from the company and a new oil company that can carry us along should come in.”

Reacting on that same note, the chairman of Unenurhie community youths, Mr. Friday Diamond aka ‘Ogbo’ said, “Heritage Oil Services Ltd is a failed company as far as we are concerned. First, for more than three years now, the company hasn’t been able to pay scholarship entitlements due to our children in secondary schools and those in higher institutions.
“Even in our community here, many of the people will accuse the leaders of siphoning the scholarship money into their pockets. Yet, there was nothing of such. But the truth is that the company had refused to pay. As a leader, if you can’t manage such false information well it before you know, it has degenerated into a crisis where innocent people might be killed and personal properties destroyed.
“Secondly, they should pay their contractors handling various contracts in the OML 30 oil field. For instance, oil pipeline guards and its maintenance ad-hoc staff are owing several months without payment.
Thirdly, the company is not keeping to the terms of the agreement in the GMoU especially in the execution of projects. The company has suddenly turned to be like the Nigerian government that would award a project to a community and later abandoned it after such a community had clapped for them.
“Therefore, my sole message here is for the oil company to quit our land. We don’t need their services anymore. Any moment from now, we will protest to the office of the governor of the state to present our grievances and demands,” Diamond said.

Also, responding to newsmen immediately after an indoor meeting held by some youths in Enhwe community in Isoko South Local Government Area of the state, one of the youth leaders, who also spoke on conditions of anonymity said, “Does it mean that we won’t benefit from the natural resources in our land? Oil was discovered in this land for over sixty years now.
As a pressman, you can move around the entire community and see things for yourself. It’s a very pathetic situation with us here.
“Well, I don’t know whether there is a kind of cabal in our community that is benefiting from the proceeds of the oil operations in this land. But outside this, which I think our leaders can also do, the oil company itself is poor in terms of community relations and service delivery. The company should live up to its responsibilities and attend to the needs and requests of the people. For us the youths, the company should give us empowerment and organize skills acquisition training,” he said.

Meanwhile, steps taken to speak to the community relations manager of Heritage Oil Services Ltd, Warri for their response to the demands of the youths proved abortive.

It was reported that oil facilities in the OML 30 oil field in Delta State were shut down by the various oil-producing communities.

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Sorrow in Delta as three final year students die in accident (Photos)

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Three final year students of the Department of Mass Communication, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, in Aniocha South Local Government of Area, have died in an accident after their final examinations.

The accident involved a commercial tricycle (Keke) and a Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV).

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the deceased, two females and a male, died on the Isselle-Azagba/Ogwashi-Uku Road on their way to an alleged ‘graduation party’.

It was gathered that the victims wrote their final papers on Friday, November 13, and were joined by other friends for the party about 8 pm when the accident happened.

While the female students died immediately, the male who was unconscious, died on Sunday.

When contacted by newsmen, Police spokesperson Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the incident.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that an accident had also occurred along Issele-Azagba/Ogwashi-Uku road, on Wednesday, November 11.

The accident which involved the head of Mass Communication Department in Ogwashi-Uku Polytechnic, Dr. Emmanuel Apkoveta, and some students, was described by eyewitnesses as a divine escape by God.

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NLC denies endorsing petrol hike with government

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There are indications that the Federal Government may have tacitly allowed the price of Premium Motor Spirit (popularly called petrol) to be defined by market forces.

The action is indicated in the new role by the Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), the trading arm of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

In the meantime, there could be a fresh round of protests against the hike in the price of PMS by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart.

Organised Labour said it would be receiving updates from its unions in the petroleum and electricity sectors before coming up with a final decision in the coming days.

“The outcome of this engagement will determine our response in the coming days. But while we are at that, we condemn the recent price increase, and we call for its reversal with immediate effect.”

NLC President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, in a statement, yesterday, in Abuja, clarified that the fresh fuel price increase was not part of the agreement reached with the Federal Government in October.

The PPMC has, in the last three months, been conveying the price of petrol to Nigerians and issuing memos to depot managers.

Before now, the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) was in charge of announcing monthly price guide, which stakeholders in the sector as well as the transportation sub-sector, use in determining the price of services.

But in the prevailing setting, the PPMC, which is just a marketer like others, is in charge of price announcements. This has resulted in arbitrary pricing, as there is no longer clear-cut agency that monitors compliance in the sector.

The Price Review Committee (PRC), which was set up by the Federal Government to appraise the price of PMS, has since been disbanded by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva. Even before the disbandment, the NNPC had refused to attend its meetings for two consecutive months.

The PRC drew its membership from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), PPPRA among others.

As it is, the PPPRA has been confined to promoting the usage of gas as an alternative to petrol.

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Miracle: How God brought food for me, my uncle – Pastor Adeboye

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The General overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye has recounted how God intervened for him and his poor uncle in 1956 at a time they had nothing to eat.

Adeboye, who took his followers down memory lane via his Instagram page, said he was poorer than his uncle and they would always share whatever the latter had.

The cleric narrated that they were very hungry on a particular day and there was no way they could get food. According to Pastor Adeboye, a young girl brought pounded yam, vegetable chicken and said her sister sent her to give the food to the cleric’s uncle.

Pastor Adeboye’s uncle asked the girl if she was sure because he didn’t know her sister, but the girl insisted. He wrote:

“The girl insisted so we took the food and my uncle said he would look for a gift to give her some other time and she left. When the girl left, the man of God and his uncle devoured the food. The plate had already been left empty when the girl came back to say the food was not for Pastor Adeboye’s uncle.

Praying for his followers, the cleric decreed: I decree to you today, the miracle you don’t deserve, the Lord will send it to you this week.”

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Regina Daniels reacts to Ned Nwoko’s alleged ‘new wife’

Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels, has reacted to news making the rounds on social media claiming that her billionaire husband, Ned Nwoko is set to marry another wife.

The rumour ensued on social media after the wife of the billionaire shared a post on her Instagram story, with a ringed finger and captioned it ‘wifey’.

On close check, the finger belonged to a lady she tagged @sar8al.

However, Regina in a recent post denied the rumour as she clarified that the lady is her friend, adding that the news that she was Nwoko’s new wife was false.

“The news about Sara being my husband’s wife is completely false. She is my friend who came visiting!!!” Regina posted.

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Okowa inducts 738 Corps members for Batch B in Delta

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The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC Delta State has inducted 738 corps members into the Scheme for the 2020 Batch B Stream 1A orientation course.

Announcing the opening of the camp, after the induction ceremonies, the Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Ifeanyi Egwunyenga advised the corps members and camp officials to continue to live by the camp and NCDC official guidelines on Covid-19, adding that with strong determination and strict observance, the country would defeat the disease

He told the corps members of the enormous possibilities that abound in Delta and waiting to be tapped, urging them to grab the opportunity.

Okowa urged them to use the period of orientation available for them to prepare themselves for the unique opportunity of being deployed to Delta State.

The governor also enjoined the corps members to exhibit the highest level of loyalty, dedication, discipline and commitment to the nation; advising them further to abandon any unhelpful conduct that panders towards unsavoury reputation.

Responding in his capacity as the Chairman of the Governing Board of NYSC, the Secretary to Delta State Government, Chiedu Ebie Esq. promised an effective liaison with Government and other agencies to bring significant progress to the Scheme.

He said the equipment of Government headed by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has a pride of place for the welfare and security of the corps members, urging them to bury all fears and anxiety over what the service year holds for them.

Congratulating the corps members for a successful induction ceremony, the State Coordinator, Mrs. Olutayo Samuel said, “this Batch of corps members was unique being the first set of corps members since the abrupt shut down of camp activities in March 2020 due to Covid-19,
it was worthy to praise God for.”

Mrs. Olutayo Samuel
Delta State Nysc coordinator

Mrs Samuel said that to comply with NCDC official guidelines, the NYSC had to set up Vanguard for Covid-19 – a group that goes round the camp to ensure corps members, officials of NYSC and visitors observe the Covid-19 protocols.

The coordinator thefore commended the Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for his numerous supports to the Scheme, including the multipurpose hall he started on the 1st April, 2020 and now at the final stage of completion.

She further encouraged the corps members to take their Orientation Programme seriously, maintaining that this was a good opportunity to showcase their leadership skills and build a positive mindset for their future.

“The Orientation Course which is a cardinal programme of the Scheme will last for three weeks, having been fully planned for with packages to train and equip our corps members for the one year compulsory national service. There will be lectures on national values, culture and tradition of the people of Delta State, security, ideals of NYSC and its operations and many more. There will also be Skills Acquisition Training and Entrepreneurship Development to expose these corps members to different sets of Skills and Entrepreneurship programmes so they can be self employed and employers of labour. My dear corps members, I urge you all to embrace this opportunity”, the coordinator said.

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EndSARS: Reps in closed-door meeting with Service Chiefs

The Leadership of the House of Representatives on Monday held a closed-door meeting with heads of security agencies in the country

The closed-door meeting is termed a breach of national security regarding the recent #ENDSARS protest across the country which was later hijacked by hoodlums.

The House at plenary on the 20th of October, 2020 had set up an adhoc committee under the chairmanship of the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase to be assisted by the Leader of the House, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa and the Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, with members drawn from all security related committees in the House to meet with heads of security agencies with a view to proffering solution.

In his brief remark, the Deputy Speaker said “you may recall that on the 20th of October, 2020, the House passed a motion on the need to address the breach of national security under the peaceful protest in the country under the guise of #ENDSARS.

“With that, the House set up a committee to be headed by myself, the two leaders of the House (Minority and Majority Leaders), Chairmen of all relevant committees in terms of security and three members from each of the committees.

“The essence of the committee is to address, towards a peace exit and ensuring that we have a harmonious nation. This is the essence of the committee. This is our first meeting and we are going to take input from the various services.

“This is a matter that concerns security and no nation discusses its security situation on camera. With this, I want to beg the press to kindly excuse us so that we can have a very robust discussion.”

The Committee was set up following a motion sponsored by Hon. Sada Soli (APC, Katsina) and seconded by Hon. Julius Pondy “on the urgent need to address the possible breach of national security in the national #ENDSARS protest”.

While acknowledging the constitutional right of the protesters to air their grievances in a peaceful and law-abiding manner and the genuine reason for such grievances, he said the federal government had swiftly disbanded the SARS unit of the Nigeria Police which was the reason for the protest.

He expressed concern that the legitimate protest of Nigerians was hijacked by hoodlums who have taken advantage to unleash mayhem, adding that allowing the protest to linger would increase the rate of covid-19 spread, hinder Nigerians from their right of free movement, and degenerate into chaos by the manipulation of hoodlums.

He called on the president to issue an executive order to address police brutality while appealing to the protesters to have the patience for the National Assembly and the presidency to address the problems. He also called for the constitution of an Ad-Hoc committee to be chaired by the Deputy Speaker, the House Leader, other principal officers, as well as the leadership of some relevant Committees like the House Committee on Police to ensure the prayers of the motion are met and get back to the House for further legislative action.

Members who contributed to the October 20 motion also harped on the need to take steps to address the issue such as continuous interaction with the relevant bodies while ensuring good governance.

Heads of security agencies physically present include Comptroller General of Nigeria Correctional Service, Ja’afaru Ahmed, Comptroller General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Abdullahi Garba Mohammed, Yusuf Bichi, DG, Directorate of State Service and Mohammed Babandede, Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service.

Others who were represented include the Chief of Defence Staff who was represented by Major General John Enenche, Coordinator, Defence Media Operation and Major General C. Udeh, Chief of Defence Training and Operations; the Chief of Army Staff, who was represented by Brig General BR Sinjen, Acting Director of Operation, Army, the Chief of Naval Staff represented by Rear Admiral IT Olaiya, Chief of Training and Operation, Naval Headquarters, Chief of Air Staff represented by Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Adamu Idris, Chief of Policy and Planning, Nigeria Air Force and the Inspector General of Police who was represented by Aminchi Baraya, Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Logistics and Supply.

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Ex-Super Eagles star Christian Obodo free from abductors, reveals experience

Former Nigerian international player, Christian Obodo, has been released after he was kidnapped along Refinery Road, in Warri, Delta State.

The 2006 AFCON bronze medallist revealed he was locked up in a car trunk for hours and robbed by the kidnappers.

Obodo told Brila FM: “It was discomforting locked up in a hot car trunk for hours. “The kidnappers were even telling me about how they lost money for placing bets on Nigeria to score in the second half. “They didn’t hurt me or intimidate me but I can’t understand the reason for anyone to want to put me through this sort of thing over again.”

Recall that the former Udinese star was first abducted on June 9, 2012, on his way to church in Effurun, Warri. But police tracked Obodo’s abductors to Isoko where they found the midfielder and arrested some suspects.

The 36-year-old played the larger part of his career in Italy including spells with Perugia, Fiorentina, Udinese, Torino, and Lecce.

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Why I am still single at 44 – Actor Frederick Leonard

Popular Nollywood actor, Frederick Leonard has opened up on why he is not yet married at 44.

The actor who revealed this in an interview with Allure Vanguard stressed the need for couples to take their time and be more realistic in order to avoid broken homes.

According to him, “I have not lost hope in marriage. It is just the time we live in. I believe in marriage and even the Bible says that it is not good for man to be alone. I do not want to end up alone. I do not want to end up miserable.

“I want to be with someone who I have a lot of things in common with; someone I’m compatible with. I believe in the institution of marriage, and I think that people should be more realistic with themselves when it comes to picking a partner.”

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Nigerian boy takes second in world chemistry competition, wins $400,000

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A Yobe State indigene Umar Usman Dagona, from Gashua who represented Nigeria at the World Chemistry competition beat candidates from many countries to secure the second position.


Dagon took part in the “Imaginechemistry” competition and made it to the top five that appeared in the final round.

He eventually made it to the second position, winning the sum of 400,000 dollars.

Dagona studied NCE chemistry education at Yobe state Umar Suleiman College of Education in Gashua town.

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Kidnappers kill two as troops rescue nine

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Two persons have been reportedly killed by suspected kidnappers as troops carrying out internal security operations rescued nine kidnap victims along the Kaduna-Abuja road on Sunday afternoon.

The Kaduna State Government disclosed this in a statement on Monday morning based on operational feedback from the Defence Headquarters’s Operation Thunder Strike (OPTS) on Sunday’s incident and inquiries from residents.

Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan said: “Troops of the Operation Thunder Strike on a routine patrol along Akilubu-Gidan Busa axis on the Kaduna-Abuja road, received a distress call at around 4 pm of bandits blocking the main highway.

“The armed bandits opened fire on a bus, forcing the driver to halt.

“On getting to the location, the armed bandits had already kidnapped nine persons from an 18-seater bus with registration No. Kaduna: MKA-151.

“The troops immediately mobilised and engaged the bandits in a firefight and in the process rescued nine persons kidnapped, who later rejoined their colleagues after their rescue and a headcount.

“Regrettably, the driver and a passenger seated close to him lost their lives.

“The Kaduna State Government sends its condolences to their families and prays for God to grant them eternal rest.

“Following this summary from the military, the government assures citizens and commuters plying the route that any emerging developments regarding the unfortunate incident will be communicated.

“The government also assures citizens of Kaduna State that it will continue to work hard, in collaboration with the Federal Government to improve the security of the highway. It is also working with the Governments of Zamfara, Katsina, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau, Sokoto and Kano States, as well as the Military, Police, DSS and relevant stakeholders on enhancing the security situation in the region,”

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One killed, one other hospitalized as rival cults clash in Delta

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One person has been reported dead with another hospitalized as rival cult groups Clashed at Ekiugbo community in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Details as to the cause of the bloody clash were not clear at the time of this report.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed the report in a telephone chat with newsmen, on Sunday.

The Police image maker revealed that the incident occurred on Friday, November 13.

According to her: “One person died. The other has been rushed to the hospital. It is a cult clash.

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Why married man set himself and ‘side-chic’ ablaze in Benue – Police

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The Benue State Police Command on Sunday confirmed a report of a middle-aged man, identified as Nicodemus, who set himself and his girlfriend ablaze.

The command’s Spokesperson, DSP Catherine Anene, told newsmen in Makurdi that Nicodemus died on the spot, while the girlfriend, also identified as Shiminenge, died later at the Benue State Teaching Hospital, Makurdi.

Anene explained that Nicodemus committed the act at his girlfriend’s residence on Inkipi Street, High-Level area of Makurdi on Saturday evening.

She said that an argument had ensued between them, adding, however, that the cause of the argument was unknown.

She said that Nicodemus had locked himself and the lady in her room before setting the room ablaze.

“According to an eyewitness, there was an argument between the lovers which we are yet to find out.

“We understand that Nicodemus while coming to Shiminenge’s house, came along with fuel,” the police spokesperson reported.

A neighbour of Shiminenge also revealed that Nicodemus had abandoned his wife and kids for the lady and that trouble ensued when the lady told him of her plan to marry someone else.

“Nicodemus was not happy with the lady over her decision to leave him for another man.

“He had earlier abandoned his wife and kids for Shiminenge. So, he couldn’t bear the disappointment,” the neighbor, who spoke in anonymity, said

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Policeman hits driver’s head with wood over N200 in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command on Sunday said it has defaulted five of its personnel including one Paul Audu who allegedly beat up a commercial bus driver and broke his head with wood, following the driver’s resistance to part with the sum of N200 at a police checkpoint along Eku-Abraka road in Ethiope East local government area of the state.

The incident which occurred last Thursday also led to widespread condemnation on the professionalism of policemen on the social media with most persons accusing the police of inciting another round of #EndSARS protest.

It was gathered that the driver identified as Godwin Akpama, was said to have been conveying some female traders in a white bus with registration number, AKL 681 YP from Abraka to Sapele when he was stopped by the policemen who had mounted a checkpoint along the road.

Recounting his ordeal, the driver who has since been treated, disclosed that one of the policemen identified as Paul Audu had smashed his head with a short plank after the policeman queried him for questioning the actions of a senior policeman in the team.

According to Godwin, “One of the policemen had stopped me at the checkpoint demanding that I give him N200, I told him that I was only conveying women selling Garri to the market after which I later gave him the money he requested but he refused and started punching me while I was behind the steering.

“Angered by his actions, I shoved him aside amidst his punches and also told him that he is committing an offence based on what he was doing. He then told me to park the car and come down which I did, only for him to pick a plank by the side of the road and used it to hit my head.”

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the report stating that the driver has been treated and the policemen involved in the incident had been tried and defaulted by the police rules.

She said: “The incident happened last Thursday. The matter has been treated while the five policemen in question have been defaulted and tried by the police rules. The driver and others present at the scene of the incident were also invited to testify and actions were subsequently taken on the policemen.”

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Benue: Married man sets himself and ‘side-chic’ ablaze (video)

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A 40-year-old married man in Inikpi community, Benue State, has repeatedly set himself and his side chic ablaze.

The unfortunate incident which occurred at about 6:30 pm on Saturday, November 14, has caused series of reactions on social media.

While the man died almost immediately, the lady who was burnt beyond recognition was rushed to the hospital by FRSC officials.

The reason for the action is yet to be known at the time of filing this report.

See video:

https://youtu.be/iO1jWaGcuss

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End SARS: Items recovered as 750 suspected hoodlums, arrested in Lagos

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The Lagos State Police Command said it has arrested 750 suspected hoodlums during raids initiated across the state on Sunday.

The command stated that the raids were carried out simultaneously on identified black spots, believed to be hideouts of criminals and hoodlums across the 14 Area Commands in Lagos State.

The Command also revealed that the arrested suspects were found with incriminating items such as locally-made guns and life cartridges, charms, weed suspected to be Indian hemp, substances suspected to be cocaine, and some items suspected to have been looted from various shopping outlets within the state during the recent End SARS protests in the state.

The police spokesperson, SP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Sunday, said the Lagos State Police command relaunched its Anti Crime Strategies to curb crimes and criminality across the state and to solidify the security architecture of the State.

He noted that the Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, ordered the police operatives to raid the identified black spots as he had earlier warned and directed police officers and men to move against lawlessness and criminality in Lagos as he affirmed the zeal of the command to sustain the operations even beyond the yuletide season.

Odumosu has, however, directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of SCID, Panti, to commence discreet investigation on the arrested suspects for immediate prosecution.

He also urged those whose items were looted during the recent End SARS violence to come to the Command headquarters to claim their items with proof of ownership.

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Stripped ladies spotted at wedding party in Nigeria (video)

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A Nigerian couple seems to have spiced up activities at their wedding reception by inviting strippers.

The video of the strippers spotted at the wedding, yesterday, Saturday, November 14, 2020, is pulling down social media as many have reacted to the event.

Guests who attended the wedding shared the video online.

Watch video below

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Traffic wardens ask IGP Adamu for separate department

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The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, has been told to form the Department of Warden Services under the Nigeria Police Force.

Traffic Wardens in Akure disclosed this in a letter signed by their lawyer, Mr. Jide Agboola, and was made available to newsmen.

IGP Adamu in the letter was told to create the unit under the police to change their conditions for improved service delivery.

According to the letter, titled: ‘ Re-call to urgently create a department for traffic warden service under the Nigeria Police Force through a reform,’ the wardens alleged that the act that established traffic wardens has impeded their welfare.

They called for the prompt promotion of their members as well as given leadership positions at Force Headquarters and states level.

The traffic wardens also requested to have a Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP), nine Operational Commanders of the Traffic Warden at Force Headquarters, Abuja as applicable in some of the West African Countries.

The Wardens also called for the recruitment of more traffic wardens, training and re-training of traffic warden personnel for best traffic management within the country.

The letter reads in part:
“We want reform in creating a department or merging the traffic warden under the Nigeria Police Force like the one recently created for FIB and others in the Nigeria Police Force.

“Presently, Traffic Warden Establishment under the Police Act and Regulations Chapter 11 of 1990 has been an obstacle to the traffic wardens, particularly on their promotion, placement as the head of the department in the Nigeria Police Force, and improvement in their general welfare.

“The 8th National Assembly also sponsored a bill for the autonomy of the Traffic Warden Service, which has been passed in the year 2018 and it has not been assented to by Mr. President since then, as a result of one reason or the other best known to the Presidency.

“A memo also sent by the concerned Traffic Officers to the Inspector General of Police, for the improvement of Traffic Warden Service which has been acknowledged and receipt dated 23rd March 2020.

“It is observable that the plight of the wardens is worsening by the day without any improvement in their establishment. Besides, they have not been given adequate attention on promotion for the past 10 years and no recruitment sfrom2007 today, because of the lingering issues that have no solution since the establishment of the service in the year 1974.

“We, therefore, urge the above authorities and other authorities concerned to use their good office to give a lasting panacea for the improvement of the Traffic Warden Service.” the letter ended.

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FG to feed, deworm children with N142.3 billion in 2021

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The federal government has budgeted N142.3 billion to feed 9.86 million children, deworm seven million children, and recount the pupils in 2021 under the Home-Grown School Feeding programme (NHGSFP).

It was gathered that the N142.3 billion is meant to take care of the feeding of about 10 million, deworming of seven million primary 1-3 pupils in 35 states and FCT and 60,000 out-of-school children, computation of pupils, and training of cooks and farmers.

It was further gathered that the proposed allocation for the NHGSFP accounts for 40.5 percent of the total recurrent expenditure of the nation’s social investment programmes, NSIP, domiciled under the ministry of humanitarian affairs which was established in 2019.

The humanitarian ministry which has also disclosed that it is planning to expand the NHGSFP programme to target additional five million children in conventional and non-conventional schools under the Alternate School Programme in 2021, also budgeted N2.7 billion for the “purchase of feeding utensils, devices for capturing and aprons for cooks” for the feeding programme.

In all, the NHGSFP could gulp N145 billion in 2021. The amount billed for the NHGSFP is a slice from the N400 billion – N350 billion recurrent and N50 billion capital expenditure – proposed to the National Assembly for the implementation of the nation’s social investment programmes (NSIP) in 2021.

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Reveal Emmanuella’s real source of income – Kemi Olunloyo blasts Mark Angel

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The information of child comedienne, Emmanulla, building a house for her mother has left many people impressed.

Kemi Olunloye, in a recent post on Twitter, stated that such accomplishments like that of the child star need to be ‘elaborated in a professional way’.

The journalist called on Mark Angel – Emmanuella’s manager – to tell the media how she got the money to build the house adding that this would inspire other comedians and kids.

Read her post below: “EMMANUELLA: Public Relations Mgt is my 2nd degree. In PR when a 10yr comedian builds a house that achievement needs to be elaborated professionally. Mark Angel should tell media the EXACT source of her income used to build that house to inspire other young kids. “Don’t just post all over the internet about a house that could have been built by her uncle Mark Angel for her mother and Emmanuella’s name used to upgrade her brand for more fans, followers, and recognition. Nigerian mainstream newspapers don’t ask questions.Other young comedians and enterprising kids should know how they can make that money too. In Hollywood kids, salaries are public information. Inspire other kids. The problem in Nigeria is everyone wants to show off their earnings without letting others know how to do the same.”

Recall goldennatioblog.com reported Saturday, 14 November, that Emmanuella had put a smile on her mother’s face after she built a befitting bungalow for her.

Captioning the house gift to her, the 10-year-old noted that she built the house specifically for her mother’s supportive and prayerful role in her career. According to her, the mom wanted a portable house and that is exactly what she gifted her while she promised to complete a bigger one, a mansion, by the year 2021.

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How jealous lover killed pastor, Church member over girlfriend

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A pastor, Apostle Chimaobi Henry Ofor, has reportedly lost his life along with a female worshipper when a jealous lover set their building ablaze.

The suspect, Etifa Ibukilubu, was reported to have suspected that his ex-girlfriend – Elvina Japhet, was in the building. The incident occurred at the Igbogene community in Yenagoa local government area of Bayelsa state

It was gathered that the cleric has been in the community for a long time because he served there and decided to settle and establish the church. He was killed after finishing a prayer series over the ember months.

Reports reveal that after the prayers on October 31, Apostle Chimaobi Henry and other members who could not go home in the early hours of November 1 were resting in the three-bedroom apartment when Ibukilubu discovered that his ex-girlfriend was among the worshippers and could be sleeping there also. He (Etifa Ibukilubu) came with fuel, broke the window near where the pastor was sleeping, and set him and one other female member ablaze.

Meanwhile, about six other members of the church, including Etifa’s girlfriend Elvina, were said to have escaped death because they were all sleeping in the sitting room where the church service held.

It was further alleged that neighbours claimed Elvina had stopped her relationship with Ibukilubu after she decided to give her life to Christ, but Ibukilubu is angry about it and always confront any man he sees with the girl.

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Akpororo, wife marks 5th wedding anniversary (Photos)

Nigerian stand-up comedian and singer, Jephthah Bowoto, popularly knowns as Akpororo, and his wife Josephine are celebrating their 5th wedding anniversary today, November 14.

The couple who got married in 2015, are blessed with three children, a girl and a set of twins (boy and girl).

Marking his 5th wedding anniversary, Akpororo shared a photo of himself and his wife.

He wrote: “Wow 5years already oh lord I’m grateful. Happy wedding anniversary to us bae @jojosplace_vantage triplet loading.”

Josephine wrote: “5years!!! FOREVER! FOREVER!”

The Warri born comedian is known for putting laughter in the faces of people in comic ways.

Apkororo who also doubles as a singer is a graduate of Lagos State University but seems to have taken comedy as a profession due to the rewards he gets in making people laugh.

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Businessman Ginimbi, to be buried in Versace coffin, see cost (photos)

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Flashy Zimbabwean socialite and businessman, Genius Ginimbi Kadungure, who died in a road accident on Sunday, November 8, will today Saturday, November 14, buried in a Versace coffin.

There were unconfirmed reports that the socialite had bought the coffin a week before the tragic accident claimed his life and two others including the popular and Video Vixen Mitchelle Amuli known as Moana.

According to Zimbabwean media, Ginimbi’s family proved to the contrary the previous reports and have revealed he will be buried in a Versace coffin at his Domboshava mansion today.

It was learned that the Versace coffin costs between $5000 to $12000.

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Lekki Toll Gate: We are sad Sanwo-Olu denied inviting soldiers — Gen Taiwo

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The Commander of 81 Military Intelligence Brigade, Victoria Island, Lagos, Brig. Gen. Ahmed Taiwo Saturday, told the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry probing the alleged shooting of #EndSARS protesters at the Lekki tollgate, Saturday said that soldiers were not happy, that the Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu denied inviting soldiers to restore peace and order at Lekki Toll Gate.

“I spoke with the governor and said the army was unhappy that he said he did not ask the army to intervene. But I’m sure after we’ve watched everything, we saw he had more than reasonable grounds to ask the army to intervene.”

Recall that Sanwo-Olu in an interview with ARISE Tv denied ordering the army to the state, saying such powers were beyond any state governor.

“I don’t know how the officers got it all wrong because the instruction was that police won’t be out until 10-10:30 p.m. when all citizens should have gotten to their various homes. This is totally against what we stand for.

“The army does not report to me, I have reported the matter to the highest command in the military. It’s not something we are going to gloss over. A judicial panel will be set up to investigate it. I have escalated it to the highest level of the military,” Sanwo-Olu said.

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EndSARS: Pastor Sam Adeyemi, Davido, others under investigation (Letter)

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A Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja has asked the Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory to launch an investigation into 50 prominent persons who facilitated the #EndSARS protests in the country.

The magistrate gave the police two weeks to investigate the matter and send a report for proper adjudication.

A letter written by the court registrar which was addressed to the CP read in part, “I am directed by the Presiding Chief Magistrate II, his worship, Hon. Omolola Tolulope Akindele, sitting at Chief Magistrate Court 2, Wuse Zone 6, FCT Abuja, to write to your office to investigate the above-mentioned case and report back within two weeks for proper adjudication of the case.”

Those listed as defendants include the Senior Pastor, Daystar Christian Centre, Sam Adeyemi; Musician Damini Ogulu aka Burna Boy, David Adeleke otherwise known as Davido, Folarin Falana popularly known as Falz; and social media comedians, Debo Adebayo aka Mr. Macaroni and Maryam Apaokagi aka Taoma

Other musicians sued include Peter and Paul Okoye, Innocent Idibia aka Tuface, Bankole Wellington popularly known as Banky W, Tiwa Savage, Michael Ajereh aka Don Jazzy; Ayo Balogun aka Wizkid; and Yemi Alade.

Apart from musicians, others listed as defendants include- Activist, Aisha Yesufu; ex-Super Eagles star, Kanu Nwankwo; a former Director-General, Bureau for Public Sector Reform, Dr. Joe Abah; journalist, Kiki Mordi, and actors, Yul Edochie and Uche Jombo

Social media influencers – Feyikemi Abudu, Olorunrinu Oduala, Pamilerin Adegoke, Japhet Omojuwa, Ayo Sogunro, and Deji Adeyanju were also joined in the suit as well as activist, Tope Akinyode.

The case was instituted on Monday under sections 88, 109(a), 110(1)(c) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

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BREAKING: Obaseki appoints Ogie as SSG, defers other appointments

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has approved the appointment of Osarodion Ogie Esq as Secretary to the State Government.

In a statement, the governor said this was the only political appointment to be made for now.

Obaseki added that all other appointments are postponed to the first week of February 2021.

Recall that Governor Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, were Thursday inaugurated for second term as the governor of Edo state.

The inauguration, which held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, had in attendance President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who was also represented by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Edobor Iyamu, governors of Sokoto, Delta and Bayelsa states, Aminu Tambuwal, Ifeanyi Okowa, and Douye Diri.

National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus; Vice-Chairman of PDP South-south, Dan Orbih; former Minister of Works, Mike Onolememe; Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly Marcus Onobun; Chief Judge of Edo State, Esther Edigin and state Commissioner of Police, Johnson Kokumo, among others, also attended the event.

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Emmanuella builds house for mum, promises her mansion (Photos)

Nigerian teenage comedienne, Emmanuella Samuel, has built and furnished a bungalow for her mother.

The 10-year-old child star took to her Instagram page on Friday, November 13, 2020, where she shared photos of the newly built and furnished bungalow.

Emmanuella, a child comedienne on Mark Angel’s YouTube channel is known for her hilarious roles and has featured in most episodes of the mark Angel’s comedy.

Displaying the house on Instagram, she captioned the pictures:

“I built this for u mom. For all the prayers, all the encouragement, and support. Mummy I know you said u want a portable house and this is it. But forgive me because I must complete ur mansion for you next year. Don’t worry it won’t make us go to hell🤣🤣🤣🤣 my super Christmas mummy. I love you”.

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Davido hails Mayorkun, thank God for the day he met him

Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has commended Mayorkun, one of the artists on his music label, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW).

The singer revealed this following the completion of his third studio work.

Mayorkun, who was born Adewale Mayowa Emmanuel, shared a video of himself singing to Davido’s latest album, A Better Time, and at the same time, praising him for blessing Nigerians with adorable music.

The singer tweeted a video of him singing and dancing that he learned music from the boss, referring to Davido.

Replying to Mayorkun’s video, Davido thanked God for the day he found Mayorkun who has now turned to be his friend and one of the best artists on his label.

Davido released his much-awaited album, A Better Time, to the joy of fans.

The singer’s body of work was released on November 13, 2020, as promised and in no time, fans had listened to all the tracks and shared their hot takes on it on their social media pages.

The 16-track album featured both local and international artists like Tiwa Savage, Mayorkun, Lil Baby, Nas, and Chris Brown.

One of Davido’s fans from the political circle is the former vice president of Nigeria and the 2019 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku took to Twitter to congratulate the FEM crooner on the release of his highly anticipated album, A Better Time.

The politician who insinuated that Davido ushered in a better time literally, wrote: “Congratulations @Davido for ushering in #ABetterTime.”

Meanwhile, American rapper, Nicki Minaj who is one of the foreign artists featured on Davido’s new album, joined the list of people who have reached out to the singer after his album dropped on Friday, November 13.

One of the early highlights of the album was his Holy Ground track with Nicki which celebrated and honored love. The track has been anticipated by fans for quite some time.

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Sanwo-Olu launches Nigeria’s first electric car, Hyundai Kona

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday, November 13, 2020, unveiled the first Nigerian electric car named Hyundai Kona.

The car which is a product of Stallion Group was launched at the VON Automobiles Nigeria in Ojo, Lagos State where the car was manufactured.

The new Kona, an Electric car is regarded in European motoring industry as the world’s number one, with the cost, but at about N24 million

While speaking during the unveiling of the product, Sanwo-Olu observed that VON has over 40 to 50 years of vehicle manufacturing history, when they were assembling various Volkswagen products.

The governor was full of commendation for Stallion Group for the noble initiative, just as he promised that Lagos State Government will make provisions for electricity charging points for the vehicle across the state, to make it easy for users to enjoy their Electric Vehicles (EV).

The Governor also promised the completion of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, which was started under the administration of former governor of the state, Babatunde Fasola, to facilitate business activities in the state.

Sanwo-Olu said, “Lagos-Badagry Expressway which has been expanded from 2 to 10 lanes will soon be complete, we are not rushing the road; we are building a first-class road construction project.’’

The Managing Director, VON Automobiles, Mr. Rohtagi Manish, while explaining the essence of the launch, pointed out that Kona will change things positively in the Nigerian auto market.

He said the changes in global temperature and weather patterns are seen today are caused by human activity. Kona, he said, is one way to respond to the global weather challenges, to achieve a greener environment.

This appears to be a huge boost for the promoters of the more environmentally friendly automobile and subsequently promote a green environment. This will also help to drive the Federal Government’s efforts to shift focus from petrol-based automobiles to vehicles with a cheaper source of energy.

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NNPC announces price increase for petrol

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has announced N153.17 ex-depot price for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol for November.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by its spokesman, Dr. Kennie Obateru, in Abuja on Friday.

The ex-depot price is the amount at which the depot owners sell the commodity to retail outlets owners and fuel marketers across the country. “The correct prices, as can be seen on PPMC’s ‘Customer Express’ platform (online portal for procurement of petroleum products) are Ex-Coastal Price – N128, and Ex-Depot Price (with collection) – N153.17.”

Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC) is a subsidiary of the NNPC.

He advised marketers to make their purchases through the online “Customer Express” platform (PPMCCustomer.Express/login/authenticate) at the recommended prices. He faulted the widely circulated memo in the media purporting an increase in the PPMC Ex-Coastal Price and Ex-Depot Price (with collection) to N130 and N155.17, respectively. “We wish to clarify that there was a slight increase in the price based on the prevailing realities of market forces of demand and supply.”

It was learned that the PPMC did not make public the October ex-depot price but in September, it announced an ex-depot price of N151.56k. The November price of N153.17 has an increment of N1.61 from the September price.

Labour unions in the country had planned to go on strike over the increase, but the planned industrial action was called off after negotiations with the government.

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BREAKING: Buhari approves Banks, Financial Institutions Act 2020

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020.

The presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu, made the announcement in a statement on Friday,

The Act repeals the extant Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 1991 as amended.

The legislation is expected to improve the stability of the financial system for the growth of the Nigerian economy.

It updates the enabling law in response to developments and significant evolution in the financial sector.

The Presidency said the Act will increase the appetite of banks and other financial institutions to channel credit to the real sector.

It also introduces a credit tribunal to improve loan recovery.

Furthermore, the legislation addresses the incidence of high non-performing loans within the financial system.

The Act will boost the regulatory and supervisory framework for the financial industry.

It provides additional tools for managing failing institutions and systemic distress to preserve financial stability.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will meet stakeholders across various sectors to discuss critical aspects of the Act

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Man, 70, arrested for impregnating his 15-year-old granddaughter

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The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 70-year-old man, Hunsu Sunday for allegedly defiling his 15 years old granddaughter and subsequently impregnating her.

Abimbola Oyeyemi, the Command Public Relations Officer, disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

He said, “the suspect was apprehended following a complain lodged at Ado-Odo Divisional headquarters by the aunty of the victim who reported that the victim has been living with her grandfather since the demise of her mother”.

“She stated further that the victim came to inform her that her grandfather has been abusing her sexually for quite some time and she has been having strange feelings on her recently”.

“Upon the complaint, the DPO Ado-Odo, SP Michael Arowojeun detailed his detectives to the scene where the randy old man was arrested”.

“On interrogation, he confessed having carnal knowledge of his granddaughter but claimed that he didn’t know that the victim is pregnant”, Oyeyemi said.

He added that the victim has been taken to hospital for medical treatment.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Edward Awolowo Ajogun has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspect to the anti-human trafficking and child labour unit of the state criminal investigation and intelligence department for further investigation and prosecution.

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BREAKING: Imo Assembly dismisses speaker

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The Speaker Imo State House of Assembly Chiji Collins has been impeached.

It was gathered that Collins was removed from office by the lawmakers on Friday during a plenary at the legislative chamber of the Assembly complex in Owerri.

The motion for the impeachment of Collins was supported by 19 out of the 27 members of the House.

He was impeached over allegations of financial impropriety, high handedness, and gross misconduct, among others.

The lawmakers immediately elected Paul Emeziem, member representing Onuimo Local Government Area as the new Speaker of the House.

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EFCC boss appears before committee for budget defence

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The acting head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mohammed Umar, has countered to reports that the agency is entitled to 5% of the money it recovers from its convicts.

He made the statement on Wednesday, November 11, when he appeared before the committee at a budget defence session.

Umar told the House of Representatives committee on financial crimes that he was never aware of the provision of the law on the matter.

“I’m not aware EFCC is entitled to 5% of recovered cash”

Some committee members noted that the EFCC was having huge unspent funds when other government agencies were facing financial crisis.

Abdulganiyu Olododo, one of the lawmakers in the committee urged the EFCC to be transparent about its spending.

“We want details of the expenditure by the commission. As one of the agencies respected and feared in the country, they need to be open and accountable in whatever they are doing,” he said

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One killed as gunmen steal cash from bullion van (Video)

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Gunmen opened fire on a bullion van in Ajah area of Lagos on Thursday.

The incident occurred at Addo road, close to popular up-armored, Blenco.

Footages sighted by eyewitnesses showed the attacked armoured Toyota Hilux ridden with bullets that appeared did not penetrate.

The assailants shot at the tyres to stop the vehicle, and also the lock of the cash storage.

An unidentified okada man was hit by a stray bullet. His lifeless body laid inches away from his motorcycle.

At the time of filing this report, It is unclear if the policemen conveying the money were killed or severely injured.

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Pope Francis reacts to US election results, hails Biden

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Pope Francis, on Thursday, recognised Democratic Party candidate, Joe Biden as the winner of the Nov 3 presidential election.

The Pope and Biden spoke on the phone earlier on Thursday, according to the Biden Transition Team, as quoted by Metro UK.

A spokesperson said: “President-elect Joe Biden spoke this morning with His Holiness Pope Francis.

“The president-elect thanked His Holiness for extending blessings and congratulations and noted his appreciation for His Holiness’s leadership in promoting peace, reconciliation, and the common bonds of humanity around the world.”

“The president-elect expressed his desire to work together based on a shared belief in the dignity and equality of all humankind on issues such as caring for the marginalized and the poor, addressing the crisis of climate change, and welcoming and integrating immigrants and refugees into our communities.”

Biden, who is only but the second Catholic President in the US, has met at least two of the last three Popes.

The US presidential election was a tight battle between the incumbent President Donald Trump and Joe Biden, candidate of the Republican Party.

Joe Biden, however, emerged as winner after polling over 270 electoral college votes, although the winner has not been officially announced.

Although Biden has since assumed his role as the President-elect, preparing to take over the White House, the incumbent, President Trump has refused to concede defeat.

Trump has gone to court challenging Biden’s victory in the election which he (Trump) alleged was marred by massive corruption and fraud.

The incumbent has recently expressed hope of being declared winner of the election, saying results that would be announced next week would put him ahead of Biden.

Pope Francis had recently said that Trump “is not Christian” in reaction to the President’s campaign promises to deport more immigrants and force Mexico to pay for a wall along the border.

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Kogi introduces tax for every loaf of bread

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The Kogi state government has reportedly imposed a levy on every single loaf of bread and confectionery produced in the state.

It was learned the levy was imposed by the state’s ministry of commerce and industry on November 9. The ministry in a memo addressed to the chairperson, the association of master bakers and caterers of Nigeria, Kogi state branch, said the collection of the levy will start from November 16, 2020. The state has hired a consultant, Musag Integrated Enterprises, with Registration Number 2476494, to collect the levy from the bakers and caterers.

The memo reads: “We write to introduce the above mentioned as the Consultant appointed by the Kogi State Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to collect the above-mentioned levy from all Master Bakers and Caterers doing business in and across Kogi State. “You are, therefore, required to avail them all necessary cooperation to enable them to carry out their assignment. “The above-mentioned levy is to be paid per loaf of bread or other confectioneries products produced per day.

“Please do comply with this policy to improve the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the State for the provision of better services and good governance. “The collection of this levy shall take effect seven (7) days from the date of receipt of this letter. You are expected to communicate this information to all your members. “Have the assurance of our esteemed regards.”

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Obaseki, deputy inaugurated for second term (Photos)

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo state and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, has been inaugurated for a second term in office.

The ceremony was held on Thursday at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the state capital.

The Oath of Office was administered by Chief Judge of the state, Justice Esther Edigin.

Dignitaries in attendance include governors of the Peoples Democratic Party like Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State, Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State; among others.

Obaseki had defeated his closest rival, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress, during the September 19, 2020 governorship election in the state.

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Okowa mourns Kaduna former Governor Balarabe Musa

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The Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has commiserated with the government and people of Kaduna State over the death of their former Governor, Alhaji Balarabe Musa.

The former governor died on Wednesday at 84.

This is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, On Thursday in Asaba.

The governor said that Balarabe Musa, a renowned politician and elder statesman, died at a critical period in the country when his voice was needed on serious national issues.

He remarked that the deceased was an astute politician who was of the firm belief that political and economic restructuring of the country was key for progress.

Okowa said the demise of Balarabe Musa was a big blow to his family and the entire people of Kaduna State because he was a man who had constantly called on leaders to always make the well-being of the people the focus of their policies and programmes.

The governor recalled that the departed politician was a staunch Chieftain of Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), where he was National Chairman and Presidential candidate in 2003.

“The late Balarabe Musa, a distinguished administrator, and man of truth will be remembered for his patriotic calls for the restructuring of the economic and political models the country is currently operating which only empowers a few.

“Upon resignation from active politics due to ill health in August 2010, Balaraba Musa was of the firm belief that the aspirations of Nigeria could be achieved if leaders and followers resolved to play their parts conscientiously and patriotically in nation-building.

“He will be deeply missed by all and sundry whose lives he affected in many ways, especially the “talakawas”, whose course he fought in his brand of politics.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I mourn with the family of the late Balarabe Musa, the government and people of Kaduna State and the PRP nationwide,” Okowa said.

He prayed that God would forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal repose.

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How devil pushed me to kidnap my 8-year-old pupil – Teacher

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A 29-year-old teacher, Odugbesan Ayodele Samson, has told the police that it was the devil that pushed him to kidnap an eight-year-old pupil in Ogun State.

It was gathered that the teacher, was arrested by men of the Ogun State Police Command for kidnapping his former pupil, who the police identified as Rasaq Akeeb on November 4, 2020.

Ogun police spokesman, Abimbola Oyeyemi, told newsmen on Wednesday that the teacher was arrested following a complaint lodged at Ajuwon divisional police headquarters by the mother of the victim, Fatimat Akeeb.

The mother had reported that her son went to school at Arifanla area of Akute in Ogun State, but did not return home till around 6pm that day.

She was reported to have told the police that she received a phone call from an unknown person, asking her to be ready to pay the sum of N200,000 if she wished to see her son alive.

“She stated further that the caller told her that the boy was brought to him by somebody and he will not release him until the said amount is paid,” it was learnt.

Upon the report, the DPO of Ajuwon division, SP Andrew Akinseye, had immediately directed his detectives to embark on a technical and intelligence based investigation, which Oyeyemi said led to the discovery of the suspect’s hideout.

“In order not to harm the victim, the suspect was lured out with part payment of his demanded ransom; he was subsequently apprehended and he took the police detectives to where he kept the victim and he was rescued unhurt.

“On interrogation, he confessed committing the crime but blamed it on the devil,” the PPRO stated.

The Ogun Commissioner of Police, Edward Ajogun, has ordered, therefore, that the case be transferred to the anti-kidnapping unit of the state CIID for further investigation and prosecution.

Ajogun appealed to parents to be mindful of their children’s movement to and from school in order not to make them easy prey to those he described as wolves in sheep’s clothing.

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DESOPADEC Boss, Diden lauds INYC

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The Chairman, Delta State Oil Producing Development Commission, (DESOPADEC), Hon. Micheal Diden, has commended the visionary quality of the present leadership of Itsekiri National Youth Council, led by Comrade Weyinmi Agbateyinero.

He made the commendation in a courtesy visit he paid to the INYC secretariat under construction.

Hon Diden who praised the present executive of the council for embarking on the project, noted that it was a futuristic gesture for the Itsekiri nation and welcome development.

The Chairman promised to support the developmental strides of the INYC in facilitating peace and unity amongst Itsekiri people.

He called on all well-meaning Itsekiris at home and in the diaspora to support the vision of the INYC for the growth of the Itsekiri people.

Responding, Comrade Agbateyinero thanked the DESOPADEC boss for his steady support to the INYC and the Itsekiri nation at large.

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Penawou commends Brown, Udu council boss over project

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The Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Prince Kelly Penawou has praised the leadership excellence of Jite Brown, chairman of Udu Local Government Area.

He made the commendation recently in Otor-Udu when he paid a courtesy call to the council with members of his team.

Hon. Penawou thanked the chairman for renovating the Udu Council Secretariat adding that he and his team were quick to reveal that they were greatly delighted at the gesture of the chairman.

On his part, Hon. Brown, who was represented by the Secretary to the Council, Mrs. Elohor Awinoro, thanked Penawou and his team for the visit.

Brown, said the council was committed to the security of lives and property of all Udu residents, stressing that no meaningful development could be recorded in an environment of insecurity.

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EndSARS: Delta CJ tells legal counsels to submit pending cases

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Delta State Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro, has told legal practitioners appearing for parties in cases pending before the high courts to compile their court processes and submit to the Assistant Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice, Asaba.

This was contained in a memo signed by the Acting Chief Registrar, Obomejero Aforkeya and was made available to newsmen in Asaba.

The order of the chief judge was occasioned by the burning down of the High Court Complex, Ibusa road, which caused wanton destruction of case files, exhibits, record books and other court documents that were completely razed down during the ENDSARS protests.

The statement reads: “In order to salvage the situation, Counsel appearing for parties in cases pending before High Courts 2, 3, 4 and 5, Asaba are by this medium advised to compile processes in cases pending before the aforesaid Courts and submit to the Asst. Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice, Asaba.”

The statement advised legal practitioners to submit the above-mentioned documents on or before 30th November, 2020.

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End SARS: NBC fails to explain ‘fake footages’ claimed [Video]

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The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has failed to explain reasons why the federal government finalized that viral videos of the End SARS protest are not real.

Acting NBC Director-General, Armstrong Idachaba, could not make any explanations when he was asked on Arise TV on Wednesday.

The interviewer had queried him on tools used for the verification but the NBC boss had no clue.

He reminded the NBC boss that reputable international organizations ascertained that the videos were not doctored.

Responding, Idachaba, a Professor of Mass Communications, answered evasively.

“The onus is on the broadcaster to verify, to authenticate; it’s not on the regulator”, he said.

The federal government had sanctioned three broadcast stations on October 26, barely a week after the Lekki shooting.

AIT, Arise TV, and Channels were accused of broadcasting fake online photos and videos of the protests.

Announcing the N3 million fine against each station, Idachaba had claimed the footages aired fuelled violence across Nigeria.

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) is challenging the action in court.

See video below :

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Delta to start own security outfit before Christmas

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Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has said that the state’s security outfit, ‘Operation Delta Hawk’, established to fight kidnapping and other violent crimes, would begin operations before Christmas.

He disclosed this on Tuesday at a meeting with traditional rulers and religious leaders in Asaba.

The governor explained that establishing the outfit took a while because he wanted to ensure that everything was in place.

He said that necessary operational equipment required to enable it to carry out its mandate had been procured and that it would work closely with vigilante groups across wards and communities to discharge its responsibilities.

“The team has already been selected and trained and we have been able to get men on the ground to participate.

“For them to be able to undertake such programmes, they also need body armour, the vests, which we have gotten recently.

“We are in the process of concluding installation of the communication equipment; the mast is already being provided and by the time we can complete the installation, then we can truly start’’, he said.

Okowa also briefed the stakeholders on the activities that took place in the state during the #ENDSARS protests and thanked traditional rulers for their roles in community development.

He revealed that a presidential delegation, led by Ibrahim Gambari, chief of staff to President Buhari, would be meeting with South-South stakeholders on Friday in Port Harcourt.

According to him, the state had already constituted a delegation, comprising two traditional rulers, one religious leader, two youths, and two women, to attend the meeting.

He recalled that issues of illegal detention, police brutality, and death of youths triggered the recent protests which emanated from Ughelli and Lagos.

“A lot of other issues came up with the protests and we thank God for helping us to control the process.

“The destructions that took place in Asaba were orchestrated by people who infiltrated the state from neighbouring states, and from our intelligence reports, we have them in all urban centers in the state’’, he said.

He urged traditional rulers to be vigilant and help government fish out the leaders of the perpetrators, following the destructions they caused in Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, and in Edo, where they even freed prisoners.

Mr. Okowa attributed the #EndSARS protests to the unemployed and unengaged state of the youths, adding that their idle nature ignited the protests.

“They are agitated and the END SARS protests allowed them to vent that anger and frustration that they had bottled up over the years,’’ he said.

He appealed to leaders to brace up to their responsibilities of mentoring the youth, saying, “we all have our roles to play in building the youths as they have rightly drawn our attention about their challenges, particularly the issue of unemployment.

“We’ve just inaugurated the Rural Youths Skills Acquisition Programme (RYSA) and we had, a few months ago, inaugurated the Girl-Child Empowerment Training Programme,” he said, adding that government had earmarked N5 billion for all its skills acquisition and empowerment programmes in 2021.

On COVID-19, the governor said that Pfizer, a multinational pharmaceutical firm, had announced that it had discovered a vaccine that could provide immunity, but warned that this was no time to be complacent.

“The virulence of the COVID-19 virus in Nigeria and Africa has been minimal compared to what it is in Europe and America. However, it is not a time for us to relax, but a time to wear our masks and use our sanitisers,” he added.

The Chairperson, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, Emmanuel Efeizomor II, and the Obi of Owa Kingdom; Orodje of Okpe, Orhue I, and the Olu of Warri, Ikenwoli Emiko, who spoke at the meeting, called for the restructuring of the country for overall development.

They added that it was the failure of the country to restructure that was to blame for its backwardness.

The traditional rulers, who applauded Okowa for establishing Operation Delta Hawk, advocated proper training of police personnel and better remuneration with a view to enhancing their operations.

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Buhari presides over 23rd virtual FEC meeting

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President Muhammadu Buhari is currently presiding over the 23rd virtual Federal Executive Council, meeting at the Council Chambers, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The meeting, which started at about 10 am has the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustapha, and Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, physically present.

Also physically present at the Council Chambers are Ministers of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Finance, Zainab Ahmed, Justice, Abubakar Malami, Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, Aviation, Hadi Sirika, Industry, Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo and Environment, Mahmood Muhammad.

Other members of the cabinet are participating in the weekly council meeting from their various offices in Abuja.

The cabinet observed a minute silence in honour of the late Babatunde Lawal, who until his death, was a Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation and Deputy Secretary of cabinet.

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US: ‘I foresee divorce between Trump, wife’ – Primate Ayodele

Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of INRI Evangelical spiritual church, has foreseen a divorce between President Donald Trump and his wife Melania of the United States of America.

Primate Ayodele also said that Donald Trump will face serious legal issues after leaving government, which is one of the reasons he is yet to accept defeat.

In the prophecy he made available to newsmen on Wednesday, he said, “I foresee a Divorce between US President, Donald Trump and his wife, Melania Trump.

“Donald Trump will face some legal challenges that will disgrace him when he leaves government. This is why He is yet to accept defeat.”

Recall that Ayodele had recently predicted the outcome of the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo State

He also spoke about the death of prominent Nigerians due to COVID-19.

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EndSARS: CBN accuses promoters of terrorism

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sought an ex parte order to freeze the account of 20 members of the EndSARS movement in what has been generating a whirlpool of reaction.

The reason for the action has now been unravelled as contained in a case with suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1384/2020, filed before Justice A. R. Mohammed of Abuja Federal High Court

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the request to freeze the accounts of those linked to the #EndSARS protests was granted in an ex parte order.

The affected individuals have been identified as Bolatito Racheal Oduala, Chima David Ibebunjoh, Mary Doose Kpengwa, Nicholas Ikhalea Osazele, Ebere Idibie, Akintomide Lanre Yusuf, Uhuo Ezenwanyi Promise, and Mosopefoluwa Odeseye.

Others are Saadat Temitope Bibi, Adegoke Pamileri Garfield, Umoh Grace Ekanem, Babatunde Victor Se, gun, Mulu Louis Teghenan, Mary Oshifowora, Winifred Akpevweoghene Jacob, actor Solomon, Idunu A. Williams, Gatefield Nigeria Limited, Bassey Victor Israel, and Wisdom Busaosowo Obi.

It has now been revealed that the apex bank, while requesting the court order, argued that the funding of the EndSARS movement might have emanated from terrorist activities,

CBN said the money flow into the account of the EndSARS protesters was found ominous following investigation by head of the economic intelligence unit, Joseph Omayuku. “There is a grave allegation that the defendants are involved in suspected terrorism financing via their bank accounts in contravention of the provisions of extant laws and regulations. The aforesaid transactions undertaken by the defendants, using their bank accounts, can cause significant economic and security harm to the public and the Federal Republic of Nigeria if left unchecked.”

Meanwhile, the Nigerian presidency has stated that EndSARS promoters must face the wrath of the law for leading a protest that led to the indiscriminate destruction of government properties.

Garba Shehu, a senior presidential aide on media and publicity on Sunday, November 8, made this known on Channels TV, with his comment backing the recent freezing of suspected EndSARS leaders’ accounts. Shehu also berated desperate politicians for sponsoring the EndSARS protest and told them to publicly denounce the destruction.

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Mob sets truck on fire after killing pedestrian in Onitsha

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An angry mob yesterday set a truck ablaze in Onitsha, Anambra State after a pedestrian was killed in an accident along Onitsha-Owerri road.

Eyewitnesses said the truck, belonging to a popular cement company lost control and crushed a pedestrian walking along the expressway.

The death of the man, who was well known in the community, caused some angry youths to set the truck ablaze when the driver was nowhere to be found.

Confirming the incident, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra Command, said one male adult, whose identity was not captured, was crushed to death in a road crash in Onitsha.

A statement from the sector’s Public Education Officer, Kamal Musa, said the accident happened yesterday about 9:55 a.m.

Musa who spoke on behalf of the Sector Commander, Andrew A. Kumapayi, said: “The truck driver slipped out of his lane due to excessive speeding and crushed a pedestrian who is well known in the community, hence, the angry youths revenged by setting the truck ablaze when the driver was nowhere to be found”.
Confirming the incident, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra Command, said one male adult, whose identity was not captured, was crushed to death in a road crash in Onitsha.

He said the FRSC rescue team from Upper Iweka Outpost immediately mobilised for rescue operations but were intercepted by the angry youths who took the body of the victim away.

Meanwhile, Kumapayi has revealed that a total number of 98 people lost their lives in road crashes in the state last year, with 532 others sustaining varying degrees of injuries.

Giving the breakdown, he said: “Out of the 98 persons that lost their lives in the crashes, 71 were male while 27 were female.

Kumapayi who disclosed this during the 2020 commemoration of World Day of Remembrance for Victims of Road Traffic Crashes with the theme, “Remember, Support, Act”, said the casualties were recorded from 190 crashes.

He however lamented that officers and men of the corps suffered trauma during the recent #EndSARS protest, saying it was not enough to deter his personnel from rendering efficient services to the people of the state.

In Oyo State, the FRSC said it recorded a total of 142 road crashes and 70 deaths in the third quarter of 2020. The Sector Commander in the state, Mrs. Uche Chukwurah, said it recorded more road crashes in the third quarter, which was between July and September than 112 crashes recorded in the second quarter of the year under review.

She said that more crashes were recorded during the period because it was in the rainy season, and most people were in a hurry due to the lifting of the restrictions on movement during the COVID-19 lockdown period.

“We recorded 142 road traffic crashes, the number of vehicles involved was 230, the number killed was 70, number injured was 389 and we were able to rescue 364 and the total number of people involved was 823.

“Overspending accounted for major cause of road crashes during the period and followed by wrongful overtaking and tire burst,” the sector commander said.

She pleaded with motorists to desist from using ‘tokunbo’ tyres, saying more lives can be saved if they use brand new ones.

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Confusion as vigilante kills one, injure two others in Delta

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The people of Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State has been thrown into confusion after a member of the community’s vigilante group killed a 13-year old boy and injured two others.

The boy identified as Monday Okpara, and the others according to a reliable source, were shot by the Vigilante member who was invited by a landlord to arrest his tenant for receiving visitors.

The source who pleaded anonymity said the tenant paid deaf ears to the landlord’s warning, insisting that the landlord could not dictate to him on the number of visitors he should receive when he was not owing rent.

The source said the landlord who perceived the tenant as a stubborn person, brought in the vigilante to arrest him, adding that “in the process, the tenant called his friends, who went to the vigilant office to resolve the matter.

“While the tenant was inside the office with some vigilante members, one of the vigilante members engaged his friends outside and before we could know it, he fired a shot, killing one boy on the spot and injured two others.

“The deceased is 13 years old while the injured is 17 years. As I speak to you, one of them is receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba.

The vigilante member who shot them is now on the run but the Police are looking for him”.

When contacted, Police Public Relation Officer, PPRO, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the incident, adding that the vigilante man was still at large.

“The information we got is that he was having a scuffle with somebody and fired a shot from his pump-action and a stray bullet hit three persons. One died while two others were critically injured. They are now receiving treatment at the hospital”, she said.

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Woman smashes boyfriend’s car windscreen over cheating (video)

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A video of a raged lady smashing a car has surfaced online and is quickly going viral because of it’s captivating nature.

According to the caption of the footage sighted on the official Instagram page of celebritiesbuzzgh, the car allegedly belonged to the lady’s boyfriend. It is reported that the boyfriend had cheated on the lady, causing her to destroy the windscreens and glasses of his car as a way of paying him back in his coin.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHYdUXWpXkW/?igshid=1hk89azdro2fj

Many social media users who watched the video have been reacting

massively: ephyia mentioned that: “Instead of you selling the car without his notice nu you’re breaking the screen aaah.”

radikalmonnies also commented: “Me I will not do her anything, I will just visit the mallam and connect her bank account to mine ..every blessed day she will send me money without her knowledge.”

mizk2805 wrote:
I hope your action takes away the pain.”

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5G: consultation with stakeholders ongoing, says NCC

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has published the Draft Consultation Document on the deployment of fifth-generation (5G) Mobile Technology in Nigeria.

Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, NCC Director, Public Affairs, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Adinde said that the Draft Consultation Document for the deployment of 5G in Nigeria has been produced and uploaded on NCC’s official website (www.ncc.gov.ng).

He explained that the document defined the implementation plan for the deployment of 5G in Nigeria.

“The NCC wishes to draw the attention of the general public to the fact that the Commission has not concluded plans for the deployment of the fifth-generation (5G) network.

“It provides a background into the benefits of 5G technology and outlines the Commission’s plans and strategies for a successful implementation of 5G in Nigeria.

“It presents guidelines for the relevant areas of the technology and the expectations of the Commission from the operators.

“This plan takes into account the expectations of all the stakeholders in the communications industry in Nigeria,” he said.

Adinde, however, said that Nigeria undertook 5G trials in selected locations within the country in collaboration with an operator in 2019.

The trial, among others, was to study and observe health or security challenges the 5G network might present.

He noted that the commission also had an ongoing engagement with the academia while at the same time funding 5G related research projects.

Adinde said the projects were to ensure that the nation was provided with the best in terms of research findings and policy input, to drive the implementation of 5G technology in Nigeria.

“These engagements are targeted at enabling the development of robust policies, which will put Nigeria in the best place to contribute maximally to the digital economy drive of the nation.

“The specific targets of these engagements include the development of policies which have the potential of accelerating the deployment of 5G networks in Nigeria,

“Maximizing the productivity and efficiency benefits of 5G to the nation, Creating new opportunities for Nigerian businesses at home and abroad and encouraging in-country investment.

“Ensuring the operations of 5G networks are in conformity with international standards for the avoidance of doubt, as with the previous technologies such as 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G,” he said.

He assured that the NCC would not commence 5G deployment without due consultation with all relevant stakeholders.

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Sanwo-Olu strikes to remove pension for Lagos ex-govs, deputies

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The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday announced his intention to abolish the payment of pension and other entitlements to former Governors and their Deputies.

He made his intention to repeal the Public Office Holder Act 2007 while presenting the 2021 budget to the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Detail later…

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Another protest looms if unemployment is not addressed – Senate warns

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The President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, on Monday, advised political office holders and policymakers against paying lip action to youth unemployment in the country.

He gave the warning when the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Sabo Nanono, led top officials of his ministry to defend its 2021 budget before the Senate Committee on Agriculture.

Lawan told his colleagues in positions of authorities to factor youth employment and empowerment into the 2021 budget to escape another round of #EndSARS protests.

The Senate President said, “Recently, we had protests by some of our youths. Some of them, very genuine, were seeking the attention of leaders and they got the attention.

“So, our budget, especially for 2021, should be mindful of what we do to provide employment opportunities for these youths.

“They demonstrated, they protested because they could do so. There are so many other people who may not be youthful but are also in the same need. They didn’t protest.

“Let us meet them where they are; we don’t want to wait until they also start to grumble or protest. We should be proactive.”

He revealed that the oil sector and the white-collar jobs could no longer give the required employees to keep the youths busy and financially stable.

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Why Buhari should sack security chiefs – North-east elders

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The Coalition of North East Elders for Peace and Development has reiterated its call on President Muhammadu Buhari to sack his Service Chiefs.

They accused the military of leaving the North-East zone to the mercy of Boko Haram and Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP, terrorists but deployed massive strength during the #EndSARS protests in parts of the country.

The elders argued that the scores of civilians killed were avoidable had greater tact been adopted, but noted that the strategic and operational blunders led to the scores of civilians killed.

The chairman of the North-East Elders, Engr. Zana Goni, in a statement, stressed the need for proactive intelligence.

As a result, the elders enjoined President Muhammadu Buhari, to show the service chiefs the way out as they had exhausted all applicable ideas.

They said this would pave the way for the appointment of a new set of senior officers who will approach their jobs with the highest degree of commitment and enthusiasm.

They also believed that the new appointees would bring fresh ideas to bear on the onerous task of bringing to an end the 11-year-old insurgency that has since caused the loss of lives and destruction of property in the region.

The statement noted that though the protests in parts of the country may have been suspended, with deaths and destruction of both private and public properties in the trail, the North East also suffered a similar fate during the period of the demonstrations.

The elders lamented that an attempt to quell the protests by all means possible, and the desire to prove that they were indeed on the ground, left the security of the North East worse than it was.

The statement observed that the high command of the military would have been proactive enough to know that the insurgents take advantage of loopholes, to perpetrate their wicked acts.

The elders expressed their disappointment that these gaps were not covered, thereby giving the terrorists free rein in many communities, a situation they said culminated in many unreported deaths and destruction of property.

The elders explained that their men, women, and children are tired of the needless attacks on communities, in the face of huge budgetary expenditure on the defence and security sub-sector of the nation.

They added, “We are concerned that our dear President, who is so passionate about leaving an enviable legacy of a prosperous nation in all respect, has remained adamant, as far as the military heads are concerned. This position is despite the unanimous resolution by the Senate and the House of Representatives requesting the sack of the Service Chiefs.”

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Davido featuring Nicki Minaj ‘Holy Ground’ leaks on social media

Nigerian superstar, Davido anticipated song ‘Holy Ground’ featuring American rapper Nicki Minaj has leaked on the internet.

On November 8, 2020, Davido’s anticipated a song, ‘Holy Ground’ featuring Nicki Minaj. A two-minute version of the song has been floating around on social media and the song is produced by Speroach.

The song is due to be released off Davido ‘A Better Time’s album which will drop down on November 13th, 2020. It came a full year after Davido’s sophomore album ‘A Good Time’.

During an interview with Gbemi and Segun on Beat FM, Davido narrated how he sent Nicki Minaj a message and she replied with excitement to make the song.

You can play the song below:

https://twitter.com/jayythedope/status/1325215276451966978?s=19

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Timaya releases new album tracklist, titled ‘Gratitude’

Nigerian popular singer and songwriter, Inetimi Timaya Odon, better known by his stage name Timaya is set to release his eighth studio album ‘Gratitude’ on 18th November, 2020.

Timaya launched the anticipation while sharing an Art cover of the tracklists on his Instagram page where he captions it “Gratitude 18/11/2020.

The album will stand as Timaya’s seventh album to be released under his, DM Records. The ‘Gratitude’ album will be 15 track project.

The ‘GRA GRA’ crooner will go through all 15 tracks by himself – no features whilst the production on the album has been handled by Yung Willis, Orbeat, Ayzed, Spotless, Wireless Mouth, Chillz, Vibe O, BoomBeatz, Krizbeatz, and Chris Strings.

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N75billion refund for Rivers: Fashola uncovers what Amaechi did

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The Minister for Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has said that his colleague, Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation, lobbied for the refund If funds expended on federal projects by the Rivers State Government.

He disclosed this during the commissioning of the 969. 4 metres’ long Rebisi Dual Carriage Flyover Bridge at Garrison in Port Harcourt where he also commended the massive urban regeneration and renewal programme of the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.

The Rebisi Flyover Bridge in Port Harcourt is one of five flyover bridges that are under construction simultaneously in the state.

Speaking at the commissioning, Fashola disclosed that Amaechi played a huge role in the N75billion refund approved for President Muhammadu Buhari for the Wike-led administration.

“Some of you may have heard stories. Let me say it without favour that the person who championed the refund of monies spent on federal roads in Rivers State is Rotimi Amaechi my colleague in the cabinet and Honourable Minister of Transportation.

“In the second tranche, it was five states. Out of those five states, I think only two were APC states and it was a total of N148billiion and Governor Nyesom Wike and Rivers State got lion share. He got N78bilion. Don’t sit here and think he has received N78 billion, he still has to go to the National Assembly because this is part of Nigeria’s borrowing plan” he said.

On the flyovers being constructed by Governor Wike, Fashola said: “What I witnessed is a massive urban regeneration and urban renewal of Port Harcourt.

“This place used to be known as Garrison. But, clearly as we begin to shed our military toga and our democracy ages and deepen, we will see a rebirth in our unity, our oneness and our shared developmental aspiration.

Governor Wike said when the State Government flagged off the Rebisi, Okoro-Nu-Odu, and Rumuogba flyovers simultaneously in October 2019, many skeptics had questioned the possibility of the State completing the projects within the estimated time frame of 16 months.

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Joe Biden wins election, elected 46th US president

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Fantastic jubilations erupted across the United States of America (USA) on Saturday moments after TV networks declared Joseph Robinette Biden the winner of the Tuesday presidential election.

Citizens cheered, danced, hugged, clapped and back slapped one another in a fitting climax to many hours of anxious wait for the result of one of the closest presidential elections in the country.

The celebration was particularly emotional in Philadelphia, the biggest city in Pennsylvania, the state where Biden was born and which sealed his Electoral College victory.

Some supporters broke down in tears outside the convention centre where votes were being counted.

World leaders soon followed up with congratulatory messages to the man who will be sworn in as the 46th president of his country.

Biden and wife, Jill, were all smiles at their Delaware residence as TV networks broke the news of his victory.

In his first reaction, the in-coming president said he was honoured to be elected.

He said: “America, I’m honoured that you have chosen me to lead our great country. The work ahead of us will be hard, but I promise you this: I will be a President for all Americans – whether you voted for me or not. I will keep the faith that you have placed in me.”

Democracy, he said, “beats deep in the heart of America.”

“With the campaign over, it’s time to put the anger and the harsh rhetoric behind us and come together as a nation.

“It’s time for America to unite. And to heal. We are the United States of America. And there’s nothing we can’t do, if we do it together.”

He pledged to “keep the faith that you have placed in me.”

Biden’s running mate, Kamala Harris, said: “This election is about so much more than Joe Biden or me.”

She is the first female vice president and the first black and Asian-American vice president in the history of the US.

She was caught on video on Saturday telling Biden on the phone: “We did it. We did it, Joe. You’re going to be the next president of the United States.”

She was all smiles during the telephone conversation.

News of the election result met President Donald Trump at his Virginia golf course.

But his campaign team issued a statement discrediting the election result.

“The simple fact is this election is far from over,” the statement said.

“Joe Biden has not been certified as the winner of any states, let alone any of the highly contested states headed for mandatory recounts, or states where our campaign has valid and legitimate legal challenges that could determine the ultimate victor. Legal votes decide who is president, not the news media.

“Beginning Monday, our campaign will start prosecuting our case in court to ensure election laws are fully upheld and the rightful winner is seated.”

It added: “The American people are entitled to an honest election: that means counting all legal ballots, and not counting any illegal ballots.

“This is the only way to ensure the public has full confidence in our election. It remains shocking that the Biden campaign refuses to agree with this basic principle and wants ballots counted even if they are fraudulent, manufactured, or cast by ineligible or deceased voters.

“Only a party engaged in wrongdoing would unlawfully keep observers out of the count room – and then fight in court to block their access.”

Trump’s supporters protested the election outcome with rallies of their own.

The election was called for Biden at 11.25 a.m. by television networks and the Associated Press as he passed a 30,000 lead in Pennsylvania.

The 20 Electoral College votes from the state pushed him over the line.

Later came the result from Nevada which also went in his favour.

By then, he had garnered 273 Electoral College votes; three more than the required number to become president elect.

He was also leading in Arizona and Georgia

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Boy thrown into fire over alleged stealing of uncooked rice

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A ten-year-old boy identified as Ifeanyi Smoke, a native of Inikiri Benard village in Effium community, Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi State has been thrown into the fire for allegedly stealing a small measure of uncooked rice at the market.

Ifeanyi miraculously survived the fire, but with severe burns.

It was gathered that the victim lost his mother and is currently living with his father, who is bedridden with a chronic mental illness.

It was gathered that Ifeanyi’s relations were not forthcoming to assist him and he has since been living in hunger, together with his bedridden father.

It was gathered that the victim’s hands and legs were tied up by two men, Paul Amah and Paul Nweke of the same village, thrown into a burning fire in a refuse dump at the market and abandoned him to groan to death.

Speaking with newsmen in Abakaliki, the Chairman human right defender, Mr. Samson Nweke said “we got a call from one George Etamesor of the HRCRC over this grave abuse on this poor child.

“This little boy is 10yrs old. According to our feeders, his mother is no more and the father is bedridden with a chronic mental illness.

“Because he was caught trying to steal some rice in their village market, he was tied up and thrown into burning fire in a refuse dump in the market,” he said.

It was also learned that it took the intervention of sympathizers who brought the victim out of the fire and rushed him to AMURT hospital there in Effium, but due to the severity of the damages, he was rejected.

However, Ifeanyi was later brought to Alex-Ekwueme Federal Teaching hospital, Abakaliki, AE-FETHA2 through the efforts of sympathizers, but according to reports, he is currently battling between life and death.

When contacted, the perpetrators, Paul Amah and Paul Nweke said “Ifeanyi has been in the habit of stealing cassava, yam, and others.

“So, this time, we caught him stealing rice, we decided to teach him a lesson so that he will not come back to steal food again.

“It was not our intention to burn his whole body. We only tied him up and after beating him, we tried to roast his toes in the fire, but because he was struggling, he fell into the fire and got burnt beyond our expectation,” they stated.

Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State police command is yet to react to the incident as of the time of filing this report.

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I’m already preparing to work for United States — Biden

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Democratic candidate, Joe Biden, on Friday night said he had already started preparing for work as President of the United States.

In a speech from Wilmington, Delaware, Biden reiterated that he would win the election, even with counting of votes still ongoing.

As of the time of the speech, Biden’s lead over President Donald Trump was growing in Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and Pennsylvania where Trump was initially ahead.

He said Americans had given him a “mandate for action” on the coronavirus pandemic, the economy, climate change and systemic racism.

According to Reuters, Biden’s address was originally planned as a victory speech, but he changed his approach in the absence of formal declaration of a winner.

“We’re beating Donald Trump by over four million votes, and that’s a margin that is still growing as well.

“One of the things I’m especially proud of is how well we’ve done well across America,” he said.

Acknowledging the frustration of many Americans over the slow voting counting process, Biden sued for patience.

“I know watching these vote tallies on TV moves very slow, and as slow as it goes, it can be numbing.

“But never forget, the tallies aren’t just numbers. They represent votes and voters, men and women who exercised their fundamental right to have their voice heard,” he said.

As of the time of filling this report, Biden was ahead with 264 electoral college votes against Trump’s 214, according to the Associated Press tally.

Trump has remained defiant, warning Biden in a tweet not to “wrongfully claim” victory.

“Joe Biden should not wrongfully claim the office of the President. I could make that claim also. Legal proceedings are just now beginning!,” he said.

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Lekki Toll Gate: commotion as three EndSARS protesters appear before panel

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There was a mild drama at the sitting of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution for Victims of Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) abuse and other matters yesterday as three Lekki protesters, identified as Victoria Oniru, Dabira Ayuku, and Perpetual Kamsiyuchukwu were presented by their legal counsel, Adesina Ogunlana.

Ogunlana prayed the panel to allow him cross-examine the Managing Director of Lekki Concession Company (LCC) , Mr. Abayomi Omomuwasan, who had last Friday testified.

However, before they were presented before the panel, a lawyer to the Lagos state government, I. J Okechukwu, opposed the presentation of #EndSARS protesters, arguing that #EndSARS is not a legal entity and it is faceless.

Okechukwu said: “There is no entity called “EndSARS protesters. My learned friend is entitled to represent anybody that is known to law. We cannot have anybody appearing for a body that is not known to law, no leader, no structure. EndSARS protesters is a nebulous entity.”

Counsel to LLC, Rotimi Seriki also aligned with the government counsel, saying though the LCC was not an “interested party” in the matter, it got invited because “the panel feels it might have relevant evidence to assist it. We cannot allow every Tom, Dick, and Harry to represent.”
Ogunlana, however, held that he did not just appear at the panel without prior instruction of his clients.

He called out three persons, whom he said were part of the protesters and had hired him to represent them. “I am not representing spirits or ghosts. We’re here, to tell the truth. These are part of the people running underground being threatened,” Ogunlana said in response to earlier objections.

Meanwhile, the panel yesterday commenced watching the CCTV footage presented to it by LCC. The footage captured activities of the protesters before the shooting by Military officers on EndSARS protesters at Lekki tollgate.

At the last sitting on Friday, LCC boss, Omomuwasan had told the panel that the footage was presented to the panel to dispel claims that the CCTV cameras mounted at the tollgate were removed before the military officers attacked the protesters.

Following the approval of the panel chairman to show the footage, counsels to Lagos State Government, Mr. Abiodun Owonikoko (SAN), and LCC lawyer, Seriki, argued that the footage is fast-forwarded to about two hours before portions of footage relevant to the incident.

But counsel to EndSARS protesters, Ogunlana rejected the appeal and demanded that the footage be viewed completely to ascertain if it had not been edited.

The 20-hour CCTV footage was, however, played for only four hours. In parts of the footage shown, the scenery showed the early hours of the morning with vehicles seen parked around the tollgate plaza and large clusters of #EndSARS protesters seen milling around.

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BBNaija’s Nengi, TrikyTee appointed SSAs to Bayelsa Governor, Diri

Big Brother Naija Lockdown finalist, Nengi, and TrikyTee have secured a political appointment with the Bayelsa state government.

The Bayelsa State governor, Senator Duoye Diri announced the appointment of Nengi as Senior Special Assistant on Girl Child Development. TrikyTee was also announced as a newly appointed Senior Special Assistant to the governor.

Nengi had visited Governor Diri as part of her homecoming activities when she visited the Government House in Yenegoa.

During the visit, Governor Diri told the second runner-up of the Big Brother Naija Lockdown that the state was proud of her all through her 71-days in the house.

Diri expressed satisfaction with Nengi’s conduct and brilliance as well as for identifying strongly with her state during the show, saying the government and people of Bayelsa state were proud of her.

He said while the show could mean many things to different people, for Nengi it was an opportunity as a girl to aspire and become great in life.

While describing Nengi as the de facto winner of the show, the governor called on girls from the state to realise that there was so much they can achieve from various facets of life.

His words: “On behalf of the people and government of Bayelsa State, I want to say that we are proud of you. Let our girls know that there is so much they can achieve in various facets of life.

“Arising from your participation, we were told that if not for other factors, you are the de facto winner of the show. So you are welcome back home.

“We believe that now that you have been recognised nationally and internationally, you will be the face of Bayelsa and I hereby announce you as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Bayelsa Girl Child Development.

“The same goes for your fellow ex-housemate, Tarimotimi Sinclair aka Trikytee. So both of you are hereby appointed Senior Special Assistants to the Governor.”

He advised Nengi to continue to be of good character as experienced in the show, be humble and portray Bayelsa in good light wherever she goes.

The governor equally appreciated those that worked tirelessly and facilitated the support she enjoyed while on the show.

Responding, Nengi thanked Governor Diri for the huge support she got while in the Lockdown house, stating that she enjoyed projecting the image of Bayelsa in a positive light.

The ex-housemate, who was accompanied by a former colleague in the house, Neo, noted that her aim in the show was to change the narrative of every Bayelsa girl child, which she said she was determined to achieve outside the house.

“I want to commend you, Your Excellency. You are doing a good job and we are so lucky to have you as our governor.

“I’m equally here representing thousands of Bayelsa girls all over the world. There are so many concerns that I have but now that we would work together, I hope that we can do so much for the girl child. I also want to use this medium to give back to society. So I’m going to be reaching out to people affected by the flood through the First Lady,” she said.

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Covid-19: Delta announces reopening of nursery schools, issues warning

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The Delta State Government has approved the reopening of public and private nursery schools in the state for commencement of the 2020/2021 academic session with effect from Monday, November 9, 2020.

The state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, in a statement on Thursday, said the resumption was reviewed from the scheduled date of January 2021 because of the flattening of the COVID-19 curve and advice from the state Ministry of Health.

Chief Ukah said the calendar approved for the 2020/2021 academic session applied to the nursery schools, stressing that the COVID-19 protocols applicable to schools had been sent to associations of private schools in the state.

He warned school heads in the state to ensure their schools obey the COVID-19 protocols considering the tender ages of children in nursery schools.

The Commissioner also warned that extra classes were not allowed for the pupils at the moment.

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Festival: Umusadege monarch urges youth to embrace culture

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The Oduosa of Umusadege Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Isaac Obi has called on youths particularly in Ndokwa West to embrace their culture.

He made the call yesterday during the community’s celebration of the new yam festival at his palace in Kwale.

HRH Obi said that as the custodian of his people, he was going to organize an enlightenment campaign on the gains of keeping cultural values which he said had created sources of livelihood in the tourism business if properly managed.

He described as unfortunate, a condition where cultural values are neglected and demonized by most Nigerian pastors.

The Oduosa who lamented over the low turn out thanked the Almighty God for the successful celebration.

The new yam festival is celebrated every year to appreciate the Almighty God for good harvest and protection in the community.

Activities lined up were wrestling, football, and cooking competitions. Every quarter of Umusadege is to cook and bring it to the Isuyor ground where the ceremony is taking place.

The best cook is given the sum of one hundred thousand naira while any quarter which fails to participate in the cooking competition will pay a fine of two hundred thousand naira.

All the varieties of food will be served to guests and spectators present on the occasion.

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Olomu clan shows relief as flood subsides, count damages

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The People of Olomu clan in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, which was wrecked by the recent flood have expressed happiness as the flood begins to decrease

Mrs Elizabeth Oru, from Oviri-Olomu community, one of the communities that was seriously affected by the flood, said she was happy that the flood was already subsiding adding that the suffering they went through for the period that the flood lasted could be likened to “hell fire” and not something one should experience again in life.

The elderly woman who spoke in the Urhobo language said, “My son, we passed through hell for the period that the flood lasted. I am happy that the flood is already going.

Mrs Elizabeth who lamented that all her farmland and most of her household property were lost to the flood, appealed to the officials of Ughelli South Local Government Council to equitably and conscientiously distribute the relief packages brought by the Delta State Government.

Also reacting, a taxi driver who shuttles between Ughelli, Olomu clan and Kiagbodo in Burutu Local Government Area, described the flood as destructive and dehumanizing but thanked God the situation was already getting better.

The driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity predicted that there could be danger of hunger in the nearest months because, according to him, most cassava farm land, which is the major means of livelihood, had been destroyed by the flood.

It was gathered that Kiagbodo and other communities in Olomu Kingdom had alot of destruction caused by the flood. Some persons who were initially displaced and forced to pack out of their houses by the flood were gradually returning back while others were yet to return.

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CJN swears in eight Supreme Court judges

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Eight new justices have been sworn into the Supreme Court of Nigeria

Chief justice of Nigeria Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, led the eight justices as they took their oath of office on Friday.

This addition raises the number of justices of the apex court from the initial 12 to 20.

Upon taking their oath of office, the justices ascended to the bench to be with their 12 senior colleagues who were already seated.

The newly inaugurated justices are Tijjani Abubakar, representing the north-east zone; Mohammed Garba from the north-west; Abdu Aboki from the north-west, and Mohammed Saulawa, also from the north-west.

Others are Adamu Jauro (north-east), Samuel Oseji (south-south), Helen Ogunwumiju (south-west), and Emmanuel Agim (south-south).

Garba was the judge who led the five-man presidential election tribunal which heard the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Atiku Abubakar, its presidential candidate, challenging the victory of Presidents Muhammadu Buhari at the 2019 poll.

The Garba panel dismissed Atiku’s petition against the election of Buhari.

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Reps permits FRSC to carry guns

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) operatives will start bearing firearms to reduce the excesses of road users in Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the House of Representatives Committee during the corps’ 2020 budget performance and 2021 budget defence, on Thursday in Abuja.

The Chairman, Akinfolarin Mayowa, said that the 1992 Act of FRSC authorized the corps to carry guns.

The lawmaker said the enactment had become important to ensure laws were obeyed and to allow the FRSC function effectively.

Mayowa said that the committee would meet with Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, and also write to President Muhammadu Buhari to implement the Act.

Another lawmaker, Solomon Maren, added that the committee would discuss the matter with the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu noting that there were more risks on the roads, adding that the FRSC should now bear arms.

FRSC Corps Marshall, Boboye Oyeyemi, condemned events where motorists threatened personnel on duty, stressing that weapon bearing for protection would curtail violent road users and protect officers.

The FRSC boss confirmed that the corps has 280 formations, with presence in nearly all the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

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Tension as fire guts Oando tank farm in Lagos (Video)

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Fire gutted a tank farm yesterday in the Oando Depot on Gaskiya Road, Ijora Badia area of Lagos State.

The fire was still raging as of press time last night. The fire was seen from other areas of the state more than seven hours after the incident happened. A source confided in newsmen that the tank capacity was 7.5 million liters of petrol, approximately about 222 fully loaded trucks.

According to emergency responders, there were no casualties.

Confirming the development, the Director-General, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said emergency responders were promptly deployed to the area to salvage the situation as soon as they were alerted to the incident.

“The agency activated its emergency response plan and all relevant stakeholders took appropriate measures to combat the flames and prevented secondary incidents,” he said.

Also, the Acting Zonal Coordinator, Southwest Zonal Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, said officials of various emergency management agencies were deployed to evacuate staff of Oando and put the situation under control.

Farinloye said the fire started at the depot around 12:05 p.m. adding that the agency was not able to immediately determine the cause of the fire. OVH Energy, the licencee company behind the Oando retail brand in Africa, also confirmed that a fire broke out at its Terminal 1, in Apapa. The company said the fire appeared to have come from one of the tanks.

It said on its official Twitter handle: “Preliminary information about the incident reveals that the fire emanated from a tank within the terminal, we confirm reports on the fire incident, which took place.

“Whilst investigation has been launched to ascertain other details, we have a team of professional firefighters on the ground to manage the outbreak. We are happy to state that as at the time of this report, there are no casualties recorded.

“Safety remains our priority at OVH Energy as we operate under high safety standards to curb incidence of fire outbreaks as well as other health and safety risks from happening at any of our stations,” the company said.

Oando sold the downstream business to OVH in 2015, although the branding remained the same.

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US Election: Biden reveals when he will be announced winner

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The Democratic candidate in the US presidential election Joe Biden, has said he does no doubt that he and Senator Kamala Harris will be declared winners when all ballots are counted.

Joe Biden speaks as his running mate, Kamala Harris looks on during an event at the Alexis Dupont High School.

The presidential candidate speaking in a briefing on Thursday, November 5, said votes are sacred in America and called for every ballot to be counted by the will of voters.

He stated that democracy can be messy, but also noted that democracy requires patience.

Biden said he and Kamala Harris feel very good about where things stand at the moment. He urged Americans to stay calm, emphasising that the process is working and the vote count would soon be completed. The Democratic candidate also raised concerns about the rising COVID-19 deaths in the country which he said is nearing almost 240,000 cases. He sympathised with everyone who has lost a loved one to the disease.

Meanwhile, sources close to Donald Trump have reportedly said the US president is considering contesting for the presidency in 2024 if he is defeated by Joe Biden. CNN reported that insiders in the White House said the idea of a Trump comeback was discussed by some aides in the Trump campaign. Jim Acosta, a CNN White House correspondent in a broadcast on Thursday, November 5, said some aides and advisers think Trump will lose the election.

In a related development, as Joe Biden moved closer to victory over Donald Trump in the US presidential race, the Democratic candidate promised to rejoin the Paris climate agreement if he is elected.

Biden made the pledge in a tweet on Thursday, November 5. He has rolled back several environmental regulations designed to protect the environment and stave off climate change.

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Reps reject aviation budget, blames ministry

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The House of Representatives, on Thursday, rejected to examine the 2021 budget proposed by the Ministry of Aviation as relevant documents were submitted to the Committee on Aviation barely an hour to the defence session.

The committee had earlier on Monday asked the Federal Government to suspend the plan to concession airports until all issues raised in the various petitions against the move had been addressed.

The lawmakers had also condemned Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, for failing to appear before it earlier on Monday.

Though Sirika appeared before the committee on Thursday, the lawmakers still dismissed him for failing to submit budget details on time.

Chairman of the committee, Nnolim Nnaji, in his opening remarks, decried that the documents were made available to lawmakers less than two hours to the meeting.

Nnaji said, “Honourable Minister, l don’t know how you expect us to continue this meeting since we just got your 2021 budget proposal this morning despite giving you over a week notice so that we can read through and digest it before today. I am not blaming you for this but l must say that I am disappointed in those who ought to have handled this but failed to do their jobs. For us to do a proper job, we need time to read through.”

Members of the committee also criticised the ministry for the lateness.

A member, Aminu Suleiman, stated that engagements on a budget go beyond instant presentation and comprehension as the lawmakers need to examine the content to make useful inputs.

Suleiman said, “If we proceed to take this, it presupposes that we know very little about our work. How can an exercise of this nature be conducted with an on-the-spot presentation of reports? We have to tell ourselves the truth.

“We ask the minister and the agencies to come back; it is not intended to denigrate their persons, it is intended to equip us to do this job so that Nigerians will begin to take us seriously. We should have the opportunity to digest the report, make contributions, and assist the ministry even beyond what is presented in the envelope. If we don’t have that, truly speaking, we are not even helping the Ministry at all.”

Another member, Ndukwe Nkole, consequently moved a motion that “the minister go back with the documents, do the necessary tidying up and come back to us for appropriate legislative engagement.”

The motion was unanimously adopted by the committee.

The committee, therefore, adjourned the session till Thursday next week, after Sirika appealed for a change of the Wednesday date earlier proposed by the lawmakers.

The minister said, “(My) first apology, Mr. Chairman, is that I and the committee, as represented by you, fixed a date for concession hearing and that date coincided with the date that Mr. President said we should all go back home for the #EndSARS protest. A new date was agreed between you and me and that date, unfortunately, fell on Eid-Maulud on Thursday. And then, yet, again, another date was set and that date was the date that the Senate had put for (public hearing on) the aviation bills that have been on for about five years. I like to tender (my) apology to this committee which I served between 2003 and 2007.

“The second apology is that the Permanent Secretary would have been here to explain the reason we got the invitation to supply this document a week ago and is coming just this morning. The third apology is for whatever would have been the reason why the documents came to you this morning, having clear six working days to do so.

“However, I just want to plead that kindly indulge us to give us any data that is not Wednesday because I stood down a memorandum that I would have delivered yesterday in the Federal Executive Council to be at National Assembly. Yet, again, next Wednesday, I will miss the opportunity to present that very important memorandum. Kindly indulge us to come back next Thursday.” The minister pleaded.

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Stop foreign medical trips – Senate tells Buhari, frowns at cost

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The increasing cost of President Muhammadu Buhari’s medical trips outside Nigeria attracted serious condemnation from the Senate on Thursday.

The upper chamber said the situation in which even the medical facility located in the Presidential Villa had been abandoned by the Presidency because of the preference for treatment in foreign countries is completely unacceptable.

The Senate said the foreign trips for medical treatment must be stopped to ensure that proper attention was accorded to the State House Clinic.

The position of the Senate was made known at a budget defence session between the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs with the State House Permanent Secretary, Tijani Umar.

Umar had presented a budget of N19.7 billion for 2021, out of which N1.3bn was proposed for the State House Clinic.

Reacting to the proposal, the Chairman of the Senate panel, Senator Danjuma La’ah, said the committee would approve the budget for the State House Clinic but insisted that the president and other top officials of his government should no longer be flown abroad for medical treatment.

The committee made it clear that “the president cannot be traveling or be taken out of the country anytime he falls sick.

“He must be attended to in our hospitals here in Nigeria. We must ensure our hospital is fully equipped to world-class standards so that no matter the issue or emergency, our hospitals should be endowed with that capacity to attend to them before flying out if the need arises.”

The poor state of the State House clinic had in the past been condemned by even the first lady, Aisha Buhari Who alleged that the facility lacked even paracetamol and syringe.

Again, despite the N13.59bn budgetary provision for the State House Clinic in five years under Buhari, the facility was ‘unfit’ to treat his late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari.

The State House Clinic is meant to treat the president, the vice president, their families, and other staff of the presidency.

Speaking with newsmen after the session, Umar said the presidency is committed to reviving the State House Clinic.

“What we have on the ground now is something we can use to stabilise the State House clinic and this is what we have achieved, stability in the supply of consumables, stability in the supply of electricity,” Umar said.

“Stability in motivating our doctors and all our medical professionals, stability in infrastructure renovation, upgrade, and maintenance of the facility, and our equipment.

“What we can do with the resources right now is to maintain and to try to hold on to what we have until the new budget comes on stream and this is why we appealed to the committee to intervene and assist us with the construction of the Presidential wing of the State House clinic which is of national strategic importance to all of us.”

A total amount of N3.5 billion was approved in the 2020 budget to take care of medical trips as well as travel and food. This is more than double what they spent in 2019. The amount spent in 2019 was N1.4billion.

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Death toll hits 30 as unusual disease ravage Delta

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A Middle-aged woman, Mrs. Monica Emeke, has lost two children to the strange ailment destroying Ute-Okpu and Idumusa communities of Ika North East Council Area of Delta State, bringing the death toll to over 30.

The state government had alerted the death of 15 youths aged between 18 and 25 years in the communities, linking the disease to hemorrhagic fever or substance abuse.

It was learned that Emeke lost her 26-year old daughter and 22-year old son to vomiting of blood before they died, while others complained of fatigue, headache, and fever before they died at home or in hospital.

Emeke expressed anxiety over the deaths, saying five persons died in one day in Ute-Okpu community, while several deaths were recorded in neighbouring villages, including Ute-Erunu.

Following the outbreak of the disease, the state government and World Health Organization (WHO) had intervened to ascertain the cause and find a possible remedy to stop the scourge assured residents that everything possible was being done to check the disease.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye, gave the assurance when he led a team of public health officials to Ute-Okpu with a view to unraveling the mysterious disease.

Meanwhile, the state government has committed N1.2b to upgrade the height of the Beneku Bridge in Ndokwa East Council Area of the state by two meters.

State Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu, who disclosed this yesterday, said the money was approved at the State Executive meeting where the government also endorsed the development and management of the Lander Brothers Anchorage in Asaba, the state capital.

Aniagwu said the upgrade of the facilities at the Anchorage would cost about N524m.

He hinted that government would complete the popular DLA Road in Asaba and some adjoining streets in the area at N448.5m, stressing that the state government had earlier linked the DLA drainages through Jesus Saves Road and Agric Road to the Amilimocha River.

The commissioner pointed out that the Warri/Sapele Road to Effurun Roundabout would be expanded to accommodate more vehicles and the construction of Labour Road in Sapele at N392.4m.

According to Aniagwu, the government is ready to tackle unemployment, create wealth, and improve the living conditions of Delta people in different sectors.

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Okowa approves improvement of Lander Brothers Anchorage

The Delta State Executive Council has approved the improvement and management of the Lander Brothers Anchorage in Asaba.

This was part of resolutions reached the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Tuesday, November 3, 2020.

Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu in a post exco briefing, said that the upgrade of the facilities at the Anchorage will cost N524m.

He said Exco also approved additional works on the Beneku Bridge to increase the height of the bridge by two meters at a cost of N1.2bn.

The exco also approved completion of the DLA road Asaba and tarring of some adjoining streets in the area at the cost of N448.5 million naira. He added that the state government had earlier linked the DLA drainages through Jesus Saves Road and Agric Road to Amilimocha River.

Other roads that received Exco attention included expansion of the Warri/Sapele road to Effurun roundabout.

The road would be expanded to accommodate more vehicles. There will be a construction of Laboard Road in Sapele at a cost of N392.4million.

He said the cardinal goal of senator Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration was to tackle unemployment, create wealth and improve the living condition of the people through different sectors.

“Our major concern as an administration is how we can get the majority of our youths engaged and by extension reducing the rate of unemployment which has become the bane of most societies in Nigeria.

“We have decided to take our investments in the tourism sector a notch higher and the development of the Anchorage will attract tourists to the state.

“It is being done from the private sector perspective and Exco has approved a lease of 13years to Abuja Boat Club to develop and manage the historic site,” the Commissioner who was joined by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Olisa Ifeajika, said.

According to him, exco also approved the construction of the faculty of Agriculture building at the Anwai campus of Delta State University.

Mr. Aniagwu added that approval was also given for the establishment of Odogun Secondary School at The boghoro community in Warri North Local government area.

The Information Commissioner said the mysterious deaths recorded in two communities in Ika North East Local Government Area of the state was being investigated, noting that preliminary reports indicate suspected case of substance abuse.

He disclosed that Exco commended several Delta youths who ensured that public buildings were protected during the #ENDSARS protests.

He assured that the state government is committed to ensuring implementation of the outcome of the Town Hall meetings the governor held with the youths of the state in Warri and Asaba.

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US Election: Biden heading to victory, Trump in court to challenge results

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Democratic candidate Joe Biden is set to win the bitterly-contested United States presidential election.

With results in six states still being counted this morning, Biden had won 264 Electoral College Votes – six short of the needed 270. There are 538 Electoral College votes.

Votes were still being counted in Georgia with 16 Electoral College Votes, Pennsylvania (20), North Carolina (15), Alaska (3), and Nevada (6).

Biden was leading in Nevada where 8.5 percent of the votes had been counted.

He is projected to win the state in which Hillary Clinton, the Democratic candidate in 2014, won by 2.4 points.

President Donald Trump has challenged the votes count in Michigan and Wisconsin which all major news media called for Biden.

Trump earlier yesterday said he would head for the Supreme Court to challenge the results. He declared himself the winner and alleged irregularities. Nevada, which holds the ace to Biden’s victory, suspended the final tally till later today. A win for Biden in Nevada will seal his victory.

Trump’s initial large lead in Georgia, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina was significantly narrow, and more votes were counted indicating that Biden could win and extend his Electoral College Votes margin.

The Trump campaign said the president would formally request a Wisconsin recount, citing “irregularities in several Wisconsin counties”

Incomplete results indicate the margin between Mr. Trump and Mr. Biden in Wisconsin is less than one percentage point, which allows a candidate to seek a recount.

The campaign also filed a lawsuit in Michigan to stop counting of ballots there because it contended it was denied “meaningful access” to observe the opening of ballots and the counting.

In Detroit, Michigan, police were called on Wednesday afternoon to guard the doors to a vote-counting facility as some protesters outside demanded access to monitor the process. According to the Detroit Free-Press, there were already some 200 people observing the vote inside the building.

Officials were seen covering up the windows to the TCF Center, where postal ballots were being tallied.

The Trump campaign also filed two lawsuits in Pennsylvania to halt all vote-counting “until there is meaningful transparency”.

The Associated Press news agency reports that the Trump campaign is also suing Georgia to halt the vote count there.

Mr. Trump won Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania in his 2016 election victory.

In the early hours of Wednesday, he announced from the White House that he had won and said he would take the election to the Supreme Court.

The Trump campaign is asking Republican donors to help fund legal challenges.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said: “The fight’s not over. We’re in it.”

Mr. Biden’s running mate, Kamala Harris, tweeted asking supporters to contribute $5 to help pay for a fight that could “stretch on for weeks”.

Biden campaign senior legal adviser Bob Bauer said there were no grounds for Mr. Trump to invalidate lawfully cast ballots.

Mr. Biden’s hopes of a decisive early victory on election night were thwarted as Mr. Trump defied pollsters predictions by outperforming in key battlegrounds.

Mr. Trump held several important states, including Texas, Ohio, and Iowa, fending off a strong Biden play.

The president also comfortably won his adopted home state of Florida, the most hotly fought battleground of the night, despite two visits there by Mr. Biden’s ally and former boss, ex-President Barack Obama.

But Mr. Biden fended off his rival’s attempts to pick up New Hampshire and Minnesota.

Where Trump Won
Alabama (9)
Arkansas (6)
Idaho (4)
Indiana (11)
Kansas (6)
Kentucky (8)
Louisiana (8)
Mississippi (6)
Missouri (10)
Montana (3)
Nebraska (4)
North Dakota (3)
Oklahoma (7)
South Carolina (9)
South Dakota (3) •Tennessee (11)
Utah (6)
West Virginia (5)
Wyoming (3)
Texas (38)
Nebraska 2nd

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Social Media Regulation: PDP rejects moves, reveals APC plans

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has opposed the plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its administration to regulate social media in Nigeria.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, the party described the moves to regulate social media as unconstitutional, anti-people, and a suppressive design to choke Nigerians.

The opposition party asserted that the renewed call to censor social media is ostensibly targeted at silencing outspoken Nigerians, particularly the youths, media, and civil society organizations, from demanding accountability.

The statement read in part: “PDP rejects the claims that the regulation bill is targeted at checking fake news. This is because Nigeria has enough implementable laws to counter the dissemination of fake news and punish offenders.

“It is clear that the APC administration is rather xenophobic of criticisms from citizens against its manifest atrocities that it seeks to surreptitiously reenact the obnoxious military decree 4 to suppress Nigerians.”

PDP stated that the move by APC is to gag the citizens and curtail their constitutionally guaranteed rights.

The party, therefore, urged the APC administration to rather take steps to reassure Nigerians by putting an end to its manifest corruption and abuse of human rights for which Nigerians demand answers.

“PDP counsels the APC administration to become more accountable, particularly, by ending its arrogance as well as its shielding of corrupt officials, as being witnessed in the desperation to protect federal officials allegedly involved in the criminal diversion of funds voted for COVID-19 palliatives.

“The APC administration should rather come clean on the parameters for the hike in the cost of fuel, the depletion of our foreign reserves, and the mortgaging of our nation to external interests through foreign loans,” PDP added.

PDP stressed that APC should rather be concerned about explaining how government vehicles were used to convey hoodlums to attack protesters in Abuja as well as who deployed soldiers to Lekki Tollgate leading to the reported killing of innocent and unarmed protesters rather than seeking ways to gag Nigerians.

“While our party does not in any way condone the dissemination of fake news, which was birthed and promoted by the APC as a tool to grab power during the build-up to the 2015 elections, the PDP rejects the attempt to hide under fake news to impose a siege mentality in our country for selfish political reasons.

“If anything, the APC should apologise for making our social media toxic, importing fake news into our polity as well as running an incompetent, oppressive, and corrupt administration,” the statement added.

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Residents push for removal of Assembly member (See Letter)

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The people of Amuwo Odofin in Lagos, have requested the removal of Mrs. Mojisola Alli Macaulay, a member of Lagos State House Assembly.

This was necessitated because, during a presentation on social media bill in the assembly, Mrs. Mojisola Alli Macaulay told the house that Nigerian youths are on drugs.

This was contained in a press release signed and issued to newsmen at a stakeholder consultative forum recently.

According to the statement which was signed by the convener of the forum, Ambassador Kingsley E. Nwanze, many allegations were leveled against Mrs. Mojisola Alli Macaulay.

https://goldennationblog.com/lawmaker-exposed-for-using-covid-19-palliative-as-birthday-souvenirs-photos/

He noted that in video circulating on social media Mrs. Mojisola Alli Macaulay has packaged covid 19 palliatives to present to people as birthday gifts.

He also alleged that Mrs. Mojisola Alli Macaulay has no office in the constituency for the past 2 years.

This and other reasons necessitated the push for her removal as the representative of the constituency.

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Man writes church, demands offering he gave for 19 years (See Letter)

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A man has written a letter to his church, demanding a refund of all the offerings he contributed to the church for the 19 years he was a man of the church.

Dishon Kinyanjui Kinuthia, a Kenyan Christian, took to Twitter to share the letter he wrote to his church while warning that there will be consequences if he doesn’t get a refund.

Dishon, who was a member of the Revival Mission Church, Kabete, in Nairobi, said he was a member from 1997 to 2018 when he left the church.

He asked that the church refunds the sum of 58,000 KES which is his estimate of his contribution to the church over two decades.

He said the contributions he made to the church were not “voluntary” but was done under “undue influence, duress, and intimidation.”

He asked the church to deposit the money in his account on or before November 31, 2020, or he will start legal proceedings.

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(Photo): BBNaija Dorathy celebrates birthday, drops sultry pictures

Big Brother Naija Season 5 first runner-up, Dorathy Bachor, has sparked up Instagram with sexy and elegant pictures to mark her birthday today.

Dorathy started the celebration two days ago, sharing a series of pictures to announce her birthday.

The reality TV star who turns 25 today wrote on her Instagram page, “2020 has been a blessing in disguise, looking back at 24 and I cannot be more grateful to God for how far he has brought me. My name is NDIDIAMAKA and I’m a living proof that patience is indeed a virtue.” she said

The post by the Delta born reality star has since today pulled thousands of likes and comments on Instagram.

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Why FG will borrow fresh $1.2bn from Brazil – Minister

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The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, has revealed that the Federal government of Nigeria is seeking a $1.2bn loan from Brazil to finance agricultural programmes in the 2021 budget.

This was made known during a meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Finance in Abuja on Tuesday.

The minister said that a request has been sent to the National Assembly to approve the loan from the Brazilian government.

She said the loan will be used to address issues in agriculture, adding that 100,000 hectares of land will be acquired in each state for food production.

“I request for the approval for a loan for the Green Imperative Programme which is for a loan of $1.2bn from the Brazilian government

“The purpose of this program is to address the whole of agricultural value chain from mechanization, production, processing, and selling,” Ahmed said.

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Hotel Manager arrested as elevator kills woman in Asaba (Video)

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested the manager of Toscana hotel Asaba, following the death of Mrs.Adaobi Enechukwu, who reportedly died in the hotel.

It was gathered that Mrs. Enechukwu a police officer, died as a result of the faulty elevator in the hotel.

The victim who hails from Adazi-Nnukwu, Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State, had traveled to Asaba, Delta State capital, for a wedding function, and was a guest before she died in the hotel.

The faulty elevator door was reportedly opened as the victim entered the trap without realizing that the elevator didn’t come up

Video footage ripped from the hotel’s CCTV control room, shows the moment Enechukwu entered the elevator to proceed to the next floor in the hotel.

In line with the tragic loss of the police woman, the management of the hotel have been blamed for carelessness, lack of maintenance, and inability to meet best international practices

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Covid-19: Senate hits Lai Mohammed for N109m travel expenses

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The Senate on Tuesday drilled the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, for some hours for spending N19 million on international travel and N23 million on local travel before the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and subsequent lockdown.

Senator Danladi Sankara, All Progressives Congress, APC, Jigawa North West who led Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation was confused when the Minister at 2021 Budget defense disclosed the amount spent by the ministry as contained in its 2020 budget.

He was also questioned on N90 million expenditure out of the N96 million appropriated for local trips during the period.

During the budget defence, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi, a representative from Imo East, had brought the issue to the lead in his statement.

Onyewuchi told the minister: “I am sure you will remember you did a lot of enlightenment program. I am sure you will remember that most of us were prevented from moving into other states. So, I don’t know how you also had the luxury of spending the entire amount that was appropriated on those travels. So, these are the information we need to get from you.”

Replying, Mohammed submitted: “You will notice that N43 million was budgeted, but less than 40 percent was spent precisely because of the COVID-19. And before then, remember that we had traveled to attend several international summits starting with the UNWTO conference and UNESCO in Spain and the United Kingdom.”

The minister revealed that they had also carried out advocacies in the UK during the period, adding that the expenditure covered from January to March.

He further clarified: “Before the lockdown, I think our last trip was to Addis Ababa where we accompanied the President to an African Union meeting that held around March.

“So whatever we spent was before the lockdown.”

Meanwhile, The minister was also tackled over the “zero percent performance” of a controversial constituency project that had been 100 percent funded by the Ministry of Finance for the 2020 fiscal year.

Tagged ERPG 10145116, and listed as “completion of NTA Gashua sub-station ongoing”, the project allegedly had its N250 million allocation fully released to the ministry.

Mohammed’s claim that the initiative was sponsored by a lawmaker as a constituency project in the 2020 budget, raised controversies in the house.

The senators, who disagreed, condemned the slow pace of work.

The Chairman of the committee, Sankara, maintained that the Lai Mohammed had a lot of explanation to make.

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Four killed as rival cults storms festival ground in Delta

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Four persons have been reportedly killed in a clash between two rival cults at the old palace ground in Ogbe-Nti-Obi, Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South local government area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the two rival cult groups had stormed the festival ground making trouble, but were chased away by the elders.

A community source said, “They killed four people during the clash, but one of the youths killed was an indigene of Ogwashi-Uku.

“After they were chased away from the festival venue, they started attacking themselves with dangerous weapons, which led to the killing of four members in the process.

“Two others escaped with injuries in a pool of blood, but no one can say whether one of those who escaped is alive or dead, while another one was found in a nearby building and alerted the Ogwashi-Uku vigilante group.

Speaking with newsmen, a member of the royal family, Prince Newton Izedinor, said that the youth who stormed the venue of the festival was chased away when it was obvious that they were out for mischief.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, said she was yet to be informed on the details of the incident leading to the cult clash in Ogwashi-uku.

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End SARS protests: Governor Okowa commended for prompt response

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Political Affairs, Mr. Hope George said Governor Okowa was proactive in approaching EndSARS protests in Delta State.

He disclosed this in a telephone interaction with newsmen on Monday, November 2nd, 2020.

The politician who was also a former SSA to Governor Okowa on Youth Development revealed that Okowa was the first governor to identify with the protesters, set up a judicial panel of inquiry on the EndSARS protest before the federal government came up with the idea of all states in the federation to set up their judicial panels of inquiry.

“Governor Okowa is the first governor in the country to identify with EndSARS protesters. He should be commended for his love for young people,” George stated.
George also gave Governor Okowa a part on the back for his initiative of holding town hall meetings with youths of Delta State, noting also that he was the first governor to do so in the country.

Explaining that the town hall meetings were successful, he noted that the town hall meetings had further closed the gap between the youths and Delta State Government, adding that Governor Okowa has indicated his commitment to incorporate young people into his administration.

He urged youths in Delta State to reciprocate Governor Okowa’ s gesture by sustaining the peace in the state.

“They should allow government to look into what they requested. We need to be together, to achieve together, ” Gorge noted.

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FG creates new police department, deploys DIG AIG

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The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has approved the posting of Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sanusi Lemu, and Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, as DIG in-charge of the Department of Operations and acting DIG in-charge of Finance and Administration, respectively.

This was contained in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday by the Force spokesman, DCP Frank Mba, titled, ‘As two police departments get new heads, IGP approves posting of AIG Mustapha Dandaura As Force Secretary.’

The posting of the senior officers was a sequel to the retirement of DIGs Abdulmajid Ali and Abduldahiru Danwawu, after the completion of their statutory years of service.

IGP Adamu equally approved the posting of AIG Mustapha Dandaura as the Force Secretary and member of the Nigeria Police Force Management Team. He takes over from Baba.

The statement reads in part, “The new Deputy Inspector General of Police, Operations, DIG Sanusi N. Lemu, a consummate police officer, holds a BA(Ed) in Political Science and has attended several professional courses including Intermediate Command Course, Senior Command Course, Peacekeeping Training Course.

“Baba holds a Masters in Public Administration and a BA (ED) in Political Science.”

Adamu charged the officers to bring their experiences and professionalism to bear in their leadership of the departments “so as to enhance the ongoing drive at repositioning the Force for improved service delivery.”

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Magu: Salami panel winds up, says police out of EfCC

The Justice Isa Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry is ready to wind up an investigation after five months into the activities of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The panel plans to conclude its assignment this week. Its report will then be sent to President Muhammadu Buhari.

It was gathered that one of the recommendations of the panel is that the Head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should no longer be picked from the police.

It favors the appointment of the EFCC chairman from other security agencies.

All the chairman of the agency from inception till date are policemen.

But the proposed recommendation is already generating replies from among stakeholders. The police are represented in the Salami panel by the deputy inspector general.

The panel will also recommend that policemen should no longer be operatives of the EFCC.

At present, there are no fewer than 850 policemen deployed in the anti-graft agency.

If the plan to remove the police from the EFCC is approved, it will foreclose the recall of Acting EFCC Chairman Ibrahim Magu.

A source close to the panel said: “We are rounding off this week or as soon as the report can be taken from us.”

A source said: “The advisory to put EFCC’s woes on the police is unfair. In the last 17 years, EFCC recorded landmark achievements under the leadership of senior retired and serving police officers. All the past and present chairmen have won international awards. Police officers and men are not liabilities to EFCC.

“These same police detectives gave on-the-job training to the cadets. The essence of bringing police officers is to put cadets through an investigation. There are still investigative manpower gaps to be filled in EFCC.

“The EFCC as it now does not have an enforcement unit. Policemen were seconded to the anti-graft agency to give back up during operations and when enforcement is required.

“After being used to deal with Magu, the police are now to be sacrificed on the baseless allegation. But the Act is clear that a police officer can be chairman of EFCC. We don’t know whether they are planning to amend the EFCC Act.”

The source added: “I think the desperation to get Magu out of the EFCC has made some people decide to throw away the baby with the bathwater. The President should reject any recommendation to ease out policemen from the EFCC.”

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Tiwa Savage reveals why she tried to kill herself twice

Popular Nigerian music star, Tiwa Savage, has revealed that she tried to take herself twice while studying in London.

The singer disclosed this in a Black Box interview with media personality, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, on Monday, November 2.

She said she almost killed herself due to molesting she received as a black kid in London.

The singer narrated that her strong Nigerian accent was mocked by her classmates and she had to get a Police escort.

“I moved to London with my mum at age 10. I was teased so badly. They used to call me ‘African girl’, ‘Foo foo’, ‘Your food smells’ and so on. It was terrible. It was so bad that I tried to kill myself two times. I was depressed.

“I was bullied; they will flush my head down the toilet during lunch break. I had to have a police escort me sometimes because after school they would rush me on the bus.

“These were gangs of girls, it was really bad. I wanted to bleach to be lighter and was growing my hair. The bullying went on for three to four years.” she revealed.

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NYSC to partner consulting group to improve rice production

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In line with the Federal Government agenda on food security, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has declared its willingness to boost value-chain rice and water production.

This was disclosed by the Director-General, Brigadier-General Shuaibu Ibrahim in a courtesy visit by the Executive Chairman of Hudson Consulting Group, Mr. Tom Iseghohi.

He said that Nigeria is blessed with youths who are endowed with skills that should be tapped for self-empowerment and socio-economic development of the country.

Brigadier Ibrahim added that the Scheme has partnered with some Federal Government agencies to leverage agriculture to generate more revenue for the government.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman, Hudson Consulting Group, Mr. Tom Iseghohi praised General Ibrahim for his innovation and transformation of the Scheme since he assumed office as NYSC DG.

He said the partnership would provide a world-class branded rice NYSC, and would greatly explore the existing farms of the Scheme located in some States the country and many more.

Iseghohi asserted confidence in the ability of the partnership to feed the nation, and even go beyond the boundaries of Nigeria to earn the country the much needed foreign exchange.

He decried the supply chain of rice production in the country adding that there was the need to create a proper supply chain from production, harvesting, processing to consumption.

The Chairman noted that the rate of rice consumption in the country is more than the rate of production, promising to fill the gap.

He equally promised to regig the NYSC water factory and make it the preferred product in the country which would go a long way in also raising the revenue profile of the Scheme.

It is his earnest expectation that the dividends of the partnership will begin to manifest in less than one year if he gets the buy-in of the Scheme.

The DG referred the Chief Executive to the NYSC Ventures Department so as to work the modalities for the partnership to facilitate the signing of an MoU with the Scheme.

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Why we want regulation of social media – Northern governors

Northern Governors under the auspices of Nothern Governors Forum, (NGF), has on Monday showed support for the ongoing efforts to regulate social media in the country.

This was disclosed in a communique issued by its Chairman and Governor of Plateau, Mr. Simon Lalong, after its meeting with traditional rulers and other key stakeholders in the state.

The meeting, which took note of the devastating effect of the uncontrolled social media in spreading fake news, called for major control mechanisms and censorship of social media practice in Nigeria.

It also expressed support for the reform of the police to strengthen their capacity.

“Forum appreciates the major reforms going on in the Police Force and pledges to support Mr. President on this course.

“The meeting resolves to support the Nigerian Police Force to serve the country better and calls for the strengthening of trust between the people and the Police,” it said.

Meanwhile, the NGF set up two committees to push for statutory roles for traditional rulers and engagement with youths and civil society organizations.

The Committee on Roles of Traditional Rulers is headed by the Emir of Lafia, Sidi Bage, with two representatives from the National Assembly and a minister as members.

The Committee on Youth and Civil Society Organisations has the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Bamalli, as Chairman

The forum has a representative of elders, youths, women, and persons with disabilities as members from each of the three zones.

Others are representatives of Muslim and Christian clerics, the business community, and the police.

Traditional Rulers

“These engagement committees are to commence work immediately,” it said.

It appreciated the roles traditional rulers played in containing the #End SARS protests in the region and collectively agreed that traditional rulers be given formal roles in the governance architecture of the country.

The meeting rejected and condemned the subversive acțions of some #EndSARS protesters and endorsed “the indivisibility, indissolubility, and oneness of the nation.”

It commended the National Assembly and the Presidency for being proactive in addressing the issues of protests across the country.

The governors also called for an amicable resolution of the ASUU strike to enable students to resume their studies.

They (NGF) also agreed to hold the meeting regularly and expand it to involve other critical stakeholders such as religious leaders, the business community, and youth leaders.

It appreciated the roles of religious groups, JNI and CAN, for their positive interventions in resolving the #EndSARS conflicts.

The forum called for collective efforts in addressing the lingering challenges of the region, such as the Almajiri system, insecurity, illiteracy, and poverty.

The forum also appreciated the youths in curtailing the spread of hooliganism, thuggery, and other separatist tendencies during the #EndSARS protest.

“The meeting expressed concern over the low-level involvement of relevant stakeholders in the implementation programs of government and calls on the relevant agencies to review implementation strategies to make for maximum impact and benefits,” it said.

The meeting was attended by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawal, and Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, among other dignitaries.

El-Rufai and Senate President, Ahmed Lawan

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New Police Unit, SWAT starts training (Video)

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The Special Weapons And Tactics Squad, a police unit created to replace the disbanded and infamous unit, SARS, have officially commenced training.

Recall the SWAT unit was created following protest from young Nigerians to #EndSars due to police brutality and other forms of gross human rights abuses.

A video shared by Channels TV shows the moment the Minister of Police Affairs, inspected the SWAT officers were rigorously engaged in their training session.

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I never ordered Army to kill Igbos in Oyigbo – Gov. Wike

The Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike has vehemently denied ordering the army to kill Igbos in Oyigbo local council area of the state.

This is as cries of indiscriminate killing, lockdown leading starvation, and induced deaths through blockade has ruled the area which shares a boundary with Abia State.

Gov Wike, in a television interview, described the allegation as a politically motivated falsehood.

The governor maintained that curfew was imposed in Oyigbo to restore calm after members of proscribed Indigenous Peoples Organisations of Biafra (IPOB) killed six soldiers, four policemen and, allegedly destroyed all police stations and court buildings in the area.

Wike said the narrative that Igbos were being killed by the military was intended to shift attention from the despicable activities of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Oyigbo.

The governor stated: “I know that this is not the first time IPOB has used Oyigbo as launching ground. The security agencies are aware. IPOB added a new dimension this time. They killed six army officers and burnt one. They killed four police officers. They destroyed all the police stations and court buildings. What offense did we commit as a state?

“I imposed a curfew to restore calm. I proscribed IPOB activities anywhere in the state. Don’t forget that the Federal Government had declared them a terrorist group. It is not the entire Igbos that believe in IPOB activities.

“So, it’s not true. When did I become a friend to the military? So what about the Igbos living elsewhere in the state, are they also being killed?”

He further said: “I have no relationship with the Army or the Police, I do not command them. They change commissioners of police every time. How will I begin to direct the Army that I do not instruct to”?

The governor lamented over what he called IPOB’s effrontery to rename a local government in the State and hoist its flag in a public school in Kom-Kom Town.

“I will not fold my arms and watch criminals destroy our state. If those few criminals are Igbos, then they should know that I will not allow them. They attempted to rename a local government in my state. That alone is a signal. I will not agree to that. I know who is doing all these; who has told them to rise, protest against Wike.”

The governor stated that the state government has no regret against its stance on IPOB, already designated as a terrorist organisation by the Federal Government. According to him, even the South-East governors have never supported IPOB and wondered why a governor from the Niger Delta should tolerate the group.

He revealed that security agencies during their search of some residences in Oyigbo saw shrines with IPOB flags and Nnamdi Kanu’s picture. He maintained that if IPOB is allowed to operate from Oyigbo, they would soon overrun the State.

The governor said the government has commenced moves to replace all the property destroyed by the group during the protest, regretting that the damage has left a huge financial burden on the state. Also, he said the State has decided to compensate each family of the killed security personnel with N20m to cater for the welfare of each of the bereaved widows and their children.

He further said that the EndSARS protest and its aftermath would have been averted if the FG had not dismissed the alarm he earlier raised on the activities of SARS to mere politics.

“Here, the minister always used SARS to cause mayhem. We suffered a great deal. At a time, the entire National Assembly election was canceled, but we put faith in God who owns the state. We triumphed eventually”, he said.

The mention of the name of the ‘minister’ has attracted reaction from top image-makers of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State. Chris Finebone, former publicity officer, wondered how the governor would mock Rotimi Amaechi for being mobbed by IPOB abroad only to turn round now to cause the same Amaechi of instigating them to protest.

On his own, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a media consultant who defends Amaechi, said it was Wike who used IPOB to win elections in 2015 and 2019. He urged Wike to leave Amaechi alone.

Meanwhile, the Army has repeatedly denied killing people in Oyigbo or doing evil, but several residents have narrated tales of woes. A 45-year-old man has described how his wife was forced to bleed to death with her unborn child because the soldiers would not permit him to take her out of Oyigbo to maternity during bleeding and labor.

A man has also described how a bute shot by soldiers pierced through the door and killed his fiancée. Mass arrests of over 500 persons including women going to morning foodstuff market have been reported. Media workers who live there have been sending out details.

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US Election: Trump threatens to challenge late vote counts in court

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United States President, Donald Trump has said his legal team will lead the way to court immediately after the US presidential election to challenge the counting of late ballots.

Trump made the statement on Sunday, November 1, when speaking to reporters in Charlotte ahead of a rally in Hickory, North Carolina.

The US president raised doubts over mail and absentee votes and questioned why the counting of late-arriving ballots should be allowed after election day.

He said vote-counting after Tuesday, November 3, should not be allowed and raised the possibility of challenging the issue in court. Trump said: “I think it’s a terrible thing when ballots can be collected after an election. I think it’s a terrible thing when states are allowed to tabulate ballots for a long period after the election is over.” “As soon as the election is over – we’re going in with our lawyers.”

Meanwhile, a survey has shown that the US president has many supporters in Nigeria

The survey by Pew Research Centre suggested that 58% of people in Nigeria said they have confidence in Trump. The support for Trump in Nigeria may come as a surprise because the US president has been accused in the past of making negative comments about African countries.

Meanwhile, a report by Media Post stated that the political campaigns by the Democrats and the Republicans across TV, radio, and digital have gulped a massive $8.15 billion.

A look at the financial cost of the electioneering process as Americans head to the polls has been observed.

Using the Naira-Dollar official rate by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), N379/$1, $8.15 billion is about N3.1 trillion.

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Social Media Regulation: Pastor Adeboye reveals What Buhari govt must do

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Pastor E. Adeboye of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has hit against the federal government’s proposed social media regulation.

The RCCG General Overseer stated this on Sunday at the headquarters’ November thanksgiving service with the theme “Better days ahead”, through the Assistant General Overseer (Admin. & Personnel) Pastor Johnson Odesola.

He said the attempts to regulate social media as is the case in China won’t work in Nigeria because the variables are so different.

Instead, he advised that the government should focus on making sure the news shared on social media is genuine.

“The best the government can do is to ensure that the news being carried through the social media is genuine but to want to replicate what is happening in China here in Nigeria is laughable and would not be possible here,” Adeboye said.

Recall that Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, last week mentioned that the government will regulate social media to stop the spread of fake news in the country.

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Professor Soyinka releases new novel after 48 years

Prominent Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka will this month release a new novel, titled: Chronicles of the Happiest People on Earth.

The novel is coming 48 years after his two works – The Interpreters (1965) and Season of Anomy (1973).

The new work will be on sale before the end of the year.

The novel is published by Bookcraft Publishing, Ibadan.

In a statement, Soyinka gave an excerpt from the book, with the heading: A Parable From National Urban Reality.

It reads: “While the formal fact-finding panels pursue their assignment, and bewildered minds attempt to absorb the turn of events, reflect upon, and engage in informal caucuses on ‘what happened’ during, and following the authentic #ENDSARS campaign, both in the Lekki arena and in horrifying dimensions across the nation, I believe that it will not be out of place to offer a parable extracted from a forthcoming work of fiction.

“A parable, yes, but an actuality that has become virtually institutionalised across the nation. It is offered as a public service before the events of October 20/20 congeal in the minds of participants, onlookers, and consumers of the Nigerian staple of the now mandatory UFN (Unidentified Flying Narratives). The forthcoming novel from which it is extracted – Chronicles From the Land of the Happiest People in the World (BookCraft) – will be published towards the end of November 2020.” Soyinka said.

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Governor Okowa releases funds to help flood victims

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Delta State Governor, Sen.(Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa has released funds to purchase food items for communities affected by floods in the state.

This was disclosed by the Chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Delta State Chapter, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo in a statement in Asaba.

Hon. Ikpokpo listed the affected local government areas to include Oshimili South, Aniocha South, Ndokwa East, Isoko North, Isoko South, Patani, Bomadi, Burutu, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Warri South-West, and Warri North.

The ALGON Boss said the affected Local Governments have started procurement of the food items and will soon commence distribution to the affected communities.

He begged flood victims to be patient as help was underway.

“On behalf of my colleagues in ALGON, we thank our dear Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the gracious release of funds to procure food items for flood victims in Delta State.

“I, therefore, appeal to our people to remain calm and patient as the various councils carry out the task of procuring and distributing the food items to the affected communities.

“It is our firm commitment to ensure that no one suffers on account of flooding as government is prepared to meet them halfway,” Ikpokpo stated.

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PDP asks Governor Sanwo-Olu to resign, gives reasons

The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Sunday, called for the resignation of the state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The Executives of the party said Sanwo-Olu has lost the confidence of the people, hence should vacate office.

Taofik Gani, the Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, explained that the people of the state no longer trust Sanwo-Olu, following the use of soldiers against peaceful End SARS protesters at Lekki toll gate in the state.

He said, “The PDP is of the view that it is more expedient for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to step aside now that the Nigerian Army has revealed him as the person who invited the soldiers to go quell the Lekki protests which have led to unfortunate fatalities and grievous injuries.

“Lagosians can no longer trust a governor who denies his conspiracy actions in government. Sanwoolu has no moral standing worth being proud of and he should admit this and honorably leave the stage as governor of the state.”

Recall that soldiers were accused of killing peaceful protesters at the Lekki toll gate.

However, the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army had refuted claims that soldiers shot and killed protesters at the Lekki toll gate.

The Division also said soldiers had stormed the Lekki toll gate following an invitation by Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the crisis caused by hoodlums who hijacked the protest.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has however dismissed the demands of the APC.

Chief Press Secretary to the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, would not offer any comment but referred newsmen to the APC. Calls and text messages to the APC Chairman in the state, Babatunde Balogun, and the Publicity Secretary, Mr. Oluseye Oladejo were not replied to.

However, former Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, who said he can no longer speak for the party said the PDP is a moribund party in Lagos State and is in no position to make such demands.

“Only the electorate that elected Gov Sanwo-Olu can remove him from office and not a moribund party like PDP”, he said.

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Delta NUJ pays tribute to high life King, Morocco Maduka

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State council has mourned the demise of Highlife maestro, Chief Chukwuemeka Maduka, professionally known as Morocco.

This is contained in a tribute singed and issued by the secretary to the union, Comrade Patrick Ochei, and was made available to newsmen in Asaba, Delta State.

Comrade Ochie said the death of the veteran Ekpiki musician is no longer a rumour as he had confirmed from reliable sources.

The Tribute reads:

Morocco’s End Of An Era: Could This Be The Truth?

“Once again, the news of the passing of the Ukwuru born Ekpili music Crooner and King, Chief Emeka Maduka a.k.a Morocco is everywhere in the media space. It didn’t come to me as a rude shock; I only needed to fact check so I don’t become a peddler of fake news in this period of Mis-Information and False news.

“First I asked myself, ‘could this be the truth? I asked this question because it has always been rumoured that Morocco is dead at one point or the other.

“However, this time it was a female colleague, Chimdi who called to give me the news. She was in my company sometime this year when we went to Ukwuru in Anambra State to interview a man called Morocco.

“I belong to a platform with Chief Morocco. I had rushed to the platform to confirm my doubt; and yes, the news came out positive this time. Morocco’s 60th Anniversary Chief Promoter, based in London, Mr. Eddie Isebor had confirmed it already in conjunction with the musician’s son.

“Just after the confirmation, my former Photo-Journalist, Favour had called from Abuja. I just told her it was no longer “Asiri” – Morocco, the Ozo Nwelibe himself had left us to the Great Beyond.

“Chief Chukwuemeka Maduka a.k.a Morocco was found to be with. I met him at Ukwuru where I had gone to interview him ahead of the proposed musical concert to celebrate his 60th Anniversary in professional music by Global Friends Africa-Euro Hospitality Association.

“The above music promoters based in London had planned a big musical concert in Awka and Onitsha to celebrate the Pioneer Voice behind the Ekpili Music in March 2020. However, the date was shifted to October to enable the Coronavirus pandemic to die down. Before October, the promoters had eventually decided to move the date entirely to 2021 to enable the world to get over the Covid-19 pandemic that is still raging on. Unfortunately, the man could no longer endure the uncertainties of the time in world health palaver and he surrendered to the ultimate call of death.

“A truthful man Morocco was. We had erroneously acknowledged him as the Longest Performing Igbo Musician. But he disputed us, giving it to Mike Ejeaya from Enugu State.

“A traditionalist yet loved God with passion. He built a church in his village at Ukwuru where he worships the Highest God amid serious traditional worship of other deities. His business office is based in Awka where he had comfortable business investment in hotels and others, yet he would be in his village every weekend to worship and serve God on a Sunday among his saved kinsmen.

“He told us stories that are still stuck in our memoirs. Stories of how he was likened to a vagabond because he wanted to play music. Stories of how the Ekpili music was conceptualized from “Njakiri”. No wonder at old age he was still very jovial.

“Morocco was a prudent man who was able to convert his wealth from music to an enduring investment. All his children are doing well both in Nigeria and abroad, with one seriously in gospel music. He has hotels in Awka and music a studio.

“An experienced music icon, Morocco became a rallying point both for old-time musicians and young ones in Anambra. He was named the Life Premier of PMAN, South East Zone, because of his bridge-building role to bring Igbo musicians together.

“Chief Morocco was one musician not given to alcohol, drug, and women; he was simply a man who naturally came to impact society with his ever reverberating music. He was a husband to one wife.

“No wonder he never was worried about anything, even when his death was rumoured. Instead of being worried that the world viewed him as a dead man at a time, he converted the worry to music – ‘Asiri’.

“Chief Morocco performed till his very last. The last we spoke, he said he had an event to perform in Enugu State. He was always conscious of a clashing appointment. You either meet him in Awka or at Ukwuru, but it must not be when he had been booked to perform.

“I met him once and I admired him more. He brought back the frenzied old days when his lyrics were the rave of the moment and still is. He even sang for me that day.

“I was looking forward to meeting with him again to deliver a collection of publications we had made on him. But I never knew the last we spoke and agreed on a date to meet after my NUJ election was to be the last.

“What more can I say about Chief Emeka Morocco Maduka, but submit to the will of God. He lived a good life by almost all standards in my opinion. He came, he saw and he conquered. He was an enigma whose music will continue to scintillate the air for generations to come.

“In a nutshell, Chief Morocco’s death is no longer an “Asiri” but the Truth. The Truth enshrined in his “Akalaka”. Good night Osiris-Oma. Good night Ozo Nwelibe of Umugama! Ochie wrote

Comr. Patrick Ochie visit to Chief Maduka

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Wizkid releases new album ‘Made In Lagos’, address personal issues in calm manner (Album Review)

Nigerian singer Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, known professionally as Wizkid has released his latest 14 tracks album, ‘made in Lagos’.

On October 11, 2020, Wizkid had an illuminating conversation with Dayo and Mansour of The Beat 103.6 FM, London. He admitted his wrongs of not bringing an artist through, he spoke about his passion, his love for his kids and how they have changed him, his focus on positive energy, passion for helping the next generation, and why he’s grown to hate clubs.

When we finally got Made In Lagos on October 30, 2020, that 18-minute conversation felt like a playbook for the album. In those moments, he was calm, playful, articulate, and peaceful. He has also lost his boundless energy of the early 2010s. He moved gracefully through the stairs of life and seemed relieved that his Oddyseus was finally coming home.

Made In Lagos is the brainwork of a man who only makes music to feed his fans and satisfy his love for the craft. He doesn’t seem driven to prove a point or to take unnecessary risks. This is Wizkid operating by his own rules and finding unique ways to excel in it.

Just like that Beat 103.6 FM, ‘Blessed’ featuring Damian Marley is emblematic of this album. It encapsulates everything that ‘Made In Lagos’ is thematically, sonically, and topically about in one track. But what stands out is Wizkid’s take on his evolution, wins, losses, pleasures, and his peace.

Marley sings, “I might be rough around the edges, maybe yes. I keep it nappy and I do what makes me happy and nobody can deny me that I’m blessed…” That might seem cocky and spoken from the mouth of Marley, but it echoes Wizkid’s state of mind.

Wizkid later sings, “Man, I’m feeling blessed o. Say tonight, me and my guys, we go jam gbedu…” He then goes further to highlight the tenets of his calmness.

Sometimes, it is not perfect, but ‘Made In Lagos’ represents growth, ease, and the perfection of failed experiments from his last two bodies of work, Sounds From The Other Side and the terrible, Soundman Vol. 1.

At 30, he has also evolved and grown accustomed to being family-oriented. In the video for ‘Smile,’ he featured his three sons. On interview circuits, he has gushed over his sons and his family-based orientation. On ‘Blessed,’ he expressly paid homage to his kids and on ‘Reckless’ he sings, “And I go do anything only for my family…”

Made In Lagos: A journey of elements

In July 2017, Wizkid capped off an incredible one year run with the release of his third album, ‘Sounds From The Other Side.’ While the album charted inside the Billboard 200 and opened Wizkid and the larger Nigeria to another audience, the album was fundamentally flawed as it significantly alienated Wizkid’s fan base on the home front with its Caribbean sounds.

While ‘Sweet Love’ has since aged like fine wine, ‘Come Closer’ and ‘African Bad Gyal’ are slightly divisive. After that album, Wizkid never remained the same as a person and as an artist. He became more withdrawn, aloof, and frozen in time as his music crawled into a mid-tempo flirtation between lo-fi Afro-pop and Afro-Swing.

He also spent less time on social media and even lesser time in interviews. With Jada Pollock, he also had his third child, Zion in the same year.

His topical conversations also got more constrained and he seemed to focus on his comfort and topics that represent happiness to him – women, love, sex, money, and peace. While that was a problem for a while, it wasn’t a problem on Made In Lagos as those topics become alluring. During that interview with The Beat 103.6 FM, London interview, he calls himself “lowkey.”

He alludes to all the above on ‘Blessed’ as he sings, “My brother makes you know. Life wey I dey live, say I dey live am on the low… See, I just wanna hold onto my corner with my lady, make her cool me down…”

On Reckless, he also sings, “My baby tellin’ mе to pose for the media. I got a bеlief, I don’t talk my sh*t…”

Made In Lagos: Dealing with detraction

If Wizkid was wide-eyed and aspirational on Superstar, appreciative and introspective on the substantial parts of Ayo and bland for earth-shattering substance on ‘Sounds From The Other Side,’ life has since shown him unsavoury shades.

In 2018, he made two records; ‘Bad Energy’ with Skepta and ‘Fake Love’ with Duncan Mighty. While he sought to highlight and treat negative energy on those two songs, he’s too ‘Blessed’ to stress on ‘Made In Lagos,’ despite also highlighting bad energy.

On ‘Blessed’ he sings, “I dey pray for my enemies… See, I don’t wanna talk about the things wey go make me down tonight. See, I don’t wanna talk about the things wey go, wey go, make me frown tonight…”

And on ‘Reckless’ he sings, “I got a reason I got so much to give. Showered in blessings, now my cup’s runnin’ over. I no dey give a man, more than what he deserves ‘cause they still dey bite the hand wey dey feed them…”

Sometimes, he also pays his detractors no mind. On ‘Grace,’ he sings, “Man I no dey look nobody, feel say I feel fine, yeah and I stand real tall and I send no one…” This is because he knows that he’s blessed and that, “Dem nor fit run my race…”

And why wouldn’t he? He knows where he is coming. On ‘Reckless,’ he goes, “If I tell you all the days I had to sacrifice…” On ‘Grace’ he again alludes to his journey, “Say you no believe what my eyes did face…” But then, he recognizes a need to be grateful. On Blessings, he sings, “Got so many blessings, I dey count all night…”

While he seems mature, he still has a tendency for petulance as a way to deal with detraction. On ‘Gyrate’ he sings, “If they wan test yeah, all their man go fall…”

Made In Lagos: Women, love, sex, money and a good time

Throughout ‘Made In Lagos,’ the woman and a good time are the key focus that originates from Wizkid’s aloofness, calmness, and carefree nature. Even when Wizkid talks about serious topics on ‘Reckless,’ ‘Blessed’ and ‘Grace,’ the topics found a way to devolve into themes of a good time.

On ‘Blessed,’ he goes from a serious topic to sex-filled chatter about the good life. Also on ‘Reckless,’ he goes from family orientation to chatter about his sexual prowess, “And I go do anything only for my family. I got the thing that makes your body do the nuh linga, makes your gyal come through, makin’ plays all night…”

It’s not entirely his fault. After all, he’s a staunch member of the Yoruba demon council. He had earlier gushed over the influence of women over him, “Gyals dem never give me bad energy…”

On the Afro-fusion/Afro-swing ‘Sweet One,’ Wizkid develops into a full-blown lover boy, complete with brazen statements and sprung adlibs. As the saxophone and melodies collide for heavenly rhythms, he declares his affection for a woman who says “yes” to him even though she has money on her mind.

With H.E.R ‘Smile,’ Wizkid celebrates womanhood on a well-written R&B track. The ‘Mighty Wine’ of the beautiful ‘Roma’ sends Wizkid crazy. ‘Roma’ particularly sounds like something women will love, but ‘Mighty Wine’ seems like something the album could have done without.

Bruh, aside from the fact that ‘True Love’ is a disturbingly psychedelic Afro-Fusion, Highlife-Fusion, and Afro-Bashment record that could soundtrack kush-filled romance beside the beach, Tay Iwar and Projexx killed it. It also contains explicit sex talk.

It then got wilder, more explicit, and more vivid on the Afro-pop record, ‘No Stress’ – which made more sense as part of this album, and ‘Ginger’ with Burna Boy. The R&B/Bashment of ‘Piece of Me’ with Ella Mai also discusses sex as properly make music. When it all feels like it had slowed down, ‘Essence’ comes on in its supreme chronicle of sensuality.

Guys, Terms went into beast mode on a happy record with beautiful songwriting. Frankly, it’s one of the best Nigerian songs of 2020. The way the beat also merged Alte R&B with Afrobeats into one sound is amazing. Jesus Christ!

Wizkid also loves money. But it’s quite interesting that money doesn’t form a core part of his topical discussion. It’s only in selective moments like on ‘Grace’ that he alludes to money. He sings, “Money on my mind, I never waste time, yeah…”

Thank you for taking your time in reading through our Journal Today. We wish to always provide you with qualitative Stories as far as GOOD-JOURNALISM is CONCERN. But good journalism costs a lot of money and only good journalism can ensure the possibility of a good society, accountability democracy, and a transparent government.
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FG denies alleged plans to shutdown social media in Nigeria

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The Federal Government has said it has no intention of closing down social media in the country.

Lai Mohammed, Minister of Informaon and Culture, disclosed this on Saturday in Lagos.

He said the Muhammadu Buhari led administration has high regards for freedom of the press adding that its plan is to regulate social media to be responsible and refrain from giving out fake news and hate speech.

Alhaji Mohammed said his recent call for the regulation of the excesses of social media should not be misinterpreted for a total ban.

“We did not at any time say that we will shut down the social media.

“Social media has come to stay and it will be an attack on democracy to shut it down because it is the fastest way of passing out information all over the world.

“However, it must be regulated to avoid it being used in a manner that it becomes a supplier of fake news and hate speech.

“Also, we will not fold our arms to allow suppliers of fake news and hate speech to use the social media to throw the country into chaos,” he said.

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Investigation: Bullets, blood, and Death: Untold Story of what happened at Lekki Toll Gate

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A clearer picture of what happened at the Lekki Toll Gate on October 20 can now be clearer after days of intensive investigation by the panel.

It was gathered that at about 6:45 p.m. on October 20, men in military uniform arrived at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos in 3 Toyota Hilux vans & almost immediately began shooting into a crowd of peaceful protesters gathered there waving the green-and-white flag & reciting the national anthem.

Protesters and other witnesses at the toll gate claimed several people were injured and killed in the shooting.

A popular Disc Jockey, DJ Switch, who streamed the incident live on Instagram, claimed that the soldiers, after the shooting, took the dead away. She also claimed that a team of Police officers arrived later to mop up after the soldiers.

https://youtu.be/U7bT8KdxsOE

Similarly, a rights group, Amnesty International, claimed 10 people were killed during the shooting at the toll gate, and two others at the Alausa protest ground.

However, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide sanwo-Olu, who described the shooting as a “dark note in the history of the state” and blamed the shooting on forces beyond the “direct control” of his government, originally said no life was lost in the shooting.

He later admitted that two persons died from the incident, one of them from blunt force trauma.

On Monday, during an interview on CNN, Sanwo-Olu continued to discredit the accounts of witnesses about the number of deaths and wounded from the shooting. He said no bloodstain was found at the scene of the shooting when he visited.

Despite accounts by witnesses and video posted online, the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army denied that its personnel fired upon protesters.

The Nigerian Army initially claimed its troops were not at Lekki that night. However, it later admitted that soldiers were deployed at the request of the Lagos State Government. The army, however, insists that its personnel did not open fire on the protesters, let alone kill any.

At around 6 a.m on Saturday, accompanied by a friend, Deji Ashiru, this reporter drove to the Nigerian Army Post Exchange (NAPEX) Car Park Jetty in Victoria Island, where he and his team hired a boat to search for the body.

As the boat approached the bank of the lagoon, behind the imposing Oriental Hotel, the reporter saw a shanty ahead. The shanty is on the left side of the Lekki Toll Gate if one was traveling from Victoria Island. Due to its proximity to the toll gate, it immediately occurred to the reporter that residents of the community might have witnessed things that happened during the crackdown that was not yet in the public domain. His instinct was right.

He told the driver of the boat to stop his team at the shanty. It seems the residents had been waiting for someone to tell the stories of what they saw on the evening of the shooting because team members had hardly introduced themselves or even disembarked from the boat when they started recounting gruesome details about the evening.

The residents, some of whom suffered bullet wounds and other injuries, during the shooting, alleged that several people were killed and injured by the soldiers. They also corroborated the story told by DJ Switch and other protesters that after the shooting soldiers took the bodies of those killed away.

When asked if the protesters were killed and whether they saw soldiers carry bodies away, one of the residents said: “Of course, everyone saw it. Those that were present saw it.

“Even the one that died in our presence, wey be said the ekelabe (policemen) carry goes. They shot am there,” another resident said.

“Boss, if you want to camera, you can camera,” said the second speaker who later identified himself as Ray.

“Let me tell you something. This is my country. I am not afraid of anything. Let me say what I saw on that day. I was here from the beginning to the end of everything. What the soldiers and police did was wrong. Why would soldier come and shoot on us when we were having a peaceful protest,” he said

When asked if he saw soldiers carry bodies away, Ray responded: “Of course, I saw dead bodies. They packed bodies. They came with their vans. Their trucks.”

Ray, who expressed displeasure that President Muhammadu Buhari did not mention the Lekki shooting in his broadcast to the nation a couple of days ago, said Mr. Sanwo-Olu visited the scene of the shooting in the early hours of Wednesday and saw some of the dead.

“Why is Sanwo-Olu denying? Because immediately after when that thing happened Sanwo-Olu himself came. He came. He parked at the toll gate. He saw some dead bodies on the ground. Why is he denying,” he asked.

Ray’s account of the event was also corroborated by other residents of the area.

Also, the residents alleged that after the soldiers who initially opened fire on the protesters left the scene, police officers led by a chief superintendent of police, Raji Ganiyu, and the Divisional Police Officer of the nearby Maroko Division, arrived the scene and continued the attack on aggressive protesters who stood their ground despite the military assault.

Displaying bullet casings collected at the toll gate after the shooting, they accused the team led by Mr Ganiyu, whom they described as wearing a white native attire on the day, of shooting and killing some protesters, including a mentally ill man who was often seen around the area.

“DPO of Maroko we see am face to face wey e blow one person head pull the skull off. Pistol. E wear white and white,” one of them said in Pidgin.

“Na only one him kill?” another resident interjected in Pidgin. “What of the mad boy wey he shoot for our front here. Close range. There was a guy that was abnormal, he was sat at that speaker. He just came immediately, saw the boy, the boy didn’t do anything. He didn’t run, he didn’t harass him, he just removed his pistol and blew the boy’s head,” yet another resident said.

The Maroko Police Division is directly opposite the shanty and on the right of the toll gate.

Contacting Mr Ganiyu for comments, he declined to respond, saying all requests for comment should be directed to the Lagos Police Public Relation Department.

Also, the police public relation officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, said any question about the shooting incident at Lekki Toll Gate would be decided by the judicial panel of inquiry set up by the state government into alleged atrocities committed by law enforcement officers.

“No comment on this for now,” he said.

The narratives of the residents of the event of Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning correlate with that of DJ Switch.

In a video posted on Instagram three days after the shooting, DJ Switch spoke about the involvement of the police and explained that it was one aspect of the shooting many were not talking about.

“Yes, there were soldiers there,” she said. “Another part that people are not really talking about; the police also came. The SARS people we are talking about also came. Maybe 40-45 minutes after the soldiers left.” she said.

“I dey for that side (points) before dey start to shoot. Many people run enter water. I can’t leave them like that to die so I help many people comot for inside water and they come safe. I carry many people go another way, go put dem and they follow that way go,” he said.

Mr Kakpo’s wife showed newsmen her bruised and swollen hand. She said she sustained the injury when she fell while trying to run from the shooting.

Meanwhile, after speaking with residents at the shanty, the investigative team left in search of the floating corpse. Just about 300 metres after the toll gate on the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge and about 100 metres from Bay Lounge, they saw the corpse floating near the bank of the lagoon.

The corpse was that of a man. It was already swollen and decomposing. It was shoe-less. The dead man was wearing blue denim jeans trousers and a flimsy white singlet. It also had a rubber band on its left wrist. The man seems to be slightly bearded, but it was hard to tell as a swarm of flies was already gathered around his decomposing face.

“No scratch of blood” – Sanwo-Olu lied
During the CNN interview, Mr Sanwo-Olu, in what appears an attempt to discredit witnesses’ accounts of the shooting, said when he visited the toll gate, he did not find a “scratch of blood.” However, video and photo evidence verified as being from the incident as well as witnesses and victims accounts of the shooting showed the governor’s claim as inaccurate.

One of the photos showed a young man wearing a zip sweatshirt over a Versace t-shirt, with his head lying in a pool of blood. Witnesses explained that the man was shot in the head by the police officers who arrived the scene after the soldiers left the scene.

In a recorded video clip from the scene, some protesters were spotted tying a tourniquet to the bloodied leg of a victim with a belt. The unidentified man wriggled in pain. He had been shot in the leg.

Also, in another video, an elderly man whose cloth was drenched in blood was seen lying beside another person who had suffered bullet wound injuries.

Videos posted on Twitter of the desolation at the Lekki toll gate the morning after the attack indicated a man showing a large patch of bloodstain on the scene of the shooting.

Victims recount ordeal
When a reporter visited Nicholas Okpe at the Emergency Unit of Grandville Hospital in Ajah, he could barely sit up. He had a patch on his right chest where a bullet hit him. A tube was attached just under his right rib cage that drains blood and pus into a container placed on the floor. The bullet was still lodged in his chest while the hospital waits for a consultant to further test before deciding how to proceed.

Photo of Nicholas Okpe lying in the ICU of the hospital. He was shot at Lekki toll gate

A medical doctor at the hospital, who identified herself as Ikemefuna, said Mr. Okpe was in a critical state when he was admitted, and said he was lucky to be alive.

“He is getting better. He is not on oxygen anymore. God so good it (the bullet) hit him on the right. It (the bullet) pushed his lung to the side. He still needs further review,” she said.

Propelled by the prospect of achieving an end to police brutality, Mr. Okpe did not just protest, he did more. He volunteered alongside a handful of other youth to clean the protest ground at the end of each day’s protest.

He said his case was so critical that three hospitals rejected him before Grandville accepted to treat him.

“The first hospital they said they cannot admit me,” he said. “They poured honey where the bullet passed through and plastered and gave me some injection. They said that will sustain me until I get a hospital that can treat me.

“They took me to another hospital, they rejected me. They took me to another they said they were not open. This is the fourth hospital they came to. The man here said they should admit me if not I would have died.”

Mr. Okpe said the blood and pus that were drained from him filled the container four times already. He said he was in severe distress.

“I’m passing through a lot of pains. I am always in pain. Anytime I cry out they will just give me a painkiller and they will go. When that painkiller expires the pain will come again. My head is just too heavy for me with pains,” he said.

Mr. Okpe also said he saw the soldiers aimed the CCTV cameras at the toll gate before he was hit.

Nicholas Okpe. Mr Okpe says he saw the soldiers took aim at the CCTV cameras at the Lekki toll gate before he was hit.

Lekki Shooting Victim – Raymond Simon

All Raymond Simon wanted to do was help. But his large heart almost cost him his life. Mr. Simon said he was not at the toll gate when the soldiers shot at protesters. A church instrumentalist, he was at a rehearsal that evening. As he was returning home on his motorcycle, he decided to take some of those injured during the shooting to hospitals.

He said he was returning after making the third trip from nearby Reddington Hospital when he was ambushed by police officers at the toll gate who viciously attacked and abducted him.

“After I was stabbed, they abducted me alongside a corpse. They were driving us around the area and I suspect they were looking for were to abandon the corpse. When they got to the Ilasan area, they pushed me down. My hands were tied to the back,” he said.

He said the police officers drove off with the other presumably dead person. He later managed to find his way to a hospital where his wound was stitched, and he was given painkillers before being discharged.

Mr. Simon said after he was attacked, one of the police officers tried to shoot him but one of his colleagues pushed him away. He said another officer with a bayonet attached to his rifle aimed to stab him in the neck, but he quickly moved his head and the blade hit his chin

He said his motorcycle was stolen during the attack at the scene of the crime.

Lekki Shooting Victim —
Bassey

A man identified as Mr Bassey was hit by bullet in his right hand as he mingled with other protesters at the toll gate. Unable to reach first responders on time due to the blockade set up by the soldiers, he said some residents of the area close to the toll gate removed the bullet lodged in his left hand.

He (Bassey) appeared to be in severe pain and in urgent need of medical attention. He gingerly carried the swollen hand, with a huge wound in the spot where he was hit by the bullet, close to his body, as he spoke with this reporter. He said he has not received any treatment worth mentioning since he suffered the injury.

When the investigative team returned to the shanty to check Bassey the next day, it was revealed that members of the community had arranged for a motorcycle to take him to St. Nicholas Hospital, Lagos Island. The team went to St. Nicholas Hospital to check on him but was told nobody that fits his description came there for treatment.

Patrick Ukala was also shot at Lekki toll gate

Bassey later returned to the shanty on Thursday. Fellow residents said his condition had worsened as he is yet to get proper treatment for his injury.

Lekki Shooting Victim —
Patrick Ukala

Mr Ukala was shot in his right arm. He said the bullet is still lodged in his arm and that he had only received first aid and painkillers. He was told by doctors at Grandville to do an X-ray of the arm before the bullet can be removed.

“I am still walking everywhere looking for where to do x-ray but nowhere yet. They promise that I should come back.”

Abandoned by Lagos Government
His account as well as those of Messers. Okpe, Simon, and Bassey contradict the claim of the Lagos government that protesters who were injured would be treated fully free of charge.

The victims said the state government has not contributed a dime to their treatments. Some of them who were originally treated are now being treated in other hospitals.

Mr Ukala said the bill for their treatment was covered by one Ideh Chukwuma, a filmmaker.

On Sunday when newsmen visited Mr Okpe at Grandville Trauma Centre, he met a team from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, which came with its media crew to interview the victims. Mr Ukala said that was the last time he saw of any government official.

“Since the day you saw those people (officials of the Lagos Ministry of Health) there they have never come there neither did they speak with the doctor. Finally, the doctor has asked us to leave.”

He said Mr Okpe was discharged with the bullet still lodged in his chest. He also has not been operated on to remove the bullet in his arm.

When Grandville Trauma Centre was reached for comment, an employee of the hospital who gave her “professional name” as Doctor Adebayo, confirmed that the victims had all been discharged.

“Some that need extra consultations with specialists, we sent them there. We didn’t operate him (Mr Okpe) here. Probably they will operate him wherever he went to,” she said.

Some hospital owners in Lagos complained that the Lagos State Ministry of Health was using its Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), the organisation responsible for registering healthcare facilities in the state, to intimidate them.

The hospitals also said HEFAMAA sent out an online questionnaire requesting details of injured #EndSARS protesters treated at their facilities, a move they said could be used to “arm-twist” them into providing information which might breach doctor-patient confidentiality rule.

They said they were particularly worried about the section of the form requesting their registration number.

Link to the form: https://forms.gle/XYY9EEw3ovzqYZiv5

The protest movement, which is known as #EndSARS, demanded the dissolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a tactical unit of the Nigerian Police, whose members were accused of atrocities including extortion, rape, abduction, torture, and extrajudicial killings.

The protesters also asked for investigations into the allegations against SARS personnel as well as the immediate suspension of officers accused of committing atrocities.

At least for 10 days, the protests, especially in Lagos and Abuja, were conducted peacefully despite attacks on protesters by persons suspected to be pro-government hoodlums.

Within the period, no fewer than 11 protesters were killed by the police across the country.

In one instance in the Ketu area of Lagos, on October 19, rival street gangs capitalized on the protests to attack one another.
On the morning of October 20, the protests in some parts of Lagos, especially at Orile and Mushin, turned violent after police officers shot some protesters. The Orile and Mushin police stations were razed by angry mobs. At least one police officer was lynched, and several others injured in the riots that ensued.

The curfew
In a move to check the violence that was beginning to spread across the state, at around noon on October 20, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced a state-wide curfew with effect from 4 p.m that day.

The protesters at Alausa and Lekki Toll Gate, which were the epicenters of the demonstrations, defied the curfew but remained peaceful.

Just after 3:30 p.m, officials believed to be from the company managing the toll gate, Lekki Concession Company (LCC), arrived at the toll gate and removed equipment initially thought by activists to be CCTV cameras. Authorities later claimed that the CCTV cameras at the facility remained intact and that its footages would be released to the panel probing the shooting.

LCC officials accused of removing cameras at the Lekki toll gate

Protesters who survived the attack said lights, including streetlights and a large electronic billboard which illuminated the toll gate area, were turned off just before the attack to possibly provide a cover for the brutal assault on peaceful protesters that were to follow.

The advertising company that owns the electronic billboard at the Lekki toll gate, however, said it deactivated its facility in compliance with the curfew declared by Governor Sanwo-Olu, unaware that tragedy would later strike at the location.

This report is published with permission from Premiumtimesng.com

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See how US forces rescued American, kills 6 in Nigeria

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An American abducted in Nigeria has been today, Saturday, October 31, rescued by the United States forces.

Philip Walton, 27, was seized by gunmen in Niger on October 26.

Walton was moved to northern Nigeria where he was held.

The Pentagon confirmed that the operation was executed on Saturday.

“U.S. forces conducted a hostage rescue operation during the early hours of 31 October in Northern Nigeria to recover an American citizen held hostage by a group of armed men.

“This American citizen is safe and is now in the care of the US Department of State. No US military personnel were injured during the operation,” Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement.

Hoffman thanked international partners for their support for the mission.

The official stressed that the US will continue to protect its people and interests anywhere in the world.

The operation reportedly lasted several hours and eliminated six of the seven kidnappers.

It was conducted by the Navy’s elite SEAL Team 6 flown by Air Force special operations.

In a statement, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Walton would be reunited with his family.

The top diplomat hailed the military for the successful extraction and reiterated that the US will always look out for its nationals.

“Thanks to the extraordinary courage and capabilities of our military, the support of our intelligence professionals, and our diplomatic efforts, the hostage will be reunited with his family.

“We will never abandon any American taken hostage”, Pompeo vowed.

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Governor Okowa relaxes curfew in Delta, gives new order

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The Delta State Government has announced a relaxation of the statewide curfew imposed on 22 October, 2020 following wanton destruction of public property.

The State Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen.

The curfew which had run from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. would now be between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. with effect from Saturday, October 3,

Aniagw, in a statement ,yesterday ,expressed appreciation to Deltans for observing the curfew, which is expected to restore normalcy in ,the state.

“As a government, we are not unmindful of the stress our people are going through on account of the cutout was inevitable to protect the lives and property of Deltans.

“I must thank Deltans for protecting the interest of our common patrimony by ensuring that no further destruction of public buildings was recorded in the state.

“As part of our commitment to building a stronger Delta with our youths, let me also express the determination of the State Government to give effect the decisions reached the recent Town Hall meetings with youths in the state,” he said.

Aniagwu appealed to Deltans to comply with the curfew regulation to ensure that peace prevailed in the state.

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NYSC DG Ibrahim, reveals why Abuja camp was attacked

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The National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) camp in Kubwa, Abuja, was attacked by those who thought items there were palliatives.

the Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim stated this on Friday.

He spoke after the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu inspected the extent of looting and damage done to the facility.

Ibrahim noted that the scheme was preparing for the forthcoming orientation scheduled to begin on November 10.

“People think that NYSC camps have palliatives, but I want to tell Nigerians that we don’t have palliatives in our camps,” he said.

Ibrahim appealed to citizens across the country to stop attacking NYSC camps.

The DG said most of the items were labelled and only meant for corps members.

Food items and other materials were carted away during the attack last Tuesday.

The IGP said some have been recovered and a number of the burglars arrested, with the police searching for more suspects.

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WTO Job: Nigeria govt reaches out to US, others over Okonjo-Iweala

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The Nigerian government has stated that it is intensifying efforts towards stopping the stumbling blocks that may hinder the emergence of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Minister of state for industry, trade, and investment Mariam Katagu, made this disclosure on Friday, October 30, during an emergency virtual meeting.

Katagu, who doubles as the chairperson of the campaign strategy team for Okonjo-Iweala, said Nigeria has reached out to the United States and other members of WTO to ensure that the development economist eventually emerges.

It would be recalled that Okojo-Iweala was reported to have been appointed the WTO DG, becoming the first woman and African to seal the top job after beating her close challenger, Yoo Myung-hee of South Korea.

However, the United States of America (USA) was reported to have used to the emergence of Nigeria’s candidate who has received the backing of many African countries and the European Union. On Friday, Katagu said Nigeria is currently meeting with all the necessary stakeholders at WTO to ensure that Okonjo-Iweala scales through. “Nigeria is currently reaching out to all members of the WTO including the United States of America and South Korea to overcome the impasse as well as persuade the United States to join the consensus in adopting the recommendation of the appointment of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as DG-WTO.”

It was earlier reported that the official declaration of Nigerian former minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as the director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) was reportedly met with an objection from the US on Wednesday, October 28.

But in what appears to be a sigh of relief, the 66-year-old development economist, remains the candidate to take the top job, according to an emerging report and source from the organisation. WTO spokesperson Keith Rockwell summed up the announcement by General Council Chair Walker, saying Iweala is the woman for the job considering the maximum supports she has amassed so far.

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Delta announces date for school reopening, issues serious warning

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Basic and Secondary Education in Delta State has said that both public and private schools would resume academic activities on November 2 after a week break.

Mr. Ukah said the schools’ resumption was in line with the directive of Gov Ifeanyi Okowa that academic activities should resume on Monday along with “teleclass.”

The closure of schools in the state was occasioned by the hijack of the peaceful Endsars protest by hoodlums in the state.

Mr. Ukah, in a statement on Friday in Asaba, called on heads of schools to continue to enforce the COVID-19 protocols by their pupils and students to avoid the spread of the disease.

He said that officials of the ministry would continue to monitor activities in the schools to ensure strict adherence to the directive, adding that defaulters would face the risk of having their schools closed down.

Chief Ukah said that the resumption of nursery schools was being reviewed and the announcement for the beginning of academic activities for them would be made in due course.

He said that airing of the ministry’s open distance learning on radio and television, ‘teleclass’, meant to complement the normal learning in schools, would begin on Monday.

“The programme is packaged by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the state Ministry of Information.

“It will be aired between 5.00 p.m and 7.00 p.m on weekdays by the ministry’s media partners.

“The partners are Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Asaba; Delta Rainbow Television (DRTV), Warri; Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Asaba; Quest TV, Ughelli; Quest 93.1 FM, Ughelli; Bridge FM, Asaba; Crown FM, Warri and Rize 106.7 FM, Warri,” he said.

He said that the subjects to be taught during the programme include English Studies, National Values, Basic Science and Technology, and Mathematics for primary school pupils.

“Mathematics and English Studies for Junior Secondary School (JSS) students and Mathematics and English Language for Senior Secondary School (SSS) students.

He advised pupils and students to make use of the opportunity presented by the programme to consolidate on what they were being taught in schools, considering the short period available for teaching and learning this term.

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Stop praising leaders, hold them accountable, Wike tells NGE

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Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has charged Nigerian Media to desist from praising public office holders and giving them awards for favoritism but to hold them accountable.

He gave the charge when the national leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt yesterday.

Governor Wike noted that in time past, the Nigerian Press was a strong voice and conscience of the society, but wondered what has whittled down its powers.

“What I have seen of you is that you praise us and give us award because of relationship or friendship. That’s not the way it should be. Challenge us; the people in authority and we will sit up to our responsibilities. We will have no choice but to perform and serve the people, as it should be.

“My support for you has to do with the fact that you are supposed, to tell the truth of what is happening in Nigeria. There was a time you were exposing the ills of society. If not for you, certain things will not be known. Assume your role, grow strong again and speak out,” he said.

The governor stated that Nigeria is in a difficult period in its history and NGE cannot shy away from performing its duties without fear or favour.

He urged them to discharge their function and be sure that they are doing what is right always.

“If when I castigated the operations of SARS, you added your voice, who knows what good that would have achieved. Now, look at what has happened. There was EndSARS protest across the country. Nobody knows how the youths were able to organise themselves without a leader.

“Up until now, intelligence can’t even know how they did it and who’s behind them. Without good intelligence, how can Nigeria even defeat Boko Haram?” he queried.

Governor Wike further said the EndSARS protest was peaceful in Rivers State until the outlawed Indigenous People Organisation of Biafra (IPOB) took laws into their hands.

“I don’t support criminality. IPOB killed 6 army officers, 4 policemen, burnt police stations and court buildings. This is Rivers State. Go to Oyigbo and see the level of destruction. Now, the State Government will be rebuilding those facilities.

“Those who don’t understand our actions are saying we are fighting the Igbos. How will they allow criminals to speak for them when there are intelligent Igbo people to speak for them?

“If they (IPOB) are aggrieved, instead of channeling it to the right quarters, they go and kill innocent people and destroy public places,” he stated.

In his speech, the National President of NGE, Mustapha Isha, said Governor Wike has remained consistent in his support for the Guild.

“You are the only government that has sponsored our annual conference back to back. Even if we have new leadership, that will not affect the friendship we share with you.

“Anytime I come to Port Harcourt, there is always a new project on-going. Flyovers are being constructed; existing roads are being expanded, and new roads being built. Projects don’t hide; even your political opponents will see them. They may murmur, but they will use them. Your excellency, keep up with your good job,” he said.

The members of the guild later accompanied Governor Wike on a project tour of the Rebisi Flyover, Real Madrid Football Academy, and the Mother and Child Specialist Hospital.

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End SARS: IGP Adamu threatens to apprehend, prosecute NYSC camp looters

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The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu has said that hoodlums who made away with items meant for corps members would be arrested and made to face the law.

Adamu said this on Friday after inspecting the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp in Kubwa, Abuja.

“It is very unfortunate that the camp was looted as we went round to see the destruction made by the hoodlums.

”The camp meant for the training of youths to enable them to contribute to the development of the country has turned out to be the focus of looters.

“However, it is a good thing that corps members were not in camp during the unfortunate incident because it would have been a disaster,” he said.

He also revealed that some of the items have been recovered, while some of the hoodlums have been arrested.

“A total number of 53 suspects have been arrested so far and would be charged to court.

“I urge Nigerians to report anyone suspected to have the looted items to the nearest law enforcement agency.

“For those hoodlums who broke into this facility and stole, we will ensure that we track them and prosecute them,” Adamu added.

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Lekki Shooting: Lagos Judicial Panel denied access to military mortuary (Video)

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Members of the Lagos State Judicial Panel investigating cases of police brutality visited Military hospital, Awolowo road Ikoyi, on Friday.

The panel is investigating the shooting of protesters by military men at the Lekki toll gate 10 days ago.

Ebun Adegboruwa, a lawyer who is also a member of the panel, said the members of the panel got confidential information that the morgue at the military facility may be crucial to the panel’s investigation.

“We have confidential information that the military hospital here is relevant in the investigation of the Lekki event,” Adegboruwa said.

“We heard this hospital is controlled by 65 Battalion and under the 81 Division. We are also taking steps to reach military authorities.”

The visit was impromptu and the Nigerian Army authorities were not informed ahead of time.

The panel members were initially denied into the premises and were locked out for about 30minutes.

But when eventually allowed in, nothing much was achieved as they were denied access to the morgue.

Adegboruwa told journalists that the aim of visiting the military hospital was “partially” achieved.

Multiple eyewitnesses at the Lekki toll gate said the soldiers killed unarmed protesters.

Amnesty International said it had “credible” evidence that at least 12 people were killed at the Alausa and Lekki that day.

Some witnesses said the bodies of those killed were taken away by the soldiers.

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End SARS: President Buhari gives new instruction to ministers

President Muhammadu Buhari has instructed his ministers to submit reports of their discussions with people in their different states over the recent #EndSARS protests.

According to the presidency, Buhari at the recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting told his ministers to submit their reports next week.

Presidential spokesperson, Femi Adesina disclosed on Thursday, October 29, during a programme on Channels TV.

He stated that some ministers were yet to conclude the discussions in their respective states.

Adesina said: “I can tell you because there was another Federal Executive Council meeting, the president asked for briefs from ministers who went out. Only two had their reports ready as of yesterday because some others were still in their respective states carrying out their assignment. “So, the president said all of them should turn in their reports through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in the incoming week.”

Adesina explained that the reports from the ministers will enable the authorities to establish the true circumstances surrounding the EndSARS protest.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian presidency has accused the global human rights body, Amnesty International, of making misleading claims about what happened at the Lekki toll gate on Tuesday, October 20. Speaking on behalf of the presidency, Femi Adesina, President Muhammadu Buhari’s special adviser on media and publicity, said the shooting incident at Lekki did not lead to widespread chaos.

Adesina also disagreed that the widespread looting witnessed during the EndSARS protest was due to large-scale poverty in the country.

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End SARS Protests: Governor Lalong says plateau lost N75 billion to looters

Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong on Friday disclosed that about N75 billion worth of properties were looted and destroyed during the recent looting arranged by hoodlums in the state.

Lalong disclosed this during an interactive session with youths in the State, held at the Government House in Rayfield, Jos the State Capital.

The Governor said the destruction meted upon 32
public and private properties that were affected in the looting has nothing to do with the initial #EndSARS protests, “but a clear act of criminality and unpatriotic behaviour”.

He said, “On Tuesday, I went round some of the affected areas together with Members of the National Assembly Caucus from Plateau State and the Minister of Women Affairs to assess the level of destruction. What we saw was horrific and despicable.

According to him, “The level of destruction and carnage is unbelievable and unacceptable. We are still trying to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of the total cost of the damage.

“However, the preliminary report by a team of experts I constituted has estimated the losses to be put 75 billion naira backward he maintained.

“This clearly takes us many years backwards as we do not have the resources to replace the structures vandalised and the items damaged or stolen”, he decried.

“We are yet to recover from the devastating economic consequences of COVID-19 which has greatly affected our capacity to provide services.

The Governor explained that, “Indeed, this act of destruction has nothing to do with the initial #EndSARS protests, but a clear act of criminality and unpatriotic behaviour. As at the last count, we have more than 32 public and private properties that were affected in the looting spree.

Speaking on the challenges face by youths in the state, Lalong said, “My dear youth, as a father and your Governor, I feel your pain. My heart goes out to all our youths for the many challenges they face daily due to lack of opportunities for jobs and better conditions to achieve their dreams.

According to him, “This is a burden that has accumulated over time which our administration is working hard to address.

He, however, said, “it is always confusing when people demand justice by either violating laws or trampling on the rights of others. That can only breed chaos and anarchy leading to worse consequences than what they sought to address in the first place.

“You would agree with me that the enormity of the challenges we face cannot be resolved overnight or with a wave of the hand. It is a process which all of us must collectively work together to achieve”, he explained.

“However, the question that begs for answer is, “can these problems be solved by the kind of destruction and carnage we witnessed recently?”

“When we destroy the few infrastructures we have, we can never build the better Plateau that we all yearn for”.

The Governor appealed to all youths to always avoid any action that can threaten the unity and peace of the state and the nation at large.

“Plateau belongs to all of us and we must build it together”, he stressed.

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Lawmaker exposed for using COVID-19 Palliative as birthday souvenirs (photos)

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Few hours after saying Nigerian youth “are high on drugs all the time”, Nigerians have exposed how member representing Amuwo-Odofin 1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Alli-Macaulay, used COVID-19 palliatives as birthday souvenirs and gifts.

It was gathered that Nigerian politicians, who hijacked the distribution of palliatives to Nigerians during the lockdown, diverted it for personal use and distribution to their families and party members.

Speaking at the floor of the Assembly, Alli-Macaulay said most of the youth are high on drugs and that is part of the problem that led to the destruction and vandalisation of properties in the state.

“It is unemployment that should be the bane or the reason why youths should misbehave, there are unemployment in so many countries of the world, even in the United States.

“Even if as graduates, what stops you from becoming a designer or a professional tiler and make a brand of it. There is no excuse for being a hoodlum.

Speaking at the floor of the Assembly, Alli-Macaulay said most of the youth are high on drugs and that is part of the problem that led to the destruction and vandalisation of properties in the state.

“It is unemployment that should be the bane or the reason why youths should misbehave, there are unemployment in so many countries of the world, even in the United States.

“Even if as graduates, what stops you from becoming a designer or a professional tiler and make a brand of it. There is no excuse for being a hoodlum.

“They are high on drugs all the time, most of them. They go to social media to do all sorts of things,” she said as part of her submission.

Few hours after her submission, Alli-Macauley was exposed to have used palliatives donated by the Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) to celebrate her birthday.

In pictures exposing the lawmaker that has now gone viral on social media, the package distributed by the lawmaker contained foodstuffs – noodles and garri – part of what was demeant to be shared to poor and vulnerable Nigerians as relief during the lockdown.

Reacting to the picture leak, Nigerians slammed the lawmaker, saying she lacks the moral right to brand them as drug addict while she diverts palliatives as birthday gift.

The fact that you even thought of tiling jobs for graduates.”

“Dishonourable Mojisola Alli Macaulay who said Nigerian youth are always high on drugs in Lagos House of Assembly is actually an ALOOTER. These are CACOVID palliatives she used as souveniers during her birthday some days ago,” @Scizo4real tweeted.

@chiefagbaniaka also tweeted. This fool insulting and denigrating young Nigerians that “we are always high on drugs. Check out the pics Mojiola Alli-Macaulay. She reported to have stole Covid-19 palliative & converted it into birthday souvenirs.

Mojisola Alli-Macaulay

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Revive Warri port to create employment – Okowa urges FG

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has called on the Federal Government to hastily restore the Warri Port, to reduce unemployment in the state and the country at large.

He made the call at a meeting with youths, including #EndSARS protesters, civil society groups, students, community leaders, and other stakeholders across Delta South and Delta Central senatorial districts yesterday in Warri.

Governor Okowa said with the congestion of the ports in Lagos, the Federal Government should revive Warri Port and other seaports in Delta to boost the nation’s economy and create employment for the youths.

The governor stated that the rate of unemployment was very high, but could not be immediately reversed, stressing that checking unemployment was not just about employing people into public service, as less than five percent of the population would benefit from it.

To tackle unemployment, Okowa disclosed that his administration had adopted skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programmes to empower youths.

“We will try to improve our processes of helping our youths to acquire skills and provide them with starter packs,” added.

However, the youths tasked him with improved governance in the state, saying that bad governance caused the protest more than police brutality.

The governor said he agreed to join the youths to identify dark areas that needed attention and to see how the gap, which the protest opened, could be closed.

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WTO DG: US gives reason for opposing Okonjo-Iweala’s nomination

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The United States has explained that the reason it moved against the election of former Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the next Director-general of the World Trade Organisation, WTO, was the fact that the UN agency was in dire need of reform which must be driven by ‘’someone with real, hands-on experience.’’

In a statement issued by the office of the US Trade Representative, Robert Lighthizer, on Wednesday, the US government said: “The United States supports the selection of Korean Trade Minister, Yoo Myung-hee as the next WTO Director-General.

“Minister Yoo is a bona fide trade expert who has distinguished herself during a 25-year career as a successful trade negotiator and trade policymaker. She has all the skills necessary to be an effective leader of the organization.

“This is a very difficult time for the WTO and international trade. There have been no multilateral tariff negotiations in 25 years, the dispute settlement system has gotten out of control, and too few members fulfill basic transparency obligations.

“The WTO is badly in need of major reform. It must be led by someone with real, hands-on experience in the field.”

The argument against Okonjo-Iweala had always been that she has no direct trade experience.

But addressing the WTO in July, the former minister of finance said, while refuting the claim: “I am a development economist and you cannot do that without looking at a trade. Trade is a central part of development.

‘’So, I have been doing it. My whole career at the World Bank, I was working on trade policy reform in middle and low-income countries at the bank,” she said.

“As finance minister, the Customs Service in my country reported to me. And that is all about trade facilitation. I helped my country’s negotiation with my trade minister on the ECOWAS common external tariffs. I don’t know how much more trade you can have than that.

“So those who say I don’t have trade, they are mistaken. I think the qualities I have are even better, because I combine development economics with trade knowledge, along with finance, and you need that combination of skills to lead the WTO. I think I have the skills that are needed. I am a trade person.”

Okonjo-Iweala had on Wednesday, won the popular vote to become the next DG and had the nod of the three ambassadors saddled with the responsibility of picking the next leader of the trade body.

But at a WTO delegates meeting to discuss the appointment, the US expressed opposition to her election — the US was the only country opposing her election.

Keith Rockwell, spokesman of the WTO, said just one member country did not support Okonjo-Iweala.

“All of the delegations that expressed their views expressed very strong support for the outcome, except for one,” he said.

The WTO reconvenes on November 9, 2020, after the US election to decide who becomes the next DG.

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End SARS: 11-year-old boy arrested for joining hoodlums who attacked Edo police station

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An 11-year-old boy has been arrested by the Edo State Police Command over his alleged ”involvement” in the attack on a police station in Evbuotubu area of Benin City.

Recall that last Monday, hoodlums took advantage of the #EndSARS protest to attack Oba Market Police station , Ugbekun Police Station, Idogbo Police station, and carted away arms and ammunitions at the armoury as well as police uniforms and other valuables.

Kola Edokpayi, a Human Rights Advocate, stated that a senior News reporter with the Edo Broadcasting Service, Festus Alenkhe, revealed that the young boy was arrested for allegedly joining the gang of hoodlums that attacked Oba Market police station.

After the attack, the boy was said to have worn the uniform of a police sergeant and declared himself as the Inspector General of Police (IGP)

He then went about in Benin metropolis bragging about his new status while most of his peers hailed and clapped for him.

He was subsequently arrested, paraded, and will be arraigned in a juvenile court soon, according to the report.

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FG to reduce data cost from N1,000 to N390 per gigabyte

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has started plans to bring down the cost of buying internet data in the country.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), Umar Danbatta disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

Mr Danbatta revealed that the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy is planning to reduce the cost of data from N1,000 to N390 per gigabyte

According to him, the country must provide pervasive broadband data infrastructure to achieve a subsidized data cost.

See part of his statement below:

“Actually the cost has come down to N1,000/gigabyte of data, but the government is saying that we should be targeting N390 in the next 3 to 5 years.

“We need pervasive broadband data infrastructure because at the landing point in Lagos, where we have all the submarine cables. You know, that is why we have them. There is the main cable, 133, West African Sea Cable (WASC). And there is the other one which Glo company is trying to deploy.

“The combined, have data capacity of 40 terabyte. This data capacity is at the landing point in Lagos. That is from the coast, where there is ocean. Until and unless you move this massive 40 terabyte data capacity into the hinterland because the undersea cables are terminating in Lagos.

“Hinterland consists virtually all the major cities of the country and the 774 Local Governments of Nigeria. Through this way you will be meeting demands for data with appropriate or commensurate supply of data. This is how it will enable Nigerians to pay less data tariff.

“But this massive capacity of data at landing cost can’t move itself. There is the need to build fibre cables that can carry this capacity to the hinterland.

“We are indeed pursuing the plan. There is infrastructure and company licensing framework that could give the companies the ability to afford to sell the data to the retail agents, who will sell the data to the citizens,” he explained.

The EVC however sathe id Nigeria is among the countries with lowest data cost in the whole Africa.

“Following observation of the ranking, which was carried out by reputable global organizations, the commission had found out that Nigeria stands in 4th position among the countries with lowest data tariff on the continent,”

“It is true that Nigerians are yearning for low data prices. Nigeria has one of the lowest data tariff in Africa. When we observed the rankings by global reputable organizations, we discovered that in the rankings of data services and cost, we are like number 4.

“Virtually all the African countries were listed in the ranking. Our data price is $2 and a few cents.

“In South Africa, despite their economic development, they sell data higher than Nigeria. To be honest with you, South Africa is not even among the lowest. Cost of data. services doesn’t need to come down,”Mr Danbatta stated.

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Lekki Shooting: Nigerian Army says soldiers used blank ammunition

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Brigadier General Sani Usman, former Director Army Public Relations, has on Thursday claimed that Military personnel who shot protesters at Lekki toll gate used ‘blank ammunition.

He disclosed this in an interview with Arise News

Usman noted that the blank ammunition used to disperse protesters has little or no effect on its target.

Recall that the Army had earlier denied that its officers were present at the scene of shooting at the Lekki toll gate.

But on Wednesday, the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army (NA) revealed that the Lagos State Government invited the military to intervene during the End SARS protests.

Speaking on Thursday Usman said, “If you look at the canisters, they were blank ammo and blank ammo don’t even kill. At a close range, maybe 100metres – maybe it will have some pigmentation on your skin.

“Remember the military are armed and by the nature of their training, they are trained to kill and I think the military in its wisdom instead of using live ammunition decided to use blank armour which is meant for training

“I think they should be commended for that otherwise there would have been serious collateral damage, but they were professionals enough to have done that.”

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End SARS: Nigerians attack Desmond Elliot as he denies social media bill (Video)

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Desmond Elliot, the lawmaker representing Surulere 1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, has refuted the allegations that he was pushing a social media bill to regulate free speech on the internet.

The Nollywood actor who doubles as a politician in a video clip, during plenary sitting seems to suggest otherwise.

Elliot’s denial of the bill statement in the video clip has caused a lot of reactions from concerned Nigerians.

See reactions below :

https://twitter.com/dayojadesola/status/1321801866301329408?s=19

Watch the video below:

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Shehu Sani narrates how Kaduna-Abuja train killed 60 cows

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About 60 cows have been killed on Wednesday morning, October 28, by a train shuttling between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Kaduna state.

A former senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani narrated how the tragic incident occurred in a post on his verified Twitter handle.

Sani, who said he was a passenger on the train, narrated that the cows “strayed along the tracks” when the train was coming.

According to him, the herdsmen coordinating the cow ran into the bush upon seeing what has happened but not without “raining curses.”

The former lawmaker said the train, however, stopped in the bush before continuing its journey.

He called on the railway authorities to reach out to the chief of Rijana village where the incident happened and promptly address the issues before degenerating into anger and violence.

He tweeted:
“Today, the Kaduna-Abuja morning train of which I happened to be a passenger killed over 60 cows that strayed along the tracks, before the train finally stopped in the Bush and we later moved on. “The Herdsmen ran into the Bush raining curses. I call on the Railway Authorities to reach out to the Chief of Rijana Village and address the issues.”

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Okowa promises to partner youths to improve governance

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to partner youths in the state to improve on governance and its structures.

The governor made this known when the Delta caucus in the House of Representatives, led by the Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu, paid him a solidarity visit on Wednesday, October 28, at Government House, Asaba.

Okowa thanked the lawmakers for the visit and for always identifying with the state government and the people in difficult times, recalling that the caucus took similar steps during the critical period of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

He said the government would ensure that regular communication with the youths exists to prevent misinformation which could lead to further breakdown of law and order.

The governor appealed to the youths to continue to assist the government and security agencies to ensure that criminal elements in the society are not allowed to succeed in their acts.

“I truly must be very thankful to you for this visit and the show of love for your dear state, Delta, because I recall that this year alone, this is the third time you are coming as a group of national assembly members to come to be with us at the moment of difficulty.

“Twice you came when we had issues concerning the COVID-19 infections and today, you are here again. I truly must let you know that I appreciate you very great because you feel for your people and you are concerned about the things that take place in Delta State.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Delta, I want to thank you for always being there for the people of the state.

“I must commend the unity among you as a team in NASS and that is also very important for us as a state – that our own are united and it is possible for you to speak just with one voice and to ensure that what is due to Delta State comes to Delta,’’ he said.

He said that the state had, after COVID-19 challenges, been contending with issues associated with flooding in some areas before the END SARS protests set in.

The governor said that the protests were peaceful and that the state government gave a voice to it because it believed that the youths who set out to conduct the protest had a reason and their voice needed to be listened to.

“Here in Delta State, we noticed on Tuesday, that there were infiltrations from outside the state into the #ENDSARS protesters and we did draw the attention of their influencers to watch very closely because their protest was gradually being hijacked.

“On Wednesday, that was also noticed and the crisis had started in Lagos,” he said and commended security agencies for their professionalism in tackling the crisis in Delta.

According to Okowa, “it was a very difficult situation to manage, but today we thank God that we have been able to manage it. Unfortunately, few people lost their lives – one in the Warri area who was knocked down by a truck, obviously not from the police, and one person in Sapele.

“Another ugly incident that would have taken place was the issue of palliative-looting, but luckily that was managed because there was nothing to loot.

“The CA-COVID items were delivered to us in September, and soon as it was launched, we ensured that within two weeks it was distributed to all 270 wards of the state.

“It was specifically meant for the very indigent in every ward; so, 179 families in every ward received the items as specified by CA-COVID and every single thing has been distributed.

“A large crowd gathered around the Event Centre, but we opened it for them to see that it was empty. So, we thank God for that,’’ Okowa said.

He commended community youths in the state for their commitment towards preventing further destruction across the state and disclosed that he will have town hall meetings in Warri and Asaba with a select group of youths.

He explained that the meeting would provide a platform for the government “to talk with some of our youths, continue to engage them, continue to make them understand that working together in partnership, we can improve the governance structure.”

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Drivers protest over purchase of double tickets in Warri

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Passengers using Warri-Effurun Express Way, missed the services of commercial bus (kpelebe) drivers as the drivers embarked on a peaceful protest on Monday, October 26, over the purchase of double tickets in Warri South Local Government Area.

The protest was peaceful, but authorities of the Nigerian Army did not want to take chances considering the unstable situation in the country, as they swiftly responded to the protest by drafting soldiers to protect the protesters on their peaceful march to the Delta Broadcasting Service Station, Edjeba, Warri where they aired their complaints.

Shortly after the visit to the broadcast station, the protesting bus drivers were addressed by a senior official of Warri South Local Government Council as the Chairman of Local Government Council, Dr. Michael Tidi, was said to be out of town for an official assignment.

The commercial bus drivers were however told to stop the purchase of tickets pending the outcome of a stakeholder meeting scheduled to hold Wednesday, October 28, 2020.

The drivers had complained that they were buying double tickets at the cost of four hundred nairas each, one at Main Market and the other at New Port Junction Ugbuwangue in Warri South Local Government Area.

They further lamented that they were subjected to the payment of one-hundred-naira levy daily at two different spots in the local government area.

The unhappy commercial bus drivers, therefore, agitated that they should be made to purchase only one ticket that would serve them in any local government they travel to in the state like their commercial tricycle (Keke) counterparts.

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Ika community laments over bad roads, appeals for Okowa’s intervention

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The people of Ute-Enugu and Ali-Iweriokpuru Community in Ute-Okpu, Ika North East Local Government Area have appealed to the Delta State Government to look into the sorry state of their major roads.

The Okpara-Uku (traditional ruler) of the community, Pa Cypril Bayem lamented the bad state of the only access to the community in a chat with newsmen

Pa Bayem revealed that the community had suffered untold hardship because of the road stressing that the economic and other meaningful activities that would have improved the lives of the people had been thwarted.

The ruler observed that successive administration had abandoned the community, adding, “As if we are not part of Delta State.”

“We want to believe that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa will not treat us like others by ensuring that this all-important road is constructed,” he said.

Also speaking, the Okibali of the community, Comrade Ogadi stressed that the road was the only access road that connects their communities with other communities and had been in bad shape for over 10 years.

According to him, the road had gone worse with time and the community had been grossly affected, stating: “Things are very tough here as people are migrating to other places because of the road.”

On his part, another member of the community, Benson Ehima, noted that activities in the community were virtually at a standstill.

“Many businesses have folded down. Farmers go through a lot of hardship to transport their goods to markets. We are in dare need of government intervention. The suffering is indescribable,” he stated.

He also disclosed that teachers and other public officials posted to the area usually abscond as soon as their initial appearance.

“Parents have withdrawn their ward from schools in the area due to lack of teachers and the danger associated with the road whenever there is heavy downpour,” he added.

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End SARS Protests: Delta traders laments hike in prices of goods

Traders in Uwvie and environs have complained bitterly over the alarming cost of food and other products in the market as a result of the EndSARS protests which was carried out across the country.

The Effurun Market, Ugborikoko Market, , and Uvwie Modern Market, Ugbolokposo, all in Uvwie Local Government Area were visited to feel the pulse of the masses and reveal the rationale in the hike of foodstuff and other commodities.

It was gathered that the prices of goods such as tin tomatoes, fresh tomatoes, groundnut oil, yam, cow meat, dry and fresh fish, local and foreign rice among others have gone up.

Similarly, a bag of cement that was sold for two thousand, six hundred naira is now sold for three thousand naira.

Findings reveal that due to the EndSARS protest in most parts of the country, major distributors of goods are scared to embark on haulage of goods to different parts of the country for now because of fear of the unknown that may occur in the process.

It was also gathered that traders with goods in their shops inflated the prices, bearing in mind that restocking would be more expensive than usual.

Both traders and buyers in Effurun Market, Ugborikoko Market, and Uwvie Modern Market, Ugbolokposo, called on the state government to quickly attend to the issues surrounding the EndSARS protest and pave way for a quick recovery of the Nigerian economy, especially as it affects the grassroots.

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End SARS: My administration respects rights of citizens – Buhari reveals

President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerians to operate within the requirements of the law, adding that his administration respects the right of all citizens.

The President said his government has put in place measures and strategies to address End SARS demands, stressing that the government will do everything lawful to ensure all sides are satisfied with measures taken to achieve peace in the country.

President Buhari, represented by the state Minister of Works and Housing, Engr. Abubakar D Aliyu made the remarks at a stakeholders’ meeting on peace in Damaturu, Yobe State.

He said, “In the spirit of democratic governance and appreciation of the fundamental human rights of all citizens as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria and other laws, we acknowledged the genuine concern of the members of the public regarding the excesses and use of force by some members of the SARS.”

In his address, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State said, the peaceful protest against SARS which metamorphosed into violent killings, wanton destruction and massive looting, the hijacking of the protest by hoodlums, and the negative vices that are highly condemnable and regrettable.

He said the government and people of Yobe State salute the President for promptly disbanding SARS, being the cause of the protest, adding that, this early response ought to have brought the protest to an end.

“Here in Yobe state, we have suffered so much and for too long from the protracted insurgency that bedeviled our state and the Northeast in general. We cannot contemplate having additional crisis and hardships from the violent protest as we are now battling to resettle, rehabilitate, and reclaim means of livelihood for our people.” Buni said.

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FG declares Thursday public holiday as Muslims celebrates Eid-Mawlid

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The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 29, 2020, as public holiday.

The public holiday is designed to commemorate this year’s Eidul-Mawlid Celebration.

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Minister of Interior, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulating Muslim faithful at home and abroad for witnessing this year’s occasion.

The minister enjoined them to imbibe the spirit of love, patience, and perseverance, which are the virtues of the Holy Prophet, Mohammed

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Governor Okowa presents N378.1bn 2021 budget to Delta Assembly

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has Tuesday presented a proposed budget of N378, 184,397,889 for 2021 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly.

The budget is made up of N170,370,000 for recurrent expenditures, and N207.5 billion for capital expenditures.

Okowa in the more than 50 minutes presentation of the Appreciation Bill at the Hallowed Chamber of the House, said the budget christened “Budget of Recovery” would be funded from four sources.

The sources according to the Governor, include Internally Generated Revenue, N65.6 billion, Statutory Allocation including Mineral Revenue Derivation and Excess Crude, N219.9 billion, Value added tax, N17.5 billion, and Other Capital Receipts, N17.3 billion.

Explaining that the 2021 budget estimates were a N96.1 billion increase over the revised budget of 2020, Okowa said the increase was necessitated by the realities of the times concerning a gradual improvement in revenue inflow from the federal allocation as the impact of Covid 19 pandemic was easing.

The Governor maintained that the percentage estimate of N171.3 billion represents 45.24 percent of the total budget and is comprised of personal cost, N85 billion, overhead cost, N60 billion, and consolidated revenue fund charges, N26 billion.

The governor noted that the personnel cost was higher than the 2020 revised budget figure of N82 billion by N2.4 billion, while the overhead cost was N15.8 billion higher than the previous estimate of N59.9 billion.

He stated that the marginal increase of the personal workers was to accommodate the reinstatement of the worker’s new minimum wage which was shelved for a short period in the heat of the sharp revenue drop during the Covid 19 pandemic.

According to the Governor, the total proposed recurrent expenditure budget was higher than the N152.4 one of the revised 2020 by N8 billion.

Okowa explained that the increase was a result of the return to economic and social activities which was expected to culminate in increased funding for social investment programs of government which have huge recurrent components.

On the proposed capital estimate of N207.2 billion, the Governor said the amount represents 54.8 percent of the total sum of N378 billion, adding that the estimate was higher than the N120.8 billion budgeted in the revised 2020 budget by N77.3 billion.

He stated that the increase stemmed from the gradual improvement in some revenue streams, especially the improvement in receipts from FAAC, stressing that there was a corresponding increase in funding of critical capital projects that can create wealth and improve the quality of lives of the people.

Earlier, the Speaker, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori while welcoming the governor to the Hallowed chamber, pledged the commitment of the state Legislature to collaborating with the Executive to develop a smart, sustainable and knowledge-based state and an economy that would be the envy of all.

Oborevwori emphasized that with the feat achieved in the five years administration of Okowa’s led government, the responsiveness and readiness of the House to continue to support development-driven through passage of people-oriented and development driven legislation was not in doubt.

The Deputy Speaker, Chief Ochor Christopher Ochor in a motion of appreciation, assured of the House readiness for early passage of the Appropriation Bill.

Ochor stated that the budget which focuses on the recovery of the state economy after the novel coronavirus pandemic was considered appropriate, stressing the resolve of the House to protect the overall interest of the people and return the state to stronger economy amongst states in Nigeria.

He promised that the state legislature would work with the various ministries and government Departments, maintaining that the positive effect of timely budget implementations in the development of any state, could not be overstressed.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Appropriation bill has passed first reading on the floor of the State House of Assembly.

The motion for the fi.rst reading was moved by the House Majority Leader, Mr. Tim Owhefere after. it was presented to members by the state Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

Second reading has been slated for tomorrow Wednesday, 28th October 2020.

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Adeboye declares fast, prayer for Nigeria

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The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has directed all members of the church to commence a 30-day fast and prayer for Nigeria.

The RCCG Assistant General Overseer, Admin, and Personnel, Pastor Johnson Odesola, announced this in a statement on Tuesday in Ibadan.

According to Adeboye, the programme tagged, “Fasting and Prayer for Nigeria’’ would start from Nov. 1.

“Marathon fasting will hold between Nov. 1 and Nov. 14 for those who prefer that and prayer guide shall be forwarded soon.

“Where possible, brethren should be encouraged to come together for prayers while ensuring that all COVID-19 government regulations and safety precautions are put in place,’’ he said.

Adeboye urged the faithful to inform and encourage other members to participate in this exercise.

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Looting: Customs lament break-in, as Agric firm alleges loss of 110 tractors

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The Adamawa and Taraba Zonal headquarters of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), located in the Adamawa State capital, Yola, has complained over the looting of its store and breaking into its offices by thugs.

The controller in charge of the zone, Kamardeen Olumoh, confirmed to newsmen that the thugs did loot the Customs warehouse, where seized contraband goods were stored and vandalised some offices, including the computer section.

“They even rolled out some of the vehicles parked in the premises,” Olumoh said, explaining that the thugs did such things because his men had to be careful not to react in a way that could cause a human casualty.

The Customs zonal headquarters had been among government establishments affected when thugs perpetuated violence and looting on Sunday and Monday mostly in the Adamawa State capital, Yola, in the name of the EndSARS protests.

Many other government establishments as well as private outlets were affected.

Among the private establishments was the North-East Commodity Association (NECAS), a firm incorporated in Adamawa State to provide tractor leasing and mechanisation service to farmers, which has alleged the looting of 110 of its tractors.

An official of NECAS, Mr. Stephen Maduwa who made the allegation Tuesday, said, “A group of young men broke into NECAS warehouse in Kofare industrial area and rolled away brand new tractors down the streets. We are accessing the havoc but I can tell you already that no less than 110 of our tractors were carted away.”

Maduwa who is also the state chairman of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), said bags of fertilizer and some farm implements meant to be distributed for dry season farming had also been stolen.

He said, however, that the police had spoken of having recovered some of the stolen items.

Speaking Tuesday afternoon, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Sulaiman Nguroje, said some suspects had been arrested and some items recovered.

“We thank residents because many are assisting security operatives in recovering looted items, including tractors, though some of the tractors have been dismantled,” the PPRO said.

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‘Fish out IPOB members in Rivers’- Wike tells Council chairmen

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state has charged the 23 local government chairmen, and youths in the state to fish out members of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples Organisation of Biafra (IPOB) in the State.

He disclosed this during a meeting with all the 23 Local Government chairmen, Community development Committees, and youth leaders at the Government House, in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Governor Wike warned that any council chairman that allows IPOB to hold processions and push its flag within their jurisdiction in Rivers State, risk sack.

Wike described Rivers state as the most accommodating state for all Nigerians. To buttress this, he stated said” here has never been any historical incident of different ethnic groups clashing in the State as has been witnessed in other parts of the country.

“We can never be against any ethnic group. We can never do that .e have lived in harmony with the Ibos, the Hausas, and with Edo people. Everybody that comes to this state we have lived in harmony with. And so Nigerians must commend Rivers State as a place where you have never had a problem between this group and that group ” he said.

The Governor, however, maintained that while the people of Rivers State believe in the unity of the country, they will not allow criminals under the backing of a terrorist group called IPOB to continue to threaten the stability of the state.

“There is one terrorist group they call IPOB. I did not declare them terrorist groups, the court declared them terrorist groups. Not me. The federal government declared them a terrorist group. IPOB cannot use Rivers’s state to be a place where they will be launching attacks. If you allow that, your future, your children’s future is gone” he said.

Provoked by IPOB’s audacity to lift its flag in Oyigbo, the governor directed the council chairman to ensure there will not be another occurrence of this treasonous act.

“Go to Oyigbo and see what they have done. Destroyed the court. What did the court do? See the soldiers they killed and burnt them. See the policemen they killed and burnt them and then you said people will sit and fold their arms”.

The governor, while calling for vigilance on the part of Rivers people, however, warned sternly that IPOB members should not delude themselves because Rivers state cannot be colonised or annexed by any group, particularly, while he is still the incumbent governor of the State.

He asserted that Rivers state can never be annexed to any state, to any zone. According to him, Rivers state is Niger Delta and will remain in Niger Delta.

He explained that while every Nigerian is allowed to reside in Rivers State, but those who wish to do so must live in peace with the people of the State.

“Ibos are living and doing their business here and they will continue to live and do their business here. We support that.
But that terrorist group call IPOB, cannot determine what happens in our state. To tell us where they own. It will never happen and we must not allow it to happen”.

Governor Wike charged all chairmen of councils, youth leaders, CDCs to go into their various communities and identify all IPOB members.

Meanwhile, he emphasied that nobody of Ibos extraction legitimately residing and doing business in the state must be harassed.

“But there are criminal elements that we must not allow, and the criminal elements are those who said they are IPOB members. The federal government has proscribed them, I have proscribed them” he said.

He called on the people to defend the territory of Rivers State and ensure no part of the State is annexed by a criminal organization or terrorist organization.

“We cannot allow it. All our vigilante groups must be encouraged. Everybody must be on alert. Work with the security agencies to make sure nothing call IPOB exists in this state. No procession. Not even a meeting anywhere. Identify where they hold a meeting” he said

Rivers State Commissioner of Youth Development, Hon. Ohia Prince Obi lauded the governor for interfacing with the youths as this will give them a sense of belonging in the affairs of the State.

The chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria in Rivers State, Chijoke Ihunwo, appeal to Governor Wike for forgiveness, for wanted, Stanley Mgbere, who led IPOB members to attack the palace of the king of Onne.

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End SARS Protests: What Osinbajo told Governors, IGP, CBN, others in emergency meeting

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Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, Governors of the 36 States of the federation, FCT Minister, Central Bank Governor, Inspector General of Police, representatives from the Military, the Directorate of State Security, and the National Human Rights Commission, on Monday had an emergency National Executive Council meeting in Abuja over the effect of the #EndSARS protests.

The meeting reached a resolution and appointments were made into a newly established committee.

The NEC meeting lasted for more than four hours as deliberations were made and solutions were sought to bring peace to the various States where the youths have been on rampage.

According to details of the meeting provided to newsmen by the Vice President’s Spokesman, Laolu Akande, a resolution was reached by the Council that the deeper issues behind the #ENDSARS protests and its fallouts should be addressed by both the Federal and the State governments.

The Council committee made up of three Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and three All Progressives Congress, APC governors, representing the six geopolitical zones, is chaired by the Vice President.

The committee will engage the youths, representatives of Civil Society Organizations, religious and traditional leaders on employment, social safety net programmes and national unity, among other key issues of concern.

Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal; Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum; Governor of Niger State, Bello; Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu; Governor of Ebonyi State, David Umahi and Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa are members of the committee.

“The Committee which is to commence work immediately will develop a comprehensive framework under the auspices of the Council that would coordinate joint actions and steps to be taken by both the Federal and State Governments to examine the fundamental issues underlying the protests and arrive at effective solutions, including how to enhance Nigeria’s national security,” the statement revealed.

It added that while supporting President Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to a complete overhaul of the nation’s security services, NEC also commended the Nigerian Police and Security agencies for their handling of the disturbances in some States of the Federation.

The committee maintained that most personnel of Nigerian security agencies are law-abiding and are capable of restoring law and order in the country.

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Lekki Toll Gate: Sanwo-Olu reveals who ordered shooting of protesters [Video]

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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has finally said the Nigerian Army ordered the shooting of End SARS protesters at Lekki Toll Gate, on Tuesday, October 20.

Recall that the Nigerian Army had earlier denied that its men were not present at the toll gate during the incident.

The army also said that viral videos of the shooting were “photoshopped.”

Speaking to newsmen Monday, Sanwo-Olu said footage available to him shows that the Nigerian Army ordered the shooting.

The governor also promised that after investigations, everyone found culpable of the act will be brought to book.

He said , “From the footage that we could see, it seems to be that men in military uniform, which should be Nigerians Army ordered the shooting.

”They will be available for the judicial panel to review. They will certainly be held accountable, we will do everything possible to make sure they are held accountable.

”When the report is out we will channel it to all the relevant authorities in the state to ensure that everyone found culpable is accountable for the act.”

See video below:

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Lekki toll gate: Fashola discovers camera at scene of shooting (Video)

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More conspiracies have trailed the reported shootings in the Lekki area of Lagos state after the minister of works and housing, Babatunde Fashola discovered a camera at the Lekki tollgate.

Fashola was reported to have discovered the camera on Sunday, October 25, during an on-the-spot assessment at the tollgate.

The minister was said to have picked up the device with a handkerchief and handed it over to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for forensic analysis and further investigation.

It was reported that Fashola said the device must have been placed there by some subversive elements with ulterior motives.

The minister said: “I think this will help with the ongoing investigations into the shootings at the Lekki tollgate. “It requires forensic analysis and could be used in the investigations to unravel the mystery surrounding the shootings at the Toll Gate, I believe.” A video of the incident was shared on Twitter.

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End SARS Protests: Davido condemns anarchy by hoodlums, calls for peace

Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido has said the intended peaceful protests that have been completely hijacked by hoodlums is a disrespect to those who lost their lives in the protests.

The singer disclosed this in a tweet on his Twitter page

Davido said the peaceful protest which was hijacked by hoodlums has turned to anarchy.

“It is painful that what started as a peaceful protest has been hijacked and turned into complete Anarchy, in total disrespect to those that lost their lives during the Peaceful protest. This is def not the way to honour those that lost their lives while protesting peacefully.

The singer also condemned the burning of government and private properties by the hoodlums adding that there is no achievement in burning private properties that are meant to create employment for the unemployed.

“What is there to gain from burning and looting private businesses that provide employment to our people?? Or burgling or burning houses belong to innocent citizens?! Or burning Buses that our people depend on for transport to go to work and go about their lives???

The ‘FEM’ crooner urged those involved in the such at to stop stressing that it makes no sense.

“Why burn police stations, when one of our demands was better police welfare and training???

“Please stop stop stop stop! It all makes no sense whatsoever !! If you know anybody partaking in this, tell them to stop!! The singer said.

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Looted Palliative: Return items in 72 hours – Oyetola warns

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Governor Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State has issued an ultimatum to those who looted government and private property.

He disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Sunday during an assessment tour of some of the locations attacked by hoodlums who hijacked the peaceful End SARS protests.

Oyetola warned them to return all items taken within 72 hours adding that failure to abide by the directive will lead to the prosecution of anyone arrested for the act.

The governor told the culprits to surrender all stolen items to the security agencies, traditional rulers, local government chairmen and community leaders close to them.

He noted that defaulters would be tracked and brought to justice, while those who embraced it would be forgiven.

He also sympathised with victims of the lootings and promised them the government’s support.

At Tuns Farm, the Osun helmsman commiserated with the Chairman, Tunde Badmus, over the death of his staff during the raid.

“What I witnessed here today is not a question of hoodlums, but armed robbers. They have removed all the machines here. It is very unfortunate. I can say categorically that End SARS protest is not what we are seeing here today. This is pure looting”, Oyetola said.

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See reactions as Shehu Sani speaks on looted items

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As looting continues nationwide, especially the breaking of warehouses storing Covid-19 palliatives, Shehu Sani spoke about the possible fallout of the situation.

In a tweet on Sunday, October 25, the former member of the upper chamber, hinted that some of the looted items could be bad for consumption as he said:

“It’s difficult to convince people to check the expiry date of those cartons of Indomie and Bags of Rice.” Many have since reacted to his post on the bird app as some said that even if some of the items are bad, cooking would right the situation.

Below were some people’s reactions: @vidcodec said: “At this point, expiry dates mean nothing to them. The Government that kept those covid-19 palliatives knows it won’t expire anytime soon! More so ‘disease no dey kill black'”

@efeCamilus said: I never knew u are so good I’m comedy, watin concern aboki, and expiry date. Open make we cook jor” @Godwin_ebuka91 said:

“Not when the stomach hasn’t condemned it,” @ladetimi said: “Goods are usually not stored beyond their expiry in warehouses, especially goods such as palliatives…I think people know that. There’s a timed purpose for warehousing them which would not outstretch the expiry dates.” @tundeoladoja77 said: “Expiry date in the face of hunger! Hu cares? It’s easier to turn out progressive and constructive discussion when people don ‘belleful.'”

@Czooba said: “But why stock up palliatives meant for the poor masses without checking the expiration date.” @AdenikeAwe1 said: “Don’t worry sir, it’s dry goods, hence it’s best before & not use by. They are safe to eat”

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Kaduna Govt. imposes 24-hour curfew, issues serious warning

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The Government of Kaduna State has declared 24 hour curfew in some communities in Kaduna South and Chikun Local Government areas.

The declaration is contained in a statement signed and issued by the commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Arewan and was made available to newsmen.

Security agencies have been directed to arrest and prosecute any found violating the curfew and those responsible for the breakdo,wn of law and order. Security agencies have further been directed to effect the arrest and prosecution of anyone found looting and destroying properties.

The areas are Barnawa, Kakuri, and Television in Kaduna South Local Government Area and Maraban Rido, Sabon Tasha, Narayi and Ungwan Romi of Chikun Local Government Area.

The state government strongly condemns the concerted incitement being done on social media appealing to communities to reject incitement and resist the attempt to create chaos and anarchy in the state.

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Saraki urges Kwara residents to avoid anarchy

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Former governor of Kwara State, Bukola Saraki has advised residents of the state to avoid anarchy, be law-abiding, and cooperate with the state government.

The former senate president said this in response to continued moving around the state and attack on public and private properties.

Saraki urged residents of the state to eschew violence and stay at home in compliance with the curfew.

On Friday, Kwara State governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, imposed a 24-hour curfew in the state stating that lives are being threatened in the state and businesses are being looted.

He declared the curfew to curb criminality ravaging the state in the last 48-hours.

The former senate president urged Kwarans to avoid anarchy, pleading that the state must not be allowed to be turned into a lawless society.

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I didn’t go anywhere, I’m still Jagaban – Tinubu says as he visits Sanwo-Olu

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The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, on Saturday dismissed social media reports that he jetted out of the country in the heat of the #ENDSARS protests, especially the alleged shooting at the Lekki Toll Plaza.

The APC chieftain condemned the attack and looting of public and private assets in the state by hoodlums who hijacked the protests.

Tinubu spoke on Saturday during a visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the State House in Marina, Lagos.

The former Lagos State governor said he asked Sanwo-Olu “if he didn’t order the attack, who ordered the attack? That’s all I needed from him,” he said, asking for a thorough investigation of the Lekki shooting.

He said: “First, we have to segregate the calendar – those who suffered casualty before the protests from the hands of SARS. You have to separate that from those who suffered casualty due to what happened at the toll gate.

“For those who suffered casualty from SARS, the Commission of Inquiry that is already set up will unearth that and will make their recommendations.

“I trust the calibre and character of the people there; they are independent. That is one.

“Those who suffered casualty during the gunshots need to answer some questions too. Even though we want to help, we still must extract information that will help the government to prepare in future and understand how and when to react because the governor, in particular, is a youth.

“As a youth himself, he (Sanwo-Olu) quickly went to Abuja with the 5/5. The government immediately went into action, dissolved the SARS, and had to work through other recommended actions, the needs they demanded. Within a few days, he reported back to the public. That is responsive enough.

“But where are we getting the looting, the carnage, the burning, the invasion of police stations, stealing of arms, maiming of the innocent? It is a handshake beyond the elbow.”

Asked about his whereabouts in the past few days, Tinubu said: “I didn’t go nowhere; I’m a Lagosian and I still hold the title of Asiwaju of Lagos and I am still Jagaban.

“Fake news is all over the place. They said Seyi my son was kidnapped and was chased, but look at him. I didn’t pay a penny to bring him here.”

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End SARS: Ministry says wheat looted in Jos, poisonous, not for consumption –

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The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has warned that the wheat seeds carted away by hoodlums from the National Agricultural Seed Council’s warehouse in Bukuru, Jos, Plateau State were poisonous and not for human consumption.

The ministry gave the warning in a statement that indicated that the wheat seeds had been treated with chemicals and intended for planting during the dry season.

It appealed to the general public not to consume the seeds but to report any of such found to the nearest Security Agency.

The statement reads: “The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development hereby warns the general public that, the wheat seeds carted away by hoodlums from the National Agricultural Seed Council’s warehouse in Bukuru, Jos, Plateau State are poisonous and NOT fit for human consumption.

“The wheat seeds have been treated with agrochemicals and intended for planting during the forthcoming dry season wheat production.

“The Ministry hereby appeals to the general public NOT to consume these seeds but report any such found to the nearest Security Agency. Please be WARNED”.

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End SARS: Osinbajo receives US delegates, reassures end to impunity

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), has revealed that the reform package by both the federal and state authorities for the Nigeria Police would be a game-changer in ensuring an end to impunity in the country.

This was disclosed when he, in the company of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyema, received an American government delegation at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The delegation included the US Assistant Secretary, Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights and Labour, Bob Destro; US Assistant Secretary, Bureau for Conflict Stabilization Operations, Denise Natali; the Counselor of the US Department of State, Thomas Ulrich Brechbuhl; and the Charge d’Affairs, US Embassy, Kathleen FitzGibbon.

Professor Osinbajo noted that plans being executed were to investigate police brutality and prosecute erring police officers, create new state-based Security and Human Rights Committees, as well as providing compensation to victims of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and other police units.

According to the Vice President, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Mr Laolu Akande, at least 13 states in the country, including Lagos, had since established Judicial Panels “to seek justice and to compensate those whose rights have been breached.”

The Vice President also disclosed that the President had already supported the decisions of the National Economic Council.

It would be recalled that on October 12, the Council, which is chaired by the VP with all State Governors and FCT Minister as members, resolved on the immediate establishment of State-based Judicial Panels of Inquiry across the country to receive and investigate complaints of police brutality or related extra-judicial killings to deliver justice for all victims of the dissolved SARS and other police units.

According to Prof. Osinbajo, NEC also agreed on the provision of monetary compensation to victims and prosecution of erring officers.

While responding to the concerns of the US government on instances of impunity in the country, the Vice President noted that these efforts are part of the Nigerian government’s commitment to implement extensive police reforms adding that the establishment of Judicial Panels of Inquiry nationwide will further ensure that the Police and other security agencies ensure the protection of human rights of citizens.

He said, “The concerns around impunity are some of the concerns that informed the establishment of Judicial Panels of Inquiry across states. Each state is now required to establish judicial inquiry that will look into cases of impunity, excessive use of force, extrajudicial killings et,c., especially by law enforcement agents.”

“Aside from two representatives of Civil Society groups, these Judicial Panels will have youth representatives and a representative from the National Human Rights Commission, among others. Each State is also required to have what is called the Special Security and Human Rights Committee to ensure that law enforcement and security agencies protect the Human Rights of citizens.”

“Government is paying attention. The point we are making is that protests are a means to an end, but they cannot be the end. We are very optimistic that what we have put in place would eventually yield the best possible results for us,” Prof. Osinbajo stated.

The VP also highlighted what he termed false narratives about Nigeria, including the herder-farmer crisis, especially in North Central states, and the politics behind the allegations.

According to the VP, the herder-farmer crisis was exacerbated mainly because of land and resources struggle than from the misinterpreted Christians-versus-Muslim narrative.

Members of the United States delegation from Washington DC offered to collaborate with the Federal Government on these issues, a suggestion welcomed by the Vice President hoping that such cooperation will create a better understanding of the issues in the country.

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End SARS Protests: Azikiwe’s statue burnt in Anambra, blamed for independence (photos)

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The peaceful EndSARS protests which have since been hijacked by hoodlums took an ugly turn in Anambra state when some angry youths descended on the statue of a pioneer president of Nigeria, the late Nnamdi Azikiwe.

The statue located at Denis Memorial Grammar School Roundabout, Awka Avenue, Onitsha, was burnt down by the youths.

It was gathered that some of the people at the site of the destruction were heard saying “You put us in this mess by championing one Nigeria” and “You are the cause of our trouble.”

kinsman of the late Azikiwe who served as president from 1963 and 1966, Victor Ononye described the mob action as uncalled for and heresy. He said: “The Right Hon Dr. Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe, the first President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, must be expressing regrets wherever his spirit is, for attracting independence to Nigeria.”

Across the nation hoodlums have been destroying government and private properties and even looting in the process. This has forced several states to declare curfew to restore peace and order.

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‘Palliatives’ looted in Ekiti are poisonous – Commissioners warns

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The Ekiti State Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Akin Omole, and his Agriculture and Food Security counterpart, Dr. Olabode Adetoyi, have raised the alarm over looting of poisonous items mistaken for Covid-19 palliatives in the state.

They raised the alarm on Saturday, saying huge quantities of poisonous items, mistaken for food yet to be distributed as Covid-19 palliatives, were looted in warehouses in Ado-Ekiti on Friday.

Also reportedly looted was the office of the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) in Ado-Ekiti.

“Information at our disposal revealed that the Federal Government’s silos, the ADP warehouse, and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) stores, all in Ado-Ekiti, were attacked by hoodlums under the guise of seeking Covid-19 palliatives.

“We insist that Ekiti State currently has no Covid-19 palliative warehouse as all the palliatives had been distributed.

“Unfortunately, the items carted away were Single Super Phosphate and NPK fertilisers, which they erroneously thought was garri.

“The SEMA store too has only emergency supplies for disaster response.

“Some people even made away with pre-fermented corns preserved for planting. All these items are poisonous and not fit for consumption.

“We, therefore, appeal to our people not to consume these items because they can kill,” Omole warned.

In a similar statement, Dr. Olabode Adetoyi, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, confirmed the looting, warning that most of the items carted away contained chemically-treated seeds meant for planting.

“They are not suitable for consumption,” he declared.

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Curfew: Delta NUJ condemns police assault on journalist, calls for action

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has condemned an attack on Vanguard Correspondent, Comrade Akpokona Omafuaire by policemen attached to Ovwian, in Warri.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Comrades Michael Ikeogwu and Patrick Ochei.

The Union vehemently condemned the assault maintaining it was unfortunate and uncalled for.

According to the statement, the union called on the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa, to immediately fish out and sanction the policemen involved in the molestation of the journalist and destruction of his car..

The Union further reminded the CP that journalists are part of those on essential duty as enunciated and clarified by the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa in his address while declaring the 48 hours curfew to restore sanity in the state after hoodlums hijacked the #EndSARS Protest to destroy Government facilities and properties.

Reading in parts, the statement insisted that “Journalists should not be objects of attacks by the police while carrying out their legitimate functions. The #EndSARS protesters are attacking journalists and media houses and at the same time the police are assaulting us. Where do we run to?

“We insist that the Police Commissioner must fish out Sergeant Godspower and other accomplices in this show of extreme power, otherwise we will severe ties with the police in the State.”

Moreover, NUJ in the Statement also cautioned the police to leave journalists out of their quagmire, affirming that Nigeria is in this dire situation today because of police recklessness and brutality.

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Gov. Okowa relaxes 48-hour curfew, gives new order

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has relaxed a curfew he imposed on Thursday, October 22.

The 48-hour curfew which elapses at dusk today will now be at 6 pm to 8 am restriction.

The curfew was imposed in the wake of the #EndSARS protests across the country.

Okowa had said the curfew had become necessary because hoodlums had hijacked the peaceful, nationwide protests staged to demand holistic police reforms.

“This morning, I received a comprehensive briefing from the three service commanders on the security situation across Delta State.

“Having analyzed the situation critically, I thank all Deltans, particularly our youth, for complying with the curfew that was imposed two days ago. At this time, the current 48-hour curfew will expire 6 pm later today,” Okowa said in a statement.

“However, from this evening, the curfew will be in effect between 6 pm and 8 am till further notice. From tomorrow, Sunday, October 25, everyone will be free to move around and go about their activities during the day.

“I urge all the citizens and residents of our great state, Delta, to please remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding at all times.

“Thank you all for your cooperation,” the governor added.

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End SARS: Group condemns attack on TVC, The Nation, LTV, sends message to NUJ

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Islamic human rights group, Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has sympathised with the media over the looting and destruction of some media houses by hoodlums on Wednesday.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by its Director and founder, Prof Ishaq Akintola, and made available to newsmen on Saturday.

Some media houses in Lagos State were badly affected in the commotion which occurred during the ongoing #EndSARS saga, on Wednesday.

Notably, The Nation and Television Continental (TVC) were looted and set ablaze

MURIC also expressed sympathy with affected media houses, including LTV and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

It noted that all these attacks were attributed to hoodlums who infiltrated peaceful protesters, adding that the group is deeply disturbed by these attacks on media houses.

“We as a non-governmental organization (NGO) rely on the press to reach out to the public.

“The press, in general, has contributed immensely to the ability of various organisations to interact and there is no gainsaying the fact that the media is the voice of the voiceless,” it said.

MURIC pointed out that any attack on pressmen and women or the media, in general, is therefore an attack on the downtrodden masses.

The Islamic organisation said that it was ignorance on the part of the hoodlums who attacked the media that speaks for them and promoting their interests, adding that the attack could render hundreds jobless.

“It is in this respect that we strongly denounce the attacks. How can we blame government and private entrepreneurs for lack of jobs when we senselessly use our hands to destroy workplaces where hundreds of fellow Nigerians earn their living? MURIC said.

It further noted that workers in these organisations may not be paid their salaries for months as the employers struggle to replace vehicles and equipment burnt or carted away.

“MURIC hereby expresses heartfelt sympathy with The Nation newspaper, TVC, LTV, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and all those affected by the attacks, particularly the owners of the media houses and the non-journalist staff,” it said.

“We remind Nigerians that attacks on businesses tend to vindicate some Nigerians in the diaspora who refuse to come back home to set up businesses.

“Burning and looting are attacks on civilization. They are counter-productive.”

MURIC warned that while the attackers may think they are punishing some individuals, they are shooting themselves in the legs

It pointed out that such destructive attacks may scare many people from setting up businesses in the country.

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END SARS: How protest was hijacked, misdirected – Buhari tells ex-leaders

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President Muhammadu Buhari has described as unfortunate the way and manner the initial genuine and well-intended protest of youths in parts of the country against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) was hijacked and misdirected.

A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said Buhari stated this in a virtual meeting with the former Nigerian leaders, in Abuja on Friday.

The President reiterated that government would not fold its arms and allow miscreants and criminals continue to perpetrate acts of hooliganism n the country.

At the meeting were all living past leaders, including: Gen. Yakubu Gowon, President Olusegun Obasanjo, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, Chief Ernest Shonekan, Gen. Abulsalami Abubakar, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Buhari recounted the initial concessions made by his administration on the demands of youths protesting against the excesses of some members of the SARS.

He recalled the youths had demanded that the squad be disbanded, and further articulated the additional demands, including:

”The immediate release of all arrested protesters.

”Justice for deceased victims of police brutality and appropriate compensation for their families.

”Setting up an independent body to oversee the investigation and prosecution of all reports of Police misconduct within 10 days.

”Psychological evaluation and re-training of all disbanded SARS officers before they can be re-deployed; and increase in Police salary.”

The President declared: ”We accepted all the demands and proceeded immediately to scrap SARS and started the process of addressing the other demands.

”Unfortunately, the protesters refused to call off the protest and engage the government to address their grievances. Instead, they became emboldened and gradually turned violent.”

Buhari expresses that in the mayhem that ensures gave birth to been lost, several public and private properties were destroyed or vandalized.

While reiterating his pledge to Nigerians from the nationwide broadcast Thursday, the president reaffirmed:

”We will continue to improve good governance through our democratic process including through sustained engagement.

”We shall also continue to ensure that liberty and freedom, as well as the fundamental rights of all citizens are protected.

“Here, I want to also reaffirm our commitment to preserving the unity of this country.”

The President thanked the former Heads of State for attending the meeting and their invaluable comments, observations, and advice adding that ”Nigerians expect nothing less from responsible statesmen.”

The statement said each of the former leaders commended President Buhari for steps taken so far to restore calm and order to the country.

They also applauded the presidential broadcast of Thursday as detailed and soothing to the country.

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End SARS: Buhari did not ignore Lekki shooting in national broadcast – Adesina

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Special adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, has said the president did not miss anything in his nationwide broadcast on Thursday.

Adesina claimed that the Lekki shooting was contained in Buhari’s broadcast.

He disclosed this when he appeared on Channels Television on Friday evening where he noted that former President Olusegun Obasanjo commended Buhari during the meeting with ex-Heads of State.

He pointed out that the president’s message to the international community was on Lekki shooting, contrary to the belief that Buhari did not talk about the tragic incident in Lagos.

“It was not omitted. That message to the international community was on Lekki shooting,” the presidential spokesman insisted.

“It is not true. Somewhere in that speech, the President spoke to the international community. He thanked those who had sought understanding before they made comments.

“He was also telling those who were hasty in their judgement to seek more information. He didn’t miss out on anything.”

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday addressed Nigerians following the escalation of the End SARS crisis across the country.

However, the President’s speech received a wide range of criticism as many people lacked the needed ingredients to calm the tension in the country.

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End SARS: You’re given 48hours to return–Obaseki tells escaped inmates

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, has given a 48-hour ultimatum for inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Correctional Centres on Sapele Road and Oko, Airport Road, to return to the prisons.

Recall that some hoodlums had hijacked the #EndSARS protests and attacked the two prisons and freed about 2,000 inmates.

While inspecting the two correctional facilities, Obaseki said the freed inmates must return before this Friday.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie, he made it clear that criminal elements caused unrest in the State.

“We know some of the inmates have been released, but we appeal to all inmates who have escaped to come back on their own before the close of business on Friday.

“They should report themselves back as nothing will be done to them but failure to do that, we will come after them as we have their records,” the statement read in part.

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Breaking: See how hoodlums burnt police station in Rivers ( Photos)

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Suspected hoodlums have burnt Afam Divisional Police Office in Oyigbo Local Government Area (LGA) of rivers state

The Police Area Command in the council was also reportedly razed by the miscreants.

It was learned the protest caused apprehension, among residents in Elelenwo, Oil Mill, Ikoku, and Mile One area of Port Harcourt.

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Lekki Shooting: Sanwo-Olu begs Lagosians to allow peace reign

Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has apologised to the residents of Lagos state following the shooting of peaceful protesters at Lekki toll gate on Tuesday, October 20, by security operatives.

In a state-wide broadcast on Wednesday, October 21, closely monitored by newsmen, governor Sanwo-Olu appealed to the angry youths to give “peace a chance.”

He further noted that “this is the dark time in the history” of the state and Nigeria as a whole. “Lagos, I apologise for what has happened, I appeal to our teeming youth, please give peace a chance. I want to say that every life does matter.” According to him, when the state government imposed a 24-hour curfew on Lagos state and the youths defied the directives, there was no leader of the protesting youths to talk to.

While clearing his name from the army attack, Sanwo-Olu described the conduct of the military at Lekki as unfortunate. He promised to “take it up with the higher command” and to seek the intervention of the president as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces in the country.

https://twitter.com/Omoissydeyhere/status/1318855483864829952?s=20

The governor also noted that contrary to the widespread reports, no casualties were recorded. “There was any fatality as against the widespread circulation on social media… We went round all the hospitals and mortuaries.”

It was gathered that in a series of tweets on Wednesday morning, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced that he has visited the victims of the unfortunate shooting in Lekki. Describing the incident as mind-troubling, the governor stated that the shooting by operatives suspected to belong to the Nigerian Army is “beyond direct control” of government.

He, however, assured that Lagos state will “come out stronger” as there are currently ten patients at the General Hospital, 11 at Reddington, and four at Vedic with mild to moderate levels of injuries.

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EndPolice Brutality: Singer Beyonce, to partner with youth organization

Popular American Singer Beyonce, has entered a host of international celebrities to give her support in the ongoing #EndPolice protests in Nigeria.

The singer took to her official Instagram account to announce to her 155 million followers that she ‘has been working on partnerships with youth organizations.’

Beyonce who is a mother of three further explained that there has to be an end to the Special police unit.

She wrote, “I am heartbroken to see the senseless brutality taking place in Nigeria. There has to be an end to SARS. We have been working on partnerships with youth organizations to support those protesting for change.

“We are collaborating with coalitions to provide emergency healthcare, food, and shelter to our Nigerian sisters and brothers, we stand with you. Please visit Beyonce.com for a list of organizations to show your support.”

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BREAKING: TVC News on fire [Video]

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A Nigerian 24-hour television news channel, TVC News, which is owned by Continental Broadcasting Service Nigeria Ltd, is on fire.

The inferno started this morning while a live show was on.

The station is not available at the moment.

According to Alkasim Abdulkadir, a Communications Expert, the hosts have raised the alarm.

Abdulkadir tweeted: “watching TVC, the anchors frantically said there were thugs at their gate trying to break into the premises.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CGmWHJBgn2H/?igshid=smmbf35ogikn
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CGmYXz0gkMj/?igshid=1obymetwjaran

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Senate gives reason for adjourning plenary till November 24

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The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday suspended its plenary and adjourned till November 24, 2020.

Senate President, Ahmad Lawan said the suspension of plenary for three weeks would enable Ministries, Department, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government to appear before relevant committees to defend their 2021 budget estimates.

He said the period would also enable the Joint Senate Committees on Petroleum (Upstream, Downstream, and Gas) to conduct public hearings on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) which scaled second reading yesterday.

He warned that any MDA that fails to appear before the relevant committees to defend their estimates would have the figures allocated to them in the Appropriation Bill.

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End SARS Protests: IGP Adamu orders deployment of mobile police force nationwide

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To curb and possibly stop the spate of violence triggered by thugs across the nation, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Adamu on Tuesday, October 20, ordered the deployment of anti-riot officers throughout the country.

The primary objective of the unit, according to IGP Adamu, is to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians and secure critical national infrastructure across the country.

Moreover, to prevent the jailbreak orchestrated by hoodlums in Benin, the police boss has ordered massive deployment of officers to beef up security around all correctional facilities in Nigeria.

Adamu also instructed police commissioners in all states to differentiate law-breakers from peaceful protesters and arrest as well as prosecute perpetrators of violence in the country.

The IGP disclosed that 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attacks and arson on Police Stations in Benin, Edo and that five AK47 rifles initially stolen from vandalized police stations have been recovered.

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See why I won’t approve 2021 budget, says Gbajabiamila

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, has threatened not to sign the 2021 Appropriation Bill if compensation for victims of police brutality is not captured.

This was disclosed in a statement by the speaker while addressing members of the house at the Tuesday’s plenary in Abuja.

Gbajabiamila also said that the budget must meet the reasonable demands of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) before he signs it.

The rep said that there is no better time to rethink the system of funding for higher education in Nigeria than now as the current system does a great disservice to the country.

According to him, we must commit to changing it so that we can make our institutions of higher learning to be citadels where innovation thrives and excellence is given.

The Speaker promised to visit some of the families of those who lost loved ones to police brutality next week and to honour the memory of those lost.

He pledged that the House of Representatives will pass an Electoral Reform Bill in time for the next general elections to continue to improve the process of electing political representatives at all levels.

The lawmaker said that he supports the amendment of the Constitution to ensure that the provisions on fundamental human rights have teeth.

He said that he supports an amendment that will ensure resource control is dealt with equitably so that the next generation of Nigerians does not inherit evident dysfunctions of the current system.

Gbajabiamila urged the youth protesting against police brutality to shun violence and partner government for a new Nigeria.

He noted the maturity of the young people across Nigeria who had led the protests and called for change as midwives of national rebirth.

According to him, you have moved a nation to action, and now you must join in doing the hard work of making real the vision of a more just, more prosperous, and more resilient nation.

“We see your true cause, please do not allow your righteous cause to be hijacked by those with bias motives, who see in this moment as an opportunity to pursue vendettas, to spread division, exploit the many existing fissures that exist in our society and bring our nation to its knees.

“You have raised your voices and marched to demand a better Nigeria, from Abuja to Washington, to Calgary and London; your voices have been heard.

“Do not allow anybody to convince you that to withdraw from the streets now is to concede defeat.

“This is the time to move your agitation from the chaos of the streets to the painstaking deliberations and strategic partnerships that will birth policy and produce legislation.

“It is time to mobilise your voices in support of specific policy interventions that will deliver on our shared objectives of national renewal and a country that reflects the best of us,” Gbajabiamila said.

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End SARS Protests: ‘I was not attacked in Asaba’- Rainoil CEO, Ogbechie

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The management of Rainoil has denied news making the rounds that its chief executive officer Raymond Ogbechie was attacked by hoodlums taking advantage of the #EndSARS protests in Asaba, Delta State capital.

The management said contrary to insinuations, the CEO was not in Delta State as at the said time and he did not suffer any attack whatsoever.

The managing director said, “How could I be attacked in Asaba while I am in my house in Lagos? I have called my outlets in Asaba and indeed Delta, none of them were attacked.

“I don’t know what the writer wants to achieve. I have received phone calls from different quarters.”

A media outfit, not (goldennationblog.com), had allegedly reported that Ogbechie was beaten up by protesters in Delta State.

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See what governors said they are doing to meet #EndSARS demands

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has said it would deal with the demands of Nigerian youth protesting police brutality and harassment across the country.

Recall that thousands of Nigerian youths have been on the streets requesting an end to police brutality and disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The federal government has since disbanded SARS and replaced it with a new police unit, SWAT.

The #EndSARS protesters have, however, not left the streets as they continue to call for practical solutions from the government.

In a statement released on Monday, October 19, the chairman of the NGF, Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti state, said all the demands of the protesters will be met.

Below is a list of resolutions reached by the governors, according to the statement:

  1. Set up a Judicial Panel of Enquiry to receive all cases of police brutality by officers of the disbanded SARS unit.
  2. Kickstart a compensation mechanism for all victims.
  3. Endorse the call by the #EndSARS protesters for improved governance with a focus on fundamental human rights and liberties of all citizens
  4. Act on all the demands made by the EndSARS protesters but raised some concerns with the shifting nature of the demands
  5. Appeal for the call off of protests as a continuation adversely affects the economy and may cause chaos due to infiltration by hoodlums

The governors also condemned the attack on Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun state by armed persons while he was addressing #EndSARS protesters in the state capital, Osogbo.

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End SARS: What will happen to Nigeria in two weeks – PTF predicts

The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 has forecasted a spike in the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in Nigeria in the next two weeks.

Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), on Monday, disclosed this at the joint national briefing of the task force in Abuja .

He explained that the prediction was due to the total disregard for the preventive measures against the virus exhibited by thousands of Nigerians participating in the ongoing #Endsars campaign across various cities in the country.

Recall that thousands of Nigerians have in the past ten days, taken to strategic areas across Abuja, Lagos, Edo, Anambra, Rivers, and other states to protest against reported police brutality, harassment, and extra-judicial killings.

Such brutality is said to be perpetrated by the operatives of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

Mustapha said: “Truth be told, two weeks from today, if you get all the people that congregated at the Lekki toll plaza and run a test, you would establish for sure several infections.

“Any mass gathering that does not adhere to the non pharmaceutical interventions that have been put in place, which include wearing of masks, social distancing, keeping personal hygiene and avoiding mass gatherings, they become super spreader events, whether you like it or not.

“So I can say with a definitive voice that two weeks from today, get everybody that congregated in those places, not only at the Lekki toll plaza, but also the Unity Fountain in Abuja but several other places, we would be contending with an increase in infections, two weeks from now, and that’s why we must be extremely careful when we congregate.”

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ENDSARS: Why no protester should be brutalised by Army ― NUJ tells FG

As men of the Nigerian Army took over the streets across the country in the name of Operation Crocodile Smile, the Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to instruct the troops to ensure that none of the protesting youths is killed or brutalised during the exercise.

The Union made the call on Monday, in a statement signed by the state chairman, Ademola Babalola and secretary, Sola Oladapo, urging the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, to direct his men to exercise utmost caution and ensure adherence to citizens-friendly rules of engagement.

Babalola reminded the soldiers that the ongoing nationwide protest, which started as a clamour for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), was not just about police reform, but also about getting those in leadership positions to heed the call to make the country a better place for the citizenry.

The statement read: “We wish to recall that in July this year, 385 soldiers wrote the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Buratai that they are resigning from the Army over what they called loss of interest and very low morale. These soldiers are not deserters from the auxiliary. The soldiers had been deployed to face better-equipped insurgents in the North-East.”

“The soldiers deployed for Operation Crocodile Smile, in our view, should protect the protesters and ensure no harm is done to them. The situation in the country is so sad that if affects us all, including the soldiers themselves, with the exception of the class of the ruling elite which may be considered immune from the hardship in the land.”

“While we acknowledge the fact that the military operation is an annual event, having been held in October last year, we counsel that the Federal Government ought not to have deployed soldiers for the same exercise this year, especially against the background of the tensed situation occasioned by the protest.”

“We also urge the protesters and citizens generally to go about their lawful businesses without provoking the soldiers to apply the use of force.”

“We are for the maintenance of law and order. We equally call on the coordinators of the protest to devise means of ensuring that hoodlums don’t infiltrate their ranks to perpetrate evil in the name of protest.”

“The union is not unaware of the difficulty being experienced by the people of the state as a result of the withdrawal of Okada and public transport vehicles by their owners.”

“The gains that will come when we have a new Nigeria will far outweigh the pain we are enduring. We can’t make omelette without breaking eggs, throughout the world, there is no pain without gain.”

“Members of the union who have been joining the rallies and the protest walks since they started will be fully participating in the protest from tomorrow to drive home the message of peace to the soldiers and the protesters.”

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End SARS Protests: APC chieftain Thomas, reveals what will happen if nothing drastic is done

An All progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Delta, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has called on Nigerian youths to put an end to the EndSARS movement since their demands have been heard by the federal government.

Thomas stated that the continued protest of the youths on the streets, despite the government’s willingness to positively respond to their requests, will give room for hoodlums to hijack the situation and begin their evil act, activities as they have already started in some states.

The APC heavyweight, who was also a state coordinator of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for Delta, Edo, and Rivers expressed fear that if care is not taken, the protest might degenerate to something unpalatable across the nation.

He called on the youths to give the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration the chance to start implementing their demands as it has promised.

Thomas reminded the protesters to use the Syria experience where a protest led to a civil war that lasted for more than 10 years as an object lesson. Head: “I wish to align myself with the urgent need for total reformation of Nigeria Police. EndSARS alone will not give the desired result. An improved welfare package will be a step in the right direction. “A word of caution. The president and civil societies should listen to each other. The stability of the country is very important. Our democracy is under threat! We should not overstretch an issue if it is being handled. Remember this is how it all started in Syria.

“You have made your point, it is time to articulate your demands and sit down with the government to implement these before the essence of this struggle is abused.

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End SARS Protests: Edo declares 24 hours curfew as protesters break Benin prison, frees inmates (Video)

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Protesters around Kings Square in Benin City, the capital city of Edo State have broken the walls of the headquarters of the Nigeria Correctional Centre (Nigeria prisons in Benin).

The protesters, after gaining entrance into the prison through the fence freed inmates in the prisons along Benin Sapele Road, near Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ office.

Meanwhile, the Government of Edo State has declared a 24-hour curfew across the state until further notice.

This is contained in a statement signed by the secretary to the state government, Osarodion Ogie, and was made available to newsmen.

The SSG said the curfew is to take effect from 4:00 pm, October 19, 2020.

“This decision has become necessary because of the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #ENDSARS protesters.

“While the government of Edo State respects the rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit idly when hoodlums have taken laws into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the state.

“By the directive, schools and businesses are to shut down activities accordingly. Those who cannot move safely are to stay put between now and 4:00 pm till calmness is restored.

“Parents are advised to rein in their children, youths, and wards, to forestall further breakdown of law and order.

“The responsibility of government is to protect lives and property and maintain law and order, therefore, anyone found outside in violation of the curfew would be dealt with according to the law.” the statement added.

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End SARS: Protesters arrest member for stealing phone

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As #EndSARS protests continues in the country, protesters at Lekki on Saturday arrested and handed over a co-protester, Yusuf Lawal of Ojuelegba area of Lagos, to the police for allegedly stealing a phone during protest.

It was gathered that protesters who were angry over the incident, descended the 25 years old, giving him some beating before handing him over to the police at Maroko Police Station for prosecution.

Though the stolen phone has not been recovered as the suspect passed on the phone to his fleeing gang members.

Spokesman for the police command, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the police were working on the useful information gathered from him to track down his gang fleeing members.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Hakeem Odumosu, has reiterated that this incident is a clear indication that the protests, across the state, have been hijacked by some hoodlums who hide under the #EndSARS protests to steal, loot and cause damage to people’s property.

He therefore advised protesters to be watchful of those who have infiltrated into their processions to cause pains on innocent Lagosians.

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Why Salami’s panel is trying to indict Magu at all cost — Lawyer

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Lead counsel to the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, on Sunday, accused the Justice Ayo Salami-led Presidential Judicial Commission of Inquiry, of trying to indict their client at all cost.

The suspended EFCC Chairman is facing a probe over allegations bordering on abuse of office and mismanagement of Federal Government Recovered Assets and Finances from May 2015 to May 2020.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, raised the allegations against him in a memo he forwarded to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Magu’s lawyer, Mr. Wahab Shittu, in a statement he made available to newsmen on Sunday, accused the panel of “scheming” to indict the suspended EFCC boss before the final submission of the probe report to President Buhari.

Shittu further faulted the panel for embarking on verification of all assets that were recovered by the EFCC, without the knowledge or involvement of his client.

The statement, a copy of which was made available to newsmen read: “Our attention has just been drawn to a sponsored and jaundiced story in one of the national newspapers in which our client, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, the suspended Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is being portrayed in a negative light by Justice Isa Salami- led Judicial Commission of Enquiry.

“In the story entitled- “Magu: Presidential panel begins verification of assets,” the sponsors of the story within the panel was quoted as saying that Magu did not give satisfactory answers to its questions on recovered assets.

“Ordinarily, we would have ignored the media report as the previous orchestrated stories against our client.

“But we think that the timing is suspicious and there is the need to take up issues with the media report because the reporter quoted sources close to the panel as the arrowheads of the story with a predetermined agenda.

“It is apparent that the panel is trying at all costs to indict our client before the submission of its report to President Muhammadu Buhari.

“It is on records that our client closed his defence two weeks ago without the opportunity to call any witness to strengthen his innocence as applications to call witnesses and subpoena certain individuals including AGF Abubakar Malami (SAN) were blatantly refused by Salami.

“We wish to say with a high sense of responsibility that our client has nothing to hide, unlike the panel that refused to give him a fair hearing and has been sitting for about six months without a timeline and numerous illegalities.

“We say categorically that this publication was made without any attempt to get across to Wahab Shittu, our client’s Counsel on record who represented our client throughout the proceedings and despite the apparent unwillingness of Mr. Tosin Ojaomo (a counsel in the defence team) to “…respond to calls” according to the published story.

“It is instructive to note that the source of the story was attributed to the source close to “the panel” without disclosing the identity of the source.

But since the media story attributed to the panel made several prejudicial comments against our client, we are inclined to respond as follows to set the record straight:

“However, our client has noticed a consistent pattern of orchestration/planting of prejudicial stories in the public space, one of which is the story that we are now forced to react to for its prejudicial consequences on the work of the panel.

“In the past, many such false stories against our client had featured in the public space only for such unfounded allegations to collapse like a pack of cards during the proceedings of the panel.

“Based on the proceedings, we are certain that our client will be exonerated completely from all these allegations orchestrated in the public space and many others in that category during the proceedings of the judicial commission of inquiry despite stories planted in the public space to the contrary.

“Our view, arising from the media story, is that the fate of our client is being predetermined even before the panel submits its report to the President and this will be tragic.

“This is because it is elementary that the panel is a judicial commission of inquiry, established under the Judicial Commission of Inquiry Act 2004.

“That being so and by being an inferior tribunal, the panel “ought not to descend into the arena lest it faces the danger of being blindfolded by the dust raised by the combatants.”

“We urge Mr. President on whose authority the Judicial Commission of Inquiry was established to note this development including the trauma and prejudice to which our client is being subjected by these endless prejudicial publications being attributed to the panel even before the report is submitted to the President.

“The story had said the panel was embarking on verification of seized assets across the country in the absence of our client or his counsel despite our client being the main subject of inquiry by the instruments establishing the Judicial Commission of Inquiry.

“It is an exercise in futility for the panel to conduct verification of recovered assets in the absence of Magu and his lawyers and thereafter proceed to write a report without clarification from him.

“This is particularly worrisome since the report said: ‘We visited some of the houses which Magu claimed to have seized. However, some of them which he claimed to have been seized had no markings of ‘EFCC Keep Off’ while in some other cases; the alleged looters were still living in them.

‘Some houses are also being occupied by strange persons. Magu claims to have obtained presidential approval to allocate the properties to them. Unfortunately, he has not been able to provide the letter of authorization he purportedly got from the President.

‘A lot of vehicles that were seized were also in a bad shape. Some of these vehicles had some parts of their engines removed while for some others, tires had been removed. We are compiling all the reports.’

“The above conclusions concerning our client are being made prejudicially and allegedly attributed to the panel in our client’s absence even before the report is submitted to the President.

“And for those who are bent on planting false stories against our client to convict him at all cost, we have news for them because they do not understand the nature and limitation of a judicial commission of inquiry.

“In the case of Donbraye & Anor v Preyor & Ors (2014) LPELR-22286 the Court of Appeal held as follows:

“A Judicial Commission of Inquiry is normally constituted by and under a Judicial Commission of Inquiry Law or Act as the case may be, to inquire into certain affairs and/or conduct of some individuals and after the inquiry, which is investigative, the said commission turns in its report to the government which set it up to study the recommendations and take further necessary actions, as it deems fit

“On Nature and effect of findings and recommendations of a judicial commission of inquiry the Supreme Court in Olagunyi v. Oyeniran (1996) 6 NWLR (Pt. 453) 127 held as follows:

“A Judicial Commission of Inquiry is normally constituted by and under a Judicial Commission of Inquiry Law or Act as the case may be, to inquire into certain affairs and/or conduct of some individuals and after the inquiry, which is investigative, the said commission turns in its report to the government which set it up to study the recommendations and take further necessary actions, as it deems fit

“The findings and recommendations of a judicial commission of inquiry are not to be regarded as a judicial decision having binding force on the Executive Council or Government that set it up.

”They remain findings and recommendations upon which the Government may act and, in so acting, it is not to be expected that the Government will adopt the findings and recommendations.”

“The position was made clearer beyond doubt by the Court of Appeal in Bariga- Amange v Adumen (2016) 13 NWLR (Pt. 1530) 349 which held as follows:

“A judicial commission of inquiry is not a court of law or a judicial tribunal.

“This is obvious because nobody can be convicted by a judicial commission or administrative panel or a tribunal of inquiry established by law. There is no prosecutor because there is no prosecution.

“No one is formally accused, as it is not a criminal proceeding. In essence, it is a fact-finding inquiry”, the statement added.

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EndSARS: ‘lives have no value’ under Buhari – Oyedepo reveals as he backs protesters

The Founder and presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church popularly known as Winners Chapel, Worldwide, David Oyedepo, has warned against the shooting of youths protesting against police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and extortion in the country.

He disclosed this during the second service of the church, monitored by newsmen, on Sunday.

Oyedepo explained that the youths have good justifications to protest, adding that killing them during the protest “is a sacrilege”.

He described the regime of President Muhammadu Buhari as the most “gruesome” in the history of the country.

The Bishop said, “Every man has a right, legitimately so, to express his displeasure and pains. Everybody has it.

“I kept quiet for a while because in 2015 I warned this nation, vehemently, consistently… because I saw the dangers ahead and you can tell.

“The most gruesome season in the life of this nation is in the last five years, where lives have no value, wanton killings here and there.

“Now, they have faced the youths; and because they don’t know who is next, they have a right to say enough is enough.

“Any system that has no value for human lives is irrelevant, if they are killed when they were youths, will they be here today?

“Now, it would be a sacrilege to shoot the protesters who are not looting, who are not ravaging.

“When you push a goat to the wall then you will know that goats have teeth to bite.

“It is a sacrilege to kill youths during a protest, this protest is legitimate”.

It was reported that #EndSARS protests continued on Saturday as economic activities were paralysed in some places across the country, including Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu.

For instance, hundreds of protesters barricaded the Kubwa-Zuba Expressway in Abuja, grinding traffic to a halt.

While some of the campaigners blocked the Kubwa section of the expansive highway, close to the NNPC Junction, others were said to have also blocked off the Gwarimpa section, causing gridlock in the area.

Human and vehicular movements were also grounded on Saturday on major roads in Nsukka town, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, as a result of the #EndSARS protest.

Also in Benin, Edo State capital, on Saturday, there was gridlock in areas such as Ugbowo, Ramat Park at Ikpoba Hill, and Agbor Park.

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School Reopening: Institution lauds Buhari, Okowa, as freshers receive matriculation oath in Delta

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has been commended for reopening tertiary institutions in the country after seven months of closure as a result of the coronavirus pandemic

Chief Nkenchor Okwuokenye, Chairman of the Governing Council of Calvary Polytechnic, Owa-Oyibu, gave the commendation at the 4th Matriculation ceremony of the institution held recently.

Chief Okwuokenye explained the reopening was a welcome development, noting that education remained one of the most veritable pivots for economic development and socio-political change.

He also said the nation’s economic development is increasingly tied with her ability to acquire and apply technical knowledge in her developmental strides.

The chairman stated that polytechnic education is expected to provide the needed middle level manpower that will serve as the engine of growth for the economy.

“The glaring gap in the number of students who write JAMB and those admitted annually in the educational sector and Government’s commitment to providing access at all levels of education necessitated the quest for the establishment of Calvary Polytechnic, Owa-Oyibu in Delta state” he added.

While eulogizing, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the roles he played in the establishment of the institution, in his remarks, the Acting Rector of Calvary Polytechnic, Mr. Monday Morka stressed that the vision of the Polytechnic is to train students to become responsible and change enhancing members of the society in various field of human endeavours as well to prepare students to be articulate, critical and creative thinkers.

Meanwhile, he called on the matriculants to take their studies seriously, he Said “do not join in the present slogan that school is a scam”.

“I charge you to be extrinsically motivated, which doing something for the immediate reward like praise, money, cheers from crowd but to be intrinsically motivated. Be wise and love your studies as monkeys love banana” he added.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the administration of the matriculation Oath by the Registrar, Mr. Mike Ebomah.

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How flood has cut-off Aboh, Kwale-Ashaka roads – Juan Governor

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The Executive Chairman, Ndokwa East Local Government Council, Juan Governor, has lamented over the current situation of flood in the local government.

He disclosed this after receiving a report on the flood situation from a committee set up by the council on flood management in the local government.

The council boss who complained that the flood has cut off Aboh, Kwale-Ashaka Roads from the rest part of the state, called on the Delta State government and other well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the people of Ndokwa East.

He noted that, as a rescue measure, he had provided boats for the evacuation of those still stranded in the various towns.

The chairman said some of the farmlands and houses submerged by the flood include: Onyia, Aboh, Akarai, Utchi, Abala, Onuabor, and others saying that
Umuti as worse hit.

The leader reported that some residents whose belongings could not be accommodated in the boats refused to come out while others feared that thieves would come for their belongings when they had been evacuated.

lamenting that the flood had become a yearly occurrence, bringing about the destruction of farmlands, Hon. Juan Governor called on well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the affected persons while thanking the Catholic and Anglican churches for providing bags of cloth and foodstuff to flood victims.

Warning that the flood will almost be that of 2012, the chairman admonished residents in the affected communities to value life
more than property, adding that they should join the provided boats to come out of the flooded areas.

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End SARS: protest continues with ‘Prayer Walk’ in Port Harcourt

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After a candlelight vigil in Port Harcourt, the #EndSARS protest has continued on Saturday with a Prayer Walk.

The candlelight procession which was held at Air Force, Aba Road, Port Harcourt saw hundreds of youths, gathering to honour victims of Police brutality in Rivers State.

However, in continuation with the End SARS protest, more youths came out in their numbers to join the call for an end to police brutality.

The demonstrators in the protest themes, “Port Harcourt Prayer Walk” are also demanding compensation for victims of such inhumane treatment by the operatives of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigeria Police Force.

One of the conveners of the protest, K.O. Baba Jornsen, a Comedian in Rivers State said, “the walk is in honour of Chima Ikwunado, a mechanic who was tortured to death in the detention of the Eagle Crack unit of the Rivers State Police Command, Daniel Ikeaguchi, aka Sleek, a 20-year-old musician shot dead by a policeman attached to a supermarket in Port Harcourt and many other victims.”

It was gathered that the protest which commenced from Garrison flyover has advanced towards Government House Port Harcourt, causing heavy gridlock along the Azikiwe Road axis of the State capital.

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EndSARS: What protesters told Vice President, Osinbajo

As the #EndSARS protest continues to rage across the country, some of the protesters seem to be more annoyed by the apology offered to the youths by Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo on behalf of the President, Muhammadu Buhari-led administration for “not moving faster” enough.

The annoyed protesters demanded that quick actions be taken instead of offering apologies, as such will not resurrect those who have been brutalized and killed by some security personnel in the country.

Osinbajo had in series of tweets via his verified Twitter handle on Friday said the government has been following the protest and discussions have been in top gear with major stakeholders to attend to the needs of the people.

He explained that several meetings have been held with Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari, the Inspector General of Police, Muhammed Adamu, and the National Human Right Commission on the way forward.

Osinbajo said: “Dear Nigerians, I know that many of you are angry, and understandably so. We could’ve moved faster and for this we are sorry.”

“I fully understand how many young people feel. Many feel that we have been too silent and have simply not done enough. These feelings of frustration are justified.

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CBN debunk reports on alleged hacked website

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The Central Bank of Nigeria has discredited reports that its official website was hacked on Friday.

This was disclosed in a statement on its Twitter page on page where it maintained that contrary to reports, its website was safe.

It urged Nigerians to avoid peddling fake news as its website is adequately protected and there was no cause for alarm.

The statement reads, “Contrary to claims on social media alleging that the website of the Central Bank of Nigeria has been breached by malicious persons, we wish to state categorically that our website is secure.

“We also wish to advise the online community to desist from peddling fake news aimed at undermining the integrity of the CBN, which is our collective asset.”

Meanwhile, hackers on Friday hacked the Twitter account of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)

They also threaten to reveal secrets of the Nigerian authorities.

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EndSARS: Wike reveals why State Governors cannot take charge of Tactical Commands

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has revealed that the Federal Government is trivializing the #EndSARS demands, as State Governors cannot take charge of tactical commands when they don’t have the power to discipline anyone who errs.

He disclosed this in a statement on Friday evening, as the FG seeks ways to end the youth-led nationwide protests.

The National Economic Council (NEC) this week ordered state governors to establish judicial panels for claims of police brutality, and also urged that Governors supervise tactical teams introduced by the Inspector-General of Police.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo also announced that governors would set up judicial panels of inquiry because only state governors, by law, can set up judicial inquiries in their states.

The Rivers governor said that State Governors couldn’t take charge of Tactical Commands because they couldn’t employ or discipline any erring party.

He added that Rivers had set up a Judicial Commission into activities of SARS, however, those found wanting were promoted by the Police Force.

“In Rivers State, we set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry that indicted SARS officers. Instead of the Police authorities punishing the indicted officers, they shielded them and even promoted one to the rank of an Assistant Inspector General.

“Now the Federal Government wants us to set up another commission of Inquiry when the report of the last one we set up was not implemented,” he said.

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End SARS Protests: Osinbajo begs Nigerian youths, blames FG

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has apologised to Nigerians and admits the Federal Government could have “moved faster” in addressing the demands of #EndSARS protesters.

“Dear Nigerians, I know that many of you are angry, and understandably so. We could’ve moved faster and for this we are sorry,” he said in a series of tweets on his handle late Friday.

“I fully understand how many young people feel. Many feel that we have been too silent and have simply not done enough. These feelings of frustration are justified.”

According to him, “There are far too many people who have been brutalized at the hands of the police and this is unacceptable.

“We must take responsibility for protecting young people, even sometimes from those who are paid to protect them.”

He also believes the protests rocking the country goes beyond agitations about the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

“They’re deep and systemic and we’re undertaking comprehensive measures that will revamp the police by addressing issues of welfare, service conditions, and training,” he explained.

The former University lecturer ( Osinbajo) said meetings have been held with several stakeholders in the country to address the demands of the youths who are championing the protests.

“We understand that you want to see action from us and I’m here to tell you that work is ongoing,” the Vice President noted. “I chaired a meeting of 36 state governors and the Minister of the FCT (NEC), where we resolved to set up judicial panels of inquiry so we can see justice served, and fast.

“The reason being that only state governors, by law, can set up judicial inquiries in their states. The hearings will be public.”

While repeating the disbandment of SARS, he assured that officers from the unit will not be part of any tactical squad.

The Vice President is equally commiserated with the “families of Jimoh Isiaq, and all those who have lost their lives at the hands of wayward police officers. To those injured, I wish a full and speedy recovery.

“We have proposed that each state government set up a Victims’ Support Fund, which will support. This is the least that we can do to compensate for the injustice suffered at the hands of errant officers.”

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Seven killed, others injured as communities fights in Delta

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At least seven persons were reportedly killed in a suspected communal conflict between Oleh and Ozoro communities in Isoko South and North council areas of Delta state.

It was gathered that the incident, which occurred between Thursday and early hours of Friday, saw several others injured.

The casualties and other victims were reported to be from both communities.

Sources claimed the communal crisis was as a result of the lingering boundary dispute between both communities.

Oleh and Ozoro communities are power seats of the respective Local Governments of Isoko land.

While Oleh is host to the Faculty of Law and Engineering campuses of the Delta State University (DELSU), one of the Delta State Polytechnics seats in Ozoro.

President General of Isoko Development Union, apex socio-cultural body of the Isoko people, Chief Iduh Amadhe, told newsmen that it remained unclear if it was a communal clash, urging for calm in the areas.

“I cannot confirm exactly what has happened but the police and security agents have been asked to visit the bush and come out with the current situation. That is what we have decided to do.

“But there was no issue of clash that Oleh and Ozoro people are fighting. The information just came that some people were killed in the bush and all that.

“So we cannot disseminate such information when we have not gotten the true report. That is the situation.

When contacted, Delta Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed a conflict between both communities had left an uncertain number of persons dead.

“Yes, a communal crisis. So we heard (that seven persons were killed) but we have not been able to ascertain”.

She added security operatives were being deployed to “check what happened”

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If SARS is working, why has terrorism remained? – Shehu Sani attacks Northern Govs

Former Kaduna South Senator, Shehu Sani, has attacked Northern Governors over their support for the continuation of SARS in Nigeria.

He disclosed this in a tweet on his Twitter page on Friday.

He condemned their statement of support for the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

He said :
“Dear Northern Governors, if SARS is working in the North, why has kidnappings and killings by bandits and terrorists continued unabated?

”#EndsSARS”, Sani wrote.

Recall that Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, spoke on Thursday after a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja.

The Chairman, Northern Governors Forum, said though the government has approved the scrapping of the unit, the decision should be reconsidered.

“Some people said they don’t want SARS, some said they want SARS but a reformed SARS…Let us not just say we are throwing away the baby with bath water. If there are good ones, you don’t chase them away”, Lalong said.

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Why you can’t control minerals – FG tells states

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The Federal Government on Thursday told state governments that they could not regulate the mineral deposits in their various areas.

Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, said this at a sensitisation meeting with state commissioners for justice, minerals and environment from the North-Central geopolitical zone.

The issue of resource control had been put in the front burner recently with the unveiling of Zamfara state government plan to establish a gold reserve through buying of gold from artisenal miner indigenes.

Reacting to calls for the amendment of the exclusive list section on minerals in the country’s constitution to allow states have participatory roles in mining, the minister said doing so would amount to selfishness and would be detrimental to the nation’s economic system.

Adegbite explained that the oil revenue derived from a section of the country was being used for the overall development of Nigeria.

He told the commissioners that as attention was now focusing on the development of the minerals sector for revenue generation, it must be used for the common good of all.

The minister, in a statement issued in Abuja by the mines ministry’s Assistant Director, Press, Timothy Akpoili, stated that royalties and other revenues generated from solid minerals mining were paid into the consolidated fund.

He said the fund was shared in accordance with derivation principle during monthly revenue allocation sharing.

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Confusion as Nothern governors rejects disbandment of SARS

Governors from the north part of the country under the auspices of Nothern Governors Forum, NGF have rejected disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) by President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to them, the police unit has been useful in the fight against insecurity in the region.

The Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, who is the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum (NGF) made this known to newsmen on Thursday after a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja.

Lalong said though the government has approved the scrapping of the unit, States in the North think that the baby should not be thrown away with the bath water.

The governor said he went to see the President to commend him for approving community policing, adding that training had commenced in the various zones of the country.

“When we see issues like this because most of the complaints vary from one state to the other; in one aspect, some people said they don’t want SARS, some said they want SARS but a reformed SARS.

“So, our opinion and conclusion at that stage were that let us not just say we are throwing away the baby with the bath water.

“If there are good ones, you don’t chase them away. So, as SARS is banned, we are now looking forward to…because most of the states in the north said no. They want SARS because SARS helps them.

“Borno said without SARS, he would not have been surviving today. Niger also wants SARS. So, if you are addressing this issue of SARS, you need to know what is wrong in some places. Is it the process of recruitment?

“Is it the character of the people? You can’t say because somebody is wrong, everybody is wrong in the country. These are some of the issues we concluded yesterday.

“And it’s for the chairman to go and meet Mr. President to still look at this issue holistically and critically so that we understand where we are going”.

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Why Lauretta Onochie’s nomination as INEC commissioner was rejected – Senate

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Senate minority caucus has hit against the nomination of Lauretta Onochie as National Electoral Commissioner for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The leadership of the senate said Lauretta Onochie who is also the Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on social media is a card-carrying party member.

This was disclosed in a short statement sent to newsmen by Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe.

The statement noted that nominating his aide, President Buhari has “willfully gone against the constitution”, urging the President to withdraw the nomination.

Abaribe said, “President Buhari by nominating Lauretta Onochie has willfully gone against the constitution that he swore to uphold.

“Item F, paragraph 14 of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) forbids a card-carrying member of a political party to be a member of INEC.

“The Minority Caucus of the Senate is against this nomination and calls on Mr. President to withdraw it.”

It was gathered that President Buhari had written the Senate seeking the confirmation of Onochie and three others for INEC job.

Other candidates nominated by the president are Prof. Muhammad Sani Kallah (National Electoral Commissioner), Katsina; Prof. Kunle Cornelius Ajayi (National Electoral Commissioner), Ekiti; and Saidu Babura Ahmad (Resident Electoral Commissioner), Jigawa.

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BREAKING: 2021 budget passes second reading in Senate

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The 2021 Appropriation Bill of N13.08 trillion on Thursday scaled Second Reading in Senate.

This followed a three – day debate on the general principles of the budget of “Economic Recovery and Resilience” presented to a joint session of the National Assembly last week Thursday.

During the session, Senators took turns to appraise the strengths and weaknesses of the Bill.

Some Senators were particularly worried about the amount for debt service in the 2021 budget put at N3.124 trillion and the proposal to finance the budget deficit through borrowing to the tune of N5.20 trillion.

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See how Keyamo lost his driver to #EndSARS protest

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The continuous #EndSARS protest has claimed the driver of Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo.

Keyamo disclosed this in a post on his twitter page, Thursday.

The minister said the driver, Yohanna Shankuk, was knocked down in Abuja on Wednesday by a vehicle that took one-way to avoid advancing protesters.

The late Shankuk was on his way to Keyamo’s private office before the incident took place.

The incident was said to have occurred at Berger Roundabout, Abuja.

The bereaved Minister tweeted: “I regret to announce that my driver, Mr. Yohanna Shankuk, died yesterday in Abuja as a result of the protests. A vehicle that saw advancing protesters at Berger roundabout, made a U-turn, took the one-way back and ran over him as he was making his way on foot to my private office.”

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End SARS: Pastor Adeboye support youths over peaceful protests

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The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejeri Adeboye has said he supports the peaceful #EndSARS protests, as the protesters speak up against police brutality in Nigeria.

The cleric disclosed this in a statement signed and issued by the Assistant General Overseer (Administration and personnel), on Wednesday after protests continued around the country.

“The Redeemed Christian Church of God identifies with Nigerians presently protesting against brutality and the abuse of power by the very institution established to protect them,” the Church said.

The Church said it understands and appreciates the concerns of Nigerian youths and urges for an immediate end to police brutality across the country.

It added that it still notes the responsibility of the Police in maintaining law and order and urges for the Police to align its strategies with the needs of the people.

“The Church welcomes the disbandment of the SARS and notes the establishment of a new outfit called the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) but advises that it should not be a case of old wine in a new bottle

RCCG urged young Nigerians to comport themselves orderly across the country and express themselves within the confines of the law.

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Police Brutality: No SARS Officer will be part of new ‘Tactical Team’ – IGP

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The Nigerian Police Force has said no member of the now-defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) will be a part of the newly formed Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team.

Arising from a very intense protest that has lasted for days, the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, dissolved the popular subunit of the force, SARS.

Two days after disbanding SARS, the IGP set up a SWAT unit, however, this move did not go down well with those who had protested for the dissolution of the anti-robbery squad, causing them to change the mantra from #EndSARS to #EndSWAT.

In a bid to throw more light on the new unit set up by the IGP, the police in a statement via Twitter stated that their mandate will be, however, rather than refer to them as SWAT.

Police spokesman Frank Mba, who put out the statement used the phrase ‘Tactical Team’.

It is unclear if the Police have changed the name of the newly constituted unit from SWAT to Tactical Team, but the spokesman said no operative of SARS will be included in the new team.

He also noted that the operations of the Tactical Team will be strictly intelligence-driven. Members of the new Tactical Team are also expected not to embark on routine patrols.

They are barred from the indiscriminate and unlawful search of phones, laptops, and other smart devices.

Mr. Mba’s statement also asserted that those who will be members of the new Tactical Team must be free of any pending disciplinary matter especially those that touch on misuse of firearms and abuse of human rights.

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Police Reform: We’ll collaborate with NBA, NHRC on new law – Gbajabiamila

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila has said that the House of Representatives will work together with the national leadership of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on the proposed law it is working on to address police brutality and other issues in the country.

Gbajabiamila revealed this while speaking during a courtesy call by the NBA leadership in his office on Wednesday.

He said the provision of Section 215 (5) almost gives the police absolute immunity against their excesses, hence the need to amend that section.

Also, the NBA President, Olumide Akpatta, has given the assurance of his association to ensure a good collaboration with the House to come up with good legislation to address the matter.

NBA President, Olumide Akpatta

The House had last week passed some far-reaching resolutions to address the issue of police brutality against Nigerians, one of which is to amend the constitution and come up with other legislation to curb the excesses of the police.

Gbajabiamila, who said the House could not do it alone, sought for the support of the NBA to achieve its set goal of addressing police brutality. “I want to use this opportunity to congratulate Nigerians out there, who have been part of this struggle, and I want to appeal at the same time that we should apply the brake, perhaps, a little and see what will be done.

“In the House, before the protest, we made a statement, I made a statement on the floor of the House. We made far-reaching resolutions. We’ve been very proactive on this issue. We’re determined to pursue the resolutions of the House forcefully, for want of a better word.

“Our resolutions included that we discovered section 215 (5) almost gives absolute immunity to the police over what they do. So, for a start, we feel we should begin with amending the constitution and delete that offensive section.

“I believe it was well-intended but now it’s obnoxious. From that, we can raise any other reforms to look at the complaints from the public, from the NBA, the civil societies, etc. We’re waiting for the IGP to send us the list of policemen that had complaints against them in the last five years. We’re also waiting for the list of the victims so that they can be compensated.

“We’re beginning the budget process, and we want to make sure that there’s a line item that ensures they’re compensated. The resolutions also talked about police reform. We already passed the Police Reform Act, but we need to do more. We need to look at the conditions of service, etc. Suffice it to say that this House is determined to bring this to fruition. We gave ourselves 30 days to come up with a piece of legislation. We’re working assiduously to achieve the timeline we set for ourselves,” Gbajabiamila said.

The Speaker announced that the House would raise an Adhoc panel that would interface with the NBA on the issue of police brutality and others.

Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamilaa

The NBA President, Akpatta, had earlier told the Speaker that the visit was to discuss the issue of police brutality and see how the contentious issues could be addressed, while expressed delight that the House was already doing a lot on the matter, saying Nigerians were eager to see how the matter would be resolved. “We at the NBA are resolute to collaborate with you on the issues”.

Akpatta raised the issue of some Nigerians being detained at different police stations unnecessarily, calling on the Speaker to intervene.

In his response, Gbajabiamila asked the NBA president to identify all the police stations where people were detained for the House to raise a delegation that would meet with the NBA and get them released.

“I think you should identify the stations where people are being held. I will be more than happy to set up a crack team of members to go with you and pursue vigorously those issues. This should be part of the collaboration. We’ll expect your response on this,” Gbajabiamila said.

Meanwhile, the Speaker also hosted the leadership of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) led by the Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, where he raised the same issues relating to police brutality and what the House is doing about it. The Speaker also sought a partnership with the commission as part of efforts to find lasting solutions to human rights abuses.

On his part, Ojukwu informed the Speaker that it was important to come up with an investigative panel that would consider the cases of human rights violations by the police and listen to victims of police brutality.

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BREAKING: Armed thugs attack End SARS protesters, injures many, vandalizes cars in Abuja [VIDEO]

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Armed thugs on Wednesday attacked End SARS protesters at the Berger area of Abuja.

The thugs who invaded the protest venue at Berger junction were armed with cutlasses.

They chased the protesters and destroyed vehicles parked in the area.

It was gathered that some protesters sustained injuries and have been rushed to the hospital.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, on Tuesday set up a new unit to replace the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team will “fill the gaps” arising from the dissolution of SARS.

But, despite the announcement, protests are still ongoing in different states.

See videos below :

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Celebrated Nigerian Poet, J. P. Clark is dead

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Nigeria’s renowned professor of Literature and prominent writer, Prof John Pepper Clark is dead.

His death was announced on Tuesday in a statement by Prof C.C Clark for the family.

J.P Clark hailed from Kiagbodo under the Burutu council area of Delta State.

The statement reads, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce that Emeritus Professor of Literature and renowned writer, Prof John Pepper Clark, has finally dropped his pen in the early hours of today, Tuesday, 13 October 2020.

“Prof J.P Clark has paddled on to the great beyond in comfort of his wife, children, and sibling around him. The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”

Clark received his early education at the Native Authority School, Okrika, Rivers State, and the Government College, Ughelli.

He did his BA degree in English at the University of Ibadan where he edited various magazines including the Beacon and The Horn.

Clark is noted for several quality dramatic works including Song of a Goat – premiered at the Mbari Club in 1961, and The Masquerade (1964).

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Okpe ruler Orodje, charges Reps committee on steady power in Delta

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The Orodje of Okpe Kingdom HRM ORHUE 1, Major General Felix Mudjakpero (Rtd), has on members of the House Committee on Power at the national assembly, to check the activities of the power sector in the country especially in Delta State.

He made the call on Tuesday at the palace of the Lodge when he played host to the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, House of Representatives, Abuja Hon. Magaji Da’u Aliyu and other members of the committee.

Describing the committee on power as a very important one for the development of Nigeria, the Orodje said: “Without power, no nation can move forward or develop”

The ruler also said that the present power infrastructure in the country was functioning at an epileptic rate and urged the committee to work out strategies on how the residents of Okpe can get a constant power supply.

Responding, Hon Magaji Da’u Aliyu assured the Orodje that the issue of power in Okpe kingdom would be looked into, assuring that the poor power supply in the area would soon be a thing of the past.

Hon Magaji Da’u Aliyu used the occasion to donate one transformer to any community of choice by the Orodje.

Some notable persons present at the occasion included Hon Efe Afe member representing Okpe, Uvwie, and Sapele Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja; Hon Efe Uku, PDP chairman Okpe Local Government Area; and Mike Afe, a District Head in the Okpe Kingdom, amongst others.

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NAPPS commends Okowa, begs for resumption of Nursery schools

Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa has been commended over the resumption of primary and secondary schools in the State after 6 months of lockdown due to the covid19 pandemic.

The Delta State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Deacon Monday Ifoghere, and the Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Area chapter of the association, Mrs. Rose Obi made the commendation in a separate interaction with newsmen at Effurun recently.

Ifoghere who lauded Governor Okowa for his administrative prowess, noted that Delta State was well organized in terms of education, just as he also asserted that the system of resumption of schools in the state was unique.

“Today is not like the first day of resumption in all the private schools I went to. The turn out for resumption was impressive because the pupils and students were tired of staying at home after six months,” he stated.

The Chairman advised parents to provide all needed for the resumption of their wards to avoid further loss of time for those that might be sent home for failure to pay school fees.

He however appealed to Governor Okowa to consider the resumption of nursery schools, assuring that the schools were safer for children than at home due to adherence to directives aimed at spreading the extent of COVID-19 at schools.

On her part, Mrs. Obi noted that teachers were excited about seeing their pupils and students after six months of absence.

While urging parents to provide their wards with face masks and sanitizers, she urged teachers to work harder to cover for the lost period.

Mrs. Obi also pleaded that nursery schools should resume as she also assured that measures against the spread of COVID-19 were already in place for the safe resumption of nursery school pupils.

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‘Opening of second branch in Agbor, a welcome development’ – Ika Nation lauds Zenith Bank

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The people of Ika nation in Delta State has commended the management of Zenith Bank Plc for opening another branch at Agbor /Owa Boji-Boji metropolis to ease banking transactions of the people.

Some Zenith Bank customers disclosed this to newsmen in Agbor where they noted that the opening of a new branch of the bank close to the Orogodo River was a very good development.

A trader who gave his name as Mr. Vincent Nwakaji said that the opening of the branch would reduce the suffering that customers undergo at the Zenith Bank Branch in the uptown of Agbor stressing that customers had to stay in the queue for long hours before carrying out their transactions.

Mr.Nwakaji added that it was always worst when one has to deposit money explaining that a lot of time was always wasted.

Another customer to the bank, Mrs. Rosemary Uweh, stated that one would no longer to go up town again to do banking transactions with the opening of the new branch in the area.

The trader added that it was like going through hell doing banking transactions during the lockdown and the observing of COVID-19 rules of social distancing, washing of hands before entering the bank premise, and the subsequent entering of the bank hall.

She further said that the opening of the new branch would also create more jobs both for skilled and unskilled labourers.

Meanwhile, Staff of the main branch also expressed joy over the opening of the new branch, stressing that it would give them a lot of relief in the discharge of their duties.

Also, a staff of the bank at the main branch in Agbor said “counting money in the bank was like one doing mixing cement stone and (kponkpor work) in serving a bricklayer during a building project.

He said that it was not easy for them to count tens of millions of naira for the teeming population of the bank customers who want to be served at the same time.

He further expressed gratitude to God for keeping them alive especially during the worst times of COVID-19 where customers rush in at the same time. He also commended the management of the bank for the safety precaution put in place to check the spread of the pandemic at the branch.

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Breaking: EndSARS Presidential panel approves protesters demand

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In line with directives by President Muhammadu Buhari on disbandmentthe of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad and immediate response to the yearnings of citizens, the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, in a a meeting with stakeholders, has agreed to meet demands of the End SARS protesters in the country.

Part of the agreement reached with stakeholders at the meeting include halting the use of force against protesters and unconditional release of arrested citizens.

The meeting, organized by the Office of the Inspector General of Police and National Human Rights Commission, was a multi-stakeholders’ forum attended by leaders and representatives of civil society organizations in Nigeria, activists from the entertainment industry, and the END SARS movement and development partners.

The Ministry of Police Affairs and Police Service Commission were also present at the meeting that affirmed that the five-point demands of the protesters and the END SARS movement are genuine concerns and will be addressed by the Government.

A communiqué of Stakeholders’ Meeting on the Implementation of the recommendations of the Presidential Panel on the Reform of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) said:

“Following the public protests regarding various forms of human rights violations by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and the consequent disbandment of the unit by the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, there arose the need for stakeholder engagement to build trust and restore public confidence in law enforcement.

“The agitations also brought to the fore, the need to implement the recommendations of the Presidential Panel on the Reform of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

“The Forum was addressed by the Inspector General of Police and the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission. “The Forum collectively: welcomed the dissolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) by the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu; Reaffirmed the constitutional rights of Nigerians to peaceful assembly and protest; Further affirmed the sanctity of life of every Nigerian and the role of the Police in protecting this right; Affirms that the five-point demands of the protesters and the END SARS movement are genuine concerns and will be addressed by the Government.’’

According to the communiqué signed by the Inspector General of Police and Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu, Esq, the Forum noted that the dissolution of SARS presents an opportunity to embark on comprehensive reforms aimed at repositioning the Nigerian Police Force as a modern, responsive and citizens-centered law enforcement organization.

“The Forum further notes that the proposed reforms should be anchored under the basis of the White Paper on the Report of the Presidential Panel on the Reform of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad which was jointly authored by the National Human Rights Commission, the Federal Ministry of Justice, and the Nigeria Police Force.

“The Forum affirms that reform proposals for the Nigerian Police Force will be based on Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and existing legislations such as the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act, 2019, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 the Anti-Torture Act, 2017, and the National Human Rights Commission Act, 2010 amongst others.

“Following the dissolution of SARS, the Forum calls for the following immediate steps to be taken in restoring public confidence and trust in the Police: An order by the Inspector General of Police to all State Commands to halt the use of force against protesters; Unconditional release of arrested protesters and citizens; Open communication and outreach to citizens to establish trust and confidence and a roadmap for the implementation of the White Paper of the Presidential Panel on the Reform of the SARS.

“The Forum welcomed the proposal to set up an Independent Investigation Panel to look into the violations of human rights by the defunct SARS and other segments of the Nigerian Police. The Forum agrees to the setting up of this Independent Panel by the National Human Rights Commission within the next week. An open call for Memoranda from members of the public whose rights have been violated by the defunct SARS and other segments of the Police will be released by the Commission within one week.

“The Forum recommends the psychological evaluation, training, and retraining of disbanded SARS officials before re-deployment. The Forum resolves to set up the following Technical Sub-Committees to design an implementation roadmap and work plan for the implementation of the White Paper: Training, Capacity, and Re-orientation; Logistics: Infrastructure, Communications, and Technology; Arrest, Detention, and Investigations; Regulations, Oversight, and Accountability and Financing and Partnerships.’’

The communiqué stated that sub-Committees will be supported by the National Human Rights Commission and other civil society organisations. Those who attended the meeting are: Dr. Kole Shettima – MAC Arthur Foundation; Innocent Chukwuma – Ford Foundation; Jude Ilo – of OSIWA; Segun Awosanya (segalinks) – End Sars Movement; Yemi Adamolekun- Enough is Enough; Clément Nwankwo – PLAC; Rafsanjani- CISLAC; Kemi Okonyedo- PWAN; YZ – CITAD; Folarin Falana Falz; Prof Deji Adekunle –NIALS; Chris Ngwodo, SSA to President Research & Policy; Dr. Fatima Waziri – Rule of Law Adviser OVP and Abdulrahman Yakubu – NHRC Secretariat.

Others are Hilary Ogbonna – NHRC secretariat; Halilu Adamu – NHRC Secretariat; Ben Aguh – NHRC secretariat; Dr. Uju Agomuoh – PRAWA and Onyinye Ndubuisi – UNDP.

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Prince drags Gov. El-Rufai to court over appointment of new emir in Zazzau

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A leading candidate for the Zazzau Emirate throne, Bashir Aminu, has taken legal action against Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai for appointing Ahmed Nuhu-Bamalli as the new Emir of Zazzau, succeeding Dr. Shehu Idris.

Recall that Idris died on September 20 after reigning for 45 years on the throne.

In a suit filed before a Kaduna State High Court yesterday, Bashir Aminu (Iyan Zazzau) told the court to declare that having scored the highest number of lawful votes cast by the kingmakers and selected by them, he was entitled to the stool of the Emir of Zazzau from the date of his selection.

On September 25, the kingmakers, chaired by Ibrahim Aminu (Wazirin Zazzau), forwarded a list of three shortlisted princes to El-Rufai for his consideration and appointment as Emir.

They were Bashir Aminu (89 votes), Munir Jafaru, Yariman Zazzau (87 votes), and Aminu Idris (53). However, the governor on October 1 set aside the list, saying the process was not fair to other contenders and ordered all aspirants to be given a chance to contest.

The Secretary to the State Government, Balarabe Lawal, explained that the state government had ordered another selection process, but excluded two interested applicants.

The governor, thereafter, appointed Nuhu-Bamalli as the new emir of Zazzau. In the suit, Bashir Aminu demanded an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from installing Nuhu-Bamalli.

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End SARS: protesters dares Wike, storm streets of Port Harcourt [VIDEO]

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EndSARS protesters in Rivers state stormed the streets of Port Harcourt, on Tuesday opposing Governor Nyesom Wike’s order.

The youths who converged opposite the Pleasure Park at Aba Road began their procession carrying placards and chanting “End SARS” insisting the Governor had no right to ban peaceful protests.

Recall that Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers had earlier stopped youths in rivers state from every form of End SARS protest adding that there is no need protesting against a police unit that does not exist.

Meanwhile, the governor gave this order inline with the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad by the inspector general of police, Mohammed Adamu.

See videos below :

https://twitter.com/chuzywhyte/status/1315979070623145984?s=20

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End SARS: Deputy Governor, Flavour, Phyno, others join protest in Enugu (Photos)

The Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Lolo Cecelia Ezeilo, together with Award-winning musician, Chinedu Izuchukwu Okoli aka Flavour on Tuesday joined the End SARS protesters seeking an end to police brutality in Nigeria

The protest which kicked off from Okpara Square had youths from different parts of the state who joined their voices with youths from other parts of the country in demanding an end to the unlawful operations and activities of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS.

Also, Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, popularly known as Phyno and another Igbo rapper, Zoro was part of the protesters.

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End SARS: Take advantage of protest to secure Nigeria’s development – Sam Adeyemi to youths

The Founder and Senior Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos, Sam Adeyemi, has told Nigerian youths to take advantage of the #EndSARS protest to secure deep change for the nation’s progress.
He disclosed this in a statement on his official Twitter page on Tuesday.

The preacher urged the protesters to speak forcefully but peacefully without engaging in violent protests.

Mr. Adeyemi said,
“Our dear President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, members of the Federal Executive Council, members of the National Assembly, our Governors, and all parents. We have an unusual opportunity with the #ENDSARS protests. #SARSMUSTEND.

“Many of us in government were protesting on the streets 26/27 years ago after the annulment of a free and fair election. Some had to escape out of Nigeria. Our heroic acts birthed this democratic dispensation to a large extent. The young ones are only continuing the journey.

“It is therefore totally deplorable that we would lead a government under which the police would spray water, throw teargas and shoot at peaceful protesters. Please order them to STOP THE ATTACK ON CITIZENS PROTESTING PEACEFULLY IMMEDIATELY. They should rather protect them.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the old templates for shutting down dissent will not work anymore. Most of this young generation did not grow up under colonial or military rule. They have tools and mindsets we did not have. They will solve problems differently.

“Only true leadership that serves the people will work now. Feeling superior to citizens will lead to leadership failure. Same with refusing to change our institutions beginning with the police force. Let us side with and guide the youth to build a developed Nigeria.

“The Nigeria Police is a mini Nigeria. Most of the allocation of funds doesn’t trickle down. Officers earn wages that are not livable and are compelled to extort money from citizens. We must change the way police officers and most Nigerians earn money and meet basic needs.

” Mr. President, please listen directly to these young citizens. Yara n ka suke. Feel their pain and frustration. Make firm decisions and actions. Then speak to the young ones from your heart as a father. God will help you. SARSMUSTEND. The preacher ended.

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End SARS: See reactions as Adeyanju, Falz, others attack Wike for banning Rivers protest

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The convener of Concerned Nigerians, Deji Adeyanju, singer, Folarin Falana, aka Falz, and other Nigerians have condemned the ban on peaceful protest by Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike of

Recall that Wike in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications in the State, on Monday banned the EndSARS protest which is to take place, today, Tuesday, October 13, 2020.

According to him, the decision to ban the proposed protest follows the scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad by the Inspector General of Police.

But reacting, Adeyanju said public officers cannot determine citizen’s rights.

He tweeted, “Nobody can ban protest in any state or any part of Nigeria.

“Public officials don’t get to determine citizens’ rights. #SARSMUSTEND.”

Also, Falz wrote, “Who are you to prevent any individual from exercising their constitutional right to move and assemble peacefully?”

See other comments on Twitter:

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Miss Nigeria, Tukura seeks Delta NUJ’s partnership on pet project [PHOTOS]

The winner of the 2020 Miss Nigeria Beauty Pageant, Miss Beauty Etsemyi Tukura has asked for partnership of pen professionals towards her pet project – Education of the Girl Child.

The law graduate disclosed this on Monday in a visit with her team to the NUJ Press Centre at Asaba, after a visit to the ministry of tourism, Asaba, Delta State.

Tukura who hails from Taraba State, appeared elegantly alluring, requesting that the NUJ give her publicity as she embarks on a mission to rescue girls who are involved in prostitution on the streets of Asaba and support those who are willing to go back to school.

The beauty queen said that strategic plans had been put in place by her team to ensure that girls who are forced into early marriages adopt an alternate option of going back to school.

Responding, the newly elected Vice Chairman of NUJ, Delta State Council, Comrade Salvation Ogono who adequately represented the Chairman, assured Miss Tukura that the Union was ever ready to provide her with the platform to express herself and achieve her dream project.

Ogono congratulated her for being the first person to engage the new Executive in a maiden assignment, not even when their maiden Exco Meeting had not held.

He stressed that the Union is in the business of partnering with well meaning individuals and groups who are adding values to society while encouraging development, capacity building and enduring empowerment, especially as they pertain to Girl Child Education in the country.

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Detained End SARS protesters freed in Lagos

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End SARS protesters detained in Lagos have been freed.

They are Okara Nkem, Ayodeji Ayeni, Nduka Treasure, Adeola Adebayo, Adetifa Olanrewain , and Ademola Ojabodu.

Their freedom was stimulated by House of Representatives Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Feyikemi Abudu, Moe Odele, among others.

It was gathered that the government acted promptly to avoid the detainees passing the night in incarceration.

There were fears of a mob attack that would degenerate the ongoing situation.

The Speaker and the Governor spoke on their intervention Tuesday night.

“Gladly we have been able to secure the release of Ademola Ojabodu, the last of the 6 arrested people. We must and will continue to protect our rights at all times”, Gbaja tweeted.

“I gave a directive to the CP to effect the release of the arrested protesters and they have all been released. Every citizen has a right to protest peacefully”, Sanwo-Olu tweeted an hour later.

He assured that no one will be punished for engaging in a peaceful protest.

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End SARS: Wike bans protests in Rivers State, gives reasons

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has banned End SARS protests in the State.

Port Harcourt was meant to have its turn of the #EndSARS protest, today, Tuesday, October 13, 2020.

But Wike in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications in the State said the decision to ban the proposed protest follows the scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad by the Inspector General of Police.

The statement reads; “The Rivers State Government hereby wishes to inform the general public that all forms of protests have been banned throughout the State.

“Therefore, all proposed protests under #End SARS Campaign are hereby prohibited.

“Government took this decision because the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, had already scrapped the Special Anti-Robbery Squad. Therefore, there is no need for any form of protest against a Unit of the Police Force that no longer exists.”

“The Governor, therefore, calls on parents and guardians to ensure that their children or wards do not violate this order.

“Law enforcement agencies are also directed to ensure that the ban is enforced and that violators are brought to book,” Wike warned.

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Woman storms ceremony with kids to stop her husband from getting married to another woman (Video)

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A video that was shared by @mediagist on Instagram shows the moment a lady disrupted a wedding, claiming to be married to the groom.

What was meant to be one of the happiest days in the life of a lady turned out, well, to be pretty embarrassing and devastating when her groom’s big secret was exposed.

In the video, the woman is seen disrupting a wedding ceremony with a baby tied to her back. Sharing her story, she claimed they weren’t divorced, and there was no issue between them.

She added that she didn’t know why he should be getting married to another lady while she already had children with him.

See the video below:

In a related story, the special day for a bride and groom was reported to have erupted in drama after a former lover of the groom stormed the church causing the bride to state. The incident reportedly occurred in Benin City, Edo state.

It was gathered that when the groom identified as Dele and his bride, Blessing, decided to tie the knot at the International Pentecostal Holiness Church in Benin City, they would never have foreseen the drama that occurred.

According to reports, the groom’s lover was said to have walked into the church and proceeded to the altar where she grabbed the microphone from the pastor.

The lady then accused the groom of dumping her for his bride. It was said that the lady demanded that the wedding ceremony should be stopped immediately.

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Reactions as dad employs son as security man in his company

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The CEO of Fionet Security Services, Felix Obazee, has said that to give his child, Uyiogosa, quality parenting, he had to make him work in his company.

While sharing his post on LinkedIn, the man posted photos of his child dressed in the company’s security uniform.

In the post, he posed rhetorical questions, asking people if they would choose to teach their children their business or shield them with the flimsy talk that they do not want them to suffer.

Felix thanked God for the grace he has given to him to bring up responsible children, people that would become leaders of their generation.

His post on the platform received numerous reactions as many commended his parenting style and how his story inspired them. Below are some of the reactions:

Bala said:
“Felix, you are my most envied parent today and will be for a long time. But credit must also go to Uyi (who deserves and lives his name ‘Praise’) for submitting to your guidance. It is not easy these days to convince adult elite children to discipline methods like these….”

Kelechi Uchenna said:
“My opinion, I would introduce my children to my business and let them know that they are welcome to join the business if they are interested. They can be executive directors or non-executive directors( owners) depending on their choice…”

Dotun Jegede said:
“My daughter is 10, she helps me document my consultancy income at home. She helps input data and collates client database. On this very Saturday, we both went out inside the estate to do some online submission plans sorting.”

Abraham Ojo said:
“I hope you paid the young man.”

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End SARS: See drama in IGP’s office as Davido denies protesting against police [Video]

Popular Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, professionally known as Davido, has denied being part of the Nigerians that participated in the protest, calling for the end of the Special Anti Robbery Squad, SARS, protest in Abuja.

The “FEM” crooner, who was seen at the protest ground on Sunday in Abuja, made the denial during a meeting with the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu on Monday.

Davido explained that he was in Abuja because of his fans and he came to the protest venue to calm things down.

The singer had insisted that he wanted an open-door meeting but the IGP said, ”How can you come here for a closed-door meeting when you were protesting yesterday and you identified with the protesters?

Davido responded, ”I did not protest, I was not there to protest. I was there to calm things down because the protesters are my fans.”

However, Adamu maintained that Davido had taken an action that projected him as playing a true voice for young people, adding that the agenda of the meeting needed to be streamlined.

Recall that Adamu on Sunday, announced the disbandment of SARS, following days of online and offline protests.

But despite the ban, SARS officers were caught assaulting protesters in different parts of the country.

See video below:

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Gunmen assasinate market chairman in Delta community

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The chairman of Udu Harbour Market, in the Udu council area of Delta state, Freedom Odiete, has been shot dead by suspected assassins.

It was gathered that the tragic incident which happened Sunday was the third attempt by hoodlums to take his life.

Odiete, who was popularly known as Opito, was ambushed in Ekete Community by Cross-and-Stop Junction, along the DSC Expressway in the council area.

Witnesses said he was driving his Pathfinder SUV when the assailants struck.

He was reportedly shot on the left hand but managed to escape.

However, the hoodlums trailed him to where he had taken refuge along nearby Orhuwhorun road and shot him repeatedly.

According to sources, just last week, the deceased survived a similar attack.

Findings reveal the attack may be connected with disagreements on ownership of the Udu Habor market by youths of Ovwian and Owhase communities in Udu LGA.

“This is the third time gunmen have gone after him. I was two poles away when I heard the gunshots renting the air. When the gunshots subsided we rushed out only to see that it was Opito (Freedom Odiete) that was killed. He was attacked last week but God being so kind, he survived it.

“We learned that Owhase and Ovwian communities had been having issues of Udu Habour Market. He has been receiving threats from some persons over the issue,” a source claimed.

Reports indicated the late chairman had insisted leadership of the market would not be divided along community line.

He was also alleged to have been attacked last year.

When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed the incident.

“It is true. We only know that he was shot and it is a suspected assassination. The police are already on a manhunt for the killer(s),” the PPRO said.

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BREAKING: Edo Speaker Okiye impeached

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The Speaker to the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Francis Okiye has been impeached over alleged high-handedness.

House Majority Leader, Henry Okhurobo, moved the motion for his impeachment.

Nine of the 10 Assembly members at the Plenary signed his impeachment letter.

Marcus Onobun, representing Esan West Constituency was immediately sworn in as the new Speaker.

Details shortly…

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BREAKING: Four dead, eight injured as building collapses in Lagos (Photos)

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Four persons have been confirmed dead in a building collapse at Obalende, Lagos.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), in its situation report, said eight others were injured

The collapsed building is located at 62, Odo Street, Obalende, Lagos Island

According to LASEMA, the three-story building was under construction before it partially collapsed.

“The cause of the collapse is yet to be ascertained but efforts are presently ongoing by LASEMA and other responders towards salvaging the situation.

“As at 5:40pm, a total of eight people (all males) have been extricated alive by the LASEMA Response Team and other Stakeholders, Hospitale been attended and quickly transferred to the hospital by LASEMA Paramedics Hospital further medical attention at Lagos Island General hospital.

“Four people (three males and 1 female) have so far been recovered dead and handed over to EHMU at the incident scene,” Nosa Okunbor, LASEMA’s Head of , Public Affairs, said in a statement.

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How Nigerians reacted to the disbandment of SARS by IGP

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Nigerians from various walks of life have reacted to the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS by the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu.

Recall that following the nationwide protest against police brutality, the Inspector-General of Police, on Sunday ordered all officers and men of the now-defunct Special Anti-robbery Squad to be redeployed with immediate effect.

While reacting, some Nigerians asked where the SARS personnel will be moved to, others congratulated the youths for the victory.

Below are some comments gathered from Twitter.

@ayosogunro, ”I am still angry but I will try to feel some elation: we have won something. We won it on paper, but it is still a win.”

”Next: #EndSARS must be won in reality. Please monitor your neighborhoods and streets and report/post any SARS personnel. SARS is now an illegal outfit.”

@iamnino_b, ”Before I will fall for this Congratulations, I need to understand what role these “Ex -SARS” officials will be playing when redeployed to other police units.”

@mrmacaronii, ”Nigerian Youths, We have a voice! This is the beginning of a New Nigeria. SARS has been dissolved!!!

@chemicalbrodar, ”They say SARS has been dissolved but we are NEVER going to believe them except we stop seeing them in the streets, except the police get reformed and we can move freely without harassment!!! Simple.”

@Aminatsule_, ”Today I’m so proud to be Nigerian. The SARS protest today has demonstrated that injustices to Nigerians in Nigeria are an injustice to ALL Nigerians. Unity was our issue before, now we are unified we are unstoppable.”

@SamuelOtigba, ”Until they leave the streets, don’t fall for their gimmicks & fake dissolution. We have seen this movie before. Amplify the pressure more. #EndSARS #EndSarsNow #EndPoliceBrutality.”

@TitoOfLagos, ”The president should come out on TV and tell us SARS is dissolved and publicized it across media outlets, until then we will not stop screaming #EndSARS in their ears.”

@Penpreneur1, ”Congratulations Nigerians on our victory with #EndSARS campaign. We just hope they don’t rename the same team and push them out to kill the youths again. So, what next are we fighting for? Bad roads or Electricity?”

@VickyShegzy, ”Now that SARS has been dissolved, this is our we hit the street next without fear of oppression and intimidation from SARS!
Congratulations Nigerians but the biggest war are against corruption which is far from being over.”

@papaya_ex, ”I’m so happy for us guys, congratulations Nigerians. Thanks to all the foreign public figures that came through for us too Folded hands.”

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NBA tells IGP to release all #EndSARS protesters

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The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, yesterday asked the Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammad Adamu to release everyone in its detention facilities across the country arrested in connection with the End SARS Protest.

The association also expressed it’s a readiness to engage with the IGP to undertake training and enlightenment of police officers by the recently passed Police Act.

NBA President, Olumide Akpata in a statement on his twitter handle, @OlumideAkpata noted that the association welcomes the dissolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS by the IGP.

The statement reads: “We now look forward to the constitution of the investigative team to review all reports of crimes committed against Nigerians by the defunct unit and the appropriate punishment of all those found culpable.

“As an organisation anchored on the promotion of rule of law and human rights, the NBA commits to partnering with the police and other Civil Society Organisations in these investigations.

“In the meantime, we call for the unconditional release of all Nigerians arrested on account of the #EndSARS protests and the immediate cessation of attacks on protesters.”

Akpata noted further that the NBA willing to collaborate with Civil Rights Organisations and advocacy groups to deal with this menace and we shall deploy our human and material resources in this regard.

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BREAKING: Buhari bows to pressure, dissolve SARS

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The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu has dissolved the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police across all formations in the 36 State Police Commands and the Federal Capital Territory.

The IGP, who announced the dissolution of the unit in a press statement on Sunday in Abuja, noted that all officers and men currently serving in the Unit are to be redeployed with immediate effect.

He said, “New policing arrangements to address the offences of armed robbery, and other violent crimes that fall within the mandate of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squad shall be presented in due course.

According to him, “A Citizens and Strategic Stakeholders’ Forum will be formed to regularly interface with the leadership of the police at all levels and advice on police activities.

“To deal with the reports of crimes committed against citizens, an investigation team will be constituted which will include civil society organizations and culprits will be punished.

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Lawmaker demands total scrapping of F-SARS, slams IGP

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The honorable member representing Omuma constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon Kelechi Nwogu has called for total scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, (SARS).

Nwogu made the call in a statement forwarded to newsmen where he suggested that the police tactical Squad (SARS) should be collapsed into the conventional police structure.

The lawmaker mocked the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, banning the police Tactical Squad (SARS) from patrols following alleged harassment of innocent citizens.

It was gathered earlier that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Abubakar Adamu, in a press release, last Sunday, banned the personnel of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) from patrols and stop-search duties with immediate effect following alleged killings and harassment of youths.

The statement reads: “we hear that the Inspector General of Police has banned FSARS and other police tactical squads from a routine patrol.

“This is not the first time the government is coming up with such a futile decision, each time the citizens lament about SARS murder, brutality, and gross human rights violation.

“The statement says they are banned from carrying out conventional low-risk duties, which means they can handle high-risk cases. This is the loophole they will capitalize on to continue to perpetrate a heinous crime against innocent Nigerians, in the name of cracking down on armed robbers and “Yahoo boys”.

“they have been told in the past not to dabble in civil matters anymore, but they still do. What they do is this, if a complainant comes to them with a civil case, they would influence the statement and change it to a criminal case, no matter how mild it is. They also advise petitioners to coin their petition to a criminal one if it wasn’t. They do these things so that they can fully come in and exploit all parties involved in the case”.

“Even where there is no crime, these guys create robbery scenes just to justify their invasion of that terrain. I can assure you that, this recent order from the IG can only be potent for three weeks at most, after that, it will be business as usual, “ the lawmaker stated.

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End SARS: Hoodlums planning to hijack protest – NANS

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The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has warned #EndSARS protesters against throwing the country into unnecessary crisis.

NANS warned the protest was on the verge of being hijacked by hoodlums, expressing concerns the protests could develop into full-blown chaos if caution was not applied.

Its National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Comrade Adeyemi Azeez told newsmen in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the protests had already been hijacked by hoodlums who may take advantage of the precarious situation to wreak havoc on other law-abiding citizens.

Azeez said although the activities of SARS and the entire Police Force should be reformed for optimal performance, but added that utmost caution should be taken lest the country is set on fire.

He warned with the current security challenges in the country, Nigeria could not risk a breakdown of order of national magnitude.

“Information at our disposal revealed that some hoodlums are planning to hijack the nationwide protest in a bid to cause chaos and throw the country into crisis.

“We are also aware that some internet fraudsters in a bid to continue perpetrating their criminal acts are mobilising hoodlums to protest against the activities of SARS who have been clamping down on them.

“We want to call the attention of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu to the plans of these hoodlums and their devilish plans.

“It is important that the IGP had ordered the ban of SARS and other Tactical Units on Nigerian roads. The IGP ordered that men of the FSARS should no longer conduct checks either should mount roadblocks but the people behind these protests are not satisfied with this.

“The police should not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone caught disturbing the peace of the public or causing violence all in the name of protest.”

The student body dissociated itself from the revolution now Movement led by the presidential candidate of African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2019 general elections, Omoyele Sowore.

The students’ umbrella body insisted it will not be part of “any unlawful gathering” in the name of revolution, describing the movement as unnecessary.

The NANS spokesperson noted it borders on insanity for any reasonable Nigerian to “instigate” Nigerians against the Federal Government at a time when Nigeria is battling with a myriad of security challenges.

“Exercising rights to freedom of speech, association and assembly should be with decorum and Nigerian Students will not be part of any unlawful gathering in the name of revolution.

“The “RevolutionNow Movement” call for mass action across the country against the Federal Government of Nigeria is uncalled for.

“At a time when Nigeria is battling with a myriad of security challenges, no sane or right-thinking individual will be instigating the populace against the Government.

“We call on Nigerian students and youth, in general, to always be law-abiding and not to allow anybody or agents of the fourth columnist to use them as cannon fodder,” he said.

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End SARS: Why I didn’t join protests – Don Jazzy reveals

Mavin Records CEO and music producer, Don Jazzy, has given his reasons for not joining other celebrities in protesting brutality and extortion by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The protests on the streets and social media, have been going on nationwide for over 72 hours.

Notable names like. Falz, Runtown, Mr Macaroni, etc have joined Nigerians in demanding action against SARS.

Don Jazzy has now revealed that he is unable to be a part of it due to health reasons.

When asked by a fan on Twitter to come out and motivate people, he replied: “True, true wish I was healthy enough.

“But I commend every single soul doing it. It’s not beans. #EndSars #EndPoliceBrutality.”

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday night, confirmed that he has met with the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu.

The president expressed his determination to reform the Police Force and ensure that officers are fully accountable to Nigerians.

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End SARS: Protesters storm Abeokuta with assorted charms [PHOTOS]

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Protesters calling for an end to the operation of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police Force, on Saturday, stormed Abeokuta with charms.

As early as 8 am, the protesters converged on the Panseke area of Abeokuta, the Ogun State, some of them were seen with items suspected to be charms, as they dressed like ancient Yoruba warlords.

As they marched around the Abeokuta metropolis, they carried placards saying “#Endsars, #Endpolicebrutality.”

Barricading the road from Panseke to Omida, Isale Igbein, they stopped at Ogun State Government House to express their grievances, but the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, was not there to attend to them.

As of time of filing this report, the #EndSARS protesters have moved towards the palace of the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo.

It was gathered that policemen from Ogun command were seen supervising the protesters to forestall breakdown of law and order and to ensure the peaceful protest is not hijacked by hoodlums.

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End SARS Protest: How SARS operatives harassed me – Lagos Deputy Governor

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Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Obafemi Hamzat has revealed how he was four years ago, harassed by operatives of the special anti-robbery squad (SARS).


The deputy governor disclosed his experience with the police unit as he addressed EndSARS protesters at Alausa in Ikeja.

Hamzat stated that the security operatives do not have the right to suppress on the rights of law-abiding citizens irrespective of their unfamiliar looks or having a laptop or iPhone.

He however stressed that it will be counterproductive to pull down the entire operation of the police because of the infractions committed by a few bad eggs in the system.

Hamzat said; 

“Every decent Nigerian will be upset. This happened to me four years ago. I was going to Amuwo Odofin…they (SARS operatives) were not in uniform, they had guns, they just double-crossed us and said we should get out,” Hamzat told the protesters.

“The tenet of the police operation is to protect the citizens. Security operatives don’t have the right to trample on the rights of law-abiding citizens, because of their unfamiliar looks, or because they are carrying laptops or iPhones. It is wrong for any police officer to expressly accuse or pronounce someone, irrespective of age, guilty because they have dreads or ride luxury vehicles. 

“As a government, we support evidence-based investigations and actions driven by intelligence. The procedure of arrest and prosecution must be followed through. We are equally aggrieved like every other law-abiding Nigerian. If a young man or woman who is legitimately doing his or her job is attacked or maimed by police officers for no reason, we will never support that. We condemn police brutality in whatever guise and we will continue to engage their leadership for change. 

“We fully understand the reasons for your anger but this demonstration must also be carried out in line with the law. If we employ violence or destruction to drive home our grievances, we will also be hurting ourselves. The protest must be orderly so that those concerned will get the salient point of the message.

“You can’t block the road disrupting the free flow of traffic, and prevent other people from embarking on their lawful duties, especially the emergency responders. As citizens, it is within your rights to express your grievances but let us exercise caution and eschew violence. The authorities have heard your voice and I hope we all leave the roads with the understanding that drastic changes will be affected.”

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Atiku attacks Buhari over 2021 proposed budget

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The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, has faulted the 2021 proposed budget by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Abubakar said this in a statement he signed, which was made available to newsmen on Friday.

He said the 2021 budget proposal contravened the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

Recall that Buhari had presented the proposed 2021 budget to the joint session of the National Assembly, a few days ago.

However, the statement which he signed, stressed that the N5.21 trillion budget deficit amounted to over 3.5 percent of Nigeria’s 2019 Gross Domestic Product, GDP.

The statement reads partly: “Looking at the 2021 budget proposal placed before the National Assembly by President muhammadu Buhari on Thursday, October 8, 2020, several issues, very grave and perhaps disturbing issues arise.

“This is contrary to the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007, which provides in Part II, Section 12, subsection 1 that: ‘Aggregate Expenditure and the Aggregate amount appropriated by the National Assembly for each financial year shall not be more than the estimated percent revenue plus a deficit, not exceeding three percent of the estimated Gross Domestic Product or percentage as may be determined by the National Assembly for each financial year.”

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END SARS Protests: Okowa decries killing of policeman, beg for peace

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Delta State Governor Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa has expressed sadness, over the reported killing of a policeman and injuring of another during the END SARS protests at Ughelli on Thursday.

Okowa expressed this in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, and made available newsmen in Asaba.

The governor said it was disheartening that the unfortunate incidents occurred while the policemen were carrying out their lawful duties.

He asserted that citizens reserved the right to protest against any case of injustice or perceived wrongs in the society, but cautioned that such right must be exercised within the ambit of the law.

“As a government, we recognize that protest on any issue of governance or the like is a legitimate right of citizens, but must be embarked on responsibly and within the ambit of the law.

I, therefore, condemn in very strong terms, the killing of Corporal Etaga Stanley and injuring of another officer, Sergeant Patrick Okuone, by hoodlums under the guise of #ENDSARS protests.

“I call for calm in the area and urge the police authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the issues over the protest and circumstances surrounding the killing of the policeman, injuring of another, and damages to police patrol vehicles by the hoodlums reportedly sponsored by ‘Yahoo Boys’.

I also call on the people, particularly the youths, not to take the law into their hands. It is the constitutional duty of the Police to maintain law and order in society, and they should be supported by all and sundry to do so at all times.

On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I commiserate with the Commissioner of Police, the Delta State Police Command and the family of the deceased officer, in the unfortunate incident of Thursday at Ughelli.

“I call on the people of Delta and other Nigerians involved in the #ENDSARS protests to remain peaceful while the Inspector-General of Police carry out reform on the SARS team as being demanded,” Okowa said.

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End SARS: Buhari will take action soon – Presidency reveals

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The Personal Assistant to President Mohammadu Buhari on New Media, Bashir Ahmad, has said that action will be taken against Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (F-SARS).

He disclosed this via his Twitter handle on Friday, while reacting to the nationwide outrage by Nigerians over the unlawful operations of SARS officials.

According to him, the President has received a briefing about the unfortunate incident and actions will be taken soon.

“Good people of Nigeria have every right to protest the police brutality or anything they see is not going on well.

“The President was briefed yesterday by the IG of Police, I am very sure action will be taken and in the best interest of Nigerians. EndSARSProtests,” he said.

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BREAKING: End SARS: Police in mass arrests of youths in Delta [Video]

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Teams of policemen are raiding some parts of Delta State to arrest youths.

This may not be unconnected with the End SARS protests.

A rally in Ughelli on Thursday ended on a fatal note.

A policeman was allegedly killed by unknown persons.

On Friday, the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, gave the victim’s name as Cpl. Etaga Stanley.

He was attached to ‘A’ Division in Ughelli.

The IGP said the deceased’s service AK47 rifle with breach no 56-2609008 and 25 rounds of live ammunition were stolen.

Similarly, a Sergeant, Patrick Okuone, suffered gun shot injuries.

The police chief vowed that the security arm would no longer tolerate any attack on law enforcement personnel.

Adamu ordered the Commissioner of Police in Delta to arrest and prosecute the culprits.

Now, operatives are barging in houses, hotels, and arresting youths arbitrarily.

https://twitter.com/mirabelaokoi/status/1314513135093587968?s=20

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How I was nearly killed in kidnappers’ den – Port Harcourt-based lawyer, Bisola

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Bisola Ajayi, a Port Harcourt-based lawyer, who was kidnapped at Rumukwurusi, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State recently, has said she was almost killed by her abductors.

Ajayi was rescued from kidnappers’ den by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit Rivers State Police Command four days after her abduction.

Fondly called Paullete, the 25-year-old lawyer, who spoke to newsmen at the command headquarters said her abductors concluded to kill her after her family was unable to pay the ransom of two hundred million naira for her release.

The rescued Port Harcourt-based lawyer, however, commended Rivers State Governor, the leadership of Nigeria Bar Association in national and state levels, as well as the Rivers State Police Command especially the Anti-Kidnap Unit of the Command for their efforts in securing her release.

“On Sunday evening, unknown gunmen came, attacked me and even shot at me. They eventually took me away in front of my family. As they took me, they told me they had killed my family members.

“I don’t know where they took me to but they said they were going to ask for a ransom of N50million. And by the next day, the ransom had been increased to N200million because everybody had reported that I was missing.

“I want to thank the Governor of Rivers State, the NBA President, the NBA Chairman in Port Harcourt, the Commissioner of Police and the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for all the efforts made to rescue me because as on Wednesday they had decided that they were going to kill me.

“Some of them were violent because they just kept hitting me and some of them were saying that they were going to let me go if the ransom was paid.

“At some point, they got very frantic that they threatened to kill me because they were certain that with the news that had gone round, somehow something was going to go wrong. They were planning to move me into the slump to kill me,” she said.

On his part, the member of British High Commission, Paul Nyulaku, who disclosed that he was kidnapped along Mgbuoba Link Road, said his abductors rough-handled him and threatened to kill him.

Earlier, Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Joseph Mukan said operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit who carried out the operation were professional in their conduct.

He said, “In the wake of the operation, one of the kidnappers, Chinedu Chigbu ‘m’ aged 39 who was keeping watch over them was arrested while one other was fatally wounded in the exchange of gunfire. He was taken to the hospital where he was confirmed dead while others escaped into the bush with gunshot wounds. Their camp was immediately destroyed.”

It was gathered that the Operatives of the Anti-Kidnap Unit who rescued the victims from a forest in Etche Local Government Area of the state recovered one AK47 rifle, a fully-loaded magazine and one hundred rounds of live ammunition.

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Why terrorists in Nigeria will not see new year – Pastor Adeboye

The general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye has predicted a tragic end for those behind terrorism in Nigeria.

The clergyman who suggested that his prediction was backed by a divine origin, stated that terrorists and their sponsors in the country will not see the new year. Adeboye said: “I decree in the Name that is above every other name, any terrorist and any sponsor of terrorists in Nigeria, will not see the new year.”

The pastor’s statement has generated huge reactions with thousands of likes, comments and retweets. Adeboye is one of the religious leaders in the country who does not shy away from making comments on national issues.

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END SARS Protest: Nigerians react as IGP calls for end to violence against Law Enforcement Officers

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Contrary to the backdrop of the murder of a Policeman and stealing of one AK 47 rifle with 25 rounds of ammunition by EndSARS protesters, the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu sued for an end to the violence unleashed by protesters.

This was made known on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Frank Mba in a statement.

The statement reads, “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu has condemned the unprovoked and violent attack on policemen and damage to police operational vehicles and other assets by END SARS protesters in Ughelli, Delta State, on Thursday, 8th October 2020.

“The incident which resulted in the unfortunate death of one Police officer, Corporal Etaga Stanley attached to ‘A’ Division, Ughelli, Delta State who was attacked and brutally murdered by the protesters also left another, Sergeant Patrick Okuone with a serious bodily injury sustained from a gunshot by the protesters.

“The protesters also carted away one (1) service AK47 rifle with breach no 56-2609008 and 25 rounds of live ammunition that was with the deceased at the time of the incident.

“The IGP, who described the incident as cruel and unwarranted, has warned that the Force will no longer tolerate any attack on its personnel or any member of the law enforcement community by any individual or group protesting under any guise.

“The IGP notes that protest by citizens remains a legitimate means for airing their concerns and views. It must however be carried out with all sense of responsibility and within the confines of the law.

“The IGP, while condoling the family and friends of the late Corporal Etaga Stanley who paid the supreme price in the service of our dear nation, equally commended the officers of the Delta State Police Command for exercising restraint in the face of the immoral and unjustified provocation.

“Meanwhile, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police, Delta State to carry out a discrete investigation into the unfortunate incident, root-out the perpetrators, and bring the killer protesters to book.”

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Why I told Lecturers to go into farming – Education minister

The minister of state for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba has clarified the statement he made to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) about farming.

A spokesperson for the ministry of education, Ben Bem Goong stated that Nwajiuba only encouraged members of ASUU to take up farming as an alternative source of income. Goong said the minister was quoted out of context in a section of the media.

The ministry of education argued that the minister’s advice was in agreement with the goals of the current administration to encourage farming across the country. The spokesperson said: “The Federal Ministry of Education is therefore surprised at the outburst of ASUU on the Minister’s statement as there is absolutely nothing wrong with taking up farming while still working. “The Hon. Minister of State is on point. The outburst of the Academic Staff Union of Universities is clearly a matter of transferred aggression, totally unfounded, misguided, and absolutely unnecessary.”

Meanwhile, following the announcement of the resumption of academic activities in all primary and secondary schools across the country, the federal government released fresh guidelines that must be strictly adhered to.

The National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, Sani Aliyu, made this known during a briefing in Abuja on Thursday, October 8.

It would be recalled that schools in the country were shut for more than four months as part of measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19 disease.

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Oyo CP parades Ponzi scheme operators duping community

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The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Nwachukwu Enwonwu, Thursday, paraded suspected fraudsters, who specialised in swindling members of the public through a Ponzi scheme at Igboho, in Oorelope Local Government Area of the state.

The suspected fraudsters, numbering eight, who stormed Igboho town, reportedly induced members of the public to part with their huge amount of money, to the tune of two million, seven hundred thousand naira (N2,700,000.00), through a scheme tagged: “Social Economic Development Programme.”

While parading the suspects at the Eleyele Police Command Headquarters, Ibadan, the CP said the eight suspects namely, Kola Oyejobi (male 32 years), Olayinka Adisa (male 43 years), Ridwan Adebayo (male 26 years), Ademuyiwa Damola (male 25 years), Dada Adisa (male 25 years), Romoke Oladipupo (female 39 years), Eniola Adegbola (female 29 years) and Damilola Adejumo (female 30 years), who operated under the name and style, “Noble City Global Concept” have successfully defrauded residents of the community under the pretext that they would receive in return multiple folds within forty-eight hours any amount they invested.

According to the police boss in the state, as soon as they received money from their victims, they disappeared into the thin air and all efforts to reach them usually proved abortive.

The CP said: “A team of SARS operatives swung into action and after discreet investigation, the members of the criminal syndicate were arrested in Badagry area of Lagos State where they had opened another office and swindled so many other members of the public and they confessed to the crime, while a cash sum of N205,000,00 only was recovered from them.”

Similarly, the commissioner of police paraded a 24-year old Maryam Jamiu (female), for allegedly abducting a six-month-old boy, Shina Ayobami Abdulsalam.

Enwonwu explained to newsmen that Maryam went to meet one Adebisi Roqeebat at her hairdressing shop and met her playing with her neighbour’s son.

“Maryam Jamiu under the pretext of also playing with the baby trickily took the baby away to an unknown destination without the consent of Adebisi Roqeebat or the parents of the child.”

“Upon receiving the complaint, the suspect was thereafter apprehended at Ilara Mokin in Ondo State on September 24, 2020, while the baby was rescued unhurt,” the CP disclosed.

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EndSARS: Falz, Runtown, others lead protest in Lagos [Photos]

Nigerian entertainers, Folarin “Falz” Falana and Douglas “Runtown” Agu led a protest to call for the scrapping of the Nigerian Police’s Special Anti-Robbery Squad in Lagos on Thursday.

The protest that started from Lekki in Lagos had protesters bearing placards with inscriptions like “Enough is Enough”, “Protect us and not Kill us”, “We are all victims”, etc.

Falz, an actor, singer, and son of Nigerian lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, took to his twitter page to announce the beginning of the peaceful protest on Thursday morning.

He said, “No backing down. We move. The police are already there, waiting for us but we are not here to cause trouble. It is a peaceful protest. Coming through.”

Singer Runtown had initiated the idea of the protest on his Twitter page on October 4, after a social media campaign to end SARS went viral with Nigerians calling for the abolition of the police outfit.

Nigerians, especially the youth, have continued to lament the extra other killings, extortion, and other illegal activities carried out by the men of the squad.

The protest held after an earlier one, championed by controversial singer Naira Marley, was shelved following appeals by the police.

Runtown, who said the illegality had gone on for too long, called for a peaceful match against SARS.

Tiwa Savage, Rudeboy, Bolanle Ninalowo, PocoLee, Blacqbonez, Pamilerin, BBNaija Prince, and other celebrities also joined the protest.

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Police rescues kidnapped young lawyer, Bisola

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A young Lawyer, identified as Bisola Ajayi who was kidnapped last weekend has been rescued.

It was gathered that Bisola was rescued by the anti-kidnapping unit of the Rivers State Police Command led by DSP Adewale.

DSP Adewale, it was gathered led his men to a forest in Etche Local Government Area of the state where the kidnappers were hiding. Two suspects and an arm-dealer were arrested.

The Rivers State Police Command is yet to release an official statement to the development.

The twenty-five-year-old Lawyer, Bisola Ajayi, fondly called Paulette was abducted on Saturday night from her residence at the Rumukwurusi area of Obio-Akpor.

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NUJ Delta council chairmanship aspirant rejects result, give reasons

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The former Secretary and chairmanship aspirant of the Nigerian Union of Journalist, (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyovwe, on Tuesday, October 6, describing the state election results as ‘daylight robbery’.

He disclosed this in a statement he issued and was made available to newsmen in Asaba.

Comrade Oyowe said out of a total of 403 accredited votes cast, he scored 202 were his opponent got 201, even when there were no voided votes.

According to him,
“My votes were counted first, and by inference from the four other positions of the auditor, assistant secretary, secretary and vice-chairman, the total votes for the position of chairman should also logically be 403.

“However, the official committees and the caretaker and credentials committees added five extra ballot papers, making the total accredited voters for the chairmanship position 406.

“Now, if we have 403 accredited which was acknowledged by all officials and agents of the elections, where did the additional five voters come from?

“The convention is that having discovered that there was over-voting, the proper thing to do is to declare me winner since I scored the highest votes cast based on the total accredited voters. The worst-case scenario is to declare the contest inconclusive.

The Union’s Chairmanship aspirant also revealed that he was shocked when the president of the NUJ, Chris Isiguzo in a telephone chat ordered his opponent and others to be sworn in.

“Surprisingly, and against all known norms, the President of the NUJ, Chris Isiguzo, in a telephone chat, ordered that my opponent and others, be sworn-in.

He, therefore, rejected the result for the chairmanship election adding that he will perfect his next line of action to recover his stolen mandate in the union.

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ALGON commends Buhari for approving special salary scale for teachers.

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The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for approving a special salary scale for teachers in the country.

This was disclosed by ALGON President, Hon. Kolade Alabi, on Wednesday while addressing newsmen on his arrival at the Asaba International Airport in Delta State.

The ALGON president and other Nigerian council chairmen are in Asaba Delta State, for ALGON National Executive Council meeting being hosted by the Delta Chapter of the Association.

Alabi, who was flanked by Delta ALGON Chairman, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo and his Adamawa State Chairman, Alhaji Jingi Rufai, said the meeting would help the body examine recent happenings especially the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said ALGON has been advocating for a review of the Revenue Allocations formula to reflect the current realities as local government councils have been saddled with the responsibilities of salaries and welfare of teachers at primary school levels.

He commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the development strides at the Asaba International Airport noting that it has become a beehive of activities as an aviation hub in the region.

“We are here in Delta to have our NEC meeting and if not for the pandemic that broke out in February, we would have had our meetings in several states of the country.

“We are meeting in this state that is called the big heart and indeed it’s a really big heart because coming down from the plane I really saw that.

“It’s our usual meeting and we will visit one or two local governments to also let our people know what ALGON is all about and I don’t think some of our states hold their periodic meetings as such so this will be our first point of call so as to also pass that message of ALGON to our people.

“The President’s approval for a special salary scale for teachers is a very good and welcome development and that is why ALGON has always advocated that there should be a review of the allocation sharing formula.

“teacher’s welfare and salary have been within the purview of local governments and what the President has done is good for our teachers and it will be a stimulus for all teachers in the country and I must commend him for that., he stated.

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Okowa signs violence against persons, local content agency Bills

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The Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa has signed the Bill to eliminate violence in private and public life 2020 and the Delta State Local Content Agency Law 2020, into law.

Okowa on Wednesday, signed the with a charge to the legislature to continue to protect its integrity in the state.

He said that both laws would ensure the prevalence of atmosphere for peaceful co-existence in the state.

Governor Okowa commended the state’s House of Assembly for being resourceful and enterprising, saying that it had continued to pass Bills in spite of the tough times the members had to carry out their functions during the pandemic.

He pointed out that one of the new laws sought to eliminate violence in private and public life and to prohibit all forms of violence against persons and provide maximum protection and effective remedies for victims and punishment against offenders.

The governor said that the law was very important to all families and to the government because it would ensure the protection of women, girls, children and men.

“We realise that to have a decent society such laws must be in place and I believe that this will ensure greater peace and harmony in the home and in the public place.

“Beyond this, it will enable us to live in peace and live like human beings we were created to be, because many times the instincts in man tend to go against the laws of peace.

“By the grace of God, this law will provide enough punishment for all offenders. I read through it and I am quite pleased with the punishments that have been spelt out in the law for people who will be offenders and I urge all Deltans to find time to go through it so that they will be guided accordingly.

“The punishments are real and severe and I hope and pray that all Deltans and all those living in Delta State will conduct themselves in such a manner that will not go on the wrong side of the law,” he said.

On the Delta State Local Content Agency Law 2020, the governor said that it would provide opportunities for transfer of skills and technology to the people and warned against host communities taking laws into their hands.

“We believe that there is a need to begin to think about our people and how to strengthen them.

In strengthening them beyond creating employment for them, the issues of transfer of knowledge and skills to our people in places of work, and the need for respect for the various communities and our people that they work with is very important.

“This is not just about the oil industry; it includes all industries and business enterprises in the state employing people within the limit of the law.

“I believe that this local content law being domesticated in our state is for the good of our state and for our federation, because once Delta is peaceful, it will contribute her quota to the development of the country.

“Once the community is peaceful, the state is peaceful; we are contributing our quota towards the development of the country.

“It is important that there should be a collaborative effort between the companies that operate in the state and the people in whatever form the company is operating.

“This does not mean that the people should take the laws into their hands and start to create bottlenecks for companies – that is not the wish or the intent of the law.

“I do hope that our people will be cautious and bring whatever complaints they have against the companies to the government,” he added.

Okowa announced that in the next couple of days he would present the 2021 Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly, and hinted that the Budget would witness a contraction in line with current economic realities.

He added that the state government would continue to work hard to ensure the continuation of projects in spite of the economic effects of the pandemic.

Earlier, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, had while presenting the Bills for the governor’s assent, disclosed that the Bills passed through all the processes required in making laws.

He said that the scope of the Bills bothered on violence against persons and the development of local skills, manpower development and transfer of technology by operators of companies in the state.

Oborevwori explained that the Bill on persons would effectively regulate the rampart violence against the girl child and women in the society.

According to him, it provides for the protection for victims of domestic violence and also seeks to punish the perpetrators of such crimes, and provides for adequate programmes for victims of domestic violence.

“It also seeks to provide for necessary measures with a view to stopping persons from committing crimes related to domestic violence, and makes provision for law enforcement officers to effectively carry out their responsibilities in relation to domestic violence by letting victims know their rights’’.

He listed other benefits of the bill as prohibition of traditional harmful practices, widowhood maltreatment, female circumcision and genital mutilation.

On the Local Content Bill, the speaker said that it aimed at transferring technology and skills to indigenes of Delta State by companies operating in the state.

“The transfer of skills and conscious building of manpower and skilled workforce will lead to employment opportunities in the state, thereby reducing unemployment,” he stated.

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BBNaija 2020: Gov Abiodun appoints Laycon as Youth Ambassador, gives him N5M, 3-bedroom flat

Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has given a 3-bedroom flat and a sum of N5million to the winner of the 2020 Big Brother Naija reality TV show, Olamilekan Agbelesebioba, popularly known as Laycon.

It was gathered that Laycon was at the Okemosan office of Gov Abiodun on Tuesday

Laycon, who just won the grand prize of N85million from the 2020 Big Brother Naija Lockdown edition, was in Ogun State on a ‘thank-you visit’.

Governor Abiodun commended Laycon for displaying remarkable traits of an indigene of Ogun state.

Meanwhile, the Governor also appointed him as the Ogun State Youth Ambassador.

Laycon also paid homage to the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo.

The monarch, union of his chiefs, received Laycon at his palace in Ake, Abeokuta; where he gave him royal blessings.

It was gathered that Laycon’s father is an indigene of Odeda Local Government, while his mother hailed from Ipokia Local Government, all in Ogun State.

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Why Education Minister, Nwajiuba should resign and return to farm – ASUU

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has informed the Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, to with immediate effect, resign his position and return to the farm.

The union gave this advice while reacting to a statement credited to Nwajiuba where he (Nwajiuba) told the striking lecturers to return to the farm.

It was gathered that Nwajiuba had earlier urged university teachers under the umbrella of ASUU to consider farming as an alternative profession.

Nwajiuba, while participating in a television program, had suggested farming to the lecturers saying they cannot dictate how they should be paid to their employers.

ASUU, while reacting noted that the statement made by Nwajiuba is a reflection of his shallow understanding of the academic profession and a reflection of the low premium that the government he is serving placed on education.

ASUU Chairman, University of Ibadan chapter, Professor Ayo Akinwole said the Minister of State has “displayed his naivety on educational matters.

Akinwole said that the scarcity of farmers is a reflection of the failure of the government he is part of to make farming secured for legitimate farmers.

Akinwole asked Nwajiuba to resign his appointment and take farming as a worthy national service.

He said the union remained resolute not to pursue only the welfare of its members while downplaying the infrastructure collapse and underfunding of public universities but decided to continue to fight parasites like Nwajiuba who preside over a Ministry where no Nigerian University is in the top one hundred in the world.

Akinwole stated that if the President Muhammadu Buhari government is not paying lip service to education, he would not have consistently reduced budgetary allocation and funding to education since the assumption of office.

He stated that public varsity lecturers are owed earned academic allowances from 2013 to date challenging the Minister of State for Education to declare if he has been owed allowances and how much since he assumed office.

“Scientists, experts in Agriculture faculties continue to conduct research mainly with external funding or personal monies. But the Nigerian government who failed to protect farmers and exposed Nigerians to excruciating poverty is not making use of research findings.

“If the Minister of State for Education is interested in farming, he should resign his appointment and stop displaying his cluelessness of the problems in the education sector. We are on a just fight to ensure that those in public offices become responsive and responsible to the masses they swore to serve. They must fund public education. We have been on the same salary since 2009. That is no longer sustainable.

“The universities are being run with personal sweats of lecturers while politicians siphon monies for personal aggrandizement. We cannot accept IPPIS that is against the laws of the land and which fails to recognise the uniqueness of the academic profession and culture. We have brought an alternative using our members’ money. People like this Minister of State mirrors the disdain of the ruling class for the workers and people of the country”.

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Why we delisted members with forged certificates – Delta NUJ

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The Delta State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has delisted from its register, members who were confirmed to have fabricated and forged their certificates.

This was discovered after a strict membership screening and confirmation exercise conducted by the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel in the Council.

According to the screening and revalidation committee of the ICC, they uncovered this alleged crime after writing to the school’s Registrar and the reply came back shocking – that the results were faked.

One of such alleged fake journalists is Miss Godfrey Isioma Divine, a reporter with the Bridge Radio who allegedly fabricated Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Ukwu’s result and a certificate in 2011 to enable her to get admitted into the Union.

Confirming the incident, our source discloses through a phone conversation, that it was true that the said journalist has faked the result and the institution has already given their opinion on the issue.

Meanwhile, another journalist with the identical circumstance was Godwin Udoh from the same Indigenous Correspondents Chapel, ICC, whose certificate had been allegedly doubted by Auchi Polytechnic while the institution’s Registrar petitioned that the said holder should report to the school. But investigation disclosed that he (Udoh) was scared to go for the uncertainty of being arrested.

It was also gathered that the past NUJ Chairman has smuggled some other persons across the four or more chapels into the register, but their profession was questioned as incompetent members. Nevertheless, those certified to stay in the register by Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, Caretaker Chairman has left an ethical commitment on her as a consequence of her miserable deal to encourage her boyfriend’s team win.

Possibly, NUJ Delta members have prepared to elect their new State Working Committee on Tuesday 6th October 2020. But as of the time of filing this report, It wasn’t clear if the NUJ or the various Tertiary Institutions would prefer criminal charges against those who faked official documents and impostor for years as journalists.

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SARS allegedly kills man in Delta, flees with victim’s Car [VIDEO]

A team of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police allegedly killed a young man on Saturday.

The incident occurred in front of Wetland Hotel, Ughelli in Delta State.

The operatives allegedly shot the citizen and left the scene.

A trending video shows them spending off in the victim’s vehicle – a white Lexus SUV.

SARS is a dreaded Police unit that has repeatedly harassed and killed Nigerians.

In most cases, the culprits are never arrested or prosecuted.

Their activities have triggered on social media (#EndSARS), with many Nigerian clamouring for a scrap of the department.

In August 2018, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, as the Acting President, ordered for Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, to overhaul SARS management and activities.

Osinbajo ordered that the unit that will emerge from the process, must be intelligence-driven and restricted to the prevention and detection of armed robbery and kidnapping, and apprehension of offenders linked to the stated offences.

Laolu Akande, his spokesman, in a statement, said the order followed persistent complaints and reports of human rights violations by SARS.

Osinbajo further directed the Police to “ensure that all operatives in the emerging unit conduct their operations in strict adherence to the rule of law and with due regard to International Human Rights Law and the constitutionally guaranteed rights of suspects. The operatives should also bear proper identification anytime they are on duty.”

https://twitter.com/Teejays_Empire/status/1312422862112854016?s=20

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Transition: Auchi Polytechnic rector confirmed dead

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The Rector of Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi in Edo State, Dr. Momodu Jimah, is dead.

It was gathered that the academic don passed on Friday night at exactly 7 pm.

Public Relations Officer of Auchi Polytechnic, Mr. Mustapha Oshiobugie, confirmed the sad incident on Saturday in an interview with newsmen.

Oshiobugie said, “The institution is mourning following the demise of her rector who passed away on Friday at 7.00 pm after a brief illness.”

“His remains will be committed to mother earth today Saturday at 10 am according to Islamic rites.”

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Okowa congratulates Diri over Appeal Court victory

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Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr). Ifeanyi Okowa has congratulated his Bayelsa counterpart, Sen. Douye Diri, on his victory at the Appeal Court on Friday.

He said that the verdict of the appellate court was a welcomed development, adding that the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, which nullified Diri’s election earlier, ought not to have entertained the petition in the first place as it was a pre-election matter and was status barred.

Okowa stated this in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, and commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for acting well on the matter as Advanced Nigeria Democratic Party (ANDP) indeed, failed to present a qualified candidate for the election.

He also commended the five-man panel of the Appellate Court for overturning the ruling of the tribunal.

According to the governor, the judgement of the appellate court on the matter is a victory for the nation’s democracy and a reaffirmation of the powers of INEC to act as an unbiased umpire.

“I welcome the judgement of the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja on the Bayelsa Governorship Election Petition with immense joy and appreciation to the judiciary for doing justice on the matter.

“This ruling has once again reaffirmed the powers of INEC to act as an unbiased umpire, especially in dealing with issues of improper nomination by political parties.

“I must commend the courage and sagacity exhibited by the five-man panel of the court which ruled that the Advanced Nigeria Democratic Party (ANDP) failed woefully to show that it had a valid candidate that was unlawfully excluded by INEC.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I congratulate my brother Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on this victory.

“The case was a needless distraction as the tribunal ought not to have entertained the petition because it was a pre-election matter and was also status barred.

“This victory is for all Bayelsans, and I urge the ANDP to sheathe its sword and work for the interest of the people of the state,” he said.

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Suspected cultists kill girl, remove vital organs in Delta community

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There was a commotion at Umusume community, Obiaruku, in the Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State as residents discovered the lifeless body of a young lady.

It was gathered that the girl, identified as Miss Anwuli Agu, in her 20s was said to have been killed by hoodlums.

The incident was said to have caused panic among residents of the community.

A source in the community revealed that the lady was murdered and dumped at the premises of the Esume-uku Primary School, Obiaruku, by the hoodlums.

“We are suspecting that the killing of the girl is for ritual purposes, because some of her vital organs are missing with her hair shaved off,” the source stated.

He said the remains of the victim were evacuated from the scene of the incident by police personnel from the Obiaruku Division.

When contacted, the Police Public Relationsons Officer in the state, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed the incident, adding that efforts were on to unravel the circumstances that led to the death of the young girl

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BREAKING: FG approves reopening of Universities, Polytechnics, others


The federal government has directed the reopening of Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education in the country.

Tertiary institution regulatory agencies like the National Universities Commission (NUC), National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), and National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) have also directed tertiary institutions to reopen.

The Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, disclosed this while addressing a press conference in Abuja.

Malam Adamu said the decision to reopen schools was a sequel to a review of COVID-19 situation in Nigeria, with the number of infections declining.

“We have consulted widely with stakeholders in the sector including the Association of Private Schools (NAPPS), Provosts of Colleges of Education, Rectors of Polytechnics, Vice-Chancellors of Universities, State Governors, Commissioners of Education and development partners,” Adamu said.

The minister had also confirmed all unity schools will open by October 12.

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Lagos CP detains Inspector for brutalising Punch journalist

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Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, has ordered for immediate detention of one Inspector Adadu Innocent attached to PMF 22 Ikeja, for hitting with a stick and injuring a journalist with the punch newspaper, Kayode Jaiyeola.

This is contained in a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Olumuyiwa Adejobi and was made available to newsmen.

The incident occurred on Thursday during an independence day protest by the members of #RevolutionNow in the Maryland area of Lagos.

The statement reads:
“The police chief, who was monitoring the deployment and operational activities of officers and men of the command for the enforcement of the order against unlawful gathering and protest by some unpatriotic individuals, raced to the scene and personally moved the injured journalist to the Police Cottage (hospital) at Area F, GRA, Ikeja, where he personally waited and ensured the injured journalist was given immediate and best medical treatment. He cut-off his movements to stay throughout the journalist’s treatment and subsequent discharge.

According to investigations carried out by the Commissioner of Police, and eye witness accounts from senior officers on the ground disclosed that the police officer suddenly attacked the journalist, without any previous altercation or confrontation. This propelled the Commissioner of Police to order for his trial in order to serve aa s deterrent to others who are fond of engaging in unprofessional and unethical conduct.

The Police boss urged the general public to believe in the command’s commitment to sanitizing and reforming the policing system in Lagos State in conformity with the international standards of operation.

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Man with 19 kids says God is their provider, plans to have more

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A 33-year-old Baringo man fathering 19 children has disclosed that he considers the many kids his source of wealth in store.

Kuka Kamartum from Riong’o village, Tiaty sub-county in Baringo, Keyan, has three wives who stay together in his dusty homestead which is also home to his over 100 sheep and goats.

Kamartum who spoke to the newsmen during the marking of World Contraceptive Day, September 27, said he would continue siring more children to increase his chances of becoming rich in the future.

“If you have more children you become richer. If for instance, you have 10 girls then you will get at least 10 to 15 cows per girl, there are also four camels per girl, totaling to 40, that is wealth,” he said

He said the community does not allow men to count children since they are like one’s wealth which should be constantly increased and expanded from time to time. The father of 19 said his wives conceive again as soon as they heal from deliveries. The young father said God is their provider and has never been worried or concerned about the basic needs such as food, health, and education for the children since God is in charge.

“I want to father as many children as I can. For those who would want to go to school, we will pray for God’s grace,” he said.

Most of his children accompany him to the grazing fields and are trained on how to look after cattle.

Kamartum’s three wives said they were not aware of the existence and use of contraceptives or family planning measures that could help to regulate the number of children they sire. “We do not know about family planning. We have never heard about it,” said Kamartum’s first wife.

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Edo Election: Why I’ll drag Obaseki to court- Ize-Iyamu

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the just-concluded Edo State governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has hinted that he could seek legal redress over the outcome of the poll.

This was contained in his 60th Independence Day congratulatory message on Thursday.

Ize-Iyamu lost to incumbent Governor, Godwin Obaseki, during the September 19 election with a margin of 84,336 votes.

According to him, a lot of people have been asking about his next line of action.

“The question is after September 19, what next? We owe you an explanation of the way forward. Indeed, not a few have been bombarding us with this question. Well, we have kept quiet so far, not because we are bad losers, as some unfairly presume. It’s rather because, no matter the situation, we are staunch soldiers of the rule of law and due process.

“Suffice it to say that, with due sensitivity to the feelings of our people, we are busy collating our facts. Only after, can we speak and speak authoritatively, in the best tradition of rule of law, fairness to all, and due process. We will brief you all in a good time and that time is near.

“In the course of our methodical approach, not a few deem to have preempted our course of action; and pleaded that we do not proceed to the courts to challenge the election results.

“While that cannot be dismissed as an entirely bad plea, what I can say is that whatever action we subsequently take would be rooted in due process and the rule of law. We will exercise every right available to us under the law, given the electoral facts at our disposal.

“Even as we speak, our people should know that PDP and their agents and privies have instituted 13 lawsuits against my running mate and I. None of them have they discontinued after the election. So, if the PDP don’t pass up their rights under the law, why should we, in APC, do so?

“So, we are at liberty to pursue any legal option we deem fit, so long as the peace of Edo, our beloved homeland, is not threatened.

“So, until you hear from us, I beseech our members to remain peaceful and law-abiding. Let us enjoy the rare pleasure of our nation @ 60,” Ize-Iyamu said.

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Why former Minister Gbagi was declared wanted – Delta Police Command

The Delta State Police Command has declared ex Minister, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi wanted, for promising and failing to honour an earlier invitation at the State’s police headquarters, Asaba.

This is contained in a statement issued by the force Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwapkoyeya and was made available to newsmen.

Gbagi was invited by the Commissioner of Police through the Area Commander Warri and DPO Ebrumede Division on September 25th, 2020 for questioning for alleged dehumanizing manner.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had reported that the ex-Minister had ordered some staff at his Signatious Hotel, Warri, to be stripped naked and physically assaulted for an alleged stealing.

The statement reads:
“Kenneth Gbagi personally and severally called and gave the excuse that he has a burial ceremony of his elder sister on Friday 25/9/2020 in which he is a key player, and asked for time to finish with the ceremony on Sunday, thereafter will report at the State Headquarters on Monday September 28, 2020. These requests were granted on humanitarian ground.

“On Monday September, 28th 2020, 3:00 pm, Gbagi called the Commissioner of Police to say that he has a court case to attend to, promising to 5:00 pm at the Police Headquarters in Asaba by 3:00pm; again he was equally obliged. On the same date, the Commissioner of Police had to call him at about 5:00pm before the same Kenneth Gbagi said he was on, his way to the State HQ Asaba. Sadly and unfortunately Kenneth Gbagi still failed to report instead he went into the public space to disparage, blackmail and maligned the person of the Commissioner of Police and the Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Command for insisting on investigating him.

“Having failed to honour his promises, Delta State Police Command is left with no option than to declare Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi wanted.

‘Therefore members of the public with useful information as to his whereabouts are advised to go to the nearest Police Station to report for his immediate arrest and handing him over to the Command for thorough investigation/prosecution.

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What policemen did to punch journalist in October 1 protest [Photos]

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Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force on Thursday brutalised a photojournalist with The PUNCH, Olukayode Jaiyeola.

The journalist was attacked by heavily armed policemen while covering an October 1 protest in Lagos State.

The incident happened in the Maryland area of the state.

Jaiyeola has been rushed to the Police Clinic in Ikeja, the state capital.

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BREAKING: Nigeria@60: Protest begins in Lagos despite Police ban as over 200 hit Streets [PHOTOS]

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RevolutionNow protesters have trooped into the streets of Lagos, demanding an end to bad governance in the country.

The protesters, over 200 of them, marched from the streets of Ojota to Maryland in Lagos, chanting songs of solidarity.

Similar protests are also taking place in some states across the country.

Nigeria marked 60 years of its independence from Britain on Thursday.

President Muhammadu Buhari had addressed the nation, defending the hike in the price of petrol.

The president said the price of the product is cheaper in Nigerian than in Saudi Arabia and Chad, an occurrence he said should not be.

Some Nigerians had railed against the fuel price hike, demanding a return to the status quo.

There has been rising insecurity in the country coupled with a parlous economy, fueling citizens’ unrest.

Citizens are converging across the country to register their disaffection on a momentous day in the life of the nation.

Recall that yesterday the Lagos State Police Command announced a ban on all sorts of protests and rallies within the state today, October 1st, 2020.

The police said in a statement by the spokesman of the command, Olumuyiwa Adejobi. The statement added that;

“The command will not allow any gatherings, rallies, or protests against the sovereignty of Nigeria in the state just as he announced the cancellation of the 60th Independence anniversary parade by the Lagos State government.

“CP Hakeem Odumosu according to the release also warned parents and guardians to warn their children and wards to desist from any rallies, protests or be mobilised to wage war against the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, or else they (parents or guardians) of any youths arrested for such activities will be prosecuted.”

The CP, however, appealed to the general public to “be law-abiding, desist from violence and any act that is capable of disrupting the sovereignty of Nigeria”.

Also in his Independence Day speech, President Buhari took a swipe at ex Nigerian Presidents as he said his predecessors who are criticising his administration nearly destroyed the country.

The president said some of what he is being criticised for, including the increase in fuel pump price, is “careful decisions” taken in the economic crisis caused by external factors.

He said these factors, including the drop in oil price, have shrunk available resources but added that his government has been able to do even more than his predecessors.

No government in the past did what we are doing with such scarce resources,” Buhari said.

“We have managed to keep things going in spite of the disproportionate spending on security.

“Those in the previous governments, from 1999 to 2015, who presided over the near destruction of the country has now the impudence to criticise our efforts.

“In the circumstances, a responsible government must face the realities and make careful decisions.”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who left office in 2007, has been one of the strongest critics of the Buhari administration.

About two weeks ago, he said Nigeria is drifting towards a failed and badly divided state.

“Economically our country is becoming a basket case and poverty capital of the world, and socially, we are firming up as an unwholesome and insecure country,” he had said.

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Nigeria @60: See what former President Jonathan told Nigerians

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Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has urged Nigerians not to lose hope in their nation, even as he charged them to be purposeful in playing their own role towards making the country great.

Jonathan, who stated this in his goodwill message to Nigerians as the nation marks 60th Independence today, noted that the journey of Nigeria had been that of mixed fortunes, adding that it required the commitment of all citizens to build a strong and prosperous nation.

He said: “Like many other great nations, our journey has been that of mixed fortunes. Our nation has been through periods of progress and times of setbacks. We have experienced eras of strength, unity, and faith as well as seasons of weakness, trials, and despair. Despite these challenges, we have remained as one and nurtured our democracy for 21 unbroken years.

“I, therefore, urge us to make investments that will shore up the democratic gains and work towards building strong and virile institutions. We need to harness the greatness that lies within our diversity and the strength of our population, to recreate and build the Nigeria we desire. We must de-emphasize our fault lines and concentrate on the silver lining within our lands.”

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Catholic Bishops says Nigeria @ 60 is at the verge of total collapse

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The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) yesterday took a look at the different sectors and wondered how Nigerians can conveniently celebrate the 60th independence anniversary amidst huge borrowings with colossal interest to be paid back.

They noted that presently the country servicing her debt with a significant revenue of the country.

This is contained in an address presented by Most Rev. Augustine O. Akubeze, Archbishop of Benin City and President of the CBCN, on the occasion of the 60th Independence Day of Nigeria.

The Catholic Bishops said the rate of unemployment is growing, and there seems to be no clear plan to fix the economy as well as help private sectors to grow in order to create employment for the youths.

“Nigerians from almost all geographical regions seem to agree that we need to start working on restructuring. The present political party leading Nigeria (APC) campaigned to attend to the issue of restructuring, sharing of resources, and a constitutional amendment if Nigerians voted them into power.

“It is somewhat regrettable that the Federal Government of Nigeria has not kept to its electoral promises. State Governors, Senators, Federal House of Representative Members must all work towards ensuring restructuring of Nigeria. Nigeria is almost on the verge of total collapse.”

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Nigeria@60: Davido buys brand new Lamborghini worth N200m

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Nigerians songwriter and superstar, David Adeleke popularly known as Davido has purchased a new Lamborghini car worth N200 Million.

The 27 years old ‘FEM’ crooner, released a video on his Instastory Wednesday night, showing a truck delivering the car to his home, believed to be in Banana Island.

Conservatively, a brand new Lamborghini Aventador costs between N143.6 million – 192.7 million.

In the US, the same car is sold for $467,617, at a basic price.

If it is comfortable, it can go for as much as $554,717.

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Nigeria@60: See vital points from President Buhari’s speech

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President Muhammadu Buhari’s 60th Independence Day speech’s opening sentence read thus; “Fellow Nigerians. I speak to you today as your President and fellow citizen on this epoch occasion of our country’s 60th independence Anniversary.

“As President, I wish to renew my appreciation to Nigerians for entrusting me with your hopes and aspirations for a better and greater Nigeria.”

Points from the president’s speech:

  1. Petroleum prices in Nigeria are to be adjusted. We sell now at N161 per litre. A comparison with our neighbours will illustrate the point;
    a. Chad which is an oil producing country charges N362 per litre

b. Niger, also an oil producing country sells 1 litre at N346.

c. In Ghana, another oil producing country, petroleum pump price is N326 per litre.

  1. Egypt charges N211 per litre. Saudi Arabia charges N168 per litre. It makes no sense for oil to be cheaper in Nigeria than in Saudi Arabia.
  2. Nigeria has 45 million young people with an urban population of approximately 7million occupying an area of 910,768 square kilometres.
  3. Nigeria has a total population exceeding 200million occupying the same land mass (910,768 square kilometres) but 52% residing in urban areas.
  4. An underlying cause of most of the problems we have faced as a nation is our consistent harping on artificially contrived fault-lines that we have harboured and allowed unnecessarily to fester.
  5. To make this country what we desire, we must focus our minds, TOGETHER as a people, on ways of resolving the identified critical challenges that underlie our present state. These include:

a. Evolving and sustaining a democratic culture that leaves power in the hands of the people;

b. Supporting the enthronement of the rule of law, demanding accountability of elected representatives and contributing to good governance;

c. Increasing our commitment to peaceful co-existence in a peaceful, secure and united Nigeria;

d. Harnessing and Optimizing our tremendous human and natural resources to attain our goal of being in the top twenty economies of the world and in the process;

e. Lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years;

f. Strengthening institutions to make them stronger in protecting National Interests; and

g. Imbibing tolerance in diversity.

  1. No government in the past did what we are doing with such scarce resources. We have managed to keep things going in spite of the disproportionate spending on security. Those in the previous Governments from 1999 – 2015 who presided over the near destruction of the country have now the impudence to attempt to criticize our efforts.

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US Election Debate: Trump meets Biden as they exchange insulting words

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President Donald Trump of the United States and former Vice President Joe Biden on Tuesday night collided in the first presidential debate described by commentators as chaotic and messy.

The 90-minute encounter was characterised by frequent interruptions, mostly from Trump, and insults, with Biden calling the president a clown.

Fox News anchor and moderator of the night, Chris Wallace, had a hard time controlling both candidates, who talked over each other.

Trump of the Republican Party and Biden of the opposition Democratic Party squared off on the coronavirus pandemic, taxes, crime, the economy, climate change, election integrity, among others.

Here are some key moments of the encounter hosted by the Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

“Will you shut up, man? This is so unpresidential”, Biden responded as Trump interrupted him while answering a question on the president’s Supreme Court nominee, Judge Amy Barrett.

During the COVID-19 segment, Trump told Biden to stop using the word “smart” because there was nothing smart about him.

“Did you use the word smart? So, you said you went to Delaware State University but you forgot the name of your college.

“You didn’t go to Delaware State (University). You graduated with either the lowest or almost the lowest in your class.

Don’t ever use the word smart with me because you know what, there is nothing smart about you”, Trump said.

As the debate got heated with Trump interrupting Biden, the moderator urged the president to allow his rival finish and then get the final word on the economy segment.

“Biden responded: “No, it is hard to get any word in with this clown”.

One of the most remarkable moments was when the moderator asked the president if he was willing to condemn white supremacists and armed groups fueling violence in the country.

Trump said he was willing to do that but quickly noted that the violence he had seen was from the left-wing.

Challenged to condemn them, he insisted that the opposition was responsible for the violent protests across the country and not white supremacists.

Trump renewed his attacks on the mail-in ballot, describing it as a disaster and adding that it would be a fraud on a scale never seen before.

Asked if he would refrain from declaring victory until the election results were officially announced, Trump said he would only “go along with that” if the exercise was credible.

Biden dismissed the president’s threat, saying there was nothing he could do once the results were announced and he lost.

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Gbajabiamila says Nigerians are afraid of police than criminals

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has said that the 9th House is dedicated to rebuilding policing in the country.

This was disclosed in opening remarks at the resumption of the House following a two-month holiday.

He noted that Nigerians are scared of police than criminals.

The speaker commended the President for approving the police reform act into law adding that the Nigeria Police force as presently constituted had failed to meet expectations of Nigerians

Recall that two weeks ago, President Muhammadu Buhari, signed the Police Reform Act into law. The Act is the first significant reform effort in a generation. It is the beginning and not the end of such measures. The Nigeria Police Force, as it currently operates, has too long and too often failed to meet the expectations of the Nigerian people.

“In many parts of our country, people are more afraid of encounters with the police than they are of criminals.

“That’s not right, and we can no longer stand for it. There will be, in this 9th House of Representatives, further legislation to improve police performance across the board and to introduce mechanisms for individual and collective accountability in the Nigeria Police Force. Our objective is nothing short of a total overhaul of the culture and practice of policing in Nigeria,” he stated.

He also revealed that the House has started work on the armed forces’ trust fund.

“In the same vein, we have begun, and we will expedite work on the Armed Forces Trust Fund Bill so that in the shortest possible time, finalise and pass legislation that ensures once and for all that the resources we need to protect the homeland are never at the mercy of politics or changes in policy or personnel.”

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Don’t become hidden godfathers to Obaseki – Oba of Benin warns Wike, other PDP Governors

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The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) about godfatherism, which the party campaigned against before the September 19 Edo State governorship election.

The monarch stated this on Tuesday, when five PDP governors, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Nyesom Wike of Rivers, Aminu Tanbuwal of Sokoto, Seyi Makinde of Oyo and Godwin Obaseki of Edo paid him a courtesy call.

Oba Ewuare told them not to control Obaseki, despite playing a big role in helping him win re-election.

He said, “I want to on this occasion plead with the PDP to guide against godfatherism and not to allow unscrupulous members to kill your party.

“I will tell the PDP governors not to become hidden godfathers that will be controlling Governor Obaseki.

“All hands should be on deck to work for Edo State and Edo people everywhere they may be. This is where everybody will be proud to belong to. I said the whole world is watching Edo State and I thank God and our ancestors that the election came without any violence.”

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Why we rejected Buhari’s candidate as PenCom DG – Senators

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The decision of President Muhammadu Buhari to seek the Senate approval for the appointment of Aisha Umar, as the Director General of the National Pension Commission, has caused a strong coalition among senators.

Some senators on Tuesday vehemently protested the nomination as soon as the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, read Buhari’s letter, seeking Umar’s confirmation as the substantive DG of the agency.

Six nominees for appointment as chairman, Director General and Executive Commissioners of National Pension Commission.

Others nominated as commissioners are Hannatu Musa (North-West); Clement Akintola (South-West); Ayim Nyerere, (South-East) and Charles Emukowhale (South-South).

Speaking on behalf of the aggrieved senators, the Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe, declared that Umar, from the North-East, should not have replaced the former DG, Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, who is from the South-East.

Abaribe said Buhari’s action was a flagrant breach of the Act that established the PenCom.

Section 20(1) and section 21(1) and (2) of the National Pension Commission Act 2014, states, “In the event of a vacancy, the President shall appoint a replacement from the geopolitical zone of the immediate past member that vacated office to complete the remaining tenure.”

Abaribe argued that Anohu -Amazu successor should come from the South-East.

He said, “I recall that the tenure of the incumbent was truncated. Therefore, the new letter from the president that has now moved the chairman of the commission to another zone may not be correct.

“It is against the law setting up the National Pension Commission and the Federal Character Commission.

“Before you (Lawan) send it to the appropriate committee tomorrow, (Wednesday), I wish to draw the attention of the committee to it.”

The Senate President rejected Abaribe’s point of order and observation.

He said, “That is for me to interpret because I interpret the laws here. If there is any petition to that effect it should be sent to the committee.”

A Senator from the North-Central, however, told newsmen on the condition of anonymity on Tuesday, that the lawmakers across party divides were opposed to the contravention of the Act by Buhari.

He said, “We are set to meet tonight (Tuesday) to harmonise our position.”

He recalled that an attempt by Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, to push for the nomination of Mr. Funsho Doherty from the South-West as Anohu-Amazu’s successor, was frustrated by a certain cabal in the Presidency.

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Archbishop Okeke builds house for physically-challenged girl

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The Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Most Reverend Valerian Okeke has built and furnished a bungalow for a girl born without arms, Miss Ada Aniwetalu.

The building has been handed over to her at Umuazu, Nteje in Oyi local government area of Anambra State.

At the handover ceremony, Archbishop Okeke said the unfortunate situation of the girl was brought to his attention by a Reverend Sister. What perhaps impressed the Archbishop most was that despite her disability, Ada writes and performs tasks with her toes.

He, therefore, resolved to help her achieve her life’s goals by placing her on a fully-paid scholarship together with her friend who resides with her and assists her in her daily chores.

In his characteristics manner, the cleric saw the need to provide her with a living apartment conducive for her personal development and studies and subsequently brought the plight of the girl to the attention of some individuals who contributed the money with which the project was realized in record time.

Details of those who contributed towards building the house were not given but in particular, the Archbishop commended the magnanimity of Senator Victor Umeh, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma (Ebube Muonso), Sir Ikem Osanakpo, and Sir Evaristus Ubah, among others.

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Okowa hails President Buhari for railways development

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State on Tuesday lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for his bi-partisan approach to governance which led to completion of the 326-kilometre Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri rail line.

He disclosed this at the inauguration of the Commercial Operations of Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri Rail line and Railway Ancillary Facility Yard at Goodluck Jonathan Railway Complex, Owa-Oyibu, Ika North East Local Government Area, of Delta State.

Okowa noted that the rail line which was conceived in 1987 under the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida suffered serious delay until it received attention from the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The governor expressed gratitude of Deltans and the people of Ika in particular, on the successful completion of the project under the watch of president Buhari.

He pledged his administration’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders, including the private sector, to initiate programmes and policies that would stimulate economic production in the adjoining communities and harness the untapped potential of the youth population.

Governor Okowa therefore urged private sectors to take advantage of the historic corridor by establishing investments that would create jobs for locals, curb youth restiveness and stem the tide of criminality.

He also called for collaboration between the Federal Government and states to provide adequate security cover for the rail line, adding that people would be encouraged to patronise the train services if they felt safe, secured and protected.

”Deltans are excited that this day has come,’’ he said, adding that “Ika nation is glad of the recognition accorded former President Goodluck Jonathan in naming the railway complex in Owa-Oyibu after him.

“We are excited as a people because the rail line has strong potential for stimulating socio-economic activities and bringing succour to low income earners.

“In the post-COVID-19 era where governments all over the world are looking for ways and means to rebuild their economies, this project has the capacity to kick-start new small-scale businesses, support existing ones and rejuvenate the rural economy.

“Although now a passenger and cargo line, it is my hope and expectation that the original intention of this project will be sustained for accelerated industrial growth and job creation.

”It is imperative that the Federal Government in collaboration with the States provide adequate security cover for this rail line corridor,” he said.

In a virtual inauguration of the rail line, President Buhari directed the Federal Ministry of Transportation to link all the nation’s seaports of origin and destination – Apapa, Tin Can, Warri, Onne, Calabar – to the rail network in order to significantly improve overall transportation and economic capacities.

He said that his administration recognised the importance of the railway mode of transportation as a vital backbone to support industrialization and economic development.

”Accordingly, I have approved the prioritization of viable railway routes for either new rail lines or the reconstruction and rehabilitation of some, to achieve effective and efficient train services supporting the country’s trade and commerce.

”The railway infrastructure that I have the honour to commission today is the rail line from Itakpe via the steel town complex of Ajaokuta to Warri, and it is an important link for the country’s economy as the central rail line.

”This government has also approved to link this line further from Itakpe to Abuja, thereby connecting the Northern zone of the country and also extending southwards to link the Warri Ports,” he said.

The president expressed confidence that the project, which served as a vital link of the South-South geopolitical zone of the country to the Northern zones, would be completed by his administration.

”It will link people across the cultural divides and expand the frontier of trade and commerce, which will lead to better standards of living for our citizens,” he said.

He restated that to further give recognition to Nigerian sons and daughters who had distinguished themselves at nation-building and development, 11 railway stations and railway villages were named after some deserving citizens.

Buhari listed them as Adamu Attah Station, Itakpe; Abubakar Olusola Saraki Station, Ajaokuta; Augustus Aikhomu Station, Itogbo; George Innih Station, Agenebode; Anthony Enahoro Station, Uromi; Tom Ikimi Station, Ekehen and Samuel Ogbemudia Station, Igbanke.

Others are Goodluck Jonathan Railway Complex, Owa-Oyibu; David Ejoor Station, Abraka; Michael Ibru Station, Okpara; Alfred Rewane Station, Ujevwu and Michael Akhigbe Railway Village, Agbor.

In his remarks, Edo Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, congratulated the President on the feat of completing the project, saying that it was quite fortuitous that few days to the country’s 60th independence celebration, the president had achieved the completion of the critical infrastructure.

”For us in Edo, we are excited that we have a few stops that have been completed and we are going to be working with you to utilise this infrastructure,” he said.

Obaseki appealed to the Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, to extend the rail line to the industrial park in Benin City to facilitate the movement of goods to the northern part of the country.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Transportation Minister had said that the project was fully funded by the Nigerian government, adding that eight of the 10 stations on the line were in the Niger-Delta/South South region of the country.

”There is no loan on this project; it was funded from the budget and I had the directive of the president to go and revive it and complete it as soon as possible,’’ he said.

He added that the project started under the military era in 1987 but ‘‘underwent protracted hiccups, prolonged abandonment and massive vandalisation,’’ before it was resuscitated by the Buhari administration.

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Don’t let them break, change you – Burna Boy tells Rema

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Burna Boy has supported Rema after the “Iron Man” singer had an emotional breakdown on Twitter.

Rema in a series of tweets touched a number of topics ranging from critics, management issues, fake love and rejection from girls and friends.

His tweets raised eyebrows and questions on social media about his relationship with his music label, Mavin.

However, Burna Boy who has been away from Twitter in his reaction to Rema’s tweet encouraged and hailed him for being real.

“I’m so happy I had to come back on Twitter for two minutes. Big up Rema for real bro, you really made my day. I dey for you officially,” his tweet read.

Burna Boy quoting one of Rema’s tweets in which he talked about how some friends left after his brother’s death said that his revelations warmed his heart and proved that he is a real man.

“It’s not too often (probably never) that an artiste from Nigeria says something so real that a ni**a like me can relate to.

“It warms my heart to see that there is still a place for real Niaz in this weird world where lies are the new truth and spoilt kids and people who have never even been in a real fist fight in their lives are the new ‘Real Niaz”.

He further advised Rema not to change, adding that he is one of the young artists he mentions when asked for new artists to look out for.

“You are one of the last of a dying breed. Don’t ever let them break you or change you.

“Since I heard his music, his name has been one of the names I have mentioned when asked what new artists to look out for. Check my interviews,” Burna Boy added.

Recall that Rema’s hit single “Iron Man” was featured on former US president, Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist.

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BREAKING: 2021 National budget to be presented next week – Senate

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Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, has revealed that the 2021 National budget would be presented to the joint session of the National Assembly next week.

Lawan stated this on Tuesday after over two hours’ executive session behind closed doors.

Revealing what was discussed upon resumption of plenary after a two-months’ annual holiday, the Senate President explained that the 2020 implementation of Nigeria’s annual budget has been disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He expressed the readiness of lawmakers to expeditiously deal with the proposed 2021 budget which would be submitted next week, advising that head of agencies of government should make themselves available for budget defence for seamless budget passage.

“As we make effort to attend to the expeditious passage of 2021, I want to advise Chief Executives of agencies of government to make themselves available to defend their budget on time.”

He expressed fears that the impact of COVID-19 against the nation would be devastating if nothing was done to mitigate such, saying that all arms of government should hastily rise to the occasion of ensuring that the economy was prevented from going into recession.

More so, he revealed that Senators have agreed behind closed doors that the electoral act is reviewed to ensure free and fair elections.

According to him, the chamber has taken note of time constraints in view of the general election, hence it would be treated with dispatch.

He also decried the high level of insecurity in Nigeria, stating that lawmakers will attend to the challenge.

“The country is bedeviled with enormous insecurity and the Senate would do all it could to address the ugly trend.”

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Boko Haram Attack: Governor Zulum meets families of killed policemen [PHOTOS]

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Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has met with families of policemen members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) killed by insurgents in an ambush with us on Friday in Borno.

It was reported that several security personnel was killed with some injured when the governor’s backup convoy was attacked along with Baga – Monguno road.

A statement by the Special Adviser, Media, and Strategy, Malam Isa Gusau, said Zulum had on Monday met with the bereaved family of fallen police, cement at the police headquarters in Maiduguri where he promised to assist the affected families.

Zulum said he was purposely there to sympathise and condole with brothers, sisters, and the families of the deceased policemen. “It is very unfortunate that the incident happened. May Almighty God in his infinite mercy forgive and reward them for their sacrifices and may God grant you the strength to bear the fortitude of this huge loss that is for all of us.

“It is so sad, looking at what happened. It is quite unfortunate and I am pained by that incident. “However, those men died as heroes, as patriots, and as people that have brought honour to their families even though we never wished that it happened. “Insha’ Allah, we shall do everything possible to support the families. The education of their children is very important in addition to the support for their means of livelihood. “I want to once again sympathise , with the families on behalf of the grateful people of Borno State.

“I condole with the Borno state police command, the CP, the Inspector General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, and entire Nigerians over the sad moment,” Zulum was quoted as saying. The governor was also at the state specialist hospital in Maiduguri where he consoled with those injured in the incident.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had reported that in less than 48 hours after an initial attack, Boko Haram insurgents have again ambushed Governor Zulum.

The attack happened on Sunday, September 27, along the Monguno-Maiduguri axis of the state. The attack occurred while the convoy of the governor was reportedly returning from Monguno, about 80km drive from Maiduguri, the capital of the state.

Meanwhile, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has said the federal government and the military have a lot of questions to answer following the recent Boko Haram attack on the convoy of Zulum.

The spokesperson for the ACF, Emmanuel Yawe in a statement said the attacks on the governor have raised doubts on the ability of the military to defend the nation. According to the northern-based group, it is alarmed that Boko Haram has continued to launch deadly attacks despite the security assurances given by the military and the federal government.

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APC reacts as ex-Delta Gov, Uduaghan returns to PDP

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The Delta State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that it would not miss the former Governor of the State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, who defected from the party to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday.

The APC announced this on Monday in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Sylvester Imonina in Asaba, while reacting to Uduaghan’s defection.

According to the statement, the Delta APC will not miss him in any way because APC accommodated him out of compassion as an orphaned politician displaced by the same PDP he has returned to.

“In the past two weeks, there have been rumours of perfection of plans by the former Governor to defect to the PDP. Today, the 28th of September, 2020, those behind the rumour have been justified by the formal defection by him to the PDP.

“Well, for records purpose, Gov. Uduaghan came into APC as a loner, and he has returned to where he came from in the same way.

“In politics and in line with freedom of association as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, he has the right to choose whosoever to associate with for whatever reasons.

“However, he should not forget the fact that when the PDP was uninhabitable for him, he was housed by Delta APC, despite the fact that he did not come to APC with anybody,” the party said.

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Kyari commends labour for suspending planned strike

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Mr Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has hailed the decision of labour leaders to suspend their planned protest scheduled to have commenced Monday.

Kyari, in a tweet on his official Twitter handle on Monday praised the leadership of the unions for choosing the pursuit ofthe common good.

He said “Being a former union leader, I understand the difficulties of labour leadership when faced with choices between stark realities and legitimate follower expectations.

“The leadership chose the pursuit of common good and posterity will vindicate us all for standing with our country.”

Kyari said the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had by their action demonstrated absolute faith in the country.

They showed understanding of the inevitability of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) deregulation and jointly charted the way forward to secure local refining sufficiency through greater stakeholder inclusiveness and transparency.

“We will follow through diligently,” he added.

Goldennationblog.com had earlier reported that the NLC and TUC had suspended the strike at the early hours of Monday following a meeting with the Federal Government.

Labour had called for the strike in protest against the recent hike in electricity tariffs and pump price of PMS commonly referred to as petrol.

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Why Buhari should implement 8th Senate resolution on killings – Sen. Marafa

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The former lawmaker representing Zamfara Central, Sen. Kabir Marafa has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to implement the eighth Senate resolution on the bandits’ killings in Zamfara State to curtail the spillover to neighbouring Katsina and Sokoto.

The lawmaker who represented Zamfara Central in the eighth Senate urged the Federal Government to extend a “small fraction” of what was being done in the North-East to Zamfara State.

“The resolution was passed towards the end of the 8th National Assembly, where we called on the Federal Government to extend a small fraction of what has been done in North-East in Zamfara, by constituting a Presidential Initiative Committee on Zamfara State, give the Committee seed money of N10 billion and the same amount to be given every year for 10 years to assist the situation on the ground,” he said.

The former lawmaker stated this while addressing newsmen shortly after he gave out 13 female orphans and his daughter for marriage in Kaduna on Saturday.

The 13 female orphans, according to the former lawmaker, lost their parents to bandits attacks in Zamfara State.

According to him, between 2011 and 2019, there are over 40,000 orphans whose parents were killed by bandits in Zamfara.

So, I am calling on Mr. President as the father of the nation to look at that Senate resolution of 2019 and implement it because that is the only way we can curtail the spillover we are now seeing in Katsina, Sokoto, and other places.

When people are hungry and somebody gives them an N100,000 and AK47 rifle, they will follow the person, but if these orphans are properly catered for and trusted persons are appointed to manage the resources, we can subdue the monster called banditry to the barest minimum,” law urged

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BREAKING: NLC, TUC suspend nationwide protest

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The two major labour groups in Nigeria have suspended their planned nationwide protest scheduled to hold today.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) had scheduled September 28 for a nationwide rally to protest increases in the prices of petrol and electricity.

Part of the agreement reached include reversal of the new electricity tariff for a period of two weeks pending the outcome of a technical Committee. The committee is collaborating on the new tariff regime metering among others for more understanding.

In a communique signed by the minister of labour employment, chris Ngige as both organised labour and government agreed that another steering committee be set up on the petroleum downstream to ensure the nation reduces importation by fixing the existing refineries.

Other agreements reached include A specific amount to be unveiled by the federal government in two weeks’ time which will be isolated from the Economic Sustainability Programme Intervention Fund and be accessed by Nigerian Workers with subsequent provision for 240,000 under the auspices of NLC and TUC for participation in agricultural ventures through the CBN and the Ministry of Agriculture. The timeline will be fixed at the next meeting.

Agreements were reached that the Federal Government will facilitate the removal of tax on minimum wage as a way of cushioning the impacts of the policy on the lowest vulnerable.

Also agreed is that the Federal Government will make available to organized labour 133 CNG/LPG driven mass transit buses in the country and upscale-upon the major cities across the Country on a scale up basis thereafter to all States and Local Governments before December 2021.

The meeting equally agreed that 10% be allocated to Nigerian workers under the ongoing Ministry of Housing and Finance initiative through the NLC and TUC.

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Attack on Gov. Zulum’s convoy, a distraction – says NGF

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The Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) has condemned the Saturday attack on two convoys of Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno along Maiduguri Baga Road, by Boko Haram insurgents, describing it as a distraction.

This is contained in a statement signed by its Chairman, Gov. Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi on Sunday in Abuja while commiserating with the people and government of Borno over the incidence.

According to the statement, one of the convey belongs to the governor while the other belongs to the committee on Baga reconstruction.

“As Progressive Governors, we are saddened by this dastardly attack, which has resulted in the unfortunate death of precious lives of security personnel and innocent citizens.

“The attack of Saturday, Sept. 26, on the two convoys by the Boko Haram insurgents is to distract the government from ensuring that life return to normal in Borno.

“While we commiserate with the Government and people of Borno, we call on the Federal Government to immediately provide more logistical support to security agencies deployed to Borno.

“This, it said, was critical to ensure speedy return to normal life in Borno and the North East generally.

It added that the progressive governors on their part will continue to support their colleagues to ensure peace and tranquility in the area.

“We reaffirm our commitment to support our security agencies to end all activities of Boko Haram in all parts of Nigeria.

“We join our brother, Gov. Zulum, our leaders in Borno and Nigerians to pray for the repose of the souls of all those who lost their lives.

In this unbearable period, Nigerians should be strengthened by the determination of Gov. Zulum to expedite peace building process in Borno and indeed the whole of North East,” the statement said.

It charged Nigerians to rise in support of the laudable initiatives of Borno Government to return citizens in the state to normal life.

It noted that the strategies and tactics currently adopted by Borno State and security agencies were very effective.

The statement, however, stressed that there was a need for all to rise in support of the people and government of Borno to end all activities of Boko Haram insurgents, which promoted trade and tax administration that funded their heinous activities.

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Labour ready for nationwide strike – NLC

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President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ayuba Wabba, on Sunday confirmed that all affiliate unions of the organized labour were ready for the nationwide strike.

He made the declaration in Abuja at a meeting with the House of Representatives Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Wabba said the NLC would go ahead with the strike if its demands are not met before the expiration of the ultimatum.

The deadline expires on Sunday night.

Wabba said the increase in electricity tariff and hike in fuel price had eroded the purchasing power of the Nigerian workers.

The labor leader noted that the initial plan was to ensure that there was no increment in electricity tariff until meters are provided for Nigerians.

He added that there was a valid court judgment nullifying the electricity tariff.

To this end, Wabba said National Industrial Court judgment asking NLC to stop its planned strike could not be sustained.

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Buhari under attack for allegedly authorizing presidential jet for aide’s wedding

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President Muhammadu Buhari has come under attack for allegedly authorizing the use of the Presidential Jet for the wedding of one of his aides, Bashir Ahmad.

Reno Omokri, in s statement to newsmen on Saturday, called on the President to refund the National Treasury the cost of using the Presidential Jet for his PA’s wedding.

President Buhari’s assistant on New Media, Bashir Ahmad wedded in Katsina on Friday and the Presidential Jet was said to have been used to ferry him and others in the Presidential Villa to the venue.

The Presidency is said to have denied using the jet to ferry Bashir, saying that it only flew the President’s representatives, but Omokri insists the excuse is flawed and shows that after five years in office, Buhari still does not understand statecraft.

Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan noted that a Presidential jet is not the property of the President but of the nation, for use in ferrying him (the President) to and fro his official functions.

The former Presidential aide recalled that a similar incident happened in South Africa when on September 12, 2020, it was discovered that President Cyril Ramaphosa had allowed his Minister of Defence, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, to travel by South Africa’s Presidential Jet for an official meeting of the African National Congress.

According to him, “Once this came to light, the Julius Malema led Economic Freedom Fighters pressure group, insisted that the President and his party must reimburse the national treasury for the cost of the trip, as well as suspend the Defence Minister.

“In less than 48 hours, the ANC capitulated and reimbursed the national treasury, and the fate of the Defence Minister is hanging in the balance.

“Also, the Office of the Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, is investigating the ANC and the government over the incident. That is how it should be.

“It is a significant breach of his fiduciary duties for General Buhari to give out the Presidential jet to his Personal Assistant, Bashir Ahmed’s wedding in Katsina on Friday, September 27, 2020. This is a private event that has no bearing on Nigeria.

“And the excuse given by the Presidency that the jet did not ferry Bashir, but only flew the President’s representatives is flawed and shows that after five years in office, General Buhari still does not understand statecraft.

“If this had occurred in the United Kingdom, it could have caused the government to fall. I understand that standards have slipped in Nigeria since 2015, but we must at least pretend to be a civilised nation.

“The Buhari administration keeps complaining that times are hard, but they are living large at our expense and Nigerians should not take this lying low from a government that just increased fuel price and power tariff.

“The wedding of your subordinates is a private affair. It is not an official function.

“I, therefore, call on General Buhari to reimburse the national treasury for the cost of fuelling the Presidential jet to Katsina for Bashir Ahmad’s wedding, as well as the cost of paying the crew.

“I also call on the President to suspend all public officials involved in this abuse of office. Failure to do so is proof positive that the President is not in charge of his government and his anti-corruption war is, in reality, an anti-opposition war.”

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Boko Haram: Attack on my convoy by terrorists unfortunate – Governor Zulum

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The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has defined the attack on his convoy on Friday as most unfortunate.

Zulum, however, said it would not deter his plan to ensure all Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, return to their homes after a long stay in the camps in order to resume their activities as free and not restricted people.

The Governor, who was in Baga despite the setback on his convoy, where 12 policemen, 13 civilians, and 5 soldiers lost their lives as a result of the ambush by suspect Boko Haram militants, also saluted the efforts of the security operatives for fighting gallantly and repelling the attack.

He observed that, although there was a loss of lives, which is very unfortunate, he still has confidence that peace will return to Borno State, the northeast, and Nigeria.

“We have seen the level of work done by the Resettlement Committee, we have seen the renewed efforts of the Nigeria Military and I think so far so good, we have achieved a lot in our collective effort and plan for the Resettlement of the Baga Community under the phase one relocation exercise.

“We have put in place a befitting primary health care facility, we have rehabilitated water supply distribution network, and we have also put in place needed infrastructure for a smooth start of Education programmes.

The most important of all to ensure these things kick start without facing difficulty is the establishment of civil authorities, which on the ground. We have renovated the Houses of the Traditional Rulers, built Police Station and Markets among others. We are sure that we are good to go,” Zulum said

Speaking further on the attack, Zulum said, “What happened is unfortunate, but this will never deter us from fulfilling our mandate on the safe return of our IDPs.

“We shall remain resolute, we shall remain courageous, and we shall remain determined to ensure the people that are willing to return back of adequate security.”

Meanwhile, the Senator Representing Northern Borno, Sen. Abubakar S Kyari, Speaker BOSHA, Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, Hon. TM Monguno, and Hon. Malum Bukar, Gana Kareto also arrived in Baga town for the resettlement of the community.

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Presidency 2023: Peter Obi denies campaign posters circulated online

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Former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, vice presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has responded to campaign posters circulating online ahead of the 2023 presidency.

The campaign poster which surfaced online on Friday, has Obi running for president while Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Kano State Governor is his running mate.

The Slogan on the campaign poster reads: “For equity and fairness 2023” with Obi and Kwankwaso running the or presidency on the PDP platform in 2023.

The former Anambra State governor, however, denied involvement in the poster.

Obi in a short statement on his verified Twitter page wrote: “I am not a part of the poster being circulated. – PO.”

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COVID-19 in Rivers: Why violators of marriage, burial protocols will pay N100m – Rivers Govt

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Violators of Covid-19 protocols ordered during marriages and burials in Rivers state are now liable to a fine of one hundred million naira (N100,000,000) according to new guidelines and penalties stipulated by the state government.

The latest decree was the outcome of Friday’s Emergency Executive Council Meeting in which the Rivers State Government also approved reopening of schools in the State from Monday 5 October 2020, except for nursery and primaries schools still pending.

Highlights of the council meeting captured in a statement by Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paulinus Nsirim, quoted his counterpart on Social Welfare, Mrs. Inime Aguma as saying that, “Government reviewed compliance of citizens as it relates to Executive Order 16 on conduct of marriages in the State.

“Henceforth, applications for marriages must be accompanied with an affidavit stating that there would be no reception. A fine of One Hundred Million Naira awaits defaulters of the Extant Regulations. Local Government chairmen are to be held responsible if they fail to monitor compliance in their various areas.”

On the reviewed requirements for public burials during the COVID-19 period, Commissioner for Health, Prof Princewill Chike said, “All public burials in Rivers are to be conducted in line with the Official Gazette of the State which stipulates not more than 50 persons allowed at such ceremonies.

“Henceforth, families applying for burials must provide death certificates and an affidavit that they must adhere strictly with all COVID-19 protocols. Defaulters would be liable to a fine of One Hundred Million Naira while LG Chairmen are to ensure that the directives are complied within their various areas.”

On reopening of schools, Commissioner for Education, Prof Kaniye Ebeku announced that all Secondary Schools, Vocational Schools, Universities and other Tertiary Institutions were affected by the 5 October resumption directive.

Ebeku clarified that Council did not approve reopening of primary schools based on expert medical advice while a seven-man Taskforce to monitor and enforce compliance of COVID-19 protocols in the various schools has also been set up.

The Taskforce, has Administrator of Greater Port Harcourt Development Authority, Ambassador Desmond Akawor who also chairs Rivers Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Chairman while Mr. Rufus Godwins, Head of the State Civil Service and Commissioner for Health, Prof Princewill Chike are among members.

Also to serves as members are Commissioner for Social Welfare, Mrs. Inime Aguma, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nwankpa, and Commissioner for Information and Communications, Nsirim with the Commissioner for Education, Prof Kaniye Ebeku as Secretary.

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Man arrested for killing 70-year-old father in Anambra

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A 26-year-old man, Chisom Ogum, has allegedly killed his father, Christopher Ogum, in Anambra State.

The incident occurred on Saturday in Umuomaku in the Orumba South Local Government Area of the state.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, who confirmed the incident said the suspect had been arrested.

He said the suspect is a member of amok in a circumstance yet to be ascertained before he attacked and killed the father.

Mohammed said, “On Saturday, about 6 am police operatives attached to Umunze Division in collaboration with a local vigilante group arrested one Chisom Ogum(26) of Umuomaku Community in Orumba South LGA of Anambra State.

“Suspect allegedly ran amok in circumstances yet to be ascertained, attacked and killed his own biological father, one Christopher Ogum(70) of the same address with a shovel and buried him in a shallow grave.

“The suspect attempted to escape before he was apprehended and beaten to stupor by an angry crowd who equally forced him to exhume the corpse of his father from where he buried it.

The PPRO said the police had deposited the victim in the morgue for autopsy after it was certified dead by a medical doctor at the Umunze General Hospital.

He said the “offensive weapon” used in perpetrating the offence was recovered as an exhibit, adding that the Commissioner of Police in the state, John Abang, had ordered that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka, for discreet investigation.

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BREAKING: 30 dead as Boko Haram terrorists attack Gov. Zulum’s convoy, kills soldiers, policemen

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The death toll from the Boko Haram attack on the convoy of Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has risen to 30, according to security sources.

Two sources told AFP the number of fatalities from the attack Friday had doubled as more bodies were found and now included 12 policemen, five soldiers, four members of a government-backed militia, and nine civilians.

“The tally has increased to 30 as many bodies were picked in the surrounding areas after the attack,” one of the sources said, adding that “many people were injured”.

It was gathered that an ambush on the convoy of the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Friday left about 15 persons dead.

The governor’s convoy was said to have been attacked between Monguno and Baga areas of the state.

A security source said the attack left mainly security personnel comprising eight policemen, three soldiers, and four Civilian Joint Task Force operatives dead

A source at the Borno State Government House in Maiduguri also told newsmen that the governor had left Maiduguri for Baga to prepare for the planned return of internally displaced persons from Maiduguri to the camps in Baga.

The governor was said to have left Maiduguri with an entourage of armed soldiers, police officers, and Civilian-JTF personnel.

A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that he was told eight persons were killed, including security personnel and civilians.

Friday’s incident is the second attack on the governor’s convoy in recent times around Baga.

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Associate denies marriage between Air Chief, Buhari’s minister

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As news continued to spread on the purported marriage between the Nigerian Chief of the Air Staff, Sadique Baba Abubakar, and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, a VOA Hausa report has quoted a close friend of the Air boss describing the report as false.

It was reported that Sadique and Sadiya got married in a mosque located in the Maitama high brow area of Abuja on the 18th of September, 2020.

However, the VOA Hausa reported that when contacted on the matter, senior Air Force officers in Abuja said they were not aware of the marriage.

“Even an intimate friend of the Air boss, who was in charge of his affairs, said he had inquired from his friend the Chief of Air Staff, and he told him the story was a fallacy.”

A public commentator, Mohammed Usman, told the VOA that it won’t be a surprise if the duo decided to marry secretly.

“They are adults, they may decide to marry secretly in this period of a pandemic to observe the protocol. Again, they are not children, they are senior citizens.

“But where the proverbial spider spins its cobweb, was that the Sadique has denied this marriage with the minister.

“So we should be careful, rumors shouldn’t be peddled, especially by media outlets that the public relied upon with confidence,” he said.

According to the VOA, associates of the minister who were contacted said they will not comment because they were not aware of such marriage took place.

In a related development, an Islamic scholar, Sheikh, disclosed that the religion of Islam does not encourage secret marriage.

“Marriage should be publicised, celebrated. That is why even light beating of a drum, the dog, was allowed during the marriage, ” he said.

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I will rule for 67 years, nobody can remove me as king – Oluwo of Iwo

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The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has bragged that he would spend 67 years more on the throne.

The monarch stated this on Friday while speaking to his supporters at his place.

Residents of the town thronged to his palace on a solidarity walk, in opposition to the petition by the 12 kingmakers urging the Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, to remove him from the throne over alleged misconduct.

“I have 67 more years to spend on the throne. I am going to live for 120 years. Those who want me out and want to become OLUWO should wait because this is my time.

“With this crowd that engaged in this solidarity walk, it is obvious that I am in the good books of my people. That is why you are all standing in support of me.

“If I had not been good my people, you would have stoned me today. In as much as I am being loved by my people, nobody can remove me from being the king,” Oba Akanbi said.

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See what FG did to French, Indian, Egyptian nationals

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The federal government has announced the deportation of 19 foreigners to their various countries.

Those affected include French, Indian, Egyptian, and Sri Lankan nationals.

This was contained in a statement on Friday by the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS and was made available to newsmen.

According to the statement, the deportation order was signed by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola.

The statement added that the order is in accordance with the Section 45 Subsection (2) and Section 46 Subsection (1), and Section 47 Subsection (1) of the Immigration Act 2015.

It added that one of the deportees, Ali Mahamat, was deported to France while another, Kasinayhan Ramasamy, was deported to India.

While Mr. Mahamat was reportedly found engaged in activities capable of undermining the security of a friendly neighbouring country to Nigeria in Maiduguri, Borno State, Mr. Ramasamy was found illegally working as a shop attendant in Kano.

Also, the statement said an additional 10 Egyptians who had violated the conditions for their entry were deported, while seven Sri Lankans, who were earlier jailed for petroleum product-related offences after serving their jail terms, were ordered by the courts to be deported to their country.

The public is advised to note that all special exemptions granted to migrants due to COVID-19 have elapsed”, the statement added.

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Fayemi denies alleged suspension, says he remain APC leader in Ekiti

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Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has faulted his purported suspension as a member of the All Progressives Congress in the state.

This was contained in a statement titled ‘Governor Fayemi’s purported suspension: A joke taken too far” on Friday.

In the statement, Fayemi’s Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, said those behind the governor’s suspension belonged to an “unknown group”.

He said, “The All Progressives Congress as a party is governed by laws. Members of the group cannot hide under their recent suspension to announce a dubious suspension they lack the locus to handle.

“While one would have dismissed their claims as another failed attempt to polarise the party in the state, it is also important to put it on record that the action of the group smacks of criminal impersonation as none of those who signed the purported suspension letter were executive members of the party at ward, local government or state level.

“The action is but a joke taken too far as they never had such power they want to arrogate to themselves while they were members of the party, much less now that they have been suspended.

“Governor Fayemi however remains unperturbed by these antics of the suspended members.

Well-meaning members of the public as well as members of the APC are urged to disregard the news of the purported suspension as it only exists in the imagination of members of the group.

“Fayemi remains the indisputable leader of the APC in the state.”

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See what Delta Assembly did for committee members

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A five-day workshop for members of the Public Accounts Committee of the Delta State House of Assembly has opened in Asaba, with a call on participants to take advantage of the training to add value and increase their efficiency.

Speaker of the House, Chief Sherrif Oborevwori, while declaring the workshop open, said the training was part of measures of strengthening transparency and accountability in the governance of the State.

Organized by the World Bank, European Union, in collaboration with the Delta State Government through the State Employment and Expenditure for Results, SEEFOR project, the workshop has as its theme “strengthening the capacity of the Public Accounts Committee, to perform oversight functions”.

Oborevwori said the Public Accounts Committee was one of the highly empowered committees of the Assembly established by sections 85 and 125 of the 1999 constitution as amended to help the Legislature achieve its mandate of ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance.

The Chairman of the House Committee on public accounts, Mr. Anthony Elekeokwuri said the workshop was geared towards deepening the knowledge of members on how to improve their oversight functions.

The Lawmaker said the training program would attempt to cure the erroneous belief that Public Accounts Committee was only a post mortem body, saying that the concept of public financial management and control of public funds was also to be discussed.

Elekeokwuri who represents Ika North East in the House disclosed that a template that will serve as a working tool for the Committee would be produced at the end of the training program.

He pledged the commitment of members towards transparency and accountability in the management of public funds in the state.

The Deputy Chairman of the Committee and Member Representing Uvwie constituency in the House, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata in his remarks said the workshop would further broaden the knowledge of Committee members in carrying out their oversight functions.

Other members of the Committee include Emeka Nwaobi, Peter Uviejitobor, Fred Martins, Felix Anira, and Charles Onyinye, while Mr. Alex Joe is the Committee Clerk.

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Buhari receives Obaseki, Shaibu in courtesy visit [PHOTOS]

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday received the re-elected governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Phillip Shaibu in Abuja.

Recall Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, and his deputy Shaibu, was declared the winner of the just concluded governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Obaseki who contested the election with his major rival, Pastor Ize-Iyamu, pulled more votes than his opponent despite supports from the formal National Chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole.

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BREAKING: APC suspends Governor Fayemi, give reasons

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The Executive Committee of All Progressives Congress, APC, Ekiti State, has suspended Governor Kayode Fayemi.

A statement by the party on Friday said the governor was suspended due to “his numerous anti-party activities, especially his role in the recently concluded governorship election in Edo State, which is contrary to the provisions of Article 21 (A) (ii) of the APC Constitution.”

The party said five days before the Edo election, Fayemi hosted Mr. Femi Fani- Kayode, a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, in Ado Ekiti and planned a coup against Edo APC.

A second allegation against Governor Fayemi was that he played a role in the governorship election in Oyo State and supported the PDP candidate to defeat the APC candidate.

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Panic as tanker explosion injures 30 in Lagos, Ogun [VIDEO]

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About 30 persons were on Thursday injured as a gas tanker exploded into flames in Iju-Ishaga and Iju-Ajuwon communities in Ifako-Ijaiye council area of Lagos State.

The explosion rocked Ogun State communities on the Lagos border.

A massive fire resulted from the blast.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the incident.

The agency’s Southwest Coordinator, Ibrahim Farinloye told newsmen that their officials were immediately mobilised to the scene, as were fire servicemen.

He said: “Yes, a tanker exploded at Balogun Bus stop, Iju Ishaga. The tanker was trying to enter a gas plant when it exploded. There were domestic cylinders there and so, those ones also started exploding.

It was gathered that the explosion resulted from a gas tanker that suddenly went up in flames as it entered a ditch on its way to a new gas plant in a residential neighborhood.

About 23 buildings and 15 vehicles were burnt.

A lawyer, Fisayo Eluyare, who was among those who raised the alarm said the explosion nearly brought down his house.

He wrote: “Gas explosion nearly brought my house down! The explosion didn’t even happen very close to my house, but it shook the whole house and almost shattered my windows.”

“People sustained burn injuries but no deaths reported yet. We have contacted the fire service. We appeal to people to stay away from the area,” he said.

Roads in the area were closed while motorists were advised to use alternative routes.

The situation was later brought under control, vehicular movement was restored.

Residents appealed to the state government to relocate gas plants operating in the residential area.

It was unclear at press time if anyone died in the incident.

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Edo Election: How US, UK helped Obaseki to win Ize-Iyamu – Wike reveals

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Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has attributed the adjudged free and fair governorship election in Edo State to the threat of visa ban on politicians by the United Kingdom and the United States prior to the polls.

Incumbent Governor, Godwin Obaseki defeated his closest challenger and candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu in the election, last Saturday.

Before the election proper, there were fears of violence and massive rigging from the PDP and APC.

The Oba of Benin had even called a peace meeting among leaders of the two leading political parties.

But Wike, who was the Chairman of the PDP Campaign Council for the Edo election believes that a free and fair election became possible because of the threat of a is a ban recently made by the US and UK.

Last Monday, the US government announced the ban on some Nigerians, who undermined the country’s democracy by involving in election rigging.

Wike, who appeared on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, said, “They were out to win at all cost but I think that one thing that played out which I noticed was that take, for example, the US, the UK came to say, ‘look, there will be a visa ban if anybody tries anything in terms of violence, in terms of rigging …so everyone was just careful… ‘look, I don’t want to have a problem. I don’t want my family to have a problem. We all go to the UK every time.”

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Delta: Hotel Staff stripped naked by ex-Minister Gbagi, threaten legal action, demand N1bn, apology [photos]

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Four staff of Signatious Hotel, Warri, Delta State, who were reportedly stripped naked by the owner of the hotel and former Minister of State for Education, Kenneth Gbagi, have threatened legal action against him.

They also demanded N1bn compensation and a public apology from the former minister.

The victims’ legal team led by Kunle Edun of Tri-Lex Partners law firm, made the demands, among others in a letter sent to Gbagi on Wednesday.

They gave the former minister a five-day ultimatum to meet all their demands or face legal action.

It was gathered how Precious Achibong, Victor Ephraim, Gloria Oguzie, and Roselyn Okiemute, were stripped naked and detained at the Ebrumede Police Station for allegedly stealing N5,000 belonging to the governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party.

“That after the guest’s stay, he gave our clients the sum of N105, 000.00 (One Hundred and Five Thousand Naira) as tips for the good time that he had at the hotel. This again is not unusual in the hospitality business. That the hotel did not lose any money neither was any alleged to have been stolen. That when you got wind of what happened (most likely you refused to believe that there are still honest Nigerians) you summoned our clients to your office immediately and subjected them to torturous interrogations (in the presence of your armed mobile policemen) where you demanded that all the tips given to our clients must be returned to you.

“You told our clients menacingly that they are not entitled to tips, as all tips belong to you. As a matter of fact, you categorically stated that they were not supposed to have monies in their accounts as long as they were working for you. This is not surprising, because according to our clients, you hardly paid staff salaries regularly and at times the staff worked without pay for months.

“That on Thursday, the 17th of September, 2020 you forcibly took our clients to the hotel warehouse and later to your office (also at the hotel’s restaurant) in the presence and active assistance of the armed mobile policemen (paid by taxpayers) and at gunpoint ordered our clients to pull off their clothes.

“That you were still not done. You summoned the other staff of the hotel to see the nakedness of our clients. They were shocked at what you and your son were doing but still had to look at the shameful sight because they were afraid of you. They also joined in taking snapshots. You took every pride and dignity that our clients had away from them and according to you, that is the way thieves should be treated. You became the accuser, the judge, and the executioner.

“That the case of the married woman is even more pathetic. She was assigned to the food and beverage department. You alleged that there was a shortage of N1,000.00 in her sales for the 18th of September, 2020, and demanded that she returned the money, notwithstanding the fact that she was not the staff directly responsible. But as the Supervisor she promised to return the N1, 000.00.

“That at gunpoint, you forcibly collected their ATM cards and used the hotel’s Point On Sale device to transfer all the monies in our clients’ bank accounts. You withdrew the sum of N111, 000.00 from the account of Victor Ephraim on Friday, the 18th of September, 2020. At the same time also you unlawfully withdrew the sum of N176, 500.00 (One Hundred and Seventy-Six Thousand Five Hundred Naira) from the account of Gloria Oguzie.

“You withdrew the sum of N5, 000.00 (Five Thousand Naira) from Okiemute Roseline Diaghwarhe which you claimed was what she “stole” from you. Precious Achibong had already under duress, refunded the sum of N2, 000.00 even though the alleged shortage from her daily sale was N1,000.00 but you still subjected her to this infamous show of bestiality.

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How CAMA Act will fight corruption in Nigeria – Buhari tells UN

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday explained that Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 (CAMA) will enhance transparency and corporate accountability in the fight against corruption.

Buhari disclosed this in a video message presented at the Open Government Partnership (OGP) 2020 Virtual Leaders’ Summit on the sidelines of the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA75) in New York.

The president said since the inception of his administration in 2015, the government has been committed to changing international fighting domestic perceptions regarding Nigeria’s commitment to fighting corruption.

”We focused on the task of dealing head-on with this destructive monster, which led to us joining the Open Government Partnership and making reform commitments such as to establish a public central register of beneficial owners of corporate entities.

“We have made significant progress in implementing tougher anti-corruption measures, including my recent assent to the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020. The Act provides a legal framework for the implementation of Beneficial Ownership Information Disclosure in Nigeria.

“Being an OGP member-country has helped Nigeria learn from other countries tackling similar challenges, and to build a coalition to support these reforms across the private sector and civil society. It has also aided our journey towards building citizens’ trust in government,” Buhari noted.

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Magu: Malami refuses to testify before Salami panel

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The Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has written a letter to the Presidential panel probing the suspended acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ibrahim Magu.

Malami, who is also the Minister of Justice, told the panel led by Justice Ayo Salami that he would not be able to appear before the investigative body because of the privileges of his office.

The development comes less than two weeks after the AGF boasted that he would appear before the panel to testify if he was invited.

Magu’s legal team led by Mr. Wahab Shittu, had written Malami, demanding that he appear before the panel to substantiate the allegations he preferred against the suspended EFCC boss.

However, it was learnt that during the sitting of the panel on Wednesday, Salami read out a letter from Malami stating that he would no longer be able to appear.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, on Thursday, a lawyer to Magu, Mr. Tosin Ojaomo, said they were all shocked when Justice Salami read out the letter.

He said, “We were all gathered at the Presidential Villa for the day’s proceedings when Justice Salami read out a letter from the AGF. The AGF stated that he would not be able to testify because his constitutional role does not include testifying. He said his duty was to prosecute and file charges.

“I was shocked because Section 174 of the constitution does not give the AGF such privileges. Isn’t it funny that the AGF who levelled a series of allegations against Magu is now refusing to substantiate the allegations that emanated from his office?”

When contacted on the telephone, the Spokesman for the AGF, Dr. Umar Gwandu, asked journalists to send him a text message and he would respond appropriately.

However, he had yet to do so as of press time.

Recall Magu was suspended in July based on some reports by investigative panels set up by the AGF.

Some of the allegations were that Magu was unable to account for the interest accrued to over N500bn in recovered funds and that he allegedly bought a house in Dubai for N570m.

The suspended EFCC boss was also said to be at loggerheads with the AGF and had refused to obey instructions from his office.

However, in the course of the investigation by the panel, the probe was extended to several other cases including that of convicted former Inspector-General of Police, Tafa Balogun.

Over 40 persons including those standing trial for corruption have testified before the panel, a move which has been criticised by Magu’s team and other anti-corruption groups.

The panel is supposed to have ended its sitting since last month but was given a six-week extension which ends this month

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School Children, over 20 Others burnt to death in Kogi Tanker explosion

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A tanker accident, which resulted in fire, on Wednesday killed many people in Lokoja, Kogi State.

Among those burnt to death are school children, traders, and pedestrians along Lokoja-Abuja Road.

The casualty figure was reported to be over 20 as the fire spread widely.

It was gathered that the driver of the tanker conveying petrol lost control as the truck rammed into a tricycle and oncoming vehicles before going up in flames.

Firefighters and emergency personnel were on the ground rescuing victims.

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We want our own country – Yoruba leader, Akintoye to Buhari

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The leader Kiriji Yoruba ethnic group, Professor Banji Akintoye has declared that the Yoruba ethnic group is in terrible need of its own country out of present Nigeria.

Akintoye said that over 55 million people of Yoruba extraction, will get their freedom without breaking the law of the country or shedding blood.

The renowned historian made these declarations on Wednesday, during the celebration of the Kiriji war held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

It was gathered that the kiriji war happened in Yoruba land many decades ago.

Present at the celebration included Otun Olubadan, High Chief Lekan Balogun who represented the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Otunba Deji Osibogun, Wale Alabi, Comrade Olu Omotosho, Opeoluwa Elisha Ademoyegun and Iyanda Wasiu.

Akintoye while insisting that nothing would stop the liberation of Yoruba from its enemies, awakened the youths, who he said, were very important in the fight for struggle.

He said, “We have been saying we will have the Yoruba nation of our own. Yoruba World Congress is committed to helping the Yoruba nation to secure its position in the comity of nations.

“They do say I don’t compromise. It is not every time. But once we say, we will take a common stance, I don’t know how to betray. We will get the Yoruba nation free without violence, we will not break the laws of Nigeria. If there is anyone who wants to be violent, we will tell them, no.

“If you are violent and there are dead bodies on the streets, you are circumventing our purpose. We are telling the world that we want our own country. We have the right demand for rights. When we launched Amotekun, was there any arrest, violence? If you want to stage a rally, do so. It’s your rights but no violence.

“I have a passion for the youths. If you don’t have people who can take after you, no matter the amount of wealth you have it’s nothing. These youths are important. We elders can only guide and lead you. We can write letters but it is you who will do it. It must succeed. Anybody saying the contrary, I’m not part of that idea.

“In the past of 30 and 40 years ago, the youths have not been the same again. I graduated from the University College Ibadan in the morning and by evening my wife and I were employed. I can’t do the things I’m doing now if I don’t have the youths around me.

“We are hurting our future in a very vicious way. Yoruba is 55 million, 74 percent are 40 years, and. Step forward and. They have the authority of the land to say you can’t do it. Go back home. No violence. Go to market places, mechanic workshops, farmers on their way to the farms. If you can do this, getting our resolve done will not be difficult.”
“We don’t force our will on people. Explain to those organizations who don’t understand what you want. Yoruba will not suffer. We are the most populous in Africa. We want to take our own country and begin to build it. Nothing more,” he concluded.

In his own contribution, the leader of Movement for Oduduwa Republic, Architect Akin George explained how they had mobilised other people in Yoruba land.

“We went to Okemesi where the Kiriji war started. We saw the king. From there, we went to Imesi Ile and Igbajo. At Igbajo, we noticed disunity between Imesi Ile and Oke Imbesi, between Igbajo and Ibadan people there.

“We reconciled them. We can’t fight the enemies if the home front is divided. We may have misunderstood should not lead to a quarrel,” he revealed.

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How Police arraigned 20-year-old mother over alleged theft

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A 20-year-old lady, identified as Mutiu Kaosara has been charged before an Osogbo Magistrates’ Court over alleged theft.

The accused person is alleged to have committed the offense on September 11, 2020, around 4:30 pm at the stadium area in Osogbo.

The police prosecutor, ASP Fagboyinbo Abiodun told the court that the accused person maliciously damaged two safe deposit boxes and stole N180,000 belonging to one Ewatomi Ajiboye.

The offense committed is contrary to Sections 451, 383(1) and punishable under Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code, CAP 34, vol.II Laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2002.

The accused person, however, pleaded not guilty to the allegations leveled against her by the police.

In his response, Defence counsel, Okabe Najite applied for the bail of the accused person in the most liberal term, claiming the accused person is a breastfeeding mother and that his client will stand her trials.

In his ruling, Magistrate Taofeek Badmus granted the accused person bail in the sum of N100, 000 or one surety in like sum.

The case was adjourned till October 15, for hearing.

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Edo election: Why I was moved to tears – Oshiomhole breaks silence on Gov Obaseki’s victory

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The Immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Adams Oshiomhole, has reacted to the Governor Godwin Obaseki’s victory at the just-concluded governorship election.

Recall that Governor Obaseki was re-elected on Sunday after polling 307,955 to defeat his closest rival, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who garnered 223,619 votes.

Governor Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, won in 15 Local Government Areas of the State while Ize-Iyamu, who was backed by Oshiomhole won 3 LGAs.

Reacting, Oshiomhole in a viral video released on Wednesday, expressed gratitude to the people of Edo State.

Oshiomhole, who stated that in life you win some and lose some, added that contrary to claims that he is unhappy about the outcome of the election, he remains strong and healthy.

In the one minute video, the APC chieftain said “In life, you work hard and leave God for the outcome. You do your best and trust God to bless your efforts. I feel good, I feel strong, thank God. In life, you win some and you lose some but life goes on”, he philosophised.

He philosophized that he was moved to tears and inspired by the determination of the aged and nursing mothers who endured the harsh weather to cast their ballots.

“If septuagenarians were not frustrated that their card readers were not working, it inspired me that if at their age they don’t give up, why should I give up.?

“And I ask our people to have faith in our country because we are not going to have another one. This is our country and we must make it great. We must strengthen democracy, we must improve on it.

“No matter the outcome of an election, or a particular edition of a process, have faith in God and have faith in our country.”

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Lockdown: Okowa approves reopening of Primary, Secondary Schools

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The Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has authorized the reopening of primary and secondary schools in the state for the conclusion of the 2019/2020 academic session and the commencement of the 2020/2021fresh academic session.

This is contained in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, in Asaba.

According to the statement, Secondary school students in JSS 1, JSS 2, SS 1, and SS 2 that are yet to write the second term examination will resume from Monday, September 28, 2020, to Friday, October 9, 2020, to enable them to prepare for and write their second term examinations in order to conclude the 2019/2020 academic session, while boarders are expected to resume on Sunday, October 27, 2020.

Similarly, Primary School Pupils in primary 4 and 5 that are yet to complete the second term examination would resume on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, to Friday, October 9, 2020.

The statement further emphasized that second term examinations will be waived for pupils in primaries 1 to 3.

Mr. Ukah stated that the resumption date for the first term in the 2020/2021 academic session for both pupils and students in primary and secondary school will run from Monday, October 12, 2020, to Friday, December 18, 2020, while the resumption date for Second Term is scheduled to commence on January 4, 2021, and terminate on Wednesday, March 31, 2021.

The Chief Ukah said the third term is scheduled to commence from April 12, 2021, and end on August 13, 2021.

He added that the resumption for all Nursery/Pre-primary KG 1 to 3 pupils has been deferred to January 2021.

He advised parents and guardians to avail themselves of the resumption dates to prepare their children and wards towards the resumption of school activities.

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Edo Election: Why Buhari should be addressed as father of democracy – Obaseki

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has said President Muhammadu Buhari should be known as the father of democracy in Nigeria.

Obaseki disclosed this after receiving his certificate of return which was issued by INEC, in Edo State.

“This is because the president had a choice to ensure and insist that his party wins in the state but he rose above partisan politics and insisted the right be done,” he said.

The elected governor also extended a hand of fellowship to Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and other colleagues in the APC to move Edo forward.

He also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC’s National Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for his steadfastness and withstanding pressure during Saturday’s election.

“Despite all the criticisms, the ability of INEC to view results as the counting was taking place in polling units is one innovation we urge INEC to maintain and improve on.

“This has introduced a different element of transparency in the way we conduct elections in Nigeria.

Obaseki also thanked His Royal Majesty, Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, for his fatherly role, prayers for peace, and for being that symbol we all look up to.

Meanwhile, Obaseki also commended the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP for its tenacity and durability in enduring victory for its party.

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How robbers invaded Assemblies of God church, rapes lady, shoot one

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Robbers on Wednesday morning descended upon an Assemblies of God church in Abakaliki, raped one of the ladies, and shot another on her laps.

It was gathered the youths, belonging to the drama wing of the church, were said to be having an all-night rehearsal in preparation for a drama programme slated for Friday when they were attacked by hoodlums.

The attack was said to have occurred between 1.00 am and 2.00 am.

It was learned that while they raped one of the girls, they shot another, who resisted attempts to have carnal knowledge of her, on the laps

They also reportedly stole some equipment belonging to the church.

Other youths in the same programme were said to have run away during the incident.

In a visit to the church by newsmen, the pastor- in- charge was not available but some elders confirmed the report.

“Yes what you heard is true, we were called this morning to be notified on the incident, however, we will not be able to give you all the details you require now”, said one of them who pleaded anonymity.

“Our pastor who is in charge of this place is not available now, he stayed awake all through the night that this thing happened and he is down now.

“However the matter has been reported to the police and the girls have been taken to hospital for treatment,” he said.

Police spokesman, Loveth Odah, said she was yet to be briefed about the incident at the time of filing the report.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Delta’s tertiary institutions announce resumption dates

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The Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, has announced the reopening of academic activities for the second semester of the 2019/2020 academic year.

According to the university’s bulletin, academic activities will resume on Monday, October 5, 2020.

This is coming nearly six months after the institution was shut down following the outbreak of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria.

According to the bulletin, the resumption would be in phases as a result of the COVID-19 protocol and part of measures to checkmate the spread of the disease on campus.

The Delta State Government had approved October 2 for the commencement of academic activities in tertiary institutions across the state.

The bulletin titled “Re-Opening of the University after the Ease of the Covid-19 Lockdown”, however, directed all members of staff of the university to immediately resume work in preparation for resumption.

It stated that postgraduate, graduating (400 & 500 levels) and 100 level students would resume academic activities between Monday 5 – Saturday 31 October 2020.

“This is to inform the university community, particularly staff and students that management at its special meeting held on Thursday, September 17, 2020, has decided as follows:

“The university would re-open in phases as indicated hereunder: Monday 5 – Saturday 31 October 2020 Postgraduate, Graduating (400 & 500 levels) and 100 level students would resume for academic activities for completion of the second semester, with two weeks for revision and two weeks examinations.

“Monday, 20 – Monday, 30 November 2020, 200 and 300 level students including Diploma students would resume with two weeks of revision and two weeks for examinations.

“All members of staff are to resume work immediately in preparation for the resumption of academic activities scheduled for Monday 5 October 2020. Please note that all categories of staff are to resume work at 8.00 am and close at 4.00 pm,” the document read.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, has also approved Monday, September 28 as the resumption date for National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) students.

However, ND l and HND l students were directed to return to class on Monday, October 12.

Also, the Delta State Polytechnic, Oghara, has approved Friday, October 2 as the resumption date for the completion of the first-semester examination which was postponed as a result of the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

A circular by the school authority indicated that the institution’s first-semester examination will commence on October 12 for ND ll and HND ll students, while ND l and HND l students will begin October 26.

Similarly, the management of the Delta State School of Marine Technology (DESOMATECH), Burutu, in a public notice, announced the resumption of academic activities for October 2, adding that modalities will be in place for strict compliance to COVID-19 guidelines.

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Delta Govt. reassures commitment towards health care

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The people of Agbarha-Otor in Ughelli North Local Government Area, have been assured of the early completion of the on-going State General Hospital in the community to enable commitment to have access to affordable health care services as indicated in the Governor Okowa SMART Agenda.

This was disclosed by the Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye, who gave the assurance in a scheduled inspection visit to the on-going hospital project in the community.

He said: “We have gone round to access the state of readiness so that we begin to put in the equipment we need for the hospital to kickstart services and also advice ourselves on the other things we need to do to get here functional as soon as possible.”

The health Commissioner said that Governor Okowa decided to complete the hospital project which was long overdue in order to serve the health needs of the community and its environs and put it to immediate use as soon as possible.

Dr. Ononye revealed that the idea of the hospital was conceived during the tail end of the Chief Ibori’s administration while the foundation was laid during the Dr. Uduaghan’s administration over 10 years ago and emphasized the need to complete the project and put it into use as soon as possible.

He also expressed happiness that the new facility was bigger than the Ekpan General Hospital with much space, commending the work done so far.

“We have seen the driveway, very solid work and there is a lot of space to do a lot of things and we will not allow this hospital to lay waste and therefore we must put it into immediate use,” he said.

Meanwhile, addressing the representative of the leadership of the community after his inspection of the facility, Dr. Ononye said “We have to do some adjustments to make the place much more contemporary. We have pointed out to the contractor, those things that must be done because what we want is that even though the structure is almost fully completed, there are still some things to be done because we want to commission a facility that meets with contemporary standards.”

“We will be back in 10 days’ time to access the progress of work and make sure the things we pointed out to the contractor are addressed because we cannot move in the equipment until those things are done in order not to damage the equipment.”

The contractor handling the project, Mr. John Idogun, who administered the commissioner and his team round the project site, assured of early completion and said it would be in line with the bills of quantity (BOQ) as he has taken note of the areas pointed out by the commissioner.

On his part, Chief London Okuwhere, Acting President-General, Agbarha-Otor Kingdom, assured the commissioner that his community would take ownership of the hospital project and also make sure the infrastructure and personnel were protected even as he promised that a conducive environment would be provided for the hospital to thrive.

Areas inspected included the mortuary, theatres, maternity, male and female/children wards, out-patients department comprising the consulting rooms, accident , and emergency area.

Present during the visit was the Director, Hospital Services, Hospital Management Board, Dr. Family Omaraka, Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Ministry of Health, Dr.Ejiro Ogheneaga, and representative of the community which includes chief Oscar Ibru among others.

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Delta Orientation DG commends Anti-Cult group, promises cooperation

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The Director-General of the Delta State Orientation Bureau, Mr. Eugene Uzum, has commended the Leadership/Members of the Anti-Cult Volunteer Corps (AVC) for their teamwork in order to stop cultism.

The DG, who is also a lawyer, disclosed this during an interview session with the Anti-cult group where he explained that Cultism is a cankerworm that has eaten deep into the fabrics of the society.

Uzum also stressed that the damage done by its members cannot be quantified in terms of the untimely death of Youths’ cut down from their prime, as a result of their unwholesome activities.

He noted that the activities of AVC would help to facilitate the peace and security agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, to build a stronger Delta.

He advised youths to be wary of friends who indulge themselves in drugs, smoking of India helm, rape, arm robbery, kidnapping, and other social vices that are dangerous to the growth of the society.

Responding, the leader of the group, Ambassador Austyne Emu, said that they were delighted to partner with the present government of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, to eradicate the surge.

Emu said in order to contribute their own quota, they had to embark on a door-to-Door Campaigns to enlighten them about the evil of cultism, mounting of a bill board, the printing of stickers, and fliers, including “Anti-Cult Match” to mark the International Peace Day.

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Police arrest seven fake soldiers, commends SARS operatives

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The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Edward Ajogun, on Tuesday, paraded seven fake soldiers who were arrested in Lagos and Sagamu after their failed operation on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The CP, Ajogun, while parading the suspects at the command’s headquarters at Eleweran, Abeokuta, said the suspects, who were members of a gang, had operated at Ijebu-Ife around 2.30 am on September 4 in military camouflage uniforms.

He said the criminal gang engaged his men in a gun battle, which led to the death of one of them while seven others escaped.

He said operatives of the Special Anti- Robbery Squad, led by CSP Muhammad Tijani fished out the suspects from their different hideouts within and outside the state.

Ajogun said six of the suspects – Ikechukwu Alore, Ifeanyi Emmanuel, Chinbueze Kingsley, Obiora Michael, Elias John, and Vincent Magnus – were arrested at different locations in Lagos.

He added that the remaining one, Chigozie Michael, was apprehended in Sagamu, Ogun State.

He said, “The gang leader, Obiora Michael, who sustained bullet wounds on his abdomen, right hand and thigh during the encounter with the SARS operatives, was traced to his home in the Ajangbadi area of Lagos on September 17, where his wife was treating him, having lied to her that he sustained the injuries in a road accident.”

Ajogun presented a cash gift of N100,000 to the SARS operatives as a commendation for their efforts leading to the arrest of the suspects.

He said, “Note that you are receiving the carrot today; please avoid the stick tomorrow by sticking to professionalism and excellence in every one of your outings.

While speaking with journalists, the gang leader said he had been into robbery for 13 years to feed his family.

He explained that the gang came about the military uniforms when they attacked a passenger bus on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and found a bag containing the military uniforms

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Edo Election: My prophecies gave victory to Obaseki – Primate Ayodele

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The founder of INRI Evangelical spiritual church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has claimed that his prophecies about the Edo State governorship election ensured victory for Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Obaseki won the Saturday’s election against his closest opponent and candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu with over 80,000 votes.

Primate Ayodele had consistently spoken out on issues around the Edo State election.

One of his prophecies was that there will be a fight between Obaseki and a former National Chairman of the APC Adams Oshiomhole that will affect his second term ambition with the APC.

He had also prophesied that Oshiomhole will not see 2023 as the national chairman of the APC.

He also said it was revealed to him that Obaseki was ordained to win the election but he only needs to work against manipulation

“Without mincing words, this is what the Lord said, Obaseki should be focused, do all the needful things, Obaseki will win, not Ize Iyamu, excepts APC rigs and anyone who rigs will die, just as I said COVID-19 will kill those who corrupted Nigeria,” he said.

In a statement to newsmen, on Tuesday, Ayodele said his prophecy has “just been fulfilled as he put it but that it was worthy of note that the words put Obaseki on serious alert,” he said.

He added that “These prophecies also helped the people of Edo to have a direction of what God wants for them in the election, which in turn made them vote massively for Godwin Obaseki.

“It is evident that Godwin Obaseki worked seriously against every form of manipulation in the election, videos were seen where he was personally searching vehicles against stolen ballot boxes,” he said.

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Niger Delta youths support Akpabio, NDDC IMC, warn faultfinders

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Niger Delta youths on Tuesday extolled the sterling qualities of the Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs, Chief Godswill Akpabio, describing him as a man of honor.

Moreover, the youths, under the aegis of the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM) praised the National Assembly for working with the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs towards the realization of its objectives.

At a gathering in Calabar, the youths expressed delight and satisfaction with the high degree of determination so far exhibited by Senator Akpabio to move the Niger Delta region forward.

‘‘Senator Godswill Akpabio is a shining example, a model to all of us, of what service is all about. He has so far demonstrated an admirable commitment to doing everything possible to develop the Niger Delta region’’ the youths said.

Addressing newsmen after their one day conference in Cross River State, Secretary-General of NDYM, Dr. Raymond Umanah said the youths praised Akpabio for embracing the challenge of developing the region with a missionary zeal, restructuring the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and reintroducing public accountability for the use of public resources.

“Senator Godswill Akpabio, a man of great organizational ability, has continued to carry himself with grace and dignity without compromising his integrity’’

The youths commended the growing unity and understanding among stakeholders in the region.

They emphasized national development, patriotism, transparency, and accountability.

The youths also praised the Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs for tackling limitations in the way of improving development in the region, pulling the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) back from the state of retrogression, and giving the region the desired sense of purpose and guidance.

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Ex-gov Uduaghan visits Okowa, plans return to PDP

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Political realignment has begun in Delta State apparently in preparation for the 2023 general elections.

It was gathered in Warri on Monday that a former Delta State governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, is set to return to the Peoples Democratic Party which he left in 2018.

Uduaghan dumped the PDP to join the All Progressives Congress following a disagreement with some PDP leaders.

It was learned that Uduaghan recently visited his successor, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, in the Government House, Asaba, to conclude plans for his formal return to the PDP.

A Government House source said, “The visit is clear confirmation, especially since the relationship between the ex-governor and his successor have not seen sunshine for a while.”

When contacted by reporters over these speculations, one of Uduaghan’s aides, Mr. Monoyo Edon said, “As a former governor, Uduaghan still owes Delta State a duty. Visiting Government House is not enough reason for such conclusions.”

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BREAKING: INEC presents Certificate of return to Obaseki, Shaibu

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday presented a certificate of return to Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his deputy, Phillip Shaibu.

The National Commissioner, INEC in charge of Edo, Rivers, and Bayelsa, Mrs. May Agbmuche-Mbu made the presentation on Tuesday at the INEC office in Aduwawa, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Agbmuche-Mbu commended stakeholders particularly the security agencies for their role in the smooth conduct of the governorship poll.

She said: “I hereby certify that Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has been elected to the office of governor of Edo State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at the election held on the 19th of September 2020,” Agbmuche-Mbu said while presenting the certificate to Obaseki.

Obaseki was returned elected by INEC after polling the highest number of votes in the keenly-contested election conducted on Saturday, September 19.

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Edo election: Blame Tinubu, Oshiomhole for your misfortune – Lawyer tells Ize-Iyamu

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The National Coordinator, Concerned Advocates for Good Governance, CAGG, Olusegun Bamgbose, has told the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, to blame the National Leader of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for his loss to the incumbent Governor, Godwin Obaseki.

According to the lawyer, the Edo governorship election has brought a new development in the country’s electoral process, renewing the hope of Nigerians for a free and fair election come 2023.

Bamgbose pointed out, however, that the overbearing influence of the duo of the former National Chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole and Tinubu never helped matters.

“Oshiomhole elevated his personal interest, more than the party interest. He never knew that a bird in hand is worth 2 in the bush. It is evident, that he must have thought what happened in Lagos, as per Ambode, may repeat itself in Edo. He got it all wrong,” Bamgbose said in a chat with newsmen.

“Tinubu won’t have been able to do to Fashola what he did to Ambode. Fashola clearly made it clear to Tinubu then, that with or without him, he will win the second term, Tinubu became jittery and had to anoint him.

“The truth of the matter is that, as at the time of bringing Ize-Iyamu on board, APC has cleverly isolated Oshiomhole and Tinubu. Buhari ordinarily would have waded in and save Obaseki, but Tinubu’s body language discouraged him.

“Buhari has been trying to avoid a clash with him. Ize-Iyamu should therefore blame his electoral woes and misfortunes, on the isolated duo, Oshiomhole, and Tinubu, OAT.

“Like I once said, that Edo Election is a litmus test for Tinubu’s presidential ambition, Edo people have clearly rejected Tinubu.

“This is sad. Ize-Iyamu should go back to the drawing table. There is still hope that he may one day be Governor of Edo State,” he said.

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See reasons why APC is still Together – Okorocha says

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Former Governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha, has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is still surviving because of the respect the party stalwarts have for President Muhammadu Buhari.

Okorocha, who spoke with newsmen in his Abuja home, also said that unless the party goes back to the four pillars that formed the APC, namely the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the All Nigeria People Party (ANPP), the party will continue to struggle.

The senator praised the Edo masses for once again demonstrating people’s power as against the dictates of a few, noting that anything that’s founded on injustice will not survive.

According to the politician, if the APC does not right the wrongs done by the Adams Oshiomhole-led executive that was recently dissolved, the party will continue to grope in the dark.

“There is no more APC, what we have is the respect for President Muhammadu Buhari, that is what is keeping us together. What we have is our respect for the person of President Buhari and we still believe that something can be done.

“That trust and respect are what we still call APC, outside that respect for President Buhari and the trust and belief that he could wake up one day and correct all these injustices and make it fine, nothing is happening.

“ That’s the only thing that is keeping the APC, if not that, I don’t think there is anything like APC because people are beginning to get fed up. Again, PDP is not even better, the party has its own challenges” he said.

While recalling the formative years of APC, he explained that the CPC was led by Buhari, ACN led by Ahmed Tinubu, ANPP headed by Ogbonnaya Onu while APGA led by him, brought in its structure.

“Every other person fell into this structure. The PDP group came in and joined us. I gave the name APC, I designed that logo and that was the beginning of the party and we had understanding.

“That is the party you call APC and unless we go back to where it all started, APC can never see the light of the day and that was how we started and that was what brought President Muhammadu Buhari to office,” he noted

He stressed that nobody can rule out the role of the four key people, maintaining that while the CPC had only one governor in Nasarawa, APGA had only one governor, ACN came with the chunk of the governors while ANPP had a few.

“ And we shared the first positions equally among these four parties. Now the founding fathers of the party are relegated to the background and people are coming with different interests, making us play the same kind of politics that PDP played” the former governor argued.

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774,000 jobs recruitment: States get extension

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Recruitment of artisans for the 774,000 Special Public Works (SPW) programme of the Federal Government is being rounded off in states; it was gathered at the weekend.

However, some states that have been unable to complete the process have been granted one week extension.

Minister of State for Labour and Employment Festus Keyamo said the October 1 commencement of the programme is on course.

As at Monday’s deadline to complete the recruitment, Yobe and Ebonyi states have submitted their list of beneficiaries.

Keyamo said on Monday that “There was a board meeting of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) chaired by me. We looked at the situation and said in deserving cases we may extend for a few days, for some states that have not submitted their final lists.

“We are still looking at October 1 to begin nationwide. There are one or two internal issues in terms of logistics we are dealing with, but we will overcome that.

“We are lining those who will go to their different states and regions to flag off for us. That will be made known in the next few days.”

Keyamo said six banks would commence capturing of successful applicants for the jobs this week.

“The banks will soon start capturing them because the first payment will be at the end of October.

“The banks will start capturing them in different local government areas. We have concluded arrangements with six different banks. We have even collected the forms.”

The SWP is designed to employ 1,000 persons from each of the 774 Local Government councils in the country.

Each of the participants will be paid N20,000 per month duration.

Participants will do public works as designed by the NDE in their council areas.

About 10 states are putting finishing touches to the lists. They are Lagos, Osun, Rivers, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Adamawa, Nasarawa, and Sokoto.

Chairman of the selection committee in Lagos, Chief Mutiu Are, said the selection process was about 95 percent completed.

He said the list of the successful applicants would be submitted on Friday.

About 30,000 people registered for the scheme in the state.

A member of the committee in Osun State and the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Adegboyega Oyetola on Youth Affairs and Social Mobilization, Mr. Kehinde Ayatunji, said they were “still in the process of gathering data from councils in the state’’

He added that over 200,000 people applied for the SWP in the state and 30,000 are to be picked.

Chairman of the committee in Rivers State Dr. Innocent Barikor said: “We are through with the application and selection processes. We are on the documentation process.”

His counterpart in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Inyang Unya, said the committee was grappling with the selection process from the thousands of applications.

Unya said: ‘’As you are already aware, because of the unemployment in the country, we have more than 10,000 people for the 1,000 slots allotted to each council area. ‘’ The recruitment will be wrapped up on Friday in Delta State, but none of the three senators had submitted their list of nominees.

“Only three members of House of Representative, no senator has submitted. The governor has fully submitted. But, the deadline for submission is Friday. It is to meet that deadline and submit.”

The committee in Cross River State said it was working round the clock to beat the deadline.

“We are getting back the completed forms and working round the clock to meet up,” said committee chairman Maria Ukpanyang. In Anambra State, the chairman of the committee, Sir. Uzoma Igbonwa, said the list of the successful applicants would be sent to the NDE this week.

Adamawa State committee will today meet to review the list of the shortlisted.

The Chairman of the committee in Nasarawa State, Kassim Mohammed, said: “We are done and the list is ready for submission. We are good to go in Nasarawa.”

His Sokoto State counterpart, Dr. Ibrahim S. Muhammad, said the process was almost concluded in the state.

He explained that the committee would use the one-week extension to tidy up its list.

“We have over 23,000 applicants. It is gladdening to say that most of the applicants are those within the age bracket of 18-35. This is so because the larger number of unemployed are youths.”

In Ebonyi State, the chairman of the committee, Edward Nkwegu, said his committee completed the registration process and submitted the documents last week.

He added that some Persons Living With Disability and less privileged persons were also selected as successful applicants.

A member of the Katsina State committee, Rev. Nelson Onyekachukwu, said they submitted the list of successful applicants last week.

He thanked the Federal Government for the programme, saying it would help people, especially those at the grassroots.”

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WAEC 2020: Delta Govt. sanctions 41 teachers for Examination malpractice, commends 1

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Delta State Government has sanctioned 41 teachers for examination malpractice during the 2019 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The sanctioned teachers are to suffer deferment of promotion by one-year and are banned from the supervision of any school examination for a period of three years.

These conclusions were based on the recommendations of the Examination Ethics Disciplinary Committee of the state and approved on Friday (18/09/2020) by the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah.

Ukah has directed the Post Primary Education Board (PPEB) to implement the deferment of promotions for the 41 affected teachers by one year.

While others are being sanctioned, Mr .P. O. Okolo is to be given a letter of commendation for a job well done during the examination.

The principals and examination officers of 13 public secondary schools and one private secondary school indicted for examination malpractice are to be given letters of warning by PPEB to desist from acts of negligence.

The Commissioner also approved that Anointed Secondary School, Ubogo, Udu Local Government Area, which was closed down last year for examination malpractice be issued a warning letter and allowed to reopen to give the school a second chance to abide by laid down examination ethics.

Furthermore, Mary Mount College, Boji-Boji Owa, was found guilty of examination malpractice and fined N100,000:00 as a penalty to act as a deterrent to other schools.

The Examination Ethics Disciplinary Committee, headed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Comrade Sam Dietake, has representatives of PPEB, Ministry of Justice, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS), Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria (APSON), National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) and other officials of the ministry as members.

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Ezechi, Ikechukwu Akozor, donates items worth millions of naira to orphans, widows, others

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The Commissioner representing Ndokwa East Local Government at the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Hon. Ikechukwu Akozor and the Special Adviser to the state governor on Youth, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi has donated materials and food items worth millions of naira to orphans and widows in Ndokwa East.

Hon Ezechi, speaking at the occasion for the donation held recently, said that caring for motherless and widows has been his pet project since he was DESOPADEC commissioner.

He thanked the current commissioner for joining hands with him to reach out to the less privileged in Ndokwa nation.

Also speaking, Hon. Ikechukwu expressed happiness that he was a part of the project adding that he would soon float a pet project on philanthropy so that widows, orphans and the disabled can be carried along.

Materials donated included mattresses, bedsheets, and pillows, wrappers, bags of rice, bags of beans, salt, gallons of groundnut oil, and palm oil.

The recipients were orphanage homes, widows, and disabled from Aboh and Ashaka, both in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State.

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Edo decides: Saraki Congratulates Obaseki, says his victory has several Implications

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Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has hailed Governor Godwin Obaseki for his re-election on Saturday as Edo State Governor.

He described his victory as having several symbolic representations for Nigeria and her democracy.

This is contained In a statement from his Media Office in Abuja. He stated that Obaseki’s victory at the elections which took place yesterday represented the determination of the good people of Edo State to decide who governs the state and to ensure their votes count at all times.

“The result of the Edo election represents the true wish of the people who stood firmly behind their Governor against power mongers who were determined to foist their choice on the people. It represents the will of the people to vote in free, fair, credible, and peaceful elections. The people of Edo State who had sleepless nights in order to protect their votes, those who rejected the cash being thrown around to buy their votes and the intimidation to force them to compromise their belief, deserve our praise. Therefore, my congratulations go to all the people of Edo State.

“Let me give kudos to the leaders and governors in our party, the PDP, for working together to achieve this victory. The PDP leaders and members in Edo State who whole-heartedly accepted Governor Obaseki since he joined the party and co-operated with him to bring about this victory deserve to be appreciated

“The result of the just concluded election also represents the fact that our people actually desire to be governed by a truly democratic government headed by those they genuinely voted for. It represents the fact that our security and electoral officials can conduct free and fair elections if they have the right atmosphere. We are happy that throughout this election we did not see the military brutalizing the people or security officials supervising the snatching of ballot boxes and vandalization of votes. Thus, the military and other security agencies deserve commendation for this successful polls.

“Also, we saw how the INEC officials maturely handled the complaints of the APC agent who sought to create confusion at the state collation center when the Orihomwon Local Government result was about to be declared. The INEC and its officials deserve to be commended for their neutrality in this election.

“We can see that the result represents realistic figures from one local government area to the other. No case of outlandish figures being reeled out. That is also a sign of some level of credibility in the process. It is for the above reasons that I have to commend President Muhammadu Buhari for keeping the military out of this election and for giving the instructions that led to the apparent neutrality of members of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other security officials in the entire process”, Saraki stated.

Saraki further advised Governor Obaseki to see his victory as a charge by the people of Edo State to him to intensify his focus on the development of the state and the welfare of its people.

“The Edo election result is a victory for our country, her people, and democracy. We have shown that the glory of the country is more valuable to the citizens than the wish of a tiny power clique”, he added.

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Onicha Olona community lauds Governor Okowa, pledges continuous support

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The traditional ruler of Onicha Olona community, His Royal Highness, Obi Christopher Diji has reiterated his community continuous supports to the administration of the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

The monarch disclosed this in his palace in a courtesy visit by some traditional chiefs who paid homage to him as part of activities lined up for the Ine festival.

He stated that governor Okowa is a man that keeps to his promise, stressing that he understands governance as it affected the masses.

Addressing newsmen shortly, the Onu Obi (Obi’s Speaker )of Onicha Olona, Chief Sunday Ukwanwanne emphasized that it was a new dawn for the people since the community was celebrating the Ine festival for the first time after 30 years.

He also noted that his Highness (the Obi), was the first Obi to receive the staff of office from the government.

The Onu Obi also said that the Obi- in – council was poised to revamp the cultural heritage of the community for the benefits of their children.

He, therefore, urged the youths to embrace peace adding that for the community to move forward and attract government attention there must be peace among the people.

Chief Ukwanwanne thanked governor Okowa for the recognition accorded to his highness, Obi Christopher Diji by graciously approving the presentation of the staff of office to him stating that it’s a new dawn for Onicha Olona people.

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‘I owe my victory to people’s collective will’ – Obaseki

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, was at the weekend reelected.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate polled 307,955 votes to defeat All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who scored 223,619 votes.

Twelve other parties fielded candidates in the election but showed no strength at all. Their results are as follows: AA – 107, ADC – 1,370, ADP – 2,374, APGA – 177, APM – 57, APP – 78, LP – 267, NNPP – 258, NRM – 573, SDP – 323, YPP – 132 and ZLP – 117.

According to the results by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State, Obaseki won in 13 of the 18 Local Government Councils namely: Orhionmwon, Igueben, Owan West, Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Esan West, Esan Central, Esan South East, Esan North East, Uhumwode, Egor, Ovia North East and Ovia South West.

Ize-Iyamu won in five – all in the northern senatorial district, Akoko Edo, Etsako East, Etsako West, Etsako Central and Owan East.

There were 550,242 votes cast and 12,835 rejected ballots.

INEC collation officer for Orhionmwon Council said results for Ward 7, with 7,600 votes and Ward 8 with 7,896 votes, totalling 15,496 votes, were cancelled for irregularities, but APC agents protested. The returning officer promised to look into the complaints.

The Collation Officer for Etsako Central said an INEC official was shot and another INEC staff member was injured on the face.

He noted that both of them were battling with their lives in an hospital.

At the end of the vote tally, the APC agent declined to sign the result form.

The PDP agent, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a member of the House of Representatives, hailed INEC and security agencies for doing a good job to strengthen democracy.

He noted that everybody was a winner and urged all Edo residents to join hands with Obaseki to move the state forward.

Immediately after the announcement of the final results, Obaseki’s teeming supporters and PDP members jubilated on the streets, especially at the strategic Ring Road, near the Oba of Benin palace; the Government House, Benin; singing, drumming, dancing and chanting four plus four, indicating another four years for the governor.

Obaseki hailed Edo people and supporters for their display of immense courage and support.

He expressed appreciation to, President Muhammadu Buhari, INEC, security agencies and others who particpeople in the selection.

Obaseki said: “The great People of Edo State have spoken. They have spoken loud and clear. We thank God Almighty and give him all the glory for this victory.

”Thank you, President Muhammadu Buhari, for defending our democracy and allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies to perform their constitutional functions without interference.

”INEC and the security services have shown to Nigerians and the world that they are capable of conducting free and credible elections

“The great people of Edo State have spoken. I want to thank Governor Wike of Rivers State, Governor Seyi Makinde of, Oyo State, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and my brother, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, for standing by me. I want to thank my party, the PDP, not only for giving me the umbrella when I needed it most, but for the hard work which has brought me back to office.

”Words fail me in saluting our teeming supporters who displayed, immense courage in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalization. The collective will of Edo people made it possible for this triumph over godfatherism.

“I am eternally grateful to my party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and my brother governors, not only or giving me the umbrella during my political storm,the but for the hard work which has brought me back to office.

“Our success has reinforced my belief that there is nothing we cannot achieve as a people, if we pull forces together and collectively call on God for support.”

“I reiterate that working with my Deputy, Philip Shaibu, we are committed to Making Edo great Again. Thank you for your support,” he added.

During the news conference at the Government House attended by some PDP governors, Wike, the chairman of the National Campaign Council, said: “Edo people have spoken that we do not tie our fate to one man. The results of the election show that all your efforts are not in vain.
,
“I want to thank my brother governors of Oyo, Delta and Enugu states for their presence here (in Benin) and others who are not here, for their support

But, the Edo APC has rejected the results of the election in the state, citing strong-arm tactics.

It declared that there was foul play during the election, while insisting that the results were skewed in favour of Obaseki.

Edo APC called on members of the party in the South south state and all lovers of democracy to stay calm, while leaders of the party would study the results and decide on the next line of action.

APC through an online statement by the Chairman of its Media Campaign Council, Prince John Mayaki, maintained that Pastor Ize-Iyamu, was robbed of victory.

It said: “Our people were arbitrarily arrested, many of the figures were fabricated. There was illicit stampering results, to shore up PDP’s numbers and mark down APC’s.

“Areas where we won, they cancelled the results. They decreased the votes in areas we had advantage, They rejected our results and jerked up theirs.

“There was arbitrary arrest of local party members, who could have resisted the outrage, while Obaseki was busy diverting attention with false alarm.

“Obaseki shouted that he was being rigged out and blamed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the initial stage, but that was to divert attention from the evil going on in the field.”

Edo APC also thanked members of the party and the teeming supporters of Ize-Iyamu for their support and steadfastness, which it said would never be taken for granted.

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Police arrest 3 over theft of cars

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The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested three suspects over the theft of two cars around the State capital, Yola.

The police command said in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Sulaiman Nguroje, that the command, through its men attached to Karewa Division in Yola arrested a 30-year-old Mustapha Ismail, a resident of Zango ward in Yola North local government area over a particular car.

It said the arrest was effected on September 16, 2020 over alleged theft of a Toyota starlet with Reg. No. MDG 505 AA parked inside Jimeta Ultra modern market.

The Jimeta Ultramodern market, Yola’s most prestigious shopping centre, was once notorious for car thefts before certain measures were put in place.

The statement added that on Saturday, September 19, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARs) responded to a distress call from a resident of Demsawo (a community in Jimeta, Yola North) whose vehicle with Reg. No. SB 509 DBT was stolen in his house.

It said the car was recovered along Ngurore road, in Yola South LGA.

Nguroje said a 20-year-old Zaradden Adamu, a resident of Demsawo and 25-year-old Salihu Mohammed, a resident of Ngurore in Yola South, were arrested for being in possession of the car.

It appears that car stealing is beginning to rise in Adamawa State. The Adamawa Police Command had only last week paraded three suspected car thieves among 33 other suspects.

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Edo decides: We don’t want election to be declared inconclusive – Wike warns INEC

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The National Chairman of the Edo State Campaign Council of the Peoples Democratic Party and Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday warned the Independent National Electoral Commission against declaring the governorship election inconclusive.

He said INEC must keep to its promise of a transparent process.

The PDP campaign council chairman gave this warning during an interview in the Edo 2020 Situation Room streamed on Governor Godwin Obaseki’s Youtube Channel and monitored by our correspondent.

Wike said, “We have resulted from about 2,000 polling units from the various wards, and from the intelligence, we have gathered, I do believe that INEC will keep to that promise of being transparent.

But we are getting a bit worried that INEC said they have 700 unit results which are not correct and that calls for concern. We don’t believe that INEC has only 700. It is more than 2,000 that we have.

“Again, as we speak, they ought to have moved to the ward collation centers before they move to the local government collation centers. But we cannot find the security personnel around the ward collation centers and that gives us concern.

“Why is it that the security personnel are not at the ward collation centers? So, I urge the Inspector-General of Police to move his men to the ward collation centers.

“They must not allow miscreants to disrupt the electoral process. I believe that the commission will continue with what they have done.

“As we have said, we don’t want this election to be inconclusive. This is the critical stage where you may see disruptions and then it will be declared inconclusive. INEC should fulfill its promise that this election will be transparent. We don’t want to hear inconclusive.”

Also, in the Situation Room, the Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, and the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, added that it was surprising that the PDP got polling unit results faster than the electoral commission.

They insisted that the people’s votes must count.

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Man arrested for burying grandchild alive

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The Bauchi state police command has arrested 50-year old father, Bawada Audu for culpable homicide after he allegedly buried alive his 17-year old daughter, Hafsat Bawada’s newborn baby.

Audu, a resident of a village in Toro Local Government Area, was said to have buried the male child behind his house following the disappearance of one Danjuma Malam Uba, who was suspected to have impregnated her. Hafsat was said to have given birth to the child on September 14.

According to a press statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Wakili and made available to newsmen in Bauchi, the state capital on Saturday, the discovery of the child’s corpse was as a result of a joint operation between the police and human right organizations, who accompanied Hafsat to the Divisional Headquarters Toro where she reported her father dastardly act. Wakili disclosed that upon receipt of the report, the corpse was exhumed and the baby was rush to the General Hospital where he was certified dead by the medical doctor.

The statement reads, ”On 16/09/2020 at about 1000hrs, a joint operation between the police and human right have brought one Hafsat Bawada ‘f’ aged 17yrs of Rimini Zayam Toro L.G.A Bauchi to Divisional Headquarters Toro who was alleged to have given birth to a male child on 14/09/2020 at about 0200hrs. Her father Bawada Audu ‘m’ 50yrs of the same address seized the child and buried the Baby behind his house. Upon receipt of the report, the corpse was exhumed and the baby was rush to General Hospital where certified dead by the medical doctor. Moreover, Hafsat pointed one Danjuma Malam Uba ‘m’ of the same address to have “had carnal knowledge of her” sometime early 2020 now at large. Thus, the corpse was released to the village head of Rimini Ziyam for burial. The suspect was arrested and he confessed to the crime”.

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Edo results: Obaseki winning, godfatherism shamed – Omokri blast Oshiomhole, Tinubu

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Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan has mocked the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and Adams Oshiomhole as results of the Edo governorship election trickle in.

Governor Godwin Obaseki, who contested Saturday’s governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is in an early lead as results come in.

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu seems to be behind Obaseki despite support from Oshiomhole and Tinubu.

Omokri, reacting to the results announced so far by INEC, said the forces of godfatherism are being shamed in Edo.

According to the former presidential aide, results from the Edo governorship election prove that Edo is different from Lagos State.

Omokri on his Twitter handle wrote: “me The @OfficialPDPNig is coasting to an easy victory in Edo, going by official @INECNigeria results so far released.

“The forces of godfatherism are being shamed. Oshiomhole and Bola @AsiwajuTinubu now know that Edo is definitely not Lagos!”

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3-storey school building collapses in Lagos

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A three-storey building of the Excell College, a private school in Ejigbo, Lagos, collapsed on Saturday, two days after reopening of secondary and private schools in the state.

The Director-General of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, who confirmed the incident to newsmen said no person was trapped in the collapsed building.

He said that the building which is located at No. 15, Ansarudeen St, by Ile Epo Bus stop, Iyana Ejigbo had been under lock since March due to the coronavirus induced restrictions.

According to him, the collapsed building is part of a conjoined (twin) three-storey building.

He said that the building collapsed due to “visible distress”, adding that the collapsed portion affected the second wing.

“The storey building has two wings; the wing that collapsed seriously affected the second wing, as visible cracks can be seen on the walls, pillars and decking.

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Edo Decides 2020: Obaseki set for another 4 years as Ize-Iyamu puts up strong fight

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State who is the PDP candidate of the governorship election is in line to win re-election.

Obaseki, who contested Saturday’s governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is in an early lead as results continue to trickle into the night.

To retain his seat, he is in a tussle against Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who is backed by his former mentor and former governor of the State, Adams Oshiomhole.

Although Oshiomhole and Ize-Iyamu have pulled their weight in certain polling units (PU) and local government areas, Obaseki has generally garnered more votes, even winning in the PU of former APC chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun.

As of 5 am on Sunday morning, the results of ten LGAs have been declared, with eight left.

The numbers officially declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), shows that PDP is leading APC with 57,075 votes.

Obaseki has already been congratulated by a former Senator, Ben Bruce, who has predicted victory.

In a tweet, Bruce hailed the Governor on what he described as an “anticipated victory”.

It has been a bitter fight to remain in office for Obaseki.

He tried to win re-election on the platform of the APC but ran into troubled waters with Oshiomhole, who himself was removed as the National Chairman of the ruling party.

Obaseki swiftly switched to PDP, where he easily won the party’s ticket.

He now looks set to continue as Edo State Governor for another four years.

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Cardi B give reasons for filing divorce from Offset

Popular rapper, Cardi B has explained why she filed for divorce from her husband of three years and Migos rapper, Offset.

The rap queen during an Insta Live session, on Saturday, disclosed that Offset’s infidelity was not the reason for their split.

She also said she did not file for divorce as a publicity stunt for her upcoming album but because they couldn’t live together as a couple anymore.

“I have seen all the love and prayers that you guys have been sending me, however, I don’t really need it.

” I want to let you all know that I’m okay and I have not shed not one tear.

“Every single time that this guy has been so crazy, and it hits the media, I’m always crying, always sad because I don’t like that type of energy.

“But this time, it’s different because I wasn’t crying.

“You want to know why? The reason for my divorce is not because of any of that stuff that ever happened before.

“It’s also not because of cheating because I’m seeing people be like, ‘Oh, he has a baby on the way.

” That’s a whole complete lie and this is the second time people are trying to pin babies over here.

“The issue is that I just got tired of constant arguments, I got tired of not seeing things eye to eye.

“I felt like things aren’t the same anymore, so before anyone actually gets cheated on, I rather just leave.

“Nothing crazy out of this world happened, sometimes people really do grow apart.

“I have been with this man for four years, I have a kid with him and also a Household.

“Sometimes you’re just tired of the arguments and the build-up.

“You get tired sometimes and before something bad happens, you leave,” she said.

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BREAKING: PDP says police supporting APC to snatch ballot boxes

The People Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State on Saturday raised alarm over the alleged invasion of voting units in Urhonigbe North and South wards.

According to the PDP Publicity Secretary in the State, Chris Osa Nehikhare, the APC thugs came in a commando-style, seating on vehicle bonnets and armed with shotguns shooting into the air.

“They collected the ballot boxes and are at this minute thumb printing at the Urhonigbe police station. The police are actively supporting this invasion, snatch and grab operation,” said at the ongoing election.

“We call on the IG of police to call his men to order and INEC to seriously consider the result that will be declared from these two wards in Orhionmwon LGA.

“They scared away voters and INEC staff and seriously injured many,” he alleged.

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Edo 2020: Ize-Iyamu votes, says he’ll win election

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The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu cast his vote at about 9:25 am at Ugboko ward 4, unit 26, Orhionmwon Local Government Council where he expressed optimism that he would win the election.

Ize-Iyamu joined the queue at his polling unit located at Iguododo Primary school at about 9:20 am before casting his vote at about 9: 25am.

Addressing newsmen after exercising his franchise, Ize-Iyamu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the peaceful conduct of the electoral process.

He also commended INEC for adhering to the Covid 19 protocol.

“The process is good and going on smoothly; there is no thuggery and violence, the place is peaceful and calm.

“I am happy that INEC has a thermometer to check the temperature and they also give out face masks to our people.

“We encourage our people to come out in batches so they can strictly adhere to the Covid-19 protocols of social distances”.

He said he had not been able to get information about the conduct of the election across the state due to the poor network at his voting community.

He expressed optimism that he would emerge victorious in the election saying “I am confident of victory across the 18 LGAs of the State”.

Accreditation and voting commenced simultaneously at Ugboko ward 5, unit 26 at about 8: 46am amidst the presence of security personnel.

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BREAKING: Obaseki queues to vote at his unit

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has finally arrived for accreditation and voting in his ward.

The governor and candidate of the PDP arrived 24 polling unit at exactly 10: 24 am accompanied by aides.

He has joined a long queue to vote.

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Five rescued as bus falls into river in Ebonyi

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Five persons were on Friday saved at Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State as a ‘608’-model bus plunged into Akaeze-ukwu River.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Commander in Ebonyi, Mrs. Stella Uchegbu who confirmed the incident to newsmen said the accident involved a bus and an articulated vehicle had 38 passengers on board.

Uchegbu said that reports reaching her desk indicated that the rescued victims were unconscious and were taken to the hospital.

“We can, therefore, not confirm if any person is dead or not and the FRSC team (Ishiagu unit) is still at the scene for rescue efforts.

“The Afikpo unit team is, however, on standby in case any major thing ‘breaks’ this night to give back-up to the staff at the scene.

“There are, however, two versions of the incident as one held that the articulated vehicle tried to overtake the bus which made it (the bus) to lose control and another held that it was the bus which actually tried to overtake.

“There was no report of collision by both vehicles but the bus just lost control at the bridge and plunged into the river.

“We have not ascertained whether the bus was fully loaded or if the passengers observed COVID-19 social distancing but divers from the area managed to rescue five persons,” she said.

She further revealed that someone called to inform that his brother and wife were still trapped inside the river but the divers said they couldn’t continue because it was dark.

“God is alive, and he can still preserve the victims,” she added.

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Edo Election: Security takes over INEC office

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There is heavy presence of security personnel at the Benin City office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) along Ramat Park.

The electoral umpire had moved back to its permanent office after vacating the premises to a rented apartment along Sapele Road as a result of flooding.

Two Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) were stationed before and after the office while traffic is being diverted to follow one lane.

Gun-wielding policemen and soldiers were sighted on the premises.

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Edo 2020: Police restrict Governors, VIPs to hotels as Edo decides Obaseki, Ize-Iyamu’s luck

Governors and other very important personalities (VIPs) who have converged on Benin ahead of today’s governorship election in Edo State will not be allowed the luxury of moving about during voting.

It is part of the measures put in place by the security agencies to prevent manipulation of the voting process.

The move, however, appears not to have gone down well with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which accused security agencies of harassing and threatening the lives of its governors who had gathered in Benin ahead of the poll.

The verbal war between the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the election also heightened with the PDP claiming that the immediate past national chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, was trying to instigate the arrest of Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu.

Although the National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, did not specify the number of the party’s governors so harassed or their names, the chairman of the party in Rivers State, Akawor Desmond, was categorical that 300 policemen laid siege to the hotel where Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State lodged in Benin.

Secondus, at a press conference in Abuja, an alleged clampdown on PDP governors by security agents in Benin ahead of the elections.

The party expressed shock that ‘security agents were detailed to surround the lodging of our governors to harass and intimidate them.”

It wondered why APC governors, “including the governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje; his Imo State counterpart, Hope Uzodima as well as the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, are left free in the comfort of the GRA, Benin residence of Comrade Oshiomhole.

The PDP said it considered “the siege as provocative and completely unacceptable, as there cannot be two sets of laws for the citizens of our nation.”

It added: “Inasmuch as the APC governors are given liberty to stay in Benin City, our governors will not allow themselves to be harassed or stampeded to leave the state.

“At any rate, we are confident that our governors will not allow themselves to be stampeded.”

In a separate statement, Rivers State PDP Chairman, Akawor Desmond, alleged that more than 300 policemen on Friday night stormed Wike’s hotel in Benin with a view to forcing him out of town.

He said the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, would be held responsible should anything happen to the governor.

His words: “The attention of the entire people of Rivers State has been drawn to the siege laid to the hotel where the Governor of Rivers State Nyesom Wike is lodging while on official assignment in Benin, Edo State.

“Recall that Governor Wike was appointed Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council for the Edo governorship election. This is the same position Governor Ganduje of Kano State occupies for his party, the APC.

“Governor Ganduje and Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State are all in Benin, Edo State carrying out their assignment for the APC without any molestation or intimidation.

“And in a breach of the pledge they made, security agencies have decided to harass and intimidate Governor Wike who has not done any wrong.

“May I on behalf of the entire Rivers people warn that we shall hold the IGP responsible for anything that happens to our governor.”

Rivers State Information Commissioner Paulinus Nsirim said the people of Rivers State feared for the life of the governor in Benin City.

He said: “Rivers State Government rejects the siege on the hotel of Governor Nyesom Wike in Benin City. We are in a democracy. So, he should not be intimidated in view of the fact that he is the Chairman of the National Campaign Council of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Edo State’s September 19 governorship election.

“We are afraid for the life of Governor Wike, a very harmless citizen of Nigeria. Rivers people will not keep quiet. So, no harm must befall Governor Wike, who is a loyal and committed leader of PDP.”

Police sources said the siege was not meant to force Wike out of Edo State but to quarantine him since movement restriction would commence at 11:59 pm.

They claimed that operatives were also deployed to pin down other political gladiators to prevent them from moving around during voting hours.

Neither DIG Oyebade nor the Commissioner of Police (Election) Garba Umar could be reached on the phone for a reaction.

Also, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Edo State Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, did not pick several calls made to his mobile phones at the time of this report.

Wike, at a meeting with PDP leaders in Edo State on Thursday, had warned them to put everything into today’s election because “God forbid that APC wins. If they do, all of you here would have failed because your political life will be in jeopardy.”

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Unused data must be rolled over to the next subscription – NCC

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The Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) has directed that telecommunications companies in the country must ensure that unused data by subscribers are rolled over in subsequent subscriptions.

The commission gave the directive on Thursday, September 17, in a statement issued through its spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ayinde.

“The commission hereby wishes to restate that its direction of June 2018 to service providers to commence implementation of data rollover from 26 June 2018, remains in force,” the NCC said.

It urged telecommunication companies to regularly update their subscribers on the procedures and processes for data rollover. According to the agency, the conclusion on the directive was reached at its regular bi-annual meeting with senior executives of telecommunication companies on complaints management. It disclosed that the virtual meeting focused on consumer relations and complaint management processes. In recent times, the NCC has stepped up its enforcement procedure to make sure that telecom subscribers get the best deals for their money.

Recall that the agency in the past called for telecom companies to reduce the price of data and calls for Nigerians.

The minister of communications and digital economy, Isa Ibrahim Pantami had made the demand for data reduction. He has urged telecom companies to reduce the price of data to reciprocate the federal government’s gesture of ensuring the protection of telecom infrastructures across the country.

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Police arrest three suspected child traffickers, recover 2-month-old baby in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested three suspected child traffickers.

They also recovered a 2-month-old baby allegedly sold out by the traffickers in Igbodo Community, Aniocha North Local Government Area.

The suspects were arrested following information by one Kelvin Anyia of Qushi Quarters in Onicha-Ugbo Community that his twenty-year-old girlfriend, Ogechi Godwin gave birth to a baby boy and sold the child out to an unknown person and lied to him that the baby died and was thrown into a pit toilet.

Swiftly, the police swung into action, arrested, and interrogated the suspect who confessed that she sold her baby with the consent of one Nkiru to one Ifeoma at Umunede Community.

As of the time of filing this report, one Isioma Otunji, a nurse, and one Chukwuekwu Elemelu, has been arrested in connection with the alleged trafficking of the baby, who was equally recovered from where he was abandoned at the residence of the Principal suspect, Nkiru.

It was learned that the principal suspect has fled her residence at Igbodo community.

When contacted for comments, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa confirmed the report in a text message sent across to newsmen.

He said, “The case is under investigation”, just as he pointed out that efforts were on to track and arrest the fleeing suspect.

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Edo Election: Buhari warns against lack of fairness, violence

President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday reiterated his commitment to credible elections.

He warned against violence and lack of fairness in Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are the leading candidates. Twelve others are also contesting.

The stakes are high given the fierce contest.

The President warned electoral officials and security agents to be neutral while carrying out their duties.

He also warned political parties and politicians to behave responsibly as they go into the election.

The President, according to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said he is committed to bequeathing the culture of free and fair elections. He said, however, that, the activities of those on the field would go a long way to determine outcomes.

In a message to voters, political parties, election officials, and security personnel, the President reiterated his stance.

He said: “I am passionately committed to free and fair elections, but my own commitment is not enough if other actors at ground zero refuse to abide by the rules.

“I want to see democratic standards in the country raised higher at every level, but these cannot be achieved when politicians resort to do or die methods to gain power by any means or machination.

“The do-or-die mentality to politics is a threat to free and fair elections because the actors are more focused on winning than caring about a fair outcome that reflects the Will of the people.”

Buhari appealed to political parties and their candidates to behave peacefully and respect law and order. He also advised election officials and security agents “to remain neutral to ensure free and fair elections and avoid any action(s) capable of compromising the integrity of the elections.”

He said: “Conducting free and fair elections is one of my main concerns for our democracy, and I want this commitment to be one of the legacies I will leave behind when I depart office.”

The 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin, released two helplines for the public to report untoward activities.

The Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Maj. Ojo Adenegan, made in a statement gave the telephone numbers as 08079831567 and 08079839190.

He said the telephone lines would be operational round the clock.

Also on Thursday, the Police Service Commission (PSC) cautioned police officers and men to operate within the law or face sanctions.

The commission has already deployed a high powered team to monitor the conduct of policemen on electoral duties.

Head, Press and Public Relations of the Commission, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, said the team is led by Rommy Mom, a Commissioner representing the Human Rights Organizations, and Austin Braimoh, representing the Media.

The Commission has also released dedicated telephone numbers for complaints and commendation on the conduct of Police during the poll.

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Edo 2020: Obaseki’s thugs have arrived Benin, election will be ‘bloody’ – APC alleges

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The All Progressive Congress in Edo State has lifted an alarm over the alleged entrance of thugs into Benin City and the further recruitment of thugs loyal to Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

The ruling APC alleged that the recruitment occurred in Warri.

This was revealed in a statement by the chairman of the Edo APC Media Campaign Council, Mr. John Mayaki, who said the thugs gained entrance into the city and that more thugs are planning to arrive.

He disclosed, “One of my good sources in Delta called me and was telling me that our election will be ‘bloody.’

“He told me thugs in Delta are currently mobilising. He has some of them in his contact and he, Obaseki, is looking for more thugs.

“Some of them have already taken off from Warri yesterday and more will be leaving there this morning. These are people that were given clear instructions on what to do once they enter Edo. They will lie low and perpetrate some kidnaps then unleash on Saturday morning.”

On the direness of the situation, Mayaki predicted that “the security agencies that have been deployed into the state and the resilience of our people will nullify all the thugs that the governor is bringing in. People are so tired of Obaseki that they actually believe that the governor’s second term is non-negotiable in that it must not be.

“The second term with the man is as good as packing out of Edo. His governance is like giving a gun to a baby to play with so people will come out to collect the power of Edo State from him.

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Delta issues serious warning to contractors, demands completion of projects

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Delta State Government has told contractors handling the counterpart funding water projects between the Federal and the State Governments Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation And Hygiene, PE-WASH Programme in the State to execute projects given to them to specification.

The Commissioner for Water Resources Development, Mr.spelledins Okonta, who gave the warning during a ministerial press briefing/meeting with PE-WASH contractors in Asaba, said the ,State Government would not pay for any shoddy work.

Okonta said: “For God sake, there are conditions spelt out for doing the job. In as much as money has been set aside for the job, if you don’t comply with the procedure, rules and guidelines, we will not pay you.

“We willfollow you to the latter. This is government money, not just state government money, it is both federal and state combined. If you refuse to do your job, we will not pay you.

“The guidelines for executing boreholes under PE-WASH, has been made clear. The contracts must be executed according to the provisions of the Bill of Quantity, BoQ. Look at your BoQ and execute your jobs”.

He warned them against taking advise from a third party on executing the contract below specifications, adding that; “every contractor must sign the contract agreement. If you disobey the rules and regulations, there will be trouble.

“Any contractor not performing according to the timeline, his job will blaydownd because as you are doing, the federal government is watching you.

“If the federal government does one, the state will do one. You are being monitored. This PE-WASH work is not done haphazardly. You must comply with the lay down procedures and you must be given approval for change of site.

“If you want to change the site, you must seek approval, if you change site on your own without seeking approval, that means you have terminated your contract yourself.

“The issue of solar pump, there is an accredited person we buy from. So that you can buy the one with a high-quality solar pump. If you go to Onitsha to carry a pump, you are on your own. Payment will be based on the measurement of what you have done”.

Disclosing that there would be two levels of supervision from the project supervisor and Coordinator, the Commissioner said everything the contractors needed was in place.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Felicia Adun, the General Manager, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, RUWASA, Engr. Clement Adiotomre and the Chairman, RUWASA Board, Mr. Ejaife Odebala, advised the contractors to follow the BoQ.

Responding on behalf of the contractors, Mr. Okwutu Emeka, assured the state government that they would do their jobs in line with the BoQ.

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Court dissolves 21-year-old marriage over wife’s refusal to cook for husband

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A Mapo Customary Court in Ibadan on Thursday dissolved a 21-year-old marriage between a painter, Ojo Ayeni, and his wife, Sade, over her refusal to cook food for her family for two years.

Ayeni alleged that his wife stopped cooking for him and his three children in 2018.

Conveying judgment, Odunade, dissolved in the interest of peace. He granted custody of the first child to Ayeni and the last two to Sade.

The judge ordered Ojo to pay N10,000 as a monthly feeding allowance.

Earlier while testifying, Ayeni said that anytime he reported her to her parents and family members, Sade never took him seriously.

“My lord, the problem even worsened when Sade started mocking me whenever she sees me cooking for the children.

” In fact, she now returns home very late in the night and has caused great division in the home.

“I have developed a High Blood Pressure as a result and I would not want to resolve to self-help,” Ojo said.

Responding, Sade, objected to the divorce suit and denied some of the allegations leveled against her.

“Yes. I admit that I stopped cooking my husband’s meals because he accused me of trying to poison the food,” Sade said.

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Davido on Cuppy’s Ferrari gift from Otedola, says he’ll do same for his daughters

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Nigerian superstar singer, David Adeleke is popularly known as Davido, has expressed joy over the Ferrari billionaire father, Femi Otedola got for Cuppy Otedola and her sisters.

The ‘Fem crooner’ disclosed this in a recent post on his Twitter handle.

He quoted Cuppy’s tweet with a congratulatory message, confessing such wealth and gesture into his life. Davido stated that he hopes to one day be that father that will treat his daughters, Imade, and Hailey with such a gift.

According to the singer:
“Congrats cuppy… I will do the same for my daughters one day AMEN .. chai money good”

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Nigeria divided before Buhari — Presidency replies Obasanjo, Soyinka

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Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr. Femi Adesina, has said Nigeria has always been divided and that it did not start under Buhari’s administration.

According to him, right from amalgamation, Nigeria has been a divided country.

Speaking during a Channels TV programme yesterday Adesina said the division in the country predates the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

He was reacting to comments made by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and playwright and Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, who said that Nigeria is more divided than ever before.

However, defending the president, Adesina described Nigeria as an inconvenient amalgamation which has always been divided. “Nigeria had always been divided right from amalgamation in 1914. Nigeria is an inconvenient amalgamation but we have kept at it and we have worked at it,” Adesina said.

“And I tell you that there is no time in the history of this country that the country was not divided. But then, we have kept at it and we are trying to make it work. As of 2015 when President Buhari came, Nigeria was terribly divided; divided along ethnic, religious, and political lines; divided along with language; divided hopelessly and terribly.

The presidential spokesman, who said the current administration has been making efforts to unite the country, accused some people of “playing politics with everything. That is the division that President Buhari has been working at. But you see that a number of people, instead of letting harmony return to this country, thrive and luxuriate in widening the gap between Nigerians. They play politics with everything.”

“So, if they say Nigeria is divided today, it is because Nigeria has always been divided. And all efforts to unite Nigeria and Nigerians never worked. When Nigerians come to a decision point that we must live together, we can’t wish anybody away, then we will be working towards being a nation.”

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Femi Otedola buys Ferrari for each of his 3 daughters [photos]

Nigerian billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, recently served serious daddy goals with his recent move for his three daughters.

The billionaire who is no doubt a doting father recently went shopping for his daughters and splurged millions of naira on fast cars for them.

Otedola purchased a Ferrari Portofino for each of his three daughters, Temi, Tolani, and DJ Cuppy. A 2020 model of the fast car reportedly costs about $215,000 (N83.2 million). The Ferrari’s came in different colors that seemed to suit the personalities of each daughter. Popular disk jockey DJ Cuppy’s ride came in her signature pink colour and the family’s fashionista daughter Temi’s ride came in a nice brown colour while Tolani’s Ferrari came in a cool blue colour. The excited girls took to social media to share photos of their father’s gifts to them as they celebrated. Cuppy shared a series of photos of the fast cars on her page and explained in her caption that their father took them shopping and bought one each for them. She wrote: “Papa took us shopping and bought ONE of EACH! #FerrariPortofino #CuppyDat”

Tolani could not also contain her joy as she also shared snaps of her sisters and herself posing by their cars.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CFMRm3cBSyM/?igshid=cmtdjl37hqdc

Daddy goals paired with serious money moves. Nice one

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Edo 2020: Why you should vote for Obaseki, Shaibu – Governor Wike

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The Chairman of the National Campaign Council of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the September 19 governorship election in Edo State, Chief Nyesom Wike, has urged the electorate to vote for Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy/running mate, Philip Shaibu, to end godfatherism in the state.

Wike, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, made the admonition yesterday at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin while ending PDP’s campaigns with a mega rally.

The Grand finale of the rally was also attended by Governors Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto) and Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), as well as the National Chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus; and a former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi; among other dignitaries.

Wike claimed that Obaseki had done his best in going round the 192 wards of Edo State to solicit the votes of residents, stressing that the large number of persons that attended the rally was an attestation that the Edo governor had done what he needed to do.

With the mammoth crowd at the rally, the Rivers governor claimed that Obaseki had already won the election, asking the electorate to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to announce the election result in favour of Governor Obaseki.

Tambuwal asked Edo residents to protect their votes, saying they should not be intimidated or allowed themselves to be enticed by money to sell their votes.

Meanwhile, Delta Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa hailed Obaseki for moving around the 192 wards to the campaign, hoping that he would emerge victorious on Saturday.

Also, Peter Obi said voting for the Edo governor would guarantee the people of the state and the unborn generations a brighter future.

PDP National Chairman, Prince Secondus urged lovers of democracy worldwide to ensure that the Edo governorship election was free, fair, and credible.

Obaseki noted that his electioneering in the 192 wards opened his eyes to some of the challenges in the rural areas, which he promised to address in his second term.

However, Obaseki acknowledged the support of members and leaders of the PDP.

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Why you should stop harassing Mailafia – Secondus tells DSS

The National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus has advised the Directorate of State Services (DSS) against further harassing the former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Dr Obadiah Mailafia.

Secondus advised the DSS to always assess the mood of the times and adjust themselves to democratic dispensation by learning to accommodate dissenting views.

In a statement in Abuja on Tuesday, the party chair said the main frequent invitation extended to Mailafia by the DSS within the past few weeks was disrespectful of the status of the former CBN deputy governor.

Stating that Mailafia had made contributions to the development of the country, Secondus said that democracy dictates that citizens be allowed to have their say even when they cannot have their way on any issue.

He said it was repugnant for the DSS to continue to harass someone that had served his country at such a high level just because he held dissenting views.

Secondus added that in trying to intimidate Mailafia, the DSS has continued to traumatise him, saying however that no amount of pressure will deter the people from expressing their views “under a government that has clearly lost focus and direction”.

Recall that the DSS and the Nigeria Police have been investigating Mailafia since the past three weeks over statements he made during a radio interview, accusing an unnamed northern governor of being a commander of the Boko Haram terror group.

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Nigerians hail Kanayo Kanayo as he officially becomes a lawyer

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Nigerians on Tuesday, brought congratulatory messages to Nollywood Veteran actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo as he officially becomes a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, called to the Nigerian Bar on 15 Sept 2020.

The 58-year-old movie celebrity announced via his Instagram page on Tuesday that his friends, families, and fans can now address him as “Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, Esq, MFR ( Barrister And Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria)”

Kanayo also shared a photo of himself wearing the traditional lawyer’s robe and wig and wrote ”To God be all the Glory. You can now address me as Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, Esq, MFR ( Barrister And Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria)”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CFJwcR6FGqv/?igshid=15mk6llqyfhod

Recall that five years ago, the actor took everyone by surprise when he enrolled for a Law degree at the University of Abuja. He graduated in 2018 and went to the Nigerian Law School where he passed the examinations in July 2020.

Fans and friends have been sending a congratulatory message to the actor, now a lawyer.

Moghalu Kingsley was one of the friends who congratulated the actor, he wrote: “Congrats to my brother @KanayoOKanayo as he becomes a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, called to the Nigerian Bar today! I remember my own day in October 1987. So will Kanayo now change costumes in his movies? Look out for scary wings & gowns next time”
A fan wrote “Congrats sir I know it took lots of sacrifice for this to happen”

Another fan wrote on Twitter “One of the most beautiful pictures seen today. If you want it, you can actually try and get it. Congrats Kanayo O Kanayo on your call to bar today”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CFKBBFGJXVc/?igshid=uocdw28e2ms6

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‘You can’t extend your political empire to Edo’- Obaseki slams Tinubu

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Edo State Governor and governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the Edo State Election, Godwin Obaseki, has condemned claims made by the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a televised broadcast on Tuesday.

Obaseki disclosed this in a press statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie.

The statement was titled ‘You can’t extend your political empire to our state – Edo govt tells Tinubu’.

Obaseki boasted that Tinubu cannot extend his political empire to Edo State, noting that the Edo people were determined to end godfatherism in the state.

Recall that in the broadcast, Tinubu had said Obaseki does not deserve a single vote in Saturday’s election, asking voters to reject the PDP candidate.

Reacting, the statement read, “Our attention has been drawn to a television broadcast in which a former Lagos State Governor and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his quest to extend his political dominance and empire to Edo State, decided to take over the role of Edo people to choose through the ballot who to govern them for the next four years.

“It has become obvious that the spirited fight which Edo people have put up against godfatherism has sent tremors beyond the shores of Edo to the likes of Tinubu, who has for years sustained a stranglehold on Lagos and other states in South-Western Nigeria, hence this desperate, last-ditch effort to rescue the unproductive political instrument, now popularly referred to as godfatherism, with which he has feathered his nest and built his political empire at the expense of the people.

“Tinubu knows clearly that come September 19, when godfatherism would have been dismantled in Edo State, the people of Lagos may just have found the recipe and formula for removing the chokehold placed on their collective destinies for decades by Tinubu, hence the inciting television broadcast.”

Obaseki described the allegation that he prevented the inauguration of lawmakers in the state as “false”.

“We call on all Edo people, friends of Nigeria and all lovers of democracy to disregard all the comments by Tinubu, as the allegations about the Edo State House of Assembly and other claims in the broadcast are completely false,” he added.

The crisis in the Edo State House of Assembly began when it was inaugurated under controversial circumstances at night with only nine, out of 24 lawmakers-elect, on June 17, 2019, following a proclamation by the governor.

The lawmakers, who were not part of the process, as well as the APC, rejected the process and called on the governor to issue a fresh proclamation.

However, a Federal High Court in Rivers State banned the governor from doing so. A separate court also barred the National Assembly from taking over the Edo Assembly.

This worsened the crisis within the APC in the state and deepened the feud between Obaseki and his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole, who was also the National Chairman of the APC.

The governor organized the suspension of Oshiomhole from the party at the ward level. In retaliation, Oshiomhole ensured that Obaseki did not clinch the governorship ticket of the APC and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu emerged as the winner of the primary.

The crisis in the Edo State chapter of the APC and the multiple court rulings on Oshiomhole’s suspension snowballed into a national crisis that culminated in the President Muhammadu Buhari dissolving the National Working Committee of the APC causing Oshiomhole to lose his position.

An attempt by the aggrieved lawmakers to be inaugurated was, however, scuttled by men claiming to be renovating the Assembly complex.

However, the APC claimed the men were thugs hired by the governor who was afraid of being impeached.

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Edo 2020: Reject Obaseki, he doesn’t deserve your votes – Tinubu begs voters

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All Progressives Congress leader, Bola Tinubu, says Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State does not merit a single vote in Saturday’s election.

Tinubu, therefore, called on Edo State voters to reject Obaseki who is the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Tinubu disclosed this in a sponsored broadcast on TVC on Tuesday.

The former Lagos State governor said, “He (Obaseki) does not deserve any democratic ballot paper. Don’t vote for him, I appeal to all of you.”

He said while he was taking part in the democratic struggle in the 1990s, Obaseki was nowhere to be found hence the governor’s inability to appreciate democratic institutions.

“I want to appeal to you to reject Godwin Obaseki in this coming election. I have suffered from many others to bring about this democratic regime, that today, we are enjoying in the country. Then, Godwin Obaseki didn’t participate in any aspect of the struggle to enshrine democracy in the country.

“Therefore, he could not understand the value and the pains associated with this democratic struggle,” Tinubu stated.

He revealed that Obaseki prevented 14 of the 24 elected state lawmakers from being inaugurated.

Tinubu also said Obaseki refused to take the advice of the National Assembly and the Attorney General of the Federation to let the 14 members of the House of Assembly be inaugurated.

The APC leader revealed that rather than let them be inaugurated, Obaseki supervised the destruction of the House of Assembly complex all in a bid to prevent them from being sworn-in.

He, therefore, called on the people of Edo State to punish the governor.

The APC chieftain added, “He demonstrated the act of dictatorship, lack of respect for rule of law, lack of respect for you the people who voted for those legislators prevented from being sworn-in. Today, he now comes back as a democrat wanting you to vote for him. Please, I appeal to you, reject him.

“Several institutions and leaders of our country appealed to him to respect constitutional democracy but he rejected all entreaties. He rejected the appeal of the National Assembly.

“When the Attorney-General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria enumerated the path of honour and the constitution of the country, rather than obey and respect the law, he vandalised the House of Assembly in Edo by removing the roofs, burning gravels and rocks at the entrance of the House of Assembly only to prevent these 14 members from being sworn-in. Now, he is asking for our votes, your votes, our dear people. Is he a democrat? No, he is not.”

The crisis in the Edo State House of Assembly began when it was inaugurated under controversial circumstances at night with only nine, out of 24 lawmakers-elect, on June 17, 2019, following a proclamation by the governor.

The lawmakers, who were not part of the process, as well as the APC, rejected the process and called on the governor to issue a fresh proclamation.

However, a Federal High Court in Rivers State barred the governor from doing so. A separate court also barred the National Assembly from taking over the Edo Assembly.

This worsened the crisis within the APC in the state and deepened the feud between Obaseki and his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole, who was also the National Chairman of the APC.

The governor orchestrated the suspension of Oshiomhole from the party at the ward level. In retaliation, Oshiomhole ensured that Obaseki did not clinch the governorship ticket of the APC and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu emerged as the winner of the primary.

The crisis in the Edo State chapter of the APC and the multiple court rulings on Oshiomhole’s suspension snowballed into a national crisis that culminated in the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, dissolving the National Working Committee of the APC causing Oshiomhole to lose his position.

An attempt by the aggrieved lawmakers to be inaugurated was, however, scuttled by men claiming to be renovating the Assembly complex.

However, the APC claimed the men were thugs hired by the governor who was afraid of being impeached.

Tinubu, who is rumoured to be nursing a Presidential ambition, is an ardent supporter of Oshiomhole

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Omo-Agege lauds appointment of Prof. Florence Obi as UNICAL VC

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Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo Agege, APC, Delta Central, has said that the emergence of Professor Florence Obi as the first female Vice Chancellor-elect of the University of Calabar eloquently attests to what he termed the excellence of the womenfolk in higher institutions.

This is contained in a statement yesterday by his Special Adviser, Media, and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga.

Omo-Agege who chairs the Senate Adhoc Committee on Constitution Review, described Obi as “an astute educational icon” even as he applauded the institution for its non-gender biased meritocracy.

Prof. Mrs. Obi takes over from Professor Zana Akpagu, whose tenure ends on November 30, 2020.

Recall 45-year-older, Professor Obi of the Faculty of Education broke a 45-year-old jinx by emerging the first female Vice-Chancellor-elect of the University of Calabar, Cross River State, beating 12 other candidates.

Omo Agege urged her to build on the achievements of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akpagu, praying for the success of her tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

The DSP said, “In spite of considerable challenges, Nigerian women have continued to demonstrate capacity and competence in various roles and it is no mere conjecture that if given the chance, capable women from the South-South zone and other parts of Nigeria can offer good leadership.

“While congratulating the VC-elect and wishing her a successful-gender-biased, I particularly commend the institution for its non-gender-biased meritocracy.”

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One dead, four injured as tanker smashes into tricycle in Anambra

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One person has been confirmed dead while four other people were seriously injured after a water tanker smashed into a tricycle in Anambra on Monday.

The Anambra State Sector Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, RC Kamal Musa, in a statement confirmed that the accident occurred along Onitsha-Awka Old road opposite Jodon Shopping Mall Nkpor, at about 3 pm.

Musa said that the unfortunate incident occurred as a result of excessive speeding and wrongful overtaking.

He also said that four persons who sustained serious injuries in the accident were rushed to Boromi hospital Onitsha, by FRSC rescue team.

According to him, the corpse of the victim that died was deposited at the Morgue after he was confirmed dead by the doctors in the Hospital.

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School reopening: FG issues serious warning to state governors, proprietors

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The federal government has sent a fresh warning message to the state governments and the proprietors of private schools, ahead with the preparations for the resumption of primary and secondary schools in Nigeria.

This was disclosed on Monday, September 14, in Abuja by the minister of state for education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, during the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 briefing. He said that the state governments making move to reopen schools were in tune with the directive by the PTF that states and other stakeholders should prepare for the full reopening of schools.

The federal government advised state governments to ensure that adequate measures are put in place to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic before the full reopening of schools.

It was gathered that the FG said it would not hesitate to shut any school reopened without adherence to guidelines and protocols provided by the national response.

Nwajiwuba, who was reacting to a question about some state governments that have already announced the full reopening of primary and secondary schools effective from September 21, did not give a specific date for full nationwide resumption. He noted that primary and secondary education was within the purview of the state governments and that the right thing must be done to safeguard the lives of the school children before reopening.

He said: “All primary schools up to post-primary schools have the participation of sub-national and at that level, they need to check and meet all the requirements before they open. “But at the tertiary level, that guidance will also be done in collaboration with the National Universities Commission so that it will give clearance that we are satisfied with your performance with regard to the guideline. “What we are doing is that we are reducing this whole gamut of the document into some measurable steps towards reopening. What that means is that the governing council of each institution will then review the guideline and benchmark it.

You may have heard several states taking steps around reopening, they are all in order. This is what is expected from what the PTF said last week and following the guideline, everybody will now begin the processes of reopening. “However, they must be guided because in every state we have quality assurance officers that are reporting to the federal ministry of education and we will not hesitate to shut down any place that is not in compliance with guidelines.”

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Incredible: Four arrested for beating policeman to death

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The Ogun State Police Command on Monday said it arrested some hoodlums who allegedly beat a yet-to-be-identified police constable to death in Dalemo, Sango, in the Ado-Odo-Ota Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

It was gathered the hoodlums were reportedly hired by a truck driver who had an argument with the deceased and his colleague

Oyeyemi identified the suspects as Jelili Ismaila, 22; Amidu Bankole, 34; Elijah Samson, 36; and Moses Proboye, 34.

The police boss said the suspected hoodlums beat the policeman to a coma with weapons around 9.30 pm on Sunday.

He explained that the deceased constable and one other were escorting their principal from Idah in Kogi State to Lagos State when the incident happened.

Oyeyemi said, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased officer and one other escorted their principal from Idah in Kogi State to Lagos State. On their way passing through Sango Ota, a truck driver, Jelili Ismaila, drove dangerously and almost pushed their vehicle off the road.

“While trying not to hit the vehicle conveying the officers, the truck entered a pothole as a result of which its tire got punctured.

” This made the two policemen come down and caution the truck driver to always be mindful of other road users. But the driver accused them of being at fault, thereby mobilising hoodlums who attacked the officers and their principal with weapons and beat the deceased to a coma.

“Having realised that the policeman may not survive the attack, the driver and his hired hoodlums took to their heels. But luck ran out on four of them when the DPO and his men on a tip-off stormed their hideout and got them arrested, while four others escaped.

“The remains of the deceased officer have been deposited at the General Hospital Ota mortuary.”

The PPRO said the state Commissioner of Police, Edward Ajogun, described the incident as barbaric.

Oyeyemi revealed that the CP had ordered a massive manhunt for the fleeing suspects.

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Edo 2020: INEC promises free, fair election, speaks on readiness for Saturday’s poll

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The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has assured the people of Edo State of a free, fair, and credible governorship election on Saturday.

The state’s INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Dr. Johnson Sinikiem, gave the assurance during a stakeholders’ meeting in Benin, the state capital, on Monday.

The INEC boss also disclosed that the electoral umpire was ready for the conduct of the Saturday’s election.

He said: “We monitored the primaries of the 15 political parties, out of which 14 submitted the names of candidates to the commission by the expiration of the deadline.

“We have received all non-sensitive materials, and have trained the various categories of staff for the election.

“We have given out voters’ register to the 14 political parties as mandated in Section 20 of the 2010 Electoral Act, as Amended.

” We are just waiting for the receipt of sensitive materials this week, and then the election goes on as scheduled.”

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Breaking: Supporters surrounds DSS office as Mailafia is released

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Supporters of a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Obadiah Mailafia, on Monday stormed the West of Mines office of the Department of State Services to witness the grilling of the ex-CBN top official.

The supporters, who chanted solidarity songs were, however, prevented from gaining entrance into the DSS compound.

It was reported that Mailafia was invited by the DSS to appear at its office in Jos on Monday.

Monday’s invitation is the third in the last one month that the former CBN Deputy Governor was being asked to appear at the DSS office following an interview he granted to a radio station in which he accused an unnamed Northern governor of being the leader of Boko Haram.

Addressing his supporters after his release, Mailafia condemned his latest invitation by the DSS, saying that such an invitation was uncalled for.

He insisted that the killings in Southern Kaduna and other parts of the country must stop.

Mailafia said, “Thank you all for being here. Many have said the worst things and nobody invited them. I hope this will be the last time I will be invited to the DSS office. All that I am saying is that the killings must stop.”

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Oyedepo: Cleric tells Daddy Freeze to open church, attack Buhari instead

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Senior Pastor of Awaiting The Second Coming Of Christ Ministry, Adewale Giwa has advised OAP Ifedayo Olarinde, aka Daddy Freeze to channel his criticism on the bad administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Addressing his members in Akure on Sunday, the cleric wondered why Daddy Freeze had kept mute on the attacks on Christians in northern Nigeria, fuel price hike, and electricity tariff.

Recall that Daddy Freeze had come under attack from several reputable clerics, including Senior Pastor, Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche; the founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, and several others for verbally attacking Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith Church.

The disputes generated by Daddy Freeze’s insult on Oyedepo may have finally come to an end in view of his apology on Saturday.

In his apology, he was quoted to have told members of the public, that he made the statement more than two years ago.

However, Giwa urged OAP Daddy Freeze to look for land and build a church if he is truly called by God.

“I advise Daddy Freeze or whatever he calls himself to look for land and build a church. Let him try to gather how many people he can get to worship God with him,” he said.

“Men of God are powerful and you don’t talk against them. Remember how God dealt with Aaron and Miriam when they both talked against Moses in Numbers chapter 12.

“Besides, this guy has never contributed anything meaningful to Nigeria, either by fighting for the oppressed or criticise the bad administration of President Buhari.

“I urge him to refrain from talking rubbish against men of God. He should reserve his energy on bad governance rather than teach what he doesn’t know,” he added.

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Listen to Obasanjo’s advice, PDP tells Buhari’s Govt

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to come down from his high horse and listen to advice from eminent Nigerians, who are advising him against allowing the nation to tumble from the mountain under his watch.

In a statement on Sunday by its spokesman Kola Ologbodiyan, the party accused the Buhari Presidency of worsening the woes of the country.

It took him on for choosing to haul insults on Nigerians, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, calling on the Buhari administration to end its divisive, suppressive, and insensitive style of leadership that has ruined the nation.

The statement reads: “From its reactions to patriotic counsel, it is clear that the Buhari Presidency has become bereft of the fundamentals of governance as well as overwhelmed by its own failures and burden of guilt for the disunity, bloodletting, and anguish that have enveloped our nation in the last five years.”

The party echoed Obasanjo’s claim that Nigeria was sliding into a failed state, where citizens are not guaranteed their safety and cannot afford the basic necessities of life, among others.

The PDP said: “Under Buhari, all sectors of our national life are in shambles; the productive sectors have been crippled; the nation has been pushed into the reverse gear; bandits, insurgents, and marauders are freely ravaging communities and our citizens live in constant fear and extreme poverty.

Indeed, never in the history of our nation has the situation been this pathetic.

“While President Buhari recedes in the comfort and safety of the Presidential Villa and reneged in his promise to lead from the front, Nigeria is being pushed to the fringes by marauders who are pillaging our citizens in various parts of our country…”

“Furthermore, it smacks of shamelessness for the Buhari administration to be talking about corruption in PDP’s subsidy regime, when it has been caught neck-deep in unprecedented oil corruption that had ruined our economy, turned our nation into the poverty capital of the world and put our citizens in a dire strait.”

The PDP alleged that life has become more traumatising for Nigerians under the present administration.

“Today, life has become resources from the sale of crude oil has either been wasted or stolen by officials of the Buhari administration,” Ologbodiyan said in the statement.

He claimed the Buhari administration has not done enough to sustain a credible electoral process, which enhanced his elector victory in 2015 over a sitting government.

The statement further reads: “It, therefore, amounts to pretending to sanctimony for President Buhari to be preaching on term limit, whereas, his administration has done everything possible, breaking all known democratic norms and rules to debase credibility in our elections.

“Our party implores President Buhari to pause, think of Nigeria and its people and heed wise counsel to save our nation from an imminent collapse, which this idling administration has foisted on all our people.”

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See how suspects excreted 124 wraps of cocaine

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Four suspected drug traffickers arrested by police in Lagos have excreted 124 wraps of substances believed to be cocaine.

It was gathered that the suspects were arrested on September 1 at Alakija by operatives of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS), Lagos Annex on the suspicion that they were armed robbers.

Their arrest followed a tip-off to the FSARS that robbers were planning to carry out an operation in the area.

According to the police, the suspects during profiling denied being armed robbers but confessed they were drug couriers for yet to be identified persons who summoned them to Lagos.

They told the police they were made to swallow various quantities of wrapped substances suspected to be cocaine.

According to Police Commissioner in charge of FSARS, Imohimi Edgal, the suspects started excreting the swallowed substances after a few hours of interrogation and passed over 124 wraps.

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I didn’t ask resident doctors to forfeit salary arrears – Governor Ikpeazu

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Abia State government has denied reports that it told medical doctors to forfeit its salary arrears.

This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday, by the Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu saying the report making the rounds was false.

The statement urged Nigerians to disregard the reports, noting that Governor Ikpeazu’s administration was determined to continue to support ailing state parastatals, pay workers regularly, and clear due arrears.

“We wish to state categorically that contrary to the claims by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), at no time did Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State Government ask resident doctors or any other worker of the state to forfeit any salary arrears.

“The administration is determined to continue to support ailing state parastatals to pay workers regularly and clear due arrears as we have been regularly paying state workers in our Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) without owing any month in arrears.” the statement added.

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NDDC Probe: Niger Delta Leaders, ICPC set for showdown

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The interrogation of senior management staff of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is not going down reasonably with some Niger Delta leaders.

There might be a showdown between the leaders and the anti-graft agency if urgent efforts are not taken.

This is coming after prominent leaders in the region, under the auspices of the Niger Delta Leaders Forum (NDLF) on Friday described the action of ICPC as a distraction.

Spokesperson of the NDLF, Chief John Harry, while addressing newsmen in Port-Harcourt, said the invitation of NDDC officials by ICPC is unnecessary and ill-motivated.

Chief Harry, who was flanked by Akwa-Ibom, Cross Rivers, Abia, Rivers, Imo, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo and Ondo representatives, condemned the interrogation of the Commission’s workers.

The leaders praised the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Chief Godswill Akpabio for redefining leadership in the region, sanitizing NDDC, decentralizing the functions of NDDC, finding solutions to the problems confronting the region and bringing the Commission closer to the ideals for which it was established.

‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio is the most positive Minister in the Niger Delta region’’

The leaders particularly commended Akpabio for the sense of independence in the interventionist agency.

‘’The approach of ICPC is bound to result in conflict with the mandate of the Interim Management Committee and the Act setting up the Commission. It is in every sense witch hunting’’

However, The leaders also accused ICPC of disrupting the progress of the region.

‘What ICPC has done now is sabotage of the forensic agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari. The Interim Management Committee is a panacea for the region’s problem, IMC’s problem is understandable. Some politicians want to control the Commission. The idea of a minister who is not controlled by them is unthinkable’’

They advised President Buhari to ignore the antics of mischief makers and pecuniary seeking elements that are all out to bring down the minister and the IMC.

‘’There has been well oiled machinery by enemies of progress and failed politicians to bring down Akpabio and the Interim Management Committee. Those frustrated by the achievements recorded by the IMC are using ICPC against the Commission’’ the leaders said.

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Presidency attacks Obasanjo, says he’s Divider-In-Chief of Nigeria

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The Presidency on Sunday fell tough on former President Olusegun Obasanjo over his Thursday’s statement on the state of the nation, describing him as the country’s ‘Divider-in-Chief.’

It dismissed the former President as a divisive element, saying his recent criticisms have shown his descend “from the lofty heights of Commander-in-Chief to the lowly level of Divider-in-Chief (to adapt the coinage of Time).”

Recall that Obasanjo, last week attacked President Muhammadu Buhari, saying Nigeria was becoming world capital of poverty and a failed state under his watch.

However, the Presidency, in a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said Obasanjo was being insincere with his calls.

He ordered him to get involved in the ongoing process of finding real solutions to the country’s development issues.

The Presidency stated: “In his most recent statement former President Olusegun Obasanjo attempts to divide the nation while President Muhammadu Buhari continues to promote nation building and the unity of Nigeria.

“The difference is clear. From the lofty heights of Commander-in-Chief, General Obasanjo has descended to the lowly level of Divider-in-Chief (to adapt the coinage of Time).

“We hope that Chief Obasanjo would once again sheath the sword and rest the pretentiousness about the Messiah that has misled him to pronounce often wrongly, as he disastrously did in the 2019 elections, about the life and death of Nigerian governments.

“As some commentators are already suggesting, Chief Obasanjo should, in accordance with his mantra as a statesman, get involved with problems solving, when and where they exist instead of helping the mushrooming of a poisonous atmosphere of ethnic and religious nationalism.

“Surely, he must have disappointed many of his local and foreign admirers by showering commendations on a few extremist groups who have vowed to shun the invitation to the National Assembly to participate in the process of constitutional amendment.”

It added: “No doubt, he must have left those admirers confused in announcing the support for the boycott of a democratic process of changing the constitution, at the same time calling for dialogue and engagement.

The fact that the process he ushered in under his administration with the dubious intention of amendments that sought tenure elongation failed, as he did two other attempts by the successive administration of the same political party, does not in any way justify his dismissal of the exercise by the 9th Assembly as another waste of time and resources.

“To the credit of the All Progressive Congress led 8th Assembly, the process of the constitutional amendment was kick-started and carried through, paving the way for, among other benefits, the financial independence of local government councils, States Houses of Assembly and the country’s Judiciary. These changes have already been signed into laws by the President as mandated by the constitution.

“The recent decisions by the administration as they relate to subsidy withdrawal, helping to plug some of the most horrendous notorious holes and release of scarce resources for the more pressing needs of the people has also not escaped the ire of the former president.

“It’s a known fact that the withdrawal of subsidies had been on the wish list of the Obasanjo-led Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

They failed to achieve these measures because there was shared greed. They plundered the treasury as much as anyone could in the name of either subsidy or a waiver with reckless impunity.

“Two is to say it takes courage and rare statesmanship on the part of a leader to do as President Buhari to shun populism and seek the best interest of the people and the state, providing the kind of reform and development that Nigeria urgently needs.

“This President has run an administration focused on infrastructure and development. He has repaired our damaged relations with neighbours and our traditional allies such as the UK, US, China, Russia, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and the others with lots of benefits to the country.

“It is a pro-business administration that has used diplomacy to unlock bilateral trade and investment.

“He leads a government that has liberalised the investment climate and market access by achieving reforms that have placed the country in the list of the world’s top reforming economies.

“Nigeria, which other nations had mocked and ridiculed for so many things that were wrong is today progressing at a pace reflecting its size and potential.

“With so much to show and many more coming, it is little surprise that President Buhari would be the object of envy and harsh unfair challenges by politicians who failed to deliver but continue to nurse ambitions of delighting the audience long after their curtain has been drawn.”

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One dead, others injured in Asaba building collapse

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One person has been reported died while four others were injured when a building collapsed in Asaba, Delta State.

The building collapsed after a thunderstorm on Saturday.

It was gathered that the building located behind Police Officer Mess, in Okwe, Oshimili South area of the state collapsed around 5 pm.

The building was under construction when it collapsed.

Workers were at the site when the incident happened.

The Chairman, Delta State Emergency Management Agency, Mr. Daniel Okpor, at the scene of the incident, said the building collapsed as a result of structural defect.

He said, “We observed that there was a thunderstorm and that made the building quickly collapse. The thunderstorm could be a part of it but the structural work is very poor.

“About five people were trapped, we have been able to rescue all of them, they are now receiving treatment at the hospital. The only one confirmed dead.”

The Council Chairman, Mr. Uche Osedebe, said,” My observation here is that there is a structural defect and that led to the collapse of this building. People should always seek professional and get building approval.

“Now, we have lost a life, and those who are at the hospital, we don’t know whether they are going to survive.”

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Tension as gunmen storms funeral, shoot top politicians, kidnap guests

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Unknown gunmen, Saturday stormed Banigo Isile-Ogono community in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, shot sporadically, and abducted several persons in a gory operation.

Some of the abducted victims are identified as Sunny Hart, Thomas Allison, and Theophilus Ibiama, among several others.

Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, David Irimagha, and the lawmaker representing Bonny Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Abinye Blessing Pepple, escaped being killed in the attack.

The incident happened during a funeral at Finiapiri-Ama, Banigo Isile-Ogino community in Bonny Local Government Area of the State.

While the LGA Chairman and the State lawmaker escaped, the leader of the Bonny Local Government Legislative Assembly, Miriam Hart who was among the guests was unlucky.

Miriam Hart, it was gathered, was hit by bullets and now battling for her life at an undisclosed hospital after sustaining gunshot injuries.

An eyewitness told newsmen that, “Pepple, Irimagha, and Hart were among guests who were in the community to attend the funeral of late Kenneth Kalada Banigo when the gunmen who were masked struck.

“The lawmaker, local government chairman, together with other guests tried to get to the waterfront to board their boats and escape.

“The gunmen later abducted a number of persons and took them away into the nearby creeks. The matter has been reported to security agencies,” the eyewitness said.

Kingsley Jumbo, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Pepple in a statement said, “The Rivers State lawmaker representing Bonny Constituency, Hon Abinye Blessing Pepple and the Executive Chairman of Bonny Local Government , Hon David Rogers Irimagha earlier today escaped being abducted by masked gunmen.

“The unfortunate incident happened at Finapiri Ama (Amanda) village in Banigo Ishilegono where they attended the burial ceremony of an elder statesman in the Bonny Kingdom, Late Amaopusenibo Kenneth Miebaradima Kalada Banigo when masked gunmen arrived and began shooting sporadically from the jetty.”

The Rivers State Police Command is yet to react to the development.

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Breaking: OAP Daddy Freeze finally apologises to Oyedepo [Video]

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Controversial On-Air Personality, Ifedayo Olarinde, aka, Daddy Freeze, has finally apologized to the founder and presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners’ Chapel International, Bishop David Oyedepo.

Freeze had in a video he made last three years ago, criticized Oyedepo’s teaching, calling him a ‘bald-headed fowl’.

The video, however, resurfaced this year and generated negative comments against Freeze. Reacting, the Founder and General Overseer of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, condemned Freeze for questioning and criticizing Oyedepo. He accused him of insulting Oyedepo.

Ibiyeomie called Freeze ‘a bastard’ son of a Somalian and half-caste, threatening to kill and tear him into pieces.

The bold Freeze, Saturday decided to apologize, saying that he did not intend to insult the personality of Bishop Oyedepo.

In his recent video shared by ex-media aide to Goodluck Jonathan, Pastor Reno Omokri, Freeze was seen apologizing to Oyedepo, saying ‘he did not in any way intend to dishonor, disrespect, or disregard the person of the Bishop’.

Emphasizing on the video Reno said: As I promised in my video this morning, Ifedayo Olarinde, AKA Daddy Freeze, has now apologised to Bishop Oyedepo over his comments of 3 years ago. He recognised his error and sought forgiveness.

“Scripture says if a brother sins and seeks forgiveness, forgive him 70 times 7 times! I must stress that that video was done 3 years ago. The man has changed. It took great courage for him to do what he has now done, and for the sake of peace and unity in the body of Christ, I urge all those who have had an issue with him to love like Christ.

Reno equally called on Ibiyeomie to withdraw his threats against Freeze and apologise to his mother.

His words: “I also call on David Ibiyeomie to withdraw the threats he made against Daddy Freeze, and apologise to his mother, Professor Elisabetha Smaranda Olarinde, because by using the words he used on Daddy Freeze, he also insulted his mother, who was completely innocent in this whole matter. “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

Click on the link below to see video:

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I killed my aunty because she’s a witch – Boy confesses

A 23-year-old indigene of Ogun State identified as Dansu Asogba has been arrested by the police for allegedly killing his 60-year-old aunt, Iyabo Dansu over alleged witchcraft.

Ogun State Police Spokesperson, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi, In a statement on Saturday, said the suspect was arrested following a report by two children of the victim at the Ipokia Divisional Police Headquarters.

According to Oyeyemi, the children had reported that they were informed on August 22 that their mother, who was not suffering from any illness had died.

Oyeyemi hinted that the children of the deceased “stated further that since they were not suspecting any foul play, they decided to bury her without necessarily reporting to the police.

“But immediately after the burial, they heard information that the suspect, who is a nephew to the deceased was seen in her house on that fateful day, and shortly after he left, the woman was declared dead.”

This, he said, aroused the suspicion of residents as they threatened to carry out a traditional ritual to expose the killer.

Hearing the determination of the community to go spiritual about the death of the woman, Asogba reportedly came out to confess being the one responsible for her death.

The DPO Ipokia Division, SP Adebayo Hakeem, was said to have detailed his men to the scene where the suspect was arrested.

“On interrogation, he admitted killing the deceased but claimed that he did so because of his belief that the deceased was responsible for the death of his first child and the subsequent miscarriage suffered by his wife.

“He confessed further that it was an iron rod he used to hit the woman on the neck which resulted to her death,” Oyeyemi said.

Meanwhile, the Ogun Commissioner of Police, Edward Ajogun, has ordered that the case be transferred to the homicide section of the State CID for further investigation.

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BREAKING: See how Kidnapped Delta woman was freed

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A woman who was kidnapped Saturday morning, in Ughelli, Delta State, has regained her freedom.

The woman identified as Mrs. Akpezi Okpidi was rescued at about 6:50 pm at an undisclosed riverine area, near the Burutu council area of the state.

A family source disclosed that security operatives tracked two of the suspects to Bayelsa state, where they were arrested.

The duo is said to have died from gunshot wounds.

A third suspect is reportedly on the run. He was said to have escaped with the victim but may have abandoned her when he noticed that the Police were on him.

It was gathered that the GLK Benz used for the operation was stolen by the suspects, and has also been recovered.

The family source told newsmen that no ransom was paid to effect her release.

Remember that at about 8 am, Mrs. Okipidi was abducted from her Honda vehicle and whisked away to an undisclosed location, while on the way to her shop.

The Delta State Police Command was yet to confirm the development as of the time of filing this report.

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Oyedepo: Pastor Paul Enenche attacks Daddy Freeze, calls him a mad dog with bipolar

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The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Christian Centre, Paul Enenche, has reprimanded On-Air Presenter, Daddy Freeze over his attacks on clergymen in the country.

The cleric said Daddy Freeze is a mad dog who is suffering from bipolar disease.

Enenche, reacting to a trending video where Daddy Freeze described Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church as a “baldheaded fowl.”

According to a statement issued by Enenche, the clergyman maintained that the OAP has no moral values and respect.

The dunnamis senior pastor warned that Daddy Freeze risked the wrath of God if he continues firing on clergymen in the country.

According to Enenche: “At this moment, it is imperative for us to address certain issues for the sake of upcoming generations. Otherwise, when evil is allowed to persist, it would be viewed as good.

“The culture of respect is a well-rooted scriptural bible culture.

“In Act 23:5, when Paul the Apostle spoke in a careless way, regarding the high Priest Ananias and his attention was drawn, he immediately withdrew his word and apologized.

“The culture of respect is also a deeply-rooted African culture. So strong that in parts of this country, in the west, children prostrate to greet fathers and elders.

“Yesterday, a man drew my attention from America, regarding a video that was mimicking God’s servant, Bishop David Oyedepo, posted by the MAD DOG called Freeze. MAD DOG emphasized. Someone said, Pastor, why are you calling someone a mad dog, Jesus did that first; he called Herod a wild dog – a fox.

“I said MAD DOG because that is spot diagnoses. Spot diagnoses is a situation whereby you know a sickness by just looking at the patient without even asking any questions. What he is exhibiting is mad behavior.

“That is schophrenia, schizophreniform behavior. That is mania. That is bipolar disorder. That is attention-seeking psychopathic attention-seeking king for attention, by all means, trying to pull down people who have built values over the years.”

Enenche also supported the Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries for calling Daddy Freeze a bastard.

He said Daddy Freeze deserved to be called a bastard because he behaves like one.

“Someone said they called him a bastard. I believe that the title is not less than what it is, because if that is not the title to be called, when last did you behave like someone who grew in a home? When last did you behave like someone whose father gave him any morals or values? When last did you behave like somebody who knows culture? What did your father teach you growing up? What did you learn as a child? And here you are, wifeless, houseless, jobless. You can’t keep a wife, can’t keep a job. Can’t keep anything and you are speaking about someone who is married for close to 40 solid years.

When last did a tailor advise a surgeon how to operate? When last did a carpenter tell a Senior Advocate of Nigeria how to stand before the court to defend a case? What do you know about marriage when you can’t keep a home. What do you know about life, success, and destiny? Who is the baggage of moral bankruptcy? The baggage of emptiness of character, talking about people who you are a never up to, and will never be up to even if they gave you a thousand lifetimes. If you are in the same class of architecture with Bishop David Oyedepo, ask yourself, where will your position be? That is if you are able to study such a course. Or you are in mathematics class with Pastor. E. A. Adeboye, ask yourself, where will you be found in a mathematics class where he did a first degree in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics in Masters. Where will you be? In his Ph.D. in hydro-dynamics with stokes equation – specialty. Have you heard of that before? Or where will you be in our anatomy class, in pharmacology, pharmaco-dynamics, pharmaco kinetics? What do you know about the etiopathogenesis of diseases? Have you ever heard of such before? What will be your rating in such classes?

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Why Ize-Iyamu and Oshiomhole will be at war with each other – Primate Ayodele reveals

The founder of the Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has predicted that the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the Edo election, Osagie Ize-Iyamu will have a major disagreement with Adams Oshiomhole.

He made the prophetic statement in a chat with newsmen in Lagos.

Primate Ayodele said the incumbent governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki was poised to win the election if the poll is not manipulated to favour his opponents.

According to his prophetic statement, the dynamic prophet revealed that Ize-Iyamu can only win by manipulation.

He, however, predicted that if the APC candidate wins the poll through manipulation, he would later have a disagreement with his political ally, Adams Oshiomhole. In the words of the cleric: “There would be war between Ize-Iyamu and oshiomhole.” But he reiterated his statement that Obasaki can only lose the election through malpractice.

Primate Ayodele also stated that Oshiomhole would go into political oblivion should Obaseki win the poll.

Meanwhile, the deputy director-general of the Edo state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship campaign council, Engineer Gideon Ikhine, has assured that with Governor Godwin Obaseki as the governorship candidate of the PDP, victory is certain for the party at the poll.

Ikhine, who spoke to newsmen in Benin city on Thursday, September 10 said the ward-to-ward reelection campaign rally embarked upon by Obaseki, has further challenged the governor to do even more for the Edo people. He urged eligible voters in the state to come out en masse to ensure the governor’s victory, adding that Obaseki remains committed to projects that will attract more development into the state.

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Buhari appoints Fashola, Malami, others as power board members

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President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed some top members of the executive cabinet into the Special Purpose Vehicle for Presidential Power Initiate (SPVPPI).

The appointment was approved by the president on Thursday, September 10, as contained in a statement from the office of the Ministry of Justice.

Members of the committee include the attorney general of the federation Abubakar Malami (SAN), the minister of finance, budget, and national planning, Hajia Zainab Ahmed. Buhari also appointed minister of power, Saleh Mamman and minister of works and housing, Babatunde Fashola into the special committee.

Malami’s spokesperson, Umar Gwandu, who released the statement, also named other members of the committee as director-general of Nigeria’s Bureau of Public Enterprise (NBPE) Alex Okoh, and Babagana Mohammed, president Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSEs).

Inaugurating the Committee on Thursday, President Muhamamdu Buhari who described power sector as one of the most critical components of sustainable development, expressed commitment to improve the delivery of power in the country as his enduring and defining legacy.

He said following the Federal Executive Council Approval, the coast is now clear and the SPV has the responsibility of executing the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), providing project management for the implementation of PPI and serve as the key manager to ensure cohesion and seamless execution,” Gwandu said.

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Killing of ‘Gana’: Ortom says repentant youths felt betrayed

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Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has revealed that the general impression among repentant youths in the state who willingly surrendered to be granted amnesty by the government was that they were betrayed after the killing of the wanted militia leader, Terwase Agwaza also known as ‘Gana’.

Ortom disclosed this while speaking at the end of an expanded State Security Council meeting which also had in attendance political, traditional, religious and community leaders from the Sankera axis of the state comprising, Logo, Ukum and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of the state.

The Governor urged the military to release without further delay all the youths whisked away with the late militia leader and vehicles some of which were official vehicles of the government.

Speaking at the meeting, Governor Ortom concluded that security agencies and the military beef up security in the state especially at the border communities following apprehension by the people of possible attacks on the communities.

While assuring that the government would continue to interface with the military he said, “we are looking onto the security agencies including the military to ensure that they take positions in the communities that will give confidence to the people and also protect lives and property of the people.

“The Security Council would continue with its confidence building among the people and even the repentant criminals because they feel that they have been betrayed.

“That is what is trending now, that they have been betrayed, but we want to assure them that there was nothing like that.

“That was why we went ahead to profile the 42 that were brought to Makurdi and also extended our hands to others that are willing to turn a new leaf.”

While commending the people for remaining calm despite the mounting tension after the news of the killing of ‘Gana’ filtered into the town, the Governor appealed to the people, not to loss faith in the government, the political class, the clergy and the traditional rulers who were involved in ensuring the surrender of ‘Gana’ and the return of peace in the area.

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Edo 2020: IG bans security aides from escorting VIPs, political appointees

The Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Mohammed Adamu, has banned security aides from accompanying VIPs and political appointees during the Edo State governorship election.

The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Mr. Frank Mba, announced the ban in a statement released on Friday.

According to Mbah the IG had warned that anyone who flouted the order would be severely reprimanded.

He also said the IG had also deployed the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of Research and Planning, Mr. Adeleye Oyabade to supervise the general security arrangement for the election.

“He the DIG will be assisted by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Federal Operations, Mr. Karma Hassan, and eight other commissioners of Police.

“The DIG, with the assistance of the AIG, will superintend over the entire security architecture and ensure effective monitoring of the election and due enforcement of all electoral laws during the election,” he said.

He said the arrangement was in line with the efforts of the police at ensuring the apt coordination of security arrangements towards a hitch-free election in the state.

The FPRO further stated that the IG called on members of the public, particularly politicians, gubernatorial candidates, and other relevant stakeholders in the state to cooperate with the police and other security agencies.

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Okowa removes suspension on minimum wage for workers

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has lifted the suspension on minimum wage for some category of workers in the civil service.

Delta State NLC chairman, Goodluck Ofobruku disclosed this to newsmen in Asaba, Friday.

It was learned that the Okowa administration reviewed salaries of political appointees and civil servants on salary grade level seven and above for six months with effect from July 2020.

Ofobruku said the State Government agreed to the suspension of the payment of the new minimum wage for levels 7 to 17 be lifted with effect from September 1st, 2020.

The NLC boss expressed pain at the sudden hike in both fuel and electricity tariffs by the Federal Government during these trying times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He applauded workers in the state for their patience and understanding all through the period under review and promised that better things were on the way for them.

He commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his effective leadership, people-oriented policies, and programmes and particularly for being workers friendly.

He stressed that the earlier agreement between the state government and Nigeria Labour Congress was for a six months period, adding that the hike in fuel and electricity bills by the Federal government hastened the decision to suspend the slash in salary.

The Special Adviser on SERVICOM and Labour, Mike Okeme said the government promised to lift the suspension on minimum wage whenever there was an improvement in the economy, and lauded Okowa for being sympathetic to the plight of workers.

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Buhari’s aide knocks Pastor Ibiyeomie for threatening to kill Daddy Freeze

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President Muhammadu Buhari’s special adviser on social media, Lauretta Onochie, has reacted to the trending video of a Nigerian popular pastor, David Ibiyeomie, threatening to kill OAP Daddy Freeze.

The controversial OAP Daddy Freeze , had reportedly countered the advice of Bishop David Oyedepo concerning submission in marriage.

However, reacting to Daddy freeze, Pastor Ibiyeomie in a video that has gone viral on social media called Freeze a bastard, claiming he is a Somalian and a half-cast.

According to him, the next time Freeze tried to insult his ‘father’ (Oyedepo), he would kill or have him arrested.

Speaking on the development on Twitter, Onochie said the pastor’s action is evil. Her tweet: “THIS IS EVIL “I am a Christian. I have been watching this absurdity for days now, looking for any attribute of Christ in it. “I haven’t seen any.

“Among others, threatening to kill someone is a crime. I’m not sure if this requires a petition to the @PoliceNG before they act. “EVIL!”

Meanwhile, the Nigerian media personality, Daddy Freeze has also reacted to Pastor Ibiyeomie. In a 10-minute released on YouTube video, he addressed Ibiyeomie’s damning remarks, pointing out that if anything happens to his life, the man of God should be held responsible. His words: “Correcting scripturally is not an insult. Christ was criticised, Paul was criticised, Peter was criticised, even the Pharisees were criticised, so there is no way you are going to preach a message from the scripture that you will not get criticism.

“I found it very devastating that just to get at me, Pastor Ibiyeomie, would drag the whole Somali nation, I am very proud to associate with Somalians because they are very beautiful people. Beautiful African people like you and I. “It is hate speech to undermine them with derogatory words ‘Is he not just a Somalian? To all my fans and followers in Somalia, I love you all and proud to be associated with you, even though by birth I am not a Somalian; my mum is European, my father is Yoruba.”

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Nigerian Army requests N50m bounty from Governor Ortom

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Days after confirming that it has killed Terwase Agwaza (Gana), Benue’s most wanted militia gang leader, the Nigerian Army (NA) is now demanding the payment of N50 million from the state government as the bounty placed on the slain criminal.

It was gathered that the NA’s position was revealed by a military source who spoke with journalists, saying that the Army is waiting to see if Governor Samuel Ortom will keep to his promise before Gana was killed.

The unnamed source went on to note that Governor Ortom’s response to this request will prove whether the military has the backing of the government in the fight against banditry and terrorism in the state.

The source disclosed: “Despite the ransom (bounty), Gana still remained elusive, forcing the state government to raise it to N50 million bounty for his arrest. Yet, he was elusive, not until he was gunned down by the Special Forces on 8 September 2020. “In the midst of this situation, the Nigerian Army deserves to be paid the N50 million ransom, having killed Gana. The assignment has been completed, the Army should be paid.

“It is not the cash that is important, but the need for political authority to set a good precedent by giving backing to the military.”

Moreover, the source stated clearly that the sum, if paid, will be a symbolic reward for the Nigerian Army’s effort for killing a wanted criminal who bullied and terrorised most parts of the state and beyond.

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INEC reacts as fire guts Ondo office, destroys 5,000 card readers

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reacted to fire incident at its Ondo headquarters on Thursday.

The fire destroyed no fewer than 5,000 card readers meant for the Oct. 10 governorship election in Ondo State. However, no life was lost.

Reacting, Prof. Festus Okoye, the INEC National Commissioner in charge of Information and Voter Education expressed shock at the incident.

He described the fire incident as a setback but noted that it would not affect the conduct of the governorship election.

Okoye added that investigation would be carried out to ascertain the cause of the incident.

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Edo leaders says Obaseki, Shaibu bound for success

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The campaign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has been described as dull, cold and colourless.

This was disclosed by Prominent Edo State leaders in an interaction with newsmen in Benin .

The leaders also scolded Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for attacking the sensibility of the populace with mundane rhetoric.

‘’Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has not convinced anybody why he should be preferred to the incumbent governor’’ the leaders said.

In a statement in Benin by the chairman, Obaseki-Shaibu Victory Movement (OSVM), Chief John Obanor, the leaders applauded Obaseki’s integrity.

They applauded Obaseki and Comrade Phillip Shaibu for circulating the principles of peace.

‘’In the contest for political power, decorum, rule of law, decency and the need to allow peace to reign must be the guiding principle for those challenging the incumbent. Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu should emulate Obaseki and Comrade Phillip Shaibu’’

The leaders urged the opposition party in the state to eschew violence, thuggery, gangsterism and unnecessary mudslinging.

‘’The opposition party in the state is dishing out concocted lies. The party is pushing falsehood into the public domain. The good people of Edo State should not allow themselves to be held captive by men with unprecedented capacity for lies, mischief and treachery’’

The leaders praised Obaseki for showcasing his achievements in office, taking the real dividends of democracy to the electorate and transforming the existing infrastructure in the state.

‘’Governor Godwin Obaseki is an extremely honest man and an excellent model for all politicians in Africa’’ the leaders said.

They heaped praise on Obaseki for guaranteeing functional education, improving medical facilities, finding lasting solution to the menace of erosion and environmental devastation in the state, tarring roads, improving educational facilities, opening Edo State to foreign investors, linking the rural areas to the urban centres and boosting agriculture.

‘’Governor Godwin Obaseki has done very well. He has restored hope for the hopeless’’

They also commended Obaseki for showing admirable doggedness, commitment and perseverance against all odds.

‘’Governor Godwin Obaseki has been tested. He has rich antecedents and political pedigree’’.

Specifically, the leaders hailed Obaseki for introducing new vista in the history of governance in Edo State.

‘’A quick look at the quantum of important projects put in place by Governor Godwin Obaseki within the period he has been in office shows a man who is committed to alleviating the suffering of his people’’

They thanked the good people of Edo State for deciding to renew Obaseki’s mandate on Saturday, September 19, 2020.

‘’Governor Godwin Obaseki is serious minded, purposeful, people oriented and a leader that understands what governance is all about. We will deliver Edo State to the People’s Democratic Party. No dictator, no terrorist will stop Edo people who are determined to take their destiny into their hands’’

Obaseki, a cerebral, competent manager and good example of leadership in Africa, is expected to win the Edo State governorship election.

‘’We are bound for success’’ the leaders said.

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BREAKING: Delta relaxes lockdown, reopens cinemas, hotel restaurants, others

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Delta State Government has on Thursday announced the reopening of cinemas, film Houses, eatries and hotel restaurants as the state continues to reduce the COVID-19 curve.

The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu stated this during a press conference in Asaba.

He said although cinemas and other hotel restaurants are now allowed to operate, adding that they must operate at 50 percent of their capacity and ensure all COVID-19 preventive protocols as stated by the NCDC are observed.

Mr. Aniagwu warned that the state government will continue to monitor the operations of these cinemas and film houses to ensure compliance with the COVID-19 preventive measures.

“Recall that in our last press briefing, we mentioned that churches and worship centres can now hold more than one service, that still remains, but today we are announcing further relaxation of the COVID-19 protocol and that is to the effect that owners of movies and cinema houses can now operate.

“But they can only do so at 50 percent capacity, in which case they are not going to fill everywhere. For instance, if a movie theatre is supposed to take 50 persons, they should organise it such that it will take 25 persons at a time.

“They must constantly fumigate the halls, just as they must also observe all the important protocols that we have reeled out in the past, that is sanitising or washing of hands of persons coming into the theatre houses, and of course wearing of face mask is compulsory for everybody going to access such movie houses,” he said.

“We will continue to monitor what different persons are doing and if anybody is found to have contravened the protocols we are giving out, be rest assured that we will take action.

“We sympathize with them because we know what it takes for their business centers to be closed for this period of time but its important that we preserve the lives of our people.

“As we continue to review the processes, we will inform them of further directives but for now, they must operate at 50 percent and then observing other preventive protocols.

“Our decision is to also enable our people working in such places to return to work and to also allow these businesses to become functional again,” he added.

He said restaurants in hotels can now operate but without buffet adding that if people must be allowed to eat in the hotel restaurants, the officials must be the ones to serve them.

The Information Commissioner further said clubs and lounges remained closed until the government devises a solution to how they can be reopened without aggravating the spread of the virus.

“For some of the places where people go to relax, what is important is that they must observe all the preventive protocols but we haven’t taken decisions as to lounges and bars,” Aniagwu stated.

He thanked Deltans and residents for adhering to the preventive protocols to ensure that the virus was eliminated in the state.

“We have made reasonable progress in the fight against the pandemic and we must thank our people for their cooperation and understanding while we continue to plead that the use of face masks is still very much compulsory.”

On curfew time, Aniagwu disclosed that the state government had also adjusted their curfew time to 12 midnight to 4 am in line with the Presidential Task Force directive.

He said the state government will continue to remain transparent, open, and accountable to the people towards COVID-19 donations just as it had published names of donors who assisted the state during the pandemic.

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Why I suspended salaries of 20 doctors, 135 PHCDA personnel – Gov. Yahaya

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Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has on Thursday approved the instantaneous suspension of salaries of 135 Primary Health Care Development Agency, PHCDA staff including 20 doctors who failed to physically appear for verification exercise.

Yahaya who gave the order while receiving the report of the verification exercise committee at the Government House, Gombe also directed that all PHC staff with non-relevant qualifications be transferred out of the agency and payroll to other departments where their qualifications are needed within their respective local government areas.

Salaries of 20 medical doctors who were on the government’s payroll but were not at their duty posts for a very long time and in some instances for years were also suspended by the governor.

The Verification Exercise Committee headed by the state Head of Civil Service, Alhaji Bappayo Yahaya was mandated by the Governor to ascertain the precise number of the staff on the payroll of the PHCDA as well as determine the gap in human resources to enable government plan for staff recruitment, training, welfare and resource allocation for improved healthcare services.

After weeks of the committee’s engagement, the report revealed that about 4,304 primary health care staff were verified across the state out of which 135 personnel were found to be absent.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Yahaya on Media, Ismaila Misilli said the governor gave the directive after studied the document submitted by the committee.

“The Governor directed immediate suspension of the salaries of all PHC staff who failed to physically appear before the verification committee.

“He also directed that all PHC staff with non-relevant qualifications be transferred out of the agency and payroll to other departments where their qualifications are needed within their respective local government areas.”

The state Governor also directed the agency and its governing council to ensure that issues of PHC staff with pending promotions across the 11 LGAs are immediately addressed,” he said.

On the twenty affected doctors, he said the state ministry of health has confirmed that though the 20 medical doctors were on the government’s payroll, but were not at their duty posts for a very long time and in some instances for years.

“The ministry said while the salaries of the said absentee medical doctors have so far been suspended, a panel will be set up to investigate the matter with a view to probing the root cause of their absence from duty and those found wanting will be prosecuted and the salaries paid recovered,” he said.

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Falz’ first signee, Sir Dauda, set to release debut EP Friday

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Falz’s first signee, Sir Dauda who is under his label, Bahd Guys Entertainment, is set to release his debut EP titled ‘Love Ex Machina’.

The five-track album which will be released on Friday, September 11, 2020, contains his 2019 hit single ‘Landlord’ and four new tracks including a feature titled ‘Woman’ with popular Afro-pop star, Simi.

The talented singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist Dauda is the latest improvement to the Bahd Guys Entertainment family and is a frequent collaborator of the ‘Bop Daddy’ rapper.

Sir Dauda was first introduced to the Nigerian music audience in 2012 with the release of his first single titled ‘Sisi Oloja’, which turned out to be a fan favorite. Also, the single opened the door for a number of collaborations with other Nigerian acts including Show Dem Camp, Adekunle Gold, Blackmagic, Aramide, Loose Kaynon, and Eva Aloridah.

Responding to the recent development, Falz revealed how elated he was to be able to work integrally with an artiste whom he not only respects but also believes in.

According to Falz: “whenever Sir Dauda opens his mouth to sing, I am always in such awe of his talent and unmatched artistry.

“His pen game in the industry is unmatched so I am very blessed to have him on my team,” he said.

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Police arrest Pastor for shooting 27-year-old wife dead

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The pastor and founder of Floodgates of Heaven International Ministries, Sylvester Ofori has been arrested for the murder of his 27-year-old wife.

The 35-year-old pastor was arrested on Tuesday night by Orlando Police Department after he shot his wife Barbara Tommey outside the Navy Federal Credit Union branch where she worked.

It was learned that the incident took place at around 9 a.m. at Navy Federal Credit Union on Gardens Park Boulevard.

Orlando Police, confirming his arrest in a terse statement, said Tommey “was shot near the front door of the business by her husband, Sylvester Ofori.”

“The shooting was captured on security footage.

“From the footage, you can tell that she’s trying to get inside. Unfortunately, he shoots her outside of the establishment,” Orlando Police Chief, Rolon said.

A search warrant was immediately served at Ofori’s apartment, where he was taken into custody, police added.

Ofori is being held at the Orange County Jail without bond.

The pastor is being charged with first-degree murder with a firearm.

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Buhari inaugurates National Steering Committee to regulate Nigeria’s development agenda

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President Muhammadu Buhari has inaugurated the National Steering Committee to oversee
the development of the Nigeria Agenda 2050 and Medium-Term National Development Plan, MTNDP, to succeed Vision 20: 2020 and the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, ERGP, 2017 – 2020.

The National Steering Committee for the development of Successor Plans to Vision 20:2020 and ERGP will be jointly chaired by Atedo Peterside and Zainab Ahmed, the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning.

Speaking at the inauguration, President Buhari said that the main objectives of the successor plans are to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty within the next 10 years, particularly given the World Bank’s projection that Nigeria will become the world’s third most populous country by 2050 with over 400 million people.

The President in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, noted that it had become necessary to develop successor plans to the Nigeria Vision 20:2020 and the ERGP, which both lapse in December this year, in order to ensure continuity and efficiency in the country’s development planning.

On the mandate of the National Steering Committee, President Buhari said it would oversee governance structure comprising the Central Working Group and 26 Technical Working Groups for the important national assignment.

President Buhari urged the National Steering Committee not to lose sight of the important role Nigeria plays on the continent as well as in the global community.

On the composition of the committee, the President said in order to ensure a truly consultative, participatory, and inclusive planning process, the membership will comprise representatives of one State governor from each of the six geopolitical zones, the Senate and House of Representatives, ministers, and representatives of key agencies.

Other members of the National Steering Committee are major political parties, ALGON, captains of industries, Labour Organizations, youth organizations and women’s societies, farmers’ associations, traditional and religious leaders, people with special needs, and members of the press.

In her remarks, the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, noted that lately, various zones of the country have been pursuing different economic cooperation within their areas.

She, therefore, urged that the new plans consider the comparative advantages available in these regional blocs to build a virile Nigeria.

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I’m prepared to prove on Magu before Salami panel – Malami

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The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and minister justice, Abubakar Malami has expressed his readiness to appear before the Justice Ayo Salami-led presidential panel to testify in the hearing of a petition he wrote against the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu.

Magu is being investigated by the panel, following Malami’s petition to President Muhammadu Buhari.

The suspended EFCC chairman wrote on Monday through his lawyer, Wahab Shittu, on the need for the panel to summon the AGF and ask him questions on the allegations in his petition.

Malami, who spoke on Wednesday as a guest on Arise TV, said he had nothing to hide, promising to give the Salami panel full cooperation.

He said: “So, if indeed the Ayo Salami panel invites Abubakar Malami as a person or the AGF in the person of Abubakar Malami for any testimony, for any clarification, for examination or cross-examination for that matter, Abubakar Malami will wholeheartedly, gladly, within the spirit and context of the rule of law, be there to testify, be there to be cross-examined, be there to be examined within the context of the rule of law.

Also, Malami has attributed Nigeria’s successes in the $10 million judgment against the country by P&ID as a product of collective institutional collaboration.

A statement on Wednesday in Abuja by his spokesman, Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu, quoted the AGF as speaking during a programme on Arise television.

He said: “I wonder how one personality can claim victory associated with an institution. Neither the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, that developed witnesses’ statements in support of the case that led to the victory nor Abubakar Malami (SAN), (as Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice), can, in law and logic, claim an exclusively personalised the victory over a product of inter-governmental, inter-ministerial and multiple-agency collaborative venture.”

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Flooding: Building of camps is not the best in Delta – Hon. Onogba

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The Delta state commissioner for environment, Mr. Chris Onogba has revealed that the state government is extremely interested in reducing the pains of existing and would be flood victims in the state.

He disclosed this in a statement during a media parley with members of the indigenous correspondents Chapel (ICC) of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Onogba noted that building camps, as usual, are not the way to go in a time like this, taking cognizance of the Covid-19 virus currently ravaging the world, as camps would certainly turn out to be breeding grounds for the virus bearing in mind the numbers of people that will be found in these camps.

He added that no sane person would consider building camps as it would definitely breach all covid-19 protocols in place and further increase the spread of the virus.

The commissioner hinted that advocacy is the way forward towards reducing the effects of flooding on its victims. ” Currently we are engaging in advocacy for people to move to higher grounds, I remember during my boat ride to some communities, we discovered that people have relocated, and this is a result of early advocacy” but it doesn’t mean that the government will not do anything to ameliorate the suffering of the people, the government is working assiduously to ensure that palliatives get to these affected persons.

Onogba also said that the government is working so hard to ensure that the flood doesn’t hit the state so hard as it did in 2012 hinting that “We have done a lot to reduce flooding, done desilting of agbor, ologodo, anwai river, and also cleared creeks in bomadi and environs, so when the flood eventually comes, it won’t be as bad as before, also people should help by desisting from making our drains dumping sites with the idea that the rains will flush it all, and also, people should desist from building on natural waterways, because together, I mean together, we can make the environment clean, so I appeal to deltans to join hands together in this drive to create a clean organized Delta”

. He also called on interventionist commissions like the Niger Delta Development Commission to take their hands of small water schemes and engage in proper intervention schemes to rescue the Niger Delta like dredging and shore protection in the case of flooding “Dredging and shore protection can help reduce reoccurring flood which is supposed to be a role of interventionist agencies like NDDC. NDDC should take their hands off small water schemes, street lights, 1 km roads, maternity homes ét ál, for state and local governments, all of the money we have wasted on NDDC if well utilized will ease the burden facing Niger Delta, but after 20 years they have failed colossally and these are our own people”

The commissioner urged Nigerians to desist from the act of not planting a tree in their homes taking cognizance of a fact that there’s been a 2% reduction of oxygen in planet earth hinting that “As I speak to you I’m planning a tree corridor in the airport, even before I became commissioner, I’ve always liked trees, so I challenge everyone, to join me and plant at least 5 trees in our lifetime, and by so doing we would have directly impacted in climate change.

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CJN swears-in 85 election tribunal judges Thursday

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The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad will on Thursday swear-in 85 judges to preside over election tribunals to be constituted for the next round of elections in the country.

The judges are to be inaugurated at 2 pm in the main court hall of the Supreme Court.

They will thereafter, undergo a one-day training on election petition tribunal (EPT) matters, by the President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem on September 11, 2020, the Appeal Court’s spokeswoman, Hajia Sa’adatu Musa Kachalla said in a statement on Wednesday.

The statement reads: “The CJN will on Thursday, 10th September 2020 swear in 85 judges to adjudicate on election petition tribunals in the upcoming governorship elections slated for the 19th of September in Edo, 10th of October in Ondo states and the by-elections scheduled by the INEC.

“Time is 2 pm, the venue is at the main court hall of Supreme Court.

“The PCA Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem will thereafter organise one-day training on EPT matters for the 85 judges.

“Date is 11th of September 2020, time is 9 am and the venue is the ceremonial hall at the Court of Appeal Headquarters, Abuja.”

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Delta retirees protest unpaid benefits

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Local government and primary school retirees in Delta State on Tuesday marched on the streets of Asaba to protest their unpaid benefits.

Over 1,000 protesters, clad in black, marched on the House of Assembly, which was on recess.

They marched to the Government House but security operatives stopped them.

Undeterred, they danced, drummed, and sang songs to register their discontent.

They rejected emissaries, including Head of Service Reginald Bayoko and Senior Special Assistant (Religion Matters) Silvanus Okorote and Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Goodluck Ofobruku.

NLC chair said he was unaware local government retirees were yet to get their benefits.

He was booed by protesters, who displayed placards: ‘Pay us our gratuity from 2014 till date’; ‘Our Pension Mata: No Retreat, No Surrender’; ‘EFCC Probe all PFA’s’; ‘Let us Reap the Fruit of Our 35 years Labour’, among others.

Their spokesperson, Chief Helen Egie, said retirees had suffered hardship and humiliation since retirement.

She added that meetings with the government yielded no result, hence the protest.

Egie lamented that 35 teachers died due to lack of care, adding that a backlog of accrued rights in December was N48,369,331,624.00, of which N8,137,909,068 is for council retirees and N40,231,422,556.00 for primary school retirees.

She said records from the Bureau of Local Government Pension showed unremitted deductions from staff contribution amounted to N5.9 billion.

Egie said with the monthly allocation of N300,000 by the government, it would take over 18 years to offset the N40 billion backlog.

They appealed for a raise in the monthly allocation from N300 million to N2 billion until the backlog was paid.

Bayoko sued for patience, saying the. government was concerned about their plight.

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State Commissioner charged with rape, assault of beauty queen

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Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources, Abdulmumuni Danga has been charged to court for alleged rape.

Police on Tuesday in Abuja perfected charges against Danga for the alleged rape and brutalisation of one Elizabeth Oyeniyi, earlier this year, in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.

The police filed a seven-count charge against the commissioner at a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The commissioner is to be arraigned alongside one Success Omadivi, 35.

The offences leveled against Danga include falsification of documents and threatening a medical officer to forge a test result, having carnal knowledge of Ms. Onyeniyi without her consent, inflicting physical injury, and torture by flogging.

Ms. Oyeniyi had accused Danga of brutalising her after allegedly raping her repeatedly on March 29.

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Ortom gives amnesty to 42 repentant armed youths

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Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has granted amnesty to the 42 repentant youths, urging them to take the opportunity seriously and reintegrate themselves in the society to live normal lives.

The Governor made this known to journalists on Tuesday, adding that he got information that Terwase Akwaza also known as Gana, was forcefully taken away by a team of military men while he and other repentant youths were on their way to Makurdi where they were to be given amnesty by the State Security Council.

According to him, he has spoken with the Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Maj-Gen Yekini who promised to get back to him on the matter.

“An interception at Maseje in Gboko local government area by soldiers confirmed to be men of Operation Whirl Stroke led to the apprehension of Gana while some of the other repentant persons retreated as a result of the confusion.

“Also, recovered arms were also taken away by the soldiers who intercepted the convoy of vehicles conveying the repentant persons.

”However, it is important to note that the amnesty programme followed after a series of requests by the traditional, political and religious leaders to armed youths terrorising Sankara to surrender illegal weapons in their possession and give peace a chance,” Ortom said.

He also disclosed that though over 80 repentant youths from Katsina-Ala, 67 from Logo and 25 from Ukum Local Government Areas surrendered their arms and were being conveyed to Makurdi, only 42 made it to the destination following the incident that led to the arrest of Gana.

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Request meetings with me through Gambari – Buhari warns Ministers

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday again told his Ministers to channel their requests to meet him through his Chief of Staff (CoS), Ibrahim Gambari.

He stated this while speaking at the first-year ministerial performance review retreat of his administration, in Abuja.

He said matters related to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) should be handled by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

“Let me also reiterate that all submissions for my attention or meeting requests should be channeled through the Chief of Staff.

“While all federal Executive council matters should be coordinated through the secretary to the government of the federation,” Buhari said.

This is the second time the president would give such a directive to ministers.

The first time was in 2019 when Buhari asked them to submit such requests through his former CoS, Abba Kyari.

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EFCC: Magu invites malami to provide evidence filed against him

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The suspended Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, has urged the Judicial Commission of Inquiry investigating him to summon Abubakar Malami, the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF.

The former EFCC boss explained that Malami should appear before the panel so his lawyers can cross-examine him on the credibility of the allegations he made.

The suspended EFCC Chairman made the appeal in a letter dated September 4, 2020, and sent it to the panel by his lawyer, Wahab Shittu.

Magu, in the letter, sought permission to subpoena Malami to appear before the panel.

The former anti-graft agency boss stated that he is entitled to fair hearing as guaranteed under the constitution.

He noted that his fundamental human right allows him to “confront his main accuser.

The letter reads partly: “We hereby apply for the issuance of a Subpoena Ad Testificandum and Subpoena Duces Tecum on the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) to appear before this Judicial Commission of Inquiry to give evidence concerning his memo to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari in connection with the subject matter of this inquiry titled: ‘FLAGRANT ABUSE OF PUBLIC OFFICE AND OTHER INFRACTIONS COMMITTED BY MR. IBRAHIM MAGU, ACTING CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL CRIMES COMMISSION (EFCC) BEING EXTRACTS OF PENDING PETITIONS’.

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President Buhari reacts to fuel price hike, electricity tariffs increase

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President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the recent increase in both the electricity tariffs and the pump price of petrol which generated criticism among some Nigerians.

Buhari on Monday, September 7, said the electricity tariffs adjustment was made in order to address the power supply challenges Nigerians have experienced over the years.

According to the president, he knows the recent changes may cause discomfort to Nigerians. He promised to continue introducing relief packages to alleviate the conditions of the people.

Buhari also explained that the pump price of petrol was increased as a result of the decision to deregulate the price of petrol and the eventual removal of the subsidy previously provided for the importation of the product. He made the statement in Abuja when declaring open the first year ministerial performance review retreat for ministers, permanent secretaries, and top Government functionaries, at the statehouse conference centre.

The president who was represented by his vice, Yemi Osinbajo pointed out that the recent petrol increase was a direct result of the activities in the global petroleum market.

He assured Nigerians that his administration would ensure that marketers do not exploit the populace through arbitrary price-fixing.

Meanwhile, there are indications that Nigeria may soon witness massive protests by students over the recent increment in the pump price of petrol.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has given President Buhari’s administration an ultimatum to reverse the increment in the pump price of petrol or face mass protests by the students.

The vice president of NANS, Ojo Raymond, said Nigerian students totally reject the increment.

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Edo election: Primate Ayodele reveals how Governor Obaseki will win his rivals

With the stakes rising ahead of the Edo gubernatorial election, verbal attacks and counter-attacks have been unleashed by political rivals especially from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Added to this, prophecies and predictions have been made as to who will eventually emerge the winner of the much-talked-about poll.

Among those who have given their prophetic declarations is the founder of the Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, Primate Ayodele.

During an interview with newsmen on Sunday, September 6, Primate Ayodele prophesied that Governor Godwin Obaseki will floor his rivals in the election and retain his seat.

Asked what he foresees in the forthcoming poll, the famous Nigerian cleric said: “Without manipulation of the forthcoming election in Edo state, Obaseki will win.

“He should therefore work on the area of security during the election. If he allows them to use security as manipulation, that is the end for him.”

The Christian leader called on Governor Obaseki not to fold his arms and do nothing about security in the state, especially during the election because, according to him, his opponents are ready to give their lives to claim power from him.

He also called on the governor to guard against invalid votes and take the female electorate in the state seriously.

Meanwhile, It was reported that Obaseki said part of the reasons his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole, was against his reelection bid was his reversal of the sale of Edaiken Market.

According to him, the ex-governor and former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) had sold the market to his friends. “I reversed the sale of Edaiken Market and brought the rates down to the level that our people can afford. That pitted me against the godfather. He said that I cannot be a governor. Is he God? Are we fools?” he queried.

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One injured as suspected hooligans attack Lagos ruler

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Suspected hoodlums and land-grabbers invaded Is palace on Sunday in Ikorodu, Lagos State in a failed attempt to abduct the newly-installed monarch following sporadic gunshots at the premises.

It was reported that Oba Okukayode Raji was given the staff of office by Wale Ahmed, the Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties, on August 24, 2020.

Raji told newsmen that the hoodlums came in dozens with dangerous weapons before the intervention of local vigilante groups that averted their evil plots and chased them away

The monarch said: “Suddenly, we started seeing strange faces and many boys coming closer to the palace with different weapons in their hands.

“While they moved closer, they started shooting; one of my sons was wounded in the process.

“My house, my car, and many people who came to pay homage to me were also wounded.

“More than 60 people were shot, those who sustained serious injuries have been taken to the hospital for treatment.”

Raji explained that he contacted the Area Commander and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for help.

“They responded very late but later sent their officers to patrol the community,” he said.

“However, three suspects have been arrested so far.”

Raji, however, urged community leaders and indigenes to cooperate and solve land matters themselves to ensure absolute peace within the communities.

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Why Oshiomhole, others were sacked – APC tells court

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has told a Federal High Court in Abuja, that Adams Oshiomhole-led National Working Committee (NWC) was sacked to ensure an end to the party’s internal crises.

APC said the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee constituted was to put the platform back on track.

This was contained in its response to a lawsuit challenging the NWC dissolution instituted by a chieftain, Kalu Agu.

APC said Agu’s court case was part of a plot to destabilize it.

In a five-paragraph counter-affidavit, the ruling party insisted that by its own constitution, the National Executive Committee (NEC) has the power to set up any committee including the current led Yobe Governor, Mai Mala Buni.

The affidavit was deposed to by Adenike Adelakun, a Librarian in APC legal department.

APC further said that Buni and other caretaker committee members are eminently qualified for their appointment.

The party prayed the court to dismiss the suit.

Meanwhile, Agu has asked the court to order the continued hearing of the substantive suit during the ongoing vacation of the Federal High Court.

He also pleaded another order abridging the time within which the 14 respondents are to file and serve jointly or severally their counter-affidavit and other processes in response to the suit.

Agu’s motion on notice filed by Ukpai Ukairo was predicated on the grounds that his suit is a pre-election matter which ought to be decided within 180 days prescribed by the constitution.

Lateef Fagbemi, counsel to the APC caretaker committee members, argued that the suit has no particular life span.

He said the subject matter of the suit did not relate to any particular election and urged the court to decline the request.

Justice Taiwo Taiwo, after taking submission from parties in the matter, fixed September 18 to deliver a ruling on whether to hear the matter during the court’s vacation or not.

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Police exhume body of man buried in shallow grave, arrest killers [photos]

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Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) attached to the Anambra state police command, have arrested three men for allegedly kidnaping and killing a 34-year-old man identified as Henry Okam in Okija, Anambra state.

Spokesperson of the state police command, Haruna Mohammed, disclosed this to newsmen.

He gave the names of the suspects as Obasi Faith Ezinne, 23, Mbaitolu Imo State; Ntomchukwu Anabaraonye, 33, of Okija and Abuchi Obinna ‘m’ aged 26 years of Ihiala.

Mohammed revealed that the suspects had on August 30, allegedly abducted Okam, who is from Okija in Ihiala LGA, killed him with a pump-action gun and the after buried him in a shallow grave.

”The suspects who voluntarily confessed to the crime, took operatives to a thick forest in Ihiala where the decomposing body of the victim was exhumed and recovered to the mortuary for autopsy after it was certified dead by a medical doctor.

Accordingly, the pomp action used by the suspects in committing the heinous crime, including the victim’s phones were also recovered and registered as exhibit.

He said the case is under investigation after which the suspects and their accomplices would be brought to book to face the full weight of the law.

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Nigeria @60: FG calls for ideas on anniversary branding

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As the countdown to Nigeria’s Diamond Jubilee begins, the Federal Government has called on Nigerians to submit creative ideas that can brand the anniversary.

Dr. Isa Pantami, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy made the call on Saturday in a statement in Abuja as part of the activities to mark the celebration.

Pantami, who doubles as Chairman, Diamond, Innovation, Change Sub-Committee, Nigeria @60 Inter-ministerial Committee, said President Muhammadu Buhari had approved an inclusive National Independence Celebration programme in line with COVID-19 protocols and guidelines.

He said that to ensure inclusiveness, the thematic and creative aspects of the event would be designed by Nigerians for Nigeria, focusing on the proposed theme “Together at 60”.

“On Oct.1, Nigeria will be celebrating its Diamond Jubilee as it turns 60 years.

“It is a day that reminds every citizen about the dawn of the nation we call our country, a diverse nation with resilient and hardworking people.

“Nigerians have gone far and wide, impacting their communities and the world at large and as the saying goes, we are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided.

“The Federal Government uses this opportunity to celebrate our strength as one indivisible country.

“The Federal Government is also providing an opportunity for Nigerians to choose their brand and harness the power of our creative minds to create other elements that will form the brand of the anniversary,’’ he said.

Pantami said the committee would be anticipating a challenge in which they would be looking for talented, critical thinking and creative individuals or teams to produce content for the anniversary.

Pantami said that the content could be the slogan, photograph, and a poem for Nigerians to mark the anniversary from Oct. 1, to Dec. 30, 2021.

The minister directed citizens to participate in the challenge as well as vote for the best brand through the challenge portal.

According to him, the best brand and concept will be presented to President Muhammadu Buhari and adopted for celebrating the country’s 60th anniversary.

“The winners will also receive prizes, in addition to being part of this epoch-making event.

“As the country eagerly awaits the unveiling of the winning brand and other elements of the celebration, we look forward to the active participation of all,” he said.

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Edo 2020: How we will bury dictatorship – Obaseki reveals

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo state has declared that the people will put an end to the political existence of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Gov. Godwin Obaseki disclosed this during the ward-to-ward campaign rally at Ward eight, Ward 10, and Uselu market in Egor local government area of Edo.

He said that the “dictator” to be buried politically had already been retired politically.

According to him, what is bad is bad, adding that such people who do not have the well being of the people of the state at heart should not be allowed back to the government.

The candidate emphasised that his administration was building institutions, noting that institutions would outlive individuals.

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Cult war claims 2 in Delta community

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Two persons, including a 14-year- old boy, have reportedly died in a rival cult clash in Warri, Delta state.

It was gathered that the incident occurred at about 7 am, between Ope and Old Welfare Street, near Lower Erejuwa in the oil city on Thursday.

According to sources, the late teenager who was struck on the back of his head by a stray bullet used to assist the mother to ply her food business daily.

He was said to be the only child of the mother, who nursed him single-handedly.

The other deceased, who was one of the suspected cult members identified simply as Miroku, reportedly sustained a gunshot injury on his leg by the bullet of one of the vigilante members in the area, who tried to stop the gunfight before the arrival of the Police.

He was said to have been rushed by his gang members to a location outside the city for treatment.

Residents were said to have been dispossessed of their belongings in the commotion, which caused tension in the area.

However, police operatives from Ekpan Police Division, in the Uvwie council area of the state, arrested six suspected cult members.

Another source claimed that two females are among the gang of suspected cultists.

“The suspect (injured cultist) has been arrested. He was arrested alongside four other persons, including two females while trying to get treatment in Uvwie Local Government Area.

“Some group of boys held them when they discovered they had come to treat a bullet wound,” the source who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hafiz Inuwa, confirmed the incident.

He however said he was not aware a boy was hit by a stray bullet from which he died.

Inuwa said: “All I know is one (suspect) was actually hit with a bullet which the Police, along with others arrested.

“On information, they arrested the other parties, about five or six of them who were crushed in the violent clash.

“As for the deaths, I don’t know. If the one that was injured died, maybe he died as a result of excessive bleeding.

“It is possible he died thereafter, but up till now, I have not gotten the report.”

At least 13 persons have died in cult-related clashes across the state.

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Why Buhari won’t intervene in fuel price – FG reveals

The ministry of petroleum resources has disclosed that the Buhari administration is no longer fixing the pump price of petroleum products in the country.

The minister of state for petroleum resources, Timipre Sylva, made the disclosure in an interaction with newsmen on Thursday, September 3.

Sylva revealed that the pump price of petroleum products was being fixed by marketers. He said all the government does is to ensure that marketers do not exploit the consumers.

“Government is no longer in the business of fixing prices for petroleum products, we have stepped back. “Our focus now is on protecting the interest of the consumers and making sure that marketers are not profiteering,” the minister said.

He stated that it was inappropriate to blame the government for the recent increase in fuel price. Sylva explained that President Muhammadu Buhari would never have allowed an increase in pump price if the decision depended on him. He noted that the recent fuel price increase was inevitable because the COVID-19 pandemic had forced the price of crude oil to zero zone.

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Edo 2020: Election not do-or-die – Oba of Benin

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The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II has called for peace among the politicians as Edo State prepares for governorship election on September 19.

The monarch spoke on Wednesday when he met leaders of major political parties in his palace.

Oba Ewuare II cautioned the members, state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress, who he accused of hitting up the polity.

He warned that election was not a do-or-die affair, adding that politicians must note that they had only Edo State to call their own and thus must protect it from disintegration.

He said, “Edo has been in the news for the wrong reasons. I have been worried from the time the conflict started between Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the former governor, and the incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki.

“I want you to take your mind back to 2015. Before the final election result was announced, President Goodluck Jonathan picked up his telephone and called President Buhari. All the predictions, forecasts by the international community that Nigeria will break up, and so on were quenched by that singular act.

“You are all political actors in Edo State. You have been together, now you are not together; you confuse the public, you are confusing everybody. Why are you doing this? Is it because of the office? It is not for four years and at most another four years; why will you now want lives to be lost? Why do we hear that you are arming thugs?”

The monarch got a commitment to maintaining peace from the leaders, including Obaseki, his deputy, Philip Shaibu, the candidate of the APC, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Oshiomhole, and the South-South Vice Chairman of the PDP, Chief Dan Orbih.

The State Commissioner of Police, Johnson Kokumo, assured residents that security will be top-notch for the governorship election.

The CP, who was also at the Oba of Benin palace, said measures had been put in place to prevent any act of violence, warning that anyone found causing trouble would be brought to book.

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Dino Melaye condemns FG for increase in fuel price

Senator Dino Melaye, former Kogi State lawmaker, has condemned President Muhammadu Buhari’s government over the increment in pump price of petrol.

The increment was approved by Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC on Wednesday.

The new price has since stirred reactions from Nigerians and prominent individuals on social media.

Reacting, Melaye described the increase in petrol price during a pandemic as ”grossly insensitive and wicked by the government”.

According to him, the development shows how the present administration is taking advantage of poor Nigerians.

Melaye on his Twitter page wrote: “ It is grossly insensitive, wicked and deliberately callous for Government to increase the pump price of petrol in a time like this.

“Men of good conscience will not watch the lives of poor Nigerians taking for granted with outrageous ignominy by a stationary Government.”

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Cairo Ojougboh opens up on alleged palliatives to Senators, Reps

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The Executive Director (Projects), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Cairo Ojougboh, has denied claims that the agency gave federal lawmakers money.

He allegedly said Senators and House of Representatives members got N20 million and N15 million respectively as COVID-19 palliatives.

Denying the allegation, the Senate dared him to provide proof.

In a statement on Tuesday, Ojougboh said he neither issued nor made such a statement, adding that there was no such provision in the NDDC budget.

The director told Nigerians that he would have resisted such a payment if it were ever brought up by the commission.

He noted that the Interim Management Committee has championed a campaign to cleanse the commission of obvious corruption and frivolous payments and restore it to its core mandate of facilitating the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region.

“I and the IMC, as well as the Commission, have been clear to state that the National Assembly, as a distinguished body, as well as the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, are absolved of blame. Indeed, the main body of the National Assembly is unaware of the questionable happenings in the NDDC,” he said.

Ojougboh said malicious lies against him show the extent people can go to bring harm to individuals and cause disaffection among people and between institutions.

He added that his service Nigeria “and love for the wellbeing of the Niger Delta region and our people will not allow me to denigrate the lofty institution such as the National Assembly, an important beacon of our collective democratic journey.”

Ojougboh stressed that being a former member of the National Assembly, he holds the institution in the highest esteem.

“I have always stated that I am a man of peace and a soldier of truth. I have enough integrity and honor to stand by my statements. And let it be affirmed here that I do not issue statements on behalf of the Commission”, his statement read.

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CAMA 2020 law not targeted at churches, mosques – Presidency

The federal government has finally broken its silence following bones of contention raised recently over the controversial Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 (CAMA).

Recall that the law, since being introduced by the government, has been generating a swell of controversies with top Nigerian clergies including Pastor David Oyedepo and Primate Elijah Ayodele raising eyebrows.

On Tuesday, September 1, the federal government said the law was not introduced to oppress the churches and mosques in Nigeria as contrarily perceived.

Ita Enang, a senior special assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Niger Delta Affairs, made this disclosure while meeting with some leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Abuja.

Enang explained that the act has raised many misconceptions and many politicians from the opposition have been using the opportunity to label the act as anti-religious. “Unnecessary misconceptions have enveloped this CAMA law with deliberate misinformation and falsehood being championed by some persons who may not have fully and in fact, personally read and digested the provision of the Act. “So, I consider it appropriate and responsible to appear before you and other fora to make these explanations. First, the bill as it then was, was not an executive bill transmitted by President Buhari to the legislature. “It was initiated by a senator and member of the House of Representatives (names withheld) in the respective chambers at the behest of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and support of the Ministry of Trade and Investment,” Enang said.

In a related development, the founder of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Oke-Afa, Ejigbo Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele, spoke against the new CAMA that seeks to appoint trustees over religious organizations.

In his interview with newsmen, the clergyman said that nobody can appoint anybody over the church he invested his blood, sweat, and money on. Primate Ayodele said that even if it is possible with the so-called other rich churches, it cannot happen with his.

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Nigerian Stock Exchange suspends six companies

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The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has suspended trading in six companies over their inability to comply with corporate governance rules and best practices that mandate them to submit their financial statements within a specified period.

The suspended companies included FTN Cocoa Processors Plc, Medview Airline Plc, Niger Insurance Plc, R.T. Briscoe (Nigeria) Plc, Union Dicon Salt Plc, and Capital Oil Plc.

The NSE suspended trading on the shares of the companies with effect from Tuesday, September 1, 2020, over their failure to “file their audited financial statement for the year ended December 31, 2019”.

Listing and regulatory rules at the capital market require all quoted companies to submit their annual audited report and financial statement not later than 90 days after the end of the financial year. More than 85 percent of quoted companies including all banks, insurers, major manufacturers, oil and gas companies, and conglomerates use the Gregorian calendar year ending December 31 as their business year. Thus, the deadline for the submission was Monday, March 30, 2020.

However, with the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, both the NSE and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) extended the deadline for submission of annual reports and accounts by 60 days, till May 29.

The NSE stated that the companies were suspended after the expiration of the “grace” period and many notifications demanding the submission of the financial statements.

“In accordance with the rules set forth above, the suspension of trading in the shares of the above-listed companies will only be lifted upon the submission of the relevant accounts and provided The Exchange is satisfied that the accounts comply with all applicable rules of the Exchange,” NSE stated.

The NSE had in July 2020 warned investors to be wary when dealing with shares of 13 companies after they failed to meet regulatory deadlines for the submission of their financial statements without any explanation.

The 13 companies included Aso Savings and Loans Plc, Deap Capital Management & Trust Plc, DN Tyre & Rubber Plc, FTN Cocoa Processors Plc, Goldlink Insurance Plc, International Energy Insurance Plc, Medview Airline Plc, Resort Savings & Loans Plc, Staco Insurance Plc, Standard Alliance Insurance Plc, UNIC Diversified Holdings Plc, Union Dicon Salt Plc, and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc.

“Investors are advised to trade with caution on the securities of these companies in the absence of up to date financial information on them,” the NSE stated.

The Exchange warned that it may suspend trading on the shares of the companies if they fail to comply with extant rules within the specified period.

According to the Exchange, the deadline for submission of the unaudited financial statement of the companies became due on June 29, 2020, is the extended due date as granted by the Exchange.

By virtue of non-filing of the unaudited report by the due date, the companies violated extant rules at the NSE which provide that every company shall file its unaudited quarterly accounts not later than 30 calendar days after the relevant quarter, and publish it within five business days after the date of filing, in at least two national daily newspapers and post it on the company’s website, with the web address disclosed in the newspaper publication.

The rules also required that an electronic copy of the interim financial publication shall be filed with the Exchange on the same day as the newspaper publication.

Head, Listings Regulation Department, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Godstime Iwenekhai stated that the NSE had issued a deficiency filing notice to the companies notifying them of their violations and mandating them to make public disclosure regarding the violation, the reasons for the violation, and a possible date for publication of the outstanding financial statement.

According to the Exchange, the defaulting companies failed to comply with the directives in the deficiency filing notice.

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Gather Covid-19 patients for healing – T.B Joshua to government

Prophet T.B Joshua of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN, has called on the government to gather COVID-19 patients in their different isolation centers for healing.

The cleric said he wants to reach out to those in isolation centers for interactive prayers while recounting how he had healed many in different countries.

In a Facebook post, Joshua said, “The blessing of Jesus is for those who knock and ask (Matthew 7:7).

“We want to encourage our communities, states, local and international bodies, medical doctors, scientists, and the people in charge to organise those who are in isolation and let us arrange how to connect them to us on Emmanuel TV.

“In whatever way you support to make this happen, we are a team; we are not doing more than you (1 Corinthians 3:8). In any way you need our service in transmission, we are at your service.

“Together we shall pray for them. Together we shall be set free from this COVID-19. The same anointing that heals one is also able to heal all at the same time.

“As the Scripture says, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and after the mass prayer, they were all healed (Luke 4:40).”

T.B Joshua on his Facebook page shared numerous testimonies of COVID-19 patients who had recovered through his prayers.

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See how Catholic priest slumped, dies while preaching on Sunday mass [VIDEO]

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A Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Jude, slumped and died on the altar during a Sunday mass in Deido, Cameroon.

The priest, who is also a Spiritual Director of Catholic Men Association (CMA) in Deido, was seen in a viral video preaching the Homily while wearing a face mask before he paused for a moment and slumped.

The former Chairman of National Human Rights Commission and lawyer, Chidi Odinkalu, who shared the video via his Twitter account, said the priest who appeared to be struggling to breathe, slumped few seconds after he started preaching the homily.

According to him, other priests rushed to his aid but he couldn’t make it though it wasn’t stated if he had underlying health issues.

He said “Rev. Fr Jude., CMA, Spiritual Director of CMA Deido, in Cameroon’s commercial capital, Douala, was preaching the Homily at Mass earlier today when this happened. RIP to him.”

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Atiku expresses sorrow over loss of mother-in-law

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Nigeria’s former vice president Atiku Abubakar has lost his mother-in-law, Hajiya Khadija Mustafa who passed away on Monday, August 31.

This was revealed in a series of tweets by the 2019 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Atiku who confirmed that the death of the wife of the late Lamido Aliyu Mustafa, added that the burial will take place on Tuesday, September 1, in Yola, Adamawa state.

The former vice president while condoling with the government and people of Adamawa state expressed his deepest condolences to the Lamido of Adamawa HRH Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustafa and the Mustafa royal family.

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Union seeks assistance for 160 traders in Ghana

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The Coalition for A better Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to step up intervention in the plight of 160 Nigerian traders whose shops are still locked up in Ghana.

It said $1 million demanded by the Ghanaian Ministry of Trade from each shop owner before being allowed to operate, was arbitrary and tantamount to a quit notice.

In a statement, the group said: “It is high time President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, considered the plight of about 160 Nigerian Traders whose shops are still locked up in Ghana, for failure to do the Ghana Investment Promotion Council (GIPC) registration of $1million or in equity and they were given 14-day ultimatum to regularise the demands by their host country.

“We see this arbitrary charge of $1million as a quit notice given to Nigerian Traders in Ghana.”

The group condemned the coup in Mali and advised the Federal Government to resume negotiations with the military in the interest of peace.

It said: “Nigeria as a prominent member of the ECOWAS must try as much as possible to resume the negotiation with Col. Assimi Goita, the Leader of the Junta alongside other member States to find a common ground without resorting to war.

“The true representatives of people of Mali, who protested over insecurity. and economic hardship on the streets for weeks before the military took over must be properly carried along in the next phase of negotiation because the Junta saw the protest as public approval of their action…War could be the last resort if all entreaties failed.”

It lauded the “collective performance of the Federal Executive Council, a year after being constituted,” stating that within a year, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) “generated $4.60billion from crude – oil, gas export, while Prof Ishaq Oluyide led JAMB is also generating billions of naira unlike before he came on board, to mention a few.”

It further commended the government for steps towards community policing and advised that funds for this as well as for textile industry revival should be properly utilised.

It said: “Talking about security, we commend the Federal Government approval of N13.5 billion for the take-off of Community Policing across the nation and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) approval of N50 billion revival fund for Textile Industry.

“We also call the attention of the President Buhari led the government to the needs, to double its efforts in ensuring greater impacts of its policies and programmes on Security, Corruption, and Economy on the average Citizens of this Country.

“The Minister of Police Affairs, Mohammed Maigari and Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu must ensure judicious use of the money.”

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Buhari approves transfer of NIMC to Ministry of Communications

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the transfer of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy for effective supervision and seamless management of the nation’s data and strategic information.

It was learned the development was as a result of the synergy created by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami amongst agencies under the Ministry in the past one year to push the quest for digital economy forward.

A statement from the Minister’s spokesperson, Mrs. Uwa Suleiman, noted Buhari’s approval of the transfer was “to ensure that synergy and effective ministry supervisory mechanism is put in place to coordinate, monitor and track the progress of Federal Government’s digital transformation initiatives.”

She said the approval was based on the President’s consideration for the critical role of NIMC towards the realization of the objectives of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) for a Digital Nigeria.

Describing the confidence repose in the Minister to supervise NIMC in conjunction with other agencies, Mrs. Suleiman said within his first year in office, Pantami resolved the ICT sector’s decade-long dilemma of Right of Way charges.

“He was also able to secure Mr. President’s approval for the provision of security as well as the designation of Telecommunications Infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure, regularization of improperly registered SIM cards and deactivation of unregistered ones, the deployment of over 250 digital projects across the country under his policies and supervision as well as built the capacity of over 36,000 Nigerians,” she asserted.

She recalled NIMC was mandated to create, manage, maintain, and operate the National Identity Database established by the NIMC Act, 2007.

Explaining how NIMC would work with other agencies, Mrs. Suleiman said: “The Commission has so far registered around 41 million eligible enrollees for the National Identity Number (NIN), while the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on the other hand has details of over 191 million mobile subscribers.

“Furthermore, the National Information Technology Development Agency has recorded huge successes in the development and implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), the country’s first codified data protection regulation.

The Agency has also reached an advanced stage on the implementation of the National Public Key Infrastructure (NPKI). Galaxy Backbone Limited (GBB) also provides services to Government Agencies – Infrastructure-as-a-Service, Platform-as-a-Service, and Software-as-a-Service.

“The need therefore for NIMC, NCC, NITDA, and GBB to work closely together under the supervision of one Ministry towards harnessing what has already been achieved cannot be overemphasized.”

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774,000 jobs: Keyamo maintains sharing formula

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After a tough battle with the top National Assembly (NASS), the minister of state for labor, Festus Keyamo, has maintained the sharing formula for the 774,000 jobs proposed by the federal government.

Keyamo revealed that the initial plan to allocate 15% of the job slots to governors, NASS members, ministers, and interest groups still stands.

Keyamo rejected claims that he gave instructions for a 40% rise to politicians. He said: “I did not give any instruction on a 40 percent rise for them to implement. We are sticking to the original formula of 15 percent concession to political office holders.”

Pertaining to his role on the project, the minister said that he has not received contrary instruction from the presidency. He said: “I have not received superior instructions from my bosses. The presidency did not give contrary instructions on my role.”

The minister assured Nigerians that the ministry is cooperating with the National Directorate of Employment so as “to supervise the preparations for the takeoff of the project all over the country.”

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17-year-old teen virgin killed in Okowa’s community

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A 17-year-old girl has been killed in Owa-Alero community, Ika North East council of Delta State.

The girl was said to be a virgin and speech-impaired.

It was gathered She went out on Saturday night to buy something and never returned.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa hails from Owa-Alero

It was also gathered that the teen was stabbed on the upper part of her ribs and a pipe inserted into her body through which her blood was drained.

Her body was discovered on a heap of sand a few meters from her house with a bottle of soft drink and a packet of chin close to her.

Police spokeswoman Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the incident, adding that investigation into the murder had started.

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Pastor Adeboye dedicates Wale-Oke College of Missions

Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom; Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Dr. Ola Makinde, and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oyo State, Professor Oyelowo Oyewo, were among dignitaries who graced the dedication of the Wale Oke College of Missions and Evangelism (WOCOME) on Sunday 30th August at the Olubadan Estate, Ibadan.

The event marked the commencement of the 38th Holy Ghost Convention of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, and the 38th anniversary of entering into the full-time ministry of the Presiding Bishop of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Bishop Wale Oke.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who performed the dedication later prayed for Oyo State and particularly Governor Makinde’s administration. He also prayed for Governor Udom Emmanuel, who performed the inauguration of the building, and for Nigeria.

Taking his short exhortation from Mark 8:22-25, Pastor Adeboye recalled how almost 40 years ago the then evangelist Wale Oke brought to him a message from God, which according to him, contained 28 prophesies.

“The moment I began to read, I knew this is God speaking. He wrote in prose, but because I’m a mathematician, I broke it into pieces; and there were 28 prophesies in that sheet of paper.

“As I’m standing before you today, 27 of them have been fulfilled to the letter. So, I saw that this is not an ordinary person; God has a purpose for this young man.”

He said having seen the consummate evangelist Oke winning souls, he advised him to start a church – which he eventually obeyed after much resistance, and today the fruits of that obedience are just very obvious.

Pastor Adeboye disclosed that he ordained Bishop Wale Oke into full-time ministry and that after seeing his commitment and vision, he did not hesitate to give his blessing when he (Oke) once again approached him to inform him of his desire to go into mission.

The highlight of Sunday event was the laying on of hands the respected cleric performed, once again, on Bishop Oke “for a clearer vision” for missions

Both Governors Makinde and Emmanuel extolled the virtues of Bishop Oke. Makinde, for instance, in his short speech recalled how in the run-up to the governorship election when other men of God were afraid to lay their hands on him to give their blessings, Wale Oke did.

He congratulated him on the 38th Holy Ghost Convention and commended him for putting observing COVID-19 precautions at the event.

While noting that education remains a cardinal point on which his administration hopes to build the prosperity of Oyo State, Makinde promised to assist the Sword of the Spirit Ministries in the sustenance of its educational efforts.

The Precious Cornerstone University is owned by the Sword of the Spirit Ministries.

Other dignitaries at the event include Pastor Mrs. Folu Adeboye; wife of the Oyo State governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde; vice-chancellor of the Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Professor Dapo Asaju and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Professor Oyelowo Oyewo.

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See what Ghana told federal government over attacks on Nigerians

Coming after several allegations made by the federal government over the treatment of Nigerian citizens living in Ghana, the country’s authorities have responded to set the records straight.

Ghanian authorities in a detailed letter insisted that it remains committed to the maintenance of warm relations with Nigeria.

Ghanaian information minister, Kojo Nkrumah, who disclosed this to newsmen went on to explain that the issues raised by Nigeria are not reflective of the situation in Ghana.

Nkrumah spoke on some of the documented acts of hostilities against Nigerians including the alleged seizure of the Nigerian Mission’s property and the demolition of the building located at No. 19/21 Julius Nyerere Street. He explained that the terms of the commercial lease expired 46 years ago, without any evidence of renewal by the High Commission of Nigeria.

The Ghanaian information minister addressing the issue of continual deportation said seven hundred Nigerians were deported because of their involvement in criminal activities. The minister in reaction to the exorbitant fee for the residency permit pointed out that all foreigners, who apply for the permit in Ghana, pay the same fees and they are not specific to Nigerians. He added that no Nigerian trader has been arrested, adding that the closure of shops was because of infractions on Ghanaian laws. This is coming a few days after the federal government warned Ghanaian authorities that it would no longer tolerate the harassment of Nigerians residing in that country.

The minister of information and culture, Lai Mohammed in a statement on Friday, August 28, said the federal government has been documenting the hostilities of Ghanaian authorities towards Nigerians. Mohammed said Nigeria frowns at its citizens being made targets of harassment and objects of ridicule, noting that it will no longer tolerate the harassment of Nigerians under any guise.

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EFCC: Salami panel rejects issuing ‘interim report’ on Magu’s investigation

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The suspended Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, has said that the purported interim report of his probe did not emanate from the Presidential Panel.

Lawyer to Magu, Wahab Shittu, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen

He quoted Chairman of the panel, Justice Ayo Salami, as ruling on his application against the media report.

Magu was arrested on Monday, July 6, 2020, and dragged before the panel.

Sunday, August 29 marked 55 days from the date of Magu’s arrest on July 6, 2020.

The panel has been sitting for 40 days, excluding 14 weekends and public holidays.

Shittu revealed that he confronted the panel with the consequence of the purported interim report in certain sections of the media.

The lawyer said he urged the panel to take judicial notice of the publications and the need to take necessary action against the purveyors.

Shittu quoted Salami as insisting that the report is based on the figment of the authors’ imagination.

Wahab further quoted Salami as saying: “The story arising from the so-called interim report is not from us.

“What should concern you and your client is what the chairman said. Inviting the promoters of the story will not serve any useful purpose as they will not disclose their sources of the story. The purported story is a figment of their imagination.”

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Organization to honour journalist insulted by Fani Kayode

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The Sha’aya’u S-Pawa Foundation, a political group in Zamfara state, says arrangements are in top gear to give an award of ‘Resilient Journalist’ to Mr. Eyo Charles, the Daily Trust representative, assaulted by a former Aviation minister in line of duty.

It was reported that Charles was the journalist that was verbally assaulted by a former Minister of Aviation, Mr. Femi Fani -Kayode in Calabar, Cross River at a media conference.

He had accused the journalist who sought to know in a question who was bankrolling his programme.

He has however since tendered a public apology for the verbal attack.

The group in a statement signed by the Chairman of the Foundation, Alhaji Sha’aya Sarkin Fatwa in Gusau on Friday, said that the group saw the maturity with which Charles handled his attacker that attracted the foundation, “we feel he deserves strong respect and recognition”.

The group also said that “Fani-Kayode had earlier visited the Zamfara and left on its tray some controversies that are still fresh in the memory of the people.

“The good journalist posture displayed by Charles gives more hope and belief to Nigerians that we still have good media professionals in the country.

“As Nigerians, we strongly believe that if the former minister is truly the activist he claims, he should come out in the public domain and answer the question asked by Charles,” the group said.

According to the group, we will organise a befitting ceremony to give this award very soon after we reach out to Charles.

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CAN president Ayokunle blasts pastors, says they lack discipline

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has lamented over the rampant moral, especially financial corruption that has bedeviled the church in the country.

The president of CAN, Samson Ayokunle, gave his voice against the trend among Christain clerics whom he identified as the major perpetrators of these crimes.

Ayokunle noted that things have gotten so bad that even pastors assault the female members and not just that, according to him, many religious leaders in the faith lack integrity when it comes to money.

The CAN boss lamented that due to the lack of discipline on the part of these so-called spiritual guardians, the name of Jesus Christ is blasphemed by unbelievers in the country.

He cried out: “The name of the Lord is being maligned in our society today because of the way Christians are behaving. Obscene dressing and all forms of impurities are happening in our midst. “Some Christians cannot be trusted for any noble assignment. There appears to be no difference between them and the unbelievers. Money, in particular, has become the god of some (if not many) Christians, including Church leaders! What a shame to the Church!”

Meanwhile, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome of Christ Embassy had condemned pastors that refused to open their churches after the Lagos state government gave the approval for religious centers to reopen.

The clergyman did not mention names but some of the pastors that have refused to reopenthe their auditoriums for worship include Pastor Tunde Bakare, Prophet TB Joshua, and Pastor Sam Adeyemi.

Within Nigeria reports that Oyakhilome said in a sermon: ”If you refuse to open the church for fear of being infected, you were never a believer. “This is a great concern because there were churches that were thought to be churches until recently. We find a lot of ministers who were thought to be advocates of the gospel advocating for shutting down the churches. (Because they cannot guarantee safety).” The cleric said he had laid hands on some of the most infectious people on earth and had no fear of being infected.

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Ngige, INEC REC lead protest against Anambra ruler

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Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, and the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Imo State, Prof Emeka Ezeonu, on Saturday led a protest against the alleged imposition of the traditional ruler of Alor, Igwe MacAnthony Okonkwo.

The Monarch of Alor is one of the traditional rulers recently suspended by Governor Willie Obiano for traveling to Abuja to visit President Muhammadu Buhari without permission from the State government.

The people of Alor, Idemili South Local government area of Anambra State, numbering over 500 took to the streets with placards with different inscriptions against the imposition of monarch and Caretaker Committee in the Community by the State government. Some of the placards read, “Alor rejects the imposition of caretaker, please, Governor Obiano look into this matter. This imposition has been on for eight years, we dissociate our community from the monarch who traveled to Abuja without permission from our government,” among others.

However, the former Governor of the State, Sen. Chris Ngige, who hailed from the community, called Obiano to not only suspend the 12 traditional rulers but to banish them from their different communities for desecrating the Culture and traditions of their lands.

Also, he said the banishment should be extended to the person who led them to Abuja on that trip. Ngige said the traditional ruler was imposed by former Governor Peter Obi to punish his community and local government for voting against the allied forces in the 2011 senatorial election when he contested on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) which they tagged Yoruba Party.

The President General PG of Alor, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa, while addressing the crowd, said the people of the community would continue to support Governor Obiano’s administration, adding that Alor would never be part of working against the State government. According to him, “we plead with the State government to dissolve and disband the said caretaker Committee of Alor People’s Convention for working against the interest of Alor people and government of the State because their continued existence is an impediment to the peace and progress of Alor community.”

The Imo State REC, Prof. Emeka Ezeonu, while addressing the crowd, said the community would not rest until the State government does the needful by banishing the purported monarch of Alor and dissolving the said Caretaker Committee in the community. But the traditional ruler, Igwe MacAnthony Okonkwo, debunked the claim that he was imposed on the people by Obi as alleged, adding that he was still the Alor monarch. After he was suspended by Obiano for one year, he came out openly to apologize to the state governor and the Traditional Rulers’ Council for violating certain rules guiding the operation of monarchs in the state.

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Breaking: How Pregnant woman, two kids, others died in Ondo tanker crash

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Four persons have been confirmed dead in an accident that involved one tanker, one truck, and six motorcycles at Ikare, Akoko North-East local government.

The accident was said to have occurred opposite Okorun Police station, Ikare.

Among the dead were a pregnant woman and her two children.

Several persons were seriously injured in the accident.

Several of the dead were said to be motorcycle riders.

It was gathered that a tanker conveying diesel had a break failure and crashed into a truck, which eventually crushed the commercial motorcyclists.

Eyewitnesses said the number of deaths has risen to eight but a spokesman for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ondo, Omotola Ogungbawo, confirmed four deaths.

Officials of the FRSC, police personnel, DSS, AND NSCDC were on ground to carry out the rescue operations.

Bodies of the dead and injured victim were taken to General Hospital mortuary and clinic respectively.

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Omo-Agege urges Nigerians to Embrace Community Policing

The Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege, on Saturday, urged Nigerians to embrace the Community Policing initiative in other for President Muhammadu Buhari to adequately tackle the issues of insecurity in the country.

Sen. Omo-Agege made the call at the 3rd Annual leadership lecture and graduation ceremony of the Centre LSD Leadership School, Effurun Study Centre, VREI.

The event was held at the PTI Conference Centre in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.

Sen. Omo-Agege who, spoke on the theme: ‘leadership & the insecurity challenges in Nigeria’, noted that Africa is bedeviled with leadership and security challenges.

Sen. Omo-Agege, who was represented by Hon. Chuks Erhirhe said there are growing incidences of insecurity both in intra-country and cross-border with security agencies calls for concern.

He stressed that kidnappings, banditry, armed robbery, sea piracy, and others have been the order of the day.

The lawmaker said the duty of any responsible government is to allow for protection for its citizens and that’s why President Buhari is making efforts to ensure that the communities are secure by putting leadership in place.

Sen. Omo-Agege said to achieve a safer country with a view to protecting the lives and properties of its citizenry the leaders of the various countries in Africa should be held accountable at all levels for their actions especially as it concerns insecurity in the land.

According to Sen. Omo-Agege, “We must create the desired synergy between leadership and followership so that every leader will understand that he or she is also the following and every follower a leader. This is central to security in every community where they are leaders and followers.”

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa, and the Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Army 3 Battalion in Effurun, Lt.Col. Igue Omoke were among other dignitaries that spoke at the event corroborated the lawmaker’s claim.

Lt.Col. Omoke, who was represented by Maj. Suleiman Abdul and CP Inuwa was represented by Udebeotu Onyeke the reason for the high rate of insecurity in the country is as a result of the value system which has been drastically decreased.

CP Inuwa urged the citizens to avail of the security agencies’ information so as to serve them better.

Lt.Col. Omoke said leaders must get it right if the nation must overcome its security challenges.

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Coronavirus: Universities are ready to resume – CONUA

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The National Co-ordinator, Congress of University Academics (CONUA), Dr ‘Niyi Sunmonu, on Saturday said its members were ready to resume work.

Sunmonu said this in a statement he issued after its National Executive Council meeting and made available to newsmen in Lagos.

He urged the Federal Government to reopen universities and put in place infrastructure and COVID-19 protocols that would facilitate resumption in the institutions.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that CONUA was an association of lecturers from five universities following cracks in the Association of Senior Staff of Universities (ASUU).

The new Union was announced at the end of its stakeholders’ forum at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in October 2019.

”CONUA members are ready to resume work.

”Everything necessary in terms of COVID-19 protocols must be put in place before reopening the universities in order to prevent students and staff from contracting the disease.

”The education sector cannot continue to stagnate. As it appears, COVID-19 would continue to be a threat and we must, in the circumstance, learn to strive to lead our normal life

”The Union urges the government to make available everything that can help our universities to resume work as it is being done elsewhere in the world,” he said.

Sunmonu said CONUA condemned the intimidation and harassment of some of its members by some university administrations and other unions within the university system.

He said that freedom of association as entrenched in the Nigerian constitution, a provision that allowed every academic the freedom to join any union of his or her choice.

“No amount of molestation or vilification can take the union away from the path of progressive unionism.

”Adequate measures, as far as the law and constitution of Nigeria permits will be taken against anyone who is using intimidation or employing any other odious means to threaten our members,” he said.

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Victims of Lagos helicopter crash revealed

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The identities of victims of the helicopter crash in a residential part of Opebi in Lagos State on Friday afternoon have been revealed.

A statement released by Quorum Company, owners of the helicopter, said the three victims were crew members.

The company said that the light helicopter with registration Number 5N-BQW was flying from Port-Harcourt to Lagos before it crashed.

It also stated that nobody in the building was hurt or injured in the unfortunate incident.

“As soon as we received news of the accident, we promptly informed the aviation authorities, Accident Investigation Bureau AIB and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

“However, prior reports revealed that of the three souls on board, two of the crew members lost their lives whilst the third one is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.

“We have been made to understand that nobody in the building, nor in the vicinity was injured for which we are grateful.

“Also, in accordance with aviation regulations, the AIB has taken over the investigation process.

“We hereby ask members of the public to await the outcome of the investigation.

“We also express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the crew who lost their loved ones in this tragic and unfortunate accident,” the statement said.

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HND holders to embark on industrial action over discrimination

A coalition of holders of Higher National Diploma (HND) is threatening to embark on an industrial action if the issue of discrimination in their degree certificate is not addressed by the government.

The group has asked the government to implement a white paper detailing the removal of dichotomy on their career progression in public service in four weeks or face a strike.

President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, August 27, said that the coalition has decided not to remain silent about the issue anymore.

He said the group will occupy the office of the head of service of the federation if its demands are not met. “We are going to occupy that office until they do the needful because we will not continue to keep quiet and things will continue to go wrong,” Ikechukwu stated. In his own contribution, Sabastine Onyemaobi, the president of Higher National Diploma Holders Association of Nigeria (HNDHAN) pointed out that HND graduates have continued to face discrimination, stigmatization and undue stagnation when compared to their university graduates.

He disclosed that HND holders do not progress above level 14 and that they are faced with demotion in cases where they try to rise above that, after acquiring Postgraduate diploma (PGD) and masters as required by the law.

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Edo 2020: APC, PDP fight over alleged kidnapping of opposition members

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The All Progressives Congress, APC, has alleged plans by Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to arrest its leaders over stage-managed kidnappings in Edo State and then blame its members for the disappearances.

But the PDP in a swift reaction, described the allegation as false, saying APC was running out of ideas in its campaigns.

However, a statement by the Chairman of APC Media Campaign Council, John Mayaki, said Obaseki was already intimidating the Police to join in the plot to arrest and remand APC leaders over the stage-managed kidnappings to prevent them from continuing their grassroots mobilization of voters.

The statement read: “We are aware of plans by the outgoing Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and his party, the PDP, to stage kidnappings of some of their members across the state and blame the APC for their disappearance.

“We have confidentially obtained the list of some PDP members penned down for the fake kidnappings in Edo South Senatorial District and the proposed cash allowance the Governor is offering them in exchange for their cooperation in the reprehensible plot.

“We are also aware that Mr. Godwin Obaseki is already mounting pressure on the Police to play along in this shameful plot. He has requested that they commence arrest of our leaders across the state and keep them in detention over the fake kidnappings just to keep them out of circulation and prevent them from continuing their grassroots mobilization of voters. “This desperate and disgraceful plan was borne out of the Governor’s frustration with his repeated failure to inflict harm on APC leaders through his hired thugs who he continues to illegally offer arms and cash as motivation to unleash mayhem, especially in APC strongholds in Edo State.

“Some of the PDP members whose purported kidnap will be staged are already informing their families and close friends of their brief disappearance in the coming days, encouraging them not to worry, and familiarizing them with the timeline prepared by Mr. Godwin Obaseki, including media charades meant to whip up sympathy.”

“But reacting to the allegation, the Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Chris Nehikhare, denied the allegation.

He said: “APC is always coming up with what PDP is planning, are they in PDP to know what PDP is planning?

‘’Are they part of the plan? How did they get this information that PDP wants to stage-manage kidnaps? It is the cry of a drowning man, APC is drowning and it is coming up with all manner of narratives to fill up media spaces.

“Their campaign is a failure, their message is not being listened to by Edo people, so they think that by raising alarm and trying to cause chaos in the state, the election can be postponed because that is what they desire to get. If they don’t have anything to say, I think the media should ignore them.”

At press time yesterday, Police Public Relations Officer, Chidi Nwabuzor and the Commissioner of Police, Johnson, were yet to confirm the report.

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Breaking: FG postpones resumption of international flights

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Federal Government of Nigeria has on Thursday postponed the international flights scheduled to commence today 27, 2020, to 5th September 2020.

Disclosing this on its verified twitter handle, the Federal Ministry of Aviation, Nigeria, said it apologizes to Nigerians over the recent development.

“Breaking: Regret to announce that the international flight resumption earlier scheduled to resume on 29th August has been shifted to 5th September 2020.”

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Delta at 29: Okowa condemns poor industrial revolution in Nigeria

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Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has on Thursday, blamed the poor industrial revolution and economic development in the country on the rising insecurity and poor power supply in Nigeria.

Okowa who stated this at an interdenominational thanksgiving service to mark the 29th anniversary of the creation of the State at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter (Anglican Communion), Bishops Court, Asaba, acknowledged the benefits of a new state.

The governor said Asaba and the entire state would have been less developed than it is today if the state had not been created. He thanked religious leaders for their prayers for the state and the people.

He said “brighter days surely lie ahead of our people’’, the Governor recalled that “29 years ago, this state was created out of the former Bendel State; we all rejoiced and we still rejoice to date. The Lord has done great things for us as a state and as a people in the past 29 years.

“I recall that even with the creation of the state and the joy, there were challenges that came with it. But 29 years later, we have realized that staying together we are able to develop our state, ourselves and our families, and to God be the glory.

“It is important that we continue to stay together because we have achieved reasonable peace and unity

“When I recall at the creation of Delta state how Asaba was and what it is today, we can definitely say that we have had lots of changes and as a nation we have had our challenges and today, we have more challenges than we ever had and we cannot wish ourselves away from the Nigerian nation because we are part and parcel of the Nigerian nation.

“Challenges of the time, especially the COVID-19 pandemic, have suppressed economies of the world. The nation is troubled and Delta State being part of the nation, is also troubled and I believe that there is only one way we can distinguish ourselves in a nation that is challenged as we found ourselves’’.

Okowa said industrialization of Nigeria was one good strategy to grow the nation’s economy but observed that “challenges are actually so much that in the world today when you talk about our nation Nigeria, it’s like there is a question mark that follows and tends to limit the investing public from coming to us.

“The challenges of insecurity which is very key and very importantly, challenges of power failure which is also very significant limit industrialization.

“But, we must put our trust in God and allow Him to lead us because His wisdom is greater than the wisdom of the world.”

Earlier in his sermon titled “Break camp and move on”, Archbishop of Bendel Province, The Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, said that Delta had achieved a lot from creation, but called for serious efforts in the industrialization of the state.

Odutemu said: “We have crossed the hurdles of tribal crisis and we are moving to the promise-land industrialization is yet to arrive where we should be.

“We must break camp in the industrialization of Delta State and in doing so, we must see every Deltan as brother and sister for the sake of our dear state”.

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Buhari sacks Dokubo as Amnesty Programme Coordinator

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President Muhammadu Buhari has sacked Prof. Charles Dokubo as the Coordinator, Amnesty Programme.

The President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, announced this in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday.

According to the statement, the President also approved the appointment of Col. Milland Dixon Dikio (retd.) as the interim administrator of the program.

The statement which read, ‘President Buhari appoints Col. Dikio (retd.) Interim Amnesty Programme administrator disengages Prof. Dokubo as the Coordinator also stated that he has been directed to hand over all official matters to the most senior officer of the Program.

“President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Col. Milland Dikio (retd.) as Interim Administrator (Amnesty Programme) with effect from August 21, 2020.

“This followed the President’s approval of the disengagement of Prof. Charles Dokubo from office as the Coordinator, Amnesty Programme, with immediate effect.

“Prof. Dokubo has been directed to hand over all official matters to the most senior officer of the Programme.

“President Buhari appreciated the services of Prof. Dokubo to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and wished him the best in his future endeavours.”

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Police parades six suspects of UNIBEN student’s rape-murder

Edo State Commissioner of Police, Babatunde Kokumo has paraded six persons suspected to have raped and murdered a student of University of Benin (UNIBEN), Uwaila Vera Omozuwa at a parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Ihovbe Quarters, Benin.

The suspects, who were paraded on Wednesday at Edo police headquarters in Benin, were Nelson Ogbebor, Akato Valentine, Mrs. Tina Samuel, Mrs. Mary Ade, Nosa Osabohien and Collins Ulegbe.

Addressing newsmen, Kokumo said that his officers and men intensified efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the violent attack on the late undergraduate.

He said, “The matter was a great concern to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Muhammed Adamu. What we are seeing today is a result of the efforts of the police to get to the root of the crime. I wish to announce to you that the perpetrators have been arrested.

“The postmortem result actually confirmed that the victim was raped.”

Recall that the UNIBEN undergraduate went to the RCCG to read, when the criminals went into the church, attacked and raped her, but she later died at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

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NUJ decries Fani-Kayode’s verbal attack on Journalist

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The leadererrship of the Nigerian Union of Journalist, NUJ, has condemned the verbal attack on a Daily Trust reporter by a former minister of Aviation, Mr. Femi Fani-Kayode.

Mr. Fani-Kayode was caught in a viral video pouring insults on the reporter, Eyo Charles, whom he said asked him an “insulting” question at a press briefing in Calabar, Cross River State.

The former minister got angry and told the reporter he was “foolish” for asking him who “bankrolled” his tour to Cross River and other states.

“What type of insulting question is that? Which bankroll? To do what? Who can give me money for anything? Who do you think you are talking to? Bankroll what? Go and report yourself to your publisher,” Mr Fani-Kayode said to the reporter.

“I could see from your face before you got here, how stupid you are. Don’t ever talk to me like that,” Mr Fani-Kayode kept yelling at the reporter who was still standing and apologising — “I am sorry, sir.”

“Don’t judge me by your own standards,” the former minister kept saying.

“I have been in politics since 1990. I am not one of those politicians that you think will just come…. I was taken, I have been locked up how many times by this government. I have been prosecuted, unlike most of these politicians you follow for brown envelopes!

“Don’t ever judge me by that standard. I spend, I don’t take and I am not a poor man, I have never been and will never be.”

The NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, in a statement on Tuesday said that Mr Fani-Kayode’s attack against Mr Charles was “gangster-like”.

Mr Isiguzo said the reporter was only asking “a simple question”.

“For him to have embarked on assessment of projects in some states, even though we are yet to be told under what platform, he is doing so, it is proper for the media to hold him to account for his actions and decisions,” Mr Isiguzo said.

Mr Isiguzo said the former minister’s reaction to the reporter’s question was against “simple decorum and civility” and, therefore, “unacceptable, dishonourable and reprehensible”.

He demanded a retraction from him.

“By delving into politics and holding political office, Fani Kayode is very conversant with the watchdog role of the media.

“We are more shocked that the same Kayode who had in recent times, used his social media handles to call leaders to account is at the same time attacking a journalist for a simple demand for him to unmask those behind his nationwide tour.

“He had already visited six states. This is indeed, terribly disappointing,” the NUJ president said.

“By denigrating the journalist, Fani Kayode has exposed himself the more as an intolerant and unstable person who will not want his activities closely scrutinised by the media.”

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President Buhari confirms 12 new appointments

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Wednesday swore-in 12 new Permanent Secretaries.

The swearing-in ceremony started around 10 am before the 13th weekly virtual Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, held at the Council Chambers, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries and their states are Belgore Shuaib Mohammad Lomido, Kwara; Akinlade Oluwatoyin, Kogi; Ekpa Anthonia Akpabio, Cross River; Alkali Bashir Nura, Kano; Ardo Babayo Kumo, Gombe, and Anyanwutaku Adaora Ifeoma, Anambra. Others are Udoh Moniloja Omokunmi, Oyo; Hussaini Babangida, Jigawa; Mohammed Aliyu Ganda, Sokoto; Mahmuda Mamman, Yobe; Meribole Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Abia and Tarfa Yerima Peter Adamawa.

The President also swore in commissioners for the Federal Civil Service Commission, Idahagbon Henry, and Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Usman Hassan.

Those present at the Council Chamber included: Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustapha, the Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, the National Security Adviser, NSA Major General Babagana Monguno (retd) and the Head of Service of the Federation, Yemi-Esan.

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Photos: Wike gives 15 land cruiser Prado VX, TXL to Rivers’ Federal Lawmakers

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The Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike on Tuesday overwhelmed Rivers lawmakers in the National Assembly (NASS) with car gifts.

Wike charged them to defend the interest of Rivers state at all times in the discharge of their duties.

The governor through Amb. Desmond Akawor, Rivers Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presented 15 Land Cruiser Prado VX and TXL jeeps to the Rivers NASS members at Government House, Port Harcourt.

The Governor, in a statement released on the event by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paulinus Nsirim, said, “The gesture would ease their movement and enable them to discharge their legislative duties effectively.

He urged all PDP recipients to keep faith with the Party so they can collectively recover what was lost at the national during the forthcoming 2023 general election.

Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, George Thompson Sekibo noted on behalf of his colleagues that despite challenges posed by COVID-19 on the state finances, Wike still saved funds to provide the vehicles.

A member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency, Dumnamene Deekor said the governor has been consistent in encouraging the federal legislators to protect the interest of Rivers people.

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How peace will soon return to Southern Kaduna – Gov. El-Rufai

Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State has said that the peace and reconciliation process initiated by the Atyap Chiefdom in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area among the various ethnic groups will help to complement security efforts to restore law and order and advance towards sustainable peace in the area.

Governor El-Rufai explained, “What the communities and leadership of Atyap Chiefdom have started is the type of grassroots ownership of the responsibility for peace and harmony in communities that the government has advocated as a critical factor beyond the deployment of police and military forces.”

Speaking during the visit of a delegation from Atyap Chiefdom, to present a formal update on the peace and reconciliation process between the communities in the Chiefdom, Governor El-Rufai, commended the Atyap, Fulani and Hausa communities of Atyap Chiefdom in Zangon-Kataf Local Government Area for the successful peace and reconciliation summit they held on Saturday, August 23, 2020.

Governor El-Rufai added, “We are particularly grateful to His Highness, the Agwatyap for his leadership in bringing together the diverse communities in his chiefdom to begin the process of rebuilding trust and restoring peace. We thank the community leaders and civic-minded individuals that have helped kick-start this dialogue process.”

He assured that all who seek to replace violent strife with harmony can be assured of the unstinting support of the state government for the peace and concord in all our communities.

“This call for accountability is significant, and it represents a positive effort to contain impunity and deter crime,” he emphasized.

Governor El-Rufai expressed delight that government notes and commends the resolve by the communities to respect the right of any citizen to live in peace within the Atyap Chiefdom and applauds the resolution to settle disputes through lawful processes and institutions.

“Also noteworthy is the involvement of youths from the various communities in the peace summit and their agreement not to mount roadblocks anywhere in the chiefdom,” he added.

He assured that the state government would maintain the enhanced security deployments in the area as the peace process advances, pointing out that the Kaduna State Peace Commission will also strongly support this effort at building peace at the grassroots.

The governor appealed to all the communities to abide by the resolutions with vigilance and commitment and work towards making it a sustainable accord. “The work of peace is often hard, but it is a human obligation to work always to preserve human life, liberty, and livelihoods, he stressed.

He called on people of goodwill to support the Atyap Chiefdom’s strong efforts to bring its communities together and stop the bloodshed and destruction of property, saying that everyone should reject the temptation to take laws into their hands and instead submit all grievances to the lawful authorities.

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SARS allegedly brutalises 80-year-old Delta monarch

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There is controversy over the alleged attack on the Okpaluku traditional ruler of Iselegu-Afor, Ndokwa East L.G.A, HRH Okwa Michael Oyem by operatives of Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Delta Command.

An earlier video suggested the monarch was attacked by SARS operatives.

The traditional ruler alleged his offence was suspending the Community Development Committee (CDC) chairman, Comrade Vincent Ochade, over the latter’s refusal to give an account of his stewardship.

He said: “I was brutalized by a group of SARS operatives brought by Vincent Ochade to arrest me because I suspended him for refusing to give an account of his stewardship as CDC chairman. As far as I am concerned the CDC members stand dissolved.”

But the Commissioner of Police, Hafiz Inuwa, denied any such attack occurred, saying some elements were out to smear the image of the police.

Inuwa said: “It is a blatant lie. Because some people are out to tarnish the good image of the police.

“Since we discovered that we would investigate the root cause of the people who are behind this we are going out after these people who are out to smear the image of the police.

“I was told it happened just yesterday (Monday) yet the event from information is that it happened since last week. I will forward the video of my discussions with the Okpala Uku”.

In the video sent by the CP, the aged monarch recanted his accusation of attack.

He said: “My name is Michael. I am the Okpala Uku of Iselegu. In that video there is no truth in it. When I got this wound, it was on the 20th and Uche helped with the plaster, because of the wounds.”

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IGP Adamu denies suspending police entry requirements

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The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Mohammed Adamu has said that the statutory entry requirements into the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) must be strictly adhered to in the ongoing police recruitment screening exercise.

He made the disclosure on Tuesday, August 25, in a statement by the spokesperson for the police force, Frank Mba in Abuja.

According to Mba, the clarification became necessary after reports in some sections of the media claimed that the IGP has suspended the entry requirement for candidates who applied to join the police as constables.

Reports had emanated claiming that The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has suspended the entry requirements for applicants seeking to be recruited as constables. The report stated that the decision was taken after the Inspector-General of Police (IG), Mohammed Adamu directed that no candidate should be disqualified irrespective of their physical appearance, age, and qualification. However, the recent update from the police has dismissed the reports as untrue.

Meanwhile, the police have announced locations for the screening of candidates in Rivers and Lagos states for the 2020 recruitment process. Elkana also told the applicants that their screening will be determined by the local government areas where they come from. He also admonished the applicants to report to the screening venue which is the police college Ikeja by 8 is on the date indicated for their various local government areas.

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Covid-19: Minister gives updates on reopening of schools

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The Minister of State for Education, Mr. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, has revealed that the Federal Government has started considering full reopening of schools.

He disclosed this during the briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Monday in Abuja.

Though he said no date has been fixed yet for full schools’ resumption, the minister urged protesting students to “be patient with FG”.

He explained that the government had continued to engage stakeholders, some of whom have expressed readiness to resume fully.

Secondary and tertiary institutions in Nigeria were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 19, 2020.

The minister expressed optimism that the date for resumption was “around the corner”.

He disclosed that he and the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, met some stakeholders in tertiary education on Monday on the issue.

Nwajiuba said about 78 privately-owned universities were insisting that they were ready for resumption while the response from government-owned universities was still “50-50.”

He said that after aggregating opinions, he would return to the PTF to review the situation and then go ahead to make a pronouncement.

“I urge our students who have actually exercised a lot of patience along with their parents … I urge you to bear with us a little bit more. The rioting needs to stop; there is nothing to riot about.

“We don’t want to bandy around dates,” he said, “We remain positive,” he added.

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Pastor Adeboye reveals position on CAMA 2020 bill

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Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has rejected the Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAMA, which was assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The CAMA 2020 bill which was signed on August 7th has received backlash from religious, non-governmental, and human rights organisations, who are kicking against some sections of the law particularly section 839.

The new law, ”Section 839 (1) empowers the Commission to suspend trustees of an association and appoint interim managers to manage the affairs of the association where it reasonably believes that (a) There is or has been misconduct, mismanagement in the administration of the association.”

Reacting to the bill, RCCG’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Pastor Olaitan Olubiyi said that Adeboye’s opinion on the issue is not always different from whatever the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN endorsed.

According to Olubiyi, Pastor Adeboye was in alignment with the stand of CAN and PFN.

Recall that the Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN), last week described amended Company and Allied Matters Act, CAMA, as satanic.

CAN while rejecting the bill, called on President Buhari to halt the implementation of “the obnoxious and ungodly law until the religious institutions are exempted from it.

It maintained that the bill will do no good, adding that it is ungodly, reprehensible, and an ill-wind.

Speaking to newsmen Olubiyi was quoted as saying, “We always align ourselves with whatever the stand of the leadership of CAN and PFN on issues like this. The Redeemed Christian Church of God does not take any decision that is at variance with the stand of CAN and PFN and the same thing applies concerning this very issue.

”Daddy will not take a stand different from the ones of the two organisations, CAN and PFN. CAN and PFN have spoken on the issue of CAMA and as far as the Redeemed Christian Church of God is concerned that is our position too. We are in alignment with that stand.”

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President Buhari approves new appointments

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the composition of the governing council and appointment of executive secretary of the national commission for Persons With Disabilities (PWD).

The president named Hussaini Suleiman Kangiwa (northwest) as the chairman and James David Lalu (northcentral) as the executive secretary.

A statement issued by the special adviser to the president on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, in Abuja on Monday, August 24, said Buhari’s action is in line with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019.

According to the Act, the commission shall be headed by a part-time chairman and six members who shall be persons with disabilities representing the geo-political zones of the federation subject to confirmation of the Senate for a four-year term of office in the first instance and may be reappointed for a second term of four years and no more.

The statement revealed that executive secretary, who shall be responsible to the council for the implementation of the policies and administration of the daily affairs of the commission, shall also be a person with a disability with a five-year tenure in the first instance, and may be reappointed for a second term and no more.

Members of the management of the commission include Oparaku Onyejelam Jaja (southeast), Philomena Isioma Konwea (South-South), Omopariola Busuyi Oluwasola (southeast), Amina Rahma Audu (northwest), Esther Andrew Awu (northcentral) and Abba Audu Ibrahim (northeast).

Meanwhile, goldennationblog.com had previously reported that President Buhari on Friday, August 14, elevated four judges from the north to the Supreme Court. It was reported that the judges are Justice Mohammed Garba (northwest), Justice Tijjani Abubakar (northeast), Justice Abdu Aboki (northwest), and Mohammed M. Saulawa (northwest). Justice Garba was the chairman of the 2019 presidential election petition tribunal which upheld President Buhari’s second term election. He was elevated from the appeal court. The four judges were promoted following the recommendation of the Nigerian Judiciary Council (NJC) after its meeting on Tuesday, August 11, and Wednesday 12.

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Covid-19: Why airline travelers breaching protocols will be sanctioned – Dr. Aliyu

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The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on Coronavirus (COVID-19) has threatened to slam $3,500 fine on airlines found carrying passengers in breach of international flight protocols.

PTF National Coordinator, Dr. Sani Aliyu disclosed this on Monday at a news conference in Abuja.

He said the PTF had come to the conclusion that it would now be safe to shorten the isolation period for incoming passengers from 14 days to eight days.

“We are narrowing the period of validity of PCR test from the current 14 days to 7 days from the 29th of August. Preferably, the PCR test should be done as close as possible to the point of departure for Nigeria, preferably from 48 to 72 hours, but we will still accept a result that is valid for seven days.

“Prior to boarding, we are currently developing a payment portal. As you are aware, at the moment, the PCR test that we have been doing for evacuated passengers has been sponsored by Aliko Dangote Foundation. We are very grateful for their generosity. We have had more than 13,000 stranded Nigerians brought into the country as a result of this process.

“From the 29th of August, travelers will be required to pay for their COVID-19 test in the country. We are developing a national payment portal, which will be linked to the current Lagos payment portal that is already active.”

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Governor Okowa’s SA lauds Leader for giving hope to youths

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The Special Assistant (SA) to Delta State Governor on Youth Development, Comrade Elvis Akpobi, has commended the Principal Secretary to the State governor, Mr. Hilary Obi Ibegbulem for rebranding, remodeling and giving hope to the hopeless youths in the state.

He gave this commendation in a statement he signed and was made available to newsmen.

Akpobi, who is also the Executive Director and Founder, Not Too Young To Lead Initiative said
Hilary’s philanthropic gestures located him at the darkest moment of his life adding that he was in the midst of hopelessness and lack of assurances in life.

Speaking on how God used Mr. Hilary to turn his story around, Akpobi, said: “I am a product of God’s grace and mercies. I am an example of when grass is consistently watered, it becomes grace. I am an example of the most unlike of dreams turning into a reality.

“Am an only son from a humble family. The Elvis you see today once lived in the slums of Igbi Street. There was a time I was told that I cannot be anything but I have parents who ensured I had the best Education despite the stings of unequal opportunity. Courtesy of an agent of change, a champion of hope, a man who did not look into the fact that I am not from his ethnic nationality. A man who did not look into my weaknesses but discovered me when I have not even discovered myself”.

Comrade Akpobi who has not seized preaching the gospel of his transformation to others Said: “You see, I use my story to inspire people that if I can get here despite the fact that I am still under construction, anybody can get there, just do the right thing, pray to God. I have heard so many murmurings; why Elvis? And I asked myself, why not Elvis?

“The Bible says God created us in his own image and his grace is sufficient for us all and there is a part of the Bible that says the heart of a king is in the Lord’s hands. When you pray to God for your dreams to become a reality, God will not come down, God will use somebody and God has used somebody to change my story.

“Today, I am like a model for other persons. I am like a bridge to other persons. Sorry, I might be sounding somehow but the feelings I have gotten working under Hilary as his boy, as his protege, it is only me that can explain that feeling.

“If you have tasted the feeling of being called a nobody. If you felt it, you will now value when people give you that sense of being a somebody. When people give you that sense that you can be anything in this life. It is not really about the money because when some people see me, they say give me money. Oga, has filled your bank account with money, give me money. I just smile”.

Acknowledging Hilary for his financial support, Akpobi maintained that he has eminently enjoyed while working with his boss stressing that he has always advised those who are serious to equip themselves of skills and academic qualifications that would give them the opportunity of being helped in future.

He said: “He takes care of me financially. Did I tell a friend of mine the other day that why not ask of something sustainable? If I give you money today, it will finish. Why not ask, I want to learn this or I read this, how can you help me tell Oga to do this for me?

“I am not the first boy to be introduced to my boss but grace found me and I brought in values. Each time I sit down and think, I ask myself; what do I do to become more useful to him? Because it is only in your usefulness, you will be given regards. The values you bring in is what will make you go higher”.

Conveying his appreciation message, Akpobi who could not hide his feelings full of gratitude to Hillary said he was given a feeling of belonging adding that he might have missed it in life if not for the intervention of Hilary Ibegbulem.

“If not for Mr. Hilary, maybe I would have been somewhere looking for a job, maybe I would have thought of getting a visa and leaving the shores of this country not knowing what is ahead of me in other countries. Maybe I would have found myself in the midst of people who ordinarily I shouldn’t walk with”.

He also revealed that he obtained a B. Tech in Geophysics, OND, and HND in Petroleum and Natural Gas, certified in Pipeline Engineering, yet, life was not friendly with him.

“I passed through a process and I trusted that process. Today, Mr. Hilary isn’t the first person that I worked with politically but the experience I had working with him, is what I use in thriving through.

“His touch in my life has a ripple effect in my community, my friends, my family; my parents are comfortable now, courtesy of his touch in my life. Some of my friends are comfortable. I can’t reach out to all of them but some of them are comfortable.
“I may not have a lot of money to repay. But the best way I believe I have to repay this man for his gestures is undiluted loyalty and humility which he stands for. Then raising people, mirroring excellence, and giving hope to people which is what he is known for.

“Over the state today, there are a lot of youths who are beneficiaries of his benevolence and apathy. Sometimes, we find ourselves in an environment where you get scared of talking to your boss. He gives me that enabling environment to always whisper. When the whisper is wrong he tells you no. This is not right and I will do the right thing. Sometimes, you find yourself in the midst of leaders. Sometimes you wrong them, we all make mistakes”.


“Gossip comes but he does not listen to gossip. He talks less but if he gives you his words; it comes to pass.

The Special Assistant noted that Hilary drew his character from his direct boss, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa adding that he is calm and receptive.

Comrade Elvis Akpobi
Special Assistant on Youth Development, Delta State

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Why NCC wants reduction of data charges

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) at the weekend urged telecommunication companies to reciprocate the reduction in the charges on Right of Way (RoW) by reducing data charges to Nigerians.

Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC stated this while addressing participants at the maiden virtual edition of the Telecoms Consumer Parliament (VTCP) at the NCC headquarters in Abuja.

Danbatta noted that considering the steps the Federal Government had taken to reduce the charges of RoW below N145 per linear metre while some states waived the charges outright, it had become necessary for operators to reciprocate the gesture.

“The commission is hopeful that with the reduction in RoW, which will automatically result in reduction in capital expenditure (CAPEX) by the network operators, telecom companies will sooner or later reciprocate the gesture by making their services, in particular, data services, more affordable to Nigerians,” he said.

The NCC boss said the event, with the theme: Impact of COVID-19 on Telecoms Service Delivery, considered the dynamics of the global pandemic and the directives from the Federal Government on social distancing and other measures to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Danbatta said the National Assembly also provided an opportunity for industry stakeholders to examine how the pandemic was impacting service delivery in the telecommunication industry, which currently provides the digital platform for the economy to remain afloat.

“As we all are aware, telecoms is highly capital intensive and, as such, continuous network upgrade and expansion are very key to operators’ ability to deliver top-notch Quality of Service (QoS) to their consumers.

“For instance, if operators are not able to expand or they are incapacitated to expand and upgrade their network in the face of spike in traffic, as occasioned by the pandemic, it will definitthe ely have potential grave impact on quality of service delivery.”Despite the pandemic and the lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 virus, we on our part have also not relented to ensure that the quality of telecom services is sustained during and post COVID–19 period,” he said.

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Obasanjo reveals how 14m children are out of school in Nigeria

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Saturday, lamented that over 14 million children that should be in school were not in school, and thereby deprived of education in Nigeria.

“They are deprived of opportunities that will allow them to develop their abilities and become useful to themselves and their communities. It is evident that at this point, to transform our education system in a sustainable way, Nigerian youths must take up leadership positions,” he said.

Obasanjo who spoke at the virtual 2020 fellowship graduation ceremony of the second cohort of “Teach for Nigeria Fellows” in Lagos at the weekend, noted that the outbreak of Coronavirus had exacerbated the problem of education in the country even as it has put the world at its knees as the nations strive to develop a vaccine and successful treatments for the disease.

“So far, the damage in Africa has been moderate, but if we relax, the African continent can become the worst affected by the economic fallout of the crisis,” Obasanjo said.

He said the nation’s education system was in crisis before the pandemic.

“The outbreak has exacerbated the ever-widening gulf between the learning opportunities of our most privileged children and our less privileged children. To close the dangerous gap as a nation, we require prompt action from well-meaning Nigerians imbued with courage, patriotism, commitment, foresight, and love,” he said.

An NGO, “Teach For Nigeria” which focuses on developing a movement of leaders across Nigeria who are committed to putting an end to educational inequity, graduated 161 fellows who have impacted approximately 9,660 students in 80 schools across Lagos, Ogun, and Kaduna states.

According to the former president, Nigerian youths must champion different innovative solutions at every level of society and across different sectors.

He advised the fellows to continue to leverage their acquired skills and experiences to advocate for educational excellence in the country.

Obasanjo urged them to be ambassadors for change, driving the movement for freedom and justice in Nigeria.

“Please do not let anybody tell you that you are leaders of tomorrow, you are leaders today.”

Chief executive officer, Teach For Nigeria, Folawe Omikunle, said the graduating fellows had spent the past two years improving the academic outcomes of their pupils.

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2023 Election: No cultist will succeed me – Gov. Emmanuel

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel has reiterated his decision that no known cultist will take over from him as the governor of the State in 2023.

The governor, who stated this on Sunday in an open interaction with the people, denied plotting a third term in office through a surrogate.

According to him, “for peace to reign and for Christ to have control, I am not interested in a third term through a surrogate, the only thing you can help is to ensure that no cultist is allowed to emerge Governor of the state.”

The governor, however, admitted that some local government areas in the State are highly volatile, noting that no known cultist, when arrested, would be released.

He said “the only way to ensure peace is to make a way to eradicate cultism, we look up to God, then we embrace peace.

“Some cult groups are clashing in some parts of the state and we have tried to make sure we crush them. We will stop at nothing in ensuring we crush them. It is not our intention to deploy soldiers to volatile areas and you are forcing us to do so.

“Please, let parents talk to their children, they gain nothing from cultism. It can’t be because of one man the whole village would run away. It is time to go their right way. Most armed robbers and kidnappers are cultists and we will crush them.”

Gov.Emmanuel also clarified why he is opening up more internal roads in the State, saying that it was to allow for ease of transport and movement of goods and services.

He admitted that the lockdown caused by COVID-19 has affected the completion time of those projects.

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Tension as one killed, two injured in Delta community cult war

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A clash between rival cult groups has claimed the life of a suspected cult member in the Emo-Amukpe area of Sapele, Delta State.

The number of cult-related killings in Delta State has intensified, with 13 recorded deaths in the past two weeks.

Two persons, including a female, reportedly sustained gunshot wounds in another cultist attack in the timber town Friday night.

It was learned that the deceased in the Emo-Amukpe clash, a member of Aro-Barga Confraternity, was stabbed by his assailants suspected to be members of Eiye Cult.

He was said to have intervened in an argument between a fellow cult member, Hiko, who had gone to visit him in a hotel and a member of the rival group.

However, on his return to the hotel, the “Eiye boys” stabbed him with broken bottles and cutlasses.

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Sacked Unilag VC withdraws court case

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Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Oluwole Ogundipe has to discontinue challenging his ‘removal’ as the Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

Ogundipe’s decision followed his deference to the authority of President Muhammadu Buhari as the varsity’s Visitor, his lawyers said on Friday.

According to a statement by a member of his legal team, Mr Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, the don stated that the National Industrial Court, which he earlier approached, had neither sat nor conducted any proceedings in respect of the court case.

Ogundipe was last Wednesday purportedly removed as UNILAG VC by the institution’s Council, chaired by SAN and businessman, Wale Babalakin.

In a statement, Adegboruwa said: “Contrary to the falsehood being peddled by mischief makers, conducted oral Industrial Court has never sat or conduct any proceedings in respect of the court case filed by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Oluwole Ogundipe.

“No court proceedings ever took place at all and so no decision or ruling has been rendered by the court.

“Indeed, upon detailed consultation with all stakeholders and his supporters in and outside the University, Professor Ogundipe directed his Lawyer’s to file a notice of discontinuance of the suit and this has been done on August 21, 2020.

“This is to defer to the authority of the President as the Visitor of the University as Professor Ogundipe has enough time to challenge his purported removal.

“This falsehood is being spread to malign the court and blackmail the judiciary by enemies of the rule of law and due process.

“The general public is therefore advised to discountenance these mindless fabrications as the handiwork of those who are afraid of subjecting their illegal acts to the true test of probity and to be wary of fake news being peddled in place of truth, especially as they relate to deliberate manipulation of court proceedings.

“There was no time that the court sat to fix any date for the case.”

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Lawmakers, NDDC in commotion over removal of N10b project

The Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Thursday accused the two chairmen of the National Assembly committees probing the allegation of financial recklessness and maladministration of tinkering with the budget of the agency.

It accused the chairmen, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi and Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo — of replacing two key agricultural programmers in its 2019 budget with the supply of plastic chairs and desks as well as “ghost training programmes.”

Nwaoboshi and Tunji-Ojo denied the allegations, saying the IMC was peddling falsehood.

The IMC, in a statement by its Director, Corporate Affairs, Charles Odili, quoted the NDDC acting Executive director (Projects), Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, as naming an N10bn rice farming project and a $129.17million Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises scheme as the projects replaced by the chairmen.

According to Ojougboh, Nwaoboshi and Tunji-Ojo insisted on the removal of the IMC for refusing to be a part of the “ghost training programme.”

He claimed that the Niger Delta would have been a rice haven engaging women and youths in the region.

The acting Executive Director said: “We prepared farmers and they were ready. The CBN guaranteed N10 billion support for the project, but when the budget got to the National Assembly, the two chairmen of the committees on NDDC removed the N10b wetlands project.

“Because of that action, the wetlands of the Niger Delta that would have been booming with rice farming have been lying fallow.

“This would have created employment for our women and youths. But, the two chairmen of the National Assembly committees preferred the supply of plastic chairs and tables to schools that are non-existent to active and lucrative engagements of the people of the region.

“The IFAD partnership was removed completely and replaced with ghost training programmes, which we refused to be part of. Because of that, they insist that the NDDC IMC should be removed.”

He, however, said the commission was making efforts to reintroduce the N10bn rice farming programme into its 2020 budget to boost agriculture and create jobs for the youth.

Ojougboh, while inspecting the multi-million-naira NDDC rice mill at Elele-Alimini, in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on the National Assembly not to distort the NDDC 2020 budget to avoid truncating the agricultural programmes.

But, Nwaoboshi said the allegation showed that the IMC has “exhausted all the lies in their bag.”

He said: “First of all, the NDDC’s budget for 2019 was not prepared by the present IMC. It was inherited by the Joi Nunieh-led IMC.

“So, this IMC has no input in the 2019 budget of the commission. The person who defended the budget was Joi Nunieh.

“It was not defended by the present IMC and so, they don’t understand what was contained in that budget.

“They said that the 2019 budget was given to them on the 19th of April 2020 and so, they were not able to implement it. So, if the contract was awarded for non-existing schools, who awarded it?

“They have no lies again to tell. They have now exhausted all the lies in their bag.

“If the money for the contract meant for agriculture was used to award a contract for chairs and desks for non-existing schools, they should be arrested and held responsible for it.

“If at all they awarded the contract, they should be arrested for fraudulently awarding the contract and fraudulently paying for it.

“This is the fraud and corruption we have been talking about in the NDDC and this is a sign that they have diverted the money again.”

Also, Tunji-Ojo said the latest allegation was nothing, but pure blackmail and mudslinging to divert the attention of Nigerians from the issues on the ground.

He said: “I had said this before and I am repeating it. No project was removed from the 2019 proposed budget. The Executive Director, Project, is obviously a confused human being who thinks he can thrive on blackmail against the truth.

“Like Comrade Oshiomhole said ‘you don’t wrestle with pigs’ If he thinks the best way to collaborate and work is through falsehood and blackmail, that is up to him.”

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How Edo election will end godfatherism – Gov. Obaseki

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Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on Thursday declared that the governorship election would end godfatherism in the state.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate spoke during his ward campaign tour across the country the 10 wards in Esan North East Local Government Area.

He described Edo Central District as a PDP enclave.

Obaseki charged members and supporters not to succumb to threats and intimidation.

The governor stated that Nigeria does not belong to a few people.

State campaign council Chairman, Dan Orbih, told party loyalists to keep a vigil on voting day.

Orbih assured the people that PDP would do everything possible to ensure that votes count.

“We will not allow anybody to subvert the will of the people. In this election, we will not only vote but defend our votes”, he said.

The poll will be held on September 19, 2020.

Obaseki will face his main rival, Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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Two suspected killers of flying Officer Arotile freed

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Two of the three persons suspected to have been responsible for the death of Nigeria’s first female fighter helicopter pilot Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile have been freed.

They were freed yesterday by the Kaduna State Magistrate Court I.

The first suspect, Nehemiah Adejor, who drove the car that killed the Air Force Officer, will be charged for culpable homicide and criminal conspiracy in the State High Court.

The police at the end of their investigation said there was no premeditation in the death of the Flying Officer.

Arotile was knocked down and killed by a vehicle driven by his secondary school mate, Nehemiah Adejor in July.

The 2nd and 3rd suspects – Folorunsho Igbekele Faith and Gbayegun Deji – were passengers in the said vehicle.

At the resumed hearing yesterday, the prosecution Counsel, DSP Martins D. Leo, prayed the Court to discharge the 2nd and 3rd suspects, as their investigation did not find them wanting.

Ruling on the motion, Magistrate Benjamin Hassan, discharged 2nd and 3rd suspects, Folorunsho Igbekele Faith and Gbayegun Deji, based on the Police investigation, which did not find them wanting and the legal advice from the state’s Director of Public Prosecution Bayero Dari Esq, that they have no case to answer.

According to the legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), “there is no premeditation in the death of the Flying Officer Arotile, but there is sufficient evidence to prosecute the 1st suspect, Nehemiah Adejor for culpable homicide not punishable with death.

“On the 14 days of July 2020, the suspects, all male of Auta Alkali Farin Gida, Mando Kaduna inside a Kia Sorento with Registration. No AZ 478 MKA Kaduna being driven by the 1st suspect sited the deceased (NAF/4512F Flying officer Tolulope Arotile) at NAF Base Kawo, Kaduna, whom they identified as their school mate at Air force Secondary school, Kaduna.

“The 1st suspect, full of enthusiasm, recklessly reversed the car in order to meet the deceased and in the process ran over her consequent upon which the deceased lay unconsciously on the ground. The deceased was rushed to NAFX64 Base Hospitàl-for- medical attention but was later pronounced dead by the medical doctors at the Hospital.

“The suspects were arrested and taken to 461 NAF Hospital Kaduna for toxicology test and results were all negative. They were later transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Kaduna on the 24th day of July 2020 for further discreet investigation.

“Police investigation reveals that all the suspects attended the same secondary school with the deceased and upon sighting her, the 1st suspect recklessly reversed the car and eventually ran over the deceased which led to her untimely death.

“The 1st suspect admitted in his cautionary statement that on the 14th day of July 2020 he was together with the two other suspects in a car KIA Sorento he was driving, when he saw the deceased walking along the roadside of the Air force Base.

“He informed the other suspects who screamed enthusiastically after which he stopped and started reversing the car in order to meet the deceased and exchange pleasantries. In the process of which he mistakenly ran over her and she later died. He denied having any premeditated plan to kill her.”

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CAN rejects CAMA, says Government cannot control Church

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has rejected the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 that was recently assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari.

CAN describe the act as unacceptable, ungodly, reprehensible, and an ill-wind that blows no one any good.

The association called on the Federal government to stop the implementation of the law until the religious institutions are exempted from it.

They urged Buhari to urgently return the law to the National Assembly for an immediate amendment.

CAN in a statement by Special Assistant to CAN President, Pastor Adebayo Oladeji stated that the CAMA Act is a time bomb waiting to explode.

The association said it is not against the government fighting corruption but it completely rejects the idea of bringing the church, which is technically grouped among the NGOs, under control of the government.

Oladeji argued that Nigeria should not be compared with any other nation when it comes to the relationship between religious institutions and the government.

“In Nigeria, people’s religions are tied to their humanity and of course, their life adding that the satanic section of the controversial and ungodly law is Section 839 (1) &(2) which empowers the Commission to suspend trustees of an association (in this case, the church) and appoint the interim managers to manage the affairs of the association for some given reasons.

The Church cannot be controlled by the government because of its spiritual responsibilities and obligations. We recall that during the First Term of the President, there was a Public Hearing conducted by the National Assembly on the Non- Governmental Organisations Bill tagged ‘Bill for an Act To Provide For The Establishment Of The Non-Governmental Organizations Regulatory Commission For The Supervision, Co-ordination And Monitoring Of Non-Governmental Organizations’ which was attended by CAN and many NGOs.

“At the Public Hearing, the Bill that sought to bring the religious organizations and NGOs under the control and influence of the government was totally rejected because it would snuff life out of the church and rank the church as a secular institution under secular control. We thought it was all over until we heard of the CAMA that was assented to by the President, making the rejected bill a law.

“How can the government sack the trustee of a church which it contributed no dime to establish? How can a secular and political minister be the final authority on the affairs and management of another institution which is not political? For example, how can a non-Christian head of Government Ministry be the one to determine the running of the church?

“It is an invitation to the trouble that the government does not have the power to manage. Let the government face the business of providing infrastructure for the people.

“Let them focus on better health provision, food, education, adequate security employment, etc. The government should not be a busy body in a matter that does not belong to it. The government does not have the technical expertise to run the church of God because of its spiritual nature.”

Oladeji warned that if the government insists on imposing the law on the Church, then, they have declared war on Christianity, and the agenda to destroy the Church which we have spoken against before now is coming to the open more clearly.

“If you cannot give us good amenities of life, we would not allow you to take away our liberty to worship our Maker.

“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians to ask the Federal Government to suspend the law because we do not need it in this nation.”

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Anwuzia promotes rehabilitation of electricity to Delta Community [Photos]

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Aniocha South Local Government Chairman, Chief Isaac Anwuzia has promoted the installation, reinforcement and
rehabilitation of the electric poles, to Agidiase quarters in Ogwashi-uku.

Chief Anwuzia said his aim is to enhance power supply which has not been available in the area for a long time.

Addressing newsmen in an inspection tour of the on-going electricity project, Anwuzia stated that the projects are in line with the Delta State government’s readiness to provide light to rural areas in the State.

The council boss said the installation of the new electric poles and cables would help in enhancing power supply in the area stressing that improved power supply would enhance commercial activities, security, technological growth, and prosperity in the community.

“The installation of the new electric poles and cable would boost electric supply in Agidiase and impact positively on the Ogwashi-Uku business community as commercial activities in the area will increase, thereby reducing youth restiveness.

“The electric installation would further create immense opportunity for wealth creation through increased commercial activities and security of lives and properties of residents” He added.

Chief Anwuzia reiterated that his administration was committed to bringing electricity and other social amenities to the rural areas within the local government.

The council Boss also said he has told the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to install the high tension poles and energize the community’s transformer to provide power supply to the affected area and other parts of the town.

He urged the community leaders to ensure adequate security of the equipment to avoid the vandalization of the electrical equipment.

Earlier in his remarks, a staff of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Engr, Mike said that the installation of the electric poles and transformers would help in stabilizing power supply in the affected areas.

Reacting to the gesture, thethe Obi of Ogwashi-uku, HRM Obi Chukuka Aninshi Okonjo [II] commended Chief Anwuzia for ensuring the replacement of the damaged electric poles and facilitating the installation of new ones and other electrical equipment to ensure that the Agidiase people receive power supply, adding that the palace and the Ogwashi-uku community will continue to pray and support their son, Anwuzia in his deliberate efforts to make life better for the people.

Some of the residents who spoke to newsmen on the projects lauded the state government, particularly the local government chairman, Chief Anwuzia for the interventions, adding that the installation of the new electric poles and transformers would reconnect the affected community to the national grid and improve electricity supply in the area.

They also pledged to safeguard the projects from vandals and encourage the government to extend the gesture to other rural communities in the area.

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NDDC: EFCC commences probe of Akpabio, Pondei

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission says it has launched an investigation into the activities of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio; and the acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Prof. Kemebradikumo Pondei.

The EFCC said this in an invitation letter addressed to a group, Foundation for True Freedom and Good Governance, led by activist, Deji Adeyanju.

The letter signed by the Head, Economic Governance Section, Adebayo Adeniyi, dated August 14, 2020, with reference number 3000/EFCC/ABJ/HQ/EG/T.6/Vol4/044, is titled, ‘Re: Request for Investigation of Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, and Prof. Daniel Pondei, acting MD NDDC over Corruption Allegations of Diversion of Public Funds’

In the letter, the EFCC revealed that it was indeed probing the NDDC and called on Adeyanju to come to clarify some of the allegations.

The letter read in part, “We write to acknowledge the receipt of your petition dated August 3, 2020, in respect of the above subject and to inform you that investigation into the case has commenced.

“In view of the above, you are kindly requested to attend an interview with the undersigned through the O/C team six on Thursday, August 20, 2020, at EFCC headquarters third floor.”

The leadership of the NDDC is currently being probed by the National Assembly for allegedly mismanaging N80bn.

The EFCC Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, did not respond to calls on Wednesday.

Also, the Head of the Public Affairs Division of the NDDC, Mr. Charles Odili, rejected calls

A Spokesman for Akpabio, Anietie Ekong, neither responded to calls nor a text message on Wednesday.

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Covid-19: Governor Ikpeazu moves to slash workers salaries, give reasons

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Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, of Abia State has on Wednesday, approved a downward review of monthly emolument of all political appointees in the State.

This is contained in a statement signed by the secretary to the Abia State Government, Barr Chris Ezem, and was made available to newsmen.

The Governor said the review was upon attainment of general financial stability.

According to him, the decision was informed by the present economic crunch in the country occasioned by the global pandemic.

The statement reads in part, “Going forward, all Political Appointees shall be entitled to their basic monthly salary excluding other allowances.

“All relevant government establishments are to note and implement accordingly.”

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2023: I did not authorise online campaign posters – Gov. Fayemi

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Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi has dissociated himself from campaign posters for his election as a presidential candidate under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in 2023.

Fayemi’s campaign posters sponsored by Chairman of Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Mr. Femi Ayodele, had flooded the social media lately.

The posters, which have become subject to political debates on different platforms, show Governor Fayemi clad in an adorable sky blue Agbada with a blue striped Awolowo cap.

The message on the posters with the APC logo reads: “Support His Excellency Dr. John Kayode Fayemi for President 2023.”

Reacting to the development, Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Yinka Oyebode said he was unaware of the posters.

He said: “Dr. Fayemi does not have any knowledge of the campaign poster neither did he authorise Mr. Ayodele or any person or group of persons to start a campaign on his behalf.

“As a matter of fact, Mr. Ayodele does not and cannot speak for the Governor on any matter, be it policy, administrative or political”.

He added: “Governor Fayemi has reiterated over and over that he has a four-year mandate as Governor of Ekiti State and he is focused on actualising his promises to the people of the state through pragmatic leadership and systematic implementation of his administration’s five pillars of development.

“This also serves as a note of caution to political appointees, government functionaries, political associates and groups to operate within the ambit of decency and steer clear of actions that are capable of distracting the government, the party, and the Governor.”

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How NSCDC arrested five cultists with human skull

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Cross River has arrested five suspected cultists in the state with a human skull including mother trying to sell her 9-year-old daughter because a prophetess said she was a witch.

The State Commandant of NSCDC in the state, Mr. Danjuma Elisha, while Parading the suspects on Wednesday in Calabar, told newsmen that the suspects were arrested by officials of NSCDC on Aug. 18, 2020, in Ogoja local government area.

The NSCDC Commandant disclosed that the five persons in their custody were arrested through a tip-off when suspected cultists from a rival group had a confrontation.

“On Aug. 18, 2020, our attention was called upon concerning a secret cult confrontation at No. 50 mission Road, Igoli, Ogoja. Upon arriving at the scene, our men found a human skull and other bones believed to be human bones.

“The team on the ground decided to swiftly pick the items and persons found within the vicinity for scrutiny. 10 persons were picked up and after interrogations, 5 persons were identified to have questions to answer in relation to the items found,” he said.

Disclosing the identity of the suspects, Elisha said they included, Ejesi Akwa, Ugbem Oloko, Francis Ogbeche, Thomas Ajaba, and Gabriel Ogbeche.

Elisha further revealed that the four suspects will be handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

One of the suspects, Awka, told newsmen that they had a confrontation with a group of cultists that came to attack them in the compound.

He said that it was during the process of the arrest that men of the NSCDC found the human skull in their compound.

In a related development, the Commandant also paraded one Patience Effiong-Udo, 26, for allegedly trying to sell her 9-year-old daughter at Bogobiri area in Calabar.

“Upon a tip-off by a good Nigerian on Aug. 18, 2020, our men arrested one Ms. Patience Effiong-Udo who went to Bogobiri in Calabar South LGA, allegedly looking for a buyer for one of her daughter’s names withheld, who is 9-year-old.

“Upon investigation, she confessed to the crime and alleged that the prophetess in her church told her that the said Mary Philips was a witch and that she should not stay in her church anymore.

“While she was asking a question on how to sell the child, the person decided to inform us and we swiftly swung into action and picked her.

“In line with inter-agency synergy, we shall be handing over Ms Effiong-Udo to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and other Related Matters for further investigation and prosecution,” he said.

Effiong-Udo told newsmen that, it was when she complained to the prophetess that she had no food to eat, that the prophetess encouraged her to sell her child that she is a witch.

She mentioned the name of the prophetess to be “Hannah”, who is in charge of popular old generation church( names withheld) at Itu Okon area of Calabar Municipal LGA.

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Governor Okowa appoints new General Managers for DBS Asaba, Warri

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Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has endorsed the appointment of Mr. Francis Whyte Osabohien as the new General Manager of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Asaba.

The Governor also approved the appointment of Mr. Malcolm Nnamdi Oteri as the substantive General Manager of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri.

The appointment of the duo is contained in a statement issued by the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Asaba.

The council of DBS Asaba and Warri have been asked to issue a letter of confirmation of appointment to Mr. Malcolm Nnamdi Oteri and Mr. Francis Whyte Osabohien with respect to the governor’s approval.

According to the statement, Mr. Malcolm Oteri shall assume duty as substantive General Manager with effect from September 1, 2020, while Mr. Francis Osabohien will assume duty as General Manager, DBS Asaba on September 5, 2020.

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Mali’s President Keita resigns, dissolves parliament

Malian President, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita has resigned.

The president on Wednesday said he was resigning to avoid “bloodshed,” hours after his arrest by troops.

Rebel soldiers reportedly detained Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and Prime Minister Boubou Cisse on Tuesday afternoon and drove the pair to a military base in the town of Kati, near the capital Bamako, which they had seized that morning.

Jubilant crowds in the city centre gathered to demand Keita’s resignation.

They cheered the rebels as they made their way to the 75-year-old’s official residence.

Keita, who appeared in a state television broadcast midnight to declare the dissolution of the government and national assembly, said he had no choice but to resign with immediate effect.

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Amaechi tells CCECC to finish Lagos-Ibadan rail project in five Months

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The China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) and the contractors handling the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Gauge Rail have been given five months to complete the project.

Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi gave the charge in an inspection of the Lagos-Ibadan rail project in the company of his information counterpart, Lai Mohammed.

Amaechi stated that Coronavirus has come to stay adding that CCECC should devise measures of accomplishing the project.

The Minister urged them to procure personal protective equipment for their workers as no excuse for failure would be accepted.

He noted that funds are not the challenge being faced on the $1.6 bn projects but rather lack of workers. He, therefore, advised the company to adhere to safety measures such as the compulsory use of masks and safety shields by all workers in order to get the required number needed to work in all stations.

On the Ibadan-Kano $5.6 billion rails which is yet to commence, Amaechi stated that the government is yet to secure the loan facility from China, Export-Import Bank, assuring that it remains a priority project of the present administration.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who was very happy said: “I am very impressed. The reason we brought you here is to see that it is not a concocted story. This is the reason why we are borrowing the money so that Nigerians can travel in dignity and comfort”.

He further clarified that “monies borrowed are not for grandiose display nor for overhead or running costs for the nation but rather are for capital projects which on completion would create jobs and provide the needed infrastructure for Nigerians”, adding that there is nothing bad in borrowing so long as it is used to provide improved service delivery for the people.

Furthermore, Lai Mohammed commended Amaechi for the passion exhibited in driving the project and urged CCECC not to disappoint.

Speaking with newsmen, the Managing Director, Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Engr. Fidget Okhiria disclosed that the corporation is working out modalities on commencing operations on the Lagos-Ibadan and the Itakpe-Warri rail corridor in September.

The inspection tour also had other dignitaries such as the Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman, the Board Chairman, NRC, Engr. Ibrahim Alhassan Musa, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Hassan Bello, among others.

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How housewife returned N14m wrongly paid into her account

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A woman in Enugu state, Josephine Nchetaka Chukujama Eze, has shown the true meaning of honesty as she returned almost N14 million that was mistakenly paid into her account.

The woman’s husband, a journalist, and lawyer, Chukujama Eze, disclosed this to newsmen as he praised his wife for the morality she showed.

According to a letter he addressed to the media, he said that he decided to celebrate her not because it is her birthday, but because she did a thing that made him very proud of her.

He explained that the event happened on Monday, August 3, when Josephine was in a salon and her phone rang with alerts. The mother of three did not check her phone until later. She had to call her husband immediately after she saw the N13,946,400.

After some search, they realized Sankiya Global Investment Ltd is a private company based in Lagos Island as they authorized Josephine’s bank to refund the company. Eze said that when some people heard about it, they condemned them for being naïve and not ‘smart’ enough. He said that bank officials were really appreciative of his wife’s act of goodness.

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NDDC: I did not pretend to faint during probe – Acting NDDC Boss

The acting managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Kemebradikumo Pondei has dismissed the notion that he deliberately passed out during a session of the House of Representatives committee probing the commission.

Recall that Pondei on July 20, collapsed while answering questions from the panel probing alleged mismanagement of N40 billion by the interim management committee of the NDDC.

The NDDC boss denied staging the act, saying that he does not run away from issues.

He said it was ridiculous for people to think that he faked the fainting during the House of Representatives probe.

The NDDC boss said he has an unexplained challenge which caused him to pass out during the interrogation. “I had an unexplained, unexpected health challenge. It is ridiculous to think that people believed I was acting. I would not pray for anyone to experience what I went through. I do not run from issues. I have put all that behind me,” he said. He also denied the allegations that there was corruption at the NDDC.

Meanwhile, Pondei has alleged that the NDDC was compelled to pay for contracts by the National Assembly before its 2019 budget was approved. He also alleged that over the years some lawmakers especially ad-hoc committee members held the commission hostage with the budget approval. The NDDC boss in a statement through his special adviser on media, Edgar Ebigoni gave a detailed list of the contracts which the National Assembly allegedly compelled the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the commission to pay before having its budget approved.

In a related report, Kemebradikumo Pondei has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IG) over the refusal of seven contractors to deliver on what they were paid for. Pondei, who in a six-page petition dated July 29, entitled “Re: Forwarding of documents in respect of ongoing investigation,” claimed the contractors were each paid the sum of N232,209,600.00 to manufacture the chairs and desks. The MD said the contractors delivered the chairs and desks to a warehouse not affiliated to the commission. He also alleged that over the years some lawmakers especially ad-hoc committee members held the commission hostage with the budget approval.

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Coronavirus: Nigerian Students threatens protest over school closure

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Nigerian students have threatened to embark on a nationwide protest for the federal government’s rejection to reopen tertiary institutions across the country due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

This was disclosed during a virtual meeting held on Sunday, August 16, by the students under the aegis of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), and National Association of College of Education Students (NANCES).

They also resolved to give the federal government a two-week ultimatum to lift the ban on tertiary institutions, saying failure to reopen schools will be met with rejection by students.

Speaking on the planned protest further, NANCES president Mahmud Abubakar said the students will stage a protest at the Federal Ministry of Education building in Abuja before marching to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariats in their various states.

“The agitation is still one, which is the re-opening of our campuses. We just want to hear from the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, the date for resumption, as we are more open to the deadly coronavirus at home than on campus, and an idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” Abubakar said. The students’ leaders also berated the federal government for not putting a priority on the education sectors despite its gradual reopening process of the economy. “Our institutions have been placed under lock and key for good six months with the claim of preventing the spread of COVID-19 on campuses. As much as we appreciate the government for the acclaimed love, we condemn in totality the continued closure of our institutions,” NAPS president Sunday Asuka said, adding that necessary agencies have been notified.

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Disagreement over 774,000 jobs as lawmakers rejects 30 slots

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The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has rejected the 30-job slot allocated to each member of the House for their respective local government areas, in the recruitment exercise for the Federal Government’s Public Works Scheme.

The Minority Leader of the House, Ndudi Elumelu, in a statement issued on Tuesday, described the allotment of 30 out of the 1000 slots per local government to each member of the House as “grossly unfair and unacceptable by Nigerians and the lawmakers who are the true representatives of the people.”

The statement was titled ‘774, 000 Jobs: Reps Minority Caucus Rejects 30 Slots for Members.’

The National Assembly and the Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Productivity, Festus Keyamo (SAN), had clashed over the scheme.

Political office holders had been allocated 15 percent of the slots in the programme designed to employ 1,000 artisans from each of the 774 Local Government Areas of the country. The scheme had been allocated N52bn in the 2020 budget.

The beneficiaries are to work for three months, between October and December, with each of them earning N20,000 monthly.

Chairman of the Extended Special Public Work Selection Committee in Rivers State, Dr. Innocent Barikor, was quoted to have said, “The directive given to us is that every state governor has 40 slots of the job in each LGA; serving senators have 30 each; members of House of Representative have 25 slots; a minister has 30 slots in every LGA in his state of origin.”

The minority caucus of the House, however, alleged that the formula used is in favour of “certain interests in the ruling All Progressives Congress at the detriment and disadvantage of the majority of Nigerians.”

Elumelu insisted that “the 30 person allotment to be supervised by a member in each of the Local Government Areas, cannot by any criteria, said to be a true representation of the people they are mandated to represent.”

Elumelu stressed that the 774,000 jobs were meant for the people and that the people look up to the lawmakers as major channels through which they are reached for social-economic empowerment.

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Breaking: kidnaped family of murdered Bauchi lawmaker rescued

The family of murdered Bauchi lawmaker, Hon. Musa Mante Baraza has recovered freedom after spending five days in kidnappers’ den.

It was reported that Mante’s wives, Rashida Musa Mante 40, Rahina Musa Mante 35, and his one- year old daughter Fausar Musa Mante were abducted by gunmen after killing him at his residence last Thursday in Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi.

Confirming their release to newsmen, Police Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Bauchi Command, Ahmed Wakili said: ” They were rescued yesterday around 11 pm by the police, no ransom was paid. Immediately they were rescued they were taken straight to teaching hospital in Bauchi.

“They were admitted there for medical attention and no suspects were arrested yet. I will give you further details later.”

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Police arrests hoodlums for ambushing Governor’s convoy

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The Imo State Police command has arrested 15 people who allegedly attacked the convoy of Governor Hope Uzodimma on Monday.

It was gathered that the Governor was on his way to the 34 Attilary Brigade, Obinze, to inaugurate an officer’s mess built by the state government when the incident occurred.

The hoodlums, armed with guns and machetes, claimed to be staff members of the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC) protesting non-payment of salaries.

The government said its position that most of the protests in the state were sponsored by the opposition had been vindicated.

Imo State Commissioner of police Isaac Akinmoyede said the suspects claimed they were ISOPADEC employees who were “owed three months’ salary”.

He said they were arrested with one locally-made pistol, two machetes, a mask, a chain, and a padlock.

Akinmoyede said: “They attacked the vehicles in the convoy with a locally made pistol and machetes.”

He said the incident, which occurred around the Concord area of New Owerri, did not claim any life.

“But in the process, windscreens of some of the vehicles in the convoy were smashed and the vehicles damaged,” he said.

The Police chief said the suspects have been handed over to the state Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

Commissioner of Information and Strategy Declan Emelumba said the fact that people claiming to be the staff of ISOPADEC could arm themselves with guns and matchets validated the state’s position that most of the protests were politically-motivated.

The commissioner said the opposition, rattled by the public ovation that greeted the governor’s successful commissioning of new roads in Owerri last Friday, must have hired the thugs.

“The opposition is smarting from the irredeemable shame the government’s successes is rubbing on their face.

“They quickly thought of another protest to take the shine out off the increasingly unbeatable trajectory of Governor Uzodimma’s success stories. But, luck ran out of luck this time,” Emelumba said.

He urged the police to unravel the real motive behind the action of the hoodlums and their sponsors.

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Fireboy DML reveals tracklist for new album “Apollo”

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Nigerian sensational artiste, Adedamola Adefolahan popularly known as Fireboy DML has revealed the tracklist for his second album, titled: “Apollo.”

The 17-track album which will be released on the 20th of August 2020 is coming after the success of his debut album, Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps.

The album features his label boss Olamide and award-winning singer, Wande Coal. There’s also D Smoke on the album, as well as the already released singles “New York City Girl,” “Eli” and “Tattoo.

He shared the tracklist on his Twitter. He wrote: “My second studio album, Apollo. this was bound to happen. gratitude to God for blessings. gratitude to everyone who worked with me on this album; gratitude to my team (YBNL/Empire), my family, and the kings who blessed this project with their presence. see you on Thursday.”

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Edo 2020: Oshiomhole attacks back, says APC governors using PGF DG against him

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Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the immediate past national chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), on Monday, August 17, met with President Muhammadu Buhari over the incoming governorship election in Edo state.

It was reported that the former governor of Edo state alleged that some APC governors are using the PGF’s director-general, Salihu Lukman, against him.

While responding to an assertion made by the forum that he might be attempting to stage a come back as the party boss, Oshiomhole accused Ekiti state governor and chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Kayode Fayemi, of unilaterally appointing Lukman as the PGF’s DG.

He told the State House correspondents that he would not engage in a dirty fight with the DG. “What they don’t understand is that it is not the office of chairman that made me who I am. It is my pedigree from my days as a labourer in the textile industry to be the general secretary of textile workers all over Nigeria and becoming the president of NLC. “There is no village I go to that people do not know me and it is this that I used to override the godfathers in Edo state for two consecutive terms, no violence before becoming the national chairman.

“So, my attitude is not to reply to the noise and it is coming from somebody who says he is an employee and appointee of this Progressives Governors Forum. He contested for Senate against Makarfi, he lost. He even contested against governor El-Rufai during the primaries and he lost before Fayemi unilaterally appointed him the DG,” he said.

It was also reported that Oshiomhole denied plotting to return as the national chairman of APC. Oshiomhole wondered why anyone would imagine he would like to ‘resit’ a class he had passed, saying only ‘an empty brain’ would suggest that he was plotting a comeback. “You want me to engage in a fight with a pig? If you engage in a fight with a pig, the pig already is stained by its nature and you will wear your white garment, and in my own case, khaki to go and wrestle with a pig? I will not. “You see, what I want the media to interrogate, how does winning Edo…when I was removed as national chairman, Edo was APC…So do I have to win Edo to become the chairman? Do I look so unemployed? I’m 68.

“So, what they don’t understand is that it is not the office of chairman that made me who I am,” he added.

Oshiomhole said he was at the presidential Villa to appreciate the president and pledge his absolute loyalty to him.

He also revealed that he requested for security for the conduct of the September 19 poll, saying that whoever is found wanting among the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or the APC should be brought to book.

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See how soldier, 26 others were arrested for Internet fraud

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Lance Corporal Ajayi Kayode, serving military personnel, has been arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged internet fraud.

This was disclosed in a posted on the official Twitter account of the EFCC on Monday evening.

The statement revealed that the military personnel was arrested by the Lagos Zonal office of the anti-graft agency.

Also arrested for alleged internet fraud by the EFCC operatives for alleged internet fraud were 26 others. They were arrested in the Lekki axis of Lagos State.

The military man, with service number NAF18/34732, was arrested in his military attire during an early morning raid at 6B, Fatai Idowu Arobike, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, on Saturday, August 15, 2020, following intelligence received from concerned members of the public about his alleged involvement in criminal activities.

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Bayelsa: APC supporters celebrate sack of Gov. Douye Diri [Photo]

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All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters have celebrated the sack of Bayelsa Governor, Duoye Diri.

They marched through some areas in Yenagoa, the state capital.

The party loyalists carried banners and chanted victory songs.

David Lyon, the APC candidate, won the November 16, 2019 governorship election.

But the Supreme Court declared Diri and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) winner after ruling that the APC Deputy Governor-elect, Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo, presented a forged certificate.

On Monday, the State Election Petition Tribunal ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh poll.

It declared that INEC wrongly excluded the Advanced Nigeria Democratic Party (ANDP) candidate.

Meanwhile, the governor has directed his lawyers to appeal the judgement.

Diri stated that he has implicit confidence in the judiciary and would triumph.

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Oyedepo rejects CAMA law, says no one can appoint trustee over his church

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The presiding bishop of the Living Faith Church International, popularly known as Winners’ Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo has strongly rejected the application of the Company and Allied Matters Acts (CAMA) in churches.

Recall that on August 7, President Muhammadu Buhari signed CAMA into law.

The law stipulates that religious bodies and charity organisations will be strictly regulated by the registrar-general of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and a supervising minister.

With this, trustees of an association or a religious body can be suspended by the commission.

It can also appoint an interim manager or managers to coordinate the affairs of the affected churches or organisations

Oyedepo made his rejection of the law know when he addressed members of his congregation on Sunday, August 16.

According to him, the government is jealous of the prosperity recorded by the church.

He argued that it is not right to subject God’s heritage on earth (churches) to the same laws as companies.

“The church is God’s heritage on earth. Molest the wife of somebody and you will see the anger of that person. The church is the bride of Christ. You know how a strong man is when you tamper with his wife. The church is the body of Christ. We are under obligation to give warnings to wicked rulers so we could be free from their blood,” he said.

“It is only in Africa that people who are over 80 years still run around to become president. I know that it is the prosperity of the church that is making them jealous. But I am going to live to see an army of many winners soar greater. In this church shall emerge one of the largest concentration of giants in the earth,” he said.

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Tribunal sacks Bayelsa Governor, Douye Diri

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The election of Governor Duoye Diri of Bayelsa state and that of his deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo has been nullified by the Bayelsa governorship election petitions tribunal.

The verdict was delivered in Abuja by a three-member panel of justices presided by Justice Ibrahim Sirajo on Monday, August 17, following a petition filed by the Advanced Nigeria Democratic Party (ANDP).

According to reports, the election was nullified on the grounds that ANDP, being one of the registered political parties, was unlawfully excluded from participating in the November 16, 2019 governorship election.

The tribunal said it found merit in the petition and consequently nullified the election.

The Tribunal also ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a bye-election in the state within 90 days.

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Buhari rejoices with Osadolor at 60

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President Muhammadu Buhari has felicitated with journalist, lawyer, and administrator, Kingsley Osadolor on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

The President in a statement by his spokesman, Femi Adesina in Abuja on Saturday, joined the media and the legal profession to celebrate the editor, legal mind, former commissioner, and now television host.

Buhari described Osadolor as “one of the very best in his profession.”

He enjoined Osadolor to continue using his divine endowments for the good of society and the country, adding that Nigeria would always find his contributions salutary and germane to national development.

The president wished Osadolor, a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (FNGE) good health, long life, and all-round prosperity.

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Dynamite explosion kills Delta Community Chairman

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The Chairman of the Agadama community in the Uwheru Kingdom, Ughelli North council area of Delta state, Mr. Sunday Iniovogoma has been reportedly killed by a dynamite blast.

According to reports, the incident reportedly happened around 12:40 pm on Friday.

Eyewitnesses from the community also revealed that other persons in the building sustained varying degrees of injuries in the explosion.

The deceased was said to have been napping in his house when the unfortunate incident occurred.

Details surrounding the dynamite blast were not clear as of the time of filing this report, but sources claim unidentified persons were behind the act.

“He was sleeping in his bedroom when the blast occurred.

“It appears that the perpetrators of the act apparently threw the dynamite into his bedroom, while he was sleeping and it exploded, damaging parts of the building. It killed the chairman on the spot,” a source said.

It was gathered that the incident led to the barricading of the Uwheru/Bomadi Road by youths of Agadama community in protest of the death of the chairman.

But the arrival of a police team to the area reportedly restored calm and traffic flow to the route.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed the blast in a text message Saturday morning.

Its spokesperson, DSP Onome Onowakpoyeya, while noting that “no” further information had been gotten, stated, “it is true”.

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Disaster: One dead, three injured in Imo gas explosion [Photos]

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One person has been feared dead with three persons critically injured after a truck conveying liquefied petroleum gas exploded at a filling station in the Irete community along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway in Owerri-West Local Government Area of Imo state.

The Imo State Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Evans Ugoh, confirmed the incident to newsmen.

According to him, the truck after discharging its content at the filling station was about reversing and maneuvering its way out of the premises when it was hit by a J5 commercial bus conveying pineapples on top speed coming from the Onitsha end lost control and ran into the truck, leading to a heavy explosion.

Mr. Ugoh confirmed that one of the occupants of the J5 commercial bus died on the spot while 3 other persons who sustained fatal injuries were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

He said, however, officials of the Imo State Fire Service, Red Cross, Civil Defence, the Nigerian Police, and NEMA officials were all on the ground for rescue operations.

The Fire Service Director, Jephet Okereafor, said they responded immediately to stop the fire from causing more havoc but lamented that they lacked other fire fighting equipment.

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Buhari appoints new judges for Supreme Court

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Friday, August 14, appointed four judges from the north to the Supreme Court.

The judges are Justice Mohammed Garba (northwest), Justice Tijjani Abubakar (northeast), Justice Abdu Aboki (northwest), and Mohammed M. Saulawa (northwest). Justice Garba was the chairman of the 2019 presidential election petition tribunal which upheld President Buhari’s second term election. He was elevated from the appeal court.

According to reports, the four judges were promoted following the recommendation of the Nigerian Judiciary Council (NJC) after its meeting on Tuesday, August 11, and Wednesday 12.

NJC also recommended 18 other judges to the president for appointment to other courts. They are Justice Gumna Kashim Kaigama (who was recommended as Yobe state chief judge), Kadi Muhammed Abubakar (recommended for appointment as Grand Kadi of Sharia Court of Appeal, Katsina state).

Others are Justice Mathew Emeka Njoku who was recommended as the president of the customary court of appeal in Imo state. Jamilu Shehu Suleiman, Maryam Ahmen Sabo, Sanusi Ado Ma’aji, Abdu Maiwada Abubakar, Zuwaira Yusuf, and Hafsat Yahaya Sani have been recommended as judges If the high court of Kano state.

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Burna Boy drops new album ‘Twice As Tall’

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Talented Nigerian singer, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu Rex, popularly known as Burna Boy, has left social media in excitement following the release of his fifth studio album, Twice As Tall.

The singer’s much-awaited album was released today Friday 14 August 2020.

The album which was an instant hit recorded five million streams within an hour of release and also generated a wave review.

According to social media reactions, ‘Twice As Tall ‘ which was executive produced by Diddy is expected to defeat Burna Boy’s last year’s album, the Africa Giants.

Expressing excitement over the new album, Diddy tweeted with a note to Burna Boy: “CONGRATULATIONS KING @BURNABOY!!!!!!! # TWICEASTALL”.

https://twitter.com/Diddy/status/1294058867828174850?s=19

Following the release of the album, Nigerians rushed to social media, claiming who is better among Burna Boy, Davido and Wizkid.

Reacting to comments raised between which artists is better by social media users, singer, and politician, Banky W condemned the sentiment people place when comparing artists.

The singer who tweeted in his official tweeter handle said acknowledging Burna Boy’s unquestionable greatness doesn’t mean they must put Wizkid, Davido, and anyone else down.

Burna Boy’s new album is available in eight streaming services: Spotify, Youtube, Soundcloud, Amazon Music, Tidal, Pandora, iTunes, and Deezer.

The album which was recorded in Lagos because of the COVID-19 lockdown had Burna Boy’s mom as part of the production with Diddy.

The album contains 15 tracks featuring, Chris Martin (‘Monster you made’), Stormzy ( ‘Real Life’), Youssou N’Dior (‘Level Up/Twice As Tall’), and Naughty by Nature among many others. The album also includes contributions from Nigeria’s Spaceship collective, Mike Dean, Timberland and others.

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Nigeria’s unemployment rate hits 21.7 million – NBS reveals

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The Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has said a total of 21.7 million Nigerians are unemployed as of June 2020.

This is contained in a Labour Force Statistics report published on Friday, August 14.

According to the report, the NBS said the unemployment rate in Nigeria increased from 23.1% in Q3 2018 to 27.1% in Q2 2020 adding that the number of people in the labour force was estimated to be 80,291,894, only 58,527,276 were employed at the time of the survey.

The report revealed that the numbers were a drop from almost two years ago when the number of people in the labour force was 90.5 million, and the number of employed was 69.5 million.

It added that of the 58.5 million people employed, 35.5 million worked full-time (more than 40 hours per week), while 22.9 million were underemployed (worked between 20 and 29 hours per week).

The unemployment rate among rural dwellers rose from 23.9% in Q3 2018 to 28% in Q2 2020, while the rate among urban dwellers rose from 21.2% to 25.4%.

Underemployment rates also rose to 31.5% for rural dwellers, and 23.2% for urban dwellers.

Of the 21.7million unemployed people, 12.4 million worked between one to 19 hours, while 9.4 million did absolutely nothing.

The rates of unemployment and underemployment rose highest among young people between 15 and 35 years of age.

While the unemployment rate among youths rose from 29.7% to 34.9%, the underemployment rate rose from 25.7% to 28.2%.

Imo State reported the highest rate of unemployment with 48.7%, followed by Akwa-Ibom (45.2%), and Rivers (43.7%).

The state with the lowest unemployment rate was Anambra with 13.1%.

Unemployment and underemployment rates vary across states according to the nature of economic activity predominant in each state, according to the report.

The NBS noted that a rise in the unemployment rate is not entirely equivalent to an increase in job losses.

It could be because people who previously lost their jobs are in search of new ones, or people previously outside the labour force (like new graduates) decided to join in search of new jobs or a combination of both.

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NCAA agrees re-opening of Asaba airport for operations

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The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has approved the re-opening of the Asaba International Airport in Delta State for commercial operations.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Chiedu Ebie and made available to newsmen in Asaba.

According to the statement, the approval was conveyed to the Delta State Government following the inspection of the Asaba International Airport last week by officials of the NCAA to ascertain the level of preparedness for its re-opening pursuant to the Federal Government’s lifting of the ban on local air travel.

In the letter conveying the approval, NCAA stated that the Asaba International Airport had satisfactorily fulfilled the requirements of the COVID-19 restart guidelines and protocols and therefore had been granted the authorization to resume normal operations.

While thanking the management of the NCAA for its promptness and professionalism, the SSG assured air travelers using the air of the continued commitment of the state government to the provision of modern facilities for the effective and efficient operation of the airport.

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Eight IBBU lecturers resign, gives reasons

Eight lecturers of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai have resigned over alleged non-payment of earned allowances, poor handling of staff salaries, and inadequate infrastructure.

It was gathered that the majority of the lecturers, who are said to be Professors, tendered their resignation to Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

Speaking with newsmen in Minna, the unions of staff of IBB University Lapai, comprising of ASUU, SANU, NASU, and NAAT, said the institution was in a critical situation that needs urgent attention to forestall further brain drain.

The chairman of the Joint Action Committee, Adamu Isah who spoke on behalf of the unions said: “We want to inform all Nigerlites that IBB University is in a critical situation that needs urgent attention in order to forestall brain drain in the University. We want to categorically state here that not less than eight lecturers and mostly Professors have tendered their resignation letters to the Vice-chancellor amidst an inadequate number of academic staff.”

The unions disapproved of how staff salaries are being handled over the months by Niger Government, adding that payment of salaries comes between 12th and 20th of the following month while the government has kept quiet over minimum wage despite even after other institutions have received theirs.

The unions called on Governor Abubakar Sani Bello to attend to their plights, stressing the need for dialogue to proffer solutions to the lingering problems bedeviling the institution.

They called on students, parents, and other stakeholders to support efforts in salvaging the standard and integrity of the institution.

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Unbelievable: Gunmen kill lawmaker, abducts wife

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A member of the Bauchi House of Assembly representing Baraza Dass constituency, Honourable Musa Mante has been killed by unknown gunmen.

According to reports, the lawmaker was killed on Thursday night, August 13 at his residence in the state.

The gunmen, suspected to be armed robbers, were said to have invaded the lawmaker’s house late in the night.

His wife was also reportedly abducted by the gunmen. The lawmaker had tested positive of COVID-19 some weeks ago and was recuperating at home. Some of his supporters have been posting about the lawmaker’s demise on social media. Mallam Sulaiman wrote: “InnalilLahi was Inna IlaiHi raju’un, May the soul of Musa Mante Baraza rest in peace.

Hon. Mante is a member representing Dass Local Government in the State Assembly. He was killed by unknown assassins and they went away with some of his family members.” Abdulwahab Yamai Aliyu wrote: “Hon. Musa Mante, a member of Bauchi State House of Assembly Representing Dass was shot dead by unknown gunmen yesterday night. What a terrible tragedy. May Allah forgive him and grant him eternal rest. Our condolences to Governor Bala Mohammed.”

The murder of the Bauchi lawmaker will likely raise more concerns over the state of insecurity in northern Nigeria. Recall that about a month ago in Kaduna state, twenty people were killed by suspected herdsmen in Chibuak and Kigudu II communities in Kauru local government area of Kaduna state.

The two villages were said to have been attacked consecutively, on Thursday, July 9, and Friday, July 10 at midnight. The attackers also attacked Kigudu II again on Saturday, July 11 when the villagers were preparing for a mass burial for some of the victims.

The attackers were, however, repelled by security personnel and the burial was quickly done without the usual burial rites.

A Catholic priest, Reverend Aaron Tanko, who oversees the two communities, confirmed the incident.

He said in Chibuak village, nine people were killed while 11 were killed in Kigudu II.

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FG replaces plastic identity cards with digital format

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The Nigerian government has said that the recent plastic national identity card will be replaced with a digital means of identification.

The minister of interior, Rauf Aregbesola, disclosed this on Thursday, August 13, in an interaction with newsmen after the committee on citizen’s data management and harmonization held a meeting with the president.

Aregbesola, who is also the chairman of the committee, said that the card is no more the focus, adding that the important thing is the National Identity Number (NIN).

The minister said the digital process will be to be domiciled in the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

Furthermore, the minister of communications and digital economy, Ali Pantami who was present at the press briefing, stated that the world had gone digital and stopped focusing on the production of cards. “What the chairman is saying now is that we are no more talking about cards, the world has gone digital. So, that card is no more,” he said.

“Our priority now is digital ID, it will be attached to your database wherever you are.

Pantami explained that the government was now focused on the digital ID and not on the card. “Now, our focus is no longer on producing cards, that card is only for record but what is important is that the digital ID and if you notice we have started using the digital ID on the international passport.

“Once you have the digital ID but not the card, we are 100 percent done with you,” the minister said.

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I feel sad without fighting, making people’s BP rise – Gov. Wike reveals

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has said that he usually feels very bad and uncomfortable going a day without fighting with people.

The Governor also said that it is his duty to raise the Blood Pressure, (BP) of those who do not want to see him.

According to Wike, he enjoys it when his name is being mentioned in Abuja for whatever reasons.

Governor Wike said this when he addressed stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital on Thursday.

“I’m not one person anybody can threaten. Of course, all of you know that when you threaten me you even worsen the situation because I’ll not agree and I’m not afraid of fighting,” Wike said.

“Without a fight, it’s like something is wrong with me so I need it every day. Anytime I stay [a day] and no problem, nobody is calling my name, I feel something is wrong.

“So when they go to Abuja and they call my name I feel so happy. It shows that worrying them and it’s my duty to make sure that those who don’t want to see me are worrying every day and their BP will go very high. That’s the job I do now to make people’s BP go very very high.”

Governor Wike added, “Let me use this [opportunity] to warn everybody, let nobody distract you; let nobody deceive you. Nobody should attend any meeting anybody calls because they want to run for the governorship.

“We have never come to that point. I have just stayed for one year in the office. I’ve not even stayed up to two years. We’re walking for our party to be united to make sure that the APC does not have a little space in our state.

“Those of them who think they’re too fast because they promised them a ticket in the party, don’t worry sooner or later you’ll see them run back because where they’re going, there’s no road.”

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Dog amendment bill passes second reading in State Assembly

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Oyo State House of Assembly has on Thursday declared that dog owners whose dogs attack or bite any member of the public in the state risks a minimum of six months imprisonment or five hundred thousand naira (N500,000.00) or both.

This decision is the sequel to a bill sponsored by a member of the Assembly, Mrs. Olawumi Oladeji.

Oladeji who represents Ogbomoso North while presenting the bill for the second reading said that the bill recommends that if convicted, owners of dogs which attack or bite people shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine of one hundred thousand naira or six months imprisonment or both.

She spoke after the Dogs Amendment Bill, 2019 passed through second reading in the Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday.

Oladeji added that the bill is meant to amend the Dogs Law of 1943 which was revised in 2000. The bill, according to her, is to prevent incessant dog bite as stories of dog attacks abound in the society.

The lawmaker noted that when passed, the law will make it mandatory for every dog owner to keep them under control so as to prevent the animals from attacking people.

She added that the bill provides that dogs must also be vaccinated against all communicable diseases including Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis and Rabies.

The amendment, according to her, further recommends that the total medical expenses incurred by the one bitten or injured by a dog must be borne by the owner, and if he fails to do this he or she will be guilty and liable on conviction to a fine of two hundred thousand naira or six months imprisonment or both.

Besides the above, the amendment is making it an offence for dog owners not to vaccinate their animals, and the penalty for this if found culpable is a fine of two hundred thousand naira or six months imprisonment or both.

She said, “When passed, the law will make it mandatory for every dog owner to keep them under control so as to prevent the animals from attacking people while their dogs must also be vaccinated against all communicable diseases including Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, and Rabies hence a certificate of vaccination must be issued to ascertain such in line with international standard”.

Speaker of the House, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin who acknowledged the importance of the Dogs Amendment Bill stated that the house had been on the bill since last year.

He said that the house intends to ensure a thorough job is done on the amendment so as to have a law that will address contemporary issues of dog attacks and proceed with necessary punishment.

The House, thereafter, referred the bill to its Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development for further consideration and scrutiny.

Day-old baby abandoned in Anambra community

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An unidentified person on Thursday morning abandoned a baby said to be just one day old on the corridor of a building in the Isuofia community, Aguata LGA of Anambra State.

Anambra police spokesperson SP Haruna Mohammed, who disclosed this in a press release said the report was brought to the police by a woman, Ginika Okoromike who said that the baby was abandoned in front of her house.

He said, “On the 13/08/2020 at about 9:20 am, One Ginika Okoromike ‘f’ of Ozalla village isuofia reported at Aguata Police station in the company of a staff attached to Ozalla-Isuofia community health center, that on the same date at about 6 am, a day old baby girl was wrapped up in a cloth and abandoned at the corridor of her house by an unknown person.

“All efforts made to trace the mother of the baby proved abortive.

“Meanwhile, the baby is in good health condition and will be handed over to the Social Welfare for proper care while effort is ongoing to trace the parent in order to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident,” he said.

NBC fines radio house N5m for unprofessional broadcast

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The National Broadcasting Commission has fined a radio station, Nigeria Info, N5m, for a recent comment made by a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Obadiah Mailaifa.

This was contained in a statement signed by the NBC management on Thursday titled, ‘The National Broadcasting Commission Fines Nigeria Info 99.3 For Unprofessional Broadcast’.

Mailaifa was interviewed on Monday during one of the station’s programmes, Morning CrossFire. He had talked on the killings in Southern Kaduna, one of the parts of the North-West region worst hit by banditry.

“Some of us also have our intelligence networks. I have met with some of the bandits; we have met with some of their high commanders – one or two who have repented – they have sat down with us not once, not twice.

“They told us that one of the northern governors is the commander of Boko Haram in Nigeria. Boko Haram and the bandits are one and the same. They have a sophisticated network. During this lockdown, their planes were moving up and down as if there was no lockdown.

“They were moving ammunition, moving money, and distributing them across different parts of the country,” the former Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress said during the programme.

Reacting on Thursday, the NBC said, “The National Broadcasting Commission has noted with grave concern, the unprofessional conduct of Nigeria Info 99.3FM, Lagos, in the handling of the Programme, “Morning Cross Fire”, aired on August 10, 2020, between 8.30 am and 9.00 am.

“The station provided its platform for the guest, Dr. Mailafia Obadiah, to promote unverifiably and inciting views that could encourage or incite to crime and lead to public disorder.

“Dr. Mailafia Obadiah’s comments on the “Southern Kaduna Crisis”, were devoid of facts and by broadcasting the same to the public. Nigeria Info 99.3FM is in violation of the following sections of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code:

“3.1.1. No broadcast shall encourage or incite to crime, lead to public disorder or hate, be repugnant to public feelings or contain an offensive reference to any person or organization, alive or dead or generally be disrespectful to human dignity;

“3.1.2. Broadcasting shall promote human dignity, therefore, hate speech is prohibited;

“3.3.1 (a). The broadcaster shall ensure that any information given in a programme, in whatever form, is accurate;

3.3.3.1(b). The Broadcaster shall ensure that all sides to any issue of public interest are equitably presented for fairness and balance;

“3.11.1(a). The broadcaster shall ensure that language or scene likely to encourage or incite to crime, or lead to disorder, is not broadcast;

“3.11.1(b). No programme contains anything which amounts to subversion of constituted authority or compromises the unity of the corporate existence of Nigeria as a sovereign state;

“5.4.1(f). The Broadcaster shall not transmit divisive materials that may threaten or compromise the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria as a sovereign state.

“Consequent on these provisions and in line with the amendment of the 6th edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, Nigeria Info 99.3FM Lagos, has been fined the sum of N5,000,000.00 (Five Million Naira), only.

“This is expected to serve as a deterrent to all other broadcast stations in Nigeria who are quick to provide a platform for subversive rhetoric and the expositions of spurious and unverifiable claims, to desist from such.

“The Commission wishes to put it on record that it will not hesitate to suspend the Broadcast Licence of broadcast stations that continue to breach the Code.

“Stations are, by this statement, admonished to desist forthwith, from airing unwholesome content, or be ready to face appropriate sanctions.”

Governor Obiano suspends 12 monarchs for visiting Buhari

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The battle of superiority between Anambra Governor Willie Obiano and traditional rulers has intensified tension in the State.

Obiano suspended 12 more traditional rulers for visiting President Muhammadu Buhari last week.

He had suspended monarch of Ukwulu, Igwe Peter Uyanwa, over alleged petitions from his community.

He also withdrew the monarch’s certificate of recognition.

The one-year suspension clamped on the monarchs, according to a statement, was for embarking on a visit to President Muhammadu Buhari without consultation or approval from the Government.

The suspension was announced through a circular titled “Suspension of Twelve (12) Traditional Rulers in Anambra State,” dated August 11 by Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs, Mr. Greg Obi.

The affected monarchs are Igwe Alex Edozieuno of Mkpunando; Igwe Mark Anthony Okonkwo of Alor; Igwe Chukuwma Bob Vincent Orji of Ezinifite; Igwe Engr G.B.C Mbakwe of Abacha; Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo of Nawfia and Igwe Nkeli Nelly of Igbariam.

Others were: Igwe Anthony Onyekwere of Owelle; Igwe A. N Onwuneme of Ikenga; Igwe Simon Ikechukwu Chidubem of Umumbo; Igwe S. O Uche of Ezra; Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu and Igwe Peter Ikegbunem Udoji of Eziagulu Otu.

The suspension letter was copied to Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe as chairman of the Council in Anambra; Commissioner of Police and the State Director, Directorate of security services DSS.

Obiano warned they should stop parading themselves as traditional rulers and desist from discharging their functions in their communities.

The circular also revoked their membership of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council and canceled any appointment they may be held in government committees until the suspension is lifted.

The government further said the suspension may be lifted at the end of one year, renewed or upgraded in the intervening period depending on the government’s review of the conduct of the errant royal fathers.

However, three of the 12 suspended traditional rulers described the government’s action as unfortunate.

The monarchs, who pleaded anonymity for security reasons, maintained Obiano was ill-advised on the matter.

He told newsmen that Obiano had no powers in any extant law to suspend them for just trying to see President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to them: “It’s unfortunate and laughable that our dear Governor had to carry out this autocratic action in a democratic dispensation.

“Why should a Governor of a state punish his subjects, especially, traditional rulers, for trying to see their President? This is laughable.

“The government said we didn’t get clearance from it before travelling outside the state.

“Don’t we have our fundamental rights of movement and association anymore? Are we in a state of emergency or war?

“We pray Obiano will not attract some kind of wrath upon himself because of his desperation to perpetuate the infamous government of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the state.

“Though we are traditional rulers in our communities, we also have right to support any political party or candidate of our choices.”

The suspension of the monarchs, it was gathered, may not be unconnected with their support for an oil magnate in the state.

Reasons why BBNaija should be scrapped- Ooni of Ife

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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called for the scrapping of Big Brother Naija, television reality show.

The monarch made the call on Wednesday while interacting with youths in his palace as part of the celebration of International Youth Day.

He explained that the show be scrapped because it misrepresents Nigerian youths.

The Ooni said a new reality television that would be beneficial to youths should be put together to replace BBNaija.

According to Ooni of Ife: “Nigerian youths are fond of accusing and abusing our leaders. Stop abusing them. Contribute your own quota.

“Let’s wear our thinking caps and begin to act like the real future leaders that we are.

“In the last general election, the total number of votes cast was around 27 million while over 170 million people voted during the 2019 Big Brother Naija reality show. It misrepresents the goodness and integrity of the Nigerian youths”.

Covid-19: Delta Government issues stern warning as curfew is adjusted

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The Delta State Government has said the curfew imposed in the State due to the COVID-19 pandemic from the earlier period of 7:00pm to 6:00am has been adjusted to a new period of 10:00pm to 5:30am.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Chiedu Ebie and was made available to newsmen.

According to the statement issued in asaba, government approved the resumption of normal trading activities in all markets across the 25 Local Government Areas of the State stating that Cinemas, Bars in Hotels, and Beer Parlours remain closed while restaurants and eateries are to continue to serve their customers on take away basis.

The statement added that government would not hesitate to shut them down if they are observed to be in breach of the COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Meanwhile, the State Government urged Deltans and residents to continue to stick strictly to all COVID-19 Protocols and Guidelines which include wearing of facemask, maintaining physical and social distancing as well as regular washing of hands in order to curtail the spread of the Virus in the state.

Squeeze older leaders out of office – Obasanjo tells youths

Nigeria’s former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, told African youths the way to take over leadership positions from older generations.

He revealed this on Wednesday, August 12, during a virtual interactive session with youths to mark the 2020 International Youth Day.

Obasanjo said the older generation would continue to occupy the leadership positions until they were evicted from the stage.

The former president maintained that leadership positions would not come to the youths until they “squeeze older generation out of office”.

He also advised the youths to demand that affirmative action is encapsulated in the constitution of political parties, as part of strategies to ease out the old generation of leaders.

It was gathered that the programme was organised by the Youth Development Centre, an arm of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Participants of the programme cut across Nigeria, Mali, the United States, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa. “Unless you squeeze out those who are in office and those who want to remain in office perpetually, some after the age of 80, they will not want to be out. “The type of change I am talking about, that I believe we can all embark upon, is to subscribe into the constitution of political parties in favour of youth. Or if you like it, you call it affirmative action in favour of youths,” he said. The former president reiterated that no one will wrestle power for the youths if they don’t do it themselves.

Officer’s wife Jailed for child abuse in Delta

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A police officer’s wife, identified as Mrs. Precious Joseph, has been jailed for two years without an option of fine for violently abusing her nine years old house-help, Miss Agatha Emmanuel.

It was gathered that the incident occurred at the Okwe area of Asaba, Delta State.

According to a judgment delivered by His Lordship, P.O. Obayuwana, the Chief Magistrate of Court 11 in the Okwe Magisterial District, on Monday 3rd August 2020, jailed the 31 years old Mrs. Precious Joseph for two years for using a hot kitchen knife to injure her victim’s mouth.

The reactions of the suspect’s offense were contained in the two-count charge in No: OMC/118C/2020:

“That you Precious Joseph ‘f’ on 31st day of July 2020 at Iyasele Street, Okwe, in Okwe Magisterial District did unlawfully assaulted one Agatha Emmanuel ‘f’ by causing her harm with a hot knife on her mouth and thereby committed an offense punishable under Section 355 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap C21 vol.1 Laws of Delta State of Nigeria 2006.”

Also in Count 11: “That you Precious Joseph ‘f’ on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did threaten violence with a kitchen knife on Agatha Emmanuel ‘f’ and thereby committed an offense punishable under Section 86 (2) of the Criminal Code Law Cap C21 vol.1 Laws of Delta State of Nigeria 2006.”

The Chief Magistrate, therefore, ruled that Mrs. Precious Joseph be convicted to two years in prison without an option of fine for abusing her victim, Agatha Emmanuel, and inflicting bodily injuries on her.

It was gathered that the child abuse case was reported at the B Division Police Station, Okwe, by Mr. Simeon Morba who saw the deep injury on the victim’s mouth.

The victim was reported to be fetching water that same morning and investigations made, revealed that her aunt inflicted the injuries on her that same morning.

Mr. Morba, who hurriedly asked Mrs. Joseph the reason for her action, but instead was resisted with a fight which prompted him to hurry to the police station to report the matter.

From the accused’s statement obtained from the police charge file, Mrs. Joseph stated that she burnt Agatha’s mouth because she took meat from the pot of soup against her warning that she should not take meat when eating.

The suspect confessed that the girl is her brother’s daughter, whom she traveled to her village in Cross River State to request that she came to live with her to take care of her three young children to enable her focus on her business.

However, the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee which immediately took custody of the victim, followed up in court were the nine years old Agatha got justice.

In her comment, the representative of the Child Rights Implementation Committee in court, Mrs. Awele Ideal Esq, said once again justice had been served to act as a deterrent to persons who deal violently on children under their custody.

Meanwhile, the father of the girl had arrived Delta State and after all the formalities, the Ministry of Women Affairs then handed over his daughter to him on Tuesday 4th August 2020.

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Unbelievable: Man arrested for stealing car batteries in Warri

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A young man identified as Donald Ekun, from Akwa Ibom State was caught with a stolen vehicle battery in the rubber plantation area of Cemetery Road, in Warri, Delta State.

According to reports, the suspect was caught in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2020.

The suspect Donald Ekun, who hails from Akwa Ibom State but resides in the Kona Chemist area near Hausa Quarters by Warri/Sapele Road confessed to journalists that they were two members gang who specialized in the act of stealing batteries of parked vehicles.

While being interrogated, the suspect said his partner named Godbless out-ran the security men and that the said Godbless was the one that had the master key which they used in unlocking parked vehicles.

He further admitted that they also specialized in stealing concrete slabs used in covering gutters adding that they were the brains behind the missing concrete slabs in front of MRS Filling Station along Warri/ Sapele Road by Cemetery Road Junction.

The suspect also took men of the vigilante group to where a dark blue Jetta car was parked at Igbudu Market, as he confessed that they removed the battery from the car.

Investigation revealed that the vandalized car was stolen from his owner who lives in the Okumagba Estate area, far away from the town.

Vital documents, identity cards of the owner of the car were recovered from the car.

Meanwhile, contact the owner of the car, one Mr. Sunday Nnoworie, confirmed that his car was stolen from where it was parked on Friday, July 24, 2020.

The Chairman of Igbudu Unit 11, Chief Julius Edafiadjebre who also was invited to the scene of crime attested that there had been cases of stolen vehicle batteries in the area adding that he was a two-time victim.

Confessing to the crime, the suspect said that the stolen vehicle batteries were sold for N2,500 each pointing out that a set of five concrete slabs were sold for N20,000.

The suspect also led men of the Red Bar vigilante security group to the store of one of the alleged buyers of stolen vehicle batteries. The alleged buyer was arrested with him and is currently in Police ‘ A’ Divisional Headquarters, Warri.

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How 1,056 cases were disposed in first quarter – Delta Judiciary

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The Delta State Judiciary has revealed that a total number of 1,056 cases have been disposed of in the first quarter of the year.

Presenting the 2020 first-quarter report made available by the office of the State Chief Judge, Honourable Justice Marshal Umukoro reveals that out of 1056 disposed of cases, civil matters consisted of 563, criminal cases 297 while Fundamental Human Right was196.

While out of the 5697 civil matters pending in the High Court at the various Judicial Divisions across the State in the quarter under review, over 4500 were land matters, 1451 criminal cases, and 947 fundamental human rights actions.

The State Chief Judge attributed the swift disposition of cases by high courts to the full implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 201the 7, the dedication of Judges, timely relevant practice directions, reduction of frivolous adjournments and petitions, cooperation of the members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the ongoing radical reformation in the gamut of the justice system.

Justice Umukoro asserted that with the renovation of courts, befitting court ambiance, provision of Laptops, and installation of Law Pavilion (legal research tool) on the Laptops of Judicial Officers, Revenue Court Judges and Magistrates, the Judiciary was better repositioned to speedily administer justice for the interest of all.

The chief judge commended the state executive and legislative arms for their cooperation and support to ensuring that the State Judiciary was given en enabling environment to discharge its Constitutional responsibility.

Justice Umukoro guaranteed stakeholders the administration of justice that the third arm of government was poised than ever before to protect the right of the common man.

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Oil & Gas: Okeme lauds PENGASSAN for amicable disposition

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN) have been lauded for their peaceful disposition and organization.

Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on SERVICOM and Labour Relations, Comrade Mike Okeme gave this compensation during the 6th Triennial Delegate Conference which took place recently in Warri.

Comrade Okeme, who was a special guest at the occasion said that he was pleased with their comportment and display of maturity as an association, noting that they had been a great role in the Oil and Gas sector not only in the state but the nation at large.

Speaking further Okeme however told them to rise to the occasion by ensuring that they offer sound policy alternatives to both their management and government, adding that it would not only improve the revenue base of the state but also create more jobs for the teeming youths in the society.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner Ministry of Oil and Gas, Prince Emman Amgbaduba who encouraged them to aspire for national offices and positions stressing that without peace, there would be no oil available for use by the end-users, just as he recalled that oil was a general product used by every household in the country today.

In his welcome address the zonal Chairman, Comrade Tobechukwu Amalu, expressed appreciation to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his unwavering support.

He however added that the oil and gas industry had suffered series of challenges such as insecurity in the nation, job offshoring/ outsourcing, price volatility, emerging technologies, and the most devastating of them all which is the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

He noted that the triennial conference was a period for delegates to come together to review the stewardship of the zonal executives in the past three years and to elect new leaders that would pilot the affairs of the zone for the next three years.

In his remarks, the National President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Ndukaku Ohaeri said that the oil and gas business in Nigeria had been tormented with lots of regulatory and policy inconsistencies, economic, social, and political challenges of which had impacted negatively on its operations.

He said with the sharp drop in global oil prices, coupled with the national economic recession, huge divestments by oil companies with its attendant effect on job cuts could have a negative impact on the industry.

He nevertheless commended the management under the Warri zone for its understanding, co-operation and collaboration for the amicable resolutions of industrial relations issues and industrial harmony within the oil and gas sector.

The occasion featured a lecture with the topic” Development and Effective Leadership and Management Skills for Unions and Organization Sustainability, Negotiation, Arbitration, and Conflict Resolution.”

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Edo 2020: Deputy Gov. mocks Oshiomhole for kneeling to beg for votes

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The running mate to Governor Godwin Obaseki in Edo state and incumbent Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has mocked the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole after he knelt to beg some traditional rulers for forgiveness.

Oshiomhole on Sunday night in Benin City begged for forgiveness for selling Obaseki to the people of the state in 2016 and promised to right his wrongs during the forthcoming Edo governorship election.

According to Shaibu, no amount of stunts like that will prevent APC’s candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, from defeat.

He stated this during a campaign that started from Akpakpava Road in Benin City, through Ekpoma to Jattu, in the Etsako West Local Government Area of the state.

“No amount of kneeling stunt will save the former national chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, and his candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, from defeat,” Shaibu said.

The Deputy Governor also claimed that he scheduled several peace meetings with Oshiomhole without success before the former APC National Chairman masterminded their disqualification from contesting in the primaries.

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Covid19: Delta monarch suspends chief priest for disobedience

The Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso (JP) OON, Abe 1, has suspended the Chief Priest of Owhoru Deity in Ekpan, Robinson Adereyo for six months.

According to reports, the Chief priest was suspended for allegedly flouting the directive of the Ovie of Uvwie – in- Council to suspend all cultural festivals in Uvwie Local Government Area pending when the spread of the COVID – 19 pandemics is reduced.

The suspension came yesterday, following a meeting in the palace of the traditional ruler in Efurun.

At the meeting were Executive Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Hon Ramson Onoyake, the Unuevworo (traditional mouthpiece) of Etche R’ Ekpan (traditional administrative unit), Chief Peter Ifie and some Uvwie chiefs in Ekpan.

Others who were also present at the meeting were the Unuevworo of Alegbo, DPO, Ekpan Police Station, and other heads of government security agencies in Uvwie Local Government Area.

The traditional ruler who directed that the next priest in seniority should act during the period of the suspension, also directed that Hon Onoyake should carryout the COVID-19 test for the suspended chief priest and his disciples who celebrated the Owhoru cultural festival last weekend.

Abe 1 further said that the Unuevworo of Ekpan would be issued a warning letter for failing to stop the celebration of the cultural festival.

Emphasizing that the decision of the Ovie-In-Council stands, the traditional ruler recalled that Christians did not celebrate Easter because of the outbreak of COVID-19 adding that Muslims made a similar sacrifice during their festival celebration.

Speaking further, he urged residents of the local government area to abide by all Nigeria Centre For Disease Control (NCDC)’s directives aimed at stopping the spread of the disease.

Meanwhile, Chief Peter Ifie had earlier revealed that he informed the suspended chief priest of the decision of the Ovie of Uvwie in Council but the chief priest ignored the decision.

On his part, the Uvwie Council boss, Hon Onoyake praised the traditional ruler for the decision and revealing that the COVID-19 was real and not a joke.

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Why I said Yakubu Dogara is a liar – Bauchi Governor, Bala Mohammed

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Bauchi state Governor, Bala Mohammed has said the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara is a liar.

The governor made the remark in response to allegations Dogara leveled against him.

Dogara, who had recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, had accused governor Mohammed of diverting a N4.6billion loan, inflating contracts sums, and mismanagement of local government funds.

However, the governor described the allegations by Dogara as fabricated lies.

Addressing members of Dass/Tafawa Balewa/Bogoro Constituency on a solidarity visit to him in Bauchi
Tuesday, the governor said: “It is a very regrettable development, it is unfortunate because he is a young man that we so much love and appreciate, including me. Even now I don’t harbor any malice against him.

“But he came to show his true colours as a pretender, as a fabricator of lies against my person, who has helped him to reconnect and recapture his mandate as a member of the House of Reps after being expelled by my adversary, the former Governor.”

The Governor also assured leaders of the PDP in Nigeria that Bauchi remains “intact” for the party.

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We will never get tired of fighting crimes- Ika Vigilante Chairman

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The Chairman of Delta State Community Policing (Vigilante) Ika North East Chapter, Mr. Amos Agbobu has said they will not back down in its force to combat crime in the area.

He disclosed this during the vigilante’s meeting at Igbodo, Ika North East local government area.

Agbobu said: “Most of us have been cut out for this job. Therefore, we will never get tired in fighting crimes in our communities.”

He therefore,alled on members of the public to give them information when necessary in order to fight crime in the area.

He said: “If you are fond of involving yourself in criminal activities, you better desist from it.”

The vigilante boss also called on youths to stay away from hard drugs and other banned substances, stressing that it could lead them into crime.

He charged his colleagues to continue to do their best in the line of duty.

“Your efforts are already becoming visible. As you can notice, the spite of Kidnapping and stealing around Power line and Railway have dropped. This is a result of your selfless engagement and we commend you all” he added.

He commended the Divisional Police Officers in Ika nation as well as other individuals for their significant contributions to the group noting that security is a general responsibility.

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Southern Kaduna: CAN begs Buhari, El-rufai to end killings

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Major General Chukwuemeka Okonkwo, Commander of Operation Safe Haven, has blamed the killings in Southern Kaduna on “criminal elements on both sides”, ruling out ethnic cleansing as claimed.

Governor Nasir El-Rufai aid his administration has done everything within its powers to bring peace to the area.

Both General Okonkwo and Governor El-Rufai spoke at a security meeting in the council chambers of Government House Kaduna yesterday.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, General Okonkwo said, “What we have are attacks on some communities and reprisal attacks.”

Both sides of the conflict have been attacking each other, he said, adding, “The reports are not balanced. Perhaps, most of the media houses don’t know that both sides are actually involved.’’

‘’You have Kataf youths, Fulani militias, and the criminal elements of both sides.”

The commander promised that the military and other security agents will re-strategize and be more robust in the days to come.”

Governor El-Rufai said, “We answered the decades-old demand for a permanent military base by working with the Federal Government to deploy a forward operating base of the Nigerian Army in Kafanchan. Our government purchased an estate to provide accommodation for a permanent mobile police squadron in the area. Also deployed in the area are troops from Operation Safe Haven and Nigerian Army Special Forces, complemented by two mobile police squadrons.”

The governor said that in spite of these measures, “the best guarantee of peace is the willingness of communities to live in peace and harmony, and resolve to settle differences through…lawful means.”

But President of the Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Samson Ayokunle described the killings in the area as unacceptable, urging the federal and state governments to stop the violence.

The clergyman called for genuine intervention in the crisis, adding that: “Despite assurances from both the Federal and Kaduna State governments,…the demons of murder are yet to sheathe their swords against Southern Kaduna communities and that the government appears not to be sincere in walking the talk”.

A statement by his Special Assistant (Media and Communications), Pastor Adebayo Oladeji, the CAN boss said: “There is an urgent need by government and the security forces to walk their talk and combat the raging insecurity squarely across Kaduna state and other parts of the country. We appreciate government’s efforts but ur present best is unacceptable. It is not the best Nigerians expect.”

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Group lauds Okowa for appointing Momah as permanent Secretary

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The Dynamite Club of the Ute-Okpu Kingdom in Ika North East Local Government Area has lauded Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the appointment of Mr. Daniel Momah as the Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General of the State.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by the club’s Chairman, Mr. Augustine Ekpu, and the Secretary, Mr. Benjamin Okoh.

The statement described Mr. Momah, as a round peg in a round hole, affirming that his experience would positively impact on smooth justice administration in the State.

The Community group maintained that the appointment had gone a long way to prove the governor’s expertise in handling the affairs of the state.

While explaining that the appointment was well deserved, they noted that the new permanent secretary, who had served in various capacities, would continue to provide valuable contributions to the state justice sector.

“Deltans deserve the best in line with the service delivery policies of the State Government which is geared towards efficiency and enhancing management of both human and material resources of the State,” they added.

While affirming their continued support for the government of governor Okowa, the group urged Mr. Momah to continue to give his finest input to the service of Delta State in order to bring more development to the State.

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Southern Kaduna: SOKAF condemns killings, calls Buhari for action

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The Southern Kaduna Elders Forum (SOKAF) led by Gen. Zamani Lekwot (rtd), a former military governor of old Rivers State, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to take urgent steps to stop the killings and wanton destruction in the area.

In a statement on Tuesday in Kaduna, the forum said it cannot continue sitting and folding its arms in the face of continued violence that portends a bleak future for generations yet unborn.

The statement signed by Elder Peter Buba, the secretary of the forum, also urged the president to call the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, to order.

Buba said: “Southern Kaduna has been in the eye of the storm over the incessant attacks and massive destruction of lives and property in the past few weeks. As elders of the area and indeed Kaduna State, we are greatly disturbed by the unfolding tragedy ripping across our land.

“We cannot
therefore, afford to continue sitting and folding our arms in the face of the continued violence that portends a bleak future for future generations.”

The elders commended the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), an umbrella body for ethnic nationalities in the area, saying: “We have come to acknowledge SOKAPU as the voice and hope for Southern Kaduna. And we call on our people to support SOKAPU for the good work it has been doing.

“As everyone knows, in their oaths of office, Mr. President and all the 36 state governors undertook to create a conducive environment for the peaceful co-existence of all citizens irrespective of creed, religious or ethnic, to ensure seamless development and healthy growth of our country, given the fact that we have lived together in an integrated and symbiotic manner until the brutal invasion of our communities by those who govern have come to confirm as foreign Fulani.

“What is happening in Southern Kaduna today and by extension some states of the federation are at variance with the above laudable objective.”

The elders appealed to Buhari “to urgently intervene in a more effective way, given the magnitude and rapid spread of the killings, especially in the past five weeks, notwithstanding the 24 hours curfew imposed by the state governor”.

“More troops and equipment should be deployed to Southern Kaduna to battle the situation urgently just as was done in Birnin Gwari and Katsina State,” the statement added.

The elders also urged President Buhari to call Governor el-Rufai “to order to live up to the tenets of his office being the Chief Security Officer of the state on this serious destruction of lives and property of citizens”.

“What is more, he (el-Rufai) once publicly confirmed the knowledge of where the bandits come from and even paid them money to stop the killings which still persists on a massive scale.

“All in all, the heartless destruction of lives and property in Chikun, Kajuru Zangon Kataf, Kauru, Kaura, Sanga, and Jema’a LGAs, despite the curfew, is a serious embarrassment which should worry the power that is.

“The time for the government to justify the confidence reposed in it by the people is, therefore, overdue,” the statement said.

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NSCDC discovers stolen diesel hidden in bags of salt, arrest suspects

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Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rivers State, have hindered a plot by a suspected gang of oil thieves to evacuate adulterated diesel in cellophane covered with bags of salt.

The State Commandant, Muktar Lawal, who spoke in Port Harcourt, said the anti-vandal team of the corps uncovered the plot at about 4:30 pm on July 26th.

He said the team flagged down a truck with registration number AJG 258 XA conveying the products along Akpajo by Eleme Petrochemical Roundabout and arrested four suspects after a thorough search.

He said further investigations were ongoing adding that the command arrested two suspects at Aggrey Road Port Harcourt conveying 500 litres of suspected adulterated kerosene.

Lawal said four other suspects were apprehended around Nembe waterside, Port Harcourt for driving a truck loaded with unidentified liters of adulterated crude oil.

He further said that his team recovered 24 drums of adulterated diesel abandoned by suspected vandals adding that efforts were being made to arrest the fleeing suspects.

He called on residents to be law-abiding and report any strange movement around them to the nearest security post.

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Edo 2020: Oba of Benin commends Wike’s leadership style

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The leadership of Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state has been commended by Omo N’Oba Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin in Edo state.

The well-known monarch commended Wike after the governor and some bigwigs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) paid him a courtesy visit in his palace to seek blessing for the reelection of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Obaseki, who recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) after falling out with Adams Oshiomhole, former national chairman of the party, is seeking reelection on the platform of the opposition party.

In a statement by Paulinus Nsirim, Rivers commissioner for information and communication, Oba Ewuare said he has been following the leadership style of the Rivers governor.

Wike is the chairman of the State PDP national campaign council for the Edo state gubernatorial election scheduled to hold on September 19, 2020.

The Edo monarch also commended Wike for his dauntless courage in rescuing Joi Nunieh, former managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

On his part, Governor Wike thanked the monarch for his hospitality and promised his continued respect for the traditional institute.

He promised to return to the palace on a thank you visit after the victory of the party in the forthcoming election.

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See how man was electrocuted in Delta

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A middle-aged man has been electrocuted in the Boji Boji area of Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the yet-to-be-identified man was electrocuted by high tension wire on Sunday while riding a motorcycle on the old Lagos-Asaba Road.

A community source, who spoke to newsmen on condition of anonymity, said the young man, believed to be a businessman, met his untimely death while riding his motorcycle on the road, close to the Mary Mount College.

He said that the high tension wire suddenly snapped and struck the victim in the back and he fell on the paved road.

The source stated, “Immediately the incident occurred, people ran to the scene and it took the efforts of some individuals, who put calls across to the BEDC office before power was cut off to prevent more casualties.

“Sympathisers rushed the man to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, he could not make it because he was seriously injured by the high tension wire.”

He described the incident as unfortunate and called on the Benin Electricity Distribution Company to engage the services of professionals and also use quality materials to avoid such incidents.

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FG spends N15.8bn on hazard allowances – Sen. Ngige

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The Federal Government says it has so far spent N15.8 billion on hazard allowances in its teaching hospitals and medical centers across the country.

Sen. Chris Ngige, Minister of Labour and Employment, disclosed this while addressing newsmen at a meeting with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) leadership on Monday in Abuja.

The meeting was held to assess the level of implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered by both parties and to avert strike threat by health workers.

Ngige said a resolution has been reached and all disputes resolved, assuring that the federal government was committed to health workers’ safety and welfare.

“The federal government has so far spent N15.8 billion naira for hazard allowances in its teaching hospitals, medical centres, and some other non- COVID-19 facilities where doctors have also been treating virus cases.

“Government has cleared the April and May special allowances which is no doubt a big feat, knowing that this is for special allowances only, and at a time its earning has fallen short of the expected earning.

“The affected medical personnel will also draw their normal salaries and other allowances,” he said.

The minister further said that the June allowances were still outstanding because the budget has been affected by developments not originally captured, such as pay for house officers, interns, NYSC doctors, and volunteers.

He, however, added that the government was already liaising with the Presidential Taskforce to sort out especially for volunteers.

Ngige also said that the 20 percent top-up for all health personnel inside the COVID-19 wards and isolation centers of the hospitals should be effected as quickly as possible.

He noted that hence, a directive was given to the Ministry of Health and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation to reconcile all matters relating to the issue by August 4, to enable urgent payment.

He also said the issue of the Residency Training Fund was captured in the 2020 budget.

“We noticed that the subhead captured in the service-wide vote will need some amendment by the Budget Office in liaison with the National Assembly to handle the problem so that implementation can start as soon as possible,” Ngige said.

He also said the government has paid all the premiums for Group Life Insurance spanning between April 17, 2020, and April 16, 2021, for all federal civil servants except those in the revenue-generating agencies such as customs, FIRS, and NNPC who could afford their own insurance.

The minister added that agreement has been reached to forward the nominal roll of the Health Ministry workers and its parastatals to the six handling insurance companies the latest next week.

He added that problems arising from the consequential adjustment of the minimum wage in the Health Ministry, especially those on GIFMIS, non-regular staff such as interns and NYSC members, would be resolved as soon as NARD submitted the list of affected workers.

He further said that the government would continue to appreciate the untiring efforts of all health workers.

“President Muhammadu Buhari at every time, remembers and thanks to you for the immense sacrifice you make for the nation and firmly believes that nothing is too much to do for you to show appreciation.

“Government will do more to protect the health of our people,” Ngige said.

He advised trade unions to always follow due process in seeking redress for disputes, arguing that first in line was negotiation with the parent ministry who was their primary employer.

Dr. Aliyu Sokomba, NARD President, commended the government for its commitment and expressed optimism that progress would be made by the time the meeting reconvenes.

The meeting will reconvene on Aug. 6, to take stock of the implementation of the agreement reached.

It also set up a committee to resolve the lingering problem between the management of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and NARD.

The meeting was attended by the Minister of State for Labour, Festus Keyamo, Minister of State for Health, Sen. Olorunnimbe Mamora, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment.

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Youth Empowerment: FG extends N-Power registration, give reasons

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The Federal Government has extended the N-Power batch C online application by two weeks.

The online application process, which began on June 26, 2020, was scheduled to close on Sunday, July 26, 2020.

The Federal Government explained the extension will afford interested youths the opportunity to also register.

It also said the number of applications received so far indicates enthusiasm on the part of the applicants to be part of the programme.

According to the Federal Government, at the end of the application exercise, 400,000 of the applicants will be absorbed.

The extension was announced in a series of tweet by Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Farouq via her twitter handle, @Sadiya_farouq on Sunday night.

It reads: “One month after the portal opened for Batch C applications, we are happy to announce that we have received over 5m applications underlining enthusiasm for the programme.

“In a bid to extend the opportunity to all Nigerians and ensure it is truly inclusive, the portal will close at midnight on August 8th, 2020.”

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Disaster: See how gas explosion killed 1, injures 3

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The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, has said that a man lost his life while three adults were injured in a gas explosion which took place at Palmgroove Estate, Lagos.

The LASEMA Director-General, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, who confirmed the accident on Monday, said that the three injured people had been hospitalized.

Oke-Osanyintolu said that LASEMA received an emergency call at about 6:p.m. on Monday that a gas explosion had occurred at 13C Palmgroove Estate, Cappa Avenue in Lagos.

According to him, upon arrival at the scene of the incident, a gas cylinder used in filling an outdoor air conditioner split unit of a storey building exploded as a result of gas leakage from the cylinder.

“This accident resulted in the death of a 30-year-old male, Usman Bello, while the other three men sustained different degrees of injuries.

”The LASEMA Response Team, the Nigeria Police and the Lagos State Fire Service are responders at the scene of the incident.

“All the occupants in the building which belong to Mr. Dayo Shofolawe, have been evacuated.

”The scene of the incident has been cordoned off to prevent any secondary incident,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.

However, he also urged the residents not to enter into the premises, adding that there were visible cracks on the walls and pillars while recovery operation was still ongoing.

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Covid19: Delta Monarch commends Zenith Bank Boss, Ovia for donation

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The traditional ruler of Umunede Kingdom, HRM Obi Ezeagwu Ezenwali 1 has commended the former Managing Director of Public Zenith Bank for the donation of facemask to the people of Umunede.

Obi Ezenwali noted that the distribution of item was done through Jim Ovia Foundation (JOF), describing him as a true illustrious son of Ika.

The monarch pointed out that Jim Ovia had continued to demonstrate his commitment in town asing out the dreaded disease from Nigeria and the world at large.

Expressing his gratitude to Jim Ovia, Obi Ezenwali urged the donor not to relent in his philanthropist gestures.

He also prayed that the COVID-19 pandemic would soon be a thing of the past, calling on individuals and organizationstions to join hands with government at different levels in fighting the strange virus.

The monarch also said Ovia has joined the league of heroic personalities in Nigeria, who had been on the front line in the fight against COVID-19 appealing to other well-meaning Ika sons and daughters to emulate Ovia.

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Buhari approves naming of railway stations after Tinubu, Osinbajo, Soyinka, others

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the naming of some railway stations in the country.

The Ministry of Transportation announced in a statement on Monday, July 27, 2020, that the stations are along the Lagos-Ibadan and Itakpe/Ajaokuta/Aladja/Warri corridors.

For the Lagos-Ibadan corridor, with extension to the Lagos Port Complex at Apapa railway station, Buhari approved naming stations after his vice president, Yemi Osinbajo (Kajola station); and former Lagos State governor and national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu (Apapa station).

The Ebute Metta station was named after the former military administrator of Lagos State, Mobolaji Johnson, while the Agbado station was named after a former Lagos governor, Lateef Jakande.

The Agege station was named after another former Lagos governor and current Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola.

The Abeokuta station was named after Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, while the Papalanto station was named after political activist, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and the Olodo station was named after former Ogun State governor, Segun Osoba.

Others who had stations named after them are two former Premiers of Western Nigeria, Ladoke Akintola (Omio-Adio station) and Obafemi Awolowo (Ibadan station), and Nigeria’s first elected Vice President, Alex Ekwueme (Operation Control Centre).

For the Itakpe-Ajaokuta/Aladja-Warri corridor, former president, Goodluck Jonathan, had the Agbor station complex named after him, while the Itakpe station was named after Kwara’s first civilian governor, Adamu Attah.

The Ajaokuta station was named after the influential former senator, Olusola Saraki, the Itogbo station was named after the former military vice president, Augustus Aikhomu, and the Agenebode station was named after a former military governor of Bendel and Kwara States, George Innis.

The Uromi station was named after influential anti-colonial and prop democracy activist, Anthony Enahoro, while the Ekehen station was named after a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tom Ikimi, and the Igbanke station was named after a former military governor of Bendel State, Samuel Ogbemudia.

Others who had stations along the Itakpe-Ajaokuta/Aladja-Warri corridor named after them include a former military governor and Chief of Army Staff, David Ejoor (Abraka station); prominent businessmen, Micheal Ibru (Opara station), and Alfred Rewane (Ujevwu station); and a former military vice president, Mike Akhigbe (Railway Village, Agbor).

The Ministry of Transportation noted that the deserving citizens have contributed to the progress and development of their respective communities, as well as Nigeria.

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Akpabio: James Manager denies benefitting from NDDC contracts

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The Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, James Manager, has denied benefitting from contracts of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) during and after his chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs.

Senator Godswill Akpabio had in a letter addressed to Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, which was circulated to newsmen by a youth group in Abuja on Sunday, named Manager as one of the lawmakers, who got six NDDC contracts.

Gbajabiamila had given Akpabio 48-hour ultimatum to name lawmakers that allegedly got NDDC contracts.

The Executive Director Projects of the agency, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, had accused the Senator of getting contracts from the Commission.

However, Manager, in a statement on Monday, threatened legal action against the Commission’s Executive Director Projects for defamation.

He said: “I sincerely wish to react as follows: That my tenure as chairman of Niger Delta Committee in the Senate effectively ended in 2015.

“That ever since then I have never visited NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt or any of its branches.

“That NDDC never awarded any contract to any company owned by me. That I do not know of any company owned by me, that has ever gone into bidding for government jobs anywhere in the world. (This may come to many as a surprise but that is the gospel truth).”

He challenged Ojougboh to back his allegations with proof of evidence, saying: “Those who are alleging to defame me must be aware of the consequences.

“That is the interest of the gullible innocent public, the authors led by the said Dr. Cairo Ojougboh or any other person should provide among other things the following please;

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Edo 2020: See why I am against Obaseki – Oshiomhole reveals

Adams Oshiomhole, former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has said he is angry with his successor, Godwin Obaseki, for failing to keep to his campaign promises.

He made the statement on Saturday, July 25, when speaking with traditional rulers of the Benin Kingdom at the Edo south senatorial district of the state.

The politician apologised to the monarchs for making Obaseki his successor in 2016 stressing that he is displeased with the incumbent governor for failing to continue all the ongoing projects in Edo state.

Oshiomhole accused Obaseki of spending the state’s resources by signing memorandums of understanding (MOUs). The APC chieftain said he plans to correct his mistake by bringing Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who he said would bring the dividend of democracy to the people of Edo state.

Meanwhile, Adams Oshiomhole has said that it was the PDP that provided the evidence that was used by the APC screening committee to disqualify Governor Godwin Obaseki from participating in the party’s Edo primary.

The former national chairman of the APC told a crowd of supporters in Benin City on Thursday, July 23, that the PDP provided the evidence back in 2016 in a suit instituted against Obaseki.

He said the PDP suit was struck out because the party filed out of time. In another news report, as the Edo state governorship election approaches.

In another development, the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has said plans are underway to organise special prayer for a peaceful poll.

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EFCC Probe: I am ready to fight back publicly – Ibrahim Magu

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The suspended acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu has declared that he is ready to fight back at orchestrated attacks against his person.

This was contained in a statement by Magu’s lawyer, Wahab Shittu, and made available to newsmen on Sunday.

According to the lengthy letter, Magu said he will henceforth reply to all the allegations against him in public.

The ex-EFCC boss denied looting funds recovered from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC.

He noted that these allegations against him in the public domain were never brought before the Presidential Panel probing the activities of the EFCC under him.

Magu said that the over N329 million recovered under his watch by the agency was remitted directly into NNPC dedicated accounts via remita under a special arrangement endorsed by the NNPC, EFCC, and the affected NNPC marketers.

He said this can be independently verified both at the NNPC and the EFCC records and that the issue of NNPC recovered funds never featured in the proceedings of the presidential panel.

Allegations such as assets declaration and failure by him to properly explain the rationale for the exclusion of culprits in the alleged misapplication of three billion naira in the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) were also dispelled by the suspended acting Chairman.

Summing up all the allegations Magu said they were fraudulent and deliberate attempts to malign him.

See attachments:

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N75b NYIF: Minister reveals how fund will reduce youth restiveness, unemployment

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The Minister for Youths and Sports Development, Sunday Dare has said the newly established Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) will lessen restiveness and unemployment among youths.

Dare who spoke at the weekend when a group of APC youth leaders visited the ministry in Abuja, showered encomiums on the minister for securing Federal Executive Council’s (FEC’s) approval for the establishment of the fund.

Dare explained that the fund would provide succour and showcase ideas, skills, talents, enterprise among Nigerian youths.

The minister said it would also turn them into entrepreneurs, wealth creators, and employers as well as lead to national development.

He also noted that President Muhammadu Buhari’s approval of the fund showed his belief that the youths are the nation’s greatest assets and that they deserve collective support to realize their great potentials.

“The NYIF joins the slew of youth-focused programmes already in place by the Buhari-led Federal Government, as part of a national plan to combat youth unemployment and drive innovation, fuel entrepreneurship as well as support youths’ small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“NYIF provides a single-window of an investment fund for the youth, thereby creating a common bucket for all Nigerian youths to access government support.”

“Providing less cumbersome access to credit and finance for the average Nigerian youth with an approved work plan or business idea will help lift thousands of youths out of poverty and birth a whole generation of entrepreneurs,” he said.

The NYCN hailed President Buhari for approving the N75 billion for the programme.

On their parts, the youth council praised Dare, saying the fund would enhance creativity among youths while promoting economic growth and development in the country.

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NDDC Probe: Akpabio reveals names of lawmakers involved in NDDC fraud

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The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, has disclosed the list of lawmakers involved in the alleged looting of funds from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Recall that the former lawmaker had forwarded a letter to the National Assembly where he noted that he did not accuse the lawmakers of receiving 60 percent of the contracts for NDDC.

However, the part where the minister stated the names were not read on the floor of the house but were in the letter forwarded by the minister to the National Assembly.

The National Youth Council of Nigeria who released the document to the public in Abuja on Sunday expressed disappointment that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, refused to disclose the list of federal lawmakers who benefitted from the contracts awarded by the (NDDC).

According to the document, Akpabio listed Nwaoboshi’s name against 53 projects which included, Emergency Repairs of Asue Street, Owa Phase 2, Emergency Repairs of ldumuogbe Road via Ojemaye, Emergency Repairs of Otolokpo College Road, Otololkpo, and Emergency Repairs of Police she Ani Ukwu Road, Issele Uku

“They also included Emergency Repairs of old Sapele Agbor Road, Obiaruku, Emergency Repairs of Ehwerhe Obada Road Agbarho Road, Emergency Repairs of Hon. Ifeanyi Eboigbe Street Boji Boji Owa/Goodwill Street, Owa Alero, and Emergency Repairs of Ahiama Okwu to Obuocha Okwu among others.”

Also, the Minister listed Mutu’s name against 74 projects which included various emergency road projects in Delta, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.”

“Other lawmakers that Akpabio listed projects against are, Senator Mathew Urhoghide (6), James Manager (6), Sam Anyanwu (19), and others simply identified as Ondo and Edo reps.”

The President of the council, Solomon Adodo, while speaking with newsmen on Sunday said, “Mr. Speaker did not do us justice when he did not disclose to the National Assembly that the list of the beneficiaries he demanded had been disclosed and attached to the letter sent to him.”

“Gbajabiamila’s decision to cover up his colleagues is unfair to the fight against corruption, quest for transparency, and to the commonwealth of our nation.”

“We, therefore, urge Mr. Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, to resign for covering up for a set of people who had erred and breached the rules of the contract.”

“All the National Assembly members who benefitted from the contracts without executing them should be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to those who may want to follow a similar path.”

“It is a clear case of organised crime to have individuals who benefitted from illegality now rising to probe the fact that their illegality is being exposed.

“We call on all the anti-graft agencies and security agencies to, in line with the directive of President Muhammadu Buhari, immediately proceed and go ahead with their investigation of the matter.”

The group noted that they are in full support of the forensic audit instituted by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs because it had exposed those who had benefitted in the corruption that had festered in the NDDC.

In the document displayed by the Youths Council, Akpabio was quoted as having said that his letter became necessary because “the investigating Committee on NDDC refused and/or neglected to give me the opportunity to explain that reference to most NDDC contracts yearly being awarded since 2001 from the records allegedly to members of the National Assembly in both Chambers were done without the knowledge of the alleged beneficiaries.”

“However, the two chairmen of the Committees in both Chambers had adequate knowledge,” Akpabio reportedly stated.

Akpabio’s letter as released by the Youth Council further read: “To show you some typical examples, herewith attached are documents showing nature of contracts amount of such contracts (in some cases), date of awards and beneficiaries some were awarded to the two chairmen of both committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively, serving at the period of the awards (Annexures ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’).”

The council condemned the Minister for sending the letter to the National Assembly and not making the document forwarded to the house public.

The contracts were mainly for road construction, reconstruction rehabilitation within the nine Niger Delta States.
Akpabio letter which was also copied to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, read in part: “May I extend to Mr. Speaker the compliments of my office and those of the staff of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.”

“I refer to the resolution of the House passed on the 21st July 2020 and forwarded to me on the same day Ref.NASS/HR/LEG/3/36/VOL.ll/O8 directing me to respond to the contents therein within 48″

“The investigating Committee on NDDC refused and/or neglected to give me the opportunity to explain that reference to most NDDC contracts yearly being awarded since 2001 from the records allegedly to members of the National Assembly in both Chambers were done without the knowledge of the alleged beneficiaries. However, the two chairmen of the Committees in both Chambers had adequate knowledge.”

“I never referred to members of the 9th National Assembly as beneficiaries of NDDC contracts as NDDC is yet to fully implement any NDDC budget since the commencement of the 9th National Assembly. In fact. the 2019 budget passed in February and harmonised between the 4th and 5th of March 2020 was received by the Commission in the middle of April, 2020, when the same was designated to expire on the 31st of May, 2020.”

“However, it is pertinent to point out that the Clerk of the National Assembly forwarded a letter Ref. NASS/CNA/115/VOL.38/1175, dated 20th March 2020, without attaching the budget details indicating that the 2020 budget of the NDDC passed into Law was being forwarded (copy of the letter is attached as Annexure ‘A’). This anomaly was brought to the attention of the Senate Ad Hoc Committee investigating a purported financial recklessness by the management of the commission in July 2020, though the first outcry was on allegation of missing N40bn which was totally untrue.”

“It has always been known that the two chairmen of the committees on NDDC in both chambers yearly exhibit unusual influence to the exclusion of committee members and even the management of the NDDC in appropriating funds to details embellished in the budget after the passage of line items at the plenaries. In the 2019 budget, the Executive Director Projects forwarded to me the attached list of 19 Nos. old contracts amounting to almost N9bn after tax, that the House of Representatives Committee Chairman on NDDC, Honourable Tunji-Ojo, insisted the IMC of NDDC must pay before 2019 budget details could be released to the commission (see Annexure ‘A1’).”

“To show you some typical examples, herewith attached are documents showing nature of contracts amount of such contracts (in some cases), date of awards and beneficiaries some were awarded to the two chairmen of both committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively, serving at the period of the awards (Annexures ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’). However, due to the 48 hours notice, the forensic auditors could not sift through the thousands of files in their possession to provide more.”

“The above explanation would have been made if the investigating committee did not shut me out from responding to the abuses on me by the lady representative called Boma.”

“May I assure Mr. Speaker that as a former Minority Leader of the 8th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I shall forever promote the ideals of the. National Assembly as an institution. Hence. I would not make the attached documents public since I obtained the documents from the lead forensic auditors in confidence (find attached Annexures ‘E’ and ‘F’ is my request to the lead forensic auditors and their response).”

“Permit me to explain that any reference to 50 percent or 60 percent during the investigative hearing was in answer to a question by an honourable member of the committee as to whether or not, a medical doctor could act as Executive Director Projects within the confines of the NDDC Act 2000. I answered in the affirmative, pointing out that the greatest project in the world today is COVlD-19 pandemic, which is medical in nature. Furthermore, I am made to understand that 50 to 60 percent of NDDC yearly budgets are medical in nature. Therefore, it is fitting for a medical doctor to act as Executive Director Projects in these trying times.”

“Please accept, sir, the assurances of my esteemed regards and do pass my explanation to my colleagues in the 9th Assembly who probably misunderstood my assertion.”

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BBNaija: See what Yul Edochie told Nigerian youths

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Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie has advised Nigerian youths to be judicious in spending their money while voting for Big Brother Naija, housemates this season.

He gave the advice on Saturday in a post on his official Twitter page

The actor and producer urged viewers to rather channel the resources to voting for himself and the likes of Banky Wellington during elections.

According to him, the looters will keep winning if youths do not campaign for credible people like him.

His tweet read: “I love the fact that youths are getting angry with the system. Elections will come again.

“As you spend your money campaigning for BBNaija housemates, reserve the one you’ll use to campaign for credible youths like me, Banky W & others.

“If not, the looters and fainters will win us.”

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Edo 2020: Obaseki give reasons for dumping APC, vows never to return

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Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki on Saturday revealed why he dumped the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

He said he left the APC due to the lawlessness of some leaders of the party.

Recall that Obaseki had in June defected to PDP after which he emerged the party’s governorship candidate, ahead of the September 19 gubernatorial election in the state.

However, the governor, while speaking at the flag-off of his campaign in Benin City, the state capital vowed never to return to APC.

According to Obaseki: “We left them because of their lawlessness. We will not, no matter how provoked, resort to the same lawlessness. I want to thank you and assure you that God has given us victory.

“This mandate that has been given to us is simple. What you (PDP) are saying as a party is, we like what you have done in the last four years, please go back and continue and improve on what you have done.

“In the last four years, we put our people first. Nothing else matters more than our people even though that put us in trouble. But we didn’t care because the voice of our people is the voice of God.

“Because we were working for our people, God Almighty has supported us. That is why we are here today because what has happened to us in the politics of this country can best be described as miraculous.”

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We are growing despite lockdown, anti-Christ policies – Bishop Oyedepo

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The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, has disclosed that the Church of Christ cannot be held down by any human action nor the gate of hell.

He said the church must move forward and has been growing despite the global lockdown on the back of the Coronavirus pandemic. “We are growing despite the lockdown and all anti-Christ policies.”

Oyedepo stated this during the early morning covenant hour of prayer held virtually by the church. According to him, 310 new churches were planted last Sunday noting that not less than 300 churches were planted by the ministry each week in the last eight weeks.

According to him, the goal of the church is to plant 10,000 new churches this year across the world. “God has not only been helping us to plant the churches but He has also been raising the army. Training is going on now. Is there anywhere you enter without finding a Winner’s member? God’s agenda is unstoppable,” said Oyedepo.

Speaking further on the impact of the church on society, Oyedepo opined that God is raising men and women with divine impact. “An army of giants is rising from this platform. A lot of you standing here today will be mighty instruments in the hands of God,” he said.

He said, “God is still taking cities, hence every city is takable by God’s intervention. “We serve a city-taking God. God takes towns and cities through signs and wonders. He took the city of Samaria through Philip”.

“People are in need and they want practical solution to their problems. We serve a practical God who gives practical solution to problems,” said Oyedepo.

He noted that the lockdown cannot stop the progress of the church, the same way it cannot stop God from working his wonders. “Can you lockdown heaven’s finances? If you think you can, there is a need to check your…You can’t lockdown Jesus. Can you lockdown the sun? Jesus is the sun of righteousness.”

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Council Chairman Juan Governor, swears in ward 4 councilor

The Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Hon. Juan Amechee Governor has sworn-in Hon Chike Ezinwa as the councilor of ward 4 constituencies.

The swearing which took place at the local government council Secretariat, Aboh, was graced by councilors, party members, and well-wishers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor charged Hon. Ezinwa represents the interest of the people in order to promote the dividend of democracy to the grass root.

The council boss noted that Hon. Ezinwa should partner with the health department to sensitized the people on preventive measures against COVID 19, stressing that the safety of life comes first before the dividend of democracy can be enjoyed.

He, therefore, admonished all councilors in the local government to do the same explaining that many people in rural areas do not yet believe that the coronavirus was real.

On his part, Hon Ezinwa thanked the chairman, the people of Abala, Onuabor and Utchi communities for finding him worthy to represent them at the council legislative chamber and promised that he would always put their interest first.

recall that the seat forward 4 had been vacant following the death of its representative and majority leader in the legislative arm of the council in the person of late Uwa Chukwudi since February 2020.

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Tanker Explosion: Nigerians begs FG to work on disastrous roads

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Following recent explosion of fuel-laden tanker at the border between Ologbo in Edo and Oghara, near Koko Junction in Delta State along the Benin/Sapele Express Way, concerned Nigerians have called on the federal government to work on bad roads.

Speaking with newsmen, eye witnesses in the area associated the avoidable road mishaps to the poor state of road across the country, explaining that the tanker explosion that took the lives of scores of persons and left others badly injured could have been avoided if the affected road was in good condition.

Explaining the ugly incident, they revealed that the tanker driver tried to avoid a bad spot when he missed track and fell which resulted to explosion.

They however called on the federal government to do something urgently about the terrible state of road to avoid more occurrence.

Responding, an eye witness, Esteem Akpevwe said it was a great loss at the scene of the accidents stressing that many lost their lives, some burnt beyond recognition while others sustained severe injuries.

Chris Efe also observed that the federal government should work on the affected road, asserting that the said road was a federal government road and had been in bad shape for too long. He said ” an accident also happened along that area not quite long claiming about two lives”.

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Delta: Doctors threatens 3 days warning strike, give reasons

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The Delta State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, have threatened to embark on a three-day warning strike to protest alleged refusal of the state government to implement Covid-19 hazard allowance for health workers.

It was learnt that the warning strike will commence on Monday, next week and end on Wednesday.

It was gathered that the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Delta State Chapter decided on this cause after a series of deadlocked meeting between government representatives and medical doctors.

It was gathered that the offer by the state government to exempt doctors and health workers from the proposed temporary suspension of N30,000 minimum wage did not sway the doctors.

Delta State NMA chairman, Dr Omo Ekeneam, confirmed the proposed warning strike.

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Disaster: See how woman was rescued in another Lagos building collapse

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A 30-year-old woman was rescued from the chaos of a collapsed three-story building in Ebute-Metta on Friday afternoon.

The building located directly opposite the Ebute Metta Comprehensive Health Centre on Abeokuta Street, collapsed around 1 pm.

The incident occurred barely two weeks after a three-story building collapsed on a Bungalow at Freeman Street, Lagos Island, killing a policewoman and two children.

Although no life was lost in Friday’s incident, residents believe that was because the building gave way in the afternoon when occupants had gone out.

Rescuers also dismissed speculations that people died in the collapse, insisting that so far, only the rescued woman seemed to have been on the premises.

According to the Director-General (DG) Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the rescued woman has been evacuated to the hospital for treatment.

He said the agency received the distress call around 1:10 pm and raced to the scene immediately.

Oke-Osanyintolu said the cause of the building collapse was yet to be determined, adding that the scene had been cordoned off to prevent secondary disaster.

He said buildings adjacent to the collapsed structure were being examined for possible damages by the material testing agency.

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Delta Govt. Pleads for compliance during environmental sanitation

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The Delta State Government has said its monthly environmental sanitation exercise for the month of July, will hold in the state Saturday, July 25, 2020, between 7.00 am and 10.00 am.

This is contained in a statement signed by the State Director of Information, Mr. Dona Obuseh, and made available to journalists.

Obuseh stated that during the period of the exercise, there would be no restrictions on the movement of persons and vehicles.

In the statement, the State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Chris Onogba, advised Deltans to fumigate their premises, cut overgrown weeds, clear their drainages, and keep their environment clean to prevent unwanted diseases.

According to the statement, officials of the State Waste Management Board and local government councils would evacuate the resultant refuse to approved government dump sites, and that Delta State Taskforce on Environment would be on the ground to monitor and ensure total compliance of the exercise.

Deltans and residents in the state were advised to in this period of the COVID-19 pandemic, observe washing of hand regularly for at least 20 seconds with running water and soap, sanitizing as much as possible, and observe physical distancing as part of measures to stop the spread of the virus.

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Jubilation as Delta Govt. gives starter packs, cash to STEP beneficiaries

The Delta State Government has presented starter packs to beneficiaries who graduated from its Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) to establish them in their chosen businesses.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Asaba, Mr. Nkenchor Onyeisi, the Coordinator of STEP in the Office of the Chief Job Creation Officer, said that the presentation was approved after the 107 trainees were certified by the office.

The establishment of this Second Batch of STEPreneurs who recently completed their training meritoriously brings the total number of beneficiaries established so far in the 2019/2020 Programme Cycle to 219.

In line with COVID-19 prevention guidelines, the Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) beneficiaries who are of the 2019/2020 Cycle are categorized into groups of twenty persons and scheduled to receive their starter packs either in the morning or afternoon sessions in Asaba.

Targeted at beneficiaries whose training duration was for three or four months under the Green STEP and Brown STEP categories respectively, the handing out of starter packs began on 22/7/20 and lasted for three days.

Reactions from the beneficiaries show enthusiastic and well-motivated youths.

According to Kelvin Athora (Udu LGA), he was trained in Audio-Visual and Photography under Green STEP. He expressed his gratitude to the state government for the opportunity, affirming that the starter pack would help him to earn a living and to train other youths.

Akpoduado Glory (Ughelli South LGA) trained in Fashion and Textile Design said she worked as a salesgirl because her parents had no money to establish her in the fashion business after her training.

She exclaimed she was relieved of her worry when she got engaged in the programme and resumed training g January this year as a Brown STEP trainee.

Itemizing her starter packs, she said she received an industrial sewing machine, an industrial weaving machine, a generator, a cutting table electric iron and ₦96,000.00 microcredit for shop rent in Ughelli.

She maintained that she was satisfied with her starter pack, expressing her readiness to work hard to become financially independent, to try, in, and employ other youths to work for her.

On the part of Favour Oseoghene Dennis (Isoko South) in Fashion and Textile Design, her mother, Mrs Oletu Ewoma, threw caution to the wind as she dances around joyously in appreciation of the Governor Okowa-led government for the opportunity given to her daughter.

“I am dancing because I did not expect this kind of starter pack for my daughter. I did not have money to train her in school. I would not have been able to buy all these for her. God has used Governor Okowa to establish her. As her mother, I will guide her to ensure that she applies the knowledge acquired and these items to improve herself and that of our family,” she enthused.

Earlier the Chief Job and Wealth Creation Officer, Prof Eric Eboh, congratulated the graduands for completing the training successfully, considering how challenging it was for them to go through the various activities in the programme such as the Orientation and Personal Effectiveness Training; hands-on training; Completion Proficiency Test and the Entrepreneurship and Business Management Training.

Represented by the Coordinator of STEP, Mr. Onyeisi Nkenchor, Prof Eboh stated that their ability to complete the training successfully in spite of the Coronavirus Pandemic was occasioned by the state government’s commitment to improving the state economy through entrepreneurship development and their willingness to be trained.

“Despite the harsh economic realities in the state due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the Governor has kept to his promise of establishing them with starter packs. More than 95% of you were successful in the Completion Proficiency Test which was a clear indication that you participated actively during training. Today 107 of you are being established in Fashion and Textiles Design; Audio Visual and Photography; Hairdressing, Makeover, and Braiding,” he noted.

He disclosed that the starter pack component is a grant while the shop rent is microcredit with a six months moratorium payable within 24 months, adding that it was structured in such a way that the loan could easily be repaid.

While advising them to take their businesses seriously and to maximize the opportunity to reduce the unemployment rate in the state, he urged them to keep in touch with the job creation office always.

It could be recalled that the state government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) and the Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) have in the past five years engaged over 5,000 Delta youths.

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I did not endorse Peter Obi for presidency, 2023 – Pastor Adeboye

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The general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye has debunked reports that he endorsed former Vice Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Peter Obi for president in 2023.

Recall that some online news media had claimed that the popular cleric endorsed Peter Obi when members of CAN paid him a courtesy call at his residence in Lagos State.

He was allegedly quoted as saying “In the past, I have supported all the candidates that sort for my support, but today, I’m calling on all and sundry to rally round and support the emergence of Mr. Peter Obi of Anambra state ahead of the next general election.”

But reacting Adeboye’s son, Leke Adeboye on his Twitter page described the report as ‘fake news.

He wrote, “FAKING NEWS!!! Jobless people. (Their brain must be on lockdown.)

“PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE ENDORSE PETER OBI, AS THE NEXT NIGERIAN PRESIDENT?

“Adeboye has not left the redemption camp for CAN meeting since November 2019)So try another lie.”

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Warri council Chairman Tidi preaches trust, begs for support

The Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Dr. Michael Tidi, has called for mutual trust and unity between Warri Urhobos and their Itsekiri counterparts.

He made these address during his visit to the Warri Urhobo Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader, Chief Emmanuel Okumagba (JP) on his second tenure in Warri.

The council boss noted that he was able to erase mutual distrust between the Warri Urhobos and the Itsekiris in his first tenure, stressing that genuine peace and unity is needed for meaningful development of the area.

Other laudable achievements he mentioned include the establishment of cooperative societies in Agbarha Warri oil-producing communities of Oteghele and Ukpokiti, organizing of two economic summits, sinking of twenty – one borehole across the local government area and empowerment of youths, amongst others.

While thanking Chief Okumagba for his support during his first tenure, Dr. Tidi solicited the continuous support of Warri Urhobos to enable him fully actualize his mission and vision for the good people of Warri South Local Government Area.

Responding, Chief Okumagba acknowledged that Dr. Tidi was truly related to the three kingdoms comprising the local government area and that his performance was good in the first tenure, urging him to perform better if voted for a tenure.

He noted that as a leader, he had a duty to pray for all aspirants.

In a related development, Dr. Tidi also paid a consultation visit to PDP Agbarha Warri leader, Dr. Israel Abido (JP) where he equally made a similar presentation.

The council boss was accompanied by his vice, Chief (Mrs) Ann Iniovosa, and members of PDP, Warri South Local Government Area.

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How gunmen abducted police inspector, five others

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Gunmen have abducted a police inspector, counselor, two wives of a famous hunter, and two other persons in Koma, a famous rural community in Adamawa State.

The attackers seized the six from their homes during what has been described as a daring night raid in the otherwise quiet Koma settlement in Jada local government area.

It was gathered in the course of the operation in the early hours of Thursday, that the assailants killed one resident who might have come across as a threat.

The gunmen were said to have entered Koma in large numbers and visited their targets, picking them from their houses one after the other.

“Those villains calmly carried out their evil intent and left, as freely as they came,” a source said.

Those abducted have been identified as Inspector Yakubu; Hon Bulus Geoffrey (the councilor for Koma Ward); Hammanjida Hammanjalo; Hajiya Amina and two wives of Mallam Hassan, a famous hunter.

The deceased was identified simply as Wawu.

Describing how the hunter’s wives became victims, a source said the suspected kidnappers “visited the house of Malam Hassan who is one of the popular hunters in the area probably to kill him but they didn’t meet him in his house. So they abducted his two wives.”

Hunters and policemen seem to have become targets of kidnappers in Adamawa.

On July 7, a police inspector was abducted during a highway operation on the Numan-Yola road.

The attraction to hunters may be a matter of vengeance as hunters have been collaborating with police in the fight against kidnappers across Adamawa State.

Adamawa Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Sulaiman Nguroje, who confirmed the Koma abductions, said the command was on the move against the assailants.

“The Police, in conjunction with the local hunters, are currently on the trail of the suspects.

‘’We want to assure all those concerned that we will get the victims freed and the suspects arrested,” the police image maker said.

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Ogwashi-Uku community laments over electricity billing increment, says unacceptable

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The people of Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta state have described the recent increment of electricity bill by BEDC from seven thousand five hundred naira to thirty-three thousand four hundred naira as totally unacceptable.

This was disclosed by the leader of the Ogbe-Ofu community, back of African house, Sir Matthias Ashinze in an interaction with newsmen at Ogwashi-uku.

According to the people, the five hundred percent increment was not only unacceptable but unethical and unsustainable, stressing that it amounted to robbery.

They also revealed that the Federal Government had not increased electricity tariff as earlier proposed, wondering why BEDC should rush to effect the increase, adding that it was pure extortion.

The people also noted that BEDC had been gradually increasing its bill since January 2020, saying that the January bill was four thousand two hundred and sixty-seven kobo only to be increased to five thousand sixty-six kobo in February and in March.

They however condemned the BEDC for equally increasing their bill to six thousand two hundred and twelve kobos adding that in may it equally increased to seven thousand three hundred and ninety-six kobo.

Speaking further, people from the community said the recent bill of June 2020 came as a big surprise to them observing that it equally increased from seven thousand three hundred and ninety-six kobo to thirty-three thousand four hundred naira.

They however wondered the reason for the high increment explaining that many of the electric poles, transformers, and wires used for the electrification of the community were purchased by individuals.

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Proposed Salary Cut: Tilije urges Civil Servants to make sacrifice

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Delta State Commissioner of Finance, Sir Okenmor Fidelis has pleaded with Civil Servants in the state to assist the government in the development of the state by making sacrifices for the greater good of the inhabitants of the state.

The finance commissioner noted that the proposed salary cut of senior political appointees and civil servants was for the economic good of the State.

This was disclosed by the commissioner in an interaction with newsmen in Asaba, the state capital.

Sir Tilije explained that the decision to cut the salaries of senior civil servants and political office holders in the State was to ensure the sustainable development of the state even in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He also lamented that with the advent of the coronavirus, the revenue accruing to the state from the federation account has reduced because of the reduced vibrancy in the World General economy as well as the OPEC reduction of Nigeria’s production quota from 2.3million barrels per day to 1.3million barrels per day.

The finance commissioner, therefore, urged all stakeholders in the state to make sacrifices so that other Deltans who are not employed in the Civil and Public Services can also be catered for, particularly those who have been infected with the virus.

Tilije also said despite the big wage bill of civil servants which is one of the highest in the country, Governor Okowa had promised that nobody would be retrenched, hence the need to look for all available means to sustain the workforce and sustain the current level of development in the state.

Speaking further, Tilije called for a reasonable understanding of the State government’s good motives, especially now that the internally generated revenue of the state has also decreased.

He also assured the people that the salary cut which is projected to last for about six months will give the government the opportunity to reposition itself for greater challenges ahead and to allow for the continued development of the State.

Tilije however proved to be false, the statement in some quarters that the Delta State Government was broke, stressing that the state was not the only one facing such financial constraints as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Edo 2020: Obaseki pays workers’ July salaries, pension

Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in Edo has paid civil and public servants’ July 2020 salaries as well as pension for retirees.

This is coming as part of actions by the Governor to secure the wellbeing and welfare of workers in Edo state.

According to a statement released by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, the state government ensured early payment of salaries and pension to cushion the challenges associated with the coronavirus pandemic and to support Muslim faithful who are set to celebrate the Eid-El Kabir festivities.

He said, “The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has directed the payment of pension and salaries of workers in the state and today, 23rd of July, all civil and public servants have been paid their salaries. This is despite the economic setbacks that have bedeviled the Nigerian economy and other parts of the world amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“It is also a way for the government to identify with the Muslim faithful for the Sallah celebrations. So, the gesture is timed to ensure that our Muslim brothers and sisters are well-catered for during the Sallah festivities amid COVID-19 pandemic.”

Osagie further said that the Governor Obaseki-led administration remains committed to the welfare of workers in the state, saying: “Several reforms have been carried out in the Edo State civil service, including world-class training for the workers, revamp of their work environment, timely payment of salary and the migration of work culture from analog to a digital platform for efficiency.”

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Youth Empowerment: FEC approves N75bn investment fund

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The Federal Executive Council, FEC, has on Wednesday endorsed the sum of N75 billion for the establishment of a Nigerian Youth Investment Fund.

This fund is meant to generate a special window for accessing credit facilities and financing on the part of our youths that will help to fund their ideas, innovations, and also support their enterprise.

Briefing State House correspondents after the 9th virtual meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Sunday Dare explained that the special fund will be for youths within the age bracket of 18 and 35.

According to him, “For the first time in the history of Nigeria, the Federal Executive Council today approved the establishment of the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) to the tune of N75 billion.

” This fund is meant to create a special window for accessing credit facilities and financing on the part of our youths that will help to fund their ideas, innovations, and also support their enterprise.

“The best way to call it is that for the first time the country will have a youth bank. A fund that will cater specifically for our youth within the stipulated age band, which is going to be between 18 and 35 years.

“The second approval that secured was for the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to play a lead role in working on necessary steps that need to be taken in terms of legislation, organisation and other aspects of financing.”

He said that the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning will take the lead when it comes to the aspect of the financing, working with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and other relevant Ministries, Department and Agencies, MDAs.

He said, “A couple of other details will be released later, but I think the most important thing is that the N75 billion Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, to cater specifically for this target group, a population of over 68 million, got the attention and support of the Federal Executive Council today and this fund will be assessed by our youths, once they are able to present their ideas, they can assess this fund directly.”

He however assured that just like the N- Power programme of the Federal Government, the youth bank process would be digital and fair to all youths.

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Return ‘unjustifiable funds’ paid to staff – Senate panel tells NDDC

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The Senate ad hoc committee investigating the misappropriation of funds in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has asked that the Interim Management Committee (IMC) refund all “unjustifiable funds” paid to staff of the commission.

The panel also recommended that henceforth, the NDDC report directly to President Muhammadu Buhari and asked that the president dissolve the IMC and set up a board for the commission.

These are part of the recommendations read out by the chairman of the committee, Olubunmi Adetumbi, on Thursday.

This comes exactly two weeks after the acting Managing Director of the NDDC, Kemebradikumo Pondei, admitted that the commission spent N1.5 billion for staff as ‘COVID-19 relief funds’.

He made this statement at the investigative hearing on the N40 billion corruption allegation against the commission.

The Senate had on May 5 set up a seven-man ad-hoc committee to investigate the “financial recklessness” of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the commission.

The lawmakers said within the last three months, the commission has spent over N40 billion of the commission’s fund “without recourse to established processes of funds disbursement which has opened up further suspicion among stakeholders of the Niger Delta Region.”

They also faulted the IMC’s “arbitrary use of executive power in an alleged wrongful sacking of management staff without recourse to established civil service rules and practice with the aim of allegedly concealing the fraudulent financial recklessness they have committed.”

Presenting the report, Mr. Adetumbi said the NDDC spent 4.9 billion on medicals between October 2019 and May 2020. He also said the commission spent billions of naira on “overseas travel allowance” at a time when countries were on lockdown and international flights were not operating.

He also said the explanations given by the IMC did not explain the need for “the reckless spending.”

The committee further recommended that oversight of the forensic audit should be transferred to the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation to ensure transparency. It urged the federal government to appoint a renowned auditor to supervise this forensic audit.

The panel also stressed the need to review the corporate social responsibility of the NDDC.

Deliberations on the report are still underway as lawmakers are taking turns to make their contributions and more recommendations.

The lawmakers had on Wednesday adjourned to embark on its annular recess but held plenary to consider the committee’s report.

More details soon…

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NDDC Probe: No ninth assembly lawmaker received any contract, Akpabio tells Reps

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The Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio has denied accusing members of the National Assembly of collecting 60 percent of the contracts at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Akpabio, in a letter read on the floor of the House during Plenary by the Speaker on Thursday, said the only reference he made to 60 percent during his presentation before the NDDC committee on Monday was in response to a question by a member of the committee.

He said the member had sought to know whether a Medical Director can serve as an Executive Director Project, to which he responded by saying that since 50 to 60 percent of NDDC contracts were medical-related, there was nothing wrong with a Medical Director serving in that capacity.

He also said that the Executive Director Project of the NDDC forwarded to him a list of 19 owed contracts which the Chairman of the House Committee on NDDC insisted must be paid before the 2020 budget of the commission is passed.

He also said that the NDDC has jot executed any contract under the 2020 budget since it has not been passed, while the 2019 budget was passed in April and has not been implemented

The Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, however, referred the letter to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges.

Details shortly…

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[Photos] : Kogi Governor, military top brass, ministers, lawmakers grace Arotile’s funeral

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Governor Yayaha Bello of Kogi State and his wife, Rasheedat Bello; Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen; Chairmen of Senate and House Committees on Air Force, Senator Bala Ibn Na’alla and Hon Shehu Koku; service chiefs led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar are among the dignitaries attending the burial of Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile, who died in Kaduna.

The fallen officer is being accorded full military honours at the National Military Cemetery located at the Airport Road, Abuja as the burial gets underway.

Military burial ceremony leading to her interment is in progress.

Details later…

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NDDC Probe: Assembly to decide Akpabio, others fate today

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The House of Representatives will decide today on allegation by Niger Delta Minister Senator Godswill Akpabio that National Assembly members were the biggest beneficiaries of contracts from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The House gave the Minister 48-hour ultimatum to publish a list of lawmakers in the 9th Assembly who got contracts from the NDDC.

While testifying before the House Committee on NNDC on Monday, the Minister alleged that 60 percent of contracts at the Commission were awarded to members of the National Assembly.

Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu, who drew the attention of the House to Akpabio’s allegation under matters of privilege, said his constituents have been calling him to find out if he benefited from the contracts.

Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, who said that his initial reaction was to have a good laugh, declared he will take the matter seriously.

He gave the Minister 48 hours to publish the list, including names of legislators, the contract awarded to them, when it was awarded, the amount involved, and extent of execution of the contract.

The Reps are expected to take a decision on the matter on Thursday before adjourning for their two- month annual break.

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Ondo 2020: Jegede wins PDP primaries, beats Governor’s deputy, Ajayi

Eyitayo Jegede has emerged winner of the governorship primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, which held on Wednesday in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Out of the 2111 delegates who voted during the primaries which lasted about eight hours, Jegede who was the standard-bearer of the party in 2016 polled 888 votes to emerge the winner while his closest rival, the embattled Deputy Governor of the state, Agboola Ajayi scored 667.

With the outcome of the primaries, Jegede will slug it out with Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu who won the APC primaries on Monday in the October 10, 2020 governorship election.

Jegede, a former Attorney General in the state was announced the winner of the primaries by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwanyi of Enugu State, who is also the Chairman of the Governorship Primary Election Committee.

Eddy Olafeso who was the Chairman of the PDP, South West, came third in the contest with 175 votes while Bode Ayorinde polled 95 votes with Banji Okunomo scoring 90.

Senator Boluwaji Kunlere polled 33 votes and Godday Erewa, 14 votes.

Voting by the 2111 delegates from the 18 local government areas of the state ended around 8:00 pm as the exercise began around 4:00 pm while sorting of the ballots started at 9:30 pm and ended at 11:17 pm with the counting of the votes ending at 12:20 is on Thursday.

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Disaster: 17 die as tanker explodes in Delta

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No fewer than 17 persons were reportedly burnt to death on Wednesday where a petrol tanker fell and exploded into flames near Koko Junction on the Benin/Sapele Expressway in Ethiope West council area of Delta State.

It was gathered that Four vehicles were burnt in the incident.

According to reports, the tanker spilled its content as it fell at a bad spot and residents rushed to scoop the product.

A truck driver, Kola Akintayo, who witnessed the incident, said another vehicle passing by scraped a metal, igniting a fire. “That was what caused the fire,” he said.

Another trucker said 17 persons died in the incident.

Officials of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and security agencies evacuated bodies and rushed the injured to a hospital in Oghara community.

The incident has caused a traffic snarl, forcing mobile policemen to take up emergency traffic control duties.

Police spokesperson Onome Onowakpoyeya said three persons died in the incident.

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Boko Haram: UN reacts to execution of Nigerian aid workers

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The United Nations (UN) has lamented over the execution of aid workers by Boko Haram.

Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon, in a statement, said he was utterly shocked and horrified by the gruesome killing.

Kallon commiserated with their families, friends, and others.

He decried the number of illegal vehicular checkpoints set up by terrorists along the main supply routes.

The UN described the workers as committed humanitarians who devoted their lives to helping vulnerable people and communities ravaged by violence.

The official stressed that safety has been the UN’s highest priority.

Kallon strongly condemned all violence targeting aid workers and the civilians they are assisting.

He lamented that the checkpoints disrupt the delivery of life-saving assistance and heighten the risks for civilians of being abducted, killed, or injured.

“This is tragically not the first killing of kidnapped aid workers. We have repeatedly called for such devastating fate and blatant violation of international humanitarian law to never happen again,” he said.

UN added that nearly 8 million people were in need of urgent life-saving assistance.

Currently, 10.6 million people need urgent support as conflict-affected states battle coronavirus.

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Covid-19: State cancels third term, gives resumption date for schools

Oyo state government has announced the cancellation of third term calendar for students in all primary and secondary schools in the state due to Covid-19 pandemic.

Governor Seyi Makinde announced the decision on Tuesday, July 20, as contained in a statement by the state commissioner for education, Olasunkanmi Olaleye.

Olaleye said the decision was reached during the state executive council meeting at the government house in Ibadan on Tuesday, adding that the 2020/21 academic session will begin on September 21 and end on July 30, 2021.

“According to the approved calendar, the Third Term 2019/2020 session has been canceled and the promotion of students, for all affected classes, will now be determined by First and Second Term Continuous Assessment.

“Pry 6, JSS 3 and SSS 3 will proceed on holiday from 30th of July and resume for their Examination as follows; “Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) – 10th to 18th August 2020. Competitive Entrance Examination into the Schools of Science- 19th August 2020,” Olaleye said.

Oyo State had earlier reopened schools for the graduating classes, a decision adopted by the federal government after the submission of the fifth report of the presidential task force on Covid-19.

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Constitution does not recognize Minister of State – Reps attacks Keyamo

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The House of Representatives, on Tuesday, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to give a directive to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige to act according to existing laws on the planned Special Public Works (SPW) programme.

The House resolved that the Constitution does not recognize the office of the Minister of State and also directed the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed not to release funds contrary to that resolution.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the Deputy Minority Leader, Toby Okechuckwu on Tuesday.

It would be recalled that both the National Assembly and the Minister of State (Labour), Festus Keyamo have been at daggers drawn over the implementation of the N56billion special works programme.

Moving the motion, Okechuckwu said that the 202l appropriation law recognizes “the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) Act as the implementation agency.”

He added that “Minister of State” is not a creation of Section 145 (1) of the 1999 Constitution. This may, therefore, be the reason for the refusal of the Minister of State to be guided on the method adopted by Parliament for its proceedings and his assertion that “only Mr. President can stop our work”, not our laws nor our institutions.”

Also speaking on the motion, Uzoma Abonta from Abia State condemned the executive for disregarding existing laws by adopting short term interventions.

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Why you should marry who God recommends, not your pastor – Evang. Bamiloye

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The founder and president of Mount Zion Drama Ministry and Mount Zion Television, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, has advised single people to be careful about how they select a life partner.

He disclosed this in a post via his Instagram page Wednesday morning, which he titled ”Advise to the waiting singles”.

The clergyman said singles should learn to make decisions about who they want to spend the rest of their lives with.

According to him, any man or woman waiting for a life partner should marry their own husband or wife and not the one their pastor, prophet, priest, or parents recommended to them.

The post reads ”ADVISE TO THE WAITING SINGLES:

”If you want to fulfill the purpose and live long, you must by all means, at all cost marry YOUR Wife/Husband, Not the one a prophet, pastor, priest or parents recommend, but the one God recommends.

”People can only guide. The ultimate choice must be born out of your personal conviction by the Holy Spirit.”

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Buhari’s ally, Isa Funtua is dead

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Ismaila Isa Funtua, an associate of President Muhammadu Buhari, is dead.

A source told TheCable that he died after a brief illness on Monday.

Details of his death are still inadequate.

Details to follow shortly

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Edo 2020: See reasons why Oshiomhole is angry with me – Obaseki

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has said former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, is angry with him because he blocked his ambition to become a godfather in the state.

Obaseki made this claim in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie, on Monday.

He said Oshiomhole was frustrated over his failure to govern Edo State for a third term using Obaseki as a proxy.

“In 2016 when Oshiomhole nominated and supported Obaseki, his hidden motive was to use Governor Obaseki as a pawn in his game to defraud Edo people and enthrone himself as the ultimate godfather of Edo politics at the expense of the will and wishes of Edo people.

“However, Obaseki’s refusal to mortgage the interest of the majority of the people of Edo state for the satisfaction of Oshiomhole and his handful of greedy followers, is the cause of Oshiomhole’s bitterness which has led him to bury himself in pursuit of an innocent governor who is trying to do the right thing for his people,” the statement read.

Last week, Oshiomhole claimed that Obaseki, who he nominated to succeed him in 2016, has become a snake.

Oshiomhole claimed the Governor started fighting party members, by destroying their properties and arresting them.

Obaseki decamped from the APC after he was disqualified from taking part in the party’s primary elections.

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‘Amotekun to fight insecurity with supernatural powers’

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The Commandant of the Ekiti State Security Network code-named Amotekun, Brig.-Gen. Joe Komolafe (rtd), has said the corps will use supernatural and modern security techniques to combat banditry, kidnapping and other crimes.

He spoke yesterday at Efon Alaaye during a sensitisation tour of Ekiti West, Efon Alaaye, and Ijero local governments.

The commandant said the security outfit would use ancient Yoruba tactics of securing territories and fishing out criminals from their hideout.

He said neglect of local and ancient patterns of exposing criminals was one of the factors responsible for the rising case of crimes.

Komolafe urged monarchs to deploy supernatural prowess to secure people’s lives and belongings.

Describing Amotekun as a force of liberation, he said the security outfit would protect Southwest people from invaders, who had constituted a threat to the region.

Speaking about the composition of the security outfit, Komolafe said the first phase of the recruitment was to establish an intelligence-based outfit and later accommodate Amotekun ambassadors, who would serve as informants of the agency.

He said there would be no age limit to those who would make up the ambassadorial category.

Identifying Amotekun as an indigenous outfit, Komolafe said: “We want people that can enter the bush and give us native intelligence about criminals’ hideout.

“People before us rose and fought invaders. We also want to rise and fight invaders. These invaders came with all forms of impunity; they kill, maim, rape, and destroy farm produce.”

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Why I rejected Alaibe’s congratulatory message – Gov. Diri

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has decried as half-hearted the congratulatory message of Ndutimi Alaibe following last Tuesday’s Supreme Court’s dismissal of his appeal.

He said that Alaibe, who was an aspirant in the September 3, 2019 Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship primary that he (Diri) won, went too far in his bid to unseat him.

A statement by the acting Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, said Diri rejected Alaibe’s felicitations while addressing the State Working Committee of the PDP, which paid him a solidarity visit in Government House, Yenagoa, on Monday.

The statement quoted Diri as describing Alaibe’s statement issued by his personal assistant, Enize Ogio, as “insulting and totally unacceptable.”

Diri, who demanded a new message from Alaibe, noted that in line with the Supreme Court judgement, nobody was bigger than the party, including himself.

The governor was quoted as saying, “I hereby reject that insulting message from one Enize Ogio. I hereby reject it in totality, and the PDP rejects it too. If they accept our olive branch, they should issue a new statement to let the PDP and the government of Bayelsa know that they are still members of our party.”

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Magu released from detention, Buhari suspends 12 EFCC Executives

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The former acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ibrahim Magu, on Wednesday inhaled and exhale the air of freedom after spending 10 days in police custody.

He was released shortly after the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, directed one of his lawyers, Tosin Ojaomo, to direct his bail applications to the Presidential panel probing his activities in the office.

Ojaomo confirmed the release of his client, saying, “Yes, I can confirm that Magu has been released this evening,” he stated.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the suspension of 12 directors of the EFCC, including the commission’s Secretary, Olanipekun Olukoyede.

It was gathered, the order was handed down on Friday following a request by the presidential panel investigating the allegations of graft and misconduct against the former EFCC acting chairman, Ibrahim Magu.

It was learned that the directors were asked by the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), to proceed on suspension on Tuesday in compliance with the presidential order.

A source said, “The panel actually requested the suspension of all the directors of the EFCC to go.

“Following the request, the President asked the AGF to direct the directors and other senior officials to proceed on suspension immediately. The officials were informed on Tuesday.”

This is arising as some loyalists to Magu were said to have fled with some sensitive files requested by the presidential panel.

It was gathered that the panel called for the files, but the officials in charge were said to have failed to respond to the panel’s summons and attempts to get the concerned officers reportedly proved abortive.

A source said, “The failure of some of the loyalists referred to as Magu boys to provide the sensitive files requested by the panel is being treated as a serious security issue.”

Meanwhile, Magu on Wednesday demanded a copy of the report of the Presidential Committee on Audit of Recovered Assets and a memo by the Attorney-General of the Federation to the President in which 22 allegations were leveled against him.

The former EFCC boss in a letter to the panel chairman, Justice Ayo Salami, dated July 15, 2020, explained that he had not seen the allegations and petitions against him despite spending over nine days in custody.

Magu, in the letter written by his lawyer, Wahab Shittu, further said that he was ready to respond to the allegations against him if provided a copy of the allegations.

The letter was a follow-up to the earlier one addressed to the panel dated July 10.

It read in part, “Our client respectfully demands the following: a copy of the report of the Presidential Audit Committee, a copy of the memo of Honourable Attorney General of the Federation to the President on our client and individual petitions submitted to the panel against our client.”

Shittu observed that the panel had clarified that it did not order Magu’s detention, and therefore, requested the panel to direct the Inspector-General of Police to release him.

He stated, “Our client observes that the panel has issued an official statement to the effect that it did not authorise the detention of our client.

“We request the panel to recommend to the Inspector-General of Police in whose custody our client is to release him from custody to enable him to adequately prepare his defence and attend to his failing health.”

Earlier and shortly before his release, the IGP had said the police were not investigating Magu and was accordingly, not being detained by the force, but by the panel headed by former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ayo Salami.

The police boss said this in a letter dated July 14, 2020, in response to the bail application filed by Ojaomo for the release of his client, who had been in police custody since July 6.

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Reasons why we can’t reopen schools yet – FG reveals

The Federal Government of Nigeria has said it does not have the confidence yet to proceed with the re-opening of schools in view of the increasing number of COVID-19 infections as released by the National Centre for Disease Control.

The Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking with journalists, after the eighth virtual Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Nwajiuba said the decision of the Federal Ministry of Education to pause schools’ resumption plans and postpone participation in final examinations for secondary school students remained intact.

The minister, who said the ministry was still consulting with stakeholders, added that the West African Examination Council (WAEC) had also started consultations with West African states on a possibility of shifting dates.

He said: “We are still meeting with parents over the decision of the Ministry.

“What the Minister said reflects the true position of the Ministry; we are not confident yet that everywhere is safe, the numbers from the NCDC are still alarming and we have put this before parents and all the stakeholders in the Education ecosystem, we are still meeting with them.

“In fact, there’s a stakeholders’ meeting convened for Monday.

“WAEC on its own part is also negotiating with other West African countries to look at possible shift in date.

“Once they are through with that meeting and hopefully when we are through with the consultation with stakeholders, if there’s any change in the Ministry’s position, we will communicate, but as it stands, the position of the Honourable Minister, as communicated to you last week, remains the position of the Ministry until further evidence to the contrary or further agreements that may alter those arise,” Nwajiuba said.

Recall that last week, the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, said Nigerian schools would remain shut and secondary final year students would not write the West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) until the Ministry considered it safe for such to happen.

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Saraki mourns death of helicopter pilot, Arotile

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Former Senate President of the federal republic of Nigeria, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki CON has said the death of Flying officer Tolulope Arotile is unfortunate and sad.

This is contained in a statement issued to newsmen.

Dr. Saraki asserted that officer Arotile, who is Nigeria’s first female helicopter combat pilot, committed her life to the service of her nation.

In a statement issued to the press, “I woke up to read the very sad news of the unfortunate passing away of Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile – Nigeria’s first female combat helicopter pilot”

“Flying Officer Arotile dedicated her life to the service of her nation and in so doing became a role model for millions of Nigerians on breaking glass ceilings. She will be missed.”

“I commiserate with Nigerian Air Force, her family and friends. I pray the Almighty gives them the strength to bear this loss.”

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Woman seeks divorce, says husband steals her money

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A trader Oriyomi Aluko on Wednesday told a Mapo Customary Court in Ibadan to dissolve her 20-year-old marriage to Idowu, on grounds that he steals her money.

Testifying before the court, the mother of three, said:” I have completely lost hope that my husband will turn a new leaf.

”I want to call it quits with him. In the past 20 years, I have devoted my entire life to Idowu. I have uplifted his livelihood.

“My lord, aside from the fact that Idowu constantly subjects me trader,, he also doesn’t care about how I manage to raise money for his business.

“On two separate occasions, I bought cars for him to enable him to continue as a professional driver.

“However, there is nothing to show for it because he keeps coming home empty-handed and I became indebted at my co-operative society where I borrowed the money.

“Worst still, Idowu steals from me,” she said.

I do, however, rejected the divorce suit, but did not deny any of the allegations leveled against him.

He prayed the court to dismiss his wife’s suit because it might be difficult for both of them to start searching for new partners now.

“It is true that I took her money from the safe. I only used it to balance my debt.

Chief Ademola Odunade, the President of the court, after careful observation of the whole matter, dissolved the union in the interest of peace.

He granted custody of the three children to Oriyomi and ordered the respondent to pay N15,000 as the children’s monthly upkeep in addition to being responsible for their education and other welfare.

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Magu: President Buhari suspends top EFCC officers

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President Muhammadu Buhari has suspended over 10 senior officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

PM News quoted a presidency source on Tuesday night as saying that the Commission’s executive Secretary Olanipekun Olukoyede was among the senior officials suspended by President Buhari.

“They were suspended for various alleged criminal and corrupt infractions,” the source said.

They were suspended to allow for unfettered investigation of the various corruption allegations rocking the anti-graft commission.

The source added that “All the top officials in the agency have been suspended, their offices locked, to prevent any tampering with files at the commission.”

Ibrahim Magu, who acted as the EFCC Chairman, was suspended by President Buhari last week and the director of operations, Mohammed Umar Abba, was asked to replace him.

The newspaper’s source said that the new acting Chairman survived the suspension because he was found not to be a part of the suspected underhand dealings in the agency.

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Breaking: Ex- NIMASA Boss jailed for fraud

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A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced former Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Executive Director (ED), Captain Ezekiel Bala Agaba, to seven years imprisonment for laundering N1.5 billion.

Agaba, who was in charge of Maritime, Safety, and Shipping, was said to have looted the money from the agency.

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Delta introduces property tax bill to increase revenue

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Delta State Government has said it will introduce property tax in urban areas of the state as part of standards aimed at boosting its revenue base.

This was part of conclusions reached at the seventh virtual Executive Council (EXCO) meeting attended by 47 members which were presided over by the state governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Information, In a post EXCO briefing, said that the state government would embark on enumeration exercise with a view to determining properties that would attract tax.

According to him, tax income that would be generated from the property tax would help the state government to execute projects that would positively impact on the socio-economic lives of residents of the state.

He disclosed that EXCO gave approval for a number of road projects to be executed in the state in its decision to deepen the Stronger Delta Agenda of the state government.

The commissioner listed the roads to be constructed to include Okwatata Street in Uvwie and its adjoining streets, Aliohen Road, Ute-Okpu in Ika North East Local Government, and corrective works on Udu Bridge in Udu Local Government Area of the state.

“A number of issues relating to the improvement of the economy of the state at a time like this were brought forward, considered, and approved by the State Executive Council.

“There were some other issues that border on the social aspect of the society such as the approval of some amendment of certain laws that regulate the appointment of traditional rulers in some communities.

“Today at EXCO meeting, approval was given for the construction of Okwatata Street in Uvwie which, also, has adjoining streets to be constructed by the Warri/Uvwie/Environs Development Agency.

To improve the state economy, the Commissioner said that the state government is to access an N10 billion naira credit facilities from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for agricultural productivity which would attract a single-digit interest rate.

Aniagwu noted that the repayment of the CBN facility would be shouldered by the state government and two private sector investors, stressing that the state government needs 2,507 hectares of land to go into a large scale cassava production.

He emphasised that 1,007 hectares of land have been acquired, just as he said that the government needed a wide expanse of land to actualize the project expected to be established close to Oghara and Abraka in Ethiope West and Ethiope East Local Government Areas of the state respectively.

To make potable water available to Deltans, the Commission said, the state government is to collaborate with the federal government in the execution of water projects in the three senatorial districts under the P-WASH programme where it (the state government) would provide the sum of N295 million as its counterpart fund.

The Commissioner, also, disclosed that the state EXCO approved the appointment of Obi Solomon Ezechiyelugo as the traditional ruler of the Ashama community in Aniocha South Local Government Area of the state while it equally rectified the position of Odiologbo of Oyede to Ovie of Oyede in Isoko North Local Government Area.

Governor Okowa also directed all Commissioners to embark on inspection of all ongoing projects in their various ministries to ensure that projects were executed in line with the contractual agreement.

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Okowa hails Gov. Diri on Supreme court victory

Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state has hailed Bayelsa Governor, Douye Diri, on his victory at the Supreme Court.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika.

He said that by the judgment, the Supreme Court had put to rest all contending issues on the governorship election in Bayelsa.

He said that the verdict of the apex court on the pre-election matter had concluded the legal battle on the governor’s candidacy on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform for the Nov. 19, 2019 governorship poll in Bayelsa.

It was reported that the Apex court dismissed the appeal filed by a governorship aspirant on the party’s platform, Chief Timi Alaibe, challenging the emergence of Diri as the candidate in the election.

It was also reported that the court declined to delve into the matter, citing lack of jurisdiction, as the issue was an internal affair of the party.

Okowa pointed out that the victory was for all parties, urging Alaibe, to envelop his sword, as the future was still bright for him.

He urged the Bayelsa governor to reach out to all concerned, in order to have an all-inclusive government.

“Bayelsans, their friends and neighbours waited with bated breath for this judgment.

“My dear brother governor, your long walk to victory must not be taken for granted.

“You must reward the state with open, transparent, and purposeful leadership because the people of Bayelsa can’t settle for less.

“Let me also appeal to my good friend, Chief Timi Alaibe and al,l other contenders, to join hands with the governor to develop Bayelsa to truly be ‘the glory of all lands’.

“It is only when leaders work together with the same goal in mind that the state can accelerate its development.

“This judgment brings to an end all contests for the office of Governor of Bayelsa and governance can’t be pigeon-holed if it has to address the good of the people,” he said.

The Delta governor said that the judgement of the apex court on the matter was a victory for the nation’s democracy and a reaffirmation of the supremacy of the party in handling its internal issues.

He applauded the judges at the apex court for refusing to delve into the matter.

“The ruling of the Supreme Court will go a long way in restoring the hope and confidence of Nigerian people on the sanctity of the judiciary,” Okowa said.

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Delta 2023: Speaker rejects governorship posters, Facebook account

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The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has distanced himself from a Facebook post by one Ejiro Oborevwori that he (Sheriff Oborevwori) has affirmed his intention to run for governorship in 2023.

Oborevwori in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dennis Otu said the governorship posters being circulated in the social media and WhatsApp group platforms were also fake, adding that there is no Ejiro Oborevwori in the family.

The Speaker said: “My attention has been drawn to a fake Facebook account of one Ejiro Oborevwori. The said Ejiro Oborevwori posted that the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, ‘On Monday disclosed to members of his Political train for his aim to run for the Governor of Delta State come 2023. He also said he has an unquenchable love for the unity and growth of the state and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP’.

“This is completely fake news as this is the handiwork of mischief-makers. The Speaker has remained focused and never at any time discussed Governorship ambition with anybody. He is committed to what he is doing at the moment as the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and he will never be distracted.

“Findings have shown that the said EJIRO OBOREVWORI is fake and Avatar. EJIRO OBOREVWORI DOES NOT EXIST. There is no such person like EJIRO OBOREVWORI in the family and for the avoidance of doubt, I wish to state unequivocally that this Avatar is spreading fake news and unfounded rumor.

“The reading public should please ignore the post as the said account and the pages associated were created for the purpose of blackmail. Enemies of progress are at work and they have failed”.

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Breaking: Senate proposes life imprisonment for kidnapping

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The Senate on Tuesday raised the charge for anyone found guilty on the offence of kidnapping from 10 years to life imprisonment.

The upper chamber also deleted the law of limitation on defilement as well as removed gender restrictions on the offences of rape.

These resolutions of the Senate followed the third reading and passage of “A bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code Act CAP. C.38, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004.”

The Bill sponsored by Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central), seeks to delete the statute of limitation on defilement, increase punishment for the offence of kidnapping, and remove gender restrictions in the offence of rape and other related matters.

The Bill also eliminated the present time frame for reporting and prosecuting defilement cases in the country.

It also removed gender restrictions on the offence of rape by explaining that both males and females could be raped.

If the Bill becomes law, defilement cases can be actionable at any time.

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State Govt. urges striking doctors to go back to work

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The Lagos State Government has advised striking doctors under its employment to discontinue their three days warning strike and go back to work.

Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, The State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, made the plea in a statement in Lagos released on Monday night.

He said that the call became necessary after a joint meeting between the State Commissioners for Health; Establishments, Training and Pensions, and Head of Service with the Medical Guild, Association of Resident Doctors, and relevant stakeholders on the warning strike.

Omotoso also pointed out that the state government was disappointed at the warning strike embarked upon by the Guild.

The commissioner said that most issues raised by the Guild had been resolved, while unresolved issues were still being deliberated upon.

On some issues raised by the Guild, Omotoso said that the state was currently rotating health workers engaged in providing care at its isolation facilities.

He said that health workers were not being unceremoniously dismissed from the isolation centers, but returned to their primary posting to reduce fatigue and burn out among them.

According to him, the healthcare workers were being rotated to build capacity for the treatment of COVID-19 across the health workforce and to ensure that many health workers benefit from the additional allowances.

“Mr. Governor has been extremely supportive of health workers being mindful of the extreme sacrifices that healthcare professionals are demonstrating in the COVID-19 response,” he said.

On the non-payment of COVID-19 allowances for May and June, Omotoso said that the state government started paying extra special COVID-19 allowances for front line workers who were involved directly with the state COVID-19 response.

“This was put in place before any other state in the country, with payments as high as N672,000 per month, in addition to their normal remuneration packages for each cadre.

“This represents financial incentives over and above that paid by their federal counterparts,” he said.

On the Skipping Policy that places federal healthcare workers a Grade Level above their state counterparts, Omotoso said the policy was responsible for the disparity in the salary of state and federal doctors.

“It is important to note that this is not in conformity with the Scheme of Service agreed by the National Council of Establishment and is a subject of litigation in the Federal Court of Appeal.

“Therefore, the State Government cannot implement such a policy until the judgment is delivered,” he said.

Omotoso maintained that a meeting had been scheduled with officials of the Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) to explore ways of reducing the tax burden on healthcare workers.

He noted that the state government would fast track the testing of health workers on a weekly basis, adding that emergency testing of health workers would also be arranged when necessary.

“The Lagos State government recognising that the state is the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in the nation has gone over and beyond its duty of care to ensure that welfare of the medical workers in the state is placed as a top priority,” he said.

The commissioner said that the governor had given approval to the Health Service Commission to employ over 760 health workers of which at least 400 were doctors.

Omotoso, however, said the pandemic had made the government to adjust the recruitment procedure, adding that it would conclude the first batch of recruitment within a month.

He noted that all frontline health workers in isolation centres had been insured by a consortium of insurance companies, adding all civil servants in the state, including all health workers, had also been insured by LASACO.

Omotoso stated that the state government was committed to ensuring it won the COVID-19 battle.

He advised the Guild to continue to explore dispute resolution processes provided by the state government to resolve all issues.

The commissioner urged the Guild to bear in mind that this was an unusual time for the nation and the world.

Omotoso assured citizens that services at all state-owned health facilities could still be accessed while the negotiation was ongoing with the Guild.

The Medical Guild had on July 13 commenced three days warning strike over issues that affects their safety and welfare.

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RCCG’s Senior Pastor resigns, gives reasons

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A senior pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, in the USA, Pastor Tola Odutola, has resigned from the Church.

Pastor Odutola, who is the Senior Pastor of Jesus House Baltimore, cited a lack of care from the church in his 30 years of service.

Pastor Enoch Adeboye is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

In a viral video, Pastor Odutola refused to divulge direct details of his reason for his decision but revealed he had served RCCG for 30 years without receiving anything in return.

Odutola announced on Sunday his church would run independently, attracting applause from the congregation, before adding he was prepared to face backlash on social media for his decision.

Odutola was the founding Chairman of the Redeemer’s Leadership Institute, RLI, according to the website of Jesus House Baltimore

RLI is “the Leadership arm of the Redeemed Christian Church of God North America (RCCGNA) which provides continuous training for Religious Leaders worldwide.”

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Political Hatred: Politicians wishing me dead are evil, undemocratic – Sen. Abe

Senator Magnus Abe has defined politicians wishing him dead as evil and undemocratic, saying it was time to stop such a negative mindset and focus on development.

The Senator who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District at the National Assembly begged such people to play politics of progress and prosperity instead of focusing on physical or political death and funeral of anybody.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Parry Benson, Abe examined that different publications in recent times, sponsored by his political opponents announced his physical death and burial.

He marveled why some politicians chose to focus on the death and burial of their opponents instead of concentrating on the progress and prosperity of the nation.

He said: “This kind of burial without end has become shameful to those who conceive and imagine these negative thoughts.

“Every day you bury Senator Abe in the morning, by evening you are shouting about the same man you buried in the morning and then you bury him again and again”

He added: “It got to the point where a coffin with Senator Abe was carried on live television in Bori and buried, yet Senator Abe is still here.

The purpose of our politics should not be the burial of anyone. It should be about the progress and prosperity of our nation.

“I represent the truth, the truth does not die and so it can never be buried. Real people cannot bury the truth, hirelings, with real names or pseudo names, cannot bury the truth”.

“Let us focus on what is real; change is always a painful process. But change must come”.

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Disaster: Fear in Delta as flood takes over roads in Uvwie, Warri others

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Inhabitants, particularly motorists in the identical local government areas of Uvwie and Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have expressed fear as major roads were taken over by flood.

It was gathered that the flood was a result of the heavy rain in the area during the weekend.

One of the affected places is the popular Enerhen junction, a major gateway between the two local government areas, as the right side of the Warri South axis of the beleaguered road also known as Commercial tricycle (Keke) park could be best described as a swimming pool.

Also, most exit roads in the area, especially those in the Marine quarters were no go areas as they were taken over by the flood.

Affected roads in Uvwie local government that are also flooded include Uti Road, Refinery Road, Jakpa Road by General Hospital, Ekpan, amongst others.

Meanwhile, in Warri South, Ginuwa Road by JJC popularly known as ‘ River Ginuwa ‘ was in its conventional unenviable state of waterlogging.

The neighboring roads in Mowoe, Yoruba, Okandeji by Okoye, and Smart streets were also impassable even by pedestrians. Same with areas like Aghoghovbia, Arigbe, and Fani Kayode, amongst others.

Reacting to the perennial problem, residents in the areas appealed to the relevant authorities to urgently find a permanent solution so as to keep the areas in good condition.

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Okowa mourns Okpakpor, condoles with Isoko nation, NBA

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Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed sorrow at the death of Chief Patrick Okpakpor a renowned lawyer and politician.

Chief Okpakpor popularly known as A.P.J died on Friday night after a protracted illness. He was 78.

The deceased hails from Otor-Iyede in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

He was Commissioner for Finance in the defunct Bendel State, and first Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Delta State from 1991 to1992.

Chief P.ress Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in a statement on Sunday in Asaba, commiserated with the Okpakpor family, the people of Isoko, Iyede Kingdom, and the Nigeria Bar Association over the demise of the eminent lawyer and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain.

He pointed out that the departed Okpakpor was an elder statesman, grassroots politician, and administrator, who excelled as a two-time commissioner in his illustrious political career.

The governor described the deceased as a “thoroughbred politician’’ recalling that he was a founding member of NCNC, NPN, NRC, NCPN – all defunct political parties, and the PDP where he contributed immensely to its successes in the Isoko area.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn Elder Statesman, grassroots-politician, a renowned lawyer and pioneer Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Delta, Chief A.P.J. Okpakpor, who passed on Friday after a protracted illness.

“The news of his death was saddening. A prominent lawyer, Okpakpor had a blissful legal career spanning over 40 years during which he contributed to the socio-economic development of Delta and Isokoland.

“He was a gentleman, who distinguished himself in the service of his people, especially as commissioner in the defunct Bendel State and Delta.

“In the formative years of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he was a founding member and contributed immensely to the party’s invincibility in Isoko North,’’ he said.

Okowa prayed that God would give his family, friends, and associates the grace to bear the loss of the great son of Isoko land.

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Asaba storm water drainage, ready in October – Works Commisioner, Aguoye

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Confronted with upcoming flood, Delta State Government has promised to complete the Okpanam storm water drainage project in Asaba by October, which would channel rain water to Iyi-Uku River in Okotomi Quarters.

Chief James Augoye, State’s Commissioner for Works, made the pledge, while inspecting the project in Asaba.

He said about 2.9 kilometres of the project has been completed. His Information counterpart, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, accompanied him.

While playing back the commitment of the state government to address the flooding dilemma in Okpanam, Asaba and its environs, Chief Augoye also disclosed that the depth of the drains were 3.5 metres by 1.2 metres, 1.5 metres by 1.5 metres and 0.9 meters by 0.9 meters, depending on the topography of the affected area.

According to him, “Okpanam community in particular and the entire state capital territory in general, would soon heave a sigh of relief from perennial flooding as a result of the storm water drainage being constructed by the government.

“About 15 adjoining roads of about 3.3km were also being constructed to help reduce the movement of sand, which usually blocks the drains along Okpanam during heavy rains.

He said: “The essence of the drainage project awarded in June 27, 2019, is to reduce the volume of water along the Okpanam road and Shoprite area due to the hilly nature of Okpanam town.

The Commissioner who held that no compensation would be paid for houses without government approval, said, “About 50 per cent of the compensation for houses marked for demolition has been paid, while the remaining would be paid after an assessment.

The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the state government would not slow down on project execution on account of the outbreak of COVID-19.

He said: “We are desirous of building a stronger Delta with these infrastructure, and we are also desirous of saving these houses and homes that would have been affected by flood.”

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Breaking: Mandela’s daughter Zindzi is dead

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South Africa’s ambassador to Denmark, Zindziswa “Zindzi” Nobutho Mandela, has died,

This was revealed by a close family member to newsmen.

Zindzi, a mother of four is the youngest daughter of the late former statesman Nelson Mandela and the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.

International and co-operation minister Naledi Pandor said she learnt of the death with shock.

Expressing deep condolences to the Mandela family, friends and colleagues, Pandor said: “Zindzi will not only be remembered as a daughter of our struggle heroes, Tata Nelson and Mama Winnie Mandela but as a struggle heroine in her own right. She served South Africa well.”

Madikizela-Mandela’s former spokesperson Zodwa Zane confirmed Zindzi’s passing, stating that the Mandela family were going to issue a statement later in the day.

UDM leader Bantu Holomisa on Monday described Zindzi as a “fighter” who had fought from the early days of her life.

Holomisa said that Zindzi was very close to her late mother.

“We will also remember her during the time when she was campaigning for [Nelson] Mandela to be released. She was vocal.

“My condolences to the family and her children and sisters.”

Zindzi and her sister Zenani greatup in the forefront of the anti-apartheid struggle as their mother fought both the state and economic hardship as a single mother while their father was incarcerated.

“By the time I was born, on April 9 1980, my mother knew how to strip and assemble an AK-47 in exactly 38 seconds.”

These are the opening words of the biography of Zindzi’s eldest daughter, Zoleka, titled When Hope Whispers.

Zindzi is best remembered for her defiance, which she retained throughout her life, most recently voicing her support for accelerated land reform.

Her first foray into the spotlight in her own right was when she read her jailed father’s speech in Jabulani Stadium, Soweto, in February 1985, reject then-president PW Botha’s conditional offer of freedom.

Five months ago, as South Africans commemorated the 30th anniversary of Madiba’s release from the Victor Verster prison, Zindzi reminisced about the weekends they went to visit him in prison and how, upon his release, she realised she would share him with the nation.

Zindzi’s diplomatic career dates back to when she began training as Head of Mission Designate in August 2014. She took up her posting on June 17, 2015, after receiving her security clearance earlier that month.

She was born on December 23,, 1960 in Soweto. SAHistory.org states Madiba’s 27-year jail term began 18 months after Zindzi’s birth. Her mother’s banishment in 1977 to Brandfort for eight years further deprived Zindzi of a normal upbringing and education. However, she was sent to Swaziland where she finished her secondary education. In 1985 she earned her BA Law degree at the University of Cape Town.

On its website, Dirco states Zindzi had been involved in philanthropic work with several organisations, while in her business role she held positions as director and president of several corporations and holdings.

In her political career, Dirco said she served as deputy president of the Soweto Youth Congress, was a member of the Release Mandela Campaign, was recruited as an underground operative of Umkhonto we Sizwe, worked with the communities of Weilers/Orange Farm to launch the first ANC branch with struggle leader Walter Sisulu in the 1990s, and served in the MK veterans association in the Lesley Moatshe branch.

Zindzi was married twice. From her first marriage to businessman Zwelibanzi Hlongwane she has four children: Zoleka Mandela (1980), Zondwa Mandela (1985), Bambatha Mandela (1989) and Zwelabo Mandela-Hlongwane (1992). In 2013 she remarried, to former South African National Defence Force member Molapi Motlhajwa.

SowetanLIVE’s sister publication TimesLIVE reported the bride wore a silver-grey gown and matching fascinator for the ceremony at a home affairs office in Potchefstroom before heading to the wedding reception in a 50m-by-10m marquee erected on a street in Ikageng township. However, their marriage ended after about a year.

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Edo Election: Ize-yamu will beat Obaseki on September 19 – Edo APC

Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will face defeat in the gubernatorial poll slated for September 19.

The party’s Publicity Secretary, Chris Azebamwan, disclosed yesterday that its governorship candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, would emerge victorious at the polls.

It denounced the lies and propaganda of Edo PDP, through its spokesman, Chris Nehikhare, who alleged that the National Campaign Council of the APC approached NEXIM Bank for $500million loan, allegedly to fund the governorship campaign.

APC said: “The irresponsible, senseless and reckless allegations of the PDP would have been ignored if the issues involved are not so weighty. Any person familiar with the rudiments of financial transactions by banks knows that no bank worth its operating licence will provide a facility of that magnitude, without documentation and a long paper trail.

“We challenge Nehikhare and his paymasters to publish evidence in their possession to substantiate their claim or shut up.”

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Corruption: State govt. threatens erring SDGs contractors

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The Ekiti State government has told contractors handling Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) projects across the state against abandoning sites after collecting mobilisation fees

Mr. Olukayode Adunmo, Secretary of SDG’s in the state, gave the warning at the weekend, after a two-day inspection tour of projects so far executed and completed under the 2018 intervention programme, in four selected local government areas of Ijero, Moba, Oye and Ekiti south-west in the state.

The government conserved that any contractor involved in this action after receiving funds would be made to return such funds and be prosecuted.

No fewer than 60 projects, domiciled mostly in schools and hospitals, included the supply of equipment, outright construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of dilapidated classrooms and Ward structures, toilets, boreholes, staff quarters, landscaping and interlocking among others.

Adunmo, who, in company with the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on SDG’s, Mrs. Abimbola Solanke, led a team from the Presidency on the inspection visit, said the SDG’s office in the state, once had a case of job abandonment by a contractor who was later picked by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and made refund the money.

According to him, “We always try our possible best, in line of duty to ensure no contractor is left unmonitored and where you defaulted, we will make sure your further payment is delayed while you are warned to return to the site and do the needful or risk further actions that may not be palatable

“When we suspect foul play on our jobs, we give you a long rope of not longer than six months to amend your ways, after which the contract is terminated, and you are made to refund our money.

“There is no hiding place for defaulters, no matter where they may be hiding. That is why no contractor is fully paid up until a satisfactory work is delivered. I must, however, confess that 99 percent of our present crop of contractors satisfactorily delivered on the jobs awarded them.

“The truth about our part of the world is that no contractor wants to perform to target time and specification unless you put up a strong monitoring mechanism, and it is on the basis of this that I want to commend our team of top officials for making this possible through their close monitoring and uncompromised supervision, ” he said.

Adunmo said all the 56 completed projects are to be officially handed over to the benefiting council areas and communities within the next few weeks.

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Catastrophe: Six die in Ondo accident

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Six persons have been reported dead in a road accident that happened between Ore and Ondo town.

It was gathered that the accident involved a commercial Volkswagen Jetta car numbered REE 446 KP and an articulated truck.

Witnesses who were at the scene of the accident explained that the truck had a brake failure and hit the car coming from the opposite way.

Good Samaritans had to use an ax to cut the car to pieces in order to save the victims.

Ahmed Hassan, Ondo Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), who validated the incident said the injured were taken to the hospital.

He warned drivers to always check their vehicles and avoid over speeding in order to reduce the rate of road accidents.

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WASSCE 2020: Parents plan to meet FG on Monday, insist on school resumption

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The National Parents Teachers’ Association of Nigeria has said it is disturbed about the declaration by the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, that school children in the country would not be allowed to sit the West African Senior School Certificate Examination slated for August 4 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alhaji Haruna Danjuma , NAPTAN National President, in an interview with newsmen said the association had settled to meet Adamu by Monday to seek an amicable solution.

The Association (NAPTAN) had in the last week of May called on the government to reopen schools nationwide “to pupils who will be sitting external examinations of the West African Examinations Council and the National Examinations Council.”

NAPTAN said parents had resolved to work together with schools to put measures in place such as the provision of face masks, hand washing containers, and hand sanitisers to minimise the risks of virus contraction by the pupils.

Responding to Adamu’s directive that pupils would not be able to sit the WASSCE this year, Danjuma said parents were confused and that they would seek an audience with the government on the matter.

He said, “Surprisingly, we heard from the Federal Ministry of Education that the government has suspended the reopening of schools. This is very confusing; we don’t know what to do. We are waiting for whatever will come after this.

“On our side at NAPTAN, we are planning to go to the ministry and meet with the minister or his representatives to hear from them. It should be on Monday.”

Recall that the Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba, in a press briefing by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 last Monday announced that the 2020 WASSCE conducted by WAEC would hold between August 4 and September 5.

However, Adamu said on Wednesday that all federal schools would remain closed until it was comfortable to reopen them. He also advised state governments that had announced school resumption plans to withdraw such announcements.

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Anti-corruption Day: See what Buhari told A.U Chairman, Ramaphosa

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President Muhammadu Buhari has said on Saturday that huge corruption being perpetrated especially in Africa has created a huge governance deficit.

Buhari said such terrible growth has created unfavorable effects that have worsened the socio-economic and political situation in Africa.

This is contained in a letter to South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, Chairman of African Union.

As the continent celebrates Anti-Corruption Day, July 11, 2020, the President urged African leaders to ensure the immediate actualization of the Common African Position on Assets Recovery (CAPAR),.

Buhari according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Femi Adesina, asked for a re-commitment to the anti-corruption war by leaders on the continent to engender an “integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens, representing a dynamic force in the international arena.”

He described that “the massive corruption being executed across our national governments has created a huge governance deficit that has, in turn, created negative consequences that have worsened the socioeconomic and political situation in Africa.”

The letter by President Buhari reads in part:

“Your Excellency is aware, the continental fight against corruption has been premised on an irreducible minimum that can pave the way for Africa’s transformation.

“In this effort, the emphasis has been on the continent’s collective determination to forge resilient partnerships among our national governments, civil society organizations and other interest groups, such as women, youth and the physically challenged, to ensure improved socio-economic, political and security development and ultimately, the improvement of our continent.

“The concern of the African Union is that the massive corruption being perpetrated across our national governments has created a huge governance deficit that has, in turn, created negative consequences that have worsened the socio-economic and political situation in Africa.

“Your Excellency may recall that these continental concerns led our colleagues at the African Union, to appoint my humble self as the African Union Anti-Corruption Champion. I believe that the efforts and focus of the Nigerian Government at home, partly informed this decision as well as the need for Africa, as a continent, to recommit herself to the fight against corruption and the imperative to free resources for meaningful development.

“I am, therefore, in full support of the call for the issuance of a continental message to commemorate this day, on July 11, 2020, to re-commit the African Union to the continental fight against corruption, including through a robust approach to assets recovery, hence the need for a strategic framework on a Common African Position on Assets Recovery (CAPAR).

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Edo 2020: Ize-Iyamu knocks Obaseki over ‘attacks’ on Ganduje

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Edo State‎ All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for September 19 gubernatorial election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has described as irresponsible and indecorous the actions of Governor Godwin Obaseki to expend state resources on the display of videos involving Governor Umar Ganduje of Kano State on a digital billboard placed at the King’s Square (Ring Road) in Benin City.

In a press statement by Mr. John Mayaki, the Director of Communication and Media of his Campaign Organization, Ize-Iyamu said it is hypocritical for governor Godwin Obaseki to embark on such a thoughtless act of cheap blackmail when he is yet to account for his Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Diaspora Affairs, Osazee Osemwengie Ero, who remains in detention abroad after his arrest last year in France over credible allegations of money laundering.

“It is obvious to everyone in Edo State and beyond now that the outgoing Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and his party of tax-collectors have no record or achievements to campaign with.

“Otherwise, instead of wasting public funds on a lazy, indecorous, and irresponsible attempt to smear the reputation of Governor Umar Ganduje of Kano State, they would have seized the fraudulently obtained opportunity of a digital billboard at the heart of the state’s capital to show the people of Edo State consequential matters like their achievements in office.

“It is nothing but hypocrisy and a lack of awareness, two traits that contributed to the failure of the Obaseki-administration, for the Governor to sanction such an irresponsible move when his own Commissioner and best friend, Osazee Osemwingie Ero, is still languishing in detention abroad since his arrest in France last year over credible allegations of money laundering.

“Obaseki is yet to tell Edo people the assignment Osazee Osemwingie Ero was carrying out for him in France before he was nabbed by the International Police with a reported sum of two million dollars.

“He is also yet to explain to the people of Edo State where he got the 15 billion naira he paid the PDP tax-collectors to facilitate his imposition as the party’s emergency-hour candidate.

“It is nothing but hypocrisy and a lack of awareness, two traits that contributed to the failure of the Obaseki-administration, for the Governor to sanction such an irresponsible move when his own Commissioner and best friend, Osazee Osemwingie Ero, is still languishing in detention abroad since his arrest in France last year over credible allegations of money laundering.

“Obaseki is yet to tell Edo people the assignment Osazee Odemwingie Ero was carrying out for him in France before he was nabbed by the International Police with a reported sum of two million dollars.

“He is also yet to explain to the people of Edo State where he got the 15 billion naira he paid the PDP tax-collectors to facilitate his imposition as the party’s emergency-hour candidate.

“The fact of the matter remains that if Obaseki were to be a resident of Kano State today, he would have been arrested and swiftly prosecuted by Governor Ganduje’s Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, a state anti-corruption agency established to tackle corruption cases. It is no surprise, given the nature of Obaseki’s administration and sharp practices of both governor and appointees that such an agency is missing in Edo State.

“If Obaseki has nothing to show or tell Edo people beyond childish retorts and mudslinging, then he can hold his peace until September 19th when he is finally shown the exit door after four years of abject failure in office”‎, the statement said.

Recall that the Edo State Government had on the‎ arrest of Mr. Ero last year, distance the governor and the Government from his travails.

Besides, Governor Obaseki in a speech shortly after he won the PDP governorship primary election, denied spending money to secure the governorship ticket.

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Why I endorsed Okonjo Iweala for WTO post – Atiku Abubakar

Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president of Nigeria, has on Saturday recommended Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala for the post of Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

This is contained in a statement posted on the official twitter page of the former vice president.

In the tweet, Atiku noted that her “experience and the tremendous related works she has done confirms without ambiguity that her leadership shall be a blessing to the WTO and the world”.

Recall that in June, the WTO had acknowledged Okonjo-Iweala as Nigeria’s nominee for the post.

The former Minister of Finance was nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The current WTO Director-General, Roberto Azevêdo, has announced he will step down on August 31, 2020.

Other nominees for the post include Mr. Jesús Seade Kuri of Mexico, Mr. Abdel-Hamid Mamdouh of Egypt, Mr. Tudor Ulianovschi of Moldova, Ms. Amina C. Mohamed of Kenya, Mr. Mohammad Maziad Al-Tuwaijiri of Saudi Arabia and Dr. Liam Fox of the United Kingdom.

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Breaking: Six rescued as Lagos building collapse, others trapped in (photos)

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A three-story building has today collapsed at 20, Freeman Street, Lagos Island at about 3 am.

Six people were rescued alive as a result of the building collapse

“Nine to 10 people are suggested to be living in the building. Efforts are on to rescue the remaining people,” said Southwest Coordinator, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Ibrahim Farinloye.

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Magu: Investigate sales of properties, loots already relooted must be re-recovered – Fayose to panel

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Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose has ordered for full investigation into the sales of properties seized by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the suspended acting chairman, Ibrahim Magu,

He disclosed this in a tweet he tweeted on his official Twitter handle.

The former governor revealed that the ongoing investigation will be incomplete without digging into “who bought what and how they were sold.”

Fayose also said the probe must not be just to achieve the sole aim of removing Magu from office, adding that “Nigerians are interested in the identities of buyers of the properties seized by EFCC and how they were sold.”

He said; “Nigerians must know the beneficiaries of the seized properties and how they were sold because most of these properties were bought by associates of Magu, including some so-called human rights lawyers.

“These human rights lawyers were his promoters and today, they are the ones defending him because they know that if this investigation goes deeper than just looking for what Magu did wrong so as to remove him from office, their own dirty secrets will be revealed for Nigerians to see.

“This investigation must not end up as their usual paddy-paddy arrangement.

“It should not end up as a tool just to remove Magu because removing him as the Chairman is not to be enough, the loots already relooted must be re-recovered and those who looted the loots brought to book.

“Also, those holding money and properties in trust for Magu as well as those who must have helped him to launder money must be revealed.”

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IGP orders instant withdrawal of police Officers serving at EFCC

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Following the ongoing investigation against the suspended acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, has ordered the withdrawal of all police officers serving at the agency.

It was gathered that Adamu on Friday, July 10, instructed that all operatives were to be withdrawn from the commission.

Adamu’s instruction was reported to be contained in a memo sent to the Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Police Mobile Force (PMF), PMF Squadrons one to 79, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

He also directed that the exact number of officers that were withdrawn to be replaced with new operatives.

While noting that only EFCC staff should be allowed to gain access to the premises, Adamu said all withdrawn operatives must report to the force by 8 am on Monday, July 13.

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Misconduct: Magu pleads with IGP for bail

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The suspended acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, who is under investigation by a presidential panel, has requested bail from custody.

Magu has spent the fourth day at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID).

Recall that Magu has been detained at the FCID since Monday when he first appeared before the panel.

The presidential panel is investigating Magu for allegations of misconduct grounded against him by Minister of Justice and Attorney-General Abubakar Malami.

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See reasons why we increased fuel price – FG reveals

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The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has revealed that the Federal Government did not promise to keep the pump price of petrol permanently low.

In a statement Thursday, Sylva also said the FG could no longer bear the burden of petrol subsidy.

This was contained in an Instagram post titled
“DEREGULATION: THE FACTS AND THE REASONS BEHIND THE POLICY,” on the Ministry’s Instagram handle @fmprng. “After a thorough examination of the economics of subsidising PMS for domestic consumption, the Federal Government concluded that it was unrealistic to continue with the burden of subsidising PMS to the tune of trillions of naira every year, more so when this subsidy was benefiting in large part the rich, rather than the poor and ordinary Nigerians,” the minister said.

He said deregulation meant that the government would no longer continue to be the main supplier of petroleum products but would encourage the private sector to take over the role of supplying the products across the country.

According to him, market forces will henceforth determine the prices at the pump. This, he said, is in line with global best practices where the government will continue to play its traditional role of regulation to ensure that the commodity is not priced arbitrarily by private sector suppliers. He explained that the regulatory function in the oil sector is like the role played by the Central Bank of Nigeria in the banking sector, “ensuring that commercial banks do not charge arbitrary interest rates”. The minister said petroleum products were refined from crude oil and therefore the price of crude (the feedstock) for the refining process would affect the price of the refined product. “When crude oil prices were down, government, through its regulatory functions, ensured that the benefits of lower crude oil prices were enjoyed by Nigerians by ensuring that PMS was lowered. At that time, we indicated that an increase in crude oil prices will also reflect at the pump”, he added. He said one of the reasons the country had been unable to attract the level of investments desired into the refining sector had been the burden of fuel subsidy.

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Buhari suspends Magu, appoints new acting EFCC Chairman

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President Muhammadu Buhari has endorsed the instantaneous suspension of Ibrahim Magu as Ag. Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

His suspension is in arrangement to allow for an unhindered inquiry by the Presidential Investigation Panel under the Tribunals of Inquiry Act and other relevant laws.

This is contained in a statement issued by Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu, Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice made available to newsmen on Friday.

The statement reveals that President Muhammadu Buhari has also endorsed that the EFCC Director of Operations, Mohammed Umar, should take charge and oversee the activities of the Commission pending the conclusion of the ongoing investigation and further directives in that regards.

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Four-year-old son killed by own Father in Anambra community

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A man identified as Mr. Christian Alisigwe, 35 from White Azia, Ihiala local government area of Anambra State has murdered his four-year-old son.

It was gathered that the suspects allegedly murdered the deceased with a cutlass.

Police authorities, who are helping to unfold the reason for the action, said the four-year-old, Ebubechukwu Alisigwe was buried by the suspect after the action.

SP Haruna Mohammed, police spokesperson in Anambra said the corpse has been exhumed and deposited in a morgue, while the suspect has been arrested.

He said, “On the 9/07/2020, at about 3:21: pm, Police operatives attached to Azia Police Station arrested one Christian Alisigwe ‘m’ aged 35 years of white Azia in Ihiala LGA of Anambra State.

“Suspect allegedly used a cutlass and killed his own biological son namely Ebubechukwu Alisigwe ‘m’ aged 4years of the same address and buried the corpse in a shallow grave at his compound.

“Meanwhile, police detectives visited the Scene, exhumed the corpse, and deposited the same at Abam mortuary for autopsy after it was certified dead by a medical doctor.”

Haruna explained that the case had been transferred to State CID Awka, while a discreet investigation into the justification for the action had started.

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Magu: My house was not searched by EFCC – Abdulsalami says.

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Proceeding the investigation into the corruption allegations grounded against the acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, entered its fourth day on Thursday, the secretary of the anti-graft agency, Olanipekun Olukoyede and some of its directors have come up before the panel.

It was gathered that they were questioned by Justice Ayo Salamiled panel on what they know about the 21-point allegations raised by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, against Magu.

The EFCC officials were said to have been invited to clear light on the investigation to enable the investigative panel to reach a conclusion and necessary recommendations to President Muhammadu Buhari.
As of 7.45 p.m of Thursday, the time of this report, the top EFCC officials were still in a meeting with the panel.

It was also gathered that the panel instructed the senior EFCC officials to provide files of cases handled since 2015, including forfeited assets and all cash releases within days As the panel continues its probe, the commission continued to be without a clear administrative head, as the president was yet to formally request any of its senior officials to act in that capacity.

Magu, who has continued to be held in detention while his residences have been searched, is likely to be removed from the post.

A source told journalists that in the absence of Magu, EFCC officials were as of Thursday evening, still waiting for directives on the way to go.

Meanwhile, a former head of state, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has said his house has never been searched by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or any security agency.

Apparently reacting to reports that the EFCC searched his house in Minna, Niger State, Abubakar, through his military assistant, Captain J. Mfon (retd), said the closest to such was in 2017 when some EFCC operatives from Kano mistook his house for one which was to be searched in Tunga.

General Abdulsalami said when the officers arrived at his house, he contacted Magu who said he was unaware of the operation and the officers immediately left, realising that they were at the wrong place.

Abdulsalami added that consequently, the officers left without conducting any search on his house. The statement added that to put the record straight, the house of the former head of state has never been searched by officials of either the EFCC or any other security agency.

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Edo Election: PDP issues stern warning to APC on plans to rig election

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The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has warned the All Progressives Congress, APC, against any try to rig the upcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State.

Kola Ologbondiyan PDP’s National Publicity Secretary warned that any attempt to rig the September 19 governorship election would be withstood.

Ologbondiyan said APC should desist from their plots to rig the election because people of Edo State will absolutely resist them.

The PDP leader told APC to be ready to accept loss during the election.

He said: “The APC, by now, should know that attempting to rig, by any way whatsoever, will surely be met with stiff resistance and dire consequences from the people.

“Our party cautions the APC to desist from their plots to rig the Edo election as the people of Edo will firmly resist them. The APC should rather blame themselves for their woes and get ready to accept their inevitable crushing defeat at the poll.”

It was gathered that PDP had alleged plans by the APC to rig the governorship election in Edo State.

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Don’t share details of your friends with Partners – Actress Omorodion give reasons

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Nollywood actress, Lisa Omorodion, has taken to her social media page to advise ladies in love to desist from sharing details about their friends with their partners.

She noted that a boyfriend is not a husband and the information shared about their friends might seem like innocent pillow talk or gist but that it does more harm than good.

The actress also revealed that people trust their friends with information about them because of the relationship they share and not with their partners because they are not friends.

According to the actress, once the relationship ends, feelings may die but the too much information that was shared remains with the man.

She wrote: “LADIES LETS TALK!

“Your boyfriend is not my BEST FRIEND, you are my best friend. If I want him to know my secrets I will call a meeting with the two of you present and share it all.

“Ladies NEVER ever tell your secrets to a woman in love. This woman, in particular, has certain characteristics – overly trusting, her legs jelly (the aftermath of being swept off her feet a time too many), her stomach ridden with butterflies. Now, pillow talk is one of her favourite pastimes with her new Boo; Information dished out here might even not be on a need to know basis. To some it’s for the simple reason of seeking validation to improve intimacy, for others it’s just GIST! Whatever the reason, secrets are spilled; mainly of the other person (you) blurring herself out of the picture while at it. After all, said & said; her boyfriend can virtually see through you and in most cases judge you without you knowing.

“Like a tornado, the relationship comes crashing! But guess the only thing that withstood this crash?? Your guess is as good as mine- your Secret/Gist! The ex-boyfriend, the other one before this one and the one from 4 years ago have all left the building with TOO MUCH information.

“Hilarious clean and dirty blonde jokes you will definitely love

A word for the unwise… A boyfriend is NOT your husband …Stop betraying your friends!!”

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Buhari mourns Ivorian Minister, Coulibaly

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President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly of Cote d’Ivoire and a candidate in October’s presidential election.

His condolence message was expressed in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Thursday.

The Nigerian president condoled with President Alassane Ouattara and the government and people of Cote d ‘Ivoire over the demise of the prime minister.

Buhari observed that the Prime Minister, who breathed his last in the line of duty at a cabinet meeting, left behind a void not only in his country but also in the West African sub-region which had looked up to him as an emerging leader for the new times.

The statement quoted the President as saying: ”His leadership, political and business acumen, working in support of President Ouattara, epitomize the success story of the economy and the return of peace and stability after the crises Cote d’Ivoire passed through.

“May God bless his soul and further unify the country and its people.”

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Police arrest 73-year-old woman for allegedly strangling husband to death

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The Abia State police command has arrested one Mrs. Rose Uwaga for allegedly strangling her 83-year-old husband, Alhaji Isa Uwaga, to death in Umuahia.

According to reports, the two old couple had a difference, which deepened into fisticuffs at their residence at Ohobo-Afara, Umuahia.

Revealing this, a resident of the area who communicated on the condition of anonymity said: “During the fight, the man allegedly grabbed a machete to scare the wife but the woman reportedly overpowered him. The machete fell off his hand and the woman, who is huge, pinned him down by the neck and strangled him to death.”

Another report had it that the deceased might have slumped and died “out of exhaustion after his quarrel with his wife.”

“Is it possible for a woman of about 73 years to muster the strength to strangulate a man?” a friend to the family also questioned.

It was also gathered that the relations of the deceased rallied round to bury him shortly after his death, according to Islamic rite, before one of Uwaga’s children, Ibeabuchi, reportedly alerted the police.

The woman who was said to have immediately gone into hiding was later arrested and detained by the police.

The Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Geoffrey Ogbonnaya, who confirmed the arrest of the woman, yesterday, in Umuahia said Ibeabuchi reported the matter to the police about noon on Thursday, July 2.

He said the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for proper investigation.

He also asserted the remains of the deceased had been laid at the morgue “for possible autopsy.”

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EFCC seized $9.7m, €74.000 given to me as gifts for my birthday, others – Ex NNPC Boss

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A former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, has informed a Federal High Court in Abuja that the cash the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seized from him, were gifts he received after he left office.

Recall that In February 2017, the EFCC recovered $9.7 million and £74,000 from Yakubu’s home in Kaduna.

Yakubu, who was a GMD at the NNPC between 2012 and 2014, was also indicted for failing to disclose the monies in his asset declaration form.

He was subsequently charged to court and arraigned on six counts of money laundering.

However, while giving evidence as to the first defence witness, Yakubu said 97 percent to 98 percent of the sum were gifts.

“The money was not received in bulk but in tranches of not more than $10,000 and not more than £5,000. And a substantial part of the money was given to me after I left the office.

“And it was given to me on the occasions of birthdays, thanksgiving services, weddings of my daughters and other celebrations that I hosted after leaving office,” he said.

Yakubu also claimed he got two percent of the monies by saving from estacodes.

The case was adjourned until July 22.

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Corruption: EFCC Boss Magu, must be prosecuted – PDP says

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has requested that Ibrahim Magu must face prosecution after his suspension as the acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The opposition party made the call in a series of tweets via it’s an official Twitter account on Wednesday, July 8.

The party said that after assessing the reported circumstances surrounding the investigation that indicted Magu, the acting EFCC chairman should be prosecuted.

The opposition party noted that Magu’s indictment reinforces its position that the war against corruption under his watch, has been a huge scam by corrupt individuals to cover various things including plundering of public resources.

According to PDP, this development has exposed why corruption, as documented by credible international organizations, has worsened under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The party further said Nigerians expect the president to enforce the law by directing relevant agencies to commence actions that would lead to Magu’s prosecution, adding that anything short of this will not be acceptable to the people.

Recall that Magu was reportedly suspended by President Buhari on Tuesday, July 7, to allow him to face a probe into the allegations of misconduct against him.

Magu’s reported suspension comes a day after he was summoned by a presidential panel for questioning over alleged violations against him.

The acting EFCC boss was reported to have been questioned for several hours by members of the panel in the presence of an EFCC counsel member, Rotimi Oyedepo.

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Why I sacked Permanent Secretary – Wike reveals

The Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has sacked a Permanent Secretary, Sunny Okere, with immediate effect.

This was contained in a statement signed by Rivers Commissioner for Information and Communications, Paulinus Nsirim, and was made available to newsmen.

Okere was sacked for flouting and obstructing the enforcement of COVID-19 guidelines.

Wike made the decision public via a statewide broadcast on Wednesday.

According to him, Okere chased away officials of the Ministry of Health, who went to Oyigbo to enforce the established guidelines on public burials.

Wike said his action against the Permanent Secretary, would serve as a warning to other public officers.

“Burial ceremonies are also reportedly being conducted in clear breach of the 50 persons maximum attendance limit such that a serving Permanent Secretary had the temerity to chase away officials of the State Ministry of Health who went to enforce the established guidelines on public burials at Oyigbo,” the statement read in part.

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Why State Assembly Suspended Speaker, Hon. Member

The leadership of the Ondo state House of Assembly suspended the Deputy Speaker of the house, Iroju Ogundeji.

Another lawmaker in the house, Hon. Adewale Willaims was similarly suspended.

It was alleged that Ogundeji is one of the lawmakers who dissociated themselves in the impeachment process of Ondo deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi

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774,000 Jobs: Lawmakers trying to bypass me – Keyamo

Festus Keyamo SAN, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, has defined the argument encircling the intended employment of 774,000 Nigerians as an attempt by the National Assembly to bypass him in the implementation of the project.

He disclosed this just after the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, apologised to the National Assembly joint committee on Labour following a clash between lawmakers and Mr. Keyamo over the planned recruitment.

Fifty-two billion nairas has been allocated for the Special Public Works Programme in the 2020 budget. It is aimed at employing 774,000 citizens, a thousand from each of the 774 local government areas in the country.

Mr. Keyamo condemned the lawmakers of wanting to sabotage the recruitment process despite receiving 15 percent job slots.

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE), according to the lawmakers, is meant to implement the recruitment under a special works programme.

They had accused Mr. Keyamo of hijacking the program from the NDE. The minister hit back, saying they were the ones trying to take over the project.

The committee later demanded that the programme be suspended until the modalities for the exercise have been explained to the lawmakers.

It also mandated its Committees on Labour and Employment to invite Mr. Ngige and other relevant officials of the ministry to brief the joint committee on the modalities for the implementation of the programme.

Mr. Ngige appeared before members of the committee and the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, at the National Assembly on Tuesday and tendered an apology.

However, addressing journalists after the meeting, Mr. Keyamo said the programme cannot be implemented without his approval according to the NDE Act.

“First of all, may I say that this distinguished National Assembly, I believe that they are the lawmakers and they desire to comply strictly with the provisions of the law. Now it is important that all of you read the National Directorate of Employment Act. You can see that the whole struggle today has been how to bypass me in the execution of this programme and I’m sure that you all saw that,” he said.

“Now with the provisions of the law, how they are going to do that, I don’t know, I have to go back to my principal which is the president of the federal republic of Nigeria to give directives. By section 3 of the NDE Act, I am the chairman of the board. The minister is the chairman of the board of the NDE.

“When you say go back and bring a plan, you are still coming back to me. Secondly, if you look at section 15 of the NDE Act, it said the minister may give directives of a general nature to the NDE. In other words, you cannot have a work plan without coming back to the minister.”

He said by virtue of his appointment as minister, the president gave a directive in October last year asking him to go and supervise generally the activity of the NDE.

“I don’t see how you will supervise an agency and they go ahead without approval, the bulk must stop at a table.

“Beyond the general mandate the president gave, the president also specifically instructed me by memo in May this year for me to go and supervise the execution of this project. How can you supervise a project without your final approval.? That approval lies on my table,” he said.

Section 16(1) of the NDE Act, by the instruction of the president, an inter-ministerial committee has already been proposed – which we accepted – that the committee must drive the selection process. Section 16(1) said the minister shall constitute committees for the NDE. The director-general of the NDE has no such powers to constitute committees under the law, he explained.

“So when you say go back and bring a plan, are you asking the DG to go and break the law? Are you saying the DG should disobey the president? Are you saying the DG should disobey his immediate boss which is his minister?

“I will go back to the president for directives. The directives as to the execution of a project are not binding on me. The directives of the national assembly are not binding on me. This is an issue that will go to the attorney-general at the end of the day for interpretation.”

Both ministers and other delegates are expected to appear before the committee on Monday to show their work plan as well as discuss ways forward.

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See guidelines Issued by FG to conduct elections

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued a guideline for safely conducting state and local government elections, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic threatens.

Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Director-General of the NCDC, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja during the briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.

The NCDC urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), parties, politicians and election monitors to place a premium on the lives of the electorate by adhering strictly to the guidelines and bearing in mind that the deadly virus thrives in a mass gathering.

The government encouraged all to comply with protective measures – limiting mass gathering, ensuring physical distancing of at least two meters, promoting hand hygiene, and mandatory use of face masks.

He said: “Today we are announcing and launching a new guideline for the conducting of elections during the COVID-19 outbreak in Nigeria.

“Some states will be holding state and local government elections this year, is the first time we are holding elections of this significance during the pandemic.

“Therefore, we have developed this guideline to support everyone involved – parties, INEC, but most critically, Nigerians that will be going to vote in these difficult times.

“Voting still remains a civic responsibility and although we are in the middle of a pandemic, we have to find a way of doing this safely and we have to adapt to the new normal.

“As we know, the virus thrives in mass gathering, so there is a challenge we have in the way we have conducted our elections – pre-elections, during elections and post-elections. So, in doing this guideline, we try and offer advice on how to do this safely.”

The NCDC boss added: “We strongly encourage the use of television, radio, mobile vans, social media and other forms of communication as our politicians solicit votes.

“We advise careful adherence to mass gathering guidelines. Unfortunately, the virus doesn’t recognize whether we are conducting elections, religious gatherings, or business settings – it just thrives when people come together.

“We have provided specific guidelines for theses settings and none of them will be surprising and we’ll be explicit about it.

“We urge our political leaders to take responsibility and lead by example. Leadership will be critical in this era and we advise them to think of the lives of the electorate first. The electorate staying alive is much more important than any vote you can win.”

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Edo 2020: Why Obaseki will beat Ize-Iyamu – Atu reveals

Mr. Benjamin Atu, Senior Special Assistant on media to Edo State Deputy Governor, on Monday affirmed enthusiasm in the victory of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki in the September 19 governorship election.

‘’Governor Godwin Obaseki embodies what is special about Edo State. He is the candidate Edo people can trust to move the state forward’’

He disclosed this at a gathering of Edo people in Abuja.

Atu gave emphasis to Obaseki’s political experience, dynamic leadership and quality of thought.

The deputy Governor’s media aide explained that Obaseki would attract foreign investments into the state, circulate the dividends of democracy to all the nooks and crannies of Edo State and generate employment for the people.

‘Edo State will continue to experience economic development and good governance’’ he said.

The media boss also defined Obaseki as a pragmatist, good leader, competent administrator and an asset to Edo State.

He also bragged that the PDP candidate would defeat APC governorship candidate, Pastor Ize-Iyamu.

The penman also took a shot at the Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, mocking the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He interpreted Ganduje’s action as a clever ploy to whip up mundane sentiments to cover his dismal performance in Kano State.

‘’The people of Edo State have a choice in this governorship race. They have a choice of who they will elect to govern them and I believe there is no substitute for integrity and principle’’ Atu said.

Atu asserted that Obaseki’s humble disposition, simplicity and human disposition towards the people endeared him to the masses.

‘’Obaseki’s commitment to principle in the practice of politics, the rule of law and the best democratic tradition of fairness were some of the attributes that brought him into collision with his traducers”.

‘’Godwin Obaseki’s capacity is beyond question. We need character in Governmet House’’ he said.

He therefore advised voters to concentrate on the track record of the PDP governorship candidate, Governor Godwin Obaseki.

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Edo Politics: Okpella leaders knocks Kassim Afegbua for attacking Obaseki

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Well-known Okpella leaders on Monday conceded the vision and leadership style of Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

The leaders applauded Governor Obaseki for establishing accountability, paving way for economic development, and channeling his energies towards executing projects that relieve the hardship of the people.

They also talked about the extraordinary achievements of Obaseki and Phillip Shaibu.

In the meeting which was concentrated on mapping out programs for the governorship election in Okpella, the leaders defined the Obaseki-led government as the most purposeful and resolute in the history of Edo State.

The leaders therefore enumerated forthrightness, firmness, integrity, fairness, multi-faceted experiences, intelligence, and ideas as factors contributing to Obaseki and Phillip Shaibu’s exceptional leadership in the State.

They also inaugurated a strongly worded attack against former commissioner for Information in Edo State, Mr. Kassim Afegbua, characterizing his criticism of Obaseki and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as violent and deceptive.

‘’Kassim is a puppet who is twitching to the pull of the strings of certain individuals in the country. Okpella is not a shelter for unlawful or greedy politicians’’

In a statement, the leaders showered disdain on Kissim for fiddling into the affairs of the PDP and mocking him as the mouthpiece of those plotting to create ca risis in Edo State.

The statement signed by the Chairman of the meeting, Engineer Akemokue Lukman ,and other elders accused Kassim and those behind him for deviating from the party line and encouraging anarchy in the PDP.

‘’It is totally irresponsible for Kassim and his sponsors to promote chaos in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Afegbua and his sponsors want to turn back the clock on the progress so far made in Edo State’’

‘’Kassim did enrich himself during his tenure as commissioner. A man of questionable character can’t come out in the open to cry on behalf of Okpella people.

“Kassim boasts of his closeness to Adams Oshiomhole. As Media Adviser and Commissioner for Communication, what effort did he make about the construction of roads in Okpella”?

They also applauded Obaseki for rehabilitating Afokpella Road which was neglected by Kassim Afegbua and the Oshiomhole government.

‘’Kassim Afegbua should acknowledge the excellent performance of Obaseki. Most of the roads in the State were influenced by commissioners and Special Advisers in Oshiomhole’s government. Mike Itemuagbor ensured that the North Ibie roads were constructed. Comrade Philip Shaibu ensured that all the roads in his Uzairue/South Obie constituency were constructed. Hajia Maryam, the commissioner from Auchi ensured that most Auchi roads were budgeted for and constructed. Clement Agba, a commissioner from Uzanu, ensured that all roads in Uthe zanu community were constructed. The talk of performance by Afegbua is all propaganda. He has nothing to show for his years in government in his community’’.

Particularly, the leaders lauded the PDP National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus and other party chieftains for doing what is best for Edo State.

‘’We come from different backgrounds with divergent political ideologies. We also hold a variety of views. However, let us put the people ahead. Let us support Godwin Obaseki and Phillip Shaibu in creating a state in which everyone experiences a better life. Let us work in cooperation for the governorship election’’

They vowed to teach the All Progressives Congress (APC) a lesson in democracy on Saturday, September 19, 2020.

‘’The future of Edo State is only safe in the hands of the PDP, Godwin Obaseki and Phillip Shaibu’’

The leaders also had advice for Nigerians, particularly Edo people.

‘’Quit the APC and other mushroom parties. PDP is getting stronger every day in Edo State. It has a big advantage of winning the September 19 governorship election’’

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See why DSS arrested EFCC Boss, Ibrahim Magu

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Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, has been arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS).

It was gathered that he was arrested over allegations that he owns four properties.

He is also alleged to have transferred funds abroad through a third party.

Recall that In 2016, DSS accused the EFCC boss of living in an N40m mansion paid for by one Umar Mohammed, a retired Air Commodore.

The DSS report said in December 2010, the Police Service Commission (PSC) found Magu guilty of action prejudicial to state security – withholding of EFCC files, sabotage, unauthorized removal of EFCC files and acts unbecoming of a police officer, and awarded him severe reprimand as punishment.

It noted that Magu is “currently occupying a residence rented for N40m at N20m per annum. This accommodation was not paid for from the commission’s finances, but by one Umar Mohammed, air commodore retired, a questionable businessman who has subsequently been arrested by the secret service”.

DSS stated that Magu enlisted “the Federal Capital Development Authority to award a contract to Africa Energy, a company owned by the same Mohammed, to furnish the residence at the cost of N43m”

In one of such trips, the report added that Magu flew to Maiduguri alongside Mohammed with a bank MD who was being investigated by the EFCC over complicity in funds allegedly stolen by the immediate past petroleum minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke.

Furthermore, the EFCC boss has so far maintained a high-profile lifestyle. This is exemplified by his preference for first-class air travels. On 24 June 2016, he flew Emirate airlines first-class to Saudi Arabia to perform lesser hajj at the cost of N2.9m. This is in spite of Mr. President’s directive to all public servants to fly economy class.

“Magu has fostered a beneficial relationship with Mohammed who by his confession approaches clients for possible exploitation, favours, and associated returns,” the DSS report said.

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Waec 2020: disregard timetable circulating online – WAEC warns

The West African Examination Council has warned Nigerians to ignore the purposed timetable for the 2020/2021 West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination timetable circulating online.

The Head of Public Affairs, WAEC, Nigeria, Mr. Demianus Ojijeogu, told newsmen on Sunday that the timetable circulating online was not from the examination body.

He said, “The timetable in circulation did not emanate from WAEC, Nigeria. Please, disregard.”

The body had initially scheduled to hold the exam between April 6 and June 5 but postponed it because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Gunmen abducts Delta union Chairman

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Gunmen at the weekend abducted the chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Delta Chapter, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku in Asaba, the Delta State Capital.

It was gathered that the unionist was driving out of his house behind Immigration Office off the Ughelli-Asaba expressway when he was abducted.

Secretary of the NLC in the state, Comrade Innocent Ofonyeade, explained that Ofobruku was driving in the NLC Sienna bus at about 8.00 p.m when he was kidnapped.

According to the NLC penman, Ofobruku was on his way out that night to get drugs.

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Cyber Crime : Saraki blows APC for connecting him with Hushpuppi

A former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has illustrated as irresponsible and cheap politics, a statement hinted to the All Progressives Congress, which tried to connect him with a cyber-crime suspect, Ramon Abbas aka Hushpuppi, who was recently arrested in the United Arab Emirates and extradited to the United States.

This is contained in a statement titled, “Cyber Criminals: APC ‘s Statement Irresponsible, Says Saraki,” issued on Saturday by the media aide to the ex-Senate President, Yusuph Olaniyonu.

The APC’s statement, signed by its Deputy Publicity Secretary, Yekini Nabena, had demanded the probe of some Peoples Democratic Party leaders, including Saraki, over their alleged romance with Abbas.

But Saraki in his statement explained that he had no form of coalition with the said suspect, otherwise known as Hushpuppi
and neither did he know him in any way.

It read, “The statement credited to the APC, the ruling party in our country, is one of the ways by which our anti-graft agencies are weakened and why the fight against corruption in the country is often viewed with suspicion by the international community.

“This is because when these cyber-crime suspects were operating freely and openly displaying wealth, the APC saw nothing bad in their activities.

“Also, the party at that time did not deem it necessary to call on the anti-graft agencies to investigate their activities.

“Also, since the arrest of those cybercrime suspects and the subsequent damage to the image and the economy of Nigeria as well as the crisis it created for Nigerians engaged in lawful businesses across the world, the ruling party had been muted (sic).

The only time the APC deemed it necessary to make a statement was when it thought it should play dirty, cheap, and irresponsible politics.

“Dr. Saraki was the only political leader who has publicly made a statement through an Op-Ed article published in the Daily Trust newspaper of July 1, 2020, titled ‘Cyber Criminals: Confronting The Few Who Dent Many.’

“At this point, we call on the APC leadership to rein in the so-called Yekini Nabena and compel him to desist from making and circulating such malicious, odious and offensive claims.”

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Atiku hails Gov. Wike, Fintiri over new appointments

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Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has responded to Governor Nyesome Wike’s new appointment as the Chairman of Edo State Governorship Election National Campaign Council.

It was gathered that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP had appointed Governor Nyesome Wike as the Chairman of the Edo State Governorship Election National Campaign Council.

The party in a tweet via its official Twitter account also said it appointed Governor Ahmadu Fintiri as the Deputy Chairman of the election campaign.

Reacting, the Former Vice President in a tweet via his official Twitter account on Saturday morning expressed his good wishes to the two candidates stating that he was confident that they would carry out their responsibilities well.

He said “Congratulations, Governor Wike on your appointment as Chairman of Edo State Governorship Election National Campaign Council of our great party, OfficialPDPNig.

“I am confident that your leadership, supported by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, the Vice-Chairman, and other members of the PDP Edo 2020 Council will work assiduously for the victory of Governor Obaseki, and set Edo State on the path of even greater development.”

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Fraud Exposure: Journalist writes Gov. Okowa on threats by DESTMA DG

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The Director General, Young Nigerian Rights Organizations, Comrade Victor Ojei, has lamented over recent threat to his life by the Director General DESTMA, Mr. Sam Azubuike Idah.

This is contained in a statement signed and forwarded to Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa by Comrade Ojei and was made available to goldennationblog.com

Ojei conveyed concern over the onslaught and threat messages against his life and his media company, Wong Box TV by the Destma DG.

The statement reads:
“This is to bring to the attention of your good office the above subject matter for possible investigation and further necessary action, should my claims be confirmed to be within the limit of law and fundamental human rights.

“The onslaught against my person and my MEDIA COMPANY by name WONG BOX TV MEDIA, We relied on the Freedom of Information Act which has now become a law and the freedom of speech and expression in gathering all the materials used to ensure we expose and correct all corruption in the Delta State Traffic management Authority.

“It was initiated as part of our contribution to the present administration of His Excellency Governor Ifeanyi A. Okowa of which the DESTMA Agency is now called OKOWA POLICE which is now a stigma on the person of the Governor of Delta State.
Currently, the Governor of Delta State approved the investigation of the allegations we petitioned against Mr Sam Azubuike Idah the current Director General of DESTMA, a Disciplinary Committee was setup and the Chairman of the committee is the current Delta State Commissioner for Transport who sent us a letter of invitation of which we obliged and upon our presentation of documents and victims of the alleged subject matter were convinced with our information that we presented to them.

“But our efforts ever since Deltans and the State Government appreciated our efforts to sanitize the agency of corrupt practices by the DG DESTMA and his Officers, we contributed massively to complement our plan by way of freely giving useful contributions and information via our social media platform @wong box and by sending petitions of our observations to the Delta State Government and security agencies in the state, we previously sent a petition to your office with respect to the actions and inaction of the DG DESTMA but till date we are yet to get response from you.

“Lately, the DG DESTMA threatened my life on the 29th of June 2020, I also made this known to the Government of Delta State when presenting out proofs of corrupt practices by the DG DESTMA and his Officers, attached to this petition is a copy of the screen shot of the threat message sent to me via my whatsapp message the aim of the message was to suppress evidence cause this came 48hrs to my appearance before the Disciplinary Committee of Ministry of Transport, attempts of threats to my life, intrigues to compromise us of distorting the evidences we have that we had to present, as if it was not enough he served me a letter for me to retract all evidences I have put out that will incriminate him and make a publication to that effect, I also attached the paper work from his law firm.

“It is obvious that he wants to use desperate efforts to use the law firm to intimidate me to suppress my effort to sanitize the Delta State Traffic Management Authority., instead of the due process of law.

“Keep in mind that the DG DESTMA brought back a former staff who was dismissed from DESTMA by a disciplinary committee in the past of which the Ministry of Transport upheld the judgment of Mr Ubido Nathaniel of his corrupt practices but the DG DESTMA brought him back to be head of Field Operations so as to fulfill his mission of exploiting Deltans via traffic offences whereby a offence of using an illegal U-Turn a fee of 2000 naira they will tell the traffic offender to pay N25,000 or N30,000 and if the victim gets to their office and plead with the DG DESTMA he will alter the initial booking and tell the person to pay maybe N20,000 or N18,000 to him or at the bank rarely, the money for tow truck is not paid to the bank, they collect it in hand thereby shortchanging the government IGR, we have exposed a lot more to the public and this makes it not to be good for his corrupt business.

“His aim of looting from the public is because he has a share on a monthly basis from the total amount generated for the delta state government, of course life is all about interest, his interest is to increase the actual amount so as to benefit by the end of each month from the total IGR.

“Currently I am the P.R.O of Delta State Coalition of Civil Societies, NGO’s and Media on Covid-19 Taskforce I also double as the Investigation and Intelligence Officer of International Human Rights Commission.

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See why Buhari suspended NSITF MD, others

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the suspension of the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund, Adebayo Somefun.

This was contained in a press statement yesterday by Charles Akpan, Head, Press and Public Relations of the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Also suspended were Jasper Ikedi Azuatalam, Executive Director, Finance and Investment; Olukemi Nelson, Executive Director, Operations and Tijani Darazo Sulaiman, Executive Director, Administration.

Some management staff suspended included Olusegun Olumide Bashorun, General Manager, Administration/Human Resources/Maintenance; Lawan Tahir, General Manager, Finance; Chris Esedebe, General Manager, Claims, and Compensation; Olodotun Adegbite, Deputy General Manager, Investment and Treasury Management; Emmanuel Sike, Deputy General Manager, Finance and Accounts; Olutoyin Arokoyo, Deputy General Manager/Acting Head, Legal; Dorathy Tukura, Deputy General Manager, Administration; Victoria Ayantuga, Assistant General Manager, Internal Audit.

The statement said their suspension from office was necessitated by the “preliminary established prima facie infractions on the extant Financial Regulations and Procurement Act, and other acts of gross misconduct”

The suspended officers are expected to face a joint Board and Audit Investigative Panel set up to look into the financial and procurement breaches as well as gross misconduct in the NSITF from 2016 to date.

They have also been directed to hand over to the most senior officers in their respective departments.

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Airport reopening: politicians’ aides are not allowed inside terminal – FG warns

The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, on Thursday, said only travelers would be allowed inside airport terminals.

He had on Wednesday announced that Abuja and Lagos airports would resume domestic operations on July 8; and Kano, Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Maiduguri airports, July 11.

Sirika, in an interactive session with members of the Senate Committee on Aviation in Abuja, said: “All those who have no business in traveling will certainly not be allowed to enter the airport.

“So, anybody coming into the airports this time around, whether as a personality, ministers, or even honourable members and senators, will not be carrying their aides into the airports any longer.”

“So, the VIPs should help us and take responsibility, and ensure that they don’t add to our problems in the country.”

He said machines that process passengers faster had been installed at the airports.

On whether the passenger capacity of aircraft would be trimmed down due to social distancing protocol, Sirika said his ministry was working with the airlines to come up with protocols before reopening.

He, however, allayed fears of any significant increase in airfare.

“Price is not in my hand, but like I said, with what we have put in place, I do not think that anything significant will happen to affect the propensity to fly,” he said.

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NCDC blames youths for speedy Covid-19 spread

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has said youths between the ages 20 and 40 were responsible for the spread of COVID-19, while the majority of those bearing the brunt are older people from 50 years and above.

Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, NCDC Director-General, who stated this on Thursday in Abuja, during the briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, cautioned against undue and unrestrained social activities.

He said, “As more people are infected across the world, you would have seen the numbers; it is increasingly obvious that transmission among younger people really, not children, but people aged between 20 and 40 as far as we know, are really driving the spread of this virus, but those that are bearing the brunt of it are people age 50 and above.

“Three out of five people who died from COVID-19 are 50 years and above; so we have to work harder, all of us collectively, to protect our elderly. We are on the verge of opening our airports, we have relaxed intercity travel.”

Ihekweazu asked the people not to go on social visits which might further the spread of the virus.

The NCDC said it had published new guidelines and advisory for vulnerable people, and urged Nigerians to read it.

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APC Crisis: Court dismisses suit against Oshiomhole, others

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A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Jabi, Abuja has dismissed a suit filed against the immediate past Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, and three others.

The suit, filed by Comrade Mustapha Salihu and five others, was the one in respect of which the court granted an interim order on March 4 this year, suspending Oshiomhole from further acting as the APC’s National Chairman.

The Court of Appeal, in Abuja in judgment on June 16, 2020, upheld Oshiomhole’s suspension.

Parties were to return to the High Court of the FCT for determination of the substantive suit when on Thursday, Plaintiff’s lawyer, Oluwola Afolabi moved a motion to withdraw the case.

Afolabi said the withdrawal was informed by the directive by leaders of the APC that all court cases be discontinued in the interest of peace.

Lawyer to Oshiomhole and one other, Ginika Ezeoke said she was not opposed to the plaintiffs’ desire to withdraw.

Ezeoke then urged the court to dismiss the suit on the grounds that parties have filed pleadings and have enjoined issues in relation to the subject of the case.

Ruling, Justice Danlami Senchi dismissed the suit and ordered parties to bear their respective costs.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: See what FG told parents as Schools plans reopening

The Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba, has said parents are not under compulsion to send their children back to school, despite the federal government’s decision to reopen learning institutions.

Pupils in Primary 6, JSS 3, and SSS 3 have been asked to return to classes, so they can prepare to graduate.

But Nwajiuba, speaking on Channels Television on Wednesday evening, told parents who are not comfortable with sending their wards back, to keep them at home.

The Minister, however, allayed the fears of parents and teachers, assuring that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of everyone.

“We understand the limitations of Nigerians. Most people cannot afford laptops and devices and we know that not all our children have the same access.

“And if there are people who do have this access and who feel confident that their children are ready for these exams, nobody is compelling anybody to go to any school,” Nwajiuba said.

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Buhari seals plan to sack, prosecute EFCC Chairman – Sources

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Impeccable presidency sources have revealed that President Muhammadu Bu­hari had given Malami approv­al to investigate and prosecute Magu following his memo­randum, where he itemized 22 weighty allegations against the EFCC chairman, who has occupied the office for nearly five years in an acting capacity.

The sources said the EFCC chairman will temporarily hand over the anti-graft agency to the next most senior person, Mohammed Umar Abba, Direc­tor of Operations of the agency.

Malami had also included a shortlist of three candidates for consideration to replace Magu. FCT Commis­sioner of Police, Bala Ciroma, may ultimately replace him, be­ing the most favoured among the three names Malami sub­mitted to the president.

One of the sources said the president wanted the panel to investigate the authenticity of the property and proxy alle­gations against Magu, noting that “because of the weight of the allegations, and the kind of person managing the EFCC, the president wouldn’t want to take any decision in a hurry. So he made sure a broken team is assembled to look into the matter holistically.”

According to him, Ayo Sala­mi, former President of Court of Appeal, is heading the panel with the offices of National Se­curity Adviser (NSA); Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS); Director Gen­eral, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Police, and Attorney General of the Fed­eration as members.

According to the source, the panel has two weeks to submit its report to the president but had already done a week.

Malami had in his mem­orandum to the president, made allegations bordering on financial malfeasances in failure to declare actual mon­ey recovered from looters. He also accused Magu of gross in­subordination, refusing direc­tives from the commission’s supervisory ministry; and as a result, the Federal Govern­ment has come under severe attack and embarrassment on account of odium stemming from poorly pursued investiga­tions. The AGF’s memo made strong innuendos purporting that Magu has made himself a willing tool in the hands of politicians thereby reducing the sterling reputation EFCC once enjoyed.

Sources at the presidency insisted on Friday that Buhari has indeed signed off on the memo only awaiting imple­mentation.

“By the recommendation, Magu should be eased out of office, and prosecuted on the strength of the allegations made against him,” explained a presidency source who said the presi­dent was livid after reading the memo.

Adding further, the sources said that the matter rest­ed squarely on just Malami’s memo, maybe a form of re­prieve could have been worked out for the commission’s chair­man.

“Malami was extensively debriefed on the matter. Securi­ty agencies were also involved in the matter and they all came back with damning verdicts,” the source added.

So far, the presidency has refused to say much on the matter.

In a text message response by Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity to the President, Mallam Garba She­hu, asking for confirmation on whether Magu will be eased out, the presidential spokes­man simply said, “I don’t know the answer to your question.”

Several attempts at reaching Dele Oyewale, Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, yielded no re­sult as his phones continued ringing without the calls being picked up. However, another source within the commission said that there cannot be any official response from EFCC unless matters are directed at them.

But as also learned, Magu is said not to be leaving anything to chance. It was learned that some of his backers with a link at the Presidential Villa have been putting in words for the embattled anti-graft’s czar, tell­ing Mr. President that Magu is being hounded by corrupt politicians.

One of the results of the alleged brokering resulted in Magu being seen at the Aso Rock mosque where he ob­served the Jumat with Presi­dent Buhari.

As learned, the EFCC boss was there to have an audience with the president.

It was, however, unclear if the mission succeeded at the time of filing this report.

It would be recalled that in 2016, the Senate declined to confirm Magu’s appointment as EFCC chairman, citing a Department of State Services (DSS) report, which revealed unsavory activities. Despite the Senate’s rejection of Magu, President Buhari re-nominat­ed him, but the Senate again rejected him.

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Governor give reasons why State may ban Okada operations

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The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun has said the operations of commercial motorcycles in the State may be banned.

He said this during a press conference he addressed on Friday at his Okemosan office, Abeokuta.

The threat to ban commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, is because of their flagrant disobedience to the COVID-19 restriction order, Abiodun said.

According to him, the state allows an Okada rider to carry only one passenger at a time during this pandemic.

However, Abiodun said Okada riders have been breaking the law by carrying two passengers or more.

Consequently, Abiodun stated emphatically that he will not hesitate to ban Okada riders if they continue to put his resolve to test.

“Okada riders are to carry one passenger. But motorcyclists are breaking this law and I want to state emphatically that we will not hesitate to ban all okada motorcyclists from operating in our state if our resolve his further put to test.

“If I continue to see Okada riders flouting this law, I will not hesitate to ban the operation of okada in this state henceforth,” he said.

Governor Abiodun said the current ease of lockdown in the state should be maintained.

“There will be no movement on Saturday and Sunday, while churches and mosques should remain under lock and key.

“In the same vein, the ban on interstate travel continues as the dusk to dawn curfew also remains,” he said.

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Hushpuppi: Why one apple shouldn’t spoil the whole bunch – Minister

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The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has advised Nigerians living abroad to be good ambassadors and law-abiding citizens, as not to tarnish the image of the country.

She gave the advice in a tweet via her verified twitter handle, reacting to the allegations grounded against Ramoni Igbalode, aka Ray Hushpuppi by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The suspected fraudster was arrested on June 10, 2020, in the United Arab Emirates in connection with a $35m ventilator scam.

Dabiri-Erewa said “not all Nigerians succeeding overseas are into fraudulent activities, While a few Nigerians get involved in such act, millions of others are still succeeding worldwide. One apple shouldn’t spoil the whole bunch “.

However, the Commission expressed displeasure with the cybercrime and money laundering networks with transactions running into millions of dollars allegedly exhibited by Ramoni Igbalode aka Hushpuppi.

Debra-Erewa also stated that Hushpuppi has a case to answer with the EFCC as he awaits a thorough investigation of the update of his case.

She also noted that the commission has started engagements with the FBI in tracking victims of fraudulent transactions and other fraudsters having direct involvement in the transactions.

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Oba of Benin reveals his position on Edo politics

Benin monarch, Omo N’Oba Nedo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II on Thursday stated his position on political developments in Edo State. He is opposed to imposition (consensus candidate) and godfatherism, a statement from Benin Palace said.

The statement, signed by Frank Irabor, Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council, said there was no truth in social media speculations that the royal father had prevailed on some governorship aspirants to step down for one of the aspirants in the upcoming shadow poll of a certain political party.

The rescheduled primary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) will hold on June 23, a day after that of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The statement said the monarch’s prayer had always been that “God and our ancestors should give us a governor that will accord respect to traditional institution, develop this state and, provide food on the table for the masses.”

The statement warned against dragging the royal father into politics, insisted that the palace is werry of the imposition of candidates.

It reads: “HRM has said times without number that the palace of the Oba of Benin does not get involved in partisan politics…

“The Omo N’¹Oba strongly advises that in order to eschew recurrent socio-political conflict that seems to constantly ravish the state, making Edo people a laughing stock to the rest of the country on how politicians manage the affairs of Edo people, our Edo political actors must eradicate the twin evil of political vices of godfatherism and consensus candidacy. The two practices seem antithetical to the very fundamental basis of democracy.

“Let everybody take note that the palace is very wary of the imposition of candidates when only certain individuals want, but the majority of the people do not want. ‘Ghana must go’ politics should end in the state. Politicians should stop cashing in on the poor masses and exploiting them for their votes.

“We believe all qualified aspirants in any elective office should be given a level-playing field, for democracy to develop to the next level in Nigeria. Political actors should mature up and learn not to wash their dirty linen in public.”

The Oba of Benin also admonished politicians, as they are preparing for their governorship primary elections, to exercise the highest standards of maturity and sportsmanship, stressing that the desire to bring about the best for the people of Edo State should not be compromised or sacrificed on the altar of intolerance, rumour mongering and fake news.

The monarch reminded rumor mongers that there is an ancestral curse on anyone who attempts to tarnish the image of the Oba of Benin and the ancient throne of the Benin Kingdom, which would normally be for their selfish ends.”

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Buhari celebrates Gov. Bello at 45

President Muhammadu Buhari has described Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, as “an epitome of loyalty and solid commitment to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from its infancy.’’

Buhari said this in a congratulatory message to the Governor who turned 45 on June 18, 2020.

The President also said he was proud of the governor, describing him as a loyal party man.

In a statement signed by Garba Shehu, the President’s Spokesman and made available to newsmen on Thursday, Buhari was quoted as saying, “I am proud of you and your active loyalty and services to our party at all times and you are a remarkable party man who deserves to be celebrated.

“You are serving your people at the prime of life; an energetic age that gives you a unique advantage to operate at maximum mental and physical capacity.

“As you celebrate this joyous occasion, I wish to congratulate you, on behalf of myself and family, for attaining 45 years of age in good health.”

The President prayed that God continues to bless the 45-year-old with good health and long life.

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Burna Boy, Rema, others selected for BET 2020 awards

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Nigerian sensational singers Burna Boy and Rema have been nominated for the BET 2020 awards.

Grammy-nominated Burna Boy was nominated in the Best International Act, a category he won in 2019 while Rema earned a nod in Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act category.

On the international scene, Drake leads with six nominations for Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Video of the Year and two nods for both Best Collaboration and Viewer’s Choice, for his features with Chris Brown (“No Guidance”) and Future (“Life Is Good”). While newcomers Megan Thee Stallion and Roddy Ricch are tied with five nominations each. Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Brown, Lizzo and DaBaby follow with four nominations each.

Internationally, the show will simulcast on BET Africa at 2am CAT on June 29th, followed by international broadcasts in the UK on June 29th at 9pm BST, France on June 30th at 9:45pm CEST and in South Korea on June 30th at 9pm KST.

The annual awards show celebrates creative expression and black excellence across music, film, television, sports and philanthropy.

A complete list of nominees for the 20th annual BET Awards:

BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT
BURNA BOY (NIGERIA)
INNOSS’B (DRC)
SHO MADJOZI (S. AFRICA)
DAVE (U.K.)
STORMZY (U.K.)
NINHO (FRANCE)
S.PRI NOIR (FRANCE)

VIEWERS’ CHOICE: BEST NEW INTERNATIONAL ACT
REMA (NIGERIA)
SHA SHA (ZIMBABWE)
CELESTE (U.K.)
YOUNG T & BUGSEY (U.K.)
HATIK (FRANCE)
STACY (FRANCE)

BEST FEMALE R&B/POP ARTIST
BEYONCÉ
H.E.R.
JHENE AIKO
KEHLANI
LIZZO
SUMMER WALKER

BEST MALE R&B/POP ARTIST
ANDERSON .PAAK
CHRIS BROWN
JACQUEES
KHALID
THE WEEKND
USHER

BEST GROUP
CHLOE X HALLE
CITY GIRLS
EARTHGANG
GRISELDA
JACKBOYS
MIGOS

BEST COLLABORATION
CHRIS BROWN FT. DRAKE – NO GUIDANCE
DJ KHALED FT. NIPSEY HUSSLE & JOHN LEGEND – HIGHER
FUTURE FT. DRAKE – LIFE IS GOOD
H.E.R. FT. YG – SLIDE
MEGAN THEE STALLION FT. NICKI MINAJ & TY DOLLA $IGN – HOT GIRL SUMMER
WALE FT. JEREMIH – ON CHILL

BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
DABABY
DRAKE
FUTURE
LIL BABY
RODDY RICCH
TRAVIS SCOTT

BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
CARDI B
DOJA CAT
LIZZO
MEGAN THEE STALLION
NICKI MINAJ
SAWEETIE

VIDEO OF THE YEAR
CHRIS BROWN FT. DRAKE – NO GUIDANCE
DABABY – BOP
DJ KHALED FT. NIPSEY HUSSLE & JOHN LEGEND – HIGHER
DOJA CAT – SAY SO
MEGAN THEE STALLION FT. NICKI MINAJ & TY DOLLA $IGN – HOT GIRL SUMMER
RODDY RICCH – THE BOX

VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
BENNY BOOM
COLE BENNETT
DAVE MEYERS
DIRECTOR X
EIF RIVERA
TEYANA “SPIKE TEE” TAYLOR

BEST NEW ARTIST
DANILEIGH
LIL NAS X
POP SMOKE
RODDY RICCH
SUMMER WALKER
YBN CORDAE

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
CUZ I LOVE YOU – LIZZO
FEVER – MEGAN THEE STALLION
HOMECOMING: THE LIVE ALBUM – BEYONCÉ
I USED TO KNOW HER – H.E.R.
KIRK – DABABY
PLEASE EXCUSE ME FOR BEING ANTISOCIAL – RODDY RICCH

DR. BOBBY JONES BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL AWARD
FRED HAMMOND – ALRIGHT
JOHN P. KEE FT. ZACARDI CORTEZ – I MADE IT OUT
KANYE WEST – FOLLOW GOD
KIRK FRANKLIN – JUST FOR ME
PJ MORTON FT. LE’ANDRIA JOHNSON & MARY MARY – ALL IN HIS PLAN
THE CLARK SISTERS – VICTORY

BEST ACTRESS
ANGELA BASSETT
CYNTHIA ERIVO
ISSA RAE
REGINA KING
TRACEE ELLIS ROSS
ZENDAYA

BEST ACTOR
BILLY PORTER
EDDIE MURPHY
FOREST WHITAKER
JAMIE FOXX
MICHAEL B. JORDAN
OMARI HARDWICK

YOUNGSTARS AWARD
ALEX HIBBERT
ASANTE BLACKK
JAHI DI’ALLO WINSTON
MARSAI MARTIN
MILES BROWN
STORM REID

BEST MOVIE
BAD BOYS FOR LIFE
DOLEMITE IS MY NAME
HARRIET
HOMECOMING: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ
JUST MERCY
QUEEN & SLIM

SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
AJEÉ WILSON
CLARESSA SHIELDS
COCO GAUFF
NAOMI OSAKA
SERENA WILLIAMS
SIMONE BILES

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO
KAWHI LEONARD
LEBRON JAMES
ODELL BECKHAM JR.
PATRICK MAHOMES II
STEPHEN CURRY

BET HER AWARD
ALICIA KEYS – UNDERDOG
BEYONCÉ FT. BLUE IVY CARTER, WIZKID & SAINT JHN – BROWN SKIN GIRL
CIARA FT. LUPITA NYONG’O, ESTER DEAN, CITY GIRLS & LA LA – MELANIN
LAYTON GREENE – CHOOSE
LIZZO FT. MISSY ELLIOT – TEMPO
RAPSODY FT. PJ MORTON – AFENI

VIEWER’S CHOICE AWARD
CHRIS BROWN FT. DRAKE – NO GUIDANCE
DABABY – BOP
FUTURE FT. DRAKE – LIFE IS GOOD
MEGAN THEE STALLION FT. NICKI MINAJ & TY DOLLA $IGN – HOT GIRL SUMMER
RODDY RICCH – THE BOX
THE WEEKND – HEARTLESS

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APC crisis: Acting National Chairman cancels Edo governorship primaries, schedules new date for screening

The acting Chairman of the National Working Committee of the All Progressive Congress APC, Hon. Victor Giadom, has ordered the immediate cancellation of the screening and appeal committee on the decision of the former national chairman on the Edo gubernatorial primaries.

This was contain in a statement issued and made available to newsmen by the acting National Chairman of All Progressive Congress on Wednesday June 17th 2020.

According to the statement, yesterday the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja, in a unanimous judgement, affirmed the suspension of Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomohle as the National Chairman of All Progressives Congress.

Consequently, I bring to your notice that on the 16th of March 2020, Hon Justice S.U. Bature in suit no FCT/HC/M/6447/2020 had ordered that, with the earlier suspension of Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomohle, I Chief. Hon Victor Giadom should act as National Chairman of our great party. That Order could not be immediately effected at that time because of the temporary reprieve Adams Oshiomohle got from the Court of Appeal on the same date. However, having removed the temporary reprieve yesterday by the Court of Appeal and considering the fact that we cannot allow for a vaacum, I most humbly inform you that I have assumed office as Acting National Chairman of our great party in compliance with the order of the court.

I therefore, most humbly solicit the support of the entire leadership and members of our great party in achieving this very important responsibility. I want to assure all party members that the All Progressives Congress will obey court orders/judgements as to bring sanity to our great party. Time for selective compliance of Court Orders and judgements is over.

Our party, the All Progressives Congress, will no longer allow local quests for the control of power to influence our decisions. As your Acting National Chairman and presiding officer in the NWC, we therefore cancel the decision of the Screening and Appeal Committees of the former Chairman of the party on the Edo primaries. This is in strict compliance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that forbids anyone who is interested in a cause to be a judge in that same cause.

It is a brazen rape on the Rule of Law and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the former Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole to preside and select Committees in respect to the Governorship primaries in Edo State being a key player in the crisis in that State. Whatever role the former Chairman was given to play in that process by the APC constitution, it cannot override the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which governs all of us. We therefore, ask all Aspirants in the Governorship Primaries to report for fresh screening between today and tomorrow. I call on all aspirants to remain in the All Progressives Congress as we guarantee fairness and justice to all concerned. The schedule and time for each aspirant shall be communicated.

In addition to the above the Deputy Organising Secretary of the All Progressive Congress, Hon. Muhammad Sani Ibrahim, shall immediately resume office as the Acting. National Organising Secretary in compliance with the judgement of the Federal High Court in suit no: FHC/ABJ/CS/733/2018 which removed the former National Organising Secretary Mr Emmanuel Ibediro since 24th of September 2018. This is to ensure strict compliance with the Rule of Law.
Finally, I seek for cooperation of party leaders at all levels in this onerous task of reposition the leadership of the party so as to guarantee fairness and justice to all.

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Behind the scene: Davido’s Manager expresses happiness after singer’s new decision

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Asa Asika, Davido’s manager, has conveyed joy after the singer announces his decision to stay off public glare.

Asika made his joy known to the public when he commented on Davido’s Instagram page after the singer made his announcement to stay off public glare for some time.

Reacting to it, Asika wrote, “My dream just came true, you over deserve it, bro.”

The comment had since gathered over 2000 likes and 108 replies as of Tuesday, June 16.

On June 3, Davido had taken to his social media accounts to announce that he will be changing his phone number and won’t be as accessible as he used to be anymore.

The singer noted that it’s time to take care of himself and live his life having lived all his life for people around him.

Davido also stressed that he needed some cleansing to do and would be inaccessible until the proposed release of his third album, A Better Time.

Davido’s decision comes days after he announced his relocation to a new house in Banana Island, Lagos. The singer also informed his 17 million followers on Instagram that he had his ankle sprained and needed to sit down in one place.

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Reasons why Nigerians react as Ajimobi replaces Oshiomhole

Reactions have shadowed the appointment of Senator Abiola Ajimobi as the acting National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The National Working Committee on Tuesday night made the appointment, following the affirmation of the suspension of its National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole by the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja, on Tuesday.

However, this has stimulated reactions from Nigerians as unconfirmed news making the rounds says Ajimobi is sick.

Some Nigerians took to their Twitter page mocking Oshiomhole, while others expressed concern over the state of the ruling party.

Here are some comments gathered from Twitter:

@OgbeniDipo “APC names Ajimobi Acting National Chairman. Obaseki 1 – Oshiomhole 1. OjorOkorocel Okoro. The Hunger Games will continue.”

@KawuGarba “But there are reports that Ajimobi Abiola is badly sick, how can he control the party on that health condition?

@EzeCollins02 “Ajimobi is a product of Oshiomhole’s illegality, his appointment is contentious.”

@Ogannah “By the ruling of the Appeal Court everything Oshiomhole has done is null and void, meaning Abiola Ajimobi is not a member of your party’s executive. Your party is full of chaos and illegalities!

@Temidayodaniel “APC names Ajimobi Acting National Chairman. I thought they said Ajimobi is battling complications from COVID-19. This year rugged gan oo, we are battling pandemic(s), APC is also confusing us. We will survive.”

@Ogbenimide “Ajimobi is currently battling to save his life. gets APC gets as e be.”

@Ugoeifeanyi “The game is actually becoming interesting. Oshiomhole will now focus on the Supreme Court while Obaseki will go for PDP’s ticket.”

@FranlEleanya “Interesting twist: Adams Oshiomhole forced Obaseki out of APC, a few hours later Appeal Court forced Oshiomhole the t. Then, the same APC is appointing Ajimobi as the national chairman, who is reported telly in a coma from COVID-19. This should be a movie.”

@OlajideObe “There was news about Sen Abiola Ajimobi’s hospitalization a few days ago. How can Senator Abiola Ajimobi on sick bed effectively work as acting chairman?

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Party Politics: why Appeal Court disagreed with Oshiomole

The National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has been suspended as the Party national chairman.

These were disclosed after the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja on Tuesday declared his suspension.

The appellate court approved the decision of the Federal Capital Territory High Court delivered by Justice Danlami Senchi which in March authorized the suspension of Oshiomhole as well as restricting him from parading himself as the National Chairman of the party.

The court also withdrew his rights and privileges including his security details.

During the undisputed judgment in the first appeal delivered by Justice Eunice Onyemanam, the court held that the FCT high court had territorial jurisdiction to have engaged the suit as it did.

The appeal court also predicated its decision based on the ground that Comrade Oshiomhole as the first appellant resides in Abuja while the APC also has its national headquarters in the capital city.

While the judgment on the second appeal delivered by Justice Mohammed Lamido disagreed with Comrade Oshiomhole that their right to a fair hearing was breached by the trial court.

Justice Lamido also said that there was no basis for the two appellants to hold that they were denied fair hearing during proceedings at the FCT high court.

Stating that Comrade Oshiomhole suspension from the Ward 10 of Etsako local government of Edo state was ratified at the ward, local and state government level as required by law and the identity of those who suspended him was not in doubt because in their unchallenged affidavit they made it clear that they were party members and officers of the party, therefore the appeal lacks merit.

Meanwhile, the court rejected the appellant filed by Comrade Adams and that of the APC.

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Unthinkable: Return my virginity before I sign any divorce paper – Wife tells Husband in court

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A 28-year-old Nigerian lady has asked her husband for the unthinkable following his expectation to dissolve their marriage.

The lady simply identified as Suliat wants her virginity returned if her husband, Lateef wants their marriage to be dissolved.

Lateef dragged Suliat to court seeking divorce on the grounds of gross disrespect, humiliation, and embarrassment in public places.

According to him, his wife has been nothing but trouble.

He revealed to the judge that he moved out of the house due to the bad reception given him in his own house.

Lateef said he is fed up with Suliat and wants them to go their separate ways.

However, at the hearing of the divorce case, Suliat told the court that she would agree to the dissolution of their marriage only if Lateef returns her virginity and good health, as it was two years ago before the union.

She revealed that Lateef used juju to charm her into marrying him and that has caused her so much stress and illness.

The juju man may have been dead. Their case has since been adjourned to a later date due to Suliat bad health.

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Breaking: Army dismisses ex – GOC for looting, disobedience

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The former General Officer Commanding (GOC) Major General Hakeem Otiki has been dismissed from Service by the General Court in Martial set up by the Military Council to try him for stealing money belonging to the Nigerian Army.

The General Court Martial headed by Lieutenant-General Lamidi Adeosun found the former GOC guilty on all the five counts charges filed against him.

The former GOC was charged for stealing N100 million and N160 million, respectively money belonging to the Nigerian Army in count one and two and disobedience to Standing Order under section 66 of the Armed Forces Act (AFA),

His dismissal is however subject to confirmation from the Army Council.

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Crude oil crisis: Host communities condemn employment rumor, calls for NNPC intervention

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The Host Communities of Trans Forcados Pipeline (TFP), have called on the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC to intervene and help avert a fasle publication aimed at causing disaffection and crisis in the riverine communities

The host communities accused some faceless organizations capable of misleading the general public about the employment of surveillance workers employed by the management of Ocean Marine Solution Limited, alleging that the employment was based on non-indigenes of the TFP host communities.

The statement was signed by the President-General of Iwhrenene, Ughelli Community Mr. Onosakpor Samuel and the President-General of Ubeji Community Mr. Ete Omatsuli on behalf of the representatives of all host communities on Sunday 14th, 2020 in Warri Delta State.

The statements also read, “We wish to set the record straight, Ocean Marine Solution Limited has engaged a total number of 820.000 youths from various TFP host communities through the duly elected community president General, youth leaders and elders in the communities.

According to the statement, “The fasle publication is amid at causing disaffection and crisis in our peaceful riverine communities.

“We commend the management Ocean Marine Solution Limited for maintaining a healthy relationship with all host communities of Trans Forcados Pipeline”.

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Catastrophe: 107-year-old man leads protest against community monarch

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There is tension in Nsugbe community in Anambra East council of Anambra State following the groundswell of opposition to the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Igwe Victor Ntorka

There was a protest march in the community against the monarch at the weekend led by their chiefs, one of whom 107-year-old Pa Arinze Obiagwu.

A mock burial of the ruler was also conducted by the community.

Nsugbe is the community of the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Tony Nwoye, Senator Alphonsus Igbeke, and naval officer in charge of Southeast including Delta and Rivers state, Rear Admiral Perry Onuzulike.

The protesters comprised widows, elders, and youths.

The blind Pa Obiagwu, who is the oldest man in the community, wept as he addressed reporters, saying Igwe Ntorka desecrated the culture and traditions of Nsugbe and was no longer fit to be a ruler.

The monarch reportedly refused to recognize Pa Obiagwu as the oldest person in the area, something Obiagwu said never happened in the history of Nsugbe.

One of the community leaders and a member of the Igwe in Council, Obi Ifeanacho Akwudo, said the “former” monarch turned everything in Nsugbe upside down.

A spokesman for the community, Chief Nzeadigwe Nweke, while addressing the protesters, said the monarch sponsored armed robbery and kidnapping in Nsugbe and refused to answer the call of elders in council with regard to the allegation that his actions led to the killing of a young man in the community and burning of two buildings.

The Nation made several efforts to speak with the monarch, all to no avail as he could not be reached on the phone.

One of his allies, though, who pleaded anonymity, described the allegations from the community as false and unfounded

“Igwe is a good person. Everybody in this community knows about his goodness. The allegations are false and politically motivated,” he said.

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CAN mocks government over insecurity, gives reasons

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The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Kaduna State chapter, has conveyed concern over the increased mass killings and insecurity in the north.

The association relatively expressed great concern over the increased killings in Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and the Borno States, and indeed the country at large.

Rev. John Joseph Hayab, the state CAN chairman in a statement issued on Monday and made available to newsmen noted that in the last few weeks, hundreds of people have been killed by the Boko Haram bandits and bandits who are invading communities and unleashing mayhem on the people.

The statement lamented, “Our security agencies appear to be overwhelmed and lack new tactics to handle the situation. Both the states and federal governments seem to be shying away from the reality of the problem and appear to be living in self-denial while people are being massacred by criminals.

“People are now living in perpetual fear as they are not safe on the highways and even in their homes. Rural communities are being invaded by bandits and farmers cannot go to their farms for fear of being killed or being abducted for ransom by gunmen.

“For us as a religious body,” the association explained, “this country belongs to all Nigerians and our leaders must listen to the cries of Nigerians about the continuous declining security situation.”

The statement said the protection of lives and property of the citizenry is a constitutional responsibility of governments all over the world.

“Our government must, therefore, live up to this responsibility by tackling the present state of insecurity across the country,” the statement added.

The statement added, “There is a need for our leaders to do an honest stock taken of the situation in our country. We need to check where we have gone wrong and what are those things we are doing that we need to do better.

“Many lives are being wasted almost on a daily basis by Boko Haram and bandit. People are being abducted and killed by kidnappers because they could not pay the huge ransom demanded by the hoodlums.

In Kaduna State, the security challenges in Chikun, Kajuru, Kauru, Zangon Kataf, Birnin Gwari have continued to be a serious source of worry.”

The statement observed that people are experiencing these challenges at the time of an increase in hunger, economic hardship, and fear of COVID-19, stressing that these pains are too much for the citizens to continue to bear.

CAN say that the leaders should be humble enough to admit that they have failed the people and seek for help from whoever and wherever it will come.

“It will be good for those in government to know that people are not buying the many propaganda circulating on some media platforms about security challenges. How can you tell the person whose family members had been killed by bandits or terrorists that “you are on top of the situation”, yet the killings continue unabated!” the statement advised.

CAN believes if the government is truly on top of the situation, mindless killings and destructions should have stopped, stressing that it wonders how the government and security agencies always use this phrase without shame.

The association called on those twisting facts about the security situation in the country, particularly in the north to desist from that because they can never get true healing when they keep saying what is not true about Nigerians illness.

CAN then appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to act now and act sincerely to avert anything that would further plunge the country into more problems.

“We all love this country and have always prayed and worked to get the best. Let us not fold our arms and allow evil people to destroy our land,” it advised.

CAN call on government at all levels to wake up to its responsibility and put an end to the criminality that has brought about misery on the people.

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Isoko nation mourns the loss of A legend

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The entire Isoko nation and APC community has witnessed the passing on of Hon. Rev. Dr Paul Othuke Akegwure, a true legend and walking encyclopedia.

Hon. Paul died on the 9th of June, 2020. He lived a remarkable life and passed on at the age of 70 years, due to a pulmonary heart failure after a brief illness.

Late Hon. Paul who was the President General of Ozoro from 1992-1998, during his time as a member of the Delta state house of assembly representing Isoko North Constituency from 1993-2003 influenced the birthing of the Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro amongst other projects.

Rev. Paul, until his dying time was a lively devoted Christian, a loving Father to all, a leader and a lovely grandpa. His death was indeed a huge loss to his family, the Isoko nation and the APC family.

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Why Hushpuppi will face multiple charges with his accomplice – INTERPOL

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Nigeria Instagram celebrity, Raymond Igbalodely a.k.a. Hushpuppi will soon be extradited to face his alleged multiple fraud charges by the International Police (INTERPOL) Nigeria.

According to reports, the International Police (INTERPOL) Nigeria are underway to extradite Hushpuppi from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Nigeria.

The report reveals that the INTERPOL are also on the trail to bring other Nigerian based accomplices to justice in the alleged fraud.

Commissioner of Police (CP) INTERPOL, Garba Umar revealed this to newsmen, while confirming the arrest of Igbalodely a.k.a. Hushpuppi on Friday.

According to CP Umar, “It is true that Hushpuppi was arrested by the INTERPOL and we are currently working on bringing him to Nigeria to face charges of fraud, stressing that “Some of the offenses were committed here in Nigeria and he has to answer for them.

The CP also lamented that Igbalode is not alone in it; there are accomplices in the country who we are currently on their trail.

Recall that Hushpuppi who is widely known for his reckless display of wealth on social media was arrested three days ago for allegedly hacking into the United States (US) unemployed data and impersonating citizens qualified for unemployment funds.

According to the reports that he and his accomplice in Nigeria, Dubai and other countries allegedly defrauded the US of over $100 million meant for Native Americans in the battle against the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown.

The Nation also reported that his arrest came three days after he posted a picture of his newly acquired 2020 Rolls Royce Cullinan worth about N280 million in addition to his fleet of exotic vehicles.

The syndicate was alleged to have filed in so many names of Americans who were still working to various states of the unemployment office and collected money from the system.

They were alleged to have used information stolen from the first responders, government personnel, and school employees.

It was gathered that Hushpuppi was arrested alongside two of his friends after weeks of investigation by the US Secret Service, following the alarm raised in May about a crime ring of suspected Nigerians who broke into the personal information of citizens and used factitious unemployment claims to steal hundreds of millions of dollars reserved to help jobless American people.

Although, Ramoni Igbalode may not ring a bell even as the mention of him alerted many because the born Nigerian Instagram celebrity lives in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

Before his arrest on Wednesday, June 10, Hushpuppi has been entertaining his 2.3 million followers on Instagram with his expensive lifestyle. His name sounds attraction and panache as he junkets high-end clothing, watches, and shoes on social media. He is a regular face at Dubai’s premier luxury department, Harvey Nichols.

He was also known for his shortcoming for luxury and high-end brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, Rolls Royce, and Versace.

Alleging to be a real estate developer according to his bio on Instagram, his high taste for expensive lifestyle has not only endeared him to his 2.3 million followers on Instagram but also exposed him to various celebrities and VIPs from different walks of life.

Rating from music stars to footballers as well as Nigerian lawmakers. His name sounds across the globe with origins in Nigeria and Dubai.

Being glorified as a philanthropist because of the lifestyle he demonstrated on Instagram, music stars like Olamide and 9ice have likewise sung Hushpuppi praises. However, it is not certain whether these music stars benefitted from his generosity.

On January 7, 2020, ex-Senator Dino Melaye turned 46 and decided to throw a lavish party for the occasion in Dubai. The guest list had the names of ex-Speaker of the House of the Representative, Yakubu Dogara, former APC spokesman, Timi Frank, and also at the party amongst the distinguished guests was Hushpuppi, the social media celeb who partied and took pictures with Dogara, Timi Frank and Dino Melaye.

On November 16, 2014, Hushpuppi was spotted with Iyanya the ‘Kukere’ star, he shared a picture with the caption, “Out for dinner with Mr. Oreo Iyanya.”

On November 1st, 2018, Hushpuppi shared a picture of himself with Wizkid, hanging out around somewhere in Dubai.

Also on March 26, 2019, Hushpuppi shared a picture of himself with Manchester City defender and French international, Benjamin Mendy, whom he captioned the picture, “I wish I can play for Manchester City and be humble and down to earth like my bro Ben Mendy.” Thanks for being the most amazing person ever. Although the nature of the relationship between Instagram celeb and the footballer could not be defined.

He had hunted for Phyno and Iceprince in time past, saying that since the duo wears fake Patek wristwatches, they should stop grumbling when people pirate their music.

Going aimlessly from Davido to Eniola Badmus, Kcee, and Timaya, Hushpuppi has had his fair share of bitterness.

Firstly, he takes on Davido claiming that he was richer than the musician, boasting about his original designer wears and shoes. Saying that many Nigerian celebs wear fake products. Others he hunted after were Eniola Badmus and Timaya, who in anger dragged him and dared him to come back to Nigeria.

Hushpuppi on December 14th, 2015, also shared a picture of himself and Mompha, flying to Malaysia on a private jet, announcing to his followers that they were both traveling for some business deals after spending millions on designer shoes, bags, and clothes. Even there are unconfirmed reports that the relationship between the two Instagram celebs has since gone sour.

Surprisingly, Hushpuppi’s arrest in Dubai came exactly eight months after Mompha was arrested for alleged fraudulent activities by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) in Abuja.

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Why DSTG commenced free training for community Nursing, midwifery program

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The Delta State Ministry of Health has commenced a free community nursing and midwifery program for all Deltans.

According to the statement by the Ministry of Health, the program exists as an initiative of the nursing and midwifery council of Nigeria, to provide capable human resources at the primary health care level and to reduce maternal and child mortality, particularly in rural communities.

The program is designed to produce a competent cadre of nursing and midwifery practitioners, who would upon completion of their training, be residents within the communities that nominated them, to provide basic health care service needs of the rural and hard-to-reach communities within the state.

The ministry has appealed to interested candidates to visit their various communities and local government council for their names to be shortlisted in the process.

The statement also added that while some names have already been received from some local government councils, it warns that any candidate who paid money for forms should go back to whoever they paid to for an immediate refund.

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Impeachment: Lawmakers fighting during plenary, member snatch Mace

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The Kaduna State house of Assembly has conceded impeaching the deputy speaker, Mukhtar Isa Hazo, representing Milgoma Constituency.

This was followed as 24 members of the assembly passed a vote of no confidence on him before he was impeached during on Thursday plenary.

Immediately after the impeachment, Isaac Auta, the lawmaker representing Kauru Constituency, emerged the new Deputy Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly.

Meanwhile, Liman Dahiru, a member representing Makera Constituency, broke into the floor of the Assembly and snatched the mace which leads to the fight during the swearing-in of the new deputy speaker.

Dahiru was overshadowed and had his clothes torn as he attempted to make his way out of the chamber, the Sergeant at Arm grabbed him while other members made drastic moves in an attempt to regain the mace from him.

The plenary session ended in the rowdy way after the disappointed member was pushed out of the parliament.

Though, the rationale behind the impeachment of the former Deputy Speaker was yet to be confirmed as of the time of filing this report.

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Why I directed 17 LGA Chairmen to undergo COVID-19 tests – Gov. Ikpeazu

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Governor Okezie Ikpeazu Abia State has authorized all Chairmen of the seventeen(17) Local Government Areas of the State, together with their deputies, to present themselves for the COVID-19 test.

This was even as Governor Okezie Ikpeazu had earlier directed all members of Abia State COVID-19 committee and those of the executive members who might have recently come in contact with the late Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Solomon Ogunji, to immediately undergo COVID-19 tests and isolate themselves thereafter pending the outcome of the tests.

Recall that the Abia Commissioner for Environment, Chief Solomon Ogunji, died last Sunday.

A statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu, announced that Solomon Ogunji passed on at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, after a brief illness.

Governor Ikpeazu however, in a release and obtained by newsmen, on Tuesday night said, “Further to my earlier directive on the testing of members of the State Executive Council, I wish to direct that all Transition Council Chairmen of our 17 LGAs, and their Deputies, present themselves for COVID-19 tests and thereafter isolate themselves pending the release of their test results.

“I urge all citizens and residents to eschew rumor-mongering and get involved in the battle against COVID-19. Take responsibility because Abia is ready to win this battle with all hands on deck”.

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See how many teachers I recruited in three months – Sanwo-Olu

Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo, Lagos State Commissioner for Education, on Tuesday announced that 3,000 primary and secondary school teachers had been recruited by the State Government in the past 12 months.

Addressing a news conference to mark the ministry’s annual ministerial press briefing at Ikeja, Adefisayo said the recruitment was to boost education in the state.

She said that education, which represented the third pillar of the current administration’s `THEMES Agenda’ had aided teaching and learning in the state.

THEMES is a code, representing the six pillars of development as enunciated by the administration of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

It was gathered that the code stands for Traffic Management and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century state; Security and Governance.

Adefisayo said that training and workshops had also been organised for 4,400 teachers and social officers drawn from various education districts in the state.

According to her, six blocks of 92 classrooms have been completed in some primary schools while 54 classrooms in some secondary schools have been upgraded to ease classroom congestion.

“The state government under the Universal Basic Education Commission and State Universal Basic Education intervention projects have commenced delivery of 10,164 furniture and 60,000 chair-table units to public schools.

“In the past year, the ministry instituted better school governance and administration by launching Eko-Excel (Excellence in Child Education) programe, which is operational in 300 public primary schools in the state.

“The State Government also provided two new buses, laptops, photocopying machines to basic education quality assurance officers for monitoring of primary schools.

These have improved the capacity and welfare of students who have continued to emerge tops at several national and international competitions like the JETS competition, World Robot Olympiad, held at Edutus University, Gyor, Hungary, and the Chinese Bridge Proficiency Competition to mention a few.”

The commissioner said that in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, students had remained engaged through electronic learning.

She said that a total of 135,445 pupils were being fed one meal a day in 976 schools across the state through the Home Grown School Feeding Programme.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Why I will not reopen SCOAN for now – T.B Joshua

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Prophet T.B Joshua of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN, has thanked the government for announcing reopening of worship centres, but insisted his church will not open for now.

The government, through the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 had on Monday announced the reopening of churches, mosques and other religious centres in the country.

T.B Joshua said he will not gather his congregation until when he “hears from God” to do so.

Joshua, whose church is one of Nigeria’s major tourist attractions, said he received a “revelation” from God about the church’s initial closure.

“Viewers, that same God we are waiting to hear from on when to reopen – when things will go back to normal – as usual,” Joshua said in a statement released to his official Facebook page.

“God’s time is the best. We are waiting at His feet for that time. We are tarrying for the Holy Spirit’s instruction. Pray without ceasing.”

Prophet Joshua said he would continue his usual broadcasts on Emmanuel TV “until we hear from God when to reopen.”

He noted that what he does is God’s work, not his, and thank God the government for understanding.

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Suspect connected to rape, murder of UNIBEN undergraduate arrested

The Edo State Police Command has arrested one of the suspects linked to the rape and murder of Miss Vera Uwaila Omozuwa.

Goldennationblog.com reported earlier that the 22-year-old 100-level student of the University of Benin, Edo State was raped and killed by unknown persons while reading in the RCCG church in Benin city.

Announcing the arrest, Spokesman of Edo Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor told newsmen that the suspect was arrested after the fingerprint on the fire extinguisher she was attacked with was examined.

Nwabuzor revealed that operatives of the command arrested the suspect after the Area Commander of Ikpoba Hill mobilized his men to take action.

“The item used in the assault, which was a fire extinguisher, was recovered, immediately the operatives who were with some specialists screened the fingerprints which led to our suspect.

“Around the place of the incident, the suspect was arrested,” Nwabuzor said.

The death of Uwa has raised concerns and stirred reactions from notable figures, as well as Nigerians on the social media.

The Inspector general of Police, IGP Adamu disclosed that investigative aids have been deployed to Edo to help speed up the investigations.

He assured that the perpetrators of the crime will be brought to book in the shortest possible time.

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Why Buhari should replace his Mercedes-Benz car with Innoson – Ogbonnia

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A former presidential aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, SKC Ogbonnia has charged President Muhammadu Buhari to replace his German-made Mercedes Benz official car with a vehicle from Innoson Motors.

He made the call while stressing that the coronavirus pandemic should push Nigerian leaders into patronizing locally-made products.

The APC chieftain, in a statement he personally signed, lamented that Nigerian leaders preferred foreign-made products.

In the statement he forwarded to newsmen, Ogbonnia lamented that the pattern of lavishness by the leaders was “plain cold-blooded.”

He said: “The consensus around the world is that the lessons from the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) would provoke commonsense among Nigerian leaders to harness the full potential of their local economy, but this dream may never come close if President Muhammadu Buhari does not lead by example.

“It is not surprising, therefore, that amid the COVID-19 pandemic, President Buhari demonstrated visionary leadership by declaring that Nigeria will henceforth promote and patronize made-in-Nigeria products over foreign goods. Buhari’s vision is laudable and mirrors the case of Asian countries, particularly China and India, which for several decades banned a good number of foreign products to enable their local industries to thrive. Today, both Asian nations have become the economic envy of the world.

“Interestingly, not long after the made-in-Nigeria policy went public, instead of patronizing Innoson Motors, the sole local auto manufacturing outfit, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) hurriedly approved a whopping sum of N683, 613 million for purchase of 19 Made-In-Japan Toyota vehicles for the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA).

“According to the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, the justification for the abrupt breach of the policy is that the need for the foreign vehicles predated the COVID-19 pandemic. As if her logic lacks in folly, the Minister of Transport, Chibuike Amaechi, followed that the approval became necessary, because “it’s the first time in four years that NPA was buying any vehicle.

“The simple takeaway from both Ahmed and Amaechi is that Nigerian leaders embrace lunacy as a legacy. This goes without saying that the rationale behind the choice of foreign vehicles over local brands has nothing to do with the common good. Instead, it has everything to do with the manic competition for financial profligacy among the different arms of the Nigerian government.

“This pattern of lavishness by public officials, particularly under the prevailing COVID-19 crisis, is plain cold-blooded. It is impunity going too far.

“But President Muhammadu Buhari must own full blame. Though his call to patronize local products is commendable, he is neither able to influence his appointees to implement the policy nor able to lead by example himself. Rather than demonstrate patriotism, by proudly using the Made-in-Nigeria goods that he preaches, Buhari appears to be emulating the ostentatious style of the regime before him.

“Mister Buhari should quickly revert to the tenets of his 2016 “Change Begins With Me” slogan. The core principle demands that he declares Innoson as the official brand for all government agencies, beginning with the Presidency. If a General Buhari, as a military head of state, could endear himself to the Nigerian people over 30 years ago, by embracing jagged foreign Peugeot—then assembled in Nigeria—as a badge of honor, it is only patriotic for him to replicate such gesture for wholly made-in-Nigeria vehicles.

“It is worth mentioning, however, that the Innoson Motors is on record to have stated that the company has seen more patronage from the Buhari government than the one before it. That is commendable, at the base. But the mediocrity of the previous regime can never be substituted as a gold standard for success.

“President Buhari is a man widely known as ascetic and who assumed power on the mantra of revolutionary change. He should, therefore, embolden his change vision, as well as the authenticity of his policy on local goods, so that others can follow. The message, if it is not already explicit, is that the Nigerian president should, without further delay, replace his official car, a German-made Mercedes Benz, with a Nigerian-made Innoson brand.”

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Covid-19 Lockdown: FG reopens Churches, Mosques

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The federal government on Monday reopened mosques and churches two months after they were shut down in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus in the country.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, announced this at the briefing of the PTF in Abuja on Monday.

The SGF also said banks would resume normal operations today.

He, however, stated that schools remained shut while the ban on interstate travel also stayed.

He noted that these were parts of the recommendations, which the PTF submitted to and were approved by President Muhammadu Buhari for implementation over the next four weeks spanning June 2 to 29, 2020.

The SGF also emphasized that the implementation was subject to review.

He also announced the ease of the total lockdown of Kano State.

He said the relaxation of the restriction on places of worship was based on guidelines issued by the PTF and protocols agreed by state governments.

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Breaking: Music Icon Majek Fashek is dead

Nigerian music legend and reggae king, Majekodunmi Fasheke, popularly known as Majek Fashek, is dead.

His death was confirmed by his manager Omenka Uzoma, on the late singer’s official Instagram handle.

“Today been having pressure calls, well it is true that the African No 1 Legendary ICON has gone to be with the LORD his Maker,” he said.

“Let celebrate him, his achievements, and his family, whatever decisions made by his immediate family will be notified.”

Majek was born in Benin-City, Edo state

Until his death, He was one of Nigeria’s surviving Reggae music legend, Majek attracted international attention in 1987, with his self-penned tune, ‘Send down the Rain.’

The singer also played a supporting role in the 2000 Nollywood movie ‘Mark of the Beast’.

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Stop borrowing, you’re worsening Nigeria’s problems – CNPP tells Buhari

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The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has told President Muhammadu Buhari to develop on accountability and transparency amid Nigeria’s increasing debt profile.

This was contained in a statement on Monday by the CNPP Secretary-General, Willy Ezugwu.

It said the continued resort to external borrowing at the slightest challenge was creating problems for the country’s future.

CNPP urged the Buhari administration to reduce the cost of governance and explore other options, including harnessing non-oil revenues, instead of borrowing.

Ezugwu recalled that Nigeria’s internal and external debt stock stood at N12.06 trillion ($63.5 billion) as of March 2015.

“But as of September 30, 2019, according to the Debt Management Office (DMO), Nigeria’s total public debt jumped to about N26.2 trillion (or $85.4 billion).”

The statement deplored that the Nigerian Senate, after raising an alarm about Nigeria’s situation, went ahead to approve a fresh loan.

“In March this year, the same Nigerian lawmakers approved President Buhari’s $2.36 billion loan request. In April, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved $3.4 billion in emergency financial assistance under the Rapid Financing Instrument to Nigeria.”

The parties said they were shocked that the government, despite getting tranches of Abacha loots, is seeking a fresh $5.513 billion.

CNPP expressed worry over the Buhari administration’s revelation that debt servicing would gulp a part of the total revenue accruable to Nigeria in 2020.

“The government is now spending N2.452trn or 29% out of its N8.42trn set as revenue target in 2020 to service debts. When a country continues to borrow in the face of rapidly dwindling oil revenue, the future of Nigerians yet unborn will eventually be squandered by our generation.”

CNPP decried that in many parts of the country, foreigners are “harvesting Nigeria’s solid minerals free of charge while the federal government has continued to borrow to fund the 2020 budget”.

Aside from the slash in the cost of governance, the statement called for the blocking of leakages, farmers’ empowerment, improved internal security and provision of incentives to encourage young people to invest in farming.

Meanwhile, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), has sent a Freedom of Information request to Buhari to provide spending details of all loans obtained by his government since May 29, 2015.

The president was given a seven days ultimatum to provide the details.

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Adeboye responds to alleged killing of RCCG UNIBEN Student

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has responded to the alleged rape and murder of Vera Uwaila Omozuwa, a 100-level Microbiology student of University of Benin, UNIBEN.

It was learned that Uwaila, who was a 100-level Microbiology student of UNIBEN, was allegedly raped and killed by some unknown persons while reading in a Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, in Benin City.

Her death has since stirred reactions from Nigerians on social media seeking justice for her.

Reacting, Adeboye on his verified Twitter page commiserated with the family of Uwa even as he called for calm.

He condemned the act, adding that the church has begun an investigation into the case and would cooperate with the Nigerian Police to get justice for the victim.

His tweet read: “All I can do at this time is to pray for the family of Omozuwa and do everything possible working with relevant authorities to bring the perpetrators to book.

“I and members of my Family condemn this act strongly and urge everyone to stay calm as we are already looking into the matter and cooperating with the police to establish the facts of the shocking incident. #justiceforuwa,”

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Breaking: Buhari orders reconstitution of NNPC board

President Muhammadu Buhari has Saturday approved the reconstitution of the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), after the expiration of the term of the board members appointed in 2016.

The Special Adviser to the President, on media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, disclosed this. Members of the new Board are Mohammed Lawal (North West), Tajudeen Umar (North East), Adamu Mahmood Attah (North Central), Senator Magnus Abe (South-South), Dr. Stephen Dike (South East), and Chief Pius Akinyelure (South West).

The new board will be in place for three years.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had reported the death of the immediate past Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru.

His demise was disclosed by the current Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, via his verified Twitter handle

Kyari said, “My brother, my friend, and my mentor, Dr. Maikanti Kachalla Baru, immediate past GMD of NNPC died late last night.

“He was of exemplary character and disposition. May Allah forgive him and have mercy upon him.”

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Protest in US as Officer got arrested for killing black

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There was protest across the United States late Friday over the death of a handcuffed black man in police custody, with murder charges laid against the arresting Minneapolis officer failing to quell boiling anger.

Demonstrators clashed with police for a fourth straight night in Minneapolis, but riots also raged from New York to Los Angeles in one of the worst nights of national civil unrest in years.

In Atlanta police cruisers were attacked and set ablaze as rallies spun out of control, while in the capital Washington protesters collided with Secret Service agents in heated midnight scenes in front of the White House.

In Minneapolis, Derek Chauvin, the white officer filmed kneeling on the neck of a handcuffed and unarmed George Floyd for nearly nine minutes, was charged with one count of third-degree murder — unintentionally causing a death — and one count of negligent manslaughter.

“This case is now ready, and we have charged it,” said county prosecutor Mike Freeman amid outrage over the latest death of an African American in police custody.

But the charges failed to calm a shaken nation whose deep wounds over racial inequality have been torn open anew, and as the deadly coronavirus pandemic sets Americans further on edge.

Authorities imposed a curfew Friday in Minneapolis after three nights of violent protests left parts of the city in flames.

But protesters, many wearing masks to prevent the spread of coronavirus, defiantly remained on the streets, in cat-and-mouse face-offs with police who fired tear gas and flashbangs in efforts to regain control.

Protester Naeema Jakes said she needed to be on the streets so she could verbally confront officers.

“I need you to look in my eyes and feel me,” Jakes said. “This is pain, this is hurt.”

The 46-year-old Floyd’s relatives — who spoke Friday with President Donald Trump — welcomed news of the arrest as a “step on the road to justice.”

But they said they hoped for tougher charges and action against the other officers involved in Floyd’s detention and death.

Freeman said the three officers were also under investigation, and that he anticipated charges would be laid.

All four were fired from the police department Tuesday after a video surfaced of Monday’s arrest.

– Troops deployed –
The announcement of charges came hours after hundreds of troops were deployed to the streets of Minneapolis and St Paul.

Scores of buildings have been burned and looted across the so-called Twin Cities, including a police station associated with the four officers.

Several protesters chanted “I can’t breathe” — Floyd’s words as Chauvin’s knee pressed on his neck.

In the Minneapolis suburb of Oakdale, protesters gathered outside Chauvin’s vandalized home, raising placards to pass cars and chanting Floyd’s name.

“All I can do is just cry, and cry some more,” Tara Balian, 39, told AFP. “It’s taken this long for people to realize that black lives matter.”

Police in riot gear were out in force in other cities to prevent outbreaks of violence and looting, but protests took hold in Boston, Dallas, Denver, Des Moines, Houston, Las Vegas, Memphis, and Portland.

Floyd’s family issued a statement acknowledging Chauvin’s arrest but said the charges against him were insufficient.

“We want a first-degree murder charge. And we want to see the other officers arrested,” they said in a statement.

“The pain that the black community feels over this murder and what it reflects about the treatment of black people in America is raw and is spilling out onto the streets across America.”

The third-degree charge though reflected the official autopsy saying that Floyd did not die of asphyxiation or strangulation.

After attacking the protesters as “thugs” and threatening to send in federal troops to deal harshly with them, Trump shifted tone later Friday, announcing he had called Floyd’s family to express his “sorrow.”

“I understand the hurt, I understand the pain. People have really been through a lot,” said the president, who stands accused of stoking tensions with a series of provocative tweets.

Former vice president Joe Biden, who is challenging Trump for the White House in November’s election, also spoke to Floyd’s family.

He called for justice and said it was time to heal the “open wound” of systemic racism in the United States.

Floyd’s death is reminiscent of the demise of Eric Garner, who died in police custody in New York in 2014.

“Now we have to be here for George Floyd,” Garner’s mother, Gwen Carr, told protesters in New York on Friday.

“Enough is enough. They have to stop coming into our neighborhoods and brutalizing and terrorizing and murdering our young men and women.”

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Breaking: NNPC former GMD Baru, is dead

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The immediate past Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Maikanti Kachalla Baru, is dead.

Baru who left the corporation less than a year ago died after a brief illness that lasted just about 48 hours, a source in the national oil company told newsmen.

He passed on at about 2 am on Saturday after suddenly falling ill on Thursday, it was learned.

The death of the engineer, who was 60 at the time of his passing was also confirmed by the current head of the corporation, Mr. Mele Kyari, on his twitter handles this morning.

He tweeted: “My brother, my friend and my mentor, Dr. Maikanti Kachalla Baru, immediate past GMD of NNPC died late last night”.

The former NNPC GMD died in Abuja.

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Why Executive order 10 can not stand – Governors tell Buhari

Governors across the 36 states on Friday took their action on Executive Order 10 which guarantees financial autonomy for the judiciary and the legislature at the state level directly to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN).

Dr. Kayode Fayemi Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), met separately with the President and the minister to press home the objection of the state chief executives to the order, which was signed by Buhari penultimate Friday.

To the governors, the order is not only unnecessary; it is also an over-kill of Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

They have a supporter in the immediate past Senate Deputy President Ike Ekweremadu, who said that while the intent of the President in signing the order might be good, the action was unnecessary and unconstitutional.

Ekweremadu said that the President should have stopped only at signing the bill on the financial autonomy as passed by the 8th National Assembly.

The governors, during a virtual meeting earlier in the week, mandated Fayemi to pass their views on the order to the appropriate quarters.

It was gathered that Fayemi met with the President and Malami on Thursday, accordingly.

A North-Central governor, who spoke in confidence, said: “We mandated the NGF chairman, Dr. Kayode Fayemi to have an audience with the President and Malami to avoid recourse to legal tussle on the interpretation of Section 121 (3) of the 1999 Constitution.

“We prefer dialogue to confrontation because we consider Executive Order 10 as unnecessary and an over-kill of the existing constitutional provision. You can see that in the last few days, AGF Malami has been trying to justify EO 10.

“And the NGF chairman on Thursday had closed-door sessions with the President, where all the defects in EO 10 were spelled out.

“In another meeting with Malami on Thursday, the two parties agreed that some of the autonomy modalities were constitutionally flawed. The session reviewed the reservations of the governors.

“There will be a follow up with the AGF and Minister of Justice by the NGF Legal Committee comprising the governors of Sokoto, Plateau, and Ondo states.”

Another governor said: “For a federating nation, there are so many extraneous clauses in EO 10 which are in conflict with the 1999 Constitution. For instance, Section 7 7(a) of the order made provision for a Presidential Implementation Committee to ensure compliance.

“For instance, in some states, there is already Appropriation Law for the State Legislature and the Judiciary. Of what use is this E0 10 then?

“In most states, we have a Joint Account Allocation Committee. Are we saying that EO 10 is superior to a state’s law enacted by the House of Assembly?

“Instead of rushing to issue EO 10, the appropriate thing for the Federal Government is to sit down with the governors and agree on autonomy modalities in line with Section 121(3) of the constitution.”

Sources said there is anxiety among the governors that the Federal Government may withhold the allocations of states that do not implement autonomy for its legislature and judiciary.

A North-West governor said: “It is also wrong to ask the Accountant-General of the Federation in 7(b) of EO 10 to “take appropriate steps to ensure compliance with the provisions of this Order. This is like giving a sword to the Accountant-General of the Federation to kill.

“We may witness a repeat of the era of the administration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo when Lagos State’s statutory allocations were seized for no just cause.

“All the governors are not happy that the Minister of Justice and the Accountant-General of the Federation can determine the fate of a state based on EO 10.”

The Executive Order 10 reads in part: “WHEREAS a Presidential Implementation Committee was constituted to fashion out strategies and modalities for the implementation of financial autonomy for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in compliance with section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended); taking into considerations all other applicable laws, instruments, conventions, and regulations, which provides for financial autonomy at the state tier of government;

“whereas the implementation of financial autonomy of the State Legislature and State Judiciary will strengthen the institutions at the State tier of Government and make them more independent and accountable in line with the tenets of democracy as enshrined by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended); and

“By the power vested in me as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended), which extends to the execution and maintenance of the Constitution, laws made by the National Assembly (including but not limited to Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantee financial autonomy of the State Legislature and State Judiciary.

“Now, therefore, I, Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in the exercise of the power conferred on me, do hereby orders as follows:

“Without prejudice to any other applicable laws, legislations, and conventions at the State tier of Government, which also provides for financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary, allocation of appropriated funds to the State Legislature and State Judiciary in the State appropriation laws in the annual budget of the State, shall be a charge upon the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State, as a First Line Charge.

“The Accountant-General of the Federation shall by this Order and such any other Orders, Regulations or Guidelines as may be issued by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, authorize the deduction from a source in the course of Federation Accounts Allocation from the money allocated to any State of the Federation that fails to release allocation meant for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in line with the financial autonomy guaranteed by Section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended).

“Subject to section 8(1) of this Order, implementation of the provisions of this Order shall be carried out by the Presidential Implementation Committee in accordance with its recommendations.

(b) To the extent as may be permitted by law, the Accountant-General of the Federation shall take appropriate steps to ensure compliance with the provisions of this Order and implementation of the recommendations of the Committee, as may from time to time be made.

(c) This Order shall be implemented consistently with States applicable laws that guarantee the financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary and subject to the availability of funds.

Defending EO 10 however, Malami said it was designed to force constitutional compliance with Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

He spoke on Thursday at the Radio Nigeria programme “Politics Nationwide”.

In a statement through his Special Assistant on Media, Dr. Umaru Jibrilu Gwandu, the Minister said “Executive Order No. 10 is meant to bring about the constitutionality associated with the autonomy of the state legislature and judiciary.

He said the order was also “intended to achieve a supervisory role by assigning responsibilities and ensuring proper supervision desired for the purpose of enforcement and application of autonomy constitutionally granted states legislature and judiciary as contained in Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He said: “The Executive Order is, therefore, a necessary tool for the purpose of bringing into effect such autonomy by way of assigning certain responsibilities, both institutional and otherwise necessary for the purpose of enforcing the autonomy.

“By way of example, therefore, if the Federal Government wants to withhold the resources of a State Government that refuses to comply with the constitutional provision relating to the autonomy of State Legislatures and Judiciary, then the Federal Government may require the services of the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation”.

“Similarly, if the government wants the state legislature to be part of the process relating to appropriation, for example, the agreement must be reached on the need for the state legislature to be alive to their responsibility.”

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Buhari’s Govt. reveals plans to employ 774,000 persons.

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The Minister of state for labour and employment, Festus Keyamo has revealed that up to 10 percent of the federal government’s 774,000 temporary employment slots will be allocated to political office holders across the country.

Recall that on April 6, 2020, Zainab Ahmed, minister of finance, budget and national,planning, announced that President Muhammadu Buhari approved the engagement of 774,000 Nigerians on the special public works programme implemented by the National Directorate of Employment (NDE).

Providing a breakdown of the figure, Ahmed said the programme will encompass 1,000 people each from the 774 local government areas of the country.

Keyamo at a press briefing, gave details of how the programme would be implemented, as it is scheduled to begin in October 2020.

He said a 20-member committee will be constituted in each state and will comprise representatives of local communities, traditional institutions, religious organisations, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), civil society organisations, among others.

“I wish to quickly note at this point that this is a distinct and separate committee from the state advisory committee under section 5(2) of the N.D.E Act whose functions are different,” he said.

“Let me state clearly that all members of the state selection committees would not be persons holding any official position in any of the registered political parties. If any of those listed also doubles as an official of any political party, then the state chairman of the selection committee of the SPW shall fill that position with another person representing that interest. We have stated this in order to make this process as apolitical as possible.

“However, we are not unmindful of the fact that political office holders are also representatives of the people. We cannot also totally ignore them in the selection process. We are only trying to guard against some of us hijacking the process solely to service our political interests.

“As a result and because of the need to be honest before Nigerians, the state selection committees would be instructed to allot to political office holders like our distinguished senators, honourable members, ministers and governors, a number in total not exceeding ten percent of the total beneficiaries in that state.

This is to ensure that majority of Nigerians who do not belong to any of the politicized divides actually divide substantially from this program.”

Keyamo also added that the president has “approved the use of select banks to register and collate data of the beneficiaries.”

“The banks will open accounts for all beneficiaries and in the process obtain BVN for those without accounts. Consequently, all payments would be made from the CBN directly to the accounts of the beneficiaries,” the minister said.

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See who President Buhari appointed as NNRC DG

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President Muhammadu Buhari has endorsed the appointment of Dr. Ya’u Usman Idris as the Director-General of Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRC).

Timipre Sylva, Minister of State for Petroleum (HMSP) confirmed the appointment of Dr. Idris in a statement signed by Garba Deen Muhammad, Group General Manager and SA Media to the Minister.

Sylva congratulated the new DG even as he urged him to work hard.

Announcing his appointment on his Twitter page, the Minister wrote: “The Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum (HMSP) H.E. Timipre Sylva has today, 28/05/2020, disclosed the appointment of Dr. Ya’u Usman Idris as the Director-General of Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRC).

“In a letter conveying the approval of President Muhammadu Buhari for the appointment, the HMSP congratulated the new DG and urged him to work hard to justify the confidence reposed in him.

“The appointment is with effect from 19th February 2019.”

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IGP sends new CPs to Edo, Ondo, others

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The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has authorized the immediate posting/redeployment of eight new commissioners of police.

The commissioners of police are ; Undie J. Adie, CP Osun State; Johnson Babatunde Kokumo, CP Edo State; Lawal Jimeta Tanko, CP Bauchi State; Philip Sule Maku, CP Ebonyi State; Ahmed Maikudi Shehu, CP Gombe State and Bolaji Amidu Salami, CP Ondo State.

Others are Nwachukwu Enwonwu, CP Oyo State; Evelyn T. Peterside, CP Eastern Port; Okon Etim Ene, CP EOD; Bello Maikwashi, CP Airport Command and Olukolu Tairu Shina, CP Anti-Fraud Unit (FCID Annex Lagos).

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Frank Mba, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, said Inspector General of Police charged the newly posted officers to ensure they consolidate and advance the gains of their predecessors particularly in the implementation of community policing, crime prevention, public security, public safety and general Crime fighting.

“The IGP also enjoins the citizens of the affected states to cooperate with the Commissioners of Police to enable them to succeed in their new areas of responsibilities.

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Wizkid trashes Burna Boy, ask fans to support Davido

Popular Nigerian music superstar, Wizkid has urged his team, (Wizkid FC) to support Nigerian talented singer, Davido despite while referring to Burna Boy as ‘Odogwu’.

The singer reacted for the first time after Davido shared a snippet of his upcoming video for his new song #ABT.

Wizkid responded to Davido‘s tweet saying:

“Osheyyyy worst #ABT�� some people go do a small thing, them go rush give themselves odogwu�� if you want to know about #30BG call OBO� #Wizkidfc gat your back bro��”

Recall that the dispute started after Davido posted a photo of him and Wizkid with a caption that says the two of them are the greatest Nigerian artistes of all time.

Reacting to this, Burna Boy started throwing comments
some moments after Davido confirmed the release of his new project set to drop in July.

The ‘anybody’ crooner dug his dagger right through Davido’s chest by saying he’s not a good musician, adding that his music career was literally bought by his billionaire father.

According to Burna:
“July will be very funny, and I shall laugh accordingly. You cannot play football, everybody knows you cannot play and you are an embarrassment to the team. But your daddy bought the football team” Burna Boy mocked on Twitter.

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Covid-19: See what Parents told FG over reopening of schools

Some parents in Lagos State are against plans to reopen schools.

Earlier this week, the Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba, spoke on plans to divide classes into morning and afternoon sessions, in a bid to reopen schools across the country.

Speaking to newsmen on Thursday, some parents noted it was important for the federal and state governments to continue to safeguard children from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ayobami Ojo, a civil servant, who resides in Ikotun, asked for the children to stay at home until the pandemic is effectively contained or a vaccine is found.

There is no need of considering any morning and evening classes for now; let the children continue to stay safe at home as the virus is increasing every day,” he said.

A businesswoman, Abiodun Aina, who resides in Ayobo, said: “It is difficult to control adults, let alone children, we should not risk the lives of children. A two-shift option for classes may not stop the spread of the virus.

Kayode Jacob, a businessman, who lives around Iyana-Ipaja, pointed out that university and secondary school students can be cautioned, but it will be difficult to control nursery and primary school pupils.

As of Thursday evening, Nigeria had recorded confirmed 8,733 cases with a total of 254 deaths.

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May 29: There is nothing to Celebrate – PDP to Buhari

Ahead of the fifth anniversary of the present administration, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) wednesday advised President Muhammadu Buhari to avoid making false performance claims and empty promises to celebrate May 29 Inauguration Day.

The party said President Buhari should rather apologise for the tragic failures of his administration, which wrecked the once robust and cohesive country, imposed hardship and created acute despondency across the country in the last five years.

The PDP stressed that Buhari should also address the manifest manipulations, bloodletting, intimidation, coercions, abuse of power and human right violations that characterised the 2019 presidential elections, as such is the only way to achieve healing in the national polity.

According to the PDP in a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, “Our party further advises President Buhari against living in denial of the ugly fact that his administration and his dysfunctional All Progressives Congress (APC) had deserted, betrayed and abandoned underprivileged Nigerians, particularly our youths, after the APC deceived them with false promises to grab power in 2015.”

The party further urged the president not to allow his handlers push him into sugarcoating the colossal failures of the last one year, which had been characterised by humongous corruption, worsened insecurity and economic hardship, while the president, who had promised to lead from the front, recedes deeper into the luxury and safety of the Presidential Villa.

Again, PDP said: “Our party calls on Buhari not to give room for presidential advisers to further ridicule his office by making him read another windy speech that would be laced with vacuous promises, doctored performance claims and myriads of incorrect and unsupported statistics that would end up being at total variance with the harsh realities on ground.

“The president should know that he cannot use the COVID-19 pandemic as excuse for failure as his administration had since lost grip of the security and economic situation in our country even before the outbreak of the scourge.”

It said Nigerians hoped that the president would always recall that the PDP handed over a robust economy which was rated as one of the fastest growing in the world, only for him to bring Nigeria to its knees as the world poverty capital and a debtor country within a space of five years.

PDP further stated that he should use the occasion to reflect that his administration had ruined the productive sector with harsh policies leading to the closure of businesses, dearth in foreign and domestic investments as well as acute unemployment with over 40 million job losses.

According to PDP, the president should contemplate on the alarm raised by the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige, that unemployment rate under this administration will hit a devastating 33.5 percent this year.

Buhari, the main opposition said, should also reflect that under his watch, the naira which was valued at N160 to a dollar during the PDP reign, fell to N500 and then to the current N390, and that his administration increased the price of fuel from where the PDP left it at N87 per litre to N145 and only reduced it to N125 after much pressure from the PDP, and that his government also increased the Value Added Tax (VAT) from 5 percent to 7.5 percent, despite the attendant spike in costs of food and essential services.

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IGP under attack over Police clampdown on journalists

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Adewale Giwa, the senior Pastor of Awaiting the Second Coming Of Jesus Christ Ministry, has charged the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu to stop the Force from treating with journalists as criminals.

Giwa asked the IGP to end the impunity “because we are not under the military regime.”

He discloses this while stressing that journalists have not been treated in a respectful and considerate manner since President Muhammadu Buhari took over the government.

Recall that the police personnel under the IGP Squad had on Tuesday arrested DAILY POST’s Delta State correspondent, Mr. Matthew Omonigho, alongside three other reporters.

The IGP squad had told him that they were in town for an investigation and that he has a link with a suspect, Mr. Cletus Opukeme whom they were looking for.

Omonigho and the other journalists have since been released.

However, Giwa in a statement sent to newsmen also charged the IGP to release other journalists being held in cells.

He said, “I call on the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu to immediately order the release of all journalists in different police cells across the states.

“Over the years since the All Progressives Congress took over the mantle of leadership, journalists have been treated like criminals.

“There is nothing like press freedom in Nigeria anymore. Freedom of the press is often referred to as the right to circulate opinions in print without censorship by the government.

“Those who got to power through social media networks and other media organizations are now the people jailing journalists. What an irony!

“How can you link a journalist to a suspect? Why can’t you arrest the suspect first? It is really ridiculous and disgusting!

“I think we must do everything possible to have a better nation. Our police should be able to comport themselves to respect the rights of Nigerians.”

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How Akpabio allegedly sent men after my life – Daily Watch Publisher

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The publisher/Editor-in Cheif, Daily Watch publications, Mr. Cletus Opukeme, has called on the Inspector General of Police Mr. Mohammed Adamu to hold Niger Delta minister Godswill Akpabio and the members of the NDDC Interim management committee responsible if anything happens to his life or that of his family members.

He disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen stating that IGP boys from Abuja traced him to the office of the NuJ in Warri and abducted Mr. Matthew Omonigho.

He said the adducted Ominigho later called revealing that he was dumped at the Area Commander’s office in Warri.

He said :
“The Union leadership sent a delegation to the police station to know why he was arrested and bundled away like a common criminal manhandled.

” The police instead of listening to the NUJ delegation confiscated all their phones and detained them also

“The Police told them that they were special squad from Abuja sent to arrest Mr. Cletus Opukeme, the Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief of Daily Watch.

” I want to categorically warn that the so-called crooked IGP paid boys and other security operatives should stay away from Daily Watch publications. That if Senator Godswill Akpabio or any other person feels aggrieved by our published stories, they know the right option which is to seek redress as the court is there for them to sue Daily Watch publisher and allow the judiciary to determine our publication it is libelous and defamatory. It is not the place of DSS,the IGP boy,s or any other security operatives to be used to intimidate Daily Watch over our genuine investigations which first exposed a large scale of financial misappropriation in NDDC. Senator Akpabio has turned NDDC to a cash cow looting the commonwealth of the people of Niger Delta and intimidation or arrest by IGP Boys /DSS cannot frighten us from doing what we know how to do best by informing the public the right information.

“The invasion of Warri NUJ office by the crooked IGP TEAM to arrest a journalist is an embarrassment to democracy in the country as journalists have freedom of expression enshrined on the nation’s constitution.

” If Akpabio is aggrieved by our publications for exposing his massive looting, he should go to court and stop intimidating me with the police and ex-militants to gag the press from doing our Constitutional duties.

” The said IG squad called one of the arrested journalists to direct them to Cletus Opukeme’s residence who identified himself as Reuben with mobile phone number:08116912068 quoting the reporter ”One Mr. Reuben just called now requesting to know if I have been able to see Cletus. I told him that he only called me this morning wherein I asked him to be at the Area Command with me in solidarity and he refused. Again, he asked if I know any link with which they could get him and I said No. He later cut the call”

” the same similar threats were being made by unidentified members over campaign against Akpabio’s massive looting by Izanzan which after a protest made against Akpabio and his NDDC IMC within a week assassins shot dead the vibrant and resourceful spokesman Comrade Famous Believe on the 18th May 2020 which police is investigating the murderers till now,” Opukeme noted.

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Izeh-Iyamu emerges Edo APC consensus Candidate

The re-election bid
of Governor Godwin Obaseki may have hit a brick wall as another governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, emerged the party’s consensus candidate for the next gubernatorial election in the state.

It was gathered that Ize-Iyamu, a former secretary to Edo state government, emerged the candidate of the party on the night of Tuesday, May 26, in Abuja through a consensus arrangement.

Ize-Iyamu, a pastor of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), was presented by chairman of the screening committee, Senator Francis Alimikhena, the representative of Edo North senatorial district.

The report said that other members of the screening committee were a former Edo deputy governor, Lucky Imasuen; General Cecil Esekhaigbe; ex-speaker of Edo House of Assembly, Thomas Okosun; former minority whip of the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie; ex-member of the House of Representatives, Patrick Obahiagbon, and the current deputy leader of the House of Representatives, Peter Akpatason.

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Why no man can stop me from returning as Edo Governor – Obaseki says

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has bragged that he will emerge, governor of Edo State, ahead of the governorship election in the State.

Obaseki who spoke as a guest on a Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily on Wednesday expressed confidence that he will return as the governor of the State.

According to him, no one can stop him because only God gives power.

“I am not a violent person. But I am confident that the way I got into power is the same way I will return.

“God gave me power. If he wants me to return, I will continue. No man can stop me. Power comes from God.”

The governor also rubbished claims that he used the resources of the people of Edo State to become governor.

“I have friends with resources. I worked for eight years behind the scene before I became governor.

“So all that insinuations about using somebody’s resources is not true. I became Governor on the platform of the party and I am grateful for it.

“It does not matter whether it is direct or indirect (primaries), I will win.”

Obaseki’s statement is coming shorty after Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu was endorsed as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Ize-Iyamu is believed to be loyal to the National Chairman of the party, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole who has been at loggerheads with Governor Obaseki.

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PDP lauds President Buhari, give reasons

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts in whipping banditry and other crimes in Zamfara State.

State Secretary, Hashimu Modomowa, gave the commendation in a statement on Tuesday.

PDP countered remarks by the Commissioner for Rural Development,
Abubakar Abdullahi, which accused the federal government of paying more attention to COVID-19 than banditry.

State Secretary, Hashimu Modomowa, gave the commendation in a statement on Tuesday.

PDP countered remarks by the Commissioner for Rural Development, Abubakar Abdullahi, which accused the federal government of paying more attention to COVID-19 than banditry.

The scribe said the utterances were capable of setting the state and the federal government on a collision course.

Modomowa noted that the Buhari administration had done fairly well in fighting crime in Zamfara.

“This includes the establishment of 1 Brigade of Nigeria Army, 207 Quick Response Group of the Nigeria Airforce and Joint Task Force (JTF) under Operation Hadarin Daji”, he said.

PDP also thanked the federal government for granting the request of Zamfara in reviving mining activities in the State.

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I am not a contractor with NDDC – Reps committee Chairman

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The chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Niger Delta Development Committee (NDDC), Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has denied having any contract with the commission.

Speaking after a meeting held by the Committee on Tuesday over allegations by Dr. Cairo Ojuegbo, a member of the NDDC Interim Management Committee (IMC), Tunji-Ojo said no contract was awarded by the commission to even warrant the allegations.

Ojuegbo in an interview with a television station had alleged that about N3 trillion contracts were awarded by the commission to the two committees on NDDC at the National Assembly.

Tunji-Ojo said the allegations were mere blackmails against the committee and the National Assembly.

“These allegations are forms of blackmail and it is surprising.

“I became Chairman of this Committee in September last year when we were established and between September and now, I can say that not a kobo of contract has been awarded as an emergency and so I don’t know how that assertion came about.

“I came into office and the IMC came into office in October and Dr. Cairo himself said they have not awarded a single contract since they came on board.

“So, how did the issue of the contract come about?

“Obviously, this is sheer blackmail and we expected this from the onset when the investigation process started.

“The bottom line is that we are not going to be deterred.

“This is coming after a threat to life by militants and different text messages which have failed,” he said.

It could be recalled that a group had some weeks ago alleged that the Committee chairman was given a road contract by the NDDC which he had already denied.

“I am not a contractor with NDDC; I have never worked for NDDC and I have never been paid by NDDC for anything.

“I am the chairman of this committee by the grace of God and I know the responsibilities on my shoulders.

“It is an indictment on their part if they claim that there was an award for none budgeted item.

That’s is a very serious offence which the National Assembly must look into,” he said.

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What I told Buhari Govt. about reopening of schools – Shehu Sani

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has warned against reopening of schools, amid the Coronavirus pandemic.

Sani warned that it was too early and dangerous to reopen schools across the country.

In a tweet, the former lawmaker pointed out that no one will be psychologically at peace when their children resume school at a time like this.

He wrote: “It’s too early and dangerous to contemplate reopening schools, particularly primary and secondary schools at this material time.

“No parent will psychologically be at peace to let their children out at times like this. We can make up for the loss of time, not life.”

The Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, had last week, disclosed that the Federal Government was already making efforts to reopen schools across the country.

He said that contrary to speculations, reopening of schools won’t happen within the next two weeks.

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Air Chief Sadique, reassures Buhari of loyalty

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Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Abubakar Sadique, has said that the Air Force is loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari.

He spoke at Eid-el-Fitr Luncheon organised with troops in the North East on Monday in Yola.

The CAS was represented by Air Commodore Muhammed Yusuf, Commander 153 Base Services Group, Yola.

It is unclear why the Air Chief is reassuring President Buhari of NAF loyalty.

But Sadique said this was due to “his constant support to the Nigeria Air Forces”.

He said the lunch observed “is a tradition being organized by the Nigeria Air Force to facilitate the front Air personnel in the North East region during the festivity.

“And the Nigeria Air Force is committed to ensuring that our country is safe and people can go to their normal activities”.

He added that the NAF Base in Yola would continue to play a vital role in the fight against insurgency in the northeast.

Sadique further assured the people of Adamawa in particular, and the entire region, of the utmost best of the Air Force to protect them from dreaded insurgents and other crimes.

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Why INEC will begin electronic voting in 2021 – Prof. Yakubu

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The Independent National Electoral Commission says it will introduce electronic voting (e-voting) in off-season elections starting in 2021.

This is contained in a 17-page “Policy on Conducting Elections in the Context of the Covid-19 Pandemic” released on Monday in Abuja and signed by the INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

The policy covers health and legal issues, election planning and operations, election day and post-election activities, voter registration, political parties, election observation, electoral security, and deployment of technology in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Continue to make available its electronic channels for voters to check their registration status. Pilot the use of Electronic Voting Machines at the earliest possible time (not Edo and Ondo), but work towards the full introduction of electronic voting in major elections starting from 2021,” the document stated.

The commission, however, ruled out the deployment of the e-voting for the coming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states.

It said it would adopt electronic platforms for the submission of nomination forms by political parties for the two governorship elections.

INEC said that during the elections in Edo and Ondo, scheduled for September 19, 2020, and October 10, 2020, respectively, face masks would be made compulsory for voters, electoral officials, and everyone else at all election locations.

It said the polling unit areas shall be redesigned to ensure substantial compliance with established protocols such as social distancing.

“In order to accommodate additional activities in setting up the PU due to COVID-19, polls shall now commence at 8.30 am and close at 2.30 pm. Personal protective equipment and other safety materials shall be provided for polling staff,” the commission said.

It said infrared thermometers would be used at the various collation centres, alcohol-based hand sanitizers at the polling units for election officials; while methylated spirit and cotton wool would be provided for the disinfection of the smart card readers after the fingerprint of each voter is read.

The commission added that it would regularly clean up the biometric register of voters, “while continuous voter registration is suspended for the time being to prevent the health risks associated with it in the context of COVID-19.

“We are developing a new election budget template to reflect the likely impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the funding profile of electoral activities,” it said.

The commission said it suspended Continuous Voter Registration because of COVID-19 and the health risk it poses for voters, stakeholders and staff.

On transportation, the commission said election staff would comply with COVID-19 containment protocols, and that there shall be a reduction in the number of passengers per vehicle on election day from 14 to seven for buses, and from 12 to six for boats.

INEC also said that its “state offices shall conduct a thorough assessment of RACs to determine their suitability for elections, adding that where there is insufficient space in a RAC and no suitable alternative facility is available for a Super RAC option, canopies may be deployed outdoors to increase the available area for use.

“In the establishment of voting points, in order to reduce the number of points in a polling unit to be monitored and controlled for COVID-19 compliance, the threshold for voting points shall be increased from 500/750 to 1,000/1,250.”

The commission said it would create e-platforms in the accreditation of observer groups and deployment of their field observers, submission of nomination forms by political parties for candidates, tracking and reporting of campaigns and campaign finance by/for candidates and political parties.

According to the new policy, “other activities to be done online include: submission of party agents lists by political parties, engagement with stakeholders -consultative meeting with political party leaders and briefing of observers.”

On briefing and debriefing of election observers, INEC said it would combine physical and online briefings for observers.

It said: “However, whenever the former is adopted, all the protocols for COVID-19 prevention shall be strictly followed.”

It said it would reassess existing security threats across the states and the implications of COVID-19, develop locally focused plans for election security deployments.

It added that it would engage with relevant authorities, including the National Assembly, to designate election as an essential service due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This, the commission, said would enable it to function effectively in times of national emergency.

Yakubu advised political parties to develop appropriate guidelines and regulations for the conduct of party primaries that take into account the COVID-19 prevention protocols, saying where such guidelines and regulations are in conflict with the constitutions of political parties and the commissions’ regulations and guidelines for the conduct of party primaries, it would draw the attention of the political party to the discrepancies.

He said the policy would apply to all elections and electoral activities of the commission during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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How Minister, Pantami drove us from office with guns – Dabiri-Erewa reveals

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The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa has explained how the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Ibrahim Isah Pantami, allegedly chased her staff away from their office at the Nigeria Communications Commission, NCC, with armed men and locked up their personal items.

The NIDCOM boss said the office complex was allocated to her commission by the NCC, adding that they were evicted just after two days.

Dabiri-Erewa, who lamented that her commission was yet to have a permanent office after one year, said, even her printers and laptops were still in the office complex locked up by the minister.

Addressing reporters in a viral video, “As for me, as long as I have people I can work with and for the Diaspora Commission, I have a pool of amazing young men and women that are determined to work. So, the zeal actually amazes me.

“So, it’s about people showing that commitment and having that vision that ‘you know what, I’ll play my part no matter the challenges,” she began.

“We won’t be bothered by these challenges but I hope we resolve these challenges. One year we don’t even have an office.

“The office we got, given to us by the NCC, we were actually driven away by the honourable Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isah Pantami.

“Within two days he drove us out. The place was given to us by NCC. You know we just help each other, NCC as a government agency said there’s a place we can settle in.

And just as we settled in, I was in Ethiopia when I got a call and I thought it was a joke. I came back from Ethiopia on Thursday and this happened on Tuesday and by the time I went to the office on Friday, armed men with guns have taken over the place.

“I thought it was a joke but here is the thing: I’m a government employee so is he. I don’t want to raise any dust about this. I’ve written to the appropriate government authorities, I’ve complained officially but we’ll let it be. He wants the place, let him take it.

“The office is still there and a whole is still vacant. As I speak with you all our items are still locked up. I don’t have a computer. I don’t have printers. Everything has been locked up. So after COVID-19 I hope we can get a place and move in.

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Lockdown: why farmers should return to their farms – Buhari reveals

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President Muhammadu Buhari has advised farmers to return to their farms in order to provide food for Nigerians, as there is no money for importation.

He disclosed this while speaking with State House correspondents after Eid prayers on Sunday.

Buhari, also prayed for a favourable raining season this year.

“I hope the raining season would be bountiful so that we get a lot of food.

“I wish the farmers will go to farms and save our lives so that we can produce what we need in sufficient quantity so that we don’t have to import food.

“In any case, we don’t have any money to import food. So, we must produce what we are going to eat,” he said.

The First Lady, Aisha Buhari, used the opportunity to appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), in containing the COVID-19 outbreak.

“I wish to thank the Federal Ministry of Health and also the NCDC for their efforts in combating the pandemic,” she said.

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Evacuated Nigerians arrive from Lebanon

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Fifty trafficked girls and 19 stranded Nigerians have arrived from Lebanon on Sunday night.

Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Foreign Affairs, disclosed these via his verified Twitter handle.

He noted that their evacuation was at the expense of the Lebanese authorities.

He tweeted: “With the financial and logistic support of the Lebanese Government and Lebanese community in Nigeria, 50 trafficked Nigerian girls and 19 stranded Nigerians were successfully evacuated from Lebanon and arrived in Nigeria today.”

It was gathered they will be moved to Abuja where they will observe the 14-day compulsory isolation in line with protocol aimed at containing the spread of COVID-19.

Recall that in the last two weeks, the Federal Government has evacuated close to 1,000 from U.K, U.S, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

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Why Buhari should reopen churches, others now – GAGG

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The National Coordinator, Concerned Advocates for Good Governance, CAGG, Barrister Olusegun Bamgbose, Esq., has advised President Muhammadu Buhari to open up worship centres in the country without further delay.

He noted that religious houses are powerhouses of the country, adding that continuing shutdown of such places may spell doom for Nigeria’s political leaders.

The senior lawyer, in a statement to newsmen on Monday, also urged the Federal Government to open schools in batches.

According to him, “It’s no doubt that the temporary closure of religious activities in Nigeria was due to the ravaging pandemic, Coronavirus.

“The virus has actually not subsided. People are actually dying every day. The number of infected persons is rising every day. This is no doubt a sad development.

“The lockdown is no doubt necessary to halt the spread of the highly dreaded virus that has claimed many lives in Nigeria.

“However it has become necessary for the Federal Government to declare Mosques and Churches open for normal services.

“The Federal Government should realize that religious houses are powerhouses of the country.

“This nation would have ceased to exist as one country except for the prayers of the Muslims and Christians. The time is ripe for the powerhouses to be opened for normal services.

“I believe I have the permission of God to make this statement. This should be done not later than 19th June 2020, to avoid an open disaster in high quarters.

“Continuing shut down of religious houses may spell doom for our political leaders. One will, however, warn the prosperity preachers to soft-pedal on this.

“In the same vein, one will urge the Federal Government to open schools in batches.

“The JSS 3, SS3, and final year students in our tertiary institutions should be allowed to resume for obvious reasons.

“They should be allowed to resume and take their exams. The indefinite closure of schools may be counterproductive.”

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(Photos): Disaster as flood submerges communities on Eid day

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The residents of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area of Lagos State have cried out to the government to come to their aid as floods submerge their community.

Following the heavy downpour on Eid-el-Fitr day, Sunday, May 24, 2020, a majority of the residents were forced out of their houses as the flood took over the streets and their apartments.

At Oju-Elegba Road, Dalemo Alakuko, the residents complained that the road which was recently constructed by the Lagos State Government was not properly done, causing a heavy flood.

Some of the residents who spoke to newsmen complained that the dual drainages on both sides of the road were not well constructed, while the canal supposedly built to channel water out of the community was poorly done by the contractor who handled the project.

The road construction project was started by the former Lagos State Governor, Akinwumi Ambode but was completed by the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led administration.

A resident whose apartment was submerged, Abdullahi Oguntayo, said he has lost all his properties to the flood.

“I was outside when the rain started, on getting home, I saw all my properties floating on the water. My foam, my TV, and others have been destroyed. The government needs to come back to this community. This road was just constructed but we are surprised that we can still witness this calamity,” he said.

The Chairman of the community, Alhaji Ipadeola, said the unusual flood has persisted in the area because the government did not supervise the project.

“There is a small stream down the street, when they were constructing the road, we agitated that a canal be constructed to channel all the waters that flow through the street but it was not done.

“They said a landlord refused to allow them to construct the canal because it would take part of his house. Assuming the government did the proper thing and constructed the canal, this flood wouldn’t have been occurring in this community. Now virtually all the houses are submerged in flood. We have never witnessed such a flood in this community even when the road was not reconstructed.”

The Chairman, therefore, appealed to the local government and the state government to come back to the community and do proper work on the road.

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How Delta SSG’s Security almost killed bikeman for overtaking convoy

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Security aides attached to the Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Chiedu Ebie, have allegedly beaten one, Mr. Ramson Stephen, for overtaking the convoy of the SSG at a police checkpoint.

According to reliable information, Mr. Stephen was going to Asaba, from Agbor, to deliver a bike to the owner at Asaba, on Saturday, but trouble started when Mr. Stephen, rode passed the entourage of the SSG at the police checkpoint located at Ubulu-Okiti, Aniocha north local government area, on the Asaba-Benin expressway.

The security aides onboard the three vehicles, a convoy of the SSG and ordered that the bike rider be chased.

It was revealed by a source who said that the security aides chased the bike operator and gave him the beating of his life leaving him with bruises.

It was also gathered that the SSG, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, who was heading to Asaba, was in his official vehicle watching the ugly scenario like a scene in Nollywood movie.

The crime of Mr. Stephen was to run in front of the convoy of the SSG at the checkpoint, which led to his beating.

The SSG responded through a text message as calls put across were not answered.

Ebie however, denied any knowledge of the incident saying: “Someone just sent another message to that effect. Unfortunately, I know nothing of that as I didn’t travel in my vehicle today.

“Yes my car traveled but I wasn’t in the car and so I will need to find out what happened”.

Immediately after the text, the SSG called and explained further that he drove in a friend’s car while the other cars were behind.

“I did personally travel in my car. I wasn’t in my car, I traveled in another vehicle and that vehicle was way in the front. So, if it happens, it must have happened behind me because I am not aware of that”.

“Because I traveled with my friend and I rode in his car actually, we were in front and other cars were behind us. So, I didn’t see anything like that but if it did, it is quite unfortunate but I will find out what happened”, he explained. He added.

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(Photos): Buhari, family observe Eid prayers in Aso villa

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday observed the 2020 Eid prayers at the Presidential Villa.

The president was joined by his family and a few government officials.

The presidency had announced that Buhari will conduct the prayers at home.

Garba Shehu, the Presidential spokesman, said the decision was in respect to the lockdown measures in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

It was also in accordance with the directive of the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Sa’ad Abubakar III.

Buhari also obeyed the protocol against mass gathering issued by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.

For the first time since he assumed power in 2015, the president will not receive guests during the Eid celebration.

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Eid-el-Fitri: Imbibe Ramadan lessons – APC to Nigerians

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on Muslims to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan, which include personal sacrifice, charity, sobriety, and self-discipline.

Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, APC National Publicity Secretary, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Saturday.

He congratulated the Muslim community on the successful completion of the 2020 Ramadan fasting and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitri.

“As we complete this important religious obligation, we join the Nigerian Muslim community in beseeching Allah to accede to all their prayers and accept their fasting as an act of worship.

“It is our hope that the important lessons of Ramadan, including personal sacrifice, charity, sobriety, and self-discipline will not cease to be part of our ways of life in the months and years ahead.

“At this critical period of our nation’s history, these noble virtues should continue to guide our daily activities as we strive to fulfill our duties as good citizens of this great country,” he said.

The Party’s spokesman also urged Muslims to stay safe amid the Coronavirus global pandemic.

“In our continuous efforts to stem the spread of this virus, the APC urges all Nigerians to adhere to public health guidelines and instructions, including safe distancing, use of face masks at public places among others.

“On the part of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, no effort is being spared at mitigating the negative impact of the pandemic on our people.

“Finally, we call on Nigerians to keep supporting the government in its determined quest to make our great country secure, peaceful, and prosperous,” he said.

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Lawmaker exposed for linking BVN to 64 bank accounts

No fewer than 64 bank accounts have been exposed to be allegedly linked to the Bank Verification Number of Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.

According to SaharaReporters, the BVN indicates that the lawmaker operates accounts with multiple names in Polaris Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Ecobank Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, United Bank for Africa, First City Monument Bank and Wema Bank.

It was alleged the accounts registered with various names, are being used to siphon public funds in Lagos.

Disguising his identity, the Speaker changed his name and date of birth in some of the accounts.

Aside from using Ajayi Mudashiru Obasa, he also used Obasa Abdulrahman Gbadunola and Gabriel Adedoyin Savage to register some of the bank accounts.

Some of the companies linked to the BVN include Adesav International Ventures, Fabric Splash Ventures, Swifthill international Ventures, and Quick Solution International

Others are Quick solution International Ventures, White Honey Enterprises, Cream on Ice Services, A.B DELCO Nigeria Company, and Fabric Splash Ventures, Skye-Macosh Company, Swifthill International Ventures, Silver Section Global, Davedab Global Ventures and Jose-Macosh Company and De Kingrun.

In a series of reports in recent weeks, SaharaReporters had exposed how Obasa awarded contracts to himself using different companies owned by him and how he got the Assembly to approve N258m for the printing of invitation cards for the inauguration of lawmakers two months after the event held.

The online publication also uncovered how he endorsed various sums running into several million through various guises.

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Why I reversed orders on reopening of churches, others – Gov. Ortom

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Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has withdrawn the order allowing churches and mosques in the State to reopen for religious activities.

Ortom announced the cancellation of the order on Saturday in Makurdi during the weekly news briefing on activities of the Covid-19 Quick Response Team.

He explained that the decision to revert to the status quo was based on the apprehension expressed by the Federal Government over decisions by some state governments to reopen religious activities.

”You need to be alive before you can worship,” he said.

He said he had already made consultations with relevant stakeholders, including leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria and Jamatu Nasiru Islam on the matter.

Ortom also announced that Mrs. Elizabeth Apedzan, a former federal lawmaker, who tested positive for Covid-19 had been discharged.

He, therefore, appealed to those with symptoms similar to that of Covid-19 to avail themselves for testing.

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Buhari approves financial autonomy for state legislatures, judiciary

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, signed into law an Executive Order to grant financial autonomy to the legislature and the judiciary across the 36 states of the country.

The order also requires the accountant-general of the federation to reduce from source amount due to state legislatures and judiciaries from the monthly allocation to each state for states that refuse to grant such autonomy.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, said these in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations, Umar Gwandu, made available to newsmen.

Mr. Malami said the Executive Order No. 10 of 2020, made it mandatory that all states of the federation should include the allocations of both the legislature and the judiciary in the first-line charge of their budgets.

According to the AGF, “a Presidential Implementation Committee was constituted to fashion out strategies and modalities for the implementation of financial autonomy for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in compliance with section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended).”

He said consideration was given to all other applicable laws, instruments, conventions, and regulations that provided for financial autonomy at the states.

Mr. Malami maintained that the implementation of the financial autonomy of the state legislature and state judiciary would strengthen the institutions at the states and make them more independent and accountable in line with the tenets of democracy as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

The statement added that “The President signed the Executive Order number 10 into law based on the power vested in him as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended), which extends to the execution and maintenance of the Constitution, laws made by the National Assembly (including but not limited to Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantee financial autonomy of the State Legislature and State Judiciary.”

Mr. Malami said the executive order provides that: “The Accountant-General of the Federation shall by this Order and such any other Orders, Regulations or Guidelines as may be issued by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, authorize the deduction from a source in the course of Federation Accounts Allocation from the money allocated to any State of the Federation that fails to release allocation meant for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in line with the financial autonomy guaranteed by Section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended).”

“Article 6 (1) provides that: “Notwithstanding the provisions of this.

Executive Order, in the first three years of its implementation, there shall be special extraordinary capital allocations for the Judiciary to undertake capital development of State Judiciary Complexes, High Court Complexes, Sharia Court of Appeal, Customary Court of Appeal and Court Complexes of other Courts befitting the status of a Courts,” he added.

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Buhari appoints new NECO registrar

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Prof Godswill Obioma as the new Registrar/Chief Executive of the National Examinations Council (NECO).

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday in Minna by the NECO Head, Information and Public Relations Division, Azeez Sani.

According to him, a letter dated 15th May 2020 with Reference No: FME/PS/396/C1/1/134 and signed by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, stated that the appointment which is for an initial tenure of five years takes effect from 14th May 2020.

Until his appointment as Registrar/Chief Executive of NECO, Prof. Obioma was the Ebonyi State Resident Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

He was also a former Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council.

Obioma, a professor of Education Measurement and Evaluation, hails from the Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.

The statement added that Prof Obioma formally took over the affairs of the Council from the former Acting Registrar, Mallam Abubakar Gana at the Council’s Headquarters in Minna yesterday.

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Kyari, other ex-officials still listed as Buhari’s aides

The late former Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, is one of those still listed as aides to the President, Muhammadu Buhari, weeks or months after they have vacated their seats either through death or replacement.

A check on the website of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on Friday showed that Kyari was still on the updated list of political appointees over a month after he died due to complications arising from COVID-19.

Kyari died on April 17 and has since been replaced by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, whose appointment was confirmed by the SGF, Boss Mustapha, on May 13.

Over a week after the announcement, Kyari still occupies the fourth position on the list, coming after Buhari; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; and Mustapha.

Another person still on the list is Prof. Charles Dokubo, who was suspended as the Special Adviser to the President/Coordinator, Presidential Amnesty Programme in February.

Dokubo, who was appointed on March 13, 2018, was suspended based on the recommendation of the National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

He is still occupying the third position on the list of special advisers to the President.

It was gathered that some government officials who had been replaced and a late official still made the updated list of political appointees.

Six months after that report, no effort was made to update the list which is conspicuously displayed on the website.

For instance, the late Tijjani Yusuf is still on the list of special assistants. He is listed as Special Assistant to the President on General Duties.

The Presidency had in a July 3, 2019 statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, announced Yusuf’s death.

Also still on the list is a former Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Okoi Obono-Obla.

He was listed as the Special Assistant to the President on (Prosecution), Federal Ministry of Justice.

After his sacking as the SPIP chairman, the Presidency, again through a September 17, 2019 press statement by Adesina, announced the dissolution of the panel.

Another person that is still on the list a member representing Kano Municipal Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Shaaban Sharada.

His name still appeared on the list despite winning an election to represent his people during the 2019 general elections.

Also curiously on the list are the names of two official photographers for the Vice-President.

Novo Isioro was still listed as the Special Assistant to the President (Visual Communication), Office of the VP, despite the fact that the lady appointed on August 12, 2017, had since stopped working with the Presidency.

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How Covid-19 will increase school dropouts – Minister

The Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Pauline Tallen, says the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to affect girl-child education and increase the number of school drop-outs in the country.

Tallen expressed her concern on Friday while flagging off the 2020 National Children’s Day celebration, themed: “Promoting Girl-Child Education for Sustainable Development’’, in Abuja.

According to her, the pandemic with the subsequent closure of schools has exposed the girl-child to all forms of violence and likely to affect the girl-child education.

As we are all aware, the country is already facing the struggle of getting the girl-child enrolled and retained in school, the COVID-19 pandemic has a high tendency to set us back as the likelihood for increased school drop-out rates of those already enrolled.

“These issues will further widen the gender gaps in education and lead to an increase in all forms of violence such as sexual, physical and emotional exploitation, early and forced marriages, child trafficking, and child labour,” she said.

The minister, therefore, appealed to parents to ensure their children returned to school as soon as academic activities commenced, to bridge gender gaps in line with the SDGs 4.

She also expressed concerns over the plights of Almajiri children, who were subjected to inhumane conditions, calling on state governments to develop strategies that would address the situation.

“Apart from hunger and starvation, the Almajiris are saddled with the inhuman treatment of transporting them to their states of origin in trucks meant to convey cargo, the trauma of being rejected by their own state government is painful, shameful and unacceptable,’’ she said.

Tallen, however, appealed to the Northern Governors Forum (NGF) to bring the issues of Almajiri to a logical conclusion, as well as respect and protect their human rights by implementing the Child Rights Act in states yet to pass it into law.

In commemoration of the 2020 World Menstrual Health Day, the minister stressed the need to protect females from negative effects of poor menstrual health and hygiene management to enable them to realise their full potentials and contribute to national development.

The National Coordinator, Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council (WSSCC), Elizabeth Jeiyol, said the theme for the World Menstrual Hygiene Day, “Periods Don’t Stop for Pandemics’’ highlighted the difficulty of accessing menstrual products during the lockdown.

Jeiyol, therefore, reiterated the commitment of the council toward ensuring access to WASH facilities.

“We urge stakeholders to ensure that WASH facilities in schools and public spaces are made easier for women and girls to manage their menstrual hygiene and create awareness in removing the stigma around menstruation,” said the coordinator.

The UNICEF Country Representative, Milen Kidane, reiterated their commitment toward providing services during the pandemic as well as ensuring that the Almajiri children transferred back to their states reunited with their families.

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Disregard rumours of reopening schools soon – FG gives reasons

The Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, has announced that the Federal Government is already making plans to reopen schools nationwide but it won’t happen in two weeks as being speculated in some areas.

Speaking during the daily briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Thursday, Nwajiuba said there was no exact date yet as to when schools will reopen.

He also urged members of the public to disregard rumours making the round on social media that the Federal Government would reopen schools in the next two weeks.

According to him, schools will be reopened after they are resourced properly.

He said “We all are seriously interested in reopening and I believe we will reopen soon.

“But I can’t confirm what your children said that we will reopen in two weeks.

“The issue around reopening has nothing to do with the availability of the schools or not. It has to do with national governance.

“The idea of shutting down the schools has nothing to do with the schools per se.
“You heard the chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the SGF, keep saying it is a national response.

“It is a single national response and everything we do flows from that.
“When they determine, I’m sure you have seen all the experts here, if they say that there is a measure of safety to which we can expose our children, we will gladly do that.

“We are watching and we are working with all bodies within and outside the country.
“The five countries of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) are meeting and I just came out of a meeting with African Union (AU) Ministers of Education, everybody is concerned as you are.

“We hope to reopen very soon. This morning, I met with the Ministry of Science and Technology.

“We are looking at putting a system in place that can disinfect every child as he goes into a school and disinfects him as he goes out.
“If we resource our schools properly we can begin to reopen.

“But we must be able to ensure that the children go in safe and come out safe and not become a conduit for further infection in society.”

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Ex-Commissioner collapses over police harassment

A former Commissioner for Education in the defunct Bendel State, Dr. Nosa Omoregie on Thursday collapsed and was rushed to hospital following a shock he suffered after a team of policemen from the state Criminal Investigation Department visited his property at Aigbokhian Street, off Sapele Road, Oghoghobi, Benin City.

The wife of the victim, Julie Omoregie, who raised the alarm over the state of health of her husband as a result of the police incessant harassment of the family, told journalists that the police had visited them up to four times asking the family to release one John Mayaki for arrest.

Mrs. Omoregie said the property was bought for them by their children.

“They came and pasted an invitation letter on our gate. They said we should produce one John Mayaki and we told them the man was no longer here because he has sold the property to us. But they insisted that we were hiding him in the house. Then they said they wanted to search our house and I asked, where is the warrant paper because it is difficult nowadays to know if they are genuine policemen.

“But before I returned to the house, my husband who is hypertensive had already collapsed and we had to rush him to the hospital. His blood pressure had shot up and doctors had to battle to bring it down,” she said.

Mrs. Omoregie said she would hold the police responsible if anything should happen to her husband.

But the Edo state Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, Yusuf Usman, said the police visited the former house of John Mayaki based on the petitions from the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and his lawyer bordering on allegation of defamation of character against Mayaki.

“There was a petition from Governor Godwin Obaseki personally signed by him and another one from his lawyer since January 10 this year. It was based on that petition that we invited Mayaki. It was a petition bordering on defamation and libel,” he said.

Yusuf, however, said the police were not aware that Mayaki had sold the house to the former commissioner. adding that “we have even traced him to Igarra, his hometown. The police have to do their job and that is what we are doing; otherwise, we may be seen as taking sides if we did not act on the petition.”

He also said that his men visited the place on Wednesday for the first time adding that he was not aware of any previous visit by anyone else.

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Cross River lifts ban on public worship, commends CAN, others

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Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has lifted the ban on public worship in the state.

The Governor said the lifting of the about two months old public worship ban became necessary being conscious of the spiritual economy, and in response to appeals by religious leaders in the state

This is contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian Ita.

He said “the order suspending public worship in the state, is hereby lifted with effect from Sunday, May 24th. 2020.

” consequently, starting from Sunday, May 24, 2020, church services are permitted but should be limited to the sitting capacity of the Church. Same applies to Mosques”.

However, the governor insisted that “the use of nose mask is compulsory for all worshipers and Churches and Mosques should provide buckets for hand washing, or sanitizers”.

He stated that “Churches and Mosques are advised to strictly keep to the above instructions. The enforcement team will still go around to check compliance”.

Ayade conveyed appreciation to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishops, Bishops, Priests, Pastors, Christians of various denominations, and the entire Muslim community for their support and cooperation during the period of suspension of public worship in the state in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak”.

He asserted that “the understanding and cooperation of religious leaders contributed immensely in keeping our State Coronavirus Free thus far”.

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Oshimili plans to destroy criminal hideouts, others

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Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have given a seven days ultimatum for all camps and unapproved structures in the LGA to be removed or declared illegal and destroyed.

The Executive Chairman of the Local Government Area, Hon. Louis Ndukwe revealed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

Ndukwe disclosed that the council shall only consider structures approved by Oshimili North Local Government and the Delta State Government.

He said that the decision by the council is to fish out bad elements who live in bushes and shanties in the local government, stressing that it is the duty of the council to account for her residents.

The council Boss noted that the operation will include communities like: Akwukwu Igbo, Ibusa, Okpanam, Illah, Ebu, Ukala, Ugbolu, Atuma, and Aninwalo

The statement reads:
“Be informed that due to the security challenges we recently face as a Local government and the urgency of the need to rid our area of all secret hideouts where criminals use as safe heavens, we herewith communicate that you vacate, advise others considered your wards with our LGA to move and take up rents with our people, live with our people, or build permanent structure that shall be registered and owned by you, your proxies or wards like every other Nigerian who live and do business in our LGA.

“Take note that after seven working days of this notice, all camps and unapproved structures in our LGA shall be totally declared illegal and destroyed. Recourse shall only be given to structures approved by the Oshimili North Local Government and the Delta State Government.

“All inconveniences are regretted as this remains the only way we have resolved to to enable us account for our residents and fish out the bad elements who only live in our bushes and shanties in the LGA.

“Your utmost cooperation is expected.

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Covid-19: My meeting with Osinbajo, Governors – SGF reveals

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The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Boss Mustapha, has given details of Thursday’s National Economic Council (NEC) meeting.

The first-ever NEC teleconference was chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

State Governors and relevant government officials joined virtually.

In a statement, Mustapha said during the meeting, the issue of alignment of their state-level actions with the guidelines issued was emphasized.

“Similarly emphasized is the need for states to diligently implement and enforce compliance. Particularly, I underscored the need for the Governors to provide personal and strong leadership, carry the policy of community ownership to the grassroots, and create a deeper awareness.

“The Governors were also advised on the decision taken by some of their colleagues to permit large gatherings as such decisions could inadvertently endanger the elderly, the sick and those with underlying factors during such gatherings.”

The SGF, also the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, reiterated the categories of persons and services exempted from inter-state movement and curfew.

He listed them as medical personnel, journalists, fire/emergency service personnel, telecommunications workers, and bankers on duty.

“The Inspector-General of Police has further clarified the categories of essential workers in alignment with the guidelines and has issued instructions to security agents to work on the approved exemptions.”

Mustapha added that the PTF has received reports that Nigerians have been purchasing hydroxychloroquine in large quantities.

He reiterated that the drug has not been certified for use in treating COVID-19 in Nigeria by the relevant health and pharmaceutical authorities.

“Self-medication of any kind is fraught with the danger of increasing risks of avoidable casualties. If you are sick, please seek medical advice, and if you are confirmed positive, kindly self-isolate in an approved facility”, the PTF boss noted.

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Civil servants cry out as Ganduje slashes salaries

Kano state civil servants have cried out over what they termed an unannounced, arbitrary slash in their May salaries.

Civil servants in the state discovered the slash in their May salaries moments after they began to receive their monthly salary payment alerts.

A civil servant with one of the state’s ministries (name withheld), said the entire civil service in the state has been plunged into confusion as their May salary was slashed without prior notice.

According to him, workers of his grade level lost between N10, 300 to N12, 200 depending on one’s luck.

Another civil servant with the ministry for local government said his May salary came with a slash of N7, 600, stressing that there are many workers affected by the arbitrary deduction.

He added that he wasn’t expecting any cut in his salary as the government had already assured workers in the state that it will only slash political office holders’ salaries and not that of the civil servants.

The state government had recently announced through the state governor’s press secretary, Malam Abba Anwar that, political office holders will henceforth receive half salaries due to shortfall in monthly subventions from the federation account and collapse in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) as a result of economic challenges occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic.

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Nigerians attack Buhari over sack of NECO Registrar

President Muhammadu Buhari has come under attack over the sack of the Registrar, National Examination Council, NECO, Prof. Charles Uwakwe.

It was reported that NECO registrar was sacked on Wednesday for fraudulent practices and suppression of official records.

Four other top management officials of the council were also dismissed after investigation.

Mr Abubakar Gana was immediately appointed as the acting Registrar.

This did not go down well with some Nigerians who took to their Twitter pages, accusing the President of practicing nepotism.

They lamented the replacement of the registrar with a Northerner.

Here are some comments gathered from Twitter:

@Mr_temitope “Another Abubakar is the acting Registrar. Yes, the former registrar was sacked for corruption which is a grave offence and should be prosecuted but is there no incorruptible Nigerian from another region or tribe? Well those that support nepotism should enjoy it while it lasts.”

@Petre_mc “Mr president continues to systematically eliminate the southerners while replacing them with Northerners. Rwandans genocide na like this it started oh.”

@Udehem2020 “The new chief of staff at work he is installing his boys in power so it will be easy for him to loot his own share of our resources.”

@Faith “Yes another sack to replace them with the most Educated and wise people from the North. It’s not strange anymore. “

@Olatundeolaleye “Must every appointment go to a particular region.”

@ Titilayo_mariam “They will be replaced with names like: Muhammed, Ahmed, Aliyu, Abubakar, Usman, Bello, Aminu, Rabiu, Kyari, , Adamu.”

@Daphinon “Guess Mr President has found a new hobby in sacking his appointees. Sack a southerner, replace with northerner.Sack a northerner, replace with another northerner.”

@Seth “Fulanisation of Nigeria on the move.”

@Ayemojubar “A man that cannot provide his secondary school certificate sacked NECO registrar?What a strange country!

@Adaofpeace129 “How can someone that didn’t go to school or even have NECO result sack NECO registrar.”

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Covid-19: Health Minister sacked over alleged ventilator fraud

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Bolivia’s health minister Marcelo Navajas has been arrested on suspicion of corruption related to the over-priced purchase of ventilators to fight COVID-19.

According to reports, Navajas was detained by police in La Paz, Colonel Ivan Rojas said, a day after interim President Jeanine Anez ordered an investigation.

Two other health ministry officials have also been arrested.

Bolivia bought 179 ventilators from a manufacturer in Spain for $27,683 each, costing almost $5 million that was funded by the Inter-American Development Bank.

Two of the bank’s employees have been summoned to make witness statements.

But it later transpired that the manufacturer was offering ventilators for 9,500-11,000 euros each ($10,312-$11,941).

Another Spanish company acted as an intermediary.

The scandal came to light at the end of last week when intensive care doctors complained that the ventilators were not suitable for Bolivian intensive care units.

It then came out that they had been bought at grossly inflated prices.

Bolivia has reported 4,500 COVID-19 cases and 190 deaths. On March 17, the government closed the landlocked South American country’s borders and instigated a general lockdown.

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Why we blocked Agric Minister’s office – FMARD Contractors

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Some contractors of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Wednesday stormed the Abuja head office of the ministry to demand the payment of their money.

Aggrieved by the negligence of the ministry in settling the debt, the contractors blocked the major entrance to the minister’s office.

Efforts by security officers and other personnel at the FMARD to pacify the angry protesters were futile, as the contractors insisted that they must get the payments for contracts they executed for the ministry.

They chanted songs such as “Nanono must go; the permanent secretary must go; pay us our money,” as they refused to vacate the major entrance to the minister’s office.

They insisted that the minister, Mr. Sabo Nanono, or his permanent secretary must come out to address them, stressing that some of their colleagues had died due to the heartache resulting from the non-payment of the debts owed them by the FMARD.

One of the protesters, who simply identified himself as Comrade Lucky, said the contractors were awarded various agric contracts since 2018 and had completed the projects but the ministry refused to pay.

Ada Nwahiri, another unpaid contractor of the ministry, said she executed two borehole projects in Akwa Ibom State for the FMARD and had been certified by relevant engineers of the ministry.

Swahili said the bank where she obtained a loan to execute the contract had been on her neck for repayment, adding she had no place to resort to.

Efforts to get the ministry’s response to the issues were unsuccessful, as calls to its spokesperson, Theodore Ogaziechi, rang out. Text message sent to him on the matter had not been replied as of the time of filing the report

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Protest in Orogun as community rejects new traditional ruler

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The people of Igbuku-Orogun, a subclan in Orogun kingdom, Ughelli North Local Government Area, have rioted against the installation of Chief Daniel Agbada as the Prime Minister (Onotu-Uku) of Orogun kingdom.

Chanting in war songs, the protesters who were old women, men, and youths, numbering over 300 marched around the Orogun police station and ended at the palace of the Okpara-Uku of Orogun kingdom.

The protesters who spoke in anger complained that Chief Agbada and his team from Igbuku community had allegedly bribed the traditional ruler of Unukpo community to install him as the
Onutu-Uku of the Orogun kingdom when the tenure of the incumbent, Chief Innocent Edewor has not ended.

Some of the protesters who spoke on the condition of anonymity alleged that Chief Agbada Ozumba and his team allegedly stole the Orogun war deity of over 1000 years, stressing that the deity is a symbol of authority of the Onutu-Uku of the Orogun Kingdom who is the
the commander-in-chief of the Orogun traditional army.

Speaking with journalists, Pa Daniel Okurho, (Okarhorho) who is the oldest man of Igbuku-Orogun, said Chief Agbada allegedly approached him to call an emergency meeting of the community on a Sunday which he said he did reluctantly.

Okura said” it was in the meeting Chief Agbada informed the few elders who meet up with the short notice that the tenure of the incumbent Onutu-Uku of Orogun kingdom has ended, and that it was his turn to assume the position.

“I told him that though the position is zoned to Igbuku, the tenure of the incumbent will expire by next year and when it expires, the position will be open for all qualified Igbuku sons to vie for it.

“But sadly, to our greatest humiliation, we heard that he went with some of his friends to the Okpara of Unukpo after giving him money, he was installed as Onutu-Uku against our advice and laid down process. That is why at my age I have to lead them today on a peaceful protest to the Okpara-Uku place.”

Also, the Onutu-Uku of Igbuku-Orogun sub-clan, Chief Jacob Ughwuba, expressed surprise over the Okpara of Unukpo

Ughwuba said “the Okpara of Onukpo is ‘supposed to be a custodian of the customs and tradition of Orogun kingdom, how could he engage in such a shame which is capable of igniting crisis in the kingdom.

“by the tradition of the Orogun kingdom, Umusu produces the Okpara-Uku while the Unukpo produces Onutu-Uku, and the position of Onutu-Uku was zoned to Igbuku sub-clan and all eligible Igbuku sons are qualified to contest for the position when it’s vacated.

“This is what the Okarhorho told Chief Agbada and his co-travelers when they came on Sunday that the seat is not vacant and that when it’s time, he and others can vie for the position, he left and we thought that was all.

“We are, however, surprised that he went to the Okpara with few misguided elements from the community to be installed as Onutu-Uku, and the Okpara who supposed to be a custodian of the customs and traditions of Orogun kingdom fell for it.

“We the people of Igbuku-Orogun reject this affront on our cherished tradition and therefore condemn it and also call on all well-meaning Orogun sons and daughters to reject Agbada and his cohorts.”

However, the spokesperson of the women (Ewheya), Madam Edeore Ujodo condemned Agbada and his cohorts for their actions on Sunday adding that it was unusual in the history of the Orogun kingdom.

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Insecurity: Okowa establishes new security outfit

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The Delta Government has said it had started moves to install a security force to check rising insecurity in the state.

Mr. Chiedu Ebie, Secretary to the State Government, disclosed this in a news conference in Asaba.

Ebie revealed that the proposed security outfit would be named “Operation Delta Hawk”.

The SSG explained that the state government was concerned about the rising insecurity in the state occasioned by herders-farmers clashes, kidnapping, and other crimes.

He commented that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa was concerned about cases of death and injuries resulting from the clashes and therefore, resolved to set up a security outfit to be controlled by the state in managing the security challenges.

Ebie, who was flanked by Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, said that the new security outfit would work with the vigilante groups and other security agencies in actualizing the objective.

According to him, we are concerned with the rising wave of insecurity involving clashes between herders and their host communities.

“This matter has been under the focus of the State Government since the inception of this administration and had informed the appointments and governance structure that has been created since then.

“It included the creation of Office of Special Adviser (Peace-Building and Conflict Resolution), appointments of persons of Northern extraction, and formation of Vigilante Groups in various communities.

“At the same time, we have been very active in the use of intelligence and a recent outcome of this application is the demolition and relocation of the Abraka Market which had turned into a meeting point and haven for criminally-minded persons.

“We have also been quite active in engaging with herders and their host communities to ensure mutual trust and peaceful co-existence through the offices of some of the political appointees.

“Against this background, the recent clashes are quite unfortunate, but let me re-assure Deltans that the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is rising up to this challenge.

Already, full compliments of our security outfit are investigating the incidents and I am aware that some arrests have been made as mentioned by the Commissioner of Police recently,’’ he said.

The SSG emphasized that the government was ready to rise to the challenge by establishing an independent security outfit to further deal with the challenges, adding that a Bill would be sent to the House of Assembly to give it a legal backing.

“More importantly and to deal with the security challenges, the state government has resolved to establish a joint security task force which will be drawn from the existing security agencies (in collaboration with the respective vigilantes).

“But, it will operate under an independent structure that will be backed by legislation. A Bill to this effect will be laid before the House of Assembly in the next few days.

“As tasking as the funding requirements of this new body might be, the state government sees it as a realistic and inevitable response to the current challenge and other related forms of violence. The Joint Security Outfit has been christened Operation Delta Hawk (OPDH),” he stated

Ebie called on the people not to resort to self-help in the event of any attack as such response was capable of precipitating endless cycle of violence which would do no good to anybody.

“In the meantime, we want to reiterate that the state government is completely averse to resort to self-help on the part of any party as such response is capable of precipitating endless cycle of violence from which no one can profit or benefit from.

“On behalf of the state government, we sincerely condole with the families affected by the recent conflicts and urge Deltans to give us the peaceful social space for our various initiatives to run their courses, including collaborating with the Federal Government to find a solution to this national challenge.

“The process of implementing the new security outfit is being worked out and we will brief Deltans further as we get more details,” he stated.

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Pastor who insisted to cure coronavirus careers dies

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A Pastor, Frankline Ndifor, who laid his hands on dozens of confirmed and suspected coronavirus cases is dead.

This was disclosed according to Dailymail.co.uk

Dr. Gaelle Nnanga, who was called to treat Ndifor after he started suffering severe respiratory difficulties a week after falling ill with the virus, said the pastor died ten minutes after treatment.

Ndifor, a candidate in Cameroon’s presidential election in 2018, claimed to cure COVID-19.

In previous weeks, sufferers had flocked to the Kingship International Ministries Church, founded by Ndifor, where he laid his hands on them and prayed for their healing.

His supporters called him a ‘prophet’ and blocked the entrance to his home in the capital city of Douala for eight hours as medical workers tried to retrieve Ndifor’s body on Saturday morning.

The Governor of the coastal region said a police force had to be deployed when supporters blocked the entrance to his home and claimed the pastor was on a spiritual retreat with God so he could not be buried.

They sang and prayed for his resurrection throughout the weekend. He was buried in front of the house on the day of his death.

Dozens of people knelt down on the ground outside Ndifor’s house in Cameroon as they prayed over the loss of a man who called himself a ‘prophet’.

Ndifor also donated buckets and soap to people in need and his last public outing was on April 20, when he went out to distribute facemasks.

Ndifor came seventh out of nine candidates in the 2018 presidential election with 23,687 votes.

There have been 3,529 confirmed cases of coronavirus, and 140 deaths so far in the central African state.

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Buhari sacks TCN Director, appoints acting MD

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the sacking of the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Usman Gur Mohammed.

This was made known in a statement from the office of the Minister of Power, Mohammed Sale, on Tuesday.

It also announced the appointment of Sule Abdulaziz as the acting MD.

The statement was signed by the Spokesman to the minister, Aaron Artimas.

This was part of continuing measures to reposition and improve the performance of the power sector in the country, according to the minister.

“Accordingly, the Managing Director of the TCN, Usman Gur Mohammed has been removed from office with immediate effect,” the statement said.

It added that Mohammed has been replaced with Engr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, as the acting Managing Director.

“The Honorable Minister has also confirmed the appointment of four directors who have been on acting position in the Company for some time,” the statement said.

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Extend military operations to Zamfara, others – Senate tells Buhari

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The Senate, on Tuesday, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to extend military operations against banditry to Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger and Sokoto States.

It also commended Buhari for his recent directive to launch a military offensive against bandits in Katsina State.

This development followed a motion sponsored by Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi of Niger State.

In his debate, the lawmaker recalled that the Senate had last week Tuesday, May 12, 2020, considered two separate motions on the need for the federal government to immediately address the growing spate of banditry in Niger and Katsina States respectively.

He said, “the upper chamber was aware through a Presidential Spokesman that President Muhammadu Buhari has authorized the commencement of a major military operation to sweep bandits and kidnappers out of Katsina State as major proactive measures by Special Forces to replace the reactive strikes against the camps of these bandits and criminals.

“The criminalities by these armed bandits and kidnappers are carried out mostly under the cover of the contagious forests reserves and areas stretching from Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna and the Niger States with pockets of safe havens in Kebbi State and Asokoro in the FCT, Abuja.

He also affirmed concerns, saying, “a major offensive in Katsina State alone is likely to make the armed bandits and kidnappers seek a safer haven in Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger states which hosts the Zurmi and Kamuku forests among others, and will further compound the plight of hapless and poor communities along these forest corridors.

“It was the earlier massive operations in Zamfara and Kaduna states that led the armed bandits to seek safe haven elsewhere, moving into Katsina and Niger States respectively, and some others pushing their lick to some parts of Asokoro and the Kebbi States”.

However, the upper chamber in its resolutions urged Buhari to expand the scope of the operations to include Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, Sokoto States, and any other surrounding areas or states that the armed bandits may want to seek safe haven following the massive operation.

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Police confirms killing of Ijaw leader in Delta

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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa on Tuesday confirmed the death of the National Spokesman of Ijaw Interest Advocate, Mr. Famous Belief Wonikiri-Ebi, also known as Izanzan Camp.

CP Inuwa confirmed the death in a chat with newsmen.

The deceased was shot dead in the presence of his wife by gunmen along Onos School Road in Udu Local Government Area on Monday evening.

CP Inuwa said, “I heard about it. We (Police) heard about it,” saying that the police is investigating the matter.

According to CP Inuwa,”Since I got the information, we discussed with the Area Commander and DPO of the area with a view to gather more information as to what happened, the motive they had behind his killing and what have you.

“It’s just too early to comment on what led to the killing and what we are doing.

” But we actually heard about it that, he was shot. After he was shot, he was rushed to the hospital and the people who shot him, we learnt they took away his car after shooting him. One Toyota Camry.

“So, we are just going about it with a view to see what happened but it’s a case of armed robbery that we learnt. It’s like when they met him, he struggled with his assailants before they shot him. That’s the information we heard, but we are now treating it as a case of armed robbery and murder and God willing, we will get to the root of the matter.”

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya also confirmed the report.

She said, “They said the man was shot last night. That they wanted to seize his vehicle, and he resisted, and they shot him.”

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President Buhari appoints new TETFUND Chairman

President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Kashim Ibrahim-Imam as Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).

This was confirmed yesterday in a letter signed by the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu and was made available to newsmen.

The letter quoted that Ibrahim-Imam’s appointment takes effect from May 14 and runs for four years, after which it would be reviewed.

“I write to convey to you the approval of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, of your appointment as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) in Abuja with effect from May 14, 2020,” the letter read.

“The appointment is for a tenure of four years in the first instance and may be renewed for a further term of four years, upon satisfactory performance.

“The conditions of service and remunerations of this appointment are guided by the Public Service Rules and Extant Circulars. Please, accept my congratulations and sincere wishes for a successful tenure,” it said.

Recall that Ibrahim-Imam was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Borno State in the 2003 and 2007 polls.

He lost on both occasions to Ali Modu Sheriff of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

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Breaking: Yobe’s Chief Judge Nabaruma, reportedly dead

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Yobe State Chief Judge, Justice Garba Musa Nabaruma has reportedly died.

It was gathered that he passed on Monday night at the National Hospital, Abuja after a prolonged illness.

The late Judge will be buried according to Islamic injunctions today, Tuesday, 19th May 2020.

Nabaruma was sworn-in as Yobe’s Chief Judge in 2011 and is considered to be among the longest-serving Chief Judge since the creation of the State on 27th August 1991.

The government is yet to issue a confirmation statement on his reported death.

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Health workers threaten strike over salary cuts

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The Congress of Health Workers’ Unions and Associations, Kaduna State chapter, has given the State government an ultimatum to refund their 25 percent salary that was cut.

The union also charged the government to provide them with Personal Protective Equipment.

The union said failure by the State government to meet the demand, they will be left with no option than to take all the necessary actions within the labour laws.

The workers stated this in a communique issued at the end of their joint meeting.

It was signed by the leaders of associations of Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Kaduna State Council, Medical Association of Nigeria, Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, and AMLSN Kaduna Branch.

The communique said, “We reject in its entirety the deduction of 25% of healthcare workers salary as this is illegal and has reduced the morale of workers in the frontlines.”

Participants at the meeting said they demand a refund of the 25% deducted in April 2020 and a stoppage of further deductions.

“All health workers currently in contact with patients or body specimens are at high risk of exposure to COVID 19 and other infectious diseases and should be categorized as such in the Occupational Safety insensitive of the state government,” the statement added.

They urged the state government to provide adequate basic PPEs to all the health facilities across the state, stressing that “If the government fails to meet the above demands, then this communique shall serve as an ultimatum to the State government and we shall be left with no option than to take all the necessary actions within the Labour laws.”

They noted that since the quarantine order imposed on the State, it exempted healthcare workers who have been in the frontlines of the battle against COVID 19 in the State and have continued to offer services to non-COVID 19 patients since the lockdown began.

They lamented that there was no clear definition of the different categories of healthcare workers in the Occupational Safety incentives announced by the State government, adding that all healthcare workers in the State are in the frontlines of this fight against COVID 19 as long as they continued to see patients.

They observed that there are inadequate Personal Protective Equipment at the hospitals and primary health centres across the state and warned that joint health workers resolved to take labour action if the 25 percent earlier cut by the government was not refunded.

In attendance at the meeting were representatives of National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientist of Nigeria Kaduna state, Nigerian Medical Association Kaduna State, Association of resident doctors Kaduna State, Medical and Dental consultants association of Nigeria BDTH, Association of resident doctors BDTH, National Association of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), National Association of Pharmaceutical Technologist and pharmacy Technician of Nigeria, Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, Kaduna state chapter, Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria, Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Joint Health Workers Union, Kaduna.

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Police parade kidnappers of Ibadan Cleric twins

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The Oyo State Police Command has on Monday paraded seven suspects who kidnapped the twins of an Ibadan-based Islamic cleric, Taofeek Akewugbagold.

The twins; a male and female were abducted at the residence of the Islamic cleric about three weeks ago but were released early this month after the kidnappers collected ransom.

Parading the suspects at the police headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan Oyo state Police Commissioner, Ahina Olukolu said the kidnappers were all arrested in their respective hideouts in connection with the crime.

The kidnapping syndicate paraded included: Rildwan Taiwo (30), Rafiu Mutiu (35), Olumide Ajala (36), Fatai Akanji (39), Bashiru Muhammed (25), Opeyemi Oyeleye (33) and Rafiu Modinat (29), a female member of the gang who was detailed to take care of the babies while in captivity.

According to Olukoku, “I wish to inform you that in the sensational case of the kidnapping of the 2-year old twins of Taofeek Azeez “Akewugbagold” on the 25″ April, 2020, all the suspects have been arrested with substantial parts of the ransom collected, the gun used for the operation, the two operational vehicles, and one motorcycle were also recovered from them.”

” The notorious criminals attacked his wife and subsequently abducted his 2-year-old twins but to an unknown destination. The criminal assailants later demanded for ransom of Fifty Million Naira (N50, 000, 000.00) before the two abducted babies would be released.”

“As soon as the incident was reported at Ojoo Police Station and later transferred to AK Eleyele/SARS office Dugbe, Ibadan, a team of AKS/SARS operatives swung into action while concerted efforts was intensified to rescue the abducted babies and arrest the perpetrators of the heinous crime. The abducted babies were released unhurt eight ‘8’ days later after their father had parted with an alleged sum of four million naira only (N4M) as ransom to the hoodlums.”

Items recovered from them are one locally made cut to size single barrel gun, eighth cartridges, one Nissan MICRA Car with REG NO. JJJ 703 BJ which was used for criminal activities and another Nissan MICRA Car with registration number NRK 864, the sum of Two million, eight hundred and six
thousand naira only, (N2,863,000.00) being part of the ransom, an unregistered Motorcycle which was equally used to monitor, execute the operation and buy food for the abducted babies were all recovered from the hoodlums.

“Upon interrogations, the suspects confessed to the crime and explained in details their individual roles in the criminal activity. Investigation is now in progress.”

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Breaking: Kidnapped APC leader, Ediagbonya found dead

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The kidnapped leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Mr. Presley Ediagbonya was on Monday found dead in the bush after two days of his abduction by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

Ediagbonya, a former Commissioner for Youths and Sports in the state was alleged to have been kidnapped from his farm at the weekend in Utesi, around Okada, Ovia North-East local government of the State.

His lifeless body was to be discovered in the bush.

When contacted the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Chidi Nwabuzor said: “speculations on the death is still sketchy because I am yet to be briefed.

“When I am briefed, I will come up with a detailed statement to members of the public,” Nwabuzor said.

Speaking on the development, the member representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Denis Idahosa, urged security operatives to increase their security presence in the Area in order to prevent a re-occurrence of such a sad incident.

He described the late Ediagbonya as any outstanding party leader with broad knowledge in party administration and grassroots politicking.

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2023 election: Okowa warns PDP politicians over early politicking

The Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has banned members of th people’s Democratic Party (PDP) especially political appointees, from constituting consultation groups ahead of 2023 general elections.

This was contained in a statement by the Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Chief Funkekeme Solomon in Asaba on Monday.

The statement explained that such early politicking was hasty, premature, and capable of undermining the unity of purpose of the Okowa administration.

It recalled that the governor had initially cautioned members of government to exercise restraint in pursuing matters concerning 2023 now, but observed that some top government officials, particularly State Executive Council members, had continued to disregard the directive.

According to the statement, the government officials have been found accompanying their colleagues – top and contemporary – on the consultations in furtherance of their 2023 political ambitions.

It said that such actions no doubt was a distraction and was totally unacceptable as it was dividing members of the executive council.

It stressed that the governor had directed that members of the government were forbidden from accompanying anyone with political ambitions for any consultations forthwith as punitive measures await anyone who defied the directive.

“Sequel to my earlier Press Release on Political Activities ahead of 2023 – A Call for Caution – wherein it was clearly noticed that barely nine months into the second term of this administration that:

“Some members in the position of responsibility in this administration have begun consultations on their political ambition for 2023 general elections.

“Such early politicking is hasty, premature, and is capable of undermining the unity of purpose of this administration.

“Following from the above, His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has cautioned members of government to exercise restraint.

“Consequently, the Governor has prohibited forthwith, senior officials of government from accompanying anyone with political ambition on any consultations till further notice.

“It is to be emphasized that appropriate sanctions await anyone that flouts the Governor’s directive.”

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NNPC, CBN to pay for Nigerian evacuees – Presidency reveals

The Presidency has announced that Nigerian returnees will no longer pay the cost of quarantine accommodation and feeding upon arrival in Nigeria.

Geoffrey Onyema, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said this on Monday in a statement.

He disclosed that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, and Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN have agreed to foot the bills of the returnees stranded as a result of Coronavirus pandemic.

The Special Assistant to the President on New Media, Bashir Ahmad announced this on his Twitter page.

The tweet read: “The NNPC and CBN have agreed to fund, as part of their CSR, the cost of quarantine accommodation and feeding for all Nigerians returning to the country from abroad, the Foreign Affairs’ Minister, Geoffrey Onyeama has disclosed.”

Recall that the government in a revised guideline demanded that returnees pay for their two weeks’ stay at the isolation centers.

Before Friday, the returnees were only required to pay for their flight back home while their accommodation at the isolation centers was sorted out by the government.

But in the letter by the Embassy of Nigeria in Bangkok, Thailand, which was signed by the Head of Chancery, Nicholas P. Uhomoibhi, and dated May 14, each returnee is to pay N297,600 for quarantine and feeding in Nigeria.

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Why the quality of Nollywood movies dropped – Yul Edochie

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Popular Nigerian actor and celebrity, Yul Edochie, has on Monday, decried what he called the “drop” in the quality of Nollywood movies.

The actor shared his thoughts in a series of posts on his Twitter handle.

Edochie said there was a need for seasoned actors to help revive the quality of Nollywood movies for the industry to retain its place on the global stage.

He said: “The quality of our home videos has dropped so much.

“Lots of crappy actors/actresses, crappy directors.

“We can’t continue like this.

“To all seasoned Nollywood practitioners, pls let’s revive it.

“People love our content all over the world.

“We just need to step up the quality.”

Yul Edochie, son of veteran actor, Pete Edochie, made his Nollywood debut in 2005 when he featured in: “The Acquires” alongside the late Justus Esiri and Enebeli Elebuwa.

He, however, came to limelight in 2007 after starring alongside Genevieve Nnaji and Desmond Elliot in the acclaimed movie, “Wind Of Glory”.

In 2009, he won the Best New Actor of the Year (English) at the City People Entertainment Awards and later clinched the ‘Best Actor of the Year’ trophy of the same award in 2013 among other feats.

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NAF deploys outstanding forces to Nasarawa

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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has yesterday deployed its Special Forces Operatives to Nasarawa State to strengthen internal security in the State and the North-Central zone of the country.

The troops were deployed to tackle the emerging security challenges, such as banditry, cattle rustling, and farmers and herders clash in the zone.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, who addressed the troops in Lafia, urged them to be professional in their conduct.

“I urge you to be professional and uphold the core NAF values of integrity, service before self and excellence in all you do,” he said.

Abubakar, who was represented by AVM Charles Ohio, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, told the Special Forces that they were deployed to complement and add value to the already existing security apparatus on ground.

“You must cooperate with Operation Whirl Stroke. Your deployment is not only for Lafia but for the North-Central,” he said.

The air chief appreciated the Nasarawa government for the provision of a facility for the establishment of the 22 Quick Response Wing in Lafia.

Abubakar instructed the government to put in place Refueling facilities to enable helicopters to easy access for refueling as they advance for operations.

Speaking to newsmen, Gov. Abdullahi Sule expressed appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for the quick response to the security challenges of the state.

He said the response came just three days after he called for help from the Federal Government.

He gave the assurance that the government would support the troops to ensure that all forms of crimes were eliminated from the State.

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What Obaseki must do to win Edo primary race – Primate Ayodele

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Primate Elijah Ayodele, the founder of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has given a stern warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the primary elections in Edo and Ondo States.

The clergyman warned the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki against making wrong moves and not doing the needful.

Ayodele advised Obaseki to listen to instructions if he plans to win APC primary election adding that his party plots to manipulate the election.

In his warnings, Ayodele disclosed that APC National Chairman, “Adams Oshimhole was playing his last national politics if care isn’t taken with the way he is handling the power tussle between him and Godwin Obaseki.”

He also advised APC against giving the ticket to Ize Iyamu

‘’If they conquer Obaseki and give Ize Iyamu, he will ‘not produce’, what will happen to him will be more than what occurred to Obaseki.

“Obaseki should listen to instructions, do the needful if he does all these, he will win the primaries even though the party leadership will want to manipulate it. Also, APC will have two candidates if care isn’t taken.’’

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Police arrests ex-councilor, others over kidnapping

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The Nasarawa State Police Command have burst an alleged kidnapping, extortion and armed robbery syndicate in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of the state.

Rahman Nansel ASP, who is the command’s spokesman in the state, said this in a statement made available to the newsman.

He said, “A former Councillor of Umme Ward under the PDP, Umaru Adamu, has been arrested in connection with kidnappings in the local government.”

ASP Nansel said that the other gang members arrested with the former councilor were Yahaya Yusuf (26), Yusuf Enno (50), and Buhari Yusuf (30).

He also revealed that the suspects had been on the wanted list of the command and were arrested after painstaking intelligence gathering.

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Coronavirus: Police condemns non-provision of special allowance

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Policemen deployed in the enforcement of the ban on interstate movements and other COVID-19-related assignments have cried out over non-provision of a special allowance and face masks for them.

The policemen, who spoke to newsmen on Sunday on condition of anonymity because of the nature of their job, said since their deployment in state boundaries and intrastate patrol duties, no mention had been made of a special allowance despite the fact that they were at the risk of contracting COVID-19.

The President, Muhammadu Buhari in his first broadcast on COVID-19 pandemic on March 29, ordered a lockdown in the Federal Capital Territory, Lagos and Ogun states.

Although the enforcement of the lockdown is being carried out by all security agencies, the police, who are mainly responsible for the internal security of the country, have been deployed in all parts of the country to ensure compliance with the presidential order.

But some policemen have fallen victim to the deadly virus. For example, a deputy commissioner of police attached to the Zone 5 headquarters in Benin, Francis Bissong, died of COVID-19 on April 21.

On May 10, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Olusegun Orisajo, said a policeman died of COVID-19 complications at the FMC.

In Edo State, police officers, who were manning the state boundaries, told newsmen that they had yet to get a special allowance despite the fact that they could easily be infected with the virus because they mingled with people when enforcing government’s order.

Some of them stated that they bought face masks to protect themselves from being infected with COVID-19.

A top police officer in the state, stated, “Actually, we don’t have any form of protection. Doctors on duty have their own protection, but not our men. We have some face masks and hand gloves we made ourselves and others donated by one organisation. That’s all. But for the general insurance, there is no insurance or a special pay package like the one provided by the ministry of health for health personnel.

“We have our men who send those coming into the state back. Some of the people our men mingle with are already infected with COVID-19.”

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Lockdown: Sanwo-Olu sends serious message to Lagosians

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The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended residents in the state for the “encouraging levels of compliance among open markets and non-food markets.”

He disclosed this during a media briefing on Sunday, in Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu stated that the state government was reviewing the phased lockdown relaxation for more businesses to open.

He, however, expressed displeasure over non-compliance with the use of face masks and the flouting of health directives by operators of “yellow buses”.

The Governor went on to declare that the terms of the lockdown easing will be reviewed, if Lagosians continue to disobey the guidelines.

Lagos state still has the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nigeria with 2,373.

A total of 623 patients have since recovered and been discharged.

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PDP reacts as Wike loses aide, Nwakaudu

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The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has expressed shock over the death of Governor Nyesom Wike’s Special Assistant on Electronic Media, Simeon Nwakaudu.

It was gathered that Nwakaudu, who hailed from Abia State, died on Sunday.

The cause of his death has not been made official but it could be related to cardiac arrest.

Reacting, the main opposition party said it was pained that Nwakaudu died at his prime when his skills and patriotism were still most needed.

“Our hearts bleed as our nation, the media industry and indeed Rivers state, have lost one of our brightest and patriotic media professionals; a loyal compatriot, who gave his all in serving our dear nation.

“Nwakaudu was a courageous and hardworking Nigerian, who dedicated his youthful life in serving our nation as an accomplished journalist, Special Assistant to Governor @GovWike during his tenure as Minister of Education and then as his Special Assistant on Electronic Media, where he contributed immensely in the implementation of Governor Wike’s vision for a New Rivers State.

“Indeed, Nwakaudu’s death is a painful loss not only to Governor @GovWike and the government of Rivers state but also to our great party, the @OfficialPDPNig, the media industry and our nation, Nigeria, at large.”

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Corps members’ mobilization, orientation course – NYSC DG sends message

The Director-General of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Shuaibu has said mobilization of prospective corps members will not happen anytime soon.

The Director-General disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

He said that the process had been put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Shuaibu explained that the management will only organize fresh orientation exercises when the coast becomes clear.

He recalled that the Batch A, Stream 1 corps members who were already camping, were hurriedly dismissed due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

The DG disclosed that they will be recalled to their various orientation camps to complete the remaining part of the training.

“We don’t know when we are going to start mobilizing our corps members. You know our training is also structured like that of the military and paramilitary. You can see that the Nigerian Navy recently suspended its training for its freshly recruited cadets”, he said.

General Shuaibu, however, expressed delight over the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

He said it had recorded tremendous successes, which can be seen from the activities of corps members in the fight against COVID-19.

“They have produced face masks, sanitizers, disinfectant tools, and automatic sanitizing machines. They are also involved in the sensitization and distribution of palliatives of some of these items to communities.”

Shuaibu also gave an insight into NYSC’s drive to generate money for the scheme.

He said: “We now have NYSC bread and Table Water Company in Kubwa. We want to see how we can replicate the same in the States so that during orientation exercises, we can get these items from our production plants.

“Some corps members are into fish and snail farming in NYSC farms. We want to embark on commercial farming of rice. We want to key into the Federal Government’s policy on local content on agric business because we don’t want to be a burden. We must continue to look for ways to internally generate our revenue.”

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Covid-19: Why we rejected evacuation payment – Nigerians in Thailand

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Nigerians residing in Bangkok, Thailand appear set for a showdown with the Nigerian Ambassador to the country, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli and the Foreign Affairs Minister, Geoffrey Onyeama over the directive that stranded Nigerians in Bangkok anxious to return home should pay a sum of N297, 600 being cost for accommodation and feeding for their mandatory 14 days isolation in Nigeria.

The memo, “Need to pay for Quarantine, Isolation, accommodation centre or hotels before Departure and Arrival in Nigeria, ” dated May 14, 2020, addressed to prospective evacuees in Thailand was signed by Head of Chancery, Bangkok, Thailand Nicholas Uhomoibhi.

Speaking with newsmen Online on Friday at the Presidential Task Force on COVID–19 media briefing, Ambassador Onyeama justified the payment before evacuation order as he said the nation was financially handicapped.

But the Nigerians In Diaspora Organization, Thailand in a letter dated May 17, 2020, and addressed to the Foreign Affairs Minister rejected the order.

President of the organisation, Dr. Lloyd C. Nwafor said the directive lacked a human face.

He argued that some of the evacuees have lost their jobs and were living at Immigration Deportation Camp (IDC), where they survive on charity.

The Nigerians In Diaspora Organization Thailand declared that asking jobless families to raise money for their tickets and pay for accommodation and feeding at isolation centres back home was insensitive, uncaring, and harsh.

They asked the Foreign Affairs Minister to review his stand.

The letter, “Appeal to reconsider decision on payment for quarantine, isolation, accommodation center or hotels, ” read in part:” Your Excellency, greetings from the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization, (NIDO), Thailand.

“Permit me to commend the efforts our government is taking in curtailing/containing this vicious virus-COVID-19.

More especially, the intervention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in evacuating our nationals from different parts of the world to our homeland.

“However, the news of the payment of almost 300,000 nairas for quarantine, isolation, and accommodation center or hotels for each evacuee before departure and arrival in Nigeria came to NIDO Thailand as a shock.

“It is pertinent to indicate here that some of these Evacuees are families who lost their jobs because of this pandemic, some are at the Immigration Deportation Camp (IDC), while others are visitors stranded in Thailand.

The plague of COVID-19 is biting hard on them and about 60 percent of these evacuees rely on charity for food, accommodation, and flight tickets to Nigeria.

“Sir, with due respect, the explanation you gave on Friday (15th May 2020) at the weekly briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 did not go down well.

“Nigerians in Thailand and around the world are interpreting it as insensitive, uncaring, and harsh. How can a jobless family of 4 or 5 evacuees cater for their tickets and be able to afford this money?

“The Government of Nigeria should rise to this challenge and send a message to the world that their citizens still count.

“Your Excellency, the image, and dignity of Nigeria is at stake at this moment, and we beg you to reconsider your decision and airlift these stranded Nigerians to reunite with their families at home.”

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Stop car purchase for presidency, others – SERAP writes Buhari

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to follow the ‘Namibia example’ by issuing an order to ban the purchase of new cars by the presidency and ministers.

SERAP said savings from such ban should be used to support students of tertiary institutions across the country to reduce the impact of COVID-19 and the lockdown on them and their parents, and to improve access to healthcare for all Nigerians.

The group advised Buhari to also encourage federal lawmakers and governors to effect same ban and use savings to pay workers’ salaries and pensioners’ entitlements.

Namibia President Hage Geingobon reportedly imposed a five-year ban on buying of new cars for top politicians and government officials in order to redirect the funds to fight COVID-19.

In an open letter dated 16 May 2020, signed by deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP told Buhari that coronavirus has reinforced the need for high-ranking public officials and politicians to demonstrate the constitutional oaths of absolute loyalty to the public interest and the common good.

“As trustees of Nigerians’ public funds, your government, the National Assembly and governors are accountable to the public for the use of those funds. The expenditure of public funds requires the highest degree of public trust. It is the constitutional duty of every public official to protect and preserve the public interest in public spending”, it read.

“Imposing a ban on new cars by the presidency, ministers and encouraging the National Assembly and governors to do the same would serve the public interest, and contribute to cutting the cost of governance. The constitutional oaths of office by public officials include the responsibility to prioritise the well-being of Nigerians.

“Copying the Namibia example will also show that public funds will be spent for the benefit of the people, and not as a prerogative for the advantage of the government or the benefit of public officials.
SERAP also urges you to consider banning spending on generators in the presidency, and cutting spending on items like furniture and fittings, refreshments, catering services and purchase of kitchen and household equipment.

“As the government prepares to finalise the proposed amendment to the 2020 budget, we urge you to immediately impose a ban on the purchase of new cars by the presidency, and to encourage the National Assembly and the 36 state governors to do the same, and to ensure that public funds are used for the benefit of the public.”

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PDP inaugurates new excos in Ughelli ward 1/5

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The People’s Democratic Party, (PDP), in Ughelli Ward 1/5, has yesterday inaugurated executives to oversee the activities of the party in the ward.

The inaugural ceremony which took place at Otovwodo town hall was witnessed by leaders across the ward.

This was witnessed by prominent Members of the party such as the member Representing Ughelli North Constituency 2, in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Prince Eric Oharisi, Barr Fred Majemite one time Commissioner for Land and Survey, Chief Dr. Chris Oharisi Chairman Governing Council, Delta State School of Health Technology Ofuoma Ughelli, Hon Prince Barr Happy Oharisi Board Member Urban Water Board, Mr. Moses ETO, Chairman Warri Wolves Football Club.

Other Members are Mrs. Helen Udi Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on women mobilization, Comrade Felix Olokpa (JP) immediate past LGA youth leader, Comrade Stanley Clever, immediate past Ughelli ward1/5 Chairman now LGA youth leader, who handed over the mantle of leadership to Mr. Jude Oharisi, Mr. Samuel O Robinson amongst others.

Cross section of Ughelli PDP ward 1/5 members

Mr. Jude Oharisi, Chairman, Uduavwodia Daniel-ViceChairman.
Mr. Ogiso Onotoghene Felix-Secretary.Mr. Makolomi Paul- Assistant Secretary.
Mrs. Olokpa Abigail-Treasurer.
Mr. Akpojiyovwi Mackson- Financial Secretary. Mr. Ochuko Akpomiemie-Publicity Secretary.
Echanomi Okiemute Anthony- Organizing Secretary.
Mrs. Eruemu Becky-Woman Leader. Comrade Ese and an Onojuvwevwo-Youth Leader. Mr. Eghwubare Godspower-Auditor.
Barr.Okavwerha Mercy-Legal adviser.
Mr. OfforAustin-Ex-officio.
Ryoma Josiah-Ex-officio.
Ahmed Dalit Gama- Ex-0fficio.
Kaine Blessing-Ex-0fficio.
One Vote-Ex-0fficio.

Responding, the house of assembly member presenting the ward, at DTHA, Prince Oharisi in his speech advised the newly inaugurated excos not to see themselves as superior over the party, charging them to work in line with the party’s directives to ensure that the party secure victory in any of her election.

In the same vein, Barr Fred Majemite begged Mr. Jude Oharisi and his team to always work in harmony, peace, and unity, adding that by so doing they will achieve desired goals as a family.

Responding, Dr. Chris Oharisi urged the ward excos to work with the ethics of the party bearing in mind that they are on the same page with the Local Government council.

In his remarks, Mr. Jude Oharisi thanked and praised the ward 1/5 leadership for entrusting these positions and offices into their hands.

Assuring the Leaders of their total loyalty and honesty in discharging their duties, Oharisi, promised the Leaders of a peaceful working coexistence between the LGA, Ward, and Units.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Peterside donates palliative to journalists

Nigeria’s former International goalkeeper, Television Pundit and cleric, Idah Peterside has donated palliatives to journalists to reduce the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Peterside, made the donation on Saturday on NSM Rebranded, a foremost sports platform in Nigeria.

The television pundit revealed that he made the donation in other to assist journalists whose jobs particularly have been affected by the global Covid-19 pandemic.

Chief admin of NSM Rebranded, Mr Wale Ajayi while receiving the donation thanked the former Super Eagles image maker for his kind gesture praying for God to continue to enrich his pockets for remembering journalists in a time like this.

Recall that Peterside during his playing days dourned the jerseys of BCC Lions, Enyimba International, Temba Classic, Monika Swallows and Super Eagles of Nigeria.

In 2002, he retired from professional football and Presently he is a football pundit for Supersport TV and Pastor at Christ Ambassadors Church based in Kempton Park, Johannesburg South Africa.

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Covid-19: how disease control bill will negate citizen’s rights – Archbishop

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The General Overseer of Resurrection Praise Ministry for Africa Worldwide, Archbishop Samson Benjamin, has on Saturday said the proposed Disease Control Bill would negate the rights of Nigerians.

Speaking with newsmen in Lagos, Benjamin said that he was totally opposed to the Bill which seeks to introduce the vaccine.

“I am also absolutely against the vaccine that wants to be introduced into Africa from abroad. I do not believe it is best for us and we will resist it.

“Some of us resisted the Disease Control Bill that was brought to the House of Representatives because it took away all your right as an individual.

“The Quarantine Law of 2004 gives you a Civil Right and your Human Rights, but the Bill takes away such rights and gives the power solely to the government,” he said.

Benjamin, however, thanked the House for listening to the cries of the masses and putting the Bill aside until it is properly scrutinized and ensures the safety of health.

On COVID-19, he said that social gatherings, events, and parties should still be on hold until we began to see a drop in the rising figure daily.

“The World Health Organisation (WHO) warned with prediction a few weeks from now, Africa will become the epicenter of the virus and they predict about 300,000 deaths occurring.

“I would urge our leaders to have a rethink and reconsider their ways of beating this virus instead of calling for religious gathering.

“One very good way of reaching out to our followers for spiritual edification is to utilise the internet to continue to propagate the Word of God,” he said.

The archbishop advised that the kits brought from China be tested for efficacy before they are given out for public use.

“The economy of the world has been affected by this pandemic, however, every economy can be revived but dead lives cannot be revived.

“Africa should not be bothering about the economy for now, but focus more on trying to save as many lives as possible through public education and sensitisation campaigns.

“We are getting it wrong if we focus solely on the economic implication rather than the mortality rate because it is the people that will revive the economy and not the other way round,” he said.

Besides, Benjamin advised the government to put to good use all the donations and contributions that have been released by international bodies.

“We are in a serious situation in our country regarding the virus and the government can not handle it alone therefore I call for support for the government.

“I also urge people to live appropriately and obey the government directives at all times in order to prevent the spread of the virus and prevent another lockdown,” the archbishop added.

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Why 8 members were suspended from party – Plateau PDP

The Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau has suspended eight members of the party for constituting a rival State’s Caretaker Committee.

The committee’s head of media, Mr John Akans, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday that the decision to suspend the erring members was taken at an emergency meeting on Friday evening.

“The working committee, an arm of the Plateau Caretaker Committee at its emergency meeting pheld Friday evening at the party’s secretariat, reviewed the unfortunate incident that took place at the secretariat.

“Some group of rascals, mischievously constituted themselves into a caretaker committee, which is an affront to national leadership of our party, under the leadership of Prince Uche Secondus.

“The state leadership of the party frown at this decedents and therefore, approved their immediate suspension from the party.

“Seven of the affected persons are: Nandom Penap Exodus, Godwin W. Bedir, Akims Mamot, Mrs Asabe Dareng, Nathaniel Dakas, Jecob Dashe and Alhaji Kabiru Musa,” he said.

According to Akans, the group’s attempt was not only laughable and mischievous, but infantile and an act of lawlessness to the extreme which the party could not condone.

The head of media announced that a seven-man disciplinary committee was immediately constituted to look into the activities of the suspended members.

He gave the names of the disciplinary committee members as Mr Monday Agwom as Chairman with Mr Pam Davou Major to serve as Secretary.

Other members of the committee were Jarusa Gotau, Mr Amos Komtul, Mr Dauda Daiyabu, Hajia Sa, adatu Ado and Wycliffe Wansonh.

The party called on members across the state to forget the unfortunate incident and continue to work together for the progress and victory of the party.

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FG issues serious warning to states lifting ban on religious activities, others

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The federal government has advised states lifting lockdown, to examine the effects of their decisions.

President Muhammadu Buhari on May 4, relaxed a five-week lockdown in Lagos, Ogun, and Abuja.

In the last 48 hours, states like Borno, Ebonyi, Gombe, and Adamawa have all lifted restrictions.

However, speaking on Friday at the daily briefing on the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, called for caution.

“In providing leadership for the fight against this pandemic. Mr. President did encourage state governments to adopt national guidelines as suitable to their state and expects that such adaptation should be informed by empirical evidence of progress made,” Mustapha said.

“The PTF, therefore, urges states that are lifting restrictions which allows for a large congregation of people to weigh their consequences in relation to creating opportunities for more seeding of the virus, thereby negating gains already made.”

As of today, 5,445 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Nigeria.

A total of 1,320 patients have been discharged, while 171 have died.

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Lockdown: Gov. Uzodinma grants two weeks freedom for funerals

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The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has granted those who are bereaved in the state to use two weeks to bury their dead ones, uncertain of when the coronavirus scourge will be reduced.

Senator Uzodinma stated this while briefing newsmen on Friday at the Government House, Owerri.

He said, “I feel the cries and pains of the people whose loved ones are in the mortuary. While we are still battling with the issue of coronavirus, I will give you the opportunity to go and bury your loved ones who have been in the mortuary.

“We are also aware of the repeated calls from mortuary owners on the piling up of dead bodies. I am, therefore, granting two weeks for burials.”

Governor Uzodinma, however, frowned at the level of violation of the government’s directives by Imo people, expressing displeasure on the addition of index cases of coronavirus in the state.

He threatened to impose more severe measures in curtailing the spread of the virus if the people continue to disobey the government’s directives.

Meanwhile, he directed the security agents in the state to mount stronger surveillance at various state borders, insisting that interstate travels remain banned in the state.

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Appoint amnesty committee coordinator – Ex-agitators urges Buhari

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A coalition of Niger Delta ex-agitators has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint a substantive coordinator for the Niger-Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The coalition also kicked against the prolonged stay of members of the Interim Committee following the suspension of its coordinator in February.

In a statement made available to journalists in the chairman of Amnesty Phase II, Delta State Chapter, Chief Kingsley Muturu said the continued stay of members of the interim committee was capable of derailing the objectives of the programme and called on the President to appoint a substantive coordinator.

He argued that the committee was not in the best position to run the programme “as the members may not be abreast of the objectives for which the office was set up in the first place.”

“We know the president means well for the region and wouldn’t deliberately do anything to undermine the peace in the region. This explains our grounds of passionate appeal to as a matter of urgency appoint a coordinator for the Amnesty Office so that the gains achieved so far shall not be rolled back,” the statement said.

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Covid-19: Lawmaker, fires questions as Doskpesi unveils what cured him, others

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Shehu Sani, a former Nigerian lawmaker, has responded to the acknowledgments made by some discharged covid-19 patients.

It was gathered before that media mogul, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi, had revealed that every drug they were given while in isolation were malaria medications.

This was after Dokpesi, the founder of DAAR Communications, owners of African Independent Television (AIT) and RayPower FM, was discharged earlier in the week. He declared that he was confused.

Other recovered patients, including the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, and a former presidential aide, Doyin Okupe, all made similar revelations.

But in a tweet on Friday night, the former lawmaker wondered why Nigeria seems to be succeeding in the use of these drugs to tackle the dreaded COVID-19 while other nations are failing.

“High Chief Raymond Dokpesi and many others who went into Isolation revealed that they were treated with chloroquine, fully recovered and discharged.

“How come we are succeeding and countries with advanced medical systems are failing and falling to the same virus? What is happening?” he tweeted.

Earlier, he had said, “Treated and discharged, treated and discharged. Why are we really too scared and panicky about what we can easily treat and discharge within days, if actually what we are treating and discharging is the same thing that is scaring us?

“And why is the World not taking notice of us but Madagascar?”

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When N-Power beneficiaries will be paid – Buhari govt reveals

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Nigerian Government has confirmed that beneficiaries of the Social Investment Programme, N-Power, will receive their April stipend next week.

The beneficiaries have been lamenting the continuous delay in the payment of their stipends for some months now.

They are now clamoring for their April payment since the announcement of the lockdown in some states owing to the outbreak of coronavirus.

Sadiya Farouq, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, gave the assurance on Friday, adding that the payment process was at the final stage.

The minister who spoke on the daily briefing by members of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, said, “It is in the final stage of payment and by early next week, they will get their payment, Insha Allah.”

Beneficiaries of the social investment programme (N-Power) had last month complained about the delay in payment of their stipends since the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, under the leadership of Hajiya Sadiya Farouq, took over the scheme.

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Covid-19: Nigerian evacuees in Thailand to pay isolation fee, others

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has directed Nigerian evacuees from Bangkok to pay a total of N297,600 for their hotel, isolation, and quarantine upon arrival in Nigeria as a precondition for their airlift.

A statement by the Embassy of Nigeria in Bangkok, Thailand, signed by the Head of Chancery, Nicholas Uhomoibhi, said the prices were negotiated in Nigeria.

“I am directed to bring to your attention due to measures that are beyond the control of COVID-19 local organizing team in Nigeria, all evacuees going to Nigeria henceforth are to now pay for their quarantine, isolation, accommodation centre or hotels before departure and arrival in Nigeria.

“In this regard, all prospective evacuees are to note the negotiated rate below: Accommodation (N15,000 x16 days=N240,000) and Feeding (N3,600 x16 days=N57,600). Total: N297,600 at N18,600 x16 days.”

“Kindly be informed that these rates were negotiated in Nigeria and that the Embassy has been instructed not to airlift any evacuee who fails to pay the above fee,” he said.

It would be recalled that Nigerians from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States and the United Kingdom have been evacuated and are currently in isolation in Lagos and Abuja hotels at the expense of the government.

It appears the Federal government can no longer foot the bill as this new letter seems to suggest.

When Nigeria recorded its first case in February, Nigerians abroad asked to be evacuated home. The Federal Ministry of Health in April issued a statement saying it has started the process of evacuation and that those who wish to be evacuated will pay for their flight ticket and will also be placed on a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

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Covid-19: Delta records another case as total increases

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The Delta State Government has said it confirmed a coronavirus case in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, of the State.

The Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Victor Okoh confirmed the new case in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday.

Okoh however, confirmed that the new case was recorded in Ika South, emphasizing that residents of the local government must wear their face masks in public places or face the wrath of the law.

Appealing to residents to ensure total compliance to Government directives, Okoh admonished all to keep a safe distance from others.

The council Boss also called on residents to support the government in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Recall that Delta State had on Thursday morning recorded one death, which took the number of deaths in the state to four.

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Lawmaker condemns officials over signing of contract in Chinese

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Ben Ibakpa, member of the House of Representatives, has accused the federal government of sidelining the National Assembly when it is taking loans from China.

Ibakpa made the allegation on Thursday, May 14, while appearing as a guest on breakfast show, sunrise daily on channel television.

The lawmaker who represents Ethiope Federal Constituency further claimed that some Nigerian officials sign loan documents from China in the Chinese language without critically looking at the terms.

Ibakpa said that the loans are obtained via the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). According to him, the loans are overpriced.

His words: “The National Assembly is kept in the dark in all these loans. The National Assembly is not part of it.”

The lawmaker, however, said the National Assembly will start playing more active roles when the country wants to take loans from China.

He called on the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration which campaigned with an anti-corruption mantra to do better, saying corruption is fueled by awarding of contracts.

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Why no cost will be limited to protect Nigerians – Buhari

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President Muhammadu Buhari has told Nigerians that he would not limit any cost in his force to see that peace and security were achieved across the country.

He also said he would put more effort to ensure Nigerians got their constitutional rights as regards security.

The President gave the assurance during his meeting with members of the National Security Council (NSC) in Abuja on Thursday.

Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno, National Security Adviser, conveyed the President’s message while briefing State House correspondents after the meeting in Abuja.

Monguno also said Buhari briefed the council on the challenges facing the country, including terrorism in the Northeast as well as banditry and kidnapping in other parts of the country.

He said: “Mr. President noted all the issues raised and of course in due time, he will be able to address these issues.

“Arising from this meeting, I will like to assure all Nigerians that Mr. President is fully on board. He is committed to doing whatever is necessary to reduce the spate of violence and insecurity in the country.

“He is also committed to spending whatever resources he has at his disposal to bring to a quick end to all the issues affecting Nigerians and bringing a lot of sorrows to Nigerians. That is the most important takeaway from today’s meeting.

”Mr. President’s reassurance that issues are being addressed and that he will redouble his effort in ensuring that the primary responsibility of government, which is to ensure the safety of lives and property, is realised.”

He said the meeting kicked off with a briefing by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, on the gains made so far, highlighting areas of concern, areas which needed to be addressed as well as making projections for the next couple of weeks.

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Face mask: ensure total compliance – FG issues warning

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The federal government of Nigeria has said Wearing of face mask is now mandatory for all Nigerians.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman, Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, said this in Abuja at the 31st joint national briefing of the taskforce.

Mustapha explained that the use of a face mask is not an option but a directive backed by law and called on security agencies to enforce compliance.

He added that the use of face mask as one of the precautionary measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 was included in the law signed by President Muhammadu Buhari which must be enforced.

He also called on the 36 governors of the federation to ensure compliance within their jurisdictions.

The face mask is a barrier device used in infection control to prevent patients’ sneezes and sputum from making contact with others.

The SGF said, “There is a question that has to do with the usage of face masks, whether it is optional or not, no. The fact that we are persuasive does not mean that there is an option to it.

“It was part of the declaration that was signed by Mr. President. All the protocols that were predicted by the authority vested on Mr. President by the Quarantine Act. And once he attested his signature to that, it has the force of law.

“Our appeal is that this is a collective effort that each and every Nigerian should be responsible to himself and other Nigerians to wear a mask, not necessarily a medical mask. That is why we said mask or cloth covering so that our people would not be going to pick things from the dustbin and be hanging on their faces,” Mustapha said.

According to him, even a handkerchief could serve the purpose, saying “it is not in any way an optional but a must.”

He added, “And we are appealing to the security agencies and the state governments and sub-national entities that have the power of enforcement to do that. It is very important that we inculcate the culture of doing things to the overall benefits of all.”

Remember that on April 11, Mustapha said the PTF was developing a national policy on mandatory use of face masks by Nigerians.

“On the use of face masks, the PTF is developing a policy and as soon as it is finalised, Nigerians would be informed,” he had said.

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Covid-19: NCDC confirms new cases as total strikes over 5,000

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has confirmed 193 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of infections to 5162.

The disease control agency confirmed the new figures in a tweet late Thursday.

According to the NCDC, 58 of the new cases were in Lagos, 46 were recorded in Kano, 35 in Jigawa, and 12 in Yobe state.

Nine cases were recorded in the FCT while 7 others were recorded in Ogun.

Plateau and Gombe had five new cases each, four cases were recorded in Imo state while three new cases each were discovered in Edo, Kwara, and Borno state.

One of the case was recorded in Bauchi, Nasarawa, and Ondo.

The total number of active cases in the country now sits at 3,815 whoofs 1,180 persons have been discharged.

As of the early hours of Friday, May 15th, the total number of fatalities recorded is 167.

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Lockdown: interstate ban violators ordered to tidy school premises

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A mobile court sitting in Abaji has ordered eight violators of the interstate travel ban to sweep premises of the Local Education Authority (LEA) primary school in the area.

The Federal Government had handed down an inter-state ban on travelers as part of measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19.

The presiding magistrate of the mobile court, Ibrahim A. Yusuf, who disclosed this to newsmen yesterday, said 110 other violators were fined while 32 were discharged.

He said 115 travelers including motorists were arrested by the enforcement team on the COVID -19 restrictions and arraigned at the mobile court.

According to him, some of the arrested motorists attempted to maneuver their way through the border checkpoint in Abaji, which shares a boundary between FCT and Kogi State.

He added that the violators were arraigned for not using a face mask, overloading, and route violation.

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I did not stop journalists from covering plenary – Hon. Tim Owhefere

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Hon. Tim Kome Owhefere (KSC) Esq, Delta State House of Assembly Majority Leader and Chairman House Committee on Information and Communication has discredited a social media report that newsmen were prohibited from gaining entrance into the public gallery during plenary.

This was disclosed by the Majority Leader Who was flanked by The Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. ( Engr.) Oboro Preyor, while addressing Journalist in his office, at Asaba.

Hon. Owhefere declared openly that the allegation was never a true reflection of the situation in the State Assembly and explained that the novel Covid 19 pandemic and inline with social distancing rule, had forced the leadership of the house to adopt measures aimed at reducing human and vehicular traffic in the complex.

According to him “I want to put the record straight. You must have noticed that there is an adjusted sitting arrangement in the chambers. Since the business of governance must continue, we have to find a way out to resume plenary. Members now sit in batches and the nonessential staff was directed to stay away”.

“We read report that some journalists have been banned from coming into the gallery. That is not true. What we tried to do is to ensure that the gallery is not overcrowded. We have contacted a number of Media Houses on the development, and they responded by cutting down the number of persons they send to the gallery. The Assembly does not determine those that are sent by these Media Houses. We are only trying to restrict the number of persons at the gallery for the purpose of social distancing”.

He emphasized that the new order at the Assembly Complex as part of measures put in place to control the spread of the Coronavirus in the state and it is not peculiar to Delta State House of Assembly alone.

The lawmaker emphasized the new order affects both the members, political aides, civil servants, other support staff, and visitors to the Assembly Complex, saying that normal activities will return when the fight against the pandemic is won.

“We cannot afford to have a full gallery for now. So we have asked our political aides to stay off for now. This is to ensure we do not turn the gallery into a virus spreading unit as we all understand that it is safer to keep a safe distance from the next person. For as long as we are under this threat, we are still going to observe that. The new order is in line with the federal and state government efforts to control the dreaded Covid 19 and the full support and cooperation of everybody is required to win the war”, the Majority Leader stated.

Hon. Owhefere also said; “It is just a temporary arrangement because of the circumstances we find ourselves. It is not going to be a permanent arrangement. We just can not say everybody should sit and endanger our lives and even that of others. We can not afford to break the same very rules that we have put in place to ensure the safety of the people”.

Concluding, hon. Owhefere conveyed appreciation to journalists in the state for their reportage on the activities of the house and called for greater collaboration.

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Mass death of fishes: Delta Assembly raises fear of pandemic

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Delta State House of Assembly has called on the State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to stimulate an investigation into the cause of the rising cases of dying fishes along the shorelines of River Forcados and Escravos River in the State.

They urged Okowa to persuade President Muhammadu Buhari to direct the Federal Ministry of Environment and its parastatals to carry out the investigation.

The resolution passed as a matter of urgency came under matters of urgent public importance and was sponsored by the member representing Warri SouthWest Constituency in the House, Hon Emomotimi Guwor.

The House drew the attention of authorities to the impending outbreak of another deadly pandemic if necessary actions were not taken.

Guwor, in the motion, said the River Forcados and Escravos River and their tributaries were under the siege of a yet to be identified disease that is presently killing fishes along the shorelines of the rivers.

The lawmaker named areas worst hit to include Ekemetagbene in Bomadi local government area, Akparemogbene, Oyangbene, and all communities in Ogulagha and Iduwini kingdom in Burutu local government area as well as the entire Gbaramatu kingdom, all Ugborodo and Orere communities in Warri southwest and Ogheye and other communities in Warri North local government area.

The motion also sought the President to direct the federal authorities to protect the biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable development of the natural resources and the ecosystem of the affected communities from total extinction.

It also urged the governor to direct the commissioners in charge of the state ministries of environment and oil and gas to carry out public enlightenment and sensitization campaigns on the health hazards and harmful implications of the consumption of the dead fishes in order to avoid an outbreak of epidemic in the State.

The motion also urged the State government to send relief materials to the affected communities with a view to alleviating the sufferings of the people whose socio-economic wellbeing and livelihood have been disrupted as a result of the impact of the environmental crisis.

Guwor, who is the Chairman, House Committee on DESOPADEC, emphasized the need for concerted efforts to guarantee that citizens of the affected communities live in a cleaner and a healthier environment devoid of pollution.

In their contributions, the House Majority Leader, Tim Owhefere; Deputy Majority Leader, Oboro Preyor; Chief Whip, Pat Ajudua as well as Honorables Austin Uroye and Charles Emetulu, pointed out that any damage to the ecosystem calls for worry.

The lawmakers stated that the entire society had been exposed to danger, stressing that both federal, states, and local government authorities must collaborate to seek a solution to the problem.

The motion was unanimously adopted when put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori who presided over the plenary.

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human parts dealers, others arrested in Delta

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The Delta State Police Command has discovered a location littered with human parts in the state.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Hafiz Inuwa, disclosed this in Asaba on Wednesday while parading suspects arrested for various crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and cultism, among others.

Inuwa noted that a police team was deployed in the location, which oozed of decomposing flesh stench, adding that the team discovered human skulls, bones, 15 used baby pads, and other items there.

He noted, “One Stephen Oyibare, a vigilante leader in the Igbogidi community in Udu, reported at the station that two suspected ritualists pretending to be of unsound minds were accosted under the DSC Expressway Bridge by Igbogidi.

“Upon a search of the suspects, Yakubu Bala, 33, from Taraba State, and Emmanuel Obughor, 30, from Ahoda, Rivers State, they were found with suspected human bones and other items. They were both very coherent when interrogated.

“They were suspected to have sold a newly born male child to a trafficker in Onitsha and were heading back to their base in Akure when they were arrested by the police, who acted on a tip-off.

“In the course of the investigation and following the confession of Bosede, the buyer, Mrs. Nkaneme Melife, also later sold the child to another buyer, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ekunno, 56, of the Onora family house, Abba village. Their arrest led to the recovery of another two-week-old male child suspected to have been stolen from the same Mrs. Ekunno.”

Inuwa said the patrol team on lockdown enforcement along the Ughelli/Patani Road arrested a 50-year-old man, Believe Obasare, in possession of two new single-barrelled guns concealed in a bag.

He said operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad also arrested a 64-year-old man, Young Origbe, for allegedly operating a gun and arms making factory in the area.

“Also, two suspected child traffickers, Tolulope Bosede, 45, and Abiola Komolafe, 20, both from Akure in Ondo State, were intercepted while in transit in a commercial bus along the Asaba-Benin Expressway by Okpanam.

“They were suspected to have sold a newly born male child to a trafficker in Onitsha and were heading back to their base in Akure when they were arrested by the police, who acted on a tip-off.

“In the course of the investigation and following the confession of Bosede, the buyer, Mrs. Nkaneme Melife, also later sold the child to another buyer, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ekunno, 56, of the Onora family house, Abba village. Their arrest led to the recovery of another two-week-old male child suspected to have been stolen from the same Mrs. Ekunno.”

Inuwa said the patrol team on lockdown enforcement along the Ughelli/Patani Road arrested a 50-year-old man, Believe Obasare, in possession of two new single-barrelled guns concealed in a bag.

He said operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad also arrested a 64-year-old man, Young Origbe, for allegedly operating a gun and arms making factory in the area.

The police boss, who also paraded some members of the Oodua People’s Congress from Ondo State, said they had no business in Delta State other than to commit crimes.

But the leader of the group, Chief Sunday Ani, told journalists that they traveled to his Onicha-Ukwani village in the Ndokwa West area of the state to fortify themselves.

He stated, “We are OPC members from Ondo and we came to Delta, which is my state, to fortify ourselves so that we will not fall into the hands of criminals. We always confront criminals, such as kidnappers, so we need to fortify ourselves against gunshots.

“We had taken the charm from my village and on our way back to Ondo, our vehicle broke down; it was in that process that the police arrested us. We are not criminals, we work together with the police and we cannot just wait for criminals to kill us just like that; so we went for spiritual fortification.”

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VIDEO: Why I sacked driver, others – Governor Abdulrazaq

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Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, on Wednesday, ordered the sack of a government driver who gave attention to a man who was evacuated in a COVID-19 ambulance in Ilorin.

Also, some ranked officeholders of the state Ministry of Health are to be queried on the order of the governor for declining to act with necessary caution in the management of the incident recorded in video footage which went viral.

It was gathered that the occurrence recorded along Taiwo Road in Ilorin the State capital, exposed the unprofessional handling of the man who was put on a stretcher and conveyed with the COVID-19 ambulance without the driver wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) but only with hand gloves.

A statement by the spokesman of the governor, Rafiu Ajakaye in Ilorin Wednesday night, said “the governor totally condemns the shoddy handling of the gentleman who was clearly going through a hard time.

“He has directed that the driver be fired immediately. As the investigation revealed, the driver failed to heed clear directives not to take any action until the Rapid Response Team, RRT, arrives at the scene.

“He evacuated the gentleman with the help of members of the public without waiting for the arrival of the RRT.”

According to the statement, the governor further directed that members of the RRT be queried, while other steps are being taken to ensure the incident does not repeat itself.

“Involving just anybody in the evacuation of a suspected case, as was seen in the footage, was a clear and dangerous violation of Covid-19 safety protocols.

“The government equally finds it quite distasteful and unacceptable that the driver, who had long been involved in such operations made unethical comments to somebody in distress.

“That incident was avoidable and we sincerely apologize to the gentleman and the people of Kwara state for the embarrassing development, we assure them this will not happen again,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, confirmed COVID-19 cases in the State have increased to 53 following the confirmation of nine new more cases on Wednesday.

COVID-19 Kwara update revealed that 40 active cases have been recorded, while 12 patients have now been discharged, with 682 negative tests.

The number of pending tests has risen to 75, with a total of 810 tests done and only one death recorded.

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Step down infectious disease bill now – NGF to Assembly

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The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has told the National Assembly to ‘step down’ the Infectious Diseases Bill.

The bill prescribes compulsory vaccination of citizens against infectious diseases, among other provisions.

It has attracted a lot of criticisms, with concerns about possible human rights violation.

NGF chairman, Kayode Fayemi, in a communique issued after a virtual meeting of the governors on Wednesday, asked the lawmakers to suspend the bill to give room for consultations with state governments and other stakeholders.

“The Forum resolved that the Bill should be stepped down until an appropriate consultative process is held, including a public hearing to gather public opinion and concerns.

“In the light of this, the Forum established a Committee comprising the Governors of Katsina, Sokoto, and Plateau to lead a consultative meeting with the leadership of the National Assembly on the proposed Control of Infectious Diseases Bill, 2020,” it read in part.

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Police arrests terrorists, others from Delta communities

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested over one hundred suspected terrorists, kidnappers, armed robbers as well as transborder car snatchers.

The arrests were made across the twenty-five local government areas in the State.

The suspects were paraded at the State Police Command Headquarters in Asaba under the physical distancing law.

The Delta State Police Commissioner, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa displayed hundreds of arms, ammunition and other items recovered from the suspects.

CP Inuwa in a chat with newsmen said, “The suspects are responsible for disturbing the peace in the State.”

He called for the support of the Delta State Government in the fight against all forms of criminality in the State.

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Reinstate sacked Poly lecturer within 30 days – NIC orders

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The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NIC) in Enugu State has ordered the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, to reinstate Basil Offoh and pay his salary arrears (from April 30 till date) within 30 days.

Offoh, a Chief lecturer and former Acting Head of the Department of Language Studies, is challenging his removal as HoD by the Rector without authorization of the Governing Council and other instant statutes governing operations of the Institute, among other reliefs.

Defendants in the suit are the Institute, Rector, Deputy Rector, Dr. Anibueze Ifeyinwa, and Mr. Stanley Okoh.

Offoh in the suit challenged his removal as the HoD by the Rector without the authorization of the Governing Council and other instant statutes governing operations of the Institute among other reliefs.

The offer was suspended on April 11, 2018, with the Governing Council directed that he be placed on half salary. He was allegedly suspended for no reason.

Justice Oluwakayode Arowosegbe described the management’s action as an ‘affront to the authority and dignity of the judiciary and the constitution’.

Justice Arowosegbe held that the defendants did not counteract the suspension letter and its contents, meaning they accepted the accusation as true. “This is the most uncivilized conduct. It is unfortunate that it came from a public body supposedly composed of eminent personalities and a body presumed to have access to good legal advice,” he noted.

He said once a matter is in court, all parties involved are expected to defer to the court in the interest of peace and order.

“They are to eschew self-help. What the Governing Council of the defendants and its members did is totally unbecoming of a public body, which holds its existence to the Constitution and the law.”

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Why President Buhari chose Gambari as CoS – APC explains

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, CFR, on his appointment as the new Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari.

APC said Gambari’s appointment was an indication of Buhari’s commitment to good governance.

Spokesperson of the party, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu in a statement on Wednesday described Gambari’s appointment as a round peg in a round hole.

He stated that Gambari’s appointment was also an indication of Buhari’s penchant for excellence.

The statement reads: “Without any iota of doubt, this appointment has, once again, demonstrated President Buhari’s avowed commitment to good governance by bringing on board competent Nigerians from all parts of the world to assist him in taking Nigeria to the Next Level.

“Gambari’s experience and suitability for the strategic office of Chief of Staff is not in doubt. A respected scholar, former minister, and a highly-regarded diplomat, who has worked at the highest level in the United Nations, including being the under-secretary-general of the Department of Political Affairs, Chairperson, African Union-UN Special Representative for Darfur and currently the Special Adviser on International Compact with Iraq and Other Issues to the UN Secretary-General, founder of Savannah Center – research, development, diplomacy and public policy think-tank and co-chair of the Albright-Gambari Commission – addressing issues such as state fragility, climate change, and the cyber‐economy, Gambari’s appointment is well-thought-out and speaks volumes of the President’s penchant for excellence.

“Indeed, Professor Gambari ticks all the boxes as a round peg in a round hole. The APC is confident that Gambari, a Prince of Ilorin Emirate, will bring to bear his scholarly intellect, international network, professional and administrative experience in ensuring the smooth running of the office of the president and support the government to provide good governance and successfully deliver the Next Level programmes for the benefit of Nigerians.

“While our great party assures Gambari of needed support and cooperation, we wish him success in his services to our great country and the people.”

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Coalition Group protests over Okowa’s new tax law

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A coalition of Civil Society and Deltans on Tuesday took to the roads of Asaba, in a peaceful protest against a new tax bill sent to the state’s House of Assembly by the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and refusal of the House to organise a public hearing.

The bill, which was submitted on the floor of the House for the first time on 6th Apri, 2020, through a letter from the Delta State governor passed first and second reading on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively last week.

The protest led by the Director-General, Conference for the Actualisation of Human Rights, Maxwell Ogedegbe, charged the state House of Assembly to take a clue from their federal counterparts, who were halted over an accelerated process of the bill on infectious diseases upon public outcry for failing to conduct a public hearing.

According to civil society organizations, inherent in the bill are provisions that empower the executioner of the law to invade the houses and properties of Deltans for the purpose of carrying out the assessment.

In a statement jointly signed by the Executive Director, Value Rebirth and Empowerment Initiative, Edewor Ogedegbe; chairman, Spy-In, Delta State, Efemena Umukoro; Coordinator, Civil Rights Council, Emmanuel Agbubi; National Coordinator, Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative, Ozobo Austin, state chairman, Confab for Human Rights, Sunday Atiku and other leaders of CSOs in the state, called on all Deltans to mobilise against the bill and join the march for the suspension of the bill to ensure due process.

Receiving the protesters on behalf of the leadership of the state House of Assembly, Deputy Speaker, Ochor Christopher Ochoa, called for calm and promised the protesters that message would be communicated to the leadership of the Assembly.

The controversial bill provides amongst others the establishment of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service, its board, powers, functions, administrative structure, staff welfare, discipline, and financial provisions.

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Profile: Buhari appoints Gambari as new Chief of Staff

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President Muhammadu
Buhari has on Tuesday appointed retired diplomat, Ibrahim Gambari as Chief of Staff to the President.

Presidential sources revealed that Gambari had been awaiting his official appointment letter.

In a statement by his aide, Abdulazeez Arowana, the Ilorin emir thanked President Muhammadu Buhari “for appointing Professor Ibrahim Gambari as his new Chief of Staff.

Mr. Gambari was born in Ilorin, Kwara State on November 24, 1944.

He attended King’s College, Lagos for his secondary education, and subsequently attended the London School of Economics where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Economics with specialisation in International Relations.

He picked up a career in teaching, which he began in 1969 at City University of New York before working at the University of Albany.

Afterward, he taught at Ahmadu Bello University, in Zaria, Kaduna State, the second-largest university in Africa.

Mr. Gambari later obtained his M.A. (1970) and Ph. D. (1974) degrees from Columbia University, New York, the USA in Political Science /International Relations.

Also, between 1986 and 1989, he was a visiting Professor at three universities in Washington, D.C; Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, Georgetown University, and Howard University.

Mr. Gambari was a research fellow at the Brookings Institution also in Washington D.C. and a Resident Scholar at the Bellagio Study and Conference Center, the Rockefeller Foundation-run center in Italy.

Away from his strides in academics, Mr. Gambari was a renowned diplomat who has represented Nigeria in several international interfaces.

He served as the Minister for External Affairs between 1984 and 1985 when Mr. Buhari was the military Head of state.

When asked to validate or discredit insinuations that Mr. Buhari was dictatorial, in an interview with The Guardian newspaper 34 years after, he refused, saying “I don’t know.”

“As I said, I am not part of the administration now; I am not an official adviser of any kind. I want the administration to succeed, but what I know from experience is that when he was head of state, as a civilian member and a minister in a military government and given a sensitive portfolio of Foreign Affairs, we would meet one-on-one every working day,” he said.

Mr. Gambari added that Mr. Buhari used to see him at least for 30 minutes every day, during which he would brief him and hand over a summary of official telegraphs from all our diplomatic missions and necessary documents to him.

“Within 24 hours, I would get a response in his handwriting to category one. That was my experience. I don’t know whether that is happening now or not,” Gambari told the interviewers.

He was the Chairman of the UN Special Committee Against Apartheid between 1990 and 1994, during which he worked closely with African governments to coordinate UN policy to eradicate apartheid, thereby building trust and confidence with governments and policymakers in member countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

He was also one of the five members of the Independent Eminent Experts on the Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action and your responsibilities at the world body between 1990 and 2012.

Mr. Gambari was appointed by the Secretary-General of United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, and the chairperson of the African Union Commission as Joint African Union-United Nations Special Representative for Darfur effective in January 2010.

Speaking on his role in the international space, he told Guardian that he was very privileged to have worked under four Secretary Generals of the UN.

“My papers as an ambassador of Nigeria to the UN were first submitted to Javier Perez de Cuellar in January 1990, then Boutros Boutros-Ghali came in and I was the ambassador, and the third one was the late Kofi Annan.

“I served partly as an ambassador and later in December 1999, he asked me to join the UN secretariat as an Under-Secretary-General, which was the highest grade next to the Secretary-General then before the creation of the office of the Deputy Secretary-General.

Although Mr Gambari was not always in the news, he has aired his opinion on leadership and the need for African leaders to be committed to the growth of the continent.

Towards the build-up of the 2019 general election, he spoke about previous cases of electoral violence and the absence of free and fair elections in Nigeria.

“I am concerned for several reasons. Sometimes, we Nigerians have short memories. In the 2011 general elections, we witnessed the real tragedy of violence and in many ways, the absence of free and fair outcomes. We are proud of the fact that the 2015 elections were credible and peaceful.

“That did not happen just by chance; a lot of people were committed to that outcome. I am proud to say that SCDDD constituted a Council of the Wise, headed by retired Justice Muhammadu Uwais, while I served as coordinator, with a member each from the six geo-political zones in the country.”

He was a recipient of the third highest national honour, Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR).

Also, Mr. Gambari was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa) from the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut (2002) and Farleigh Dickinson University, New Jersey (2006).

Others include Honorary Doctorate of Public Service, Chatham University (May 2008), and Honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt), University of Ibadan, Nigeria (November 2011).

In 2012, Mr. Gambari received South Africa’s highest national honor conferred on non-citizens, the Order of the Companions of O. R. Tambo, which was conferred to him personally by President Jacob Zuma on October 26, 2012.

He was also appointed as the first Chancellor, Kwara State University in March 2013.

Recall that since the death of the former chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, politically conscious Nigerians had been curious about his likely successor.

Mr. Kyari’s death from the drawback to coronavirus infection oversaw the media space from the incident on April 17, with tributes from friends, colleagues,s, and the media. He died weeks after contracting the novel coronavirus.

Mr. Kyari was a powerful presidential aide, technocrat, journalist, administrator, banker, and politician.

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Don’t impose party chairman on us – Delta PDP Leaders

Leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Sapele have contended that the chairmanship of the party in Delta State must come to Sapele Local Government Area according to the party’s zoning formula.

After a meeting in Elume on Sunday, the party leaders said the assumptions that some individuals in the party would try to discard the zoning tradition and attain the second term in office for the Delta State PDP chairman, Mr. Kingsley Esiso, was raising political uncertainties and if proven true, threatens to declare a major turmoil and conflict.

‘” There is an impending injustice and injury about to be meted to the long-suffering people of Sapele Local Government. The only position zoned to Sapele Local Government is on the verge of being hijacked by the forces of darkness. Some people are bent on causing crises and possible implosion of our great party, PDP in Sapele Local Government Area’’ the leaders said.

According to a statement to newsmen, the spokesman of the Sapele PDP Leaders Forum, Mr. Arusuaine Akoko who briefed journalists in Sapele on the forthcoming Delta State PDP Congress, said though Esiso had not officially declared his intention, but that there was a need to respect zoning.

“At the federal, state, and local government levels, zoning is strictly adhered to. The case of Delta State must not be different’’, he said.

Akoko stated that the position of Sapele leaders on the Delta State PDP chairmanship remains unchanged.

‘’The former Sapele Local Government chairman, Mr. Godwin Atose is the only candidate for the party’s chairmanship’’, he said.

The leaders characterized as a huge joke, ridiculous, and unacceptable the purported plan to impose Mr. Kingsley Esiso on the good people of Sapele.

‘’We believe in the principles of truth and steadfastness. There are 25 Local Government Areas in Delta State and for the sake of equity, transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness, the party zoned the various offices to different local government areas’’

The leaders advised those behind the mischievous agenda not to destroy the party.

‘” This is a flagrant violation of party procedures and disregard of the principle of zoning in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“They underscored zoning aberration and the deliberate intention of some people to kill Sapele PDP because of their inordinate ambition.

‘’Zoning is a time tested winning formula of the greatest party in Africa, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). The secret for the longevity or the phoenix nature of the PDP is the utmost respect for the zoning of all party’s positions’’.

“The leaders, under the aegis of Sapele PDP Leaders Forum, urged Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Ex-Governor, Chief James Ibori, Former Minister of Information, Prof Sam Oyovbaire and other PDP leaders in Delta State not to put the party and Sapele Local Government Area through unnecessary shocks and strains.

‘’The peace-loving people of Sapele Local Government Area humbly appeal to well-meaning PDP members all over the country and Delta State, in particular, to do what is right by ensuring that the party’s State Chairmanship zoned to Sapele Local Government Area is occupied by an indigene’’

They also reminded PDP leaders in the state of justice, equity and progress demonstrated by the founders of the party in the dark days of military dictatorship.

‘’It is a truism that all politics is local. In all the 24 local government areas, the positions zoned to them are occupied by the indigenes of the local government areas and the case of Sapele Local Government Area must and cannot be different’’, he said.

Honourable Felix Anirah, Chief Margaret Unukegwo, and other Sapele PDP Leaders are backing Godwin Atose for the chairmanship of the party, the statement added.

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Covid-19: Delta sets up JTTT on interstate smuggling

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The Delta State Police Commissioner, Cp Hafiz Mohammed Inuwa mni, has yesterday inaugurated the Joint Technical Task Team (JTTT) on Emergency Response.

This is contained in a statement signed by the State’s Police command and was made available to newsmen in Asaba, the State capital.

The CP said the essence of The JTTT is to curtail the spread of coronavirus pandemic and the inter-states smuggling of travelers in the state.

He lamented how commercial vehicle operators despite the inter-state lockdown ferry passengers, who primarily are not authorized to move into the state and thereby spreading the virus.

Inuwa said: “Commercial vehicle operators, who are very conversant with the land terrain, avoid the roadblocks and ply alternative routes within the interior to beat the check-points. The leadership of the NURTW should caution their members against circumventing the rules because henceforth, it will no longer be business as usual.”

Members of the Committee include the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hafiz Muhammed Inuwa, who is the chairman; representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC); All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN); the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) ; National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW); and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners.

Inuwa, who inaugurated the team, said security operatives and other enforcers would mount roadblocks at border points, and they are to arrest and prosecute operators of commercial vehicles that violate the inter-state lockdown by smuggling travelers while transporting food and agricultural inputs.

Mr. Micheal Ikeogwu, state Chairman of NUJ, who is a member of the team, promised adequate publicity of the activities of the team without compromising standards.

The seven-member team was asked to co-opt two members each from their agencies or union to further enlarge the committee with the duty to develop a window that will facilitate the free and unhindered movement of food, livestock, and agricultural inputs, excluding passengers without compromising security and public health. (NARTO) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

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Covid-19: American woman who died in Delta Hotel – Ononye reveals test result

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The 67-year-old Caucasian American woman that slumped and died in a hotel room in Osubi, Okpe Local Government Area on Sunday has tested negative for coronavirus.

Dr. Mordi Ononye, Delta State Commissioner for Health, disclosed this on Tuesday in a statement made available to newsmen.

Ononye said the young man alleged to be the deceased boyfriend also tested negative to Coronavirus adding that samples of him and the deceased woman were taken for tests.

It was gathered that the lady’s boyfriend who took her corpse to the Orerokpe Police Station, was taken to an Isolation Unit at the Central Hospital Warri after created the fear of having the dreaded coronavirus.

In that same vein, Ononye urged residents to comply with the government’s directives on precautionary measures against contracting the disease

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Why I am not happy with China – Trump reveals

President Donald Trump of the United States has said he was not happy with China.

He made the declaration amid new allegations against the world’s most populous country.

On Monday, newsmen at a press conference held at the Rose Garden asked Trump to react to The New York Times’ claim.

New York Times had reported that the White House would soon accuse Beijing of trying to steal research on vaccines for the new coronavirus via hackers.

Trump declined to confirm or dismiss the news.

His response was: “I am not happy with China. What else is new with China?”

Trump added that he was “not interested” in reopening talks on a trade deal with China.

The American leader said
that he would study how the first phase is being implemented by Beijing.

“Let’s see if they live up to the deal that they signed, okay?” he said.

From indications, coronavirus isn’t stopping the two countries from implementing the deal.

In April, China ordered more than 30 million tonnes of crops from America.

This purchase is to protect itself from supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic.

China will add nearly 10 million tonnes of soybeans, 20 million tonnes of corn, and 1 million tonnes of cotton to reserves.

“We made a great trade deal where they buy $250 billion. And they’re paying tariffs. They paid us tens of billions of dollars,” Trump recently stated.

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Covid-19: Buhari has paid Students – says Education Minister

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The State Minister for Education, Mr. Emeka Nwajiuba, has said that Nigerian students on scholarship abroad have been paid through their various embassies.

Nwajiuba disclosed this on Monday at the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 daily news briefing in Abuja.

According to him, the money had gotten to the embassies in Russian, the United Kingdom (UK), and other countries.

He noted that the Nigerian embassy in the UK had confirmed receipt of payment.

“The money was paid this afternoon by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), it has finished processing all the money and forward to appropriate countries,” he said.

Nwajiuba said the Nigerian embassy in Russia was yet to confirm receipt of payment but hoped that by the end of work today, it should be able to confirm payment of the student’s scholarship by the Nigerian government.

In another development, the minister said there was no special provision made for persons living with a disability over its online classes, adding that all the students would have to use the same guidelines.

The minister stated that it would use the same avenue provided like others to take their online classes.

“The visually and hearing impaired are both special, but for others, we have to use the same avenue to teach them,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has announced another 248 new cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, bringing to 4,399 confirmed cases in the country as of Sunday night.

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Stop FG from feeding ‘ghost’ pupils – HURIWA tells Assembly

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has accused the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs of planning to feed ghost pupils following the decision to proceed with the School Feeding Programme at this period when schools are on an emergency vacation due to COVID-19 pandemic.

The rights group said it, therefore, called on the President of the Senate and Chairman of the national legislative assembly, Ahmed Lawan and the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, to halt the sinister attempts to misapply public funds under the guise of feeding Children when it is a universal truism that the Nigerian pupils are not in schools.

HURIWA also noted that millions of these school children may have been relocated from their original residences as a result of the circumstances and inevitable movements have thrown up by the health emergency that was occasioned by the Coronavirus pandemic.

“From where do they want to get the pupils to feed whilst the lockdown is in place? Are they going to bring up displaced almajiris as the bonafide pupils or will they as usual manufacture ghosts as pupils?

“These school children have all gone to their homes and millions of these kids may have been relocated to towns other than where they reside with their parents or guardians.”

The group wondered why the current administration is allegedly so incorrigible and resistant to the truth.

HURIWA advised the government to do first things first before pressing on with a muddled up plot to divert public funds under the guise of feeding school children and by the way school children who are not in schools.

The rights group called on Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offenses Commission and the Economic Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to question the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs for allegedly pretending to feed school children who are obviously not in session.

HURIWA noted that assuming there are children to be arranged and fed, those are not school children because school children are found in schools and not from all corners of the streets when the schools are understandably on vacation.

HURIWA recalled that Sadiya Farouq had said that the school feeding programme will be implemented despite the closure of schools nationwide even against the factual background that Schools across Nigeria have been closed for about seven weeks to check the spread of COVID-19.

HURIWA disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen by the National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, and the National Media Affairs Director Miss Zainab Yusuf.

The group said that even Farouq reportedly admitted before the investigative session organised by Senator Lawan and Speaker Gbajabiamila that she does not have a fuller understanding of the modalities for proceeding with the implementation of the School Feeding Programme when these schools across the Country have since closed down due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

HURIWA said it is completely shocked that the Minister who only a few weeks back told the House of Assembly that she was unaware of how to proceed with the School Feeding Programme, alerted Nigerians yesterday that the programme would go on today (Monday)

The rights group added, “The minister was quoted as saying that talks with state governors to ensure the continuation of the programme, as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari, has commenced.”

HURIWA also expressed disappointment that the ministry was pressing ahead with the programme without first and foremost eradicating the corruption in the system and drawing up a believable and credible data of the genuine beneficiaries of all the segments of the programmes embedded within the Social investment programme.

HURIWA said it strongly believes that if this school feeding programme goes ahead now that school children are scattered all over the place, it is a perfect alibi for the massive scale of theft and diversion of public funds by these officials who will simply feed ghost pupils and thereafter siphon the funds.

“We recall that during the last encounter between the National Assembly and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs there was unanimity of positions that the implementation is marred by large scale corruption,” the group added.

The rights group further stated that the “program will not be credible if it goes on now bearing in mind the fact that even Gbajabiamila confessed that the relevant committees in the House have been complaining bitterly even before the Minister took over the scheme about the inability to access information about the scheme just as he said Nigeria’s SIP is similar to the unemployment Insurance Act in the UK and the Social Security Act in the US.

“There is a lot of takeaway from this COVID-19. One of them is the International Best Practices. My point is that these things are backed by law. They are codified by the legislature.”

HURIWA recalled that in his last recorded broadcast on COVID-19 President Muhammadu Buhari had stated thus: “Furthermore, although schools are closed, I have instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development to work with State Governments in developing a strategy on how to sustain the school feeding program during this period without compromising our social distancing policies”.

HURIWA said it “believes that there are no valid school children to be fed now but the announced intention to proceed with feeding school children who are not in school is a systematic and well-choreographed plot to steal public fund by officials of government even going by the fact that the Minister reportedly admitted that the system is not transparent enough during her meeting with the national parliament. This must be stopped,” HURIWA stressed.

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Wike relaxes lockdown, issues orders

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has announced the temporary lifting of the total lockdown on Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt Local Government Areas.

The Governor who made the announcement in a state-wide broadcast on Sunday night said that the lockdown would be reinstated on Thursday, 14th May 2020.

Wike warned that lifting the lockdown is for two days with effect from Tuesday, May 12, 2020.

He said, “We have given due consideration to the propositions on the way forward by well-meaning citizens of the state, and after a cautious review of the situation, decided to implement a partial relaxation of the lockdown measures, to enable residents to have some fresh air and replenish their foodstuffs and medicines.

“To this end, I hereby announce the temporary lifting of the total lockdown on Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt Local Governments Areas for two days only, with effect from Tuesday 12th May 2020.

“All shops, supermarkets, and malls can open to the public for Tuesday and Wednesday, 12 and 13 May 2020. Similarly, all hospitals and banks can also open and provide full services to the public.

While oil and gas companies are required to submit the list of their staff on essential duties to the government, note that there is no ban on the lifting of petroleum products from depots and other receptacles.

“The total lockdown on Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt Local Government Areas will be reinstated on Thursday 14th May 2020 and remain until further notice.”

Wike said all other established restrictions under the Executive Orders on social distancing are still in force.

He said, “Compulsory wearing of face mask in vehicles and public places, closure of all land, sea and air borders and entry routes into the state; and closure of all open markets, including slaughters, hotels, guest houses, cinemas, bars, and restaurants, etc.

“Please note that our enemy is invisible. stay at home, maintain social distancing, wash your hands regularly, and stay safe.”

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Famous UK Comedian, Jerry Stiller is dead

Jerry Stiller, the famous UK Comedian, also known as Mr. Costanza has died.

His son and actor Ben Stiller announced his death in a tweet via his Twitter account on Monday, stating that he died from natural causes.

The tweet reads, ”I’m sad to say that my father, Jerry Stiller, passed away from natural causes.

“He was a great dad and grandfather, and the most dedicated husband to Anne for about 62 years.

“ He will be greatly missed. Love you Dad.”

Stiller was best known for starring on NBC’s Seinfeld as George Costanza and Arthur Spooner on the CBS comedy series, ‘The King of Queens’.

Earlier in his career, he formed a hugely successful comedy duo known as Stiller and Meara with his wife Anne Meara.

Stiller died at the age of 92 years.

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El-Rufai, others politicising covid-19, Almajiris – Ganduje

Governor of Kano, Abdullahi Ganduje has accused his counterparts in the North of playing politics with the evacuation of Almajiri and their COVID-19 status.

Some of the Almajiris had tested positive to COVID-19 upon arrival in their States of origin.

Recall that Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State has been alleging that a number of Almajiri children from Kano were confirmed positive for coronavirus on arrival in Kaduna.

However, Ganduje, during his daily COVID 19 regular press briefing, said that some of the Almajiri deported back to Kano, also tested positive to the virus but he did not want to politicise it as other governors were doing.

“Yes, some of the Almajiri that were brought from other States to Kano State were confirmed positive of the virus, some of them that were taken to other States were confirmed positive.

“The only difference is that Kano State is not playing politics out of it and therefore did not come out to say that the children brought from Bauchi, brought from Plateau or brought from other States have tested positive.

“Certainly, what they need is not publicity, what they need is attention because the infection had already taken place. So there is nothing we can do about that,” he said.

The Governor explained further that Almajiri were already positive with the virus from the States where they were deported from.

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How Covid-19 will expose businessmen pastors – Archbishop

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The Catholic archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Ignatius Kaigama, has said the coronavirus pandemic will differentiate those who are true pastors and those aiming to accumulate prosperity

He disclosed this on Sunday in an interview with newsmen in Abuja

Kaigama noted that pastors could still go-ahead to lead their followers to heaven, whether there is a pandemic or not, adding that COVID-19 “is the acid test now.”

The cleric observed that any clergyman in the church whose goal is to amass wealth is not called of God but a businessman.

“This is the time to know who are true shepherds of the flock and those who are just engaged in work of religion in order to amass wealth for themselves or to acquire wealth and prosperity,” he said.

“If you are a pastor or priest in order to serve the people and lead them to heaven, then whether coronavirus is active or not, you will still go on to do that.

“But if you are a pastor or priest in order to acquire material wealth, in order to enjoy prosperity, then, I’m sorry, you’re not called by God. You’re a businessman or businesswoman and not a priest or pastor.

“This is the time we should see real men of God who are dedicated, even to the point of giving everything they have, including their lives in the service of the people of God.

“This is a moment of trial for us, we hope that we will pass the test with distinction as pastors and we will be able to stand by our people solidly without money.

“If the collections are not coming to the church, tithes are not there, how do you do? Will you run away and abandon the sheep? No, as a good shepherd, you should stand strong and firm and be there for the people and pray for a good time to come again.”

Remember that the federal government has since banned social and religious gatherings to curb the spread of COVID-19 but some clerics have protested the decision by the federal government.

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Why FG must Arrest Anambra Prophet Immediately – Huriwa

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Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has asked the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele to order the arrest of the controversial Onitsha based maverick religious centre operator, the self-proclaimed Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere also known as Odumeje.

HURIWA accuses the self-acclaimed prophet of serial abuses of the Nigerian Naira and other currencies during his public ceremonies at his location in Onitsha.

HURIWA expressed consternation that despite the wanton and arbitrary disrespect and outright abuse of the Nigerian Naira and other currencies during religious rituals which are usually transmitted live globally and aired on all social media platforms and watched by millions of viewers, the CBN has failed to take concrete and verifiable steps to arrest and prosecute the prophet.

The rights group said it has resolved to write officially to the Honourable Minister of Finance, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari to implore them to stand up and defend the Naira.

Huriwa has asked the authorities to stop the global defacing of the Naira which is often telecast globally, showing the acclaimed prophet throwing the Naira and other currencies on the floor of his Worship centre.

HURIWA noted that Odumeje, who also calls himself many other different names such as ‘the liquid metal,’ and ‘Indarbosky,’ has contributed significantly to bringing global opprobrium “to our national currency and has seriously indicted the Federal Government as unwilling to defend the Naira even when the constitution recognises that the law is no respecter of person or authority. ”

The group, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said “We have watched with disappointments as this self-professed prophet Odumuje keeps abusing and defacing the national currency and both the police and the Central Bank of Nigeria have failed for many Months to stamp their authorities and prosecute these serial abusers of the national currency.

“We recall that in 2018 the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) organised a ‘CBN FAIR’ in Calabar where it used the opportunity to create awareness and sensitise the public on the ‘appropriate use’ of the Naira, Nigeria’s legal tender notes.

“CBN, also ‘cautioned Nigerians against abusing the Naira notes, warning that anyone caught would risk six months imprisonment or pay a fine of N50,000.,’

HURIWA agrees with an observer who wrote that the unwholesome practice of hawking, spraying of, dancing and matching on notes at social events significantly fuel the abuse and degradation of the notes. HURIWA similarly endorses the position that the effect of these is that within a short time of issuance of mint notes by the CBN, the notes become an eye-sore and if not quickly withdrawn and reprinted, a national disgrace and embarrassment ensues.

HURIWA recalled that according to Section 21(3) of CBN Act 2007 “spraying of, dancing or matching on the Naira or any note issued by the Bank (CBN) during social occasions or otherwise howsoever shall constitute abuse and defacing of the Naira or such note and shall be punishable under Sub-section 1 of this section.”

The same body of law, in Section 5 (i) went further to affirm as follows: “Matching” to include “spreading, scattering or littering of any surface with any Naira notes or coins and stepping thereon, regardless of the value, volume, occasion or intent” while in 5(ii) “Spraying” includes adorning, decorating or spraying anything or any person or any part of any person or the person of another with Naira notes or coins or sprinkling or sticking of Naira notes or coins in a similar manner regardless of the amount, occasion or the intent. Specifically, In Section 21(4), it is also a punishable offence for “any person to hawk, sell or otherwise trade in the Naira notes, coins or any other note issued by the Bank.”

HURIWA recalled that the stated offences above are punishable under Sub-section 21(1) which provides, among other things that, a person ‘shall on conviction be liable to imprisonment for a term not less than six months or to a fine not less than N50,000 or to both such fine and imprisonment.’

HURIWA added, “We ask the CBN to ensure that the legal provisions that should have protected the Naira notes from abuse which are today being observed more in the breach than in compliance should be reversed.

It is true as observed recently by a patriotic citizen that quite disappointingly, CBN and the security agencies have had their eyes glue-closed while the nation and its inhabitants suffer from preventable abuses of the national currency.

“Just as we reaffirm and reecho the fact as stated by an observer that as it were, the law against abuse of Naira has been in place for over a decade, yet the CBN is still at the stage of ‘awareness creation’ and ‘sensitisation’ of the citizens whereas religious houses are openly celebrating the abuses of the National currency which is a legal tender that ought to be respected by the citizens and everyone in Nigeria.

“This unfortunate trend of inertia and inaction by the CBN should be changed immediately. What other better way to do this than to use the Onitsha based religious comedian and self-acclaimed prophet Mr. ODUMEJE as an example for others to stop abusing the Naira?”

HURIWA said it has decided to approach President Muhammadu Buhari to charge him to compel all relevant agencies of government to begin the strict enforcement of the law.

“HURIWA recalls that the Central Bank of Nigeria had recently warned Nigerians against abusing the naira notes. The apex bank said that anyone caught abusing the naira would be prosecuted and if convicted the person risked six months in jail and a fine of N50, 000.

“An official of the Currency Operation Department of the CBN in Abuja, Mr. Samuel Shuaibu, disclosed this in Calabar, Cross River State, during the commencement of a ‘CBN Fair’ to sensitise campaign for residents in the state on the appropriate use of the naira”.

HURIWA, has, therefore, asked the CBN to take action rather than continue in propaganda and the impression that the bank is working to protect the integrity of the national currency.

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Group threatens to sue Wike over demolition of properties

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A Civil Society Organisation, identified as the Socio-Economic Right and Accountability Project, has threatened to institute legal action against Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, over the demolition of two hotels on Sunday.

It was gathered that the governor on Sunday supervised the demolition of two hotels in Eleme and Onne for violating Executive Order 6 of the state government, which banned the operations of hotels amid the lockdown in order to check the spread of coronavirus.

“Government has no alternative but to apply the Executive order, which I signed before the lockdown of Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt. I called all the traditional rulers and council chairmen and told them to ensure that no hotel operates in the state.

“We are not saying it will be forever. This is for now so that we know where we are. To reduce the cases and check the spread,” Wike said.

Responding via Twitter, SERAP accused the governor of using COVID-19 to perpetrate human right violation, noting that his “executive rascality” must stop.

“We condemn the reported demolition of Protest Hotel by Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike. Using COVID-19 to perpetrate human rights violations is executive rascality and Mr. Wike must stop this now.

“We’re taking legal action to hold him and his government to account for the illegal actions.

“The demolition of Protest Hotel is forced evictions and in violation of article 11 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and other human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party,” the CSO stated.

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Why I suspended commissioner, others – Gov. Umahi

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Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi has ordered a one-month working suspension of the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Samuel Okoronkwo, over alleged boundary security compromise and negligence.

Umahi gave the order on Sunday in a statement he personally posted on the social media and confirmed by the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Uchenna Orji.

He said the suspension meant forfeiture of one month’s salary.

The governor also ordered a one-month working suspension of the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Augustine Nwuzor.

The governor conveyed dismay over an alleged high level of compromise and negligence of duty he witnessed on May 9, while inspecting the state’s boundaries at Afikpo North and Ivo LGA.

He threatened to sack them if there were no improvements.

“All development centre coordinators of Afikpo North and Ivo LGA’s are hereby suspended from office and should handover to the ‘Member One’ in their various development centers including their official vehicles.

“All political appointees from these councils are to remain on half salary until normalcy returns including all traditional rulers from both councils.

“The chairmen and leadership of town unions in Ebonyi are hereby suspended and I will dissolve all town unions this May if situations do not improve,” he also threatened.

He further threatened that all health workers in the state, absent from their duty posts from Sunday will be sacked, pledging to do more in the coming days to secure the peoples’ lives.

“What I saw on Saturday at Ivo LGA left me worried about our people’s honesty in doing this job.

“I was disappointed with what I saw there and also at Afikpo North LGA between 6.30 pm and 12.am.

“I ‘arrested’ over 10 passenger- buses with over 50 passengers coming from Abia, Rivers, and Lagos.

“People manning the roadblocks ‘took’ bribes and allowed them to pass and I had no option than to arrest those said to be doing the work but were only taking bribes.

“They are presently at the Abakaliki quarantine centre and there was no presence of town unions in those locations,” he said.

The governor stated that there was no form of monitoring by the LGA and internal security commissioner, council chairmen, development centre coordinators, describing the situation as a ‘shame’.

“The LGA commissioner is hereby directed to account to me before Wednesday, May 13, the expenditure of 15million released to each LGA chairman for this pandemic.

“I must see if I can raise boys in each of the 140 communities to do this job and then review all appointments in line with those who can help in this fight to save our people.

“I, however, observed that good work took place in the day, but at night only the army in one location and local boys stayed.

“I am still depressed with the commitment of our security agencies despite my efforts in paying allowances,” he said.

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Remove ban on flights now – Ayade tells Buhari

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Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has advised President Muhammadu Buhari to lift the ban on domestic flights.

He made the appeal on Sunday while inspecting asphalting of the dualized Odukpani-Calabar highway.

The Nigerian government, last week, extended the ban on local and international flights by four weeks.

The chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 explained that the decision followed experts’ advice.

But Ayade lamented that the continued closure of domestic airspace was impacting negatively on Nigeria’s aviation, hospitality and tourism sectors.

“The suspension of domestic flights has affected most hotels leading to their closure. It is so bad that most hotels, including the 5-star hotels, are shutting down because they cannot sustain the cost of diesel for their generating sets and as that happens, they start laying off workers.

“So you have a lot of workers, young people who used to work in the hotels and tourism industry out of jobs. And the big question is, how long can this continue? The caterers who supply food to the hotels are all out of business. All the suppliers are out of business.

“We continue to lock the domestic airports for another four weeks, what are we going to have in terms of economic loss and in terms of social delinquency? The associated moral and social tension that will come with it will be just too huge for the country to bear,” Ayade warns.

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Coronavirus : Stranded Nigerians in US arrives Abuja airport

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A plane carrying some Nigerians who were stranded in the United States following the outbreak of coronavirus has landed in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria.

It was earlier gathered that another batch of 160 Nigerians including eight infants, stranded in the United States due to the coronavirus pandemic were on their way to Abuja.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, had disclosed this in a tweet via his official Twitter account.

The plane, however, arrived the Abuja airport at about 11 am on Sunday, hours after departing New York.

Five luxury buses and a coaster bus had earlier been stationed at the airport to move the returnees to isolation centers.

Recall that the Federal Government announced that it had commenced the evacuation of hundreds of stranded Nigerians willing to return home from various countries.

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Clean our party from selfish manipulations – PDP tells Gov. Okowa

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The Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sapele have advised Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to purge the party of selfish manipulations and outright illegalities.

This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday,

The leaders had in a meeting in Sapele underlined the sudden desperation of the incumbent chairman, the rule of fairness, and the tenets of logic.

The statement urged Governor Okowa to appreciate and defend the sanctity of justice and the fairness doctrine.

‘’The party zoned the Organizing Secretary, Assistant Secretary and National Woman Leader, South-South positions to Ethiope East Local Government. It also zoned the position of PDP state chairman to Sapele Local Government. Mr. Kingsley Afejuku Esiso is not an Okpe man. He is not from Sapele’’

Also, a stark warning was also issued to the Delta State’s PDP chairman, Mr. Kingsley Afejuku Esiso, saying enough is enough.

The leaders accused Afejuku-Esiso, Sapele’s PDP chairman, Mr. Perkins Umukoro, and some political aides of Governor Okowa of provoking the fire of dissent and deepening the crisis in the party.

‘’We are insulted, mocked by a stranger. Mr. Kingsley Afejuku Esiso, in drunken rapacity, is telling us to go to hell, that the good people of Sapele are tribal and that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa would impose him on us’’

A statement issued at the end of the meeting and signed by the chairman of PDP Ambassadors, Mr. Tony Akpeki, was said to have urged Esiso and Umukoro to stop insulting the sensibilities of Deltans by plotting to suspend those who refused to embrace the atavistic darkness represented by the man from Bateren in Warri North Local Government.

‘’The plot by Esiso and all those who hold survival as the ultimate value to suspend some people from the party should be seen as one of the diversionary tactics by the enemies of Sapele to shift the attention of PDP leaders in Delta Central from issues relating to micro-zoning and opportunity of a truly Sapele man becoming the party’s chairman.”

The leaders cautioned Esiso against anything that could scuttle the union among Sapele and Ethiope East.

‘’Why is Kingsley Afejuku Esiso working against PDP consensus politics? Why is Kingsley Afejuku Esiso working against the good people of Sapele? Why is Kingsley Afejuku Esiso working against the Okpe Nation? Kingsley Afejuku Esiso and indeed his supporters in Agbor and Asaba are blind to the fact.”

The leaders who were said to have passed a vote of confidence on Anirah called on PDP members in the state to support the nomination of the former chairman of Sapele Local Government, Mr. Godwin Atose.

And that they promised to assemble a legal team comprising 30 Senior Advocates of Nigeria and another retinue of lawyers to contest the second term plan of the Itsekiri and Ethiope East politician.

‘’We appeal to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to rectify the wrongs on the ground,’’ the statement added.

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Why government should reopen churches amid coronavirus – PFN reveals

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The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, in Edo State, has called on the state government to reopen churches.

PFN explained that reopening churches in the state would help create more awareness on how to curb COVID-19.

The body said churches would embark on aggressive intercession for divine intervention against coronavirus if they are reopened.

In a statement issued at the end of it’s executive committee meeting, PFN described COVID-19 as an evil plague.

It said churches should reopen in full compliance with the state’s extant guidelines.

The statement was signed by chairman, Bishop Mon Igbinosa, second deputy chairman, Evangelist M.A. Agbonifo. Vice-chairman (Edo South), Rev. Solomon Imariagbe and Secretary, Rev. Solomon O. Udi.

It also commended the state Governor, Godwin Obaseki, for his efforts towards tackling the spread of the virus in the state.

The statement reads: “PFN is not unaware of the efforts of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN and the efforts of churches to be closed for two weeks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Nigeria and Edo State, the markets are allowed to run, and the populace are also allowed to move about to a reasonable extent which is commendable.

“Reopening the churches will assist government’s efforts in a number of ways. The Pulpit will increase awareness of COVID-19 and the churches will embark on aggressive intercession for divine intervention to terminate this evil plague that has so far defied human solution.”

PFN also lamented what it described as unwholesome harassment of pastors and church members who opened their churches, following the declaration by the governor.

The body consequently called for the cessation of unlawful harassment of pastors in the state.

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Commotion in Edo as Police beat soldier over facemask

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There was a commotion in Benin City, Edo State on Saturday, when a joint team of police and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps operatives, allegedly beat up a soldier, for not wearing a face mask.

The incident ensued Saturday afternoon, at Lagos street, almost 24-hours after the state government shut down the street to all business activities over alleged refusal of traders and residents of the street to comply with the directives to participate in the ongoing screening and testing exercise for Coronavirus, as part of efforts to contain the pandemic.

An eyewitness who refused to disclose her name said the soldier who was on military khaki short had a handkerchief on his neck and that his wife did not properly put on her face mask.

“On entering Lagos Street, the soldier and his wife were asked to wear their face mask by the policemen on duty. The soldier brought his ID card to identify himself but the police officer dismissed the ID card as fake.

“The soldier got infuriated when one of the police officers pushed his wife with a gun in a bid to force her to wear the face mask.

“Following the argument that ensued, the policemen descended on the soldier and injured him on the head with the butt of their gun,” he said.

Traders and passers-by were forced to run in different directions, as men of the Nigerian Army who later stormed the area, allegedly shot repeatedly into the air to scare the police and NSCDC officers.

Quick intervention by officers of the Nigerian Army and the State police command, quelled the situation.

The feuding parties were later driven to the nearby Oba Market Police division to resolve the issue.

The State Police Command’s spokesman, DSP Chidi Nwabuzor, could not be reached on his mobile for comment at the time of filing this report.

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How Wike is becoming a dictator in Rivers – Senior Lawyer

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A frontline activist, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, has accused the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike of turning into a dictator.

He listed some attributes of dictatorship being displayed by the Governor to include the arbitrary arrest of pilots and oil workers; the closure of State boundaries and now an executive order to auction all vehicles impounded for allegedly violating the State’s lockdown rules.

Remember that Wike on Friday arrested 14 persons hidden in two trailers conveying cattle from Adamawa State to Port Harcourt, the State’s capital.

He ordered that the two truck-load of cows and the vehicles be auctioned today.

In a statement he entitled, ‘The Emerging Dictatorship in Rivers State’ and made available to newsmen on Saturday, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria noted that Wike should know better being a lawyer.

“The Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Mr. Nyesom Wike, is a lawyer, which should be an added advantage to birth good governance,” he said.

“The Governor also has a reliable partner as a judicial officer, so that both in the office and at home, law is following the Governor and it is written all over him.

“But the story of Rivers State in recent times has become a major worry for all lovers of the rule of law and democracy.

“From the arbitrary arrest of pilots and oil workers, to the closure of State boundaries and now an executive order to auction all vehicles alleged to have violated the lockdown order of the Governor, it has been one case of illegality to another.

“The Constitution grants unfettered right to property and it cannot be circumscribed without following the due process of law.

“The Rivers State Governor has no legal right in law to confiscate the property of citizens by executive fiat. Surely, two wrongs cannot make a right.

“I urge the good people of Rivers State to stand up to every form of lawlessness and arbitrariness and defend their rights under the Constitution.

“The People’s Democratic Party will be living in condemnable hypocrisy, if it claims to be in opposition to the ruling party but cannot correct the excesses of its own leaders,” he added.

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NCDC records serious coronavirus cases as toll exceeds 4,000

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Nigeria on Saturday recorded the most coronavirus deaths in a single day.

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, on Saturday reported 11 fatalities.

As of Friday, the total number of deaths resulting from COVID-19 was 117.

But according to the data released on Saturday, the total number of deaths in the country stood at 128.

Nigeria has also exceeded 4000 confirmed cases with 745 discharged.

NCDC had on Saturday, reported ”239 new cases of COVID-19; 97-Lagos, 44-Bauchi, 29-Kano, 19-Katsina, 17-Borno, 7-FCT, 6-Kwara, 5-Oyo,3-Kaduna,3-Sokoto, 2-Adamawa, 2-Kebbi, 2-Plateau, 2-Ogun, 1-Ekiti

“4151 cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria; Discharged: 745; Deaths: 128.”

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Tell the public how COVID-19 funds were spent – lawmakers

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The Lagos State House of Assembly on Friday asked the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu to inform the House on the spending from donations received to address the Coronavirus pandemic in the State.

The House also charged the Governor to make recourse to it before declaring a state of emergency even during peculiar situations like it is currently being experienced on COVID-19 pandemic.

The resolution followed the observation raised by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) on a recently passed Bill tagged, ‘Coronavirus Pandemic Emergency Law, 2020.”

The executive raised observations on the provisions in the law, directing the Governor to make recourse to the House before declaring a state of emergency and rendering account to the House on the spending of donations to the State government to address the pandemic.

Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over plenary said that the move was not to deprive the Governor of his powers but to make recourse to the House when necessary.

“It is our own duty to do what is right. It is for them to follow what we do in line with the constitution. The law says, they will come forward to give account on what they have expended,”.

“If you set up a committee and the Governor is the Chairman, and the House committee later invites the Governor, it will look like a confrontation,” Obama said.

The Speaker explained further that it would be better to introduce a co-chairman from the executive arm on incident command, saying, the co-chairman would be ready to face the House committee.

He argued that since the pandemic has now become an emergency situation, there must be an independent account set up separately, adding that doing otherwise would mean something is missing somewhere.

Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Health Services, Akeem Shokunle had read the recommendations of the committee on a report that addressed the observations raised by the Attorney-General.

According to him, “With regards to paragraph 3 of the observation, the committee is of the opinion that it is not a usurpation of power to create a procedure for activating a donated power.

“Section 305 of the 1999 constitution, which gives the power to declare a state of emergency clearly stipulates the procedure to be followed in exercising that given power.

“The committee also points out that we are all in these together once the Governor communicates his intention to extend the state of emergency to the House, it will expeditiously be dealt with as already stated in section 23(2) of the law.

“Governor should be mindful of the fact that the funds referred to are funds not budgeted for and it is not in the consolidated fund or development fund, but are donations and grants and since Governor is so mindful of his public image, it is only right that we help him to so do which is why the provision of section 4 (2) of the Law is sacrosanct,”.

The report titled, “Recently passed Coronavirus Pandemic Emergency Law, 2020 had rejected some of the proposals by the executive, saying the Governor should be mindful that the funds are not budgeted for.

Speaking, another lawmaker, Folajimi Mohammaed had noted that following quarantine Act, the Governor might not make recourse to the House because it demanded urgent action.

But the Speaker argued that going by the constitutional provision, the Governor is accountable to the House.

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Retired high court judge dies at 102

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The oldest retired judge of the High Court of Lagos State, Justice Isiaka Isola Oluwa died on Saturday at the age of 102.

Justice Oluwa died in his home at Ilupeju, Lagos in the early hours of Saturday, it was learned.

It was gathered that he was buried at the Atan Cemetery, Yaba, according to Islamic rites.

The late Jurist was born on June 23, 1918, to Lagosian parents in Cross River State.

He attended Forcados Government School, Bonny; St Bartholomew’s School, Degema; Government School, Sapele; and King’s College, Lagos.

Justice Oluwa also attended the School of Agriculture, Samaru-Zaria, the University of London where he studied Law, at Lincoln’s Inn, London, where he was called to the Bar in 1957.

The late jurist worked several as a lecturer, Farm Management, University of Ibadan(1949-50), Lecturer, School of Agriculture, Samaru-Zaria, and Extension Manager, Zaria Province.

He started his law practice after he returned back to Nigeria from London and formed Oluwa, Kotoye, and Co.

He was appointed High Court judge on June 1, 1974.

He would be remembered as the judge that sentenced Lagos socialite, Alhaji Jimoh Isola, a.k.an Ejigbadero, to death for the murder of a farmer, Raji Oba over land disputes, in 1975.

He retired on June 17, 1983.

Justice Oluwa at various times was Member, Board of Governors, Glover Memorial Hall (1965-1974), member, Lagos Town Council, Member, Reorganization of Local Government, Lagos State, and Pro-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Ojo.

Also, for many years, he was the chairman of the Association of Lagos indigenous retired judges.

The Altona Odua of Yorubaland, Chief Bode George said Justice Oluwa was definitive of the essence of the Lagosian identity.

George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a statement by his special adviser, Prince Uthman Shodipe-Dosunmu described the late justice as a bundle of principled persona, strong in wit and humor, dedicated to the liberation of Lagos and the oppressed from the whims and the caprices of the oppressors.

Mr. Gbadebo Dallass who equally knew him well said Lagos has lost a great man who could not be compromised by any inducement and who faced adversity with bold, engaging fierceness.

Shodipe-Dosunmu said: “He was a principled man, unafraid, defiant, stern, bold, indifferent to the tools of animadversion”

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NCDC officials vanish from being tested for coronavirus

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, has lamented that Kogi State never accepted the assistance rendered by its official in trying to trace COVID-19 patients in the State.

NCDC DG, Director-General, Chikwe Ihekweazu was reacting to the misunderstanding between the body’s official and the Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.

Bello had asked officials of the NCDC to leave the State after they refused his directive of going into isolation and being tested for COVID-19.

The State’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, in a statement, wondered if NCDC officials had something to hide by refusing to be tested for COVID-19.

However, Ihekweazu said Bello was saddled with the primary responsibility of the health security of his State.

The NCDC DG spoke during the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 daily briefing in Abuja, yesterday.

According to Ihekweazu: “You can only offer help where the help is wanted. Yesterday we offered that help but it wasn’t in a place where the help could be accepted.

“Unfortunately, that is what happened last night. The reality is that we have had a great relationship with Kogi.

“We have supported Kogi State in every possible way. It is one of the first states that has an Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) supported by the NCDC.

“I think in the long term, the purpose of our existence is to support the states. They have the primary responsibility for health security in their state.”

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Abacha loot: fresh $319m discovered – says US

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The US embassy in Nigeria has revealed another $319m (N121bn) looted by Sani Abacha, former military dictator, is in the United Kingdom and France.

This comes three days after Nigeria repatriated $311 million Abacha Loot from the US and the Bailiwick of Jersey.

In a statement, the US embassy revealed that there is a separate $167 million in stolen assets in France and another $152 million in the UK which is still subject to litigation.

“The funds returned last week are distinct and separate from an additional $167m in stolen assets also forfeited in the United Kingdom and France, as well as $152m still in active litigation in the United Kingdom,” the statement read.

According to a report by Bloomberg, the UK is challenging the return of the funds to Nigeria due to the alleged plan of the federal government to transfer $110 million out of the money to Atiku Bagudu, Kebbi state governor.

“The U.S. Department of Justice says Bagudu was involved in corruption with Abacha,” the report stated

According to the report, the federal government is seeking the approval of a UK court to take possession of the assets before transferring seventy percent of the proceeds to Bagudu under the terms of an agreement signed in 2018.

However, the AGF has since denied the allegations stating that Bagudu’s assets are not covered under the agreement which the federal government signed to recover funds looted by Abacha.

An estimate of $5 billion is said to have been stolen from Nigeria during Abacha’s five-year rule.

While previous Nigerian governments have repatriated billions of dollars looted by Abacha, who died in office in 1998, Buhari’s administration has said it is prevented from assisting the US’ ongoing forfeiture efforts by an agreement between Bagudu and the Obasanjo’s government in 2003.

The 2003 settlement, which was approved by a UK court, allowed Bagudu to return $163 million to Nigeria “without admitting to wrongdoing,” according to US court filings.

In return, the government dropped all outstanding civil and criminal claims against him.

Bagudu was elected a senator in 2009 and the governor of Kebbi six years later.

Five years after the US launched fresh forfeiture proceedings against him, Bagudu and the Buhari administration struck a new accord in October 2018 to transfer ownership of the investment portfolios to the Nigerian state, which would immediately pay 98.5 million euros to the Kebbi governor and his affiliates.

Bloomberg said the terms of the updated settlement cannot be implemented while Nigeria’s application in a UK court is pending and a freezing order is still in place, according to a motion by Ibrahim Bagudu, who is entitled to a $100,000 annuity from the funds and is contesting the US confiscation efforts.

Meanwhile, the US has said the $311 million that was returned to Nigeria last week must be used for infrastructural development.

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Covid-19: Kano Govt. confirms 65 cases, new deaths

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Kano State Government has confirmed 65 new cases of coronavirus disease in the State.

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, had on Friday announced 386 new cases of coronavirus disease in the country.

Out of the 386 cases announced, Kano recorded 65.

Confirming the development, the Kano State Ministry of Health in a tweet via its Twitter handle on Saturday stated that 3 more coronavirus patients have been discharged.

The tweet read “COVID19 Kano Update as at 11:35 pm 8th May 2020.

“65 new cases of COVID19 Kano cases confirmed.

“Total confirmed cases in Kano state are now 547.

“3 more coronavirus patients have been discharged from the isolation facility to reunite with their family and society.

“Total discharged now 22, while 5 deaths were recorded.“

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FCT records 20 cases of coronavirus

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration has confirmed that 20 new cases of coronavirus with one death have been recorded in the territory.

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, had on Friday confirmed 386 new cases of coronavirus disease in the country.

Out of the 386 new cases confirmed, 20 were recorded in the capital territory.

Confirming the new cases, the FCTA in a tweet via its Twitter account on Saturday also announced that 40 patients have been discharged after showing full recovery.

The tweet read “Twenty (20) New Cases In the FCT

“Summary of COVID-19 FCT as of Friday, May 8th, 2020.

“Total number of confirmed cases: 336.

“Total number of active cases: 292.

“40 patients have been discharged with 4 deaths recorded.

“Residents are urged to take preventive measures seriously.”

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NDDC accepts NASS’s Probe of alleged N40bn scam

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The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has affirmed the readiness of its Interim Management Committee (IMC) led by Prof. Keme Ponder to appear before the National Assembly following an alleged N40bn scam.

The commission’s Director, Corporate Affairs, Charles Odili, in a statement in Port Harcourt on Friday, said though there was no N40bn fraud in the commission, the IMC and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, were ready to attend any public hearing on the matter.

Odili observed that the detractors of the commission were hiding under the National Assembly resolution to tarnish the image of NDDC and insisted that the IMC since it came on board only received N33bn.

Explaining that the commission was ready to defend its activities, he suggested that the National Assembly session with the minister and the IMC should be televised live to enable members of the public to appreciate the efforts of the IMC.

He said: “The detractors of the commission are now hiding under the resolution of the National Assembly to trash the reputation of the Interim Management Committee, IMC. We wish to state that there is no N40 billion fraud in NDDC.

“As stated last week, the total sum received by the IMC is N33 billion, out of which it has spent N22 billion. The expenditure includes payment of staff salaries, service providers debts, and contractual debts of N50 million and below.

“Can N40 billion be stolen when it did not exist? Is the payment of staff salaries and benefits, an act of corruption? Should poor helpless contractors who worked for the Commission and were being owed for more than five years not be paid sums as low as N1 million?

“The commission concedes that the National Assembly has a constitutional right to investigate its operations, if and when it deems it necessary. However, we find allegations, which have no substance and serve no purpose other than generating adverse newspaper headlines unhelpful.

“These baseless allegations pose a grave threat to the success of the forensic audit of the NDDC, directed by President Muhammadu Buhari, following a widespread request by stakeholders, including Governors of the Niger Delta States.

“It is on record that President Buhari directed that the NDDC forensic audit, which has been widely applauded as a crucial move and the only process that can cleanse NDDC, be overseen by the IMC.

“However, jittery perpetrators and beneficiaries of the old order that almost killed the NDDC have been relentlessly ascribing all manner of spurious misdeeds to the IMC in their selfish bid to hang the IMC and stultify the forensic audit.

“We welcome the inquiry and invite the public to patiently wait for its outcome. In addition, we insist that the National Assembly session with the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the IMC be an open one. We are ready to defend our activities.

“In order to put these matters to rest, we are asking for a public hearing televised live so Nigerians can directly appreciate the hard work and determination of the present IMC to make the Commission fit for purpose.

“This will also provide the public with an opportunity to know the truth about what is going on in NDDC. It will enable them to see through the charade of unceasing false allegations designed to truncate the forensic audit of the NDDC”.

He added: “It is also pertinent we invite the public to note that the IMC is not unmindful that aggrieved culprits and receivers of the longstanding plunder of the Commission’s resources are extremely perturbed with some recent decisions of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and the IMC.

“Top among the so-called sins of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and the IMC is a refusal to make payments for outrageous and fictitious de-silting jobs, stoppage of ghost payments for questionable training programmes and discontinuation of phantom payments through faceless non-governmental organisations. In addition, the erstwhile bazaar of phony contracts has come to an end.

“The commission will go to the public hearing with records of the phony contracts that the IMC has been under pressure to pay, the refusal of which is triggering the current spate of attacks.

“We want to reiterate our unyielding determination to manage the forensic audit of the NDDC in an extremely transparent manner. No amount of malicious and selfish campaign to stand truth on its head will dissuade the IMC from delivering on its mandate.

“The great people of the Niger Delta – and all other well-intentioned stakeholders – should please disregard unfounded allegations and rest assured that the forensic audit is on course, to pave the way for the birth of a stronger and more responsive NDDC”.

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Breaking: Nigerians evacuated from UK, arrive at Lagos airport

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The Federal Government has evacuated some Nigerians who were stranded in the United Kingdom as a result of the coronavirus.

It was gathered that some of the Nigerians arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos on Friday about 01.43 pm.

Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, confirmed their arrival.

She said, “The first evacuation from the Uk has landed in Lagos. The passengers will be proceeding to Abuja where they will be on 14-day compulsory isolation.”

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Coronavirus: Governor Bello isolates visiting NCDC officials

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Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has ordered visiting officials of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to go into isolation at a quarantine centre for 14 days.

Bello gave the directive on Thursday night when the NCDC officials led by Dr Andrew Noah showed up at the Government House, in Lokoja, the state capital.

The agency had sent a delegation of rapid response team to ascertain the true status of Kogi as a COVID-19-free state.

The governor said that the step was to ensure that the laid down procedure of checkmating the scourge by NCDC was strictly followed.

Presenting a letter titled: “Deployment of Rapid Response Squad to help in fighting COVID-19,” Dr Noah explained that the mission of the NCDC was to provide logistics to all states of the federation of which Kogi could not be left out.

He said two members of the team would be left behind to help the state and support efforts already in place.

Speaking shortly after receiving the letter, Bello outlined steps taken so far by the state to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

He then asked that the NCDC officials be subjected to testing and isolated in the state quarantine centre or leave the state immediately if they refused.

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Breaking: EFCC reacts as Supreme Court acquits Orji Kalu

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has reacted to the Supreme Court’s nullification of the conviction of a former governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu.

Also nullified was the judgment against his firm, Slok Nigeria Limited and Jones Udeogu, a former Director of Finance and Account of Abia State Government.

The apex court ordered their fresh trial at the lower court.

Dele Oyewale, EFCC Head, Media & Publicity, in a statement noted that the court based its verdict on the grounds that Justice Mohammed Idris, who convicted Kalu and others had been elevated to the Court of Appeal before the judgment and returned to the lower court to deliver the judgment which is considered illegal.

EFCC said it considers the judgment of the apex court as quite unfortunate.

The agency called it a technical ambush against the trial of the former governor.

The Commission declared preparedness for a fresh and immediate retrial.

The spokesman said that EFCC’s evidence against Kalu and others was overwhelming.

“The corruption charges against Kalu still subsist because the Supreme Court did not acquit him of them.

“The entire prosecutorial machinery of the EFCC would be launched in a fresh trial where justice is bound to be served in due course”, Oyewale added

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NASS N40b probe of Akpabio, a legislative busy body – Kpokpogri

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The Chairman of Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum, Comrade Prince Kpokpogri has described the Senate probe of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio and the Interim Management Committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as a shot in the dark.

Kpokpogri who disclosed this today in a press conference in Lagos, called on the Niger Delta people to support Senator Godswill Akpabio in his quest to clean up the NDDC.

He noted that the NDDC must be positioned to better the lives of the Niger Delta people in line with the spirit of its creation.

Kpokpogri said what the National Assembly was doing by inviting the Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, Akpabio for questioning on the N40 billion paid to certified contractors was a shot in the dark and legislative busy body.

“Is the National Assembly saying that contractors who were owed over a year ago should not be paid even after the contracts were certified to have been duly executed? Are they aggrieved that some of their youth contractors had been denied opportunities for more fraudulent jobs? Or are they angry that there would be no more free money from contracts that were never executed?”, he asked.

The anti corruption crusader therefore, advised the NASS to stop chasing shadows and focus on more pressing national concern of the moment, which is Covid-19.

He said inviting Akpabio to question him on the money he got the Presidency’s approval to pay contractors is nothing but distraction, either to cover up for their laxity and inability to add value to the system or a grand plan to harm Akpabio with Covid-19 infection.

Again, he averred that the headless probe could be diversionary, even as he accused some politicians for failing to use NDDC as a conduit pipe to stack money for 2023 election.

The activist further asked that if the petition to probe the hard working Interim Management Committee of NDDC was not representing vested interest, then why must spending N40 billion to offset contractual debts become a matter of urgent public importance in an era of Coronavirus pandemic?

According to Kpokpogri, “Let me tell the world that the Senate invitation on Akpabio is just an agenda to mount pressure on him to intimidate him, just for disappointing their fraudulent antics. But he should not be perturbed; it’s only but a game.

“What about the petition against the fraudulent administration of the former acting Managing Director of NDDC, Prof. Brambrafa, which was read at the floor of the Senate and heard during public hearing? Why has the National Assembly not come up with the outcome of that investigation? Why have those who had looted the Commission dry for themselves and their godfathers not been penalised for corrupt offences?

“I, Comrade Kpokpogri is saying that the Interim Management Committee is the best thing that has happened so far in NDDC. We have never had it this good in Niger Delta. Is the Senate saying that contractors should not be paid? It is high time this nonsense stopped.

“I call on the Presidency to disregard any blackmail against the person of Senator Akpabio. We have passed a vote of confidence on him. He is doing what the NDDC was created for, which is to better the lives of the Niger Delta people as an Interventionist Agency.

“Finally, I advise the National Assembly to find something good and of national value to do and stop chasing shadows”, Kpokpogri posited.

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NCDC confirms 381 cases of coronavirus

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Nigeria on Thursday recorded a total number of 381 new coronavirus cases in the country.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, made this known on its Twitter page on Thursday night.

Lagos and Kano States recorded 183 and 55 cases respectively.

With this development, Nigeria has a total of 3526 cases of the disease.

NCDC wrote, “381 new cases of #COVID19;

183-Lagos, 55-Kano, 44-Jigawa, 19-Zamfara

19-Bauchi, 11-Katsina, 9-Borno, 8-Kwara, 7-Kaduna, 6-Gombe, 5-Ogun, 4-Sokoto, 3-Oyo

3-Rivers, 2-Niger, 1-Akwa Ibom, 1-Enugu, and 1-Plateau State.

“3526 cases of #COVID19 in Nigeria

“Discharged: 601, Deaths: 107.”

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I don’t have coronavirus – Health Commissioner

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The Commissioner for Health in Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi has refuted reports claiming he tested positive for coronavirus.

Abayomi urged people of the State and Nigerians to disregard the reports which he described as fake and misleading.

In a series of tweets, the Commissioner said the reports were circulated to create panic and unnecessary anxiety among people of the State.

He tweeted: “#COVID19Lagos News AlertSpeaker with three sound waves.

“I hereby implore the general public to disregard the fake and misleading news circulating in the media to the effect that I have tested positive to #COVID19 infection.

“It is evident that the fake news is calculated at causing panic and unnecessary anxiety amongst the populace.

“I, therefore, urge the public to disregard any news on #COVID19 that does not emanate from @followslasg official communication channels and other verifiable sources.

“Remain vigilant and continue to play your part as responsible citizens in curtailing the spread of COVID19 in our communities.”

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Coronavirus: FG threatens fresh lockdown, issues warning

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The Federal Government yesterday again warned of a possible fresh lockdown of the country over the violation of the guidelines on the eased lockdown.

National Coordinator, Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Dr Sani Aliyu, gave the warning in Abuja at the 27th joint national briefing of the PTF.

He said if Nigerians continue to fail to respect and follow all the guidelines, the PTF might review and possibly change them.

“While we’ve allowed the relaxation of the lockdown, we’re putting measures in place to curb COVID-19 spread. Our modelling shows that the positive effects of full compliance with the Eased lockdown will be very similar to the effect of a full lockdown.

“This is why we need everyone to fully comply with all the guidelines issued. Please respect and follow all the guidelines we have instituted. If we continue to see violations of these guidelines, we will be pushed to review and possibly change them,” Aliyu said.

Director-General, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, said those who tested positive and were in isolation centres had not committed any crime, thus were not being held in prison.

“So, we really want to work together with everyone to ensure that we all achieve our goals. The security in treatment and isolation centres is the same thing like any other established organisation as security is the responsibility of the police working with the state governments in that particular place.

“In certain circumstances, the states have had to increase the security in those facilities. In honesty, we don’t want to ‘securitize’ this response. We want people and organisations to take responsibilities,” Ihekweazu said.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, said the second batch of Nigerians returning from the United Kingdom were expected to land at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, today and would be taken to Abuja where they would be isolated in a hotel.

According to him, Abuja hotel is the preferable option to isolate the returnees as the hotel rate is better compared to Lagos.

He said arrangements would be made for those meant to be in Lagos to return back to Lagos afterwards.

He said: “It’s a learning curve for all of us. So, we’re very happy that we’ve been able to get the first batch of Nigerians successfully back home. We’ll like to congratulate those passengers and thank them because really they comported themselves admirably and went to the hotels they’re meant to go to for isolation. The conditions are difficult. 14 days in confinement is not easy.”

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Arrest anyone without facemask – Akeredolu orders

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The Ondo State government has ordered the arrest of anybody walking in the street without wearing a nose mask in the state.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who stated this while flagging off the distribution of 500,000 nose masks produced by tailors in the state, said it has become an offence to move around the state without wearing a nose mask.

Akeredolu said anybody arrested for not wearing a nose mask would be placed on 14 days isolation at the person’s own cost.

Akeredolu said the state embarked on the production of the nose masks and subsequent distribution as part of his government’s numerous efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19.

He warned against not wearing nose masks in public places, saying the best protection against contracting COVID-19 was the wearing of nose masks.

He stated that the initiative of massive production and distribution of nose masks was borne out of his desire for the welfare of the people of the state.

He said his administration engaged the services of 400 tailors across the state to enable generate income to cushion the effect of the lockdown caused by COVID-19.

The governor explained that the nose masks were produced according to specifications of international health organisations and the materials deployed met the prescribed medical standards.

He said, “Our tailors working on the production processes are happy. They are happy not because there is COVID-19, but for having the opportunity to exhibit their talents, learning new skills, and being able to generate income to cushion the effects of the pandemic on their livelihood.

“In the course of the production of these nose masks, over 400 tailors were engaged who are working round the clock to ensure that we meet our target for our teeming populace.

“Wearing of nose masks in public places is mandatory for every resident in the state. Enforcement has already commenced.

“It is significant for me to inform the public that whoever is arrested for not wearing the nose mask will be kept in the isolation centre for 14 days and have his specimen taken to be tested for the virus. Such an individual will be responsible for his or her upkeep at the centre.”

Some of the tailors commended the governor for engaging them at a time their shops were closed down because of the coronavirus pandemic, noting that their business was worst hit by COVID-19 because people no longer patronise them.

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Photos: Wike monitors lockdown compliance, Blast Police Deputy Commissioner

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Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike of Rivers State has commended Rivers people for complying with the lockdown declared by the State Government to check the spread of coronavirus.

In an interview after monitoring the level of compliance on Thursday, Governor Wike said that the level of compliance is up to 95 percent.

He said: “I want to commend Rivers people for the level of support they have shown. The level of compliance is quite satisfactory. It is more than 95 percent within the two Local Government Areas .”

Wike lamented that the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Rivers Command, DCP, ADAMU ABUBAKAR moved to sabotage the lockdown by issuing illegal letters to companies.

“It is unfortunate to see the level of sabotage that we get from the police. Particularly, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, Rivers State Police Command.

“The Deputy Commissioner of Police will sign approvals for companies because he wants to collect money. I am the Governor of this state and there cannot be two governors,” he said.

He said the approvals issued by the police or any other authorities, outside the office of the Rivers State Governor are illegal.

He said: “The Deputy Commissioner of Police has no powers to issue approvals when the State Government has locked down the state. After the State Security Council met and agreed on the lockdown, the Deputy Commissioner of Police went ahead to issue illegal letters to companies to operate. I have never seen that in my life. “

The Governor said that all those who were arrested violating the lockdown will be prosecuted by the State Government.

He said: “All these violators must be prosecuted at the mobile court set for this purpose. What we are doing is not for any particular individual, it is for the interest of the state.”

Governor Wike assured Rivers people that the lockdown will be lifted as soon as the objective is achieved.

He said: “Our people are suffering, I agree. But this is something we must do. When we examine the level of compliance and it is reasonable, of course, we will unlock the two Local Government Areas.

“It is not in our own interest that people shouldn’t come out or go to the markets. But we are talking about lives and how to protect our people.

“Look at what is happening in other parts of the country, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations wants us to suffer. “

Governor Wike said that the State Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on the illegal activities of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations.

He said: “I have called for an emergency Security Council meeting by 3 pm today. This is complete sabotage by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Rivers State Police Command. We will deal with that accordingly.

“I, however, thank the Army, the Navy, and others on what they are doing to enforce the lockdown.

“For the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) to sabotage us, that will not be accepted. I arrested those people and he had the guts to tell them to release those I arrested on the road because he is collecting money from companies. That is unacceptable. “

Governor Wike insisted that the impounded vehicles would be auctioned.

“The defaulters will be tried by the Mobile Courts and I have told the Attorney General, all the impounded vehicles must be auctioned. By tomorrow, the Honourable Attorney General would have advertised those vehicles and we will auction them.

“Some people don’t believe that Coronavirus is in existence. Until you make them understand that we are serious, they will not believe it. We will auction the impounded vehicles

“Those arrested will face the wrath of the law. Nobody is above the law. We will not allow anyone to sabotage our efforts to protect our people,” he said.

In the course of monitoring the level of compliance, Governor Wike arrested several violators and impounded cars.

Governor Wike also arrested some very important persons (VIPS), who were not on essential duties, but was moving around with their police escorts.

But he allowed a pregnant woman who violated the lockdown order, on compassionate grounds.

At the Elekahia Isolation Centre, over 200 persons have been arrested and over 20 vehicles impounded by different teams enforcing the lockdown. They are to face the full weight of the law.

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Lockdown: Rivers Govt. issues stern warning to communities

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Rivers State Government has warned residents of Ward 20, Amadi-Ama in Port Harcourt Local Government Area and Mgbuosimini, Rumueme in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area to desist from disobeying government directives on lockdown.

Paulinus Nsirim
Commissioner for Information and Communications in Rivers State, gave this warning in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen.

The commissioner revealed that the state government will deal decisively with the residents of these areas if they default lockdown directives.

Nsirim also warmed that those parading exemption letters except the one issued by the Governor are to face the risks as such permits are invalid.

The commissioner added that the Governor, Nyesom Wike, has directed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to auction all vehicles that violated the lockdown order.

Announcing the auctioning of cars, Nsirim stated that members of the public who are interested to buy the auctioned vehicles are to watch out for details in The Sun, The Nation, and Vanguard Newspapers.

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FG endorses waivers of import duty for medical supplies

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved that import duty should be waived for medical equipment and supplies to strengthen health infrastructure in response to the COVID19 pandemic in Nigeria.

The waiver is the latest of the fiscal policy measures that have been introduced by the federal government to combat the economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is targeted at critical medical supplies exempted from payment of import duty and value-added tax (VAT).

Announcing the government’s fiscal response to the pandemic, Zainab Ahmed, the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning had said that the government would engage other corporates to know what they want the most.

“We do not want to go and say that we are reducing taxes for companies. Some of the companies, for example, the pharmaceutical industry, what they would want is to fast track processes to bring in materials to produce more drugs,” she said.

In her words: “We will be giving them import duty waivers, we will be giving them support to air freight their cargo because supply chains are broken across the world. There is a need to fast track the import of materials that are needed to produce drugs within the country, so we have to have those engagements to be more specific.”

Recall that the measures to facilitate the importation of some COVID-19 essential medical supplies were, according to the Honourable Minister, in line with the indicative list recommended by the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO). The WCO/WHO recommended list had been reviewed by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Ministry Finance.

Then speaking on the items for which the country has the capacity to produce, she said; “Those items for which Nigeria has the adequate local capacity to produce such as textile face masks, undenatured ethyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide (medical and disinfectant), hand sanitizers and syringes, with or without needles have been removed from the list.”

According to Ahmed “already most pharmaceutical drugs are currently exempted from import duty and VAT in line with the provisions of the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) and the First Schedule to the Value-added Tax (VAT) Act, 2007 as they are considered as essential items”.

These two global organizations had jointly prepared and circulated an indicative list of essential COVID-19 medical supplies and equipment. The list is meant to serve as a guide to governments and Customs Administrations globally, to facilitate the importation and clearance of medicines and medical equipment during the period of the pandemic.

Ahmed, in a request to President Buhari for the approval to implement the fiscal policy measures, had stated: “The list is envisaged to assist humanitarian actors both in the public and private sectors in the delivery of imported medicines and medical equipment to tackle the coronavirus pandemic… To enable for expeditious clearance of the items on the list, some of them would have to be declared as a national essential list of COVID-19 medical supplies….” She had requested that the items be prioritized and exempted from the payment of import duty and VAT.

Apart from the decision that the critical medical supplies be exempted from payment of import duty and VAT for a period of six months in the first instance with effect from 1st May 2020, it is also decided, among others, that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) should ensure that in line with Standard Operating Procedures for the clearance of humanitarian/relief materials, these items are given expedited release at all times.

The Minister strongly believes that this measure will greatly assist in the current interventions toward providing essential medical supplies and that it will also enable health care institutions at the national and sub-national levels and private healthcare providers to bridge the gap in healthcare infrastructure and supplies in the country.

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Sacked Commissioner test positive for coronavirus

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Kano Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Muazu Magaji, who was sacked by Governor Umar Ganduje for rejoicing over Abba Kyari’s death has tested positive for Coronavirus.

Recall that Ganduje had sacked the state’s Commissioner for rejoicing over the death of the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Abba Kyari.

Magaji while reacting to Kyari’s death said Nigeria was now free.

The commissioner had claimed that Kyari had so much power that he decided the fate of Nigerians.

However, on Thursday, Magaji revealed that his test result for coronavirus came back positive.

He urged Nigerians to pray for him.

Magaji wrote, “This morning my NCDC test result is out. I have been confirmed positive.

“I have been moved to one of the state’s isolation centers. Pray for us.”

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Sinach top other African Christian singers in Billboard chart

Nigerian gospel singer-songwriter Osinachi Joseph popularly known as Sinach has become the first African to top the Billboard USA Christian songwriters chart.

The “Way Maker” revealed on her Twitter page that she has been topping for seven weeks.

“So apparently We have been No 1 on billboard USA for Christian songwriter for 7 weeks !! Look at God!! First Black person First from Africa … So grateful to God!!”

Sinach, is a senior worship leader at Loveworld Ministries (Christ Embassy) and is known for hit songs including Way Maker,’He Did it Again,’ `I know Who I Am,’ among others.

The Billboard USA is the music industry standard record chart for songs published weekly by Billboard magazine.

The chart rankings are based on sales (both online and physical), radio play, and online streaming.

Other songwriters on the list are Jason Ingram, Matthew West, Lauren Daigle, Chris Brown, Steven Furtick, Jeff Pardo, Paul Mabury, Hank Bentley, and Ethan Hulse.

In March 2020, she was awarded a gold plague from YouTube for surpassing one million subscribers on the video-sharing platform.

In 2017, Sinach was inducted into the Bethlehem Hall of Fame alongside Dwayne Johnson, Pope Benedict XVI, and a host of other internationally recognized celebrities.

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My birthday is a dream come true – Actor Bolanle reveals

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Popular Nigerian movie star, Bolanle Ninalowo, is filled with a spirit of gratitude and appreciation to the almighty as clocks the age of 40 on Thursday, May 7.

The movie star in a post shared on his official Instagram page disclosed that the birthday is the first one he will be spending with his wife and kids in years.

According to the actor, his birthday is a dream come true.

He said: “The Dream came true I’m gonna be spending my 40th birthday with my wife & kids. My first in 10years!!! You think you know!! Naaaaaaaa Omode o mo ogun, o pe le foh!!! Thank God for Grace.”

The screen god also shared a short clip that featured him and his wife at a photoshoot session.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B_3K9wbpg-L/?igshid=p45ydetx7axm

Reacting to the photos, fans and colleagues flooded the actor’s comment section with congratulatory birthday messages. Read what some of them had to say below:

officialcharlesbillion01: “Happy birthday Bladddddd @iamnino_b God bless your new age, more Grace, Blessing, Success , Favour in Jesus name AMEN”

iambimpeakintunde: “Congratulations Baami”

mofeduncan: “Makanians!!!! Happy Birthday to you both. You are one so na Birthday to you both e go be. Shine strong Bro… @iamnino_b”

sheymanmusic: “Birthday swag ma nigga!!!”

omoni_ajike: “Happy birthday Nino B. May you celebrate more fruitful years ahead. Thank God for grace”

beckyodia7: “Happy birthday in advance sir May God continue to bless and keep your home love you guys”

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President Buhari authorizes renewal of appointments

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the renewal of Marilyn Amobi’s tenure as managing director of the Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company Plc (NBET).

This was confirmed in a statement signed by Yunusa Tanko, the Special Adviser on Media and Communication to the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning.

The Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, had previously dismissed Amobi, but Buhari reversed the decision two weeks later.

Buhari also moved NBET from the Ministry of Power to the Ministry of Finance for Supervision.

Members of the reconstituted NEBT board include:

Zainab Ahmed, the minister of finance, budget and national planning – Chairman

Alexander Okoh, a representative from Bureau of Public Enterprises (80% shareholder in NBET) – Non–executive director

Patience Oniha, director-general of Debt Management Office – Non-executive director

Ben Akabueze, director-general of Budget Office of the Federation – Non-executive director

A non-executive director to represent the ministry of power to be represented by staff, not below the level of a director

Suleyman Ndanusa, former director-general of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – Non-executive director (Independent)

Mustapha Balarabe Shehu, former president of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE) – Non-Executive Director (Independent)

Adeyeye O. Adepegba – Non-executive director (Independent)

Marilyn Amobi – Managing director/ chief executive officer.

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Covid-19: Why I want to borrow N850 billion – Buhari tells REP

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President Muhammadu Buhari has explained that the COVID-19 pandemic and the fall of oil price in the international market has made borrowing from the international capital market unattractive.

Buhari explained this in a letter to the House of Representatives, saying he was constrained to ask the House to grant him approval to borrow N850 billion from the domestic capital market to finance deficits in the 2020 budget.

Buhari said that the N850 billion which was initially scheduled in the budget to be borrowed from the international capital market, was not possible now as a result of current global economic conditions.

In the letter, President Buhari noted that external borrowing from the international capital market will increase Nigeria’s external reserves.

He said it would also provide access to low cost and longer tenure bonds as well as avoid crowding out the private sector borrowers who may also wish to access the domestic capital market.

The letter entitled, ‘Request for a Resolution of the National Assembly to raise N850 billion in new external borrowing plan in the 2020 Appropriation Act in naira from the Domestic Capital Market.’

“The House of Representatives may wish to recall that the 2020 Appropriation Act provides for N1.594 Trillion in new borrowing comprising N744 billion in domestic borrowing and N850 billion in new extern borrowing,” the letter said.

“These borrowing were to part-finance the deficit of N2.175 trillion.

“The House of Representatives may wish to know that the external borrowing from the international capital market increases Nigeria’s external reserves, provide access to low cost and longer tenure bonds, as well as avoid crowding out private sector borrowers who may also wish to access the domestic capital market.

“However, recent development in the global economic environment as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and decline in oil prices, has made it unattractive to borrow from the international capital market at this time.

“To ensure there are adequate funds to finance projects and programmes in the 2020 budget, I hereby seek the House of Representatives approval by way of resolution to raise N850 billion in naira from the domestic capital market.”

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Covid -19: Military Officer’s wife to be prosecuted

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The Ekiti State Government has disclosed that the wife of a military officer who imported COVID-19 into the State will be prosecuted at the right time.

Dr. Mojisola Yaya-Kolade, the State’s Commissioner for Health, disclosed that the wife of the Army Officer will be prosecuted for defying the lockdown order of the State.

Addressing a press conference yesterday, the Commissioner said the government will take action against the woman despite the fact that her husband noticed her condition and raised an alert.

Yaya-Kolade said: “Though it was the husband who alerted us, it is an offence against the State and the Ministry of Justice will take appropriate actions against her at the right time.”

The Commissioner also disclosed that the officer has been quarantined for two weeks in line with the World Health Organisation guidelines.

Yaya-Kolade said the officer was the woman’s only contact since she arrived in the State.

It is Recalled that the woman had in the midst of the lockdown arrived from Katsina State to visit her husband serving in Ekiti State.

The husband alerted the Ekiti State Government to the condition of his wife.

According to the Commissioner, the latest confirmation had brought COVID-19 patients in the State to 12.

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See how car killed man making video call to girlfriend

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Tragedy struck on Wednesday when a 26-year-old man, Olajide Aside, was crushed to death by a commercial car, while he was making a video call to his girlfriend at the Adedero village on the Abeokuta-Siun-Sagamu Expressway.

The accident involved a Honda Odyssey car with number plate AAA 589 FV, which was conveying crates of eggs.

It was gathered that the deceased was reportedly making a video call to his girlfriend while crossing the road when the accident occurred.

An eyewitness told newsmen that the deceased and his brother boarded a car from the Kuto motor park in Abeokuta, but the vehicle developed a mechanical fault on the road.

The eyewitness said while the other passengers were standing by the roadside waiting for the driver to repair the vehicle, the deceased reportedly concentrated on the video call.

The deceased’s brother, Azeez, said they were both traveling to their mother’s residence in the Ajah area of Lagos State.

Azeez confirmed that his brother had been making a video call to his girlfriend since they took off from Kuto in Abeokuta.

He added that they left their apartment at Ijoga in Abeokuta very early in the morning to embark on the journey.

Azeez maintained that the driver of the car, who hit Olajide, was on a normal speed.

The driver, whose car hit the deceased, Bolaji Balogun, said Olajide was the one who bumped into his vehicle.

Balogun, an employee of an agro firm, said he was going to the Obasanjo Farm to purchase crates of eggs for his company.

The driver stated that the deceased had already got to the front of his car before he could apply the brake.

Confirming the crash, the Public Relations Officer of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps, Babatunde Akinbiyi, said there were two male occupants in the vehicle that killed Olajide.

Akinbiyi said eyewitnesses narrated that a pedestrian was on a call while crossing the road and was knocked down by a vehicle heading for Abeokuta.

He stated, “There is a road diversion along the Abeokuta-Siun-Sagamu interchange due to the ongoing reconstruction; the deceased probably assumed it would be better and safer for him to cross to the other side, where road reconstruction is ongoing.

“The man, while crossing back to the other side of the road, was making a video call and was oblivious to the fact that a vehicle was coming from the Sagamu end to Abeokuta.

“The vehicle, a Honda Odyssey, hit him and he died on the spot.

“His corpse has been deposited in the morgue of the General Hospital, Ijaiye, Abeokuta, while the driver of the Honda Odyssey and the vehicle are now at the state Motor Traffic Division, Ibara, Abeokuta.”

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FG fires back at opposers of Abacha’s loot return

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Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, has flayed those who he claims wanted to frustrate the repatriation of $311million looted by late Head of State, Sani Abacha.

In a statement on Wednesday, Malami told such persons to “bury their heads in shame”.

The federal government on Monday received the funds from the United States and the Bailiwick of Jersey.

The litigation process for the recovery of the loot, which is part of the $5billion allegedly stolen by Abacha, commenced in 2014.

Malami also fired at those who criticised his use of “Abacha assets” to describe the stolen funds.

“It is palpable that news about the successful return of the looted assets has brought nightmares to naysayers and pessimists who wanted to frustrate the repatriation process through a campaign of calumny.

“They resorted to rhetoric instead of burying their heads in shame,” part of the statement read.

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Evacuated Nigerians arrive Lagos airport- Minister Onyeama

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256 evacuated Nigerians have arrived in Lagos State from the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday.

They arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, via an Emirates Airline about 07.40 pm.

It was gathered that upon their arrival, the evacuees are expected to proceed into 14-day isolation.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, confirmed their arrival In a tweet via his official twitter page.

“The flight conveying 256 Nigerians evacuated from Dubai has landed Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos,” he said.

The returnees had been scheduled to arrive at the airport at 3.00 p.m. but one of the passengers went into labour.

According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the plane had to make a U-turn to the United Arab Emirates.

A press statement from NIDCOm read, “A Nigerian lady, Mrs. Kafayat Amusan, one of the stranded Nigerians travelers, returning from Dubai, UAE, has been delivered of a baby boy onboard Emirates airline departing to Lagos.”

The Chairman of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, also confirmed the evacuees’ arrival in Lagos.

She also congratulated Amusan for another addition in her family and prayed she return safely to the country.

“Welcome home! They will be proceeding to a location for compulsory isolation. All 256 tested negative for COVID-19 before boarding from Dubai,” she added.

Other Nigerians are expected to be evacuated within the next few days.

According to Onyeama, over 4,000 Nigerians are waiting to be evacuated across the world back home.

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Coronavirus: Give life insurance to workers – Advocacy Group

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The Delta State Civil Society/Media practitioners, has called on government at all levels to provide life insurance Scheme to health workers treating Coronavirus patients.

This is contained in a statement signed by the leadership of the group and made available to newsmen.

Revealing the dangers involved in handling COVID-19 pandemic , the group noted that risk could be limited when health workers are assured of their lives and their families in case of hazards.

It called on Delta State Government to step up more medical facilities in preparedness for any upsurge.

“Life Insurance Scheme should be provided for all Covid 19 medical personnel and the State Government should immediately order full scale investigation for the complains of harassment and intimation of medical personnel by security agents during the just concluded four weeks lockdown in the state.

“Medical personnel should be enlightened regularly on best approach of handling Covid 19 cases and protective medical kits should be provided for all Covid 19 health Centres across the state, approved protocols by the Nigeria Control For Disease Centre, NCDC for handling of Covid 19 cases in Isolation, Holding and Treatment Centres should be strictly practiced and monitored “.

The group also stated that Molecular Testing Mobile Facility at Asaba is inadequate urging that a testing center should be set up in Warri Centre.

The group reiterated that there should be restrictions on Inter-state borders adding that the fight against coronavirus pandemic may be difficult to win as borders are still passable.

Reacting to the observation of the lockdown order and social distancing, the group frowned at the manner in which citizens across the state violated guidelines spelt out by the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in containing the spread of the disease.

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Tension as Petrol tanker crashes on Niger Bridge

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An articulated vehicle, loaded with petrol, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), heading to Anambra from Delta, on Wednesday crashed and spilled its contents on the Niger Bridge.

An eyewitness told newsmen in Onitsha, that the accident occurred about 8.30 a.m., when the propeller of the vehicle with registration number NKR41XA, allegedly pulled out from the engine on the bridge.

The source said the development resulted in the loss of control of the vehicle by the driver, and it subsequently hit the bridge to avoid collision with other vehicles.

He was lucky because the tanker was hanging on the protective side rail, which prevented it from tumbling. Otherwise, it would have been a different case now,” the source said.

Confirming the accident, the Spokesman of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Anambra State, Mr. Pascal Anigbo, however, said no death or injury was reported from the scene.

“About 8.30 a.m. on May 6, 2020, a Mack Truck (Tanker), with the registration number NKR41XA laden with fuel, crashed at the border between Delta and Anambra.

“The two occupants of the vehicle did not sustain any injury.
“The Acting Unit Commander, FRSC Onitsha Unit Command, Mr. Isaac Komolafe, called the Fire Service, which responded immediately to prevent any fire incident.

“Meanwhile, the FRSC officials have cordoned off the area, and are managing traffic,” Anigbo said.

He advised motorists to heed the call of the State Sector Commander, Mr. Andrew Kumapayi, that all vehicles must be in good working condition before embarking on any trip.

“Checking and servicing vehicles regularly will help us to avoid unnecessary and preventable road traffic mishaps,” Anigbo stated.

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It is wrong to play politics with coronavirus – Former Minister warns

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Former Minister of Transportation, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, has pleaded with Nigerians to close ranks to tame the novel coronavirus, saying “it is wrong to play politics with the disease’’.

Babatope, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, made the appeal in a chat with newsmen in Lagos on Wednesday.

He described the disease as a common enemy that all Nigerians, irrespective of social, ethnic, or religious backgrounds must join forces to fight.

Babatope advised against politicizing the pandemic, saying it would be irresponsible to make the disease a subject of unnecessary politics.

“I call on Nigerians across different ethnic, social, and religious backgrounds to unite against COVID-19 and join efforts to defeat the pandemic.

“COVID-19 is a common enemy of all, so we should forget our differences and battle this problem together.

“This is not the time to play PDP, APC, or APGA. This is an emergency situation because people are dying. We must not play silly and irresponsible politics with the pandemic.

“We must unite to save lives. After we have defeated the disease, we can go back to full politics again.”

Babatope lamented the increasing loss of lives to the pandemic, urging the government at all levels and various stakeholders to do more to stop the virus.

He also advised citizens to adhere to measures prescribed by the government and experts to stay safe and curb the spread of the disease.

The PDP chieftain expressed worry over the economic impact of the disease, particularly in relation to job losses, pleading with the government to evolve strategies to stop the trend.

The former minister said also that the plan by the Federal Government to merge government ministries and agencies as recommended by the Oronsaye Report was a step in the right direction.

He, however, advised the government to implement the report in such a way that it would not lead to job losses.

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What will happen if America reopen for business – Trump reveals

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US President, Donald Trump, has finally admitted that more Americans would die if the country is reopened for business purposes.

Trump has also agreed that those likely to be affected are people who would fail to adhere to the mask-wearing directives.

It was gathered that the US President unveiled plans to reopen the country’s economy, stating that the country had passed the peak of the Coronavirus crisis despite the rise in the country’s death toll.

However, Trump during a press briefing maintained that the country would eventually have to be reopened though some people might be badly affected.

According to him, “it’s possible there will be some deaths.

“Because you won’t be locked into an apartment or a house or whatever it is forever.

“Yes, some people will be affected badly.

“But we have to get our country open.”

Recall that the US on Sunday recorded a total of 25,502 new coronavirus cases with 1,313 deaths.

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Buhari may approve herbs to fight Coronavirus – Minister

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Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, yesterday told the House of Representatives that President Muhammadu Buhari’s government was open to the possibility of using local herbs to fight COVID-19 pandemic, but insisted that the Nigeria Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development must first certify any such remedy.

Ehanire, who disclosed when the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 briefed members of the House of Representatives, also said it was wrong for hospitals to turn back patients as a result of fear of the virus.

He said the government was not ruling out the possibility of using local herbs for the treatment of the disease, adding that what the government was saying was that those who claimed to have found cure should subject it to test by the Nigeria Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development.

He said local herbs could be categorised into drugs that could cure the virus or those that could reduce the symptoms, and noted that the body must be able to build the required antibodies to neutralise the virus.

Ehanire said: “Before now, it was said that Chloroquine can destroy the virus but tests are still going on in that regard.

‘’We have to test the efficacy of local drugs to see if it can kill the virus and also to find out that if in the profess of killing the virus, it can affect the body. So, the Institute will carry out the required test on the local drugs.”

He warned that doing so may result in another round of national health emergency.

The Minister also said many people infested with the virus might not display any symptom and innocently be infesting others with it, noting this explained the need for self-isolation and staying at home.

He said those without symptom werecapable of transferring the virus to others with less immunity and that this was dangerous.

According to him, the solution is to keep everybody in isolation.

While describing the situation in Kano as sad, the minister said the Federal Government was currently participating in various research to find a solution to the pandemic.

He, however, dismissed claims that the mysterious deaths in Kano was caused by COVID-19, adding that the PTF was still waiting for the result of tests carried out in the state and was, therefore, not in a position to attribute the cause of death in the state to the pandemic.

He said the statement attributed to the PTF team leader in Kano was completely false, adding that the PTF would be able to make a comprehensive statement on the Kano situation once the test results were out.

He also dismissed fears that relaxing the lockdown might lead to increase cases of the pandemic as experienced in other country, stressing that the only way to have reduced figure of COVID-19 was for people to strictly observe all measures put in place.

He said the PTF was in talks with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and some state governments on the possibility of producing protective gear locally, adding that as a result of global demand, protective equipment were currently scarce in the global market.

The Minister lamented that some Nigerians were running away from isolation centres, while others have refused to report themselves for isolation.

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Covid-19-: FCT records 10 new cases

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration, on Wednesday, announced the confirmation of 10 new COVID-19 cases in Abuja.

As at 11:40 pm 5th May, 2020, there are 307 confirmed cases of COVID19 in Nigeria’s capital.

The FCTA in a tweet confirmed that 40 have been discharged and 3 deaths recorded.

“Ten new cases in the FCT.

“Summary of COVID19FCT as at 11:40pm, May 5th, 2020.

“Total number of confirmed cases: 307. Total number of active cases: 264;

” Total discharged: 40. Deaths recorded: 3;

“Residents are urged to take preventive measures seriously. #StaySafe,” it tweeted.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, on Tuesday, said Nigeria has started using Remdesivir to treat COVID-19 patients.

Remdesivir is an antiretroviral drug in managing COVID-19 patients.

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Kano govt. appoints new Emir of Rano

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Kano State Government has appointed Alhaji Muhammad Kabir Inuwa as the New Emir of the Rano Emirate.

This comes days after the passing of the former Emir, Tafida Abubakar-Ila.

Abubakar-Ila died at a hospital in Kano on Saturday, almost one year after the state government created four new Emirate Councils and made him a first-class emir in Rano.

A member of the House of Representatives and Turakin Rano, Alhassan Rurum, confirmed the death of the emir.

The lawmakers said he died at a hospital after a brief illness.

He is survived by 17 children and two wives.

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Covid-19: How FG failed Nigerians – Dino Melaye

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A former Senator representing Kogi-West senatorial zone, Senator Dino Melaye, has blamed himself and all Nigerian leaders, both past and present, as Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread across the country.

According to Dino, everyone who held and is holding any political office in Nigeria, whether elective or appointed, including himself, has failed the good people of Nigeria in the fight against COVID-19.

The 46-year-old politician asserted that Nigeria sold crude oil for 64 years, but its leaders could not feed Nigerians for just two weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown.

Dino, in a tweet on his official Twitter page on Tuesday, wrote: “Everyone who held and is holding any political office in Nigeria whether elective or appointed including me have failed.

“We sold crude oil for 64 years, but we couldn’t feed our citizens for just two weeks of lockdown!! Well, the god of the poor will judge us all. It’s time to reboot.”

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari had last month ordered a two-week lockdown of Abuja, Lagos, and the Ogun States, respectively, in a move to curtail the spread of Coronavirus to other states.

The lockdown was needed following the rise in cases of patients with Coronavirus in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Nigeria has recorded 2,802 COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths as of Monday night, according to the NCDC.

The lockdown order of the Nigerian government has since been relaxed.

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Facemasks: Delta threatens to isolate defaulters

The Delta Government has announced that anyone seen in public without face mask would be quarantined in any of the State isolation centres.

Mr Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Information in the state, disclosed this on Monday in a statement made available to newsmen, in Asaba.

The commissioner reiterated that the measure was part of the resolutions reached at a meeting of the Technical Committee for the Prevention of Covid-19 in Delta State.

Aniagwu, said “the compulsory use of face mask by individuals appearing in public has commenced across the state, adding that persons seen in public without the mask would be taken straight to the isolation centre “because it will mean that you have the virus and want to infect others’’.

“Anybody seen in a tricycle, `Okada’ or taxi without face mask will lead to the impounding of the tricyle, okada or taxi, and any business centre that attends to a customer who is not putting on face mask risks being closed permanently.

“The Technical Committee for the Prevention of Covid-19 in Delta met this afternoon and the meeting was presided by our Governor, and at the meeting, it was resolved that all health workers involved in the management of Covid-19 will receive their allowances before the end of the week.

“Also, other support staff involved in the management of Covid-19 in the health sector will also be insured,” Aniagwu said.

He therefore reinstated that the duration of the curfew in the state remained between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. reaffirming that no vehicle would be allowed into the State during the period, irrespective of the consignment being conveyed.

“We have created more mobile courts for the issue of adjudication for those persons who will not obey the law, because as a government, we are committed to applying preventive approach in tackling Covid-19.

“As a government, we have the responsibility to protect our people and the use of face mask which must be worn properly to cover the mouth and nose must be implemented, and we must also know that there is no alternative to social distancing, regular washing of hands with soap and avoid touching of eyes, mouth and ears.

“We should adopt the mentality that every other person is a potential risk; assume that the other person is a carrier for you not to get close, “

Concluding, the information boss urged residents to heed government’s regulations on the management of the pandemic.

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Why Ogboru cannot dump Delta APC – APC Leader

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The Delta state chapter of the All Progressive Congress, APC has discredited rumors making rounds that the gubernatorial candidate of the last state governorship election, Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru is hoping to dump APC to Labour Party, LP.

Publicity Secretary of the APC, Delta State Chapter, Mr. Felix Ogbotor Okpako, disclosed this in a press statement he signed and made available to newsmen.

Okpako said:
“This purported planned defection from APC, is The machinations ofmischief makers who are bent on dragging Chief Ogboru’s name to the mud”

“the attention of All rogressives Congress, Delta State has been drawn to a publication on local newspaper/ online media alleging that Chief Great Ogboru, the 2019 gubernatorial candidate and leader of the party in a cooked up sponsored rumour purporting his derumorn to a floundering failing Labour Party, LP

“Ordinarily, APC/Chief Ogboru would not have bothered to respond to this reckless mundane rumour cooked by the basrumor minds but for his teaming supporters, members of All Progressives Congress (APC) and the good people of Delta State, who this rumour is targeted at.
rumorit be established that Chief Ogboru is firmly of the APC, and no plan to leave the party to any other party. Chief Ogboru cannot leave the APC, a party he has joined in building, in both state and national, to the very top of political and government efficiency.

“The fact is not lost to Chief Ogboru, that this latest defection story is the handiwork of propagandists and the ‘Never do well’ it is sad that while they shousaidbe focussed on the task of joining hands with Chief Ogboru working towards the success and progress of the party, they have instead formed an army of criminal and serial fraudsters with the goal of devaluing our dear party, attacking characters they finds superior to themsefind spurning a good chance of improving APC in Delta State.

“Chief Ogboru is the pot which prepared and cookethat in Delta State. It is so sad to hear so a nasty toru from the pit of hell coming from people who are supposed to be members of the APC.

“Chief Ogboru reminisced on the pivotal role he played as opposition right from than e onset since year 2000 where he solelthe y floated a group called South-South Rainbow Coalition (SSRC) Since the advent of that pressure group that grow from just pressure growsp to a political party “Alliance for Democracy “AD which metamorphosed to the Democratic People Party, DPP where the party produced ten House of Assembly Members and a Senator in 2011 general election.

“Thereafter from DPP to Labour Party, LP that produced the current 6Deputy Senate President Sen. Omo Agege and two house of Assembly memberhouses2015 and finally joined the All Progressive Congress APC where he won the party ticket to contest the governorship position. Chief Great Ogboru has been in opposition and never compromised his political will against the will of his followers, he listens to his followers and believes in the liberation of the state from the People Democratic Party, PDP.

“Chief Ogboru who is APC Bride in Delta State today remains the only opposition who has never pitch tent with PDP in his quest to govern the state, he’s very humane and generous to his followers”. He added.

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Covid-19: FCT confirms new cases as toll rises to 2802

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration has confirmed nineteen new cases of coronavirus.

The confirmation was made by FCTA minister, Mallam Musa Muhammad Bello in a tweet via its Twitter account on Tuesday.

The tweet read “Nineteen (19) New Cases in the FCT.

“Summary of COVID-19 in FCT at 11:45pm, May 4th, 2020.

“Total number of confirmed cases: 297.

“Total number of active cases: 254.

Total discharged: 40.

“Deaths recorded: 3.

”Residents are urged to continue to stay home and stay safe.”

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, on Monday confirmed 245 new cases of coronavirus disease in the country.

Nigeria now has 2,802 confirmed cases of COVID-19; 417 patients out of these have been discharged, while 93 deaths have been recorded.

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Lockdown ease: State frowns at violation of order, issues new warning

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The Enugu State Government has expressed dismay over what it described as “total disregard and breach of the undertaking made by the Ogbete Main Market Traders Association and the Pharmaceuticals Dealers Association” for the partial and guided reopening of the market.

As a fallout of the recent meeting the Enugu State Government held with market leaders and security agencies, it was unanimously agreed that the Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, will be partially reopened on May 4, 2020, in the overall interest of the public.

This was after leaders of the two market associations undertook that they will strictly abide by the agreed conditions and protocol issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) “which includes the observance of social/physical distancing, high level of personal hygiene and the compulsory use of face masks”.

But the conditions were violated on Monday, the first day of the partial reopening of the market.

Reacting to the development, the State government in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, also expressed deep concern “about the implications of this breach to the overall health and safety of the citizens of Enugu in this critical period of the COVID-19 Pandemic”.

The government directed the leadership of the Ogbete Main Market Traders Association and the Pharmaceutical Dealers Association, to strictly abide by the conditions for the partial and guided reopening of the market.

The statement warned that “the state government will act swiftly to protect the health and safety of the people of Enugu in the event of any further breach of the conditions for the partial and guided reopening of the Market”.

Full text of the statement:

“BREACH OF CONDITIONS FOR THE PARTIAL AND GUIDED RE-OPENING OF THE OGBETE MAIN MARKET

“1. Recall that on the 1st of May 2020, the Enugu State Government after a meeting with Ogbete Main Market leaders and Security agencies approved a partial and guided opening of Ogbete Main Market in the overall interest of the people of Enugu.

” 2. The resolution to re-open the market was made upon the plea and undertaking by the leaders of Ogbete Main Market Traders Association and Ogbete Pharmaceutical Dealers Association to strictly abide by the protocol issued by the Nigerian Centre of Disease Control which includes the observance of social/physical distancing, high level of personal hygiene and the compulsory use of face masks.

“3. Unfortunately, the events of today at Ogbete main market were a total disregard and breach of the undertaking made by the Ogbete Main Market Traders Association and the Pharmaceuticals Dealers Association.

” 4. The State Government is seriously concerned about the implications of this breach to the overall health and safety of the citizens of Enugu in this critical period of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

” 5. Therefore, the Ogbete Main Market Trader Association and the Pharmaceutical Dealers Association are hereby directed to strictly abide by the conditions for the partial and guided opening of the market.

” 6. The State Government will act swiftly to protect the health and safety of the people of Enugu in the event of any further breach of the conditions for the partial and guided opening of the Market, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh MNIM, FIDRPN, ACArb., Hon. Commissioner for Information, Enugu State”

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Covid-19: Prepare for fresh total lockdown – PTF on Covid-19

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The Federal Government, on Monday, condemned the nationwide non-compliance with the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19’s guidelines for the gradual reopening of the economy.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, who stated this during the task force press briefing in Abuja, warned that President, Muhammadu Buhari could restore the lockdown if the guidelines were not observed and there was a surge in coronavirus cases.

The President had, on March 30, imposed a two-week lockdown on the Federal Capital Territory, Lagos and Ogun states, but at the expiration of the first lockdown on April 13, he extended it by another 14 days.

In his broadcast to the nation on April 27, Buhari said phased and a gradual easing of the lockdown would begin on May 4 (yesterday). He also imposed a dusk to dawn curfew on the nation.

Besides banning interstate movements, the President imposed a total lockdown on Kano State, which had witnessed a spike in COVID-19 cases.

Guidelines on the gradual reopening of the economy issued by the PTF a few days after the presidential address mandate anyone in public spaces to use non-medical face masks.

They also prohibit interstate travels, apart from for essential services. The guidelines ban gathering of more than 20 people outside of a workplace.

Commercial vehicles are only allowed to operate outside the curfew hours and should practice social distancing in the number of their passengers.

But newsmen who monitored activities in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun states on Monday observed that people did not observe the PTF guidelines, including social distancing.

According to reports from goldnenationblog.com reporters, banks limited the number of people that entered their premises, but customers ignored social distancing as they crowded at bank gates.

Pedestrians and motorists from Ogun State crossed over to Lagos in violation of the ban on interstate movements.

The NCDC boss, at the PTF’s press briefing on Monday, reviewed compliance with the guidelines across the country and concluded that it was not satisfactory.

He said the President could restore the lockdown if the task force guidelines were not observed.

Ihekweazu stated, “Today (Monday), some of the measures are being eased. Initial reports are not too pleasing across the country. Now that we have seen the sunlight again, the challenge for us as a society is, how do we organise ourselves to mitigate these risks and limit transmissions from each other?

“Though we might have a few extra infections today and tomorrow, what we don’t want is an explosion of new infections? If we do have that explosion, there will be almost no choice left for the leadership of the country but to ask all of us to go back to our homes.”

Ihekweazu noted that banks were among business groups that were allowed to open on Monday.

He, however, lamented that many banks limited the number of their branches that opened, adding that there would be a spike in infections due to the way people mingled.

The NCDC boss said, “When we say take responsibility this time, yes, we are addressing individuals, but we really need to address corporate Nigeria. There is the benefit of the doubt, but when you limit the number of branches opened, everyone goes to the one branch that is opened and that becomes counterproductive.

“Today, we might forgive a little bit because it was the first day. We will have infections because of what happened today, no doubt about that. Everybody here (on the PTF) knew today would be a problem because, for the first time, people were let out of their homes.

“We can produce all the guidelines in the world. We can preach and do press conferences, but how can we learn from the mistakes of today, tomorrow, and the day after, so that, by Friday, hopefully, we have normalized some of these things?”

He stated that organisations must support the implementation of the preventive measures, help manage the risk, and focus on a risk-based approach.

Ihekweazu, while fielding questions from journalists, noted that the decision to open markets and close places of worship was because “food is an existential issue.”

He added, “We are not even saying we are happy with the markets across the country. But we are really still appealing to everyone in those markets to help us make it (curb in transmission) work.

“We know that many of our markets were not built for an era of COVID-19. We’re sure about that. Our markets are historically very congested places with many ports of entry, very difficult to control access; in fact, a perfect place for transmission.

“So, by no means are we saying the marketplaces are the examples of perfect locations for managing transmission. We have to allow markets to continue because people have to eat.”

Speaking on the efforts of the PTF’s in Kano State, Ihekweazu said experts deployed by the Federal Government were working to guide the ministry of health in the state.

According to him, the NCDC team and the Kano State officials are working to improve the laboratories in the state.

He said, “The speed of testing (in Kano) is a little bit slower than you would expect. But that is the price we have to pay in order to get this up and running. I’m confident that we will leave that lab better.”

The NCDC boss also said the task force supported the delivery of a new lab funded by the Aliko Dangote Foundation, delivered by a Nigerian company, 54 Gene.

The PTF Chairman and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, in his remarks, said there had been “very noticeable” relocation of almajiris from one state to another.

Mustapha said, “With the ban on interstate movement, the continuation of this exercise will not be in alignment with the guidelines issued. The PTF shall engage with state governments on how to achieve their objectives.”

The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, in his address, urged all health care facilities not to reject persons seeking medical help, especially in emergencies.

He said it was unethical not to attend to persons in distress.

“I also urge citizens to go to hospitals when not feeling well and to cooperate by giving accurate information especially with regard to travel history,” he said.

Ehanire also noted that the country had informed the World Health Organisation that it would take part in trials of medicines to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to him, efforts are ongoing to also conduct research in Nigeria.

He said, “Other drugs can be added based on emerging evidence. We shall ensure the maintenance of ethical standards and the safety of our people.”

The National Coordinator of the PTF, Dr. Sani Aliyu, in his remarks, decried non-compliance with the task force protocols, saying the easing of the lockdown was in, no way, a license to relax self-protection against the infection.

He restated the PTF guidelines, saying, “No interstate travel is allowed except for transportation of essential commodities and services. No passenger flights. Churches, mosques, and schools remain closed.

“Clubs, bars, parks, sporting and gaming centres will also remain closed. It is absolutely necessary to continue to maintain those measures that will continue to protect us.

“We must wear our masks to protect ourselves and one another at all times. We must keep washing our hands. We must maintain the safe physical distance of two meters and comply with the eases lockdown measures.”

The WHO Country Representative, Fiona Braka, while fielding questions, stated that research was going on globally for a COVID-19 vaccine.

According to Braka, no fewer than 89 products are undergoing development.

He stated, “Research is going on globally to study the genetics of the virus. This helps us to develop a vaccine. Thanks to the rapid sharing of genetic data from countries, we are able to advance the production of vaccines.

“We do acknowledge the contributions of countries in sharing their genetic sequencing data, including Nigeria. So, the first vaccine trial started as early as 60 days just after the genetic sequencing information of the virus was shared by China.

“We have about 89 products that are currently under vaccine development. The numbers keep getting updated because there is an accelerated process going on globally to try and find a vaccine.”

Meanwhile, on Monday, Nigerians, who trooped to banks, bus stops, and other public places disregarded measures introduced by the Federal Government.

Newsmen who monitored activities in Lagos and Ogun states, as well as the Federal Capital, observed that motorists failed to observe social distancing.

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Coronavirus: How 70 Soldiers, others died unnoticed

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humananann rights monitoring group, Nigeria Mourns, has disclosed that over 353 persons died in the country in the month 2020.

According to the group, while the attention of the entire nation was shifted to the global COVID-19 pandemic which led to the death of many people much more people died from Boko Haram/banditry attacks, kidnapping and other forms of violent mass killings across the country.

The group also alleged that extrajudicial killings were carried out by security personnel.

Nigeria Mourns, in the report obtained by newsmen on Monday, highlighted incidents that occurred in the month.

“The numbers in the month of March continue to highlight the deliberate targeting of security officers by insurgents. For instance, at least 83 persons were killed in 7 insurgent attacks in the North-East.

“Of the stated number, at least 50 were soldiers who had been killed in an ambush by suspected Boko Haram gunmen near Goneri, a village in Yobe State. ISWAP insurgents also killed 5 police officers in Dapchi, Yobe State.”

It said in the same month, members of a joint security patrol team were attacked by armed men around Galkogo Forest, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State which led to the death of at least 29 security persons.

In a similar manner, the group noted that at least, 70 soldiers were killed when rocket-propelled grenades were fired on their convoy, as they traveled near Gorge village in Borno State.

“In this single month, a total of 161 security persons were killed,” the group said.

On deaths from Banditry/Pillage attacks, Mourn Nigeria reports that at least, 51 people were killed and millions of Naira worth of property destroyed in coordinated pillage of five villages – Hashimawa, Marina, Kerala, Unguwan Musa, and Zariyawa, in Kaduna State.

In total, the group recorded the death of 219 people in March in at least, 27 incidents of bandit attacks/pillage.

Furthermore, it said that attacks and abductions on highways in spite of several highway security checkpoints spread across the country also took many lives of Nigerians.

According to Nigeria Mourns, there were 37 incidents recorded in March with four persons killed.

It also claimed that in the month, Nigeria witnessed extrajudicial killings by security personnel, adding that this has remained, “a recurring theme in our reports.”

It said seven Nigerian lives were lost to extrajudicial killings in March and “2 of the incidents were attributed to ‘stray bullets,’” the group said in their monthly email update.

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Manchester United recognizes pogba’s replacement

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The Executive Vice-Chairman of Manchester United FC, Ed Woodward, has reportedly identified Paul Pogba’s replacement at the club.

The Red Devils are still willing to sell Pogba this summer transfer window.

Pogba has not played since he sustained a foot injury on Boxing Day.

The 27-year-old has made only eight appearances this season and has been linked with a summer exit from Old Trafford.

His current deal at Man United will expire at the end of next season.

According to Sport, Woodward, who recently decided against triggering a 12-month option in Pogba’s contract, is ready to sign a new midfielder in the case United receives an acceptable offer for the France World Cup winner.

The Spanish newspaper reports that Ajax star, Donny van de Beek, has emerged as the ideal replacement for Pogba in the eyes of Woodward.

Van de Beek, 23, scored ten goals and provided eleven assists in 37 appearances in all competitions for Ajax before the Dutch Eredivisie league was canceled due to Coronavirus pandemic.

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Covid-19: FG plans to repatriate Nigerians in Diaspora

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The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has said that the planned evacuation of Nigerians residing abroad who have signified interest to be repatriated home due to the coronavirus pandemic, will begin this week.

Dabiri-Erewa disclosed this in a tweet via her Twitter handle on Monday.

She said ‘’Planned evacuation of Nigerians begins this week.

UAE. The UK. The USA etc. All applicants should please check with the various missions for updates and protocols to abide by.

“May the Lord heal the world.”

It will be recalled that the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) had initiated it’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) assistant and emergency call lines for efficient communication with citizens abroad.

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Covid-19: NCDC confirms new cases, total hits 2558

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The Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, on Sunday confirmed 170 new cases of Coronavirus in the country.

NCDC made the confirmation in a tweet via its Twitter handle, stating that Nigeria now has a total number of 2558 confirmed cases.

The tweet read “170 new cases of #COVID19;

39-Lagos
29-Kano
24-Ogun
18-Bauchi
15-Kaduna
12-FCT
12-Sokoto
8-Katsina
7-Borno
3-Nasarawa
2-Adamawa
1-Oyo

“2558 cases of COVID19 confirmed in Nigeria, 400 patients have been discharged, with 87 deaths recorded.”

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Lockdown: Sanwo-Olu issues serious warning to workers

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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has warned that the gradual easing of the lockdown commencing in the State on Monday was not a license for all to flood the streets.

He said this on Sunday while giving an update on the management of COVID-19 in Lagos.

“We are not going from zero to a hundred. I would caution that we still remain at home if we truly are able to continue to work remotely and away from the office. We should only be out unless it is absolutely necessary to be out,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He confirmed that the gradual and controlled easing of the lockdown will last for six weeks, in three phases of two weeks each.

Sanwo-Olu said that the goal was to enable the State to achieve a balance between the protection of lives and the sustenance of livelihoods.

The Governor said that following each phase, the Federal and State Governments would review the situation and further adjust the response.

He restated that starting Monday, for the next two weeks, there would be a curfew across the state from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

According to him, all movement in and out of Lagos is prohibited, except for people carrying out essential services or transporting essential products such as agro-products, petroleum products, relief items, construction materials, and registered courier services.

He added that all public servants in the entire Lagos State Public Service were to remain at home on Monday, May 4, 2020.

Sanwo-Olu said that from Tuesday, May 5, 2020, only critical staff on Grade Levels 15 and above, and who had also been specifically adjudged as critical staff by their Accounting Officers would be expected to go to work.

“Frontline workers across all levels are, however, expected to continue working. In the same vein, all staff of the local government and local council development area offices in the state is expected to remain at home at this time, unless directed by their LGA or LCDA chairmen.

“All open markets and stores will be allowed to operate on alternate days between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Markets and stores selling food items will open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, while markets and stores selling all other items, excluding food, will open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

“Private sector companies and businesses will be permitted to operate within a limited framework. What this means is that any offices and businesses that choose to open are allowed to open only between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily, and must limit the number of staff on the business premises to no more than 60 percent of full capacity at any point in time,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu encouraged companies to operate flexible systems such as combining a work-from-home policy with shifts for staff who had to be in the office.

He urged banks to offer a full complement of services to the public, manufacturing, and construction companies to operate between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m, while such companies that had to operate outside these hours must obtain a waiver from the Lagos State Government.

According to him, eateries and restaurants will be allowed to open between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m, but only for take-out and delivery services. No in-dining services will be permitted.

“All places of worship, formal or informal, is to remain closed from any form of assemblage or congregational services, until further notice. All schools, at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, remain physically closed. Private school proprietors and parents/guardians are encouraged to have a meaningful dialogue regarding the delivery of education through various online and digital channels.

“All recreational parks, spas, salons, public gyms, swimming pools, and sporting facilities shall continue to remain closed until further notice. Hotels are to remain closed until further notice. However, those hotels being used by the state government to accommodate frontline medical personnel, as well as those hotels designated and being used as quarantine and isolation centers are wholly exempted from this directive,” he stated.

Sanwo-Olu said that commercial/commuter operations within Lagos State shall be between the hours of 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily.

“This applies only to motor vehicles. All commercial motorcycle operations in Lagos State are hereby suspended until further notice. Tricycles operating in unrestricted areas must not carry more than two passengers per trip.

“All of the above directives and restrictions I have outlined must be underlined and accompanied by the following mandatory practices of the use of face-masks everywhere in public and strict adherence to personal hygiene practices. Nose and mouth must be covered when sneezing or coughing; hands must be washed or sanitized regularly; and no handshakes or hugs.

”We are encouraging all Lagosians to be on the lookout for those who flout these orders and directives, and to report them to the Hotline, by calling or sending a text message to the following numbers: 09010513197 or 09010513198 or 09010513199,” he added.

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Chinese citizens arrested in Osun community

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The Osun State Joint Task Force has arrested 17 Chinese nationals and 10 locals suspected to be illegal miners in the State.

Abdullahi Binuyo, the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Gboyega Oyetola, disclosed this on Sunday in Osogbo.

According to him, the suspects were arrested following a coordinated sting operation in Ilesa and Ife areas of the State.

He said the miners have been polluting Osun River with poisonous metals aside from the economic leakages, thereby making it unsafe for human consumption and irrigation.

“We intend to prosecute them and also make sure they pay compensation,” Binuyo said.

He noted that as part of the government’s economic reforms, the solid mineral is a major sector the State is exploring, adding that for these reforms to work, it was now imperative to stop illegal mining and step up enforcement activities.

The governor’s aide added that “The result is what we are witnessing today.

“These people neither have genuine mining licenses nor are they registered with the government.

“What they claim to have is Exploration Licences; that does not permit them to mine the way they are doing.

“So, we will prosecute them and make them pay damages.

“Apart from flouting government’s order to stay at home so as to contain the spread of COVID-19, they have created an environmental disaster for us by poisoning our river which is a major public health concern.”

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Coronavirus: when vaccine will be ready – Trump reveals

American President, Donald Trump, has revealed that America will have a coronavirus vaccine by the end of this year.

Trump stated this during a Fox News town hall broadcast from Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC on Sunday.

“We are very confident that we’re going to have a vaccine at the end of the year, by the end of the year,” he said.

Trump also said he would push for the reopening of schools and universities in September.

The US president, however, insisted he would be happy for another country to beat American researchers to the medicine, saying “if it’s another country, I’ll take my hat off.

“I don’t care, I just want to get a vaccine that works.”

Asked about risks during human trials in a research process that is going unusually quickly, Trump said “they’re volunteers. They know what they’re getting into.”

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Lockdown: Nine pastors arrested for disobedience

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Nine pastors have been arrested for holding church services in Bayelsa State despite the lockdown order to Coronavirus pandemic.

Freston Akpor, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information and member of the task force, disclosed this on Sunday while addressing newsmen in the State.

According to him, the Pastors were arrested on Sunday, May 3, by the Bayelsa State Task Force on COVID-19

They included P. B. Barima of the Methodist Church, Obogoro, Timi Aaron of Believers Love World, Akenfa, Adaba Glory of Saint Paul Healing Church, and Chris Ezene of God’s Grace Salvation Ministry, Obogoro.

Others arrested are Plus B. James of Prophetic Grace Love Ministry, Opolo; Alfred Munemune of Halleluyah Deliverance Ministries International; Daniel Owi, Winners Chapel, Obogoro; Sardauna Oguta, All for Christ Zion Church, Akenfa 3; and Tony Justice Samugba, New Covenant Tabernacle Ministry also of Akenfa 3.

The permanent secretary added that the pastors would soon be charged to court.

“These pastors caught flouting lockdown orders are being detained at the police headquarters in the State and would be charged to court for alleged violation of the COVID-19 order,” he added.

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Covid19 lockdown: Minister provides palliative, others to state

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Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, on Sunday donated medical equipment to the Enugu State Government in support of measures to curtail the fight against the coronavirus disease.

The minister also donated palliatives in the form of food items to orphanages, members of All Progressive Congress (APC), and other people of the State.

He said that almost everybody in Nigeria had become vulnerable on account of the ravaging Coronavirus, adding that overcoming the pandemic required the support of every Nigerian.

The medical items included Infrared thermometer, safety goggles, covid-19 test kits, as well as food items to party members and motherless babies’ homes in the State.

Represented by an APC chieftain in the State, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, the Minister stated that from the political, business, religious, and other working-class persons, the ravaging virus had touched one way or the other.

These he stated are in terms of income, investment, and several other things.

He stated, however, that the Federal Government had continued to do all in her ability to combat the pandemic, stressing that the gradual easing of the lockdown was a clear indication that the efforts were yielding positive fruits.

Onyeama, who stated that the distribution of the palliatives was in conjunction with the Kwusike Foundation and Kwusike political family in Enugu State, urged Nigerians to continue to show love and accommodate one another in these trying times.

He said that the foundation would continue to “create smiles on vulnerable people”, adding that there was no better way of combating the virus than abiding by the highest hygiene protocols.

Receiving the items on behalf of the State government, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of health, Dr. Ifeanyi Agujiobi, praised the Minister and assured him of the State government’s support.

He said that the medical items would go a long way in assisting the State to overcome the ravaging virus, pointing out that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi had demonstrated the capacity to deal with the situation.

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Why Obasanjo/Atiku’s tenure is better than Buhari’s – PDP blast APC

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Sunday, substantiated that the All Progressives Congress, APC, lacks the parameter to compare the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and that of President Muhammadu Buhari.

PDP made the statement in response to APC’s claim that ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar admitted Obasanjo administration was short-sighted and failed to diversify Nigeria’s economy.

APC’s spokesperson, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated this in a statement where he applauded Atiku for suggesting how Buhari should improve Nigeria’s economy.

However, PDP denounced the ruling party for its comment, stressing that APC has “reversed all our national gains in a space of five years.”

The former ruling party stated this in a statement titled: “You Lack Parameters to Compare Obasanjo/Atiku Tenure with Buhari’s”

The statement signed by its spokesperson, Kola Ogbondiyan reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a knee-jerk reaction by the dysfunctional APC to the well-received suggestions by former Vice President and PDP’s candidate in the 2019 Presidential election, Atiku, on how to revamp our ailing economy.

“While the PDP had chosen not to allow the fizzling APC to distract us from our focus, particularly in finding solutions for the COVID-19 pandemic, we cannot keep quiet and allow those who had reversed all our national gains in a space of five years, to continue to engage in distortions, outright lies, and appropriation of projects executed by the PDP to continually spit on the memories of Nigerians.

“It is said that a patriotic and non-partisan rescue effort by Atiku was met with insults, animus, and aspersions by an administration under which Nigeria is collapsing economically, just because it lacks the required competence and brilliance for modern governance.

“This is a government under which our nation has become the poverty capital of the world; our foreign debts have quintupled from $7 billion in 2015 to $30 billion today; our once highly rated banking sector is now shedding its workforce.”

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NCDC issues new order on cloth facemasks

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has warned that cloth facemask should only be worn by individuals who are not at a high risk for inconveniences due to COVID-19.

The disease control agency recommended the use of facemasks as convenient substitute to medical facemasks for the current global situation.

The agency stated that the recommendation of the cloth facemasks is an additional layer of physical distancing to help block the spread of respiratory droplets from person to person.

This is in recognition of the fact that COVID-19 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.

A cloth facemask, made out of everyday fabric, can act as a barrier to respiratory droplets but cannot completely protect the individual from COVID-19.

NCDC stressed that it is very important that cloth facemasks are handled and cared for properly to avoid the further spread of infectious agents.

“Make sure the mask has been washed and is unused before first wear. Wash your hands with soap under running water before touching the mask. If water is not available, use a hand sanitiser,” NCDC advised.

“Cover your nose and mouth completely with the mask making sure it fits snuggly with no open gaps. Avoid touching or adjusting the mask while it is on. Wash or sanitise your hands before removing the mask by the straps. Wash the mask immediately with soap or detergent and allow to dry completely in the sun and before re-use, iron the mask,” it said.

The NCDC, however, advised that the facemasks must be worn in combination with other preventive measures, such as avoiding large gatherings, physical distancing by maintaining a distance of 2 metres between yourself and others, regular handwashing with soap under running water, and frequent cleaning of surfaces with soap and water or disinfectants.

The disease control agency further advised that health care workers and those caring for the ill, those experiencing respiratory symptoms like coughing and sneezing, and the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions should wear medical facemasks.

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Breaking: Kano loses another prominent leader

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A prominent and respected indigene of Kano State, Prof. Isa Hashim, is dead.

Until his death, Hashim was a senior council member of the Kano Emirate Council.

Hashim, the Jarman Kano, died on Sunday after a brief illness.

A family member of the deceased, Aliyu Ibrahim, told newsmen that Hashim’s health condition deteriorated in recent days.

Ibrahim confirmed that the remains of Hashim had been buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

He was a senior lecturer with Bayero University Kano (BUK) where he taught for many years before his retirement.

His death came barely 24 hours after the demise of Emir of Rano, Abubakar Tafida.

Kano has lost many prominent indigenes in recent weeks.

The deceased was a professor of Political Science.

The high death rate in the state is under investigation.

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Kidnapped twins of clergyperson released

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The twins of former Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim wing), Taofeek Akewugbagold have been released at about 5.30 am on Sunday.

This is coming after eight days of dwelling in the bush with their abductors.

The twins were picked near the bush at around Mufutau Laninhun College of Education area on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway after the Akewugbagold family had paid ransom running into millions of naira.

From an initial request of 100,000 pounds, the kidnappers and the family had been engaged in negotiations and pleadings over the course of the past days until the kidnappers accepted a reduced sum offered by the Akewugbagold
Attributing to hospital tests, Taofeek Akewugbagold, while speaking with newsmen, affirmed that his children were released unhurt.

Akewugbagold, however, added that they got medical advice to allow the kids to have loads of rest and be well-fed.

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Coronavirus kills pregnant woman, others

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The Management of the Federal Medical Centre(FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun state has commenced severe decontamination of the facility following the death of a pregnant woman.

The expectant mother died due to complications arising from COVID – 19 infection,

The woman was tested for COVID – 19 alongside two others – a male and a female – but she died while awaiting result of the test.

Her test result, which arrived later, reads positive.

One other person tested positive – a male while the third person, a female, tested negative.

It was gathered that the health workers that attended to the two index cases have commenced the standard procedure of isolation while contacts tracing had also commenced.

Reacting, the Hospital’s Head of Clinical Services (HCS), Dr. Fidelis Ojeblenu, confirmed the COVID -19 death recorded at the facility as well as another positive case, saying the male positive index case has been moved to an Isolation Centre located in Ikenne.

Ojeblenu said: “This is to confirm that two patients tested positive for Covid-19 in the hospital. One is a pregnant lady who passed on yesterday. Her result returned positive today.

“The second patient is a young man who has now been transferred to another isolation centre in the state. He is clinically stable. Both patients were managed in the Accident and Emergency Complex.

“They were suspected cases right from onset and hence were isolated from other patients and staff throughout their stay in the unit.

“Also, the staff that attended to them observed the prescribed standard protocols and procedures. The standard practice of contact tracing, decontamination amongst others have commenced. The hospital is generally calm as anti panic measures are in place. You will be updated as necessary.”

It was gathered that pregnant woman who had visited the obstetrics and gynecology unit of the facility, was said to have been moved from one ward to the other before her death.

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Lawmaker dies from Coronavirus

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A member of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Adamu Suleiman Ibrahim, has died of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Suleiman is the first patient to die of COVID-19 complications in the north-central state since Nasarawa reported its index case of the disease.

The state governor, Abdullahi Sule, announced the death of the lawmaker while briefing reporters on Sunday in Lafia, the state capital.

Giving an update on the disease, Governor Sule revealed that Suleiman died before the result of his test came back positive.

He explained that after the COVID-19 status of the lawmaker was discovered, members of his family and those living in the house went into isolation.

The governor added that their samples have also been collected for testing by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

He noted that Suleiman was buried according to Islamic rites without adherence to safety measures, as it was not clear if he died of COVID-19 then.

Governor Sule gave the assurance that those who performed the burial rites of the lawmaker would also be isolated and tested for COVID-19.

According to him, the Nasarawa State House of Assembly complex is to be closed until it is decontaminated.

Until his death, Suleiman was the lawmaker representing Nasarawa Central Constituency at the State House of Assembly.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Don’t resume on Monday – Unilag tells workers

The management of the University of Lagos on Sunday has asked workers not to resume until it put in place a phased timetable for resumption.

This is contained in a statement signed by the institution’s registrar, Mr. Oladejo Azeez, and made available to newsmen.

The registrar noted that only workers on essential duties were expected at work.

The statement reads: “The Management of the University of Lagos at its meeting held on Tuesday, April 28, 2020, reviewed the directive of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, concerning the phased and gradual easing of lockdown measures in the FCT, Ogun and Lagos states scheduled to commence on Monday, May 4, 2020.

“Management resolved that members of staff should not resume on Monday, May 4, 2020, to enable adequate measures to be put in place for a phased resumption.

“Members of Staff are hereby advised to await the Schedule of Resumption of Duty which will be released soonest.

“Meanwhile, Staff on essential duties, such as Works and Physical Planning Unit (Power), Security, as well as Faculty and Hostel Porters should be at their duty posts.”

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Breaking: Emir of Kaura Namoda, Muhammad Asha is dead

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The Emir of Kaura Namoda, in Zamfara State, Ahmad Muhammad Asha also known as Sarkin Kiyawan Kaura Namoda is dead.

Confirming his death, his younger brother, Abdulkarim Ahmad Asha, the Dan Jekan Kaura Namoda , told newsmen that the Emir had battled diabetes and hypertension for a long time.

According to him,
“He spent like four days in his palace responding to treatment when the illnesses struck again.

” Later he was taken to Yariman Bakura Specialists Hospital where he died after three days of admission.”

“He worked as Director of Finance and Treasurer in many local government areas of the state including Kaura Namoda, Gusau and Maru before he was appointed as Emir in 2004

“He is survived by three wives and 11 children among his children is Sanusi Muhsurviveda of the Nigerian Army currently serving in Maiduguri, Borno state.

“Preparation for his funeral rite is underway and he will be buried in his home town of Kaura Namoda according to Islamic rite,” Abdulkarim said.

The traditional ruler died in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 71.

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Covid-19: We have bad isolation centres in Delta – Coalition Group

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The Delta State Coalition of Civil Societies Organization on COVID 19 Situation room, has lamented over poor condition of some isolation centres set up to check the spread of the dreaded coronavirus across the state.

Spokesman to the group Comrade Victor Ojei disclosed this in a statement signed by the group and made available to newsmen.

The coalition group which is saddled with the responsibility of checking and giving daily reports on the management of Coronavirus in the state expressed dissatisfaction over the condition of some isolation centres visited.

The group noted that in the cause of carrying out their duty, they visited Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Warri Central Hospital, Warri, and Ughelli Central Hospital, Ughelli.

Speaking on observations gathered from the visited centres, the statement reads:

“At the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, there was a newly built facility that houses the Asaba Covid 19- Holding Isolation and treatment centres. There was a clearly defined protocol for handling covid 19. The Centres’ facilities and personnel are prepared to contain the pandemic.
Federal Medical centre Asaba, currently has a Molecular Testing Mobile Facility that was purchase by the Delta State Government.

“At Warri Central Hospital, the facility is small and can not handle an upsurge of Covid 19 cases in Warri and Environs. The facility is below standard. There was no clear or established medical protocol in handling covid 19 patients at this centre. There is no holding centre at the facility and the Isolation and Treatment centre are clearly housed in the same facility. Medical Personnel at the Covid 19 centre needs more training specifically on how to handle covid 19 cases.No testing facility at this centre.

“In Ughelli, this centre is not prepared for covid 19 cases. There are no Protective medical kits for medical personnel at the centre, no clearly defined protocol to handle covid 19 cases,
Medical personnel at this centre needs training specifically on how to handle covid 19 cases.
There is no testing facility at this centre.

Based on observations gathered by the group from the visited centres, the following recommendations were given :

” Testing centres should be established immediately at the Warri and Ughelli Isolation centres, this will allow for early detection and quick isolation of cases.

“Medical personnel need to be enlightened regularly on best practice of handling covid 19 cases.

” Protective medical kits need to be provided for Ughelli central hospital and other isolation centres.

“Approved protocols from NCDC for the handling of Covid 19 cases from Holding centre, Isolation and Treatment centre should be strictly enforced in all Delta State Isolation centres.

” Life insurance should be provided for Covid 19 medical personnel and social distancing should be enforced in all medical centres

“The state government should address the complaints of harassment and intimidation on medical personnel by security agencies during the just concluded 4 weeks lockdown.

“There should be a clearly defined government action plan for the covid 19 pandemic and should be available to citizens.

Concluding, the group urged the State government to disclose to her citizens, how much it spent in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

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FG develops guidelines for partial lockdown

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Following the ease of lockdown in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as earlier directed by the president, Muhammadu Buhari in his last address to the nation, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Malam Muhammad Musa Bello has developed strict measures residents of the Territory must adopt as the partial lockdown takes effect Monday.

This is contained in a statement issued Saturday, by the Chief Press secretary of the FCT Minister, Anthony Ogunleye.

The FCT Minister declared that worship centers, schools, recreation centers, and other social gatherings would remain close for now.

He, however, said that residents who intend to go out and transact any business, must wear a face mask and observe the social distance, as recommended by the federal government.

Residents above 65 and others with various ailments that may make them vulnerable, were also urged to remain at home until the spread in the Territory is contained.

The Minister noted that residents of FCT who reside in neighboring states like Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, and Kaduna, will not be allowed entry into Abuja until a ban on interstate movement is lifted.

He also revealed that security agencies have been mandated to through the mobile courts, arrest and prosecute, anyone found contravening the guidelines.

Bello explained that the FCT Administration will vigorously enforce the overnight curfew from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am.

He said in order to prevent possible patients of COVID-19 pandemic from coming into the Territory, the Administration will also enforce very strictly, the ban on interstate travel.

He, therefore, directed workers who reside outside the FCT to remain in their respective States of residence until the ban on interstate travel is lifted.

The statement reads: “Effective Monday, 4th May 2020, all civil servants in the FCT on Grade level 14 and above are to report for work 3 times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between the hours of 8 am and 2 pm.

“All officers on essential duties are to carry on with their assigned responsibilities. All workers are to maintain safe distancing protocols of at least 2 meters and wear face masks at all times.

“Temperature checks and hand sanitizing protocols should be strictly adhered to at all entry points and access to offices tightly controlled.

“Number of visitors and customers are to be limited to enforce social distancing guidelines. All workers who are not resident in the FCT are directed to remain in their respective States of residence until the ban on interstate travel is lifted,” the statement further read.

Bello said “Extant guidelines on market operations for the sale of food items only remain in effect. Markets are to operate for two days in a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm.

Neighborhood selling points will be established in various parts of the city to decongest the major markets. Wearing a face mask is mandatory to gain access to markets in addition to hand washing and sanitizing protocols.

“The above hygiene-related protocols are also applicable to supermarkets and neighborhood markets. Banks are to open between the hours of 8:00 am and 2:00 pm and are to observe temperature checks, hand sanitizing protocols as well as the use of face masks for staff and customers. Banks are to limit access by customers to allow for safe distancing reasons and limit the number of staff working on their premises to between 30% and 50%. Residents are encouraged to patronize online banking services as much as possible.

Extant rules regulating restaurants and eateries remain in effect. Restaurants are not open to the public and are encouraged to adopt home delivery services. Similarly, entries are to practice the take-away system and are to maintain all hand sanitizing, face covering, and safe distancing protocols.

“Pharmacies may remain open overnight and are to observe all other protocols as enunciated above. Companies involved in food processing, drug manufacturing, and construction can commence operation, subject to following the approved health and safety guidelines“Operators of these facilities are mandated to refuse access to anyone not observing the hygiene protocols.”

He added that “the extent directive on places of worship still subsists and they remain closed.“All clubs, bars, gardens, beer parlors, recreational parks, communal sports facilities, movie theatres, etc in the FCT remain closed.

“Prohibition of commercial motorcycles within the FCT remain in force including Kubwa and Dutse Alhaji.

” Tricycles are to limit their activities to areas already designated and are allowed a maximum of 3 persons (driver and two passengers)“Taxis are mandated to carry a maximum of 4 persons at a time (driver and 3 persons). Buses are to reduce occupancy at any time to 50% of installed capacity.

“All bus stops and motor parks are to maintain environmental hygiene and officials of the parks and bus and taxi operators should provide temperature checks and hand sanitizing points at the parks and bus stops. Face covering is also mandatory. They are to operate only between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm daily.”

He said the FCT Administration will enforce very strictly, the ban on interstate travel.

He said vehicles conveying goods such as agro products, petroleum products, medical supplies, relief, and construction materials as well as courier and security services would be allowed entry subject to the permitted designation in the FCT.

“All schools in the FCT remain closed until further notice. Schools are not permitted to commence third term operations in any form until directed otherwise by the relevant authorities.

“Schools are however encouraged to continue with e-learning and virtual teachings.

“Residents are once more reminded that COVID-19 can be fatal and all are hereby advised to take all prescribed measures to avoid contracting it. Persons with underlying medical conditions especially hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and low immunity are advised to remain at home. Equally, Persons 65 years and older are also advised to remain at home.“

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See what President Buhari wrote to Nigerian media

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President Muhammadu Buhari has sent a message to the Nigerian media on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, celebrated every May 3.

Buhari reiterated the commendation he extended to the Nigerian media in his last two broadcasts, applauding the good work they have done, and are still doing in the face of the Coronavirus pandemic.

The President’s message was carried in a statement signed by his Spokesman, Femi Adesina, and made available to newsmen on Saturday.

“We cannot overemphasize the role of the media in keeping people informed and educated on the pernicious virus, which has no friend or foe. It simply seeks to mow down anyone and everyone in its path, and public awareness is very important, lest we become like sitting ducks. The media are doing this quite effectively,” the President said.

He applauded the role the Nigerian media have played thus far and charged them to continue, “till we get to safe harbour, when the world and our country are finally free of this greatest health challenge in recent history.”

Reflecting on the theme of the World Press Freedom Day 2020, ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation,’ President Buhari opined that Nigeria has a very unhealthy dose of disinformation, fake news, hate news, purveyed by people who use media platforms, particularly the digital variant.

According to him, “They don’t mean well for us, and no country can afford to close its eyes to the evil disinformation can cause. In a plural polity like ours, it has the potential to rupture relationships, sow seeds of discord, and set us on the path of destabilization”.

”When fake and hate news are aided unabashedly, it can only signpost doom. I urge the Press to use the occasion of World Press Freedom Day to see how this can be vigorously tackled.”

On the part of the government, the President pledged a recommitment to the ideals of freedom of the press, noting that democracy thrives better in an atmosphere of transparency, as opposed to opacity.

“We appreciate the cooperation we have enjoyed from the media in tackling the Coronavirus, and look forward to the same, post-COVID-19 when all hands must be on deck to repair the damages done to our economic and social lives, “ President Buhari affirmed.

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Breaking: Four dies of Covid-19 in Lagos

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No fewer than four patients have died of coronavirus-related complications in Lagos State.

The state’s Ministry of Health announced this via its Twitter handle on Saturday.

It tweeted, “Unfortunately, four COVID-19 deaths were recorded. This brings the total number of COVID-19 related deaths in Lagos to 25.”

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Breaking: Emir of Rano, Tafida Abubakar is dead

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The Emir of Rano, Dr. Tafida Abubakar Ila II, is dead.

According to reports, the monarch died on Saturday at Nasarawa Specialist Hospital.

He reportedly died at 4:45 pm after a brief illness.

It is, however, uncertain if the emir’s illness is related to COVID-19 or not

Confirming the death, a former speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, said the late emir was admitted at the hospital on Friday.

Alhassan added that the monarch would be buried on Saturday, according to Islamic rites.

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Covid-19: What will happen if Buhari relaxes lockdown on Monday – NMA reveals

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The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has decried the decision taken by the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, relaxing the Coronavirus lockdown in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States.

The medical body described the decision as premature, adding that it can potentially expose more Nigerians to the deadly COVID-19.

The doctors disclosed that Nigeria could experience a surge in the number of Coronavirus cases.

NMA pointed out that at the moment health workers are grappling with numerous challenges such as lack for bed spaces in epicenters of the pandemic, especially Lagos, yet to be ascertained cause(s) of mass deaths in Kano State and delay in the distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE) to public and private hospitals, among others.

President Buhari on Monday announced that by Monday, May 4, the lockdown will be relaxed in Abuja, Lagos, and Ogun.

But the NMA, in a statement in Abuja, signed by its President, Dr. Francis Faduyile, said, “As the incidence of the COVID-19 hits the 2000th mark by this weekend, just seven days after hitting the 1000th mark, it figuratively tilts the epidemiological curve towards an upward spike,” the statement said.

More so, the revelation by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) that the nation lacks bed spaces in Lagos worsens this frightening scenario.

“The confusing situation in Kano is neither unraveled nor resolved. At the same time, some states continue to live in the delusion of zero COVID-19 incidences.

“The easing of the lockdown even in phases is very premature. Nigeria should learn from her neighbour, Ghana where the same action produced a 100 percent increase in infection rate in just a week.”

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Delta to continue Teleclass learning Programme for schools

The Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has disclosed that the free teleclass learning programme on radio and television will continue to run till the resumption of schools in the state.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, in Asaba, Friday.

Chief Ukah noted that the teleclass learning programme is for the benefit of the students.

He said: ” After due consultation with stakeholders, the ministry wishes to encourage interested students to learn on the alternative online and media channels that may be provided by private institutions of learning”

The commissioner also explained that following the completion of the first phase of the programme on Thursday, there will be a repetition of previous topics till May 6, 2020.

He also said at the beginning of the second phase, new topics will be introduced.

Ukah, therefore, warned private school owners in the state to set up plans to start online classes for the 3rd term academic session.

Speaking further, Ukah stated that the academic calendar for the 2nd term academic session has not been concluded, stressing that in the calendar, there is no difference between the public and private schools.

He, therefore, warned that any private school that goes contrary to the approved academic calendar in the state will face severe sanctions from the state government.

Concluding, chief Ukah said, “once schools are reopened for academic activities, the ministry will release a revised academic calendar for the 2019/2020 academic year”.

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Why we sacked 46 workers – Atiku’s Company

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Gotel Communication, the company owned by former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has explained that the sack of some staff of the company was for the purpose of restructuring.

The company allegedly sacked 46 of its staff on Friday, the 2020 May Day celebration.

Recall reports had speculated that job losses would go up this month as the effects of Coronavirus pandemic.

Gotel General Manager, Mohammed El Yakub, in a statement signed, explained that the rationalisation of staff at Gotel, a company under the umbrella of Priam Group, was the culmination of a regid process.

He recalled that the founder, Atiku had announced that many of his business concerns will be aggregated under the parent body.

Yakub noted that Priam Group embarked on a restructuring exercise which led to a merger of many companies under its umbrella.

He said the press statement of December 24, 2019, stressed that owing to the restructuring exercise and merger of companies, some personnel may have to be disengaged.

”It is also not unexpected that a restructuring procedure of this size and nature would come with some likely job rationalization especially since each of these entities has its own finance, admin, marketing, HR and ancillary support operations which would now be consolidated and undertaken at the group level”, Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, had said.

Gotel added that it will be out of context to ascribe any mundane presupposition for being responsible for the decision to lay off some of the workforces.

“Following the unveiling of Priam Group last year, Atiku Abubakar ceased to be involved in the running of the affairs of his companies. The decisions are taken so far, and especially as it relates to the rationalization of staff, is solely a management decision.

“It needs to be restated that we shall, as a responsible organization, discharge every obligation to the laid-off staff and any other staff that may be involved in the rationalization,” the company assured.

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Covid-19: Nigeria records most deaths in a day

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Nigeria on Friday recorded the most Coronavirus deaths in a 24-hour.

According to the data released by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, with 10 victims reported on Friday, the total number of deaths in the country now stands at 68.

Nigeria now has more than 2000 confirmed cases and three hundred and fifty-one (351) persons have been discharged.

NCDC had on Friday said, ”92 cases were recorded in Kano, 36-FCT, 30-Lagos,16-Gombe, 10-Bauchi, 8-Delta,6-Oyo, 5-Zamfara,5-Sokoto, 4-Ondo, 4-Nasarawa, 3-Kwara,3-Edo, 3-Ekiti, 3-Borno,3-Yobe, 2-Adamawa, 1-Niger, 1-Imo, 1-Ebonyi, 1-Rivers, and 1 Enugu State.

“2170 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria

“Discharged: 351, Deaths: 68.”

Meanwhile, as of May 1, 2020, 239,345 persons have died from the disease globally.

There are over 1,073,858 recoveries and 3.3 million confirmed cases.

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Covid-19: NCDC confirms more cases, total hits 2,170

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The Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, on Friday confirmed 238 new cases of Coronavirus in the country.

NCDC made the confirmation in a tweet via its Twitter handle.

This brings the total number of confirmed cases in Nigeria to 2170.

The tweet reads, “238 new cases of COVID-19; 92-Kano, 36-FCT, 30-Lagos,16-Gombe, 10-Bauchi, 8-Delta,6-Oyo, 5-Zamfara,5-Sokoto, 4-Ondo, 4-Nasarawa, 3-Kwara,3-Edo, 3-Ekiti, 3-Borno,3-Yobe, 2-Adamawa, 1-Niger, 1-Imo, 1-Ebonyi, 1-Rivers,1-Enugu.

“2170 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria.

”Discharged: 351; Deaths: 68.”

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Coronavirus: You must wear your face masks or be arrested – Governor Uzodinma warns

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As part of measures to contain the invasion of coronavirus pandemic, Imo state Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has charged security agents in the state to arrest anyone who does not have their face masks on.

The governor gave this instruction on Friday during a live broadcast on COVID-19 pandemic aired simultaneously on various radio and TV stations in the state.

He said it had become necessary that the protective covers are made compulsory for use since medical experts have so far emphasized its importance.

The governor further directed that with effect from Sunday, May 3, 2020, all food markets shall be allowed to open, insisting that the dusk to dawn curfew as earlier imposed by the government continues without obstruction.

He said that social gatherings of more than 50 persons are not allowed in the state.

The shutdown of market places especially at the local levels, according to him, remains and traders are further advised to continue to comply with the directives till the virus is properly put to check.

Meanwhile, Uzodinma thanked the people for their resilience and support since the lockdown, adding that it was not the government’s making to frustrate them but to save them from the deadly scourge of coronavirus.

Concluding, he said, although the state has recorded one case of the virus, the efforts so far made by the government to combat the disease are commendable.

He promised that the government will continue to live on its promises to protect the lives and property of Imo people, asking for their continued support in this trying period.

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See what Sanwo-Olu did to front line health workers

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Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said his administration has doubled the life and health insurance for all front line health workers to cushion the hazard they face during the ongoing battle against coronavirus disease.

Sanwo-Olu revealed this in an occasion held at the government house on Friday to celebrate the 2020 Workers’ Day.

The Governor conveyed happiness towards the front line health and emergency workers, describing them as heroes, for sacrificing their well being and putting in efforts to ensure that the spread of the Coronavirus disease is curbed.

He also explained that his regime will continue to assist families of workers who die in the line of duty, stating that the state has not stopped paying 418 pensioners for their pension bond arrears despite the coronavirus pandemic.

He said: “ I dedicate this year’s commemoration of the Workers’ Day to celebrating the true heroes of this season, which are the health workers on the front line of the battle against Covid-19.

”Since the coronavirus pandemic started to ravage our communities and disrupt our lives, these heroes have not just been going to work daily, they have been going to war daily against this unseen enemy.

“Workers across public and private sectors, who are represented by various Labour Unions, are the engine-rooms of our economy, and the nucleus of wealth generation.

”My administration will always work towards having a good relationship with workers for the progress and prosperity of our State.

“The sudden approval and payment of the new minimum wage is proof that we care about the welfare of our workforce.

”With effect from last January, we have increased the employers’ contribution to employees’ Retirement Savings Account (RSA) from 7.5 percent to 10 percent.

”As part of the ongoing efforts to curtail the spread of COVID-19 in Lagos, we approved a 400 percent increment in the Hazard Allowance of Health Officers in the state for the month of April.

”We have also introduced a COVID-19 allowance for all our front line workers, which is a very generous amount that takes cognizance of the heightened risks of the jobs they have to do.”

”All these are intended to appreciate the dedication of all our Health Officers in the fight against COVID-19,” he added.

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Nigerian legend, Tony Allen is dead

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Celebrated Nigerian drummer, Tony Allen is dead.

The co-founder of Afrobeat died in Paris on Thursday aged 79.

Allen was the drummer and musical director of music band of Fela Kuti and Africa 70.

“Without Tony Allen, there would be no afrobeat”, Fela once said.

His manager, Eric Trosset told NPR radio that he died of heart attack.

Trosse in a Facebook post said: “Your eyes saw what most couldn’t see…as you used to say: ‘There is no end’”.

UK musician, Brian Eno had declared that Allen was “perhaps the greatest drummer who has ever lived”.

Beninois singer, Angelique Kidjo told BBC’s Newsday she was devastated.

“What I want to remember from them is our musical conversation, our laughter, our joy. They are gone, but they are not gone for me,” she said.

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Don’t slash workers’ salaries – Oshiomhole warns Governors

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The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Adams Oshiomhole, has warned State Governors against cutting salaries of workers as a result of COVID-19 pandemic.

According to him, cutting salaries of workers, “Can only bring about a vicious cycle of poverty.”

Oshiomhole advised governors to rather reduce the cost of governance instead of slashing wages or retrenching workers.

The article reads in part, “For instance, cutting wages is most unhelpful in the circumstance. It’s like asking an anemic patient to donate blood to save the lives of other patients in need of blood transfusion.

“A doctor who does that should have his license withdrawn. So, a policy adviser who recommends wage cut is abysmally unconscious of the mood of the present which is that compassion and solidarity.

“State governments should not make workers bear a disproportionate part of the burden. When you cut a workers’ poor wage, you are further limiting his power to be an economic player.

“How can the worker make effective demand for the goods and services produced when you shrink his income?

Recalls that Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai had ordered a 50 percent salary slash for political appointees in the state.

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Buhari has worsened your situation – Secondus tells Nigerian workers

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The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus has sent a message of felicitations to Nigerian workers on International Labour’s Day and noted their age-long sacrifice towards the growth of the nation.

Prince Secondus remarks that even in the current challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigerian health workers and other essential workers have remained in the frontline taking most risks with little or no rewards.

Secondus said in a statement from his media aide, Ike Abonyi that, “it’s unfortunate that the coming of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, has further worsened the plight of workers because of their inept approach to the economic challenges of the country.”

He expressed regrets that the APC administration has grossly damaged the economy with numerous actions of harassment and intimidation that successfully scared away investors and critical players whose contributions would have been very impactful.

“The workers and the poor in our society remain vulnerable victims of this unfortunate misrule, a situation that calls for all hands to be on deck as the nation struggles to scale the hurdle of APC.

He finally urged the workers to remain resolute and prayerful for God to bring light at the end of the APC tunnel. Happy Workers Day to you all.

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Buhari extends NDDC interim management tenure

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President Muhammadu Buhari has extended the tenure of the interim management committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The president had in February expanded the committee and appointed Kemebradikumo Ponder, a professor of medicine at the Niger Delta University, as the commission’s acting managing director.

In a statement on Wednesday, Femi Adesina, presidential spokesperson, said the extension would be from May 1 to December 31, 2020.

“President Muhammadu Buhari has extended the tenure of the Professor Keme Ponder-led Interim Management Committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from May 1 to December 31, 2020,” the statement read.

“The extension is to cover the period of the forensic audit of the NDDC, earlier approved by the Federal Executive Council, under the chairmanship of the President.”

The president also approved that N6.2 billion would be provided by the commission to help in the fight against COVID-19.

“In the same vein, President Buhari equally approved that the NDDC provides intervention support to complement efforts of the Federal and State governments against further spread of COVID-19 in the nine states of the Niger Delta region, in the sum of Six Billion, Two Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N6,250,000,000.00) only.

“The materials and supplies are to be done through the Emergency Procurement method as provided in Sections 42(b) (c) and 43 of the Public Procurement Act, 2007.”

The president in October had first inaugurated a three-man committee to oversee the operations of the NDDC and ordered a forensic audit of its operations from 2001 to 2019.

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Imo: How collapsed eight-storey building got many trapped

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About 40 workers are said to have been trapped in an ongoing construction of an eight-story building that collapsed at Yardua drive in Owerri, Imo, on Thursday.

Newsmen was at the scene of the collapsed building where excavation of those of the trapped workers are still in the process at about 7:01 pm.

At the time of filing this report, about ten were said to have been rescued and seven severely injured and taken to hospital just as they said, for now, two feared death.

Many issues were raised by some of the survivors, which could have led to the building collapse. One said the pillars were very weak, adding that the pillars holding the eight-story building were not also enough to carry the weight of the entire structure.

They also said that a few days ago they noticed cracks in some parts of the building and complained to the engineer who assured them he would do something about it.

However, members of the Red Cross were seen at the scene assisting in the evacuation of both the death, moving some to hospitals for immediate medical attention.

Active individuals moved in as newsmen noticed that some of them are aware of the locations of those trapped as they assisted in the rescue operation.

At the time of filing this report, one of the survivors, who introduced his name as Prosper, said that at the moment they were nine in number that have survived. Five have been taken to the hospital who sustained various degrees of injuries.

According to Prosper, “I was very close to the building when I heard a crack around the pillars and I started running and before you know it it is like a sound of a bomb. The story building fell down.

“We are working in different departments I can’t count the actual number. We are many. We may be up to 40 in number. They have taken five people to the hospital. They were badly injured.”

Another survivor, who goes with the name Ike, “We are up to 20 in number, we have those mixing cement. We have those pouring cement. There are plenty of people. We pray that God will help them come out alive.”

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Obaseki extends curfew, declares escaped covid-19 patient wanted

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The Edo State Government has extended the curfew it imposed on the state for another 14 days in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The curfew will be from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki made this announcement during the COVID-19 response team briefing at the government house in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

“Following a review of the recent developments in the fight against the spread of COVID-19, I have extended the dusk-to-dawn curfew in EdoState for the next 14 days, but with some alterations to the timing.

“The curfew would now be from 8 pm to 6 am daily,” Obaseki posted on his official Twitter handle.

The governor also declared one Amaka Okoro wanted for absconding after testing positive for COVID-19.

He urged anyone with useful information to contact relevant authorities.

“One Mrs. Amaka Okoro, who tested positive for COVIDー19, is wanted for treatment. She is a nursing mother, who has a baby that is already coughing. She lives at #2 Atoe Idubor Str, off 2nd Ugbor, Benin City.

“She has been unreachable since her results returned positive.

“Mrs. Okoro poses a threat to herself, the baby, and the general public. Anyone with useful information on her whereabouts should please contact the relevant health and security agencies,” Obaseki said.

The governor advised residents to go for screening as early detection of COVID-19 improves chances of survival for any positive case.

He also announced a second round of palliatives to mitigate the impact of the new restriction.

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Boko Haram: See what President Buhari told Nigerian military

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President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the Nigerian military to sustain operations against Boko Haram around Lake Chad and North East.

His spokesman, Femi Adesina, in a statement on Thursday, said the president gave the directive after receiving Yobe Governor, Mai Mala Buni at the State House, Abuja.

Buhari hailed the giant strides being recorded by the Armed Forces and urged them not to relent in the discharge of their mandate.

He warned against complacency in the task of ensuring that the nation’s territory is no longer habitable for the terrorists.

The Nigerian leader expressed the belief that “health and well-being of the nation depend largely on its ability to feed itself and agricultural production is key.”

Buhari charged tasked the Yobe governor to continuously mobilise community support for the military operations.

Buni thanked the federal government for the decisive and proactive measures in the renewed onslaught against Boko Haram.

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Fear in Delta Community as policeman kills soldier

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A policeman on Wednesday reportedly shot dead a soldier over disagreements between the sister agencies at a drinking spot in Bomadi Town in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.

Trouble started when Policemen on routine patrol met three soldiers at a drinking parlor, an argument ensued and one of the soldiers slapped one of the policemen and attempted to take his rifles.

Reports say the policeman who had already rocked his gun, unfortunately, pulled the trigger and shot the soldier who died on the spot.

The incident caused serious tension in the area as many customers at the drinking spot scampered for safety.

Commenting on the matter, Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council, Hon. William Angadi on Wednesday appealed to sister security agencies to exercise restraint and allow the government to resolve the matter.

When contacted, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya in a telephone chat with newsmen confirmed the report saying, “We are on that one. We are on it.”

On his part, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz also confirmed the report.

He said the leadership of security agencies has intervened in the matter just as an investigation is ongoing to unravel the true cause of the killing.

Asked, if there will be retaliation by soldiers, he said, ” There will be no need for that both of them are Nigerian Security forces and the government will investigate and carry out a punishment on the guilty party”

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Don’t reduce workers’ salaries, others – NLC warns Fayemi

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As the lockdown caused by the spread of Coronavirus continues to have an adverse effect on the economy, the organized labour in Ekiti State has told Governor Kayode Fayemi not to contemplate any move for salary reduction despite the slump in the revenues of the government.

The labour unions, comprising Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, also requested immediate payment of outstanding salaries by Governor Fayemi, to ease the effect of lockdown on the populace.

The warning is not unconnected with Governor Fayemi’s plans to slash his salary, that of his Deputy, Bisi Egbeyemi, and political appointees in the state by 50 percent.

The labor unions spoke at a press conference jointly addressed by the Chairmen of NLC, Com. Kolapo Olatunde and his counterpart in TUC, Com Sola Adigun in Ado Ekiti ahead of this year’s Workers’ Day

In his address, the NLC boss said the menace of COVID-19 has affected every worker, stressing that now is the appropriate time to assuage the sufferings of workers by paying their salaries promptly as well as palliatives.

“We are still owed three months salary arrears, outstanding leave bonuses, a backlog of promotion arrears, while the minimum wage is yet to be implemented across the board.

“As of today, the local government workers and primary school teachers are owed six months salary arrears while the secondary school teachers and civil servants are owed three months respectively. We have waited for over one year and we have done our best and made the right sacrifices.

“The national president of the NLC gave me a matching order to tell our governor that the salaries of our workers can’t take them home and there shouldn’t be any reason for the government to think of a pay cut in Ekiti”.

Olatunde appreciated the government and health workers in Ekiti for working hard to limit the number of patients of COVID 19 to eight.

“The reduction in the number was because the government woke up early to take precautionary measures”.

The TUC Chairman, Com Adigun, in his contribution said what workers earn in Nigeria was never a living wage, expressing optimism that they will breathe a sigh of relief someday.

“We thank the governor and members of this cabinet for sacrificing part of their living wage to fight the menace of COVID-19. Workers are not collecting a living wage, so we are not expecting any reduction in our salaries”.

Adigun advised the government to deploy more energy to promote the welfare of the people and devise ways to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, Boko Haram insurgents, kidnapping, corruption, and all manners of criminalities.

The TUC boss advised the Ekiti government to encourage farming among civil servants, in the spirit of diversification, to halt sole dependence on federal allocation.

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Lockdown: Allow healthy Nigerians to work and move freely – Governor Ayade warns

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Cross River State Governor Benedict Ayade has called on the Federal Government to allow healthy Nigerians to work and move freely noting that it is unnecessary to imitate Western approach in tackling the spread of COVID-19 while the economy suffers.

The governor said this on Wednesday at the rice seeds and seedlings factory in Calabar, the Cross River State Capital while deploying agricultural equipment to some parts of the state for the commencement of another farming season.

Ayade said Nigeria’s demography is different from Europe’s hence shutting down our economy is uncalled for. He added that the Federal Government should rather lock down sick and vulnerable people only.

This is the opportunity for Africa to play catch-up instead of adopting what they are doing in Europe. It can never be the same in our circumstances. Our demography is not the same.

“We don’t have the same number of aged people that they have, we have young people whose immune system is strong. So, for the virus to takedown somebody in Africa, it has to be really prepared.

“That is why I insist, just wear your nose mask. Loosen up the country. Those who have confirmed cases, those who fall within the suspicious line are the ones to be lockdown for the healthy to work,” Ayade said.

The governor added that the Federal Government should allow airlines to commence operation and enforce the use of facemask for protection.

“Let the airlines start working. Insist that nobody gets into any plane to fly within Nigeria without putting on a nose mask. We don’t need to shut down our economy. Protection is good with the nose mask,” he added.

Ayade stressed that it is counterproductive for a healthy person to be on lockdown.

He urged the Federal Government to rather improve its productivity and allow young and vibrant citizens to go about their businesses freely.

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See what Atiku Abubakar told president Buhari

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Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice President, has urged Nigeria to diversify its economy to pull the nation from the brink.

According to Atiku, Nigeria should embrace agriculture as the primary sector earmarked for development because agriculture is a low hanging fruit and key to ensuring food subsistence.

He also advised the West Africa giant to begin to invest in its resources wisely to maximize dividends, adding that the reliance on crude oil is failing Nigeria.

Atiku said this in a report he titled: ‘How to Pull Nigeria From The Brink,’ and posted on his official Twitter page on Thursday.

He said: “As of today, Nigeria is pricing its very low sulfur sweet crude at $10 per barrel, yet buyers are balking. Our sweet oil is becoming a little bitter.

“The era of oil is gone, and we must face the fact that reliance on crude oil is failing Nigeria and other mono-product economies, crude oil exporters.

“We need to diversify our economy, it’s easier said than done, but that does not mean it is an impossible task.

“In Nigeria, our diversification should embrace agriculture as the primary sector earmarked for development because agriculture is a low hanging fruit, is key to ensuring food subsistence, and with the recent signing of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement (AFCTA), which favors Nigeria’s economy greatly.

“With about 60 percent of its land assessed as arable, I genuinely believe that Nigeria is capable of becoming the food basket of the rest of Africa, and the money should be circulating within Africa, strengthening our currencies, growing our GDPs, and enriching our people.

“Now is the time for Nigeria to make those hard decisions it has postponed for far too long. Otherwise, the alternative is an apocalyptic scenario we would rather not entertain.

“We must, as a nation, begin to invest our resources wisely to maximize dividends.

“We must cut our coat, not according to our size, but according to our cloth.

“Our Presidential Air Fleet of almost ten planes should go. Our large budgets for our legislature must go.

“The planned $100 million renovations of our Parliament must be canceled. We cannot be funding non-necessities with debt and not expect our economy to collapse. Our civil servants must realize that Nigeria cannot sustain its size and profligacy.

“The same cost-saving measures must be adopted by the states and councils governments.”

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Coronavirus: Why Benue has only 1 case – NCDC

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, has commended the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom for his proactive approach in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 in the State.

NCDC said the approach of Ortom and his team had been instrumental to the success so far recorded in the fight against the spread of the virus in the State.

A representative of the agency, Professor Stephen Abba stated this on Wednesday when he presented a report on COVID-19 to Ortom and the State Action Committee at the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi, the State capital.

Abba said the quick response to suspected cases, contact tracing, and massive awareness among other measures employed by the Benue State Government had played a key role in limiting the number to only the index case.

He also made numerous recommendations on ways of sustaining the fight against the pandemic, one of which the Professor said was intensified security at the borders of the State.

Responding, Governor Ortom commended the State Action Committee for a job very well done and announced the approval of an additional N50 million to enable the committee to do more.

The Governor restated the commitment of his administration to the battle against the virus, urging the people to continue to observe preventive measures against the pandemic.

He described unity, love, peace, and sustained prayers as the panacea for overcoming COVID-19 and promised that the report presented by NCDC would be implemented, thanking the organization for its immense support.

On the crisis in some communities of the State, Ortom said it was shameful that at a time when the entire world was united to fight a common enemy COVID-19, some persons were busy sponsoring violence in their areas.

He said security operatives had been directed to arrest and prosecute such individuals.

Also speaking, Chairman of the State Action Committee on COVID-19, Engineer Benson Abounu disclosed that they had received three trucks of rice from the Federal Government for distribution across the three Senatorial Zones of the state.

Engineer Abounu, who is the Deputy Governor of the State, noted that the committee had also procured a truckload of tomato paste and was producing about 150,000 face masks, among other items for the people.

He said with the transfer of the COVID-19 index case in Benue to Abuja, the state had no fresh case of coronavirus.

The Deputy Governor also hinted that plans had been concluded to convey to their various States, the 40 youths who were suspected to have been trafficked to Benue and kept in one apartment on Adikpo Street in Makurdi.

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Covid-19: Trump places different allegation on China

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United States President, Donald Trump has alleged that China will do anything they can to make him lose his re-election bid.

He said this in continuation of his criticism of China amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

Trump disclosed that he believes Beijing wants his likely Democratic Party candidate, Joe Biden to win in November’s election.

Biden has received support from top party stalwarts, including former President Barack Obama, Hilary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, Bernie Sanders, and Michael Bloomberg.

The coronavirus has claimed over 60,000 lives in the U.S. and ravaged the economy, Trump’s main selling point for a re-election campaign.

Trump said Beijing faced a lot of possible consequences from the U.S. for the outbreak.

The American leader insists that China should have informed the world about COVID-19 much sooner.

He told Reuters: “There are many things I can do. We’re looking for what happened. China will do anything they can to have me lose this race.”

Trump also dismissed the polls in favour of Biden’s emergence as U.S. President in November.

“I don’t believe the polls. I believe the people of this country are smart. And I don’t think that they will put a man in who’s incompetent”, the President said.

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Lockdown: See What FG said about the reopening of government offices, others

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The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 has included Federal Government establishments on the list of sectors to open from May 4.

The PTF disclosed that it would engage state governments to ensure they were on the same page with the federal government on the opening of offices.

PTF National Coordinator, Aliyu Sani, stated this during the daily briefing on the COVID-19 pandemic on Wednesday in Abuja.

Aliyu said that the resumption would be based on specific grade levels.

“For government offices, government staff will be allowed to resume from May 4, but it will be based on specific grade levels and specific days so that we can reduce the amount of congestion that we might have in our government offices.

“We will be discussing further with state governments to make sure that we have a common approach to this”, he said.

PTF similarly announced that banks, construction companies, manufacturing, and others could commence operation from May 4.

Banks would operate from 8 am to 2 pm daily and must observe all new restrictions announced by the government.

PTF stated that the temperature test, respiratory hygiene, and restriction of the gathering of 20 person maximum would be introduced.

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Covid-19 palliative: See what Sadiya Farouk told Governors

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Sadiya Umar Farouq, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management has condemned the lack of cooperation by some State governments in the country in getting government palliatives to vulnerable Nigerians.

Speaking during a working visit to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Abuja, she said that the Ministry has a structure that all the stakeholders needed to work with.

According to her, people ask questions about what the Ministry was doing with regard to government interventions, a situation she said gives the Ministry concerns, adding that state governments’ collaboration would ensure transparent discharge of their mandates.

“In tune with what is happening around us which people are very much concerned about an intervention that should get to the citizens of the country, we are here today to exercise one of those mandates of this ministry which is to provide effective coordination of humanitarian intervention both nationally and internationally which NEMA is leading.

“There have been a lot of palliatives that President Buhari has directed the ministry to carry out to the citizens of this country, one of which is food relief to the affected lockdown states by the Federal Government.

“I want to commend NEMA for these efforts despite all the challenges that we are facing especially in terms of logistics and other related issues.

“I want to say that there is a need for collaboration with the states, especially where we are taking these interventions so as to leverage the top-down sector.

“I know that we have a structure on ground, and we need to really strengthen that structure so that we are able to assist the victims and taking this palliative to the targeted beneficiaries, the poor and vulnerable in our society.

“We would like the DG NEMA to tell us about the State level arrangements because we have been receiving questions in this regard on how we are failing in collaboration with the States.

“Are they effective or we have challenges?
”I also want to know the list of inter-state borders and checkpoints. Are we screening at these checkpoints?

“We are supposed to work with states to ensure the operational plans at the state level distribution because it is very key to us because that will allow us to effectively monitor the distributions to the targeted people.”

Reacting, the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Engr. Mustapha Yunusa Maihaja acknowledged that there was a fresh challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that the agency has skillful staff that has the capacity to handle all disaster-related issues.

He said their warehouses were inadequate to cope with relief materials meant for distribution, disclosing that they were currently using the Federal Ministry of Agriculture’s stores.

“The moment the Rapid Response Team was established, we collaborated with them and also together with some other locations from the State Governments where we kept these items.”

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Covid-19 palliative: Coalition group, others threaten to investigate Delta Government

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Members of a non governmental organization known as Civil Society Organisation (CSO) and Media Practitioners in Delta State have set-up a situation room to checkmate and get feedback on government policy and implementation of the Coronavirus pandemic in the state.

This was disclosed in a press briefing on Monday in Warri, Delta State.

In the meeting, the group sought for an interface with relevant government and non-governmental agencies involved in the fight against Covid -19

The group also advised the state government to set up Testing and more isolation Centres across the state in order to combat the deadly coronavirus.

However, Commending the State Government for her effort in the distribution of palliative to Deltans, the group asked for sustainable development for the vulnerable, calling for erring personnel in the pandemic policy implementation to be sanctioned.

They also said there should be sanitization of all public places to be gems free.

Speaking further, the group ordered a thorough investigation into the killing of Joseph Peussu, alleged shooting, and arrest of peaceful protesters in Sapele and other assaults during the lock-down so far.

They also advocated for dignity and respect for human rights amidst the pandemic charging all to strictly adhere to government directives by staying safe.

In the briefing, the group observed that the situation room shall monitor policies and responses to the Covid- 19 pandemic, health, and human rights, compliance with government policies and pronouncements, government expenditure of the Covid 19 funds and other appropriation for the purpose of transparency.

The statement was jointly signed by Comrade Bonny Akaeze; co-Chairman and Founder, nonviolent Social Change, Comrade Akpobome Rufus Ibebe; co-Chairman, DG Youth Emancipation Movement of Africa, Comrade Joshua Ghereje; joint secretary, Social Action, Comrade Agbubi Emmanuel; joint secretary, Civil Rights Council and Comrade Victor Ochie; spoke person, Coordinator, Young Nigeria Rights Organization.

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Breaking: Jigawa former Speaker, Adamu Ahmed is dead

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Former speaker to the Jigawa State house of assembly, Alhaji Adamu Ahmed is dead.

It was gathered that the former speaker died in a hospital after suffering from yet to be disclosed illness.

Adamu served as Speaker of Jigawa State House of Assembly for eight years during the tenure of Dr. Sule Lamido (2007-2015)

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See what President Trump told North Korean Leader, Kim jong UN

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US President Donald Trump on Monday appeared to confirm that North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un is alive, saying he wished him well after days of speculation over the dictator’s whereabouts.

Asked if he had new information about Kim’s health, Trump said “yes, I do have a very good idea, but I can’t talk about it now. I just wish him well.”

“I hope he’s fine,” Trump continued, speaking at a White House press conference. “I do know how he’s doing, relatively speaking.”

Trump said the media would “probably be hearing in the not-too-distant future” about Kim.

Conjecture has grown since Kim’s conspicuous no-show at April 15 celebrations for the birthday of his grandfather Kim Il Sung, the North’s founder — the most important day in the country’s political calendar.

Kim has not made a public appearance since presiding over a Workers’ Party politburo meeting on April 11, and the following day state media reported on him inspecting fighter jets at an air defense unit.

According to media reports that he was ill and speculation that he might even have died, a top security adviser to South Korean President Moon Jae-in said Sunday that Kim was in fact “alive and well.”

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Covid-19: Nigeria’s confirmed cases strikes 1,337

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has announced 64 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, taking the total to 1,337,

Of the new cases, 34 are in Lagos; 15-FCT, 11-Borno, 2-Taraba, and 2-Gombe, NCDC said in a tweet.

According to NCDC as at 11:20 pm 27th April, there were 1,337 confirmed cases of COVID19 reported in Nigeria, 255 people had recovered and were discharged, which the death toll stood at 40.

“One case previously reported as a Lagos State case, is now reported as an FCT case,” it said.

“The total number of confirmed cases in Lagos is now at 764 and 157 in FCT,” the centre noted.

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NCDC discloses states without Coronavirus

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The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Chikwe Ihekweazu, has said the agency is not satisfied with the number of samples brought in for testing from states that have not recorded Covid-19 cases.

Cross River, Kogi, Nasarawa and Yobe states do not have confirmed cases of the disease in Nigeria as of Monday.

Speaking at the media briefing of the presidential task force on COVID-19 in Abuja, Ihekweazu said there was a lot of capacity to test, but there are not enough samples.

“Only four states at the moment haven’t reported a case in Nigeria. They are Cross River, Kogi, Nasarawa and Yobe.

“We have looked at the number of samples collected from these states and we are not satisfied. So, we need to test more. But to test more, we need to collect more and the collection part is the responsibility of the states and their public health teams.

“You can’t hide this. Eventually, it will emerge. There is absolutely no doubt that there are people theeat have pneumonia, acute respiratory infections in your States,” he said.

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Covid-19: President Buhari Extends Lockdown

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President Muhammadu Buhari announced yesterday that the lockdown in Abuja, the nation’s capital, as well as Lagos and Ogun States will remain in force till Monday, May 4.

The additional seven days will make it the fifth week since the president declared a two-week lockdown in the three areas on March 29 to curb the spread of coronavirus.

On April 13, Buhari had extended the lockdown by another two weeks following increasing cases of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The president last night also gave the federal government’s nod to Kano State government’s proclamation of lockdown, saying the state should be totally shut down for a period of two weeks.

In a nationwide broadcast to Nigerians aired on national television and radio stations at 8:00 pm, Buhari noted however that the lockdown measures in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun States will be eased gradually in phases effective from May 4.

From next week Monday, according to the president, the lockdown in these three volatile areas will be relaxed tonight curfews, beginning from8:00 am to 6:00 am daily.

He said, “Based on the above and in line with the recommendations of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the various Federal Government committees that have reviewed socio-economic matters and the Nigeria Governors Forum, I have approved a phased and gradual easing of lockdown measures in FCT, Lagos and the Ogun States effective from Monday, 4th May, 2020.

“However, this will be followed strictly with aggressive reinforcement of testing and contact tracing measures while allowing the restoration of some economic and business activities in certain sectors.

Outlining the new nationwide measures to be introduced, the president said, “There will be an overnight curfew from 8 pm to 6 am adding that this means all movements will be prohibited during this period except for essential services.

“There will be a ban on non-essential inter-state passenger travel until further notice. Partial and controlled interstate movement of goods and services will be allowed for the movement of goods and services from producers to consumers.

“We will strictly ensure the mandatory use of face masks or coverings in public in addition to maintaining physical distancing and personal hygiene”.

Buhari further noted that the restrictions on social and religious gatherings shall remain in place, adding that “State Governments, corporate organizations, and philanthropists are encouraged to support the production of cloth masks for citizens”.

He maintained that the lockdown in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun States shall remain in place until the new measures come into effect next week Monday.

He continued: “The Presidential Task Force shall provide sector-specific details to allow for preparations by Governments, businesses, and institutions.

“In respect to the above guidelines, State Governors may choose to adapt and expand based on their unique circumstances provided they maintain alignment with the guidelines issued above”.

Noting that the revised guidelines will not apply to Kano State, the president said, “With regards to Kano, I have directed the enforcement of a total lockdown for a period of two weeks effective immediately.

He noted the steps taken were necessary as they have contributed to slowing down the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

The president regretted that the lockdown was coming at a very heavy economic cost, saying many of the citizens have lost their means of livelihood.

Admitting that many businesses had been shut down, Buhari said no country could afford the full impact of a sustained lockdown while awaiting the development of vaccines.

Buhari also warned that culprits of human rights violations among security operatives would be brought to book.

President Buhari warned that as the country focuses on protecting lives and properties, he will not tolerate any human rights abuse by security agencies.

The few reported incidences are regrettable, and I want to assure you that the culprits will be brought to justice”.

He, however, urged all Nigerians to continue to cooperate and show understanding whenever they encounter security agents.

“Furthermore, for their protection, I have instructed that the personnel of all the security agencies provided with the necessary personal protective equipment against infection”, he added.

The president commended frontline workers across the country who he said, on a daily basis, risk everything to ensure the fight against COVID-19 is won.

“For those who got infected in the line of duty, rest assured that the Government will do all it takes to support you and your families during this exceedingly difficult period. I will also take this opportunity to assure you all that your safety, well-being, and welfare remain paramount to our Government,” he stated.

Immediately after the broadcast, President Buhari last night signed the Proclamation Order on the General Management of Covid-19 in Lagos, Ogun, Kano, the Federal Capital Territory,y and other states in Nigeria as contained in his national broadcast, April 27, 2020.

A statement by presidential spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina noted that “this was in the exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 3 of the Quarantine Act, CAP Q2 Laws of the Federation 2004 and all powers enabling him in that behalf”.

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Covid-19: See what Lagos government, others ordered

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Lagos state government, Benue State, and a Kano Business mogul, Alhaji Isiaku Rabiu, have each placed orders for nose masks from the Cross River factory.

It was gathered that the order of the noise masks is to battle the ravaging global pandemic, COVID-9.

Lagos State placed an order for one million nose masks, while Rabiu ordered for 100,000 pieces of the masks to assist the Kano state government to contain the pandemic.

Speaking at the garment factory in Calabar, Cross River state governor, Sir Ben Ayade made the disclosure on Monday, stating that production of masks has been ramped up at the factory following the orders.

Other organizations that have made orders for masks from the factory include construction giants, Julius Berger and DHL, and others.

“We have Julius Berger, a construction company that has made a massive order. Shoprite also has made a massive order. We have also received an order of one million masks from the Lagos State government.


“Alhaji Isaiaku Rabiu made an order for a hundred thousand masks for Kano state,” the governor disclosed.

Ayade also explained that he was at the factory to carry out an inspection of quality control and ensure that the masks were made according to specifications.

“As you can see, we are here at the garment factory to carry out an inspection on quality control of preparation of the masks and ensuring that by the time they finish the ironing process, it will go through a sterilization chamber which is an innovation”, Ayade said

He announced that plans were underway to design military-style masks for the military and paramilitary organizations.

According to him, the special masks will come with fitted special protection and air filtration systems.

Ayade: “As you are all aware, Cross River State started the concept of cloth mask. So we want to use this opportunity to say we want to move into the new brand of a military mask which will have special protection and special air filtration as well as special breathing support systems to enable the military use it on a daily basis even in the face of biological warfare ”

Ayade said he has taken time to wear the mask in different combinations of clothes to create awareness and to show that no matter how you dress, there is a mask that can fit with your dressing.

“I have taken time to wear the mask in different combinations of clothes not just for the purpose of wearing the mask but to create awareness on the use of the masks.

And also as a means of marketing that even if you are wearing traditional attire, there are masks that can go with your dressing”

“If you intend to go with jeans and atop it can still fit so whether you are young or middle-aged or old, there is always a way and style that the mask will fit. And until Coronavirus is over, wearing masks has to become our way of life.”

He expressed optimism that with the support of the federal government, Cross River State should be in a position to start exporting masks to other African countries in the near future.

“I believe that with the support of the federal government, we should be in a position to start exporting masks to other African countries very soon .with our installed capacity at three shifts we can do close to a million masks a day and am happy the federal government is adopting wearing of nose masks as a national policy”, Ayade quipped.

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[Video] Release my children please – Mother of abducted twins

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Mrs. Akewugbagold, the mother of the twins abducted in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, has appealed for their release.

In an emotion-laden video posted on Twitter by a rights activist, Esther Ijewere, she urged perpetrators of the act to free the kids

“I beg you in God’s name, you people that kidnapped my kids, help me return them. I was barren for many years. I’m begging for the sake of God, I’m pleading,” the sad mother begged.

Ijewere tweeted: “Mother of the kidnapped twins in tears as she appeals to the abductors to please return her kids. This woman waited 12 years before she conceived. Call this number 08035066122 if you can render any assistance on how they can be located.”

Their father is a popular Islamic cleric, Sheikh Taofeeq Akewugbagold.

The twins, a male, and a female were kidnapped at gunpoint Saturday night

Akewugbagold made the announcement in a Facebook post on Sunday.

He disclosed that they were seized “at gunpoint at my Ojoo residence Ibadan, around 8 pm Saturday, 10 minutes after I left my home recording lecture in a studio.

“Everybody should pls for Allah’s sake, assist me in prayer and begging the abductors to be merciful to me, especially their mother who was barren for 12 years. I’m begging”, the cleric wrote.

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Covid-19: We will withdraw our services – NMA threatens

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The Kaduna State chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has threatened to withdraw its services over an alleged assault of a medical doctor in Kaduna state.

Chairman of the association, Dr. Stephen Kache, in a press statement, demanded appropriate disciplinary effort against a police inspector who allegedly assaulted a medical doctor in Kaduna on April 23.

NMA threatened to withdraw its services if the police failed to take disciplinary action against the inspector immediately.

According to them, the medical doctor in question was on legitimate duty with his valid identification when the incident happened.

The statement added that the affected doctor sustained bruises during an altercation with the police officer.

“This, unfortunately, is not the first incident; two weeks ago the ambulance of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, conveying doctors and other health workers was assaulted by men of the Nigerian police force,” the NMA added.

‘We are aware that the said Inspector has been arrested and is currently in custody.

“We call on the state government as well as the Police hierarchy to look into the issue with the view of meting out appropriate sanctions to this erring officer to serve as a deterrent to others who will, unfortunately, hope to follow in his footsteps.”

The association demanded that the police inspector in question undergo a psychiatric evaluation to ascertain if he is fit enough to serve in the Nigerian police force.

“Failure to appropriately sanction the officer will leave us with no choice but to recall our members from offering any kind of services within the state.

They regretted the attitude of some security personnel towards healthcare workers on the frontline fighting to contain the COVID -19 pandemic.

“Since the onset of this pandemic over 40 healthcare professionals within the country have been infected by the dreaded virus in the line of duty,” the statement added.

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Why Lockdown will continue till further notice – Ortom

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The Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, on Monday extended the partial lockdown in the state till further notice.

Ortom also disclosed that public gatherings in the state including churches and mosques will remain suspended till further notice, in a bid to further tackle the spread of COVID-19.

Speaking during a press briefing at the state’s Government House, the governor said the restriction of movement from 7 pm to 6 am daily will also continue.

The governor also declared that all land borders in the state remained closed.

According to Ortom: “I have been meeting with the State Action Committee on COVID-19 for periodic assessment of the situation, and it is the considered decision of the Benue State Government that the partial lockdown in the state against COVID-19 should continue.

“This, therefore, implies that: “The partial lockdown in the state will continue.

All entry points into Benue State will remain closed till further notice.

“All public gatherings in the state will also remain suspended until further notice. These include marriage ceremonies, community festivals, funerals, and religious meetings (Churches and Mosques). There should be no church service or mosque prayers. Let me remind traditional, religious, youth, and political leaders to ensure strict compliance.

“The COVID-19 Action Committees operating in the 23 Local Government Areas of the state will continue to work in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

“Primary Health Care Centres and hospitals in all the local government areas will serve as quarantine and limited treatment centers in the event of the outbreak of the virus.

“The restriction of movement from 7 pm to 6 am daily, except those on essential services will also continue”.

Ortom also stated that markets across the state remained closed until further notice.

” All markets in Benue State remain closed with immediate effect. Only shops and commodity stores shall be open. Let me warn traders who have decided to operate by the roadsides following the closure of markets thereby violating the directive on social distancing. I have directed security operatives to stop the existence of illegal roadside trading.

“Tricycles knew as ‘Keke NAPEP’ should not convey more than two persons, while township and minibusses should not convey more than seven passengers at a time.

“Commercial motorcycles also known as ‘Okada’ must convey one person at a time and wear a face mask.

“All commercial vehicles, tricycles, motorcycles must have hand sanitizers for the use of passengers.

“All night clubs must remain closed in line with the dusk the dawn curfew.

“Bars and restaurants will continue to render take-away services only and must provide hand sanitizers and soap with water for customers.

“The general public should maintain the habit of regular handwashing with soap and running water as well as the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, in the absence of water.

“Let me once more appreciate the people of Benue State for the support given to this Government to combat COVID-19.

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Covid-19: See what patients did after examined positive

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Two patients, a man, and a woman are on the run after testing positive for COVID-19 at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital in Borno State.

The Borno commissioner of health, Salisu Kwayabura, disclosed this information to journalists at the daily briefing of the Committee on COVID-19.

He said, “two patients, Abbas Kaka Hassan, a 24-year-old male and Hauwa Mohammed, 42-year-old female, are on the run after testing positive to COVID-19 at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital in the metropolis.”

He said the male is from Layin tanki suburbs in the Gwange II ward, while the woman lives in the Shuwari ward.

The commissioner said the male patient (Abbas) was in initial telephone contact with the response team after his sample was collected, but eventually switched off his phone when he learned he tested positive.

“When samples of patients with contacts to index cases are collected, they are normally advised to go on self-isolation,” the health commissioner said.

“They give their contacts so they can be reached when the results are out. This is the standard medical procedure. You can’t detain someone with suspected contact. We do not have the lawful powers to do that.

“Other patients were also allowed to leave but they came into isolation centres and we have 19 of them in two isolation centres. However, the young man in question chose to go into hiding”.

Mr. Kwayabura called on anyone who tests positive for the disease not to regard it as a death sentence as the majority of those who test positive have recovered from it.

The NCDC had, last night, announced that Borno’s confirmed cases of COVID-19 had shot up to 30 cases after 18 more persons tested positive.

Mr. Kwayabura explained that “16 of Borno’s COVID-19 cases emanated from community transmission, while 14 others were connected with the index ‘and another case.’”

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Why Buhari is shy and dislikes public show – Rotimi Ameachi

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The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has described President Muhammadu Buhari as a “shy person” who dislikes public shows.

Amaechi made the remark while disclosing why Buhari has not commissioned the Itakpe-Warri rail line after it was completed.

He spoke during an interview with Dele Momodu, Publisher of Ovation Magazine.

According to Amaechi: “Now the project is ready for Commissioning but because of Coronavirus everything is on hold.

“And you know the President is a shy person. He doesn’t like public shows.

What he said is that let’s just focus on our achievements and by the time we leave office people will see what we have done but some of us are contending that we commission some of our projects. We have decided to name it after former President Goodluck Jonathan.”

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Covid-19: Where is President Buhari, others? – Omokri

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Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on New Media, has questioned the whereabouts of President Muhammadu Buhari and his Vice, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

The majority of Nigerians believe that their leaders have been missing in action while other countries’ Presidents go about giving daily updates to their citizens on the novel Coronavirus pandemic.

73-year-old Donald Trump, his vice, Mike Pence, (60), and top members of the US government have headed the country’s task force on COVID-19, providing daily information to citizens and making scientific suggestions to their scientists.

Here in Africa, Presidents of South Africa, Ghana, and other countries have been seen actively addressing and consoling their people in this traumatic period.

Reno Omokri wonders where Nigerian leaders have been, describing them as the crisis “we face.”

Ever since the dreaded disease made its way to Nigeria through an Italian on February 27, 2020, President Buhari has only address Nigerians twice in nationwide broadcasts many believed were recorded and aired via Nigeria Television Authority, NTA.

“Where is General @MBuhari and Pastor @ProfOsinbajo?,” the former presidential aide asked in a tweet on Saturday night.

“The more you look for them, the less you see of them.

“It is as if Nigeria has a government in absentia. Leaders should be more visible in a crisis. In our own case, our leaders are the crisis we face!”

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Lockdown: Churches without ICT will lose out – Cleric warns

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The Founder of Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Bishop Wale Oke, has urged churches in Nigeria to embrace Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on the back of the current global pandemic (COVID-19) ravaging the world.

Oke gave the warning in a live online chat with Pastor Poju Oyemade, senior pastor of Covenant Christian Centre at the recently held WAFBEC 2020.

According to him, churches should begin to adjust and apply technology in all activities.

“Any church that does not want to connect to technology will no longer be relevant. Yes, we will still be having our large gatherings. But the reality is that God wants the church to be in every home,” he said.

Oke commended the likes of Oyemade who have been using technology to drive church activities, stating that it is now time for all to embrace technology.

The cleric stated that the church has moved to the digital age and warned that any church that does not adjust to the current realities will lose out.

“We are in the end time. God is wrapping up all the phases of ministry. The healing era, evangelism era, teaching era, and the prosperity era are being wrapped up for this end time to achieve a greater harvest. The church is now in the digital age and the only way to remain relevant is to make use of technology,” said Oke.

On his burden for upcoming ministers, Oke said, “My prayer for them is that they will learn to be patient and build capacity in order to carry God’s glory. God takes time to prepare his servants. I pray that God will enlarge their capacity to carry his glory,” he stated.

He added that his greatest prayer also for young ministers is that they will not fall into the temptation of gold, girls, and glory. “If a servant of God can withstand the temptation of gold which is money, glory which is pride and girls which is women or the opposite sex, such servant of God is on his way to greatness. I pray for younger ministers that they will be greater than those of us that are old in the field.”

He, however, counseled pastors against trying to play God in their ministry by staging miracles because God is the one that does miracles and he does it at his own time. “What we need is to stay in the presence of God and get direction from him. If God gives us a word and we act on it; it will produce miracles,” he said.

He recalled, in the chat how God cured a man of cancer during his ministration at one of the WAFBEC meetings organized by Pastor Oyemade. Oke said God blessed a woman with the fruit of the womb, though she had been clinically declared unfit to have a child in one of his meetings in Abuja, stating that miracles are real.

When asked why he started a church since he was known as an itinerant minister, he said: “I never wanted to start a church. I did not like the idea. I fought the idea for years. I just wanted to serve the Lord and preach the gospel. Bishop Oyedepo counseled me to start one. I declined. Pastor Adeboye also persuaded me to start, I declined. The late Archbishop Idahosa also came to me in Ibadan and tried to persuade me to start a church, I declined. But the Lord spoke to me one day while on a prayer walk that it was time for me to start a church. That was how I obeyed the Lord.”

Oke, however, warned young pastors against establishing a church for economic reasons, stating that such a motive will always boomerang. “It is good to stay in the calling of God. We must not run ahead of God. I will also advise that no matter the ministry we run, we need to stay in a local church and be under a leader we can take counsel from. Pastors of local churches should also support itinerant ministers morally and financially so that they can stay in their calling,” Oke said.

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Palliative: Oyo State was not honest to FG over rice – Customs

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command, has declared that the Oyo State government is not being fair to the Customs service over the rejection of 1,800 bags of rice it gave to the state.

Public Relations Officer of the command, Abdullah Lagos, made this declaration while speaking with newsmen, Saturday evening.

Lagos, while reacting to the rejection of 1,800 bags of rice by the Oyo State government, said that something fishy was going on.

The federal government of Nigeria had ordered Oyo/Osun Customs Area Command to donate some bags of rice to four states in the South West region.

The command on Monday donated 1,800 bags of rice to the Oyo state government, 1,800 bags to Osun, 1,800 bags to Ekiti, and 800 bags to Ondo State.

But, the Oyo State government on Friday rejected the rice, claiming that they were not suitable for human consumption.

However, Customs, while reacting, said that the Oyo State government was not fair to the command.

Lagos who spoke on behalf of the command, said, “We gave1,800 to Oyo, 1,800 to Osun, 800 to Ondo and 1,800 to Ekiti. We did not choose them. Why is it that it is only Oyo State that is rejecting the rice.

“Oyo State came, and they inspected the rice on Monday. They came to collect the rice on Tuesday; they didn’t complain. We had to wait for them. Other states came before Oyo, and we told them that since Oyo is our host, they had to get their own first. We waited for them and they chose. Nobody chose for them. How can you say that all the 1,800 bags of rice are not good?

“It is not only Oyo State that collected the rice. Why is it that they are the only state saying that the rice is not good?

“How can we give the public expired rice? We have a special place that we keep rice. And since Tuesday, they did not complain and on Friday, you did not call us and you called a press conference. That is too bad.

“We suspect foul play. They came to inspect the rice on Monday. They came to collect it on Tuesday. We did not choose for them, they chose.

“Journalists were there. They are not being fair to us.”

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Police arrests man for slaughtering 70-year-old father

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The Anambra State Police Command said it arrested one Chigorom Ezeofor, 37, for killing his 70-year-old father, Godwin Ezeofor with an axe.

The state Police Spokesman, Haruna Mohammed, in a statement in Awka on Saturday, said that investigation to unravel the circumstances that led to the killing has begun.

Mohammed said that the incident occurred at about 8:00 a.m. at Umuezegoro Kindred, Unuchiana village, Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area on Saturday.

According to him, the matter was reported at the Aguata Police Station by one Timothy Ezeofor, the elder brother of the deceased.

He said “Today, April 25 at about 9:45 a.m., one Timothy Ezeofor of Umuezegoro Kindred Unuchiana Village reported at Aguata Police Station that at about 8:am of the same day, his elder brother namely Godwin Ezeofor, 70 years of the same address was allegedly murdered by his son, one Chigorom Ezeofor aged 37 years of the same address using an axe.

“The complainant added that the suspect has been mentally ill for the past eight years.

”Following the report, Police operatives attached to Aguata Division led by the Divisional Police Officer, Ayeni Oluwadare, mobilised to the scene where they took photographs of the victim.

”The deceased was later certified dead by a medical doctor in an undisclosed hospital while the corpse was deposited at the hospital mortuary for autopsy.”

According to him, the axe was recovered as exhibit while the suspect, who “looked insane” was arrested and taken to the station for the discreet investigation to ascertain circumstances surrounding the incident.

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Covid-19: What Aisha Buhari told Nigerians

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First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has told Nigerians that she was worried about the spread of coronavirus in Nigeria.

She begged Nigerians to take social distancing more seriously as cases have now passed the 1,000 marks.

This was contained in a statement on Saturday by her Special Assistant on Media, Aliyu Abdullahi.

It noted that Aisha has swung into action by activating her ‘Get Involved Initiative’ to support the fight.

The president’s wife has sent items to Bauchi, the Gombe States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“She expressed appreciation to those who donated, saying the nation will benefit from their donations.

“Mrs. Buhari called on Nigerians to stay safe and practice social distancing in order to defeat the Covid-19 Pandemic. She called on the benefiting states to put the items to good use,” the statement disclosed.

Aisha was represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Administration and Women Affairs, Dr. Hajo Sani, during the distribution ceremony in Abuja.

The items distributed include cartons of assorted hand sanitizers, pharmaceutical drugs, personal protection equipment including disposable gowns and overalls.

Others were disposable and N95 surgical masks, gloves, protective goggles, regular and ICU beds with beddings, and automatic dispensers.

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IGP dismisses Policemen for fighting

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Two policemen who were caught on camera fighting on a street in Edo State have been dismissed.

The policemen are Corporal Ozimende Aidonojie (F/NO.491112) and Constable Salubi Stephen (F/NO.516384).

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu, had ordered the arrest of the two policemen after the video was shared on Twitter Thursday by the handle @parodyspokesman.

A tweet by the verified Twitter handle of the Nigeria Police, @PoliceNG on Thursday, responding to the video, had revealed that the policemen were going to face disciplinary action.

The tweet, which endorsed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, DCP Frank Mba, had read, “The Force wishes to apprise the general public that this show of shame is certainly not in our character and we will not condone such indiscipline.

“In the best tradition of transparency and accountability, the outcome of the trial will be made public. This, we believe, will also serve as a deterrent to other police officers.”

In another tweet by the Police on Friday evening tagged “Feedback on investigations into cases of unprofessional conduct by police officers” it was revealed the policemen had been dismissed.

“‪CPL Ozimende Aidonojie and PC Salubi Stephen captured in a viral video fighting shamelessly in Edo State, have been tried and found guilty. They have been dismissed from the Force,” the tweet read.

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See what Governors told Buhari to announce tomorrow

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State Governors have formally requested that President Muhammadu Buhari in the next Presidential Pronouncement on COVID-19 announces an Inter-State lockdown but allows for free movement within states to ensure a uniformed and coordinated policy on the pandemic at national and sub-national levels.

The governors, under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) in a letter to the Presidency Friday advised that the interstate lockdown should exclude the movement of essential supplies like food and beverages, medical and pharmaceuticals supplies, petroleum and agricultural products, while restrictions are put on large gatherings and Assemblies internally.

Recommendations by NGF which include the imposition of overnight curfews, the lockdown of flights, and compulsory use of face masks/coverings in the public, follows a prior teleconferencing meeting between the governors and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo last Wednesday.

President Buhari is expected to address the nation Sunday evening, two weeks after the extended lock-down on key states; Lagos, Ogun, and Abuja.

Since his last address, the reported Covid-19 diseases in Nigeria has risen over 5,000% and spread to more states in the country.

As of Friday, Nigeria has reported 1,095 cases of the disease now in 28 states, including Abuja.

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Why I resigned as Obaseki’s Chief of Staff – Akerele

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The Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Mr. Taiwo Akerele, has resigned.

It was reported that his resignation was not unconnected with the lingering crisis between the Governor and the APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

In his resignation letter dated 25th April 2020, Akerele said; “My decision to exit the government is based on administrative and governance grounds.

“I am solid with His excellency Mr. Godwin Obaseki in his quest to transform Edo state. His mission and vision resonate with mine.

“This is all I have to say, I will like to be given the opportunity to go private as I part ways administratively with the government based on principles.

“I thank his Excellency for the opportunity given to me to serve in this capacity and also thanks to His Royal Majesty, Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II for his immense leadership and support during the period I served in this capacity. May his reign be long and peaceful. Amen.”

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Covid-19: Why lockdown will not be called off soon- NCDC Boss

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Chikwe Ihekweazu, director-general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), has given reason the lockdown will not be called off anytime soon.

Ihekweazu, who spoke at the presidential task force briefing on COVID-19 on Friday, said due to the increasing number of cases in the country, exiting the lockdown phase will take a while.

Calling on Nigerians to be patient as efforts are being made to ensure the eradication of the virus and to restore normalcy, the NCDC boss admitted that the lockdown was having negative effects on the economy.

According to him, there is a need to be patient with the lockdown in order to ensure a safe and healthy society when the economy would be reopened.

He said, “We will eventually exit this stage and restart our normal life but that stage is still a while to come and I ask for your endurance, support, and patience. Lots of efforts are going on across the world to find new therapy, to find vaccines.”

Ihekweazu further stated that the NCDC is working hard to reach a point where some measures can be relaxed adding that an unprecedented level of caution is needed to continue to carry out these preventive measures.

He maintained that the sacrifices of Nigerians are recognized and to achieve the goal we have to encourage each other to continue to a position where some of the lockdowns can be relaxed.

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How Coronavirus pandemic humbled me -Tiwa Savage

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Nigerian talented female singer, Tiwa Savage has lamented the effect of the ravaging Coronavirus pandemic on her.

The singer, during an Instagram Live session, described this period as a weird time for everyone.

The ‘Attention’ crooner said the COVID-19 crisis has humbled her, “because one doesn’t know what would happen next.”

Savage said “This is a really weird time for everyone. Whether you are rich or famous; it affects everyone. It can be a little scary actually because one doesn’t know what would happen next.

“One doesn’t know what tomorrow brings. The coronavirus pandemic has humbled me because I had my album ready to be released.

“I had a lot of shows, festivals, and tours lined up. All of that had to be canceled and some postponed. We don’t know when this will stop. This is despite all the plans one has already made. It definitely humbled all of us.

“When this is over, I hope it teaches us to value the small things in life. I hope it teaches us to value spending time with family and saving; it is important to save. When we get back to our normal lives, I hope we don’t go back to what we were doing before.

“I hope this teaches us to value family, our mental state, and being close to God. It’s only God that can take us out of this.”

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Palliative: Oyo rejects polluted bags of rice from FG

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Oyo state government on Friday rejected bags of rice donated by the Federal Government through the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to the state.

Three trailer loads of rice totaling 1,800 bags were sent to the state as part of the Federal Government’s COVID-19 relief materials.

The State Government’s team, which received the items were: Executive Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Agric business, Debo Akande, Commissioners Ojemuyiwa Ojekunle (Agric), Bayo Lawal (Special Duties), Seun Fakorede (Youth and Sports), Faosat Sanni (Women Affairs and Social Inclusion) and Funmilayo Orisadeyi (Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters).

The committee on the distribution of relief materials and palliatives who paid an inspection visit to the warehouse where the grains were kept however said they had been infested with weevil and were therefore unfit for human consumption.

Akande noted that after taking delivery of the donated rice, a quality control inspection was carried out repeatedly which led to the rejection of the consignment.

According to him, “We received these items from the Federal Government via the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and we brought them to the warehouse and it was in the process of further inspection that we discovered that almost all the rice has been infested with weevils and some other materials and on that basis we formed a committee to re-inspect it again and so that can be definitely sure of what we have received”.

Speaking on behalf of the state government, Akande said “we think this is not definitely in the position for consumption for human beings at this point in time and at such the materials cannot be distributed as parts of palliatives within the state.

“We don’t want to start providing a solution to a problem and then start creating another problem. We have inspected it and done a random selection and we have seen that similar things apply across the board.

He stressed that the donated rice would be returned to the Nigeria Customs Service with the hope that it would be replaced with good quality.

The Executive Adviser further explained that the infested rice would not affect plans of the state government to commence distribution of palliatives to the people, adding that distribution would commence soonest.

“We all know that a good number of food items have been received by the Food Security Committee of the Task Force and this has been itemized weekly even before we received this particular item from the source where we received it.

“We have received a good number of products here and we have added it along with the ones the state government is putting its funding to support what has been donated by the good citizens of the state.

Akande added that it would be distributed in the next couple of days, “because what we have done is to ensure that we put a robust system in place for distribution and that we have finalized with.”

Also, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Ojekunle Ojemuyiwa while reiterating the position of state government, stressed that the wellbeing and health of the people would not be compromised in the continuing fight to curtail further spread of the virus.

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Covid-19: Nigeria hits 1,095 cases!

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Nigeria has recorded 114 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 1,095.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) confirmed this Friday night.

Of the new cases, 80 are in Lagos, 21 in Gombe, 5 in FCT, 2 in Zamfara 2 in Edo, 1 in Ogun, Oyo, Kaduna, and Sokoto states each.

As of 11:30 pm 24th April, there are 1095 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Nigeria.

Of the new cases, 80 are in Lagos, 21 in Gombe, 5 in FCT, 2 in Zamfara 2 in Edo, 1 in Ogun, Oyo, Kaduna, and Sokoto states each.

As of 11:30 pm 24th April, there are 1095 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Nigeria.

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Two judges to get compulsory retirement – NJC

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The National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended for compulsory retirement, Justices Francis Abosi, Acting President, Customary Court of Appeal, Imo State and Aliyu Liman of Bauchi State High Court.

The NJC took the decision at its 91st meeting presided over by the Chairman of the NJC and Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad.

“Council at the meeting also recommended the compulsory retirement of Hon. Justice Francis Chukwuma Abosi, Acting President, Customary Court of Appeal, Imo State, and Hon. Justice Aliyu Musa Liman of Bauchi State High Court of Justice with immediate effect.

“Hon. Justice Francis Chukwuma Abosi was recommended for compulsory retirement following the falsification of his date of birth from 1950 to 1958,” it said.

Findings showed that he was supposed to have retired in November 2015 when he clocked the mandatory retirement age of 65 years,” a statement by the Director, Information, NJC, Mr. Soji Oye, had said.

The statement said that the Council decided to recommend his compulsory retirement to Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and to also deduct the salaries he had earned from November 2015 to date form his retirement benefit.

On his part, Justice Liman was recommended to the Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for compulsory retirement for failing to deliver judgment in suit No BA/100/2010, between Abubakar Isa and Sheik Tahir Usman Bauchi within the three months period stipulated by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The body viewed the failure of Justice Liman to deliver judgment for nearly four years as misconduct, contrary to Section 292 (1) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended and Rules 1.3 and 3.7 of the 2016 Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the NJC in the exercise of its disciplinary powers under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, has suspended the two judges from office pending the approval of their compulsory retirement by their respective state governors.

In a related development, the NJC, however, dismissed petitions against the following judicial officers — Justices O. A. Musa of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, and Muhammed Sambo and Sa’ad Ibrahim Zadawa both of the High Court of Justice, Bauchi State for either lacking in merit or being subjudice.

The NJC in another decision also decided to report Messrs Apeiyi Clement, Ifeanyi Egwasi, Nwafor Orizu, Godwin Chukwukwere, Akopde Ukuku, Chief Emefo Etudo, Osamudiamen Obarogie and B. S. Onuegbu to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for various acts unbecoming of a legal practitioner ranging from unruly behavior, walking out of court in the cause of proceedings to submission of false documents to the court.

Meanwhile, the NJC at the on-line meeting held on April, 22 and 23, 2020, also constituted a 10-man committee to develop practical strategic measures to be put in place in order to ensure courts continue to function despite the lockdown and Covid-19 challenges.

The members include Justice Olabode Rhodes-Vivour, CFR – Chairman, Justice M. B. Dongban-Mensem, Justice J. T. Tsoho, Justice B. B. Kanyip, Justice Ishaq Bello, and Justice Kashim Zannah.

Others are Justice O. A. Ojo, Mr. Paul Usoro, SAN, Mr. A. B. Mahmoud (SAN) and Mr. D. D. Dodo (SAN).

The task of the committee, according to the statement, include developing guidelines or template for implementation; explore possible areas of collaboration between the Judiciary and the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, stakeholders in the Justice Administration and Development Partners in Justice Administration Sector.

They are also expected to come up with other measures they may deem fit in realizing these objectives.

The committee has 14 days to submit its report.

As part of decisions reached the meeting, the NJC also considered the report of its Interview Committee and recommended 70 judicial officers for appointment as President, Court of Appeal, Grand Kadis, President, Customary Court of Appeal and Judges of High Court of states and the Federal Capital Territory and Kadis of states Sharia Courts of Appeal.

The Council also formally launched its twitter handle @njcNIG and will launch its other platforms at a later date, the statement added.

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Abba Kyari: See what the US Government told president Buhari

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The United States government has described the late Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari as a dedicated public servant.

In a condolence message to President Muhammadu Buhari, the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Tibor Nagy, eulogized the important role played by Kyari in the repatriation of over $300 million in funds stolen by the former head of state, Sani Abacha.

‘‘Kyari was a valued and respected interlocutor for the U.S. government and particularly for our leadership team in Abuja”, Buhari’s spokesman, Garba Shehu quoted the letter.

‘‘We appreciate working with him on many important matters, including the return to the Nigerian people of over $300 million in funds stolen by Sani Abacha.

‘‘He envisioned the funds going to three geographically disparate infrastructure projects as a way to unite Nigeria economically,’’ Nagy said.

The U.S. Assistant Secretary noted that this vision, encapsulated by the late Chief of Staff, was a reflection of his tireless championing of a solid and prosperous future for Nigeria.

‘‘His dedication to this matter, to fighting corruption, and to countless other investments and policies for the future of Nigeria will leave a lasting impact on your country,’’ President Trump’s lead diplomat for Africa wrote in the condolence message.

While commiserating with the government and people of Nigeria, the Kyari family on the loss, the U.S. government pledged to stand with Nigeria in the struggle against the coronavirus pandemic.

The President also received condolence messages from Usani Uguru Usani former Minister of Niger Delta, Alhaji Sabiu a kano based businessman and Bataure Abdulaziz, a trade union leader.

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Nollywood Legend, Yomi Obiyele is dead

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Veteran Nollywood actor, Yomi Obileye, is dead.

Obileye, known for his role in the movie “Hostages”, reportedly died on Friday morning after battling an undisclosed ailment.

Confirming the development, Nigerian actor and comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka in a tribute on his Instagram page thanked the deceased for the good memories.

“If tears could build a stairway and memories were a lane, we would walk right up to heaven and bring you back again. “

“Rest In Peace Uncle Yomi Obileye. Thanks for the memories.

“I can’t help but want to watch “HOSTAGES” again. Sleep well Egbon and may God give your family and fans the fortitude to bear the loss,” he added.

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Government has failed us – Doctors weep

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Four years after it lost six doctors and a driver in a fatal auto crash, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State chapter, has called for robust emergency services in the country, to avert untimely deaths.

The medical association bemoaned that poor emergency services on accident-prone highways and other areas, was responsible for the avoidable deaths of many Nigerians, especially those who fell victim of contingency cases.

Six doctors and their driver died on April 24, 2016, along Abuja-Kaduna highway while traveling to Sokoto to attend the association’s annual delegate meeting and scientific conference.

The victims were: Dr. Tunde Aladesanmi, Dr. O. J. Taiwo, Dr. Alex Akinyele, Dr. J. B. Ogunseye, Dr. Olayiwola Olajide, Dr. Atolani Adeniyi, and their driver, Mr. A. Ajibola.

The NMA State Chairman, Dr. Tunji Omotayo, in a tribute to the deceased, on Friday, said it was painful and agonizing for them to have lost six professionals and their driver in one swell swoop in a country that has acute lack of medical personnel.

The NMA Chief said the doctors would have been saved from the throes of abrupt death if Nigeria’s medical sector had enjoyed strong ambulance emergency services to rush them to the hospital for prompt medicare.

“The day broke like any other but before the night was over, tragedy struck the Ekiti NMA, we were robbed of seven souls; six doctors and our driver. Thirteen of our members; leaders and ambassadors of our association were involved.

“They were to represent the state at the 2016 annual delegates meeting and scientific conference of the NMA at the seat of the Caliphate in Sokoto.

“The voyage to the National capital was uneventful. Poses were taken at the Zuma Rock en route Kaduna. Along the notorious Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, tragedy struck. The rear tire burst, the bus tumbled several; some died on the spot and some were seriously wounded.

“Rumours began to fester; various versions of the sad news were flying in the social media. At dusk, the unfortunate story was confirmed. Six of our colleagues and the driver had paid the ultimate price for years of neglect of our health sector.

“This is a country where the communication network was a luxury, highway ambulance service was non-existent. Provision was never made for emergency medical services in a country where greater than 98 percent of its population travel by road.

“With these deaths, the country had failed us and our departed colleagues.

“Today we remember them and they remain evergreen.”

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COVID-19: Lagos hits 590 cases!

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Seventy-eight persons were on Friday confirmed to have tested positive for COVID-19 in Lagos State.

The State Ministry for Health, on its Twitter page on Friday said the State has so far recorded 590 cases.

“#COVID19 Lagos update as at 23rd April, 2020

“78 new cases of #COVID19 infection confirmed.

“Total confirmed cases in Lagos now 590.

StayAtHome.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria on Thursday confirmed 108 cases in the country.

NCDC said it recorded 78 cases in Lagos, 14 in FCT, 5 in Ogun, 4 in Gombe, 3 in Borno, 2 in Akwa Ibom, 1 in Kwara and 1 in Plateau State.

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Ramadan: See What Jonathan instructed Muslims

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Muslims to use the Ramadan period to pray for Nigeria as the country tackles the Coronavirus (COVID-19) scourge.

Jonathan, in his message to mark the beginning of Ramadan, also urged Muslims to pray for the peace, health, and prosperity of Nigeria.

The former President, in a tweet on his official Twitter page on Friday, wrote: “As the Muslim Ummah begins the holy month of Ramadan, I urge all our brothers and sisters to pray for the peace, health, and prosperity of our nation.

“It is my hope you all will achieve the purification of the soul in this holy month.

“May Allah accept your supplications and cause us to overcome all our challenges, especially #COVID-19, #RamadanMubarak.”

Meanwhile, the number of COVID-19 cases in Nigeria is 981, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

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Why I will receive Almajiri returnees – Mutawalle

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Zamfara State Governor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has on Thursday, said the adequate arrangement has been made to absorb Zamfara returnees in this fasting period.

Governor Matawalle said in a state-wide broadcast that his administration was ready to receive all the Almajiris from other States, who are indigenes of Zamfara, promising to make life very comfortable for them

“However, we have made arrangements at our borders to ensure that all returnees are properly checked to ensure that they are free from COVID-19 infections”, the Governor said.

He added that it was worrisome that the Northern States were still bedeviled with the menace of a growing number of Almajiris, which he said was constituting a social problem for the region.

“Similarly, all traders who left for Kano to purchase essential commodities on the eve of the fasting period are now being properly checked to ensure their health status concerning the civil-19 pandemic,” he said.

Governor Matawalle noted that his administration had procured ventilators, testing kits, and preventive equipment for the two isolation centers in the state, including ambulances in all the General Hospitals in the state despite the fact that there’s no index case in the state yet.

“We cannot afford to be complacent, especially with the recent developments in our neighbouring States”, Governor Matawalle said.

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Ashaka community laments over lean palliative from Gov. Okowa

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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Egba-Oma Farms in Ashaka, Ndokwa East LGA, Delta State, Comrade Chukwudi Azaka, has pleaded with those in charge of distribution of palliatives not to divert the items designed for the poor.

He disclosed this on Thursday in a telephone chat with goldennationblog.com

Azaka who lamented over the poor distribution of palliatives meant to cushion the sit-at-home order urged relevant stakeholders to be transparent in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He explained that the palliative programme was community-based.

“Irrespective of tribe or religion, everyone that is representing his or her own group must know that ‘you are the eyes of your group’.

“If you compromise, posterity will judge you. You must stand for your people and make sure that they are served in these trying times.

“It is not food for the campaign and not for you to do charity for your family members.

“If you want to do charity, go to the market and buy your own materials for charity.

Recall that the Federal Capital Territory Administration as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari distributed palliative to the poor to cushion the effect of sit-at-home order melted by the ravaging coronavirus.

Azaka had on April 21, posted on Facebook, an unpleasant report that occurred in one of the communities where palliatives were meant to be distributed in Ndokwa East LGA.

The post reads: ” I saw this myself. This is not supposed to be palliative from the government for a household. It’s incorrect to call this palliative. Maybe linguists should help us with an appropriate name. My heart is broken”. Azaka said.

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Lockdown: What Governors said will happen for two weeks

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Governors of the 36 states in Nigeria have agreed to extend the inter-state lockdown by two more weeks in order to curtail the spread of the ravaging coronavirus.

The Governors, under its umbrella body, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) held a meeting via video conferencing to address the spread of the virus that has so far hit 25 states and the FCT. Below is a statement from the forum after the meeting;

“Governors unanimously agreed to the implementation of an inter-state lockdown in the country over the next two weeks to mitigate the spread of the virus from state to state. Only essential services will be permitted.”

“In order to strengthen coordinated implementation of necessary public health recommendations across states, governors resolved to set up COVID-19 committees at the regional level, headed by their state Commissioners of Health.” the statement read in part.

It was gathered that the forum also called for the decentralisation of the COVID-19 response as the best chance of containing the spread of the virus in communities.

The governors also extended condolence to president Muhammadu Buhari over the loss of his Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari to Coronavirus.

They also congratulated Kaduna State Governor, H.E Nasir El-Rufai, who has twice tested negative to coronavirus.

Recall that El-Rufai had announced his recovery from the deadly coronavirus after nearly four weeks of observing strict medical administration.

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Okowa mourns former AGF, Akinjide

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has commiserated with the family of the late Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN), as well as the government and people of Oyo State, on the death of the former Attorney-General of the Federation.

The governor’s condolence was expressed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, yesterday in Asaba.

Okowa recalled that Akinjide, also a former Minister of Justice, during late Alhaji Shehu Shagari’s administration, died on Tuesday at his Ibadan home in Oyo State.

The governor said that Akinjide would be remembered for his famous “technical’’ submission which led to the resolution of the controversy surrounding the electoral victory of Alhaji Shagari and the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the 1979 Presidential Election.

He noted that the late lawyer made outstanding contributions to the development of the country before, during, and after serving as its chief law officer.

Okowa said that as President of the Nigeria Bar Association from 1970 to 1973, Akinjide served without blemish.

He also recognized that it was under the watch of the legal icon, as Minister of Justice, that Nigeria reversed executions of armed robbers and abolished the Decree barring persons on exile from returning to the country.

“Chief Richard Akinjide, SAN, was one of the politicians of the pre-independence era, a First Republic Parliamentarian and Minister of Education and Second Republic Attorney General of the Federation.
“He, Akinjide, contributed immensely to legal reforms and development of jurisprudence in Nigeria.

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Coronavirus: Delta reports 2 new cases, monitor 140 contacts

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Two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Delta State.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye, who announced this in a statement on Wednesday in Asaba said that the new cases have brought the total confirmed cases in the state to six, with one death and five active cases.

According to him, the active cases were being treated at the Isolation Centres in the state.

He stated that the two new cases, one female and one male, were recorded at Uvwie and Udu Local Government Areas of the State.

The commissioner further disclosed that all the patients were doing very well and urged Deltans with symptoms of the COVID-19 like fever, malaria, catarrh, cough, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, and loss of appetite to report to the nearest government hospital for medical evaluation and possible testing.

He stressed that “all the patients of the active cases are in stable condition and are receiving treatment from our team of medical professionals at our isolation centres across the state.

“There is ongoing active case search in the local government areas and we urge persons with symptoms of Respiratory Tract Infection like fever, nasal catarrh, cough, chest pain, difficulty in breathing/ tightness in the chest or loss of appetite to report to any nearest government hospital for medical evaluation.”

He thanked Deltans for their continued support for the lockdown and urged them to remain obedient to government stay-at-home directive.

Ononye also called on them to ensure regular hand washing and respiratory hygiene and maintaining of social/physical distancing at all times.

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Covid-19: Cleric, others granted bail for disobeying lockdown directive

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A Lagos State Chief Magistrate’s Court in Igbosere yesterday granted bail to Archbishop Samson Mustapha Benjamin of Resurrection Praise Chapel for allegedly violating the lockdown order imposed by President Muhammadu Buhari to check the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Chief Magistrate O. O. Oshin admitted the cleric, popularly called Jehovah Sharp-Sharp, to bail after he pleaded not guilty to the three counts charge brought against him and two others, by the Lagos government.

The accused person was arraigned alongside two others: Jerry Abel and Johnson Benjamin.

They were all arrested on Tuesday, at the Chinese Embassy, where they had allegedly gone to protest the alleged ill-treatment meted out on Nigerians in China.

They were specifically accused of violating the lockdown directive and conduct themselves in a manner likely to cause the breach of public peace.

The cleric had in an earlier interview claimed that the Chinese were operating freely in Nigeria even though COVID-19 started in their country but decided to violate the rights of Nigerians and other Africans living in China.

Officials of the Chinese Embassy allegedly sent a video clip of the alleged invasion to the police, which prompted the arrest of the defendants by officers of the Victoria Island Division of the Nigeria Police.

The defendants were thereafter taken to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Panti, Yaba Lagos.

During proceedings on Wednesday, Dr. Jide Martins, a Director in the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecution, told the court that the defendants had on April 21, led a protest to the Chinese Embassy located at No. 161A, Idejo St., Victoria Island Lagos.

Martins said the defendants’ actions contravened the COVID-19 Regulation and are punishable under Section 5 Quarantine Act and Section 122 of the Criminal Law of Lagos, 2015.

The defendant’s conduct was also likely to cause a breach of the peace which violates Section 168 of the Criminal Law of Lagos 2015,” he said.

Following their not guilty plea, their lawyer, E.O. Ogbeche urged the court to admit the accused persons to bail in the most liberal terms, he also assured the court of their presence till the matter is determined.

In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Oshin, granted Archbishop Samson bail in the sum of N1 million, while the other two violators were admitted to bail in the sum of N500, 000 each.

She also asked all the violators to provide two sureties in like sum.

The court directed that one of the sureties must be a Grade Level 14 officer in the appointment of Federal or Lagos State government and that the other surety must be a cleric.

All the sureties are also ordered to produce evidence of three years of tax payment to Lagos State government, evidence of means of livelihood, and that they must be residents of the State.

The matter has been adjourned till May 20, for trial.

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Ramadan: Search out for new moon tomorrow – Islamic Leader

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The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar, has called Muslims for the new moon of Ramadan tomorrow, Thursday, April 23.

The sultan, who is the President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Nigeria, said the people should report its sighting to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to him.

“This is to inform the Muslim ummah that Thursday 23rd April 2020. which is equivalent to the 29th day of Sha’aban 1441AH shall be a day to look for the new moon of Ramadan 1441 AH,” a statement issued on behalf of the sultan by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Chairman Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs Sultanate Council Sokoto, read in part. “May Allah SWT help us in the discharge of this religious duty,” it added.

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What Chinese Doctors will do as isolation period ends today

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The 14-day isolation period for the team of 15 Chinese medical professionals, who were invited to help Nigeria deal with the COVID-19 outbreak, ends today.

They had arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on April 8, 2020.

The team flew in with medical equipment worth about $1.5million.

Their invitation by the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, was met with criticisms from many quarters, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, was forced to debunk reports that one of the Chinese doctors had tested positive for the COVID-19.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and PTF Chairman, Boss Mustapha, had earlier explained that the Chinese doctors were here in advisory and capacity building roles.

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We will investigate the double payment of N20,000 for palliatives – Minister

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The Nigerian Government has said that two members of a family cannot be paid N20,000 from the Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme.

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Sadiya Farouq, said this while addressing claims of double payment in some states.

The minister during a Presidential Task Force briefing on COVID-19 on Tuesday said that the Ministry will begin an investigation into the claims of double payments.

“Even though it would be almost impossible for such to happen, we shall investigate reports of double payment.”

She minister added that members of the same family cannot receive money more than once.

“It is impossible for two members of a family to be paid N20,000 each.

“Members of the same family cannot receive money from Conditional Cash Transfer more than once because the process involved is a very tedious one.

“The community leaders and the faith-based organizations, the youths and women leaders in that particular community are the ones that come up with the list of poor and vulnerable ones in that community,” she added.

Meanwhile, Farouq made a U-turn and announced that the government would expand the social register for palliative distribution, by employing digital models including the use of Bank Verification Number (BVN).

The government initially said they would provide only cash relief for Nigerians who recharge N100 on their phones and have N5,000 or less in their bank accounts.

The decision was met with criticisms from Nigerians.

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What US State did to China for causing Coronavirus

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The US State of Missouri has sued China for deliberate deception and insufficient action in the handling of the deadly Coronavirus.

Following the impact of Coronavirus in the State, Missouri’s Attorney General, Eric Schmitt announced on Tuesday that it is seeking damages because China covered up information, silenced whistleblowers, and did little to stop the spread of the disease.

The civil lawsuit was filed in a federal court in the eastern district of Missouri.

BBC quoted Schmitt as saying, “In Missouri, the impact of the virus is very real – thousands have been infected and many have died, families have been separated from dying loved ones, small businesses are shuttering their doors, and those living from paycheck to paycheck are struggling to put food on their table.

“The Chinese government lied to the world about the danger and contagious nature of COVID-19, silenced whistleblowers, and did little to stop the spread of the disease. They must be held accountable for their actions.”

According to Johns Hopkins University, no fewer than 6,105 people have been confirmed to have the virus in Missouri, and at least, 229 have died.

The attack on China is increasing by the day amid findings that Beijing appears to be covering up the accurate scale of the crisis, as the source of the outbreak remains a mystery.

Recall that Donald Trump had during his White House daily briefing on Coronavirus on Saturday declared that China should face the consequences if it was “knowingly responsible” for unleashing the Coronavirus pandemic.

Wuhan, where the outbreak started, last week revised its number of fatalities by a sudden 50% hemp in the figure.

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Update: Nigeria reports 117 new covid-19 cases, total hits 782

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has said Nigeria’s coronavirus cases have increased to 782.

This was after 117 new COVID-19 cases were recorded in Lagos State, Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), Kano, Borno, Katsina, Ogun, Rivers, and Bauchi states.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control made this known via its Twitter handle on Tuesday.

The centre also said that coronavirus-related deaths have increased to 25 in Nigeria.

It said, “117 new cases of #COVID19 have been reported: 59 in Lagos, 29 in FCT, 14 in Kano, six in Borno, four in Katsina, three in Ogun, one in Rivers, and one in Bauchi.

“As of 11:25 pm on the 21st April, there are 782 confirmed cases of #COVID19 reported in Nigeria. Discharged: 197. Deaths: 25.”

According to the NCDC, five cases were transferred to Ogun from Lagos.

It added, “Five cases previously reported in Lagos State have been transferred to Ogun State.

Therefore, Lagos has reported 430 confirmed cases while Ogun has reported 20 confirmed cases.”

The data from the NCDC showed that the virus has spread to 24 states, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja as of Tuesday.

It said, “Breakdown of cases by states: Lagos – 430, FCT-118, Kano-73, Osun-20, Ogun-20, Oyo-16, Katsina-16, Edo-15, Kwara- nine, Kaduna- nine, Akwa Ibom- nine, Borno- nine, Bauchi-eight, Gombe-five, Delta- four, Ekiti- four, Ondo- three, Rivers- three, Jigawa- two, Enugu-The data from the NCDC showed that the virus has spread to 24 states, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja as of Tuesday.

It said, “Breakdown of cases by states: Lagos – 430, FCT-118, Kano-73, Osun-20, Ogun-20, Oyo-16, Katsina-16, Edo-15, Kwara- nine, Kaduna- nine, Akwa Ibom- nine, Borno- nine, Bauchi-eight, Gombe-five, Delta- four, Ekiti- four, Ondo- three, Rivers- three, Jigawa- two, Enugu- two, Niger- two, Abia- two, Benue- one, Anambra- one, and Sokoto-one.” two, Niger- two, Abia- two, Benue- one, Anambra- one, and Sokoto-one.”

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Why 25 inmates were released in Kwale prison – justice Umukoro

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Delta State government has released 25 convicted inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Service, Kwale Custodian Centre as part of measures to decongest the prisons in this era of covid–19.

The state Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro, said the action of the state government was in response to a directive from the federal government to the state governor, Attorney General, and the Chief Judge.

He said the instruction was that convicts with less than three years to serve prison term be released, adding that those convicted for serious crimes like kidnapping, murder and armed robbery were not included.

The Chief Judge charged those released to comply with the state government’s sit at home order until it is lifted.

The Controller, Nigerian Correctional Service, Delta State Ovie Friday Ezesobor thanked the federal, state governments and the State Chief Judge for the releases, stating it was a great relief to them in this critical moment that COVID-19 was posing a great threat to the existence of humanity.

A member of the National Executive Committee (NEC Rep) of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Barr Nelson Enumah, enjoined the federal and state governments to provide test kits to test inmates and new suspects in correctional centres in the country.

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President Buhari hails veteran journalist, Adenaike at 80

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Tuesday congratulated veteran journalist, Felix Adenaike, on his 80th birthday.

In a congratulatory message signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, Buhari felicitated with elder Adenaike for working with major print media houses in the country and abroad.

He also lauded him for consistently serving the nation with his talent for skillful writing.

President Buhari applauded Adenaike’s dedication to investigative writing, penetrative analysis and management of people and resources as Chief Executive Officer and Editor-In-Chief as well as a member of many Editorial Boards in national and international media platforms.

Adenaike had worked in many local and international media outfits including Daily Times, Daily Sketch, Nigerian Tribune, The Guardian, The Nation, Times of London and BBC Africa.

According to the President, the renowned journalist’s love for the nation and people has been clearly demonstrated in his willingness to serve in some public institutions over the years at both state and federal levels.

He, therefore, commended him for using his versatile experience in counseling leaders on the right path to growth and inclusive development.

Buhari also felicitated with family members, friends and professional associates of Adenaike on the optimistic occasion.

He affirmed that Adenaike’s wisdom, foresight, ht and knowledge of the nation and the world’s political economy would be most needed, especially on issues of democracy and governance.

While thanking Adenaike for the strong and unbroken support he gave to him in public life, Buhari prayed that God would grant the renowned journalist good health and strength to keep serving the country.

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What Driver Did to Photojournalist in Delta community

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A hit and run driver has allegedly hit and left on the road side Mr. William Mukoro, Senior Photojournalist with Urhobo Voice Newspaper.

This incident was reported to have occurred on Monday evening at Ovwian junction off Udu road, Warri.

Explaining the incident, an eyewitness who spoke to newsmen on the condition of anonymity said that immediately the vehicle ran over the victim, the driver sped off thinking that the Journalist was dead.

The eye witness also said efforts to chase the vehicle was not as successful as the dusk to dawn curfew was near.

It was gathered that Mukoro was rushed to Kwofia Clinic by sympathizers and the prompt response of the medical team helped to revive the victim.

The victim who laid critical on the bed narrated said: “I was standing by the road, that’s all I remembered. Later I woke up to see am strapped on the bed here in hospital.

“I was told that a fast vehicle hit me down and ran away. the People thought I was dead, but some good people rushed me here. Without any money and contact, the Doctor and team revived me.

“The Doctor later used my phone to contact my friends and family members. I want to thank the hospital for saving my life.

“Whoever does this evil against me, I leave him to God, he has caused me and my family untold hardship in this lockdown period.

“God will help me to overcome this challenge.”

As at press time, Mukoro is still critically down at the hospital.

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Covid-19: Wearing of face masks would be made compulsory – Okowa

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The Delta State Government on Tuesday said it would make the wearing of face masks in public places compulsory for the residents as a measure to curtail the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the virtual State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Tuesday in Asaba.

Mr. Aniagwu said for the government to give effect to the decision on the face mask, the governor would send an Executive Bill to the House of Assembly for a law on it.

“We are concerned about the lives of our people and a decision to send a bill to the house of assembly to make it compulsory for everyone to wear a face mask before appearing in public was taken.

“By next week, the government will provide face masks free to the people,” he said.

He said the decision was based on the fact that, to a large extent, face masks had helped to reduce the spread of the virus, the causative agent of COVID-19.

The commissioner said other far-reaching decisions were also taken toward further cushioning the effects of COVID-19 on the state’s economy.

He said activities of Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR) were reviewed to ensure that the government’s income was recovered without inflicting further pains on the people.

“During the meeting, we also resolved that all protocols must be observed in the process of awarding contracts or procurements, to ensure transparency, and for our people to always get value for their money.

“The decision to lock down the state was reviewed. We expressed satisfaction that the proactive lockdown of the state had paid off.

It has ensured that the number of COVID-19 cases in the state has remained at four.

“We have taken a lot of samples for tests and so far, the results that we have received are negative.

“It is unfortunate that we lost one person and we are grateful to God that the three cases that we have now are doing well.

“Once their results come out negative twice, they will return to their families.

“Officials of the National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC) have praised the state government for the level of preparedness for the COVID-19.

“But, in spite of the proactive steps taken, we are not praying for people to come to the centres notwithstanding the high standard of the facilities at the centres,” he said.

The commissioner said the distribution of food items to the vulnerable groups by the state government was effective as they got to the targeted people in the state.

He said the items were distributed by carefully selected individuals who identified the vulnerable people living in the communities.

Mr. Aniagwu said the executive council had commended individuals and corporate organisations that made donations to the state, adding that their names would be publicly acknowledged.

He said: “There is no way the government can feed everybody; it is impossible, but we know ourselves. If you have, give it to your neighbour.

“As a government, we do know that times are hard and we took steps to reach out to the 270 wards in the state and also reached out to the vulnerable groups.

“The results we are getting from the 270 wards are encouraging because the government made it clear that anyone who engaged in sharp practices during the distribution of the food would have himself/herself to blame.”

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President Buhari loses personal security

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One of President Muhammadu Buhari’s bodyguards, Warrant Officer Lawal Mato, is dead.

In a statement, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, confirmed that Mato died on Tuesday after three years of struggling with diabetes.

He said the military officer had been working with President Buhari for many years before he won the election in 2015.

Mourning the military officer, the President described him as a “very thorough, trustworthy and dependable soldier who carried out his duty with diligence and focus”.

He prayed that Allah would ease Mato’s passage to paradise and grant his family, as well as the government and people of Jigawa State the fortitude to bear the loss.

According to Shehu, Mato was part of a team restored to President Buhari as personal security by late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua

He added that the late warrant officer had been off full duty for three years, treating diabetes.

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Fake Amotekun officers caught in Ogun [PHOTOS]

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At least, 13 persons have been arrested for allegedly parading themselves as officers of the yet-to-be formed Amotekun Corps in Ogun State.

It was alleged that the suspects were arrested while mounting a checkpoint for themselves at the Lafenwa area of Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state.

Dressed in automatic jackets with Amotekun inscriptions, the suspects were said to have extorted money from the unsuspecting general public, especially those violating the COVID-19 lockdown Loader.

It was reported that they were arrested by the So-Safe Corps, an Ogun State Government security outfit.

The Director of Information and Public Relations, ACC Moruf Yusuf, in a statement on Tuesday, said the fake Amotekun Corps officers have been parading the Ota axis with two vehicles and three motorbikes.

They were said to have claimed that they had the solid backing of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN); the body seeing to the inauguration of the Amotekun Corps.

The statement reads inter alia: “So-Safe Corps, an Ogun State-owned security agency has recorded another great achievement as officers and men of the corps deployed to enforce the COVID-19 Stay-at-home directives of the Federal/ State Governments in Ado–Odo Ota Division at about 16:16hrs, noticed a strange set of criminally-minded ones who disguised as a lawful security outfit.

“The culprits who were thirteen (13) in number were apprehended, claiming to be officers of Amotekun, Ogun State Command.

“During preliminary investigation, the suspected fake officers claimed that their operation had a solid backing of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission.

“The suspects who were kitted with reflective jackets with Amotekun inscription with two(2) vehicles and three(3) motorbikes were caught at the spot they mounted a checkpoint and were extorting the public at Lafenwa, Itele Ota, located at Ado Odo Ota Local Government.

“The suspects have been transferred to the Nigeria Police, Itele Division for further investigation and likely prosecution.”

Amotekun, otherwise known as Western Nigeria Security Network, was set up by governors of Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, and the Lagos States to put an end to armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry and other forms of insecurity in the South West.

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Breaking: Globe Motors CEO Anumudu, dies at 68

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The Chairman of Globe Motors, Willie Anumudu, is dead.

He was said to have died in Lagos early this morning at the age of 68.

He reportedly suffered some heath challenges few days ago and was tested for COVID-19 but the result turned out to be negative.

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Coronavirus: FCTA confirms one new case, total hits 665

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has confirmed one new case of Coronavirus, alias (Covid-19).

The FCTA in a post shared on its Twitter handle confirmed that the total number of active cases in Nigeria’s seat of power stands at 89.

The tweet reads: ”One NEW CASE IN THE FCT.

“Summary of #COVID19FCT as at 11:10pm, 20th April, 2020.

”Total number of confirmed cases: 89

“Total number of active cases: 51, Total discharged: 35, Deaths recorded: 3

“Residents are urged to continue to #StayHome and #StaySafe.”

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, on Monday night confirmed 38 new COVID-19 cases in the country.

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Lockdown: Why we disobeyed stay-at-home order – Imo Traders

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Traders in Imo State have lamented over the extension of COVID-19 lockdown, accusing the state government of suffocating them to death.

Goldennationblog.com reports that some traders in the state, despite repeated government order, have turned deaf ears and have continued to go about their daily businesses.

Newsmen who visited some of the markets, including Nkwo-Orji, Amakohia market, Eke-atta market, among others, reported that business transactions went on uninterrupted.

It would be recalled that the state Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, a few days ago, imposed a dusk to dawn curfew on the state, which has so far recorded a little success.

Reports have it that the 6 pm to 6 is curfew has been heavily criticized by traders and other business people in the state.

A petty-trader in Eke-atta market who pleaded anonymity said that until the government provides sufficient palliative for them, they will continue to go to the market for their daily bread.

“We have heard the news that the government is distributing relief materials to people; we did not receive one packet of indomie.”

“The government just selected some people and gave them 20,000 each as we heard; they did not remember us. Let them allow us to sell our wares in order to provide for our families.”

She lamented that hunger was killing the people more than the Coronavirus, appealing to the government to be lenient in some of its policies.

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Covid-19: Why cases increased in Lagos State – Banky W

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Sensational Nigerian singer and actor, Banky W has clarified reasons for the increase in a number of covid-19 cases in Lagos State.

There were speculations on social media that the increase was due to the arrival of Chinese doctors in the state.

However, Banky W, responding on his Twitter page, said it was due to an increase in a testing capacity.

According to him, the true number of cases is much worse than Nigerians know.

His tweet read: “The numbers started soaring because we have drastically ramped up the number of tests we are doing every day, bro.

“The true numbers were always MUCH worse than we knew.

“We were just under-testing and under-reporting because of a lack of testing capacity.”

Lagos State on Monday recorded zero cases of coronavirus which came as a surprise.

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Abba Kyari: What happened to the hospital where Kyari died

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six private hospitals in Lagos State have shut down operations after some workers were exposed to coronavirus

It was gathered that the State government on Monday decontaminated the hospitals and placed them under lock for two weeks.

The hospitals include St Nicholas, Lagos Island branch; First Cardiology Consultants Hospital, Ikoyi (where Abba Kyari died, St Edwards Hospital, Ajah, Vedic Lifecare Hospital, Lekki; County Hospital, Ogba, and Premier Specialist Hospital, Victoria Island.

Prof Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health had revealed that Kyari died from complications of COVID-19 at First Cardiology Consultants in Lagos State which is listed among the hospitals above.

One of the hospitals, Vedic Lifecare Hospital in Lekki, in a statement announced that the management suspended operations for approximately ten days.

It said the decision became necessary after a COVID-19 patient was inadvertently admitted at the facility and two hospital staff members contracted the deadly virus.

The staff and family members who visited the hospital or had been in contact with anyone who visited any of the above-listed hospitals were advised to self-isolate and call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

Goldennationblog.com recalls that a letter signed by the Clinical Director of St Nicholas, Dr. Ebun Bamgboye, made available to the public on Monday confirmed that the hospital has suspended activities for two weeks.

Bamgboye added that patients will henceforth be attended to through telemedicine.

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DSP Onome announces application to the police academy

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The Delta State Command of the Nigerian Police has announced the sales of online application forms for admission into the 8th Regular course of Degree Programme of the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudi, Kano.

This is contained in a statement released by the command’s PPRO, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya in Asaba on Monday.

The police boss said the sales of forms commenced on Monday 13th April 2020 and will end on Sunday 5th July 2020.

DSP Onome also asserted that Admission into the academy is opened to both male and female Nigerians of good character.

Speaking further, he revealed that Interested applicants are advised to visit the Nigeria Police Academy’s website: www.polac.edu.ng for procedures and requirements or obtain a copy of the Sun Newspaper of Monday 13th April 2020 for detailed information.

However, only candidates who obtained the minimum UTME scores of 180 which is the Academy’s cut off mark in JAMB are eligible to apply and sit for the Exams.

Interested applicants are advised to visit the Police Public Relations Department, Delta State Police Command Okpanam Road Asaba, for more information and inquiries.

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How NPDC put smiles on the faces of 33 Delta communities – Aiguedo

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The Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC/NDW OML 34 JV) has donated food items worth over N25 million to ameliorate hunger in 33 Delta communities in this time of coronavirus lockdown.

The Manager, Government Community Relations and Security, NPDC/NDW OML34 JV, Mr. Sheidu Aiguedo, disclosed this yesterday while addressing reporters during the food items presentation at Otu -jeremi in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The manager who represented the Chief Operating Officer of the NPDC/NDW OML34 AMT, Chief Edirin Abamwa, said this was time to show love to one another, noting that the love can be expressed at all levels, starting with one’s next-door neighbour by ensuring that one share from the little one has with those who have nothing at all.

Aiguedo explained that the gesture encompasses all communities in Udu, Ughelli North and South, in addition to four communities in Warri South council.

According to him, “the food items donated included 350 bags of rice, 350 bags of Garri and 350 bags of beans amongst others,” adding that it cost the company over N25 million to procure these food items being donated.

According to him : “Prior to this time both NPDC and ND Western have made enormous contributions to Delta State Government in preparation for this COVID-19 pandemic. The whole idea was to help the government in case of any possible outbreak in the state.

“By this laudable gesture, what we are doing is to ensure that we reach the people with all this food that you are seeing here today. The food you are seeing today will go to about 33 communities that cut across three local government areas.

“We are using this community as our storage centre because it’s central to our host communities. We do all the distributions from here.

“The king of this community is magnanimous enough to give us this storage center. As you can see there are President Generals of other host communities waiting outside to receive their share.

“My advice to Nigeria is that they should see this situation as a war situation where the first thing for you to do is to take cover and see how you can protect yourself, your family and the community. First, you need to protect yourself so that you can live long enough to see life after the war.

“This pandemic is real. There are people who are symptomatic, they might come up with symptoms and they are able to spread it.

“There are people who might not come down with the symptoms but could spread it. They are asymptomatic. This is the reason why the government says we should stay at home.

“This might afford the opportunity to achieve contact tracing and reach out to them to test them and treat them.

“My advice to people is that definitely, it might come up with some inconveniences, but we need to stay alive. And the best way to stay alive is to heed to government advice and I am sure it is in the best interest of everyone.”

Appraising the negative effects of the lockdown globally, Aiguedo stated that “COVID-19 is costing the entire world so much but the first thing is safety first in order to stay alive.”

He noted that “oil prices have gone down tremendously. A barrel of oil is less than 20 dollars per barrel and that is a significant drop. This is not what any company has planned for, but in everything, they are thinking of safety first. Whatever we are doing now, we are not even thinking of profit but safety first.

“What we are doing now is not profit-driven, but we need to show a good sense of neighbourliness and that is behind what we are doing today. So, we advised the people to show love. If you have a bag of rice and your neighbour does not have, share it with your neighbor.

“So, as a company, as part of our social corporate responsibility, that is what we are doing. We are showing love at the Federal, State, Local and community level.”

Receiving the items on behalf of the communities, the monarch of Ughievwen Kingdom, HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi, the Owhawha 11, commended the NPDC for the kind gesture assuring that the items will be equitably distributed among all the communities.

This is in line with the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) to the host community, as, particularly in the recent devastating covid-19 lockdown.

As an effort to complement the joint efforts of both the federal and state governments in reducing the suffering that has accompanied the nationwide lockdown orders meant to curtail the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) infection in the country.

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Covid-19: What Oyo Assembly did to monthly salaries

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The Oyo State House of Assembly has conceded to a 30 percent cut in their monthly allocation.

It was gathered that the cut in the allocation takes effect from April.

The agreement was reached when Governor Seyi Makinde met with the State lawmakers at the government house, weekend.

The slash according to lawmakers is to assist the state government in its bid to pay salaries of workers as Coronavirus grinds harder on the global economy.

The 30 percent deduction includes both the lawmakers’ salaries and other monthly allowances and financial entitlements.

At the meeting, Makinde explained that the pandemic had resulted in about a 60 percent drop in the federal allocation and it was taking a toll on the state’s economy.

Chairman, Oyo House Committee on Information and Media, Kazeem Olayanju, in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday, said the lawmakers agreed to cut their pay in the interest of the smooth running of the state.

“Our income has been slashed by 30 percent as our support towards COVID-19.

“The governor brought the idea and we agreed that effective this month, there should be the 30 percent deduction.

“We were made to understand that the pandemic had greatly affected the economy of the country and the state as well, as that the Federal Government has reduced allocation by 60 percent.

“This situation could have affected regular payment of salary of Oyo State civil servants but the governor maintained that irrespective of the economic situation of Oyo State, the salary of civil servants must not be affected.

“Hence, we agreed that political office holders should make sacrifices”.

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Covid-19: Germany gives China €130bn bill for destructions

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A major German newspaper has put together a 130-billion-pound invoice that Beijing “owes” Berlin following the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, The Express UK reported.

China is facing a backlash from major European countries after suspicions over its role in the coronavirus pandemic which has so far taken lives in the globe.

Germany’s largest tabloid newspaper, Bild, joined this attack by drawing up an itemised invoice for Euro 149 billion (130 billion pounds).

The list includes a Euro 27 billion charge for lost tourism revenue, up to euro 7.2 billion for the German film industry, a million euros an hour for German airline Lufthansa and euro 50 billion for German small businesses.

Bild calculated that this amounts to euro 1,784 (1,550 pounds) per person if Germany’s GDP falls by 4.2 per cent, under the title “What China owes us.”

Express UK reported that China has responded by claiming the invoice “stirs up xenophobia and nationalism”.

Bild Editor-in-Chief Julian Reichelt denied the criticism, saying: “We asked in our newspaper Bild whether China should pay for the massive economic damage the coronavirus is inflicting worldwide.

“Xi Jinping, your government and your scientists had to know long ago that coronavirus is highly infectious, but you left the world in the dark about it.”

“Your top experts didn’t respond when Western researchers asked to know what was going on in Wuhan. You were too proud and too nationalistic to tell the truth, which you felt was a national disgrace.”

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump warned that China should face consequences if it was “knowingly responsible” for unleashing the coronavirus pandemic.

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Driver hits Covid-19 essential duty car in Delta

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A truck driver believed to be a Hausa man, has hit a brand new Corolla LE car with Reg. No. Abuja RSH- 772 BM.

The incident which took place on Monday along Mary Babangida Way, just by the Appeal Court complex junction, left many people in fear.

The truck driver was said to have finished supplying blocks and from the Appeal Court side of the road, crossed to the other side of the road and hit the Corolla car coming from the Okpanam road axis and heading to the express

An eye witness confirmed to newsmen that the truck driver was reckless, explaining that he ran into the road without minding if another vehicle was coming from the other side of the lane.

The eye witness also noted that as soon as the car was hit, the truck driver jumped out and fled, maybe he had killed his victim.

However, the car owner was able to come out of the completely destroyed car unhurt.

He identified himself as Clem, a member of the Covid-19 Team on essential duty.

At press time, a police measurement of the accident scene was taken. The truck and the Corolla had been towed to the police station.

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Covid-19: My Fiancee Chioma has tested negative Twice – Davido

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Nigerian celebrity singer, David Adeleke who Is popularly known as Davido has said his partner Chioma Avril Roland has recovered from coronavirus.

Davido, who announced this on his verified Twitter page on Sunday, April 19, 2020, said Chioma tested negative twice for the infection.

Recall that about 23 days ago the singer took to his twitter page to announce that Chioma had contracted the ravaging coronavirus after their recent travel history.

He tweeted, “Glory be to God .. Chioma has now tested negative twice for Covid19 … Thank you all for prayers …. We love you”.

On Friday, March 27, Davido took to his Instagram page to announce that his partner had tested positive for coronavirus.

The ‘OBO crooner ‘ noted that his fiancee and their close associates decided to go for coronavirus test on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, because of their recent travel history.

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What Governor Ganduje did to almajiris

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Kano State government has approved the deportation of almajiris, otherwise known as ‘children beggars’ in the State.

Salihu Tanko Yakasai, the media aide to Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, made this known on Sunday.

Recall that Ganduje had earlier banned street begging by children known as Almajiris.

The governor had said the decision was made to fully consolidate the free and compulsory primary and secondary schools education in Kano State.

However, Ganduje on Sunday said the decision was taken to reduce the risk of exposing almajiris to the deadly coronavirus.

“H.E @GovUmarGanduje has today, disclosed that his government has begun the deportation of Almajiris in Kano back to their home towns and states.

“This is in order to reduce the risk of exposing them to Coronavirus and related hardship from the lockdown that will further affect them,” he tweeted.

Meanwhile, following the confirmation of 86 new COVID-19 cases in the country, Kano now has 37 cases.

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Trump encounter attack over comments on lockdown

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United States President, Donald Trump has been criticized for “encouraging” people to break the law amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Washington State Governor, Jay Inslee, put Trump on blast on Sunday for repeated comments during his daily briefings.

Trump maintains that he did not believe that protests against stay-at-home orders were putting people at risk of spreading or contracting COVID-19.

Inslee complained that Trump was ignoring warnings of respected US officials who have been speaking against mass gatherings.

“To have an American president to encourage people to violate the law, I can’t remember any time in my time in America we have seen such a thing.

“It is dangerous because it could inspire people to Ignore things that could save their lives,” Inslee told ABC Chief Anchor George Stephanopoulos.

“And it is doubly frustrating to us governors. The president is asking people ‘please ignore Dr. Fauci, Dr. Birx, please ignore my own guidelines I set forth,’” the governor added.

Dr. Anthony Fauci has served as the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984, while Dr. Deborah Birx is a White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator.

Inslee warned that Trump’s “unhinged rantings and calls for people to ‘liberate’ states could also lead to violence. We’ve seen it before.”

The governor added that he hoped there could be “restoration of leadership in the White House.”

On April 7, Fauci warned that the world may never return to the “normal” known before the pandemic.

The renowned immunologist predicted that when normalcy returns in countries, the virus will be a looming threat even with a vaccine.

“When we get back to normal, we will go back to the point where we can function as a society.

“If you want to get back to pre-coronavirus, that might not ever happen in the sense that the threat is there.”

The United States has recorded 765,000 coronavirus cases and over 40,000 deaths.

Globally, coronavirus has claimed more than 165,000 lives and affected 2.4million people.

On Sunday, Yuan Zhiming, head of the Institute of Virology in China’s Wuhan reacted to allegations that the laboratory “created” coronavirus.

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Covid-19: Nigerians react as Lagos confirm 70 new cases in 24 hours

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Some Nigerians on social media have reacted to the sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in Lagos State.

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control on Sunday announced that 86 new cases of coronavirus infection have been reported in the country and out of the 86, Lagos recorded 70 cases which is the highest so far in the cases recorded in the State.

Some Nigerians who were shocked, took to their social media pages to lament.

While some expressed displeasure in the number of cases confirmed, others wondered how long it would take before the lockdown order would elapse.

Here are some comments gathered from social media.

@the ajebutter104 ” NCDC Dropped it like a banger.86 new cases70 in Lagos and you don’t want to stay in your house? Look at Me, You are mum.”

@rinudear ” 70 in Lagos alone? Lord, I have never repeated classes in my life but can we please repeat 2019 .”

@olafweshy” 70 in Lagos. Are you whining to me?DJ, please play me “IJOBA ORUN”.”

@realdreylo ” NCDC always comes to announce these cases in the night so that when we sleep we will forget about it. 86 new cases?!! 70 in Lagos!! Dos Lagos thinks this is the presidential election?”

@ Bhadmusakeem ”70 in Lagos is huge tho.”

@obongnovel ”70 in Lagos, Lord I want to go back to my village.”

@toluteezy ”70 in Lagos, Lagos keeps topping the league every day, I thought Lagos is on lockdown. So who is spreading the virus?”

@shybloggerpr ”70 in Lagos is not what is paining me alone, but the fact that I’ve been locked indoors for over 3 weeks just because I want to ‘stop the spread’ and yet the numbers keep increasing.”

@random_ized ”70 in Lagos the way things are going we are graduating from lockdown to shutdown.”

@volqx ”NCDC just dropped the new cases and we have 70 in Lagos only, guys forget the 3-month assumptions, I think everyone should start sewing Christmas clothes.”

@swaggzeez ”70 in Lagos in the last 24hours. God should please save us. This America just a month ago, from 200 deaths and its 40k today. God won’t let our own case be like this.”

@ernest_onefe ”70 in Lagos, Brace yourselves guys. This is gonna be a long break .”

@ispeakintegrity ”So disheartening! 86 New cases. The numbers aren’t beautiful. And 70 in Lagos. Do I need to tell Lagosians that this year maybe for LockDown? ”

@bola_blvck ” 70 in Lagos?? I don’t believe this.”

@hoezia ”Me viewing the breakdown of the new cases. 70 in Lagos ke!! God help us.”

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Coronavirus: 86 new cases confirmed in Nigeria, 70 more in Lagos – NCDC

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Eighty-six new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), taking Nigeria’s total infections to 627.

The NCDC confirmed this late on Sunday via a statement on Twitter.

According to the agency, of the 86 new cases, seventy were in Lagos, seven in FCT, three in Katsina, three in Akwa Ibom, one in Jigawa, one in Bauchi and one in Borno.

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Why Abba Kyari was a cabal in Buhari’s Presidency – Yahaya Bello

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The Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has said that President Muhammadu Buhari’s late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari was a ‘cabal’ in this present administration.

Bello explained that late Kyari stepped on toes while discharging his duties in the interest of President Buhari and Nigeria.

The Governor remarked that Kyari sacrificed it all to ensure that Nigeria had the much modest achievement that it had today, adding that he took a lot of bullets and responsibility for that.

Goldennationblog.com had reported that Mallam Kyari passed away on last Friday in Lagos after battling with Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Asked if the late Kyari was a cabal in President Buhari’s presidency considering how influential he was in the cabinet, Bello said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics: “Like you know and that of us in authority, loyalty is number one.

“Secondly, your ability and character to discharge the duties and responsibilities discharged on you is one other thing.

“Mallam Abba Kyari was very loyal to Mr. President, very diligent, professional par excellence, and he is very passionate about the progress and development of Nigeria, not only to our party the APC but Nigeria in general.

“Such a person, if he’s carrying out his duties and responsibilities, surely there is no way you will not step on toes one way or the other to ensure that the job is done.

“So if he stepped on a toe in one way or the other, it is just to ensure that he serves Mr. President diligently, that he did so well.

“He took a lot of bullets and responsibility for that. So there is no regret and no apology to that effect.

“In due course, we are going to miss this great Nigerian who sacrificed it all to ensure that we have the much modest achievement that we have today, so if you say cabal, in one way or the other yes.

“You will have one or two persons that are loyal to you who’re ready to dare the devil and ensure that the job is done. So if you call it a cabal, it depends on the angle you are looking at it from.”

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abducted Anglican priest released after N600,000 Ransom

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The Anglican Priest at Oko Agbele in Oshimili South local government area of Delta State, Revd. Anthony Oyi who was kidnapped by suspected herders while working in his farm at Issele-Mkpitime in Aniocha north local government area has repossessed freedom.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Onome Onovwakpoyeya, confirmed he was released at about 6:00 pm local time yesterday, Sunday.

The police image maker said she could not confirm if the ransom was paid, but that efforts were still being made by the police to arrest the fleeing suspects.

It was also alleged that the sum of N600,000 had been paid to the abductors of the Anglican priest before his release.

Revd. Oyi was kidnapped alongside his wife and children while in his farm working on Saturday morning at Issele-Mkpitime.

The kidnappers, however at a second thought, left the wife and children to go look for ransom to release their father whom they took away.

Recall that the abductors had released the wife and children to look for money to be able to pay as a ransom for the husband’s release.

But the church said the kidnapped priest was doing his farm work when he was kidnapped, saying the church has nothing to do with the saga, a source said.

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Motorcyclists killed by a hit-and-run Driver

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A commercial motorcyclist was on Sunday crushed to death by a hit-and-run driver along Onitsha-Awka expressway in Anambra State.

The incident occurred around 6.38 pm at the popular Odumodu junction in Umunya, Oyi local government area of the state.

Goldennationblog.com gathered that the deceased was attempting to drive past the highway when he was knocked down.

Confirming the incident, State Sector Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Pascal Anigbo, attributed the cause of the incident to speed violation.

He said the victim was rushed to the hospital by the FRSC rescue team where he was confirmed dead by the doctor, adding that the corpse was taken home by the deceased family.

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Lagos Set 20 LGs as Centres for COVID-19 Test

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The Lagos State Government has announced coronavirus test centres in the 20 Local Government Areas of the state.

The government disclosed this on Sunday via its Twitter handle, noting that visits to the centres is “strictly” by appointment and not by emergency.

Residents were asked to make requests through app.alertclinic.com and schedule appointments at the test centre closest to them.

According to reports, of the over 500 infections reported in Nigeria, 309 cases, 94 recoveries, and 14 fatalities have been recorded in the nation’s economic capital.

Bellow are COVID-19 TEST CENTRES IN LAGOS STATE

Somolu Local Government – Wright Memorial Primary Health Centre (Emmanuel Street, Somolu)

Ifako Ijaiye Local Government – Ifako Mini Stadium (College Road beside Ifako General Hospital)

Ojo Local Government – Ojo PHC (1, Rest House, Ojo)

Eti-Osa Local Government – Ikota Primary School (Lekki-Epe Expressway)

Surulere Local Government – Surulere LG Secretariat (24 Alhaji Masha Road, Surulere)

Kosofe Local Government – Ogudu Area Office (By Ogudu Roundabout, Ogudu Road)

Amuwo Odofin Local Government – Amuwo Odofin LG Secretariat (41 Road, Festac Town).

Ikorodu Local Government – ItaElewa PHC (Oriwu Road, Ikorodu) / Igbogbo PHC (32, Bola Ahmed Way, Igbogbo)

Lagos Island Local Government – IganIduganran PHC (151/152 Adeniji Adele Road, Lagos Island)

Epe Local Government – Epe PHC (Epe/Ijebu-Ode Expressway bu Oba’s Palace).

Lagos Mainland Local Government – Simpson PHC (1, Glover Road, by Simpson Street, Ebute-Meta)

Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government – Akere PHC (106, Baale Street, OluwaAkere)

Ibeju Lekki Local Government – Awoyaya Mayfair Estate (Beside First Bank)

Apapa Local Government – Apapa Iganmu LCDA Secretariat (41, Gaskiya Road, Badia Apapa).

Alimosho Local Government – Bola Ahmed Tinubu PHC (Vulcaniser Bus Stop, Egbeda) / Ipaja mini-stadium (Fela Field, Ipaja) / Rauf Aregbesola PHC (1, Powerline Road, Okunola, Mosan-Okunola) / Meiran PHC (1, Meiran Road, Meiran) / Ijegun PHC (30, Kudeyibu Street, Transformer Bus Stop, Old Isolo Road, Ijegun, alo with Ejigbo Road / Helen Aderonke PHC (Olorunfunmilayo Primary School, OPC junction, Idimu Bus Stop)

Oshodi Isolo Local Government – Ajibulu PHC (1, Ajibulu Street, Mafoluku, Oshodi)

Ikeja Local Government – Ikeja LG Secretariat (2/3, Obafemi Awolowo Way)

Agege Local Government – Sango PHC (2, Balogun Street, Pen Cinema, Agege)

Badagry Local Government – Ajara Flagship Health Centre (1, Wande Street, Opp. 100 Shops, Ajara Badagry)

Mushin Local Government – Isola Road PHC (Isolo Road, near Zone D Police Command, Mushin / Odi-Olowo LCDA Secretariat (Ilupeju)

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Lockdown: What Governor Wike Did to 22 Exxon Mobil Staff

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The threat by oil workers to shut down the oil industry by midnight of Sunday, April 19, 2020, may no longer be necessary as the Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, has freed the 22 Mobil oil workers detained in Port Harcourt.

The state government had announced on Friday, April 17, that it had arrested the 22 Exxon Mobil workers who the governor said came in from Eket in Akwa Ibom State into Rivers State, saying this was a violation of the Rivers State Executive Order restricting movement in the state.

Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice for Rivers State, professor Zaccheus Adangor, said that the Mobil staff were released Sunday morning without charges. He said the state government would no longer press charges against them.

The AG said that they were released following interventions by well-meaning Nigerians. He noted that he monitored the release of the 22 workers at the Rivers State Isolation Centre at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt.

Adangor noted that the Rivers State Government remains committed to implementing the Executive Order issued to check the spread of coronavirus. The order stipulates that health authorities ascertain the coronavirus status of those entering the State.

It will be recalled that Gov Wike had fumed at a press briefing on Friday that he would press charges to the last possible limit and take the battle to any length to show that he was right and to protect Rivers people. He had accused federal authorities of undermining the powers of his state.

He said the FG must recognize where they were getting the oil and its revenues from and decried what he called marginalization of his state. He even said some federal personalities wished his state to have a high number of infections, but that he would stand firm to debar such wishes. He announced that Rivers had no single COVID-19 positive official case anymore after the exit of the second case.

Wike’s statements are seen by many as being ‘confrontational ‘ to the federal government.

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Lockdown: Americans in New York can wed through the internet – Governor Cuomo

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United States citizens resident in New York can now hold their weddings over the internet.

Governor Andrew Cuomo made the announcement on Sunday.

The approval followed continued closure of the city’s marriage office due to the coronavirus lockdown.

“I am issuing an Executive Order allowing New Yorkers to obtain a marriage license remotely and allowing clerks to perform ceremonies via video conference,” Cuomo wrote.

Data reports that one of the engaged pair is usually required to attend the marriage bureau in person to obtain the marriage permit.

Meanwhile, restrictions on movement will remain effective until mid-May in New York.

The state is the epicenter of the COVID-19 lockdown.

More than 13,000 have died from the disease in New York and nearly 40,000 in the whole of the U.S.

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Abba Kyari: Why President Buhari should appoint Igbo as a replacement – Ohanaeze

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The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council (OYC) has highlighted why President Muhammadu Buhari should appoint an Igbo as his new Chief of Staff.

In a statement on Sunday, they described the passing of Abba Kyari, as a “colossal loss”.

Buhari, had in a tribute, penned that Kyari was his loyal friend of 42 years and an individual who “never wavered in his commitment to the betterment of every one of us”

A statement by Okechukwu Isiguzoro, OYC President and Okwu Nnabuike, the Secretary, prayed God to give Buhari the fortitude to bear the demise, grant Kyari’s soul mercy and forgive his shortcomings.

They, however, appealed to Buhari to “look inward, make amendments and clear doubts about his stance as the father of Nigeria” by appointing replacement from the Igbo speaking areas of Niger-Delta or South-East.

OYC noted that there were capable and trusted allies of the president since his entrance into politics in 2003 to date.

The group said an Igbo Chief of Staff will unite the country, end secessionist movement in the South, add transparency to governance and ensure strategic stability of the economy.

“This is the most patriotic but rare opportunity for President Muhammadu Buhari to heal Nigeria from disintegration and collapse. In retrospect, it was an Igbo who masterminded the amalgamation of defunct political parties to merge into APC.

Ohanaeze Youths added that the Nigerian leader can “rewrite history by being contradictory to predictions and prove his legitimate political sagacity through the appointment of an Igbo from anywhere as the new Chief of Staff, even from the opposition party,” OYC said.

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Abba Kyari: What President Buhari did after Kyari’s burial

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President Muhammadu Buhari has reportedly appointed a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babagana Kingibe as Chief of Staff to replace Abba Kyari,

Former Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari was buried on Saturday after he died of the ravaging Coronavirus disease.

The late 67-year-old lawyer, businessman, and politician served President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 till his death on Friday.

Groups, including some from the South East, had also pleaded with the President to shift the position to the region following Kyari’s demise.

However, it was reported on Sunday that Kingibe, who has served the nation in different capacities as a diplomat, Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1993 to 1995, Minister of Internal Affairs from 1995 to 1997, Minister of Power and Steel from 1997 to 1998; and Secretary to the Government of the Federation from 2007 to 2008, has been appointed to fill the vacant position.

Abba Kyari tested positive to coronavirus on his return from Germany and subsequently died of the infection in Lagos.

Reports also reveal that Kingibe has been acting as Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari since Kyari left the Presidency for treatment.

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Covid-19: Why FG Should involve Men of God, others to Fight Coronavirus – Pastor Adeboye

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The General overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, (RCCG) Pastor Enoch Adeboye has called on the Federal Governement to seek the help of spiritual leaders to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.

Adeboye, who made this known in a message during his Sunday live Service, commended the government for its efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

The cleric said Nigeria will soon return to normalcy, adding that the journey will be gradual.

He said, “The believe the ‘return journey to normalcy has started. I will be with you one more Sunday and we return back to our usual.

“The return journey might not be rapid but gradual and steady.

“The Government has done credibly well because they are dealing with a kind they have not done before.”

“ I will suggest they include men of God I mean imam and arch bishop so they can help them with the spiritual aspect of the welfare.

“This coronavirus will receed but don’t let anyone deceive you it will not disappear hundred percent.

“Flu came it receded, Ebola came it receded. We all know it has not died completely,” he added.

“Flu came it receded, Ebola came it receded. We all know it has not died completely,” he added.

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Abba Kyari: President Buhari, Aisha, others Sends Sad message

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President Muhammadu Buhari, First lady, Aisha Buhari, Deputy Senate President, Senator Omo-Agege, the Nigeria institute of public relations and other concerned government officials and agencies have pen tributes as last respect to Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to the president.

The tributes which were compiled from the sources target more on the relationship and lifestyle of Abba Kyari who lost his life to the dreaded coronavirus.

Below are some of the tributes:

PRESIDENT BUHARI :

To My Friend, Mallam Abba Kyari.

Mallam Abba Kyari, who died on 17th April 2020, at the age of 67 from complications caused by the Coronavirus, was a true Nigerian patriot. My loyal friend and compatriot for the last 42 years – and latterly my Chief-of-Staff – he never wavered in his commitment to the betterment of every one of us.

He was only in his twenties when we first met. A diligent student, soon after he was blessed with the opportunity to study abroad – first at Warwick and then law at the University of Cambridge. But there was never any question Abba would bring his first-rate skills and newly acquired world-class knowledge back to Nigeria – which he did – immediately upon graduation.

Whilst possessing the sharpest legal and organizational mind, Abba’s true focus was always the development of infrastructure and the assurance of security for the people of this nation he served so faithfully. For he knew that without both in tandem there can never be the development of the respectful society and vibrant economy that all Nigerian citizens deserve.

In political life, Abba never sought elective office for himself. Rather, he set himself against the view and conduct of two generations of Nigeria’s political establishment – who saw corruption as an entitlement and its practice a byproduct of possessing political office.

Becoming my Chief of Staff in 2015, he strove quietly and without any interest in publicity or personal gain to implement my agenda.

There are those who said of him that he must be secretive – because he did not have a high public profile. But Abba was the opposite: he simply had no need, nor did he seek, the cheap gratification of the crowd; for him, there was nothing to be found in popular adulation. He secured instead satisfaction and his reward solely and only from the improvement of the governance of this great country.

Working, without fail, seven days each and every week, he acted forcefully as a crucial gatekeeper to the presidency, ensuring no one – whether minister or governor had access beyond another – and that all those representing and serving our country were treated equally.

He made clear in his person and his practice, always, that every Nigerian – regardless of faith, family, fortune or frailty – was heard and treated respectfully and the same.

Mallam Abba Kyari was the very best of us. He was made of the stuff that makes Nigeria great. Rest In Peace, my dearest friend.

To his loving wife and doting family who survive him, I extend my heartfelt sorrow at your loss.

Muhammadu Buhari,
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

……………………………………………

Aisha Buhari Condolence

Aisha on her verified Instagram page offered her condolences to Kyari and others who have died from Coronavirus.

She wished that Allah forgives Kyari of his shortcomings even as she prayed for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her post reads: “From God Almighty, we came and to Him, we shall return.

“I condole with Mrs. Kulu Abba Kyari and the entire family of Late Malam Abba Kyari over the death of their husband and father.

“I pray that Allah (SWT) will forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdausi and give the family the fortitude and patience to bear the loss, Ameen.

“While wishing all those infected a speedy recovery, I pray for an end to COVID-19 Pandemic.”
………………………………………

OMO-AGEGE MOURNS ABBA KYARI

Death has dealt Nigeria a very rude shock with the passing of Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba-Kyari and Nigerians must pray for President Muhammadu Buhari for divine help in charting the way forward, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has said.

Omo-Agege, in a statement personally signed by him, expressed sadness that Mallam Abba-Kyari who had been one of the President’s major pillars of support succumbed to the Coronavirus disease.

“Mallam Abba Kyari was a very hardworking patriot; I still recall his last official statement in which he admonished us all about the Coronavirus pandemic’s virulent threat to everyone without any consideration for class, creed or place of origin.

“There is no doubt about his encompassing influence and bold imprints in the conduct of official affairs at the Presidency over the past five years.

“Sadly, his exit came at a time when the world is reeling under unprecedented challenges and at a time when his counsel is most needed.

“Clearly, such grave loss will be deeply felt by President Muhammadu Buhari and we should pray that God Almighty grant Mr. President and Mallam Abba Kyari’s family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.

“May God Almighty grant his soul eternal repose,” he stated.

Signed:

Yomi Odunuga,
Special Adviser, Media, and Publicity to the Deputy President of the Senate
………………………….

NIPR CONDOLENCE

Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has received with sadness and shock but also with total submission to the will of God, news of the death of Mallam Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Being a necessary end that comes at the appointed time, it is not the timing of one’s death that is important; rather, what one brings to life matters more. On this score, we derive consolation from the fact that Mallam Abba lived a life well spent serving his country diligently in various capacities, in both private and public sectors.

On behalf of the Institute, I convey our most heartfelt condolences to his family, President Muhammadu Buhari and indeed all Nigerians over the death of Mallam Abba.

It is our earnest prayer that Allah (SWT) forgives his faults, grants him eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus and grants the family and all of us the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Mukhtar Zubairu Sirajo, fnipr
President/Chairman, Governing Council
………………………………..

NAHCON: Condolence Message Over Demise of COS to President Buhari

It is with a deep sense of pain that we at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, received the news of the demise of a noble soul, Malam Abba Kyari OON, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari. However, we take solace in the fact that he, Malam Abba Kyari, a humble man, left this world in the league of martyrs.

Late Abba Kyari’s contribution to national development is immeasurable, spanning his public service as commissioner in Borno state to the honourable office he held until his demise. The fourth board of NAHCON, led by my humble self, was greatly honored to meet and worked with him, even though briefly.

This period calls for sober reflections on the reality of COVID19. The entire management of NAHCON, once again, joins federal government and well-meaning organizations in calling on the general public to unite with the government in breaking the transmission chain of this global pandemic. As the President has stated, COVID19 is not a joke, it is a matter of life and death. Guidelines issued by the government in curbing COVID19 diseases may cause hardship, but we must agree that these are sacrifices we must make in our own interest. Please stay home unless on essential duty, and observe other preventive measures as directed by the federal government and other recognised health organizations.

Once again, on behalf of the entire staff and management of NAHCON, we condole President Muhammadu Buhari, the federal government and entire family of Malam Abba Kyari over the irreparable loss.

Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan,
Chairman/CEO,
NAHCON

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Abba Kyari: What Delta APC told President Buhari, others

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The Delta State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has mourned with President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigerians over the death of Malam Abba Kyari, the Chief of Staff to the President.

This is contained in a comforting message sent by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Sylvester Imonina on Saturday in Asaba.

The party lamented over the incredible exit of Kyari as a result of the ravaging coronavirus, describing his death announcement as a shock to the party and indeed the entire people of Delta.

The party also mourns with families of other Nigerians whose lives were caught short by the cold hands of the Coronavirus.

” before his death, Abba Kyari was the engine room of the Presidency, in view of the position he occupied, deploying his wealth of experience to manage the admiration of most Nigerians” Imonina Said.

“Kyari shall indeed be missed by Mr. President, APC family, and Nigerians in general,” he said.

He said the party joined hands with others to pray to God to receive their souls, with the hope that those who are still on the mother Earth will do their best possible in halting the menace of the dreaded disease.

According to him, the party commends the skillfulness of the health workers, while calling for a review of their allowances to encourage them to fight on to ensure that they save Nigerians from the disease.

“We commend the health workers that have made the sacrifice so much to contain the pandemic.

“Despite the novelty of the COVID-19 and the limited resources, our health workers have been battling the scourge and other diseases, like Lassa fever, with uncommon mental dexterity and professionalism.

“They remain our heroes. We shall continue to offer prayers for their safety and well-being, and we urge them not to rest on their oars.

“APC Delta calls for a holistic review of the welfare packages of health workers in line with international best practices.

“In fact, there is a need for total support and collective actions for health workers and the health sector. Their love and labour for our dear nation must not go unrewarded,” he said.

He, however, urged all Nigerians and Delta citizens to abide by all laid down rules and regulations by the government at all levels to contain the spread of the disease.

“At this perilous time, we urge Deltans and Nigerians to abide by the safety tips and measures put in place by the government at various levels.

“We believe that in no distant time, this common enemy (COVID-19) of mankind, shall be subdued,” Imonina said.

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Breaking: Bandits Abduct Anglican Priest, Others

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Reverend Anthony Oyi, an Anglican Communion Priest residing in Oko-Agbele quarters, in Isele-Mpkitime, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, had been allegedly kidnapped by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

It was gathered that Rev. Oyi had gone to work on his farm with his family and a friend to his family, at Issele-Mkpitime, Aniocha North LGA of Delta State before he was attacked by the suspected herdsmen.

It was also reported that the kidnappers had released the Priest’s wife and children but kept the Reverend and his friend in their custody.

It was also alleged that the wife of the priest was ordered by the kidnappers to look for money for the release of her husband.

In order to ensure the immediate release of the abducted victims, the Issele-Uku and Issele-Mkpitime vigilante group had swung into a vigorous search to every nook and cranny of the area.

Anyone with valid information as to the abductor’s hideouts should contact the nearest police station or security agencies.

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Okowa Reacts to Abba Kyari’s Death, Says A Great Loss To Presidency

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Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has described the death of Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari, as painful.

Okowa in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika on Saturday in Asaba, described Kyari’s death as a huge loss to the Presidency and the entire nation, considering his strategic role in the current administration.

He urged the presidency to be consoled by the legacies of integrity and capacity exhibited by the elder statesman who lost his life to the dreaded coronavirus.

His statement read in part, “It is with great sadness that I, my family, the government and people of Delta State commiserate with Mr. President, the Kyari family, and the entire Presidency on the passing away of octogenarian elder statesman, Mallam Abba Kyari.

“His death remains a great loss not just to his family and President Buhari’s administration, given his coordinating responsibilities to the President.

“Indeed, the late Abba Kyari was very supportive of the President and I can only imagine the grief and sorrow that has befallen our dear President on this loss.

“Mallam Kyari will be sorely missed by the Presidency and all those whose lives he had touched in several positive ways.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, President Buhari and entire Presidency that the soul of the deceased repose peacefully and the family gave the fortitude to bear his demise”.

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BREAKING: Lagos Reports Three COVID-19 Losses, Total Now 13 Deaths

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Lagos State has recorded three more coronavirus deaths, bringing the total deaths reported in the state to 13.

Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, disclosed this in a release on Twitter on Saturday.

He said, “32 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Lagos on April 17, 2020.

“The total number of confirmed cases in Lagos now stands at 286.

“Sadly, Lagos has recorded 3 more deaths bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths in Lagos to 13.

“The deceased are 2 males and 1 female aged 52, 63 and 67. Two of the dead had underlying health issues.

“The 2 males had no travel history or record of contact with an infected person.”

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Video: Abba Kyari Buried In Gudu Cemetery, Abuja

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President Muhammadu Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, has been laid to rest.

Kyari’s corpse was interred at the Gudu Cemetery in Abuja on Saturday.

The late CoS died of COVID-19 on Friday.

Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity had announced Kyari’s death in the early hours of Saturday.

The deceased had tested positive to the ravaging COVID-19 on the 27th of March, 2020 and was receiving treatment before his death.

He was aged 82.

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PDP Sends Solace Message To Buhari, Kyari’s Family and Families Of Covid-19 Victims

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The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the death of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari, as depressing and saddening.

The PDP stated this in a message of comfort to President Muhammadu Buhari, the Kyari family, the government and people of Borno state and the nation at large for “this painful loss and prays that the Almighty Allah grants Mallam Abba Kyari eternal rest.”

A statement by the national publicity secretary of PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan, added, “Similarly, the PDP commiserates with families of all the victims of COVID-19 pandemic and prays for the speedy recovery of the sick who are receiving treatment in various isolation centers.”

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Bollywood Actor of ‘Prison Break’ Chowdhry Is Dead

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Popular Bollywood actor, Ranjit Chowdhry is reported dead.

The actor who appeared in episodes of “The Office and Prison Break’ was reported to have died at a Mumbai hospital after returning from the US several months ago.

Local theatre personality, Dolly Thakore told the Orissa Post that Chowdhry was rushed to the hospital on April 14th after he suffered a ruptured ulcer.

“He got a ruptured ulcer in the intestine on April 14. A physician was called who said he needed to go to the hospital, and he was taken to Breach Candy hospital.

“They operated on him, but he died at the hospital yesterday at 4 am in the morning,’ Dolly said.

Chowdhry starred in Prison Break, Girls, and Law & Order after he moved to the US.

He was also known for his appearances in the Last Holiday, starring Queen Latifah and the 1990 film Lonely in America, among others.

The ‘Prison Break’ actor Ranjit Chowdhry died at the age of 64.

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Private Hospitals Must Show They Have Qualified Staff Before Admitting Coronavirus Patients – FG

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The Nigerian government has listed conditions private hospitals must meet in order to get accredited to treat Coronavirus patients.

The government, however, said that at the moment, no private facility in the country has been accredited for the treatment of COVID-19.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, stated this in Abuja on Friday, during the press briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.

“Lagos is looking at some hospitals for treating Coronavirus. Private hospitals must show that they have the staff – doctors, and nurses that must be infectious disease specialists and are trained in infection and control protocols. The hospital must also have cleaners who are trained, “he said.

“The hospital must also be properly delineated as it is in a clean and not dirty area. There is no hospital that I know that has met the criteria in the country at the moment.

“Treating private patients is not allowed because the risk is very high. If the treatment of patients gets complicated, before you rush them to the accredited hospital, it will be too late for the person. So, the earlier they begin their treatment in an accredited and certified hospital, the better it is.”

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Update: Abba Kyari’s Corpse Arrives Abuja, Funeral Prayers In Progress

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The corpse of the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Late Abba Kyari, arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja on Saturday at about 9 am.

Funeral prayers for the deceased senior presidential aide are ongoing at the Defence House Maitama, Abuja.

His remains are expected to be interred shortly according to Islamic injunctions.

Kyari, who tested positive for coronavirus, died on Friday in a private hospital in Lagos.

Details of funeral shortly…

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Covid-19 : Nigerians Responds To Abba Kyari’s Death

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•FG Is To Be Blamed For Poor Health Care.

Nigerians on social media have mourned and responded to the demise of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari.

Recall that goldennationblog.com had earlier today reported the demise of Abba Kyari as announced by the Presidency on Saturday Morning.

The Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari died after a protracted battle with Coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19.

Reacting, Nigerians on Twitter commiserated with Kyari’s family, while others blamed the country’s poor health care system as well as his deeds for his death.

Here are some comments gathered from Twitter :

@scofied_dree, “Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari is dead. I hope we take this Coronavirus virus as a state of emergency and start acting ahead.”

@obrienthagreat, “Abba Kyari is dead, now the Nigeria 1st lady can breathe clean air.

“The way you lay your bed, so you shall lie on it”.

They refused to fix the health sector, this is the consequence.”

@pbazia1, “Abba Kyari refused to self-quarantine on returning to the country, infected others, they refused to close our borders after the index case until their people returned with the imported virus and here we are in failed medical system.”

@Abduksalam_jef, “The Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Abba Kyari has died. We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. May Allah forgive his shortcomings.”

@Doyen_king, “The death of the Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari doesn’t seem to surprise me. Am I the only one? May his soul rest in peace if he deserves peace. His acts as a living man should judge his dying soul.”

@i_umar, “Innalillahi wa Inna ilaihi raji’un. May Allah forgive Abba Kyari and the entire Ummah who lost their lives due to this pandemic. Ameen.”

@waspapping ”Anybody that’s happy about the death of Abba kyari is stupid, evil and inhumane. Rest on Abba Kyari.”

@abrahamthesaint, “The people who were insulting Abba Kyari and rejoicing that a Nigerian politician tested positive for COVID-19 are the same people showing sympathy now that he is dead. No true love on this app, just clowns and attention seekers.”

@Iam_chisomlucky, “Abba Kyari is dead, I’m not ‘gonna’ rejoice about it because he is also a human being. But do you know millions of innocent Nigerians that have died because of poor health care? I watched my younger brother die in front of me because oxygen was not available.”

@_greyhair, “It’s sad that Abba Kyari died and I’m sure God will comfort his family. As for me though, I can’t fake empathy or condolences because he was part of an administration whose corruption also caused the death of other people’s family members and friends.”

@Yamizhan, “I hope after Abba Kyari death, COVID-19 issues will be tackled with more intensity with an equal treatment to all. 18 people have died so far, the govt & people really need to sit tight on this.”

@fegur_green, “The healthcare they refused to provide for us, they will now enjoy and benefit from it with the rest of us. Nobody is flying anywhere for medical treatment! Rest In Peace Abba Kyari. May God be with your family during these trying times.”

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Coronavirus: Presidency Discloses Plan For Abba Kyari’s Funeral

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The deceased chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Abba Kyari will be buried in Abuja today.

Mr. Kyari, from Borno State, was pronounced dead on Friday from coronavirus complications. He was first tested positive for the virus on March 23 and subsequently moved to a private medical facility in Lagos for treatment.

Following his demise Friday night, the presidency has commenced burial plans in earnest in line with Islamic provisions.

It was Learnt from a presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu that Mr. Kyari’s remains will arrive in Abuja from Lagos Saturday morning.

He will be received by friends and cabinet colleagues at the airport in Abuja from where he will later be taken to a cemetery in the nation’s capital for burial, Mr. Shehu said.

The burial will not be made open in compliance with the existing social distancing directive aimed at curbing the spread of the deadly virus.

Mr. Kyari has been in the public consciousness since he was announced to have fallen victim to the virus on March 23.

He was initially receiving treatment in Abuja before he was transferred to a private hospital in Lagos on March 29.

In a March 29 statement, Mr. Kyari said his health was improving and urged Nigerians to remain calm about his situation and keep a hygienic lifestyle to avoid contracting the virus.

But on Friday night, the presidency confirmed he had departed from complications inflicted by the virus. Mr. Kyari consequently became the most senior Nigerian government official and politician to die from the virus, which was first reported in the country on February 27.

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Buhari’s COS Kyari, Dies After Receiving Treatment On Covid-19

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The Nigerian presidency has on Saturday morning, announced the death of the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Abba Kyari.

Presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, made the announcement in a statement.

Recall that Abba Kyra was two weeks ago texted positive to coronavirus, a deadly pandemic ravaging the globe.

“The deceased had tested positive to the ravaging COVID-19 and had been receiving treatment. But he died on Friday, April 17, 2020.

“May God accept his soul. Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly”, he added.

Also, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), on Friday night, confirmed 51 new cases of COVID-19.

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Covid-19: CAN President, Rev. Ayokunle Discloses What God Revealed To Him To Tell Christians

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The National President of Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Supo Ayokunle, has revealed that God told him to tell Christians to set aside 30 minutes each day for seven days from Monday, April 20 to Sunday, April 26 to praise the beauty of God’s holiness.

Ayokunle, who made this known in a statement to newsmen on Friday, said God ministered to him that the faithful should take a step further in winning the battle over many challenges facing the nation and the Church, especially the COVID-19 currently ravaging the society.

Citing Acts 16:25-26 in the Bible, the cleric said Paul and Silas used the praise approach to provoke further divine intervention.

He pointed out that God inhabits the praises of His people.

According to him, praise is the big gun of faith, which when triggered could accomplish a lot in the spiritual realm.

“I will be relying on the Holy Spirit and your responsible leadership in coordinating this, just like you did during the last prayer chain.

He pointed out that God inhabits the praises of His people.

According to him, praise is the big gun of faith, which when triggered could accomplish a lot in the spiritual realm.

“I will be relying on the Holy Spirit and your responsible leadership in coordinating this, just like you did during the last prayer chain.

“I believe that if we do this in one accord, God will do something very positive soon for us.

“Not only by wiping away the global COVID-19 pandemic but by also helping us overcome other challenges facing us in general.

“May the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ continue to be with us all, Amen,” Ayokunle added.

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Covid-19 Palliative: Take Away Disbursement From Humanitarian Ministry – Sen. Ndume Warns

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Senator representing Borno North Senatorial District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Ali Ndume has insisted that the National assignment of disbursement of funds as palliatives be taken away from the Humanitarian Ministry.

Hours after attack from the presidency over his call for the immediate sack of COVID -19 measures committee headed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadia Umar Farouq, Senator Ali Ndume said he stands by his position on the programme.

Senator Ndume had on Thursday in Maiduguri picked gaps in the way and manner the distribution of palliatives to indigent Nigerians is being handled by the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.

Ndume who kicked against the modus operandi being adopted by the Ministry in a chat with journalists said the emergency national assignment should be taken away from the ministry and given to a fresh committee that will use governors of the 36 States as links of distribution across the federation.

His words: “My concern is the manner and the way the COVID-19 palliative measures provided by the president is being handled or executed. We have received numerous complaints and it is actually very unfortunate.

“In fact, left to me, I am strongly calling for the humanitarian committee headed by the minister of Humanitarian Affairs to be dissolved with immediate effect and the president should as a matter of urgency, form a task force that would deal with the issue of palliatives, headed by the military, police, civil defence, voluntary organisations, and the NYSC among others.

“It should be formed as a task force committee headed by the governor of each state, and those materials or cash be allocated and distributed house to house, instead of the fake or dubious way they have been handling the matter by just going to Television House or Government House to demonstrate.

“If you see a minister or big person anywhere going personally to do something, then know that there is something wrong. If not, what has the minister got to do with going from state to state to distribute palliative? They should be in the ministry monitoring the activities.

“While the pitiable situation of the poor is visible to everyone, few individuals are rushing to squander the money meant for the poor.

“We have reliable information that the names they generated are fake and that they connived with some of the banks to defraud the poor. It is better to stop the exercise because of it
is full of lies and if the president doesn’t do something to stop it now, we will end up investigating and later on going back and forward to the court”.

But the Presidency on Friday in Abuja through a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media, Garba Shehu, accused Ndume of politicizing a national emergency and challenged him to name the alleged kleptocrats in Buhari’s government.

Garba Shehu in the statement admonished Ndume to keep quiet as according to him, no serious government changes a winning team in times of war.

The statement titled: “Senator Ali Ndume should figure out his mentioned kleptocrats around the President or be quiet “, reads in part
“Claiming that the COVID-19 Palliative Measures Committee is not functioning as it should is not the same as presenting proof for such a claim.

“No one replaces an institutional government body in the midst of the global pandemic without clear and irrefutable evidence that it needs replacing.

“A press briefing from a discontented politician is rarely the source of such evidence.

“At this difficult time of the battle by Nigeria against Coronavirus, everyone should help the fight and not seek to make political capital out of it, whatever his or her grievances”.

Ndume who responded through telephone conversation, however, said he was not ready to join issues with anybody having made his observations known.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Ensure Proper Distribution Of PPE For Essential workers – NUJ Tells FG, States & Others

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The leadership of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has challenged the Federal, State Governments and private business owners to urgently ensure the inclusion of media practitioners and other essential workers in the presentations of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and palliatives to protect and encourage performance and output during the COVID-19 lockdown.

A member of the NUJ, Trustee, Comrade John Angese, and the State Chairman of the Bayelsa Council of NUJ, Comrade Samuel Numonengi, made this known on Friday in Yenagoa.

Comrade John Angese noted that work must continue despite the dangers faced by journalists, Police, health workers.

He also said” In the sensitization, security, and treatment of COVID-19 virus, the Federal and State Government treat the essential workers as those not qualified to benefit from PPE, testing and presentation of palliative to cushion the effect of the pandemic”

He called on the Federate, State Governments and private sector to consider essential workers as the most vulnerable as they leave behind families at home to perform the needed duty to safeguard the lives of many Nigerians.

Also speaking, the State Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Samuel Numonengi noted that despite the huge role being played by the Nigerian journalists and other essential workers, they remain neglected and left vulnerable to contact the COVID-19 virus due to absence of PPE and others.

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Lagos Confirms 19 New Cases Of Coronavirus As Total Strikes 254 In The State

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The Lagos State Government has confirmed nineteen additional new Coronavirus cases in the state.

Prof. Akin Abayomi, the State Commissioner for Health made this known via his Twitter page on Friday.

The new confirmation brings the total number of COVID-19 cases in Lagos to 254.

He said, “As of 16th April 2020, 19 new cases of COVID-19 infection were confirmed in Lagos State.

He said, “This brings the total number of confirmed COVID-19 Lagos cases to 254.

“5 fully recovered COVID-19 patients were discharged.”

“Total discharged #COVID19 patients are now 90. I urge you to keep observing #SocialDistancing and #StayHome to reduce the spread of #COVID19.”

Recall that the NCDC, on its verified Twitter account, on Thursday said it recorded 35 new cases of COVID-19.

NCDC said it recorded 19 in Lagos, 9 in FCT, 5 in Kano and 2 in Oyo State.

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COVID-19: ‘Africa Could Be Next Epicenter’ – WHO Advises

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that Africa could become the next epicenter of the Coronavirus outbreak.

The organization stated that the continent does not have enough ventilators to deal with the pandemic and there was a sharp rise in cases in the past weeks.

”There have been almost 1,000 deaths and more than 18,000 infections across Africa so far, although these rates are far lower than those seen in parts of Europe and the US the virus appears to be spreading away from African capitals,” WHO added.

The organization’s Africa Director, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, told the newsmen that the organization had witnessed the virus spreading from capital cities to “the hinterland,” in South Africa, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Ghana.

She said they were focusing on prevention rather than treating the virus because African countries don’t have the capacity to treat many Coronavirus patients.

Moeti said, “We want to minimize the proportion of people who get to the point of needing critical care in an ICU because we know that these types of facilities are not adequate by any means in the majority of African countries.”

“I have to say the issue of ventilators is one of the biggest challenges that the countries are facing.

”For patients critically ill with COVID-19, access to a ventilator could be a matter of life or death,” she added.

Recall that one of the first recorded deaths from Coronavirus in Africa was a Zimbabwean journalist, Zororo Makamba who died in March.

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COVID-19: Fani-Kayode Slams Security Operatives For Killing Nigerians Amidst Lockdown

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Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of aviation has claimed that more Nigerians have been killed by security forces while trying to enforce lockdown orders.

Recall that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday, said that security operatives have killed about 18 persons while enforcing the COVID-19 lockdown.

It was also learned that the activities of security agents have led to the death of about 11 patients under medical care.

Speaking on the development, Fani-Kayode on his Twitter page, lamented the effects of Coronavirus on Nigerians.

The former minister stated that the virus is not killing Nigerians but lack of light, water, and food will lead to the death of many Nigerians at home.

His tweet read: “More Nigerians have been killed by security forces trying to enforce the ‘stay at home’ order than by Covid 19.

“Those that are not shot in the streets have no light and food and are starving to death at home.

“This can only happen in a zoo, a jungle or a lunatic asylum.”

Meanwhile, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, CACOL, has also lamented the attitude and responses of the various security outfits to Nigerians since the coronavirus lockdown.

This is contained in a release issued to newsmen by its Executive Chairman, Debo Adeniran.

The group said it has been bombarded with reports and complaints from family and relations of victims of extrajudicial killings, state harassment and other forms of insecurity and viciousness by men and officers of diverse security outfits in the country since the official declaration of lockdown in some states of the country.

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Covid-19: Travel Restrictions And Other Limitations On Entry Are More Important Than Never Before – Trump

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U.S. President Donald Trump has said border control and travel restrictions would be a top priority as the country prepares to reopen its economy after a costly coronavirus shutdown.

Trump disclosed this during his daily news briefing on COVID-19 at the White House on Thursday where he announced a three-phased plan for the reopening process.

“As we begin a science-based reopening, we must be extra vigilant in blocking the foreign entry of the virus from abroad.

“Border control, travel restrictions and other limitations on entry are more important than never before to keep the virus in check and allow Americans to get back to work,” he said.

Citing expert advice, the president said the pandemic curve had flattened and the peak in new cases behind, hence the need for Americans to “start our lives again”.

However, he said the States would decide on when to reopen, but the guidelines recommend criteria that would have to be met in this regard.

“America wants to be open.

“Based on the latest data, our team of experts agrees we can start the next front in our war, which we are calling ‘Opening up America Again”.

“And that is what we are doing, opening up our country and we have to do that,” he said.

Trump said that a prolonged shutdown combined with “a forced economic depression” could deeply hurt the country and its economy.

The document lays out the guidelines to be followed for the reopening of businesses across the country painfully hit by the economic impact of the pandemic.

One of the key recommendations for the first phase is the avoidance of groups of more than 10 people where appropriate social distancing is impossible.

The first phase also discourages non-essential travel and encourages telework (working from home) and closure of common areas in offices.

Also recommended is the need for States to achieve a 14-day “downward trajectory” in coronavirus cases before beginning the re-opening process.

Under the plan, States are expected to set up screening and testing centers in addition to developing contact tracing capabilities.

It also recommends that hospitals should have a “robust testing programme,” in place for healthcare workers, among others.

While acknowledging that there would be challenges ahead, Trump said the goal was to quickly identify and address new cases.

“If the virus returns in the fall as some scientists think it may, possibly, these guidelines will ensure that our country is up and running so that we can likewise put it out quickly,” he said.

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Buhari Responds As Fire kills 14 In Borno IDP Camp

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President Muhammadu Buhari, has on Thursday evening, described as “extreme horrifying,” the news of the death of 14 persons and injury to many from a fire incident at an IDP camp in Ngala, Borno State.

At least 14 people were burnt to death and dozens injured when a fire broke out Thursday at the IDPs camp.

Ngala is a small town close to the border with Cameroon.

In 2015, more than 30,000 civilians fled their homes in the wake of attacks by the Boko Haram terrorist group and have been taking refuge at the camp.

Reacting to the sad incident, the President directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development to investigate and report the circumstances leading to the incident and advise on how a future occurrence will be averted.

Buhari’s reaction to the ugly incident was contained in a statement signed by Garba Shehu and made available to newsmen on Thursday.

He further directed that urgent assistance be immediately given to the victims, and prayed to Allah to repose the souls of those whose lives were lost, and the quick recovery of the injured persons.

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COVID-19: Kano Govt Counters NCDC On New Reported Cases Of Coronavirus, Says No New Case

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The Kano State government has clarified that there was no new confirmed case of COVID-19 in the state on Thursday.

The National Center for Disease and Control, NCDC, had on Thursday announced 5 new cases of Coronavirus recorded in Kano, bringing the total number of cases to 26.

This was after NCDC had reported 34 new cases of COVID-19, with 12 cases recorded in Kano state on Wednesday.

But, Salihu Tanko Yakasai, the media aide to Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, said the confirmed cases mentioned by NCDC were those from Wednesday’s report.

He noted that the total number of cases in Kano still stands at 21 as no new case was confirmed on Thursday.

On his Twitter page, he wrote: “Its worthy to mention that the five cases reported for Kano on Thursday are part of the 21 total confirmed cases as of yesterday.

“The NCDC omitted it in their updates on Wednesday. As of today, no new case in Kano. May it stay that way.”

Meanwhile, Ganduje has ordered a complete lockdown of the state for seven days, beginning Thursday night.

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COVID-19 Funds: Govt. & Other Agencies Must Remain Accountable For Covid-19 Funds – Peter Obi

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The vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2019 general elections, Peter Obi has demanded accountability from the Federal Government and agencies in handling the COVID-19 funds.

The former Anambra State governor said that the government must carry Nigerians along on how donations were being received and put to use.

Many individuals, religious organizations and unions and agencies have made contributions to the Federal government to help in the fight against Coronavirus.

Most recently, the European Union made a donation of €50 million to the Nigerian government to help the fight against the spread of the deadly coronavirus disease.

“It is essential that the government and concerned agencies remain accountable in the usage of funds raised to combat #COVID19 in Nigeria.

“In essence, Nigerians should be carried along on the inflow and outflow of #COVID19 funds – as well as a breakdown of all such expenses,” Peter Obi tweeted.

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Lockdown: NUJ Delta Council Decries Attack On Media Workers By Police & Government Officials

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The Delta State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, (NUJ) has described actions melted on media workers by security operatives and some government officials amidst the covid-19 lockdown as unfortunate and disheartening.

This is contained in a press statement signed by the union and was made available to newsmen.

In the statement, the Chairman of the NUJ, Delta State Council, Michael Ikeogwu said in the course of carrying out their constitutional responsibility, they were targets for attacks by members of the public, particularly security agencies and governmental bodies in Delta State.

He noted that recently, a reporter with Daily Trust newspapers was harassed and manhandled somewhere in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state for inquiring from officials of the state environmental taskforce if people should congregate for clean up in the face of effort aimed at curtailing the spread of the Coronavirus.

He also revealed that few days after that incident, a photojournalist with the Pointer newspapers, Norbert Amede, was brutally attacked by security agents (the police) in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area adding that Amede was physically disfigured and hospitalized for days.

Ikeogwu also pointed out that several reports of harassment and intimidation of media practitioners by security agencies and hired thugs of government functionaries across the state have been incidents in the Union’s secretariat.

According to the statement: ” Yesterday, Wednesday, April 15, 2020, Uvwie Local Government registered another attack on media personnel from Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri, who were on their regular routine to monitor compliance of the lockdown and more importantly, social distancing at the Effurun Market.

” The DBS Warri team, led by a deputy general manager, Linus Chima, was attacked for covering scenes of clear violation of the social distancing directive by both the federal and state governments.

“We view this latest attack and previous ones as barbaric in an era where democratic tenets and freedom of the press are expected to be held in high esteem.

” NUJ Delta State Council hereby aligns with the earlier call by the DBS Chapter of NUJ and RATTAWU call on the Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Mr. Ramson Onoyake to apologise to NUJ as well as arrest, interrogate and prosecute the team that attacked the DBS crew or faces an imminent boycott of coverage of programmes and activities within Uvwie Local Government Area.

” We recall that in the wake of the lockdown, the media were among those exempted from movement restrictions. This is because of the vital role the media, like other critical sectors, play in the developmental advancement of society.

” Sadly, the leverage of the media to operate responsibly is daily curtailed and threatened by security agents and government officials who have skeletons to cover.

” We wish to state that the media will not be daunted in the face of the unfriendly atmosphere some security agencies and government officials have put in place.

” Nevertheless, we wish to remind governments at all levels in the state of their responsibility to protect the lives of the citizens, including media practitioners. We have not recorded any death among our folds. At the rate these abusers of the media are going, we might soon register.

” This is why the authorities must stand up to their responsibilities and protect the sanctity of the freedom of the press as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

” We, however, call on our members to be law-abiding and continue to go about their duties responsibly while we call on authorities in the local, state and federal governments to take urgent steps to stem the tide of attacks on media personnel.

” For the avoidance of doubt, our governmental bodies should be reminded that these same media they are treating with disdain were at the forefront of the fight for the democracy these levels of government are presenting savoring. The media deserve a better deal.

” In conclusion, we may be left with the option of a total blackout of coverage of the lockdown the order if the needless attacks on our highly esteemed members continue.

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Lockdown Extension: Delta Will Distribute Palliatives To Indigent Citizens Soon – Ifeajika

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To cushion the consequences of the 14 days lockdown occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic, Delta State Government has said it will soon commence distribution of food items to citizens of the state before the end of the week.

Olisa Ifeajika, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Asaba, yesterday.

Recall that on April 1, Okowa ordered a total lockdown of the state as a measure to prevent the ravaging Coronavirus pandemic in the state.

Ifeajika pointed out that plans had been worked out to ensure that nobody was cut off from getting the palliative.

He said that primary beneficiaries would be the indigent and vulnerable citizens in the state.

Speaking further, Ifeajika noted that the palliatives will be rolled out before the end of the week to cushion the effect of the Coronavirus lockdown in the state.

“The state government has set up committees to handle the distribution of the food items across the state and by God’s Grace, the palliatives will be rolled out before the end of the week and it is for all Deltans, no party affiliations.

“Each local government area has a committee in which the commissioners, legislators and the local government area chairmen, religious leaders and other community leaders are members.

“The items will be distributed via the wards and units in each local government to all vulnerable persons and not along with political party affiliations.

“As you know, in the wards and units, the people know themselves, so nobody will be shut out and our target is particularly the indigent citizens,” he said.

In this same line, it was gathered that residents in Warri, were already waiting for the state government palliatives to cushion the hardship being experienced due to the covid-19 lockdown.

Also, a source from a warri who spoke on the condition of anonymity said: “Till now, we have not received palliatives from the government, NGO’s, CSO’s, Corporate bodies or individuals.”

“People have been calling to know what is happening and I told them there is nothing yet,” the source said.

Responding, Udu Local Government Council vice-chairman, Mr. Justice Iyasere said that they sourced funds within the council to buy some food items that were distributed to the people of the area during the lockdown.

“Member representing Udu Local Government at the Delta House of Assembly, Mr. Peter Uviejitobor also donated to the people.

“As at now, we have not received palliatives from anywhere but we are expecting from the state government very soon,” he said

Still, while the residents awaited the state government palliatives, most communities across the 25 LGAs of the state had received palliatives from various politicians and political office holders to cushion the effect of the stay-at-home order.

The state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa had earlier declared that apart from the personal donations by serving political office holders to their respective constituencies, their one month subvention would also go into procuring palliatives for the people during the period of the lockdown.

The state lawmakers were also reported to have impacted their constituencies in diverse ways to support the people, particularly indigent and vulnerable persons in the areas.

On his part, the Speaker, Delta House of Assembly, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori distributed food items to cushion the effect of COVID-19 to people of Okpe Constituency.

The items distributed were bags of rice, bags of beans, cartons of tin tomatoes, cartons of indomie noodles, vegetable oils among others.

Mr. Ferguson Onwo, (Isoko South II) constituency also gave cash donations to his own people.
Other lawmakers who distributed food items and cash included the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, Mr. Christopher Ochor, representing Ukwuani constituency, Mr. Friday Osanebi (Ndokwa East), Mr. Charles Emetulu (Ndokwa West), and Mr. Emeka Nwaoba (Aniocha North).
Also, Mr. Solomon Ighrakpata ( Uwvie), Mr. Charles Oniyere (Ughelli North I), and Reuben Izeze (Ughelli South) were not left out in the food distribution to cushion the effect of the lockdown in the state as a whole.

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NSCDC Officer Seeking Bribe Shoots Driver To Death

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A commercial vehicle driver, Amobi Igwe, was on Wednesday killed by a trigger-happy officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Eke Richard.

The incident happened at the tollgate area of the Umuahia-Aba Expressway in Umuikea, Isialangwa South Local Government Area of Abia State around 7.17.10 while the victim was conveying food items, like rice and tomatoes, to Aba.

The NSCDC officer was alleged to have demanded a bribe from the driver, who reportedly refused to part with any money.

Richard was alleged to have aimed his rifle at the driver and threatened to shoot him if he refused to hand over the key of the vehicle to him.

Sources said the middle-aged driver demanded to know his offence, but the NSCDC officer allegedly shot him at a close range and ran into the police station near the Umuikaa junction to escape mob attack.

The state Commandant of the NSCDC, A. C. Nwannukwu, confirmed the incident in a statement, stating that the driver from Ishiagu in Ebonyi State, was not conveying foodstuffs and allegedly refused to stop when asked to do so.

According to him, Amobi speed off dangerously, skidded over the barricade and brushed the officer with the car.

Nwannukwu used that at that point, Richard fired at the vehicle’s, “unfortunately, the bullet strayed and hit the driver, leaving him seriously wounded. He was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead.”

Meanwhile, the Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders has demanded the immediate arrest, dismissal, and prosecution of Richard, describing his action as “barbaric and wicked.”

“We condemn in the strongest term the killing of the driver by the NSCDC operative. We demand the immediate dismissal, arrest an,d prosecution of the NSCDC personnel and the team that caused the untimely death of this young man, who had a family and children to take care of,” the group said in a statement by its President-General and Secretary-General, Goodluck Item and Kanice Igwe, respectively.

Similarly, goldennationblog.com had reported earlier today that the police in Anambra State allegedly killed two persons, while enforcing the lockdown order in the state on Tuesday.

The incident happened at the New Tire Market Area of Nkpor in the Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.

The incident triggered a protest by residents, who blocked the New Tire Market of the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway and made bonfires.

The vehicular and human movement to and from Onitsha from the Nkpor area was affected for several hours.

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FG To Raise N60bn Through Bond Auction

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The Debt Management Office (DMO) on behalf of the federal government is set to raise N60 billion through the FGN savings bond issuance.

The debt office is also reopening the FGN bond market next week, having raised N50 billion from a bond auction held last month.

The debt office in the bond auction notice released yesterday said it plans to raise N20 billion each from the 12.75% FGN APR 2023 5-year paper, 12.5% FGN MAR 2035 15-year paper and 12.98 % FGN APR 2050 30-year paper at the auction scheduled for next Wednesday.

Last month, the DMO had raked in N50 billion from auction, from the tree bond in addition to N20 billion realized from non-competitive bids from two of the bonds.

Also, the March 2020 bond auction also met the N50 billion expectation, although the short-term bond did underperforming.

As against the N15 billion, it planned to raise from the 5-year paper, the debt office had realized only N5 billion from the seven successful bids which had been at a 10 percent marginal rate. Investors also put in N10 billion in the bond through the non-competitive bids.

For the 15 and 30-year bonds, the DMO had allotted N20 billion and N25 billion in spite of the N69.01 billion and N91.8 billion subscription offered for the two bonds respectively.

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FG Approves N200bn To Improve Gas Supply To GenCos During Lockdown

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The Federal Government has approved N200 billion payment for improved gas supply to the Electricity Generation Companies (GenCos) so as to increase power supply to Nigerians during the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown period.

The Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele Kyari made the disclosure on Wednesday after a meeting with the Minister of Power, Engr. Saleh Mamman and the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Mr. Usman Gur Mohammed at the Ministry of Power in Abuja.

According to him, the payment, which would be made available within two to three days will help address payment issues.

Kyari said, “The federal government has made payment of over N200 billion for power in the two or three days, this will go a long way in making sure that those payment issues are resolved and we are engaging as a government to make sure that those payment issues are fully settled.”

Kyari noted that the meeting was held at the instance of the minister to further improve gas supply to the power plants.

“I will visit some of the plants by tomorrow to make sure that any curtailment that is in the system is sorted out and ultimately Nigerians during this period of lockdown will have better access to power,” Kyari noted.

In his remark, MD TCN, Mr. Mohammed said although there is gas several power plants do not have gas supply agreements.

His words: ”The suppliers always divert it to other places and from time to time, we always have constraints of gas and that is a big problem for us.

“With this meeting that has taken place and for the fact that the Minister has prevailed on the GMD of NNPC because we are still the same government, to the asset in the supply of gas to the power plants, we believe that we are going to have more sustainable power supply going forward especially during this period of COVID-19,” Mohammed noted.

Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Mr. Chiedu Ugbo said the NIPP GenCos under his operations will get the gas fund and pay up.“We will soon get our own part of the payment and I assured the GMD of NNPC that as soon as NDPHC is paid, we have our payment vouchers ready, all we will do is press the button and remit what goes to gas.”

He noted that Calabar NIPP is the only NIPP plant with the gas agreement. “Thankfully, the gas was there during this period and we ramped up production. We did 400 megawatts (MW) of power when every other plant was down.”

In the Distribution section, Ugbo said his firm has been intervening by providing 500KVA transformers, wires and cables to replace faulty ones in the networks of the Distribution Companies (DisCos) to ensure there is more access to electricity during this period.

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Covid-19 Lockdown: Angry Youths Battles With Police For Killing Two In Anambra

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Two boys have been reportedly killed in a clash between the police and irate youths who were protesting the arrest of some of their members for flouting the lockdown at Nkpor near Onitsha.

It was gathered that the incident occurred at New Tyre Market, Nkpor near Onitsha on Wednesday.

It was reported that the killing of the yet to be identified boys by the police resulted in a protest by some irate youths, who burnt tyres on the road.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mr. Haruna Mohammed, attributed the killings to an unprovoked attack on a police patrol team by some miscreants.

He said “It was caused by an unprovoked attack on a police patrol team with substance suspected to be acid by some miscreants.

“Yes, they snatched the rifle of the policeman after pouring acid on him, which prompted the other policemen to use force and retrieve the AK 47 rifle.

”Efforts are ongoing to restore sanity in the area.”

He added that the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. John Abang had ordered a sensitive investigation into the incident.

However, an eyewitness told newsmen that the unfortunate incident took place at Ezego Str., Nkpor near Onitsha around 1:00 p.m on Wednesday.

The source said some officials of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), who were relaxing at a shop near the scene of the incident, accosted the boys for flouting the lockdown.

“The boys were playing the ball across the road and decided to buy sachet water when the police officers saw them and wanted to arrest them.

“But they firmly resisted the arrest, which provoked the shooting by the police officers.

“One of the boys, who was shot in the stomach did not die immediately but was rushed to the hospital where he later died,” the source said.

It was gathered that the shooting got youths around the area angry and they mobilised against the police officers, burning vehicle tires in protest.

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Covid-19: Nigeria Confirm 34 More Coronavirus Cases, As Total Hits 407

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The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed 34 new coronavirus cases in the country.

The agency announced the latest cases in a tweet late Wednesday, April 15.

“Thirty-four new cases of COVID19 have been reported as follows: 18 Lagos, 12 in Kano. 2 in Katsina, 1 in Delta, 1 in Niger. As of 11:20 pm 15th April, there are 407 confirmed cases of COVID1-9 reported in Nigeria. 128 have been discharged with 12 deaths,” the tweet read.

“Thirty-four new cases of COVID19 have been reported as follows:

18 Lagos
12 in Kano
2 in Katsina
1 in Delta
1 in Niger
“As at 11:20 pm 15th April, there are 407 confirmed cases of COVID19 reported in Nigeria. 128 have been discharged with 12 deaths.”

As of 11:20 pm on April 15, the number of states with confirmed cases of COVID-19 is:

Lagos- 232

FCT- 58

Osun- 20

Kano- 16

Edo- 15

Oyo- 11

Ogun- 9

Katsina- 7

Bauchi- 6

Kaduna- 6

Akwa Ibom- 6

Kwara- 4

Delta- 4

Ondo- 3

Enugu- 2

Ekiti- 2

Rivers-2

Niger- 2

Benue- 1

Anambra- 1

Meanwhile, the report says that the Lagos chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) announced the death of Chugbo Emeka, a medical doctor.

The announcement was made via a post on the association’s Twitter handle on Wednesday evening, April 15.

The doctor who was reportedly a private medical practitioner was said to have died after being exposed to a COVID-19 patient.

He reportedly died at the isolation ward of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

The tweet reads: “NMA LAGOS regrets to announce the death of Dr. Chugbo Emeka at the LUTH isolation ward. He died on 15/04/2020. He was a Private Medical Practitioner who was exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19.

“We condole with his family and d medical community for this painful loss. “NMA, Lagos.”

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Bayelsa Loses Prominent Business Mogul And Icon, OKOKO

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Keniebi Okoko, Bayelsa-born billionaire businessman and philanthropist, has died in Lagos, throwing many Bayelsans into mourning.

Some reports said Okoko, son of Professor Kimse Okoko, died on Tuesday during a tummy tuck surgery in a Lekki hospital, Lagos.

A power outage was blamed for the death. Okoko died at 43.

He contested the Bayelsa primary for the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party last year. He did not succeed.

He was also a pastor of Salvation Ministries in Port Harcourt. Many Bayelsans and people who he had touched in his lifetime, were shocked by his sudden death.

Okoko was the founder and CEO KDI Group, said to be involved in oil and gas.

He was reputed to be the godson of former Nigerian leader, Goodluck Jonathan.

According to his Facebook wall, Okoko attended University Demonstration Secondary School (UDSS), Choba and he also went to University of Port Harcourt.

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COVID-19: Lagos NUJ Boss Decries journalists’ Welfare Packages

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, on Sunday decried the neglect of journalists by government, philanthropists and media owners in their efforts to cushion effects of COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Qasim Akinreti, the State Chairman of NUJ, expressed this concern in a statement he issued in Lagos, titled: “COVID-19: Where Are The Friends of Lagos Journalists”.

Akinreti said that journalists, like health workers, soldiers, policemen, and other security agents, were on the frontline and essential service providers in the global fight against Coronavirus pandemic.

According to him, daily reports, analysis, interviews, public messages, documentaries and breaking news on Coronavirus are beamed life, broadcast at appropriate schedules via terrestrial and satellite, keeping the public informed on the global health emergency.

He added that the Coronavirus messages and information were similarly printed on the pages of newspapers, online and social media platforms.

Akinreti said: “Despite these sacrifices, journalists in Lagos are hounded, harassed and disgraced by the security agencies.

“Worst still, the cry of the union to government, individuals and corporate bodies on palliatives to our vulnerable members is yet to be attended to.

“It is rather unfortunate that the people and corporate organisations have contributed to COVID-19 pandemic palliatives across the country and forget the journalists who announced and published the huge donations.”

The NUJ boss, who said he equally experienced highhandedness by security operatives, decried cases of alleged arrest and harassment of some journalists in the line of duty as well as their denial to cover court trial.

He said that journalists should also be remembered in all donations to fight the COVID-19 pandemic as critical stakeholders.

“Are journalists not your friends at this time of need? Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju, Chief Remi Makanjuola, Our senior Journalists- Chief Segun Osoba, Gbolabo Ogunsanwo, Lade Bunuola, Ayo Akinkuotu, Dr. Okey Ikechukwu, Dr. Reuben Abati Prince Uthman Shodipe, this is a call to action.

“What are the sins of journalists that we are not remembered at a time like this? The state governors from Lagos, Ogun, Kaduna, Kano, Rivers, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, and the Enugu States.

“Can’t venerable journalists benefit from your philanthropic gestures?” Akinreti asked.

According to him, the union under his leadership fed members and provided sanitizers to argument supplies in some newsrooms.

The NUJ leader added that available statistics had shown that in Lagos, some media owners had failed to pay salaries as when due and as such did not fulfill the basic economic rights of journalists.

“The question is what has the Journalist done to deserve this lack of respect to self-dignity and economic right?

“Today, many journalists have become veterans of poor status and suffering in silence.
“The overall effects of this inhumanity on journalists, journalism profession and society as a whole are horrendous.

“Poverty among media practitioners persists, unethical conduct is the order of the day and the voiceless in the society has to pay to be heard in whatever form,” he added.

Akinreti called on human rights lawyers, Ministries of Justice and Labour and Productivity to rise in defence of journalists being maltreated by their employers.

He also called on corporate bodies, philanthropists as well as media aides to politicians to rise in defence of journalists and journalism profession.

The NUJ boss called on conglomerates like Dangote Group, Folawiyo Group, Telecommunications, energy, oil and gas, financial giants, industrial and manufacturing companies, among others, to help distressed and poorest of poor journalists in Lagos.

He urged union members to keep and comply with all precautionary measures while carrying out their essential duties on the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Lockdown: Sapele Community Protest Against Extension, Cry For Hunger

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Hundreds of women and youths in Sapele, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State on Wednesday, peacefully protested against the extension of the lockdown order by Governor Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa.

The people who chanted solidarity songs marched through major streets of Sapele town.

They said there was hunger and that their businesses have crumbled without any hope of getting food to eat.

The protesters, however, said their anger was that Governor Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa announced an extension of the lockdown for another fourteen days without the provisions of essential needs for them.

One of the protesters identified as Onome, in a chat with newsmen, said, “As I’m talking to you, there is no food in my house and I have four children with a wife.”

Another protester, also identified as Oritsemeyiwa said the government was very insensitive to the plights of its people.

Oritsemeyiwa, an applicant said since the lockdown started, he had been going around begging to survive, stressing, “As it is now, I have no money anywhere. How to survive for the next fourteen days is what I am thinking about.”

It was gathered that the peaceful protest was hijacked by hoodlums who burnt fire at Okpe road just as they allegedly attacked and maimed residents of the area.

It took the intervention of police officers who swung into action and shot tear-gas canister into the air to disperse the peaceful protesters and the hoodlums.

When contacted, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa, who confirmed the protest in a telephone chat with newsmen said, “They have been dispersed.”

It would be recalled that Governor Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa on Tuesday announced an extension of the lockdown for fourteen days with an assurance that food items would be shared with Deltans without delay.

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Coronavirus: Lagos Records Another Death Of COVID-19 Patient

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The Lagos State Government has announced the death of another Coronavirus (COVID-19) patient in the state.

Prof. Akin Abayomi, Commissioner of Health in the state made the disclosure while confirming that the state recorded 25 new cases of Coronavirus.

He said the patient who died was a 63-year-old Nigerian who had no history of travel or contact with any confirmed case.

According to him, this brings the number of COVID-19 deaths recorded in the state to 7, adding that the state has so far recorded 217 cases.

In a tweet on his official Twitter page on Wednesday, Abayomi wrote, “Lagos recorded another COVID-19 death; a 63-year-old male, Nigeria who had no history of travel or contact with any confirmed case.

“Total COVID-19 related deaths now stands at 7.”

Recall on Tuesday, the death of a COVID-19 patient in Lagos was reported.

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Trump Stops Funding To WHO For COVID-19

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US President, Donald Trump has said he has instructed his administration to halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to the President, the WHO had “failed in its basic duty” in its response to the coronavirus outbreak.

He also accused the UN body of not telling the truth about what was happening at the centre of the Chinese outbreak in the city of Wuhan.

Trump has previously accused the WHO of being biased towards China.

It was reported that the hold on funding was expected this week as the Trump administration and conservative allies have ramped up their criticism that the United Nations agency tailored towards China early in the outbreak and jeopardized global health.

It was reported that criticisms were coming from U.S politicians, including President Donald Trump, who alleged that WHO was China-centric.

The United Nations, UN, in their defense stated that the WHO has done great work on Coronavirus under the leadership of Dr. Tedros.

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COVID-19: Over 80,000 Nigerians, Businesses Apply For N50bn Intervention Fund

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Over 80,000 people and businesses have applied for intervention funds, three weeks after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) released guidelines for the N50billion targeted credit facility.

This was confirmed by the Managing Director, NIRSAL Microfinance Bank, Mr. Abubakar Kure, during a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

The CBN had introduced the N50bn Targeted Credit Facility, as a stimulus package to support households and the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beneficiaries will be households and businesses adversely impacted by the Coronavirus.

Activities covered under the scheme are agricultural value chain activities; hospitality (accommodation and food services); health (pharmaceuticals and medical supplies); and airline service providers.

Others are manufacturing/value addition; trading and any other income-generating activities as may be prescribed by the CBN.

Kure said that 40,000 applications were from households, while 30,000 applications were received from the SMEs.

Funds will be disbursed from next week to those who met the criteria.

“We have over 80,000 applications, out of which 40,000 came from households, while 30,000 were from the SMEs.

“From next week, genuine applicants will start receiving alerts for their loans.

“Our people are working remotely and disbursements will start next week,” Kure said.

The CBN Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mr. Isaac Okorafor, also warned applicants against making payments for business proposals.

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COVID-19: SGF Reveals Reasons For Lockdown Extension In Lagos And Other Cities

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The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on Coronavirus has revealed why it recommended the lockdown an extension to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of PTF disclosed that the committee recommended the lockdown extension because of Nigeria’s survival.

Mustapha made the disclosure during the joint national briefing of PTF on Tuesday in Abuja.

According to the SGF, “The Presidential broadcast addressed several critical issues of concern to our survival as a nation.

“After a very meticulous assessment of the recommendations of the PTF, Mr. President has authorized the extension of the restriction of movement in Lagos and the Ogun States as well as the FCT for an additional fourteen days effective Monday 13th April 2020.

“Such a monumental decision has been taken at great pains and we continue to appeal to Nigerians to show a lot of understanding, comply with orders, observe social distancing, keep a high level of personal and respiratory hygiene, stay at home unless it is compelling to go out and generally take responsibility for playing your individual role in this war.”

Recall that Buhari had yesterday extended the lockdown in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun State in a bid to further tackle the spread of COVID-19.

In a nationwide address, Buhari had extended the lockdown by 14 days.

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Covid-19: NUJ Applauds Health Workers

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended medical workers for their actions in managing the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

Mr Chris Isiguzo, President of NUJ, gave the commendation in a statement on Monday.

He said; “The Union is indeed proud of what our home grown medical practitioners and health workers have achieved so far in the fight against this pandemic, in spite of poor facilities.

“With very low mortality rate, increasing number of discharged persons and effective management of positive patients, our medical professionals can compete favourably with the best in the world if given the opportunity.

“The union therefore calls on the federal and state governments to consider adequate remuneration for health workers in this line of duty” the NUJ president said.

However, he described actions of some state governors as disappointing and careless. According to him, the decision to relax some restrictions and social distancing directives for Easter celebration is a dangerous gamble.

Isiguzo submitted that while calling for more sustained palliatives for the poor and hungry in society, there should be efficient distribution to all parts of the country.

“The union appeals to all citizens to give their full cooperation to all lawful orders to curb the spread of this virus,” he added.

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BREAKING: President Buhari Will Broadcast To The Nation Today By 7 Pm

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Nigeria President, Muhammadu Buhari, will be addressing Nigerians on a live broadcast today.

This was disclosed by the President Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.

According to the SSA, Buhari will be on a live broadcast by 7 pm on Monday, April 13th, 2020.

Stating that, Television, radio, and other electronic media outlets are advice to hook up to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria respectively for the broadcast.”

The President is expected to address Nigerians on the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as some residents in Lagos, Ogun, and the Federal Capital Territory expect to know whether the lockdown would be extended or not

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COVID-19 LOCKDOWN: Police Inspector Arrested For Extorting 40,000 Naira From A Car Owner

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A police inspector, Tolaju Martin, attached to Ago police station in Lagos State as Station Officer (SO) has been arrested.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bala Elkana and made available to newsmen.

According to the reports, Inspector Tolaju was seen in a viral video on social media, while counting the money he extorted from the owner of a vehicle he impounded for violating the restriction of movement order during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The PPRO report also curtails that, after scrutinizing the video which surfaces the internet, the culprit was easily recognized, then been arrested.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu psc, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in Charge of Criminal Investigation to conduct an in-depth investigation into the activities of Ago Police Station as a whole.

The CP reaffirmed his position against corrupt practices and impunity while ordering the arrest of the inspector to be handed over to the Provost Marshall for Orderly Room Trials.

He also ensures to update members of the public on the outcome of the investigation.

The statement added that the money extorted was also recovered by the Commissioner and it has been handed over to the complainant after he was also been identified.

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Easter: ADP Yells For Prayers Against Coronavirus

The Action Democratic Party (ADP), on Sunday called on all Nigerians to use the Easter celebration to pray against further spread of Coronavirus.

In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Adelaja Adan eye, the party expressed optimism that there is an end in sight to the present challenge of the global pandemic.

The party said that despite the pandemic, which is now a major source of concern globally, Nigerians must stand stronger together in love and unity, as this time will surely be over soon, stressing that, rather than panic and fear, citizens should be hopeful, as no pandemic can outlast the human race.

He further noted that this is rancor all Nigerians must eschew every form of rancor and stand together in unity, as the only way the nation can move forward, is when both the government and the citizens come together, and stand in unity and love, by praying that all the troubles in the land, as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak become history.

Adelaja said, ”We greet all Nigerians during this Easter celebration, ”It is our, prayer that God almighty will restore peace, unity, and progress to our nation again, and help us end the ravaging and increasing rate of Coronavirus in the land.

“May the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ bring us eternal peace”.

The party, however, urged the Federal and State Governments, to provide adequate palliative for vulnerable Nigerians, and work more on how the economy can kick-start in the shortest time, arguing that prolonged shutdown will have adverse effects on the livelihood of citizens and various public and private business interests.

ADP advised all Nigerians that, while they celebrate this year’s Easter, they should minimize their movement, avoid large gatherings, and also adhere to all the precautionary measures issued by the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC).

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Our Aim Is NPFL Status – Kwara United Chairman

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The Chairman of Kwara United Mr. Kumbi Titiloye has said that the main aim of his club is to retain Nigeria Professional Football League status for next season.

Titiloye was speaking during a question and answer section with members of the popular Sports WhatsApp group NSM Rebranded this Saturday.

He said the intention and aspiration of Kwara United is to continue to work hard at the end of the Covid-19 pandemic in order to remain in the NPFL next season.

“Our aim and aspiration is to remain in the NPFL for now. With 13 matches to go we believe we have what it takes to remain afloat in the Nigeria Professional Football League “.

“Our aim is to play good, purposeful football and ensure that we stay in the league “.

He also said that Kwara United has acquired a group of young talented footballers who wants to showcase their talent to Nigerians, Africa and the whole World.

“By the Grace of God we don’t apply sentiment to what we do at Kwara United”.

“We are doing all we can to stay in the Nigeria Professional Football League and do better things in the League and in Africa God willing”.

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COVID-19 LOCKDOWN: Gov. Okowa Reinforce Sit-At-Home Order As Delta Confirms Its Third Case

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The Governor of Delta, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Saturday, disclosed that the state had recorded a third case of the Coronavirus pandemic.

He said in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, that the sample of the case which was taken to Irrua Specialist Hospital in Edo, for testing returned as positive.

“Earlier today, a third case of the COVID-19 was confirmed in the state and the patient is already receiving attention in one of our facilities designated for that purpose.

“I am pleased to report that the patient is in stable condition and is responding well to treatment from our team of medical professionals.

“In consonance with the rules and according to international best practices as enunciated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the state government urges Deltans, especially Christians to worship from home as the lockdown order is still in force.

“We thank Deltans for their support so far and urge them to continue to obey relevant instructions as it has become apparent that the virus is spreading in the state,” he stated.

“We will continue to partner the Federal Government on effective implementation of its regulations on measures to curtail further spread of the virus in our state and country,’’ the governor said.

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Buratai Relocates Fully To North-East To Combat Boko Haram

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The Nigeria Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen TY Buratai, has relocated fully to the North East.

According to the report, Buratai from his new location will be overseeing and directing the overall operation in the theatre and other Nigerian Army operations across the country.

The Nigerian Army Headquater in a press statement announcing the development reads, “While addressing troops of Special Super Camp Ngamdu in Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State on 9 April 2020, Gen Buratai said that he will be with them to the nooks and crannies of the theatre.

“It will be recalled that we earlier reported that the COAS had been on operational tour to troops’ locations in the North East Theatre of Operation since Saturday the 4th of April, 2020.”

“During the tour, he was at the Army Super Camp 1 at Mulai and the Special Forces Super Camp 12 at Chabbol near Maiduguri on Wednesday 8 April 2020 where he interacted with the officers and addressed the troops respectively.

“COAS was also at the Forward Operations Base at Alau Dam, and also personally led the troops on patrol round Mairimari and Maigilari Forests. The Nigerian Army wishes to reassure Nigerians that it is highly committed.

The report stated that The COAS’s relocation to the northeast is to protect law-abiding citizens and defending territorial integrity.

The statement urged members of the public to note that there is no form of Insecurity that can not be surmounted adding that the Boko Haram/ISWAP’s terrorism will also end in the nearest future.

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COVID-19: NMA Opposes Chinese Doctors, Despite Arrival To Nigeria

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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has criticized the arrival of Chinese medical doctors into the country to fight against the new Coronavirus.

In a two pages press release obtained by The ICIR, the professional body stated it is not against the visit, but expresses concerns about the contradiction between the explanation of the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire and the Managing Director of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Micheal Jiang, who said the medical personnel will be treating Chinese workers in their facilities in China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) with critical and necessary healthcare assistance.

“We are taken aback at this statement as this is at variance with the information supplied by the Honourable Minister of Health. We wish also to ask when Medical expatriates started coming to the Sovereign States to treat her nationals? What happens to the Nigerians working in those facilities”

NMA maintained that the Nigerian government is not transparent about the role the Chinese doctors are expected to play in the country.

The body insists that the government should come out clear on the invitation of the Chinese doctors as they are aware of the Chinese’ plan to construct two isolation centres in Abuja.

NMA added that the facilities cannot better compare to world-class isolation centre constructed and donated by Guaranty Trust Bank to the Lagos State government without the help of Chinese experts.

“We are aware of the “Stride with Nigeria” mantra of the CCECC and their willingness to participate in the construction of two isolation centres in Abuja.

This gesture is no different from that of Corporate Nigeria so far, including the world-class isolation centre constructed and donated by Guaranty Trust Bank to the Lagos State government without the help of Chinese experts. Unless there is something else, we don’t know.”

The 15 Chinese doctors arrived in Nigeria on Wednesday the 8th of April with equipment to assist the government tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, despite criticism by NMA.

The Nigerian minister of health, Osagie Ehanire, had earlier announced that the medical experts would be coming into the country to support the government’s fight against COVID-19.

According to findings, Wednesday’s delivery is the second batch of medical supplies from China.

Nigerian flag carrier, Air Peace airlines, delivers the supplies after a historical flight to Chinese capital, Beijing.

The flight was operated by the airline’s Boeing B777-200 ER, which arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 4:25 p.m. after 15 hours flight.

Among the materials brought in by the flight are 16-tonnes of test kits, ventilators, disinfectant machines, disposable medical masks, medicines, rubber gloves, protective gowns, goggles, face shields, and infra-red thermometers

Jiang, in a statement on Wednesday, said all members of the working team have tested negative to COVID-19 and shall commence their stay in Nigeria by undertaking 14 days in quarantine.

He added that their primary purpose is to escort the medical supply, provide guidance for their usage and distribution.

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COVID-19 Lockdown: Resident Doctors Withdrew Over Alleged Harassment By Police

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Members of the Association
of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba, Delta State has on Thursday night withdrew their services, indefinitely, over alleged harassment by security operatives enforcing the lockdown directive.

The lockdown order was issued by the state government as a measure to prevent the spread of the dreaded Coronavirus disease otherwise known as COVID-19.

President of the ARD, Asaba FMC chapter, Osifo Patrick Nwabunor told newsmen that since the lockdown started on April 1, health workers have been witnessing constant harassment allegedly by the police even when they present valid means of identification as essential service providers.

Nwabunor alleged that the harassment came to a climax on Thursday when a doctor who was rushing to Okpanam for an emergency, was stopped and harassed, adding that when other colleagues came to his rescue, they were allegedly sprayed with teargas.

He said as a result of the constant harassment, the doctors were embarking on the “total shutdown of their services indefinitely until our safety and security are guaranteed.”

Nwabunor stated that the association was not callous to embark on the indefinite strike in this trying period of COVID-19 crisis, but that they cannot continue to discharge their life-saving functions in an environment of constant threats and insecurity.

“These are challenging times in view of the COVID-19 but if our safety is not guaranteed, we will maintain the total shutdown,” he stated.

Nwabunor listed three conditions including that no health worker should be harassed when he/she presents a valid means of identification; that items destroyed during the Okpanam issue should be replaced; and that adequate security should be provided within the confines of the hospital before they would return to work.

He also raised alarm about the paucity of protective kits for front line health workers across both federal and state hospitals and appealed to the authorities concerned to provide the kits and as well as increase the hazard allowance for front line caregivers.

Responding, the State Commissioner of Police, CP. Hafiz Inuwa confirmed the occurrence but added that he had settled the issue with the resident doctors, Nigeria Medical Association Chairman and the Chief Medical Director of the FMC, Asaba.

CP. Inuwa revealed that his administration will continue to sue for peace noting that the resident doctors and everyone in the public are important in this of coronavirus.

He asked for synergy among Deltans in order to bring the coronavirus pandemic to a controllable end. C.p Inuwa also stressed that continued compliance with the stay at home order will be enforced in order not to jeopardize the confidence of the people in the police.

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Lockdown: Police Parade 26 Passengers And 2 Drivers For Entering Cross River From Akwa Ibom

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The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Uche J. Anozia, has paraded 26 passengers allegedly conveyed in two Hiace buses from Akwa Ibom State to Cross River State amidst coronavirus pandemic.

Parading the suspects on Thursday at Ikot Omin Police Station in Calabar Municipal Local Government Area of the state, the CP Anozia, said that the suspects were aware that there was the closure of the border between Cross River and the Akwa Ibom States.

He said, “Everybody knows that the boundary between the two states has been closed because of the issue of the coronavirus pandemic, which has ravaged the entire world and Nigeria inclusive.

“About 3 am on Thursday, the two buses with 26 passengers were arrested by our men along Eight Miles; the passengers and the drivers conspired to infiltrate Cross River State from Akwa Ibom State.

“We discovered that the passengers did not cross through the conventional road because nobody would have allowed them to do that, but they used the bush tracts to get to a certain point where the vehicles conveyed them to Cross River State.

“I warned others who would want to adopt the same strategy to desist from it as the Police will sanction such persons” the CP warned, explaining that the suspects would have been charged to court for conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace if not for the shutdown of court. He warned them to desist from such act.

“Unfortunately, the court is not in sea session and there is no place to take them to and the basic thing now is that since it a is first offence, we will take them back to Akwa Ibom State and warn them against such conduct. Their vehicles, however, have been impounded” CP Anozia stated.

Speaking with newsmen, the drivers of the buses with registration numbers Cross River ABE 242 XA and Abia MBL 646 XA respectively, Ufot Oko Akpan and Ini Udo Jackson, said that their vehicles spoiled at Okurikang in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River.

When their vehicles were fixed, they saw the passengers and decided to pick them to Calabar, “We were coming in from Okurikang in Odukpani Local Government to Calabar and the Police arrested us at 8 Miles junction and took us to the Police State Ikot Omin.

“We carried the passengers around 6.30 pm on Wednesday but the vehicle had an issue and we work on them and arrived where the Police arrested us about 2 am on Thursday. We saw the passengers on the road but we don’t know where they came out from,” the drivers stated.

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National Assembly Condemn FG’s Social Investment Programme Implementation

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The leadership of the National Assembly has faulted the way the Social Investment Programme (SIP) of the Federal Government is being implemented.

President of Senate Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila made their reservations about the scheme at a meeting with Sadiya Umar-Farouq, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

The meeting was also attended by top officials of the ministry, Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, Deputy Speaker Idris Wase, and other principal officers and members from both Chambers.

The meeting was convened by the leadership of the National Assembly against the backdrop of ongoing Federal Government’s intervention initiatives aimed at reducing the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the most vulnerable Nigerians.

Ola Awoniyi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President of Senate in a statement disclosed that Lawan and Gbajabiamila made it abundantly clear that the SIP needed reform to make it more efficient and effective.

Lawan said the National Assembly was very much interested in the current intervention initiatives of the ministry, particularly with respect to the disbursement aimed at assuaging the plight of the poorest of the poor Nigerians against COVID-19.

He said the National Assembly was concerned about the conditions and guidelines for the intervention programmes which are specifically directed at the most vulnerable Nigerians.

“When for example, some conditions are set, that those who will benefit will have to go online, through the internet or BVN and the rest of it.

“I want to tell you that the majority of those who are supposed to benefit have no access faster.

“They have no access to the Internet, they have no bank account, and so no BVN.

“In fact, many of them don’t even have phones and these are the poorest of the poor, yet, some of the conditions or guidelines which you set inadvertently leave them out,” Lawan said.

The programme resident said the poorest of the poor had not been sufficiently captured by the programme.

“We believe that when we work together, the Executive side of government and the National Assembly as representatives of the people, we will be able to reach much more of these people who are in serious distress even before the Coronavirus pandemic.

“We need to be better in terms of strategy for delivery and definitely, what we have been doing in the past cannot deliver exactly what will solve the challenges of the most ordinary and most vulnerable Nigerians.

“So we need to put on our thinking cap and work out some strategies on how to identify the poorest persons in Nigeria,” he said.

The speaker said the relevant committees in the house had been complaining bitterly even before the minister took over the scheme about the inability to access information about the scheme.

Gbajabiamila said Nigeria’s SIP was similar to the Unemployment Insurance Act in the UK and the Social Security Act in the U.S.

The speaker urged the minister to talk with the relevant committees and the National Assembly leadership on the best way to codify the scheme.

In her response, the speaker said the SIP was moved to her ministry for “sustainability and institutionalization.”

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Buhari’s Govt Is Incompetent, Lack Capable Hands and Can’t Think Outside the Box – Atiku Abubakar

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Former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2019 general elections, Atiku Abubakar has described the Buhari led government as incompetent and lacking capable hands and ability to think outside the box.

Atiku, in a long essay on how Nigeria and Africa can surmount the effects of the coronavirus, said that the oil crisis being faced by the Buhari administration was also faced by the Obasanjo administration. He, however, noted that there were two remarkable differences between both administrations. The first according to him was that they had a stellar cabinet between 1999 and 2007.

“We had the right people manning our economy. We certainly would not have proposed to take out a $500 million loan to digitalize the Nigerian Television Authority or devote N37 billion to renovate the National Assembly complex which was build from the scratch at less than 20% of that amount” said.

He maintained that the oil price crash should not be enough to trigger an economic crisis arguing that Nigeria’s 2020 budget was predicated on $57 but oil prices are now in the $30s range after falling into the 20s.

Atiku argued further that the situation does not call for panic. He said “after all, the current price of oil was lower than it is today when President Obasanjo and I assumed office on May 29, 1999; yet we paid off Nigeria’s entire foreign debts.

” Today’s Nigerian government is severely lacking in qualified hands and nothing proves this than the state of the presidency itself.

“To think that after devoting N13 billion to the State House Clinic in the last five years, it is virtually useless as we face the most significant public health challenge of our national life. This is a pointer to the state of our federal government” he submitted.

The former Vice President wondered why the current administration is always quick to seek foreign loans to solve domestic economic problems. According to him, this shows a lazy mindset and an inability to take those sacrifices necessary to get the economy into shape.

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COVID-19: Police Shutdown The Court Gate Against Journalists During Naira Marley’s Trial – Says It’s An Order From Above

The Journalists covering the trial of Nigeria singer, Fashola Azeez, popularly known as Naira Marley, has on Wednesday been denied the opportunity for covering the trial.

The Pressmen were locked out of the court premises during the trial, as the court gate was shutdown to deny journalists access to the court premises.

According to a policeman’s Suumonu Kazeem, ordered the gate to be shut against journalists, saying he was only acting on an order from above.

Naira Marley was alleged by the Lagos State Government for disobeying the restriction orders in the state, as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic,

The Lagos State Government arraigned the singer before the Lagos State Magistrate Court in Ogba for attending a crowded birthday party in violation of the social distancing directive put in place to checkmate the spread of the Coronavirus.

The singer was spotted on a video on Sunday at a birthday party organized by Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele, popularly known as Jennifer.

Jennifer and her husband, Abdul Rasheed Bello, popularly known as JJC Skillz, has been sentenced to 14 days community service on Monday.

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Lockdown: Delta To Go Tough On Stay-At-Home Defaulters – Gov. Okowa

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has threatened to apply stricter measures to check disobedience of the state government’s directives on the lockdown in the state over the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is at the backdrop of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) announcement on Tuesday that a confirmed case of the virus had been recorded in the state, the first.

In a broadcast in Asaba on Wednesday, Okowa commended Deltans who had strictly adhered to the lockdown regulations from April 1, 2020, but warned that enabling laws would be applied on those disobeying the directives of sit-at-home.

He expressed appreciation to all Deltans and non-Deltans in the state for their cooperation, saying “we are on day 8 of the lockdown and I know that a lot of our people have been cooperating with the directive of the government.

“Unfortunately, a few persons have tended to disobey orders and I want to urge every Deltan that from today onwards until the 14 days, to please, for the sake of everyone, for the sake of humanity, obey the orders of government, otherwise, they will be caught up by the arms of the law.

“The lockdown order was given because it was necessary; it is also lawful, because, I have already signed into law a regulation which empowers us to take action against those who would disobey the lockdown order.

“I want every Deltan to appreciate that it is for the good of the public; for all Deltans who have cooperated with us, I have sent messages of encouragement; I thank them.”

The governor announced that the State recorded its index case of the pandemic on Tuesday, April 7, 2020, and that the patient had already been moved into one of the four management centres of the virus in the state.

According to him, the person in question has been in Delta for some weeks, so, he did not just come in from another state during the course of the lockdown.

Okowa said, “at the moment, we are doing our tracking; we are getting more information on the case and when we have more information we would be able to communicate to the state, but, it is the right of that person only to be able to publicly tell us that he or she is infected.

“It is not for me to release the name; it is for me to pass information that needs to be passed to Deltans but, the person did not come from another state, he has been within the state in the last few weeks.

“I also want to use this opportunity to appeal to all Deltans to pray for our health staff and to support them to succeed.

“For those of us that have been watching the television, we can see that a lot is being done by other countries to encourage the health staff and there is a need to support them and to pray for them at this moment when they are very likely going to be overworked and exposed.

“By God’s grace, we are very prayerful and we hope that none of our health staff will ever contract the virus.”

“To our health staff, I want to make a very special appeal; this is the time for all health staff, particularly those trained and those that may be called up in the future for training and support, to please show all commitment and passion that is needed for the state and for all of us to win this battle.

“For the doubting Thomases, COVID-19 is real; it is not for the rich or the poor; it could affect anybody and I will appreciate it if all Deltans would have this at the back of their minds that anybody and everybody is vulnerable—both the old and the young are vulnerable.

“I want to urge us all to continue to observe the rules that we have put forth—washing of the hands regularly with soap and water, and when that is not immediately available, use hand sanitisers as it is important that we stress the need for social distancing by trying as much as possible to be about 6 feet apart from the next person.

“We must try to refrain from using our unwashed hands to touch the eyes or the mouth or the nose because if your hand is already contaminated, it is an easy way of getting the virus into your system.

“For those who have cough, please, stay at home and if you need to cough, cough into your bended elbow and if you cannot do that, get a piece of tissue and cough closing your mouth; that tissue must be immediately discarded and your hands must be washed.

“For those who feel sick or having a fever or cough or you feel breathless or unable to breathe, it is important that you do not hide yourself at home; call the numbers we have released to each and every one of us and those numbers have also been released to all our council chairmen.

“The numbers are 08031230480, 08031230481, 08031230528, and 08031230529; you can call any of these four numbers and you will be directed on what to do.

“And, in the absence of those, call your local government council chairman who will be able to direct you appropriately or call your councillor, who have been instructed by the council chairman and they will also direct you on what to do.

“You may also call your doctor, but, we want to urge that for those who have the symptoms, including fever, cough and breathlessness, as much as possible, it is best to call these numbers or any of these persons.

“If you know the executive secretary of your local health authority in the council or the disease surveillance officer, call them because, we do not want patients just running in to every private clinic or medicine shop who may not be able to manage you or know exactly what to do,” he added.

The governor urged private clinics, to contact government officials, including the Commissioner of Health and local government chairman or the disease surveillance officer or the executive secretary in charge of the local health authorities when anyone with the symptoms reached them.

According to him, there is a process for management, there is a process for notification and it is actually unlawful for any private hospital or public hospital to have a case or a case that looks like that of COVID-19 and decide to probably keep quiet over it or to hide it.

“You must communicate to the appropriate authorities,” he stated.

Okowa advised the people to use facemasks, saying “yes, a lot of argument have been going on about this, but there is also a lot of support from the various countries that have had several cases of the Covid-19.

“In the course of management, these countries have found that the use of facemasks would likely limit the transmission and reduce the transmission chain.

“In Delta, we are already in the process of producing facemask for our people and when produced in the next few days, we would progress to distribute to our people, free of charge.

“We have also started a food bank, and by the grace of God, in the next few days when we have been able to get enough, we would be moving the food to support our people in the various villages, towns and wards of the state.

“We want to thank all Deltans that have made contributions; thus far.

“There are three bank accounts that have been opened for those who want to support our activities as a state concerning Covid-19 and it is my prayer that as many that think the need to support the less-privilege, please do make your contributions whether big or small.

“I must truly thank our people who have made a lot of commitment and those who have already fulfilled their commitments; a lot of Deltans have made donations and very soon, we would be publishing the names of all those who have supported us in the course of raising the food bank.”

He said that the pandemic was not a “death sentence” but cautioned that such did not mean that it should be taken carelessly.

The governor also called on the peopleant to stop all forms of rumour mongering about the pandemic, especially in the social media.

He said it was unfair to say things when we knew that they were not true.

According to Okowa, there has been a lot of insinuation concerning the fact that a member of the House of Assembly of Delta has contracted this infection; that is not true.

“No member of the House of Assembly has contracted Covid-19; it is important that I put the records right, but whosoever that contracts it, it is not a death sentence neither should any person be stigmatized in any form.

“All we owe such persons is to pray for them for speedy recovery.

“As at today, we have four management centers and each of the centers also has its isolation wards; we have holding centers in several other places where persons who are initially suspected  to have contracted the virus can be kept.

“The centres are at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, built by the state, the Central Hospital, Asaba, Oghara Teaching Hospital, and the Warri Central Hospital.

“All those that need to be trained – doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists, drivers, cleaners and all other persons that would be needed in the case management, including pharmacists, have been trained and if the need arises, we will train more persons.

“We are confident as a state that the mercies of God and his grace is sufficient for us; it is a time for prayers for our families, it is a time for prayers for Delta State, it is a time for prayers for our nation Nigeria and for the world generally,” he said.

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Covid-19: Police Arrest Funke Akindele Over Birthday House Party, Ask Naira Marley To Report Himself

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested Nollywood star, Funke Akindele, for hosting a house party despite an order against gatherings in the city.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Bola Elkana, disclosed this in a statement to newsmen.

The PPRO said the actress was arrested in her residence on Sunday for disobeying the restriction orders in the state, as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

He reported that a viral video, indicating a large number of persons mainly in the entertainment industry were celebrating a birthday party organized by Funke Akindele and her husband, Abdul Rasheed Bello – popularly known as JJC Skillz, in an estate along Ajah in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state.

The Police’s spokesman disclosed that police detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Yaba were promptly drafted to the location where the actress was arrested.

He also stated that the police had begun an investigation while preparing actions to arrest other persons who were recognized in the video.

Elkana added that singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, JJC Skillz and others were among those seen at the party.

He asked the team to report at the State CID Yaba on Monday in their interest or risk being declared wanted.

Though, Funke, who came under attack by some Twitter users for her action, has since tendered an apology in a video.

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Delta Govt. Orders For Investigation Of An Alleged Killing Of 28 Year Old Boy

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The Delta State Government has ordered for a search into the alleged killing of a 28 year old Joseph Pessu in Warri on Thursday.

This is contained in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu and was made available to newsmen

He noted that the government was worried about the report of an alleged killing of a 28-year old man in Warri by security agencies on regular patrol duty.

The Commissioner said the state government has sent a delegation to the deceased family to condole with them over the loss of their son.

He also stated that the military authorities have been contacted to carry out an investigation into what led to the killing of the deceased.

He, however, called on the people to remain calm and not to take laws into their hands adding that the state government will conduct an investigation into the killing.

Mr Aniagwu thanked Deltans for their cooperation so far by remaining indoors and called for further cooperation with the State Government in the best interest of Deltans.

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Truck Falls On Car In Lagos, Six Die, One Injured

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The Director-General, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, has said that a truck, which fell on a commercial taxi on Epe Expressway, has killed six persons.

Oke-Osanyintolu, while speaking to newsmen in Lagos, said that there were seven people involved in the accident that occurred on Wednesday but six out of seven of them died while one was injured.

The DG said that the truck, which had an unknown registration number had fallen on the fully loaded commercial taxi OPEL car with registration number Lagos SMK-312ES.

He said, ”Seven people were in the crushed car and six of them lost their lives.

“After the accident, the response team rescued the only surviving man who was trapped beneath the truck. He is now receiving treatment in the hospital.

“We have handed over corpses of deceased persons to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to transport them to the mortuary.

“We appeal to members of the public to comply with the COVID-19, lockdown and social distancing guidelines to avoid endangering themselves,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.

He also advised the rescue workers to follow the social distancing guidelines of the Lagos state government while carrying out their duties.

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Permit Tanker Drivers to Operate During Lockdown – NNPC Tells Law Enforcement Agencies

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has appealed to law enforcements agencies across the country to allow petroleum products tanker drivers free movement during the lockdown ordered in parts of the country by President Muhammadu Buhari and some state governments.

According to a statement by Kennie Obateru, Group General Manager Group Public Affairs NNPC, the exemption granted by President Buhari to certain categories of essential workers covers the operations of tanker drivers.

Obateru said the Federal Government counted on the support of the law enforcement agencies across the country to ensure a smooth distribution of petroleum products across the country during the period of the restriction.

The corporation said that it holds over 2.6billion litres of petrol, enough to last the period of the lockdown and beyond.

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Coronavirus: Death Toll in US Exceeds China

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The death toll of coronavirus in the US has officially exceeded that of China where the deadly virus broke out.

Johns Hopkins University confirmed the figures on Tuesday.

The Baltimore-based university reported that US has recorded 3,415 deaths from COVID-19 more than the 3,309 reported officially in China.

However, Italy remains the country with the most fatalities, as 12,428 people have died since the virus broke out in the country.

Italy is followed by Spain which has recorded 8,269 deaths, and then the United States.

The US is also the country with the highest confirmed cases of coronavirus in the world, with 175,067 cases. Italy is next with 105,792 cases, followed by Spain with 94,417 and China with an official tally of 82,278.

The global death toll from the novel coronavirus has risen to 41,072, and at least 82 cases recorded in 186 countries.

Of these confirmed COVID-19 cases in the world, at least 164,900 are now considered recovered.

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PPPRA Reaveals New Petrol Price For April 2020

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The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), has announced a reduction in the pump price of petrol.

This is contained in a statement signed by Abdulkadir Saidu, PPPRA Executive Secreatry and made available to newsmen.

The executive secretary, said the retail price of petrol would be N123.50 in April.

The new price is N1.50 lower than the N125 per litre announced on March 18.

“The PPPRA, in line with the government approval for a monthly review of premium motor spirit (PMS) pump price, hereby announces guiding PMS pump price of N123.50 per litre,” the statement read.

“The guiding price, which becomes effective April 1, 2020, shall apply at all retail outlets nationwide for the month of April, 2020.

“The PPPRA and other relevant regulatory agencies shall continue to monitor compliance to extant regulations for a sustainable downstream petroleum sector.

“Members of the public and all oil marketing companies are to be guided , accordingly.”

On March 18, the federal executive council had approved a reduction of petrol pump price from N145 to N125.

After the slash of petrol pump price was announced, PPPRA had said the federal government approved a monthly review of petrol price to reflect global crude oil market trends.

A sharp drop in global crude oil prices had resulted in a drop in the landing cost of refined petroleum products.

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Covid-19: Delta Commences Open Distance Learning Programme

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In response to the educational needs of students preparing for the 2020 certificate examination (JSS 3 and SSS 3), the Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in partnership with the Ministry of Information has announced a television and radio program tagged ‘Open Distance Learning Programme’.

According to a public service announcement signed by the State Director of Information, Dona Obuseh, this program is to ensure that students’ learning does not stop during this period of school closure to check the spread of the COVID-19.

Obuseh said the free lessons in selected core subjects will commence on Thursday, 2nd April 2020 and will run for four (4) weeks in the first instance on Delta Broadcasting Service, radio and television, Asaba and Warri; Monday to Friday daily from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

“Parents and Guardians are advised to make it possible for their children/wards to remain connected to the Delta Broadcasting Service, radio and television with their writing materials and listen to the free lessons”, he said.

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COVID-19: Delta State Govt. Receives Medical Items From NCDC

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The Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye on behalf of the State government received the items from the NCDC today in Asaba at the premises of the State Contributory Health Commission.

The Commissioner thanked the Management of NCDC for the support rendered, noting that the State government will continue to collaborate with the Agency to curb the spread of the Coronavirus.

He assured the readiness of the State government to make judicious use of the items received with a view to protecting residents from the pandemic.

Dr. John Oladejo, Director, Health Emergency Preparedness and Response of the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, in a letter sent to the Ministry stated that, since the start of the outbreak of the COVID-19 in the country, the Center has continued to intensify efforts to reduce the risk of spread.

He said with the activation of the National COVID-19 Emergency Operation Centre on the 28th of February, 2020, they have been meeting on a daily basis to coordinate response activities in line with the COVID-19 Incident Action Plan.

Dr. Oladejo reminded the Delta state government that the NCDC strategic stockpile is to support States in outbreak situations.

He advised the state government to forecast, budget and procure items based on needs for a response to the outbreak and other infectious diseases forthwith.

He added that his agency will continue to monitor appropriate storage and general accountability of the materials supplied to them and keep proper records of usage of the supplies.

Our Correspondent gathered that the medical items received by the Delta state government include coveralls, masks, gloves, google protection, boots, hand sanitizers, body bags, face shields, disposal bags for bio-hazardous waste amongst others.

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Extend Existing Subscription, Consider Giving Nigerians Airtime, Data – Keyamo Tells Dstv, StarTimes, MTN NG, Gloworld & Others

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Nigerian Minister of State, Labour, and Employment, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has urged all telecommunications companies and Digital satellite TV to extend all monthly subscription plans as a way to support Nigerian workers during this Lockdown.

The honorable minister disclosed this using his verified Twitter account on Monday, March 30, 2020.

The Minister directed that the likes of @DstvNg and @StarTimes_Ng should attempt to extend all their subscription by at least one month, free-of-charge, as their own personal contributions to help ease the pains caused by this current pandemic lockdown.

The Minister also urged Telecommunications Giants like @MTNNG, @9mobileng, @AirtelNigeria, and @GloWorld, to consider giving token airtime and data to relieve Nigerians from their discomforts while staying at home.

Speaking further, he said that the Telecommunication company should endeavour to encourage communication between individuals and appropriate authorites most especially when a toll-free number is busy in case of emergency.

Keyamo opines that he was only a minister saddled with the responsibility of the Nigerian worker’s welfare.

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LOCKDOWN: Delta NUJ Calls For Understanding From Security Agencies, Encourages Professionalism Amongst Members

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As Delta state government announced the restrictions of movement from residents and locking down of its borders with the drive of curtailing the Coronavirus, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on security agencies to show understanding with media practitioners as the lockdown takes effect from midnight today.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by its Council chairman, Michael Ikeogwu and the Secretary, Churchill Oyowe in Asaba.

The Councill appealed for civility in the conduct of security agencies in their dealings with media practitioners in the State.

Saying that both security agencies and media practitioners were partners in progress, the council called on journalists in the state to carry out their professional duties diligently and advised members of getting contact with any suspected victims of the pandemic.

The council charged journalists to ensure confirm stories before going to press and advised members to always move with valid identity in clearer identification in their professional duties.

“Let me also remind you our members on the need to always arm themselves with a valid identity card and be polite when you encounter security operatives, but I know that council members will always help in disseminating of information that would keep them informed about events happening around the world, especially the Coronavirus.

*I want to equally urge members of the public to ensure compliance with the stay-at-home order by the state government because the government of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is determined to fight this dreaded pandemic called COVID-19.

The council, therefore, appealed to the Delta State Government to look at the way of media practitioners by providing protective equipment.

It commended the state government for efforts so far made towards curtailing the spread and for the proactive measures put in place to avoid any reported case of the Coronavirus.

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Edo Plans Stimulus Package To Cushion Effect Of Stay-AT-Home

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Edo State Government, has on Friday said is working out an economic stimulus package to cushion the economic effect of Coronavirus (COVID – 19) outbreak in the state.

The State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, made the disclosure at a press briefing to update the press on the COVID- 19 response activities, as well as compliance to the government’s stay- at- home order, closure of markets and commercial transporters’ passenger sitting arrangement guidelines.

“The governor has also directed that the state should work out a stimulus package for the vulnerable people in the society that would be affected by the Coronavirus and the stay-at-home order”, he said.

Shaibu, said the stimulus package was sequel to the state governor, Godwin Obaseki approval.

The deputy governor, also disclosed that the government has ordered the relocation of all patients and medical personnel from the Stella Obasanjo Hospital to the Edo Specialist Hospital.

He said the relocation was geared towards the expansion of the 156- bed hospital for isolation centre.

Shaibu, who frowned at the partial compliance of the lockdown by the people of the state, noted that shops and markets are still opened selling other items than essential commodities like food items and medicine.

He however called on the residents and citizens of the state to obey the stay-at-home order so as to protect themselves for the virus, just as he urged security agents to fully enforce the directive.

While disclosing that a good number of persons in the state are in self- isolation noted that they decided to go on a self- isolation as a result of the state governor, Godwin Obaseki’s contact with, Abba Kyari, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu and the Bauchi Governor, Bala Mohammed that were both tested positive to the virus.

He, however, disclosed that he tested negative for the virus.

Also speaking, the state commissioner for health, Patrick Okundia said the decision to relocate patients and medical personnel from the Stella Obasanjo Hospital to the Edo Specialist Hospital was to ensure that the state government has a holding centre at the hospital as well as for the management of mild and severe coronavirus cases.

Okundia explained that the hospital is equipped with an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) which will be upgraded and incinerator where all the used medical items will be properly disposed of.

“Initially, the hospital’s isolation centre was 12-bed fully prepared with personnel trained but the government is expanding the isolation centre with another 28-bed. We have to evacuate patients from the 156-bed hospital to be ready for holding centre,” he added.

He also added that the state government has another holding centre at Ogbenosen home located at Government Reservation Area in Benin City.

The commissioner, who said it is a holding centre for high profile cases that need to be kept in privacy, assured that the centre will soon be completed.

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Coronavirus: NUJ Asks For Safety Kits, Palliatives For Journalists

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on federal and state governments to urgently provide safety kits and palliatives to journalists to enable them to do their work effectively in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

The NUJ National President, Mr Chris Isiguzo, made the call in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

He said that it was imperative that governments would provide safety kits and palliatives for journalists to work in safety and relative comfort.

“It is important that the government comes up with ways of cushioning the effects of coronavirus pandemic on media houses to ensure they sustain the tempo of coverage.

“Regrettably, while the coronavirus crisis confines the nation with unprecedented health, social and economic consequences, journalists are more than ever essential in publishing quality information,” he said.

He added that journalists had become more vulnerable because they were at the forefront of daily reportage of developments from the pandemic.

“Various states of the country are already on lockdown and the citizens confined to their homes but journalists are out there ensuring that the people are well informed of developments surrounding the rampaging COVID-19.

“Nothing indeed compares with the events of recent weeks in terms of the global impact on media around the world, of Covid-19 and the unprecedented scale of the story and the demands it is making on journalism and journalists.”

He called on journalists to bear in mind that responsible and ethical journalism was vital to reporting the coronavirus.

“We must avoid sensationalism and scaremongering, avoid racial profiling, ensure the protection of affected persons to avoid stigmatisation.”

According to Isiguzo, journalists must ensure accuracy and seek expert opinion where necessary as well as provide context.

He urged journalists to stay safe as the pandemic was taking its toll on the people.

The NUJ president said: “In the event of any emergency, the following lines are available for journalists to reach out to the national secretariat – 08076032723, 08034004239.”

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Davido Goes Into Self-Isolation, As Fiancée, Chioma Tests Positive For Coronavirus

Nigerian music star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido says he has gone into self-isolation.

He explained that he took the decision after his fiancée, Chioma, tested positive to coronavirus (COVID-19).

The music star announced this on Friday via his verified Twitter handle.

In the series of tweets, he noted that he recently returned to Nigeria from America after canceling his tour, while Chioma also came back from London recently with their baby.

Davido stated that although they had no symptoms and were perfectly fine, they decided to take the COVID-19 test on Wednesday along with the close associates they had recent contact with as a result of their travel history.

“Unfortunately, my fiancée’s result came back positive while all 31 others tested have come back negative, including our baby.

“We are, however, doing perfectly fine and she is even still yet to show any symptoms whatsoever,” he revealed.

According to the 27-year-old, Chioma has been quarantined while he has gone into self-isolation for a minimum of 14 days.

He thanked his fans and well-wishers for their love and prayers in advance and urged them to stay at home, in order to curtail the spread of the disease.

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Coronavirus: Enugu Govt Confirms Two Cases, Releases Emergency Lines

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Enugu Government on Saturday confirmed two cases of coronavirus in the state.

The confirmation was made public by Dr. Ifeanyi Agujiobi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health.

A statement he signed disclosed that the two presented themselves for the test which came back positive.

He said the duo voluntarily contacted the Enugu State Ministry of Health on arrival from United Kingdom (UK).

Agujiobi noted that the patients were in isolation and that the Enugu State Multi-sectoral Rapid Response Team has commenced contact tracing.

The government thanked them for their sincerity, consideration for others and for obeying the directive that individuals who returned from overseas should report for evaluation.

“We still wish to encourage all those that returned recently from overseas to contact the Enugu State Public Health Department through these dedicated lines – 08182555550 or 09022333833”, it read.

The statement urged the public not to panic as Health Personnel were already positioned to respond to the present situation.

It appealed to residents to observe a high level of personal hygiene, maintain the social distance protocol and stay at home if possible.

The cases of the global pandemic in Nigeria is currently 81.

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Coronavirus: Ondo Postpones LG Election indefinitely

The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC), on Friday says it has postponed indefinitely the forthcoming Local Government Elections billed for April 18, 2020, in the 18 council areas If the state due to ravaging Coronavirus.

Yomi Dinakin, Chairman of the Commission, disclosed this in Akure, Ondo state capital on Friday while speaking with newsmen.

He said that the 10 political parties had agreed to the postponement because they could not hold any campaign rallies.

According to him, political parties argued that they complied with the directives of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu ban on political rallies and gatherings.

Dinakin said the preparedness of the commission might be jeopardised by unexpected circumstances during the conduct of the elections.

He also noted that it might be difficult to control the crowd on election day.

On a new date for the election, Dinakin said the Commission would monitor state government activities and announcements.

Dinakin expressed optimism that the federal government would also postpone the implementation of its policy that all local councils in the country must have elected officials by May this year.

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Covid -19: Filling Stations In Delta Are Exempted From Shut Down But Must Maintain Preventive measures – Emman Abgaduba

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The Delta State Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Prince Emman Amgbaduba has urged filling stations in Delta state that are exempted from the total shutdown to comply with preventive measures to combat coronavirus.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Oil and Gas Prince Emman Abgaduba and made available to newsmen on Friday

Emman observed that workers of filling stations in the State must Maintain skeletal staff, social distancing adding that Staff must carry a valid ID card of the petrol station they are working.

He also said Delta State Governor Sen. Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa is not negligent of the fact that Deltans don’t have the individual capacity to store PMS and AGO and as such, would not advise anybody to store petrol or diesel at home.

Speaking further, he advised deltans to note that the shutdown by the state government is in the interest of all Deltans, stressing that the opening for petrol, diesel, and gas, should not be abused as strict compliance of the shutdown will be observed.

He reassured Deltans of the Government’s support and readiness to set the state free from the deadly coronavirus.

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Coronavirus: Apply For Work Visas – Trump Begs Medical Professionals Everywhere

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The United States has invited medical professional to apply for visa amid the increasing number of coronavirus cases.

America has overtaken the number of confirmed cases worldwide and is scrambling to contain the spread.

Most parts of the country are on a two-week lockdown.

U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs, via its Twitter account, advised health personnel to contact their nearest Embassy for visa appointment.

“We encourage medical professionals seeking work in the U.S. on a work or exchange visitor visa (H or J), particularly those working on #COVID19 issues, to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for a visa appointment”, it tweeted.

There are nearly 90,000 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus in the U.S.

The figure-hides that of China, where the virus originated, as well as Italy, the worst hit country in Europe.

Numbers, of infections in the two countries, are just over 80,000 cases each.

Meanwhile President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping have discussed the global pandemic in a phone call.

Coronavirus has caused 25,000 deaths and affected 200 countries.

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Lagos Confirms Pipeline Leakage, Alerts Nigerians

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipeline along Ojukwu Str., Navy Town axis of Satellite Town in Lagos is leaking.

The leakage was confirmed on Thursday by the Director-General Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Mr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu.

Osanyintolu assured that NNPC technicians had been alerted and were on top of the situation.

“We received an alert this evening and upon arrival, it was discovered that an NNPC pipeline along the axis at Ojukwu street, Navy Town was leaking.

“We contacted the NNPC who dispatched a repair team to the location.

“The agency and other first responders intend to remain on high alert until the repairs being carried out by NNPC are fully completed, ”

The LASEMA boss urged members of the public to proceed with extreme caution in and around the area to prevent any form of explosion or ignition from naked flame or other activity.

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Covid-19: Delta Announces Lockdown, Closes Borders, Others

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Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has on Thursday, announced a lockdown of all activities in the state and closure of all borders as the state government expanded efforts to make the state safe from Coronavirus pandemic.

Okowa, in a state-wide broadcast in Asaba said the lockdown would be effective from Wednesday, while the closure of borders and other entry points into the state would commence at 6 a.m. on Sunday.

The governor, who is the Chairman of the Central Committee on Managing and Containing the Coronavirus Pandemic in Delta, also ordered the closure of Asaba airport to traffic from 6 p.m. on Friday.

He explained that the committee took the far-reaching decisions to further ensure that people in the state were safe.

“As promised, we have continued to monitor and review developments concerning this global pandemic on a daily, if not hourly basis.

“Although there has been no confirmed case in Delta, we deemed it fit to take further measures to avert any outbreak or contain its spread if it occurs.

“Consequently, after a meeting with the Central Committee on Managing/Containing the Coronavirus Pandemic headed by me, several far-reaching decisions were made and I hereby order that the Asaba airport should be closed to traffic effective from Friday, March 27, 2020, at 6 p.m.

“All land borders into and out of Delta are to be shut effective 6 a.m. on Sunday, March 29, 2020.

“All businesses – malls, supermarkets, markets, and shops – are to close from Wednesday, April 1, 2020.

“All residents in the State are to stay at home from Wednesday, April 1, 2020.

“Food sellers are to conduct their businesses within the precinct of their homes and are required to strictly adhere to the social distancing rules.

“Deltans are advised that there will be increased security presence on the streets and land borders to ensure strict compliance with these directives,” he said.

He said the restrictions were for two weeks, in the first instance, but did not apply to persons providing essential services – Security, Healthcare (Pharmacies are to remain open), Water, Fire, Power, Essential Departments of Media Houses and Essential Departments of Telecommunications companies.

He also directed that officials of the affected agencies and companies must carry valid identification tags to ensure easy identification and smooth passage.

“I urge all Deltans to adjust to the new order and cooperate with the Government and law enforcement agencies.

“Drastic as these measures may seem, they are for our collective good. At the same time, we must keep on praying to God to save us from the seismic effects of this global pandemic,” he added.

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COVID-19: Sanwo-Olu Has Done More Than Central Leadership – Ezekwesili Hits Buhari

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Former minister of aviation, Oby Ezekwesili has commended Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos for his actions since the outbreak of Coronavirus in the state.

It was gathered that Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday passed into law an emergency COVID-19 bill.

There are 65 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Nigeria, with the majority in Lagos.

The government since its first recorded case in Lagos has been addressing residents and previewing measures like fumigating bus stops to curtail the spread of Coronavirus.

Ezekwesili took to her Twitter page commending Sanwo-Olu for proving his worth as a good leader.

According to her, Sanwo-Olu has shown impressive leadership in the past few days and has filled the gap of ‘absent central leadership’.

On her Twitter page, the former minister wrote: “There must be many Nigerians who like me daily applaud the Governor of Jide Sanwo-Olu for the impressive political leadership he’s showing at a sub-national level.

“You, Mr. Governor have been an effective gap-filler for an absent Central leadership.
We thank you.”

Her reaction might not be unconnected to the reactions from Nigerians calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to address Nigerians.

Buhari’s unavailability to address Nigerians physically has raised criticism about the president’s wellbeing.

However, the Presidency has insisted that Buhari is in good condition.

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Coronavirus: Buhari Approves N10b For Lagos govt, N5b, Presidential Jet For NCDC, Issues New Directives, To Nigerians

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the sum of N10 billion to Lagos State government for the combating of Coronavirus.

This was contained in a statement revealed on Thursday night signed by Garba Shehu, the President’s Spokesman.

The Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led government made the request two days ago.

The President also approved and ensured the prompt release of N5 billion special intervention requested by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to equip and expand their facilities and laboratories.

He also gave the approval to NCDC’s request for an aircraft from the Presidential Air Fleet for emergency situations

This is following the developing news around the world and in Nigeria on the Coronavirus pandemic.

“I advise all Nigerians to follow the health guidelines issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and our State Governments,” Buhari said.

“Wash your hands thoroughly many times throughout the day. Observe ‘social distancing’ of a minimum of two mitres.

“Do not make unnecessary journeys outside of your homes. Do not attend public meetings or public gatherings – including religious events – which is where, through social contact, the virus can easily be transmitted.

“The Federal Ministry of Health will continue to issue daily updates on all developments. Please refer to public announcements by the Ministry on radio, television, www.health.gov.ng, and Twitter at @Fmohnigeria.’’

“With regard to the request by the government of Lagos State for financial support to combat and contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus in Lagos and Nigeria, the President has already approved the sum of N10 billion which release was effected within two days of the request,” the statement added.

“The President has also approved and ensured the prompt release of N5 billion special intervention requested by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to equip and expand their facilities and laboratories.

“In the same vein, the President has given approval to NCDC’s request for an aircraft from the Presidential Air Fleet for emergency situations. He has furthermore authorized the evacuation of three critical members of the NCDC team who are stuck in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo where they went for a training organized by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

“These measures are in addition to the ones approved and announced by the Presidential Task Force, PTF including the closure of land borders to human traffic for four weeks; the conversion of all Hajj transit camps to be utilized as COVID-19 isolation centers; the directive that all non-essential government employees work from home and for a daily briefing of the nation through the PTF.

“Other approved measures already put into place include the ban of flights from and into the country, suspension of the Federal Executive Council and National Council of State meetings and a directive for engagements, at the highest levels between the Federal Government and the state governments.

“President Buhari has also directed for the escalation of the nation’s capacity for testing and detection with the acquisition of testing kits and establishment of additional test centers; acquisition of Personnel Protection Equipment and the mobilization of experts and trained staff serving and recall of some of those retired.

“The closure of schools and tertiary institutions and the suspension of religious and other gatherings above the fifty prescribed number are also parts of the measures approved and are in place.

“The President is keeping a close eye on international developments on the spread of COVID-19 and will intensify or introduce new measures if they become necessary to protect Nigerians.”

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Boko Haram: Ohanaeze Whacks Hot Over Alleged Massive Killing Of Christian Soldiers

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Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), the apex Igbo youth organization, has on Thursday, condemned in strong terms the killings of Nigeria soldiers(the majority of whom were Christians mostly from the Southern and Middlebelt part of the Country in an ambush at Gorgi Village in Borno State.

The Igbo group insisted that infiltration through absolving of repentant Boko Haram sect members into the Nigerian Army resulted in the killing.

Recall that the Nigerian troops were ambushed in a well-calculated attack by Boko Haram terrorists.

The incident took place after a military operation in Alagarno axis of Borno State.

Boko Haram reportedly used the information provided by their local collaborators to stage an ambush.

The reports had it that they(Boko Haram sect) shot at military logistics trucks conveying fuels and ammunitions in the area.

The attack on the trucks triggered massive explosions that led to the death of 47 gallant troops of the Nigerian military.

On Tuesday, Coordinator of Directorate of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General John Enenche, confirmed the incident.

But, OYC, in a press release issued by it’s President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and forwarded to newsmen on Thursday, urged the President Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government to do the needful and flush out elements of Boko Haram sect in the Army as the government might be losing the war against terrorism and insurgency in the North East.

It said, “Ohanaeze Youth appeal to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) to redeploy all Christian soldiers to the South as a strategy to win the war against insurgency in the North East. It only when the so-called repentant Boko Haram sect that infiltrated in the Army is meant to alone (without Christian Soldiers)execute the war against terrorism. There will be a victory on the side of the Nigerian Army, because, it will be repackaged terrorists versus Boko Haram terrorists, but, if paired with Christian Soldiers, there will be sabotage and leaking of information across to Boko Haram which will put Christian soldiers as sacrificial lambs in this war against insurgency, like the ambush against Christian Soldiers mostly Igbos in Gorgi village, Borno state”.

Ohanaeze, however, condoled with all the families especially Igbos that lost their loved ones in the ambush in Gorge Village Borno State.

It said, “With the frightening battle against coronavirus across Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari should direct the Defence Headquarters to change strategy against the war against Boko Haram. The presidency should equip Nigeria’s Army to fight against Boko Haram”.

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Treat Coronavirus As A New Enemy – Goodluck Jonathan

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Former President, Goodluck Jonathan has said that the Coronavirus outbreak in Nigeria is a new enemy which can be destroyed by solidarity and actions.

Jonathan urged Nigerians to demonstrate good citizenship by obeying guidelines put in place by the government and its agencies to combat the challenge of COVID-19 in the country.

The former President said this in a statement on his official Facebook page even as Nigeria recorded five new cases of COVID-19.

As of today, Nigeria has 51 confirmed cases of Coronavirus.

The statement reads: “Today our world faces a global crisis that threatens our peace, hope, and freedoms. Across the globe is the climate of fear, havoc, and consequences of a new enemy, Coronavirus Disease.

“Dear Compatriot, this is not a time to fear or despair; it is a moment of responsibility, courage, and faith.

As a country, ours is a history of many triumphs in times of global and national challenges. In 2014, through solidarity and unity of purpose, we combated the dreaded Ebola virus.

“More than ever before now is the time for action, solidarity, and patriotism. Let’s all brace up and work together to combat this new scourge COVID-19. “

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Coronavirus: AY Makun Mocks Nigerian Politicians, Reveals Effect On Health Sector

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Popular comedian, Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY has taken a swipe at Nigerian politicians who have in the past few days tested positive to Coronavirus.

Recall it was reported that Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday tested positive to COVID-19.

Also, Governor of Bauchi state, Bala Mohammed was conformed positive after having close contact with Atiku Abubakar’s son

These cases have placed the lives of many governors and ministers at risk, as most of them were at some point in the last 14 days, in a meeting with Abba Kyari or Mohammed.

Reacting, AY on his Twitter page, while mocking the politicians told them to receive treatments at the poor health centres they built.

He stated that the Coronavirus crisis will eventually have a positive effect on Nigeria’s health sector.

His tweet read: “All the politicians testing positive should be taken to the poor health centers they initially left for the masses.

“Either we like it or not, the Covid19 will have a positive impact on the Nigeria system of govt, particularly the health sector.”

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37-Year-Old British Diplomat In Budapest Dies Of Corona Virus

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A senior British diplomat Steven Dick, stationed in Hungary has died after contracting coronavirus.

Steven Dick, the deputy head of mission at the British embassy in Budapest, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, after testing positive for the COVID-19 disease.

United Kingdom (UK’s) Foreign and Commonwealth Office said on Wednesday, March 25, that the diplomat was dedicated and that he represented his country with great skill and passion.

“Steven was a dear colleague and friend who had made a tremendous impression in Hungary since his arrival in October 2019, ” the British ambassador to Hungary, said in a statement.

“With his personal warmth and his sheer professionalism, not least his excellent Hungarian, we will miss him so much,” he added.

The 37-year-old joined the Foreign Office in 2008 and had also worked in British embassies in Riyadh and Kabul, according to his biography on the UK government’s website.

His role as deputy head of mission made him a key adviser to the UK’s ambassador to Hungary, Iain Lindsay.

Steven had also worked in the UK government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Medi, and Sport.

“Steven was a much-loved son, grandson, and nephew,” Steven’s parents said in a statement.
“He was kind, funny and generous. It was always his dream to work for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and he was happy representing our country overseas,” they added.

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Nigerian Army Disowns Recorded Plan To Shut Down Nigeria

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The Nigerian Army has advised citizens to ignore claims that the Federal Government plans to enforce military lockdown from Friday.

Colonel Sagir Musa, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, in a statement Wednesday night, said such speculations were meant to create chaos, panic, and disaffection in Nigeria.

He accused the promoters of ulterior motives at a time the country was focused on the coronavirus outbreak.

Musa noted that the document being quoted was a proactive directive for the Nigerian Army to prepare for a possible escalation of the COVID-19 based on the happenings around the world.

“The misinterpretation that Government is locking down the entire country and pulling out the Army by Friday 27 March 2020 is utterly false and baseless.

“The NA considers the publication and negative interpretation being given the content of the Classified document containing information meant for the Nigerian Army personnel as a violation of the Official Secret Act.

“The NA will continue to be professional, proactive and responsive in support of the Constitution, Democracy, and Government of NIGERIA in line with its constitutional mandate of providing aid to civil authority when called upon to do so”, it read.

The Army assured that no stone will be unturned to prepare to support the civil authority in times of emergencies of national magnitude.

It added that mischief of some unpatriotic few will not dissuade the Nigerian Army from working with sister services, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to keep the nation safe.

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Prices Of Goods, Transport Fares Skyrocket In Lagos

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Prices of consumables and some other goods including transport fares have, astronomically increased as the Lagos State Government ordered that markets across the state be closed for some times starting from Thursday this week.

Newsmen who went round on Wednesday reported that the major food market (Mile 12) was partially closed as Lagosians rushed to buy foodstuff to stock their houses ahead of the market closure.

Although, the government said those selling foods, drugs and other essentials were not ordered to close their market, fear of scarcity has gripped residents and thousands of people grouped to stock food items.

Traders in Lagos have taken advantage of the situation in the state to increase the prices of goods.

Commercial drivers have also increased the transport fares as Mushin to Idumota is now between N400 and N300 as against the normal N200. Ajah from CMS has increased to N400 from N200.

On the mainland, the transport fare has not been increased as passengers pay the same amount they used to pay on all routes.

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COVID -19: Electricity Customers In Kaduna Advised To Pay Bills Online

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The Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company has advised consumers under its franchise to use the digital payment channels to settle their electricity bills.

The company’s head of corporate communications Abdulazeez Abdullahi, who made the disclosure in a press statement on Wednesday day in Kaduna, said the directive would enable electricity consumers to avoid the crowd at the Company’s cash centres.

Abdullahi said the advice was in response to calls by medical experts on social distancing as part of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.

He advised customers to use any of the company’s online payment platforms to pay bills and purchase electricity token from the comforts of their homes or offices.

The company’s spokesperson advised electricity users who may have any complaint to use the Company’s Customer Relationship Management (CRM) portal lodge such complaints, assuring that the complaint shall be attended to with dispatch.

“As a responsible corporate body, we are concerned about the safety of every Nigerian.”

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Osinbajo Tests Negative for COVID-19, Apply Social Distancing

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Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, who went into self-isolation on Tuesday has tested negative for COVID-19.

Announcing the result of COVID-19 test conducted on the vice-president, via a tweet on h8:22 matter handle, @babaloveme3, at 8:22, am Wednesday, his politial adviser, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, said the outcome of the test was negative.

“Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo tests negative,” Ojudu had tweeted.

The vice-president was said to have been forced into self-isolation on Tuesday because he was one of the personalities who had contact with the Chief of Staff, Malam Abba Kyari, who had tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday.

Disclosing Osinbajo’s self-isolation on his Twitter handle, @akandeoj, on Tuesday night, his spokesman, Mr. Laolu Akande, said the vice-president had been working from home has gone into self-isolation.

According to the tweet, Osinbajo’s decision to self-isolate was in compliance with the directive of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s (NCDC).

Akande further disclosed that the vice-president held meetings on Monday through video conferencing in observance of social distancing.

“VP Osinbajo yesterday (Monday) at the office conducted his meetings via video conferencing while observing social distancing.

“Today, he continues his work from the home office, as he is in self-isolation in accordance with NCDC protocols,” Akande tweeted.

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Nigeria Reports Two New Cases of COVID-19, Bringing Total Number To 46

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Nigeria has recorded two more cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number in the country to 46.

Announcing this Wednesday, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said one of the cases was from Lagos, while the other one was from Osun State.

It said: Both cases are returning travellers to Nigeria in the last seven days. As at 07:00 am March 25, there are 46 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria. Two have been discharged with one death recorded.”

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COVID-19: FCT Minister declares Closure Of Markets, Neighbourhood Centers In Abuja

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Following the outbreak of Coronavirus in Abuja, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Malam Muhammad Bello, has ordered the closure of shops in markets and neighborhood centers to traders across Abuja.

Bello explained that the measure was to help tackle the spread of COVID-19 across FCT.

He, however, stated that only shops selling essential products and bakeries are to remain open but should abide strictly to laid down measures.

The Minister issued the order during a press briefing yesterday in Abuja and was contained in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Anthony Ogunleye.

Bello stated that the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, was preparing multiple health isolation and treatment centres across the territory to better manage cases of the COVID-19 pandemic in the FCT.

Bello disclosed that the FCT Administration has been working “very closely with the University Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada to expand the capacity of the current isolation and treatment centre at that location so that it would be able to accommodate more patients by providing needed essential facilities.”

He further disclosed that the Zuba General Hospital would also be converted into an isolation and treatment centre to accommodate more patients, should the need arise. Other treatment centers are also being prepared, the Minister said.

Other measures to curtail the spread of the virus include the “closure of shops in markets and neighborhood centers to traders except those who sell essential commodities and medicines. Pharmacies and supermarkets selling essential products and bakeries are however to remain open but should abide by strictly laid down measures,” Malam Bello said.

Bello also disclosed that Civil servants in the FCTA on grade level 12 and below have also been directed to remain at home starting from Tuesday, 23rd March 2020 till further notice.

He, however, stated that all workers on grade level 12 and below on essential duties such as water supply, fire service, security and medical services, emergency response officers as well as environmental protection workers are exempted from the stay- at-home directive.

He also said that as part of implementing the social distance measures, the FCTA will enforce a ban on all gatherings in public parks, gardens, bars, night clubs and football viewing centers amongst others until further notice.

Bello, therefore, advised FCT residents to monitor the news channels often as updates on the FCT’s response would be broadcast and published periodically.

The FCT Minister urged Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and individuals that desire to provide support for the fight against COVID 19 to liaise with the Coordinating response Team under the office of the Honourable Minister of State.

Speaking on compliance of earlier directive on the ban on gatherings of more than 50 people, the Minister appreciated the leadership of Muslim and Christian organisations for their cooperation in ensuring compliance.

While calling on residents to remain calm and refrain from panic buying, Malam Bello also called for discipline among FCT residents, stressing that all protocols of behavior as indicated by relevant health authorities should be thoroughly observed.

He said, “Containing this virus requires and depends very heavily on personal choices of being disciplined, of being able to follow established protocols of behavior as indicated by relevant health authorities. That is why it remains very critical for every citizen to follow laid health and safety protocols so that jointly, we will be able to conquer this disease.”

Meanwhile, the National Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, had disclosed that the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nigeria now stands at 46.

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No Confimed Case Of Corona Virus In Delta But Precautionary Measures Must Be Taken – Gov. Okowa

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Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has said in the absence of no Corona virus case confirmed in the state, precautionary measures must be taken to prevent as well as limit infection if it occurs.

Okowa disclosed this on Tuesday in a state Broadcast made to address the the coronavirus pandemic in Asaba.

He noted that As at 2 pm today, 24th March, 2020, the Federal Ministry of Health has confirmed 42 cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria, adding that no case of the Covid-19 has been confirmed in the state.

Revealing the level of preparedness by the ministry of health to fight coronavirus, Okowa Said the Multi-sectoral Coronavirus Preparedness Group led by NCDC has activated its national Emergency Operation Centrestressing tthat they are working closely with State Health authorities.

Outlining precautionsry measures against the coronavirus, Okowa urges Deltans to adhere strictly to the following precautionary measures:

Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 – 60 seconds and use alcohol-based Sanitisers.

Social Distancing: maintain at least two metres (six feet) between yourself and anyone, especially those coughing or sneezing.

Persons who are coughing or sneezing should distance themselves

Deltans are advised to avoid all non-essential travel within or outside the State.
It is important we realise that the virus does not spread itself; it is spread by people.

If you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, cough and have difficulty in breathing, call the following numbers for guidance:- 0803 123 0480, 0803 123 0481

(viii) Do not engage in self-medication.

“My dear Deltans, in the spirit of love for one another, any one of us who has recently returned from high risk countries such as China, USA, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, UK, Iran, South Korea, Japan, must self-isolate from friends, family and others for minimum of 14 days. All who have had close contact with those who visited these high incidence countries are also advised to self-isolate for the same period.
6 On our part, we have taken certain steps to mitigate the impact if and when cases are detected in our State;

A multi-sectoral Committee has been put in place and the State Emergency Operation Centre activated. Health Staff have been selected and trained adequately.
(ii) The State Government has completed a purpose-built Isolation Centre at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba. The centre is ready for use.
(iii) Three other Centres at the now completed central Hospital, Asaba; Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara and Central Hospital, Warri are being prepared as additional Centres.
(iv) To protect healthcare personnel and increase capacity, Personal Protective Equipment for health Staff are in stock and we have continued to scout for more.
(v) The State Government has also packaged incentives for critical health staff who will be engaged in COVID-19 treatment and management.
In the last 48 hours, we have paid for and taken delivery of 19 No. Ventilators and a good number of Monitors for use by our medical Staff.

(vi) Other critical needs, including Dialysis machines, dedicated for COVID -19 case management will be installed.

  1. I urge Deltans not to panic, but we must all commit to best behaviours by keeping to the advice of the NCDC and State officials.
  2. Please do not spread false information on social media, as it will do us no good.

The governor said the following must be strictly adhered to:

All institutions of learning: Primary, Secondary or Tertiary are to close for a period of 30 days at the end of School hours on Wednesday, 25th March, 2020.

All workers on grade levels 1 -12 (except those on essential duties (Health Staff, Fire Services, Water Corporation/agencies) are to stay at home effective 26th March, 2020.

Biometric operations at all levels of Government are hereby suspended till further notice

Malls, supermarkets, restaurants, banks, hotels and bars must, in addition to providing Sanitizers at various entry points, ensure social distancing by allowing only few persons at a time.

Market leaders to ensure that Sanitizers are provided at all entry points to the markets. Failure to do this will attract sanction from the Government.

All night clubs/lounges and cinemas are to be closed forthwith.

All burials and social events must be low-key, not attracting crowds of more than twenty (20) persons or be put off indefinitely. Security Agencies will be directed to enforce this henceforth. Social distancing must be complied with.

The State Government is to immediately convene a meeting with religious bodies and their leaders to enable us take far-reaching decisions on worship. However, all crusades and conferences must be suspended for now.

All Local Government Council Chairmen are hereby directed to urgently meet with traditional rulers and opinion leaders (men/women) in their domain to partner with the State in carrying out this advocacy to curtail the spread of the infection.


All buses and taxis must provide hand Sanitzers for travellers.

All town union gatherings or youth conferences/gatherings are prohibited until further notice.

All political gatherings and conferences, summits and gatherings involving more than 20 persons are banned until further notice.

Okowa also prayed that, “together and with God on our side, we shall overcome this plague”.

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COVID-19: CAN Stops Sunday Services, Wedding, And Others

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has suspended Sunday services in all churches in Adamawa State.

The association also suspended revivals, vigils, crusades and all such gatherings that attract more than 50 worshippers.

The State Chapter of CAN which issued a statement on Tuesday regarding the outbreak of coronavirus and what it expects of members to guide against the virus said only small unit meetings of no more than 50 people which normally take place on days other than Sunday could be encouraged.

The statement from CAN, which was signed by state CAN Chairman, Bishop Stephen Mamza, said, “The pace at which the Corona Virus is spreading calls for collaboration and unity of purpose in the struggles for curtailing the further spread and the far-reaching damages of the disease.

“As a Church, therefore, we shall comply fully with the directives of the state authorities in curbing the spread of the Virus. This will definitely affect our faith-based practices, yet while keeping in mind the sacred responsibilities of our faith and practices, we immediately call on you dear brethren to cooperate maximally with the relevant Government agencies in their efforts and measures towards the welfare of the citizenry in the face of this killer disease.

“We encourage smaller units of congregational assemblies of 50 people only. We recommend the suspension of Sunday Services and Masses until further notice.

“The Faithful are encouraged to continue with private devotions in their respective homes Crusades, conventions, revivals, vigils are hereby suspended until further notice.”

CAN join other authorities to advise against handshake and to encourage social distancing, saying, “We urge Christians to suspend the sign of peace, which involves handshaking and hugging in some Churches and outside churches. We encourage the recommended social distance of one meter or three feet.

“Burials should be restricted to only the close family members of the deceased. Weddings and social celebrations should be suspended until the situation comes under control.”

CAN ask that only outings that are strictly necessary are undertaken.

It stated, “We encourage people to please stay at home and go out only when necessary. Prevention is better than cure!”

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Oby Ezekwesili Warns Contacts Of Abba Kyari To Isolate Themselves Immediately

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Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has urged everyone who had contact with Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr. Abba Kyari, to self-isolate themselves immediately.

Ezekwesili made the remark while reacting to reports that Kyari has reportedly tested positive for Coronavirus.

Reacting to the development, Ezekwesili, in a tweet on her Twitter page on Tuesday, prayed for Kyari’s safe recovery.

She wrote: “We wish the Chief of Staff to @NGRPresident and all others who are receiving care for #CoronaVirusPandemic, speedy recovery.

“All those who know they were in contact with Mr. Kyari should immediately take the @NCDCgov recommended mandatory Self-Isolation.

“Stop risking yours and others’ lives. All who are acting irresponsibly at a time of a Pandemic must know that their education should be questioned.”

Meanwhile, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nigeria presently stands at 42.

While two patients have been discharged, Nigeria recorded one death on Monday, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC.

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Tokyo 2020: Olympic Games Organisers ‘Agree Postponement

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The organisers of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, due to begin on 24 July, have agreed to a one-year postponement of the event because of the global coronavirus pandemic.

Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the International Olympic Committee had agreed on to the delay.

“I proposed to postpone for a year and [IOC] president Thomas Bach responded with 100% agreement,” he said.

A one-year delay would also apply to the Tokyo Paralympic Games.

Prime Minister Abe added: “This will make it possible for athletes to play in the best condition, and will make the event a safe and secure one for spectators.”

The agreement comes as the British Olympic Association (BOA) was meeting on Tuesday to discuss the matter.

BOA chairman Hugh Robertson had already said Great Britain was unlikely to send a team to Tokyo this summer.

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BREAKING… Buhari Tests Negative For COVID-19, Kyari Is Positive

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President Muhammadu Buhari has tested negative for the COVID-19 virus (Coronavirus), following a test for the disease that was carried out yesterday on the president by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

The NCDC has informed the president on the outcome of his negative result this morning in Abuja.

According to presidential sources, the test for the president was necessitated after his Chief of Staff, Mr. Abba Kyari tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday.

Kyari had traveled to Germany on Saturday, March 7th to meet with officials of Siemens in Munich on the Nigerian electricity expansion programme.

He returned exactly one week later on Saturday, March 14th, but did not show any symptoms.

He was said to have been at a meeting on containing the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria all through Sunday, where he reportedly started to cough.

Subsequently, he voluntarily submitted himself for testing and was informed of his status yesterday.

Kyari has however gone into absolute isolation following the test result.

It was gathered that he is hale and hearty and showing no symptoms apart from the occasional cough.

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COVID-19: Please Pray For My Brother – Atiku’s Son Adamu Begs Nigerians

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Adamu Atiku, a son of former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to pray for his brother, Mohammed, who is currently battling the deadly coronavirus.

Atiku Abubakar had on Sunday announced that his son, Mohammed was down with COVID-19.

Adamu, in a tweet on Monday night, noted that this is a trying time for the Atiku’s family, asking Nigerians to pray for his brother.

He further advised Nigerians to do what they can to stop the pandemic.

He tweeted, “This is a tough and trying period for my family and me, as my brother has tested positive to coronavirus.

“As my Dad @atiku stated in his tweet @NCDC has been notified, and he is being treated and monitored at Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital Abuja.

“I ask that you keep him in your prayers.

“We are facing a great global threat to humanity but we can overcome it as long as we stay united.

“Please do what you can to stop the spread of the pandemic. Wash your hands, Stay safe and be compliant.

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Tension In Bauchi As People Expects Gov. Bala Coronavirus Test Result

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Tension has gripped the people of Bauchi state as they await the outcome of the coronavirus test conducted on the state governor, Bala Mohammed.

Recall that the governor had announced on Monday that he was isolating himself following contacts with Mohammed Atiku, son to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku’s son had tested positive to the dreaded coronavirus and the Bauchi governor and some members of his entourage had made contacts with him abode a plane in Lagos.

Bauchi state Commissioner of Health, Dr. Aliya Maigoro, is expected to give update Tuesday (today) on the outcome of the test conducted on the blood sample of the governor.

It was observed that the issue had dominated discussions among the people of the state, just as most of them prayed fervently that the outcome of the test would be heartwarming.

Meanwhile, Bauchi state government said on Monday night that it had yet to record any case of canoravirus in the state, just as it awaited the outcome of test conducted on Gov. Bala Mohammed.

Giving an update on the situation in the state, Commissioner for Health, Maigoro, said in Bauchi that officials of the ministry had over the weekend, trailed an indigene of the state who returned from Central Africa and conducted a test on him which proved negative.

He said the state government had established four holding centers in various locations of the state in preparation for any eventuality.

Mayor named Toro, Azare, Bauchi Specialists Hospitals and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, as centres to handle any threat by the scourge.

He said that the state has also established a special centre at ATBUTH, Bauchi, for renal dialysis usually associated with the disease.

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COVID-19: Ondo PDP Suspends State Congress, Urges Members To Remain At Home

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As parts of measure to combat the ravaging coronavirus in the country, the Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has postponed its state congress scheduled for today, Tuesday, March 24, 2020.

According to the party in a statement issued in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the move became imperative following the ban on the political gathering by the state government.

This is contained in a statement signed by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Zadok Akintoye and was made available to newsmen.

He stated that “in line with our principle of strict adherence to the rule of law and obedience to government regulations, our party announces the cancellation of its planned State Congress which is to hold on Tuesday, the 24th of March 2020.

“We take deep cognizance of the ravaging danger the COVID-19 virus pandemic poses to the people and had made all arrangements for strict adherence to internationally advised standards for mitigating its spread. However, based on the order and instruction of the Ondo State Government and its directive banning all social gatherings, we hereby announce the postponement of our State Congress scheduled for tomorrow for a period of 14 days in line with the instruction of the State Government. Our party shall engage the Ondo state government in discussions to find a way around resolving this issue.

“All members of the PDP in Ondo state are therefore advised to remain in their respective locations in line with the directive of government.

“We use this opportunity to enjoin all citizens to remain law-abiding and respect the directive of government as we collectively work towards mitigating the spread of this disease.”

Recall that the state government had banned political and social gatherings across the state with advice to the PDP to consider postponing congress in the interest of the state.

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Coronavirus: Ecobank Closes Abuja branch

Ecobank Nigeria Limited on Monday closed its Wuse II branch in Abuja over Nigeria’s first coronavirus death.

The bank said the victim, Mr. Sulaiman Achimugu, a former Managing Director of the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company, visited the branch twelve days before his death.

In a statement on its verified Twitter handle, the bank said, “Nigeria, very sadly, this morning recorded its first death, which unfortunately was one of our valued customers. Our most sincere condolences to the family.

“Our attention has been drawn to the fact that the deceased was at our Wuse II, Abuja Branch on 12 March 2020, twelve days ago.

“The deceased did not show any symptoms at the time of the visit.

“In line with the best standards and our COVID-19 response plans, we have, therefore, immediately temporarily closed the branch and all staff at the location have been put in mandatory self-isolation for 14 days, in full compliance with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control guidelines and to ensure their wellbeing and those of our customers.

“We have promptly informed the NCDC.

“We are further requesting, through this communication, that anyone who visited the branch between 12 March 2020 and now should take the necessary mandatory recommended step of self-isolation for 14 days and contact the NCDC.”

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BREAKING: Senator Rose Oko Dies At 63

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Cross River female Senator, representing Northern Senatorial District of the state, Dr. Mrs Rose Okoji Oko is dead.

The late Senator Oko, who died last night at a UK medical facility, was a second term member of the Red Chamber of the National Assembly and the serving chairman, Senate Committee on Trade and Investment.

A close aide of the late Senator, who confirmed the development, expressed shock and sadness.

A close relative, Mr Patrick Ikorgor Okoroji speaking about his demise said, “Heart broken to hear of the passing of my dear Cousin Senator Dr Rose Okoji Oko after a long fought battle with physical affliction.”

Rose Okoji Oko, born on September 27, 1956, is a Nigerian politician and senator. She was a Member of the Federal House of Representatives from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Yala/Ogoja Federal Constituency in Nigeria’s 7th class of the National Assembly.

She was elected into office as the first female representative from her constituency in June 2011 and as Deputy Chairman House Committee on Education.

She died at the age of 63 year.

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Notorious Armed Robber Arrested in Delta, Police Recover Weapons

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The Delta State Police Command has arrested a notorious armed robber in Ekpan, Uvwie Local Government Area.

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa disclosed this in a telephone chat with newsmen in Warri.

CP Inuwa said, “We arrested someone with AK47, Ak49 with 150 rounds of in Ekpan area.”

When asked if the suspect will be charged to Court, CP Inuwa said, “If he does not go to Court, who will go to Court?”.

It was learnt that the 32 years old suspect, Philip Mike Mishan a.k.a, Cele and his gang were responsible for the alleged killings of policemen as well as snatching of their service rifles and other violent crimes in Warri and Effurun.

The suspect was also said to have trailed several bank customers to their different locations to rob them of their cash and other valuables.

It was also gathered that the suspect earlier escaped from the police in 2018 and relocated to Ozoro Community, his hometown in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

It is from there he comes regularly to Alegbo area in Uvwie for armed robbery operations.

However, the police are on the trail of the gang leader, Sylvester Usobotie and other members who said to be at large.

The police also recovered sophisticated weapons from the suspect.

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Ekiti Moves To Close schools As Assembly Shuts Down Over Corona Vrius

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Ekiti State House of Assembly on Thursday announced the suspension of legislative activities indefinitely as part of measures to contain the spread of the dread Coronavirus.

The decision to restrict visitors’ movement to the Assembly’s complex was also taken at the Thursday’s plenary held in Ado-Ekiti and presided over by the Speaker, Mr Funminiyi Afuye.

It was reported that earlier, the Chairman House Committee on Health, Mrs Teju Okunyiga under Matter of Urgent Public Importance, informed the House of one found case of Covid-19 in the State.

Okunyiga then called for precautionary measures to contain further spread of the disease.

Other members who spoke on the matter included, Mrs Yemisi Ayokunle, Ch., Gboyega Aribisogan, the Majority Leader, and Abiodun Fawekun, (Ido/Osi Constituency 1) suggested that aside the Assembly’s complex, public places like schools should be shut down at least for now.

Commenting, the Speaker, Mr Funminiyi Afuye said, ” Activities at the Ekiti House of Assembly is hereby suspended as suggested by members, until further notice when the tension about the dread Coronavirus is doused.”

He, however, allayed the fear of residents, saying though the Covid-19 is real but that the government is on top of the situation.

Members of the Assembly were advised to sensitize their constituents against social interaction, on regular washing of hands and unnecessary handshake among others that could cause the spread of the disease in Ekiti.

It was gathered that two bills, which are, The Ekiti Housing Corporation (Amendment), Bill, 2020 and Law to Prohibit Discriminatory Against Persons With Disabilities, 2020 were unanimously passed on Thursday’s plenary.

The passage of the bills followed the adoption of the reports of the House Committees on Lands and Housing and Women Affairs and Social Development as submitted by their Chairmen, Mr Ayodeji Ajayi and Mrs Adekemi Balogun respectively.

The Assembly, thereafter, adjourned plenary sitting ‘sine die’ as moved by Gboyega Aribisogan and seconded by Mr Tunde Idowu,(Ikere Constuency)

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NNPC Urges SPE Members To Bring Solutions To Fight Oil Industry Challenge

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has urged professionals in the Nigerian petroleum sector to come up with solutions to tackle current challenges facing the industry.

The group managing director of NNPC, Mele Kyari, disclosed this on Wednesday while playing host to the Executive members of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nigerian Council, in Abuja on Tuesday.

The NNPC Boss listed over-supply and the outbreak of the Covid-19 – which has led to a considerable fall in the price of crude oil – as the two major challenges facing the oil and gas industry today.

“The combination of these two events means that there would be a lull in activities in the oil industry, and if forecasts are right, we may witness very low oil prices throughout the year and that will have a collateral effect on the economy”, the GMD said in a statement on Wednesday.

He, therefore, urged professionals to come up with a blueprint on how to get things done economically in order to minimize the negative impact of the current situation on the industry.

The GMD said NNPC has repositioned its Research and Development business into an innovation centre that can provide the needed solution and services for the technological development in the petroleum industry.

On his part, President of the SPE, Joe Uwakwe, said the business of his society was to seek technical solutions to industry problems, adding that the present challenges require the development of technology to produce crude oil in a cost-efficient manner.

He assured that professionals in the industry would do what is necessary to overcome the present challenges.

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NECO: Schools charging Above N9,850 For Enrollment Will Be Sanctioned – Gana

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The National Examinations Council, NECO, has vowed to sanction schools charging above the government-approved fee of N9,850 as registration fee for the 2020 Senior School Certificate Examination, SSCE.

Dr. Abubakar Gana, the acting Registrar of NECO, made this resolve during a visit to the Council by the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Services on Wednesday in Abuja.

The registrar raised an observation that some schools were charging between N19,000 and N20,000 as registration fee for SSCE, prompting him to write to Commissioners of Education of the 36 states and FCT, notifying them of the extortions going on in their schools against the directive of the Federal Government.

“Not quite a month, we wrote to all the commissioners of education, highlighting that some schools, both public and private, are overcharging candidates. While the NECO fee itself is N9,850, some are even charging N20,000 in the name of administrative charges.

“Most of these schools are miracle centres and what they do there is that they perpetrate malpractice. Candidates who are lazy and don’t have confidence can go to the extent of paying N50,000 to register so they can have their way.

“We are on it. You too have a very critical role to play. We will make sure that in all our activities, we would make you part of the monitoring team so you can see what is happening and at your convenience, write a report to us,” he said.

Gana, who took the committee through the mandate of NECO, appealed to the National Assembly for the review of NECO’s budget, lamenting that the exam body has not embarked on any capital project for the past three years.

He said apart from conducting an examination, NECO was finding it difficult to execute one project due to low allocation to the agency.

He said in 2018, it was budgeted that the council will purchase 18 Hilux pickups but only N7 million was released to it which couldn’t even buy one.

In response to the concerns raised by Gana, the Chairman, House Committee on Basic Education and Services Prof Julius Ihovbere, said the committee had a lot of confidence in NECO and those managing the agency.

“We believe that the role you have played, the only way to better appreciate it is to imagine a Nigeria without NECO,” he said.

“The limitations faced by NECO were not from the inability of the Council to deliver but because of the challenges confronting the exam body.

“Both the Senate and the House of Representatives will approve a review of NECO’s budget to enable it to execute its mandate”.

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We Have 615 prisoners studying free in NOUN – VC

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Prof. Abdalla Adamu, the Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University in Nigeria (NOUN) says the institution has admitted a total of 615 prisoners.

Adamu made the disclosure in an interview with newsmen in Lagos.

The vice-chancellor told newsmen that the inmates had a preference for studying Peace and Conflict Resolution as their major courses.

Adamu said that NOUN, established in 2002, also encouraged people living with disabilities to enroll in it.

“We don’t want a situation where people with so-called learning disabilities are separated from society.

“If anybody with a learning disability wishes to enroll in NOUN, he is welcome.

“We do not have braille books but we have other items of technologies; even phones now have enhancement technologies that they can use but they have not been able to explore them.

“We are living in an inclusive world, we want these people to be part of the society because they live in the society; so, we integrate them as much as we can,’’ he said.

The vice-chancellor noted that the Federal Government had been supporting the institution, but said that NOUN needed more funds to do better.

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JAMB Rejects Cancelling 2020 UTME Result

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The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has distanced itself from rumours in some quarters that results of its 2020 UTME taken on Saturday March 14 and Monday March 16 had been cancelled.

Dr Fabian Benjamin, Head, Media and Information, made the clarification in an interview with newsmen on Wednesday in Lagos.

According to him, such rumours are the handiwork of fraudsters and should be disregarded.

He described the rumour as wicked, malicious and misleading.

”JAMB wishes to reassure all candidates who have written this year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) so far that it has not canceled any of its examination or results.

”All results that have been released so far are intact and therefore there is no need for any panic whatsoever.

”Results of the 469,000 candidates who wrote on Monday have been released and candidates are to check their results by typing ‘RESULT’ and sending to 55019 with their unique telephone numbers for their scores.

“They should not check their results on the internet as the portal had been shut, following attempt by some fraudsters to alter results of candidates.

”The board is already investigating the activities of these criminals and will not fail to take very drastic action against those that are behind this,” Benjamin said.

Benjamin also responded to complaints by some candidates and stakeholders that the board was deliberately posting candidates to centres far away from their areas of residence.

He said JAMB would not go beyond the carrying capacity of any centre all in a bid to fulfill the aspirations of candidates seeking to take the examination there.

“Let me simply clarify here that JAMB does not post candidates just anywhere.

“It is the candidates that chose their examination towns and once centres in that examination towns are filled, they are withdrawn from the net and candidates are then sent to other centres closest to such examination towns.

”It is not a deliberate act on our side,” he explained.

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Thugs Attack Kwankwaso, Destroy Vehicles, others In Kano

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Former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s convoy came under heavy attack by deadly armed men in the ancient City on Tuesday.

The attack which resulted in the destruction of three of the vehicles in the former Governor’s convoy, however, did not injure anybody, as Kwankwaso was said to have escaped unhurt.

The incident was said to have occurred shortly after Senator Kwankwaso had conferred with the Chairman of Kano State PDP ward Congress, Governor Fintiri at Tahir’s Guest Palace.

A statement by Ibrahim Adam, Spokesman to Abba Kabir Yusuf, 2019 PDP gubernatorial candidate said, “the leader escaped unhurt ”

Adam said, “While leaving the hotel, some hired thugs attacked the convoy of Sen. Kwankwaso and destroyed 3 cars belonging to some of our House of Assembly members.”

The spokesman, however, said, “But, Alhamdulillah, the Congress was successful. They couldn’t achieve what they wanted to achieve.”

Abba Kabir Yusuf was said to have expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the Congress which was contested for by some aggrieved members in Court.

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Corona Virus: NYSC Management Postpones Orientation Course Indefinitely

The management of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has suspended the 2020 Batch A orientation camp.

The camp, which opened on Tuesday, has been shut after Nigeria confirmed its third case of COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus.

The schemes disclosed this in a statement on its Facebook page.

The management explained that corps members in camps will now be posted to commence their primary assignments forthwith.

The statement read: “Sequel to the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic which led to the cancellation of the National Sports Festival, Management of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme wishes to announce the suspension of the on-going Orientation Course for the 2020 Batch “A” Stream 1 Corps Members.

“Therefore, the Corps Members shall be posted to commence their primary assignments forthwith, while they shall be invited back to the Orientation Camps when the situation improves, just like it happened a few years ago when the Nation was confronted by the Ebola virus threat.

“Management wishes to state that no Corps Member or Camp Official has contracted the virus, Thank you.”

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Boxing Champion, Mayweather Is Dead

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Former world boxing champion, Roger Mayweather, is dead.

The 58-year-old uncle and trainer to Floyd Mayweather, passed on after battling with poor health.

“My uncle was one of the most important people in my life inside and outside of the ring.

“Roger was a great champion and one of the best trainers in boxing. Unfortunately, his health was failing him for several years and now he can finally rest in peace,” Mayweather Jr said in a statement.

Roger was a two-weight world champion and fought 72 times during his 17-year career.

His death comes a week after the death of Josie Harris, mother to three of Floyd Mayweather’s children.

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Reps Dismiss Bill To Organize Civil Societies Regulatory Commission

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Members of the House of Representatives have rejected a bill to establish the Civil Societies Regulatory Commission for coordinated regulation of Civil Society Organisations.

The bill was sponsored by Hon. Tajudeen Abbas during plenary on Tuesday.

But some lawmakers opposed the bill saying it goes against section 40 of the constitution which gives every citizen the right to assemble freely.

The opposing lawmakers further stated that the country enjoys democracy because of civil societies and the bill is an attempt to stifle free speech and assembly.

However, the Speaker of the House, Femi Gbajagbiamila, expressed support for the bill, stating that it does not go against the constitution, neither does it seek to muzzle free speech or association.

After listening to submissions from his colleagues, Hon. Abbas opted to step down the bill.

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BREAKING: Senate Orders For Travel Ban On US, UK, others

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Members of Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber on Tuesday called for a travel ban on high-risk countries such as China, United Kingdom, United States and others.

This call was made over the global spread of Coronavirus also known as COVID-19

Currently, the high-risk countries include UK, China, Italy, the US among others.

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Minimum Wage: Organized Labour Gives 7-day Ultimatum

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The Organized Labour in Rivers State has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Rivers State government to meet up its demand or face industrial action.

The seven-day ultimatum, which began on Monday, March 16, 2020, followed an extensive deliberation of both the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress and the Joint Public Service Negotiating Councils one, two and three of the Rivers state councils in Port Harcourt.

Labour’s announcement is contained in a statement signed by the state Secretaries of NLC, Comrade Matthew Olive and Comrade Prince Ndukwe of the TUC as well as their Joint public service negotiating council 1, 2 and 3, Comrade Opuwari Agbada.

The organized labour expressed displeasure; “On the non-seriousness of the state government to resolve the issues in contention despite the window of opportunities offered by the state leadership in view of the intervention of the national leadership.

“Some of the contending issues to include, the reconvening of the negotiating team on the implementation of the new national minimum wage, known- implementation of promotion and annual incremental benefits since the inception of the present administration in 2015, payment of outstanding salary arrears to some workers for February and March 2016 and October 2017, nonpayment of pension and gratuity to pensioners, the disappearance of the one hundred million Naira workers revolving housing/car loan scheme and the immediate removal of the retired head of service and other retired heads of ministries, departments, and agencies.

“Failure of the state government to demonstrate seriousness in addressing the above issues at the expiration of the seven days ultimatum with effect from Monday 16th March 2020 it will have no option than to embark on an indefinite strike action without further notice from midnight of Monday 23rd March 2020.”

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13 Inmates Freed In Akwa Ibom Correctional Centre

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About 13 inmates in the Akwa Ibom State Correctional Centre were on Monday, granted a pardon by the Presidential Committee on Correctional Reforms and Decongestion, led by its Chairman, Justice Ishaq Bello.

Two out of the 13 were released based on their ill health, while 11 others convicted of minor offences got their freedom after the Akwa Ibom State government had paid for their option of fines.

Justice Bello pronounced their release after the facility tour of the centre and going through their case files in Uyo.

Bello, who is also the Chief Judge of the High Court, Federal Capital Territory, said the inmates were released based on the mandate given to the committee.

He said that the pardon was based on the ground of ill health and those who were convicted of minor offences with the option of fines but were unable to pay.

He added that the State Government has magnanimously agreed to settle the fines on behalf of the convicted inmates and set them free.

His words, “we have in our mandate to look at those who have overstayed the sentence year, the aged, those that have health challenges and those who committed minor offences and have options of fines but could not pay.

“The total inmates released are 13 from the Correctional Centre, out of this, 11 of them had their option of fine paid. Two were released on the ground of ill health.

“I want to commend the Comptroller for this show of diligence and competence in doing the job.”

The chairman, however, advised the released inmates to be of good conduct, not to involve in crimes that may bring them back to the correctional centre.

He urged them to associate with people of good character to be better citizens for themselves and the country.

He also lauded the comptroller for the clean environment of the correctional centre.

Earlier in his remarks, the State Comptroller of the Correctional Service, Mr. Alex Oditah thanked the Committee for their efforts to decongest the Custodial centers in Akwa Ibom State.

He noted that these Centres were being overstretched, citing Uyo Custodial Centre which had a capacity of 613 inmates, but now had over 1300 inmates.

The highpoint of the event was the donation of books by the committee to enhance the reading culture of inmates.

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FBI Charges Nigerians, For Alleged $30m Fraud

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United States Federal agents have nabbed 24 individuals for their involvement in a large-scale fraud and money laundering.

The scam targeted citizens, corporations, and financial institutions throughout the United States.

It involved Business Email Compromise schemes, romance fraud scams, and retirement account scams, among others.

A statement by the US Department of Justice noted that affected persons and companies lost more than $30 million.

U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak., said: “Fraud schemes, like the ones perpetrated and facilitated by these defendants, inflict considerable losses on citizens, companies, and the financial system.”

Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta, said: “There is no way we can make the victims of these schemes, many who have lost their life savings, whole again. Hopefully, the arrests and pending prosecutions will at least give them solace that someone is being held accountable for their losses.”

Steven R. Basel, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Atlanta Field Office assured that the U.S. SS will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and others to America.

Persons charged with money laundering are Blessing Oluwatimilehin Ojo, Afeez Olaide Adeniran, Matthan Bolaji Ibidapo, Obinna Nwosu, Benjamin Ibukunoluwa Oye, Christopher Akinwande Awonuga.

Others are Ahamefule Aso Odus, Paul Chinonso Anyanwu, Chineda Obilom Nwakadu, Chukwukadibia Ikechukwu Nnadozie, Uchechi Chidimma Odus, John Ifeoluwa Onimole, Oluwafunmilade Onamuti.

The statement added that Afeez Olaide Adeniran and Blessing Ojo are also charged with wire fraud.

Adeniran allegedly defrauded a homebuyer of $40,000 intended for a real estate transaction.

Ojo scammed a media company in California of $89,140 to a bank account controlled by one of the defendants.

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Coronavirus: Akufo-Addo Suspends Weddings, Funerals, Church Services And Shuts Down Schools

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The government of Ghana has suspended all public gatherings in the country with immediate effect following the recording of six confirmed Coronavirus diseases (COVID-19) in Ghana as of Saturday, March 14, 2020.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo made this known in a televised national address Sunday night [March 15, 2020].

He said the new directives follows an earlier meeting of Inter-Ministerial Committee on Coronavirus response which he chaired and it deliberated on the issues.

“I have decided, in the interest of public safety and protection of our population, to review the public gathering advisories earlier announced.”

He said among the gatherings suspended are church services, weddings, funerals, other social gatherings.

All universities, senior high schools and basic schools – public and private schools will be closed Monday March 16, 2020 till further notice.

The Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication has been tasked to roll out distance learning programmes.

However, BECE and WASSCE candidates will be allowed to attend school to prepare for their examinations, but with prescribed social distancing protocols, President Akufo-Addo said.

“You may recall that on Wednesday, 12th March 2020, when I first spoke to you directly on this matter, I announced the first raft of enhanced measures taken in response to the pandemic. At the time, there had been no reported, confirmed case of the Coronavirus in Ghana,” President Akufo-Addo said.

He said since then, six confirmed cases have been announced, all of persons who recently travelled into Ghana.

He said advisories on how to manage the developments have also been announced by the Ministries of Health and Information and that public education is being intensified to ensure that citizens are well advised on preventive measures.

President Akufo-Addo said additionally, as the experts conduct contact tracing, “I appeal to all to cooperate with them to ensure that persons who have come into contact with positive cases are identified and supported..

He said he has directed the Attorney General to immediately submit to Parliament an emergency Legislation in accordance with Article 21 to help enforce all the measures announced.

He said he has further directed the Minister of Health to exercise his powers under section 169 of the Public Health Act, 2012, Act 851 by the immediate issuance of an Executive Instrument to govern the relevant and called on Parliament to support the Executive in “national endeavour.”

“As I said earlier, there is every need to observe prescribed social distancing and good personal hygiene to prevent community spread.

“We are determined to do whatever we can to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the population.”

The President said all the measures announced will be subject to constant review and enhancement if necessary. Fellow Ghanaians, these are not ordinary times, so let us all put our shoulders to the wheel and I’m confident that together, by the grace of God we shall overcome this challenge. May God bless us all and our homeland Ghana and make us great and strong. I thank you for your attention.”

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Davido Returns To Nigeria, After He Postponed Tour

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Popular Nigerian singer, Davido is prepared to jet back to Nigeria after he postponed his North America tour.

The singer took to social media on Sunday, to announce his departure after postponing his tour.

The singer also in the post, instructs his fans to be strong, that they will overcome and a good time shall return.

Recall Davido on Thursday postponed his ‘A Good Time Tour’ tagged ‘North America, 2020’ over the fear of the global epidemic, coronavirus, stating that “The health and safety of his fans and staff are paramount and nothing else matters at the moment.

Davido on his recent post on his Instagram story, stated that he was returning back to Nigeria, and was seen taking caution as he wore gloves and a nose mask.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9ulG-9ha9T/?igshid=lskwgx2gwwvg

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Alleged Drugged Boy, Kills Four, Injures 3 In Ogwashi-uku

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Reports have revealed that a reckless boy identified as Uche (surname withheld) allegedly ran into not less than seven persons, killing four instantly and injuring three in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Aniocha South LGA of Delta State.

The tragedy occurred as guests were arriving at the Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, Ogwashi-Ukwu for the funeral mass of Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi’s aides, Tony Iwelu who was recently electrocuted in a hotel room.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, witnesses said the young man whose mother was once a councilor in Aniocha South Local Government, must have been drunk or under the influence of cannabis, popularly known as (Igbo) before taking over the wheels of a red Toyota Camry car used in killing his victims.

It was also affirmed by sources that the boy had been causing his parents distress, and at a time was flown abroad to utilize a better opportunity in a safe environment.

Nevertheless, it was gathered that the boy misused the opportunity and came back to continue in his gangsterism and waywardness.

It was further revealed that Uche joined the vigilante group, which made him more violent as he uses the platform to intimidate his victims and causing havoc in the community.

Victims of the alleged killing by the boy include a family of four who was returning from the church where they had gone to clean on a Saturday morning.

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Sanusi Arrives Lagos As Court Frees Him from Detention

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Former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi ll, yesterday afternoon got back his freedom, following the verdict of a Federal High Court in Abuja that ordered his immediate release, and left Awe, Nasarawa State, where he was confined, to Abuja, and then finally to Lagos.

The Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, who had earlier visited Sanusi in Awe, on his third day in detention, and took him to Abuja, was also at the Abuja airport to see him off to Lagos.

Sanusi prayed for his supporters at the Abuja airport before boarding the aircraft to Lagos and arrived Lagos close to midnight. He was ushered out of the Lagos airport by his friends/supporters and driven to Ikoyi.

The former Emir of Kano, after his dethronement by the Kano State government on Monday, had indicated interest to move to Lagos but was prevented from doing so by security agents.

However, his family was moved to Lagos in a private jet provided by one of his friends. He finally reunited with them last night.

Earlier yesterday, El-Rufai on his Twitter handle confirmed that they were heading to Abuja from Awe. He also uploaded a picture showing the former Emir and himself in a vehicle.

Sanusi was moved to Awe on Tuesday by security agents and was in confinement, but receiving state visitors and family members.

But yesterday, he stepped out for the first time to lead prayers at the Awe Central Mosque, located within the palace of the Emir of Awe.

Last Thursday, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Lateef Fagbemi had filed an exparte motion for the release of Sanusi from confinement in Awe.

Justice Anwuli Chikere of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court yesterday granted the prayer and ordered the release of the former Emir of Kano from unlawful detention.

Sanusi in the fundamental human rights suit instituted in Abuja on March 12, prayed the court to void his banishment to Nasarawa State and order his release so that he could enjoy his fundamental rights as provided by law.

The former emir urged the court to restore his right to human dignity, personal liberty, freedom of association and movement in Nigeria apart from Kano State.

The suit was brought pursuant to section 34, 35, 40, 41 and 46 of the 1999 Constitution and Order Rule 4 of the Federal High Court.

Apart from the originating motion, Sanusi also filed an exparte application, praying the court for an interim order for his release.

He also prayed for another order granting him leave to serve the enrolled order of his release and the originating motion on any officer at the office of the Director-General are the Inspector General of Police, Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS), Attorney General of Kano State and Attorney General of the Federation.

Delivering ruling yesterday, Justice Chikere made an Interim order releasing Sanusi from detention and or confinement of the respondents and restoring the applicant’s right to human dignity personal liberty, freedom of association and movement in Nigeria (apart from Kano State) pending the hearing and determination of the applicant’s originating motion.

Justice Chikere also granted leave to Sanusi to serve the enrolled order of his release and the originating motion as well as all processes on any officer at the respondents’ headquarters in Abuja and Kano State.

The judge thereafter fixed March 26 for hearing in the originating motion.

The government of Kano State had on Monday, March 9, 2020, announced his dethronement on grounds of alleged disregard to constituted authorities, disloyalty, refusal to attend council meetings amongst others.

Shortly after his dethronement, he was banished to Loco town in Nasarawa State from where he was later moved to Awe town where he was confined prior to his release yesterday.

Governor El-Rufai departed Kaduna city for Awe yesterday morning to visit the dethroned Emir of Kano. He captured this in a Facebook post, accompanied by a picture in his car.

The governor has been a friend of the emir for decades. He appointed Sanusi as the Pro-chancellor of the Kaduna State University and also made him the Vice-Chairman of the state’s investment board after his dethronement.

The governor was among those who went to receive Sanusi in 2014 when the latter was suspended as the Central Bank Governor by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Speaking to the press in Awe after receiving the favourable court ruling, El-Rufai said Sanusi “can now go anywhere, including Kano.”

“The High Court ruled that he can go anywhere, including Kano, but I think he wants to go to Lagos to reunite with his family,” El-Rufai said.

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Stop Criticising Government Before they Come For You – Shehu Sani Tells Sultan Of Sokoto

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Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has reacted to the comment by the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar that hunger was deadlier than Coronavirus.

Sani urged the Sultan to stop talking about hunger in Nigeria to avoid being attacked.

Recall that the Sultan had earlier stated that poverty and hunger were killing Nigerians more than the deadly Coronavirus.

Abubakar had stressed that what a lot of Nigerians are facing in terms of hunger and other challenges was much deadlier than the Coronavirus.

The monarch stated this on Thursday at the first quarterly meeting of Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja.

However, Sani, who took to his Facebook page, urged the Sultan to stop criticizing the government.

Sani’s comment which he wrote in pidgin and was translated in the English language reads: “Please your Highness Sultan stop talking about hunger in Nigeria so they don’t come for you.

“So they won’t say you are the contortionist or what do they call it. As they returned home in anger, make sure you just chill.”

Meanwhile, former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Lamido Sanusi, who is known for criticizing Northern state government over the poverty rate in the region was on Monday dethroned by the Kano State Government.

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Gov. Uzodinma Reacts To Those Plotting Oshiomhole’s Removal

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The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has reacted to the purported removal of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Adams Oshiomhole.

Speaking to journalists on Friday in Owerri, the state capital, Uzodinma said those calling for Oshiomhole’s removal will fail.

According to him, patriotic forces within the ruling party will not allow Oshiomhole to be humiliated out of office.

He also accused some members of the party of working with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to create a crisis.

“Many of us, leaders of the party, are aware that those clamoring for the chairman’s removal are working with the PDP to destabilise the party but they will fail.

“We will not allow them to humiliate our National Chairman out of office through illegal means or allow any action that will bring the party to public ridicule,” Uzodinma said.

While insisting that the APC chairman has not done anything to warrant his removal, the governor vowed that every arsenal will be deployed to ensure that the plan of those plotting his removal is foiled.

Speaking further, Uzodinma said the guidelines of the party are clear on how the National Chairman can be removed from office which must be through the National Executive committee (NEC), adding that anything outside that was illegal.

He noted that the plot to remove Oshiomhole is a clear case of witch hunt otherwise those behind it would have come through the proper channel which is the party’s NEC, but they have refused to do so because they know they have no genuine case against him.

The governor also wondered why a genuine APC member will want to remove Oshiomhole who, according to him, has done so well for the party.

Rather than his removal, Uzodinma wants party members to come together, savour their victory at the last elections and plan how to consolidate for the future.

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Nysc Orientation: State Coordinator Orders Corps Members To Be Law Abiding

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The Delta State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Olutayo Samuel has ordered the newly deployed Batch A Stream 1 corps members to be law-abiding, disciplined and obedient to rules and regulations of the NYSC.

She gave this order while taking the corps members through an orientation course hours after their swearing-in ceremony in Issele-uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The NYSC boss, who praised the corp members for their outstanding conduct and comportment since their entry into the camp and through swearing-in, said they made her proud.

She congratulated them for graduating from their various institutions of learning, insisting that not all that went into school with them graduated.

Speaking further, the NYSC coordinator advised the corps members to desist from breaking camp laws, stressing that the consequence might be much more than they could imagine.

She stressed that the Orientation Camp is regimented, meaning that they were there to take all orders and not flout any. He said that the purpose of Orientation is to properly guide them with their induction into the four cardinal programs of NYSC.

Furthermore, the Coordinator advised them to be security conscious at all times, urging them to imbibe the habit of reporting when they suspect anything. She, however, allayed their fear of insecurity, maintaining that Delta is one of the most peaceful States in Nigeria.

Against the above background, she advised against the pressure for relocation, adding that the only reasons for relocation from Delta should be on the grounds of marriage and serious medical challenges.

Earlier, the Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Comrade Ifeanyi Michael Egwunyenga was at the Orientation Camp in Issele-Uku to conduct the swearing-in of the Batch A Stream 1 corps members.

He had also charged them to be law-abiding and passionately put in their best during the service year, adding that there would always be a reward for exceptional service and good conduct at the end of their service.

Another very important change that has taken place at the camp with regards to the present Coronavirus outbreak is having a stand for the screening of corps members, NYSC officials and visitors against the Coronavirus disease otherwise known as COVID’19.

This precautionary measure had been applauded by everyone who was at the camp either as a worker or a visitor.

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NYSC: Zamfara Govt Endorses N50m To Renovate Camp

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The Zamfara State Government has said it has endorsed the release of fifty million naira for the renovation of the state NYSC permanent camp in Tsafe Local Government Area of the state.

Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle disclosed this at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2020 Batch ‘A’ stream 1 corps members held at Tsafe Permanent Orientation Camp.

Represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Skills Acquisition and Sports, Abdulkadir Buhari Gora, remarked that the state government was also looking into the request of 33kv generator, utility vehicle, and office accommodation with a view to solve their problems.

He called on the management of the NYSC to avoid relocating of the corps members posted to the state to other States as the state needs their services.

The governor also commended the effort of President Muhammadu Buhari for increasing the allowances of the corps members to thirty-three thousand naira monthly.

Speaking earlier, the Zamfara State Coordinator of the scheme, Mohammed Namalam Taura urged the corps members to be law-abiding citizens in the Camp and in their places of primary assignments when posted out.

Over one thousand five hundred corps members were posted and registered in the Camp which to include Medical Doctors, Pharmacist, lawyers, social scientist, educationists among others.

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State policing: Bill Passes Second Reading in Senate

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A bill for an act to establish State Police in Nigeria, to ensure effective community policing has passed its second reading in the Senate.

The bill was sponsored by Senator Bashiru Surajudeen Ajibola representing Osun Central Senatorial district.

The sponsor is striving to alter the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended to indicate a provision for creation of State Police.

“A bill for an Act to alter the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for the establishment of State Police and to ensure effective community policing in Nigeria and for other related matters.” Surajudeen Ajibola read

However, the bill went through the second reading despite the fact that the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Security was yet to submit its report.

The State Police bill was eventually referred to the Constitution Review Committee headed by Deputy President of the Senate for further public hearing before reverting to the red Chambers for third reading.

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Prepare for More Economic Troubles – Mele Warns Nigeria

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In view of the current multi-year low level of crude price in the international market, the Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) mele Kyari, has on Wednesday warned Nigerians to prepare for more economic trouble.

The spread of COVID-19 across over 90 nations has forced the shut-down of large economies coupled with price war declared by Saudi Arabia aimed at punishing Russia because of its refusal to agree to further production cuts resulted in the lowest oil prices since 1999.

At the Second Consultative Roundtable with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in Abuja, tagged “Going for Growth 2” the richest black man on earth, Alhaji Aliko Dangote expressed disappointment at the perennial mouthing of plans to diversify the economy once there was a crash in oil prices.

He underlined that the oil industry was the most important sector of the economy lamenting that Nigerian banks were still too limited to finance it.

He, therefore, advised Nigerians to prepare for at least three months of hardship for the economy even if the market recovered from the price shock immediately as it would take time for the effect to wear off warning “we must assume that prices will remain low”.

The assumption for this year is 60$ per barrel crude oil price as an average now we are facing 30 and we haven’t seen the bottom.

“Today there are over 12 LPG cargos stranded globally because they have no hub because of the abrupt collapse in demand associated specifically with coronavirus.

“It is obvious and it has also hit other sectors from the production stage which is the liquid crude.

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M.I Abaga Reveals Why He Left Chocolate City

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Nigerian rapper and producer, Jude Abaga, popularly called M.I has clarified that leaving Chocolate City was assumed out of his desire to do a new thing musically.

M.I Abaga who spent about thirteen years with Chocolate City told newsmen that the record label is still part of his family.

According to him, the relationship he has with Chocolate City is still intact, adding that he wanted to keep the news of his exit on a low.

He explained: “Nothing happened to the relationship [with Chocolate City]. We are family for life.”

The rapper said: “Chocolate City is family. It is time for me to do a new thing musically. Generally, I have had a no-press policy on this issue. The reason is that I don’t want my words to be twisted. I am careful about who I answer.”

The ‘One Naira’ crooner further stated that he is grateful to Chocolate City for all he achieved during his time with them.

“After a while, it is time to do a new thing and I am grateful for everything that was,” the songwriter added. “I think right now, it is time for incredible music and for MI to move.”

Also, he alleged that people hardly respect contracts and institutions in Nigeria, lamenting that those who care for musicians are not rightly recognised in the country.

He stated: “If there is one other thing I would say, it is that Nigeria is a very hard country for somebody that cares about musicians to be in.

“Because at the end of the day, when you really think about it, the Banky W’s are leaving the music business. These are people that have nurtured artists.”

He, however, expressed satisfaction that he has been able to make an impact in the entertainment industry, saying he is very proud of his legacy at Chocolate City.

M.I Abaga explained that he was able to pull out many producers who were doing nothing, admonishing those in the entertainment sector to be kinder to people trying to make things happen in the industry.

“I know how many parents I spoke to when their kids were sixteen or seventeen years old,” M.I noted.

Proceeding, he said: “I am very proud of that. We need to be kinder to people that are trying to do good in our industry.”

Recall that Goldennationblog.com reported on the 6th of March that M.I Abaga left popular record label, Chocolate City, after 13 years and has announced the creation of his own label, Incredible Music.

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I Have No Hands In Sanusi’s Dethronement – President Buhari

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President Muhammadu Buhari has denied any interest in the dethronement of former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, describing such insinuations as untrue, malicious and politically motivated.

A statement by presidential spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, said the president never had a history of intervening in the affairs of any state unless such issues are of national importance.

According to the statement, Buhari will only dabble into any brewing issue in a state when such a matter borders on national security because he has a responsibility to comply with provisions of the law in that regard.

It insisted that issues bordering on the appointments and removal of traditional rulers are within the purview of states and hence, linking the president with what happened in Kano is unfair.

“As outlined in the Constitution, the appointment or removal of emirs and other traditional leaders is strictly within the jurisdiction of state governments. It is unfair and disingenuous of opposition politicians to try to link the situation in Kano State to the federal government and the Nigerian President.

“Although a retired General and former Military Head of State, President Buhari clearly understands that under the current democratic dispensation, the government at the centre cannot read instructions or twist the arms of all or any of the 36 state governments making up the federation. They all have their powers specified under the Constitution,” Shehu said.

The presidential spokesman added that Buhari commended the people of Kano State for remaining calm since the dethronement of Sanusi.

He also prayed that God’s will be done at all times in both the emirate and the state.

“President Buhari commends the people of Kano for keeping calm in the past few days of the dethronement announcement.

“He prays that the will of Allah will be done at all times and that the emirate/state and its people continue to experience progress irrespective of who is on the throne,” he said.

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Imo Gov Uzodinma Sends 22 commissioner-Nominees To Assembly (Check Full List)

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The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has on Wednesday, sent the names of 22 commissioner-nominees to State House of Assembly for screening.

Already, the Speaker has set up an ad-hoc committee for the process. The committee is headed by Obinna Okwara.

Other members include Kennedy Ibeh, Frank Ugboma, Eddy Obinna, and Uju Onwudiwe.

Below are the names of the nominees:

  1. Dr. Mrs. Osunkwo
  2. Iyke Njoku
  3. Prof. V. E. O Ikegwuoha
  4. Barr. Francis Dibiagwu
  5. Doris Akubuo
  6. Dan Ough
  7. Noble Atulegwu
  8. C C Osuala
  9. Lambert Orisakwe
  10. Obiageri Ajoku
  11. Nkechi Ugwu
  12. Simeon Ibegbulem
  13. Kingsley Ononuju
  14. Declan Emelumba
  15. Enyinnaya Onuegbu
  16. Rex Anunobi
  17. Raph Nwosu
  18. Fabian Ihekwueme
  19. Tony Umezuruike
  20. Iyke Umeh
  21. Mathias Emejuonu
  22. Love In

The nominees have been urged to submit all necessary documents to the panel at the Assembly complex.

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FG Unfolds Sowore’s Case of Alleged Treasonable Felony

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The Federal Government, on Wednesday, opened its case of alleged treasonable felony against the convener of #RevolutionNow protest, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, by calling its first witness.

The witness’s name is Mr. Rasheed Olawale, an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Recall that Sowore and Olawale Bakare are standing trial on a two-count charge bordering on treasonable felony.

They were initially arraigned by the DSS last September but the Ministry of Justice later took over the prosecution of the case.

Led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Aminu Alilu, the first prosecution witness (PW1), disclosed that he led the team of operatives who arrested Sowore last August in Lagos.

According to the witness, Sowore was arrested around 1 am at Montana residence and hotel at 16 Oduduwa road GRA Ikeja, Lagos.

He said Sowore was arrested following intelligence report that he (Sowore) had planned to carry out a revolution along with his associates on August 5, 2019, against the democratic government of Nigeria.

Further, the witness said their “investigation report revealed that Sowore was in Maryland with his associates and cohorts, making graphic inscriptions tagged #RevolutionNow on the wall of Maryland bridge.

“He was sensitizing passers-by of the particular day for the protest and what they planned to do. He also claimed that the government of the day would cease to exist through the procession”.

At this stage, lead counsel to the first defendants Mr. Femi Falana SAN raised an objection, claiming that the witness was given evidence not contained in his earlier statement which was served on the defence team.

Falana argued that the defendant is entitled to know the entirety of the case, adding that it was for that reason they demanded the full statement of the witnesses as enshrined in section 36(6) of the 1999 constitution as amended.

The senior lawyer submitted that allowing the evidence would amount to an “ambush” against his client.

He urged the court to direct the prosecution counsel to limit the witness to his earlier statement.

However, prosecution counsel in a quick response said that the law allows them to only serve a “summary” of a witness’ statement on the defence.

Alilu then urged the court to allow the witness to continue with his evidence, adding that the defence would also get the opportunity to cross-examine the witness.

In a short ruling, trial judge, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu, held that the witness was giving his testimony outside the scope of his written statement made earlier. She said although the witness does not have to use the exact words used in his written statement, he is limited to the scope of evidence adduced.

Consequently, she ordered the prosecution to go back and reproduce the statements of all the witnesses.

Justice Ojukwu, however, said the ruling on the application seeking witness protection would be delivered on the next adjourned date.

She subsequently adjourned to April 1 and 2 for the continuation of the first witness’ evidence and trial.

The prosecution had applied to the court to shield the witnesses that would be testifying against the defendants, but the request was opposed by Falana on the grounds that the identities of the witnesses listed are already in the public domain.

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Governor Okowa Mourns Death Of Two Senior Special Assistants

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Governor of Delta State Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has on Monday announced the passing away of two of his aides, Chief Friday Akpoyibo and Chief Godspower Muemuifo.

Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Olisa Ifeajika, on Monday, commiserated with the families of the deceased and their communities of Orogun in Ughelli North Local Government Area and Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area, respectively.

While expressing sadness over the death he said Akpoyibo died on Sunday, March 8 while Muemuifo’s death occurred on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, and until their demise, both were Senior Special Assistants to the Governor on Political Matters.

He described Akpoyibo, who was Chairman, Transition Committee of Ughelli North Local Government Area between 2012 and 2014 and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, as a “grassroots and thoroughbred politician and administrator”.

According to him, Akpoyibo was loved by his people because of his strong convictions and truthful disposition at all times.

The governor added that Muemuifo, a former Secretary to Ughelli South Local Government Council, was an astute politician, complete party man and trusted leader at the grassroots, who would be sadly missed.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of renowned grassroots politicians, Chief Godspower Muemuifo and Chief Friday Akpoyibo, who passed on March 4, 2020, and March 8, 2020, respectively.

“The news of their passing was saddening because they were formidable pillars of our party in their areas.

“They were trusted politicians who distinguished themselves in the service of their people in different capacities and were honest and truthful men who spoke truth to power.

“These gentle party men will be greatly missed by the entire Ughelli South, Ughelli North people, and Deltans, especially those they had had dealings with,” he said.

He prayed to God to accept the deceased’s souls and grant fortitude to their families and friends to bear the loss.

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Stakeholders Condemn Sanusi’s Dethronement, Vows To Sue Ganduje

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Group of stakeholders in Kano state regarded as, For A United Kano, has condemned the dethronement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as Emir of Kano.

The group in a statement signed by its chairman, Bashir Othman Tofa, vowed to drag Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and the Kano House of Assembly to court.

Tofa was the National Republican Convention (NRC) candidate in the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election.

The statement said the stakeholders received with utter shock and disbelief, the announcement by the Secretary to State Government on Sanusi’s removal.

“This development is saddening, unfortunate and illegal. The supporters call on all residents of Kano State and beyond to stay calm, and not to resort to any violent reaction whatsoever,” it read.

“We absolutely believe in whatever Allah ordains; we put our complete trust in Him, for He has power over all things.

“Be that as it may, the Advocates For A United Kano shall continue to challenge, by lawful and peaceful means, each and every brazen act of illegality perpetrated by the Government of Kano State.

“In particular, we have vowed to sustain our judicial challenge to the unlawful law passed by the Kano House of Assembly under which the Governor purportedly removed the Emir”.

Hours after Sanusi’s ouster, the Ganduje government announced Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano.

Bayero was until his appointment the Emir of Bichi, one of the four new Emirates created in 2019.

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Nnamdi Kanu Responds As Imo youths Assault Gov. Hope Uzodinma

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The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has responded to the assault on the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma.

Kanu, in a post shared on Facebook warned that “This is the beginning as we foretold a few days ago.”

It was reported that Uzodinma was attacked on Sunday afternoon at Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area.

Youths of Mmahu community repeatedly shouted “Onye Oshi Vote, Onye Oshi Vote”, at the Governor upon his arrival at the area, throwing bottles and sticks at the convoy.

Kanu, described Uzodinma as a Fulani stooge, adding that “There will be no rest for any Fulani stooge in Biafraland.

“Hope Uzodinma will be made an example of that others may learn that Fulani Caliphate or their Supreme Court of Corruption cannot impose leaders on us.”

Kanu further recalled as he mocked the Governor, “The Supreme Court Governor Of Imo State escaped death moments ago at Ohaji Egbema.

“The youths of Mmahu community who upon sighting the Governor’s convoy started shouting ‘Onye Oshi Vote, Onye Oshi Vote’ started throwing bottles and weapons on the Bulletproof SUV of the Governor.

“Uzodinma was, however, not allowed to come down from the car as security operatives whisked him away immediately, ” Kanu said.

Prior to the Supreme Court’s final ruling on the Imo governorship tussle, Kanu had told the Supreme Court to nullify the election of Uzodinma as Imo Governor and order a fresh governorship election in the State.

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Displaced Emir Sanusi: PDP Mistakes Timing, Calls for Peace

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has on Monday, faulted the time during which the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, was displaced.

It, however, called for calm, saying the timing was a big political blunder coming when the society was wobbling under the siege of insecurity, especially in a state such as Kano.

The opposition party’s spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan said this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja.

Part of the statement reads, “The deposition of Emir Muhammad Sanusi II by the Kano state government, at the time, that the nation is battling worsening insecurity challenges, shows the insensitivity and poor appraisal of core national stability issues by the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.

“Without prejudice to the issues, the PDP described the timing of the action of the Kano state government, particularly as it relates to a very sensitive traditional institution like the Emir of Kano stool, is a big political blunder coming at a time our society is wobbling under the siege of insecurity, especially in a state such as Kano.

“The PDP, however, calls for calm and circumspection from all quarters, especially, given the security and political stability concerns in our nation”.

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Gov. Ganduje Sacks Emir Sanusi Of Kano State

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Governor Abdullahi Ganduje-led Kano State Government on Monday dethroned of Muhammadu Sanusi II as Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi.

Sanusi was a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Aminu Ado Bayero was named as his replacement and the 15th Emir of the State.

The new monarch is one of the sons of late Emir, Ado Bayero.

Until his appointment by the, Bayero was the Emir of Bichi one of the four New Emirs created by the Ganduje administration.

The four kingmakers, who selected him were the Makaman Kano Abdullahi Sarki Bayero, Sarkin Bai Mukthar Adnan, Sarkin Dawaki Maituta Alhaji Bello Tuta, and Madakin Kano Yusuf Nabahani Cigari.

They were in attendance when the Secretary to the Government, Usman Alhaji announced Bayero as the new Emir.

Sanusi, after his removal, was escorted out of the palace amid heavy security.

His current location is believed to be Abuja or Nasarawa State.

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Suspected Cultists Kills five, Injures Others In Imo Cult War

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Three unidentified persons were killed while five others were wounded when two fraternal cult groups engaged each other in sporadic shooting at Elezuo, Umuchima Street in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.

The incident took place on the 4th of March, 2020 at about 11:30 pm, it was learned.

The Police spokesman Orlando Ikeokwu said that the Command received a distress call of sporadic shooting around Ele/Umuchima and as a result t, the Divisional Police Officer led a team from the division Area Command and SARS annex in Okigwe, to the scene where they met two corpses and five others with various degrees of gunshot injuries.

He said that one of the injured later gave up the ghost and thereby increasing the death toll to three.

He said that the corpses had been deposited in a morgue, while the injured persons are presently receiving treatment.

“The command has made arrests and still following up other leads while the investigation is still in progress, he added.

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77,000 Pupils Sit for Common Entrance Examination In Anambra

No fewer than 77,000 candidates have sat for the 2020 common entrance examination into Junior Secondary Schools in Anambra State.

Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Kate Omenugha revealed this while on an inspection tour of schools in Awka, where pupils were sitting for the examination.

Omega who was represented by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Linus Nwabueze Nwankwo urged the pupils to shun all forms of examination misconduct.

She urged the centre supervisors to inculcate reading culture into the children to enable them to be independent during the examination.

At Ezinato National School, Awka, Chief Registrar, Examination Development Centre (EDC), Awka, Mrs. Stella Ukatu said that no fewer than 2,000 centres were approved and screened to accommodate no fewer than 77,000 candidates enrolled for the examination.

Mrs. Ukatu said that in order to ensure that Anambra was examination malpractice free, the answer sheets of candidates were customized and their examination numbers already written in their answer sheets.

According to her, the pupils were carefully screened by making sure they did not take the examinations in their schools, in order to avoid malpractices.

She noted that the examinations were hitch-free as education officers in the state were present as early as 6.30 am; and mobilized to distribute the examination materials to the 2,000 centres across the state.

Supervisor of Ezinato National School, Awka, Mrs. Stella Asiegbu said that 155 candidates were earlier sent to the centre but 139 pupils were present in the hall.

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Northeast Governors Establishes Regional Power Generation

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The North East Governors have agreed to set up regional power generation by supporting Mambilla Power Project to ensure the economic advancement of the region.

The Governor of Gombe State Inuwa Yahaya disclosed this at a Northeast Governors Consultative meeting in Gombe State Government House.

Inuwa Yahaya said this was part of the resolve of the governors to address the challenges facing the region.

According to him, the governors have agreed to harness the Agricultural potentials of the zone with a view to ensuring food security not only in the region but in the country in general.

He said they have also resolved to key into the environmental initiative of the Federal Government in addition to praising the authorities concerned on the ongoing oil exploration in the zone.

The Gombe State Governor said his colleagues who expressed satisfaction with the establishment of the North East Development Commission pledged to provide the necessary support to achieve the desired objectives.

The Governors appealed to the Commission to ensure its projects were executed based on the basic needs of the beneficiaries so as to overcome their challenges.

On security, he said the Governors have directed State Attorney General in their respective states to work together in order to enhance security in the region.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya said already the Governors have set up a technical committee to ensure the full implementation of all the agreements reached the meeting.

The next meeting of the North East Governors was scheduled to hold on the 15 of April 2020 in Maiduguri, the capital city of Borno state.

Governor Maimala Buni of Yobe state who delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the Governors, commended the Governor of Gombe State for hosting the meeting and identified increased activities of insurgents as one of the major challenges facing the region.

Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammad alongside his colleagues of Adamawa, Yobe, Borno and Gombe states attended the meeting while the Governor of Taraba state was represented by his Deputy.

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M.I Leaves Chocolate City, Announces New Record Label

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Popular Nigerian rapper, M.I Abaga has announced his exit from Chocolate City after 13 years of being under the record label.

The announcement of his exit is coming hours after he dropped his 10th studio project titled “Judah EP”.

This is his first release under the new record label “Incredible Music”

Chocolate City is regarded as one of the biggest Nigerian urban record labels in Africa which were founded in 2005 by a lawyer, Audu Maikori along with Paul Okeugo.

M.I officially signed to Chocolate City in 2008 and has since released four solo albums, three mixtapes, a compilation album, and a playlist while under the label.

M.I was appointed the CEO of Chocolate City on June 30, 2015, which saw the return of his brother, Jesse Jagz.

Under his leadership, Chocolate City signed Ruby Gyang, Ckay, Yung L, Milli, Koker, DJ Lambo, Kahli Abdu & VHS Safari and Loose Kaynon.

Making his official announcement, M.I took to his Instagram page, revealing his new label.

He wrote: “There is a lot of truth in my new EP the “Judah EP

“I had a dream that CBN would be the greatest group the world has ever seen. It was on me and today I announce my decision to finally let go and move on to something new!

” Thank you for your support and love for 13 years and if you’re still with me!! Let’s go.”

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BBNaija: Former Housemates, Teddy A, Bambam Welcome First Child

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Former Big Brother Naija, Housemates and couple, Bambam and Teddy A have welcomed their first child.

The couple announced the arrival of their baby on Thursday.

Teddy A who tied the knot with his BBNaija lover, Bambam disclosed this on his Twitter page.

He wrote: “Zendaya Folakemi Adenibuyan. She’s the most beautiful human I’ve ever seen. I’m in love!

Nigerians on social media received the news of the lovebirds’ first child with excitement.

Fans and celebrities trooped to Teddy A’s Twitter page congratulating the couple on the arrival of their daughter, Zendaya.

recall that the couple had a colorful wedding which was also a reunion for some of the ‘Double Wahala’ housemates who showed up with fashionable attires.

‘Double Wahala’ housemates, Cynthia Nwadiora aka CeeC, Anto Lecky, Alex, Khloe, and Leo Dasilva were part of the couple’s train.

The destination wedding in Dubai had several celebrities across the entertainment industry in attendance.

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Doctors In Kaduna Begin Indefinite Strick Action

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The Association of Resident Doctors ( ARD), Kaduna State chapter, has commenced an indefinite strike beginning from Wednesday.

The President of ARD, Dr Emmanuel Joseph said this in a statement made available to Newsmen in Kaduna.

He said the strike was necessitated by the state government’s failure to honour an agreement it had with the association bordering on salary adjustments and tackling some challenges in the health sector.

“So, we were compelled to take this sad step.

” As a sign of good faith, we will continue to manage the patience in the infectious Diseases Control Centre being currently managed for lassa fever till patients fully recover,” he said.

He said the doctors would not accept new patients in any public health facility and were currently discharging or referring patients on admission, “as we cannot fully manage them,” he said.

Recall that since October 2017, the government and the ARD had mutually agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), in a meeting brokered by NMA, with timeline of implementation.

According to him, the ARD had kept its own part of the bargain while the government was yet to do so despite reminders and lobbying by the association.

According to him, the association also met with government on Nov. 25, 2019 and agreed to give it three months to implement the agreement, but also failed to do so.

“The government team again went to sleep until we were forced to give further reminder of our looming deadline,” he said.

According to him, the government responded by setting up a committee on Feb. 27, 2020, and the association honoured the committee chairman’s verbal demand for extension to March 3, 2020.

The state ARD president said the doctors had no option than to proceed on strike after the government again failed to respond to its demands at the end of the March 3 deadline.

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Bayelsa Governor, Diri Granted N2.9 Billion Loan To Buy Cars

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Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri has been granted a request of an N2.9 billion loan by the State House of Assembly.

The new Governor had asked for the loan to enable his administration to purchase operational vehicles for himself, the deputy governor, and others.

A lawmaker, Monday Buluo-Obolo raised a motion on the floor of the House on Wednesday, urging the House to grant the request as it would ensure the smooth running of the new government.

Blue-Obolo convinced the House that the proposed loan facility has a repayment plan of 36 months, adding that other projects by the government would not be affected.

The motion was unanimously supported by other lawmakers.

The Assembly Speaker, Abraham Ingobere said the House would convey the approval of the loan request to Diri.

Diri was sworn-in on the 14th of February following the INEC compliance to the Supreme Court ruling that sacked the All Progressives Congress, APC’s David Lyon as the governor-elect.

Diri took the oath of office and allegiance as the fifth executive governor of the State.

Diri’s request for the N2.9 billion loan to purchase new vehicles raises the question of what might have happened to the cars used during the immediate past administration of Seriake Dickson.

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Fire Razes Part Of Gujungu market In Jigawa

Fire has razed part of the prominent Gujungu Market in Taura Local Government area of Jigawa State.

State Spokesman of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, SC Adamu Shehu, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Thursday.

He said the wild fire started from tents of textile sellers at about 4:00PM of Tuesday.

Adamu explained that the wild fire has destroyed about 250 tents and properties worth millions of naira.

He said the cause of the inferno is yet to be identified at the time of filing the report.

Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr Yusuf Sani Babura, said state government was making efforts to help the affected persons.

He also attributed the cause of fire to the rampant usage of fire by some traders to warm themselves, fish and meat sellers and other related businesses.

Chairman of the market Alhaji Salisu Dan’azumi, also confirmed the incident to newsmen. He said the inferno destroyed properties worth over ten million Naira.

Dan’azumi said the fire was only put out due to the efforts of security agencies and persons in the area.

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Atiku celebrates With Obasanjo On 83rd birthday, Says Nigerians Owe Him A Price

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The former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has felicitated with ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 83rd birthday.

Atiku described Obasanjo, his former boss as the “preeminent political colossus in Nigeria.”

In a statement he personally signed, the former Vice President said Nigeria and Africa owed Obasanjo a huge debt that can’t be repaid.

The former Vice President recalled that Obasanjo brought about GSM operation in Nigeria.

Atiku noted that Obasanjo’s love and commitment to Nigeria had stopped him from retiring after leaving office.

He insisted that Obasanjo’s decision to bequeath democracy to Nigerians was commendable.

Atiku wrote: “Dear Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, As you turn 83 today (March 4), my family and I felicitate with you and thank God for your life. No individual living or dead, has bestrode the Nigerian political space as positively and purposefully, as you have done, for good and better, in peacetime and war, in times of austerity, and times of prosperity.

“It is not an exaggeration to describe you as the preeminent political colossus in Nigeria, a nation that owes so much to you. Indeed, many Nigerians would read about your birthday on their GSM devices, which are one of your legacies to the Nigerian people.

“Your love for Nigeria and commitment to her unity, good governance and stability have prevented you from retiring, a sacrifice that my family and I deeply appreciate.

“Nigeria owes you a debt that we cannot pay because you led us to pay the foreign debts that we could not imagine paying. By that singular action, you planted trees for generations yet unborn.

“You hold the enviable and esteemed record of being the first African military ruler to have voluntarily, and without internal and external pressure, restored power to the government democratically elected by the Nigerian people. It was Not Your Will to be in the office, but it was your will to be a death democracy to Nigeria. And after 21 years of the Fourth Republic, Nigeria has cause to celebrate your democratic credentials.”

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Court Suspends Oshiomhole As APC Chairman

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A High Court sitting in Jabi, Abuja, has suspended Adams Oshiomhole as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a ruling on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, the judge, Justice Danlami Senchi, ordered Oshiomhole to step down pending the determination of the substantive suit seeking his perpetual removal as the APC chairman.

Justice Senchi gave the order following an application of an interlocutory injunction filed by one Oluwale Afolabi. The APC was also named as a defendant in the case.

Afolabi had argued that Oshiomhole had not challenged the decision of the party to suspend him.

In a ruling on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, the judge, Justice Danlami Senchi, ordered Oshiomhole to step down pending the determination of the substantive suit seeking his perpetual removal as the APC chairman.

Justice Senchi gave the order following an application of an interlocutory injunction filed by one Oluwale Afolabi. The APC was also named as a defendant in the case.

Afolabi had argued that Oshiomhole had not challenged the decision of the party to suspend him.

The applicant noted Oshiomhole could not enjoy benefits as a member of the party since he has been suspended.

The judge ordered Oshiomhole should stop parading himself as the national chairman of the APC.

The judge faulted the APC for keeping Oshiomhole as chairman “when he had been suspended by the party in his state”.

Senchi ordered that Oshiomhole should not be granted access to the national secretariat of the party in the Wuse area of Abuja.

Oshiomhole’s suspension is a sequel on an ongoing battle with the Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki.

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Coronavirus: Stop Circulating Fake News – LUTH Official Warns Nigerians

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Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, Chairman Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), has warned Nigerians to stop spreading fake news on coronavirus.

Adeyemo gave the warning in an interview with newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos.

He said that there was no need to “press the panic button” as efforts were ongoing by responsible and designated government agencies to prevent the spread of the disease in Nigeria.

He said that LUTH was able to curtail the spread of Lassa fever because it was prepared for it and its frontline staff had high level of suspicion when the index case was presented at the hospital.

“The best lesson we have learnt in LUTH is to always have a high index of suspicion all the time, especially during outbreaks like this.

We will also organise Hospital Grand Round this week to give information about what LUTH’s staff members need to know about COVID-19,” he said.

Adeyemo said that the hospital was prepared and also getting its staff ready as training was being organised daily for the frontline staff.

He appeals to members of the public to observe all precautionary measures as directed by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

“Wash your hands frequently with soap under running water or use alcohol-based sanitser if water is not available.

“Cover your mouth and nose properly with tissue paper when sneezing and/or coughing.

“Dispose of the tissue properly immediately after use. You may also cough into your elbow if tissue paper is not available.

“Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.

“Healthcare workers are always advised to observe standard infection prevention and control measures when attending to patients and take a travel history,’’ he said.

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BREAKING: Ihedioha loses As Supreme Court Validates Imo judgment

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The Supreme Court has on Tuesday, dismissed the applications brought by erstwhile Governor Emeka Ihedioha urging it to review its judgment in favour of incumbent Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo state for lack of merit.

Justice Olukayode Ariwoola who read the ruling also said that it is a final judgment of the court.

However, Justice Sentus Nweze one of the members of the 7-man panel differed on the ruling saying, the ruling will continue to haunt the legal jurisprudence of the apex court on the issue of its status of finality.

He further invalidated the victory of Uzodinma and reinstated Ihedioha.

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SA To Gov. Okowa On Student Affairs, Urges Students To Work Hard Towards Excellence

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The Special Assistant to Governor Okowa of Delta State on Students Affairs, Comrade Francis Osedume Iwedike, has called on students in the country to spend more time towards academic excellence.

This was disclosed on Friday at the 2020 WAEC Success Conference held in Ogwashi-uku for SS3 Students drawn from different secondary schools in Aniocha South Local government area of Delta State.

Osedume, who was a special guest and speaker at the conference, urged those registered for the 2020 West African Examination Council (WAEC), not to see examination malpractice as the solution to academic excellence in the forthcoming examination.

He said students should develop the tradition of reading continuously in order to be independent during examinations.

Speaking further, Osedume expressed dissatisfaction over some Nigerian graduates who cannot defend the wonderful certificates in their hands during job interviews noting that they are results of those from ‘miracle centers.

“A competent and outstanding graduate from any institution should be able to defend the certificate he or she has irrespective of the discipline or course studied”.

He, therefore, advises students particularly those preparing for the 2020 WAEC examinations not to depend on special centers stressing that it has damaged the destinies of so many people in the country.

“because of special centers, most students no longer read while preparing for the examination and this has caused more damage to our country at large”.

The Special Assistant who is a professional and graduate in accounting used his life as an example to the students noting that there was never a time he stopped reading in his life even after school.

Assume who said the reward for hard work is more work noted that God has taken him to enviable positions in life because of hard work and dedication.

Speaking on job creation, he stated that the available jobs are meant for the smart people who are few in society today. He advised the students to be in the wagon of the smart ones.

“There are no jobs in the country and the available ones are meant for those that are smart and prepared, not those with distinction or 2/1 and cannot defend it “.

“For you not to be among those that are not prepared, you have to take your academics seriously. Don’t wait till you have an examination before reading, start reading from the very first day” he said.

He also said “academic excellence is the demonstrated ability to perform, to achieve and excel in scholastic activities. Academic Excellence is not all about your grades. Coming out first in class is good but that is not all about academic excellence. Academic excellence is the maximum development of your intellectual capacities and skills in service to humanity”.

Meanwhile, the Initiator/Founder of MC Alleluya Event Enterprise, Comrade Samuel Akpobasanhan is popularly known as MC Alleuluya, while speaking to the students said there is no limit to what anybody can achieve in life stressing that students should always have a positive ambition towards their academic pursuit.

Responding to questions from students, Alleluya said Students should avoid emulating their friends while choosing a course to study in the higher institution adding that this has caused more harm than good to students on campus.

In a related development, the Administrative Officer, who is also the coordinator of the teenage wing, Christ Embassy Church, Sumit Road Branch Asaba, Nkemakonam Onwordi, spoke at the conference charging the students to be focused and determined to achieve success in their academics and every part of their lives.

She said education is the awakening of the innate ability in man for effective development of the environment.

Nkemakonam who is also a dynamic Motivational Speaker, used her life as an example, describing her achievements within a short time as the handwork of God and seriousness.

Present at the conference is the Deputy Chief Inspector of Education(CIE), Aniocha South, Mr. Monday Onogbori Oghenebrohie, entourage of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, 2020 Delta Beyond Excellence award crew led by Comrade Samuel Akpobasahan( MC Alleluya), teachers from different secondary schools in Aniocha South, Students from various schools and other dignitaries.

The highlight of the conference glimpsed dance competition, comedy, and others.

Presenting a vote of thanks, the organiser of the 2020 WAEC Success Conference for Aniocha South Students, comrade Ebenezer Ohamua, thanked all those who in one way or the other contributed in making his dream a reality.

He revealed that more conferences will be organised for students in secondary and tertiary schools to instill in them the right attitude of working with the mind.

He specially thanked members of the high table, most especially the Special Assitant to the Governor on Student Affairs, facilitators and others who in one way or the other contributed immensely to the conference.

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You Don’t Need Anyone Who Is Not Needful In The Past – Naira Marley Tells Fans

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Nigerian sensational singer and songwriter, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has taken to social media to share a few positive words to his fans.

Naira Marley who told his fans to be encouraged in anything they do in life, noted that they do not need anyone who was not helpful in the past in order to get ahead in life.

He revealed this on Monday in a tweet he posted on his verified Twitter page.

He said “if you can possibly make it to this point in life without certain people, definitely these people are not obliged to help inspire you to expand to your goals.

See tweet below :

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Ize-Iyamu And others’ trial For Alleged N700M Fraud, Reserved Till March 26

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The Federal High Court has on Monday reserved ruling on the competence of the alleged N700m fraud charges brought against a governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Others docked with Ize-Iyamu are the Edo State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mr. Dan Orbih, a former deputy governor of Edo State, Mr. Lucky Imasuen, and a former member of the House of Representatives, Tony Azegbemi and Efe Anthony.

The anti-graft agency had alleged that the defendants received N700m from a former Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Deziani Alison-Madueke, prior to the 2015 general elections.

EFCC said they were arraigned on eight counts of conspiracy with themselves to commit money laundering to the tune of N700m, an offense contrary to section 18(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 as amended which is punishable under section 15(3) of the same Act.

At the court on Monday, all the parties adopted the written addresses on the defendants’ claim that the charges against them were incompetent having included the late Chief Tony Anenih as a principal actor in the alleged illegal transaction.

But the EFCC said that it never charged Anenih along with others.

Presiding Judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, fixed March 26, 2020, for ruling on the competency of the charges.

Counsel for the defendants, in the suit No FHC/B51c/2018: Chief Ferdinand Orbih (SAN), Kingsley Obamogie, Prof. George Izevbuwa, Paschal Ugbome, and Ikhide Ehighelua, all posited that the case against their clients should be dropped.

They argued that Anenih who was conspicuously mentioned in all the charges was dead.

Obamogie also told the court that the document presented by the EFCC was not properly signed, noting that the signature in the document was different from seal contrary to court practices.

He said the improper signing and stamping queries the credibility of the charges.

On his part, Izevbuwa pointed out that the EFCC lawyer, Aso Peters, went out of his way to formulate four issues whereas the court had earlier brought out one issue for determination.

But Larry, while adopting his written address, said only five persons were charged and that Anenih’s name only appeared to enable it to present the fact the way it was.

He said the defendants were alive to face trial and that the argument was a ploy to delay the taking of plea by the defendants.

“We have a right to a fair hearing. The proof of evidence is before your Lordship. Chief Anenih is not charged. His name appearing does not affect them taking a plea. Our duty is to present the fact the way it is,” he said.

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Imo: Supreme Court To Decide Governor Today

Unveiling any last-minute changes, the Supreme Court will finally rule on the application filed by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its governorship candidate in Imo State Emeka Ihedioha, against Governor Hope Uzodinma and his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The apex court shifted hearing on the application from Monday to Tuesday following a request by the Ihedioha’s lawyer.

Ihedioha and the PDP are seeking to reverse the Supreme Court’s earlier judgment that sacked him (Ihedioha) as governor of Imo State and inaugurated Senator Uzodinma.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN Tanko Muhammad-led seven-man panel of justices of the court adjourned the case at the instance of the lawyer to Ihedioha, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).

Agabi asked for time to respond to court processes that were served on him by Damian Dodo (SAN), lawyer to Uzodinma and the APC in the courtroom.

In the order hand, Dodo told the court that his clients, Uzodinma and the APC were ready for the hearing to proceed.

Lawyer to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Taminu Inuwa (SAN), also told the court that the electoral umpire was also ready.

However, CJN Muhammad, in a short ruling adjourned the matter till Tuesday for hearing.

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Immigration Service Discredits Bribery Allegation Video

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The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has denied conflicting video and reports trending on media over bribery allegations by its officials.

The Service Public Relations Officer, Mr. Sunday James disclosed this in a statement made available to Newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja.

“The attention of the Comptroller General, NIS, Mr. Muhammad Babandede, has been drawn to a re-posted video of a lady “Kibacho” from Switzerland, where she alleged an attempt by Immigration officers to extort money from her at the Airport in Lagos.

“This video was first posted on Sept. 1, 2017, on Youtube it was titled “Swiss Lady vs Nigeria Immigration” and the situation was promptly investigated and was found to be a false alarm.

On Feb. 5, 2019, the same video resurfaced on Youtube titled “Swiss woman exposes sharp practices of NIS officials at Airport.”

“The Comptroller General is hereby for the umpteenth time, calling on well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the reposted video and always report genuine cases if any.

“Genuine reports should be made to the Service via credible platforms for inquiries and feedback through 07080607900, nis.servicom@nigeriaimmigration.gov.ng, @nigimmigration, and nis.pro@immigration.gov.ng.”

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Saudi Arabia Suspends Visa For Lesser Hajj, Provides Reasons

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Saudi Arabia has declared the suspension of visas to pilgrims, who want to perform Umrah (lesser Hajj), due to the outbreak of Coronavirus.

The country’s foreign ministry revealed this via a tweet on Thursday.

It explained that Saudi Arabia was “suspending entry to the Kingdom for the purpose of Umrah and visiting the Prophet’s Mosque temporarily.”

The ministry also said it has suspended the issuance of tourist visas to residents of countries where the virus is a “danger”.

The statement added that Saudi Arabia was “suspending entry into the Kingdom with tourist visas for those coming from countries in which the spread of the new Coronavirus (COVlD-19) is a danger, according to the criteria determined by the competent health authorities in the Kingdom.”

Umrah is a pilgrimage performed by Muslims at any time of the year.

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Gov. Abdulrazaq Responds to Claimed Attack On APC Chairman

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Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has responded to the alleged attack on the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Bashiru Bolarinwa.

This is contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, on Thursday in Ilorin.

Abdulrazaq condemned the attack, describing it as disturbing.

He ordered security agencies to fish out those responsible for the attack and ensure they face the full weight of the law.

The Governor expressed anger over those heating up the state known for its peaceful atmosphere.

The statement read: “We condemn in the strongest terms possible the alleged attack on the state chairman of the APC, Hon. Bashiru Omolaja Bolarinwa, allegedly by some hoodlums in Moro Local Government Area.

“For the record, the state faces many developmental issues and the Governor has no time for anything that does not add value to the lives of the people he’s been elected to govern.”

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Buhari Authorizes Regulating Committee for NDDC

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The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has authorized the sum of N29 billion for the construction of roads from Sokoto and Jigawa to Niger Republic borders with the two states.

Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola, revealed this on Wednesday in Abuja, while briefing newsmen after FEC meeting.

The meeting, which lasted over eight hours, was presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari.

“The first is Belle/Kurdulla to Niger Republic border road in Sokoto; it is in favour of Messrs North Sea limited joint venture with kilometer, at N9.57 billion. The 46 kilometers project is to be completed within 24 months.

“The second one is for Kunya to Niger Republic border phase two which is in Jigawa State at the sum N19.76 billion.

“The length of the roads is 50 kilometers and council considered and approved this memorandum on the justification that it is critical to executing our mandate under the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan and ministerial mandate, to improve infrastructure.

“It is also critical for the enablement of business across borders, particularly now that we have taken an affirmative position on the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, and the market in that area of the country does a lot of trade across borders,’’ he said.

According to the minister, the roads will be a good boost for business and other activities.

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At 27, Davido Celebrates 10 Years In Music Industry

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Nigerian popular singer, David Adeleke, prominently known on stage as Davido, has said he will be celebrating his achievement in the music industry.

Davido revealed this in a tweet he posted on his verified Twitter page.

The singer expressed satisfaction in his accomplishment in the music industry, stating that he is only 27, but clocking 10 years in the music industry this year.

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Exam Malpractice: Kaduna Varsity Evicts 80 Students

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The Kaduna State University (KASU) has on Wednesday said it expelled about 80 students for various forms of examination malpractices during the 2018/2019 academic session.

The Coordinator of the Kafanchan campus of the institution, prof. Ahmed Ahmed, made this known during the 2019/2020 matriculation ceremony for fresh students in Kafanchan.

Mr Ahmed noted that of the 80 students expelled, 10 were from the Kafanchan campus, adding that it was a sad development, considering the stiff competition for admission into the institution.

“With the increase in students’ population over the years, comes serious challenges, the most disturbing being the issue of examination malpractices.

“In the 2018/2019 session alone, about 80 students were expelled from the university for various examination misconducts; of this number, 10 came from the Kafanchan campus.

“This development is sad, given the stiff competition students have had to face in gaining admission into the institution,” he added.

He also stated that the university was grappling with the menace of cultism as well as the use of illicit drugs and banned substances, among others, adding that the institution had zero tolerance for such vices.

“As you take your oath this morning, I want to remind you that KASU has zero tolerance for all the vices mentioned earlier and you should steer clear of them.

“Face your studies, because that is what you are here for, and I wish you the best in your studies,” he said.

Also speaking, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Yohanna Tella, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Muhammad Tanko, said a total of 4,650 students were formally admitted at the ceremony, with 700 of them in Kafanchan Campus.

Mr Tella enjoined the new students to make the most of the opportunity to study in the university, by being dedicated to their academic pursuit.

“You should count yourselves lucky to be among those admitted out of the thousands who applied to be here.

“We expect you to contribute your own quota towards the growth of this university by being dedicated to your studies and by maintaining law and order,” he said.

Mr Tella, however, identified inadequate facilities as one of the major challenges facing the university.

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Video: Dickson, Diri And Others Gives Thanks To God After Supreme Court Judgement

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Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, and Sen. Duoye Diri were on Wednesday spotted on their knees after the Supreme Court struck out the All Progressives Congress, APC suit seeking a review of the judgement that fired ex-Bayelsa State Governor-elect, David Lyon.

It was reported that Justice Amina Augie who read the judgement indicated that the application lacked merit and the decisions of the court are final.

The judge said the applicants did fail to point out errors in the earlier judgement, contending that the judgment is final for all ages.

As at the time of filing this report, APC is yet to speak on the outcome, of the Supreme court judgment.

A viral video aroused immediately after the judgement showing Dickson, Diri, and other officials on their knees singing praises to God for the judgment.

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Bayelsa: Supreme Court Dismisses APC Gov. Candidate Application, Says Judgement is Final

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The Supreme Court has rejected an application for review of the judgment which dismissed the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa state, David Lyon and his deputy, Senator Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo.

The judgement which was read by Justice Amina Augie said the application lacks merit, expanding that the decisions of the court are absolute.

Justice Amina also added that the applicants failed to point out misconceptions, stating that the judgment is final for all times.

The highest court judge said “the judgment is final in the ‘real sense’ and no court on earth can review the judgment”.

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ASH WEDNESDAY: Christians Are Mourning, Says Rev. Fr. Chukwuedo

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Rev. Fr. Donatus Chukwuedo, in charge of the Church of the Ascension Catholic Church Asaba, has said Catholics in the country and all over the world are using the Lenten period to mourn the unabated killing of Nigerians by the Boko Haram sect.

He said this on Wednesday at the opening mass of this year lenten season at the church of the Ascension Catholic Church, Asaba.

Rev. Fr. Chukwuedo said Catholics were mourning noting that the faithful were adorned in black attires.

The priest decried killings and shedding of innocent blood unabated

furthermore, Chukwuedo said that the federal government was doing little or nothing to keep a check on the situation.

He prayed that God would intervene in the affairs of the country.

Chukwuedo who noted that with a united church, the issue of persecution would be a thing of the past, also called on Catholics to be prayerful and accommodate other Christians.

He said, “We begin the Lenten season with fasting, prayers, and almsgiving and above having pains in our hearts for our sins, we must repent. This is the best time to repent. 

“The ashes should be a reminder of our nothingness before God, acknowledging our frailty, looking up to God for His intervention. 

“We are crying, we are mourning, we are tired and sick of the killings going on in our country and putting on black clothes on a significant day as this is our own way of calling on God to save us and we are mourning with the families of those who lost dear ones.

“These are killers, deriving joy in spilling human blood; whenever they kill, they cheer themselves; Christianity is under threat; Christians should be united to fight the common enemy, we should stop fighting ourselves.

“As Catholics, we should practice Catholicism by our actions, showing love to all.

“Catholic is the mother church and every other Christian is free to attend the activities of the Catholic Church; Pentecostals are free to attend the stations of the cross because, if Christians should stand up and speak with one voice, these killings will stop.

“The love for money is affecting the truth of the gospel and many are founding churches without considering the need to be united as children of God because Islam is not a religion of peace.

“No religion should be preaching and celebrating violence, killing and promising rewards for those who kill the innocents.

“If members of Boko Haram do not repent, God will send them to the pit of hell, they should repent and those who say that they are our leaders should make practical efforts to stop the killing, terrorism; no one should derive joy in the suffering of others.

“How can you shut down where food is coming from and open the borders to those who are coming to kill and maim? Who are the bandits? Who are the faceless people that are attacking us? Where are they coming from? What is its mission?

“We ask God to heal us, we ask God to save us through Christ our Lord. Amen.”

This year’s Ash Wednesday was very solemn, the hymns were those rendered during funerals.

Meanwhile, pains in the hearts of the worshippers could be felt as they were almost in tears after the Holy Mass.

The holy mass was marked with the symbolic rubbing of ash on the foreheads of the Catholics by Rev. Fr. Chukwuedo and assisted by his deputy, Rev. Fr. Solomon Ugwummadu.

Lenten season is a reflection season of 40 days, looking forward to Jesus’ death and resurrection.

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Katsina Governor Laments Over Killing In Local Government Areas

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Katsina State Gov. Aminu Masari has condemned the recent killings in Tsanwa and Dankar Villages of Batsari Local Government Area of the state as “ignorance, barbaric and animalistic”.

Masari stated this during a two- day seminar/training exercise organized for Islamic clerics by the Katsina State chapter of the Jama’atul Nasril Islam, on Tuesday in Katsina.

It was reported that the exercise is organized for clerics and Chief Imams of Juma’at Mosques in the state.

Masari charged the clerics to intensify efforts in their sermons to preach against the ungodly acts by the perpetrators, pointing out that the killings bowed down to ignorance.

He noted that the importance of Friday sermons for Muslims Community cannot be over-emphasized, stressing that it is aimed to educate and enlighten the faithful in their relationship with Almighty God and their fellow being.

It is really unfortunate, all these killings are because of ignorance, no sensible person who is educated and enlightens would indulge in this barbaric and animalistic act.

Imagine how a normal person can attack a village, lock up children and women in a room set fire on them to burn to ashes,” Masari said.

The governor pledged that all hands are on deck to fight the evil acts including rape, prostitution, drug abuse, and alcoholism, among others in the state.

He reiterated state government commitment to partner with religious and traditional institutions to fight immorality.

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Boko Haram: FG Discloses How Nigerians Can Stop Insecurity

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Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, has said Nigerians must uphold the tenets of moral, religious, and cultural values to put an end to terrorist attacks and insecurity in the country.

Mustapha, represented by Permanent Secretary SGF office, Dr Amina Shamaki, said this at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Security Meets Business Dialogue on Tuesday in Lagos.

He identified unemployment as one of the root causes of insecurity, even as he appealed to the corporate world to assist government in providing jobs.

Mustapha appealed to Nigerians at individual and family levels to account for all children, and take a personal interest in their individual development and conduct to ensure that the effort of government, military and security agencies become positively evident.

“The determination to tackle insecurity requires the cooperation of all.

“Every member of society has their level of responsibility; some to volunteer information, some to provide counselling and some to engage in the theatre of the war itself.

“Above all, we must all resort to our moral, religious, socio-cultural values which will make all of us protect the sanctity of human life, abhor immoral and irresponsible behaviours and live up to our responsibility of raising good members of the society.

“Once our societies are populated with good moral and religious behaviours, the fight against insecurity will be easier to win.
.
“Unemployment is one of the root causes of insecurity and our people believe only government jobs could suffice especially as it relates to job security

“The corporate world could assist by swaying notions away from this stereotype by equally, providing clearly defined job security policies,” he said.

The SGF revealed that the government is employing a new approach to tackle insecurity, which includes increased reliance on technology, increased funding and adaptability.

“Also, to tackle the influx of illegal weapons, the government is working hard to realize the establishment of a commission on small arms and light weapons in line with ECOWAS Protocol.

“Government is in the process of developing an internal security policy and strategy and this will be robust and comprehensive and should provide guidelines on how each internal security challenge should be adequately tackled with levels of responsibilities,” he added.

He pointed out that government since the inception of the current administration had put in place serious security measures which had aided reduction in the activities of the terrorists.

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NECO: 19 Staff Dismissed Over Fake Certificate

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The organizing Board of the National Examinations Council (NECO) has dismissed another 19 staff of the institution over certificate forgery.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Head, Information and Public Relations NECO, Azeez Sani, made available to newsmen.

A staff Certificate Verification Committee constituted by NECO management found the staff guilty of gaining employment using fake certificates.

The committee had been mandated to verify the certificate presented by a variety of staff at the time of employment.

While performing its assignment, the committee had invited staff with questionable credentials to appear before it.

The statement said following investigations, the affected staff confessed to working with forged certificates.

The committee also contacted the schools and institutions where the affected staff claimed to have attended but the institutions denied having certified them.

At its 52nd Regular meeting, the Governing Board of the exam body vetted the report of the Certificate Verification Committee and approved the dismissal of the 19 staff.

Remember that the NECO Governing Board had previously at its 17th Extra-Ordinary meeting in November 2019, dismissed 70 staff for certificate forgery.

The board noted that the verification exercise will continue to ensure it sanitized the system.

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BREAKING: Court Sentences Olisa Metuh To Seven Years In prison After four-year trial

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A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Olisa Metuh to seven years in prison.

Olisa Metu was the former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The embattled politician has been under trial for money laundering and criminal diversion of funds to the tune of N400 million.

Justice Okon Abang handed down the sentence in his judgement on seven counts brought against Metuh and his company, Destra investment, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The judgment came after the court found Metuh, guilty of some of the charges levelled against him.

Justice Okon Abang found Metuh guilty of count 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the corrupt charges levelled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The judge held that Metuh, who had been standing trial for alleged N400m fraud should have known that the money he received was the proceeds of crime.

EFCC had arraigned Metuh on charges for allegedly laundering the sum of N400m as PDP former spokesperson during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The anti-graft agency had accused Metuh of receiving the money from the Office of the National Security Adviser, NSA.

Metuh was arraigned alongside his company Destra Investment Ltd.

However, the judge held that, “Olisa Metuh and Destra Investment Ltd were guilty on count 1 for taking possession and control of N400m from the Office of the National Security Adviser which he ought to know was a proceed of crime.”

”Guilty on count 2 for converting the sum of N400m to fund PDP activities and for his personal use.

Metuh and Destra Investment Ltd were also found guilty of count 3 for concealing the sum of N400m, a proceed of crime received from the ONSA.

The judge also found Metuh and his company guilty of count 4 using N400m of taxpayers money from ONSA to fund the campaign activities of PDP.

The erstwhile PDP spokesman was also found guilty of count 7 for transferring N51.7m to one Anthony Anene which was part of the N400 Million paid to his office by ONSA.

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BREAKING: Kaduna Assembly Gets New Speaker After Former Speaker’s Resignation

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A new speaker and deputy speaker have emerged in Kaduna State House of Assembly Less than an hour after Shagali resigned as speaker of the house.

Following the resignation, Hon. Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani was appointed the speaker of the house.

Hon. Zailani, who represents Igabi West Constituency in the Assembly, was the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly until his election to lead the House on Tuesday.

Zailani is a strong member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Also, Hon Mukhatar Isa Hazo, representing Bassawa Constituency has been elected as the new Deputy Speaker.

Both of them have been sworn-in by the Clark of the Assembly.

The former Speaker, who represents Sabon-Gari Constituency in the Assembly, officially submitted his resignation letter to the clerk of the House, on Tuesday morning.

It was gathered that members of the House had started collecting signatures to impeach the former speaker before he eventually bowed to pressure and resigned.

Chairman, House Committee on information, Honourable Tanimu Musa confirmed he submitted his resignation letter.

However, Shagali’s offence warranting the alleged impeachment was yet to be unraveled as the time of filing this report.

Aminu Abdullahi Shagali became the Assembly Speaker on the coming of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to power in 2015.

He was re-elected to preside over the House in 2019 on strong recommendations of Governor Nasir Ahmed El-Rufa’l.

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Kaduna Assembly Speaker Shagali, Resigns

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Speaker of the Kaduna State house of Assembly, Alhaji Aminu Shagali has resigned as the speaker of the house.

Shagali resigned following rumor that some members of the assembly were planning to impeach him today.

Speaking on his resignation, the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Mr. Tanimu Musa, said the speaker “honorably tendered his resignation”

It was reported that the former speaker would continue his normal duties as a member of the assembly.

Shagali was elected Speaker of the State’s 5th Assembly on 8 June 2015.

He is representing Sabon Gari constituency in Kaduna State.

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N400m Crime: Court Finds Olisa Metuh Guilty Of Money Laundering

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has found Mr Olisa Metuh guilty of money laundering in the sum of N400 million.

The trial judge, Justice Okon Abang, found the former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) guilty on Tuesday while delivering judgement in the suit instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The anti-graft agency charged Metuh, who is standing trial alongside his company, Destra investment, with seven counts bordering on criminal diversion of the money received from the office of the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd).

Delivering judgement in the case, Justice Abang convicted the former PDP spokesman of count one of the charges.

“It is my view that Metuh took possession of the N400 million from the office of the NSA without contractual agreement; he is guilty of money laundering and is hereby convicted on count one.”

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Kobe Bryant’s Wife Sues Helicopter Firm After Crash, Death of Husband & Daughter

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Kobe Bryant’s wife, Vanessa, has sued the management of the helicopter firm which crashed and killed her husband Kobe Bryant and daughter, Gianna.

Vanessa’s claim alleges wrongful death and acknowledges that the pilot, Ara Zobayan, was careless and negligent.

She believes Zobayan should have aborted the flight amid cloudy conditions.

Zobayan was among the nine people killed in the crash last month.

The suit comes as a general commemoration service was held for Kobe and all those who lost their lives in the crash.

Recall In early February, Vanessa announced the service would be held as a “celebration of life”, for her late husband and daughter Gianna.

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Deltans Don’t Have Regards And Respect For Their Entertainers – Solidstar

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Nigerian prominent singer, Joshua Iniyezo, popularly referred to on stage as Solidstar, has shared his dissatisfaction over less support from Deltans to Entertainers.

Solidstar disclosed this yesterday via his verified paged on the micro blogging site, twitter.

He described the situation by relating Deltans to the like of the Igbos and Yoruba stressing that they regard, support, respect and love their entertainers.

Speaking further, solidstar noted that due to lack of supports and respect given to their entertainers, it has caused entertainers not to feel the importance of going home.

He therefore advised Deltans to support and respect their entertainers for the betterment of the entertainment industry in the state .

The singer who is an Indigene of Isoko speaking tribe in Delta State, started his musical career as a drummer in his local church, at his home town.

Recall that solidstar came into limelight after his debut single ‘One in a million’ featuring legendary 2Baba in 2008.

He has released several hit songs back-to-back in the music industry

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Abacha loot: Malami Responds As The US Rejects Buhari Govt’s ‘Plan’ To Hand $100m To Atiku

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The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, has rejected United States’ reported opposition to a claimed plan by the President Muhammadu Buhari government to hand $100million to Kebbi Governor, Atiku Bagudu, from recovered Sani Abacha loot.

Malami, through his Special Assistant on Public Relations, Umar Jibrilu Gwandu, called the news widely published by the Nigerian media as false.

“The story regarding paying a Governor a certain amount of the repatriated Abacha loot is unfounded and baseless.

“It is only a fiction and figment of the imagination of mischief makers who are bent on destroying the good efforts of the Federal Government.

“The report should be disregarded by any sensible and well-meaning persons”, Gwandu said in a statement on Friday night.

Recall that it was reported that there was a commitment by Nigeria to transfer funds Bagudu after the repatriation of over $308million.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) stated that Bagudu was part of the Abacha network that, “embezzled, misappropriated and extorted billions from the government of Nigeria.”

The U.S. is also seeking to seize some assets linked to the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors Forum.

The world power, following a Nigerian government request in 2012, initiated a forfeiture action, including investment portfolios held in London in trust for the Kebbi helmsman.

In about two decades, Nigeria has been able to recover more than $2billion out of the $5billion Transparency International estimated Abacha stole.

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Okocha Says Christianity Is the Hope Of Nigeria, Calls On CAN, Clergy Men To Look up To God

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The General Overseer and Founder of the City of wonders Church Ashaka, in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, Pastor Okocha Godwin Ikechukwuka, has said Christianity is the hope of Nigeria at the moment.

He disclosed this on Friday, February 21, 2020, in an interview with goldennationblog.com.

Okocha revealed that Christianity is a place where characters are molded, smiles put in people’s faces, imbibing the ethics of Christianity and bearing in mind the nature and character of Jesus Christ.

In a bid to promoting a five-day prophetic invasion, Okocha said a programme has been scheduled to commence on Monday, 24th to Friday, 28th February, at the church auditorium located at pilot Road, In Ashaka, Ndokwa East LGA.

The cleric said the five-day prophetic invasion is tagged ” obtain your mantle to prevail in battles” citing 2kings 2:13-14 as the anchor text of the programme.

He asserted that the programme is put together to make sure people get fresh fire, repositioning and taking what belongs to them and serving God in spirit and truth.

Responding to questions on how he got into ministry, Okocha noted that the revelation of establishing the city of wonders came in a glorious ministers conference at the popular Joseph Ayo Babalola Mountian and prayer ground, located in Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State.

He said, ” I was vividly instructed by God to raise soldiers, men that will be pleasurable onto him in reputation and in their character, men that will carry fire for Christ and depopulate the kingdom of the devil to populate that of God”.

Meanwhile, as to the spate of killings in the northeast, Okocha describes the attitude as inhumane and unholy stressing that Christians in the northeast should not give up in their faith.

He, therefore, called on other Christians to be spirit-filled adding that pastors in the country should concentrate more on raising disciples who will be accountable to God on the day of judgement.

” Christianity without heaven is like entering a vehicle without getting to the required destination. Our destination as Christians is heaven. We should be heavenly minded and focused. Building cathedrals and mission are not all about it, We must be rebranded and rooted in Christ in order to smile at the feet of Jesus on the last day” He said.

The dynamic minister called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Executives, particularly pastors to look up to God and feed his flocks in the will of God adding that the church of God must be erected on a solid rock in order to develop and maintain a good Christian platform in Nigeria.

Recall that Joseph Ayo Babalola between (25 April 1904 – 26 July 1959) was the first General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church, popularly called CAC in Nigeria.

He was credited with healing powers.

Also, The Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) a private Nigerian university located in Ikeji-Arakeji in Osun State, was established by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Worldwide and named after Babalola. It is located at the place where he says he was called by God in 1928.

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NUJ Delta Council, Mourns With Gov. Okowa’s Chief Press Secretary On Death Of Mother

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The Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ) has mourned with the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor of Delta State, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on the death of his mother Mrs Eunice Ifeajika.

This is contained in statement issued by the council, in Asaba, the Delta State Capital and was made available to newsmen.

In the statement, the council said the sudden passing on to glory of Mrs Eunice came as a surprise but affirmed gladness that she lived to a sweet old age.

The union encouraged the CPS and his family members to take relief in the fact that their mother lived a fulfilled life, stressing that she was a devoted Christian and community builder.

The council also prayed for the peace of the soul of the dead and for God to grant those left behind the determination to bear the irreparable loss.

The statement was signed by the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and Secretary, Comrade Churchill Oyowe,

The CPS Mother Late Mrs Eunice Ifeajika died at the age of 84.

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NYSC: Deployment scam Docks Man In Prison After Defrauding Prospective Corpers

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Justice Mohammed Mohammed of the Sokoto State High Court on Thursday, sentenced one Wakili Yusuf Oladapo to three years imprisonment for scamming two prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), members to the tune of N120,000.

He was prosecuted on amended one-count charge of obtaining by false pretence by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Oladapo had defrauded the individuals after deceiving them to part with N60,000 each, on the false promise to help them secure deployment to their choice states.

The petitioner explained that they met the convict through the Whatsapp group of a school, where he advertised that he could get interested persons posted to states they prefer.

The one-count charges reads: “That you Wakili Yusuf Oladapo between the 13th and 24th day of September, 2019 in Sokoto within the Juridical Division of the High Court of Justice of Sokoto State, with intent to defraud, did obtain a total sum of N120,000.00 from Aladetan Michael Olubodunrin, whom you falsely represented yourself to him as being a staff of NYSC, who could have him redeployed to a state of his choice, a pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 310 of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law, 2019 and Punishable under Section 311 of the same Law.”

After Oladapo pleaded guilty to the charge, prosecution counsel, Buhari Mohammed Balarabe, requested his sentencing in line with the extant laws.

Subsequently, Oladapo pleaded guilty to the charge, prosecution counsel, Buhari Mohammed Balarabe, requested his sentencing in line with the extant laws.

Defence counsel, Shamsu A. Dauda pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as his client was a first time offender who has become remorseful.

In convicting and sentencing the defendant, Justice Mohammed gave Oladapo a N30,000 option of fine and ordered that he made full restitution to his victims.

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FIFA Grant Suit: Court Rejects Request To Join Pinnick, Sanusi In Alleged $9.5m Charge

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An Abuja High Court, Maitama, has on Thursday rejected to grant a petition to join President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Pinnick, and Secretary-General, NFF, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, as important parties in the alleged misappropriation of $9.5 million FIFA grant suit.

Justice Peter Affen, who declined the request in a ruling he delivered, held that it would amount to an abuse of court processes to join Pinnick and Sanusi in the matter after they were acquitted of similar charge at the Federal High Court, Abuja division.

Justice Affen, who stated that there was a similar charge before Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court, added that in line with the provisions of section 355 of Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, they were acquitted.

He then adjourned the trial of the other three defendants until April 30.

Recall that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had dragged the three officials of NFF before the court in the alleged misappropriation of a $9.5 million FIFA grant before applying on April 30, 2019, to join both Pinnick and Sanusi in the matter as co-defendants.

Those already under trial include NFF Director of Administration and Finance, Christopher Andekin; Cashier, Reagan Zaka; and Head, Finance and Account Department, Fadanari Mamza.

They were arraigned on a five-count criminal charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, breach of trust and misappropriation.

According to the charge, the defendants were alleged to have conspired between January 8 and 26, 2015, to commit the offense, contrary to Section 97 of the Penal Code.

Anakin was alleged to have been entrusted with the money meant for the development of football in Nigeria, a grant from world football body, the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).

He was alleged to have fraudulently diverted $1.3 million from the NFF domiciliary account with Zenith Bank, an act that is contrary to Section 311 of the Penal Code.

Zaka, on his part, was said to have fraudulently diverted $7.2 million from the FIFA grant, while Mamza was alleged of diverting $2. 3 million.

They pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

However, on June 27, 2019, while adopting processes filed in support of the application for joinder, the prosecuting counsel, Mr. Steve Odiase, urged the court to grant the application.

According to him, the charge filed by the government against the first, second defendants and both Pinnick and Sanusi at the Federal High Court in Abuja was different from the one at the FCT High Court.

On his part, the counsel for the defendants, Mr. Festus Ukpe, while adopting affidavits opposing the joinder, urged the court to refuse the application because the two charges are the same.

Haven declined to include Pinnick and Sanusi in the matter, the trial of the other defendants continue on April 30.

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13 Shops In Kano Singer Market Razed Down By Fire

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The Kano State Fire Service has confirmed that 11 temporary shops and two permanent ones in a one-story buildingwe’rere razed down by an early morning fire at Singer Market, Ado Bayero Road, Kano.

The Public Relations Officer of the Service, Alhaji Saidu Mohammed confirmed this while speaking with journalists on Thursday.

Mohammed said the fire service received a distress call in the early hours of Thursday at about 04:00a.m from one Mubarak about the fire outbreak at the market.

“On receiving the information, we quickly sent our personnel and fire fighting vehicles to the scene of the incident at about 04:03 a.m to put off the fire spreading to other shops,“ he said.

He appealed to traders to be more careful and desist from using instruments capable of causing fire outbreak

Mohammed also advised residents to keep fire buckets, blankets and extinguishers at home to enable them to curtail fire outbreak before calling on the fire service.

He also disclosed that the cause of the fire was still being investigated by men of the state fire service .

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NUJ Zone F, Issues Communique At The End Of Meeting In Uyo

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The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Zone F, has issued a communique at the end of its quarterly meeting held on February 18, 2020.

The meeting which was held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital was presided over by the Zonal Vice President, Pastor Edward Ogude.

The meeting was targeted at resolving various issues affecting the zone in general.

The need for the review of the Constitution of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), to reflect the current realities were emphasized at the meeting.

The House also noted that the review of the Constitution is long overdue.

Ogude mandates state councils of the zone to adopt appropriate measures towards the eradication of quackery stressing that they should instill discipline among themselves .

He urged the leadership of the State Council in the Zone to ensure the registration and biometrics capturing of their members adding that the welfare of members in the zone are their priority.

The NUJ zone F at the meeting also endorsed the aspirations of the Zonal Vice President of NAWOJ, Timi Jombo Idoko and the Assistant National Secretary of NAWOJ, Helen Udofa for the positions of National Deputy President and National Secretary of NAWOJ .

The NUJ Zone F called on the Governors of the South South to prevail on the Federal Government to expedite action to upgrade Sea Ports in the zone to reduce the current pressure on the Lagos Port and expand economic activities in the zone.

Governors of the zone were also called to come up with a Regional Security Outfit to check the rising insecurity situation in the zone as well as close ranks to ensure the development of the zone.

They also congratulates Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for emerging Chairman of the South South Governors Forum stating that his his emergence would bring unity, peace and development to the zone at large .

The meeting also condemned the vandalization of Radio Bayelsa office including official and staff vehicles by some youths in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State over the Supreme Court judgement of the November 16, 2019 Governorship Election in the Bayelsa State.

In that same vein they condemned the sacking of Letugbene Community in Ekeremor LGA of Bayelsa State by soldiers and urged soldiers to always go after criminals and not entire community.

They further condemned the alleged killing and burial of innocent citizens in shallow graves in a bush in Uweheru Community in Ughelli North in Delta State by suspected harden in the state

They also thanked Akwa-Ibom State Government for hosting the quarterly Zonal Meeting in Uyo.

Members of the NUJ Zone F executives present at the meeting includes Pastor Edward Ogude, Zonal VP, Dr Bassey Eyoh, Zonal Secretary, Okar Ibor Chairman communique drafting committee,
Ogio Ipigansi, Secretary
Dominic Akpan Member and other dignitaries from the zone.

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Oyo Takes New Move To welcome Independent Power Supply

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The Oyo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources Mr Seun Ashamu, has said the state has begun actions toward accomplishing independent power supply.

Ashamu, made the disclosure on Wednesday while speaking with newsmen in Ibadan.

He retained that the options of building an independent power station were already being investigated by the state.

Ashamu also said government would take advantage of its potentials such as dams and landscape to power unserved areas in the state to increase the hours of electricity supply.

“The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is saddled with the responsibility of coordinating independent power in Oyo State to establish independent electric grid.

“We are working on creating a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning in schools. Also, there should be steady power supply in our hospitals and primary health centres.

“On the economic side of things, we know that if we want foreign investors in our state, we must assure them of constant power supply.

“Last year, we met the Transmission Company of Nigeria in Abuja on how to improve the electricity distribution in the state,” he stated.

The commissioner sought for the support of the leadership of both the federal and state energy generation and power supply organisations for the government to improve the distribution of electricity across the state.

He added that efforts were ongoing to identify potentials and resources in each zone of the state and locations in order to determine appropriate means of generating power for residents of each zone.

The commissioner reiterated that the ministry would make use of natural energy solutions such as solar, wastes, water, farmland and air among others to address the issue of irregular power supply.

He admonished inhabitants of the state to be patient and cooperate with the state government in its quest to bring the independent power supply project to reality.

“We need the cooperation of the residents of the state. We also want our people to be patient with us.

“For instance, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has just been established, therefore, we started with establishing a management and staffing framework that we would be working with.

“Also, there are some strategies that would be adopted to reduce wastage in the use of electricity in residential and commercial buildings.” Ashamu said.

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Nigeria Needs 100,000 More Soldiers to Crush Boko Haram – Gov. Zulum

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Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has on Wednesday said that Nigeria would require about 100,000 further soldiers to completely gain victory over the Boko Haram sect.

Zulum spoke yesterday in Maiduguri while playing host to the House of Representatives’ Committee on Defence led by its Chairman, Hon. Babaji Benson.

He suggested that at least 50,000 of the recruits should come from Borno, irrespective of whether or not they have western education, to prosecute the ongoing war against terror.

The governor advised President Muhammadu Buhari and the military to reexamine the strategy used in 2016/2017 when Nigerians were almost celebrating the demise of Boko Haram so that the insurgents would be defeated once and for all.

Zulum spoke yesterday in Maiduguri while playing host to the House of Representatives’ Committee on Defence led by its Chairman, Hon. Babaji Benson.

Also yesterday, the governor, in a broadcast, declared Monday a day for statewide fasting and prayers against Boko Haram insurgents.

He reiterated that the fight against insurgents could not be successfully won without manpower, technology, and proper funding.

He said: “Take my words, they (the military) don’t have the manpower; they don’t have the equipment. Kindly advise the speaker and the Senate president to tell Mr. President to approve the massive recruitment of soldiers. We need about 100,000 more to be recruited into the Nigerian Army. They should come and employ the locals whether they have western education or not.

“We need to recruit nothing less than 50,000 men from Borno; we have able-bodied men that can join the Nigerian Armed Forces on an ad-hoc basis.”

Zulum expressed doubt about Nigeria’s readiness to win the ongoing war against insurgency, saying that “you cannot fight this war without manpower, technology, and proper funding.”

The governor added that he will always admit the fact that the Buhari administration did so much to degrade Boko Haram when it came to power in 2015, but the situation has already degenerated with the renewed attacks on the state.

He said: “I have always admitted that the federal government has done well under the watch of President Muhammadu Buhari. At a time, about 20 local government areas were displaced but after May 29, 2015, almost all the roads were opened and the local government retrieved.

“But notwithstanding the gains that we had, between March 2019 till date, we have experienced horrific and simultaneous attacks throughout the state. As I told the Theatre Commander, we are experiencing the attacks in a quick geometrical ratio.

“I, therefore, plead with Mr. President and as well as the Nigerian military to revisit the strategy used during 2016/2017 that we were almost celebrating the demise of Boko Haram so that we can deal with the insurgents once and for all.

“One important thing that we have to do is to take the fight into their enclaves. The whereabouts of the Boko Haram are known to all of us. It is known to the people of Borno State; it is known to the military. It is known to all of us.

“Another important thing that I raised is the issue of commercial activities. There is nexus between peace, security, and development. There is nexus between poverty, unemployment, and insecurity and in order to address the causes of the insurgency, we need to address our major challenges. And one thing I plead with the Nigerian military is to allow for the free flow of commercial activities in Borno. This will reduce recruitment, fortunately enough the chief of army staff has lifted the ban on sales of fish and fish farming in Borno State, we have conveyed the message to the fish farmers.

“Then coming down to the challenges of the Nigerian military, I think the theatre commander can inform you better, but to the best of my knowledge, their major deficiency is manpower. They lack manpower. Borno State has a large landmass and therefore they need manpower; they need technological warfare; they need logistics. You cannot fight this insurgency to an end without technology and without manpower and without funding, this is very germane.

“Take my words, they don’t have the manpower. They don’t have the equipment.”

According to the governor, the military operation has to use a stabilization mechanism, which ensures a stabilization effort on the ground during a military operation.

He added that to ensure this, the military needs manpower to hold a place as “without manpower, you cannot hold a place; without people going about their normal activities, going to their farm’s peace cannot reign.

“We have over 500,000 IDPs in Monguno, 120,000 IDPs in the Republic of Niger, we have 68,000 IDPs in the Republic of Cameroon that is eager to come back home and even in Dikwa how many IDPs do we have that have limited access to their farms. This issue will not stop until people have access to their farms.

“And honestly speaking, we need to increase the firepower of the police to augment the military as well as the Civil Defence Corps because of their importance.”

He noted that the paramilitary, police a, and others have to be allowed to carry sophisticated arms.

“I think there is the need to allow for certain guns to be used by the paramilitary for a certain period of time. After the insurgency is over, you can now go back to the old position,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Zulum has declared Monday, a day of statewide fasting and prayers against Boko Haram insurgents.

The governor, in a six-minute broadcast to the people of the state, however, said there would be no public holiday on Monday.

The governor after enumerating ongoing collaboration with the military, including calls for mass recruitment, equipping and deployment of thousands of volunteers in the Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes, said his call for prayers was strange but a necessary decision made based on the popular wish of the people of the state.

“Even though this decision is based on the popular demand of our people, some observers may rightly argue that it is a strange call. But then, Borno has been befallen with a strange evil since 2009; and sometimes, strange ailments require strange approaches.

“As your governor, I hereby declare Monday the 24th of February 2020 as a day of devotion to pray for the return of peace in Borno. I intend to fast on that day and I appeal to every one of us in Borno, who can, to join in that simple, but pricelessly rewarding spiritual endeavour. I also appeal for the sacrifices of all other well-meaning friends and associates of Borno who can, to join us in fasting on Monday, insha’Allah, for the restoration of peace in Borno State and rest of Nigeria,” he explained.

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Ex-SGF Says Governors are parasites, Opines That States Should Be Scrapped

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Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal, has described Nigerian Governors as parasites.

The former SGF stated this on Wednesday when he addressed journalists in Abuja, saying that Governors ”take a major share of the country’s resources” and “abuse” it.

Lawal said it was better for the country to have only Federal and Local Governments adding that state governments should be scrapped.

Responding to the question of whether he would like to see changes as the National Assembly attempts to amend the constitution.

“I am not a constitutional expert, but I know if I had my way in the setup of this country, the governors in the middle are just parasites that are taking the major share of the resources that are supposed to go to states, they abuse it.

“If I had my way, there would be the federal government and local governments, such that the resources that are due to the state would be shared equally with the local government at that level and a lot of things will be done. In the case of the federal government, we understand why it has to be the federal government. There are some institutions that have to be national in itself.

“The army, for example, the federal police must be there, foreign affairs must be there, but the states, we can devolve the powers back of the states to the local governments.

“At the local government, they are closer to the people, because they are closer to the people, people are able to monitor them. People are able to get in touch with them, people are able to check their excess if any,” Lawal said.

However, the Nigeria Government Forum (NGF) Head, Media, and Public Affairs, Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, described the statement from SGF as pa political statement.

He said: “The NGF will not join issues with politicians but the truth is that governors are not wasting resources and are not parasites.

“The NGF helps governors to organise better at the sub-national level. For example, we are responsible for the eradication and a lot is being done in education to take more out of school children back to school.

“With the help of the NGF, the governors are looking inward more to raise internally generated revenue (IGR) so as to depend less on federal allocation.

“Only recently, we all read in the media how a state governor lost his father and he came out to say he will not bury him with state money. Some of these are professionals in their own rights and cannot be described as parasites. They have continued to rise to the occasion to ensure they deliver on dividends of democracy to their people.

“So we will not accept that wild shot that governors are parasites and wasteful. People should speak responsibly and don’t embellish assumptions without facts.

“To cast aspersions on 36 people is bad judgment regardless of how what group of people you are talking about.

“It is important to note that scrapping a tier of government will only be like cutting your nose to spite your face; it will not solve Nigeria’s problems.”

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Apostle Suleman Responds To Pastor Adeboye’s Post, Advises Bachelors Not To Marry Women Who Can’t Cook

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The president and founder of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, has taken to social media to defend his fellow man of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over a piece of advice he gave to bachelors.

Pastor Adeboye, who is the general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, recently took to social media to advise bachelors on the woman they should marry.

Adeboye advised men not to marry a woman who cannot cook. The advice received negative reactions on social media with people, saying that the man of God is in support of men not learning how to cook.

In Adeboye’s defense, Apostle Suleman shared a post on the popular micro-blogging platform, Twitter, to clarify the pastor’s advice. He noted that Adeboye never said men should not know how to
cook.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B42NpeAnSfI/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_mid=BC0EE4DF-5729-4E5B-A1D8-A860AF13C4CC

According to him, Adeboye only asked men to marry women who know how to cook. He added that Adeboye has been happily married for over 50 years and those criticising him are less than 50.

Suleman finalized by saying people are accountable for what they say not how others understand it.

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Buhari Picks Pondei, Drops Nunieh As Acting NDDC MD

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the enlargement of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), replacing Barrister Joy Nunieh with Professor Kemebradikumo Pondei, as Acting Managing Director.

The President also increased the members of the committee from three to five persons, including Dr Cairo Ojougboh, Ag. Executive Director (Projects); Mr Ibanga Bassey Etang, Ag. Executive Director (Finance and Administration); Mrs Caroline Nagbo (Member); and Cecilia Bukola Akintomide, OON, a former Vice President with African Development Bank, (Member).

Professor Kemebradikumo Pondei the new Ag. Managing Director is a Professor of Medicine at the Niger Delta University, and former Provost, College of Health Sciences of the institution.

President Buhari had earlier approved that the Interim Management Committee would be in place till the forensic audit of the NDDC was concluded.

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Gov. Diri Appoints SSG, Others Few Days After Swearing In

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Bayelsa State newly sworn-in Governor, Senator Douye Diri has appointed a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Friday Konbowei Benson, as Secretary to the State Government, SSG, while Hon. (Dr.) Peter Akpe, a former lawmaker in the State will serve as the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House.

Sen. Diri made the appointments yesterday in Government House, Yenagoa.

Also in his appointment list were the Chief of Staff, Barrister Geroge Turnah, while Lucky Yonbongha will serve as Special Adviser on Domestic Matters to the Governor.

Recall that Senator Diri was declared the authentic winner of the 2019 governorship election by the Supreme Court following the dissolution of the deputy governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. Diego Eremienyo for providing false information in the INEC form CF001.

Diri was thereafter handed his Certificate of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC as been directed by the apex court.

Following the judgement of the Supreme Court, Senator Diri was then sworn-in barely 24 hours after the court sacked David Lyon, a candidate of the All Progressive Congress, APC.

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BREAKING: Bayelsa Assembly Speaker, Steps Down For Deputy

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The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has elected Deputy Speaker, Abraham Ngobere, as the new Speaker of the Assembly.

The Assembly Speaker, Monday Bubou-Obolo, stepped down to pave way for Abraham.

This is because of the fact that the newly inaugurated Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, is from the same Senatorial District as the former Speaker, Bubou-Obolo.

They are both from Bayelsa Central Senatorial District.

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Imo: Secondus Discloses How PDP Will Regain Imo Rule In Supreme Court

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The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Uche Secondus has said his party will retrieve its governorship mandate in Imo State at the Supreme Court.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the PDP National Chairman expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would review and reverse the judgment which declared Hope Uzodinma the winner of the last governorship election in Imo State.

Secondus said there are several grounds upon which PDP is relying to ‘retrieve’ its mandate in Imo State.

He insisted that the number of votes cast was higher than the number of accredited voters, adding that the apex court Justices were misled by the All Progressives Congress, APC, and Uzodinma.

Secondus alleged that Uzodinma and APC fraudulently obtained the verdict.

He said: “Both Uzodinma and the APC fraudulently misled the Supreme Court into believing that 213,495 votes were unlawfully excluded from the votes they scored in the governorship election, which was held on March 9, 2019.

‘‘If the lies told the Supreme Court are allowed to stay, then the total number of votes cast at the election will be more than the total number of voters accredited for the election. This cannot stay. We do not need to set a bad precedence.

“The number of voters accredited for the election was 823,743 while the total valid votes cast was 731,485.

‘‘Therefore, the inclusion of 213,695 votes for both the APC and Uzodinma would make the number of votes cast to be more than the number of accredited number of voters for the election.’’

Recall that the Supreme Court had yesterday adjourned the hearing of former Imo State governor, Emeka Ihedioha and PDP’s application, to review its earlier verdict on the governorship election until March 2, 2020.

Ihedioha and PDP had urged the apex court among others to reverse its judgment on January 14 which sacked him and replaced him with Uzodinma.

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BREAKING: Disappeared Female Kidnapper Rearrested In Kano

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The Department of the State Security and the Kano Correctional Center has rearrested Mercy Paul who escaped after been arrested for the alleged kidnapping of several Kano Children and sold them in Anambra State.

Mercy Paul was arrested along with others for allegedly kidnapping several Kano children and selling them in Anambra State sometimes last year 2019.

However, on 31st January 2020, Mercy Paul was said to have escaped from the hospital where she was taken for medication after falling ill at Kano Kurmawa Correctional Centre where she is waiting for trail.

The Comptroller of the Kano Correctional Centre, Ahmad Abdullahi Magaji told newsmen that on 31st January, at about 12.05 pm, he was told that Mercy had escaped from the hands of their officers who took her to Murtala Muhammad hospital for medication.

Magaji said on hearing of the news of Mercy’s escape, he quickly went to the scene where he conducted some investigation and found out that the culprit was bleeding and she requested to go to the toilet where she maneuvered her way and ran away.

“Immediately after realizing such unfortunate incident, we organized a stop and search by condoning all the entrances of Kano in collaboration with the DSS”.

He said the DSS helped them to track her down on Monday, 17th February 2020 from where she was hiding at a particular place and She was taken to the hospital by the Department of State Security where they gave her all necessary medical attention to help her fully recover.

The Comptroller who commended Governor Ganduje for ensuring synergy between Security officials in Kano also thumbs up the DSS and other security agencies for helping them to track down the fleeing children kidnapping suspects.

He said, ” If somebody escaped from our custody, they would be investigated and if it is negligence on the part of our officers, it is outright dismissal and if it is negligence, growth misconduct, aiding and abetting, conspiracy, that one would be dismissed and face the wrath of the law”.

The Comptroller assured that with the full supports of their Comptroller General, Alhaji Jaafaru Ahmad, and President Muhammadu Buhari, they have their own personal equipped clinic to carter for patients.

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Brymo Conveys His Opinion On Why People Come Together In Relationship

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Nigerian popular singer Ọlawale Ọlọfọrọ popularly known on stage as Brymo has conveyed his thoughts on why people come together in a romantic relationship.

Brymo disclosed this yesterday through his verified Twitter account.

In a bid to promoting his vision 2020 live show that will take place on March 28th, Brymo noted that sexual attraction is the landmark of a romantic relationship.

He observed that a greater connection will emerge when physical contact reduces adding that spouses should always make up to their partners.

Brymo also said those who have disagreed with his opinions should live with their siblings because that is love too

He, therefore, advised that it’s not good to feel deprived noting that Deprivation could break any soul.

See Tweet below

https://twitter.com/BrymOlawale/status/1229632949273976833?s=19

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BREAKING: FEC Meeting Opens In Abuja

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Nigeria President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), and cabinet ministers have started a meeting of the Federal Executive Council in Abuja.

The FEC meeting holds every Wednesday.

Today’s session opened at 11.06 am when Buhari arrived at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

After the national anthem, emptying prayers were said by the Minister of Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; and the Minister of Power, Saleh Maman.

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, are attending the meeting.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, and the Head of Service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi-Esan, are also attending the meeting.

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I Never Said Coronavirus Is Caused By Corruption – Magu Denies Video

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The acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ibrahim Magu, as denied saying that coronavirus is caused by corruption.

Magu said that the video that claimed he actually made the remark is both false and rather misleading.

On its official Twitter handle, the commission said that what acting chairman said was “Tackling corruption is a clarion call, given that corruption is a huge burden to the nation. It is worse than Cancer, Ebola Virus, Coronavirus and all other deadly diseases put together.”

It, therefore, called on The Cable, the online newspaper which put out the video to immediately make a correction to this effect.

However, the video clip in which Magu was said to have made this comment is already going viral on social media.

https://twitter.com/honilatte/status/1229877858270662658?s=19

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Breaking: Olamide Endorses New Record Deal With America Label, Empire

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Nigerian indigenous rapper, Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide has just endorsed a new record contract.

The rapper revealed this in his verified Instagram today, uploading pictures of the signed contract with the American record label, Empire.

Olamide while uploading the pictures captioned them as ” time to shake the world “

The newly signed contract of the ybnl boss with the United States established Music Record label, Empire is believed to worth millions of dollars.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8uGaBQF035/?igshid=14tz118zgceq4

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BREAKING: State House Official murdered In Her Abuja Home

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Revealed reports says the assistant director of administration at the state house Laetitia Dagan, has been murdered.

The presidency confirmed her death in a statement on Tuesday.

A deputy director of information at the state house, Attah Esa said the deceased was killed around 11pm on Monday.

It was gathered that she was murdered at her Abuja residence.

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FG Chooses 6 States For Pilot Open Schooling Programme

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The Federal Government has selected six northern states for the pilot phase of its Open Schooling Programme (OSP).

OSP which was launched in early 2019 is an open learning programme aimed at reducing the high number of out-of-school children in the country.

The beneficiaries, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Kano, Adamawa, and Niger, are among the 10 states which, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), are worst hit by the problem.

According to UNICEF, eight million children are out of school in the 10 endemic states, which include Bauchi, Zamfara, and the FCT.

OSP is a collaborative effort between the government, through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), an educational development platform of The Commonwealth.

It was reported that a five-day workshop for OSP Content Developers and Centre Managers opened in Abuja on Monday.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, said the intervention was informed by the government’s concern about the high number of out-of-school children in the country.

Represented by Mr. Edwin Zarummai, the UBEC boss said the program was designed to last for two years with an option for expansion.

He added that UBEC would not relent in its series of efforts aimed at curbing the challenge.

“UBEC, as part of its statutory responsibility in the Act 2004 to put in place measures that will address the Out-of-School-Children (OOSC) initiative, enter into collaboration with COL to introduce the OSP in the country.

“To this effect, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between UBEC and COL in July 2019, and the agreement is for the program to last for two years with an option to extend,“ he said.

The UBEC boss added that 51 content developers had been selected for the program to run in 58 learning centers in the six states.

Bobby said: “Fifty-one content developers have been selected for the program.

“The selection was made by the states in conjunction with relevant stakeholders like NERDC, SUBEBs, Education Resource Centers, National Teachers Institute and universities,” he said.

Dr. Tony Mays, Consultant COL said that the whole idea was the importance of e-learning and to help children get back to school.

“We hope at the end of the training, everybody who is part of the workshop will be able to develop some content which will be based on Nigeria schooling curriculum and will be freely available as open education resources.

“We also hope that the results of this initiative will be available for no fewer than 10.5 million out-of-school children back to school in the country.”

Head of Unit, OSP Hajiya Khadija Jibo, thanked UBEC and COL for putting together the building for the execution of the initiative.

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Don’t Marry Any Girl That Dont Know How To Cook – Adeboye

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Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, has pointed out some qualities his male members should look out for before marrying a lady.

Adeboye, who is the General Overseer of RCCG, charged bachelors not to marry a lady who can’t cook.

In a series of tweets, on Monday evening, the G.O. as
he’s popularly called, inferred that a man can’t be eating out all the time, hence the woman should know how to cook.

Adeboye also stated that men should marry women who know how to do home chores.

The clergyman further advised men against marrying women he termed “worldly.”

According to Adeboye, marrying a worldly woman means the man will worship her all his life.

He wrote: “Now, if the peacemaker is a child of God, then whose child is the troublemaker? When you always choose to quarrel over peace, who do you resemble?

“If your worship is devoid of humility, it will not be accepted.

“My sons, don’t marry a lady who cannot cook. She needs to know how to do chores and cook because you cannot afford to be eating out all the time.

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No Admissions Outside JAMB CAPS – Education Minister

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The Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu has said no tertiary institution will admit candidates outside the Central Admission Process System (CAPS) of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

Adamu disclosed this at the commissioning of JAMB’s New General Services Department building on Monday at the headquarters in Bwari, Abuja.

Adamu noted that the introduction of CAPS has revolutionized the admission process in the interest of candidates, irrespective of where they come from, gender or social status.

“CAPS ensure due process, fairness, discipline, and equity in the process; it is through the automated system that ordinary Nigerians are now hopeful of not being denied the rightful place in the admission exercise.

“It is instructive that CAPS protects the traditional rights of the Senate and Academic Board of the institutions.

“This is because CAPS does not allow anyone other than the Admission officer, Vice-Chancellor, Provost or Rector, to initiate, propose or recommend any candidate for admission but also requires the documentation.

“Permit me to state that leadership of any higher institution found to be involved in admitting any candidate without prior approval of the Board or outside the established CAPS would be considered and treated as corrupting the admission process,” he said.

JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede stated that the board would conduct the 2020 mock UTME on Tuesday, Feb. 18 in 64 accredited centres, nationwide.

Oloyede said that about 350,000 candidates were expected to sit for the exercise, which follows immediately after the end of the board’s 2020 UTM/Direct Entry (DE) registration exercise on Monday, Feb. 17.

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Amaechi Withholds Rumour Of Bandit Attack On His Convoy, Advises Aisha Yesufu

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Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi has reacted to the reported attack on him and passengers onboard Abuja-Kaduna train on Sunday night.

It was alleged that some kidnappers laid an ambush around Mando area and tried to attack the passengers at Rigasa train station

Aisha Yesufu, co-convener of the BringBackOurGirls advocacy group on her Twitter page claimed that Amaechi ran with his convoy after the bandits attacked the train.

She wrote: “Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi you should be ashamed of yourself. My sister, my brother and my sister-in-law were on that train. When your convoy scattered and you fled like a newborn mouse whom water has been poured on, it was witnessed!

“Governance is not by lies and propaganda.”

But, reacting Amaechi described the news as false, adding that he was not attacked.

Responding to Aisha on his official page, the minister wrote: “Fake News. This is completely concocted

“Madam, I was not attacked, I did not see or escape attackers, bandits or kidnappers. I did not “fled like a…” Insults and abuses will not change the fact that I was not attacked or escape the attack, in Kaduna last night.

“By the way, we can still be respectful and courteous here. “

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President Buhari Says Nigerians Will Get Access To Education At All Levels

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President Muhammadu Buhari has said his administration will improve the infrastructure of Nigerian universities and also ensure that Nigerians get access to education.

He disclosed this at the 24th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Abuja on Saturday.

Buhari was represented by the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC) Prof. Rasheed Abubakar.

The President stated that no nation could achieve meaningful development without education.

“In view of this national perception, education will continue to be a high priority item in my government’s drive to transform the economy”, Buhari said.

He noted that the problems of the education sector were not the responsibility of the government alone.

“I believe that advancement in education at all levels will guarantee our collective drive to grow the economy for the betterment of all Nigerians.

“Government will continue to provide Nigerians equal and massive access to education at all levels such that they can fulfill their dreams,” he added.

Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’allah, disclosed that the institution graduated “a total of 10,338 students who met the prescribed requirement of being worthy to be awarded various degrees”.

It was gathered that 26 students graduated with First Class, 866 with Second Class Upper while 2,317 with Second Class lower and 339 with Third Class respectively.

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Ex-Presidents, Obasanjo, Jonathan sighted In A Function In Uyo

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Former Presidents, Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan were spotted sitting next to each other at the burial ceremony of Governor Emmanuel Udom’s Father, Elder Gabriel Nkanang.

The ex-presidents were in Ona, Akwa Ibom state, to pay their respects to the governor’s late father.

The deceased, Elder Gabriel Nkanang passed away in December 2019.

Jonathan shared a photo showing him, his wife Patience and Obasanjo, on his Facebook page.

Jonathan wrote: “Elder Gabriel Nkanang Emmanuel, father of Udom Emmanuel lived a fulfilled life of service to God and humanity; raising leaders and impacting many lives.

“At his funeral today in Onna LGA, Akwa Ibom State, we paid our last respects to him. May God repose his soul in eternal peace”.

Also in the occasion were former Senate President, Bukola Saraki and his successor, Ahmad Lawan.

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Supreme Court Fixes Tuesday For Ihediaoha, Lyon Appeals

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The Supreme Court will hear the application filed by Emeka Ihedioha and David Lyon over their dismissal by the court on Tuesday, February 18, 2020.

On January 14, 2020, the apex court sacked the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Ihedioha as governor of Imo state and declared Senator Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressive Congress (APC) as the duly elected governor of the state.

Barely a month after, the court again nullified the election of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), David Lyon as Governor-elect in Bayelsa state on the ground that his running mate, Biobarakuma Degi-Eriemienyo presented fake certificates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The two candidates have, however, appealed the judgement by the Supreme Court.

While confirming the court’s readiness to hear the cases on Tuesday, spokesman of the Supreme Court, Festus Akande, in a chat with journalists on Saturday, February 15, 2020, disclosed that the appeal of Baysela will also be held that day.

Meanwhile, the PDP candidate in Bayelsa, Douye Diri has since been sworn in as governor of the state.

Diri was sworn in by the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Kate on Friday, February 14, 2020.

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Police, Soldiers Arrested IPOB Members Going To My Parents’ Funeral – Nnamdi Kanu

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The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu has indicted Nigerian police and soldiers of arresting members of the group heading to his parent’s burial on Friday, February 14, 2020.

In a statement on his Facebook page, Kanu said the mourners were accosted on their way to the burial and intercepted in three coaster buses on Enugu-Port-Harcourt expressway.

Earlier, the Abia State Police Command had warned IPOB members against attending the burial, but members of the group defied the police order on Friday, as many of them attended the burial ceremony in Afaraukwu.

The state’s Commissioner of Police, Ene Okon, had warned that the police would not allow miscreants disguising as IPOB members to hijack the burial, adding that the group members won’t be allowed to display the Biafran flag and other insignia.

Kanu’s parents, Israel Kanu, and wife, Sally, were laid to rest at Isiama Afaraukwu in the Umuahia North Local Government Area of the state.

According to Punch, riot police and other security agents closely monitored the burial process.

Although IPOB members didn’t show up at the ceremony in their uniform, they praised Kanu and chanted pro-Biafra songs.

A member of the group, identified as Maduka Okeke, who spoke to journalists said no amount of threat could stop them from paying their last respect to Kanu’s parents by attending their burial.

He said, “We didn’t come in our uniforms because we are mourning and in the Igbo culture we have a dress code for burials.”

Kanu’s father, died at 85 while his wife, Sally, died at 67.

The former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Senator Victor Umeh were among the dignitaries that attended the burial ceremony.

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Reno Omokri Blasts Oshiomhole, Says He’s An Unstable Human Being

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former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan Reno Omokri, , has characterized National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC Adams Oshiomhole, as an unstable human being.

Reacting to a photograph of Douye Diri being inaugurated last night, Omokri said Oshiomhole was determined to destroy both APC and Nigeria due to his selfish interest.

In a post on his Facebook page, the former presidential aide insisted that the violence witnessed in Bayelsa State on Friday were caused by the APC National Chairman.

He, however, urged the International Criminal Court, ICC, to take note since Nigerian government wouldn’t take action against Oshiomhole over his inflammatory comments.

Omokri wrote: “This photograph of Douye Diri being sworn in as the PDP Governor of Bayelsa proves that Adams Oshiomhole is an unstable individual, who talks before he thinks, and thinks more highly of himself, perhaps because of the inferiority complex of his Little Man Syndrome!‬

“The unrest in Bayelsa earlier today is directly linked to Oshiomhole’s irresponsible comments of yesterday. Not content with destroying the APC, Oshiomhole wants to destroy Nigeria.

“Since the Nigerian authorities will not do anything, I hope the International Criminal Court is taking note.”

‬The Supreme Court had on Thursday sacked David Lyon of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the governor-elect of Bayelsa State.

It also declared Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, winner of the election and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to issue him Certificate of Return.

Following the ruling, Oshiomhole had vowed that nobody would be sworn-in as governor because Lyon had the highest number of votes.

Despite Oshiomhole’s threat, INEC had declared Diri winner of the election and subsequently issued him certificate of return.

Photographs, however, emerged late last night indicating that Diri was sworin-in as governor of the state.

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Bayelsa: Keyamo Applauds Supreme Court On General Election Judgements

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The Minister of State for Labour and Productivity Festus Keyamo, has applauded the Supreme Court over its Judgement on general elections.

The Supreme Court had on Thursday in a unanimous judgement led by Justice Mary Odili sacked David Lyon as governor elect of Bayelsa state over Degi-Eremieoyo forged certificate presented to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The apex court upheld the November 12, 2019, judgement of a Federal High Court in Abuja, disqualifying Degi-Eremieoyo from participating in the governorship poll.

In agreement, INEC Chairman, Yakubu Mahmoud on Friday then declared PDP candidate, Douye Diri winner and issued him certificate of return.

Reacting to the development, Keyamo commended the Supreme Court on its judgements.

He called on the All Progressives Congress, APC, to sit back and solve its internal issues.

On his Twitter page, Keyamo wrote: “The Supreme Court has been firm and resolute so far regarding pre-election cases and Election Petitions. I commend their lordships.

“As a party, we have to look at our own internal party mechanisms that make us give our victories needlessly away to the opposition and take appropriate actions.”

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FRD Group CEO, Oduma Says The Interest Of His Clients Are His Major Concerns

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The Chief Executive Officer, FRD Group, Mr. Efe Oduma has said the interest of his clients is the company’s priority.

He disclosed this yesterday in interaction with goldennationblog.com at the opening ceremony and commissioning of the FRD Group, an automobile company in Asaba.

Oduma explained that his reason for bringing the FRD group to Asaba is to enable the people of Delta State and its environs to benefit from the company’s outstanding services.

The FRD group boss reiterated that his company offers instrumental payment opportunities to clients adding that the FRD has lined up assorted and luxurious cars with their respective prices.

Oduma also pointed out that FRD autos offer maintenance services to faulty cars adding that one of the objectives of the FRD group is to rescue its clients from every challenge they may encounter with their vehicles.

He also divulged that the FRD group has a rescue team whose function includes going directly to pick up faulty cars from their locations, taking them for maintenance and returning the cars to the client without complaints.

Oduma Described FRD Autos as a loving automobile organization urging the general public to come, see and testify with a feeling of the FRD’s services.

The FRD Group deals on all kinds of autos and different luxurious cars such as Benz, Lexus, Nissan, BMW, Toyota, and others.

Speaking more on the services rendered by the FRD group, Oduma said the company maintains a cordial and peaceful coexistence with its clients stressing that the preference of the client is the organization’s utmost concern.

As part of building a cordial relationship, Oduma said the FRD group calls its clients to check on them from time to time adding that regular communication is a good structure of customer relationship management.

Speaking on the current challenge facing the country, Oduma said importing anything now is very difficult urging the federal government to keep a standard.

He further stated that the FRD group is different from any other Automobile dealing company in Asaba and its environs.

The business mogul retained that as an old dealer in cars he has sold over 1,000 cars in the city of Asaba.

He said the vehicles are at various prices and they are affordable.

Oduma, therefore, calls on inhabitants of Asaba and its environ to come to FRD autos, located by Asaba Shopping mall (Shoprite) and get their calls at affordable prices.

Responding to questions on regular car maintenance, Oduma urged car users to always maintain their cars to enable them to enjoy it to the fullest.

He said there is a year warranty for any client who buys a car from FRD Group.

The ceremony was witnessed by movers and shakers of the society from different places, notable politicians and business associates .

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Arrest APC National Chairman, Oshiomhole now – PDP Tells IG Of Police

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Inspector-General of Police, Adamu Mohammed, to immediately arrest the National Chairman of the Board All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole.

The party made the call in a statement on Friday by its spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan.

PDP said Oshiomhole should be questioned over the violence and arson being perpetuated allegedly by APC agents in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital.

The party indicted the former Edo State governor of provoking the people against the Governor-elect, Duoye Diri.

“Oshiomole’s statement was a direct call for sedition and violent subversion of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the statutory authority of the Supreme Court and the mandate of the people of Bayelsa state”, PDP said.

“He should, therefore, be pulled in immediately for prosecution for inciting violence and arson in the state.

“Nigerians can recall that our party had on Thursday cautioned Oshiomhole over his utterances and apparent plots to cause violence and a breakdown of law and order in the state.

“The world watched with horror as APC agents, chanting APC slogans, assaulted the people of Bayelsa state, set the PDP secretariat in the state ablaze, attacked the premises of Radio Bayelsa, vandalized vehicles and equipment, took over major highways and attack travelers in a bid to violently subvert the judgment of the Supreme court and forcefully take control of the state.”

The PDP charged the people of Bayelsa, the security agencies and Nigerians at large, to hold Oshiomhole responsible and accountablelele for the violence in Bayelsa state and deal with him accordingly in line with the provisions of the law.

It added that Oshiomhole must be brought to book and stopped from the use of garrulity and clear misuse of language to cause a crisis in Nigeria.

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President Buhari Approves New Appointment Of Director/Chief Executive Officer

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Prof. Lateef Ayeleru as Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria French Language Village, Badagry.

The Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, in an announcement on Friday, said that the appointment, which took effect from January 10, 2020, was for a single term of five years.

He urged Ayeleru to cater for the yearnings and expectations of the Federal Government in the performance of his duties.

Ayeleru, who hails from Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State, was born on February 12, 1966.

He holds a PhD in African Literature/Applied Linguistics; Masters Degree in French Studies; Bachelor of Arts degree in French as well as other degrees.

The new appointee is also a recipient and member of various scholarships, prizes, societies and fellowships from local and international organisations.

Ayeleru, a Professor of French, Applied Linguistics and African Literature, had done and supervised many research works in the academia.

Until his appointment, he was a three-time head of the Department of European Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan.

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Bayelsa: Atiku Hails Sen. Diri Over Supreme Court Judgment

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Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has congratulated the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Sen. Douye Diri and his running mate, Mr Lawrence Ewhrujakpor over the Supreme Court judgment on the Bayelsa governorship election.

Abubakar in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, also congratulated the PDP.

“The Lords Justices have given us another opportunity to show Nigerians that power belongs to the people, and we must make good use of this opportunity,” he said.

Abubakar said that he received the verdict of the court, declaring the candidate of the PDP, Diri, as the duly elected governor of the state, with gladness.

Diri had cause to visit me before the elections, and received my blessings and counsel.

“I am fully satisfied that he has what it takes to make Bayelsa the ‘glory of all lands. His intellect, personality and character, are a credit to Bayelsa and the PDP, ” he said.

Abubakar called on all the people of Bayelsa to make peace with the recent past, and embrace the future together, united in the mission to transform the state into a haven of peace and prosperity.

“Finally, I urge the supreme court to show consistency in its judgments and find the resolve to always deliver just judgments no matter whose ox is gored.

“The people of Nigeria are behind the apex court in whatever they do to free themselves from the dominance of dictatorial forces,” he added.

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NYSC, EFCC To Hold 10 Million Man Peaceful protest Against Corruption

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Delta State will today 14th February 2020, join the rest of the states in the country to hold a 10 Million Man peaceful demonstration against corruption.

Informing the press, at the Federal Secretariat in Asaba, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Olutayo Samuel, said that over 500 corps members in Delta had been lined up to participate in the exercise, billed for 8 O’Clock in the morning adding that there will be a sensitization campaign match from the Federal Secretariat through Interbau to Nnebisi Road in Asaba today, friday 14 February, 2020.

The event is being overseen by the Delta State Chapter of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Mrs. Olutayo Samuel said “The essence is to let everybody know that anti corruption is a major policy of Mr President and there is need for every hand to be on deck in curtailing it.

“It is important to let you know that these gentlemen you see in my office are officials of EFCC and they are fully involved in this national assignment”, she posited.

Mrs. Samuel further stated that while this nationwide sensitization crusade would collectively hold across the country today, the corps members who are EFCC Vanguards would sustain the tempo through their Community Development Services, CDS.

She affirmed that the exercise would be holding simultaneously in the 36 States of the federation and including the FCT.

The coordinator further stated that the corps members’ core requirement was to continually sensitize the people on the need to shun corruption and assist in whatever guide to rid our country of corrupt tendencies.

Speaking on possible safety measures, Mrs. Samuel assured of the presence of Road Safety officials to help with the control of traffic adding that there will also be paramedics to assist in cases of health emergency response.

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2Baba Mourns Victor Olaiye In A Tailored Message, Discloses Moments Shared

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Nigerian music legend, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2face ( 2Baba) has reacted to the death of veteran Nigeria singer, Victor Olaiye.

This is contained in a statement revealed to journalists by the Managing Director, Evergreen Music Company Ltd, Bimbo Esho.

It was gathered that the singer, Victor Olaiye passed out yesterday Wednesday at the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

Reacting, legendary 2Baba lamented over the death of ‘Baby Mi Da’ crooner, victor Olaiye.

2baba who took to Instagram to express his sadness captioned his statement as “Devastated by the news of your passing. Dr. Victor Olaiye – Maestro, Mentor, Legend.

Stating further, 2baba commended the legend for the inspiration and the opportunity of sharing a mic and a stage with him, as he wrote “Thanks for the beautiful music. Thanks for the inspiration. Blessed for sharing a mic and a stage with you. Rest in peace baba”.

The singer died at the age of 89.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8ek5GapQ5E/?igshid=1h8yevbf3p2dt

Recall that 2face collaborated with Victor Olaiye in 2013 to produce the single ‘Baby Mi Da’.

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Okowa Swears In Members Of State Sport Commission, Urges Public Officials On Good Administration

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Delta Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has urged political office holders to be guided at all times by good governance and leadership principles.

The governor made the call in Asaba while swearing in a former member of House of Representatives, Evelyn Oboro, as special adviser as well as chairman and members of the state’s Sports Commission.

Also sworn in is a member of the State Judicial Service Commission, Lucky Ekayama Loyibo.

The Sports Commission has Chief Tonobok Okowa as chairman and Omatshola Williams, Chinonye Daphey and Ernest Juweto as members.

Okowa congratulated the appointees and said that they were well chosen as persons with strong work ethic, discipline and commitment.

According to him, it is a good mix of motivators and technocrats, enthusiasm and experience, passion and temperance.

The governor urged the officer to be diligent in their responsibilities, saying: “It is imperative that your decisions, actions and utterances as political office holders are guided by the principles of good governance, leadership by example, prudent management, effective public communication, excellent service delivery and collective responsibility.

“You should discharge your responsibilities in accordance with section 196 sub-sections 1 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and work for the good governance and development of the state.

“To the newly sworn-in Special Adviser, it is imperative that you get yourself thoroughly acquainted with the policy direction of this administration by getting a copy of my Inauguration Speech and digest it properly.

“It goes without saying that you are required to render advisory services to the governor and work in close liaison with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

“I welcome sound and professional advice that will put the administration on the path of delivering the dividends of democracy and finishing strong.

“This administration is ever ready to listen to good advice and work with it as long as it will further our developmental aspirations and impact positively on the lives of our people,’’ the governor added.

He applauded the Sports Commission for the outstanding work it did in the first term of his administration, recalling that Delta retained its front-runner status in athletics, coming first in all National Youth Games and the National Sports Festival 2019 by a very wide margin.

“It is also gratifying to note that the State successfully hosted the 21st African Senior Athletics Championship, also known as Asaba 2018, at the reconstructed Stephen Keshi Stadium and it is expected that this board will strive to sustain this momentum and break new grounds.

“I am delighted with the coming of the Delta Sports Festival and football competitions for our primary and secondary schools; hopefully, these competitions will help us to discover new talents in the areas we have competitive edge such as athletics, football, boxing and hockey thereby, putting the Stephen Keshi Stadium to good use.

“The Sports Commission will need to do more in terms of attracting national and continental sporting events aside from their great entertainment/recreational value.

“These also have the multiplier effect of impacting positively on the hospitality industry and the retail economy as we saw with Asaba 2018 and the Aiteo Cup Final 2018.

“I assure you that this administration shall continue to give the necessary support and cooperation that all appointees require to be able to discharge their duties to the utmost of their individual abilities and in an environment that is empowering and liberating,” the governor said.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Oboro appreciated the governor for deeming them worthy to serve in his administration and assured that they would work to see that the people get the dividends of democracy.

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Davido Reacts To Supreme Court Sack Of Bayelsa Gov-Elect

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Sensational Nigerian Singer, David Adeleye popularly known as Davido has expressed shock over the decision of Supreme Court Judgement in the Bayelsa governorship election.

It reported that Justice Mary Moduli in a unanimous judgement on Thursday sacked David Lyon as governor elect of Bayelsa state over presentation of forged certificate by Degi-Eremieoyo to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)

The apex court upheld the November 12, 2019, judgement of a Federal High Court in Abuja, which disqualified Degi-Eremieoyo from participating in the governorship poll.

The apex court then ordered INEC to issue fresh certificates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

Reacting, Davido took to his Twitter page criticizing the Supreme Court Judgement.

He wrote: “So wait, It’s not even about winning election again.You can actually win and get sworn in and all but then vamoos!

“This government na Cruise sef. The way Supreme Court check mates men no be here these days .”

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BREAKING: Fire Burns Mile 12 garage in Lagos

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Report gathered reveals that there was a fire incident at Mile 12 area of Lagos State on Thursday morning.

It was gathered that the fire started about 05.55am.

Narrating the fire incident, an eyewitness said the fire incident happened at the popular Mandella garage.

Details of the fire incident were sketchy as of the time of this report.

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Another Tanker Demolished By fire in Onitsha

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A tanker loaded with liters of petrol with no registration number, was on Wednesday razed at Nkpor area of Onitsha, Anamber State.

The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra Command, Mr. Andrew Kumapayi confirmed the incident to journalists

He said the tanker loaded with fuel caught fire at about 6:50 p.m on Wednesday.

Kumapayi said an investigation disclosed that the fire was affected by a mechanical deficiency.

“The fuel loaded tanker caught fire due to mechanical deficiency in the engine of the vehicle.

“The fire which completely burnt the tractor, was put-off by sympathizers, using fire extinguishers.

“Two male adults were involved. No casualty or injury was recorded.

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Group Grumbles As Gov. Bello Nominates Self As Member Of SIEC

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The Initiative for Grassroot Advancement, INGRA has criticized the nominees of Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello as a member of the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC).

The Governor through his Chief Press Secretary in a statement on Wednesday night forwarded eight names to the State House of Assembly, for Screening and Clearance which is anticipated to take place today at the hallowed chamber.

The SIEC nominees as submitted by the Governor to the House include; Lawal Shiru, Chairman Lokoja/Koto Federal Constituency.

Ozovehe John Enesi , Secretary Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency, Adaji Ainoko, Member Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency.

Others are Musa Adama (Babakeke), Member Idah Federal Constituency, Hon. Funsho Olorunfemi, Member Kabba/Bunu Federal Constituency, Chogudo Yakubu Musa, Member Okene/Ogori Magongo Federal Constituency, Hon. Labaran Yahaya Oyigebe, Member Ankpa Federal Constituency, and Abdulkarim Jamiu, Member Ajaokuta Federal Constituency.

The Governor’s recommendation is established in section 197, sub-section 1(b) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

It was gathered that the responsibility of the SIEC is to conduct free, fair and credible Local Government and Council polls in the state.

Responding to the composition of SIEC, the Executive Director of INGRA, Hamza Aliyu in a statement on Thursday lamented that, the Kogi State Government wants to appoint card-carrying members of a political party that will have vested interest in the outcome of the elections, as members of the Commission and most importantly as the Chairperson of the commission.

Aliyu identified that this will certainly be providing undue benefit to the political party and will necessarily not provide the needed perception of fairness and level playing field needed for a possible election.

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Burna Boy Says He Is The Best After Celebrated Fela Kuti

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Popular Nigerian singer, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has taken to social media to say ‘He is the best since Afro master, Fela Anikulapko’.

The ‘anybody’ singer disclosed this on Wednesday in his verified twitter page describing himself as the best Nigerian since Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

The assertion which appear to have stimulated some Nigerians, had stir up some reactions online.

In respect to this, social media crusaders have attacked the singer for calling himself the best after Fela.

Relating ahead, Burna Boy said nobody in the industry paved the way for him like some fans think, adding that he brought respect to Nigeria.

He also said that, he ceased caring about being the best after what Timaya told him some time ago.

He further revealed that Timaya told him that “The world can do without the Best” the world will still spin regardless.

Relating to his post on Twitter, the singer said “Everybody they find them own. I have been out here if you knew the way they made us look weak by begging and paying the western world to like us you will see that no table was set and I’m the one that brought you the Respect you currently enjoy.” But the comments have proved that Burna Boy has step on Nigerians toes for using his statements.

https://twitter.com/burnaboy/status/1227656161433989124?s=19
https://twitter.com/burnaboy/status/1227662763566211074?s=19

Below are some comments below on Burna Boy’s post :

@Jezzyjoseph “Where were you since 2010-2018? I mean where were you when Afrobeat was struggling to hit the mainstream? The BEST paved the way for you. You came In when the table has already been set and here you’re claiming the BEST since Fela.”

@Skeply1586 “There is nothing you’ve done that no Nigeria artist has done. You brought nothing here, you are just part of the people that pushed afrobeat to the world

“So you did not set any table a lot of artist have already set it before you started getting ur fame last 2 years!!

@Oga.Bobby “I wonder what would have happened if you won the Grammy. Pride comes before a fall Burna, you’re good but someone’s way ahead of you and he’s not even bragging. Be humble Dami.”

@Saintdop3 “Burna is actually saying the truth though, where was y’all when Headies gave someone who isn’t as good as Burna Boy as Next Rated 2013, nobody paved way for anybody, everybody dey do him own for this our industry.”

@Ladtube “If you’ve never been outside of Nigeria please don’t comment on the “respect” part because Burna is damn right.”

@Beezidominik “The best doesn’t say he’s the best. Check all Fela’s documentaries he never said he was the best. Reasons why I prefer 2face.”

@Volqx “Everything Burna Boy said is FACT ! and applies to every industry and sect of life . When you are winning among a range of people doing the same thing , you should know only you and God truly has your back . The same people that cheer you might stir the soup that would kill you .”

@Biolakazeem “I like Burna Boy a lot because his refusal to perform humility or pretend he owes his outstanding success to anyone except himself, his talent, his team and his God. And all comments that “pride comes before a fall” threat is just comedy. “Humble” artistes fall even faster.”

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Nigeria Govt Announces NDDC Audit Consultant, Says Audit Is to Begin

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The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has on Wednesday, authorized the appointment of a head consultant for the forensic audit of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, made the disclosure after the FEC meeting presided over by Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.

President Muhammadu Buhari, last December, directed the NDDC Interim Management Team to remain in office until the audit is completed.

Responding , Akpabio said the cost of the audit is about N318 million and Messrs Olumuyiwa Bashiru and co were appointed the lead consultant.

The estimated period given by the Bureau of Public Procurement to finalize the exercise was nine months.

Akpabio recalled that nine governors met with the President in October 2019 and requested a forensic audit of the NDDC.

“Of course, as a result of the fact that we have not had value for the money expended in that commission since inception”, he noted.

“And so, the forensic audit will cover from 2001 all the way down to 2019 and we are going to have other forensic auditors joining the lead; we are treating each of the states as a lot.

“So, likely we are going to have a consortium of about nine other forensic auditors; one of which will be in the head office to handle programmes and financial audit, personnel and all others,” he added.

Akpanio noted that it must have “an international flavour in case there are monies that may be denominated in dollar to be recovered after a forensic exercise”.

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BREAKING: Sowore To Be Re-Arraigned On Fresh Charges

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The convener of the revolution now Protest, Omoyele Sowore will be re-arraigned on fresh charges. tomorrow, February 13

This was concluded after Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu adjourned the case following the resumption of Sowore’s trial on Wednesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The prosecutor; AK Alilu informed the court that the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) has taken over the prosecution of the case and has filed fresh and amended charges.

All added that they are yet to effect service of the amended charges on the defendants.

He also said the office of the AGF took over the case late last year and applied to arraign the defendants based on the amended charges.

Justice Ojukwu then ordered the prosecution to pay a sum of N200, 000 as the cost to the defendants for the frivolous application for adjournment and adjourned till February 13.

Sowore and co-defendant, Olawale Bakare, are facing trial over charges of a treasonable felony for organising the revolution now protest on August 5, 2019, which the government saw as an attempt to disrupt peace in the country.

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UNIMAID Reacts To Killing Of 30 Persons, Including Students

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The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) has reacted to the killing of 30 persons in the recent attacks by Boko Haram insurgents at Auno village in Konduga, Borno.

It was reported that the terrorists stormed the area at about 9:50 pm on Sunday destroying about 18 vehicles.

There were reports that some passengers were abducted during the attack, aside from the 30 people that were killed.

Reacting to the attack, Prof. Danjuma Gambo, Director Radio and Public Relations, University of Maiduguri on Wednesday, condoled with students, parents and the state government over the incident.

Gambo described the attack as ‘heartbreaking’, even as he recalled the recent loss of students in a similar situation.

He said: “It is now confirmed that many precious lives and huge amounts of property were destroyed in the incident.

“Unfortunately, a number of students of the university were lost in it, thereby aggravating the deep pains and sense of grief already inflicted on dear staff, students, parents and other stakeholders.

“This devastating attack is a reminder of our recent colossal losses to the unfolding insurgency despite ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in Borno State and northeast region.

“It may be recalled that the university management had issued a travel advisory to all staff and students to restrict their movements and exercise vigilance as they go about their legitimate businesses owing to the observed, escalating threats to lives and property in recent times.

“As the university community mourns the painful loss of our dear students, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, staff, and students.

“Management will continue to do everything possible to ensure the safety of all staff and students on campus”.

Meanwhile, Senator Kashim Shettima, former governor of Borno State advised the Nigerian Defence Headquarters to immediately constitute a credible panel to investigate and generate facts on the attack which killed 30 passengers on Sunday night in Auno, Borno state.

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Boko Haram: Shehuri Condoles Borno People Over Auno Attack

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The Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mustapha Baba Shehuri has commiserated with victims and families of those killed in Sunday’s attack in Auno along the Maiduguri – Damaturu road.

In a statement, the Minister described the attack as outrageous and cowardly leading to the death of many innocent people.

He prayed Allah to grant those killed eternal rest and the injured one’s speedy recovery.

The minister also re-assured the people of Borno and Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to end the insurgency and other criminalities once and for all so as to enable law-abiding citizens to conduct their legitimate businesses in a peaceful and stable environment.

Mustapha also urged Nigerians to continue with their prayers for lasting peace and co-operate with security operatives by providing useful information that will assist in their operations.

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Assist Nigeria To Defeat Boko Haram’ – Gbajabiamila Solicits US

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabimila has called on the United States government to help Nigeria defeat Boko Haram and other security challenges in the country.

Gbajabiamila made the appeal while hosting the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Leonard in Abuja on Tuesday.

The Speaker explained that Nigerians are afraid about the incessant insecurity challenges and are looking up to the United States of America for assistance.

“What is America doing to assist Nigeria defeat insurgency? Is the outcome of the Layee Act affecting the way international organizations operate? What is the status of the Tucano jets we paid for?

“The house and indeed Nigerians are worried about the lingering insecurity in many parts of the country and many citizens of Nigeria are looking up to the United States of America for assistance to tackle this challenge,” he said.

Responding, Leonard reiterated the commitment of the US government in helping to end insecurity in Nigeria

She also assured to quicken the timely delivery of the Tucano jets.

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Stay Clear From Nnamdi Kanu Parents’ Burial – Police Warn IPOB Again

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The Nigeria Police has again warned members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to keep up away from the burial of the parents of Nnamdi Kanu.

The Commissioner of Police, Ene Okon, had earlier issued a similar warning.

Kanu’s mother, Sally, and father, Eze Israel Kanu, died in August and December 2019, respectively.

The duo will be buried on Friday in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

On Tuesday, the Police stated that it was only against an IPOB gathering and would not disrupt the burial.

The command Public Relations Officer, SP Geoffrey Ogbonna, in a statement said “he (Okon) has the good intention to provide security for lives and property of the people during the burial.

“The presence of security operatives in and around the community should not be seen as a threat but a proactive measure to prevent the infiltration of miscreants and hoodlums into the community to foment trouble and truncate the burial.”

Ogbonna noted that the command heard “that miscreants disguising as IPOB members intend to hijack the burial, in solidarity with its leader.”

The spokesman warned IPOB “to steer clear from the environment”, saying that the command “will not fold its arms and watch their unlawful activities.”

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Catastrophe hits Ohaneze Over Suspension Of Cheiftains

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The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is in another round of crisis following the reported sack of its Secretary-General, Uche Okwukwu.

This is contained in a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze, Prince Uche Achi-Okpaga, on Tuesday.

He also named the President General of Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro as among those suspended.

He said the decision was arrived at during the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Imeobi held on Sunday.

However, Isiguzoro has carpeted the said suspension, describing it as inconsequential.

He said in a statement signed by Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, Secretary General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Alex Okemiri, Nat Vice President that “Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council worldwide is a Registered Organisation under the law, that’s independently running her affairs within the ambit of the law.

“We wonder how an illegal Organisation of PDP Igbo caucus meeting can expel a legal organization.

“PDP Igbo Caucus Meeting nicknamed Ime Obi Ohanaeze Ndigbo, without in attendance of any serving Igbo Governor, any serving Igbo Minister in APC, any Igbo serving Ambassador, or elected Senator, House of Reps from APC cannot be an Ime Obi meeting of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

“According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution, an elected member can be removed from office if such member is guilty of any offense and appropriate disciplinary Committee is set up for fair hearing, and if found guilty, recommendation will be sent to a well Constituted Ime Obi Ohanaeze Ndigbo inside Ohanaeze Ndigbo Secretariat Enugu, with attendance of Current Igbo serving Governors, Current Igbo serving Senators, Current Igbo serving ambassadors, Igbo Traditional Rulers, and all former Governors and Ministers.

“If such elected Officer is found guilty, the General Assembly of Ohanaeze Ndigbo will pass the verdict on such elected officer with two-third Majority Votes, but here is a case of witch-hunt and political vendetta against the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council worldwide by few PDP Igbo Caucus members that have been retired from active politics by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

“They are now in a vendetta mission against those who supported APC victory in Imo State, because of our unalloyed support for President Muhammadu Buhari and our declaration of Support for APC to take over the South East.

“This is the third time Nnia Nwodo is expelling the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council worldwide based on envy, jealousy and our commitment to 2023 Igbo Presidency Project as there’s no constitutional provision for any organ of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to expel a free-born Igbo man or woman

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution recommends the only suspension from office because every Igbo man is a member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo everywhere.

“We will continue to work with the Secretary-General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Dim Uche Okwukwu, who’s enjoying a robust relationship with Igbo Governors, and President Muhammadu Buhari, and we do not hesitate to say that we will continue to protect the collective political interests of Igbos and APC remains the hope for Igbos ahead of 2023.

“We thereby pass a vote of confidence in the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide led by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, as it’s only the General Assembly of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and only Igbo Youths Can remove him from the mandate given to him during Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth National Convention 2018.

“Igbos and Nigerians should disregard such purported meeting of PDP Igbo caucus nicknamed Ime Obi meeting done in a hurry without meeting constitutional requirements, but done out of anger and frustration in a hotel.”

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Burna Boy Shows Of Impressive new photos Of Himself And Mother

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Nigerian singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, is no doubt a fashion enthusiast.

The talented Afro-fusion artist recently took to social media to share photos of the regal costume he wore to the Grammy Awards

The singer also showed off his proud mother and manager, Bose Ogulu, who also looked beautiful.

Fashion is a form of expression for many people, for others it is a food for their soul. A number of people love to make unique and bold statements with whatever attire they put on especially celebrities.

One Nigerian celebrity who seems to have stood out in the past year for his music as well as fashion sense is Grammy nominated Afro-fusion artist, Burna Boy.

The On The Low crooner has become an icon for Alte looks and he pulls them off well. Another thing Burna Boy is known for is the love he has for his mother who also serves as his manager, Bose Ogulu.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8ZZwV2FH2E/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The singer never fails to show off his strong and resourceful mother on social media and fans have taking a liking to her. They even gave her an alias, Mama Burna.

Well, in a new post shared on social media via his Instagram page, Burna Boy showed the lovely attire he wore to the Grammy award show. The singer wore a very impressive looking two piece suit that was designed by his sister, Ronami Ogulu for Tokyo Jamess.

In the photo, the singer was also flanked by his proud mother, Bose Ogulu, who wore a burgundy jumpsuit with mesh and lace details.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8WTueOFJ3X/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Burna Boy dressed like a winner to the Grammy award show and for the mere fact of being nominated; many Nigerians celebrate him as the winner.

Even South African rapper, AKA, took to social media via Twitter to celebrate Burna Boy despite losing the Grammy award to legendary Beninise singer, Angelique Kidjo.

According to AKA, even a nomination is a huge achievement. He added that Burna Boy is still a champion and he considers him a winner.

Excerpts from his tweets reads: “Even a nomination is a huge achievement.”

“In any case, Burna is still a champion. We still consider him a winner.”

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Senator Abbo Buys N100 Tomato For N50,000, Promises Scholarship To Little Girl

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Nigerian senator, Elisha Abbo, has taken to social media to announce that he is helping out a little girl in Loko, Adamawa state.

The senator made the announcement in a statement released on his Facebook page.

He explained that he was on his way to Yola to commiserate with traders that lost their shops and properties to fire when he came across a 4-year-old girl hawking tomatoes.

He said he was moved to tears by the 4-year-old girl.

He said he asked her how much to buy her tomatoes which she said was N100.

Abbo clarified that he bought the tomatoes for N50k from her adding that he gave her the bowls of tomatoes to give to her mother to prepare a meal for her.

Remember that the senator went popular in 2019 after he was caught on camera assaulting a lady at an adult toy store in Abuja.

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State Government Orders The Suspension Of 13 Head Teachers, Three Others

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The Oyo State Government on Monday ordered the immediate suspension of 13 primary school Head Teachers, two Assistant Head Teachers and a classroom Teacher for extortion and various misconducts.

The Government issued the directive through the Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Nureni Adeniran, following an inspection tour of some schools in the Ibadan metropolis.

Adeniran said apart from the illegal collection of fees from pupils, the suspended teachers were also found culpable of insubordination and refusal to comply with posting instructions.

“It was during our tour of schools that we discovered the failure of some teachers to comply with posting instructions, while some of them were collecting illegal money from the pupils.

“So far, we have discovered that some saboteurs are among the teachers, who are flouting the State Government’s directives and pulling down our efforts to sanitise the teaching system in the State,” he said.

The SUBEB boss described the acts of the teachers as violent, adding that the government would set up a standing disciplinary committee to handle such misdemeanors.

“We discovered that the absence of supervision and monitoring of educational activities in the State has given so much room for impunity and indiscipline. We will not allow this to happen henceforth,” he added.

The SUBEB chairman concluded that the suspended teachers would face a disciplinary committee set up by the board and the committee has been mandated to ensure a thorough probe of the allegations and give all concerned fair hearing.

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Coronavirus: China Sends Treatment Procedure To Nigeria

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Despite the fact that no coronavirus case has been confirmed in Nigeria, the Chinese government has sent an official guide on treating the deadly virus to authorities of Africa’s most populous nation.

The Chinese embassy in Nigeria, in a statement, confirmed that the official guide on coronavirus was shared with Nigeria, and other countries through an official channel.

The treatment guide include -Lab Test Procedure, Epidemic Update and Risk Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol, Management of close contacts, Surveillance and Epidemiological Investigation.

The statement read partly, “Official Guide Documents on preventing and controlling the novel coronavirus pneumonia have been provided by China National Health Commission to its counterpart in Nigeria and other countries through official channel.”

The first case of coronavirus, which is believed to have originated from bats, was recorded in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019.

In a latest development, it was.reported that the virus has killed more than 1,000 people globally since the outbreak began, and no less than 40,000 persons have been infected.

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FG Relays With Electricity Employees To Avert Strike

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The Federal Government has appealed to members of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) to suspend their planned nationwide strike.

Minister of Labour and Employment Sen. Chris Ngige, made the appeal after a five-hour closed-door reconciliation meeting between its Ministry, Ministry of Power and the management of NUEE on Monday in Abuja.

Recall that the union had on Jan. 29, 2020 issued a 14 days ultimatum to the Federal Ministry of Power to pay more than 2,000 workers that were disengaged from the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria or risk industrial action by electricity workers.

The union alleged that the ministry had failed to implement the agreement reached with members of NUEE, the ministry, and other government agencies on December 11, 2019.

Some of the issues discussed at the Monday meeting were non-implementation of the agreement signed with the union, the 14-day ultimatum, which was to come to an end on Friday, 14, and non-payment of the severance package of the over 2,000 workers.

The minister told journalists that all parties involved had agreed to settle all issues within 60 days.

According to Ngige, we have reviewed the agreement reached in December 2019.

“We have given ourselves a terminal date of 60 days within which to process the remaining persons that have not gotten their severance pay.

“The number is not as what NUEE is saying but at the same time, we expect that payment should be effected latest at the end of 60 days.

“We are going to reach out to Power Generating Companies and Power Distribution Companies so that the issue of casualization should not be happening again.

“We will also deal with the issue of non-remittance of check-up dues and non-unionization in some places.

”We are going to handle it as a ministry and deal with it before the end of the first quarter of the year,” he said.

The General Secretary, NUEE, Mr. Joe Ajaero, said that although the union was ready to wait for the 60 days, it was not happy that such a long period had to be given.

He said the issues discussed at the meeting were not new since privatization, which gave birth to the majority of them was done by the Federal Government seven years ago.

“We are not satisfied with the result of the meeting because it is coming rather too late.

”Privatisation issue took place seven years ago and most of the people involved have died and we are still talking of their entitlements and underpayment.

“We are now looking at another 60 days to address the issue. Do you need ultimatum before people will remit pension deduction or for people who short-paid you for 16 months to remit the amount? You don’t need it.

“Unlike other agreements where we tell our people that we have achieved something, in this case, we have not achieved anything,” he said.

Ajaero said that it was painful that while waiting to be paid, many of the workers being owed died, leaving their next of kin to chase their severance pay.

According to him, we are still prolonging the evil days. This ministry had intervened before and gave directives to the companies on some of the agreement on the issue of unionization, non-casualisation, remittance of check-off dues in 2016 but the organizations ignored it.

I am not happy because we have about two weeks to deal with the companies but the ministry is intervening that we should wait.

”We don’t understand what is happening. How will I as a permanent secretary affected give directives and they will not be affected?

“That was why when we met the Speaker of the House of Representatives, I told the house to give the labour ministry more powers. When a directive is flaunted, there should be a percent

The Bureau of Public Enterprise has 40 percent shares of most of these companies on behalf of the government but it was not represented at the meeting.

“It means that after 60 days if they refuse to pay, we are still where we were. Sixty days will come and pass again and they will still be recalcitrant but we will deal with them,” he said.

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Boko Haram: Group Supports Buratai To Continue As Army Boss

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A leading civil rights advocacy platform, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has thrown its weight behind the efforts being made by the Nigerian Army to defeat terrorists and set Nigeria on the path of safety and territorial integrity

In a statement signed by the National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko and the National Media Affairs Director, Miss Zainab Yusuf, HURIWA solicited what it calls undiluted collective solidarity from Nigerians all across the world so that the Nigerian army can come out victorious.

HURIWA stated that the leadership of Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai has demonstrated the finest patriotic zeal and determination to inflict mortal pain on the terrorists and to restore lasting stability and security in the Northeast of Nigeria.

“Honestly speaking, the counter-terror battles can never be won when the elite begin to do exactly what these terrorists want to achieve by engaging in frantic media warfare targeted at demonizing the patriotic fighting operatives of the Army and demotivating their fighting spirit of the Nigerian Army ably commanded by the Army Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai,” the group said.

“What we need to do now is to provide all the necessary logistical and citizens-led support we can muster so the war on terror is concluded on time and for lasting peace to be restored. As leaders in the organized civil rights community, we appeal to Nigerians not to despair but to hope for the best and support our hard fighting Army.

“We have over the past three or four years monitored the Army and we can only say that they are doing their best within the available logistical and funding support and the appropriations passed by the National Assembly and released by the relevant agencies within the ministries of Defence and Finance.

“Indeed the Army under the current leadership has demonstrated financial probity; high standards of accountability and transparency.

“What we need to do is to urge the government of Nigeria and the international community to provide adequate funding and technical support so the war on terror is brought to a logical conclusion.

“The chief of Army staff as someone from Borno state has shown great leadership example by physically leading the war on terror from the theatre of warfare and has to the best of his knowledge provided the needed support to his brave fighters.

“We must realize that the war on terror is not a tea party. The world’s superpowers are still battling terrorists in Afghanistan for over ten years. Nigeria’s Army needs support not sabotage. We need to support our men/women and brave military to achieve success in record time please,” the group said.

HURIWA said it welcomes Buratai’s statement that Boko Haram cannot be defeated easily because of the indoctrination they received 10 to 40 years ago, adding “we have read that the Army chief said the group now has a wide number of recruiters, logistics suppliers and propagandist living within the civilian population.”

HURIWA said as leaders in the civil society community they believe Buratai’s statements to be of facts and not just propaganda, adding that anyone vast with the undercurrents of the Boko haram insurgency would know that as a sect it started way back before manifesting as a monstrous threat.

It noted that the group started terrorizing Nigeria since ten years ago when their ideological leader Mohammed Yusuf was arrested by the Army and handed over to the Nigerian police force “which later killed him in detention thus sparking off the TERRORISM that has being unleashed on a large scale against Nigerians.”

The Onwubiko-led group said it views what Buratai said as a fact that Insurgency is not what can be defeated but would just fizzle out.

HURIWA said as the Army Chief had stated: “it believes too that the terrorists will promote propaganda, to the effect that all the institutions of government would be seen to be ineffective, adding that the terrorists are already doing this.”

The group noted that the insurgents were now exploiting the fault lines in Nigeria’s economic and political endeavors to expand the gulf of so-called discord and acrimony amongst various ethnic and religious groups.

“Unfortunately, they murder those individuals and send them to the world. And we conclude that these are propaganda strategies of the terrorists. These individuals like the Army Chief of Staff restated may be living with you and you would not know they are terrorists. They have a series of informants and logistics suppliers,” HURWA added.

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Kwara Government To Commence Raid On Illicit Motor Parks

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The Kwara State government has said it will begin raid on illegal motor parks in Ilorin, the state capital.

This is contained in a statement made available to journalists by the press secretary, Ministry of Works, Mansurat Kannike.

The statement revealed that the Commissioner gave the warning on Monday at a meeting with the Kwara state chapter of the Association of Independent Transporters, AIT, in his office.

Engineer Suleiman Rotimi stated that a Committee would be set up involving government representatives, AIT, Road transport, National Union of Road transport Unions, and other relevant stakeholders in the transport sector in order to curb security challenges and other matters concerning transport system in the state.

The Commissioner, who assured them of government support to enhance their business, said: “The state government will collaborate with financial institutions to facilitate social investment schemes that will further boost the transport sector business in the state.”

In his reaction, the state chairman of the AIT, and Chief Executive of Kasmag Transport Service, Alhaji Ganiyu Omoola, urged the state government to improve on its efforts to bring all private transport owners under one umbrella for efficient control and monitoring.

Bestowing, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr. Yusuf Garba Manjo, implored transporters to be law abiding and continue the partnership which started many years ago with government.

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Breaking: Boko Haram Attacks Tungushe Village In Borno

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It has been reported that Tungoshe community, about 20km from Maiduguri is currently under attack by Boko Haram insurgents.

Villagers who called their relatives in Maiduguri said they were currently hiding in the bushes.

Some of them are also fleeing to Maiduguri on foot.

Tungushe village is located along Maiduguri-Monguno road.

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Refund Money Or Finish Work – Bauchi Governor warns

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The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has summoned contractors handing various abandoned road projects in the state.

He disclosed this in an interview with journalists in Government House, Bauchi.

The Governor called on them to repay the advanced payment given to them if they cannot continue with the projects.

The governor who was not satisfied with the performance of the contractors, said he was not interested in anything they did in the past.

“I am not here to beg anybody. I am here with my lawyers and the rest. You should either do it or leave it. I am not interested in anything you have done in the past, but what I will do now, I will do it very well.

“We are here to serve people. We will discuss with you honestly, and sincerely, we are not EFCC, but we will take legal action against any of you if found wanting.”

He also said that the meeting was to discuss with the contractors with a view to ensuring full execution of the abandoned road projects in accordance with the procurement act in line with global best practices.

“We understand that some of you are not ready to comply with us. All your performance agreement have expired despite the advanced payment”.

He, therefore, assured to work with the contractors willing to resume work by giving them the remaining balance of their projects.

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NUJ’s ICC Sets Up Committee To Monitor Election

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The Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel (ICC), of NUJ Delta State Council has announced the inauguration of a 3-man electoral Committee to monitor the March 10th 2020, election of the chapel.

The ICC states that the Committee headed by the immediate past Chairman, Comrade Spence Friday Idihgri, as its chairman would be guided by the NUJ Constitution.

Other members of the Committee includes Comrade Miracle Enuji, who will serve in the Committee as secretary and Mrs. Josephine Iroro, member.

It was gathered that the state council of the ICC has sent a letter to the NUJ state Council’s Secretariat for acknowledgment .

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Okada Ban: Ogun Govt Arrange To prohibit Okada Riders

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Preventing any last-minute change, Gov Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State would ban Okada riders in the state.

This was disclosed on Thursday by Gov Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Remmy Hazzan.

Addressing journalists in Abeokuta after the launch of his book, ‘Wisdom Nugget for Daily Living’, Hazzan said okada riders would be phased out from Ogun State gradually.

He reechoed that Okada riders, who were banned from Lagos State, have no place in Ogun.

The Special Adviser said transportation by Okada has no place in the national policy, describing it as a menace.

He emphasised that the riders would be taken off the streets of Ogun, saying, however, that it will be a gradual process.

“Ogun State is open, but if it is about Okada, maybe you need to look somewhere else. It then doesn’t mean those who are already in the business in Ogun are cast away yet.

“We have a broad national policy that does not support that (Okada riding), which means we will do something that is a phased gradual removal of this menace from our streets. But it will be gradual, it won’t be radical,” Remmy Hazzan said.

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EEDC Detained Me For Four Hours – Igbo Leader Claims

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The national coordinator, South-East for President, 2023, Rev. Okechukwu Obioha, on Thursday, alleged that he was detained by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, for over four hours.

Journalists who visited the EEDC office in Enugu based on an alarm raised by Okechukwu reports that he was seen sitting on bare-floor at the Customer Service Section of the company.

Addressing journalists on his experience, he said trouble started when he wanted to recharge his pre-paid meter but was told that his metre had become obsolete.

According to him, “in December, the EEDC started a programme and stopped pre-paid meter consumers from recharging, without any notice.

“The people were scampering, getting confused. There were several plans for protest, which I helped to calm down.

“Even the NERC was approached and the NERC said one thing or the other contrary to the policy of the EEDC. With the complaints from the people, the EEDC still kept quiet.

“Then finally my own light got finished and I wanted to know whether what the people were complaining about was true or not. I came to the EEDC and they told me my prepaid metre was obsolete, it can’t work, they won’t use it. This was a prepaid metre that is working very well.

“So, I applied for a new metre, followed all the processes with all the difficulties; at one of the sections, it was a herculean task for me to be registered; I took all the patience and was registered.

“I was then referred to my area in New Haven. I got there, where I was supposed to be connected directly pending when the new metre comes; they told me that I must provide a vehicle before they take me to my house for the connection, that if I don’t have a vehicle I should forget about it. The man treated me with reckless abandon, with ignominy.”

He further stated that in that frustration, he waited till the EEDC reversed itself owing to NERC order and started recharging the pre-paid metre.

“But you can see me here that they said there is no machine; they said I should go to about 10 kilometre radii at Awkunanaw, that’s the only place they provided the machine. Going to Awkunanaw, there is about 200 cues there, with all the pandemonium; that is the reason I am saying they must provide the machine. It appears there is something here they are not telling the people. I have been detained here for over four hours by the EEDC system.

“The whole Enugu and you provided 2 machines for over 45,000 customers, it is an indirect way of telling the NERC we do not want to obey your law,” he quipped.

But reacting, the EEDC Head of Communications, Mr. Emeka Ezeh said the company had no plan of punishing customers.

He said the machines malfunctioned, except the few ones that had now been deployed to serve the affected customers.

Ezeh said, “We were able to salvage some machines that could still function and deployed them to some locations, we have two locations in Enugu; Awkunanaw and Abakpa District; we have in Awka, we have in Onitsha, we also have in Nnewi, and in Imo we have in Owerri. So, customers within these locations can approach any of these places.”

On Obioha’s alleged detention, Ezeh said, “I’m not aware of any customer that is under detention; we don’t detain our customers; we are here to serve our customers. If any customer is having issues, there are channels, there are avenues to deal with such issues.”

He said the Disco would get details of the staff who allegedly demanded for a vehicle from Obioha, vowing that “if a customer demands service, you have no right to ask for a vehicle, we shall get to the root of the matter and punish the person accordingly.”

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Monitor FG’s Usage Of Recovered Abacha Loot – Malami Tells Civil Groups

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The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami has called on civil society organisations and Nigerians generally to be involved in monitoring how recovered Abacha’s loot will be used by the Federal Government.

The Minister said it is important for Nigerians to be involved in the monitoring of the usage of the recovered fund in the implementation of the key infrastructure projects that will greatly enhance road transportation in Nigeria.

Malami made this known after the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Government of Jersey and the United States of America signed a tripartite agreement on the recovery of over $300m looted funds.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations, Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu, and made available to journalists on Tuesday.

According to the statement, Malami signed the agreement on behalf of the Nigerian government while the Solicitor General and Attorney General-designate of Jersey, Mark Temple QC signed the Agreement on behalf of Jersey. The Deputy Assistant Attorney Brian Benczkowski announced the agreement on behalf of the United States.

In his address during the signing, Malami said that the “agreement has culminated in a major victory, for Nigeria and other African countries as it recognizes that crime does not pay and that it is important for the international community to seek for ways to support sustainable development through the recovery and repatriation of stolen assets.”

He noted further that “Without the commitment of the three parties to the Agreement (Nigeria, Jersey and the United States) and that of the legal experts and Attorneys representing Nigeria, it would have been impossible to achieve the success recorded today.”

Malami, also affirmed that the government of Nigeria has committed the assets and will assist in expediting the construction of three major infrastructure projects across Nigeria: the Lagos – Ibadan Expressway, Abuja – Kano Road and the Second Niger Bridge.

He also ordered for greater cooperation and mutual respect amongst countries in the implementation of expeditious cooperation measures already set out in the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and in the implementation of the Global Forum on Asset Recovery (GFAR) principles on the repatriation of stolen assets.

“The Nigerian government, in consultation with the other parties, will also engage Civil Society Organisations, who have expertise in substantial infrastructure projects, civil engineering, anti-corruption compliance, anti-human trafficking compliance, and procurement to provide additional monitoring and oversight,” Malami added.

According to a joint press statement on the agreement issued by the government of three countries, the Federal Government is to establish a Monitoring Team to oversee the implementation of the projects and to report regularly on progress.

The recovered funds according to the US Missions were laundered through the US banking system and then held in bank accounts in Jersey in the name of Doraville Properties Corporation, a BVI company, and in the name of the son of the former Head of State of Nigeria, General Sani Abacha.

In 2014 a U.S. Federal Court in Washington DC forfeited the money as property involved in the illicit laundering of the proceeds of corruption arising in Nigeria during the period from 1993 to 1998 when General Abacha was Head of State.

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Over 120 Shops Got Down In Ebonyi Market Fire Disaster – Official

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The Chairman of Ofoke-Abba, Kpiri-kpiri market Traders Association (OKMTA), Mr. John Nwabeke, has said no fewer than 120 shops were affected by the fire disaster that engulfed the market on Sunday.

Nwabeke, who disclosed this in an interview with a journalist on Monday in Abakaliki, said the fire destroyed shops and goods worth millions of Naira.

“All I know about the fire is that immediately I came back from church, I got a call from my colleagues that there was fire from a bush in St. Patrick’s Primary School land that had spread into the market.

“I thought it was a small fire until I got to the market to discover that it was a huge inferno and that it had destroyed so many shops and goods.

“I immediately called the Fire Service who responded immediately to battle the fire until it was put off.

“Let me add that the timely arrival of men of the fire service and their spirited efforts saved the entire market from being razed down.

“The fire incident affected parts of the timber, foodstuff, building materials, tailoring sections of the market.

“I cannot give the actual figure of the shops affected for now, but we have so far recorded over 120 shops and many are still clearing the debris from the burnt shops,” he said.

Nwabeke also commended the Chairman of Ebonyi Local Government Area, Mrs. Chinwe Nwogbaga, for her timely response to their distress call.

According to him, the council boss also assisted in ensuring that the firemen lived up to their responsibility.

He then called for the state government to come to the aid of the affected traders by providing compensations to soften the effect of the losses.

He said: “The government should, as a matter of urgency, fence the market; had it been the market was fenced there was no way the fire would have scaled the wall to enter into the market.”

recall it was reported also that former Gov. Sam Egwu relocated the market from old Kpiri-kpiri, along old Enugu road, to its permanent site at Ophoke-Abba, when it was gutted by fire in March 2005.

It was reported that only makeshift shops were affected in the fire disaster as the majority of permanent structures in the market are still under construction.

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Stop Picketing Of General Electric – Ngige

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Members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG), has on Tuesday suspended its one-day picketing of the headquarters of General Electric (GE), following the intervention of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige.

It was gathered that NUPENG in solidarity with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), on Monday took to the streets of Lagos in protest against General Electric.

The protesters, who had blocked the entrance into the company, did not allow other employees and management of the company into the compound.

They were dressed in red, chanted songs, and carried placards with various inscriptions such as “GE must pay ARCO to pay our members”.

The Administration a Lagos Zonal Council, NUPENG, Mr. Badmus Aiyedun, , told journalists on Tuesday that the union suspended the strike following the intervention of Ngige.

Aiyedun hinted that the leadership of NUPENG, GE management and officials of the Labour ministry, would be meeting next Monday to resolve the lingering issues.

He, however, added that if after the meeting the matter was not resolved, the union might resume its action.

“But from today, no union member will be coming to picket the company again, ” Aiyedun said.

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EFCC Arrests Civil Servant Over Alleged Job Fraud

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a senior official of Kwara Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Olajumoke Rhoda Oyawoye, in connection with alleged employment scam.

Head of. Media and Publicity of the commission, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed this in a statement made available to Journalists in Ilorin on Monday.

The EFCC stated that Oyawoye, a grade level 14 officer, allegedly received various sums, amounting to about N3 million, from her victims, who were seeking employment into the Federal and State civil service, and issued them fake appointment letters.

“Trouble started for Oyawoye when two petitioners approached the Ilorin Zonal Office of the anti-graft body, alleging that she claimed to have been helping people to secure employments into Federal parastatals and State Civil Service,” the statement said.

One of the petitioners alleged that she met Oyawoye on April 27, 2018, in a Church in Offa.

“She informed me and other Church members that she used to help people get employment at the Kwara State Civil Service Commission and Federal Government Parastatals.

“She told me that the money for employment into the state service was N250,000 per slot, while that of Federal Government Parastatals was N350, 000.

I met her again in Ilorin and informed her that my children and other Church members were interested in both the State and Federal appointments.

“For the Nigerian Immigration Service, she gave me three slots, with names of interested applicants. I gave her the sum of N2 million and she promised that the applicants have already been employed.

“On September 2018, I discovered that all that she said was false and the people she collected money from, through me were disturbing me to return their money, but she kept giving series of excuses,” the unnamed petitioner said.

The EFCC said that items recovered from Oyawoye’s house included Curriculum Vitae of her victims, offer letters of appointment of both the Kwara State Civil Service Commission and federal parastatals, among others.

The commission said that the suspect would soon be charged to court upon conclusion of its investigations.

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Imo Is Now Ruled By APC – Speaker

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The Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Chiji Collins has described the state as a colony controlled by the All Progressives Congress.

The speaker’s comments were in confirmation of the defection of 26 out of the 27 members of the Assembly, who recently joined the ruling party APC.

Hon. Chiji made the revelations while addressing a crowd of Imo APC faithful during a solidarity rally held last Saturday in Owerri for Governor Uzodimma.

Although according to him, 18 members of the Assembly from various parties including himself have officially tendered their defection letters, the rest may follow suit by next plenary as, according to him, plans have been perfected to that regard.

He described the APC as a moving train steered by a workaholic Governor, expressing no surprise at the influx of members to the party.

You will recall that Chiji Collins, a member representing Isiala-Mbano state constituency, defected from PDP to APC alongside his colleagues about a week ago.

Despite the mass defections, it was reported that about seven members of the PDP remain in the state Assembly.

There are, however, speculations that 5 out of the remaining seven PDP lawmakers may defect officially to APC at the next plenary.

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Lai Mohammed Says Nigeria Is The Safest Country To Live

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The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has described Nigeria as the freest country to live in the world.

The Minister stated this when he received the Finland Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Jyrki Pulkkimen and his team, who were on a courtesy visit in his office on Monday.

He also said that President Muhammadu Buhari’s government had not tampered with the freedom of speech or rights of people.

The Minister said the government was only sanitizing the media on hate speech and abuse of the freedom of speech.

He said this was not an attempt to clip the media. He said the social media regulation was only to sanitized and not deny the rights of individuals.

He said whatever is tolerated on the streets would be accepted online.

According to him, the government, through the Ministry of Information, had begun the fight against hate speech since 2017.

The Minister pointed out that if people were allowed to do whatever they want on social media in a country with a diversity of religion and political interests, there will be chaos.

He said the government will not relax in its quest to bring sanity to social media.

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DSS Arraigns 9 In Court Over Kidnapping

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The Directorate of State Service (DSS) on Monday arraigned nine persons charged with various acts of kidnapping or attempted kidnapping around Adamawa State.

According to the six-count charge read to the accused at the High Court 1 in the state capital, Yola, the nine persons took part in five separate kidnap cases, including two which yielded ransom to them, and one case of cattle theft.

The nine persons as named in court on Monday include Yusuf Abubakar, Yahaya Sani, Umar Jalo, Abdullahi Ibrahim, Ishaku Umar, Muhammed Adamu, Muhammed Abdullahi, Bala Sani and Rufai Ahmadu.

Five of the lot: Yusuf Abubakar, Rufai Ahmadu, Bala Sani, Muhammed Adamu, and Abdullahi Ibrahim are charged with having kidnapped one Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim from his house at Shagari Quarters in Yola South local government area, on December 26, 2019, and collected N1, 650,000 as ransom.

Yusuf Abubakar, Rufai Ahmadu, Bala Sani, and Umar Jalo are charged with kidnapping one Dr. Kawiyo Abdurahman from his Lakare residence in Yola South last month, January 5, and collecting a ransom of N1,450,000.

The nine were mentioned variously in four other cases: three attempted kidnap cases and a case of theft of cows in Mayo Belwa, in the Mayo Belwa local government area.

While seven of the accused pleaded not guilty to all the charges against them, two pleaded guilty to most of the charges.

In particular, Rufai Ahmadu caused enmity between himself and his co-accused when he pleaded guilty to five charges of kidnapping or attempted kidnapping and insisted on each charge that all those pleading not guilty were lying.

“You people should stop lying. We were all a part of this,” he would tell them.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the case of stealing of cows in Mayo Belwa. “I know nothing about that,” he said when the charge was mentioned.

After listening to the charges read out and the accused responding as they would, the presiding judge of the High Court 1, Justice Nathan Musa, adjourned to February 25 for a continuation of hearing.

He asked that the seven of the accused be returned to detention at a correctional center in Yola, while the two suspects who pleaded guilty, should be separated and taken to DSS custody pending the February 25 adjourned date.

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Police Advises schools, Worship Centers To Restore Checks On Luggages

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The Kaduna State Police Command has advised schools, worship centers, markets, motor parks and other public places to resume checks on luggages at their entrance points.

The advice followed the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber, Nathaniel Samuel, at Living Faith Church Sabon Tasha, Kaduna on Sunday.

The suspect was intercepted while the Church service was in session with some suspected Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) contained in a bag.

The Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Yakubu Sabo, in a press statement, said the measure was necessary to prevent any security breach.

He said that the Commissioner of Police, Umar Muri had directed all police officers to intensify surveillance and to liaise with stakeholders within their respective jurisdictions to ensure collective vigilance.

He assured the people of adequate security, through proactive measures adopted by the Command recently.

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APC Chieftain Calls For Peace Between Gov. Obaseki And Oshiomhole

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A chieftain of the All Progressives Party (APC) in Edo, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere, has urged Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo to shelve the rift between him and the party’s National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole.

Agbomhere, who is also the former governorship aspirant of APC in Edo, gave the advice in an interview with journalists in Abuja on Sunday.

He said the crisis did not only discourage potential investors from going to Edo but also de-marketed the state from other states and the world.

“One of the reasons, I am not happy with this present Government of Edo is that I feel that this crisis is de-marketing Edo to the rest of the states and the world.

“Now, they have been burning cars in Edo. They have been shooting and harassing people in Edo. Have you ever heard this government prosecutes anybody for that?

It means they are not aware of it means they are not working. So, in the last rally, at least we heard that cars were burned,’’ Agbomhere said.

The party’s chieftain urged Edo Government not to condone any attack that would affect Edo people.

“If I am a governor of Edo State, I will never support any attack whether in my interest or against my interest because the outcome will affect Edo people and I will not tolerate it.

“For me, I think that this present government has a challenge in its hand and also has the solution in its hand. I believe that the government knows how to solve it,’’ he said.

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Osinbajo Craves For More Interventions For IDP’s Education

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on stakeholders to lend more assistance and interventions towards the education of displaced children in the North East.

Osinbajo disclosed this in a statement as the Special Guest of Honour at the Atlantic Hall School’s 30th Anniversary Celebration and Launch of Endowment Fund for Indigent Scholars in Lagos.

The vice president said he and some friends had set up a fund and built schools accommodating no fewer than 1500 displaced children in the North East.

He said that thousands of children, especially girls who had lost their parents in the North East, were still displaced.

“Permit me to throw a challenge to the Board of trustees and all of us here; in Aug. 2015, I paid my first official visit to Maiduguri, Borno State to inspect the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and other facilities for the victims of the conflict in the Northeast.

We counted over 49,000 young children who had lost their parents; almost half of them girls; that was only in parts of the metropolis; there were thousands more.

“The tragedy of conflict and its outcomes in poverty and displacement is stark; governments alone cannot handle it; there are international NGOs here and there but the local private response is still so little.

“I met with a group of friends and set up the North East Children Fund NECT, chaired by Jim Ovia; the objective is to build learning Centres/schools equipped to handle traumatized children, and give them world-class education and care.

“We have built the first accommodating over 1500; we have taken over another school for about 700, and are looking at the prospects of a bigger facility,’’ he said.

He said that the board invited Grange School, Lagos to help in teacher and school experience orientation and it had done a wonderful job.

According to him, in spite of the best efforts of the Borno State government, much more remains to be done.

The vice president lauded the selflessness and enterprising spirit of the founders of Atlantic Hall who not only dared to envision the great institution but committed their lives and resources to it.

He said the products of the school had excelled in their various fields of endeavour.

On her part, the Wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, lauded the wisdom of the founding sisters who conceived the vision of establishing the school.

Represented by Mrs. Mary Paul, Managing Partner, Molson Pharmaceuticals Limited, Buhari said she was heartily accepting being the Grand Matron of the Endowment Fund for Indigent Students.

“Your story is a success; as products of the institute have distinguished themselves in the society and in the world at large.

“I am particularly impressed that the Atlantic Hall is not an elitist school but accommodates 20 percent of its annual intake from the indigent groups as a matter of cooperate social responsibility through the empowerment fund.

“Once again, I can congratulate you on your 30 years anniversary and graciously accepts to be the Grand Matron of your endowment fund,’’ she said.

Earlier in her remarks, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Atlantic Hall, Mrs. Taiwo Taiwo, said the event was the climax of the institution’s 30th-anniversary celebration.

She said building the Nigeria everyone dreams of entailed commitment to the community which should be seen as an obligation.

The event also featured the presentation of awards to some deserving honourees.

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Video: Adeboye Organizes Church Members To Oppose Insecurity In The Country

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The General overseer of the Redeemed Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye has led members of the church to protest against the spate of insecurity in Nigeria.

In a video shared on Twitter, the pastor was seen carrying a placard leading the members of the church in a peaceful protest tagged ‘prayer walk’.

The inscription on his placard reads, “All souls are precious to God.”

RCCG had earlier announced that the prayer walk would start around 10 a.m on Sunday, February 2, 2020.

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Apostle Suleman writes Open Letter To Presidency

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The Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman, has written a letter of apology to President Muhammadu Buhari’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.

Suleman apologized over his attack on Adesina, in reaction to his article titled: ‘Beheaded Adamawa pastor: CAN got it mixed up’.

Both men exchanged verbal blows on social media, but the cleric has now penned an open letter to Adesina.

“If I could reach you privately, I would not have resorted to the media. I also took this approach to respond to the heavy insults and name-calling on your twitter handle which is, well, okay by me and understandable because you were angry.

“But I hope this meets you well. This is me pouring my heart to my brother. I am actually not good at writing letters like this. Unlike someone, we all know that does. I guess I would meet him for tutorials. I love you my brother and God bless Nigeria,” Suleman wrote.

The cleric, however, questioned the presidency’s stance on church leaders.

“Sir, when I read your response to CAN, two things came to mind: I asked myself, must the allure of power make you antagonistic of church leaders whilst your colleague is protecting his? I equally felt your response was ill-timed, knowing these leaders were mourning. I apologise if it came out wrongly or rudely,” he added.

Suleman went on to remind Adesina, that they spoke to power in the last administration “in a more corrosive and acidic manner than we do now.

“Therefore, this government should stop responding to everything. The best way to respond to complaints is to give results, not explanations, insults or counter upper-cut….

“I personally bleed when I hear drumbeats of war and yearnings for the dissolution of Nigeria, either from tribal or political overviews. No nation remains the same after the war. Therefore, we can’t be fanning the embers and heating the polity of revolution or dissolution,” he said.

Apostle Suleman also insisted that President Buhari is not a religious bigot.

“How can that be? A very good friend of mine recently spoke to me about President Buhari and I told her my views of him and she laughed. And that evening, President Mumhamadu Buhari called me on the phone and we exchanged pleasantries. And, in the end, I prayed with him in Jesus’ name and he said Amen! Tell me, which religious bigot does that?

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Mercy Johnson Reveals Why She Can No Longer Act Unclad

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Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson-Okojie has revealed why she can no longer act naked or do romantic scenes.

According to the 35-year-old mother of 3, she is matured and now answers to many people.

The soon-to-be mom of 4, revealed this at the premiere of her first directorial movie

When Mercy Johnson-Okojie first got into Nollywood, she was a force to reckon with and her ability to take on any role no matter how scandalous, endeared her to many people.

Times have changed and it appears the talented actress is no longer as daring as she used to be as

She revealed this in a recent interview with journalists at the premiere of her directorial debut movie, Legend of Inikpi. According to the soon-to-be mom of four, she made some choices in the past that she isn’t proud of.

She, however, stated that her knowledge of judgment has now heightened with age. She stated that she can no longer act unclad or do romantic scenes as she is now answerable to many people.

She said: “When I do that, what would the younger girls do? When you grow past a certain level, you try to go ahead and do better. For me, you don’t need people to tell you what’s right or wrong. Age is telling on me. I’ve grown past that level, I’m answerable to too many people: my husband, my kids. I hate to embarrass them in any way. My daughter is growing.

She gets hold of my phone sometimes, begins to google, and goes like, ‘Mum, my friends said…’ And they’re very inquisitive. I don’t think it’s (playing unclad scenes) something I want to do to make my kids question me in any way or have something in their mind that they want to ask and they can’t.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7iP_PtFKyt/?igshid=1rssivxinmz3n

Only a short while ago, the talented actress and her husband, Prince Odianosen Okojie, revealed they were expecting their fourth child together.

The actress took to her Instagram page to share the good news as she and her husband posed together holding a photo from their scan. In her post, Mercy Johnson wrote: “We’re having a baby ❤️❤️ I’ve always wanted 4 kids…. always. However, after 3 kids, I thought I had retired from the baby-making business.”

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Naira Marley, Don Jazzy, Others Reacts As Tiwa Savage Flirts Fans With New Sexy Photos

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A lot of fans and celebrities flooded the comment section of one of the pictures Tiwa posted, telling the singer how many tomes they zoomed the picture.

Tiwa is a multiple award-winning singer who has been consistent since she became a superstar

When it comes to getting people talking, Tiwa Savage does it better than a lot of other Nigerian artistes. Tiwa usually gives her fans what to talk about, and she has done it again.

The multiple award-winning singers posted bikini pictures on her official Instagram page on Friday, January 31, and in one of the pictures, the mother of one captioned: “How many times did you zoom in?”

Fans and celebrities flooded the comment section of the picture with responses, as some disclosed how many times they zoomed the picture.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7_0_vFBTtN/?igshid=11dcnrxkik1a9

Celebrities like Don Jazzy, Naira Marley, Toyin Abraham, Ini Edo and a host of others also commented on the picture.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7_2b2ph8xk/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_mid=BC0EE4DF-5729-4E5B-A1D8-A860AF13C4CC

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Police Confirms The Abduction Of Taraba NBA Vice-Chairperson

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The Taraba State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of the Vice-Chairperson of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, Jalingo branch, Zeinab Nashimi, on Friday evening.

The Police Public Relation Officer, DSP David Misar, confirmed the abduction when contacted by journalists on Saturday

Misar said the police were aware of the abduction of one lawyer whose house is located behind Central Bank of Nigeria, By-Pass ATC, Jalingo

However, he could not confirm the position of the lawyer within the NBA in the state.

The PPRO said the police were doing everything possible not only to rescue the lawyer but also to get rid of kidnappers in the state.

“We are doing everything possible to rescue the lawyer. We are also hopeful that very soon, the act of kidnapping will become a thing of the past in Taraba. Meanwhile, for now, we can’t expose our strategies on how we want to track the kidnappers in the state,” he added.

The chairman, NBA Jalingo branch, Osuji Christopher, while speaking to journalists

amended the rate of kidnapping of lawyers particularly in Jalingo at gunpoints.

Osuji regretted that lawyers who are serving humanity and stand for the protection of human rights were being kidnapped.

In a statement released by the Publicity Secretary of NBA Jalingo, Boniface Iorkumbur Esg., the body described the abduction of the vice-chairperson as unfortunate and regrettable.

The statement also sympathized with the family of the vice-chairperson and prayed for the safe release of Zeinab from the custody of her captors.

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Okada/Keke Ban: LASTMA Applauds Obedience By Operators

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The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says the compliance of commercial motorcycle (Okada) and Tricycle (Keke) operators to the ban and restriction in the state is “pretty good”.

The LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olajide Oduyoye, made this known in an interview with journalists in Lagos on Saturday.

Oduyoye said that there would not be a fight or argument with any operator who willingly complied with the law.

He said that officers of the authority were on the ground for the enforcement of the extant law on Okada and Keke operations from today (Feb 1).

“The compliance is pretty good for the first day. We hope to see that a lot will comply more and more. Operators must keep doing what the law says.

“There is no problem; once there is compliance, there is no need for any enforcement. There is no need for any fight or any incident on the road.

It is just for the people to just comply and that is it,” Oduyoye said.

The LASTMA boss said the enforcement was to regulate the expressive behavior and recklessness of the operators in the state which contributed to the traffic bottlenecks in the state.

The traffic manager explained that the operations of tricycle and motorcycle riders had also been creating traffic bottlenecks and chaos in the state and accused them of regularly riding against traffic.

“The difficulty we always have is this Keke and Okada riding against traffic and causing a lot of traffic chaos.

“When a minor accident happens with Keke scratching a vehicle and there is an argument, it disrupts the traffic flow.

“That made our jobs a lot more difficult. So, now that they are going to be off the major highways, our work will be much easier.

“The motorists creating traffic chaos will not have Keke or Okada to blame again

“LASTMA officers are up to the task. We are going to do our job as diligently as we are supposed to,’’ Oduyoye said.

According to him, we will operate where we are supposed to operate and work to make sure that traffic is flowing as much as possible.

“We expect that since so many junctions and corners will be free of Keke and Okada parks and loitering; when enforcement comes up, there will be better traffic flow in Lagos State from today,” Oduyoye said.

According to him, if the operators have stayed within the ambit of the law and operate within the law, there won’t be problem as a lot of people still rely on them.

“We can see their apprehension and likely pain; but I blame the operators for misbehaving in such a way that their operations become security and safety issues.

“No responsible government will sit back and allow this to grow and to grow out of hand; which is exactly what is happening,” he added.

It was reported that the Lagos State Government on Monday announced that it would commence enforcement of the extant Transport Sector Reform Law 2018 which banned the operation of Motorcycles (Okada) and Tricycles (Keke) in some Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) with effect from Feb. 1.

They include: Apapa LGA, Apapa Iganmu LCDA, Lagos Mainland LG, Yaba LCDA, Surulere LGA, Itire-Ikate and Coker-Aguda LCDAs and Ikeja LGA,

Others are: Onigbongbo and Ojodu LCDAs, Eti-Osa LGA, Ikoyi-Obalende and Iru/Victoria Island LCDAs, Lagos Island LGA and Lagos Island East LCDA.

The state government also listed highways, bridges and roads where the law also prohibited motorcycles and tricycles from operating in the state.

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Twitter Users Blasts Teni Over Comment On Feminists Not Being Equal With Opposite Sex

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Social media has been set ablaze as Nigerians react over comments by Nigerian popular singer Teni Apata regarding feminists not equal to a man.

The singer took to her Twitter account today, mocking females who think they are equal to men.

Teni questioned the permission of feminism, stating that if they will still go ahead to kneel and propose to Men themselves.

She captions the tweet as “Y’ all feminists, till it’s time to bend on the knee to ask a man to marry you. Aren’t we equal?

Responding to statement by Teni, some of her fans, especially females have expressed their dissatisfaction over her statements.

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6 Aides, 17 Commissioners Sworn In By Gov. Bello

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Kogi state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has sworn-in 17 commissioners and six special advisers as he kick-starts his second term in office.

The appointees who were sworn-in on Wednesday, January 29, were earlier screened and cleared by the Kogi state House of Assembly.

Notable names in the list include Kingsley Olorunfemi Fanwo who is now the commissioner of information and communications; Mohammed Sani Ibrahim (SAN), commissioner of justice, Idris Asiru Asiwaju, finance, budget and economic planning and Engr. Abubakar Sadiq Ohere, commissioner for works and housing.

Retired Navy Commodore Jerry Omodara also retained his role as the governor’s special adviser on security.

While swearing in the appointees, Governor Bello warned them against “indulging in sensationalism,” stressing that anyone that does that would be fired.

“If you were with us in the first term, we reappointed you because you proved worthy of a second chance but also because of the exigencies of time and politics, especially the zoning formula applicable in your various constituencies permitted it,” the governor said.

He said the newly inaugurated commissioners would form the ‘nucleus’ of his government and tasked them to be open to scrutiny and transparent in their dealings.

Meanwhile, Governor Bello has warned that his administration would deal ruthlessly with all criminal elements in the state, adding that he would not negotiate with bandits under any guise.

The governor made the statement at the just concluded North central Security Summit held in Lafia, Nasarawa state on Wednesday, January 22.

Governor Bello said with the cooperation of the security agencies, traditional rulers and citizens of the state, the Kogi government dealt with insecurity which was commonplace before his administration came on board and it will continue to do so.

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Former Governorship Candidate Arrested After Suing EFCC

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested the candidate of the Action Democratic Party for last year’s Anambra State governorship poll, Chief Ifeanyichukwu Okonkwo.

Okonkwo was arrested by the anti-corruption agency after he instituted an N65bn law suit against the commission.

It was on Saturday learned that the EFCC had earlier detained the human rights activist for two days and released him on administrative bail.

However, after 18 months of granting him bail, the EFCC failed to charge him for allegedly obtaining money under false pretences.

Okonkwo sued the agency for unlawful detention, harassment and freezing of his accounts since May 2019 without any court order.

The case came up on Thursday at the Federal High Court, Enugu, but the EFCC was reported not to have filed any defence in the suit.

The EFCC, however, picked up Okonkwo immediately after the court adjourned the case till Monday for hearing.

It was also learnt that Okonkwo had earlier petitioned the acting Chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, complaining about the action of the South-East Zonal office of the commission.

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Breaking: 3 Abducted Kaduna Seminary Students regain freedom

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The Good Shepherd Major Seminary, Kaduna, has said three of its students abducted on Jan. 9, have been released by their captors.

Registrar of the Seminary Rev. Fr. Joel Usman, announced their release in a brief statement on Friday in Kaduna, Noting that one student is still at large.

“One is still at large. We thank you our brothers and sisters for your prayers in our travails.

“Kindly continue to pray for the remaining one and all those who are still in the hands of kidnappers,” Usman said.

The Kaduna State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Yakubu Sabo, also confirmed the release of the students, adding that one of the victims is still in captivity.

Recall that the students were abducted from their hostel by gunmen dressed in military uniform on Jan. 9, 2020.

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US Travel ban: Mark Those In Government, Not Nigerians – Atiku Advises Trump

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Former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has reacted to the travel prohibition on Nigeria by the United States.

It was reported earlier that US president, Donald Trump had imposed a visa ban on Nigeria and five other countries.

The proclamation, signed by President Donald Trump on Friday, is expected to take effect on February 22.

Reacting, Atiku on his Twitter page expressed sadness over the ban.

He, however, urged Trump to consider adopting measures that individually target those in government who have failed in their duties, rather than target the entire Nigerian population.

He wrote, “While I understand the reasons given by the Trump administration (the failure of the @MBuhari led administration to share information and to address issues of terrorism), the ban does not take into account the pro-American sentiments of the Nigerian public and the solidarity previous Nigerian administrations have had with the United States.

“I urge the government of President @realDonaldTrump to consider the history of US-Nigerian relationships. Nigeria was one of the few African nations that joined the US-led coalition during Operation Desert Storm between 1990-1991 when the United States championed the liberation of Kuwait.

“The Trump administration may also consider the pivotal role Nigeria, in partnership with the US, played in bringing peace to Liberia, an American sphere of influence, that now enjoys democracy because Nigerian blood and money paved the way for peace in that nation.

“Nigeria has also consistently voted in support of the United States and her allies at the @UN and other multilateral world bodies. This is even as we are perhaps the biggest trading partner that the United States has in Africa, even where we had alternatives.

“Nigerians love the United States and have been a major force for the positive development of that great nation: 77% of all Black doctors in the United States are Nigerians. Nigerians are also the most educated immigrant community in America bar none.

“Surely, the US stands to benefit if it allows open borders with a country like #Nigeria that is able to provide skilled, hardworking and dedicated personnel in two-way traffic.

“The current Nigerian administration may have its deficiencies and deep faults, but the Nigerian people ought not to be punished for their inefficiencies.”

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Federal Government Is Not Planning To Borrow N2trillion – Finance Minister

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The minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, on Friday revealed that the Federal Government was not planning to borrow N2trillion pension funds for infrastructure development.

Ahmed, at the Udo Udoma & Belo-Osagie (UUBO) second private equity summit in Lagos, explained that the National Economic Council (NEC) only set up a committee to encourage pension fund managers to invest in infrastructure development.

“It’s not true that government is borrowing the pension fund”, she was quoted as saying.

“What we agreed is to design a product that pension fund managers will fund attractive enough to invest in, that will give them free safe returns.

“Right now, the regulator, PENCOM, actually allows pension funds managers to invest up to 20 percent of their money in infrastructure”.

Ahmed said that now, pension funds managers don’t have an opportunity to invest in Open Market Operation (OMO) anymore.

”We are actually working to design products which they can uptake and we are also considering, in addition to regulation, whether we should amend the Act to allow them to do other things,” she stated.

On borrowings, Ahmed explained that the government was working very hard to reduce domestic borrowing.

“In 2015, the total government stock that we had was 80 percent domestic and 20 percent foreign.

“But we are gradually changing that; the debt management strategy is to move the ratio to 60 percent domestic and 40 percent external and now it’s 35 percent external borrowing.

“This is to give room for the private sector to borrow and to reduce the cost of debt servicing,” Ahmed said.

Speaking on Value Added Tax (VAT) increment, Ahmed, who admitted that it would contribute to inflation rise, said that it would moderate over time.

“When you increase any form of tax, it leads to inflation, but its a temporary thing; after some months it will moderate,” the minister said.

Recall that in January, President Muhammadu Buhari signed the Finance Bill which enforced the new tax regime into law.

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Don’t Register Again – JAMB Tells Candidates At Blacklisted Centers

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has on Friday called on candidates who registered for the 2020 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in some recently blacklisted centres that there is nothing to worry about.

The Board’s Head, Media, and Information, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, who made the call in an interview with journalists on Friday, said that there was no need for the candidates to panic or contemplate going for another enrollment as this would automatically disqualify them from partaking in the board’s forthcoming examination.

JAMB announced recently that it had blacklisted 41 centres out of 692 accredited so far for the exercise nationwide, over issues bordering on registration cyber fraud, extortion and technical deficiency.

“We want to call on all candidates who registered in all of these affected centres not to panic or start considering going for another registration elsewhere.

“This will amount to double registration and with this, they stand automatically disqualified for this year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. Their biometrics will indicate this on the day of the examination.

“We want to let them know that indeed, they have nothing to fear, as the security agents are already verifying the culpability of all those involved and at the appropriate time, we will do the needful,” Benjamin said.

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Okada Ban: Riders, Others Protest In Lagos

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Some commercial motorcycle operators on Friday took to the street to express their grievances over the recent decision of the state government to restrict their movement in some Local Government Areas, bridges, and highways in the state.

The operators which include majorly that of Gokada and Max.ng staged a peaceful protest from Oregun road to the government secretariat in Ikeja.

Bearing various placards, the protesters appealed to the state government to regulate their services and not restrict them from operating.

They lamented that the business is their only means of survival.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, announced earlier this week that the government would enforce the ban on motorcycles and tricycles in six local government areas, as well as major highways and bridges from February 1.

He explained that the decision was taken after a robust assessment of the debate on the rate of accidents in Lagos, saying security and safety of the lives of the residents were paramount.

He also warned that all offenders and violators would be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the state.

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9ice Celebrates Twin Daughters, Drops Passionate Message

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Nigerian ace singer, 9ice, has released an emotional message to commemorate his twin daughter’s birthday.

9ice, who just celebrated his 40th birthday two weeks ago, publicized this while unveiling the picture of his twin daughters on Instagram.

The post was captioned: “Happy birthday to my queens….won ara isokun mi….you know daddy loves you to the moon and back”.

Recall that the singer who tied the knot with his baby mama recently, affirmed appreciation to his parents for giving birth to him.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7-h0JBJaBf/?igshid=8zbtcf5z1mrj

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WHO Declares Coronavirus Global Health Emergency

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Thursday declared coronavirus as a WHO Declares Coronavirus Global Health Emergency

WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the decision was based on the recommendations of the Emergency Committee on the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005).

“The main reason for this declaration is not what is happening in China but what is happening in other countries.

“The concern is that it could spread to countries with weaker health systems.

“The death toll now stands at 170 people in China

WHO also said there have been 98 cases in 18 countries outside of the country but no deaths.

The statement further stated that the Committee agreed that the outbreak met the criteria for a PHEIC and proposed the following advice to be issued as Temporary Recommendations.

“The Committee emphasised that the declaration of a PHEIC should be seen in the spirit of support and appreciation for China and its people.

“It should also be seen in the actions China has taken on the frontlines of this outbreak, with transparency, and, it is to be hoped, with success.

“In line with the need for global solidarity, the committee felt that a global coordinated effort is needed to enhance preparedness in other regions of the world that may need additional support for that,’’ it said.

The Committee acknowledged that there are still many unknowns, cases have now been reported in five WHO regions in one month, and human-to-human transmission has occurred outside Wuhan and outside China.

“The Committee believes that it is still possible to interrupt virus spread, provided that countries put in place strong measures to detect disease early, isolate and treat cases, trace contacts, and promote social distancing measures commensurate with the risk.

“It is important to note that as the situation continues to evolve, so will the state strategic goals and measures to prevent and reduce the spread of the infection.’’

Novel coronavirus was first identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has been reported in 18 other countries.

At least, six people are reported to have died from the virus and almost 10,000 cases detected nationally.

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NUJ 2020 Congress: Ogude, Chiazor, Admonishes Journalists To Put In Their Best In Practice

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Journalists in Delta State have been called to continue to put in their best in professional practice.

This call was made by the duo of Comrades Akpati Eddie Ogude and Norbert Chiazor who attended the first Congress of the State Council of NUJ to celebrate the new year with their colleagues.

Mr. Ogude who took time to advise journalist, said love for one another is the only way they can continue to usher in peace and unity into the Union.

He also said working together in love, peace and unity would underscore the best interest of the Union at all times.

Ogude who is the National Vice President of NUJ for Zone F (South-South) said “Chiazor remains my brother, friend and colleague in whom I am well pleased. Chiazor took very good care of me when he was chairman of NUJ. Whatever was due for me as a leader, he gave to me wthe ith utmost respect.

“We have come today to celebrate with you in love and to assure you of our unalloyed support for your activities. We are also glad that the current leadership of the State Council is doing its best in advancing the peace that some of us leaders had bequeathed to the Union in the State.

“By my position as the National Vice President of this Union, I want to encourage you to continue to work together. We must all continue to promote the love, p,eace and u ty currently existing in the Union. And at the appropriate time when we shall all take position on who leads the Union in the State in the next three years, we must do it with one body, one purpose and one interest”, Ogude posited.

Responding, the immediate past chairman of the State Council, Comrade Norbert Chiazor who sang a gospel song to glorify God, said he had come to celebrate with the Congress of the NUJ for their show of love and prayers towards him.

Comrade Chiazor appreciated God who made it possible for him to be appointed by the Governor as SA Media immediately after his disengagement as the Deputy General Manager of Delta State Broadcasting Service, DBS Warri.

Chiazor who bought assorted drinks for the celebration with members of the NUJ, also charged the leadership to continue to keep the Union together and stronger as a legacy it should be proud of thereafter.,

He therefore, assured the Congress of the Governor’s commitment to complete the NUJ Secretariat in no distant time.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the State Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu who was in high spirit, appreciated the two highly respected leaders for their presence at the first Congress in the year and also the first Congress at the Permanent Secretariat by Maryam Babangida Way.

Ikeogwu said he decided to open the year’s Congress with fasting, prayer, praise and worship as a way of reverencing the omnipotence of God in the affairs of the NUJ in Delta.

He especially commended Comrade Chiazor who began the construction of the NUJ Secretariat from foundation to roofing, among other legacy achievements he left behind. He acknowledged that his administration was only adding finishing touches to the level Chiazor left the building.

Ikeogwu therefore, thanked them for their support so far, while also soliciting that they continue to assist the Council, especially in getting the remaining money from Government to complete the building proect .

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Young Lady Emerges DELSU’s Best Graduating Student In Medicine

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A young lady identified as Ogome Sharon-Rose Esegbuyota has proven to not just be a pretty face but to also have the brains to back it up.

Sharon-Rose emerged as the best graduating student of medicine at her school, Delta State University (DELSU), with distinctions in Physiology and Internal Medicine.

Before she became a doctor, the young lady had also bagged a 2’1 in Biochemistry at the University of Benin (UNIBEN).

Sharon-Rose’s very proud sister has taken to social media to celebrate these great accomplishments especially as they were achieved before the age of 25.

The sister shared a series of photos of Sharon-Rose during her graduation ceremony as she held all her awards. In the caption of her post, the proud sister wrote:

“I have never been more proud to be your sis as I was today. Delia’s best graduating MBBS student with Distinctions in Physiology and Internal Medicine plus 2’1 BSc degree.

Dr. Ogome Sharon-Rose @cosythorn BSc Biochem (Uniben), MBBS with Distinctions (Delsuth) all before age 25. Warri can never carry last.

Kudos.”

See her post below:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B74IHWAAJh0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Sharon-Rose also revealed on her Instagram page that she will soon take her Hippocratic Oath and add a second degree to her soon-to-be long list of degrees.

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Breaking: Explosions rocks Muna in Borno, Kills 5, Leaves Many Injured

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Reports reaching goldennationblog.com says five persons were killed and overcrowded injured when two suicide bombers attacked a crowd at Muna Galti, outskirts of Maiduguri, Borno State Capital.

An eyewitness said, “The explosions emanated from two suicide bombers who detonated their explosives at Muna Galti area. 5 persons died from the explosion, and a number of persons injured are unknown.”

It could be recalled that earlier, there was a large explosion at Muna garage area of the metropolitan causing panic among residents.

Details later…

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100 Tonnes Of Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Destroyed By NDLEA

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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Badagry, Lagos State, on Thursday destroyed drugs and psychotropic substances weighing 100 tonnes.

Speaking during the exercise in its Badagry office, the Chief Executive of NDLEA, Col. Muhammad Mustapha Rtd, said the quantity was unacceptably high considering the fact that Lagos was not known for large scale production of any of these drugs.

“We are, however, not unmindful of the peculiarity of Lagos being a state with an increasingly large population, relatively easy transportation network and accessibility through sea and land borders, all of which enhance drug trafficking.
“It is in the realisation of these features that we have ensured an adequate number of formations in Lagos to address the identified enhancers.

The NDLEA formations in Lagos cover the hinterland, land borders, sea and airport ports in order to achieve effective coverage.

“The results are these huge seizures of drugs and psychotropic substances,” he said.

He said the agency destroyed a total of 129.7 tonnes of illicit drugs in Taraba, Gombe, Kogi, Delta and Nasarawa states in 2019.

“The public destruction of these drugs are part of our strategic efforts to address the drug menace, although it keeps expanding.

“That is why we must all be involved in building a formidable resistance against the persistent drug problem.

“Government at all levels, community and religious leaders, parents, social workers, the media, youth organisations, and policymakers should see it as a point of duty to come together and identify with our office,” he said.

Mustapha expressed profound gratitude to the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his contributions toward tackling drug abuse.

He said with the population of over 20 million people in Lagos State, the majority of which were at a youthful age, the drug problem was really in the state.

Mustapha applauded the state government for creating Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA), adding that it was a good initiative, but required more effort and investment to meet the needs of the state.

The Chairman also applauded the prompt response of sister agencies to the event, adding that it was a collective resolve to tackle head-on the menace of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking that was ravaging the society.

It was gathered that men of the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Army, Port Health Service, Fire Brigade and Nigeria Police were on the ground during the burning of the drugs.

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Breaking: Jonathan pays Buhari Surprise Visit At Aso Rock Villa

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday paid an unscheduled visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where he briefly met with President Muhammadu Buhari.

It was reported that the meeting between Buhari and Jonathan, which was held behind closed door, lasted for about 10 minutes.

The former president’s mission to the villa was unknown as he did not speak to newsmen.

It was however, gathered that the former president was on a “thank you” visit to the president, who recently consoled him over an attack on his country home, Otuoke, Bayelsa, by unknown gunmen last December.

Buhari immediately put a call through to his predecessor to sympathise with him over the attack.

President Buhari reassured Jonathan of his safety and security.

During the attack, three of the gunmen were killed, while a soldier also died.

The former president last visited the presidential villa on Oct. 10, 2019.

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Transfer: Bayern Munich Decides On Sending Coutinho Back To Barcelona

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Bayern Munich FC has said it has no intention to send midfielder, Philippe Coutinho back to Barcelona before the end of his loan spell at Allianz Arena.

The Bundesliga champions are willing to allow the 27-year-old to complete his loan deal at the club.

“As agreed, the player [Coutinho] stays in Munich for at least the rest of the season,” A club spokesman said as quoted by Goal. “Everything else is made up.”

It was reported that Coutinho joined the Bundesliga champions for €8.5 million on a season-long loan from Barcelona last year.

Coutinho won four titles at Barcelona since joining the club from Liverpool in January 2018.

The Brazilian played 75 games for Barcelona in all competitions and scored 21 goals, providing 11 assists.

Speaking on Coutinho’s situation Bayern’s interim manager, Hansi Flick recently said: “Philippe is a gifted soccer player but he still needs to interact more with his team-mates.

“I don’t think we’ve integrated him enough yet [to see his best]. The training camp was very good for him. There are a lot of things planned for next week, like ball work.

“Hopefully, he’ll progress further again and show what class he has.”

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10 Alleged Internet Fraudsters And Landlord Arrested By EFCC

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, arrested a 33- Stanley Ejike Awam who is a landlord and 10 of his tenants, who are suspected to be internet fraudsters hibernating in his house in Ibadan.

Awam, 33, was apprehended by the anti-graft commission for allegedly providing shelter for the suspected internet fraudsters popularly known as yahoo boys

An EFCC statement gave the names of the suspects as Adeyemo Mukthar, Henry Uchefu, Adeleke David, Lukeman Salam, Olafuyi Joseph, Usman Mustapha, Surefire Ayokunmi, Abdulsalam Abubakar and Bashir Mohammed.

The EFCC said they will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

Recall that 89 suspected internet fraudsters were recently arrested in Ibadan by the personnel of the EFCC at a popular night club.

Also, late last year, the EFCC disclosed that it has arrested 29 suspected internet fraudsters in three different locations in Owerri, the Imo state capital.

Nigerians have been commenting on the activities of the EFCC in recent times through social media.

Johnson Kolinson wrote: Nigeria is the only country that called his youths internet fraudsters or Yahoo boys. No country has tarnished the reputation of her youths like Nigeria. It’s very shameful that Efcc degraded the institution so low by harassing innocent citizens who are enjoying in a night club.

Oscar Egbogu wrote: The laptop is a great source of wealth creation all over the world with innovations and new industries creating employment. In Nigeria however, its a stigma and a reason to be subject to police harassment and accusations of being a “yahoo boy” Ignorance is a disease.

ThankGod Ukachukwu wrote: The public sector is the highest contributor to the corruption in Nigeria but EFCC has spent 2015 to date chasing yahoo boys. They leave the sickness and go after the side effects. Their misplaced priority is why the TI corruption index 2019 went from bad to worse.

Meanwhile, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), a non-governmental organisation, has listed seven reasons why Nigeria keeps sliding back in the global Corruption Perception Index (CPI).

The CPI released globally by Transparency International on Thursday, January 23, revealed that Nigeria has further slipped down in the perception of corruption in 2019.

CISLAC noted that the Buhari administration has introduced some policies to curb corruption but they are not enough.

Recently, the Attorney General of the Federation and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN said Nigeria’s justice sector has recorded tremendous success in speedy implementation of justice in 2019.

He stated this on Thursday, January 2 when he appeared on a program on Nigeria Television Authority (NTA).

According to him, his ministry’s policies in 2019 have succeeded in deepening Nigeria’s democratic process by pushing for legislation and constitutional amendments.

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Uti Nwachukwu Reacts As Pastor Adeboye Advises Son To Sack Female Staff

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Social media was recently set on uproar following a revelation by popular clergyman Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

The spiritual leader in a series of Twitter posts had disclosed that he advised his married son to sack a female employee after the young man revealed that he was getting attracted to the lady.

Adeboye’s revelation had immediately set tongues rolling on social media, with many people condemning him for the advice he gave to his son.

Among those who have now joined several other people that criticized the man of God is a popular model and media personality, Uti Nwachukwu

In a post shared on Twitter, Nwachukwu made it clear that religion in the country is a joke. He questioned the justification behind Adeboye asking his son to sack his female employee simply because he could not put his feelings in check.

The presenter noted that yet it is the same religious folks that urge people to pray against those that are blocking their progress.

“Tomorrow now the same people will say we should rise and pray against anyone blocking our progress!!,” his post read in part.

See tweet below:

A follower who engaged Nwachukwu in the comment section urged him to read through the complete posts shared by Adeboye.

The media personality, however, noted that he has read it and still cannot find any justification.

See the conversation between them below

Meanwhile, it was previously reported that Nigerians told Pastor Adeboye that they don’t need another church, the size of Ibadan.

This was said in reaction to Adeboye’s claim that God revealed he will build an auditorium as big as Ibadan before he dies.

According to Adeboye, he heard from God that he is not going to die until he has built them an auditorium as big as one of the biggest cities in West Africa, Ibadan.

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Breaking : Horrible winds Brings Down US-Mexico 30ft-High Border Wall

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A segment of the wall separating the United States (US) and Mexico was on Wednesday, January 29, brought down by terrible winds.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel revealed that the steel panels of the border between the Californian town of Calexico and Mexicali in Mexico which were affected by the storm leaned towards the north American side of the divide.

Speaking on the development, a border patrol agent, Carlos Pitones, said that Mexican authorities did much to avoid the imminent traffic gridlock on the affected street.

Pitones said: “The CBP will work with the construction contractor to mitigate the impact of high winds as construction continues.”

The CBP agent explained that the 30ft high wall was under construction when the incident occurred.

Meanwhile, it was reported that President Donald Trump had been permitted by the US’ S,upreme Court to build wall projects in California, Arizona and New Mexico in a bid to discourage illegal migration.

The court’s ruling, which also approved that President Trump can go ahead with the massive projects using $2.5 billion of Pentagon funds, came by five votes to four to nullify a verdict by a federal judge in California who had earlier kicked against the move.

The court in California had argued that Congress had not authorised the funds to be used for the said projects. As one of Trump’s campaign promises back in 2016, the wall, opposed by Democrats, will divide the US and Mexico.

Reacting to the development, the president, on his official Twitter page, referred to the ling as a ‘big victory.’

In another development, it was reported that Trump was expected to be impeached in the next few hours as the country’s House of Representatives commenced debates on the fate of his presidency.

Trump was being charged for obstruction of Congress and abuse of power related to the dealings with Ukraine. The first article charges that thee president used his public office to intimidate a foreign government into attacking his political rival.

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Senate Summons Inspector General Of Police Over State Policing

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The Nigerian Senate has summoned the Inspector-General of Police Mr. Mohammed Adamu.

This was the basis of findings achieved during plenary on Wednesday, January 29.

IGP Adamu is being summoned over some security issues that have come in recent times, as well as the call for the institution of state police.

During the session, the Upper House deliberated extensively on Nigeria’s security challenges with some lawmakers considering a restructuring of the current security architecture.

Addressing the House during plenary, deputy president of the Senate,Senator Omo-Agege said there is a consensus that the nation should be looking into the direction of community policing but there remains the uncertainty of what the structure and component will be like.

Omo-Agege was of the opinion that the security architecture is overstretched and not as effective as it is.

Lending her voice to the deliberations, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said if Nigeria really wants to tackle its insecurity correctly, then the nation should look at state police.

She was of the opinion that states which are ready to venture into State Policing should be given the go-ahead.

After hours of deliberation on the matter, the House resolved to “urge Mr. President C-in-C to declare a national security emergency and set up an ad-hoc committee to engage the security agencies and report to the Senate, as well as engage the national security institution to discuss their operational structures, funding, equipment, and staff in position with a view to reviewing the national security architecture to make it more responsive in tackling the myriad security challenges facing the nations and the people,”.

Other resolutions include to have the committee produce a draft implementation modality/ blueprint on the ways and means of tackling the current security challenges for the consideration of the Senate and to invite the Inspector General of Police to appear before the plenary and brief the Senate on the concept and the practical implementation of state policing and policies on Wednesday, 5th February 2020.

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FEC Approves N515m For Completion Of Duguba Dam In Adamawa

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The Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari, on Wednesday, in Abuja, approved N515 million for the completion of an Earth Dam in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The Minister of Water Resources, Alhaji Suleiman Adamu, made this known when he briefed journalists on the outcome of the council’s meeting in Abuja.

Adamu conserved that the approval was in line with Buhari administration’s policy of completing all on-going projects inherited from previous administrations.

He said the project was delayed due to lack of adequate budgetary provision as well as the activities of insurgents in the area.

“The Federal Ministry of Water Resources presented one memo for the revised estimated total cost for the construction of Duguba Earth-Dam in Hong Local Government Area of Admawa State.

“In line with our tradition of trying to complete projects that we inherited, we revised this project which is under the supervision of Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority, initiated in 2011 but delayed due to lack of adequate budgetary provision and to some extent the insurgency in the area, it was abandoned for sometime.

“Now it has been revived and we are looking forward to its completion in the next 18 months, having got a revision of the project by about N515 million form the original contract sum of N753 million to a total of N1.26 billion now,” he was quoted saying.

He also added that although the contract was abandoned over the years, the cureent administration was poised to complete it so as to boost water supply for inhabitants of the area.

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Nigerian Govt Issues Warning To NNPC, FIRS, NPA, Customs, others

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The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has instructed revenue generating agencies to comply with the Fiscal Responsibility Act for transparency, fiscal prudence and accountability in the management of public funds.

The Acting Chairman of the Commission, Mr Victor Muruako, said this at a two-day training on “Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007 for the management and staff of the Nigerian Immigration Service on Wednesday in Keffi.

Muruako noted that the aim of the capacity building workshop was to enlighten and educate the relevant agencies of the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

“It is also to strengthen their compliance level, particularly so that they can conform with the template for calculation of operating surplus, which is the standard document produced by the commission.

“The template provides for allowable and disallowable expenditures from these agencies, it also clear the issues on remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Funds of the Federal Government.

“We want to ensure that the relevant revenue earning agencies of the Federal Government including Nigerian Immigration Service make their own contributions to the Consolidated Revenue Funds of Federal Government,” he said.

According to him, the commission is also working hard to ensure that these agencies submit their audited account on time in line with the provisions of FRA.

“This is part of our efforts to support the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that the revenue profile of the Federal Government is strengthened,” he said.

Some revenue generating agencies are the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

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Police Arrest ‘Pastor’, Accomplice For Allegedly Counterfeiting Own Kidnap

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The Police in Kaduna State have arrested a Pastor, James Clement and his accomplice, George Otokpa, for faking his own kidnap and demanding five million Naira ransom from family members.

A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yakubu Abubakar Sabo, said, “On 27th January 2020 at about 1917hrs, one Pastor James Clement ‘m’ 39yrs of Nasarawa Tirkaniya Kaduna and George Otokpa ‘m’ of No. 23 Aleri Water by Sarki Street Kudandan in Chikun local government area were arrested by the Operatives of the Command’s Anti – Kidnapping Unit for allegedly conspiring, faked the Kidnapping of the 1st suspect and demanded the payment of five Million Naira (₦5,000,000 ) as ransom from his own family through text messages using the 2nd suspect as the negotiator.

“The arrest followed a report made by two members of the family of the fake kidnapped victim about the kidnap of their relation.”

The statement said that the suspect, Clement James, was tracked and arrested at his hideout where he hid, falsely claimed being kidnapped and conspired with his friend George Otokpa ‘m’ 22 years (the 2nd suspect) to engage his family in negotiation for ransom.

The statement explained that the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and will be charged to court on completion of the investigation accordingly.

“The Commissioner of Police CP Umar M. Muri condemns such criminal mentality and cautions members of the Public against such heartless and barbaric act.

The CP assures the good people of Kaduna State that, the Command will use the evidence against the suspects in the court of law to serve as deterrence to other people with similar criminal minds,” the statement explained.

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President Buhari Replies To Calls For His Resignation

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President Muhammadu Buhari has responded to demand for his resignation by Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe and others.

This was contained in a statement released to journalists on Wednesday by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu.

It said just because some characters think that President Buhari should resign, then they expect him to quit.

“That call does not represent the opinion of the country. This is the opinion of an arm chair critic, known for making stray comments.

“If a leader like President Buhari needs to resign, there are millions of other Nigerians who need to resign, including Senator Abaribe who unlocked the door to enable the escape of traitorous and treasonable suspects.

“He signed the bond for the court to release Nnamdi Kanu on bail, from which moment the suspect disappeared into the thin air.

“Senator Abaribe has failed repeated deadlines to return Kanu to the court for trial, yet he has the effrontery with which to accuse someone of failing to the bidding of the law.

“This is a man who should have replaced the suspects he failed to produce in the correctional facility.

“Abaribe’s party raped the nation and left it collapsing in 2015 and President Buhari is fixing things up all the years he is in office.

“President Buhari is working hard to keep Nigeria and Nigerians out of the harm terrorists have unleashed in the entire Sahel and Sub-Saharan Africa with the support of Nigerians and our foreign friends, he is going to finish off these terrorists. He alone can do it,” he said.

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Ukah Inauguarates 2020 LOcal Committee for Delta State School Sports Festival

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The Delta state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah has Organised a 13-member Local Committee ( LOC) for the 2020 Delta State School Sports Festival.

The inauguration was conducted inside the conference hall of the ministry in Asaba.

Chieh Ukah said the state school sports festival is different from the state sports festival stating that the former is meant to discover talents at the school level that can be further educated by the latter.

He also warned that mercenaries will not be allowed to participate in the competition, noting that the competition is for students.

Ukah also revealed that accommodation have been secured for the students to camp during the sports festival .

He also added that the joy of participating in the school sports festival is when the names of schools are mentioned during the event. He therefore called on members of the LOC to avoid using just zones to introduce students.

Responding on behalf of members of the LOC, the Director General of the state Sports Commission, Mr. Chris Anaziah, represented by Mr. Celestine Ibegbunem, thanked the commissioner for finding members worthy to serve, promising that they will not disappoint in discharging the duties assigned to them.

Members of the LOC, headed by Chief Patrick Ukah, include the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Samuel Dietake, Chairman, Delta State Sports Commissioner, Chief Tonobok Okowa, the Director General in the commission, Mr. Chris Anazia, the Special Assistant to the commissioner, Mr. Felix Ideh, the Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on School Sports, Mr. Lucky Sunday.

Also included are the Director of Schools in the ministry, Mrs. Joy Biyibi-Godson, the Assistant Director Schools in the ministry, Mrs. Justina Ishaka, the Media Assistant to the commissioner, Mr. Sam Ijeh, Mr. Seigha Porbeni and Mr. Celestine Ibegbunem both of the sports commission. Mrs. Alero Ifeajika and Mrs. Francisca Semiteje from the ministry are Secretary and Assistant Secretary respectively.

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NUJ Congratulates Its Two Members Appointed To The Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee

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The Delta State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has on Monday congratulated Comrade Patrick Ochei and Patricia Gbemudu for their appointments and inauguration into Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee

This is contained in a statement signed by the Chairman of the union, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and made available to journalists.

Ikeogwu affirmed that the appointments of the two members of the State Working Committee of NUJ were well deserving.

Comr. Patrick Ochei

He said the capacity of the Vice Chairman of the State Council of NUJ, Comrade Patrick Ochei, had never been in conflict adding that the Union supported him to represent its interest in the Committee.

Speaking further, he stated that the appointment of the Chairman of the State Chapter of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Patricia Gbemudu, to represent the Ministry of Information was equally well deserved.

Ikeogwu applauded the Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa for the quantum of appointments given to journalists in his administration, maintaining it was a sign of robust working synergy and partnership with the media in the State.

The chairman, moreover, charged the Committee to live up to expectation by ensuring that the content of the law is vigorously applied in the child’s right implementation processes in order to avoid unnecessary litigations.

He also advised the Committee to diligently and strictly monitor the activities of those responsible for child adoption in the State, adding that it had been a peculiar aspect of abusing the rights of children.

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Lady’s Account Suspended On Twitter For Accusing Late Kobe Bryant of having affair With The Daughter

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A social media user identified as @daenarysbaby has ruffled feathers on the microblogging platform, Twitter, after coming out to make some disastrous accusations against recently deceased professional basketball player, Kobe Bryant, and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna.

The lady shared a photo of Bryant and his daughter which was captured in the middle of a basketball game jubilation. In the photo, the doting dad appeared to have pecked his child.

@daenarysbaby in the caption that accompanied the photo frowned against the picture and noted that the two deserved to die.

According to her, death is a form of punishment for their sins.

Tweeting further, the lady claimed that she saw the Lord in her dream and it was revealed to her that Bryant and his teenage daughter would be killed for their incestuous affair. She said after the incident happened, the Lord reappeared and told her that she had too many doubts in him.

See screenshots of her tweets below:

The lady’s tweet generated outrage on the social media platform with many noting that the post was shared with the intention of seeking attention. Some other people noted that the account is fake and is being handled by an anonymous individual in search of social media clout.

https://twitter.com/ghanaianstifler/status/1221979119526780932?s=19
https://twitter.com/DoctorEmto?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fd-14849675492107361885.ampproject.net%2F2001071857360%2Fframe.html.

Moments later, t account was suspended after Twitter users called on people to report it.

moments later the account was suspended

Meanwhile, it was gathered that Nigerian comedian Bovi joined millions across the world to mourn the unfortunate demise of Kobe Bryant.

According to the comic star, the basketball star had an influence on his teenage years. Bovi also posted a photo of the NBA star on his Instagram page.

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We Won’t Probe Omo-Agege, His Conviction Didn’t Happen In Nigeria – Senate’s Spokesman

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The Nigerian Senate, on Tuesday, said it was not aware of the alleged indictment of the Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege and as such, won’t probe him.

Spokesman of the Senate, Godiya Akwashiki, while briefing newsmen on Tuesday, said the case of Senator Omo-Agege was not the same as that of Senator Elisha Abbo, where the Senate set up an ad hoc committee to probe alleged assault of a Nigerian lady, March 2019.

Omo-Agege is being accused of indictment by a county court in the united states of America in 1996, for felony.

A coalition of nine civil society organizations had in a press briefing led by Solomon Adodo, asked Omo-Agege to resign his position as DSP within 72 hours.

At the expiration of the ultimatum, the coalition marched to the office of the State Security Service (DSS) in protest.

They asked the DSS to investigate and prosecute the Deputy President of the Senate since his colleagues had refused to take any action.

On his part, Omo-Agege, through his media adviser, Yomi Odunuga, dispelled the allegation, describing the coalition as “an unscrupulous band of mischief makers seeking to mislead gullible people with lies and propaganda by calling for the immediate resignation of the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, over a spurious and malicious allegation”.

Senator Akwashiki, in his briefing, said, “the Senate won’t probe the alleged indictment of the DSP because it didn’t happen here. The case of Senator Abbo is clearly different, even though they are all senators”.

He said, “a motion has not been raised on the floor of the Senate and there is no pending petition from anyone that is before the Senate.

“I only got to read it on the media, just like any other person read it on the media”.

The Senate spokesman also dismissed further questions on the matter, saying, “I am not the Spokesman of the American embassy. I am not the spokesman of the DSS or the judiciary, which is an arm of government, I’m the spokesman to the Senate and to the best of my knowledge, the matter has not been brought to the Senate yet”.

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DELTA: Governor Okowa inaugurates Committee For Delta State Child Rights Implementation

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The Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa has inaugurated the State Child Rights Implementation Committee made up of 27 members.

Okowa was ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Chiedu Ebie.

The committee was drawn from government officials, MDAs, civil society organizations, religious leaders, traditional rulers, education professionals, media and security agencies.

The purpose of the committee is to coordinate, supervise, monitor and provide a guiding plan for the implementation of the child rights law in the State.

He urged the Committee to help the State with a solid and standardized framework for the operation of the Child Rights Law in the State.

The SSG reminded the Committee that its role is to practically seek the promotion of the survival, development, participation, and protection of the rights of children in the State, with particular attention to the rights of special protection and care provided to minors.

He, however, assured the Committee of the government’s commitment to funding its activities from its own end.

“Our gathering today is momentous because the State accords great importance to the assignment of this Committee. The survival, development, participation, and protection of children indeed represent a major pillar of the human development program of the present administration.

“In addition to serving as a tool for promoting and upholding the rights and well-being of children, the implementation of the Child Rights Law is for this administration an instrument of fostering economic development, combating inequality and enhancing peace and security of the State. The child being the foundation of adult life is a critical building block for sustainable development and a peaceful society.

“I urge you all to rise up to the challenge and responsibility of this assignment. Let me reiterate that the State Government attaches high priority to the assignment of the Committee and assure you too that the government will provide all necessary assistance to facilitate the work of the Committee”, Ebie said.

In her address, the State Child Rights Implementor and Executive Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties (Child Rights Implementation and Girl Child Development), Bridget Anyafulu Esq, had welcomed the committee members with great delight, stating that, with the inauguration, work had finally resumed since after members’ appointments.

Anyafulu gave a background of the histories leading to the enactment of the Child Rights Act by the Federal Government in 2003 and eventually domesticated by Delta State Government in 2009.

She further reeled off the framework and scope of action for the Committee in accordance with the Delta State Child Rights Law, while intimating the Committee that its job as a Committee set up by law is essentially to provide strategies to monitor and implement the Law.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Child Rights Committee and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Kevwe Agas welcomed all members and assured them of the commitment of the Ministry of Women Affairs which is directly in charge of the functions of the Committee, to ensure its success.

She, therefore, charged Committee members to get ready to work to excite the Governor who had shown so much commitment to the wellbeing of children in the State.

However, immediately after the inauguration by the State Government, the Committee went into intense Orientation and Training Programmes by experts from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the National Child Rights Implementation.

Mr. Anderson Archibong from the National Child Rights Implementation, handled, Overview of the Child Rights Law – Child Abuse and Protection – Case Management, Documentation, Referral System and Report Writing; while the Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Nduka Nwanwanne Esq., handled, The Delta State Child Rights Law: Implementation and Impediments – The Way Forward.

In a nutshell, the Child Rights Act is a law that incorporates all the rights and responsibilities of children between the ages of 0-18. It consolidates all laws which provide for the protection and care of the Nigerian child into one single legislation.

The Child Rights Act, enacted by the Federal Government in 2003 and domesticated by Delta State in 2009, is basically meant to promote the welfare of the Child. The Law is a documentation of the Child Rights Act 2003, which in turn, is in consonance with the International Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989 as well as the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).

The focus of the Law mainly is on Child Protection. According to UNICEF, Child Protection refers to preventing and responding to violence, exploitation, and abuse against children. These basically, are the functions of the Child Rights Committee, which will be enforced from all sides, including using the police to investigate and prosecute offenses against children; while the Family Court will be there to serve justice and apply punishment where necessary.

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BREAKING: Fire Guts Sabo market in Sagamu, Destroys About 100 Shops

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An early Tuesday morning fire outbreak that occurred in the Sabo market of Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State has destroyed over 100 shops.

The fire reportedly destroyed goods and valuables worth millions of naira.

It was reported that the inferno started around 1am on Tuesday from the cloth sellers section and reportedly spread to other areas of the market.

The cause of the fire was said to be a power upsurge that occurred when electricity was restored by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company around 1am.

One of the shop owners, who is the Chairman of Table Water and Beverages Producers Association of Nigeria, Remo zone, Adetola Soyemi, told journalists that over 100 shops were destroyed.

When asked about the number of shops affected, Soyemi said, “There are many shops affected. There are over 100 shops affected.”

On the cause of the incident, he said, “It was the electricity they restored that led to a spark around 1 am and if not for the men of the fire service, it would have spread to all the sections of the market.”

On the affected areas in the market, Soyemi said, “Cloth sellers, yam flour sellers, grains sellers, herbs sellers, kola nut sellers, padlocks shops and building materials sections were affected.”

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Kogi: Social-Cultural Group sends Advice to Gov. Yahaya Bello

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The Fulani socio-cultural group, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MCBAN, has urged Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State to continue to make the security of lives and property a priority of his regime.

The group made the call in a statement issued in Lokoja on Tuesday to felicitate with the governor on his induction for the second term in office.

According to the statement, signed by the state
security becomes necessary as no meaningful development can take place in any society in the absence of peace and security.

“Provision of adequate security will give residents the needed confidence to pursue their legitimate activities without hindrance,” the statement said.

It called on other groups, political parties, corporate bodies, and well-meaning individuals to join hands with the government and security agencies to restore lasting peace to all nooks and cranny of the state.

While felicitating with Bello on his induction for the second term in office, the group urged him to continue to ensure a cordial relationship between farmers
and cattle rearers in the state.

“We thank the governor for his love and care for our members in the state, we urged him to sustain this by appointing more Fulanis into his cabinet,” the statement said.

It also called on its members to continue to be law-abiding and refrain from acts that are capable of disrupting the existing peace in the state.

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CAN Begin prayers in Respect of Leah Sharibu, Executed Rev. Andimi and Others

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Christians in Kaduna comprising over 1,000 pastors in the state, will as from Friday this week, through to Sunday intercede for Leah Sharibu and Rev. Lawan Andimi, the slain Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

Kaduna CAN chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab in a statement on Tuesday, said the prayer and fasting, which is being organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria, will commence on Friday, January 31 and end on Sunday, February 2, 2020.

Andimi was recently executed by the insurgents while Leah was among the over 100 female students of the Government Girls’ Science and Technical College, Dapchi in Yobe State, kidnapped by the Boko Haram in 2018.
February 2, will make it two years the incident took place.

The CAN chairman explained that at the end of the three-day special prayer and fasting as directed by CAN on Sunday, Christians would gather in Zaria, Kafanchan, and Kaduna to pray for God’s intervention in the affairs of Nigeria.

The clergy also directed all Christians to wear “black clothes” on Sunday to mourn slain Christians.

He said God’s intervention was needed because the nation’s challenges were beyond the capacity of the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.).

He expanded that among those that the Church would pray for were the security agents that had over the years been fighting an insurgency.

“We are going to pray that those honest security men. God should help them and those (security men) that are dishonest, God should change their hearts.

“The national secretariat of CAN issued a circular, calling on all Christians to pray and fast on Friday, January 31, 2020, to February 2, 2020. The people will pray specifically against the evils happening in the country; the recent killing of Rev. Lawan Andimi and other Christians that have been killed by Boko Haram.

“The story we are hearing now is that Leah Sharibu has been forcefully converted into Islam or married and has given birth to children which to us, is not the matter. The matter is for her to be safe and return home. So, we want to pray so that God will intervene in the matter.”

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Nicky Minaj’s Brother Sentenced to 25 Years In Prison For Alleged Rape

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Nicki Minaj’s brother, Jelani Maraj has been sentenced to 25 years In prison for repeatedly raping his 11-year-old stepdaughter while her mother was at work.

According to reports, Maraj was found guilty of predatory sexual assault against his stepdaughter and was sentenced by Nassau County Supreme Court Judge, Robert McDonald on Monday.

Maraj rejected the allegations alleging the story was formulated to extort his famous younger sister.

The judge said, “you ruined this child by raping her over and over again.”

In his defence, his lawyer read a 2016 letter Minaj wrote in a bid to reduce his time behind bars, calling him the most patient, gentle, genuine, giving selfless Man.

The accused pleaded for ‘mercy’ stating that he would like to apologize for the pain that he caused.

He equally claimed he had an excessive drinking problem.

The Judge who did not take his plea sentenced him to 25 years in prison, two years after a jury handed down the guilty verdict for the sexual abuse case which began in 2015.

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Burna Boy Responds To losing 2020 Grammys Award

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Nigerian singer Burna Boy, has responded to losing Grammys Best World Music Album to African legend, Angelique Kidjo.

Kidjo won the Best world music album ahead of Burna Boy on Sunday.

Angelique Kidjo, however, hailed Burna Boy after picking up the award.

She dedicated it to him for “the immense work he’s done with to put Africa on the global map.”

Responding hours later, Burna Boy took to his Twitter page expressing his love and gratitude to Angelique Kidjo and his fans all over the world.

He wrote: “I love you forever Angelique Kidjo ‘Mama Africa’ and every single person that rooted for me, I don’t take any of it lightly!

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BREAKING: Woman To Die By Hanging For Killing Husband

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The High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has on Monday, convicted and sentenced Maryam Sanda to death by hanging for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Yusuf Halilu, held that there was circumstantial evidence coupled with her testimony and statement to the police that she “fatally” stabbed her husband to death in Abuja on November 19, 2017.

The judge ordered that she should be remanded in Suleja prison till she exhausts her right of appeal.

Her deceased husband has been variously reported as a son or nephew of a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Haliru Bello.

Sanda, the mother of two, her mother and other relatives broke down in tears immediately the judge pronounced her guilt.

Sanda while crying rushed out of the courtroom which was next to the dock but the judge ordered that she should be brought back to the courtroom.

In the middle of the confusion, the defence lawyer attempted to make a plea for allocates (plea for mercy) but the judge said he needed to rise for the courtroom to be restored to normalcy.

The judge said he would return to deliver the sentence after some minutes.

When the judge returned from the break, he said there would be no room for allocates.

He said the offence for which the convict was convicted was based on Section 221 of the Penal Code.

“It has been said that thou shall not kill. Whoever kills in cold blood shall die in cold blood,” the judge said.

“Maryam Sanda should reap what she has sown,” he said, adding, “it is blood for blood”.

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Destma Commences Impounding Of Vehicles, Warns Motorists, Others

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The Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA), has said the Authority has commenced the impounding of vehicles.

This was contained in a statement issued to journalists recently by the Delta State Director of information, Dona Obuseh

The statement observed that the authority will arrest and prosecute users of illegal number plates, illegal cover number plates, expired number plates and non registered vehicles in the State.

In the statement , Obuseh warned that for the avoidance of doubt, only the State Governor, Deputy Governor, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and the Chief Judge are authorized to use covered number plates.

Speaking further, the information boss stated that Illegal use of covered number plates and expired number plates is punishable under the approved DESTMA Law of 2013 .

He therefore posited that DESTMA has given a 21-day notice to all involved to desist from covering their number plates, using expired plate numbers.

He urged the general public particularly motorists to register their vehicles as failure to do so would lead to impounding of such vehicles .

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Burna Boy loses To Angelique Kidjo In Grammy Awards

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Beninese singer-songwriter, Angelique Kidjo, was announced the winner of the Best World Music Album at the 62nd Grammy Awards.

She beat Nigeria’s Burna Boy and three other nominees to win the Grammy on Sunday at the Staples Center, Los Angeles.

Angélique Kpasseloko Hinto Hounsinou Kandjo Manta Zogbin Kidjo, known as Angélique Kidjo, is a Beninese singer-songwriter, actress, and activist who is noted for her diverse musical influences and creative music videos. In 2007, Time magazine called her “Africa’s premier diva”.

Others nominated in the category alongside Burna Boy are Altin Gun, “Gece”, Bokante & Metropole Orkest conducted by Jules Buckley, “What Heat”, Nathalie Joachim with Spektral Quartet, “Fanm D’Ayiti”, and Angelique Kidjo, “Celia”.

With his 2020 nomination, Burna Boy joins the likes of Seun Kuti, Femi Kuti and King Sunny Ade in getting listed in that category at the Grammy Awards.

Other Nigerian Grammy nominees include Babatunde Olatunji, Wizkid, Timaya, and Kah Lo. Sikiru Adepoju won the Grammy Awards in 1991 and 2009.

Born Damini Ogulu, Burna Boy has had a remarkable career, especially in the past one year.

In 2019, the singer was the recipient of several craved awards including Best International Act at the BET Awards.

Meanwhile, Mitchell Obama can now add Grammy winner to her resume, after snagging the award on music’s biggest night for Best Spoken Word Album, for the audiobook of her memoir “Becoming.”

Her win on Sunday gives the Obama household its third Grammy: former president Barack Obama has already snagged two Grammys in the same category for his books.

She faced an eccentric group of rivals that include Michael Diamond and Adam Horovitz of the Beastie Boys for “Beastie Boys Book” and John Waters, the director-performer known for his transgressive cult films, for “Mr. Know-It-All.”

Early prizes handed out at the pre-gala event went to Lady Gaga, who won two for her soundtrack for the hit film “A Star Is Born,” and Beyonce, who nabbed the prize for best music film for “Homecoming.”

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Leah Sharibu: Pastor Reveals Why They Don’t Trust Buhari

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The Presiding Pastor of Awaiting The Second Coming Of Jesus Christ church, Adewale Giwa has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to tell Nigerians whether or not the kidnapped Dapchi Schoolgirl, Leah Shabiru had been forced by members of Boko Haram to renounce her Christian faith.

Giwa, in a statement made on Monday, said he won’t join other Nigerians to believe that the abducted girl had accepted Islam.

Boko Haram abducted Sharibu from Government Secondary School in Dapchi area of Yunusari Local Government in Yobe state, on February 19, 2018.

Reports came out on Saturday night that Leah was forcefully converted to Islam and married to a top Boko Haram commander.

Apart from this, it was reported that Leah also gave birth to a baby boy.

However, Pastor Giwa said, “If you believe such a story, you can also believe anything that comes from President Muhammadu Buhari and his party.

“To me, President Buhari and Boko Haram members owe Nigerians an explanation of Leah’s whereabouts.

“They need to come out clean and tell Nigerians whether or not Leah has renounced her religion.

“I urge Nigerians to continue to pray for the release of Leah if she is still alive by His grace. We cannot trust this government; we cannot also trust ourselves.

“The group they brought has grown wings; they never believed they could go to this length.

“As God liveth, they shall perish with their sponsors in Jesus Name.

“The wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume, into smoke shall they consume away.”

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Trump Responds To Death Of Basket Baller, Kobe Bryant

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United States President, Donald Trump has acknowledged to the death of a basketball legend, Kobe Bryant.

Kobe was traveling on Sunday with at least 3 other people in his private helicopter when his helicopter went down and fire broke out.

TMZ Sports confirmed that Kobe’s daughter Gianna Maria was also reported to have been on board in the helicopter and died alongside her father in the crash in Calabasas on Sunday.

Kobe, who used a helicopter to travel for years, was known for commuting from Newport Beach, CA to the STAPLES Center in DTLA in his Sikorsky S-76 chopper.

Reacting, Trump expressed sadness over the news of the basketball legend’s death.

On his verified Twitter page, Trump wrote: “Reports are that basketball great Kobe Bryant and three others have been killed in a helicopter crash in California. That is terrible news!

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Former Party Senatorial Candidate, Shot Dead In Imo

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The Action Alliance (AA) candidate for Imo North Senatorial District in the 2019 election, Ndubuisi Emenike, has been shot dead.

The Imo State Police command confirmed the killing on Sunday.

The report reveals that He was shot by his orderly, an operative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Its spokesman, Orlando Ikeokwu, disclosed to journalists that Emenike was shot dead by the NSCDC personnel during a celebration gathering for APC’s Miriam Onuoha, the winner of the rerun Okigwe North Federal Constituency election.

Eyewitnesses in the scene said the NSCDC official was shooting consistently into the air and mistakenly shot his boss.

Emenike fell, lost consciousness and was immediately rushed to a hospital.

The Police also noted that the orderly responsible for the act is presently in custody and that the command has opened an investigation.

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Tekno Declared Himself A ‘Womanizer’

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Popular Nigerian singer, Augustine Miles Kelechi, who is better known by his stage name Tekno, has given himself a new status.

The singer who is also a music producer has finally declared himself to be a ‘Womanizer’.

The singer made these statements yesterday via his verified twitter handle.

Declaring himself a womanizer, Teckno captions the post as ‘Womanizer for life’.

In recall, Tekno was also seen in Lagos some months ago in a vehicle conveying half-naked girls in the streets of Lagos.

When interrogated by the Lagos police command, the singer stated he was just on a musical video. Not quite long he finally declared himself to be a ‘womanizer’. Because it seems like the singer has been long in the affairs of women.

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Simi Shouts Back At Adekunle Gold Over Gbegiri, Semo Argument

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Nigerian popular singer and songwriter, Simisola Ogunleye, popularly known as Simi, has yelled at her husband over social media statements.

Simi who took to her verified Twitter page yesterday, declaring that Gbegiri is disgusting also arguing that she wonders how people eat Semo

Reacting to the statement, her husband Adekunle Gold ordered her to pull off the statement immediately. But responding to her husband’s declaration, Simi asked him not to tell her what to do also stating that she has his type at home.

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Yung6ix ‘Gusts’ MI For Not Encouraging His Music Career

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Nigerian hip hop recording artist, Onome Onokohwomo, better known by his stage name Yung6ix, reveals he has lost the respect he had for MI Abaga.

The discontented rapper made this available via his Twitter page yesterday while reacting to a radio station that shared a song he featured MI Abaga.

According to the rapper, he said that MI refuse to support his music career.

Adding that, he features MI in a song and he didn’t help promote the song even to the extent of posting or reposting it on his page.

The rapper also tweeted that the ‘Chairman Crooner ‘ didn’t agree to come for the video shoot, that he didn’t also post his Album.

Yung6ix also added saying “idols turn rivals” which show symptoms of respect I have for you.

However, Twitter users have evaluated the circumstance with diverse viewpoints since Yung6ix made the post. Check them out:

*See his tweet below* :

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‘Man Of God’ Introduces Anointed Pant And Bra To Help Ladies Attract Men For Marriage

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A Nigerian Pastor Dr. JS Yusuf has recently inducted anointed underwear with a print of his face to attract men for marriages.

According to Yusuf who is the Senior Pastor of Touch for Recovery Outreach Int’l, Abuja stresses that the anointed underwear is said to be a blessing and instruction from God especially for the single ladies pursuing life partners in 2020.

The underwear is also said to help women from women related diseases and give them good luck with men as desired.

Yusuf added that wearing them will make men look at you on the streets and want to marry you as he quoted Number. 23:20 which says.

“Behold I have received the commandment to bless, and he hath blessed, and I cannot reverse”

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Amotekun: Anybody Against The Group Is a Suspect – Coalition Group

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A coalition of Civil Society in Ogun State has said any individual who is not in support of the Western Nigeria Security Network, otherwise known as Amotekun, should be seen as a suspect.

The group, in an interview with a journalist on Thursday, said Operation Amotekun should be adopted by all well-meaning Nigerian s, explaining that it is nothing to worry about.

The Chairman of the coalition, Comrade Yinka Folarin, told journalists that Amotekun was not meant to protect Yorubas alone, but all Nigerian residents in the South West.

He underlined that “Amotekun will protect the Fulani herdsmen in South West”, assuring them that friendly coincidence between farmers and herders is important to the operatives of the group.

According to him, the right to life is the number one human right, saying Amotekun is out to protect human life.

“Anybody who is against Amotekun initiative should be seen as a suspect and all Nigerians should be wary of such character.

“The right to life is the number one human right. It is when you have the right to life that you can enjoy other fundamental human rights. One would expect that every stakeholder should subscribe to that because Amotekun is out to protect the lives and properties of everyone.

“It is important to say that Amotekun will uphold the tenets of human rights and whenever they deviate or go the other way round, we in the civil society will not hesitate to call them to order. We want the Houses of Assembly in the six Yoruba states to enact laws that will strengthen Amotekun,” Folarin said.

Responding to Chief Bola Tinubu’s comment on the security outfit, Folarin maintained that the former Lagos State Governor has not spoken out of order.

He said Tinubu had provided elements of advice, while he also declared that Amotekun is never a threat to national unity.

Meanwhile, Folarin called on Nigerians to live peacefully with one another, regardless of tribe, religion or political discrepancies.

He admonished all Nigerians to be peaceful and law-abiding.

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CAN Declares Compulsory Fasting And Prayer Against Killing Of Christians By Boko Haram

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The Adamawa State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared a three-day fasting and prayer session from Monday, Jan 27, to Wednesday, Jan 29 over what it termed the extensive killing of Christians in the state.

The State’s CAN chairman, Rev Dami Mamza made the declaration in Yola in an interaction with a journalist

He noted that the only option left to the Christian community in the picture of the ‘glaring failure’ of the Federal Government to protect the lives of Christians in the state and other parts of the country.

Recall that goldennationblog.com reported that Three Christians, including two prominent Christian leaders as well as a journalist, were killed around the state within the last week.

The three were a pastor and politician, Rev Denis Magauri, killed by unknown persons at his residence in Mayo Belwa; a broadcaster with Radio Nigeria’s Fombina FM, Mr. Maxwell Nashion, killed also by strange elements; and the Michika LGA Chairman of CAN, Lawan Adimi killed by Boko Haram insurgents.

The Boko Haram had also beheaded Adimi on Tuesday after they rejected N50 million ransom because it fell far too low than their demand.

Boko Haram had earlier abducted him about three weeks ago when they invaded the northern Adamawa town of Michika.

Mamza remarked that in the last few years, numerous Nigerian Christians have been massacred in cold blood without the government taking the necessary measures to stop the trend, let alone bring perpetrators to justice.

The chairman enjoined all Christians in the 21 local government areas of Adamawa State to participate fully in the three-day prayer and fasting session effect from coming Monday.

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Former Minister Says Nigeria Is Heading For Destruction

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Nigerian First Republic Aviation Minister, Mbazulike Amaechi, has grumbled over the current state of the country.

Addressing journalists yesterday in his hometown, Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Amaechi blasted civil rights activists, organized labour, the masses of the country for keeping quiet while the country is being destroyed.

Amaechi noted that the country has been driven to a dangerous destination.

He said: “As one of the very few surviving nationalists who fought for the freedom of the country from foreign imperialists rule, as the only Minister of the First Republic alive and about the only link between the founding fathers and the present generation, I feel deeply pained to see what is happening to the nation and will feel doomed if the ugly situation continues.

“There is an unimaginable level of uncontrolled and uncontrollable corruption in the country. There is a mind-boggling level of massive looting of the wealth of the country.

“Elections are openly rigged and true democracy has fled the country. The judiciary has been intimidated and cowed and it has lost its honour and freedom. Citizens have lost their freedom and security has left the country. The country is ruled without a people’s Constitution but with laws imposed on the nation by military decree.

“The power and wealth of the country are controlled by a cabal from a section of the country to the exclusion of the areas that produce the wealth. The majority of the federation has pleaded and demanded a conference to rectify the imbalance and return to a free and true federation that the founding fathers established in 1962 but the cabal has treated the demand with crude contempt.

“People are occupying public positions they did not win, the judiciary is delivering ridiculous and ludicrous judgments while security is denied the people.

“The judiciary must revise and reverse some of the scandalous judgements they delivered in recent times which have brought the country to shameful obloquy in the world.

“This country is being driven to a dangerous precipice. The country is going, going and the people must rise and defend their freedom and democracy.

“Where are the civil rights of people? Where are the organized labour; Where are the youths and students; where are the masses if this country?

“Nigerians of this age give the impression that they are a generation of cowards, imbeciles and spineless jellyfish. My generation fought and gave you freedom and unity; if you cannot defend or protect the liberty and nation we gave you, history will judge you most unkindly.

“Nigerians must meet as a matter of urgency to negotiate the basis of this Union. Anybody who opposes such give and takes dialogue is the greatest enemy of Nigeria and must bear responsibilities for any unhealthy development.”

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20 kidnapped Victims Rescued, Police Kills 2 Bandits

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Some abducted passengers numbering about eight was on Wednesday afternoon along Kaduna-Zaria highway rescued by the police.

Further persons rescued were three workers of Airtel Communications Company who were abducted on Tuesday, and nine others kidnapped on Jan. 14 when bandits attacked the convoy of the Emir of Potiskum.

It was reported that gunmen attacked Alhaji Umaru Bubaram, murdering five of his assistants along Kaduna-Zaria highway.

Umaru was on his way to Zaria when the attack happened, but was, however, released.

The police, however, said that in Wednesday’s attack, two of the bandits were shot dead and all the eight abducted passengers rescued.

The victims, according to the Kaduna state police command spokesman, Yakubu Sabo, were traveling to Abuja from Kano when their Sharon vehicle was forced to stop by the bandits.

According to Sabo, the police responded quickly after receiving information from its DPO in Mararraban Jos at about 3 pm that bandits had blocked the Kaduna-Zaria highway and abducted eight persons.

“On receipt of the information, the Command mobilized teams of operatives with some Armoured Personnel Carrier to the area, engaged the attackers, successfully gunned down two of the bandits and rescued all the eight victims unhurt while many other bandits escaped with bullet wounds,” he said.

He identified the passengers rescued as Aisha Umar, Samira Ibrahim Dakota, Safiya Idris, Hauwa Aliyu, Aisha Yakubu, Ma’aru Adam, Safiya Audu and Yahaya Bello, all of Kano State.

He said the police are still on the trail of the hoodlums with a view to apprehending and bringing them to justice.

In a separate incident, the police have also rescued three workers of Airtel Communications Company abducted in Giwa Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday, NAN reports.

Sabo said the workers, Henry Agim, Kamal Raman and Segun Adejimoh, were abducted from Maidaro village in the local government, but the police were alerted by a good Samaritan.

“After a fierce gun duel, we successfully rescued all the three workers unhurt,” the command’s spokesman said.

“While, on a manhunt of the fleeing bandits, our operatives also intercepted nine other captives who were passengers of the Morcopolo luxurious bus that was attacked along Kaduna- Zaria Road on Jan. 14, alongside the convoy of the Emir of Potiskum at Foundation village.

“The victims are identified as; Abdulhafiz Wakil, Abdul Wasiu Jimmoh, Mujittaba, Hajara Usman, Emmanuela Dimka, Dahiru Isa and three others who were debriefed by the Commissioner of Police and supported to be reunited with their respective families.

“The Commissioner of Police, Umar Muri sincerely appreciates the cooperation of the local communities who helped the Command to overcome the current security challenges.”

He further exhorted for more support to enable the police to reduce to the barest level, criminal activities in the state.

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Rival Cult Groups Clashes In Ikorodu, 1 Injured

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The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bala Elkana said no fewer than seven people were reportedly killed during a violent clash between two rival cultic groups.

This was contained in a statement, made available to journalists in Lagos on Wednesday.

Elkana said the incident started on Monday in the Ijede area of the Ikorodu Road, in Lagos between KK and Eiye Confraternities.

The police information boss disclosed that the command instantly responded and arrested 10 suspects.

He clarified that the fracas, leading to deaths, started when an argument ensued between two members of the cult groups, while one of the combatants was stabbed.

Elkana said that the gang whose member was stabbed, believing him to be dead, launched a retaliatory attack on members of the rival group.

He said that the state Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumisu, immediately called for an emergency meeting and summoned the Area Commander, DPOs and the tactical commanders where the incident occurred.

According to him, the police general also deployed the Special Strike Force men to arrest the social villains and deal with the situation.

Elkana recollected that improvements had earlier been organized for cult members to deny their membership, “so the CP is determined to deal with the menace in the state”.

Responding to the development, the Chairman, Ijede Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mr. Fatiu Salisu, told journalists that the clash started on Jan. 20 when a man was reportedly stabbed with a bottle and was rushed to the General Hospital.

Salisu also said the man was rejected due to the nature of his wounds and was later referred to a teaching hospital where he was attended to.

According to him, some of his members thought he had died, and thereafter resulted in a revenge mission in the community.

“I was at a meeting in Ikeja when I was called that a boy belonging to ‘Eiye Fraternity’ had been stabbed, and when I came I saw one corpse at the roundabout.

“On that day, two people died, another four were killed in the afternoon of the next day, while another one was killed today, making seven,” he said.

The chairman urged all the security agencies, including the army, for their timely intervention, saying that they promptly swung into action, patrolling the hot spots to checkmate activities of the cultists in the community.

“We have intimate the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Commissioner of Police on what was going on in the community,” he said.

In his reactions, Chief Babatunde Ogunmuyiwa, the Secretary to the traditional ruler in Ijede, told journalists that the incident started on Jan. 20 when some boys from Ipakan and Egbin engaged in a fracas and one of them was badly injured with a bottle.

Ogunmuyiwa said the boy was quickly rushed to the hospital for treatment, but some of his members spread rumors that he was dead, which led to the fracas.

“After a series of investigations, we realized it was a rivalry clash between fraternities.

“We called an emergency meeting among the chiefs and resolved that we should appease the gods.

“The community has been peaceful since most of the boys renounced their membership until this moment,” he said.

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Lagos Assembly Reveals It Will Assist The Liberation of 4th Mainland Bridge Project – Lawmaker

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The Lagos State House of Assembly has said it will finance the completion of the proposed Fourth Mainland Bridge project by the state government.

The Chairman House Committee on Works and Infrastructure, representing Epe I, Mr. Abiodun Tobun, made the statement on Wednesday in an interview with journalists

It was reported that the Fourth Mainland Bridge is a proposed 38 kilometers extended bridge to unite Lagos Island by way of Lekki, Langbasa and Baiyeku Towns, across Lagoon to Itamaga, in Ikorodu.

Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Works and Infrastructure Mrs. Aramide Adeyoye, disclosed that the state government had cleared bids for prospective 39 firms that expressed interest in the construction of the bridge.

She explained that the committee would enormously help the project in terms of funds to ensure it further ease gridlock in the state.

The committee chairman said it was a possible project that would be achieved in the state.

“The Fourth Mainland Bridge is a feasible project and it will be financed through a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) project where conglomerate will be invited to come and build it.

“The Fourth Mainland Bridge is still at the bidding stage, it has not been awarded.

“When the project is awarded then, the contractor will give us the work plan and schedule,’’ he said.

Tobin also said the state government was aiming at the construction of another bridge through Ajah to Lucky Fibre in Ikorodu.

According to him, the move was to ensure that motorists coming from Ikorodu need not come to Ketu, they could easily go through Lucky Fibre and redistribute to their routes.

Tobin said for motorists going to Epe, they could go straight and for those going to Itoki, they could go through those paths instead of going through Ibeju Lekki.

The legislator said with time, the BRT would be broadened to the Epe axis, while the state government would be glancing for ways to capitalize on water transportation in the area.

Tobin said that the state government could not do it alone because it had realized that it could only work on taxpayers’ money.

He said there were individuals, companies or conglomerate that have the financial stability to deliver the project on time to the admiration of the populace.

Tobin said that the state government also needs to rectify the toll gate charges so it could be reasonable to pay and be spread over the years for them to recover their money.

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Uche Maduagwu Says NOLLYWOOD Actresses Are ‘Jealous’ Of Mercy Johnson’s New Movie

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Ambiguous Nollywood actor Uche Maduagwu has taken to social media to talk about jealousy in the Nollywood movie industry after actress Mercy Johnson Okojie released a new movie.

The actor shared a post on his Instagram page, accusing top Nollywood actresses of being jealous of Mercy Johnson’s newly released movie. The actor asked when jealousy would stop in the industry.

Maduagwu disclosed that top actresses did not show up for the movie premiere and none of them showed their support by sharing the trailer on their social media platforms.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7ndWFelFZN/?igshid=181ankvwsjgvh

He also asked when women would start supporting each other in the Nollywood movie industry.

The actor complimented Mercy Johnson on her new movie and declared that the movie is being examined for submission for the 2021 Oscar award.

Maduagwu further noted that he would not be praising the movie if it was not good. He said the movie tells a story without copying the western narrative.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7ltBpJnSqR/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_mid=BC0EE4DF-5729-4E5B-A1D8-A860AF13C4CC

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Suspected kidnappers And Bandits Handed Over TO DSS By Navy

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The Nigerian Navy School of Armament Technology has handed over suspected kidnappers, bandits and cattle rustlers to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.

Speaking on Tuesday at the handing over, the Commandant of the School, Rear Adm. Tanko Pani, said the suspects were arrested after continuous surveillance for over 4 months.

“Following continuous surveillance for over 4 months of some dangerous criminal syndicates operating in Kachia and other parts of the State (Kaduna), we were able to conduct simultaneous surgical operations to effect their arrest.

“They were caught in various locations through effective intelligence networks in various locations within the State.

”Some of them were caught in isolated forests where they were hibernating, while others were caught in hotels and their houses.

These criminals are responsible for various criminal activities such as kidnapping, armed banditry and cattle rustling in Kachia and other parts of the State.

”Various items were recovered from them which include weapons, motorbikes, and military camouflage uniforms, which they use for their operations,” he said.

Pani said some of the victims of the criminals that we’re unable to meet their demands were killed while others were either maimed or injured, adding that some of the female victims were raped.

”In line with the mandate of OPERATION YAKI the Kaduna State Internal Security Operations, we are handing over the criminals to the Department of State Services for profiling and further investigation.

We want to assure Nigerians that the Nigerian Navy will continue to do her best in collaboration with other security agencies to protect the lives and properties of citizens of this nation.”

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Breaking: Tinubu Ultimately Speaks On ‘Operation Amotekun’

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The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress Asiwaju
Bola Tinubu has eventually weighed in on the debate over ‘Operation Amotekun’.

Tinubu called for special discussion between the Governors of the South-west and the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mallam Abubakar Malami, over the ambition.

He disclosed that the foundation of the country had not been put at risk with the South-west regional security outfit launched by the governors of the zone in a bit to confront the insecurity in their states.

The former Lagos governor, however, instructed that fabric could be torn by what he called the “dangerous rhetoric of those who should know better.”

In Tinubu’s early intervention in the controversy surrounding Amotekun, Asiwaju Tinubu said: “Those claiming that this limited, inoffensive addition to security threatens the Republic have taken themselves upon a madcap excursion.

“Those claiming that the Federal Government seeks to terribly suppress the Southwest have also lost their compass. Those who occupy these two extremes have sunken into the dark recesses of fear and political paranoia that can undo a nation if such sentiments are allowed to gestate”.

Titled “The Public Discourse Over Amotekun,” the statement personally signed by him reads: “Amotekun. This issue has dominated recent discourse and media headlines. Distilled to its basics, it concerns how best state governments can assist with the safety and security of their residents. This is a matter of serious concern entitled to sober thought. However, it has been turned into a political tug-of-war. Fierce, often unthinking rhetoric, for and against, has crossed the lips of too many Nigerians. More subjective talking than objective thinking has been the fuel of this outburst.

“Question those in favour of Amotekun. Most have but the vaguest notion about it. They know few details yet vigorously attribute to its opponents the most negative intentions. Ask those who oppose Amotekun. They are equally ignorant of its provisions. They oppose the initiative not on its merits but merely because it was proposed by their political opponents or because they don’t see an avenue for personal gain from it.

“While colourful, the rhetoric has been disconcerting. How people have mishandled this matter demonstrates that we still have far to go in perfecting this democracy. Too much energy has been spent distorting this issue instead of seeking a resolution that supports the local enhancement of security while keeping the constitution intact. If this becomes the standard for how we handle disagreements then we will obscure Nigeria’s path forward with our own rubbish.

“In this matter, I do not see malign intent in the differences of opinion between the SW Governors as authors of Amotekun and the Attorney-General as the primary law enforcement officer of the Federal Government. Shorn of the overly dramatic language, what lies before us is but a step in the evolution of our federalism. This is an opportunity to more clearly define that federalism; but one cannot attain this better, more functional definition through overblown, emotional language. Objectivity and calmness are required. To a significant degree, the enduring quality of our republic will be established by the sagacity with which we handle disagreements regarding the division of power between federal and state governments. Such disagreements are inevitable. This is not the first. Nor will it be the last. We must devote our energies more toward solving problems rather than amplifying them.

“Seeking to fulfill their mandates by helping protect their people, the governors of the Southwest collectively established a program to buttress existing security mechanisms. Seeking to protect the constitution as best he could, the Attorney-General offered his opinion on what he believed the governors have sought to do. No one can blame either party for seeking to fulfill what they genuinely see as their public duty.

“Until now, I have deliberately maintained a studied silence regarding Amotekun. Many have tried to goad my swift public reaction. Those who have taken this road did so not because they care about Amotekun or even the people it intends to help protect. They did so knowing this had become a delicate and emotional issue for many. These cynics did so with the adversarial hope that, in haste, I might misspeak or misstep in a manner they could twist to their political advantage.

“Such people are possessed of a mercenary aspect that permits them to sacrifice almost anything, even jeopardize the very foundations of our political unity, if they might exact personal gain from the upheaval. In that they know no nobler purpose than their own appetites, we should feel sorry for them. However, we must not allow our sympathies for their barren condition to persuade us that there is worth in their destructive misconduct. They must be left to the consequences of their own devices.

“If truly I am a political leader as I am often described, then I have not the luxury of hasty, ill-conceived utterances. There are those who will use inflamed words to spark the passions of others. This may bring transient applause. But when the cheers fade, we shall only have further descended because their words were never inclined toward resolution and long-term improvement but toward short-term popularity and perpetual confrontation.

“I believe in this nation and its benign prospects. I dearly love its people, all of them. Over the years of our existence, they have suffered much. Yet they still hold forth with heroic patience and an extraordinary optimism born of strong faith. To these people, I owe my best. I shall not treat them cheaply or bandy their emotions like some errant football. The welfare of these good and decent people is my overriding concern.

“Equally, I do not cow to the demands of those who press for me to make a premature statement on an important issue. Again, that is a game devised by those who care more about political cleverness than the quality of governance. I chose to talk when my position has been made ripe by a collection of the facts and a reasonable assessment of those facts.

“As I view it, this matter can be divided into three major parts: 1) Substantive merits of Amotekun, 2) Decision-making and consultative process and 3) Recommendations on the way forward.

AMOTEKUN, GOVERNORS, AND SECURITY

“As the highest elected official in his state and thus the individual embodiment of the will of the people, a governor must view safety and security as a foremost priority, integral to his mandate. To turn a blind eye to these concerns would be a grave dereliction. That the SW Governors seek to work together to complement the extant security architecture is, in principle, a commendable undertaking. In embracing this concept, they have acted in consonance with the spirit of their offices for the better interests of their people.

“As Governor of Lagos State, I confronted a burgeoning criminal menace. I could not sit idly in the face of the violence and property destruction that struck genuine fear in the hearts of the people. The police tried as best they could, but their coverage was thin. They simply did not have the personnel or material wherewithal to be everywhere at once. We formed Neighbourhood Watch to help fill the gap.

“Our aim was not to replace existing structures but to complement and augment them. The mission of Neighbourhood Watch was to monitor the wards and neighborhoods of the state. The group would gather information and intelligence to pass to the police and security authorities. The Neighbourhood Watch also provided an early warning system to keep citizens from harm’s way. The idea worked. Crime and violence reduced significantly. Even the overreaching Obasanjo government did not contend against Neighbourhood Watch.

“Judging from the public statements of the governors, Amotekun is meant to be structured along similar lines. As I understand it, Amotekun is to be another set of eyes and ears to assist the police. As such, it is but the second generation of Neighbourhood Watch expanded to a regional scale. Conceptually, there is nothing wrong with this. It does not appear to insult the constitution. However, my position regarding Amotekun is not blind or uncritical; there are several organizational and functional aspects of the proposal that could cause some problems if left unresolved.

“First, the stated mission is information gathering by civilians. Such tasks are always and everywhere best done in low-key fashion. Some aspects of Amotekun seem to undermine rather than enhance this function.

Second, equipping Amotekun with showy paraphernalia may cause the public to misconstrue the role of Amotekun, incorrectly believing its mandate is more expansive than it is. This possible disconnect could impede the good aims of the program.

“We also should consider that the Buhari administration has approved the implementation of a policy of community policing wherein additional recruits from all 774 local government areas will be added to the force to help protect their own communities. As the Federal Government emphasizes grassroots policing it is uncertain how well Amotekun can complement the police force as the force moves toward greater decentralization when Amotekun is organisationally leaning in the opposite way.

“We have been fighting for local and decentralized policing for a long time because we know that too much centralization impedes performance. In regard to the actual performance of its appointed tasks, Amotekun should have focused on grassroots local organizations at the state level without a regional command hierarchy. The regional approach may undermine efficiency. There is no compelling logic why the same personnel providing security & informational assistance in Ado-Ekiti should be under the same functional and operational leadership as those providing assistance in Lekki or Akure. This will not lead to optimal performance.

“The regional approach has only limited benefit with regard to the procurement and maintenance of vehicles and communications equipment because this wider approach allows for economies of scale. The regional approach also helps tackle the growing incidences of interstate criminal activity. Some things need to be corrected before Amotekun becomes operational. If not, it will not live up to expectations. Thus, the current formulation of Amotekun is in need of repair before it takes to the road only to quickly slip into a ditch.

CONSULTATIVE PROCESS BREAKS DOWN

“The governors state that they consulted regularly with the police and security agencies. This was the right thing to do. However, their failure to include the office of the Attorney-General in these discussions is the fount of the current public uproar. This was an unfortunate omission the governors should regret and seek to remedy. However, the conceptual merits and positive functional aspects of Amotekun should not be tainted by this procedural defect.

“While the Attorney-General is a conscientious public servant, he is also human. Not having been consulted, he was suddenly faced with an unexpected public announcement regarding a matter within his official ambit. He likely feared the failure to consult him meant that federal prerogatives were being encroached. To blame him for this conclusion would be to blame human nature itself. Though his negative reaction was understandable it was also unhelpful.

“The Attorney-General acted hastily in rendering a public statement that was more inaccurate than it should have been. Amotekun was never proposed as a “defence” agency; the Attorney-General erred in using this description. The use of uniforms and brightly coloured vehicles may not be the best ideas but they do not render Amoteku defence agency or paramilitary group any more than a designated school van carrying uniformed students constitutes a paramilitary deployment.

“Believing the governors had crossed the line, the Attorney-General should have reached out to them. Before going public, he should have sought a private meeting so that he could have a better factual understanding of Amotekun. This would have enabled him to give the governors any specific constitutional or other objectives he might have. In this way, the two sides would have engaged in private consultations to reach agreement on the way forward. This cooperative process might have helped to correct some of the organizational lapses above identified. Such a diplomatic and wise step also would have prevented the current public acrimony now surrounding the issue.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR RESOLUTION

“This matter cannot be resolved on the pages of newspapers or by attributing negative motives to either side. The best way to resolve this is still for the two sides to enter private discussions. Either the governors should seek an official but private meeting with the Attorney-General or the Attorney-General can initiate the contact. Since Amotekun is their initiative, the governors bear the greater onus in seeking the meeting.

“The meeting will initiate further discussion on how to resolve what appears to be a misunderstanding caused by an unfortunate lack of communication. Remedy the gap in communication and the misunderstanding will begin to disappear.

Last, I again stress to well-intentioned Nigerians to shun those who employ heated language to inflame emotions. It does us no good to rush toward exaggerated statements that suggest calamity of the highest order. Don’t allow yourselves to be fodder for those who seek to divide us.

“The fabric of the Republic has not been put at stake by Amotekun. However, that fabric could be torn by the dangerous rhetoric of those who should know better. Those claiming that this limited, inoffensive addition to security threatens the Republic have taken themselves upon a madcap excursion. Those claiming that the Federal Government seeks to terribly suppress the Southwest have also lost their compass. Those who occupy these two extremes have sunken into the dark recesses of fear and political paranoia that can undo a nation if such sentiments are allowed to gestate.

“We are one nation, 200 million strong with 36 states and a great complex of federal authority residing in dozens of federal ministries and agencies. If everyone is allowed their democratic expression, there are bound to be disagreements. This is inherent in the federal structure. Nations that have practiced federalism much longer than us still frequently debate over where the line between state and federal power is to be drawn. They have hundreds of court cases each year on this very issue. Yet they do not attack each other as we do. We must all learn to be more restrained and judicious in our reactions when such disagreements arise.

“Before leaping from our seats to lift our voice to the high rafters in profound indignation, we first would be wise to properly discern the situation. We must ascertain whether it merely is a tempest in a teapot or whether our house and all its teapots are swirling in a real tempest. Despite the ominous headlines and heated talk, an objective analysis points more clearly to the former than the latter. The resolution of this matter is not beyond us if only we allow ourselves to be the democrats that our better conscience and the very documents of our national existence call us to be.

“In trying to help resolve this matter, I have initiated communication with the Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, with a view to meeting the southwest governors to explore amicable solutions to the avoidable controversy. I am sure that, at the end of it all, peace, security, and progress shall reign in our nation. Thank you.”

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El-Zakzaky: Shiites Attacks Police, Civilians And Others In Abuja

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has said members of the El-Zakzaky led Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) assaulted security operatives and civilians in Abuja on Tuesday.

This was contained in a statement made available to journalists by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Anjuguri Manzah.

The Police said members of the Islamic group went berserk on Tuesday and attacked citizens around the Berger roundabout with dangerous weapons.

“As a result of the unfortunate incident, one person who sustained an injury and was rushed to the hospital for medical attention has been certified dead by medical doctors on duty.

“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Bala Ciroma has ordered a full-scale investigation into the unfortunate incident”, it added.

The statement also added that peace has been rebuilt to the area.

The Shiites recently stated that increasing pressure on the Buhari government due to the decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague to investigate the Zaria Massacre of 2015, has led to attacks on its members.

IMN vowed that they would heighten friendly campaigns until justice is done to the victims.

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Gov. Ortom Speaks On Triumph At Supreme Court

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The Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom has associated his victory at the Supreme Court to God.

It was gathered that the apex court affirmed Ortom of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) as the duly elected governor of Benue State in the March 9, 2019, general elections.

The 7-man panel of the apex court had said it agreed with the concurrent judgements of the two lower courts.

Responding, Ortom in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Terver Akase said words cannot express his inestimable gratitude to God for giving him the opportunity to serve the state for a second term.

He appreciated the people of Benue State for standing behind him in very challenging moments and promised not to let the people down.

“We return all the glory to Almighty God and I appreciate Benue people who were vessels in God’s hands to give us this victory. I remain grateful and I owe them good governance, dividends of democracy and cooperation in ensuring that we add value to the development of Benue State.”

He also dedicated his victories at the Tribunal, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court to Benue people for their unending support to his administration.

He also reaffirmed his confidence in the Nigerian Judiciary which he said has once more proven that it is a true pillar of democracy.

Ortom applauded the leadership and members of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the state, as well as other stakeholders for the support they have given to him.

He, therefore, revealed that the task of building Benue State is the responsibility of all its people and reiterated his call on members of other political parties to join hands with him to develop the state.

The Governor reassured the people that his administration would go on with aggressively addressing improvement challenges in various spheres of the economy.

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Boko Haram: Buhari Condemns The Execution Of CAN Chairman

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President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the Boko Haram killing of the chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Lawan Andimi, in Michika local government area of Adamawa state.

The President in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, interpreted the murder as cruel, inhuman and intentionally evocative.

He expressed displeasure that the terrorists went on to kill the religious leader while giving signals at the same time of a willingness to set him free by releasing him to third parties.

“President Buhari consoles the Christian community all over Nigeria, the government and people of Adamawa state and the Bishop’s family over the sad loss of the man of God and assures that terrorists will continue to pay a heavy price for their actions and would comprehensively be defeated by our determined armed forces.

“President urged nations of the world to end all support provided to Boko Haram and Islam in West Africa, ISWA terrorist groups whose only goal is to sow death, violence, and destruction in the sub-region”, the statement read.

Andimi was kidnaped by Boko Haram when they attacked Michika on January 3.

At first, he was declared missing but later appeared in a video released by Boko Haram, wherein he pleaded with authorities to secure his release.

Michalka and some other areas in North-eastern Nigeria have been repeatedly attacked by Boko Haram.

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Transfer: Barcelona Director Setien Ascertain’s He Wants To Sign A Striker To Replace Suarez

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Barcelonian manager, Quique Setien, has confirmed that the club is interested in signing a striker this month, following the long-term injury to Luis Suarez.

The Spanish goliaths are short of alternatives after Suarez underwent surgery on a severe knee problem.

With the 32-year-old anticipated to be out until at least May, Barca is expected to add a forward before the transfer window closes and has reportedly identified Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as their preferred target.

“We are considering that issue but we still have to mature things a little more, it is not an issue that worries me too much.

“I am worried about tomorrow’s game and that of Valencia, this is an issue that we will deal with the sports management in-depth and we will see what is most convenient,” Setien told a press conference ahead of Wednesday’s Copa del Rey game against Ibiza.

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Buhari Appoints Bayero As NITT’s Director-General

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President Muhammadu Buhari has confirmed the appointment of Bayero Sali-Farah as the substantive head of the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT).

This was revealed on Tuesday, January 21 by NITT’s director of public affairs Paul Msheliz, in Kaduna.

Salih-Farah’s appointment, according to the permanent secretary of the Federal
Ministry of transportation took effect from Monday, January 13.

The new appointee was born in 1964 in Kaduna state. He started working with NITT in 1994, he’s also a graduate of Geography in the Usman Dan Fodio University.

The letter that encompasses his appointment partly read: “I am pleased to inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by a letter Ref. No. PRES/99/MT/26, dated January 13, 2020, has approved your appointment as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology, Zaria, Kaduna state.

“The appointment is for four years effective January 13, 2020, in accordance with Section 7 of the NITT Act Cap No. 116 LFN 2010.”

This is one of the important apointments the president has made in his move to drive forward his Next Level vision in the second administration.

In a related development it was reported that President Buhari had nominated Kingsley Obiora as the new deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This is contained in a statement issued by the president’s spokesman, Femi Adesina, on Thursday, January 16.

The statement Indicated that the president had already forwarded a letter nominating Obiora to the president of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan.

The statement said that if upheld by the Senate, Obiora, who is an Alternate Executive Director at the Washington DC office of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), would be replacing Joseph Nnanna, who would retire on February 2, 2020.

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Efcc: No High Profile Corrupt Individuals Will Be Left Out – Says Magu

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Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ibrahim Magu, has on Tuesday breezed into the Ilorin Zonal office of the commission declaring that no high profile individuals involved in corrupt allegations would be shielded from litigation.

“All of them would be arraigned as soon as investigations are concluded.”

Magu who arrived at the zonal office at about 11.20 am said:” I am here to see how my men are doing and to also see areas of improvement in the bid to ensure efficiency in the system

He asserted that the campaign against corruption had just started noting that “more looters will be repatriated back to the country for prosecution.”

Magu clarified that the legislation of the Ilorin Zonal office of the agency became pertinent, due to the status of the state as one of the first generation states created in 1967.

The anti-graft boss observed that the fight against corruption goes beyond the EFCC alone, adding that ” the media should give suggestions and advice at all times for better service to the people.

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2Baba, Teni And Others To Feature In Mtv Base Show

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Assorted Nigeria’s biggest music stars are set to feature in the second season of MTV Base Behind the Scene.

The show, which is hosted by MTV Base VJ, Sammy Walsh, will see leading talents in the entertainment industry.

Fans will be taken down memory lane, discussing topics around how their careers started, what celebrity means to them and where they see themselves in the future.

Rear to the Story which first premiered in Nigeria in 2019 with Dammy Krane, he will return this season with Teni set to feature in the first episode.

Succeeding episodes of the show will also feature some biggest names in the Nigerian music industry including the legendary 2baba and Sinzu.

Sammy Walsh will also interview Big Brother Naija winner, Mercy Eke as well as former BBN housemates Tacha and Khafi as they share some untold stories about themselves and how the BBN show has changed their life.

The senior channels manager, Solafunmi Oyeneye, said the new season of MTV Base Behind The Story is not just better than its debut season, but also thoroughly enlightening and filled with several inside stories.

“As Nigeria’s number one music and lifestyle channel, MTV Base understands and appreciates the need to continually offer entertainment fans exciting and engaging content”.

Behind The Story has been mainly curated to provide fans with an opening to get to know their favorite stars even better.

The show will shed light on the formerly hidden backstories on the most newsworthy events that have rocked Nigeria’s entertainment scene.”

MTV Base Behind The Story season 2 premieres 8 pm on Tuesday, January 21, 2020, on MTV Base channel 322 on DStv and channel 72 on GOtv.

You can also follow up @mtvbasewest on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or join the conversations using the #MTVBasebehindthestory.

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Cleric, Hunters And OPC Leads Ekiti Solidarity Demonstration For Amotekun

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A cleric and crucial member of hunters as well as members of the Oodua People’s Congress, on Tuesday, led the solidarity rally in support of the security outfit code called Amotekun.

Also in the rally were members of the National Association of Nigerian Students(NANS), Vigilance Group of Nigeria, Yoruba Koya, Man ‘O War, Oodua Union, Ekiti Council of Elders and Agbekoya.

The police and operatives of the Department of State Services gave heavy cover for the participants, who trekked from the popular Fajuyi park through Okesa junction, Ojumose to the popular Erekesan market and Ijigbo area of Ado Ekiti capital city.

It was a general consensus among the stakeholders that the Amotekun initiative has berthed perpetually in the southwest region and that it was not formed to fight Fulani herdsmen, except the unruly and harmful ones.

Speaking at the rally, a man of God and Student leader as well as coordinator of the peaceful protest, Pastor Praise Ayodele, said: “Amotekun has come to stay in southwest Nigeria.

“We are not fighting anybody. The security of our people is very important. We are to do this to support our governors that we are happy with Amotekun.

“It is said that our people were being killed and kidnapped and many of these carnages were without arrests. We are daily in fear of being killed and these and many more are the reasons for the formation of Amotekun.

“On the proscription of Amotekun by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, we are of the opinion that the Minister only expressed himself as a private citizen who is entitled to his own opinion

“We charged our governors to remain focused, we advise our leaders to desist from politicizing Amotekun and that our security should be of priority “.

Also, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Kayode Fayemi on Internal Security and former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Dele Olugbemi, said: “the Amotekun is for susceptible identification of all visitors to Ekiti and southwest. It is sad that Malami made pronouncements over an issue he knew nothing about. He spoke as if he didn’t know the level of insecurity in this zone.

“Some of these evildoers besieged even our towns killed people and destroyed everything on the farm. Amotekun will work in their localities and it is not about fighting anybody.

Making his contributions, the Coordinator of Oodua Union, Hon Femi Robinson, said the security architecture in the country has collapsed and that local security becomes imperative, saying ” If Amotekun disarm armed robbers, are they not helping the police?”, He asked.

The leaders of Agbekoya and Vigilance Group of Nigeria, Chief Sunday Omoyajowo and Mrs. Suwebat Aliu respectively, said Yoruba maintained a united front about Amotekun and that nothing will change this stance, adding that “Amotekun won’t render the police useless, because security is a function of everybody, so we appreciate our governors for this initiative”.

The leader of the delegation of Ekiti Council of Elders, Chief Niyi Ajubulu, regretted that people can no longer move around as a result of increased insecurity.

” We have to be vigilant in this zone. Amotekun has landed and we must cooperate with them. Whoever that is averse to the formation of this outfit is satanic”.

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CAN Chairman Executed By Boko Haram Sect

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The Boko Haram sect has reportedly executed Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Lawan Andimi, in Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

This was disclosed on Tuesday by Ahmed Salkida, a journalist known to have access to Boko Haram.

He tweeted: “To break some news items can traumatize. I’m battling with one of such. Reverend Andimi, abducted by Boko Haram was executed yesterday. Rev. Andimi was a church leader, a father to his children and the community he served. My condolences go to his family.”

DAILY POST had reported that Lawan Andimi, was declared missing on Saturday, January 3rd.

Andimi’s disappearance followed a foiled attack on Michika Local Government Area in Adamawa by Boko Haram.

In a video, Andimi, while pleading with the authorities applauded his captors for treating him well.

He urged his family members to pray for his release, adding that if he is not released, maybe it is the will of God.

Andi said, “I have never being discouraged because of all condition that one finds himself is in the hand of God.

“God who makes them take care of me and to leave my life will still work and he will touch them.

“I’m appealing to my colleagues, particularly my President, and my Governor for my release.

“These people have been doing me well, they provide my needs, they haven’t done anything wrong to me so I believe that God who made them act in such a way to me will make all arrangements for me to leave here.

“By the grace of God, I will be together with my wife and children. If the opportunity is not granted, maybe it is the will of God.

“I urge you all to be patient, don’t cry, don’t worry but thank God for everything.”

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari had responded to a statement by the CAN which condemned his government of not doing enough to stop the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

President of CAN, Rev Dr. Samson Ayokunle, in a strong statement, urged the federal government to deploy every inevitable resource at its disposal to ensure that all Christians in the captivity of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists.

But Buhari in a statement sent to journalists signed by his Spokesman, Garba Shehu assured CAN and other Nigerians that the security forces were working endlessly to secure the release of hostages in Boko Haram captivity.

The president begged Nigerians not to see terrorist attacks and plans as a religious fight or persecution of Christians, adding that “Not seeing terrorists as they should be is exactly what they wish to divide Nigerians”

The statement read: “The security forces of Nigeria are working continuously to return those taken hostage by Boko Haram to their families, friends, and communities. In doing this, the government has full confidence in their ability to accomplish the task.

“Nigerians must continue to be united in ensuring that they do not subscribe to the terrorists’ message of division. Unfortunately, some leaders and politicians seek to make political capital from our religious differences.

“As we fight Boko Haram on the ground, so too must we tackle their beliefs: stability and unity in face of their hatred is itself a rejection of their worldview.

“This government shall never tolerate religious intolerance. We clearly and unambiguously restate our support for the freedom to practice whichever belief you wish.

“The politicization of religion – as forbidden by the constitution – has no place in Nigeria.”

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Rema Reveals He Just Had His First Kiss, Lucky Girl Yet To Be Known

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Nigerian teenage outstanding singer and rapper, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema has said he just had his first kiss.

This was disclosed by the singer in a tweet posted to his Twitter page yesterday to reveal the rapper’s action .

Rema being one of the A-list artistes in the country at the moment, he might not have enough time for romance due to studio sessions, shows and this could take up a lot of time.

However, it seems Rema might just be living life like a normal teenager behind the camera.

Rema has just broken the hearts of many with this revelation and the lucky girl still remains unknown.

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Ebuka Uchendu Is One Of BbNaija Successful Housemates

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Collating Nigerians opinions in the streets what they know Ebuka for, it is either his enormous Agbada exhibition or Big Brother Naija.

Not too many know that Ebuka was a member of the first Big Brother Naija show that was aired in 2006.

Ebuka got into big brother’s House straight out of law school, which he graduated in 2005.

Ebuka was one of the prominent housemates of the season and was well on his way to gaining a victory, but he was soon dismissed before he could even reach the final stage.

Ebuka and Katung Aduwak shoved it off right from the onset, and it was either one of them that was going home with the prize, according to the fans.

It would look like Ebuka was kicked out of the house by Joseph Ada’s Fan Club (JFC), but Joe himself was evicted not long after Ebuka left.

Ebuka lasted only 52 days- eight weeks in the House while Katung Aduwak, Ebuka’s friend, finally emerged winner of Big Brother Naija 2006, affirming the $100,000 cash prize.

At that time the show was hosted by Olisa Adibua and Michelle Dede.

That could have been the last that was heard about Ebuka, like some of his housemates who literally disappeared after the show, including Joseph Ada, Ichemeta Ochoga, Nguveren Joan who all seem to have left the scene.

Ebuka is a lawyer – not only did he graduate from a University, but he also went to Law School and was called into the Nigerian bar Association (NBA).

Ebuka later evacuated the country to further his studies, bagging a Master of Laws Degree from the Washington College of Law in 2010.

Before leaving the country, however, Ebuka hosted ‘Friend or Foe’ the GLO Show and a couple of other shows on NTA.

When Ebuka is not hosting Big Brother Naija, Ebuka hosts Rubbin’ Minds on Channels TV, a TV talk show for young Nigerians. He has interviewed various well-known figures, he co-hosts several other shows on TV as well. He hosted The Spot with Zainab Balogun and Lamide Akintobi, which last aired in 2017, as well as Men’s Corner, a show on EbonyLife TV, Nigeria’s first all-male TV show.

He came back to Big Brother Naija scene in 2017, where he was the host of the show and has been the host for the last three seasons.

Ebuka’s big prestige came with the recovery of the Big Brother Naija show, as there was a long 11-year halt between the first and second season of the show.

It would look like it was a match made in heaven, with Ebuka seeming to utilize so much influence on the show.

Viewers even suspected that Ebuka might be calling shots on who gets evicted or who stays in the House. Ebuka had to clear the air that he was only a staff of the companies that run the show.

Apart from the Big Brother Naija show, Ebuka has his Agbadas working for him. There’s a whole section of the internet – a whole page of Google search that provides uninterrupted content dedicated to all things Ebuka and his series of Agbada.

In 2017, Ebuka stole the show at Banky and Adesuwa’s traditional wedding and broke the internet simultaneously with his Agbada.

The look somehow had Nigerians (both male and female) scrambling to their tailors, to recreate the same for them. Several “What I ordered vs What I got” moments online. The Agbada went viral, the designer Ugo Monye’s Instagram account exploded overnight, it was sensational!. And since then, Ebuka has not stopped teasing Nigerians with his looks, it is one of the highlights of the Big Brother Naija Eviction shows, something to be looked forward to.

It cannot be denied that Ebuka is one of the most visibly successful contestants of the Big Brother Naija ever. Based on hosting the show, Ebuka has sealed several authorized deals and has made his mark. He has gone on to build a career for himself as a Media Personality in Nigeria, with a voice and opinion sought for.

Even though Ebuka did not win the Big Brother Naija show 14 years ago, he is precisely winning in life today.

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Things You Require To Learn Essentially About Nigeria’s Grammy Competitor, ‘Burna Boy’

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Slighter than a decade into his career, Damini Ogulu popularly known as Burna Boy has climbed to heights most of his colleagues in the Nigerian music industry can only dream of.

Having no one higher than him in the ‘World Music nomination’ for his 2019 album “African Giant” at the 2020 Grammys, Here’s what you need to know about Nigeria’s biggest international superstar of the moment, Burna Boy

Burna Boy is the outstanding Nigerian artiste to be assigned for a BET Award, an MTV EMA and a Grammy in the same year.

A: Aristokrat Records, by Priye Isokrari, was the first label that signed Burna Boy to an experienced agreement in 2012.

B: Burn Notice series – a run of 2 mixtapes (Burn Notice & Burn Identity) that Burna Boy released in 2011 just before signing professionally to Aristokrat records.

C: The Calabar Carnival is where Burna Boy first performed on the arena for the first time.

D: Don Gorgon – another alias Burna Boy goes by.

E: Burna Boy is the first Nigerian artist to be nominated for an MTV EMA, a BET award and a Grammy in the same year.

F: In “Freedom Freestyle,” off his Burn Series mixtapes, Burna Boy tells the story of his run-in with the law in the UK which led to him being banned from entering the country for a few years.

G: Gambo – the name of Burna Boy’s childhood best friend who passed away. He’s named in at least five Burna Boy songs and Burna also has a tattoo of his name on his body.

H: Burna Boy was really high when he made “Ye” after Shina Peller convinced him to record the song while he turned up at the club owned by Peller.

I: Internationally, he has inked deals with Spotify, appeared on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Tiny Desk by NPR, Genius, Apple Music’s Up Next, among others.

J: On July 23rd, 2019, Burna Boy appeared on late-night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live, becoming only the second Nigeria to appear on the US late-night TV.

K: A producer named Kel P has produced 5 of Burna Boy’s last six hit songs.

L: LIFE (Leaving an Impact For Eternity) was Burna Boy’s debut studio album. It was released on 12 August 2013.

M: Mama, in Ahoda West Local Government Area, Rivers State is where Burna Boy’s family is from.

N: Nissi Ogulu, Burna Boys’ second sister is also a musician and tours with him performing her music.

O: “On A Spaceship” is Burna Boy’s second album and his first on his own label, Spaceship Entertainment.

P: Port Harcourt – where Burna Boy was born and the city he returned to on his return from the UK. The first makings of Burna Boy the artiste started in this city.

Q: Quilox Night Club, located in Victoria Island Lagos, is where Burna Boy recorded his mega hit song, “Ye”. The club has a studio and restaurant on its premises and Burna Boy has said he is close friends with the owner, Shina Peller.

R: Ronami Ogulu is Burna Boy’s younger sister and also his stylist.

S: “Steel & Copper” is a collaborative EP Burna Boy did with Los Angeles-based electronic duo DJDS. It was released in March 2019.

T: Treehouse Studio, owned by producer Leriq, is where Burna Boy first started recording music.

U: Under his distribution deal, Burna Boy retains the right to distribute his music and the proceeds thereof on the African continent.

V: Burna Boy has contributed verses as a guest artist to over 30 songs since 2012.

W: Burna Boy signed an international distribution deal with Warner Music in 2017.

X: Burna Boy has openly advocated against Xenophobia in Africa, especially South Africa.

Y: “Ye,” released as a single off Burna Boy’s third studio album “Outside” is his biggest song yet.

Z: In March 2019, at a show in Zambia, Burna Boy kicked a fan who was trying to rob him of his ring, almost pulling him into the crowd. Burna Boy later apologized.

Moving toward January 26, 2020, Nigerians will be watching that Grammy stage and if Burna Boy wins, he’ll evolve the very first Nigerian artiste to win one of those best bright gramophones.

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Group Tells President Trump To Place Cjn Tanko And Others On Visa Ban

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In action to register its dissatisfaction over the sacking of Emeka Ihedioha as the governor of Imo state, a group has pleaded President Donald Trump to place visa ban to the seven Supreme Court justices who unanimously announced Uzodinma as the winner of the March 9, 2019 governorship election held in the state.

It was reported that the group known as the Imo Diaspora coalition for justice and democracy in a petition begged President Trump to place the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Tanko Muhammad, Sylvester Ngwuta, Kudirat Kekekere-Ekun, Olukayode Ariwoola, Amiru Sanusi, Amina Augie and Uwani Abba-Aji on “visa ban” or “no-fly zone.”

It was compiled that the group declared that fake results were added to the total accredited voters in the state which was 823,743 out of which only 714,355 voted to now become 928,054 votes.

They, however, asked the Supreme Court to overturn the judgment saying, “Nigeria’s legal system allows for the Supreme Court to reverse itself in particular conditions, including where the judgement was obtained by dishonest manifestation as in the case herein.”

Meanwhile, it had been previously reported that Justice Tanko was absent when the Supreme Court began its judgement in the governorship appeal on Kano state.

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Supreme Court Affirms Bala Mohammed’s Election As Bauchi Governor

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The Supreme Court has proclaimed the election of Bala Mohammed of PDP as governor of Bauchi State in the 2019 General Elections.

In an undisputed judgment delivered by Justice Musa Dantijo, the court rejected the petition by the candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Abubakar Muhammed, for requiring in excellence.

The APC and its governorship nominee in the March 2019 election in Bauchi State are by their appeal challenging the victory of Governor Bala Muhammed of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the poll.

The Supreme Court has, however, clasped that he failed to demonstrate the perverseness of the concurrent judgments of the two lower courts to warrant the court to grant his prayers.

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NNPC Boss Visit Pipeline Community Explosion

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The Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Mele Kyari, has said the corporation is working with safety agencies to curtail occurrences of pipeline destruction in the country to the barest minimum.

Kyari said this on Monday during an inspection call to the scene of the Jan. 19 NNPC pipeline outbreak at Ile Epo, Abule Egba axis of Lagos State.

He revealed that the NNPC was working with security agencies comprising of the Nigerian Navy, Civil Defence Corps and Police in attacking the problem, but also strived the support of communities to attain enormous achievements.

It was disclosed that five persons lost their lives while several vehicles and houses were destroyed after some suspected pipeline destroyers disrupted the Atlas Cove-Mosimi Pipeline, part of the System 2B Pipeline.

According to Kyari: “Unfortunately this incident has happened and we lost five lives confirmed and there are many people who were injured, and that is very pathetic for us.

More importantly, what is happening around the System 2 B Pipeline from Atlas Cove to Mosimi all the way to Ilorin are acts of vandals of all nature along our right of way.

“What they do is that they make insertions into our pipelines, tap petroleum products and at the end, it will be disasters we have seen like this. This is happening daily.

What this portends is a danger to all of us. If this incident had happened under a windy condition yesterday, then we would have been talking of thousands of people dying.”

He said that beyond working with security agencies to curb such incidents, the cooperation of all Nigerians, especially those residing close to the pipelines, was expected to accomplish desired results.

These activities are happening within communities. People are aware of what is happening, and if we allow them to continue doing what they are doing, they will kill all of us and everybody along this corridor will be affected.

Therefore, we do need the help and cooperation of all members of the community to expose these people when they come.

“It is no secret because as you can see, the point this fire started is in the visibility of everybody around here. That means that we saw it and did not do anything, and this is the result we are seeing.

“We are counting on Nigerians to help us resolve this because it is a major national security concern,” he said.

Kyari said that the affected line which was shut down as a result of the inferno had been restored.

“We are happy that we have restored the line. After the break, we shut down the line to contain the damage it can cause but now we are back on stream.

“Petroleum products are flowing all the way from Atlas Cove to Ilorin as we speak now,” he said.

The NNPC boss, who also visited the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, solicited the support of the traditional and community leaders in tackling the menace.

Also speaking, Rear Adm. Oladele Daji, Staff Officer, Western Naval Command, said the security agencies were cooperating toward rebuilding sanity to the pipelines and arresting the vandals.

He said the Nigerian Navy had so far taken out over 300 houses on the right of way across the state with the support of the Lagos State Government, and the exercise was still ongoing.

On his part, Akiolu guaranteed the NNPC boss that the traditional rulers would heighten efforts to protect pipelines and other infrastructure within their respective properties.

He said that the upsurge in pipeline destruction was due to the greed of some individuals depressed to make money without considering the significances of their actions.

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Cardi B Shares Video Of Her First Date With Offset

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American popular rapper and songwriter, Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, politely known as Cardi B, has put up with social media to share the video from her primary date with husband Offset.

This was made known today through her verified Instagram page.

Cardi B captioned the video “This wasn’t the first time I meet Offset but it was our first date. Superbowl. I can’t believe this outta be 4 years ago. Lawwwwwwdddd.”

The rapper who introduced Offset in the video as “My friend in the video”, also put in the video that she had no idea what’s going on and who to support because she doesn’t watch sports and was only there for the Superbowl halftime action, which she lost.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7h0YyoAmnU/?igshid=1gqi33vhszy5u

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Fire Raze Shops In Kano As One Escapes Death

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The Kano State Fire Service has confirmed that four shops were destroyed by fire at Kofar Ruwa Yan-Rodi Market in Dala Local Government area.

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the fire service, Alhaji Saidu Muhammad confirmed the incident in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Kano.

According to Alhaji Saidu Muhammad, “We received a distress call on Sunday at about 10:49 p.m from Emergency Communication Centre (ECC) that there is a fire outbreak at the market.

Stressing that, “We quickly sent some personnel and fire fighting vehicle to the scene at about 10:55 pm to stop it from spreading to other shops.

He said that one of the shops was completely razed, while two others with three vehicles were slightly burnt.

Stressing further, he said there were no casualties, but property whose value had not been estimated was lost to the fire.

Still speaking, the spokesman said that the victim was rescued, but sustained a slight injury and was handed over to his family to take to the hospital for treatment.

He advised traders to be more cautious and desist from using devices eligible for igniting a fire and also to lookout against repetition.

Muhammed also called on residents to keep fire buckets, blankets and extinguishers at home to enable them to curtail outbreaks before calling on the service.

Though the cause of the fire, which occurred on Sunday at 10:49 p.m, was still unknown, at the time of filing this report, the investigation had begun.

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89 Suspected ‘Yahoo-Boys’ Arrested In Ibadan Night Club

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The officials of the EFCC Ibadan zonal office arrested 89 suspected internet fraudsters within the weekend.

The arrest which occurs at a prominent Club 360 located on the Akala Expressway, Oluyole Extension in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The arrest also led to the appropriation of tallies of vehicles, laptops, complicated phones, and other items. While the suspects are undergoing additional inquiry.

Before the trial for the late-night strategy, officials of the commission had conducted series of discreet surveillance on the nature of movements going on in the nightclub which, according to intelligence, was popular for harboring suspected internet fraudsters.

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Peruzzi Blow Up King Patrick, Says He Know About The Audio Signing

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Nigerian popular singer, Tobechukwu Victor Okoh, better known by his stage name, Peruzzi, has finally replied to the allegations towards him and his former record label boss, King Patrick.

The singer as of yesterday, taken to twitter to narrate how he spent two years making his manager understand that he doesn’t need his money.

According to Peruzzi, his former boss has insulted the DMW board and he actually needed him to help fight them to pay him.

Peruzzi said that he has told king Patrick countless times that his relationship with Davido can help his baby record label, after which he got plans to sign other artists after him. so as to have a strong relationship with these guys, as they’re not fighting him but he never listened.

The singer accused his former boss, claiming that he is the one trying to make a case, according to him, he asks him to come closer that nobody is fighting him.

“I’m just tryna grow & don’t wanna leave you behind Cos “no time”!
You agree today and it’s all good. Tomorrow you go crazy again”.

The singer also accused his former boss that he spent 48 Million on the guy he signed before him. But it was a failure and he didn’t drag him. Why?

The singer, who also opines that he offered to send his former boss his money said “you wanted to collect the money before he signs the agreement. Who does that? So that you’d turn Richard Branson and start telling stories?

The singer further explained that Someone told you I left him for David When he was the one that bought my flight ticket to Dubai. And you think he’s okay. They won’t tell you they were present & aware of the audio signing he commented.

https://twitter.com/Peruzzi_VIBES/status/1218534569424670721?s=19

The singer also hit back his former boss for accusing him of the songs he gave to Davido under his record label Golden Boy Entertainment, stating that Patrick actually made him write songs for his friends for free.

Recall that he neither the producer wasn’t given any money for the songs he made him to write for his friends or did he sign the producer too?

According to Peruzzi, his former boss knows all he wanna do is write and sing and chop this life. Stating also that I am a music machine, I understand life from a different point. I write a story, doesn’t mean it’s mine to tell. I don’t even give a fuck who tells it! I already set my soul free by writing the story. It’s not that deep.

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Fire Destroys Over 10 Shops In Cross River

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Over ten shops were entirely toppled down by fire in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The experience transpired at Ogbojo-Akakpa in Ogoja,
Federal Science College, Ogoja on Saturday.

It was compiled that ten shops were completely burnt down while the people stared helplessly.

Although, the reason for the fire is yet to be explained it only took the efforts of the people in the absence of the Fire Service, to use mai ruwa (water carriage) to regulate the fire from consuming other shops and houses.

A witness who gave his name as Raymond Obi said, “The people watched helplessly as the fire burnt down their building harboring the shops.

“Although nobody knew what caused the fire that escalated wildly, many people tried to pick up some few things as no life was lost,” he said.

He recalled that several incidences of fire outbreak have occurred in Ogoja – leading to loss of properties worth several millions of Naira in recent times, Obi said but question the whereabouts of the fire service people in the area.

One of the shop owners, a radio/television technician, refused to mention his name reviewed the incident thus, “I went across to buy some food to eat and when I came back I saw people gathering in front of my shop.

“I saw the fire burning everywhere. I couldn’t pick even a needle aside from the TV sets that I left outside,” he lamented.

When reached, the Public Relations Officer of Cross River State Fire Service, Comrade Cletus said he was not in town.

“I am currently not in town. I am in Akure for an official assignment. But, I’ll direct you to the person in charge of Ogoja station, he’ll know better”, Makers said.

Following this , when journalists tried to reach out to the Fire Service man in charge of Ogoja Station, Comrade Solomon Atambi, as directed by the PRO efforts substantiated abortive as his phone number was not connecting.

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President Buhari Talks On Border Closer In London

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Saturday, in London said that the partial closure of Nigeria’s borders was not to penalize her neighbours.

This was disclosed in a meeting with a selected group of the Nigerian neighborhood in the United Kingdom.

President Buhari clarified that the period of closure will be employed for stock-taking on threats to the nation’s safety and economy.

He also clarified that it was meant to enhance the country’s security and economy noting that Nigerian farmers have been celebrating the closure which has drastically reduced the smuggling of agricultural harvest as well as arms and ammunition.

Buhari associated the country’s basic food security role to the “very good last three rainy seasons;” the federal government’s reduction in the price of fertilizers by 50 percent and the presidential command to the Central Bank of Nigeria not to give foreign exchange for food imports thereby saving the nations billions of naira.

Applauding Nigerians in the Diaspora for their huge home remittances more than $25 billion in 2018, the President also lauded their personal performances in their various careers of expertise.

Illustrating the achievements of his administration, the President said Nigeria’s “huge, vibrant youth population” have been encouraged to go back to the farms and are “living decent and reputable lifestyles.”

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Nigerian Boxer Prostrates To Greet Buhari In London

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British-Nigeria hero, Anthony Joshua has on Saturday exhibited the Nigerian in him as he prostrated to welcome President Muhammadu Buhari in London.

The Personal Assistant to the president on New Media, Bashir Ahmad In a video shared ringleader champion seen prostrating before President Buhari, who is currently in the United Kingdom for an investment summit.

The champion from Sagamu in Ogun state was received by Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of foreign affairs; Nìyí Adebayo, Minister of industry, trade, and investment; and Abike Dabiri-Erewa Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).

The prizefighter furthermore presented his heavyweight belts to the president.

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Ihedioha Says His Confidence Remains Active In Nigeria Democracy

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Imo, Mr. Emeka Ihedioha has said his morality will remain strong in Nigeria, in spite of the Supreme Court judgment that removed him as governor of the state.

He noted this on Saturday when he accepted members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) led by its National Chairman, Mr. Uche Secondus, who paid him a solidarity visit in Abuja.

Ihedioha said though the ruling was a shock to him adding that he will remain calm and would always take relief in God at all times.

“We are faithful believers in God and God does not sleep. This will make history in many ways and so this is a historical process, historical action, and I am sure there will be historical answers at the end of the day.

“I want to assure you that we will remain resolute and committed to the ideals of our great party.

“I want to say that the event will not put into question our faith in the Nigerian nation. It will not question our commitment to democracy, it will rather strengthen our resolve to match forward and make Nigeria a greater nation.

“I am certain that from the events of that day, Nigeria will emerge a stronger and greater country.

“I want to urge you to continue to work with all lovers of democracy across the board so that we can all put our heads together and match forward,” Ihedioha said.

He also said how the issue was settled by the Supreme Court would interpret the fate of Nigeria’s democracy.

“I am certain that the judiciary and electoral system are well aware that they are on trial.

“What is fundamental about this is that the facts of the matters as relates to Imo state governorship election are the foundation of our democratic processes,” he added.

Ihedioha explained that the election was not about him or Imo, but about the fortune of Nigeria’s democracy.

He, nevertheless, said it was not time to enjoy, but rather a redefining period for quiet thinking.

Enunciating earlier, Secondus urged Nigerians not to trivialize the Supreme Court judgment on Imo and that the PDP would not join issues with those he contended deliberately and intentionally thwarted the country’s democracy.

“In the case of Imo, we have more questions than answers because we can’t see the figures adding up. These are the questions agitating our minds and the minds of Nigerians.

“I want to appeal to our brothers who are on the other side, to stop trivializing these issues. They are of fundamental importance in nature.

“References are made in Sokoto, Rivers and Zamfara states. You cannot compare what happened in those states with Imo.

The other ones are intraparty. Let them come out and tell us what really happened, from the Tribunal to the Appeal court up the Supreme court in the 388 polling units,” Secondus said.

“The truth is what we are seeking. We are not against speaking on very respected individuals, we are saying that the figures are not adding up. Can they look into it again? ” he added.

He urged Ihedioha to be strong and cautious, as according to him, the truth would be revealed.

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Police Arrest Anti-Omeje Protesters Seizes Mock-Coffin

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The motion to halt the re-election proposal of a former chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, Hon. Patrick Omeje was learned to be chaotic on Friday.

Several youths again took to the roads of Nsukka with a mock coffin.

It was also learned that this is the second time an anti-Omeje uproar is taking place in Nsukka.

Still, the youths came out with a mock coffin, imploring the Governor of Enugu State not to examine the former council boss for re-election.

The youths blamed Omeje of low outing during his first term in office.

It was also gathered that the protesting youths took off at Opi Junction, where they positioned the coffin before it was seized by the police.

An authority indicated that “the youths had one statement – that Omeje does not earn to be re-elected as chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area due to non-performance

“They also believe that the party has not opened up the political space in Nsukka to allow all the aspirants to test their popularity in a primary election.”

The authority distant stated that the youths were apprehended by men of the Udenu Police Division when they strived to head towards Orba, the hometown of the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

The youths were apprehended and taken to the Police Station in Obollo-Afor; from there, they were moved to the State CID later in the evening, alongside the mock-coffin with which they were rioting.

“I don’t know when it became a crime for people to express their opinion in a peaceful protest,” the source who craved namelessness added.

It was reported that there has been intensified uncertainty in Nsukka Council Area ahead of the February 29 Local Government Elections, with several of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, nominees already heading to court over likely rejection of the party to sell nominations forms.

The nominees are Hon. Chineme Onyeke and Hon. Agbo Amos Amadi. Both nominees have vowed to fight on till they receive justice.

They had in distinct media meetings indicted the party of absconding with nomination forms.

Agbo notified journalists that “I have told my legal team to institute an action in court to address this injustice. I am taking the PDP to court not because I hate the party but because I don’t have anyone to speak for me in the party.

“I know that the court of competent jurisdiction is the last hope of the common man. Between now and Monday I know PDP would be served, to know why they refused to sell form to me in an election I am well qualified.

“What is happening in Nsukka local government area is evil and should be condemned in its totality. I am fighting and I am not looking back. I know that the spirit of our ancestors will continue to protect me; God in heaven will continue to protect me to ensure there is justice in Nsukka and at the end, I know there will be justice for the people of Nsukka local government area.”

I want to tell the public, my supporters that it’s time to fight for justice in Enugu State. I am not against the will and wish of the leaders, I am just against the injustice.”

Also, Onyeke had said, “The party leadership absconded with the forms from the National secretariat, Abuja.

“Is this how to run a political party under democracy in this 21st century ? It is this kind of impunity that brought the PDP to its sorry state in Nigeria.

On his part, Onyeke had said, “The party leadership absconded with the forms from the National secretariat, Abuja.

“Is this how to run a political party under democracy in this 21st century ? It is this kind of impunity that brought the PDP to its sorry state in Nigeria.

“We have reliable information that the State Chairman has taken the forms to where they are calling their cronies in each local government to come and fill the forms there. These are people that are daily criticizing and demonizing President Buhari, alleging that he is tyrant. Are they not now worse than dictators? This is terrible for democracy in Enugu State. It is terrible for internal democracy in the PDP Enugu State Chapter. It is a coup.

“I call on the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to call the State Chairman of the party to order and save the PDP from grassroots crisis in Nsukka Local Government Area. They should throw open the democratic landscape and desist from imposition of candidates.”

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President Buhari Asked To Arrest Yoruba Leaders Establishing Amotekun

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The President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration has been called upon to apprehend Yoruba leaders promoting the establishment of the new security outfit, Amotekun in the South West.

The National President-General of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Bello Abdulahi Bodejo, made the call in an interview with journalists during the weekend.

Remember that Governors in the South West area had organized and established the security outfit to curb the menace of herdsmen attacks in their region.

Nevertheless, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami had said the security outfit is unlawful.

Bodejo said FG should not just stop at prohibiting the outfit but should charge those involved in making decisions for its achievement with sudden effect.

He added, “I read it on the internet. However, it would have been a good development, if the national security agencies – the Army, the Police, the DSS, the Civil Defence, etc, were not living up to expectations.

“Will Amotekun have more security intelligence than these national security organizations? The answer is no.

“Anything security should be left with those security organizations, so, I don’t know the reason for this one from the Southwest, except that it has ominous purposes.

“Look at how the vigilantes are causing troubles all over; there is what is called interest in setting up this type of thing. Look at Zamfara where the vigilantes and the Fulani are having issues.

“They should not only ban it but should arrest the leaders of this group. Like I said earlier, nobody or group has more security intelligence than the Police. The Army is doing enough; the DSS is also doing enough, likewise the Civil Defence.

“They are just doing all these things in order to stop the Fulani from coming into their area; it is just a hidden agenda to prevent the Fulani herdsmen from grazing in their God-given areas.

“If you say you set up Amotekun to protect your region, what about Northern Nigeria, what about the Southeast and the South-South and other places that don’t have that kind of thing. Nigeria is one; everything is one unless they want to divide the country.

“I know some of their leaders have good hearts, but others have evil hearts, and those are the ones coming up with this agenda that the Fulani can’t do this and the Fulani can’t do that; all these things are happening because of Fulani; they are just against the Fulani.

“I support 100 percent of the federal government banning it, and the leaders should be arrested. It is a deliberate plot against the Fulani.

“How many Fulani have been involved in crime and criminal activities in the area? Go and check, those people they have been parading as criminals are not Fulani; if they see a Fulani with his cattle inside the bush, they will be calling the Commissioner of Police, DPO, Area Commander and other personalities that they have caught a Fulani committing one crime or the other.

“The moment this is done, the herdsman is scared and he would be made to sell all his cows to free himself from that wicked accusation, that is why you see some of these people are jumping from here to here supporting illegalities and they have their aim.”

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Buhari, Aisha Sends Letter To Garba Shehu

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President Muhammadu Buhari has delivered a congratulation message to newlyweds Muhammad Garba Shehu and Zuwaira Umar Faruk, exhorting them to understand to be patient with one another.

The message was communicated through a committee led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha.

“The secret of successful marriages is in patience and tolerance for partners. I urge you to banish anger, mistrust, and impatience from your home,” the President warned the young couple.

Other members of the committee, who represented the president at the occasion in Abuja on Friday, included the Minister of Defence, retired Maj. Gen. Bashir Magashi, and the Permanent Secretary, State House, Mr. Jalal Arabi.

In a message to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity Garba Shehu, the father of the groom, the First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, said that she would continue to pray for the achievement of their marriage.

“We also pray to God Almighty to bless this marriage and make their home a happy one,” Mrs. Buhari jotted down.

Also, Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State accepted the bride on behalf of Muhammad Garba Shehu during the wedding Fatiha, which took place shortly after the Juma’at prayer in Abuja.

Also, in attendance were the Governors of Jigawa, Abubakar Badaru, Simon Lalong of Plateau, Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi, Godwin Obaseki of Edo, and Mai Ala Buni of Yobe.

Several cabinet ministers, heads of various Federal Government establishments, traditional and religious leaders, editors and senior media officers from across the nation were also in attendance.

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Court Sacks Ifeanyi Ubah As Senator, Says He Never Had Locus Standi

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A Federal High Court sitting in the Bwari area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory has reaffirmed the sack of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of the Young Progressives Party (YPP).

Senator Ubah was the lawmaker representing Anambra South district in the upper compartment of the National Assembly.

In a ruling on Friday, Justice Bello Kawu declined to reverse the judgement of the court transmitted in December which wiped out Uba as a member of the Senate.

He ordered that Mr. Obinna Uzoh of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who had distrusted Ubah’s victory in the February 23 poll, be acknowledged as the winner of the election.

The judge also decreed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should issue a certificate of return to Uzoh, the applicant, as the senator-elect in the region.

Among other assertions, the PDP candidate alleged that his YPP mate presented a forged National Examination Council (NECO) secondary school certificate to INEC, which encouraged him to contest the Anambra South senatorial election.

He also contended that Ubah’s party should be disqualified for not conducting a primary for its candidates in the voting.

In his judgement, Justice Kawu fired Ubah and announced that the second defendant in the suit – the YPP – did not have the locus standi, and should not have partaken in the election.

Countering to the judgment, the National Chairman of YPP, Mr. Bishop Amakiri, explained that his party would appeal the decision of the court.

According to him, the court erred in law on the ground that the party was never administered with the court processes.

Amakiri enhanced that the court required the jurisdiction to entertain and enter judgement n favour of Mr. Uzoh who he said never joined in the senatorial election.

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Oshiomhole Knocks Party For Praying CJN To Resign

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The National Chairman of the leading All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomhole, has dressed down the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for asking the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Tanko Mohammed to resign.

The National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus had ordered for the resignation of the Chief Justice after the Supreme Court sacked Emeke Ihedioha as governor of Imo state and proclaimed Hope Uzodinma (APC) as the winner of the 2019 gubernatorial election in the state.

Replying to Secondus’ statement, Oshiomhole said calling for the resignation of the Chief Justice of Nigeria was the height of recklessness exhibited by the PDP.

The governing party Chairman who strengthened the statement by Secondus was not only constructed to intimidate the judiciary but also to stimulate public uproar in the country.

He said, “The PDP is not only reckless (but) it believes it is its birthright to benefit from electoral fraud. Courts are bound to interpret laws according to the constitution. No court has the power to bend the 1999 constitution of Nigeria as amended”

Oshiomhole who was also a governor in Edo state also blasted the Imo State’s Returning Officer, Prof Francis Otunta for not recognizing that 12 is not 2/3 of 27 local governments in the state.

He said, “That Returning Officer ought not only to be dismissed but should face the consequence of action. It was the height of irresponsibility on the part of the Independent National Electoral Commission to condone such action.

“A professor of mathematics curiously did not know that 12 is not two-third of 27 local government areas and proceeded to unlawfully declare Emeka Ihedioha as governor of Imo state.

“In a society that is committed to fairness and rule of law, that returning officer ought not only to be dismissed but he also ought to have reported himself to the security how he arrived at the decision to declare Emeka Ihedioha as governor.”

Oshiomhole amplified that the Supreme Court has nevertheless corrected the wrong in the election by terminating Ihedioha and proclaiming Uzodinma as the duly elected aspirant in the election.

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NUJ Announces One Week Mourning For Murdered Reporter

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The Adamawa Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ) has announced one-week mourning for late Maxwell Nashon, a journalist who was massacred on Wednesday in the state.

This is contained in a statement issued on Friday by the state NUJ Chairman, Mr. Ishaku Donald, in Yola.

The NUJ, Adamawa Council declared one-week interment and prayers for the serenity of the soul of their member, late Maxwell Nashon.

“His killing was not only inhumane and barbaric but unpardonable injury meted on the union.

“While the union condoles with the family of the deceased, management and staff of the FRCN Fombina FM Yola, it calls on the State Government and security agencies to step up measures to prevent the current insecurity challenge,” Donald said.

He said the council would begin again to remember Nashon for his commitment and sacrifice to duty at all times .

Nashon was a reporter with Fombina FM, Yola, before he was massacred.

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Psquare’s Sister, Mary Departs From Husband, Alleges He Has STDs

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The nuptials between Mary Jane Okoye, younger sister to Psquare and Nollywood performer, Emma Emordi has reportedly wrecked.

This is contained in a discussion between Mary Joy Okoye and another individual on public media shared by Instablog9ja.

It was revealed that many indicated that her marriage had collapsed adding that Emma Emordi was sleeping around and ripping off from her.

Mary also disclosed that Emma had infected her with STDs adding that she caught him red-handed sleeping with an elderly lady.

In what seems to be an erratic response, Emma Emordi took to his Instagram page on Friday, January 17, 2020, where he dealt a post. According to him, the story will be told very soon.

He wrote:
The man or woman you choose to be your partner affects everything in your life: your mental health, your peace of mind, the love inside of you, your happiness, how you get through tragedies, your success, how your children will be raised, and so much more.. choose very wisely… Soon a story will be told to the glory of God almighty… happy weekend my people,” he wrote.

Emma Emordi and Mary Joy Okoye got united in 2014 which was satisfactorily attended by assorted stars including the superstar siblings of Mary Okoye. They have a son concurrently.

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Delta Bursary And Scholarship Board To Begin Online Registration On Monday

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The Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board have said the State Government’s 2019/2020 Students Special Assistance Scheme (SSAS) registration, will start from Monday, January 20th to Wednesday, February 20th, 2020.

This is contained in a statement by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Sunday Orishedere made available to journalists.

Orishedere explained that applicants qualified for the online Registration must be
Delta State Origin; Have registered with National Identification Management Commission (NIMC); Either be in Second year or above (200 to 500 level) in the Universities or; Be in OND Il and HND II in Polytechnics or Monotechnics.

The announcement expanded that the applicants must be at 200 level and above for Colleges of education adding that Students must obtain a CGPA of 2.20 and above in the earlier academic year’s examination.

The statement also added that all qualified students are urged to ;
Log on to www.dsbsb.dl.gov.ng, to Apply.

It also stated that old students should submit their details for validation while the new students will submit their Bursary application forms, printed and Signed copy of their Acknowledgement Card.

The statement also urged applicants to complete their Bursary registration adding that all applications must be filtered and delivered online.

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Gov. Ugwanyi Commends Aisha Buhari’s Administration Excellence

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Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has commended the administration personalities of the first lady, Dr. Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, in facilitating and identifying with persons with a disability

Gov Ugwuanyi who spoke during the dinner organized by the Para Powerlifting Federation, under the patronship of Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari, to raise funds for the “Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup”, coming up in February, in Abuja, described the President’s wife as “a pacesetter.

The governor affirmed gratitude to Dr.Mrs Aisha Buhari, who is the Grand Patron of the “Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup”, for assigning Enugu State to participate in the fundraising dinner as the host.

Restating his administration’s commitment to the wellbeing of the people including the physically challenged, Gov Ugwuanyi divulged that the state government has been in the vanguard of protecting the rights of people with special needs, optimizing opportunities for them to be productively committed and live a fulfilling life and also put in that the state government is proud and has continued to encourage her daughter, the Nigeria Powerlifting mythologist, Lucy Ogechukwu Ejike, as a capable Consul and great motivation to persons with physical impairments.

According to him: “Enugu State government awarded voluntary employment to fifty (50) graduates with outstanding needs in the year 2017 amongst the other deliberate measures that ensure adequate integration of persons with special needs in our state”.

Declaring his leadership support for the upcoming sporting event in Abuja, Gov. Ugwuanyi urged the people to donate charitably towards “this laudable program to support the Chief Host and Grand Patron of “Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup”, her excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and ensure victory for Team Nigeria in this competition”.

Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari, represented by the wife of former Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Mrs. Mairo Al Makura, thanked Gov Ugwuanyi for “hosting this event today towards a successful Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup”.

Dr. Mrs. Al Makura intensified the First Lady’s passion for the wellbeing of the less privileged in the society as well as her devotion to the successful hosting of the event in Abuja.

She also pointed out that the donations will go a long way to ensure the prosperous hosting of the multinational sporting event in the country, which the First Lady holds in high appreciation.

She said: “As we are all aware, her excellency, the first lady is the grand patron and she is so passionate about the less privileged in the society. Her total commitment to this course was shown when she hosted the team at the Presidential Villa. She will continue to solicit support from both public and private donors as Nigeria has been given the hosting right for the World Cup. It is going to be an achievement for all and we should, therefore, do everything possible to make our country and Africa proud.”

Quickier in his goodwill message, popular Nigerian politician and former Senator who represented Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Dino Melaye, applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his good administration initiatives and dedication to the wellbeing of the people of the state.

Senator Melaye, who particularly thanked Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari for “identifying with persons with disability and the vulnerable in our society”, also applauded Gov Ugwuanyi for hosting the dinner and identifying with the physically challenged, “particularly those who have brought glory and honor to the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Defining Ugwuanyi as “the performing Governor of Enugu state”, Senator Melaye informed the governor that: “I am particularly impressed with your good works in Enugu State, more particularly, the stability and low crime rate in the state”.

Conveying his delight at participating in the fundraising dinner, Senator Melaye brought up that the event was able to hold in Enugu, out of the 36 states of the federation, because of Gov Ugwuanyi’s compassion in identifying with persons with disability.

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Buhari Depart Abuja Ahead Of UK-Africa Summit In London

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President Muhammadu Buhari has departed Nigeria for London to participate in the inaugural UK-Africa investment summit hosted by the new British prime minister, Boris Johnson.

The summit is scheduled to hold on Monday, January 20 and will provide Nigeria with the opportunity to project itself as a leading investment destination for new industries.

The event is expected to bring together African leaders, international business chief executives and heads of international organizations with a view to creating new partnerships that will deliver more investments and jobs to the benefit of people and businesses in African countries and the United kingdom.

While in the UK, President Buhari will hold a meeting with the head of the commonwealth, Prince Charles in Glasgow, Scotland and also have bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Johnson as well as heads of multilateral organizations.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia and Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe are on the entourage of the president.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Boss Mustapha, IGP Mohammed Adamu and FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello, were at the presidential wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to bid the president goodbye.

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Suspected Assassins Kills Boy In Delta Community

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One Comrade Ovie Wisdom Iroro, in Abraka Community, Ethiope-East Local Government Area of Delta State was on Wednesday night shot dead at his residence

This was confirmed by the Ethiope-East Local Government Council Chairman, Chief(Mrs) Faith Majemite in an interaction with journalists.

Mrs Majemite said she is already working with the Divisional Police Officer in Abraka Community with a view to fishing out the masterminds of the evil act.

The victim who is in his early thirties, was said to be having a bath when the gunmen stormed his residence, dragged him to a nearby bush and shot him dead.

It was reported that the gunmen took nothing from the deceased.

Responding, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa, on Thursday said Mr. Ovie Wisdom Iroro was a suspected cultist and fraudster.

The police boss who confirmed the death of the deceased made the assertion in a telephone chat with journalists in Warri.

While noting that Police is investigating the murder, CP Inuwa said,” Ovie was a cultist and a fraudster for that matter.

“The Division(Abraka) had arrested him several times. A crime was committed and we are after the perpetrators.

” It is after we have arrested them that we will be able to know if it is their dubious activities that made them to kill him. Who knows if they had businesses together and he was trying not to pay them their money?

“What they gathered is that they overheard somebody shouting, Am going to pay you. We don’t know. We are starting from there. CP Inuwa said.

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Record Label Boss Accuses Peruzzi Of Breach Of Contract

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The chief Executive Officer of the Golden Boy Entertainment, Patrick Anyaene, has accused Peruzzi for breaching his contract.

The CEO who is fondly called KingPatrickGB, yesterday took to his Twitter page lamenting his frustrations with Peruzzi and Davido with the hash tag #SurvivingPeruzzi.

The music boss narrated how he met Peruzzi, and allegedly paid his bills, signed him, got him an accommodation only for the artiste to allegedly sly him and breach terms of his contract with Golden Boy Entertainment.

According to him, peruzzi was more interested in music compare to schooling, so my investment in his education was a failed project but I still decided to support his music career. I clothed him, fed him and gave him allowances, I also made sure he had comfortable accommodation”. He said.

He noted that why he came to social media is because he wants the world to also see his reward for helping.

Speaking further he said, “we signed a contract and that should be respected”

He also disclosed that all he want is the Royalties and credit that Davido Music Worldwide owes Golden Boy Entertainment and nothing more

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Fireboy’s Debut Album Receives Over 100 Million Stream

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Nigerian fast rising artiste, Fireboy, has taken to social media announcing his debut album success.

The announcement was made yesterday via his verified twitter page.

Fireboy, announced that his debut album ‘Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps’ has gotten massive digital stream.

He also stated that he has amassed over 100 million streams across all digital stores in just more than 2 months of his debut album released,.

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Transfer: Mourinho Pays Tribute To Eriksen

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Tottenham Hotspur manager, Jose Mourinho has paid tribute to playmaker, Christian Eriksen amid transfer interest from Inter Milan for the Denmark international.

The Portuguese said this following Spurs’ FA Cup third-round replay 2-1 win over Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.

Mourinho said Eriksen should hold his ‘head high’ if he leaves Tottenham.

It had been reported that Eriksen has agreed on a personal term with Inter Milan to join Antonio Conte’s men in this January’s transfer window.

The 27-year-old’s current deal at Tottenham will expire at the end of the season.

Asked about Eriksen’s future at Tottenham after his side’s FA Cup victory over Middlesbrough, Mourinho told reporters: “He played very well. very professional which is what I expect from him

“If his decision is to leave, I think he has to leave with his head up if he gives everything which is what he tries to do for the team.

“Fans, it’s always to respect, we have to respect but I think the boy did it for us today.”

Eriksen has scored 69 goals in over 300 appearances for Mourinho’s side since joining the club from Ajax in 2013.

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Transfer: Fernandes Finally Completes Moves To Premier League Giants

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Premier League giants, Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of Benfica’s Gedson Fernandes on loan.

Spurs made this known in a statement on the club’s official website on Wednesday morning.

The statement read: “We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement for the 18-month loan of Gedson Fernandes from Benfica with an option to make the transfer permanent.

“The midfielder will wear the number 30 shirt for the remainder of this season.

“A product of the Benfica academy, Gedson made his first team debut last season and was named the Primeira Liga’s Best Young Player of the Month for August. He went on to finish the season as a league champion, making 22 appearances as The Eagles secured their 37th Primeira Liga title. In total, he has made 53 appearances in all competitions for Benfica, scoring three times.

“On the international stage, he has made more than 50 appearances for Portugal, representing his country at every age group from Under-15 upwards, including winning two caps for the senior team to date. He was also a member of the Portugal side that won the UEFA European Under-17 Championship in 2016.”

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Lagos-Based Pastor Arraigned In Court Over Alleged N4.3M Fraud

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A 49-year-old Cleric, Adebayo Kabiru, on Tuesday appeared before an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly defrauding one Mrs Oluwadamilola Oyesomi of N4.3 million.

The suspect, whose address was not provided, is facing a two-count charge of fraud and stealing, to which he pleaded not guilty.

The Prosecutor, ASP Ben Emuerhi, told the court that the defendant committed the offences with some others still at large, in Dec. 2018 at Pen- Cinema, Agege area of Lagos.

Emuerhi said the defendant collected the money from the complainant within a space of two months to make certain sacrifices.

“He converted the money to his personal use and went on spending spree, but later ran away when he realised that the police were after him.

“The police arrested him a year later,” the prosecutor said.

He revealed that the offences contravened Sections 280(1)(a)(b) and 314(2) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Olufunke Sule-Amzat, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500,000, with two sureties in like sum.

Sule-Amzat said that the sureties must show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State government.

The case was thereafter, adjourned till Feb. 24 for mention.

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Man, Sentenced To Jail For Disturbing Court With Calls, Charge For Contempt

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One AbdulWahab Adebayo has been sentenced to two weeks in jail by a high court in Ilorin, Kwara state, for receiving phone calls during court proceedings.

Reports says Justice Sikiru Oyinloye found Adebayo guilty of disturbing the court proceedings with his phone conversations.

Justice Oyinloye said “the convict distracted the court and when he was summoned by the police officer attached to the court, he refused” . He said

He also disclosed that when corrected, the convict refused to stop disturbing the court until another policeman dragged him out of the court room.

He said the accomplice exhibited a rude attitude in court, as he shouted and claimed to be innocent.

“The court premises is not a commercial phone call center where anybody can receive or make calls as they wish.

“People commit contempt of court with negligence. Ignorance of the law is an offense. I hereby sentence you to two weeks imprisonment without an option of fine,” the judge ruled.

Responding, Adebayo pleaded for mercy nothing that he wanted to collect money form his brother, for his sick mother but could not meet him before getting to the court premises.

He said he made the call in the court room out of ‘frustration’.

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Former Gov. Okorocha Of Imo State Congratulates Uzodinma, Ask Imos To Support Him

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Former Imo Gov. Rochas Okorocha has felicitated Sen. Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the Supreme Court rulling declaring him the winner of the 2019 governorship election in Imo.

But some stakeholders in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state described the judgment as ”a rape of democracy”.

It was reported that the Supreme Court nullified election of Emeka Ihedioha of the PDP as the governor of the state and declared Uzodinma winner of the governorship election held in Imo.

However, Okorocha, who is representing Imo West Senatorial zone at the National Assembly, said he would support Uzodinma’s government to succeed in Imo.

Okorocha, who disclosed this through a statement issued to journalists by his media aide, Mr Sam Onwuemeodo, said the judgment represented the choice of Imo people.

“I want to congratulate Hope Uzodinma for his victory at the Supreme Court and we will all work together to ensuring that his government succeeds.

“This is an indication of a new hope in Imo, everybody must remain calm and watch Uzodinma unfolds what he has for Imo,” Okorocha said.

In another development, some PDP members in Imo have described the Supreme Court judgment as ”a rape of democracy”.

Speaking with NAN shortly after the news of the judgment, a PDP woman leader and a retired civil servant, Mrs Dora Nnawuchi, said the judgment did not only rape democracy, but a way of causing crises in Imo.

It was also gathered that security presence was seen at strategic places in the state to forestall any disorder that may occur as a result of the judgment.

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Nigerians Reacts On Father Mbaka’s Accurate Prediction On Supreme Court Ruling

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Some Nigerians have described Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka as a true man of God.

This was disclosed after the Supreme Court sacked Emeka Ihedioha of the PDP and announced the APC candidate, Hope Uzodinma, as the winner of the Imo governorship election, just as the cleric predicted days before.

Rev Mbaka had on Tuesday, December 31, during his passover night predicted that the APC will take over the leadership from the PDP-led administration of Ihedioha.

The cleric had said he could not explain how it would happen but insisted that his prophecy would come to pass.

However, many Nigerians did not take the prediction seriously; even Ihedioha in his reaction had said he was not perturbed about the prophecy, stating that the cleric had made himself a laughing stock for making such a statement.

But all that changed shortly after the Supreme Court voided the election of Ihedioha as the governor of Imo state and unanimously declared Uzodinma as the winner of the March 9, 2019, governorship election and the validly elected governor of the state.

Father Ejike Mbaka began to trend on social media immediately news filtered that Hope Uzodinma of the APC was returned as the duly elected governor of the state by the Supreme Court.

Many Nigerians surprised by the accuracy of the cleric’s prediction hailed him as a true man of God.

Some persons highlighted past predictions of Mbaka to back the argument that the cleric’s predictions were always accurate.

https://twitter.com/ChiadiNelson/status/1217156503154708512?s=19

One person said Mbaka’s prediction was evidence that he is a true man of God.

Others, however, reacted to the cleric’s prediction with humour by demanding to see him for personal favours.

https://twitter.com/C_for_david/status/1217154675717431296?s=19

Another Twitter user asked Mbaka to use his prophecies for the benefit of Nigeria.

https://twitter.com/Therealqb4/status/1217144518014832642?s=19

Meanwhile, the newly-declared governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has reacted to his victory at the Supreme Court.

Uzodinma, 61, who spoke through his media aide, Declan Emelumba, said that his stolen mandate has been restored by the apex court.

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PDP Releases First Reaction After Massive Defeat In Imo

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is at a loss concerning the ruling of the Supreme Court which, on Tuesday, January 14, dismissed the victory of Emeka Ihedioha, as governor of Imo state.

The party, in its official reaction to the judgement, which favoured Hope Uzodimma of the All Progressives Congress (APC), recalled how Ihedioha came fourth at the poll and wondered how such a person could be declared winner.

Describing it as another sad commentary on the nation’s democratic order, the party said Uzodimma “came fourth in the March 9, 2019 governorship election with just 96,458 votes” and that the PDP polled 276,404 votes.

“In fact, the PDP and indeed, most Nigerians are still at a loss as to understand the basis upon which the Supreme Court arrived at its decision,” the PDP said.

The PDP lamented that the people’s collective destiny had being taken from the governor they chose and handed over to someone and a political party that the residents do not want.

A statement by Kola Ologbondiyan, the national spokesperson of the party, added: “The people of Imo state are now confronted with the challenge of having a government that they cannot identify with and which cannot connect with them, having not emanated from them.”

He lamented that Ihedioha’s progress as governor of Imo state is now being jeopardised as a result of the judgement.

The party said its concern is now glaring, especially with the mournful ambience of the state since the declaration.

The PDP said though it recognises that the judgement is final, its members in the state must remain united ahead of further instructions from the headquarters.

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Tanker Explosion: One Dies, Two Injured, Vehicles Burnt Down

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At least one person died, two injured while four vehicles were damaged in a tanker explosion that rocked Awka, Anambra State on Tuesday.

It was gathered that the tanker was brought in for welding, shortly after discharging petroleum products, and that a welder was already working on it when residual petrol left inside caused an explosion that engulfed an automobile mechanic workshop in Amawbia, along the Enugu-Onitsha expressway.

The welder, who was working on the tanker, was killed in the fire, while two persons, a cooler and an unidentified woman were badly burnt, and taken to hospital.

Two tankers, a tipper and a Toyota Camry car were gutted by fire as a result of the incident.

Haruna Mohammed, spokesperson of Anambra State Command of Nigeria Police said, “At about 3:pm, there was a fire incident at a welding workshop located along Enugu-Agidi road Amawbia.

“The area was cordoned off and traffic diverted to alternative routes in order to prevent catastrophe until after the fire was successfully put off by the fire fighters. Situation was brought under control and obstruction cleared to enable free flow of traffic.

“Meanwhile, a male cobbler and a woman whose identities are yet to be ascertained, sustained varying degrees of burns and were rushed to the Preston Hospital, Ngozika Housing Estates for treatment, while the welder one Monday Ayo Adenipekun popularly known as AY, aged about 35years, who was working on top of the Tanker without number plate was burnt to death and his body evacuated to Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Mortuary for autopsy.

“A total number of four vehicles including two Tankers, one Tipper and one Toyota Camry where affected by the inferno.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the exploded tanker was brought into the workshop for welding no sooner than it had discharged fuel. The residual fuel in the tank was eventually ignited during the welding.

“All the Security Agencies worked in synergy to control the large crowd, direct traffic and restore order at the scene”.

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Uniport: Professor Arraigned Over Alleged N6000 Theft

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The management of the University of Port Harcourt, UNIPORT, has arraigned Professor Andrew Efemini and his mason, Richard Nwaogu before a Magistrate Court sitting in Choba community, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on a three-count charge bordering on stealing.

According to the charge, Professor Efemini and Nwaogu conspired to steal three buckets of chippings and three slabs belonging to the University Management valued six thousand naira.

The Professor is accused of stealing the materials meant for the repairs of Professor’s quarter within the premises of UNIPORT and thereby committed an offense punishable under the Criminal Code Law of Rivers State.

It was gathered that the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail to the tune of one hundred thousand naira by Chief Magistrate, Israel Agbaesor who thereafter adjourned till 11th, 18th, 29th of June and 9th, 21st and 30th of July 2020 for trial.

Counsel to the accused persons, OC Higher-King, described the charges against his clients as laughable and misfire, threatening to institute legal action against the university on the recent development.

Counsel to University of Port Harcourt declined to speak on the matter.

It is observed that Professor Andrew Efemini has been in a running battle with the Vice-Chancellor of UNIPORT, Professor Ndowa Laale.

Efemini recently dragged the Vice-Chancellor of UNIPORT, Professor Laale and the University Management to a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt over alleged illegal increment on school fees, his illegal suspension and alleged misappropriation of funds by the VC.

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Supreme Court Sacks Ihedioha, Uzodinma Expresses Gratitude To God

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The newly-declared governor of Imo state, Hope Uzodinma, has reacted to Supreme Court judgement on Tuesday which sacked Gov Emeka Ihedioha.

The apex court while delivering judgement declared APC’s Hope Uzodinma as the Governor of Imo State.

It, therefore, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to withdraw the certificate of return from former Governor Emeka Ihedioha and issue Uzodinma with certificate of return as governor of the state.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun said the votes due to Uzodinma and APC from 318 polling units were wrongly excluded and should be added.

Reacting , Uzodinma said that his stolen mandate has been restored by the Supreme Court.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Declan Emelumba, said that he had always had confidence in the judiciary.

The statement read: “Yes today, my mandate given to me by the people of Imo state has been restored by the highest court in the land.

“This meant that the victory given to me by the people, but denied me, has been restored.

“I give glory and thanks to God Almighty.”

Emelumba added that the new governor will arrive Imo State tomorrow and will address the people immediately.

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Sokoto Market Gutted With Fire

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The Sokoto State Fire Service has confirmed a fire outbreak which gutted part of the old market in Sokoto, destroyed about 20 shops.

the Head of Operations of the Sokoto Fire Service Mr. Mustapha Abubakar, , told journalists on Tuesday that the inferno started at about 11:00 p.m on Monday and lasted till about 2:00 a.m on Tuesday.

Abubakar said that the affected shops included those belonging to those selling cosmetics and cloths, adding that officials were at the scene investigating the cause of the incident and the damages.

He said that an accurate report would be issued on the incident.

Abubakar also said the firefighters made efforts to end the inferno throughout the night.

He therefore commended members of the traders union and sister agencies for the support and prayed against recurrence.

The operation officer warned members of the public against reporting fire incidents late.

He also warned against blocking the movement of firefighting engines during incidents.

Abubakar advised that people should not engage a fire before informing the agency, noting that the situation usually led to fire escalation before the arrival of firefighters.

It was gathered that the traders besieged the affected site, counting their losses and assisting victims on temporary arrangements to re-settle.

None of the traders responded to press inquiries as remnants were being evacuated.

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El-Zakzaky’s Followers Threatens Buhari, El-Rufai, Says Their Day Of ‘Reckoning’ Is Close

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Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) have told President Muhammadu Buhari and Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to watch their backs as the day of reckoning was very nearer than they ever thought.

The group, also condemned recent comments that their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim el-Zakzaky is being tried for crimes committed in Zaria in the past.

IMN, also known as Shiites, in a statement signed by President of its Media Forum Ibraheem Musa on Tuesday morning said that contrary to recent reports attributed to Governor Nasir el-Rufai that their leader and his followers perpetrated terror in the Zaria clashes of December 2015 between IMN and the army, they were the victims of the terror orchestrated by the state.

“With increasing pressure on the Buhari regime from home and abroad occasioned by the decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague to investigate the crimes against humanity committed by this regime during the Zaria Massacre of 2015, there have been increased efforts at belittling the matter and trivializing the issues.

“This reached a peak when the Kaduna state Governor, Nasiru el-Rufai insinuated that so long as he remains Kaduna Governor, Sheikh Zakzaky would remain in detention. According to the governor, Sheikh Zakzaky is being tried for crimes he and his followers committed in the last 30 years in Zaria.

“On the contrary, the Sheikh and his supporters were the victims of state terror and crimes and not the perpetrators. After the criminal invasion of the Sheikh’s residence in December of 2015 and the subsequent killing of hundreds of his supporters including his sons and relatives by officers and men of the Nigerian Army, the Sheikh and his wife were shot at and arrested.

“The Department of State Security (DSS) illegally detained them without charges until May 2018, when the pressure on the government to release them became so intense and unbearable. It was at that point that the government thought of charging them of inciting his followers to commit alleged offences.”

He said before then, the government had struggled to find explanations for their continued detention, forcing it to claim that the Sheikh was being kept in protective custody, while his wife Zeenat, was keeping her husband, company.

“The government arrested hundreds of members of the Sheikh Zakzaky-led Islamic Movement and put them on trial for allegedly being responsible for the death of one of the soldiers, who was accidentally shot by his colleagues. The Kaduna High Court has cleared all of them of these framed up charges and subsequently discharged and acquitted them all. So what crimes is el-Rufai referring to?

“Governor el-Rufai’s fraudulent claims that only court can free Sheikh Zakzaky pales in the face of the obvious. Firstly, the fabricated charges of inciting, aiding and abetting brought against him (as a ploy to perpetually keep him in detention) have been squashed in the High and Appeal courts. Secondly, the Federal High court had declared his detention as unconstitutional and therefore ordered his release.

“Thirdly, even when the Kaduna high court granted the Sheikh medical leave, el-Rufai never conceded. He took measures to thwart the medical bail, putting stringent terms and conditions independent of the courts. Clearly, el-Rufai, like General Buhari, has no respect for the rule of law. Justice will be served. We will intensify our peaceful campaigns until justice is done to the victims of Zaria genocide of December, 2015 and Sheikh Zakzaky and all those still being held regain their freedom,” Ibraheem added.

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Council Boss Presents Wheelbarrows To Youth As Empowerment, Says Its Hire Purchase

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The Transition Committee Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Hon. Mrs. Chinwe Ugwu, has drawn the ire of residents of Enugu State and all over the country after she rolled out a wheelbarrow empowerment programme.

It was reported that Ugwu is one of the chairmen that were appointed last December, ahead of the Local Government election slated for February this year.

However, in a move many have described as ‘shocking and insulting’, she launched a wheelbarrow empowerment scheme on Monday, at the Council secretariat.

Remember that last week, some youths had besieged the Nsukka Local Government secretariat in protest, chanting solidarity songs in her favour, while also blasting the immediate past chairman, Hon. Patrick Omeje.

The youths had demanded that Ugwu be allowed to contest as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in the forthcoming election.

Few days after, Ugwu has now decided to empower the youths with wheelbarrow, in a scheme tagged: “Nsukka Local Government Area in Conjunction with National Council of Enugu State Students, Presents a Poverty Alleviation Outreach.”

The development, which did not go down well with the people of the State, has remained subject of discussion on various social media platforms.

It was gathered that regardless of the rejection of the wheelbarrow empowerment by some stakeholders in the area, the council boss went ahead with it.

She personally flagged-off the scheme, in an elaborate event, after which she handed over the wheelbarrows to the beneficiaries.

An infuriated Nsukka youth, Chikezie Omeje told journalists “this is an insult to many. How can a council chairman give out wheelbarrows on hire-purchase basis? She did not just ridicule our people but mocked our sensibilities.

“We demand immediate apology from her for this show of shame.” he said

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Buhari’s Aide Blasts Barcelona For Sacking Valverde

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President Muhammadu Buhari’s Personal Assistant on New Media, Bashir Ahmad has slammed Barcelona for sacking manager, Ernesto Valverde and appointing Quique Setien as their new head coach on Monday night.

Ahmad in a tweet on his official Twitter page said the Blaugrana are ‘so ungrateful’ for sacking Valverde after the 55-year-old won ‘two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey and one Supercopa de Espana for the Camp Nou club’.

He wrote: “Ernesto Valverde lost Only 16 out of 145 games at Barcelona, he won two La Liga, one Copa del Rey and one Supercopa de Espana for them, but the Club still sacked him.

So ungrateful. Can the new manager shine more brightly than Valverde? I doubt, strongly.”

It was reported that Barcelona have announced the appointment of Quique Setien as their new manager.

Setien replaces Ernesto Valverde, who was informed by Barca that he will be sacked, following a meeting on Monday with his agent.

“Agreement between FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde to end his contract as manager of the first team. Thank you for everything, Ernesto. Best of luck in the future,” an official club statement read.

“Quique Setien will be the new FC Barcelona coach. The man from Cantabria in the north of Spain comes to Barca after having had spells at Racing Santander, Poli Ejido, Logrones, Lugo, Las Palmas and Betis, his previous club in the 2018/19 season.

“Throughout his career he has been a proponent of possession-based, attacking football that has been attractive to the fans.”

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Comedian ‘I Go Save’ Finally Tie The Knot, Releases Wedding Pictures

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Nigerian ace comedian, Otagwhare Otas Onodjayeke, popularly known as ‘ I go save’ , has finally tie the knot with his long time heartthrob, Mrs Iyabo onodjayeke.

Comedian ‘I go save’ disclosed this by unveiling pictures of their wedding in his verified Instagram page.

I Go Save, took his bride, Iyabo, before a marriage registry to exchange vows yesterday, in the presence of his family members, in-laws and friends.

The hilarious Delta born comedian had organized different shows, such as Igosave Unusual, an event he has held throughout Nigeria.

The comedian captioned the pictures “SO TODAY I SEALED A FOREVER MOVE WITH THE ONE I LOVE.. OFFICIALLY WELCOME TO THE FAMILY BABY.. WEDDING PARTY LOADING ” …

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7RNa3YJ6Xm/?igshid=jaz57qe1lr1p

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Delta Beyond Excellence Award To Take Place This Year – DBE Committee

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The Delta beyond Excellence (DBE) award committee has said the 3rd edition of the event will take place this year.

This was disclosed by the founder of the forum, Comrade Samuel Akpobasahan, popularly known as Mc Alleluya, in a statement made available to journalists on Monday.

He said the DBE award is an avenue to celebrate academic excellence, diligence in all area of work in Delta State higher institutions adding that this will be the 3rd edition of the programme.

“The DBE Awards is a platform set up to celebrate academic excellence in Delta State higher institutions and this is the 3rd edition” . He noted.

He also disclosed that the event is made to encourage and motivate students in the state to get serious in their academic pursuits.

Comrade Samuel also noted that one of the major goals of the DBE award is to promote social and outstanding reward for hard work in higher institutions in the state.

He also said the DBE award organizing committee will use the medium to award best lecturers, non academic staff and most diligent workers in the institution.

Responding, the DBE award media host who is also the CEO Golden Nation Blog, Comrade Efecha Collins Gold, said the first phase of the award is the nomination, while the second phase will be for investigation and selections of best student in each department from various institutions in the state.

Comrade Gold also revealed that certificates and financial supports will be given to students that will make it to the finals during the screening process.

On his part, Comrade Gold noted that Delta State Leaders and deserving personalities will be celebrated in their various capacities.

“The personalities to be awarded from the government includes Governor, former governors, Senators, formal senators, House of Representative members, Commissioners, House of Assembly members , General Managers, Civil Servants, Entrepreneurs, Industrialists, Talent developers and others”. He said.

Speaking further, Comrade Gold disclosed that the first edition of the DBE Award was in 2014 adding that the event gained more popularity in the second edition in 2017, with special recognition and collaboration from the state government through the office of the SA to Governor on student affairs.

He noted that the third edition of the DBE Award is to take place this year stressing that it will be greater with motivations, encouragements and celebration around four higher institutions in the state.

He said the date and venue for the event will be officially announced to the general public soon.

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Osinbajo Visits’ Kano, Brings Emir Sanusi And Gov. Ganduje Together

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Monday brought Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State and the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II together when he visited the palace of the Emir.

Prof. Osinbajo, who was in Kano State on a one-day working visit was also described by Governor Ganduje as a “son of the soil.”

The Vice President was in Kano to commission a number of road projects that were completed by Ganduje.

He also laid the foundation stone for the first state-owned Cancer Centre in Nigeria.

On arriving Kano, the Vice President was received by the Governor and other senior members of the Kano State Government.

He then commissioned the interchange, connecting Kano to Katsina state.

Osinbajo then went on to commission the 2km long Aminu Dantata flyover which cuts across one of the biggest markets in Africa – the Sabon Gari market.

He also laid the foundation of the Shahuci flyover, underpass and tunnel linking the Murtala Mohammed Hospital main building to the Emergency building located in the old Kano city with a 100 years old primary school.

The Vice President then proceeded to the palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II where he was treated to a rapturous welcome by residents of Kano.

He was accompanied by the governor, whom many media reports had claimed to have fallen out with the emir.

“This is an act of God to have Emir of Kano and Governor Ganduje under the same roof, especially in the palace,” said Abdullahi Sani, a resident of Kano.

Shortly after they were received by the Emir, Governor Ganduje declared that the Vice President was a “son of the soil” to the delight of everyone in the palace.

The Emir also showered praises on the Vice President noting that he always visited the palace whenever he was in the state.

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EPL Defender Willems Says Traore Is The ‘Toughest’ Prayer To Mark

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Premier League defender, Jetro Willems, has named Wolves winger, Adama Traore as the toughest player to mark than Juventus forward, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Willems, who currently plays for Newcastle United in England, said this ahead of his side’s Premier League clash against Chelsea on January 18.

“I have played against some very good players in my career, but no one quite as fast as Traore,” Willems said in the Northern Echo.

“He is unbelievable, definitely a beast. Not only is he incredibly fast, he is so, so strong as well.

“He’s known as the fastest man in football and now I know that is true. I like to think I am quite fast too – at least I did before playing against him! That was something else.

“I have played against Ronaldo, who is fast, but not that fast. Of course, he is so skilful but sometimes that is easier than being up against someone with such incredible pace.”

Willems added: “I played against Ronaldo in the Euros when Netherlands played Portugal.

“That was tough, but this was as tough as I have had even though I thought I did quite well.”

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Ogun State: Another Governor Appointee Dies

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Another political appointee of Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Chief Dayo Abatan, reportedly died on Sunday.

Recall that Chief Dayo Abatan was among the newly inaugurated Elders Advisory Council.

Gov Abiodun inaugurated Abatan, alongside 56 other members of the council on Thursday.

The newly appointed Local Government Caretaker Committee Chairman for Ipokia, Hon. Saibu Mulero Adeosun, died on Wednesday, hours to his screening by the State House of Assembly.

It was gathered that Adeosun, had dressed up for the screening exercise before he decided to have a short rest and died in the process.

On Friday, Hon. Taiwo Soniyi, the newly appointed Vice Chairman for Remo North Local Government was reportedly kidnapped by unknown gunmen, who have demanded N50million ransom for his release.

Chief Dayo Abatan, until his death, was the Eruku of Egbaland. He hailed from Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the State.

A family source told journalists that the deceased appointee died at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) after a brief illness.

Chief Abatan, who was the first Publicity Secretary of the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria(UPN) in 1979 later became an active member of the Social Democratic Party(SDP) during the aborted third republic.

He was later appointed a member of the 1994 National Conference after which he joined the All Peoples Party (APP) from where he decamped to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at inception of the fourth republic.

He later became a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

It was gathered that Abatan was the Students Union President at the University of Ibadan between 1968 to 1969.

He died at the age of 80.

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University Staff Asked To Donate Monthly For Development

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The Chairman of the Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, Prof. Akinbo Adesomoju, has called on well-meaning Nigerians to assist the university in the area of infrastructural development.

He also appealed to the members of staff and management of the institution to contribute towards the development of the university.

Adesomoju stated this at the foundation laying ceremony of a students’ relaxation centre building on the campus of the university. The building was donated by a former Provost of Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, Prof. Olukoya Ogen, and his friends who were also friends of the university.

The Chairman, who expressed delight over the development, noted that Prof. Ogen and other donors had greatly challenged members of the University Governing Council to come up with their own monumental project for the institution.

The academic don said “Gestures we have been getting from our people are what they can benefit from the university and not what they can give to it.”

While appealing to the members of staff of the institution to render assistance to the school, Adesomoju said, “even a sum of N2,000 monthly or donation of materials by members of staff can make a big difference.”

In his remarks, Prof. Ogen said the gesture was done in the spirit of giving back to the society. He called on the indigenes of the state to come to the assistance of the university in the area of infrastructural development.

“Government alone must not be expected to perform all the developmental needs of the institution. Your widow’s mite will go a long way in taking the university to greater heights,” he appealed.

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Crowds Storms Supreme Court For Governorship Appeals Hearing

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The Supreme Court witnessed a large number of visitors who stormed the premises on Monday to witness the governorship appeal hearing from six states.

The apex court was to attend to appeals filed by aggrieved candidates in the March 9 governorship elections in Imo, Bauchi, Sokoto, Kano, Plateau, and Benue.

But the proceeding was adjourned to Tuesday due to a member of the panel falling ill and an over-crowded courtroom.

Justice Ibrahim Mohammed, who made the announcement, said the sick members had been attended to, adding that the hearing will continue on Tuesday, January 14, 2020.

Also, some persons believed to be ‘political thugs’ attacked the convoy of former Governor of Bauchi State, Mohammed Abubakar inside the Supreme Court premises as Court adjourned till tomorrow

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Bobrisky Wishes Death To Those Wishing Him Dead

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Popular Nigerian cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky has denied reports making the rounds on his death.

Reports emerged on Social media on Monday morning that Bobrisky died at Lagos state University teaching hospital.

He was reported to have allegedly been involved in a fatal accident while returning from a party.

However, the cross-dresser, angrily took to his Instagram page blasting those responsible for such reports.

On his page, he wrote: “Anyone wishing me dead will die before me.

“I will slay in all black to your wedding.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7QYr_ipDqL/?igshid=cw0dx13s3sv5

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Erigga Asks ‘Why All Religion Have Different God But Only One Satan’

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Nigerian popular rapper Erigga, whose real name is Erhiga Agarivbie, has yet again taken to social media asking ‘Why do all religions have different God but the same Satan.’

The Rapper, made these statements yesterday via his verified twitter handle.

According to Erigga, all religion have their own God whom they call on with different names but only referring to one Satan.

The rapper was prompt to ask why one Satan, can’t be defeated despite having so many religion God.

Even since these statements were made, it has yet generated a lot of different comments on social media from different individual perceptions.

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US Secretary Of State, Ask Iran Govt To Hold Accountable Those Responsible For The Recent Bombing Attack

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The United State Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, has called on the Iraqi government to take all possible measures to protect its military bases.

Also stating that, the govt should hold accountable, those responsible for the recent bombing attack of the Balad military airbase, which houses US troops.

According to the secretary, the violations of Iraqi sovereignty by militant groups must come to an end.

In recall, on Wednesday, Tehran fired missiles at two Iraqi bases hosting US forces in response to the killing of Iranian Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani by a US drone strike in Iraq.

No one was injured as a result of that attack, according to Washington

But the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said that, though US soldiers were not injured in the incident at the base but Iraqi military bases housing US personnel have faced multiple attacks over the past two months.

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HEART BREAKING: NYSC Corps Member Commits Suicide With Sniper, Left Emotional Note behind

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A corps member from Kogi state, identified as Bolufemi Princess Motunrayo, has committed suicide, after drinking two bottles of sniper, a dangerous insecticide.

The lady, who hailed from Ijumu in Kogi state, was also a graduate of Banking and Finance from Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba.

She was a Batch “C” National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving at Girls Secondary School, Ibagwa-Aka, Enugu state.

She was said to have committed suicide on Friday, January 10, leaving behind a suicide note, saying “life is not worth Living”

The suicide note she left behind read: “I did this because I see nothing worth living. Mummy, I love you. Daddy I love you. Matthew and John, you guys should take care. We will meet where we will depart no more. I Iove you guys”.

The Enugu State Police Command, said it has commenced investigations on the alleged suicide.

Mr Ebere Amaraizu, the Enugu State Police Public Relations Office (PPRO) told News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in a telephone interview on Saturday.

“Yes, police have gotten a report of one Princess Motunrayo Bolufemi, a Batch C youth corps member serving in Girls Secondary School, Ibagwa-Aka who committed suicide. It’s unfortunate.
“Police have already commenced investigations on circumstances surrounding her death which happened on Friday Jan. 10, ” he said.

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Tunde Ednut Reveals How To Know If Your Girlfriend Is With Another Guy

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Nigerian Popular social media influencer and former singer, Tunde Ednut, has taken to social media revealing to guys on how to easily spot their girlfriends that is with another guy when calling her.

According to him, when a guy call his girlfriend and she says ‘i’m with my friend’, then she is with a girl but when she replied and says ‘I’m with a friend, it’s simply means that she is with a guy.

Tunde spotted the difference in between the lines of the two different reply you will receive as both connote exactly who your girlfriend is spending the time with.

These statements were made known today through his verified instagram page.

See below

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7LCcS7g_Q2/?igshid=1hjykcnwm080x

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Delta State Government Agree On Minimum Wage Implementation

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The Delta State Government has reached an agreement with the organized labour on the new national minimum wage for workers in the state.

The Secretary to Delta State Government, Mr Chiedu Ebie, who is the Chairman of the Negotiation Committee, disclosed this after signing the new minimum wage documents on behalf of the state government.

Mr Ebie said the implementation of the new minimum wage will commence from November 1, 2019, adding that the state government would commence payment from January and pay the arrears along with the January and February salaries.

He assured workers in the state that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa would continue to prioritize the welfare of workers, even as he enjoined the state workforce to reciprocate government gesture by redoubling their commitment to their duties.

Mr Ebie thanked both the government and Labor teams for their resilience in making the outcome of the negotiations fruitful.

Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, the Labor team leader and state Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), commended the state government for its transparency towards the smooth conclusion of the negotiation exercise.

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DSTG ENROLS 850 YOUTHS IN STEP AND YAGEP CIRCLE

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A total number of 850 unemployed youths have been engaged by the Delta State Government to train as entrepreneurs in the Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Training (STEP) and in the Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) in the 2019/2020 Programme Cycle.

This was disclosed by the Chief Job and Wealth Creation Officer, Prof Eric Eboh, during the Orientation and Personal Effectiveness Workshop for STEP trainees enrolled in the 5th cycle of the programme in Ughelli.

The trainees were enrolled in various STEP skills such as Catering and Confectionery; Decoration and Event Management; Fashion Design and Textile Design; Cosmetology (Skin and Facial Care); Hairdressing and Makeover, including Braiding; Information Technology Services (Open to youths with a minimum of OND/NCE; and Welding and Fabrication. Other skills are Electrical and Solar Works; Carpentry and Joinery; Tiling and Interlocking; Plumbing; Production of Cleaning Agents; POP, Screed-Making and Painting; and Audio-visual Services.

Prof Eboh pointed out that the STEP programme had been classified into two categories- the Green STEP and the Brown STEP. While stating that the Green STEP beneficiaries are those who have no knowledge of their skills but require training before establishment, he said the Brown STEP trainees are those who have knowledge and reasonable competences in their chosen skills, but only needed refresher courses and support for establishment by government.

He said the duration of training for these skills would range between 3 months to 8 months for Green STEP while Brown STEP trainees would be trained between 2 months to 4 months.

He explained that the programme selection process was allocated at the grassroots level among the 278 wards in the state which clearly was a demonstration of His Excellency’s leadership style of all-inclusiveness and fulfilment of his promise of prosperity for all Deltans.

He emphasized that the programme was designed to train, reorient, equip and support youths to accumulate occupational skills of their choice and personal effectiveness skills together with entrepreneurial skills. These according to him would enable them to establish and run their own business enterprises and for gainful self-employment.

He enjoined them to abide by the Code of Conduct for Trainees, stressing that the programme is a full time programme as the state government would not condone indiscipline among them. He added that the state government would provide them with monthly stipend throughout the duration of their training.

In the same vein, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Youth Monitoring and Mentoring, Mr Eddy Mekwuye, represented by a Senior Special Assistant to the Government on Youth Monitoring and Mentoring, Olorogun Frank Ozue, said the Governor’s vision was to take youths off the streets in order to create employment for them, curb youth restiveness and to build entrepreneurs that would drive the economy of the state.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to monitoring and mentoring of trainers during training and after establishment to ensure sustainability of the programme.

Respondig, Bernard Magrignor (Ughelli North LGA) and Margaret Ohwofasa (Okpe) both in Catering and Confectionery expressed their gratitude to the government for initiating the programme, adding that they are hopefulthat through it they would achieve their dreams of becoming successful entrepreneurs. They pledged to abide by the Guidelines and Code of Conduct in order to sustain the programme.

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Sanwo-Olu Lauds Airtel For Supporting Entertainment And Tourism

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The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended Airtel for throwing its weight behind the Greater Lagos 2020 programme.

Speaking at the grand finale of the festival, which held on the eve of the New Year at the Eko Energy City, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged sponsors of the festival like Airtel for supporting the arts, tourism and entertainment just as he wished Lagosians a very happy and prosperous 2020.

The carnival was held across five locations in Lagos and featured some of the biggest Nigerian artistes including Olamide, Naira Marley, Fireboy, Zlatan and D.J
Spinal, among others.

The governor who was accompanied by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, his cabinet members as well as members of the State Legislature, joined
thousands of music fans and well-wishers who trouped the venue to literally ‘count down’ to the New Year before sounds of fire crackers and pyrotechnics rented the air at the stroke of 12.00am.

After the governor’s remarks, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Mrs. Olufunke Adebolu, cheered the crowd, urging them to join in the excitement as popular Disc Jockey, DJ Spinall, mounted the stage to take the party to a different level.

Airtel also recognized talents that had emerged during the festival, namely Samuel Olawande, winner of the dancing competition; Hanjara Atta, winner of the singing competition and Akamovba Julius, winner of the Comedy
Competition. All the winners were presented with Airtel MIFIs, among other prizes.

Airtel said they are excited to partner with the Lagos State Government on the Greater 2020 initiative as the platform provided an opportunity to excite, delight and reward telecommunications consumers across the state in a fun-filled and electrifying atmosphere, adding that the Airtel brand is always
alive and committed to connecting Lagosians to everything they love and cherish.

Themed ‘Simply Unforgettable,’ the Greater Lagos 2020 Carnival, which focuses on promoting arts and cultures is also aimed at showcasing Lagos to Nigerians home and abroad as a state that has evolved over the years, with bountiful opportunities available to investors.

The festival opened to the public on the 25 th of December across five locations, namely: Agege stadium, Ikorodu Town Hall, Recreational Place
Youth Centre, Epe; Badagry Grammar School, Badagry and the Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Greater Lagos 2020 Festival offered opportunities for Lagosians to connect with many big brands that showcased their products, services and innovation -across the five locations – during the period of the festival.

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Iran Finally Admits Shooting Down Ukrainian Airline, Give Reasons

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Iran has finally admitted that its military “unintentionally” shot down a Ukrainian jetliner, killing all 176 onboard.

This was contained in a statement on Saturday morning where it also blamed “human error” for the incident, adding that the military mistook Flight 752 for a “hostile target.”

Recall that jetliner, a Boeing 737 operated by Ukrainian International Airlines, went down on the outskirts of Tehran during takeoff just hours after Iran launched a barrage of missiles at US forces in Iraq.

Iran had earlier denied shooting down the plane, saying it was impossible for such thing to have happened.

This was after British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson had said that there is now a “body of information” that the airliner, which crashed shortly after takeoff in Tehran, was shot down by an Iranian missile.

Also, Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau and the US had made a similar claim, revealing that it was actually Iran’s missile that shot down the Ukrainian airliner with 176 passengers on board .

They all agreed that the action must have been taken unintentionally.

However, Iran’s General Staff of the Armed Forces said the plane had flown close to a “sensitive military site”.

The military said it was at its “highest level of readiness” amid the heightened tensions with the United States.

“In such a condition, because of human error and in an unintentional way, the flight was hit,” the military said. It apologised and said it would upgrade its systems to prevent future tragedies.

In a statement posted on social media, Iranian President, Hassan Rouhani wrote that the country “deeply regrets this disastrous mistake,”

“My thoughts and prayers go to all the mourning families. I offer my sincerest condolences,” he said, adding that “investigations continue to identify and prosecute this great tragedy and unforgivable mistake.”

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United States Imposes New Sanctions On Iran

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The U.S. on Friday says it is imposing additional sanctions on Iran following its missile attack on U.S. forces in Iraq.

The U.S. Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin, and Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, disclosed this in Washington.

According to Mnuchin the sanctions will impact individuals who own, operate, trade with or assist sectors of the Iranian economy including construction, manufacturing, textiles and mining.

The measures include: 17 sanctions against Iran’s largest steel and iron manufacturers and eight senior Iranian officials.

Pompeo said the sanctions, initially announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, would deprive the regime of billions in revenue.

Trump’s announcement came after Tehran fired missiles at the U.S. forces in Iraq in retaliation for Washington’s targeted killing of top Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

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EPL: Tottenham To Be Without Five Key Players Against Liverpool

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Tottenham Hotspur will be without five key players when they take on Premier League leaders, Liverpool at home on Saturday due to injuries.

Jose Mourinho’s side made this known in a statement on the club’s official website on Friday.

Spurs head to the game following a 1-0 defeat against Southampton in their last Premier League encounter.

The statement read: “Left-back Ben Davies (ankle) and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele (hip) are continuing with on-field rehabilitation from their respective injuries, while goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is training outdoors and completing the final stages of his rehabilitation following his elbow injury.

“Midfielder Moussa Sissoko is recovering following knee surgery earlier this week.

“As reported yesterday, striker Harry Kane is to undergo surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his left hamstring.”

The kick-off time for the match is 6.30 pm Nigeria time.

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EPL: Arsenal Confirms Three Players That Will Miss Crystal Palace Clash

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Arsenal Football club have confirmed that head coach, Mikel Arteta, will be without three first-team players when they travel to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Hector Bellerin is yet to fully recover from a tight right hamstring and the fullback will not feature in the London Derby.

Calum Chambers has had surgery on ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. His rehabilitation process is expected to take up to nine months.

Left-back Kieran Tierney, misses out with a dislocated shoulder but should be back in full training by March.

A club statement reads: “Hector Bellerin – Tight right hamstring. Being assessed ahead of Crystal Palace (a).

“Calum Chambers – Left knee. Ruptured anterior cruciate ligament of his left knee during Chelsea (h) on 29 December. Successful surgery completed. Rehabilitation process expected to take between six to nine months.

“Kieran Tierney – Right shoulder. Dislocated right shoulder during West Ham Utd (a) on 9 December. Successful surgery completed. Rehabilitation process expected to take around three months, aiming to return to full training in March.”

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Kano Police Arrests About 32 Suspected Prostitutes

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The Kano State Hisba Operatives has on Thursday arrested no fewer than 32 suspected prostitutes within and around Kano metropolis.

The Operatives, who were believed to have acted on intelligence report, launched a combat operation on several suspected dark spots across the city to apprehend suspected sex hawkers.

Addressing the suspects at Hisba headquarters on Friday morning, Shaikh Haruna Muhammad Sani Ibn Sina, Director General, Kano Hisba Board, ordered a high profile investigation to establish the complicity of all the suspects.

Ibn Sina whose soul touching ”sermon” triggered remorse among the suspects, further directed that the parents of all suspects should be invited for a crucial meeting with Hisba officials.

The Director-General, however, said that anyone found wanting would be made to face the law according to the dictate of Sharia.

All the suspects were, however, dressed in customised Hisba hijab as a major steps towards comprehensive rehabilitation.

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Social Media Users Blasts Slim Case For Misconduct

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Nigerian indeginous rapper, Oluwafemi Oladapo Oke-Eko, popularly known as Slim Case, has received criticism telling his female fans to send in videos of themselves using any phallic object.

Recall that the rapper began a trend in promoting his new music telling his female fans to send in videos of themselves to pretend they are performing oral sex on a man.

Also, a female follower, who wasn’t in support of the trend, commented on one of the raunchy videos which was reposted on the musician’s social media page.

The follower, who took to instagram expressing her dissatisfaction towards the trend, was captioned saying ‘Slim Case hope your daughter will do this and you will not complain, you keep posting anything they sent to you’ .

Responding to the follower, Slim Case stated that his daughter will do what’s right at the right time.

See post below:

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LGA Chairman Suspended For Absconding From Duty

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Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State, has suspended with immediate effect, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Ningi Local Government Area, Nura Dan Maishari’a for failure to deliver as expected.

The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Mohammed Sabi’u Baba in a statement said the suspension is to put facilitate proper investigation into allegations leveled against the chairman, to enable government take appropriate decision on the matter.

Sabi’u Baba said government has observed with dismay, his lackadaisical attitude towards running the affairs of the Local Government.

According to the statement, the government noted that the suspended chairman have not been engaging the Local Government stakeholders in managing the affairs of the council as the act violates the principles of representative government.

The Secretary to the State Government said currently, Ningi Local Government is witnessing indiscriminate felling of trees under his watch which is inimical to the avowed commitment of the present administration in combating desertification and environmental issues.

The statement said the suspended caretaker chairman also deliberately refused to recognize the appointed Local Government Administrative Secretary whose nomination was in the interest of the entire local government.

To this end, Governor Bala Mohammed directed him to handover the mantle of the administration of the Local Government to the Deputy along with all government’s property in his possession.

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Gov. Ikpeazu Reacts To Death Of Abia LG Chairman

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Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has expressed profound shock at the news of the sudden death of the Transition Committee Chairman of Arochukwu Local Government Area, Hon. Maurice Onyekachi Okoro.

It was reported that the Transition Committee Chairman of Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia, Mr Onyekachi Okoro, is dead.

He was a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the area.

Okoro was said to have slumped at a private residence in Umuahia around 1pm on Thursday and died before he could get medical help.

The PDP Chairman Mr Anthony Nwankwo, confirmed the incident to newsmen at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, where the deceased was taken to for medical attention.

Nwankwo, who was a close political ally of the deceased, said that he slumped after holding a meeting with some officials of the council in Umuahia.

However, Governor Ikpeazu in a press release issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Onyebuchi Ememanka on Friday morning in Umuahia, described the Late Okoro as a hardworking and dedicated politician whose commitment to excellence in service was not in doubt.

Ikpeazu said, “Hon. Okoro had shared with me some wonderful ideas which he planned to implement in his Local Government and I was deeply impressed with his depth. His sudden death is a huge blow to me personally and our administration”.

“This death is yet another reminder to us mortals of the ephemerality of life and the inevitability of death. As such, all of us must strive to live above aboard. For those who hold public offices, we must at all times, strive to serve with diligence and honesty, as those will be our most enduring legacies should our exit time comes, as it has for Hon. Okoro”.

“Governor Ikpeazu sends his deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family of the Late Chairman and the entire people of Arochukwu Local Government Area, and prays for the good Lord to accept his gentle soul and comfort the bereaved.

Onyekachi Okoro was amongst the 17 Local Government Areas Transition Committee Chairmen inaugurated by the Governor on 18th December 2019.

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Tiwa Savage And Naira Marley To Drop A Song Together

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Nigerian Universal singer Tiwa Savage, has taken to her instagram page, to share a photo of herself in the studio with Naira Marley alongside popular music producer Rexxie.

Tiwa Savage captioned the photo as ‘special @Naira Marley’ might be planning a song with Naira Marley.

Recall that Naira Marley is one of the top artists so far this year.

There is also no doubt as it is certain, he might end up being the most featured artist with a massive fan base this year.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7HwdlehMxB/?igshid=1l28se0lny7ed

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Two Persons Confirmed Dead in Ogun Road Crashes

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Two persons have been confirmed dead in separate road crashes across Ogun State on Thursday.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun Sector Commander, Clement Oladele, confirmed the incident to journalists on Friday.

A male adult was said to have died at about 0430hrs in an accident that occurred on the IjebuOde-Ore-Benin Expressway, around Ijebu Mushin.

It was learnt that two men were involved, one died as the other sustained injuries in the lone accident involving a Nissan Urvan bus, with registration number, FST907XY.

The vehicle was said to have had a tyre burst as a result of excessive speed.

According to Oladele, a woman also died in another accident that occurred about 1050hrs along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, before Foursquare, Ayobo, near Alapako/Ogunmakin.

Oladele said a total of six persons were involved in the lone crash, comprising three men, two women and a child.

“Five persons sustained injuries, while a female adult died in the crash that involved an ash-coloured Toyota Previa bus, with registration number, LND929GL.

“The suspected causes of the crash were wrongful overtaking and excessive speed.

“The injured victims were rescued to Victory Hospital, Ogere and Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilisan Remo for medical attention.

“The corpse of the dead victim was deposited at FOS Morgue Ipara, near Ogere,” Oladele stated.

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Delta Govt Commits N100m To Fight Hiv/Aids

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Delta state Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has said the state government is ready to spend N100 million to fight the spread of Human Immune-deficiency Virus (HIV) in the state.

The governor revealed this at the launch of HIV SURGE in Asaba.

Okowa said all hands must be on deck to check the HIV scourge, warning that nobody should collect fees of any kind on HIV cases.

He therefore directed the state government-owned media houses not to collect any fee for HIV-related campaigns and sensitization.

The governor also announced that laws against stigmatization and victimization of HIV patients would be promulgated in the state.

He noted that HIV Testing Services should be given top priority, particularly in rural communities, adding that local areas were critical to the overall HIV/AIDS response and services.

“Let me assure all of you of my administration’s readiness to creating an enabling environment and support for all HIV/AIDS programmes.

“I am taking up the fight Against HIV/AIDS as one of my administration’s top priorities; we are committing the sum of N100 million to ensure that our people, especially those who are in the riverside communities are reached.

“We will treat unkindly anybody who charges users fee for HIV treatment both in the secondary and our primary health facilities.

“The Delta State Government has been offering free maternal services for all pregnant women and under-five children in the State through its equity plan in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, which includes free HIV test and counseling.

“Equally, the government has been making funds available to the State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, for the procurement of HIV test kits and consumables to fill in emerging gaps in some of our facilities and support to partners,” he said.

The governor said the
Delta State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, which was critical in all HIV/AIDS matters, had been repositioned to effectively coordinate all HIV/AIDS activities in the State.

According to him, “We are working to ensure that the legislature makes law against the stigmatization and victimization of people living with the HIV.”

“Media houses in the state should not collect money for any publication or materials for radio and television that will create more awareness for the HIV.

“I wish to reiterate my earlier call for more partners and stakeholders, including friends of the State, to join hands to make Delta State HIV-free and provide succour to those already living with the virus.

“More than ever before, this is the time to redouble our commitments to tackling the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the State,” he stated.

He also expressed gratitude to United States Government through her PEPFAR programme, the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), CARITAS Nigeria, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and Excellence Community Educational Welfare Scheme (ECWES).

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Faith Based Organizations (FBOs), Community Based Organizations (CBOs) for their collaboration, assistance and privileges extended to the State over the years towardsv eradicating and working to attain zero HIV.

Also commended were Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs) and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs).

“I call on all Deltans to massively make themselves available for HIV testing.

“For those that are HIV positive, they have the opportunity of being enrolled into treatment immediately because, you can live a normal and positive life with HIV and these services are free,” Okowa said.

The United States Government through its Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, Kathleen FitzGibbon, called for sustained effort to identify and put People Living with HIV (PLHIV) on life-saving Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART).

She said that it would ensure that PLHIV live a long, normal, productive, and healthy life and help in breaking the transmission of the virus.

FitzGibbon also pledged the U.S. Government’s support to the people of Delta, especially in the identification and provision of treatment to approximately 63,000 people living with HIV, in addition to the over 17,500 people already receiving such treatment through the PEPFAR program in the state to help in moving the state towards HIV epidemic control by September 2020.

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Transfer: Liverpool Emerge Favourites To Sign Osimhen

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Liverpool are now the favourites to sign Lille striker, Victor Osimhen, according to British bookies, William Hill.

Osimhen is attracting interest from several big European teams, after netting 14 goals in 25 matches across all competitions for the Ligue 1 side so far.

Based on the odds, Liverpool are in sole position to sign the Super Eagles star, followed by Barcelona and Real Madrid, who are joint second.

West Ham and Chelsea are the next in line to sign Osimhen, while Tottenham Hotspur are the sixth favourite.

Lille president, Gérard Lopez, has repeatedly said he would not sanction the player’s exit this month and wants to keep him beyond this season.

Osimhen’s contract with the French sides expires at the end of the 2023-2024 season.

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NUC SCRAPS MASS COMMUNICATION PROGRAMMES

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The National Universities Commission, NUC, has phased out Mass Communication Degree in Nigeria institutions.

In a chat with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, NUC’s Executive Secretary, Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, said Mass Communication has been unbundled into Media Studies, Public Relations Studies, Cinematography, among others.

The seven new Programmes/Departments, to be domiciled in a Faculty / School / College of Communication and Media Studies are Journalism & Media Studies, Public Relations, Advertising, Broadcasting, Film & Multi-Media Studies, Development Communication Studies, Information & Media Studies.

With the development, there will be no more Mass Communication as a degree programme in universities in Nigeria.

The NUC said it has unbundled Mass Communication into seven separate degree programmes to meet present demand and this takes effect from 2020 admissions into Nigerian universities.

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Breaking: Director-General For Art And Culture, Sent To Prison

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Justice Jude Okeke of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has sentenced the Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Olusegun Runsewe, to prison.

Justice Okeke made the order on Thursday while ruling on a motion drawn from a suit filed by Ummakalif Limited against the Minister of the FCT; Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA); DG of NCAC, and the Minister for Culture and Tourism, as the first, second, third and fourth defendants respectively.

In the motion, the claimant sought an order of the court committing Runsewe to prison for contempt of court order made on December 15, 2017.

Justice Okeke described Runsewe’s action as highly contemptuous, adding that committing him to the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) would serve as a deterrent to others who abuse office and disobey court orders with disdain.

He ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to arrest Runsewe with immediate effect and hand him over to the NCS pending when he retraces his steps.

The court had ordered parties in the suit to stay proceedings on every activity concerning the demolition of the Arts and Craft village located in the Central Business District area of the FCT.

However, the respondents in the suit, particularly the NCAC flouted that rule.

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Man Utd Take Final Decision On Signing Eriksen From Tottenham

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Manchester United have decided not to sign Christian Eriksen from Tottenham Hotspur this January, according to Sky Sports.

The Red Devils have been linked with a £20m move for the Denmark midfielder, who is out of contract at the end of the season, but no bid has been made.

United held discussions with Spurs about a deal for Eriksen last summer, but the player ended up staying in London.

It is understood that Eriksen sees his future away from the Premier League and is likely to be on his way to Inter Milan.

Inter’s chief executive, Giuseppe Marotta, confirmed their interest in the player earlier this week, but insisted they have had no discussions with Spurs yet.

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Meek Mill Set To Buy A Mansion In Africa

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American rapper, Robert Rihmeek Williams, popularly known as Meek Mill, has announced that he is set on buying a house in Africa.

The Philadelphia rapper and song writer, took to his twitter page on Tuesday, to share his dream of moving to Africa

“I’m up thinking about some new dreams.. I made my mind up im copping a mansion in Africa when i run it up!!!” he said.

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NBC: Lai Mohammed Issues New Directives To The Media

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The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has directed the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to immediately implement measures aimed at re-positioning the broadcast industry.

This was contained in a statement signed and made available to journalists by the Special Assistant to the President on Media, Mr Segun Adeyemi.

He said the directive becomes necessary following the submission of the report of a committee set up to work out the modalities for implementing the recommendations approved by President Muhammadu Buhari to re-position the broadcast industry.

”Following my satisfaction with the report which was very professional and detailed, I wish to direct the Commission to take the necessary measures to effect the implementation of the various provisions therein.

He also noted that the implementation is with a view to sanitizing the industry, creating jobs, promoting local content, boosting the advert industry and bringing the broadcast industry up to par with the best practices from around the world.

“This directive covers the provision for the regulation of the web and online TV/radio; regulation of international broadcasters beaming signals into Nigeria; hate speech; human resource and staff welfare; funding for the reforms implementation; monitoring; Independence of the Regulator and ease of issuing Licenses as well as competition and monopoly issues,” he said.

Mohammed also expressed confidence that the new regulations, which are due to come into effect this January, will re-energize the broadcast industry, deliver real value in the sector and grow the creative industry for the benefit of practitioners.

”This regulation prevents the misuse of monopoly or market power or anti-competitive and unfair practices by a foreign or local broadcaster to suppress other local broadcasters in the television and radio markets, having removed exclusivity from all content in Nigeria and mandated the sharing of all content upon the payment of commercially viable fees,” the Minister said

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I Had A Private Relationship With My Husband – Simi Reveals

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Nigerian singer, Simisola Ogunlaye, popularly known as Simi, has said she kept a private relationship with her husband , Adekunle Gold, prior to when they officially tied the knot.

While responding to a tweet on Wednesday, Simi discsloed that she didn’t want people to know she was in love with someone called Adekunle.

Recall that it has been a year since Simi and her heartthrob Adekunle Gold exchanged marital vows in Lagos.

Fans of the couple were taken by surprise when their wedding photos hit the internet.

A top fan in a micro-blogging platform revealed that her hit song “Joromi” was her favorite song

Also, another follower said “The energy is different, I guess you were in a happy space when you recorded.. My favorite jam too and your first song Tiff”

Responding, the singer said she never planned to use, “Joromi” that the initial plan was “Dekunle Dekunle, I want you to love me”, but she didn’t want it to sound like she loved him that much.

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Supreme Court Victory: Vindication of Gov. Okowa’s Landslide Victory – Omimi Esquire

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Coming on the heels of the Supreme Court verdict which has affirmed Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as the winner of the Saturday, March 9th, 2019 Delta Guber polls.

The Political Adviser to the Governor, Omimi Esquire has said the nation’s apex court ruling has finally vindicated the Governor’s land slide outing and acceptability by the vast majority of Deltans.

Reacting to the outcome after a thanksgiving service to mark the Governor’s victory at the Government House Chapel in Asaba, Omimi Esquire posited that the Tribunal, Appeal Court and now Supreme Court verdicts has finally put paid to all speculations as to who the authentic winner of the Delta 2019 Governorship election is.

The Political Adviser said, the Supreme Court victory of the Governor has also validated the incontrovertible fact that Deltans freely gave their mandate to him (Okowa) as could be attested to by the landslide outcome across the three Senatorial districts of the State.

“With all litigations concerning the Saturday, March 9th, 2019 Delta Governorship polls put to an end by the Supreme Court affirmation of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as duly and validly elected Governor of Delta State, the stage is set for Deltans to expect more development in line with the Stronger Delta Vision of the Okowa administration”.

The Political Adviser to the Governor therefore appealed to Deltans to continue to remain supportive of the present administration and shun acts likely to engender divisive tendencies that will bring disunity among the various ethnic groups of the State.

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ONLY BOMB DIFFERENTIATES FG FROM BOKO HARAM – CATHOLIC BISHOP

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The Catholic bishop of Sokoto diocese, Matthew Kukah has said it is only the use of bomb that differentiates the federal government from Boko Haram insurgents.

Kukah said this on Tuesday while speaking with Catholic Charity Aid to the Church in Need, in the UK.

He was said to have spoken on the killing of 10 Christians by the Islamic State, West Africa Province on Christmas eve.

The bishop reportedly accused the government of using different methods to achieve the same goal of “Islamic dominance like Boko Haram.”

He added that the federal government had failed to tackle Boko Haram insurgency and has instead created room for the group to operate as it is doing currently.

“The only difference between the government and Boko Haram is (that) Boko Haram is holding a bomb,” Kukah was quoted as saying.

“They are using the levers of power to secure the supremacy of Islam, which then gives more weight to the idea that it can be achieved by violence. With the situation in Nigeria, it is hard to see the moral basis they have to defeat Boko Haram.

“They have created the conditions to make it possible for Boko Haram to behave the way they are behaving.”

Kukah said if those in authority do not do enough to integrate Christians, “then they give oxygen to Islamism.”

“If they have countries where everybody is Muslim in power, then you give vent to the idea that Islam should be supreme,” he added.

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Breaking: Prince Harry & Wife Plans To Withdraw From Palace Roles

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Britain’s Prince, Harry and his wife Meghan, has said they will step back as senior members of the royal family and spend more time in North America.

The couple disclosed this in an historic statement on Wednesday.

“We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen,” they said in a statement released by Buckingham Palace.

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Carabao Cup: Rashford Picks David De Gea After A 3-1 Defeat To Man City

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Manchester United forward, Marcus Rashford, has said David de Gea saved them in the Carabao Cup, semi-final against Manchester City on Tuesday.

City won the first-leg 3-1 at Old Trafford, with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Andreas Pereira own goal.

Rashford pulled one back for the hosts in the second half.

However, the 22-year-old has said that it is De Gea, who should be credited with keeping them in the tie, with the return leg to be played at the Etihad Stadium on January 29.

“For me, it wasn’t the goal that gives us a chance,” Rashford told the club’s official website.

“David made three or four world-class saves and that’s the reason we’re still in the tie. We have to understand that.

“They changed a little bit from the last time we played against them. Maybe we have to adapt a little bit more on the pitch as players and try to control the game a little bit more. It’s tough against them – they’re a good team – but we have to expect more from ourselves.

“It’s disappointing to lose the game. The first half wasn’t good enough. The second half was a little bit better and a little bit more like ourselves. But today we weren’t good enough to win the game. Now we have to focus on Norwich.”

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Solskjaer Mentions Players That Will Miss Man Utd/ Norwich’s Clash

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Manchester United boss, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said that defender, Harry Maguire will miss his side’s Premier League clash against Norwich City on Saturday at Old Trafford.

Remember that Maguire picked up an injury during Man United’s FA Cup goalless draw against Wolves at Molineux last weekend.

The 26-year-old England international, missed Man United’s Carabao Cup semi-final defeat against Manchester United on Tuesday night.

Asked how long Maguire might be out of action for the Red Devils, Solskjaer was quoted by Man United’s official website as saying: “We don’t know. It is not going to be a long term one.

“But I don’t think he will be ready for the weekend [against Norwich]. Let’s see.”

Solskajaer also provided latest update on defender, Phil Jones.

The Norwegian added: “Jones had cramp. It was his first 90 minutes for a while, but he came through it. It was just cramped.”

The kick-off time for the match is 4pm.

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Jesus Never Went To Church – Naira Marley Says After Being Called A Demon

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Popular Nigerian musician, Naira Marley has reacted to alleged prophecy by Apostle Chris Omashola that he is a demon.

Remember that a religious socio-political Evangelist, Apostle Chris Omashola, had on Monday announced that God told him Naira Marley is a demon.

In his embattled prophecy, Omashola said God revealed to him that Naira Marley’s songs are demonically inspired to destroy the destiny of Nigerian youths.

He also said that he must repent now before it is too late.

He was quoted as saying, ”In 2020, God told me, Naira Marley is A Demon, He is Satanic and should repent before it’s too late.

“His songs are demonically inspired to destroy the destiny of the youths of this generation, Nigerian youths should desist from calling themselves Marlians”

Reacting, Naira Marley on his Twitter page said Jesus never went to church.

He wrote, “Jesus never went to church.”

https://twitter.com/omo_billionaire/status/1214529226063384577?s=19
https://twitter.com/officialnairam1/status/1214533945557209092?s=19

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Supreme Court Victory: Ned Nwoko Rejoices With Okowa

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Anioma born billionaire and politician, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko has rejoiced with the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on his Supreme Court victory .

Nwoko said in statement on the heels of the supreme Court affirmation of Okowa as winner of the March 9, 2019 Delta Governorship election, said the victory was expected.

He congratulated the Governor and expressed relief that the apex Court judgment has finally rested the issue of the gubernatorial race.

He said Deltans freely gave their mandate to Okowa with glaring victorious outcome across the three senatorial districts.

Nwoko added that the beauty of democracy not only recognized the announcement of results and swearing in of winners, but also allowed for litigation by those not satisfied with the outcome of the electoral process

According to Nwoko.
“The coast is clear for my dear brother Okowa. Now that the Supreme Court has finally given its verdict on the Governorship matter which had gone through the tribunal and the appeal court, it is time to settle down to deliver on the mandate of the people of Delta State”

“I want to advise my friend, Chief Great Ogboru to let the governorship issue rest and extend a hand of fellowship to Okowa in the interest of the State.

“I congratulate my brother the Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa on this worthwhile victory. This is another opportunity to exemplify your sterling leadership qualities of humility and integrity like you have always done. The whole Delta State is your constituency, including those that have challenged you in court. So,work with everybody and move on to leave an enduring legacy for generations of Deltans to proudly remember”, Nwoko said.

The former member House of Representatives Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency (1999-2003) thanked Deltans for their pro Okowa goodwill since 2015.

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SOUNDCITY TO HOLD MVP 2020 AWARD FESTIVAL – WIZKID, DAIMOND, SHATTA WALE, OTHERS TO PERFORM

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The 2020 soundcity MVP award festival is to hold on Saturday, 11th January at the Eko convention centre, Lagos.

The prestigious award ceremony scheduled for Saturday, will celebrate music, and the most outstanding Afrocentric cultural achievement.

The ceremony will also be viewed on most premium live TV events, DStv channel 327, GOtv channel 75 and streaming on all Soundcity TV and radio platforms.

The Soundcity MVP Awards Festival is famed for iconic performances;ranging from from Busiswa’s electric stage domination, to her-never-seen-before joint performance with Niniola to International star Jidenna’s much talked about closing performance.

The last edition featured 2face Idibia, Sarkodie, Davido, Emtee, Patoranking, Tiwa Savage, and Cassper Nyovest’s.

Performing in this year’s edition are music talents across the continent – a true pan-African affair that the SMVP is known for.

There will be performances from Diamond Platnumz, Prince Kaybee, Wizkid, Stonebwoy, Big Trill, Toofan, Joeboy, Rema, Shatta Wale, Zanda Zakuza, Kuami Eugene, Naira Marley, Ric Hassani and others

Also, Tickets to the live show are now on sales.

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NYSC Set To Mobilize Absconded Corp Members, Says Mobilization Not For Freshers

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The management of the National Youth Service Corp! (NYSC) has opened portal for remobilisation of Corp members.

This is contained in a statement issued to journalists by the NYSC, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the remobilisation exercise is meant for people who absconded from NYSC during the previous batches but are ready to be mobilized.

“This is not for fresh Batch A 2020 Prospective Corps members, it is strictly for Corpers who absconded from NYSC in the last batch and now ready to do their NYSC”.

The statement also said Corp members who already started their NYSC but were unable to complete it due to reasons are to participate in the Remobilisation exercise and not freshers.

“Some Corpers who already started their NYSC but were unable to complete it due to reasons known to them are the ones to do the remobilisation” .

The statement also said the official timetable is yet to be out for NYSC 2020 Batch exercise.

Prospective Corp members for 2020 Batch A orientation course are therefore advised to stay connected and wait for their own mobilization exercise.

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65 PERSONS HAVE DIED IN FIRE DISASTER – FIRE SERVICE BOSS

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The Kaduna State Fire Service said on Wednesday that it recorded 523 fire outbreaks and 65 deaths in the state between January and December 2019.

The state Director of Fire Service, Mr Paul Aboi disclosed this in an interview with journalists in Kaduna.

He explained that the incidences were recorded in Kaduna, Zaria and Kafanchan zones.

Aboi said the fire outbreaks were caused mainly by carelessness in the use of electrical appliances.

He also said December period recorded the highest incidences of fire with 69 outbreaks followed by the months of January 74, February 65, March 67 and April 61.

“The high rate of fire outbreak is usually from December till April because the period is the core dry season,” he said.

He stated that in the course of responding to fire distress calls, the office rescued 63 persons alive, 141 injured while 65 persons died.

Aboi noted that the service was doing its best to reduce fire disasters in the state to the barest minimum.

“The efforts of the Kaduna State Fire Service saved the state over N199 billion worth of goods while properties destroyed are estimated at N58 billion from over 523 fire outbreaks in the state between January and December 2019.

“Carelessness of residents is a major cause. I hope that the advocacy programme being embarked upon by the state government will help correct the anomaly and ultimately reduce fire incidents to the lowest possible rate minimum,” he said.

The director advised residents to take preventive measures against fire outbreaks seriously, saying the only language fire understands is prevention.

“Fire Prevention Unit of the service has been going to houses, offices, schools, markets and worship centres to sensitise people to fire preventive measures and what to do in case of outbreak,” he said.

He advised people to always call the service first any time there was fire outbreak, as “calling fire service after battling fire outbreak unsuccessfully would cause more damage and total destruction to property”.

The director, however, commended residents for not attacking fire fighting personnel and trucks when they arrive at fire scenes.

He warned residents to be careful during the dry season as the period was prone to fire disaster, saying fire usually rage out of control during the period.

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Iran Issues Strong Warning To America, Says There Will Be All-Out War

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Iran has issued a strong warning that any US retaliation to its missile attacks on American targets in Baghdad would lead to an all-out war in the Middle East.

Hessameddin Ashena, an adviser to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani stated this on Wednesday.

“Any adverse military action by the US will be met with an all out war across the region. The Saudis, however, could take a different path – they could have total peace!” Ashena said in a statement on Twitter.

Also, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has said on Twitter that his country took what it considered to be proportionate measures and does not seek an escalation of war.

Iran fired more than a dozen rockets at two Iraqi military bases hosting US troops on Wednesday.

The attacks followed the assassination of Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad on Friday.

ran had vowed severe retailiation.

The rockets fired at the Ain al-Asad base in Anbar province and a base in Erbil early on Wednesday came amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington.

“Iran took & concluded proportionate measures in self-defense under Article 51 of UN Charter targeting base from which cowardly armed attack against our citizens & senior officials were launched.

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ANGLICAN PRIEST AND SON ATTACKED BY BANDITS

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A 70-year-old Anglican priest, Canon Foluso Ogunsuyi of the Danian Marian Memorial Anglican Church, Ikun in Akoko Southwest Local Government Area of Ondo State has been attacked by Bandits.

The incident occurred on Oba-Ikun road, and his son, an army Sergent was also attacked by the hoodlums.

Sources said the bandits attacked the victims yesterday morning while they were travelling and carted away valuables and N92,000.00 cash.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Oba-Akoko, Ade Akinola, a Superintendent of Police (SP), who confirmed the incident, said that investigation was on, adding that Ikun community had been involved in the matter.

“The sergeant, a son to Canon Ogunsuyi, was attacked with a machete.

“He was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo,” he said.

The Special Assistant to Ondo State Governor on Fulani and Hausa Matters, Alhaji Bala Umar, said instructions had been passed to genuine Fulani herdsmen in the forest and farmers to report any suspicious person and movement to the nearest police station.

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PLANE CARRYING 180 PEOPLE CRASHES AFTER AN ATTACK ON AMERICA – IRAN REACTS

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Iran has reacted after a Ukrainian airplane carrying at least 180 people crashed on Wednesday near an airport in the capital, Tehran.

The crash occurred hours after Iran launched a ballistic missile, targeting two bases in Iraq housing U.S. forces in retaliation for the killing of Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

There was no immediate word on casualties, according to Iranian State TV, adding that the crash is suspected to have been caused by mechanical issues.

Report reveals that the plane had taken off from Imam Khomeini International Airport.

Iranian Civil Aviation Spokesperson, Reza Jafarzadeh, said an investigation team was at the site of the crash in southwestern outskirts of Tehran.

“After taking off from Imam Khomeini international airport, it crashed between Parand and Shahriar,’’ Jafarzadeh said.

“An investigation team from the national aviation department was dispatched to the location after the news was announced.”

Flight data from the airport showed a Ukrainian 737-800 flown by Ukraine International Airlines took off Wednesday morning, then stopped sending data almost immediately afterward, according to website FlightRadar24.

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JONATHAN HAS NOT MADE ANY COMMENT ON THE COMING ELECTION YET – SAYS IKECHUKWU

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan has distanced himself from reports claiming that he was under pressure to contest the 2023 presidential election.

He stated this in a statement issued by his Media Aide, Ikechukwu Eze.

Jonathan said he was not under pressure to contest, rather he was focused on promoting peace and sustainable democracy across the African continent.

The statement reads: “There was nothing like that. The former President has not made any comments nor spoken to anyone on the coming elections.

“He is busy concentrating on his foundation, The Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), and its work of promoting peace, sustainable democracy and youth empowerment in Africa.

“If you check online, you will discover that a story with similar headline had been published in the past by few shady online sources.

“The last time this same story circulated online was before the 2019 Presidential elections. It has now come up again.

“The good thing is that Nigerians already know this to be fake. That is why Nigerian newspapers and serious online news media will not publish such falsehood.”

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BREAKING: PDP CHAIRMAN SLUMPS AND DIE WHILE PLAYING TENNIS

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The Chairman of the Kogi West Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) , Barr. Taiwo Kola-Ojo is dead.

This was contained in a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary of the Party, Bode Ogunmola on Wednesday.

According to reports, Barr. Ojo slumped and died on Tuesday evening while playing lawn tennis.

Ogunmola, described the death as sudden and shocking.

The statement said the PDP West Chairman’s continuous contributions to the growth and success of the party in the state would be greatly missed.

The party prayed God to grant the immediate family, members of the deceased Chairman and the party the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of a committed party member.

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Hakimi Beats Osimhen, Others To Win African’s Youth Player Of The Year

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Morocco and Borussia Dortmund defender,
Achraf Hakimi, has been crowned as the African Youth Player Of The Year.

The 21-year-old beat Nigerian duo of Victor Osimhen (Lille) and Samuel Chukwueze (Villarreal) to emerge the winner on Tuesday at the 2019 CAF Awards ceremony in Egypt.

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INEC PLANS DATE TO CONDUCT 28 RERUNS, BY- ELECTION

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is ready to conduct 28 outstanding elections spread across 11 states of the Federation.

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents on Tuesday in Abuja.

He spoke shortly after meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari along with top officials of the electoral body at the Presidential Villa.

Also present were the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu; the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari.

Professor Yakubu announced that INEC has set January 25 for the exercise, noting that 28 elections were part of the 30 annulled by the courts.

On his part, the IGP told reporters that the police were poised to stop ballot box-snatching and other electoral malpractices while ensuring a secure environment for the elections.

Earlier, President Buhari directed INEC) and the police to be fair to Nigerians during the elections, saying the commission must ensure that the game was played by the rules, without fear or favour.

“Those that you declare as winners must be the candidates that the people have chosen,” President Buhari was quoted as saying in a statement by his media adviser, Mr Femi Adesina.

He added, “Democracy is about free will, and the will of the people must be allowed to prevail. Get your acts right, and leave no room for underhand tricks or manipulation.”

The President said he was determined to give Nigeria an electoral system that meets with best practices anywhere in the world, and charged the electoral umpire to stick to the rules of fair play and adherence to justice.

On the other hand, he told the police that they must carefully secure the electoral process, without bias or favouritism.

President Buhari stated, “Our elections must be done in violence-free atmosphere. The process must be free, fair, decent, devoid of intimidation or malpractices.

“It is the duty of the police to accomplish that, and it is what I expect in the elections immediately ahead and going forward.”

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LASSA FEVER OUTBREAK CONFIRMED IN ABIA STATE

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The Abia state Ministry of Health has confirmed the outbreak of lassa fever in Olokoro community, Umuahia South Local Government Area.

This was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Chief Egbulefu Eze, in Umuahia on Tuesday in an interaction with journalists.

He stated that a 28-year-old man, who died in the community, was diagnosed of lassa fever.

He also allayed the fears of possible epidemic in the state, adding that the ministry was taking measures to contain the spread of the disease.

Eze said said the victim died on January 1 at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia, where he was admitted.

He said, “I want to report about an outbreak of lassa fever at Olokoro,” the permanent secretary said.

He said it was the fourth time Abia would experience the outbreak since 1999.

He also revealed that that the state government had always contained previous outbreaks and was already on top of the situation.

“There’s no cause for alarm. Government is on top of the situation,” Eze said.

He noted that in the course of the investigation, all those that came in close contact with the deceased had been identified stressing that they have ben placed on surveillance.

He said that the disease surveillance officers of the ministry was already consulting the state office of the World Health Organisation to map out strategies on ways to checkmate the spread of the disease.

Also, the Medical Director of FMC Umuahia, Dr Azubuike Onyebuchi, said the deceased was initially suspected to be suffering from acute appendicitis.

Onyebuchi revealed that further examination on the man was the case of lassa fever.

He also said the hospital had identified all the hospital personnel that came in contact with him and placed them on 21 days surveillance.

Responding the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council, Dr Ugochukwu Onyeonoro, said the hospital had been “decontaminated”.

He observed that the patient was brought to FMC from another hospital stressing that the state government was promptly informed after the case of lassa fever was released.

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STATE GOVT ORDERED US TO STOP FAVOUR’S BURIAL – FAMILY OF MURDERED STUDENT

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The family of the late Favour Daley-Oladele has said that an order from the Lagos State Ministry of Health stopped them from burying her remains at the Atan Cemetery, in the Yaba Local Government Area of the State.

Favour, the daughter of a Pastor, David Daley-Oladele, was gruesomely murdered in a conspiracy involving her lover, Owolabi Adeeko; his mother, identified simply as Mrs Adeeko; and the pastor of a white garment church, Segun Philip, in the Ikoyi-Ile area of Osun State.

Owolabi and his accomplices after being arrested for perpetrating the crime had confessed to killing Favour. They also confessed to have dismembered her corpse and used some vital parts of her body for money ritual.

Speaking at the Atan Cemetery, Favour’s uncle, Solomon Toyeme, said the family had mobilised to the ministry of health to retrieve her corpse for the burial when they were instructed to suspend the arrangement for the benefit of the investigation.

Toyeme said, “An order from the Lagos State Ministry of Health instructed us not to go ahead with Favour’s burial today. We were told that some procedures need to be taken and that we need to stop the burial so that we won’t lose the case.

“The family has made the —arrangement and were at the Lagos State Ministry of health to retrieve her corpse for burial when we received the call.”

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BREAKING: HAALAND REVEALS WHY HE SNUBBED MAN UTD FOR DORTMUND

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Erling Haaland has said Borussia Dortmund’s plan “triggered” him to snub a move to Manchester United.

The teenager has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Bundesliga side this month.

However, before the move, he attracted interest from United, RB Leipzig and Juventus.

On why he chose Dortmund, Haaland said according to Goal: “They just went direct and said, ‘We need you upfront, we like your playing style and we want to have you here’.

“I liked how they spoke to me then and that’s what triggered me [to sign]. I just felt that me and Dortmund was a good match.”

Haaland joins a Dortmund side fourth in the Bundesliga and seven points behind leaders Leipzig after 17 games.

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TRANSFER : ADRIEN RABIOT SENDS MESSAGE TO ARSENAL, MAN UNITED

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Juventus midfielder, Adrien Rabiot has dismissed reports linking him with a move to Premier League clubs, Arsenal and Manchester United in this January’s transfer window.

It was reported that Man United are in pole position to sign £25million Rabiot ahead of Arsenal.

Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, also identified Rabiot, as one of his primary targets this month.

Rabiot joined Maurizio Sarri’s side from Paris Saint-Germain last summer, after a frustrating period at the Le Parc des Preinces.

The French player has now ruled out a move to Arsenal, Man United or anywhere else, declaring he is ‘at his team’s disposal’ and ‘feel-good’ at the Turin club.

Speaking on the development, Rabiot told Tuttomercatoweb: “It’s true that 2019 was a very good year for me.

“I worked a lot, I joined Juventus and I think 2020 could be a positive year.

“I feel good physically, I follow the work that the coach tells us to do and I feel good here

“I’m at the team’s disposal, I don’t have a problem with what side of the pitch I play at.

“On the right I can re-enter to the left, whilst on the left I will have a better opportunity to shoot. But it’s only important to be useful for the cause.

“The Italian league is not easy, but no championship is. I am adapting as I am learning about the characteristics of the tournament.”

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RESIDENTS BLOCKS HIGHWAY OVER ALLEGED RELEASE OF KIDNAPPERS

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Protesters in large numbers blocked the Girei section of the Yola-Mubi road on Tuesday in protest of alleged release of some self-confessed kidnappers.

Girei which is the headquarters of Girei Local Government Area lies close to the state capital, Yola, and has recently been troubled by kidnappers who have abducted many people, including three professors from the Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH) located in the town, in the last four months.

The leader of the Tuesday morning protesters, Alhaji Saidu Hamman, alleged that they had been risking their lives assisting the police in apprehending the kidnappers only for the police to be releasing the suspects without prosecuting them.

Motorists were stranded for hours, especially around Tasham Maiturare, the epicentre of the protest in the university town.

Hamman also said the protest followed an emergency meeting by community leaders to decide ways of addressing insecurity in the area.

He added that the meeting itself followed a particular incident, explaining, “We arrested 11 suspected kidnappers and handed them to the police while investigation was ongoing, they were released without being charged to court.

“The peaceful protest is to channel our plight to Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and all security chiefs in the state to do something different.”

Reacting to the allegations, the state Police image-maker, DSP Suleiman Nguroje, said the state Assistant Commissioner of Police had been deployed to address the matter.

He added that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and charged to court and that four other suspects had been transferred to the Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) for further investigation while others were arraigned before a Magistrate’s court in the state.

“The public should not act upon insinuation but verify facts before organizing a protest. Blocking major roads and denying people usual transit is an offence,” he said.

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BOMB EXPLOSION ROCKS GAMBORU – WOMEN, CHILDREN KILLED

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Reports from Gamboru, Ngala local government in Borno state indicates that several people mainly women and children were killed when an explosion suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram close to a bridge between Nigeria and Cameroon border.

Traders who spoke to journalists on phone said, the bomb exploded during a routine security check on people, who were coming out of the market.

Alhaji Tahir Mamman who also who spoke to journalists said, he cannot ascertain the number of casualty. ” Today is the market day, and our people who fled the attack to the Cameroon side always come for the market day every Monday. The bomb incident happened around 3 O’clock when the people were returning home.

“I will send you some pictures but they are not good for the eye. A lot of women and children have been killed. May God Almighty bring an end to our predicaments.” Tahir said.

The military is yet to comment on the bomb explosion.

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Examination Malpractice: Delta Govt Closes Down Two Schools, Sanctions 16 Teachers

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The Delta State Government has ordered the closure of two private secondary schools and sanctioned 16 teachers across the state over their various levels of involvement in examination malpractice in the state.

This is coming as a result of the approval of the report of the Examination Ethics Disciplinary Committee (EEDC) investigation on WAEC indictment of some public and private secondary schools in the state for examination malpractice in the 2018 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) by the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah.

St. Vincent College, Ovwian, whose candidates wrote the 2018 WASSCE at Anointed Secondary School, Ubogo, without the approval of WAEC or the ministry, with the intent to committing examination malpractice is to be closed down along with Anointed Secondary School.

12 Supervisors found guilty for collusion, compromise, negligence of duty and failure to write reports at the end of the examinations will suffer one year deferment of promotion and banned from supervision of any school examination for a period of three years.

They include Akporode Amos of Boboroku Secondary School, Boboroku, who supervised at Ogharefe Secondary School, Oghara, Ugbune O. of Mosogar Secondary School, Mosagar, at Ogharefe Secondary School, Oghara, Nwabueze A. I. of Ukavbe Secondary School, Otefe-Oghara, at Our Lady of Nigeria Secondary School, Ogharefe, Agbavwe G. W. of Ihwighwu Secondary School, Ijomi-Oghara, at Our Lady of Nigeria Secondary School, Ogharefe, Omeresan M. E. of Gbaraun Grammar School, Oproza, at Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben, and Sawacha F. T. of Gbaraun Grammar School, Oproza, at Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben.

Others are Eko Patrick of Gbaraun Grammar School, Oproza, at Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben, Elelekute M. of Gbaraun Grammar School, Oproza, at Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben, Awoyemi S. O. of Ogbe-Ijoh Grammar School, Ogbe-Ijoh, at Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben, Arirediegha O. F. of Burutu Grammar School, Burutu, at Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben, Igbigbi E. E. of Orhuwhorun High School, Orhuwhorun, at St. Vincent College, Ovwian, and Igweze M. O. of Aladja Grammar School, Aladja, at St. Vincent College, Ovwian.

The Vice Principal (Academics) of Ogidigben Grammar School, Ogidigben, Mrs. H. Akponeware, who was found guilty of inefficiency in handling the affairs of the school in the absence of the Principal due to her nonchalant attitude, negligence of duty and connivance during the conduct of 2018 WASSC is to be demoted by one salary grade level.

Similarly, the Examination Officer of the same school, Mr. Akpochimara Ufuoma, was found guilty of gross complicity in the act of examination malpractice, compromise, sharing money amongst Supervisors and pressurizing WAEC Officers/Supervisors to release question papers and answer scripts for candidates outside the examination hall and is to be demoted by one salary grade level.

Ms Onoriode Q. from Ovwian Secondary School, Ovwian, who was Supervisor for Mathematics 2 at St. Vincent College, Ovwian, was found guilty of not writing report to the ministry or WAEC and is to be banned from supervising any school examination for three years.

Speaking after the approval of the recommendations, Chief Ukah seriously warned those who might still have the intention of involvement in examination malpractice to have a rethink as the state government has zero tolerance for the act.

He said that stiffer penalties will be given to any person who is involved in examination malpractice no matter how highly placed and advised them to operate within the provisions of the rules guiding the conduct of examinations in the state.

The approved recommendations have been forwarded to the PPEB for implementation.

EEDC, Chaired by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, is an inter ministerial body with representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Post Primary Education Board (PPEB), Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria (APSON), the Director of Examinations as well as that of Inspectorate Department in the ministry.

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VIOLENCE: CAN BEGS UN, US, OTHERS FOR HELP

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The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has called on the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other developed world to assist Nigerian government in securing the lives of its citizens.

CAN President, Dr. Samson Ayokunle, in a statement through his media aide, Bayo Oladeji, appealed to the developed countries with strong military might to help Nigeria’s security agencies to live up to the expectations before the insecurity situation got out of hand.

CAN said it has lost confidence in the ability of the Nigerian state to secure its citizens.

The umbrella body of Christians in Nigeria said the recent upsurge in attack on Nigerians, particularly Christians in the North, had become a source of concern, as the country’s security system seemed to have run out of ideas and abilities to contain the activities of the insurgents.

CAN justified its fears with recent reports from some parts of Nigeria, particularly the North, that Boko Haram insurgents and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters had intensified attacks, particularly on Christians and their communities.

The statement observed, “CAN Chairman in Michika, Adamawa state, Rev Lawan Andimi, was abducted by Boko Haram terrorists some days back when they invaded the predominant Christian community. Although, we were told that troops repelled the terrorists but not until they had successfully forced Rev Andimi into their Toyota Hilux and took him away.

“The innocent cleric, in a video footage released by his captors, has been making appeal to the federal government, the Adamawa state governor, Ahmadu Umar Fintri, and the leadership of CAN to come to his aid.”

CAN further lamented, “As if that was not enough, there was a bandit attack on Kasaya village, another Christian community in Chikun local government area of Kaduna state on Monday about 6:30 am. The attackers were said to have abducted 41 people, including a Pastor, Rev Joshua Samaila. But up till now, nobody knows what has become of them.

“Similarly, on 27th November, 2019, Mr. Bitrus Bwala, a principal lecturer at the College of Education, Gashua, Yobe state, and 10 others, who are all Christians, were abducted by Boko Haram terrorists. Bwala in a short video released recently cried out for help. But up till now, the government is yet to secure their freedom or say anything about them.

“These are all evidences of Christian persecution in the country, and when we cried out in support of the position of the US government, some people would say it was untrue. If criminals are invading Christian communities, killing and abducting people unchallenged, what do we call it if not deliberate persecution?

“How many terrorists, Fulani herdsmen ‘killers’ and bandits are in the custody of the security agencies? How many of them have been arraigned in court?”

CAN, thus called on the federal government and security agencies to expedite actions to secure immediate and safe release of all the hostages and ensure adequate security in the affected Christian communities that have become the target of criminals.

It, however, assured those in captivity and others facing religious persecution under the current dispensation that Christians are with them in prayers adding that God who delivered the people of Israel from the Egyptian bondage will surely deliver them unhurt.

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Use The Policy In Demolishing Ile Arugbo, On Kwarans’ Welfarism – Workers Tell Abdulrasaq

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THE “NO WASTE TIME” POLICY YOU USED ON ILE ARUGBO DEMOLITION, SHOULD BE USED ON KWARA WORKER’S WELFARISM TOO..

The Association of Concerned Workers yesterday, urged Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrsasaq to use the modalities and speed he used to demolished the “ILE ARUGBO” on workers welfare.

Sir, during the campaign you promised to pay the Local Government Worker’s and SUBEB Staffs their outstanding salary arrears, till now, you haven’t said anything on the arrears issue. However, you can demolished a perceived enemy’s property within a twinkle of an eye.

Sir, remember prosterity will judge those that do good or bad. Your government has till date not embarked on any developmental projects, except old fighting between your family and the illustrious Saraki Family.

Sir, pls kindly stop chasing shadows and face governance, pay our arrears, implement #30,000 minimum wage, emulate Mr. Seyi Makinde of Oyo state.

Sir, don’t allow politicians to push you, those that are pushing today will stand against you tomorrow and expose all your misdeeds. So be very careful sir.

We Workers voted for you because you promised to take care of our welfarism but you’ve derailed from all what you promised us and now you have engaged on a historical vengeance mission.

Sir, a word is Enough for the wise.

The Concerned Kwara Workers.

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Cardi B, Plans To File For Nigeria Citizenship

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American rapper, Belcalis Almanzer, popularly known as Cardi B, has started plans of becoming a Nigerian after President Trump ordered the elimination of the Iranian military leader, Qassem Soleimani.

Cardi B, Disclosed this on twitter yesterday, while criticizing Trump’s decision in eliminating Soleimani, Iran second most powerful man.

Soleimani was eliminated by the US force on Thursday 2, 2020 in an air raid at Baghdad international airport, Iraq.

Since the news of Soleimani Broke out, it seem to have generated a global reactions on social media, as many people opine that Trump’s decision on the death of the Iranian military leader could lead to World War III.

Reacting to the incident, the 27 year old rapper, Cardi B, described the situation as the ‘dumbest move’ stressing that it’s sad Trump is putting the lives of Americans in danger.

According to reports, Cardi B is one of those who believe Trumps decision in eliminating Soleimani has already placed Americans’ lives in danger.

She added that, she’s going to file for Nigeria citizenship adding that her love for Nigeria citizenship began when she visited the country in December 2019 to headline the Livespot X Festival.

The rapper also noted that she is picking a tribe to belong when she eventually becomes a Nigeria citizen.

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Board Commence ‘Operation Show Your PSP Receipt’ January

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The Delta State Waste Management Board is to embark on ‘Operation Show Your PSP Receipt’ beginning from Monday, January 6, 2020.

The Chairman of the Board, Mr Emmanuel Chinye, disclosed this yesterday in his office in Asaba while speaking to newsmen.

He said that the planned operation was part of measures to check indiscriminate dumping of refuse in major towns and cities of the state, saying anyone who failed to present a current payment receipt for refuse collection would be deemed to be one of those dumping refuse on the streets and appropriately sanctioned.

Mr Chinye said that the Board would no longer condone environmental recklessness, particularly as it concerned its core mandate, stressing that every resident of the state must register with the private sector participants (PSP) to ensure a seamless waste management.

The board chairman pointed out that dump sites were operational in six zones in the state, namely Asaba, Warri, Uvwie, Sapele, Ughelli and Agbor, adding that more would be set up in other parts of the state in the New Year.

He called on all residents of the state to cultivate the habit of keeping their environment clean at all times warning that there would be no sacred cow in the enforcement drive

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GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

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Deadline for removal of illegal structures is 7days, (January 9, 2020)

As was announced earlier for the information of the general public particularly residents, business owners, occupiers and owners of undeveloped plots within the Capital Territory, the Delta State Government has issued a 21 days notice, effective from Friday December 20, 2019, for all landlords and business owners to remove any illegal structures attached to their respective approved building plans.

Of particular note are the following streets:

i. Rebelle Street, DBS Road and all adjoining streets

ii. Cabinet Office Road and all adjoining streets

iii. Barr Elueche Street and all adjoining streets

iv. Okpanam Road and all adjoining streets

v. Direct Labour Agency Road and all adjoining streets

vi. Jesus Saves Road and all adjoining streets

vii. Nnebisi Road and all adjoining streets

viii. Anwai Road and all adjoining streets

Buildings with defaced paintings, untidy environment, overgrown with weeds or drainages stuffed with wastes within or around their surroundings should be evacuated within the given period.

The Joint Task Force On Environment will commence the imposition of requisite sanctions on defaulters as outlined in the Delta State Environmental Laws from January 10, 2020.*

Signed
Dona Obuseh
State Director of Information

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BREAKING : Iran names General Esmail Qaani new Quds chief after Soleimani killing

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US Kills Iran’s High Ranking Soldier Major General Qassem Soleimani

Major Soleimani, the head of Iran’s elite al-Quds force, has been killed in a US air strike at Baghdad’s international airport.

Senior leader in Iraq’s PMF also killed

  • Deputy leader of Lebanon’s Hezbollah has also been killed.

This is the point of no return as many experts believe that a war between America and Iran is inevitable.

Iran is the country in the middle east with the most advanced and dangerous Millitary.

The US Government has called on their citizen in Iraq and Iran to leave the country immediately today.

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Comedian Bovi Laments Over Visa Rejection By US Embassy

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Nigerian outstanding comedian, Bovi Ugboma, has taken to his Twitter page to lament, after his visa application was rejected by the United States Embassy.

The comedian did not disclose reasons why his visa application was rejected, but he went further to ”blame” Titans for the incident.

This came after the comedian joked that the first thing he would do if he becomes President, would be to declare ‘Titans’ and ‘Marlians’ as terrorist organizations.

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EX – SENATE PRESIDENT’S HOUSE RAISED WITH FIRE

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A section of the residence of former Senate President, David Mark, in Otukpo town, Benue State, was on Thursday gutted by fire.

Journalists gathered that the fire razed down the storehouse where motorcycles meant for empowerment of his constituents were kept.

Over 13 motorcycles and two ambulances belonging to the ex-lawmaker were destroyed.

A source told journalists that Mark was not around when the incident happened but added that he would be going to Otukpo this weekend to ascertain the situation.

An insider, who would not want his name mentioned, also said the fire spread from a nearby bush bordering the fence of the ex-senate president’s GRA residence.

The arrival of the State Fire Service in Otukpo prevented the fire from spreading to the main building.

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GOV. OBASEKI CONVERTS DEATH SENTENCE OF PRISONERS, ACQUITS ONE

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, , has approved the conversion of the death sentence of four prisoners to life imprisonment.

The governor approved the release of one person from the Correctional Center.

Obaseki, in a statement forwarded to journalists by Mr Crusoe Osage, the Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Media and Communications, gave the approval in exercise of the powers conferred on him under section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

“The four Prisoners whose sentences were transmuted from death row to life imprisonment are Ayo Olofin, Abiodun Uwagboe, Sanni Ladan and Joel Ighalo.

“The released inmate is one Emejor Amos,” the statement added.

Recall that the governor in June last year, approved the release of eight prisoners who were on death row and transmuted the death penalty of nine others.

Those freed were “Abu Dennis Ulubeka (M) convicted and sentenced to death for the offence of Murder; Tirimisiyu Adebayo (M) convicted and sentenced to death for the offences of conspiracy and Armed Robbery; Tajudeen Fabiyi (M) convicted and sentenced to death for the offences of Conspiracy and Armed Robbery; and Olufemi Ajayi (M) convicted and sentenced to death for the offences of Conspiracy and Armed Robbery.”

Others were “Charles Omowunmi (M) found guilty for the offence of murder and was ordered to be detained in prison at the pleasure of the Governor; Kalu Ojeh (M) convicted and sentenced to 21 years imprisonment on each count, both sentences to run concurrently for the offences of Conspiracy and Armed Robbery; Mathew Idoko (M) convicted and sentenced to death for the offence of murder and Robinson James (M) convicted and sentenced to death for the offences of conspiracy and Armed Robbery.”

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Singer Davido, Disclosed His Plans For 2020 – List What He Wants

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Popular Nigerian singer, Davido, has again shared some of his Plans he intends to achieve this year.

Davido, opine that he will be adding to his collection of luxury properties this 2020.

He later disclosed that he intends buying new cars, houses and private jets as his plans for this 2020.

The singer, who share a video of himself on his instagram page recently, in which, he was spotted with wealthy Soso Soberekon, a business mogul.

In the video, the business mogul, Soberekon was seen handling him some foreign currency which the singer sprayed around the living room.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6yUh5OBFxj/?igshid=18ylfehuv3irs

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Davido Still Denies Taking His Baby Mama On Vacation To Ghana

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Says, he only gave her a lift to Ghana……

Yesterday, Nigerian singer, Davido has taken to Instastory denying the claims of taking his first baby mama, Sophia Momodu on a supposed vacation to Ghana.

According to Davido, his first baby mama had a business to handle in Ghana while he was also billed to perform at a concert, dubbed Afronation in the same country, so he thought, it was only fair that she joined him on the ride.

Davido further stressed that, he brought along Imade because he didn’t want to leave her alone in Lagos especially without her mom and he didn’t want her to fly on a economy class.

But photos which surface online, shows the singer and his babymama in the same private jet.

The singer went further, expressing his dissatisafaction towards the false publications about him and his babymama.

See what he wrote below

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NPC Trains South-South Journalists On Ethical Compliance

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Forty journalists from Delta, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom states in the South South geo-political zone of the country have benefitted from a two-day capacity building workshop on ethical journalism, held in Asaba to enhance their reportage of issues and events in line with professional standard.

The workshop, organized by the Nigerian Press Council (NPC) in collaboration with Lamforttee Resources, has as its theme: ‘Ethical Journalism: An Indispensable Asset for Media Integrity’.

Declaring the workshop open, the Chairman, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu commended the Nigerian Press Council for the training which he said would help to enhance the operation and competence of media professionals.

Ikeogwu said, ‘’The theme of the workshop, I must say, is apt, knowing full well the era we are now. The training will make the media professionals to distinguish themselves from those who are trying to hijack the profession.’’

‘’The only thin line between us and those bloggers is the ability to observe the ethics of the profession……when a journalist who has undergone this type of training writes, you can easily differentiate him from the bloggers who do not have the background of journalism,’’ he stated.

The NUJ Chairman, Delta Council urged the participants to take the training serious and make good use of it to enrich their work.

The Acting Executive Secretary, Nigerian Press Council, Mr Victor Egharevba, explained that the essence of the workshop was to sensitize journalists on the need for ethical compliance to earn and maintain integrity.

He warned that putting out news items whose veracity and integrity were not established could erode the trust and credibility of the media.

Egharevba represented by the Director, Research and Documentation of the NPC, Mrs Stella Jibrin said, ‘’The theme of the workshop is considered vital and critical in view of the concern in most cases that the standards of journalism are being ignored by professionals.’’

‘’It will be very sad if the public loses confidence in the integrity of the media…the only institution saddled with the constitutional role of monitoring government and holding government accountable. It is in an attempt to ensure that the media are well guided, to continue to play their role through enhanced professionalism and engaging in ethical best practices that the Nigerian Press Council is providing this capacity intervention as part of its sensitization for journalists,’’ NPC Executive Secretary asserted.

Various media resource persons including Doctor Emmanuel Akpoveta of the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Doctor Greg Ugbo and Doctor Ibe Onoja both of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, and the Deputy National Secretary, Nigeria Union of Journalists, National Secretariat, Abuja, Gbemiga Bamidele made presentations on issues ranging from Code of Ethics: A Tool for Responsible and Objective Reporting; Fake News Versus Media Integrity: The Role of Gatekeepers; Political Violence, National Security and the Nigerian Media: Need for Synergy; and Professionalism and Nigerian Media: A Professional Self Assessment.

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Hafiz Takes Over As Police Commissioner Of Delta Command

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Vows To Fight Criminality

A new Commissioner of Police (CP) has assumed duty in Delta State Police Command. He is Mr Hafiz Mohammed Inuwa, mni.

Mr Hafiz takes over from Mr Adeyinka Adeleke, psc who has been nominated to attend a course at National Institute of Policy and Strategy Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos.

The new commissioner was born on 21st March, 1964 at Ringim Local Government Council of Jigawa State and has a Bachelor of Art Degree in Mass Communication and a Masters Degree in Public Policy and Administration (MPPA).

The CP enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on 3rd March, 1990. He attended the elite Police Academy, Kaduna.

He was promoted Commissioner of Police on 31st October, 2017. Mr Hafiz Mohammed Inuwa is married and blessed with children.

In an interview shortly after assuming office today at the command’s headquarters in Asaba, the in-coming CP pledged to leverage on the existing security mechanism already in place towards enthroning the reign of peace and safety in Delta State.

“I will build on what my predecessor has done which you can attest to and I will not condone any act of criminality” CP Hafiz stated, adding: “Certainly, heinous crime will not be tolerated.”

On attitude of members of the command to work with him to achieve his goals, the said: “Everyone must do his work; no act of indiscipline will be tolerated.”

The CP while responding to a question on how he would handle cases of criminality centred on kidnapping and herdsmen attacks, said: “In the course of my duty, I will not tolerate criminality, be it herdsmen attacks or kidnapping. The issue is we can’t do it alone. We need your cooperation to succeed… we need to sensitize the environment… security is everyone’s business.”

While advising the public to always cooperate with the police and other security agencies at all times, CP Hafiz appealed: “I want Deltans to cooperate with me… report every act of criminality. They should speak out if any crime is taking place by reporting to the nearest police station. I will make my contact public.”

In the same vein, the out-gone Commissioner of Police, Mr Adeyinka Adeleke, Psc has thanked the State Government and the people of the State for their co-operation and urged them to extend the same

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Naira Marley Opts’ For Out-Of-Court Settlement

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Popular Nigerian rapper Naira Marley has seeked for an out-of-court settlement over his involvement in alleged car theft.

Naira Marley’s lawyers, revealed that the four-count charge of conspiracy, stealing, assault and obstructing the police against their clients; Naira Marley’s two brothers Idris Fashola, 18; Babatunde Fashola, 24; and their cousin, Kunle Obere, 22, might be dropped before the next hearing.

According to one of Naira Marley’s lawyer , Mr Awokulehin Ayodeji, told journalists that the Police are not against a peaceful resolution of the matter.

He said; “We hope that an agreement will be reached before the next adjourned date. The police have no problem with an out of court settlement.”

Recall that the ‘Soapy’ crooner was given the last chance to appear in court over the case.

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Rep begins move to ban 70-year-old candidates from contesting election

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The House of Representatives has initiated a debate on the general principles of a bill which seeks to bar any Nigerian above the age of 70 years old from contesting election into various political offices.

Sponsored by the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Bill seeks to amend relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution. As stipulated in the Explanatory Memorandum of the proposed legislation, the “Bill seeks to amend Sections 65(2)a, 106(c), 131(b) and 131(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) by raising the educational qualifications required for election into the offices of the President, National and State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria.”

Accordingly, the lawmaker proposed amendment to Section 65(2a) of the Principal Act by substituting the words ‘School Certificate’ with ‘Higher National Diploma’ and ‘First Degree’ immediately after the words ‘at least’.

Amendment was also proposed for Section 106(c) of the Constitution, by substituting the words ‘School Certificate’ with ‘Ordinary National Diploma’ immediately after the phrase ‘at least the’.

Similarly, the proponent of the bill also proposed amendment of Section 131(b) of the Constitution by adding the words ‘but is not beyond Seventy years’ immediately after the words ‘forty years’.

Likewise, the amendment was proposed in Section 131(d) of the Constitution by substituting the words ‘School Certificate’ with ‘Higher National Diploma’ and ‘First Degree’ immediately after the word ‘at least.

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Naira Marley Signs Four New Artiste To Marlian Music

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It has become official as the CEO of Marlian Music Imprint, signed Zinoleesky, Mohbad, Cblack and FabianBlu into his music label.

This revelation was made know through Naira Marley social media page.

In recall, Naira Marley brought the four artists on stage during his Marlians Fest in Lagos, while later in the day, he make it official on his social media page.


Before the signing, It was heard from an Insider that, the signed artistes has been co-habitating with Naira Marley even before the official signing and they already recorded loads of songs with the Marlian Music Imprint.

The ‘Ogologo’ and ‘Tingasa’ off the LOL EP was recorded by Cblack and Naira Marley.

https://twitter.com/officialnairam1/status/1211996256169541632?s=19

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Shehu Sani Arrested by Efcc Over Alleged $10,000 Scam

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The former senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has been apprehended by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Sani was arrested for allegedly extorting $10,000 from a businessman, Alhaji Sani Dauda, owner of ASD Motors who has a case pending with the anti-graft agency.

A statement by the SA Media & Publicity to Acting Chairman of EFCC, Tony Amokeodo on Tuesday, said that Alhaji Dauda, a popular car dealer in Kaduna, complained against the alleged activities of the senator Sani who he claimed, collected the said sum on the grounds that he is very close to the EFCC boss, Ibrahim Magu.

He added that Senator Sani is currently being quizzed by the commission over the allegation of name dropping, using Mr Magu’s name to scam suspects who have cases with the commission.

“The EFCC operators are quizzing him over the allegations of scamming some people and allegedly dropping the name of the EFCC boss before suspects who have cases with the commission.

“The senator was said to have told the complainant that he would resolve his case with the EFCC.

“He was said to have told the complainant that he discussed with the investigators who claimed that only the EFCC boss could resolve the matter.”

Mr Amokeodo stated that the complainant said Senator Sani told him that he is close to the EFCC boss and allegedly demanded $20,000 to pass to Magu in order to resolve the issue.

“But the complainant stated that he could only provide $10,000 and thereafter proceeded to write a cheque covering the amount.

“The cheque was allegedly presented to Bureau De Change operator who reportedly gave $10,000 equivalent to the senator – to settle the matter with the EFCC.”

Senator Sani is expected to spend the New Year in EFCC’s custody as the complainant is expected to take up issues with him on Thursday, January 2, 2020.

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Abuja Bank Robbery: Robbers Confess, Indict Bank Workers

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It was gathered that some of the employees of Firstbank branch at Mpape district in Abuja, have also been indicted in the crime, following the confessions of the notorious armed robbers who were caught on Saturday while robbing the bank.

But at the time of filling this report, it was gathered that four gang members were apprehended, while the number of bank workers in custody could not be confirmed.

The suspects, told police detectives during interrogation that they were invited to carry out the robbery by some employees of the bank as reports by Punch


It was also gathered that one of the suspects was gunned down when Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and soldiers from the Guards Brigade foiled the heist in Mpape, a settlement a few meters away from the highbrow Maitama District.

The suspects had holed up in the banking hall for almost two hours until they were smoked out with teargas by security personnel, who condoned off all possible escape routes.

The suspects confess that, they were invited to rob the Automated Teller Machines located on the bank premises, after it was believed that the ATMs had been stashed with huge amounts of money to cater to customers’ cash needs during the Yuletide.

A police source, who is familiar with the investigation into the failed heist, informed PUNCH Metro that the bank workers in custody were trying hard to absolve themselves of blame.

“It is too early to give details, but so far, the suspects are claiming that they were given information about how to rob the bank by some of the workers. We are still working to verify their claims,” the officer said.

When Punch correspondent passed by the bank premises on Sunday, observed that the place was desolate with broken glasses everywhere.

Two armed policemen were seen chatting outside the building.

Meanwhile, the bank’s management said in a statement after the standoff between the robbers and security personnel that its workers and customers were safe.

“The immediate response by the police and military is very commendable and we truly appreciate them for their doggedness and commitment,” it stated.

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MI slammed Akon for calling Wizkid, his little brother

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Nigerian Popular rapper, MI Abaga, has taken to micro blogging site twitter, reacting to Akon, calling nigeria singer, Wizkid as his Lil bro during the Afro Nation Concert.

MI Abaga has claimed that Wizkid is not Akon’s little brother.

From his view point, he considered it an act of disrespect being a Wizkid fan.

Also stating that, no matter what any height a young gee acquire in life, praise, respect and adoration should be given to whatever that deserves it – adding that, it could have been better he caption it as ‘with my bro and icon

The rapper also stressed that, not every fan will saw that as wrong because Akon’s networth and achievements outweighs Wizkid.

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Davido $30,000 wrist watch got stolen in Ghana

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Popular Nigerian singer, Davido, goes crazy after realizing that his USD 30,000 wrist watch has been stolen.

The $30,000 wrist watch got stolen in Acentetra night club in Osu while Davido was trying to throw some cash to the crowd who came to cheer him up.

According to Miss Petite blog, the singer, arrived for AfroNation and he decided to party at Acetantra nightclub in Osu first, before stepping out for the AfroNation,

As usual, Davido decided to throw some cash to the hundreds of fans who were gathered outside to welcome and cheer him. But it ended in tears when during the money sharing a skillful thief managed to snatch his wristwatch.

Sadly before Davido could noticed, the thief has already left the scene even as OBO tried to fight back.

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‘Stop Rejecting Gunshot Victims’ – Lagos State Warns Hospitals

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The Lagos State Government has strongly appealed to all health care providers, including public and private health facilities operating in the State, to stop the trend of rejecting gunshot victims and other trauma patients, on the excuse of requiring a police report or the need to provide evidence of funds before commencing treatment.

The State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi issued these statements on Sunday, December 29th, 2019 while reacting to investigations by the Ministry of Health, revealed that some health facilities in the State are in the habit of rejecting or delaying care to trauma victims, which has in some cases resulted in avoidable loss of lives.

Prof Abayomi further hinted that several times, such patients, who are often brought in by good Samaritans, are not in a position to discuss the incidence or finance.

He urged hospitals, health centres and clinics to offer immediate comprehensive care to gunshot victims and other trauma patients without hindrance in line with the Federal Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act, 2017.

“These deaths would have been avoided if health care providers were conversant with the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act, 2017 which stipulates that victims of gunshot and traumatic accidents should receive immediate treatment when presenting to healthcare facilities”, the Commissioner stated.

Speaking further, the health commissioner noted that health care providers hold it duty-bound according to their professional oaths to first save lives, by offering immediate attention to any patient requiring urgent critical and lifesaving supportive care before any other considerations.

“Such critical care should include where necessary all measures to stabilize the patient before onward referral to more equipped facilities. Simple procedures such as attempts to arrest bleeding or intravenous fluids could make all the difference to saving life,” Abayomi said.

The Commissioner explained that the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act makes provisions for obligatory treatment and care for victims of gunshots stressing that the law stipulates that a person with a gunshot wound shall be received for immediate and adequate treatment by any hospital in Nigeria.

“With this Act, it has become legally wrong for healthcare providers to delay attending to victims of gunshots and any other trauma under any circumstances.

Prof Abayomi while issuing a warning to the health sector on gunshot wounds and her likes stated that “It is in this wise that I want to make it clear that the Lagos State Government will not hesitate to explore this law and to apply suitable sanctions against facilities that contravene the principle and body of the act,” stressing that, the primary concern of the Act borders on access to prompt medical care, the Commissioner averred that the sanctity of human life should be the first consideration for any healthcare provider, irrespective of circumstances leading to an incident involving the trauma victim.

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(Watch video) 2Baba inspired me to make Music – Wizkid

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It was a night of classic artistry and entertainment, witnessed by a huge audience as 2baba headlined what can easily be described as the king of all concerts in Nigeria on Saturday, December 28, 2019, at Eko Convention Centre Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event was tagged, 2Baba 20 years ‘a king Concert’.

The thousands of fans in attendance witnessed 2baba perform his hit songs and also bring out several acts to perform for the night.

Shortly after introducing Wizkid, the star boy said,

“Tonight is not about Starboy, I want you all to know that this man right here inspired me to make music” to which everyone heartily yelled.

Other notable artists who contributed to the excitement of the night include Patoranking, Waje, Solidstar, 9ice, Soundsultan, Terry G, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Ycee, Reekado Banks.

See video below:

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Ex Prime Minister sentenced for alleged corruption

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A Croatian court on Monday sentenced former prime minister Ivo Sanader to six years in jail and the boss of Hungary’s MOL energy group to two years for bribery.

Sanader, already serving time for a separate graft conviction — and MOL’s Zsolt Hernadi were convicted for “receiving and giving a bribe” concerning a 2009 deal after the Hungarian firm purchased shares in local oil and gas group INA, the judge said.

Judge Maja Stampar Stipic said the deal allowed then-PM Sanader to pocket 10 million euros ($11 million) in exchange for granting the Hungarian firm control over INA.

MOL, whose main shareholder is the Budapest government, has a 49 percent INA stake, while Zagreb holds a 44 percent stake.

“As the top state official, Sanader … jeopardised Croatia’s vital economic interests,” prosecutor Tonci Petkovic said in his final statement.

Defence attorneys for CEO Hernadi, who was tried in absentia, argued that the prosecutors did not prove an “incriminating tie” between the two defendants.

Both men pleaded not guilty and can appeal the verdict.

The former premier was already found guilty of the charge in 2012, but the country’s top court overturned his eight-and-a-half-year jail sentence and called for a re-trial.

Croatia has sought Hernadi’s arrest for years, but Hungary has refused to extradite him.

Sanader, conservative prime minister from 2003 to 2009, has faced several other graft cases in which he is suspected of embezzling millions of euros.

In April he was jailed to serve a six-year sentence in another corruption case.

In 2018 he was also sentenced to two and half years for war profiteering, but acquitted of abuse of power charges in another trial.

Sanader is the highest official to be charged with corruption in Croatia since independence from Yugoslavia in 1991.

Tackling corruption was key for the country’s successful bid to join the European Union in 2013.

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Breaking: President Buhari places travel restriction on Ministers

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President Muhammadu Buhari has placed travel restriction on his ministers, says, his ministers can only travel out of the country eight times in a year.

This was disclosed on Monday by the Minister of Information, Culture & Tourism, Minister Lai Mohammed.

According to him, Buhari has directed that no Minister should go on foreign trips more than twice in a quarter.

Also, according to Mohammed, no minister on a trip outside the shores of the land should go with more than four aides.

Govt officials below the rank of ministers are henceforth entitled to fewer aides, Lai Mohammed disclosed.

He also noted that estacode would no longer be calculated on hourly basis.

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FG PUTS DEBT STOCK AT $83bn

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Nigerian Government has put the total public debt stock of the nation at $83 billion.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, disclosed this while addressing a press conference on Monday in Ikeja, Lagos State.

He decried that the country’s debt stock was being misrepresented by those he described as scaremongers.

According to Mohammed, Nigeria is not in debt trouble as being circulated as the nation is within a reasonable debt to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio.

He explained that the debt was an accumulation of successive government activities, adding that the economic state of the country was good.

The minister noted that the economy has grown in the year 2019 under review, adding that the oil and non-oil sectors performed better than they did in 2018.

He also highlighted some of the feats recorded by the government in the areas of anti-corruption war and security.

Mohammed said the corruption fight was largely successful and while security, especially the insurgency in the North East has been tackled properly.

He, however, admitted that there were still pockets of attacks in the region, saying the government was on top of the situation.

The minister also informed reporters that the government has made progress in providing food for the people, saying Nigeria was close to food self-sufficiency.

He also defended the continued closure of the nation’s borders, saying it has helped local food production and curbed crime and violent activities.

Another benefit of border closure, according to Mohammed, is the decline noticed in the rate of illegal migration into the country.

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Nigeria is backward because of corruption – Abubakar Tsav

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Elder statesman and former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, has identified corruption as the reason behind the backwardness of Nigeria.

He said Nigeria has refused to grow because of corruption and lack of unity.

Tsav made this assertion on Monday during the launching of the book, Integrity vs Power Play: Understanding the Buhari Phenomenon By Philip Agbese in Abuja.

Speaking shortly after being crowned Activist of the Year, the respected elder statesman decried how corruption has eaten deep into the Nigerian system.

According to him, “We are all aware that the reason Nigeria has refused to grow is because of corruption.

“We are backward because the level of corruption in Nigeria is high.

“Until we rise to challenge this cankerworm, Nigeria will not grow.”

Tsav recalled that during his early days, there was free education but the reverse is now the case.

He recalled with nostalgia, “During our earlier days, we went to free school, we were given free uniform but at the moment it is not so because of corruption.

“Our children need to rise and challenge this so we could move forward.”

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President Buhari meets with security Chiefs

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President Muhammadu Buhari is currently meeting with security chiefs at the State House.

The security council is made up of heads of security agencies in the country.

Some of those present include the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai; Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok Ekwe-Ibas; and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Abubakar Sadique.

Others are the Inspector General of Police (IG), Mohammed Adamu; Director-General of Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Bichi; and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai.

The agenda of the meeting is yet to be confirmed.

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Zamfara Government, vows to drag 108 civil servants to court for receiving multiple salaries

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The Zamfara State Government has vows to drag a total number of 108 civil servants to court for allegedly receiving double salary in different ministries and agencies (MDAs) in the state.

The Commissioner of Finance for Zamfara State, Alhaji Rabi’u Garba, stated this in a press briefing yesterday at Gusau as reported by NAN.

He said that the exercise, under the leadership of Governor Bello Matawalle, was not to witch-hunt anybody, but to ensure sanity in the civil service payroll in the state.

Garba said that the affected workers were discovered during the ongoing investigation of workers’ salary issues by the state’s ministry of finance.

He said the 108 workers, who were collecting double salary, would be handed over to the state’s ministry of justice for prosecution.

According to the commissioner, some of the MDAs involved in the salary irregularities in the state are Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata-Mafara, Arabic and Female Education Boards, Establishment and Hospital Service Management Board.

Stressing further, the Commissioner explained that, they’ve also suspended the directors of finance of all the affected MDAs.”

“We discovered these irregularities from the payroll of November 2019 salary in the state.

“We have suspended the affected workers from collecting salary until we conclude the investigation,” Garba said.

“The affected workers found collecting more than one salary at different MDAs were among the 4,972 civil servants who were suspended from receiving salary for the month of December 2019 as a result of various irregularities.

He said the 108 workers, who were collecting double salary, would be handed over to the state’s ministry of justice for prosecution.

“We also found 109 workers whose official names are different from the names of their salary accounts.

“We discovered irregularities from 1,640 workers whose account numbers are not found in the CBN server,” he said.

“There are also 485 workers who are supposed to have gone on retirement but are still collecting salary. In fact, one of them is 119 years old but still collecting salary.

“We also suspended the salary of 1,548 workers receiving salary under micro-finance banks because of various irregularities

Garba said anyone who needed clarification on the matter should visit the state ministry of finance in Gusau, while he also urged the workers in the state to be patient with the state over any inconvenience which the verification exercise might have caused.

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2Baba celebrate 20 years as a Music Legend

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Nigerian Music legend, 2Baba, affirm his legendary status as he thrills his fans at his 20 year ‘A King Concert.

The event was held at the Eko Convention Centre on 28th December, 2019 in Lagos.

The Legendary fans, witness a lots of exciting performances from the musical icon.

The Hypertek Boss, performed many of his hit songs back-to-back to entertain his fans, in a bid in celebrating his 20years non-stop reign on top the radar in the music industry.

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Take-Over Of Saraki’s Property By Governor Abdulrazaq, A Fatal Mistake – Yerima, Arewa Group

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The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has hit Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara state over his administration’s take over of a property belonging to late Olusola, father of immediate past Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

The AYCF described the action of the governor as a desecration of the brotherhood that reigns in the northern part of the country and a fatal mistake by his administration.

In a statement personally signed by its national president, Yerima Shettima, on Sunday, the northern organisation warned the governor against abusing his powers.

It noted that the land was used to care for the aged and the needy, a legacy that was sustained even with the death of Olusola.

It urged stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene in what it described as brazen use of force by the governor while asking the Saraki family to fight back with every legal means at their disposal.

Full statement below:

The brazen use of force in to hijack the property of late scion of KWARA politics Alhaji OLUSOLA Saraki by Governor… is a total disregard to the family of the late Democrat and an insult on the people of Kwara State. Consequently, we wish to state as follows:-

  1. That the ongoing use of naked force by the Kwara State Government is a smear on decorum and has potentials to destroy the legacies of a politician who gave his all to make Kwara what it is today.
  2. We take exception to the deployment of the powers of the state in a desperate move that smacks of political vendetta and failed attempt to rewrite history
  3. We have learnt that late Saraki’s property that is being hijacked by the powers-that-be namely the Kwara state government is nothing but a war of attrition. This is because the property in question was being used by the late OLUSOLA Saraki to take care of old people, the poor and the sick ones, who lack the resources to face the challenges of health, hunger and poverty. It is interesting to see that even after his death, this philanthropy has been sustained by the family. We therefore have reason to suspect that it was a mission in disguise to wipe out the empowerment legacies of the late Olusola Saraki. This is an abuse of office, a disservice to the people of Kwara and a ridiculing of the unity and brotherhood among northerners.
  4. If the incumbent governor thinks he could destroy late Olusola Saraki’s legacies as a political gimmick of winning public sympathy, he is making a fatal mistake.
  5. We call on the relevant stakeholders in Kwara to intervene by bringing an end to this self-destructive mission, which is capable of portraying the Northerners as haters of the custodians of their history and political culture.
  6. We also urge the late Saraki family to use all available legal and constitutional backing to fight for their cause.

We urge the incumbent governor to bear in mind that power is transient.

Signed

Alhaji Yerima Shettima

National President

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American Rapper, Future Arrives Lagos

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Yesterday, the American multi-award-winning artiste, Nayvadius DeMun Wilburn, popularly known as Future, arrived Lagos, for his first headline concert.

Future, had taken to his instagram story to share a video of his arrival, whom he didn’t hesitate to tag the location.

The event is being organised by Toro Entertainment Company and it is scheduled to hold today Sunday at Eko Convention Centre, Victoria Island.

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‘Abdulrasaq Has crossed the line – Saraki

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Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has stated that Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has crossed the line of decency with his recent efforts to erase the legacies of his (Saraki’s) late father, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki.

Saraki, in a statement he personally signed and released in Lagos today, stated that the war of attrition waged against the legacy of his father and everything that belongs to the late politician simply portrayed the Governor as a man who lacks the sense of history and set out only to fight the Saraki family but not to serve the interest of Kwarans.

“Yesterday night, the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq finally showed his true colour when he announced his decision to revoke the ownership of a property rightfully held by my late father, Dr. Olusola Abubakar Saraki on Plots 1, 3 and 5 Ilofa Road, GRA, Ilorin popularly known as Ile Arugbo, (Old People’s home) which since the Second Republic, has always been used to host the weekly gathering of a multitude of aged people in the society who are provided food, money and health services, as part of the social welfare programme sponsored by the late politician. The tradition has since been maintained.

“Before now, this same Governor had invited all the members of the State House of Assembly and directed them to commence the process of amending the law to change the name of the State University which the last administration renamed after my late father, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki. He then followed up on this act of vengeance by initiating a bill to rename the University and expunge the name of the late Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki. Now, he has decided to also revoke the titles of the landed property which belongs to the late politician. May be, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq thinks his will be the last administration in Kwara State but definitely, this is self delusion.

“The property had been rightfully allocated to my late father under the name of one of his companies, Asa Investment Limited, since the 1980s and contrary to the claim of the Governor, the land was properly allocated and a Right of Occupancy title issued on it. It should be noted that the excuse given by Abdulrazaq in his revocation order holds no water since it is clear that this is the height of his vengeance against my father, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki and I.

“Till today, many Kwarans have been wondering what problem the Governor has with the late Oloye Abubakar Olusola Saraki or what the late politician did to offend him. It is surprising that of all vacant plots of land in strategic places across Ilorin township, the one that Abdulrahman found useful for his vengeful plan is the one owned by late Dr. Saraki. It is beyond comprehension why a Governor would set as his main agenda the objective of undermining and waging a war of attrition against a man who is no longer around.

“This action is clearly a manifestation of vengeance and it shows that this Governor is not out to serve any public purpose or pursue any development agenda. In his narrow-mindedness, he believes his victory at the polls is an empowerment, entitlement and enablement to settle scores, provoke and pursue inter-family rivalry. Those who voted for the party in power in Kwara State and Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq obviously did not vote for the man to enable him wage war against Dr. Olusola Saraki and his legacies. They expected development and fulfillment of promises.

“If the Governor believes people are not taking stock of his misguided and deceptive actions and that because he is in power, he could do whatever he likes, he must be a joker. Also, this war against the Sarakis will not successfully veil his unpreparedness for governance and divert people’s attention from the glaring lack of visionary, clear-cut plan to deliver on his empty promises to the people. He definitely cannot get away with all the atrocities he has been committing.

“Since the outcome of the elections in March, despite the fact that there are clear grounds to challenge the results in court, I have decided to demonstrate maturity, statemanship and sportsmanship. I have chosen not to make comment on the policies, programmes and actions of the administration in Kwara State or that of its head. Also, I deliberately stayed away from the State to avoid creating any distraction for the administration. My decision is borne out of a genuine restraint to enable the administration settle down and fulfill its numerous promises to the people of our state.

“However, seven months down the line, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has shown that its cardinal Programme is to wage war against my late father and I. He has demonstrated that his only competence and astuteness is in the area of viciously assailing the late Oloye Saraki and I. Definitely, he is a man with no sense of history. Enough is enough. Now, he has crossed the line.

“Perhaps, I should let it be known that if Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq thinks he is taking all these actions to get at me, he is only deceiving himself. There is no basis for competition between us. Our paths cannot cross because the status that he is struggling to attain, Almighty Allah has given it to me many years before now. I became Governor 16 years before him and served out my constitutional limit of eight years. Within the period, I was Chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum. I have moved on to serve in the federal legislature and by the grace of God, I headed the National Assembly as the number three man in the country. No matter, how well he tried to rewrite history, it is on record that I left Kwara State a lot better than I met it. In fact, the University that he is struggling to rename was established by my administration as just one out of many legacies we left behind. This Governor needs a lot more efforts, years, Intelligence and resources to attain the level Allah has taken me, not to talk of my late father, Dr. Olusola Abubakar Saraki, the Senate Leader in the Second Republic. As Governor, I used the position to serve the people and during the period I did not dishonour his own father or anybody’s father for that matter.

“Just as I did after the election, my advise to Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq that he should devote his time and energy to providing good governance and genuine development of the state.

“It is well known to the Governor that I fear nobody, except Almighty Allah, the ultimate owner of all powers. With all his subterranean and open moves against my family, person and property, I remain unmoved. However, his open antagonism against my late father and his legacies is unwarranted and will not be tolerated. He has definitely gone beyond bounds as he cannot be allowed to ride roughshod on the deceased. In this war against my late father, he will not win.

“This Governor has shown that he is not a man who wants peace, co-operation and development. He believes that a constant attack on my family and I is all that he needs to win the hearts of Kwara people. The need to provide good governance is secondary to him.

“However, it should be made clear to Abdulrazaq and his administration that their attack on my late father cannot erase the legacies of Oloye. No evil design, negative plot or propaganda can successfully rewrite the history of Kwara State. This plot against my late father will not stand. And I will like to make it clear that we will contest this petty, malicious, dubious and bias action of a parochial, vicious and vindictive administration through all legal means. We are sure this is not an action taken in public interest. Rather, it is done in pursuit of a selfish and devious objective”, Saraki stated.

Signed

Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON

Former President of the Senate

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BREAKING: One killed, four others arrested in Abuja bank robbery (watch video)

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An attempt to raid an old generation bank in Mpape area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja by dare-devil robbers in alleged connivance with some of the bank’s staff and security men was foiled by Policemen and soldiers from the Guards Brigade.

One of the armed robbers was killed during a gun duel with security operatives, while four others were arrested after they were smoked out of the banking hall with tear gas.

Also held by the Police from Mpape Division for questioning were some staff and the bank’s security men, who were suspected to have aided the bandits’ entrance into the banking hall.

It was curious how they gained access into the bank on a Saturday when the bank was closed without any resistance or firing a shot.

According to eyewitnesses the robbers gained access into the bank without any kind of resistance and were almost making away with their loot when a bank customer who was using the Automated Teller Machine (ATM), noticed suspicious movements and alerted a senior staff of the bank who in turn called the Police.

Meanwhile, it was like a scene from an action movie as dozens of armed policemen and soldiers surrounded the bank located along Mpape Road opposite Crushed Rock Field, waiting for the armed robbers who were trapped inside the bank.

The robbers noticing that they were completely surrounded by soldiers and Policemen, remained holed up in the bank for about six hours before they were smoked out with tear gas and arrested at about 3.pm.

One of the robbers was however shot and killed while trying to escape.

The robbers came out at intervals and surrendered as they were picked up by security men.

The incident resulted in a heavy gridlock on the narrow road that leads to the community as huge crowd thronged the scene as the news of the robbery spread.

Four “Ghana must go” bags of cash were recovered from the robbers, it was gathered.

A statement from the FCT Command of the Nigeria Police, signed by the Deputy Public Relations Officer, Yusuf Mariam, read, “In prompt response to a distress call at Mpape, the FCT Police Command has foiled an attempted robbery attack at a First Bank branch at about 1200hrs, on Saturday.

“Police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene and engaged in crossfire with the robbers thereby foiling the attack on the bank with the back up of the Military. Consequently, Four (4) suspects were arrested and one shot dead while trying to escape.

“The Commissioner of Police has ordered a discreet investigation of the incident.

“The Command urges residents to remain calm as normalcy has been restored while reaffirming its commitment to nip crime in the bud and ensure safety in the FCT”.

Meanwhile, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Bala Ciroma, in a separate chat confirmed the incident to our correspondent.

He stated, “It is a foiled bank robbery; We stopped the robbers from raiding the bank. Four men were arrested while a suspect was killed.

“Investigation has commenced to determine how they entered the bank and other things.”

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$81.274bn Debt: Nigeria Faces Impending Bankruptcy – Obasanjo Warns

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Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has said that Nigeria faces the risk of impending bankruptcy, over the continuous accumulation of debt by the federal government.

Obasanjo stated this while speaking as a keynote speaker at the ‘Why I am Alive’ campaign on Friday in Lagos.

According to him, the piling up of debts would leave a burden for future generations, who would have to pay such loans.

Obasanjo said as at 2015, Nigeria’s total external debt was about $10.32bn. By March 2019, he claimed the country’s external debt had increased to $81.274bn.

“Such a situation talks about an impending bankruptcy. No entity can survive while devoting 50 per cent of its revenue to debt servicing.

“It has recently been pointed out that in 2018 that total debt servicing took over 60 per cent of government revenue.

“What’s more, we are not doing enough to address the fundamental, deep-seated and structural challenges that inhibit the expansion of our economy,” Obasanjo said.

Speaking further,the Former President hinted that “to worsen matters, the current administration was currently seeking to add another $29.6bn loan to our already overburdened debt portfolio”

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Focus on overtaking second-place!

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Pep Guardiola Speaks As Wolves Beat Man City 3 – 2

Following a 3-2 defeat at Wolves on Friday, the Manchester City manager Guardiola while addressing the media, stated that his team must forget about catching up with leaders Liverpool and focus on overtaking second-placed Leicester city.

The champions blew a two-goal lead, after keeper Ederson was sent off in the 12th minute.

The result means City stay third behind second-placed Leicester and unbeaten league leaders Liverpool, who are 14 points ahead of them.

“It’s unrealistic when it’s 14 points to think about Liverpool.

“We think about Leicester, we have the chance to recover second position.

“Still we are third, I know the quality of the team but that’s the situation.

“In the last two previous seasons we are used to winning a lot of games and being at the top fighting.

“Now we are far away so we have to adjust mentally to the situation and prepare for the next games.

“We have to move on, we played the first season and it was quite similar to this but in the second and the third we were there all the time and winning all the time.

“Now this season in some situations and after some mistakes we are far away, we have to catch the second one and see where we are at the end,” Guardiola said.

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Breaking!! We didn’t pay Wizkid to Perform in Ilorin – State Govt denies Sponsoring Concert

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The Kwara state Governor, His Excellency, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has debunked claims that the state government sponsored the musical concert that featured Nigerian pop star “Wizkid” in Ilorin.

According to the Governor, those behind the defamatory rumor are those responsible for the horrible situation the state is currently facing.

Read below:-
“The #Wizkid concert was not sponsored or funded by the state government,” AbdulRazaq said at the public presentation of a pictorial compendium of conditions of infrastructures in the state.

“It was purely a private sector initiative.” He, however, said the event was a welcome development to promote local talents in Kwara State.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also denied claims that the government spent N200m to organize an end of the year party, saying those behind the rumors were responsible for the current challenges in the state.

The governor claimed that his administration will support initiatives that can help Kwara State tap into the potential in the entertainment and creative industry.

““Ours is to provide the enabling environment for such initiatives,” he said. “Those who said we spent N50m to bring Wizkid also said we spent N200m on the end of the year party. They also said I bought bulletproof cars. These are laughable claims.”

AbdulRazaq disclosed that he requested a meeting with Wizkid in his house on Wednesday where he sought a partnership to empower local talents especially the Kwara Idol and other government-owned programmes.

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BREAKING!! Barcelona Make Decision On Signing Super Eagles Striker Osimhen In January

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Barcelona has ruled out signing any new players in January, with Victor Osimhen now set to stay at Lille, Marca reports.

Osimhen was reportedly identified as one of the candidates to replace Luis Suarez at the Camp Nou.

However, Barca will not add to their squad in the winter window, after spending heavily last summer.

The Spanish champions paid close to 200 million euros for Antoine Griezmann and Frenkie de Jong from Atletico Madrid and Ajax respectively.

Their transfer priorities for the next summer transfer window are a central defender, right-back, central midfielder and striker.

Apart from Barcelona, Osimhen has been linked with possible moves to Premier League trio Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.

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BREAKING NEWS! Zlatan Ibrahimovic moves back to AC Milan

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Former Sweden and Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has moved back to AC Milan on a six-month deal, with an option for another season.

The 38-year-old was a free agent after leaving LA Galaxy at the end of the Major League Soccer season.

The Serie A side said Ibrahimovic “will be in Milan on 2nd January, 2020 to take his medical” and join his team-mates.

“I’m coming back to a club I hugely respect and to the city of Milan I love,” Ibrahimovic said.

Ibrahimovic was at Serie A side Milan from 2010 to 2012, scoring 42 goals in 61 league games for the club.

He joined LA Galaxy in March 2018 and scored 53 goals during his time in the United States as well as being named in the MLS best XI teams of 2018 and 2019

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Brace up for growth and development – Ukah urged Community Union

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Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, has urged community development unions to brace up for the growth and development of their community through selfless service.

Chief Ukah, who gave the charge while speaking at the 2019 Annual Conference of the Okpanam Community Development Union, reaffirmed his support for the establishment of a think-tank committee that would chart a new road map for the development of the community.

He stressed the need for consistent interface with the stakeholders in government as advocated by the guest speaker at the event, Prof. Chryss Onwuka, saying all hands must be on deck in order for the people to continue to speak with one voice.

Earlier in a goodwill message, the Ugoani of Okpanam, HRM (Dr) Michael Mbanefo, enjoined every Okpanam son and daughter to contribute meaningfully to the progress of the community and shun divisive tendencies and violence but embrace progressive ideas to turn around the fortune of the community.

While calling on the people of Obodogwugwu Quarters to continue to live in peace and harmony with one another, the traditional ruler reiterated his determination to ensure that peace reigned in Okpanam.

He admonished the newly elected executives of the Okpanam Community Development Union to justify the confidence reposed in them by ensuring that they use their time to work for the community.

Also speaking, the Omu of Okpanam, Dr Martha Dunkwu, who emphasised the need for women to be carried along in the scheme of things in the community, appealed to elders to have forgiving spirit for their children.

She urged the youths to desist from negative vices and fashion out ways of contributing their quota to the growth and development of the community.

Delivering his key note paper tagged: “Cooperation in Development of a Verile Community” Prof Chryss Onwuka of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, noted that development associations and unions existed in communities to bring development and governance closer to the people.

Prof. Onwuka called on the people to continue to live together and always interact with one another in a bid to resolve issues confronting them, just as he recommended that there should be seminars and training programmes on skills acquisition and the establishment of a think-tank committee to provide a strategic development plan for the area.

In his acceptance speech, the newly elected President-General of Okpanam Community Development Union, Mr Andrew Mordi, pledged to use the recognition to work for the progress of the community.

He thanked the people of Okpanam community, especially the delegates and other stakeholders in the community for finding his executives worthy to serve the community.

The Financial Secretary, Mrs. Abigail Asoya, who spoke in an interview with newsmen shortly after their inauguration, promised to ensure transparency and accountability in carrying out her duties.

Other members of the executive included Mr Stephen Okolie (Vice President), Mr Emmanuel Ukpelegbu (Secretary General), Mrs Ann Mokogwu ( Treasurer), Mr Robert Ogenenwe (Public Relations Officer), and Ms Pilomena Igbeka (Organising Secretary)

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Delta chief Judge holds end of year get-together for Judicial officers

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The State Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro and Judicial Officers in Delta State Judiciary have expressed their gratitude to God for the achievements recorded in the 2018/2019 Legal Year even as they look forward for more successes in the upcoming year.

Justice Umukoro who presided over the end of year meeting, posited that the purpose was for Judges to interact, brainstorm, take stock and mingle in a relaxed atmosphere of conviviality, devoid of courtroom regalia and stress.

He enumerated achievements of the passing year to include harmonious relationship with other arms of government, protection and safety of judges, successful handling of the second term swearing-in/inauguration ceremony of Delta State Governor and Deputy.

Others, he said, included construction and renovation of court buildings, supply of modern furniture, provision of power generating sets to high and magistrate courts across the state, and especially, the ongoing construction of state-of-the-art five storeys High Court Complex, Asaba.

Despite the successes recorded in the passing year, Justice Umukoro acknowledged challenges faced by the judiciary, saying: “To be sure, we have our challenges. Indeed, challenges constitute an essential part and parcel of any system or organization.

“They come and go and new ones surface as vicissitudes of life dictate. The existence of challenges, therefore, is normal. They make us stronger and bring out the best in our creativity and problem-solving abilities.”

The Chief Judge stated that the year 2020 would witness increase in the number of support staff, upgrade of operational tools and equipment used in courts in line with universal best practices.

According to him, there was a high hope that the Judiciary Autonomy Bill would be passed into law, stressing that it would open new frontier of possibilities for the judiciary such as recruitment of low cadre support staff, enhanced welfare arrangements for judges and prompt renovation and equipment of courts.

The end of year meeting, which featured interactive session, saw the judicial officers popping champagne, clicking glasses, singing Christian choruses, prayers for their achievement and for a brighter upcoming year.

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Where is it in the Bible that MFM has a football club

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Catholic Priest Rev Fr Oluoma Replies Olukoya……

I wanted to pretend I didn’t read about the G. O who said ‘Christmas’ is not in the Bible and so shouldn’t be celebrated.

It’s the same funny mentality of those who confuse terminology with theology. Easter as a term is not in the Bible but we celebrate easter because it’s an event and a mystery recorded in scripture.

Same with Christmas, it’s not the term or calendar date we celebrate but the event and mystery.

One day now someone will wake up tipsy on ‘anointing’ and tell me to tell him why I call myself a Catholic since that term doesn’t exist in the Bible. Same folly can be extended to all churches because no church has a name that’s used as a group of church members in the Bible.

A Pentecostal church that says it doesn’t celebrate Christmas because the term doesn’t exist in the Bible but calls itself a Pentecostal church is just a comic contradiction.

Pentecost means 50th day, it was an agricultural feast that had nothing to do with the Holy Spirit until that particular year that the Holy Spirit fell on the apostles in Acts 2.

Even after that there is no record in scripture that the Holy Spirit fell on other people on Pentecost day.

If I wanted to be ‘an anointed idiot’ I would have been going round condemning Christians who identify as Pentecostals, quizzing them to show me where it’s in the Bible that a group of believers were referred to as Pentecostals or to prove to me where any group of Christians celebrated Pentecost in the Bible. Yet common sense dictates that it’s neither terminology nor semantics we identify as Pentecostal but the reality and mystery of the Holy Spirit.

Whoever adjectivised SENSE with COMMON hasn’t experienced this generation of WHERE IS IT IN THE BIBLE intoxicated Christians, common sense is very rare.

The Bible is not a dictionary or history book, it’s more of a theology than terminology.

When you want to use the Bible to validate or invalidate any religious practice, you look for the biblical theology about it, not the terminology.

Mothers day, fathers day, Children’s day, etc are not in the Bible, but the Bible doesn’t have anything against their celebration. It’s only a religious ignoramus that will condemn those celebrations and get pious zombies to follow suit.

If you care to know, there are many things we do in life that are not in the Bible and God isn’t angry at all.

Traditional marriage, village meetings, cross over vigils (these ‘show me where it’s in the Bible’ folks who are addicted to 31st Dec Cross over vigil don’t even know it’s not in the Bible in their sense), birthday parties, wedding anniversaries etc are not in the Bible.

Finally, someone needs to tell Dr Olukoya that MFM has a football club, I’ve been searching for it in the Bible and couldn’t find, abi no be MFM get that football club? Some nonsense must stop this 2019 o, let me come and be going.

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Ask for social media handles before you date anyone- Timi Dakolo

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The reputed Nigerian singer, Timi Dakolo, who’s topped his genre of music has released a new catch phrase “I need to see your social media handles before we can date” for singles and searching individuals before they consider dating each other.H

Dakolo made this know through his tweet via his verified Twitter handle where he urged singles to ask for the social media handles of that person they are interested in before it gets serious.

According to Timi, before anyone gets into a relationship or partnership, they should first ask for the social media handles of that person they are interested in.

“These days if you want to get into any kind of partnership or relationship with anyone, ask for their social media handle. Please make effort to search for their comments on popular blogs. So you can be sure of what you are getting into. People are the things they say. #values”

See The post below

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She’s leaving you in 2019, if she sings ” bye bye to yeye boyfriend”- Koro Olumofin

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Nigerian Relationship blogger, Koro Olumofin has revealed 17 things to watch out for in this “Detty December”

Koro made these revelations through his page, urging single men to beware of ladies that sing the song ‘bye bye to yeye boyfriend’ because they have concluded plans to leave you in 2019.

Joro further stated that, a woman that still uses an Android phone in contemporary Nigeria is a wife material.

Read what he wrote below:-

  1. If she uses an android phone. Means she hasn’t succumbed to today’s iPhone pressure. Marry her, she’s good wife material.
  2. Ladies, BEWARE Detty December doesn’t end till January 30 don’t believe any guy who says new year new me.
  3. Ladies, If he doesn’t pick his phone past 10pm he’s probably married with 4 children.
  4. Fellas, don’t send a lady ticket money to come to your location. Buy the ticket yourself online. Some ladies collect ticket money from 5 guys at once and don’t show up to any location.
  5. Fellas, beware of IJGB girls, they have about 10 Magas on ground. Don’t be 1 of the Magas.
  6. If your boyfriend is trying to pick a fight with you this Christmas kill him with kindness because he wants to have an excuse to say we were fighting when I cheated.
  7. Ladies, when you go to a guys house before you remove your shoes & feel comfortable, Check under his bed, back of his curtain for JUJU.
  8. Fellas, if she has had VIP tickets to every concert this December my brother she’s your Elder ,tread carefully.
  9. Ladies, If he invites you to sleep over at his place and you’re not ready for sex. Please don’t go. Not all guys have self control.
  10. Fellas, If she follows you out on a date without makeup she’s bae. Wife her.
  11. Fellas, don’t take sexual enhancement pills without being sure of a lady coming to your place. 12 hour erection without a lady coming leads to emotional and physical trauma.
  12. Ladies, if you didn’t get valentines , birthday, Easter, Independence Day or December gift leave him in 2019.
  13. Fellas, if she says I’m on the last day of my period let’s do it raw. Run fast for your life. #Trap
  14. If you invite her for church service this festive period and she doesn’t show. Leave her in 2019
  15. Ladies, don’t lend any guy money because he has a fine car. That car is probably not for him & he wants to use your money to carry another girl out.
  16. If she lives in Ajah, Jakande, Lekki 5th round about, costain, magodo, wuse 2 your demon moves won’t work on her find another victim
  17. Fellas, if your girlfriend sings bye bye to Yeye boyfriend. She’s leaving you in 2019.’

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BbNaija: Khafi and Gedoni set to get married, as they share engagement photos

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Big Brother Naija season 4 former housemate, Khafi Kareem, recently took to social media to share a new photo of herself and Gedoni Ekpata, her husband-to-be.

The British cop, Share a new photo of her man helping her off a yacht, as she wrote;

“He has always been my help”

Gedoni, who also was one of the co-housemate in the Pepper dem gang, the season 4 of BbNaija.

The couple, who met in the Big Brother Naija house, engulf in a romantic relationship which also continued outside the house.

Gedoni had proposed to Khafi on Wednesday but the news of their engagement, suffix through the internet on Thursday.

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9ice officially weds Sunkanmi, one of his baby mama’s

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Nigerian talented singer, Abolore Akande, popularly known as 9ice, has finally given marriage another chance.

The singer, tied the knot with one of his baby mama’s, Olasunkanmi Ayala, yesterday.

Recall that, 9ice and Olasunkanmi, had a beautiful daughter together named Michelle.

The singer who has a 5-year-old daughter with his baby mama, has taken to social media to pen a romantic message for her, thanked her for agreeing to embark on the journey with him

Below are both photos from the traditional marriage and the white wedding.

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Comedian Ali Baba gives little tips on how to recognize true love

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Nigerian ace comedian, Ali baba, has decided to reveal some little tips on how to recognize true love.

In a bid, for promoting his event come January 1st, Ali Baba January 1st Concert.

Baba took to IG, to share a post which he penned a message about those who have been doing things Wrongly.

The comedian captioned his post;

“This is to all those “If your partner loves you, that partner can never be too busy” people. Until the tables turn.”

“If a person understands the reason for why you can’t spend time with them, trust me, you have found someone who understands you like no one else.”

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(See full list) Floyd Mayweather named highest paid athlete – Forbes

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The American boxer, Floyd Mayweather,tops the list of Highest paid Athletes in 2019 as reports by Forbes.

Mayweather, earned a whopping sum of $915 million in the year under review and he is followed by Juventus and Portugal forward, Cristiano Ronaldo who earned $800m in 2019.

Argentina and Barcelona forward, Lionel Messi comes in third place with estimated earning of $750m, also LeBron James, American basketball player, score the 4th on the list.

Swiss tennis player, Roger Federer rounds up the top 5, While notable golfer, Tiger Woods bang the 6th position.

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MEET THE GHANAIAN RECORD LABEL BOSS WHO USES CHARM TO SIGN ARTISTE

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Mr Ogidi Brown who is known to be the CEO of OGB Records in Ghana have been accused of using charm to sign his Artiste.

It was gathered that Ogidi Brown was previously betrayed by his former Artiste Fameye, who turned his back on the record Label Immediately after his hit single brought him to lime light.

The split obviously did not go down well with the record Label boss. As this has made him loose trust on any Artiste, which resulted in his use of Charm to sign any new Artiste

While signing a new Artiste, Brown brought a bottle of Schnapps and eggs to the contract to seal the deal, which was alleged to be a way of cautioning his new Artiste against betrayal and the consequences.

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An open response to pastor Olukoya (MFM) and others saying Christmas is not in the Bible

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Dear Pastor Olukoya, I read all you said about Christmas. First, my sincere apologies to all members of Mountain of Fire Ministry, this is not an attack, but just a way to draw his attention to certain things i think he didn’t think of.

I will like to use this medium to say all the unnecessary dispute and contradicting teaching among Christians, what is killing Christianity especially in this country, Rather than Preach dispute, We focus on preaching salvation and Preaching Christ.

You said Christmas is not in the bible, No doubt about that, but i will like to ask you as well, is the name of your church (Mountain of fire ministries) expressly stated in the bible? Or is there anything like General Overseer in the bible? why then are you bearing such titles?

You also said Christ was not born on December 25th, that he was born around April. No doubt about that as well. But my question is, When is the exact date Christ was born? As well, do you have his birth certificate or any document to back up your claim? And since you know his original birth period, why are you not celebrating him on the real date?

With all due respect sir, i hope when you were baptized, was it at river Jordan where Jesus was also baptized? And i hope also the communion you give in your church is the actual bread and wine Jesus used as his body and blood in the bible? Since it is all about following only what is written in the bible.

You claim 25th was originally set aside by the ancient Roman for Mars festival by the worshipers of the Sun. No doubt about that as well. But i will like to ask this. Take for example you fixed a program in your church, one Native doctor in that same area is also celebrating a feast to his gods, or the community is celebrating a festival that same date, would that automatically transcribe that you are indirectly joining them to worship their gods? Or you will cancel or postpone your Church program simply because its clashing with a juju festival.

Like my friend Loveth Ayeh rightly said in her recent post;


Which day was cancer born? Yet the world gives cancer a day to celebrate it as world cancer day.
Which day was diabetes born to earn it world diabetic day?
Which day was girl child born?
Which day was labour born to make us celebrate labour day world wide?
Which day was AIDS born?
Which day was fathers born that we now celebrate fathers day?
Which day was mother born?
Which day was children born before we began to declare children day?

Now this gives me enough reasons to wonder, How come none of you ever argued on any of the days declared by the United nations to celebrate DISEASES and INFIRMITIES?

Christians all over the world decided to celebrate the birth of Christ on 25th December, and you criticize it, saying its a wrong date, but yet you have refused to celebrate him on the date you claim is the right date.

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Kanye West Release New Album ‘Jesus Is Born’ on Christmas Day

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The companion to ‘Jesus Is King,’ the second religious project from Kanye West this year, hits streaming services on Christmas Day.

Jesus Is Born, as explained by West, is his first full-length recorded effort with the Sunday Service choir.

While conceived as a primarily performance-based group, the release of this album suggests West may consider it a part of his recording process moving forward — a change in practice for the authorial producer, who typically takes pieces from other writers, producers and performers and bends them into collage-like songs to fit his own purposes.

West would release a second Christianity-themed album titled Jesus Is Born.

While Jesus Is King used gospel as a starting point, pulling textures from worship music to add depth to West’s typically genre-hopping brand of hip-hop, Jesus Is Born was promised as a more traditional approach to the genre.

West has recently, in collaboration with an Italian artist Vanessa Beecroft, expanded those performances into “operas”: Expansive and ambitious pieces of performing art featuring the Sunday Service Choir, a coterie of dancers and West reading from the Bible.

The most recent performance, “Mary”, took place at the Lincoln Center in New York City on Sunday.

The album also, thanks to its release day, has the opportunity to be classified as a Christmas album, a potentially lucrative avenue.

Mariah Carey is a prime example of a star making the most of the season, riding her rendition of “All I Want For Christmas” to ever-greater heights every year. For West, who despite repeated controversies has never been a more profitable artist (thanks largely to his wildly popular Adidas shoe line), it would be a somewhat fitting end to the year.

West re-committed himself to Christianity in 2019, speaking publicly about his faith and kicking off a now-long-running series of performances with his choir, Sunday Service. “What I’m thinking is gonna be a week or two, now I’ve been in the company of Kanye West for the last 10 months,” said Jason White, the Sunday Service choir director ahead of the release of Jesus Is King. “I’ve spent every Sunday riding with him.”

Despite nagging difficulties with releasing albums on time — Jesus Is King saw numerous delays and its predecessor, Yandhi, was never released — West’s latest was right on schedule, hitting streaming services on Christmas afternoon.

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BbNaija: Ike shared a photo of himself with Tacha and he immediately delete it

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Ike Onyema, a former housemate and boyfriend to Mercy who won the 2019 edition of the BbNaija, was seen recently hanging out with Tacha.

Ike recently shared a photo of himself hanging out with co-reality star, Tacha and he immediately delete it.

The duo was seen in the same car heading to an undisclosed location while his girlfriend, Mercy were no where to be found.

Tacha and Mercy are not best of friends but Ike happens to be Tacha’s friend even as reports claim that, the model had tried to dodge the cameras while he attended Tacha’s birthday party on Monday.

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Gowon Hails Conferment of Ikemba Chieftaincy Title on Emma Okocha

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The former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has hailed the conferment of chieftaincy title of Ikemba of Asaba on Ogbueshi Emma Okocha by the revered Asagba of Asaba, Professor Chike Edozien.


Gowon made the commendation recently when he led a delegation of members of the “Nigeria Prays” to Asaba, Delta State on a courtesy visit to the royal father.

He described the conferment of the Ikemba of Asaba on Ogbueshi Emma Okocha as well-deserved.


The former Head of State said the recognition may have been inspired by Emma Okocha’s exposition of the tragic narratives of the Nigerian Civil war particularly as it affects the good people of Asaba and Anioma in general.


He stated that Emma Okocha’s book, “Blood on the Niger” was what made him and many others to understand the severity of the atrocities and what the people of Anioma suffered in the hands of the soldiers during the civil war. “By the courageous efforts of that young man who wrote the book, ‘Blood on the Niger,’ we got to know” he stated.


Gowon who felt sorry about the genocide has since apologised openly to the people of Asaba and Anioma in general for the atrocities committed by the Nigerian army under his command during the civil war.

Gowon further stressed that he supports the conferment of the title of Ikemba of Asaba on Ogbueshi Emma Okocha, but pleaded with the permission of His Royal Majesty, that the title should be Ikemba of Nigeria,” he enthused.

He said that His Royal Majesty, in his usual wisdom has thoughtfully responded and this most commendable conferment would go a long way to open a new vista for the healing the wounds caused by my soldiers to the people of Asaba and Anioma”

He commended the Asagba of Asaba and his kinsmen for extending a royal recognition to a deserving writer who had courageously revealed to him and to other Nigerians the bloody path the people of Anioma went through, during the war, affirming that it would give further fillip to his appetite for service to fatherland and humanity.

He declared that he had agreed with the Asagba that the Federal government should compensate the Asaba people and Anioma in general and also apologised for not leading the Federal government to compensate the people of Asaba and Anioma when he was the Head of State.


Similarly, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu also commended the Asagba of Asaba for his choice of Ogbueshi Emma Okocha as the next Ikemba.

He revealed that the choice of Okocha as the new Ikemba is a direct reflection of the inclination of majority who wanted the young man and now, His Majesty has done our will.

He said “Our people are mobilising to storm Asaba on the installation day in solidarity with our brothers.’’


Accordingly, the installation which comes up on 29th and 30th December at the palace of the Asagba of Asaba will also witness cultural display from various dance troupes spread across Nigeria. And they include dances from the Tiv land, the Efik, Ishan, the Igbo masquerades, the fire eating Iya Agboku from Enugu and Orimili once a lifetime appearance from Nri Anambra. Others are Apecha from Abor Delta, Anioma Idegbani, Omoba from Cable Point Asaba with lead performances featuring the award winning Isoko choral group and the sexy explosion of the Nkwa Umuagbogo, Afikpo, Ebonyi State.

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June Odika Puts Smiles On Issele-Uku Widows, Distributes Rice, Cloths To Them

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By Patrick Ochei

The illustrious daughter of late Rev. Eugene Odika and a philanthropist of repute, Evang. June Odika has indeed been a blessing to widows in Issele-Uku by distributing rice and wrappers to over 500 of them, yesterday 24th December, 2019, at the Issele-Uku Royal Palace where the event took place.

The woman of God who has been carrying out this function for several years now, is reputed to putting smiles on the widows annually through her foundation – Widows For Christ (WFC).

Speaking to Anioma Trust correspondent at the end of the prayer session, admonition and distribution of the gifts, the Godsent woman of God maintained that the reach-out to widows was a ministry God had called her into.

She said that each year the number that registers with the NGO keeps increasing but she was not perturbed, having the assurance that God who had called her would always make a way and provide.

Odika affirmed that last year when they started sharing rice and discovered that it would not cover the crowd, she had to begin to mop up rice from the house kept for family members and even had to call for more from shops. She stated that based on last year’s experience, the budget was increased this year but even at that, the crowd also increased.

She gave God the glory for providing for her to be able to meet up with this annual sacrifice of love, adding that as long as the Lord reigns and remains faithful, widows in Issele-Uku would not have reasons to cry during Christmas celebration.

The Evangelist advised that widows should always endeavour to register with the home based coordinators of the NGO to enable them have count of those to reach-out to before the day of sharing of gifts.

The Lagos and London based charitable daughter of Issele-Uku, however, appreciated the traditional ruler of Issele-Uku Kingdom, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka for regularly making the palace available to carry out the function.

She said apart from God ordaining the mission, there is also a royal blessing that supports the gifts to the widows, believing that God who is the God of widows would always bring succour their way, so much so that they would not have reasons to miss their husbands.

Speaking also was the Coordinating Pastor of the Project, Pastor Ejimchukwu Nicodemus of the Holiness Power Bible Ministry a.k.a Operation Destroy, who conducted the prayer session, praise and worship and sermon alongside other ministers of God.

He commended the benefactor of the Widows For Christ beneficiaries, Evang. Odika for yearly responding to the cries of widows in this unusual compassion.

The man of God therefore, urged every privileged person in the community and beyond not to let widows cry for help or have reasons to miss their husbands, maintaining that there is always something little every well meaning individual can do to alleviate the sufferings of widows.

Moreover, the women who were full of joy and praises for the rice and yards of wrappers, prayed for June Odika, for God to continue to replenish her and bless her more and more with grace to continue to carry out the Charity Project.

The Project apart from the mega distribution of foodstuffs and materials to the widows every December, there is a monthly distribution that is usually carried out among the registered widows and those very old and sick at their homes.

The 2019 edition of the Project, Widows For Christ had the mother of Evang. June Odika in attendance, including her siblings, Messrs Jonathan and Ijeoma Odika, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka, Chief Innocent Nwakpati, Engr. Adim Adigwe and others too numerous to mention.

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Ifeanyi Farms Issele-Uku Closes For The Year With Motivation On Workers

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… I See A Great Year Ahead Of Us – Rev. Fr. Onyebadi

The Ifeanyi Farms Ltd Issele-Uku, a renowned pineapple and corn farms has closed shop for the year while looking into the new year with greater prospects.

Speaking to the workers who had gathered at the proprietor’s country home in Issele-Uku to close the year, the CEO, Very Rev. Fr. Jude Ifeanyi Onyebadi gave the workers a run down of estimated budget for 2019 and how they surpassed their expectations.

The Priest Farmer explained that N52 million was budgeted for capital expenditure (buying of land for expansion) while N42.4 million was budgeted for recurrent expenditure (paying of salaries and other miscellaneous), adding that the Farm did very well this year by meeting up with its targets based on a good output from pineapple and corn.

He said that 100 buses of corn were estimated to be harvested but eventually 91 was harvested which gave more than the income expected.

Father Jude commended the Sales Manager, Mr Mustapha for keeping a good record of sales from pineapple, maintaining that the budgeted income of N48 million from pineapple was still very possible with remaining sales before the end of the year.

He said that a loan of N40 million to service expenses in the course of the year had been subsumed into the gains of the year and that there was no fear of paying any debt.

The meticulous farm administrator however, charged the workers to brace up for the year 2020 by working hard, stating that “I see a great year ahead of us”.

Father Onyebadi therefore, proposed N16 million from corn alone in 2020 as against the N8.2 million realised in 2019.

He said that prospects for pineapple in 2020 were still very high as the farm would continue to expand to create more space to plant pineapple in order to meet up with the challenge of demands and supply.

He nonetheless, warned the workers to avoid killing crops while in a bid to deliver their portions of work, stating that such would not be tolerated in 2020.

As a motivator, the philanthropist did not only provide rice and money for the workers to celebrate the Christmas, he promised them a salary increase in 2020 with a view to getting them to work harder to meet up with the Farms’ supply chain for 2020.

Meanwhile, in their usual convivial family mood, the workers sang, danced and prayed for the priest farmer who had become a source of blessing and comfort for them. They eulogized the man they call Father for truly being their father irrespective of the fact that they work for him.

In the end, there was merrymaking as Rev. Fr. Jude Onyebadi had cooked for the workers to enjoy themselves. Indeed they were all happy and filled with high hopes as they prepare to impress their employer in the year 2020 by putting in enormous efforts that will also earn them a commensurate value in salaries.

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Sowore, Dasuki’s release: A good Christmas present for Democracy – NUJ President

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The National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Comrade Chris Isiguzo has commended the government on the recent release of, Human rights activist and convener of Revolution Now Omoyele Sowore, and also Col. Rambo Dasuki rtd from DSS custody, tagging it a good Christmas present for the duo and democracy at large.

The NUJ President made these statement, at the late hour of the 24th day of December, 2019 when he formally welcomed the duo, stressing that it’s a welcomed development, although belated, but “it’s better late than never”

Comrade Chris also urged the government to also release other political detainees as well as journalists who are also caught in like webs mostly by their host state governments taking cognizance of the incarceration of Agba Jalingo , who has missed out on this Christmas celebration because he is in detention on orders of Cross River State Government, urging thatthe Federal government should intervene by ordering his immediate release.

Read below his full speech
I wish to formally welcome the release of Mr. Omoyele Sowore and Col Sambo Dasuki rtd from the DSS custody today on the orders of the Federal Government. This is indeed a welcome development and a good Christmas Present for not just the duo but for democracy. Two key ingredients of democratic governance are Respect for Rule of Law and Free Speech (Press Freedom) and once they are not respected, democracy will certainly be under threat.

I applaud the government for doing the needful albeit belatedly but it’s better late than never. I also urge the government to release other political detainees as well as journalists who have been clamped into detention based on trumped up charges especially by some state governments. A case in point is the incarceration of Agba Jalingo, who is presently in detention on the orders of Cross River State Government. The Federal Government should quickly intervene by ordering his immediate release.

Democracy is about the people and any action that undermines people’s right to free expression remains unacceptable. Despite the challenges, Nigerians must continue to keep hope alive.

Comrade Chris Isiguzo
NUJ President

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PRESS STATEMENT: RELEASE OF COL. SAMBO DASUKI (RTD.) AND OMOYELE SOWORE

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  1. The Office of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation has reviewed the pending criminal charges against the duo of Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd.) and Omoyele Sowore.

Whilst the Federal High Court has exercised its discretion in granting bail to the Defendants in respect of the charges against them, I am also not unmindful of the right of the Complainant/Prosecution to appeal or further challenge the grant of bail by the court having regards to extant legal provisions, particularly Section 169 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

However, my Office has chosen to comply with the court orders while considering the pursuit of its rights of appeal and/or review of the order relating to the bail as granted or varied by the courts.

  1. In line with the provisions of Sections 150(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and in compliance with the bail granted to Col. Sambo Dasuki (Rtd) (as recently varied by the Court of Appeal) and the bail granted to Omoyele Sowore, I have directed the State Security Services to comply with the order granting bail to the Defendants and effect their release.
  2. The two Defendants are enjoined to observe the terms of their bail and refrain from engaging in any act that is inimical to public peace and national security as well as their ongoing trial which will run its course in accordance with the laws of the land.
  3. I wish to reiterate again the utmost regard of my Office for the entire judicial structure of Nigeria. This administration remains unrelenting in deepening the rule of law and the administration of justice in general.

SIGNED

ABUBAKAR MALAMI, SAN

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BREAKING: Malami orders DSS to release Dasuki, Sowore

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The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), says he has directed the Department of State Security Services to release the duo of the immediate-past National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki, and ‘RevolutionNow’ protest convener, Mr. Omoyele Sowore from custody.

As of the time of filing this report on Tuesday, our correspondent learnt that final documentation was being concluded for the release of the two men at the headquarters of the DSS in Abuja.

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YOUR APPROACH TO GOVERNANCE, INVIDIOUS TO DELTANS – DELTA APC TELLS OKOWA

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The All Progressives Congress (APC), Delta State is worried over the recent invidious acts of PDP led Government of Delta State, under the watch of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

Some of this unholy acts are but not limited to employment racketeering in the civil service, its desecration and feeding of Royal Stools in Delta State with political murky water.

This statements was made know and through a press release signed by the publicity secretary of the Delta state APC, Barr Sylvester Imonina, on the 23th day of December, 2019.

The Delta State APC, recall that because of the settlement of political scores, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, after assumption of office in the year 2015, cancelled and/ or suspended the recruitment of Deltans into Delta State civil service, already concluded by his predecessor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan. No reasonable reason was given for that ill-thought decision.

According to the statements, Deltans could remember that during the 2019 electioneering, Dr. Okowa, due to fear of those he unjustly sacked in 2015, working against his coming back for second tenure, made a promise to reabsorb them into the State Civil Service. Recently, out of the over three thousand workers that were sacked by him, Delta State PDP led Government purportedly reabsorbed approximately four hundred persons only.”

Meanwhile, inquiry shows that out of the almost four hundred persons purportedly reabsorbed, more than half of the figures were new intakes, closely related to Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, his political associates and his groomed employment racketeers. Moreover, a particular group of people were the most favoured in total negation of Federal Character recognized by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended. What a double-face governance!

From available information, Delta State has the highest monthly Federal allocations in this year 2019, besides ecological funds, internally generated revenues, and others sources of incomes. Painfully, there are no legacy projects to reflect the huge allocations. Due to the profligacy of PDP led Government of Delta State, unemployment is on the increase, thereby making some of our youth to resort to criminality and/ or anti-social behaviours.

In order to cover up his inadequacies, the Governor inveigled and did cow some of our Traditional Stools into hurriedly putting up an award ceremony for him and some members of his political family, thereby desecrating the age-long revered Traditional Institution!

It is preposterous that Governor Okowa was given an award and/ or declared the best in a race, he is yet to finish!

In the time past, traditional rulers were immuned from partisan politics. That is, they were fathers to all irrespective of political leaning. However, because of the dirty politics of PDP led Government of Delta State, some of the Traditional Rulers, for fear of been brandished anti-PDP, refused to allow other political office seekers into their Palaces and Kingdoms for supposed Royal blessings. What a political mortgage of the institution Deltans used to hold in high esteem!

APC wants to state unequivocally that no empire last forever. Delta State is not a vassal State of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, or political marauders! And it can never be.

We condemn in its entirety the recent sham, called ” reabsorbing of sack civil servants of 2015″, because it is a product of fraud oozing out to high heaven. Also, the various reactions of Deltans to the subjugation of our Royal Stools by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa speak volumes. It show that the little respect, if any that the Governor enjoys from Deltans had long left him.

PDP led Government in Delta State should be accountable to Deltans for once. Continuing in its maladministration must end forthwith, except the managers of the Party had sold their souls to mammons and spirits of greed.

To our Royal Fathers, learn to bear hunger at times. That is the only way you can recover your lost crown of honour. APC, Delta State will continue to uphold the traditional institution you are charged with.

PDP SHOULD KNOW THAT DELTANS ARE NOT READY TO ENTERTAIN ITS POLITICAL ABRACADABRA AGAIN.

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TIMAYA FIRES BACK AT HUSHPUPPI, SAYS HE IS ON EXILE

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Nigerian music superstar Timaya, has recently ruffled feathers on social media after he took a jab at his colleagues in the entertainment industry.

It was reported that the singer posted a video in which he pointed out that most of them in the entertainment industry do not put on original clothing outfits.

This post had gotten a lot of people talking and among those who could not help but react is popular flamboyant big boy, Ray Hushpuppi.

In a post shared on social media, the Dubai-based big boy noted that he does not like hypocrites.

He also said he had approached similar topic years ago and he was attacked by the same individuals that are now criticizing people that wear fake clothes.

The Dubai-based big boy urged celebrities to wear clothes they are comfortable with, noting that maturity has now set in and such things do not matter anymore.

Realizing that the post may be directed to Timaya, he shared another video in which he noted that the individual talking to him does not deserve any response, because he is on exile in another country.

The drama continued as Hushpuppi also made a new video in which he lashed out at the music star

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Lady blasts Mercy Eke, calls her and other BBNaija housemates illiterates

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The popular Nigerian Reality Show 2019 winner, Mercy Eke has been slammed, after she announced that she is starting her own affordable clothing line.

A blogger, identified as Ifunaya slams the BBNaija winner after the latter unveiled a couple of clothes she intends to sell on social media.

While reacting to the post, Ifunaya called Mercy an illiterate alongside other BBNaija housemates, claiming that what Mercy is doing, is more of opening a boutique, than it is of a clothing line.

She also added that, most of the clothes Mercy has online, are not her designs, as they could be seen at a market in Wuse, Abuja.

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Tekno’s latest video “Suru” goes nude as over 15 ladies appear with bare breasts and panties

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Nigerian talented singer, Augustine Miles Kelechi popularly known by his stage name Tekno, has been flooded again with criticisms over his just-released musical ‘Suru’.

The controversy emerged after over 15 ladies made appearances in the pop song wearing only panties and showcasing their n*ked breasts before the camera with their bodies smeared with mud.

The 27-year-old former Made Men Music signee, was dancing around the semi-unclad women in the video as they giggled their mammary glands around him.

Ever since the video surfaced on YouTube about 7 hours ago, viewers have been complaining about the explicit nature of the content.

*But according to *Naija-Loaded* report,* Tekno is desperate to claim his spot as an A-list singer/performer in the Nigerian music industry that is highly populated and competitive

Tekno who just recoverd from throat infection which almost hampered his career in the last two years,
also displayed a similar act on a video of one of his comeback songs titled ‘Agege’ featuring Zlatan Ibile.

The singer who paraded half-naked ladies, dancing in a transparent moving truck on the streets of Lagos also attracted alot of backlash from residents and the government few months ago.

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NUJ Congratulates Chiazor On Appointment As SA Media To Delta Governor

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council has congratulated Comrade Norbert Chiazor on his appointment as Special Assistant Media to Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa.

The congratulatory message was contained in a statement from the National Secretariat of the Union and signed by the National Secretary, Comrade Shuaibu Usman Leman.

According to the statement, “We write to felicitate with you on your appointment as Special Assistant Media to Executive Governor of Delta State.

” This is in recognition of your exemplary performance while serving as NUJ Chairman, Delta State Council for two terms, and in other endeavours, especially your hardwork, diligence and professionalism.

“While felicitating with you in this moment of recognition, we also enjoin you to remain steadfast in your work as usual, so as to justify the confidence reposed in you by the Governor.

” You accept the assurances of our cooperation and support at all times and my warmest personal regards, please”, the letter read.

Comrade Norbert Chiazor has been a phenomenal and tenacious journalist who as the NUJ Chairman, Delta State Council, made some record breaking achievements that even the National Secretariat noted, in addition to some of his notable services and contributions to the development of journalism practice both at the State and national levels.

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Ondo Kingship: 23 years old lady chosen by Oracle to become king

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A 23-year-old female, Taiwo Oyebola Agbona, has been “chosen by an oracle” to succeed her late father as king of Aaye kingdom in Ondo.

The beautiful regent who is a graduate from Achievers University in Owo, Ondo, where she studied medical laboratory science, says she can’t get married and or pregnant while on the throne.

A regent is a person appointed to rule a kingdom because the monarch is minor, absent or incapacitated.

The young regent’s choice for the throne arrived after the king makers consulted the oracle for guidance on who to replace the late king. BBC report.

Prior to the passing away of J. B Agbona, the alaaye of Aaye, who passed away on May 4, 2017, Taiwo, the first daughter of the monarch, was chosen to ascend the throne for a period of time pending when a new king is appointed.

Taiwo relish her experience on the throne, saying such position of authority has transformed her positively.

“Before, I am a normal person, but it has shaped me into a better person. It has also taught me how to be hardworking, because you really need to be hardworking and think fast, because you can be called upon anytime by your people,” she said.

“After the demise of my father, the chiefs consulted the oracle and they were told that I am the one worthy to be on the throne. So, they came to consult me and seek my consent.”

“I told them to give me three weeks to think about it. When they came back, I told them I am ready to succeed my father. Within those three weeks, I was thinking about a lot of things,” she said.

When my father was alive, I used to watch him interfere in so many things. Then people bring different cases on conflicts and other things to me and I will wondering how to address them. But I thank God now, I am used to it. I have been doing that for a year now and some months.

Taiwo said she later agreed to take the offer, upon discovery that it was temporary, until a long-term successor is chosen by the oracle.

She further explained that her position has made her unavailable to marriage and getting pregnant.

“When you leave the throne you can do whatever you can but for now, I cannot get married while on the throne and I cannot get pregnant, so whosoever that wants to marry me will have to wait till I leave the throne,” she said.

“As a regent, the person still has the responsibility of the original person on the throne, the only difference is that it is only for a while, it is not permanent. There’s no time because I will still be on the throne until they find another king worthy, and if they don’t find another person worthy to occupy that position, i will remain there. That is why there is need to find someone else.”

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Sit down there boy – Hushpuppi slams Timaya for dissing on Celebrities who wear fake outfits

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Popular Nigerian Socialite, Hushpuppi has taken to social media to Slam Timaya For Attacking Nigerian Celebrities wearing fake outfits.

Reacting to Timaya’s video, he advised celebrities to wear what they like, as long as they are not loud about it.

While recalling that three years ago, He said the same thing Timaya said in his video, where he was dissing Nigerian celebrities wearing fake outfits.

But following his diss, Timaya and other artists attacked him and now, Timaya is doing the same thing he criticized him for.

Taking to Snapchat, the socialite expressed how Timaya was being a hypocrite as he was on the other end some three years ago.

Calling Timaya “boy who just matured”, hushpuppi stressed.

“Now you just matured to the level I was 3 years ago and you wanna make noise. Sit down there boy and shut up your plenty mouth jare.”

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Another Gbese: Tony Tetuila Drags Wizkid and Dj Tunes to Court over Intellectual Right.

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Nigerian veteran singer, Tony Tetuila, has officially cleared the aired over him and Tic from Ghana, suing Wizkid alongside Dj Tunez over their intellectual Rights.

The singer made these statement via his instagram page about himself and artiste Tic (formally known as Tic Tac) from Ghana to sue Wizkid and Dj Tunez at the Nigerian Federal High Court, for violating their intellectual property Rights from their song Fefe n’efe .

They accused Wizkid and Dj Tunes of using their line in ‘ Gbese ‘ song.

His line, “Fefe N’efe was violated according to him. The singer narrated.

Tony also narrated that, their Lawyer has adviced them not to comment any further.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6VQul5FYjj/?igshid=1owssaojt1rtr

But the pititions stating, Tic and Tony Tetuila are seeking damages to the tune of N30,000,000 equivalent to GH?473,379.29 ($82,758.62)

They are also seeking 35% of both digital sales and royalties DJ Tunez and Wizkid received from the song.


According to the plaintiffs, Wizkid had sampled their song ‘Fefe Ne Efe’ released in 2004 but failed to pay for it.

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Plateau Community: Two little Children set ablaze over witchcraft Allegations

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Two girls accused of witchcraft at Waduruk community, Shen village, Jos south local government area of Plateau state have been set ablaze by yet to be identified people.

As a result of the various degrees of injuries sustained, the victims aged 11 and 5 years are lying critically ill at the Plateau State Specialists Hospital Jos, respectively.

According to Naija-Loaded, the State Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, (NAWOJ), Mrs. Jennifer Yarima condemned such act, saying it is a gross violation of the human rights of the victims and called for concerted efforts from law enforcement agencies to ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

In a statement she signed and issued to journalist in Jos, the NAWOJ Chairperson opined that:

“We condemn in strong terms the unspeakable human rights violation meted on two minors, 11 years old Godgift Nyam and five years old Mary Gyang who sustained unimaginable degree of injuries after they were burnt.

“The menace of jungle justice has no place in our contemporary society; it is a disheartening situation that minors will be subjected to such a traumatizing agony without any substantial evidence to prove their claims.

“The members of the community have continued to shield the perpetrators of this dastardly act and chased security agents when they went to arrest suspects. Since nobody is above the law, concerted efforts should be made to arrest and prosecute all those involved in this act of inhumanity to serve as a deterrent to others.”

Mrs. Jennifer stressed that her Association, NAWOJ has picked interest in the case and will follow it to a logical conclusion and ensure that “justice is achieved in favour of the two minors.”

She urged the State government and all spirited individuals and organizations to “come to the aid of the victims who are in dire need of help.”

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Jay Z Names Burna Boy “Collateral Damage” As one of His Favorite Song Of 2019

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American Veteran rapper, songwriter, producer and record executive, Jay Z, shares his favorite 2019 ‘End of Year’ Playlist and a song by Burna Boy makes the cut.

The 40-track playlist exclusively on TIDAL, feature Burna Boy’s Collateral Damage as one of the songs Jay Z selected as his favourite song for the year.

The playlists also contains Kanye West, Megan Thee Stallion, Lil Baby, Travis Scott, Solange, Roddy Ricch, Beyonce, J. Cole, Young Thug and more.

Burna Boy is the only Nigeria Grammy Award nominee for 2020.

In November, the artiste was nominated for the 2020 Grammy Awards following the release of his latest body of work, ‘African Giant’.

The ‘African Giant’s album is nominated in the Best World Album category. Other contenders for the same win are Altin Gün for Gece, Bokanté & Metropole Orkest Conducted By Jules Buckley for What Heat, Nathalie Joachim With Spektral Quartet for Fanm D’Ayiti, and Angelique Kidjo for Celia.

Ever since the release of ‘African Giant’ Album, Burna Boy and his album has gain more recognition and acceptance among music fans.

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Fans Tell Rudeboy to go back to P-square

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Ever since the breaking-up of P-Square, its fans also gone solo, until a fan who recently witnessed Rudeboy’s performance, insisted that the musical duo needs to get back together as a group to revive their musical career.

According to Naija-Loaded, Rudeboys performance at the last Ovation ‘Carol Night’ last Sunday, didn’t really motivate an already excited crowd to dance.

Before he came on stage to perform, several artistes had performed and moved the crowd to excitement, but when Rudeboy performed; the already excited crowd went to their seats and obviously didn’t enjoy his performance.

But just like he knew he wasn’t living up to expectations, the other half of P-square had to give an excuse of coming straight to the Ovation ‘Carol Night’ from another show, claiming that he was rather exhausted.

Still reporting from Naija-Loaded, A fan, who obviously was not happy with the excuse, was heard screaming at the top of his voice saying, “swallow your pride, makeup with your twin and bring back P-square and save your musical career please”.

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Yahoo Boys and Prostitutes will make Heaven before You – Daddy Freeze tells Pastors

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Popular Controversial OAP, Daddy Freeze, has taken to his Social media, saying that prostitutes and fraudsters will make heaven faster than pastors who preach idolatrous heresies.

He made this known while reacting to the trending debate on prostitution on social media.

The OAP opined that his message is meant for people who urge him.

Daddy Freeze, whose real name Ifedayo Olarinde, is a Nigerian broadcaster and radio talk show host.

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Delta Government partners with Traditional Rulers to boost oil palm production — Commissioner

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The Delta State Government, yesterday, seek partnership with the traditional rulers to boost oil palm production in the state for jobs creation and for export earnings.

Mr Julius Egbedi, Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, made the call at a meeting with Traditional Rulers in Asaba on Friday.

He said that it had become necessary to brife the royal fathers on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Oil Palm Development Initiative in the country, adding that traditional rulers have a pivotal role to ensure the success of the programme in the country.

He said that the traditional rulers were expected to work with the communities to ensure the provision of adequate land area, engage youths and women for the oil palm cultivation.

He said that the programme was billed to kick off next year (2020) on a large scale, adding that individuals and group farmers would participate as out growers through plantation owners and investors.

Egbedi said that prospective investors would be requires to acquire expansive land from communities to establish their farms as the loan would be given to farmers without collaterals but subject to a maximum individual farmland of one hectare.

According to the commissioner, the CBN
Scheme was designed to revive the ailing condition of the oil palm industry in Nigeria.

“You would recall that prior to the production of crude oil, the country was a formidable leader in palm oil production and export but today, about 50 per cent of palm oil and associated products consumed in the country, are imported.

“This is to notify our royal fathers that the CBN Oil Palm Initiative will provide loans for farmers and investors at nine per cent interest rate with a moratorium of four years to boost oil palm production to reverse the slide.

“The loan will be partly cash and in kind; land preparations, seedlings, fertilizers and chemicals will be provided through registered providers while cash for weeding and herbicides application among others would be disbursed to the farmers.

“Participation in the programme will cover youths and women farmers, communities and investors”.

The commissioner said that the loan repayment modalities have been worked out and that it would spread though eight years period.

He disclosed that 20 communities in the state have already provided a total of 22,000 hectares of land for investors, adding that those that provided land have secured automatic qualification as out growers.

“It is therefore, my pleasure to invite you our royal fathers to join hands with the Delta Government and CBN to welcome and engage investors to accelerate the implementation of the programme in the state,” he said.

Responding on behalf of the royal fathers, HRM, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor II, Obi of Owa and Chairman, Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, thanked the state government for involving the royal fathers in the programme.

He pledged that the council would work to ensure the success of the programme while calling on government to remain transparent in executing the programme.

According to him, the project must not be one of the ways to pacify politicians but that those who are qualified should benefit from it.

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Stop Comparing my fashion style with other Celebrities – Timaya

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Popular Nigerian Singer, Timaya, has taken to social media expressing his dissatisfaction towards people comparing his fashion style to that of other celebrities.

According to Naija Loaded, the singer announced this via his instastory.

Although, Naija Loaded didn’t ascertain what triggered the statement from Timaya, as he seemed quite serious about the issue from the video he shared.

The singer, has warned those people to desist from the act as the people whom they compare him with ‘don’t even wear original stuff’.

Timaya gain international prominence through its lead single tittle ‘Plantain Boy’ from his third studio album ‘De Rebirth’ which he released in partnership with Black Body Entertainment.

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Regina Daniels Fans claims she Pregnant

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The Fans of popular Nigerian actress, Regina Daniels Nwoko claims she’s pregnant after she recently stepped out with her much older billionaire husband.

Regina Daniels and Ned Nwoko were at a Press conference for the Eradication of malaria in Nigeria and Africa at large.

The pregnancy rumour suffix the internet after the actress shared photos and video from the event via instagram.

Her ‘womb watcher’ fans noticed that she has added weight. They are now claiming that she is pregnant and have gone ahead to start congratulating her.

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Our National Assembly Leaders have no Conscience – Banky W

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Popular Nigerian Musician, Banky W, has expressed his sadness towards Nigeria Lawmakers over the N37bn allocated to renovate the National Assembly Complex.

According to Banky W, N37Billion was budgeted to renovate an office building at a time, the education and healthcare sector are in a state of emergency.

He tweeted;

“Our ‘leaders’ in the National Assembly have NO conscience. At a time like this, when Education & Healthcare in Nigeria are in a state of Emergency.. they earmarked N37Billion to renovate their office building.

“Shame on us for letting them get away with it. This is SICK. At a time like this, when Education & Healthcare in Nigeria are in a state of Emergency.. they earmarked N37Billion to renovate their office building. Shame on us for letting them get away with it. This is SICK.”

The singer who contested in the 2019 general election for a seat in the House of Representatives, stated that the leaders of the National Assembly have no conscience over the amount budgeted for the renovation project.

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“WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRUMP IMPEACHMENT”

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By: Edhebru Joshua

I have been seeing all over social media that Trump has been removed, and even some Nigeria news interchanging the word IMPEACHED with REMOVAL. And this is because they are copying the authors of the Nigerian constitution who don’t seem to know what “IMPEACHMENT” really means.

However, i will like to state it clear, “IMPEACHMENT” does not mean “REMOVAL” from office. We should all note that he is still the President, impeachment cannot make his office as the president become vacant.

MEANING OF IMPEACHMENT;
The action of calling into question the integrity or validity of something. Or a charge of treason or another crime against the state. or a charge of misconduct made against the holder of a public office.

After taking a critical look at the various above definitions, you will agree with me that Impeachment does not mean removal from office. Impeachment only means he has been charged with an offense or misdemeanor committed while in office.

Therefore the next procedure after impeachment is trial and then removal or acquittal. In the United States, only the Senate has the power to try and remove or acquit a president who has been impeached (by the House of Representatives).

We all are only misunderstanding the whole issue because of the way the word Impeached was used in our constitution. The word Impeachment appeared in only two passage of our constitution, and it was used as if it meant removal. Section 146 (3) (a) of the constitution says, “where the office of vice president becomes vacant – by reason of death, resignation, impeachment, permanent incapacity or removal in accordance with section 143 or 144 of this Constitution….” Also, in Section 191 (3) (a) of the constitution (you can check it out).

In this case he has only been accused of an offense, and a mere accusation does not mean conviction. To convict an accuse person you have to try him/her first. And conviction is not the only possible outcome of a trial. An accused (or impeached) person can be acquitted after trial, as was the case for the two US presidents that were impeached.

And i will also like us to just have it at the back of our minds that the chances of him being Removed from office is very slim. Because, Republicans controls d Senate why democrats controls the rep. The impeachment only put a dent on his image

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Kick out bird flu: Delta Govt distributes disinfectants to 300 poultry marketers

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Asaba, Dec. 18, 2019 Delta Government on Wednesday flagged off
distribution of disinfectants to 300 live bird marketers in its bid to permanently kick out the avian influenza (bird flu)disease in the state.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr Julius Egbedi, while flagging off the sensitization and distribution process at Live Bird Market(LBM), Abraka in Asaba, said the gesture was to ensure that no outbreak of bird flu was recorded this year.

He said that live bird markets created opportunity for birds from various management standards to come together and presented a ready source of disease spread, as such, every poultry marketer was expected to disinfect the environment regularly.

He called for commitment by all to check the outbreak of the disease, saying, “though it is a disease of birds it can also affect man with serious consequences; prevention of bird flu is simple if all us cooperate and maintain good hygiene.

“Today’s occasion is meant to reach out to all bird sellers in every nook and cranny of our state to seek your cooperation in ensuring that this year’s
Christmas season is devoid of any incidence of bird flu outbreak.

“Having reached out to 50 pig and 50 poultry farmers few weeks ago by giving out disinfectants free of charge, there is need to extend same gesture to poultry marketers and distributors.

“The essence is to reduce or prevent contamination arising from transfer of poultry and poultry products from one location to another which is usually on the increase during Christmas season.

“It is expected that more than 300 poultry marketers spread across the state shall benefit as the surveillance shall be carried out in all the LBM in Warri, Sapele, Ughelli, Effurun, Agbor, Umunede, Oghara, Asaba, OK pan am among others”.

Egbedi disclosed that there had not been any incidence of bird flu in the state since 2016.

Earlier, Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Charles Diai, charge the marketers to adopt a good hygiene measures to ensure a clean environment in order to prevent any outbreak of the disease.

He recalled that the entire country in 2007 and 2010 suffered a harrowing experience due to outbreak of bird flu which caused the death of many birds and a huge loss to farmers and marketers.

According to Diai, with regular use of disinfectants and good hygiene, the disease can be precented.

Responding on behalf of the recipients, Alhaji Bawa Abdulahi, Secretary, LBM, Abraka Market, Asaba, thanked the state government for giving them the disinfectants free while assuring that they would effectively use the products to disinfect their environment to stamp out bird flu and any other disease.

Our correspondent reports that each beneficiary is expected to get one liter of CID20 disinfectant when diluted would provide two drums of solution which is enough to last for six months.

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DELTA WILL REMAIN POLIO FREE – GOV. OKOWA

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards ensuring that the state remained polio-free.

The Governor stated this while receiving the International Observer Team of the Africa Regional Certification Commission, led by Dr Ariene King at Government House, Asaba, stated that Delta had not recorded any case of polio since 2010.

The Governor assured that his administration would continue to provide adequate healthcare delivery to the people, especially primary healthcare.

“I believe that if we provide opportunities to attend to our people well at the primary healthcare level, it will be a lot easier to get them to be part of the immunisation against polio and other diseases.

“As a government, we will continue to do what we can to ensure that our people are given effective healthcare at all times.

“The state has put down a road map to enable citizens to have access to healthcare through the state Contributory Health Scheme,’’ he said.

Governor Okowa while commending various international donor-agencies for partnering the country and the states in funding health programmes, called for sustainable support and cooperation of the partners in the delivery of quality healthcare to Nigerians.

He reassured the team of the state government’s commitment to delivering its ongoing free healthcare to children from zero to five years and pregnant women in the state.

Earlier, Dr King, the leader of the delegation had told the governor that the team was in Nigeria to conduct a survey on the prevalence rate of polio, saying it was with a view to certifying the country polio-free by June, 2020.

She disclosed that Delta and Edo were selected in South-South for surveillance and assessment, adding that health officials in Delta were very knowledgeable in primary healthcare service to the people and commended the state government for it.

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ANIAGWU COMMENDS DESOPSDEC FOR PARTNERING WITH LOCAL MEDIA

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The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has commended the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) for partnering with the local media in publicizing its activities.

Mr Aniagwu gave the commendation in his key note address during the commission’s Media and Public Affairs Unit’ s 2019 Award/End of Year Dinner Party held Ugberikoko, Uvwie Local Government Area.

Mr Aniagwu who was represented by the Acting General Manager of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri, Pastor Malcolm Oteri, noted that partnering with the local media would send the message of DESOPADEC to the grass root and urged the commission to sustain the partnership.

The information commissioner stated that the Delta State Ministry of Information recognized DESOPADEC as an integral part of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa administration mission for a stronger Delta State, promising that the ministry would support and encourage its partnership with DESOPADEC.

The Chairman of event, Mr Peter Okotie- Eboh who is also the Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer CEO of Crown/ Kpoko FM Warri and Asaba in his opening speech, commended DESOPADEC for partnering with the local media, especially his media outfits, calling for sustenance of the partnership.

The Head, Media and Public Affairs Unit, DESOPADEC, Chinenye Ezonfade, in her welcome address, said among other things that credit should be given to the new Managing Director (MD) of DESOPADEC in whatever achievements the commission has recorded so far in partnering with the media in the state and beyond.

“All these new innovations were products of the renewed vision of the present board with the proactive leadership of our MD/CEO, Bashorun Hon Askia Ogieh,” she stated.

The event featured special Christmas carols rendered by staff of DESOPADEC to the applaud of guests.

The highpoint of the event was the award of excellence to personalities that contributed to the achievements of the Media and Public Affairs Unit of DESOPADEC

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El Clasico: Real Madrid to Face Barcelona again in camp Nou

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We are expecting drama and explosive football, as one of the biggest matches in world football comes to TV on Wednesday.

Barcelona welcome Real Madrid to Camp Nou in the El Clasico ball and below are 4 reasons this game is a MUST WATCH.

The Match Is Threatened By Pro-Independence Violence.

According to media reports, a group named Tsunami Democratic have summoned 20,000 people to participate in a protest which will see them try to attack the Real Madrid team bus on Wednesday.

The El Clasico which was originally scheduled to be played on October 26, was moved to December over demonstrations and riots in Catalonia over independence.

Protests are yet to stop, even as the football match draws close.

Pique Mocks Real Madrid After Copa del Rey Defeat.

A recent video clips from Barca’s documentary “Matchday” shows Pique mocking his opponent after Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3 – 0 (Agg 1 – 4) in the second leg of the cup competition.

Real Madrid fans are furious after learning Barcelona defender Pique taunted their club after the Copa del Rey humiliation last season.

Real Madrid Will Want To Revenge Last Season’s Defeat.

On Wednesday night will be the perfect time for revenge as Madrid lost to Barcelona 5 – 1 in Camp Nou and it’s over a year ago. An embarrassing result that saw Julen Lopetegui sacked as Real Madrid boss.

Secondly, Madrid were also knocked out of the semi-final of the Copa del Rey by Barca in the same season, a feat that didn’t go well with the hard-to-please Bernabeu faithful.

Real Madrid Don’t Like The Referee For The Match.

All eyes will be on the referee on Wednesday, as he is well known for giving controversial red card.

The referee for the game is Alejandro Hernandez Hernandez whom his officiating has been marred with controversies in the El Clasico.

Hernandez who handed red card to Sergio Ramos in what many felt was over the top, has also once, ruled out an apparently correct Gareth Bale goal for an apparent foul on Jordi Alba.

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Breaking: President Buhari sign 2020 budget into law

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President Muhammadu Buhari today in Abuja signed the 2020 appropriation bill of N10,594,362,364,830 into law.

The signed budget which passed by the National Assembly, maintained Nigeria’s daily oil production rate at 2.18 million per barrel, while increasing the Oil Benchmark Price to 57 dollars per barrel against the 55 dollars proposed by the Executive.

The signed budget also retained the inflation rate at 10.81 per cent while the exchange rate for Naira to dollar at N305 as proposed by the executive.

It was report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the budget was increased from N10.33 trillion to N10.594billion by the National Assembly.

NAN also observed that N560.47 billion of the total budget is for statutory transfers while N2.7 trillion is for debt service.

Other breakdown of the budget include N4,842,974,600,640 for Recurrent Expenditure; Capital expenditure N2,465,418,006,955; Fiscal Deficit N2.28 trillion and Deficit/GDP N1.52 per cent.

The signing of the 2020 budget at President’s mini-conference hall, was witnessed by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo; Senate President Ahmad Lawan; the Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha as well as presidential aides.

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The FIRS diverted N90 billion through Osinbajo to prosecute 2019 election – Timi Frank

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A political activist, Comrade Timi Frank, has maintain his stance towards the N90 billion that is been diverted to prosecute the 2019 general election for the APC.

Comrade Frank, who was the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has also distance himself from the claims that only N40 billion were stolen from Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to prosecute election by the ruling party.

A statement he signed and made available to NAIJALOADED on Tuesday, Frank demanded an apology from the FIRS for saying that he was been used to fabricate lies against the revenue-generating agency, adding that he is a man of integrity.

The Bayelsa born activist condemned the ruling party for describing the stolen money report as hogwash.

Comrade Frank, accused the FIRS of being the brain behind the N40 billion claim in the media to divert attention from the original N90 billion allegations to make his revelation appear unbelievable.

He also challenged the authority of FIRS to live up to its earlier threat of going to court as soon as possible

However, he stated that the agency and the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo have explanations to make to the world regarding the missing money.

Reacting to the APC statement describing the report as hogwash, Comrade Frank said the judgment day for the ruling party is just by the corner.

“It is a shame for the leadership of the APC to speak on this matter now having kept quiet since the revelation was made. Understandably the party is the beneficiary, it must do everything possible to divert public attention,”

He called on Nigerians, especially the rights groups and courageous individuals to defend Nigeria’s democracy by urgently rescuing it from the handlers of the current government for the sake of innocent Nigerians.

“I salute the courageous ones, even as history will never forget them in a hurry,”

“I don’t know where the report of N40 billion is coming from and I don’t actually have a connection with the PRNigeria who released the report but it is incumbent on me to state categorically that my position on the stolen N90 billion has not changed.

“I have waited patiently for either of the parties involved in the swindling of Nigeria taxpayers’ money to sue me but up till now, the shameless elements are still hiding under one finger.

“They threatened but could not live up to their own expectations. A media organization was forced to retract the report thinking it will end there but so many courageous media houses and social media ensured that the truth could not be hidden.

Frank said if the APC actually has the interest of the country at heart, few elements who were not in the know of how its leadership mismanaged the taxpayer’s hard-earned money ought to have been worried by the revelations.

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Man Excited As Girl He Helped Years Back Becomes A Graduate.

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A sport journalist and presenter at Classic FM, Temisan Okomi, has narrated how a young girl he helped some years back, invited him for her convocation.

According to Temisan’s narration, he met the girl for the first time at a bar. At the time, she was only 17-year-old, looking so pretty and serving as a waitress at the bar.

Temisan called her attention to ask why she isn’t in school, and as expected, the familiar tale of no money for JAMB and SSCE form came in.

Touched by the young girl’s story, Temi asked if she would return to school if he gives her the money for the forms, she said Yes and Temi showed his generosity.

Fast forward to some hours ago, the girl and her mom called him, to invite him for her convocation, and excited Temi has taken to Twitter to share the good news.

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GWW DEMANDS N500M FROM KIZZ DANIEL FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT.

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Kizz Daniel’s ex-record label, G-World Wide Entertainment, has threatened to stop the singer’s highly-anticipated Boxing Day concert billed to hold in Lagos.

These statements were made by the Senior Partner of the legal firm, Olisa Agbakoba, who revealed this at a press conference which held in Lagos.

“We are going to apply for an injunction to stop it (Kizz Daniel’s concert) because he is tied to us and the matter is still in court; the court has to decide,” Mr Agbakoba told journalists at the gathering.

“We are going to ask the court to stop the show, but if the court says it may not be fair, we would then ask for all the money to be paid to the court. It’s not about him, but the promotion company that is aware of the suit and went ahead to organise the concert. If we don’t do this, this industry will not grow.”

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria also said his stance was due to the contractual dispute between G-World Wide Entertainment Limited (GWW)

The latter has been locked in a legal battle with his former record label in the last two years, as the issue stemmed from his desire to exit the label.

As a result of the dispute, an injunction prevented him from performing throughout the festive period of December 2017.

However, Mr Agbokoba said, “The fact that the artiste has changed its name from Kiss to Kizz doesn’t absolve it of the claim for an infringement of intellectual property rights as it is still liable under the common law tort of passing off”.

He also addressed what he described as the singer’s “breach of the mandatory buy-out clause and infringement of the Intellectual property rights of GWW” at the event. While the firm is also demanding N500 million as compensation.

As report by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Agbakoba’s stance was contained in statement issued by his media aide, Niyi Odunmorayo.

According to Mr Agbakoba, GWW discovered Kizz Daniel, invested in its musical career, “as he showed great prospects as a young artiste also, the firm pooled its resources and industry contacts to ensure that he becomes a shining star in the Nigerian Music Industry”.

“Eventually, Kizz Daniel honed his craft with the aid of GWW and became a force to reckon with in the Nigerian Music Industry and then began the impatience and the hunger for independence.

“In 2017, he terminated his Recording Contract with GWW, citing frivolous reasons and GWW proceeded to court to enforce the contract against Kizz Daniels and is seeking reliefs for breach of contract and infringement of its intellectual property rights,” he noted.

Mr Agbakoba also said the Nigerian music industry has over the years shown great growth trajectory, with projections that the industry will hit $50 million by 2020.

He, however, frowned at the ‘growing rot’ in the system, of incessant breach and disregard of recording contracts by artistes, “which if not addressed and solutions proffered, will hamper the growth of the industry.”

A claim for payment of incurred costs expended by GWW on Kizz Daniel during the subsistence of the Recording Contract and that is captured in Clause 4.1 (d) of the Contract of April 15, 2014.

By the said contract, GWW said it has a right to recoup its investment on Kizz Daniel.

It says that if the artiste is going to terminate the contract, “he can go ahead but he would have to pay back the company’s investment and damages from loss of earnings from scheduled programmes/events prior to the termination.”

Meanwhile, the singer appears unperturbed by the development. He put out a new song titled ‘Jaho’ on Monday which he is actively promoting on Twitter and Instagram.

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Okowa urges Delta pilgrims to distinguish selves

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Delta Governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has charged pilgrims to the Holy Land to distinguish themselves with high spirituality and attitudinal changes to justify the pilgrimage.

The governor gave the charge on Sunday in Jerusalem while presenting certificates and investiture of Jerusalem Pilgrim to the pilgrims.

Represented by the Commissioner, Bureau for Special Duties, Mr Omamofe Pirah, he pointed out that the pilgrims had the experience of visiting specially chosen religious sites in the Holy Land.

“We must take the message home that we were in Israel for spiritual purposes by our actions; we should show that we are changed people by our actions.

“Let what we have learnt here, what we have gained spiritually impact on our people positively in Nigeria.

“We must take home a system where rule of law works; our leaders must obey rule of law.

“There must be rule of law in our nation, because once there is rule of law, our nation will grow.

“I commend the orderly manner the Pilgrims have conducted themselves, the decorum is wonderful and I am happy that all of you have received something behind the physical.

“Always be at peace with Christ; forgive others, do the right things and others will emulate you,” Okowa said.

President of Tailor Made Tours, Mrs Josephine Zinder, had in an address, described Nigeria as a great nation, asserting that Nigerians were the best friends of Israel.

“There is no way you will come to the Holy Land of Israel and will be the same.

“We are one, my people, we love you; Nigeria is all about family; we were lacking rain in this land, but when Nigerians prayed, we had rain in Israel.

“I did not have children of my own for 24 years and when Nigerians prayed for me, I was blessed with children.

“I thank the governments of Delta and Enugu for sponsoring Pilgrims, we are aware of the challenges, but spiritual food is very important ; we are proud of Nigeria; you bring peace to the Holy Land,” she said.

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IBB IS ALIVE AND BUBBLING.

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It has become consistent fake news for quite some time now wishing our own IBB, the one we easily refer to as “the last don” of Nigeria politics, dead.

The “fake news bill” would be a suitable response to this category of fake news carrier. IBB is very much alive and bubbling.

He just started attending to friends and associates who came to see him today, Sunday, 15th December, 2019 right here at his Minna Hilltop mansion. He is full of life and in his characteristic bubbling mood.

May Allah forgive those who wish IBB dead. God is the giver and taker of life, not humans. Death, as the irrevocable end of all creation, will surely come to everyone some day and at the appointed time and hour, but to deliberately spread fake news and wish someone dead, is to take humanity to another bizarre level.

May Allah forgive them. IBB, by the special grace of Allah, the omniscient and omnipotent One, shall live to fulfill his journey and destiny in life, to the consternation of those who are always wishing him dead. This is about the third time this year.

We wish to thank those who took time to reach out to us, home and abroad, to find out the truth. We thank you all for your love, care and concern. May Allah grant us all good health, sound mind and long life. Amin.

SIGNED…
PRINCE KASSIM AFEGBUA
MEDIA SPOKESMAN TO GENERAL IBB.

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DELTA APC KICKS AGAINST PENSION REFORMS TO ACCOMMODATE ACTING GOVERNOR •Say it is a panacea for economic woe

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, alerts Deltans on the anti-peoples’ Executive Bill that is currently before the State House of Assembly, which is at the verge of being assented to, by the Governor.

This was made know through a press statement signed by the publicity secretary of the Delta state APC, Barr Sylvester Imonina, on the 11th day of December, 2019, who stressed that the Bill is to enable the former Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sam Obi, who acted as a Governor for less than three months in 2011, become a beneficiary of the said law.

Speaking further, Barr Imonina stated that “Deltans will recall that after the nullification of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan’s election in 2011, in line with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, Hon. Sam Obi was sworn in to take charge of governance of Delta State, pending the conduct of another election. It is worthy to note that the brief stay of Hon. Sam Obi was shrouded in controversies of alleged shady deals!”

Barr Imonina also stated that “The Delta State chapter of the APC wishes to state categorically that in line with plethora of judicial pronouncements/authorities, anyone who occupies any position in acting capacity in the governance of the State, is not recognized by the law, as a substantive holder of the office. It is on that premise that the Appellate Court threw out several cases, wherein the legality/competence of former President Goodluck Jonathan were challenged by some Nigerians.”

The Delta state Publicity secretary also hinted that “Aside the above position of the law, the present PDP led Government of Delta State complains of lack of funds for the execution of projects! This same Government, because of her penchant for profligacy now wants to make their partner in maladministration of the State, “super rich” at the expense of majority of Deltans!” Adding that “despite the uproar and condemnation of the amendment sought by the Governor of Delta State, the State House of Assembly, on 11th of December, 2019, cowardly and shamelessly granted the request of the Governor by amending the said law because of the interest of only one person. This is heartlessness.”

Barr Imonina further stated that “The APC, and the downtrodden Deltans, call on Mr. Governor to have a rethink and withdraw his assent to that law amended/passed by the House of Assembly.

Deltans are watching to see if the Governor had not conquered shame. If he had conquered shame, then, let him sign that amended Bill into law. Posterity will judge him.” Stressing that “Meanwhile, if the Governor does the unthinkable by signing that Bill into law, PDP Government should be ready to have barrage of litigations in respect of same. Deltans and civil societies are watching.”

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OKOWA MOURNS TONY OBUH, PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO FAMILY

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Delta Governor, Sen Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed deep sadness on the passing of Chairman, Delta State Bureau of Pensions, Sir Anthony Obuh.

Obuh, a retired Permanent Secretary and politician, hails from Oki community, Agbor Kingdom, Ika South Local Government Area of the state.

He reportedly died in the early hours of Thursday at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, after a protracted illness. He was aged 62.

The deceased was Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocols between 2007 and 2014 when he retired voluntarily to contest for the office of Governor of Delta on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party PDP.

Although he lost the primaries, he remained a committed and loyal party man. Former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan later appointed him as Commissioner for Special Duties, a position he occupied until the end of the administration in May, 2015.

Under Gov Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration, he was appointed Chairman, Delta State Bureau of Pensions in June, 2018, a position he held until he died.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Thursday in Asaba, Okowa commiserated with the people of Ika South, Oki community in particular, Agbor Kingdom and the entire Delta Public Service community over the passing of the renowned civil servant and technocrat.

He said that Obuh was a respected civil servant, politician and administrator, who excelled in all his endeavours.

The governor described him as “thoroughbred technocrat” whose contributions to the civil service would be indelible, adding that he felt a “personal loss’’ with the demise of the great son of Ikaland.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a gentleman and thoroughbred professional, Sir Anthony Chuks Obuh, who reportedly died early Thursday at the UNTH, Enugu.

“The news of his death came to me as a shock and I send my heartfelt condolences to the family, the people of Ika South and the entire bureaucracy in Delta on the passing of the renowned politician and top-notch civil servant.

“He was a gentleman-politician, and distinguished himself in the service of his state as a retired Permanent Secretary, Commissioner and current Chairman of the Pension Board.

“Until his death, he was an active member of Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta and a leader in Ika South Local Government Area. He will be sorely missed by those whose lives he touched in many ways,” he said.

Okowa prayed God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends he left to bear the loss.

Meanwhile, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, on yesterday paid a condolence visit to the family of the Chairman, Delta State Bureau of Pensions, Sir Anthony Obuh, who passed on in the early hours of Thursday.

The governor, who was accompanied by his wife, Edith, top government functionaries, including Head of Service, Mr Reginald Bayoko and permanent secretaries arrived at the Obuh’s home in Asaba at 3.10 p.m.

He condoled with the deceased’s wife, Ogor Obuh, and son, Tony Obuh Jnr, family members, other relatives and well wishers who had thronged the residence to mourn the late technocrat, a retired permanent secretary.

Prayers were said by the governor and members of his entourage for the family for God to grant the deceased’s soul eternal rest.

The governor, who had earlier issued a condolence statement to mourn the departed Obuh, who was a governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), departed from the deceased’s home at 4.10 p.m.

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NYSC CORPS MEMBERS TO RECEIVE NEW MINIMUM WAGE BY 2020 – DG

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The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has assured members of the scheme, that they will start receiving their allowances in accordance with the new minimum wage from next year.

He made these revelations recently when journalists reached out to him on the matter.

The NYSC boss said that the allowance of corps members was also being reviewed to reflect the new minimum wage of N30,000 per month by 2020 as it had been captured in the yet-to-be-assented appropriation bill.

“We’ve told our corps members that the allowance was captured in the 2020 Budget,” Mr Ibrahim said.

The budget was increased by lawmakers from N10. 33 trillion presented by President Muhammadu Buhari on October 8 to N10. 6 trillion.

“Once signed into law by Mr President, payment will commence.

“The Hon Minister of Youth and Sports Development reiterated this too when he addressed the Corp members in Lagos, ” said the NYSC boss.

Earlier in October, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare, said the federal government was planning for the payment of the minimum wage to youth corps members.

He said the NYSC Director-General would provide details of the new allowance after the briefing from the Ministries of Finance and Youth and Social Development. Youth Corps members are currently being paid about N19800 monthly as allowance by the federal government.

The government had stated that, December 31st is the deadline for the payment of arrears on the minimum wage, following the approval for the N30,000 minimum wage by the federal government on April 18 this year.

The government and labour had reached an agreement on the consequential adjustment which had been a debated matter for some months.

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GOV OKOWA INAUGURATES 7 GOVERNING COUNCILS

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The Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has inaugurated governing councils of state-owned tertiary institutions with a charge to develop technical education for the benefit of Deltans.

Governor Okowa gave the charge on today during the Inauguration of the council of 7 Tertiary Institutions which includes College of Education Agbor (Chief Emmanuel Onyeukwu-Chairman), College of Education Warri (Mr. V.O.T Abanum), Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku (Chief Joe Arausi), College of Education Mosogar (Hon. Lovette Idisi), Delta State Polytechnic Ozoro(Dr. Festus Okubor), Delta State Polytechnic Otefe (Chief Andrew Orugbo) and Delta State School of Marine Technology Burutu (Chief J.T Government).

He explained the importance of technical education for the development of youths and called on the management of the higher institutions to cooperate with the governing councils to achieve set goals of improving the institutions for the better.

According to him, “Education is not only about just teaching and doing exams; there is the need for skills acquisition which will give our children an added advantage in succeeding in life; I am charging the councils to introduce technical education which will ensure that our children acquire entrepreneurial skills even outside the area of their studies, because it is important that our children are well equipped when they leave the environment of learning.

“I am glad that some of our institutions have started taking technical education very seriously and it is my hope that the current councils will be able to upscale this mandate by working with the management of our higher institutions to ensure that we have proper teaching and thereafter it is important that every student passing through our higher institutions be able to leave the higher institution with a skill set as it is actually very helpful in the current day Nigeria because we can no longer rely on paper qualifications; there is a lot of unemployment currently in this nation but those who are able to use their hands will definitely succeed.”

Governor Okowa charged the councils to cooperate with the management of the higher institutions in ensuring that institutions develop better than its current state.

“The men and women that make up these governing councils are people of integrity with years of experience, so bring to the fore your expertise which will ensure that our institutions are improved, our lecturers are disciplined and honourable and the students are taught well,” he added

Responding on behalf of the councils and their members Dr. Festus Okubor thanked Governor Okowa for giving them the opportunity to serve. He assured that they would deliver on the mandate of Governor Okowa’s agenda of creating an educational sector that will stand the test of time

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DELTA STATE: MACAULAY ASSURES WARRI RESIDENTS REVAMPING ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

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The Director General of the Warri Uvwie and Environs Special Area Development Agency (WUEDA), comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay has assured residents of Warri a liveable and more comfortable city with good road network and recreational opportunities with a view to revamping the economic activities of the area.

Addressing newsmen at the Agency’s office in Effurun, comrade Macaulay said from Monday, December 16 2019, the agency will begin general clean up of the areas as a first step to realizing its mandate.

Comrade Macaulay stated that the agency aims to ensure that its catchment areas are giving proper and adequate attention with focus on ecological and environmental remediation, health, economy and social infrastructure.

He disclosed that the Agency has identified the main challenges militating against urban renewal in Warri Uvwie and Environs to include illegal erection of structures, inappropriate waste disposal, and traffic jams.

He disclosed that to bring the needed development to the areas, proper clean up has to be carried out, stressing that this time it will not be business as usual.

Fielding questions from journalists on past efforts to clean up the areas which did not yield the desired results, comrade Macaulay unveiled that he has secured accommodation in Warri to ensure proper and prompt monitoring of the operations on the agency.

He promised that men with integrity will be engaged to guide against compromise in the discharge of their duties, adding that the agency will approach the challenges gradually and systematically to achieve the set goals.

Comrade Macaulay said his tenure will focus on laying a good foundation to build on and reiterated the commitment of the Okowa administration to continue to develop physical infrastructure in the Warri areas and the state at large

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COMEDIAN BRODA SHAGGI, NOW OTEDOLA’S SON-IN-LAW

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Comedian Brodashaggi is now the son-in-law of billionaire Femi Otedola, after he commented on a viral video in which DJ Cuppy appears to kiss the comedian.

“My son-in-law”, Femi Otedola commented, obviously jokingly, amidst the thousands of retweets and comments the video has generated.

In her own post of the video, DJ Cuppy tantalisingly wrote: Dreams do come through, breaking her comment with a kissing emoji and then adding: congrats to Brodashaggi.

Brodashaggi, real name Samuel Perry, must have been in a dreamworld for landing a kiss with Cuppy as the video shows him collapsing afterwards.

He wrote: “FINALLY, I kissed Dj Coppied (Sic)”.

On Brodashaggi’s Instagram account, the post had garnered in less than 24 hours over 700,000 views. It is also trending on YouTube, with over 300,000 views on Wednesday morning.

This viral video has also ignited the dreams of many other Nigerian who also wished on Twitter to kiss DJ Cuppy.

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46 DOCTORS RESIGNS FROM UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL

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No fewer than 46 medical doctors have resigned from the Anambra State-owned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, over poor condition of service.

They were made up of 10 consultants and 36 resident doctors.

The university’s chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants of Nigeria, Dr Chukwudi Okani, stated this on Wednesday in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

He said the doctors were “frustrated out of the system because of poor management in the last one year and many more are seriously searching for better places to go.”

He said COOUTH had the worst condition of service amongst teaching hospitals in the country.

He urged the governor, Willie Obiano, to intervene to save the institution from imminent collapse.

Okani said the ongoing indefinite strike by his members in the institution would continue until government met their demands.

He said, “There must be better conditions of service in COOUTH so that doctors would not be leaving in droves.

“Both the state government and the management of the teaching hospital are not serious in addressing the multiple problems facing the teaching hospital.

“Let us be reminded that our benchmark for return to work is at least payment of 70 per cent of the revised CONMESS as agreed at the committee level.

“This is the only teaching hospital in Anambra State and the state government cannot effectively put it in order, pay good wages to the workers to retain the good brains in the hospital who are leaving for other institutions”

He said most departments in the teaching hospital had no consultants.

He denied reports in some quarters that the state government had met their demands, adding that government was just “playing to the gallery.”

Reacting, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Vincent Okpala, while stating that some medical professionals must have left the institution for greener pastures, said the state government was working to better the hospital.

He said, “The state government has come up with a good package that will make the doctors to stay and also attract better brains to the college.

“Government has supplied modern equipment to the college and very soon, those who left will like to come back.”

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AKPABIO WITHDRAW OUT OF AKWA IBOM SENATORIAL RERUN

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Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, has pulled out of the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial rerun election.

Akpabio confirmed his decision in a letter addressed to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole.

His letter was dated December 2.

INEC has not announced the rerun date in Essien Udim LGA, one of the 10 LGAs, making up the senatorial district. The rerun was ordered by the Court of Appeal in Calabar early November, with INEC given 90 days to hold it.

Akpabio explained that his decision to withdraw from the senatorial race, was because he could not afford to jettison a critical national assignment, given to him by President Muhammadu Buhari in pursuit of a rerun election.

He, therefore, asked the APC leadership to inform the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of his decision to withdraw, in line with Sections 33 and 35 of the Electoral Act, 2010 and submit a replacement to run in his stead.

“I wish to recall that I was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District Election held on the 23rd day of February, 2019.

“Upon the declaration of Christopher Ekpenyong of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the purported winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), I challenged same at the National and State Houses of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

“The Tribunal in a split decision by a majority of two to one (Honourable Justice W. O. Akanbi and Honourable Justice 0. D. Etubu) dismissed our Petition, while in a dissenting judgment delivered by Honourable Justice Hahz S. Tahlr, the petition was adjudged proven and all the reliefs sought were granted.

“Being dissatisfied with the decision of the majority judgment and upon the erudite points of law and conclusion contained in the minority judgment, we appealed to the Court of Appeal, Calabar Judicial Division which in a unanimous decision delivered on the 9th day of November, 2019, allowed our appeal and set aside the Judgment of the Lower Tribunal.

“I have taken into consideration the critical national assignment bestowed on me by Mr. President which will be of immense importance to Nigerians and in particular the indigenes of the Niger Delta region and have resolved to remain as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to further discharge my contributions and services to our great fatherland.

“It is on the premise of the foregoing and particularly in line with the provisions of Section 35 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) that I want to formally and voluntarily withdraw my candidature as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the forthcoming Court ordered Re-run Election for the Akwa lbom North-West Senatorial District.

“It will be inappropriate in the circumstance and pursuant to Sections 33 and 35 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) for the party to immediately communicate this withdrawal to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and forward to her the name of another candidate of the party to replace me at the Court ordered Rerun Election for the Akwa lbom North-West Senatorial District.

“I want to seize this opportunity to thank our formidable party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), its leadership at the state and national levels for availing me the party platform and the immeasurable support I received throughout the period of the election and beyond.

“Mr. Chairman, may I advice that the National Working Committee of our party should reiterate our earlier plea to the chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (lNEC) to redeploy Mr. Mike Igini (the Resident Electoral Commissioner) from Akwa lbom State, if a free and transparent re-run exercise is to be guaranteed,” the letter read.

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ASUU THREATENS NATIONWIDE STRIKE

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has threatened to embark on nationwide strike soon.

ASUU national president, Biodun Ogunyemi, declared this on Wednesday after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at the Federal University of Technology, Minna.

Ogunyemi said the union shall activate its standing resolution of “No pay, No Work’ if federal government makes any attempt to stop their salaries over Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

This was disclosed in a series of post on ASUU’s official Twitter handle.

The post read: “Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened to embark on a nationwide strike if the federal government makes any attempt to stop salaries of their members over Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

ASUU national president, Biodun Ogunyemi, who declared this yesterday, after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at the Federal University of Technology, Minna from 7th-8th, December, 2019, said the union shall activate its standing resolution of “No pay, No Work.”

“He noted that the union is shocked that the OAGF said IPPIS is meant to comply with global best practices when they cannot tell Nigerians or any other country where IPPIS is extended to the universities as one of the best practices.”

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BREAKING: NUEE SUSPENDS STRIKE ACTION

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The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has suspended its strike action.

This was revealed by the Eko Electricity Distribution Company via it’s twitter handle, Thursday morning.

Eko Electricity Distribution Company noted that its offices and payment channels are open for business.

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DELTA STATE: GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

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Office of the Secretary to the Delta State Government, hereby announce for the information of the general public, particularly Deltans, that the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has approved the appointment of the following Advisers and persons into the underlisted Boards.

  1. Senior Apostle Dr. Sylvanus Okorote. Special Adviser (Religion Matters)
  2. Mr Omimi Esquire. Political Adviser

i. DBS ASABA
1. Mr. Felix Ofou. Chairman
2. Barr. Chinedu Nezianya. Member
3. Chief Felix Nduka Oguda. Member
4. Mrs. Agnes Ashubu. Member

ii. DBS WARRI
1. Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuosa. Chairman
2. Hon. Abel Oshevire. Member
3. Johnson Agbeyegbe Member
4. Mrs. Mary Sagboje. Member

iii. DELTA PRINTING AND PUBLISHING COMPANY.
1. Mr. David Oghenekevwe. Chairman
2. Chief Jude Ogbekile Member
3. Mrs. Toju Aziz. Member.
4. Lilian Anwuli Okolie Member
5. Chief Goodluck Egubare. Member

iv. HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT BOARD
1. Dr. Austin Obidi. Chairman
2. Dr. Chris Obaze. Member
3. Hon. Mrs. Felicia Ojobo. Member
4. Pharm. Dr. Chinedu Osaji. Member
5. Mr Lawrence Okompu. Member
6. Dr. Clark Anthony. Member

v. DELTA STATE DEVELOPMENT AND PROPERTY AUTHORITY
1. Hon. Emma Utomi. Chairman
2. Mr. Tony Oboroh. Member
3. Hon. Patricia Ekipor Asiyai. Member
4. Mrs. Florence Nwani. Member
5. Barr. Afokeghene Irogho. Member
6. Hon. Margaret Iboyiteye. Member
7. Hon. Chuks Emu-Ebie. Member
8. Sir. Aba Ndekwu. Member

vi. TOURISM BOARD
1. Princess Tina Amuamuziam. Chairman
2. Barr. Theodore Azinge. Member

vii. CHRISTIAN PILGRIMS WELFARE BOARD
1. Bishop Cyril Odutemu. Chairman
2. Rev. Samuel Okoh. Executive Secretary
3. Rev. Fr. Christopher Ekabo. Member
4. Bishop Jonathan Arhawharien. Member
5. Rev. Monday Madukwe. Member
6. Rev. Daniel Ebikems. Member
7. Pastor Mrs. Tega Odudu. Member

viii. LAND ALLOCATION COMMITTEE
1. Prince Godwin Ogorugba. Member
2. Mr. Austin Mburiche. Member
3. Mr. Chidozie Okocha. Member
4. Mr. Felix Erimedafe. Member
5. Mrs Gladys Ukpe. Member
6. Hon. Tashemi O. Jonathan. Member
7. Pastor. Mike Sibe. Member

ix. ART COUNCIL
1. Hon. Collins Bello. Chairman
2. Hon. Victor Ebike Oromoni. Member
3. Hon. Onome Ojo Member
4. Mr. Ernest Ososo. Member
5. Rapheal Oderewu. Member
6. Chief James Toka. Member
7. Mrs. Tombra Korokoro. Member

x. INSTITUTE OF CONTINUING EDUCATION
1. Chief Champion Kpategbe. Chairman
2. Hon. Hope Efemena Igeme. Member
3. Mrs. Christiana Omagbemi. Member
4. Chief Ashibudeke Otutu. Member

xi. URBAN WATER BOARD
1. Hon. Chief Taleb Tebite. Chairman
2. Mr Mike Okoh. Member
3. Hon. Mary Efeurhue Member
4. Mrs. Tina Okolo. Member
5. Immaculate Brialade. Member
6. Mr. Lucky Tiemo. Member
7. Hon. Vosa Okotie Edeme. Member

xii. RURAL WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION AGENCY
1. Hon. Ejaife Odebala. Chairman
2. Mr. D. R. Marculay. Member
3. Mr. Gabriel Nmor. Member
4. Mrs. Faith Usikaro. Member
5. Mrs. Priscilla Osakwe. Member
6. Barr. Henry Oharisi. Member
7. Mrs. Florence Okolo. Member

xiii. TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION BOARD
1. Engr. Mike Akpobire. Member
2. Samuel Ikem. Executive Secretary
3. Engr. Fidelis Okolo. Member
4. Miss. Blessing Overare. Member

xiv. AGENCY FOR ADULTS AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION
1. Ogbueshi Akaeze P. Ibonyi. Chairman
2. Prince Victor Egbune. Member
3. Chief Mrs. Vera Onosigho. Member
4. Mr. Churchill Wessey. Member
5. Olisenekwu Edward O. Member

xv. BURSARY & SCHOLARSHIP BOARD
1. Mr. Sam Igumbor. Chairman
2. Mr. Sunday Orishedere. Executive Secretary
3. Hon. Jonathan Eghweree. Member
4. Hon. Barr. Susan Kakanda Preyor. Member
5. Dr. Mrs. Dorothy Odiase. Member
6. Mrs. Clark Josephine. Member
7. Mrs. Blessing Odje. Member
8. Barr. Winifred Elunor. Member
9. Mrs. Kate Otuya. Member
10. Mrs. Rachel Oghenegharohwo Okene. Member

The swearing in of the Advisers and inuaguaration of the Boards will take place as follows.

10.00am: Tuesday, 17th December 2019:

  1. Special Advisers
  2. DBS – Asaba
  3. DBS – Warri
  4. Delta Printing and Publishing Company
  5. Hospital and Management Boards
  6. Delta State Development and Property Agency
  7. Tourism Boards
  8. Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards

10:00am: Wednesday, 18th December 2019:

  1. Land Allocation Committee
  2. Arts Council
  3. Institute of Continuing Education
  4. Urban Water Board
  5. Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency
  6. Technical and Vocational Education Board
  7. Agency For Adults And Non-Formal Education
  8. Bursary & Scholarship Board

According, all appointee and invited guests (only) are kindly requested to be seated at the Unity Hall Government House, Asaba at 9:30am at the relevant date(s) indicated above.

Chiedu Ebie. Secretary to the Government

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SHATTA WALE PLEDGES ALLIANCE TO NIGERIA

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Popular Ghanaian Singer, Shatta Wale has decided to pledge his alliance to Nigeria while dumping his native land Ghana.

He made this statement trough his verified Twitter handle, stating that “Thank God that I just got my Nigeria passport with work permit.

The Controversial singer who is popularly known for throwing jab at his home nation Ghana, has revealed that he now posses a Nigerian passport alongside a work permit.

This reaction came just few days after Shatta wale referred to his country, Ghana as a village.

Shatta made these statements after celebrities from Ghana stormed a meet and greet event with Cardi B the America rapper.

https://twitter.com/shattawalegh/status/1204534504808992770?s=19

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USE YOUR TALENTS FOR SOCIATAL DEVELOPMENT – DG TELL CORP MEMBERS

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The Director-General Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim has adviced corp members to identify their individual talents and harness them for both personal and societal development.

He made these statements today, while addressing the 2019 Batch C stream two corps members in Plateau state orientation camp Mangu during a visit to the NYSC Camp.

Also speaking he stated that, corp members should study the immediate needs of their host community and execute project that will alleviate the suffering of the residents, stressing that, “Don’t leave your host community the way you met then but try and leave lasting good memories that history would not forget”.

Speaking further, Brigadier General Ibrahim also hinted that Let the community take ownership of the project you are providing for them and don’t borrow money or spend your personal money to execute any project”.

The DG also urged them to be patriotic to national unity and avoid hate speeches, adding in strong terms that they should desist from boarding night vehicles, unauthorized motorparks and ensure they move in groups.

“You must be very careful and comport yourself in responsible manners. Whatever you do today may either make you or mar you in the future’, the DG added.

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BAN ON FIREWORKS STILL IN FORCE, CP DELTA WARNS

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The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Mr Adeleke Adeyinka psc has said the ban on the use of fireworks is still in force and that the Command will enforce all the extant laws prohibiting the use of fireworks such as “knock-out,” “banger.”

Mr Adeyinka noted that the ban was necessary to safe-guard public safety and avoid distractions to security operatives, especially during the yuletide season.

The CP, who spoke through the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, DSP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, advised parents and guardians to guide their children and wards appropriately, saying anyone arrested would be prosecuted according to the law.

The CP also assured Deltans of their safety at all times and called on them to continue to support the police and other security agencies in their untiring efforts at providing a peaceful and secure environment for the people.

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PANDEMONIUM AS UGHELLI SUFFERS ANOTHER FIRE OUTBREAK

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There was pandemonium yesterday in Ughelli due to fire outbreak caused by an explosion in a mini Gas station along Ekredjebor road, Ughelli.

According to an eyewitness account, who did not disclosed his name, the fire started when a gas cylinder in the mini gas station exploded and immediately ignited stores and workshops located along the road, destroying property worth millions of naira. Also affected was a woman roasting plantain along the road.

Another eyewitness told our correspondent that no life was lost to the fire but that some persons sustained varied degree of injuries. He thanked those who supported to put out the fire.

Meanwhile, some persons who spoke to our correspondent have appealed to the state government to check the proliferation of mini gas station sited within residential homes to safeguard lives and property in the state, stressing that it was dangerous and risky.

According to one of them, “What happened Yesterday was an eye opener to the danger involved in citing this mini gas station everywhere. So many lives and property could have been destroyed because of this act.”

“If we have relevant regulatory bodies then this cannot happen. It is not good, government should do something about it,” he added

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FG TO INTRODUCE TIN FOR BUSINESS TRANSACTION BY 2020

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Beginning January 31, 2020, Nigerians may not be able to perform transactions on their bank accounts as a consequence of the new Federal Government sponsored Finance Bill 2019.

The Federal Government sponsor Financial Bill 2019 just passed by both Chambers of the National Assembly requiring Tax Identification Number (TIN), by every eligible taxable adult and corporate entity.

The Executive Secretary, Joint Tax Board, Mr Oseni Elamah, gave this indication while leading a delegation of the JTB’s Change Management Sensitization team to the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Warri, on Friday.

According to Mr Elamah, The new Tax Identification Number is a ten digit number assigned to “uniquely identify tax payers, individuals and corporate entities, and its objective is to achieve a national consolidated tax payer data base for Nigeria as well as bring more Nigerians into the tax net.”

The JTB Executive Secretary listed the benefits of the new tax payer identification number system to include an increase in revenue to all three tiers of government; reduction of tax evasion; enhancement in the tax administration process amongst other benefits.

Mr Elamah further revealed that all eligible taxable adults are automatically assigned a Tax Identification Number based on their Bank Verification Number (BVN), or National Identity Number (NIN) while corporate entities registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission would also automatically get a TIN.

He, however, advised those concerned to register for their Tax Identification Number by visiting the JTB online platform at: http//tin.jtb.gov.ng; or download the JTB App on Google play store, or IOS App Store.

Mr Paul Itawansa, Director of Operations, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, received the JTB team and assured of the Board’s cooperation in ensuring the smooth implementation of the Tax Identification Number system in Delta State, stating that it is in line with the Revenue Board’s desire for an improved revenue profile for Delta State.

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A BILL TO SEPARATE THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FROM MINISTER OF JUSTICE PASSES SECOND READING

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The House of Representatives is seeking to separate the office of the Attorney General of the Federation from that of the Minister of Justice, stating that the separation will remove political interference in the operations of the Attorney General.

A bill which is meant to alter the 1999 constitution, to separate the two offices as sponsored by the Chief Whip of the Green Chambers, Mohammed Tahir Monguno scaled through second reading at Tuesday’s plenary of the house.

Hon. Monguno said he was sponsoring the bill based on his experience as a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Borno state, adding that at the moment too much power was vested on the Minister or Commissioner for Justice in combining the two offices.

He said the powers vested on the Attorney General, by the constitution are judicial in nature, and when exercised to the fullest can affect the rights of the people and therefore should not be subjected to political interference.

He stated that the Attorney General has the power to declare a noli presecu or discontinue a case already in court, adding that recent developments are suggestive of the fact that it should be isolated from political interference.

He said while the President will freely consider political affiliation while appointing the Minister of Justice, the appointment of the Attorney General should and will be based only on career progression.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai said the bill was first passed by the 7th and 8th Assembly, adding that a particular office should not be vested with too much power.

The bill was referred to the house committee on Legislative Matters for further legislative actions.

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DELTA STATE NUJ PRESS WEEK KICKS OFF TODAY.

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in view of Enhancing Safety amongst Journalists.

The Nigeria Union of journalists (NUJ), Delta State Chapter under the Chairmanship of Comrade Mike Ikeogwu has today kicked off her 2019 Press week with a sensitisation cum keep fit rally in the heart of Asaba.

The NUJ Chairman, while addressing journalists during the rally this morning said “The Press week is an annual ritual held across the country and to let the world know that NUJ exist and also to take stock of the effect of NUJ on the year in review.

Also speaking, he said this year press week will serve as a forum to honour people, deserving Deltans and Nigerians who have contributed to the development of the society.

Comr Mike further emphasized the need why this year press week is different, saying “We need to raise fund for the furnishing of the press Center that is still under construction, as counterpart funding to the effort to the Delta State government towards completing the secretariat.”

The NUJ Boss called on the general public, well to do Deltans, cooperate organizations, operating within the state as well as their benefactors, to join hands in the fund raising so as to complete the press Center as those whom will personally furnish as much as one office apartment (#500,000) will have their names engraved on the door(s) of the office.

Comr Mike also commended the effort of the Delta State NUJ council as one of the most vibrant councils across the country, as its aims to position the union for effective performance and to enhance the welfare of its members.

The theme for this years press week is “Enhancing Safety of Journalists in a Security-Challenged Polity” which kicked off today with a keep fit, cum sensitisation rally continues on wednesday the 11th day of December, 2019 which is set aside to visit old and sick members, while Thurday 12th will be a football match between NUJ and Government House protocol team and Friday December 13th, will be the lecture and award day at Davis event center , opposite temple clinic junction, anwai road Asaba.

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PFN REACT OVER NEW MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE LAW, CALL IT ANTI CHRISTIAN.

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The Ministry of Interior had recently announced a compulsory N30,000 charge licence for Christian worship centres for the conduct of statutory marriages in churches and N21,000 for each marriage certificate.


In a statement in Benin City on Sunday, Omobude, the general overseer of the New Covenant Gospel Church scolded the Ministry of Interior for imposing the law, which he insisted was anti-Christian about the church in Nigeria.

The National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Dr. Felix Omobude has faulted the marriage certificate law which was recently introduced by the Federal Government.

The PFN leader described the policy as exploitative and an attempt to commercialise Christian marriages in the country.

“This is very unfair and to the best of our understanding, the new law is targeted against the Church because the traditional and Islamic weddings are exempted from paying the new marriage certificate fees.

“PFN is at a loss as to why Church marriages should be in the exclusive list of the nation’s constitution.

“The PFN, therefore, calls on the Federal Government to immediately shelve the unpopular policy targeted against Christian marriages in the country.”

Omobude vowed that the PFN would use all legitimate means at its disposal to make the Federal Government repeal the controversial marriage certificate law.

He advised that, if the Ministry of Interior was in dire need of funds, it should look elsewhere and resist the temptation of placing an extra financial burden on the Christians and their churches.

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ACNPN HONOURS ANIAGWU WITH MEDIA EXCELLENCE AWARD.

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… Names Him ‘ACNPN Peace Ambassador’

By Patrick Ochei

The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Chapter has honoured the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu with the Media Excellence Award, describing him as ‘ACNPN Peace Ambassador’ and a solid contributor to the SMART Agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, now metamorphosed into Stronger Delta Agenda, through his media engagements and promotions.

The award was presented to him in his office on Monday 9th December, 2019, as a fallout from the ACNPN 2019 Lecture/Award, which the commissioner noted that it clashed with the NIPR 2019 Conference/AGM and that he had to represent the Governor at the event.

Presenting the award, the ACNPN Chairman who led other members of the organising committee on the mission, Mr Jude Obiemenyego recognised the enormous value Aniagwu had brought into the practice of journalism and the dexterity with which he manages information in the state.

Obiemenyego commended the Commissioner for his commitment to the Stronger Delta vision of Okowa, adding that he had used his sagacity and impeccable experience in the media to establish a sustainable cordial relationship with the media constituency in the state, which he said was expectedly yielding the desired support to the Administration of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as Governor of Delta State.

The ACNPN Chairman who is the publisher of the Zion Newspaper, affirmed that the group had to recognise the astute and ebullient Commissioner with the Media Excellence Award, just to pave way for better relationships, opportunities and development of the practice of journalism and its practitioners in the state.

Responding, the former CPS who was elevated to Commissioner of Information in Okowa’s second term, felt honoured and appreciated the group for such a rare recognition from the grassroots based media executives.

“I must appreciate the leadership being provided by Jude Obiemenyego for community newspaper publishers in the state, despite all the odds. I must confess that ACNPN is providing the media alternative needed for people at the grassroots.

“I once again thank you for the award; it’s a call for higher responsibility. On my part, I will continue to pursue peace amongst the various groups within the media constituency under my watch in order to help advance the course of journalism”, he said.

The Commissioner therefore, suggested a platform for regular interaction on how to better position the community newspapering business and empower the publishers for optimal performance in the art of gathering community based news reports and disseminating government’s feedback to them.

He assured that government would continue to partner the publishers to succeed in their trade, adding that going forward, the business of community newspaper publications must progress as a way of advancing the economic frontiers of the Governor’s prosperity for all Deltans mantra.

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POSTPONEMENT OF THE INAUGURATION OF THE GOVERNMENT COUNCIL FOR TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS.

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It is hereby announced for the information of the general public, particularly Deltans that the inauguration of the Governing Councils of the tertiary institutions earlier slated for Wednesday, 11th December, 2019 has been rescheduled to hold on Thursday, 12th of December, 2019 at 10am.

Accordingly, all appointees and invited guests are to be seated at Unity Hall, Government House by 9:30am for the ceremony.

Any inconvenience arising from this change is deeply regretted, please.

Chiedu Ebie
Secretary to State Government

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NBA DEMANDS THE IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF DSS BOSS, YUSUF BICHI.

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The Nigeria Bar Association, in a statement has demanded the immediate suspension of the Director-General of the Department of State Service, Yusuf Buchi, over the mood applied in rearresting Omoyele Sowore in court premises.

These statements were made known by it’s National Publicity secretary, Kunle Edun, said it was a greatly dismayed at the exhibition of primitivity, thuggery, insane passion for lawlessness, contempt and disrespect for the rules of law by the DSS operatives.

The Operatives of the DSS had invaded the Federal High Court on Friday, December 6th to arrest Sowore.

The statement also added, “We call for the immediate suspension of the Director-General of the Department of State Service from office.

Yusuf Bichi

“We make this demand bearing in mind the fact that the DSS under his leadership has established itself as brutal and irresponsible agency that derive immense pleasure from violating the fundamental rights of Nigerians and disrespecting court orders.”

“The National Assembly should review the laws setting up the DSS and indeed all security agencies in Nigeria with a view in repositioning to be more responsible and responsive to the public. “

NBA urged president Buhari to ensure “that the Federal Government and agencies under it obeyed court orders as the display of disrespect of the court by the DSS is legendary unrivelled.

Also the organization called on all Nigerians to stand up and ensure that no government or any of it’s agencies disrespect the constitution of the country.

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DELTA STATE: GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT.

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Office of the secretary to the Delta State Government, hereby announce to the general public, particularly Deltans, that the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa will at 10:00am on Wednesday, 11th December, 2019 inuagurate the governing councils of the underlisted Tertiary institutions.

I. COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AGBOR.
1. Chief Emmanuel Onyeukwu. – Chairman.
2. Mr. Idris Oyibo. Member.
3. Hon. Yellowman Yaike. Member.
4. Mrs. Ijeh Huldah Adauka. Member.

II. COLLEGE OF EDUCATION WARRI
1. Mr. V. O. T. Abanum. Chairman
2. Barr. Mrs. Gloria Ariole. Member
3. Mr. Carter Fleming.
Member.
4. Hon. Odiore Willikie. Member.

III. COLLEGE OF EDUCATION MOSOGAR
1. Hon. Lovethe Idisi. Chairman
2. Mr. Americana Edon. Member
3. Chief Mrs. Mary Chidi. Member
4. Ugbune Oghenedoro. Member

IV. DELTA STATE POLYTECHNIC, OGWASHI-UKU
1.Chief Joe Arausi. Chairman
2. Barr. Chukwuma Oseyenim. Member
3. Senior Adibor. Member.
4. Mrs. Ojeah Patricia. Member
5. Mr. Obi Fredrick. Member.

V. DELTA STATE POLYTECHNIC, OZORO
1. Dr. Festus G. Okubor. Chairman
2. Hon. Gabriel Alebe. Member
3. Hon. Joe Adigwe. Member
4. Barr. Mrs. Jennifer Edeviroro. Member
5. Dr. G. Enita. Member

VI. DELTA STATE POLYTECHNIC, OTEFE
1. Chief Andrew Orugbo. Chairman
2. Chief Oti Agoba. Member
3. Chief J. B Oduma. Member
4. Barr. Richard Ogbolu Okonyia. Member
5. Dr. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri. Member

VII. SCHOOL OF MARINE TECHNOLOGY
1. Chief J. T. Government. Chairman
2. Capt. Anthony Onoharigho. Member
3. Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu. Member
4. Dr. David Ighorojah. Member
5. Celestina Ewesuodo. Member

According, all appointee and invitee guest (only) are to be seated by 9:30am for the ceremony.

Signed:
Chiedu Ebie
(Secretary to the State Government.

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WHAT WAS DONE TO SOWORE, A DISGRACE & OUTRAGE – FFK.

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The recent vehement bid by the DSS to rearrest Omoyele Sowore, a one time presidential candidate of the AAC African Action Congress party, who also doubles as the initiator of Revolution Now movement in the Courtroom of a federal High court has been condemned by Barr Femi Fani-Kayode .

Ffk made these condemnation through this verified Twitter handle where he stated that ” what was done to Sowore, is a disgrace and outrage! You fight and brutalise a man that has been granted bail by a court of law and you do it right there in the court that granted him bail! You drag him all over the floor and forcefully take him back into detention! Shame on you!”

Speaking further through another tweet Ffk stated ” we warned Sowore, Femi Falana and others that Buhari was a tyrant in 2015. They insulted us and put him in power. The tiger they rode has now turned on them. Why do our people always assume that when others are percecuted that it will never come to them. Tyrants have no friends” he added.

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DELTA NIPR GETS SUBSTANTIVE EXCO.

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By Patrick Ochei

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Delta State Chapter has elected a substantive executive led by the Delta State Commissioner for Basic Education, Chief Patrick Ukah as Chapter Chairman to pilot the affairs of the Institute for the next two years.

The Exco emerged during the 2019 Delta State Chapter Annual Conference/General Meeting and Election held at Orchid Hotel Asaba, Delta State capital on Thursday 5th December, 2019.

The election and swearing in of the new executive members was supervised by the Institute’s National President and Chairman of Governing Council, Mallam Mukhtar Siraju and other officials from the national secretariat in Abuja.

Accepting the responsibility to lead the Chapter, Ukah who was the immediate past Interim Chairman pledged to bring professionalism into place, bearing in mind the ethical requirement of the Institute.

He said the Delta State Chapter was well positioned to play a leading role in the Institute in terms of the number of practitioners, civic engagements and desire to sell a state brand that would stand Delta out in the comity of states with high premium for positive image and sound reputation.

The Chapter’s immediate past Scribe and Mr Prolific, Mr Godfrey Osakwe was returned as the Vice Chairman while Mr Ken Bienose was elected as Secretary.

Others who were elected included Mr Joseph Powei as Assistant Secretary, Mrs. Ngozi Nwabuonwo as Treasurer, Mr Isaac Ogerugba as Financial Secretary, Mr Iteveh Ekpokpobe as Public Relations Executive, Mrs Ese Obote as Ex-Officio 1 and Mrs Stella Sanu as Ex-Officio 2 respectively.

The theme of the Conference Lecture was “Safeguarding National Security Through Civic Engagement for National Reputation”, delivered by the renowned Amb. Joe Keshi.

Other high profile discussants who constituted the panel of discussion were Mr. Yomi Badejo, President of African Public Relations Association (APRA) and Mrs Nkechi Alli-Balogun, a member of the NIPR Governing Council.

Dignitaries and eminently respected personalities that were also prominently present were the Honourable Commissioner of Information, Mr Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu who represented the Governor, the Omu of Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu and others too numerous to mention.

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GOV OKOWA FELICITATES WITH NIPR ON AGM, CONFERENCE, PROMISES ROBUST PARTNERSHIP.

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The Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations on its conference and annual general meeting, promising to partner with the institute for better image building ventures.

Governor Okowa, who made the promise yesterday in Asaba while delivering a goodwill message at the opening ceremony of the Delta State Chapter of the NIPR Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM), said that the techniques and tools of public relations practice needed to be fully exploited for national security and growth.

The governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, described the theme, “Safeguarding National Security through Civic Engagement for National Reputation” as a welcome development, adding that resolutions from it would help address challenges facing the polity.

In his address, the National President and Chairman of Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Mallam Muktah Sirajo, said that the institute was established by law to regulate public relations practice in Nigeria.

Mallam Sirajo called on governments at all levels, corporate bodies and groups to ensure they engage only qualified and certified PR professionals, warning that the institute would soon embark on prosecuting quacks masquerading as PR personnel.

He thanked the state government, the Ministry of Information and other government agencies for their support in the successful hosting of the conference and AGM.

Earlier, in a welcome address, the Chairman of the Chapter and Commissioner for Basic and secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, said the Delta State chapter was resuscitated in 2017 after a long time of inactivity.

While welcoming delegates to the conference and AGM, he appealed to member of the chapter to develop more interest in the institute to advance the tenet of professionalism in their place of work and conduct.

The conference featured a discussion session on the theme, comprising PR professionals, the representative of the governor and Commissioner for Information and the representative of the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command.

Among dignitaries present at the meeting was the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Vice Chairman, South-South, Brother Emmanuel Ogidi

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DELTA CJ CALLS FOR CONNECTION OF OGWASHI-UKU PRISON TO NATIONAL GRID.

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Delta State Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro has challenged corporate bodies in Delta and Edo States, especially the Benin Electricity Distribution PLC (BEDC) to connect the Ogwashi-Uku Custodial Centre of the Nigerian Correctional Service to the national grid for electricity supply.

Justice Umukoro made the call at Ogwashi-Uku while responding to request by the Officer in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Frank Okonkwo where the Chief Judge  rounded off the 2019 Judge’s Jail Delivery visit yesterday.

The CJ tasked the company in charge of the two Niger Delta states to live up to their corporate social responsibility to correctional facilities in the area by hooking the facility to the national grid.

According to the chief judge, “It is not every time our business entities will look for profit. The profit derivable from here if they have light and properly taken care of, and they are released could not be quantified in naira and kobo.”  

The Chief Judge who disclosed that out of the total number of 2149 warrant of inmates reviewed in the five Custodial Centres across the state, 136 were regained their freedom, even as he used the auspicious occasion to admonished state counsel to reside at their stations to conduct their cases rather than staying in Asaba.
     
The number one Judicial Officer attributed challenges of delay in court proceedings and incessant adjournments to lack of preparedness of state counsel, prosecution, availability of witnesses and members of the bar.     

The Deputy Controller of Corrections, Ogwashi-Uku Custodial Centre, Frank Okonkwo had in a welcome address thanked the State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and the Chief Judge for refurbishing their vehicles, which he noted, had improved logistics on awaiting trial inmates to court.

Mr Okonkwo who put the total figure of both convicts and awaiting trial inmates to 806 in Ogwashi-Uku Custodial Centre, as against its 160 original capacity, appealed to the Chief Judge to use his good office to influence the state government to connect the Centre to the national electricity grid.

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DSTG PLEDGES RESOLVE TO REPOSITION SACA SERVICE DELIVERY.

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The Delta State Government has reiterated it’s desire to reposition its State Agency for Control of HIV/ AIDS (SACA) to enable it perform it’s duties efficiently and effectively.

The Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Mr. Chiedu Ebie made this known when he played host to the South-South Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA).

The SSG said that the Government of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is passionate about the State health sector, hence at the assumption of office in his first tenure, he made sure that a bill to set up the Contributory Health Scheme in the State was passed into law by the State House of Assembly so that Deltans can enjoy full health coverage.

He assured the South-South Zonal Coordinator of NACA that the State Government would support the State Agency for Control of HIV/AIDS (SACA) to ensure that HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the State is reduced to the barest minimum even as he urged SACA officials to be alive to their duties as a lot depended on them to achieve this goal.

Earlier, the South -South Zonal Coordinator of NACA Dr. Uduak Daniel said she and her team were in the State for a sensitization visit as the South- South office of NACA was recently commissioned and there was need to visit each State under the Region.

She said research had shown that the prevalence rate of HIV/ AIDS in the Region was high and a lot of people affected with the disease did not have access to treatment and pleaded for the support of the State Government to reverse the trend.

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UVWIE MONARCH HOLDS INDUCTION COURSE FOR CHIEFS DESIGNATE.

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By Ambrose Ologide/Juliet Emeni /Queeneth Irori /Stella Othobo.

The Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom HRM Dr Emmanuel Ekemejewa Sideso (JP) OON, Abe 1, yesterday held a-2-Day induction course for would-be chiefs of Uvwie Kingdom at the palace of the Ovie in Effurun.

The title of the lecture at the 2 Day Induction course include: The Traditional Administrative Structure Of Uvwie Kingdom: The Organ gram. The resource person was the Usav traditional key of Etche ‘ R Erovie (traditional administrative unit) of Uvwie Kingdom, Chief Rex Eju.

While the Unuevworo (traditional mouth piece) of Etche R ‘ Ogbe, Chief Tene Omadide (JP) gave a lecture on: Practical Application of the Code of Conduct for Uvwie Chiefs: The Dos and Don’ts of Uvwie chiefs.

The Transition to Ohonvworen (chieftaincy) Society: A Privileges and Responsibilities of Uvwie chief was eruditely handled by another distinguished chief of Uvwie Kingdom, Chief Hope Erute on Day 2 of the Induction course.

 This was immediately followed by a lecture titled:  The Conferment and Procedures for Uvwie Chiefs handled by an authority in Uvwie custom and tradition, High Chief Okwowe who is the Usavwre (traditional key) of Etche R’ Alegbo and Personal Assistant (PA) to the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom.

In a brief media chat with our correspondents shortly after the Induction course, Dr Samuel Eshenake JP who is the coordinator of the Induction course and Secretary of Ogwedion Uvwie Traditional Council of Chiefs explained that the Induction course was put in place by HRM Abe 1 to enlighten the would-be chiefs on the custom and tradition of Uvwie Chieftaincy Institution.

Eshenake the traditional mouth piece (Unuevworo) of Ohorie Traditional Administrative Unit in Uvwie Kingdom and a lecturer of Economics in College of Education, Warri further explained that the Induction course was aimed at instilling discipline amongst the would-be chiefs.

Some of the would-be chiefs who spoke to our correspondents shortly after the Induction course gave kudos to the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom for his initiative of holding Induction course for would-be chiefs while others affirmed that they gained a lot from the 2 Days Induction Course.

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HYGIENE: DELTA STATE GOVERNMENT DISTRIBUTES ENVIRONMENTAL – FRIENDLY DISINFECTANT TO FARMERS.

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Delta State Government has distributed environment -friendly and effective disinfectants to 100 pig and poultry farmers in the state to ensure production of high quality meat for export.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr Julius Egbedi, while addressing the benefiting farmers on Thursday at the Government Veterinary Clinic, Asaba, said most farmers neglect disinfectant as besic input in animal health and production.

The commissioner, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Sir, Austin Oghoro, said that the global management of the environment recognizes the need to control animal pests without causing damage to the environment.

He said that the overall objective was to ensure or eliminate environmental microbial burden to allow for improved health and productivity through effective and economic use of medication.

According to Egbedi, the gesture is to encourage farmers to spend more on disinfectant rather than on drugs especially antibiotics for health reasons and to enable our meat and meat products gain acceptance in the international market.

“The world antibiotics week celebrated recently was to draw public attention to the increasing resistance of bacteria to antibiotics and its consequences; Antibiotics should be the last resort and based on prescription only.

“For this reason, the Delta Government in 2019 has provided a quantity of environment – friendly and effective disinfectant to be disbursed to 50 pig and 50 poultry farmers.

“Each farmer is to receive 10 liters of CID20; at a delusion rate of 1:400, will make up 4,000 liters of solution (20 drums).

“This is enough to sustain an average farm for between 6 and 12 months depending of the size of the farm”.

He thanked the state governor for approving distribution of the disinfectant free to the benefiting farmers while urging the farmers to reciprocate the gesture by maintaining a high hygiene levels in their farms.

In a welcome address, Dr Charles Diai, State Director Veterinary Series of the ministry, said that distribution of the disinfectant was one of the several supports the state government has giving to farmers in the state.

According to Diai, the gesture is to encourage farmers to maintain hygiene in the farms for high guilty meat production.

“When you manage your environment properly by using disinfectant, you reduce the cost of buying antibiotics thereby increasing your production”.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Jerry Ossai, the State Chairman, Pig Farmers Association of Nigeria and Mr Fidelis Ekoemweye, State Financial, Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria, laude the state government for the support.

They pledged the resolved to put the disinfectant into good use to refuse the microbial in their farms to ensure high quality meat production in the state to meet international standards.

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OAU TO CONFER HONORARY DEGREES ON KAGAME, OTHERS.

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Rwanda president, Paul Kagame, has been selected for an honorary doctorate degree by the Obafemi Awolowo University.

This was contained in a press statement by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Abiodun Olarewaju, on Wednesday.

Other awardees are philanthropist, Mr Biodun Olusina Shobanjo; the President of African Export-Import Bank, Dr Benedict Oramah, and the Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria Plc., Mrs Ibukun Awosika.

The varsity said the awardees were selected for their contributions to the socio-economic cum political development of their immediate environments, countries, continent and the world at large.

“Kagame’s outstanding leadership qualities and achievements in Rwanda, and within and outside Africa, were considered, especially his being actively instrumental to ending the infamous genocide in Rwanda in 1974. It is in recognition of these outstanding and remarkable achievements that President Paul Kagame is to be conferred with the Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa).

“The four honorary awardees will be conferred with their degrees as part of the events marking the 44th convocation ceremonies of the University.”

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JAY-Z MARKS 50TH BIRTHDAY WITH RETURN TO SPOTIFY.

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Rap mogul Jay-Z celebrated his fiftieth birthday and surprised fans Wednesday by putting his catalogue back on streaming giant Spotify, after a two-year hiatus.

The billionaire artist, who owns rival streaming service Tidal, had pulled the majority of his discography from Spotify in 2017, months before dropping his “4:44” album exclusively on his own upstart platform.

The introspective album prompted a surge of interest in the paid subscription service Tidal — which also exclusively carries his megastar wife Beyonce’s much-touted visual album “Lemonade” — briefly becoming a top downloaded app.

Fans can now stream “4:44” on Spotify for the first time, along with classics like “The Blueprint,” “American Gangster” and “Watch the Throne.”

The rapper has the second-most top albums in the history of Billboard’s rankings chart with 14, bested only by The Beatles, who have 19.

“Happy Birthday, Hov,” Spotify tweeted Wednesday, using a nickname of the rapper born Shawn Carter, who grew up in one of Brooklyn’s most notorious housing projects.

There was no indication how long Jay-Z’s flow would remain available on Spotify, which has often come under fire from prominent artists including Prince, Taylor Swift and Thom Yorke for its royalty system, which many musicians say leaves them underpaid.

In June, Forbes declared Hov rap’s first billionaire, estimating $100 million of his vast fortune came from Tidal.

As of 2016, Tidal said it said it had 3 million users.

Today, Spotify says it has 248 million users, including 113 million who pay for premium service.

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BREAKING: FG TO ARRAIGN CAC’S ACTING BOSS ON DECEMBER 18.

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The Federal Government will on December 18 arraign the acting Registrar-General of the Cooperate Affairs Commission, Azuka Obiageli, before the Code of Conduct Tribunal, on assets declaration-related charges.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Head, (Press & Public Relations), Ibraheem Al-Hassan, on Wednesday.

Al-Hassan noted that the CCT Chairman, Danladi Umar, had on November 27, 2019 approved the December 18 date for the arraignment, adding that the defendant had been served with the tribunal’s summons on Tuesday.

He said Obiageli was charged with 11 counts of violating “the provisions of Paragraph 1, 9 and 11 (1) (a), (2), of the Fifth Schedule, Part1 and punishable under paragraph 18 (1) and (2) of the Constitution.”

The statement added that the 11 counts bordered on “alleged infraction of asset declarations.”

It added, “The charge was signed by the operative of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Musa Ibrahim Usman, on November 20, 2019, for the Hon. Attorney General of the Federation.”

It also stated that a Deputy Director of Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports, Mohammed Al-Hassan, would also be arraigned on December 18 on two counts.

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DTSG PLEDGES CONTINUOUS SUPPORT FOR NYSC SCHEME. •rewards two corps members.

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The Delta State Government has pledged to continue to support the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the State so that it can meet the objectives for which it was established.

The Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG) Mr. Chiedu Ebie made this known yesterday the 3rd day of December, 2019. When he presented the NYSC Delta State Honors Award on behalf of the State Government to two Corps members who distinguished themselves in their Community Development Project in their place of posting during the 2018 service year.

The SSG who also doubles as the Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board, said that the importance of the Scheme cannot be overemphasized, as it has unified every part of the country through cultural integration of the participants of the scheme which was the original idea of the founding Fathers of the programme.

Mr. Ebie assured the NYSC Management that the State Government would ensure that Corps members posted to the State to serve would be well catered for, even as he said the State Government had provided a lot of facilities for the NYSC Area office in the South- South Zone located in Asaba and also at the NYSC Orientation camp in Issele-uku.

He congratulated the recipients of the Award and urged other Corps members serving in the State to emulate the exemplary character exhibited by the recipients of the Award.

Earlier, the Area Coordinator of the NYSC South-South Area Office, Mr. Omotade Ayodele thanked the State Government for the support given to the Delta State NYSC office and assured that the objectives of the scheme as propagated by the Founding Fathers would not be compromised.

Highlights of the event was the presentation of cheques to the recipients of the NYSC Delta State Honors Award by the SSG on behalf of the State government.

The recipients of the award are Dr. Udo-Ubong Nkereuwem who served in Assumption Catholic Hospital, Warri in Warri South LGA and Mr. Igbato Domnic who served in Ugbodu Secondary School in Aniocha North LGA.

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NUC UNCOVERS 100 FAKE PROFESSORS IN VARSITIES.

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The National Universities Commission has said it has uncovered about 100 fake professors across Nigerian universities.

The NUC Executive Secretary, Prof Abubakar Rasheed, stated this in the November edition of the commission’s bulletin, obtained.

The ES noted that the commission published the details of the fake professors on its website and also sent the names to the various universities for verification.

According to the bulletin, Rasheed stated this at the 2019 retreat for Vice-Chancellors by the NUC Strategy Advisory Committee.

The NUC boss said, “The updated version of those documents will be published by December 2019 and professors in their respective universities uploaded their CV on the website which was used in the compilation of the directory. About 100 fake professors also uploaded their details but we detected them.

“This measure helped in identifying fake professors in the system. The fight against fake professors is a collective responsibility.”

The Executive Secretary informed the vice-chancellors of a recent meeting held with the Director-General, National Youth Service Corps, Brig. Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, where the latter complained that some corps members’ degree certificates purportedly obtained from some prestigious universities were questionable.

The NUC boss directed that VCs should check the excesses of their affiliated institutions, noting that universities must spearhead the fight against academic corruption which must be tackled by all stakeholders.

The bulletin stated that the committee published a directory of full professors in the Nigerian university system, statistical digest of the NUS 2017-2018; refinement and modernisation of instruments for accreditation of undergraduate, postgraduate, part-time, affiliate, open and distance learning programmes as well as the state of university education in Nigeria 2017- 2018.

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PINNICK REVEALS ENGLAND BASED PLAYER THAT WILL IMPROVE SUPER EAGLES SQUAD.

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The President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has said he will not relent in his efforts, to get Queens Park Rangers’ Ebere Eze to play for Nigeria.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Pinnick noted that the England U-21 player will improve the Super Eagles squad.

Eze was born in England to Nigerian parents but played twice for the Three Lions at Under-21 level in November.

But Pinnick wants Eze to switch allegiances to boost Nigeria’s midfield, ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

“We need to make a solid representation at Qatar 2022 and it starts with improving on your squad with quality players like Eze.

“Can you imagine a midfield with Ndidi, Aribo, Etebo and Eze? it is one that will improve our squad.

“I had a positive meeting with Ebere Eze in London and I spoke to his parents as well,” said Pinnick.

“He requested for the chance to continue to focus on his club career which is going well so far, and that further progress will be made in due course.

“But I am confidently hopeful that he will play for Nigeria soon,” he said.

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BALLON D’ OR : MESSI HINTS ON RETIREMENT AFTER AWARDS.

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Barcelona ace, Lionel Messi has insisted that he is approaching his retirement from football after winning his sixth Ballon D’ Or on Monday night in France.

Messi, who won the 2019 Ballon D’Or ahead of Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo and Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, admitted that “Time flies” but hoped God will grant him the strength to continue playing football for many more years.

Messi’s current deal at Barcelona will end in 2021.

The Argentine captain will turn 33 years at the end of the season.

“I’m aware of how old I am,” ESPN quoted Messi as saying after winning his sixth Ballon d’Or on Monday.

“And I enjoy these moments so much because I know that retirement is approaching. Time flies.”

Messi added: “I hope, God willing, that I keep playing for many more years.

“I’m now 32, though, and will be 33 at the end of the season, so, as I said, everything depends on how I feel physically.

“Right now I feel better than ever on a physical and a personal level, and I hope I can go on for a lot longer.”

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EPL: MAN UNITED COACH, SOLSKJAER SENDS MESSAGE TO MOURINHO AHEAD OF TOTTENHAM CLASH.

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Manchester United coach, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has told Tottenham Hotspur manager, Jose Mourinho to expect a ‘very good reception’ from the Red Devils’ supporters at Old Trafford when both teams clash in the Premier League on Wednesday night.

Solskjaer replaced Mourinho at Man United after the Portuguese was sacked by the club last December.

Asked whether Man United supporters are likely to give Mourinho a good reception on Wednesday, Solskjaer told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday: “A very good reception.

“That’s just a testament to this club and these supporters, remember two and a half years, won trophies, ‘I’m 100 percent sure our fans, staff, and club will welcome him.”

Solskjaer added: “I don’t think whoever the manager of the opposition team is will change their motivation, they’re motivated to do well for Manchester United.”

The kick-off time for the match is 8:30 pm.

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GROUP CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON NIGERIAN TRADERS IN GHANA.

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The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has condemned the renewed attacks on Nigerian traders in Ghana, describing it as unnecessary.

The Chairman/CEO of the commission, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, condemned the renewed attacks in a statement issued by NIDCOM’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.

She said that the reported cases of attacks on Nigerian shops and traders by Ghanaians were quite unfortunate.

According to her, the attacks are happening at a time xenophobic attacks are becoming unpopular.

She said that such attacks should be a thing of the past following interventions of Nigerian and Ghanaian leaders after September’s xenophobic attacks on foreigners and their businesses in South Africa.

The NIDCOM boss, however, appealed to Nigerians in Ghana, especially shop owners, not to take laws into their hands by retaliating, but to remain calm and allow law enforcement agents to deal with the situation.

“I hereby appeal for calm from both sides and implore the law enforcement agencies to protect the lives and properties, especially those of Nigerians, from being attacked pending the resolution of the matter,” she pleaded.

It was reported that on December 2, there were reported clashes between Ghanaian and Nigerian traders, a development that left some people injured.

Reports say that the clashes followed the closure of shops belonging to some Nigerian traders at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Ghana.

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VAN DIJK DESERVED BALLON D’OR , SAYS LIVERPOOL BOSS KLOPP.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes Virgil van Dijk would have been a worthy winner of the Ballon d’Or but understands why Lionel Messi lifted it for the sixth time.

The Dutch captain came second to Argentina forward despite playing a huge role as Liverpool won the Champions League last season, overcoming Messi’s Barcelona in the semi-final.

“I see it slightly different and a lot of people see it slightly different but that’s absolutely no problem,” said Klopp.

“Lionel Messi, I’ve said probably 500,000 times in my life already, is probably the best player I saw in my lifetime.

“But I cannot remember a more impressive season from a defender ever. Honestly. So it would have been right if Virgil won it. I heard it was pretty close.”

On Wednesday, runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool host Everton in the 234th Merseyside derby, with the relegation-threatened Toffees looking to break a winless streak on the ground dating back to 1999.

Marco Silva’s position is under huge threat but while Klopp had sympathy for his counterpart he said he did not feel sorry for the Portuguese.

“Of course I have sympathy because I know how difficult the life of a manager can be,” he told his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

“But the last thing Marco needs now is that I feel sorry for him — I don’t. But I am really on his side because I know about the job.”

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SELLING OF INDIAN HEMP IS IN MY BLOOD, I CANNOT STOP IT – SUSPECT.

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A 55-year-old suspected drug trafficker has been re-arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) after being nabbed with 1,072kg of Indian Hemp.

The suspect, identified as Umaru Shehu, was arrested along Mokwa Road in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State after the agency received an intelligence report

NDLEA’s commander in Niger state, Sylvia Egwunwoke confirmed the arrest while parading the suspect.

Egwunwoke urged members of the public to join in the effort to stop the distribution and sale of illicit drugs in the state.

The suspect is said to have finished his jail term on October 8 for a similar offence.

Umaru was sentenced to one year imprisonment for carrying 64kg of dried Indian hemp some years ago.

When paraded, the suspect said he went back into cannabis business after serving jail term because he’s finding it difficult, as it runs in his blood.

“Cannabis business is my blood, it is extremely difficult for me to stop it.

“When I was embarking on this trip from Lagos to Sokoto, I never knew that the operatives would arrest me in Mokwa, it is my luck,” he told newsmen in the state.

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FORMER GOVERNOR SLAMS SENATORS ON SOCIAL MEDIA BILL.

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A former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba has vehemently kicked against the controversial social media bill in its entirety.

Osoba, a veteran journalist, slammed the sponsor of the bill and senators, accusing them of attempting to silence the press in a democratic nation like Nigeria.

Osoba spoke Monday at an event commemorating 160 years of journalism in Nigeria, held at Abeokuta the Ogun State capital.

Speaking on the theme, “Re-inventing the practice of Journalism in Nigeria with emphasis on the influence of the Social Media”, Osoba taunted the Senators, asking if the lawmakers or their forefathers did participate in the struggle for independence and democracy in Nigeria.

“We (media practitioners) don’t deserve this treatment from Senators who are now enjoying the benefit of the war that we waged against the military to entrench democracy in Nigeria,” Osoba expressed.

He said, “We will all be the victims of the bill if we allow it to scale through. We (media practitioners) fought the military to standstill.

“You will recall many of our people lost their lives, those who are propagating a bill should remember. Where were they when NADECO, the Media stood up to fight Abacha? Were they born? Were their forefathers fought in those days when Herbert Macaulay and co, were fighting for liberation of the colonial system to independence and then we took it up under the military?

“We all suffered under Abacha. The Guardian was burnt. Punch was closed down. Those who were running TELL Magazine had to run out of the country into exile. I can go on with the examples of the deprivation we suffered.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, however, said there were mechanism to checkmate “bad journalism” if any Nigerian finds a report to have damaged his reputation.

Osoba said he severally had challenged series of false reports about his personality in court and won.

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REPS TO ADJOURN TUESDAY SITTING OVER DEATH OF COLLEAGUE.

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In line with the tradition of the National Assembly, the House of Representatives will adjourn sitting today due to the death of Ja’afaru Iliyasu from Niger State.

Iliyasu passed away on Monday.

Over the years, whenever a sitting member passes away, the House adjourns sitting to mourn the member.

The Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila on Monday announced the postponement of the planned celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), scheduled to hold on Tuesday.

The Senate will also adjourn plenary. It’s, however, unknown the impact that this will have on the plan to pass the 2020 budget this week.

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WHERE IS MY BROTHER BARRISTER IFEANYI EJIOFOR – FFK

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The recent attack on Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofors residence, who happens to be the lawyer of Nnamdi Kalu, the leader of IPOB has been condemned by a colleague and brother in person of Femi Fani-Kayode.

FfK made these revelations yesterday through his Twitter handle seeking the whereabouts of his barrister brother as no one has heard from him since the attack.

He further stated that this is happening just after Barr Ejiofor had just buried his brother 4 days ago and that his family is still mourning their loss and now this traumatising killing of IPOB members cum two policemen in his country home.

Speaking further Ffk said that according to what he heard ,a total of 4 people, including the young man that led me to his home from the traditional rulers palace had been killed and that his family were badly brutalised and traumatised.

Since I got this information this morning no-one, including his wife and children, have seen or heard from him. I pray he is safe and well.

I call for peace and restraint from all sides, the shedding of innocent blood is a great evil and I wholeheartedly condemn it. It is a terrible thing that has drastic, long-term and calamitious consequences for those that indulge in it and those that live and rule by it.

May the souls of all those that were killed this morning rest in peace and may God restore sanity and respect for human life to our country.

Those that rule by tyranny, brutality and the power of the gun shall not prevail.

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APC WINS 22 LGAS OUT OF 25 LGAS.

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The All Progressive Congress (APC) has won 22 out of the 25 local government areas in the local government elections conducted in Niger state over the weekend.

According to the Chairman of the Niger state Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC), Aminu Baba said that nine political parties presented 85 Chairmanship and Councillorship candidates for the elections.

Reading the results submitted by the Returning Officers, Baba said that APC won 22 local government areas while PDP won one local government, the other two local government areas are still being awaited at the time of releasing the results.

“From the results submitted by our Returning Officers, the All Progressives Party (APC) has won the chairmanship position in 22 local governments while Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won Gbako local government.

“Two local government areas, Mashegu and Tafa are yet to submit their results to the Commission.”

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BREAKING: TARABA ASSEMBLY GETS NEW SPEAKER.

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The Taraba State House of Assembly on Monday elected the Majority Leader, Joseph Albasu Alkinjoh, as its Speaker.

Alkinjoh is representing the people of Lau constituency in the Assembly.

Abdullahi Hamman Adama, from Bali II constituency, emerged the deputy Speaker, while Rtd Capt. Douglas Ndatse is the Majority Leader.

The change in the House’s leadership followed the resignation of the former Speaker, Peter Abel Diah and his deputy, Charles Maijankai, Sunday night.

Their resignation letters were read by the Clerk of the House, Orngu Mela, at a plenary, Monday morning.

The former Speaker threw in the towel after a 2/3 majority of the 24-member House had concluded arrangements to impeach him today.

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BREAKING: EFCC PRODUCES CAPTAIN DADA LABINJO.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission this morning produced a naval chief, Captain Dada Labinjo, who had been in detention without trial for one year and three months.

Labinjo has been in the custody of the Nigerian Navy since September, 2018.

The arraignment of the senior Naval officer on a two count charge is going on before justice Muslim Hassan in the Federal high court, Ikoyi Lagos.

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ROBBER DIES AFTER ENCOUNTER WITH WATCHMAN.

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A suspected armed robber, who was said to have dispossessed some residents of the Arademi area of Ikire, Osun State, of their belongings, on Saturday, met his end after an encounter with a night watchman identified simply as Akindele.

The suspect, it was learnt, was shot while attempting to rob residents of a house after his gang had successfully dispossessed some residents of the Arademi area of their valuables.

Before they encountered resistance from Akindele, the suspect and his gang members had reportedly robbed two houses and were attempting to break into the third when the watchman engaged them in a shootout.

When contacted, the acting Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mustafa Katayeyanjue, said the suspect was confirmed dead by a doctor at the Ikire State Hospital.

He added that his remains had being deposited in a morgue and that the police recovered a locally-made gun, dagger, a pestle and torchlight from the scene.

Katayeyanjue said the state Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Ige, had directed that the fleeing robbers must be apprehended.

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108 ABANDONED CARS TO BE AUCTIONED IN LAGOS.

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The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit said it had obtained a court order to auction 108 vehicles that were either abandoned or forfeited to the government.

According to the agency, vehicles to be auctioned to interested members of the public are 86 forfeited through a court order and 22 impounded by the enforcement team of the agency for driving against the traffic.

The Chairman of the agency, Olayinka Egbeyemi, stated that the auction would take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 3 and 4, at the agency’s car park in the Ikorodu area of the state.

He said, “It was after the expiration of the 30-day public notice issued by the agency in line with the dictates of the law to all owners of the 22 abandoned vehicles to claim them that the government obtained the court order to auction them to interested members of the public.

“Let me commend the present administration for the massive road rehabilitation going on simultaneously across the state and to state clearly that motorists, both private and commercial, should desist from driving against the traffic or causing obstruction to other roads users.”

Egbeyemi added that the agency would continue to prosecute traffic offenders until sanity was restored on the roads and law-abiding citizens were allowed to commute without being impeded by unlawful individuals.

He noted that the agency had cleared all the illegal trucks and abandoned vehicles causing gridlock at the Guinness area of Ikeja and Ogba in line with the directive of the state Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu.

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NOTORIOUS ARMED ROBBER, KILLED IN DELTA.

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A team of policemen attached to the Delta State Police Command has gunned down a notorious armed robber in Orhunwhorhun, Udu Local Government Area of the state.

It was learnt that the police took the remains of the deceased to the Ebrumede Police Station.

Details of how the notorious robber was killed were still sketchy as of the time of filing this report.

Sources said the robber had terrorised various communities in the local government area and some parts of Uvwie.

One of the sources stated, “He fled the town when the former Divisional Police Officer of the Ovwian/Aladja Police Division, CSP Anieteh Eyoh, was deployed in the area.

“He later resurfaced months after Eyoh was transferred to the state police command headquarters, Asaba.”

When contacted, the state Commissioner of Police, Adeyinka Adeleke, confirmed the incident, saying, “Yes, it is true. A suspect was killed on (Saturday).”

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EPL: TOTTENHAM FANS DON’T LOVE ME YET – MOURINHO.

Totteham Hotspur manager, Jose Mourinho, has said the fans don’t love him yet.

However, he is hoping a run of three successive wins to open his reign in North London, has him heading in the right direction.

Spurs hired Mourinho, after taking the decision to sack Mauricio Pochettino after five-and-a-half years.

Mourinho has so far claimed six points from two Premier League fixtures and qualified the team for the next stage of the Champions League.

He told BBC Sport: “The fans love the club, I’m not saying they love me but they accept me as a top professional who wants to give everything for the club.

“People have more reasons to love me if they like my work, but the fans are behind the team and they see us working hard to get to a position in the table that is more suitable to the talent of this squad.”

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BALLON D’OR 2019: SARRI SPEAKS ON RONALDO WINNING AWARD AHEAD OF MESSI, VAN DIJK.

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Juventus manager, Maurizio Sarri, has said he hopes Cristiano Ronaldo wins his sixth Ballon d’Or on Monday.

Ronaldo is up against fellow five-time winner Lionel Messi and Liverpool defender, Virgil Van Dijk, in the running for this year’s award.

After watching Ronaldo overcoming a persistent knee injury to play a full 90 minutes in Juve’s 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Sarri said he was impressed with the 34-year-old’s recovery.

“Cristiano did well in the last game, even with some resistance,” Sarri told reporters.

“Now he just has to grow in terms of brilliance.

“I hope that Cristiano wins the Ballon d’Or, de Ligt the Kopa Trophy and that Dybala will one day be a future Ballon d’Or contender.”

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NORWICH VS ARSENAL: KROENKE GIVES REASONS WHY EMERY WAS SACKED, SENDS MESSAGE TO LJUNBERG.

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Arsenal director, Josh Kroenke, has claimed Unai Emery was sacked to save the club’s season.

Emery was dismissed on Friday morning, after just 18 months in charge at the Emirates.

The Spaniard has been replaced by assistant manager, Freddie Ljungberg.

Kroenke admits that the decision to sack former Sevilla boss Emery was “very difficult”, but insists that club chiefs had grown “concerned” after recent performances.

He told the club’s official website: “Like all of our fans and supporters around the globe, we’ve been concerned about our recent string of performances.

“We wanted to support Unai and his staff until we decided it was time to make a change.

“And ultimately we came to that decision over the last several weeks as a group between myself, Raul [Sanllehi], Vinai [Venkatesham] and Edu.

“[It was] Very difficult. First and foremost Unai is a good man, someone that we all respect very much. His work ethic on a daily basis between him and his staff was fantastic.

“Ultimately we started to fall short of several goals that we set.

“We still feel that we can achieve those goals this season, which is why we decided to make the change now.”

Kroenke also said Arsenal will take their time to get “the right candidate”.

He added: “Our process is already underway. It’s going to be led by Raul, Vinai, Edu and Huss here internally. I look forward to getting with them and working closely with them throughout this process.

“Because of our confidence in Freddie we’re very fortunate that we’re going to be entering into our process and doing a thorough search and it’s about finding the right candidate, it’s not about finding the first candidate.”

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2023 ELECTION: SENATOR SPEAKS ON ATIKU’S MOVE, SAYS IT’S TIME FOR SOUTH-EAST.

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A former lawmaker representing Abia North in the upper legislative chamber, Senator Emma Nwaka, has advised the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the last election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, to shelve the idea of running in the 2023 presidential election.

The PDP chieftain said the ticket should be zoned to no other region than the South East.

The former Abia State Chairman of the PDP, however, said that the Igbo must work hard to get the presidency.

On the rumour that Atiku Abubakar, has started warming up again for 2023, Nwaka said, “It’s still speculation. I don’t know if he wants to run again, but I think the proper thing will be for power to shift to no other zone than the Southeast.

“I’m sure we don’t lack men and women who can do well as Nigeria president. Zoning is in PDP constitution and I don’t see our party going back on that.

“What is right is that power should shift to Southeast in 2023 for equity, peace and justice.”

He continued, “Power is not given on a platter of gold; you go for power. We are not saying that power should be donated to us simply because we are from Southeast.

“We must synergise with other ethnic nationalities. Politics is all about dialogue and compromise and not what is currently happening in the country where a particular section of the country has virtually taken over the country.

“Look at the security architecture of Nigeria; the Southeast and South-South zones have almost been tactfully excluded. Those in power now use force and bullet to scare the electorate and declare results.”

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STOP KILLING PEOPLE DURING ELECTIONS – JONATHAN BEGS POLITICIANS.

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Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has pleaded with politicians to stop killing the masses during elections.

Jonathan stated this at the weekend while speaking on behalf of other awardees at the convocation ceremony of Igbinedion University Okada, in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Jonathan said that what happened in the last governorship election in Bayelsa and Kogi States was something that should not happen in any normal society.

Making reference to the Peoples Democratic Party’s women leader who was burnt to death in her house, in Kogi State during the polls, the ex-president said something is fundamentally wrong with the political system.

He said that politicians were resorting to political coups as a substitute for military coups, critiquing the phenomenon as bad the continent.

“What happened in the last governorship elections in my state, Bayelsa State, and especially in Kogi State, where that young lady was burnt alive in her house, is something that should not happen in any normal society. Something is fundamentally wrong with our political system,” the former President stated.

“Only yesterday in Ndjamena, we were discussing the politics of our continent, most of us former Heads of States, Presidents, former Presidents, Vice Presidents.

“The way African politics is going we are replacing military coup with political coup d’etat and that cannot sustain the continent.

“Let me plead with my fellow politicians, they should stop killing people,and destroying properties because people want to own offices,” he said.

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28 PERSONS ARRESTED FOR ILLEGAL MIGRATION.

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Operatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Border Control at Kongolam, Katsina State, have apprehended 28 persons on the verge of being smuggled out of the country.

NIS’ Public Relations Officer, Mr Sunday James, who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, in Abuja, said 19 females and nine males were now in the custody of NIS.

James said they were apprehended when they attempted to cross the Kongolam border heading to Niger Republic, in company of the human smugglers under the pretext that they were going to Agadez, in Niger Republic, to take up jobs.

“When interrogated, the victims were lost between the truth and reality of disclosures as most of them left without informing their parents of their plans and destination.

“They were under the illusion that they were going to take up jobs promised them by the human smugglers,’’ he said.

The Comptroller General of NIS, Mr Muhammad Babandede, called on young Nigerians to avoid being lured into travelling outside the shores of the country in the name of securing non-existent jobs.

Babandede said it was obvious that these youths were unaware of the dangers of such journeys as most of them, who even made it through the desert, were often subjected to many form of abuse in the hands of the smugglers who would seize their travel documents.

He expressed dismay that even with recent arrest at Kongolam, many were still willing to take the risks.

“We appreciate the activeness of our gallant operatives that have stepped up patrol and other control measures in compliance with the directive on operating an airtight border security and patrol, to stop irregular migration out of and into Nigeria.

The operation in bases across the country is yielding positive results as the operatives have a befitting accommodation, vehicles and incentives to make their job easier.

“This has reduced the tendency of being induced to prompt compromise in the course of carrying out their duties.

“The operatives are in their top form to guarantee safe and secure national borders for Nigeria,’’ Babandede said.

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MINIMUM WAGE: LABOUR DECRIES LOW TURNOUTS BY STATES.

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Industrial action may be looming across the country as over 20 states have yet to commence negotiations with their state chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress as per the N30,000 minimum wage approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Findings revealed that barely four weeks to the expiration of the December 31, 2019 deadline issued by the NLC to states to complete all negotiations regarding how much they will pay their workers, only Lagos, Kaduna and Kebbi states had come up with their minimum wage offers.

While about six state governments are currently negotiating with their respective state chapters of the NLC, over 20 states have yet to begin negotiations with the labour union.

The labour on Friday said of the three states which had released their minimum wage offers to workers, only that of Lagos State was accepted by the union.

The labour said it rejected the minimum wage offered by Kaduna and Kebbi state governments because they were inadequate and done without inputs from the state chapters of the labour union.

The labour accused governors of the over 20 states which have yet to commence negotiations of deliberately delaying the process to achieve motives yet to be ascertained.

Specifically, the labour claimed some governors deliberately twisted the process to short-change workers in their states.

After a lengthy negotiation spanning 182 days, the labour and the Federal Government on October 18 reached an agreement on a consequential increase in workers’ salaries at the federal level.

Negotiations then moved to states after the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council met its state counterparts in Abuja and sent letters to all state governments to begin negotiating with the councils.

A December 31 deadline was also set for the states to complete all negotiations and pay workers the new wage structure and all the arrears.

In an exclusive interview with journalists on Friday, the Secretary of the JNPSNC, Alade Lawal, said the labour would write another letter to states that had not complied with its directive on negotiation this week.

He said, “For now, negotiations are moving on but not at the pace we want. Only Lagos State has completed negotiations.

“In Kaduna State, the governor declared an amount but the negotiation was done without the input of labour. The salary level is very low already and even with what the governor has proposed to pay, the salaries of workers in the state cannot still be compared to those of workers in other states.

“We have negotiations going on in Kano, Delta, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom states. We are having positive signals from those ends. Some other states like Ondo and Kogi are warming up to begin negotiations.

“We have a problem in Kebbi State. Negotiation began in the state but midway before it could be completed, the governor went ahead and issued a unilateral circular.

“He started giving N7,000 increase in salaries of workers across the board, that is, irrespective of their ranks and positions in service.

“As far as we are concerned, minimum wage has not been implemented in Kebbi State and we are asking the governor to go back to the negotiation table and do the right thing. If he fails to do this, we will meet and give an appropriate directive to our members to withdraw their services. You cannot deceive anyone at this stage.”

Lawal said the council at the national level had divided itself into groups to closely monitor negotiations in the states.

Asked what labour would do if, by December 31, 2019, negotiations had not completed in some states, the JNPSNC secretary said each state would be judged on the merit of the sincerity of the government.

He said, “To monitor what is going on in the states properly, we have divided ourselves into groups so that we can quickly and easily intervene in states where there is deadlock.

“The deadline is December 31, 2019 for all negotiations to be completed and for employees to get their money from their state governments.

“But if for one reason or the other there is the sincerity of purpose in the attitude of a state government and negotiation drags beyond the date, we will judge the situation based on its merit. But in a situation where negotiations have not even started at all by that date, you can be assured that we will react in such states.

“Once we are in the first week of December and we are not getting the expected signal, we will write the concerned states and remind them of the deadline. We can then move in and deal with such recalcitrant state.”

Lawal also accused some state governments of being lazy and not taking the minimum wage issue with the deserved seriousness.

He said, “What we have observed is that most state governments are lazy in their attitude towards the minimum wage issue. Immediately the bill was signed into law and negotiations began at the national level, we expected the states to start looking at their revenue base and what they are going to do.

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ADOKE ASKS COURT TO REMOVE HIS NAME FROM OIL SCAM.

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The immediate-past Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bello Adoke, who was reportedly arrested by the International Police Organisation in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, on November 11, 2019, has applied to the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja to have his name removed from the charges instituted against him and others in respect of Malabu Oil scam.

He argued that the Federal High Court in Abuja, having exonerated him in the Malabu Oil scam, his inclusion as a defendant in the criminal case was erroneous.

He added that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had concealed from the trial court the fact of the Federal High Court’s judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako on April 13, 2019, which held that he could not be held liable for any infraction in the whole Malabu Oil scam.

The application filed on Adoke’s behalf by his lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), has been scheduled for hearing before Justice Danladi Senchi of the Jabi Division of the FCT High Court in Abuja, on December 2.

Although it was filed on November 5, 2019, almost one week before his arrest in Dubai on November 11, the application is believed to be part of the moves by Adoke to avert his extradition to Nigeria.

The application followed the October 25, 2019 ruling of the same Justice Senchi, setting aside the arrest warrant issued against him on April 17, 2019.

Adoke’s lawyers had argued that the arrest of the former minister in Dubai had no basis as the bench warrant authorising the arrest had been set aside by the same court which issued it.

The EFCC had, in 2017, charged him alongside others, with fraudulent allocation of the Oil Prospecting Licence 245 and other forms of offences involving the sum of about $1.2bn, forgery of bank documents, bribery and corruption.

The alleged $1.2bn scam involved the transfer of the OPL 245 purportedly from Malabu Oil and Gas Limited to Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Co. Limited and Nigeria Agip Exploration Limited.

Adoke was charged along with Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Co Ltd and eight others in the case marked FCT/HC/CR/124/17.

But Adoke’s lawyer, Ozekhome, has filed a motion before the court praying for an order “striking out the name of Bello Mohammed Adoke (SAN), as a defendant in charge number FCT/HC/CR/124/17, between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Co Ltd & 10 others, pending before this honourable court.”

Part of the fresh application seeking the order of court to remove Adoke’s name from the pending charges is that the former minister “had secured a judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, against the Attorney-General of the Federation, representing the Federal Republic of Nigeria” in which he was “completely exculpated with respect to the facts and circumstances” relating to the Malabu Oil scam.

The application added that Adoke was only joined in the pending criminal case “upon a gross misstatements, misrepresentation, concealment and suppression of material facts” by the EFCC.

It added, “That the applicant (Adoke) had earlier in this charge, by motion contended that he has been exculpated with respect to the same facts and circumstances over which he was erroneously charged and the basis upon which the bench warrant was issued.

“In considered ruling on October 25, 2019, His Lordship upheld the applicant’s contention and set aside the bench warrant issued against the applicant for want of jurisdiction.

“However, having declined jurisdiction, in respect of this charge in favour of the applicant, the honourable court did not strike out the name of the applicant from this charge as it no longer had jurisdiction to do so.”

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FG TO COMMENCE THE CONTRUCTION OF 600 KILOMETER AJAOKUTA-KADUNA-KANO GAS PIPELINE.

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President Muhammadu Buhari Friday said that the Federal Government would soon commence the construction of the 600-kilometre Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline which would move gas from the Southern part of the country to the North.

This was contained in a statement by the The Nigerian leader, who disclosed this while addressing the 5th Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) Summit at the Sipopo Int’l Conference Hall, Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, added that the viability of extending the gas pipeline to North Africa was also under consideration.

While describing the theme of the Summit, Natural Gas – Energy for Sustainable Development as most appropriate, President Buhari noted that the one-day meeting was “taking place at a critical juncture as global energy supply is transitioning from hydrocarbons to renewables.”

According to him, “The Paris Accord of 2015 signalled the first major global commitment to a deliberate effort on this inevitable transition,” stressing that “Nigeria is proud to be one of the first signatories” to the historic Agreement.

Explaining why Nigeria and GECF members are focusing on gas development, the Nigerian leader said:…

“We are mindful of the energy deficit in the developing world especially, here in Africa where we have nearly 600 million people without access to modern energy. As responsible leaders, it is our duty to preserve the environment not only for the present but for future generations

“We can achieve this balance between our energy deficit and environmental preservation needs by developing and deploying new technologies. Although classified as fossil fuel, natural gas is a viable solution to both our energy and environmental challenges.”

President Buhari noted further that “natural gas has the added advantage of availability and affordability,” stressing that, “to fully leverage this potential, nations need to pool resources to put up trans-border and trans-regional energy infrastructure.”

According to him, “we in Nigeria have led the way by the construction of the West Africa Gas Pipeline which runs through four West African countries.”

President Buhari also commended the foresight of the founding fathers of the GECF “in promoting natural gas in the global energy mix.”

Declaring the Summit open, the host, President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, called on members of the GECF to continue to work in harmony towards the realisation of the objectives of the multinational organisation.

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VANDREZZER GOALKEEPER, OKEKEM TARGET NPFL STATUS.

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By Chijindu Itoroh:

Vandrezzer FC safe hands Anderson Okekem has said that the target of the newly formed Nigeria National League (NNL) side is to gain promotion into the elite, the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) next season.

The experienced goalkeeper who was speaking ahead of the teams first match of the Nigeria National League (NNL) season against Julius Atete, said that he is sure of victory for Vandrezzer FC on Saturday in the match day 2 of the 2019/2020 NNL season.

Okekem who recently moved to the Akwa Ibom based team from Osun United said that it has been great since moving to the club and that the management of the team run the club in a professional manner.

“Since I arrived here everything has been going on well. You know it is a new club. The team is fine. The vision of the club owner is a very good one and I feel happy to be part of this Vandrezzer team”.

Anderson Okekem has played for Gabros, FC Ifeanyi Ubah, Nnewi United and Osun United before joining Vandrezzer.

Vandrezzer FC will tackle Julius Atete FC in the match day 2 of the NNL season on Saturday.

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IKA LAND TO BECOME THE SILLYCON VALLEY OF NIGERIA – PETERSON.

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The Ika born Information and Communications Technology expert based in Abuja, Dr Donald Peterson has said that his desire was to see the whole of Ika land become the Sillycon Valley of Nigeria in terms of using ICT to create wealth and comfort, instead of allowing the youths being the active sector of the society to channel their energies to ventures that are inimical to socio-economic growth and development.

He made this assertion when members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council paid him a visit at his country home at Orikeze avenue in Agbor, to recognize him for his community efforts especially on the angle of youth investment in computer programming, provision of social amenities to his community and of course his partnership with the NUJ over the years at the national level to help it achieve its ICT needs.

Leading a delegation of Council members on behalf of the Chairman, Comrade Patrick Ochei eulogized the young, resilient and dynamic ICT guru for his honest focus in seeing that the youths of Ika were productively engaged to drive the processes of actualising their dreams and that of others that would come after them.

Ochei also revealed that the Union was aware of how he singlehandedly carried out repairs on Orikeze street and other parts of his community road, including providing street lights which had opened up the area to economic viability and boosted security efforts.

The NUJ Vice Chairman, however, informed him of the Union’s desire to nominate him as one of those to receive the NUJ Merit Award in recognition of his youth investment and community development efforts.

Responding, the elated Peterson appreciated the NUJ for the desire to honour him, maintaining that the award alone coming from the Fourth Estate of the Realm would be encouraging enough to double effort in his quest to redirect the focus of Ika youth towards acquisition of skills and creation of wealth.

“Before now I hardly visited home. When I finished my secondary education at St. Columbus, I moved to London for further studies, where i studied even up to PhD in Economics today. But when I came and I discovered that Ika was drifting from anything that was positive, I then saw the need to contribute my quota before joining to blame government.

“I started by patching the Orikeze avenue road after the road recorded about 20 accidents last year. It’s a 3.5 kilometer stretch. I also decided to put street light on the road using my generator at home to power it after someone was kidnapped in the area. As I speak with you, we have achieved boosting trade in the area which has extended business hour and transcended into increase in revenue generation for the locals and enhanced peace amongst them.

“Now, I decided to change the concept of youth empowerment to youth investment, using my foundation – D. Peterson Foundation to first identify youths in the area, the inclination of their mind and then infuse their mind with knowledge and afterwards link them up with finance.

“When we opened up our portal for the training, over 495 instantly registered but we are training 100 in the first instance in Software Development. We are training them in Java free of charge which could have cost each person over N350,000.00 to achieve. Our training entails they are trained in software development, after which they do their project and prepare to access a CBN loan of N3 million per annum. This relevant skill in Computer Programming Technology with emphasis on Python Programming Language is for a duration of approximately three to four months.

“We are in partnership with the Delta State Government which has approved the College of Education Agbor for use through the Ministry of Education.

“Let me tell you this, I want to build a studio which can do everything in movie. From statistics, in 2015 Nollywood was worth N251 million dollars and N2 billion dollars in 2019. If we can channel the energies of these youths and tilt them towards the movie industry, you will be amazed at the rate of development and progress that could have come to our area. We want to change the narratives, we don’t want Ika people to be seen as touts but IT wizards. We want to have a view of cerebral people in IT.

“We want to define and find our path for survival in Nigeria and then establish our existence. If we realised our dream of building a studio that can digitally handle all sections of the movie industry optimally, then in 10 years, Ika land would have become the Sillycon Valley in Nigeria and the Hollywood haven in Nigeria”, Peterson explained.

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A 200 LEVEL STUDENT ARRESTED FOR FAKE CERTIFICATE – NYSC

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The National Youth Service Corps has arrested a 200 level student, who allegedly obtain a fake degree certificate and who currently was undergoing the orientation exercise at Zamfara State camp.

It was gathered that last Friday, the NYSC apprehended the student who only identified herself as Rose. She is an undergraduate of journalism at a university of Benin Republic.

Rose was undergoing the Batch C stream 1 orientation course before she was arrested.

The NYSC Director-General, Brig. Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, confirmed the arrest of the student to Newsmen.

He said, the Benin Republic university wrote to the scheme when his officials discovered her on the social media, posting pictures of herself with NYSC uniform on the Zamfara State camp.

The DG noted that the student had been brought to the federal capital territory, Abuja, where she was handed over to officials of the Department of state service for further investigation.

While still speaking, the DG warned that the NYSC would clamp down on fake graduates and certificate. Adding that, anyone arrested would be handed over for prosecution.

The DG also said, “The clamp down on graduate and fake certificates is yielding more results. On Friday, one of the Universities in Cotonou, Benin Republic saw their 200 level student in the NYSC uniform on the social media. She is suppose to be a 200 level of the University studying journalism.

“But she went and purchase a fake certificate from another Benin Republic university and now serve in the Zamfara State camp. So, her course-mate saw her on the social media and raise alarm to the University management, which then alarted and wrote to me.

“The university said they recognize the effort of the scheme in nabbing fake graduates and they were not a party to her fake certificate. So we got her arrested in Zamfara State camp. She was brought to Abuja and we arranged with the DSS to take her away”.

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GUNMEN KILL POLICE, ABDUCT THREE CHINESE WORKERS.

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Three Chinese expatriates were on Monday abducted by some gunmen in Itagunmodi, Osun State.

The expatriates were said to be working at a mining site located in the town when they were attacked. The police orderly attached to them was reportedly killed during the attack

It was further learnt that one of the expatriates, who attempted to escape, was shot.

He was said to be receiving treatment at the OAU Teaching Hospital, Ile Ife.

Osun State Police Commissioner, Abiodun Ige, confirmed the incident.

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N33B FRAUD SUSPECT REMANDED.

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A Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday remanded a suspected money launderer, Ismaila Mustapha, also known as Mompha, following his arraignment for an alleged N33billion fraud.

Mompha pleaded not guilty to a 14-count charge of money laundering, unauthorised forex trade and failure to comply with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

The charge was filed against the internet celebrity and the second defendant, Islamob Global Investments Ltd, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC arrested Mompha on October 19 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

He was remanded in the commission’s custody following a court order.

Last Thursday, the internet celebrity sued the anti-graft agency for N5million alleging wrongful detention.

At his arraignment yesterday, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo told Justice Mohammad Liman that Mompha laundered the funds through Ismalob Global Investment Ltd, between 2015 and 2018.

Following his plea, the prosecutor prayed the court to remand the defendant in prison custody. He applied for a trial date.

Defence counsel Mr. Gboyega Oyewole (SAN) did not oppose the prayer, but he observed that Mompha had been in custody for 42 days already, according to him, unlawfully.

Oyewole said the defence had already filed a bail application.

Oyedepo agreed that he had been served with the bail application. He prayed for a short date to respond.

The prosecutor further applied for a summons to be issued to several witnesses, including a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Director of Trade and Exchange, Mr Ahmed B. Umar.

The judge granted his prayer.

Following the submissions of the parties, Justice Liman fixed Friday, November 29, for hearing of the bail application and commencement of trial.

The EFCC claimed that the funds were laundered in tranches of N18,059,353,413 billion and N14,946,773,393.00 billion.

The commission further alleged that both defendants, not being a financial institution, or an authorised foreign exchange dealer, negotiated a foreign exchange transaction in the sums off @N9.416million, N20 million, N10,437,400.00, N10miillion, N2.46million, N10miillion, N100million, N61million, N100million, N40.7million and N42million.

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ACTRESS SAYS SHE WANTS TO MEET THE ROBBER WHO RAPED HER.

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Nollywoods veteran, Elvin Ibru, on Monday, disclosed that she would love to meet the armed robber who raped her in 2004.

Ibru, a star actress, who played the role of Mopelola in the blockbuster movie, “Lagos Bling” in an interview with journalists urged rape victims to speak out.

She said that having experienced the ugly incident, there was a need for others to take a cue from what she had been through which suggested her advocacy group.

“I was raped by an armed robber in 2004, it wasn’t my fault and not an incident that warrants me taking up microphone about, so I set up an advocacy group to address it.

“The group is to manage the young and old ones who had been through the same ugly incident like me. I know if I had to go all out to media about the situation, it will fizzle out.

“However, it is not something I have been silent about; I don’t know the person that raped me, but I will meet him again, I know I will meet him,” she said.

The multi-talented, actor, producer, director and writer, Ibru urged Nollywood stakeholders to be professional in their conduct, adding that the industry needed the touch of core professionals.

“Although I can say that I am not a veteran in the movies because I just spiced up my acting recently, but I have been on stage for a long time.

“What I can bring to the table for my colleagues is that they must be professional with their jobs as much as possible.

“There are times that we need to up our games as actors, producers and other professions in the film making industry; we need to be professional and do things right.

“The fault in our movies did not just happen because we lack money, they also come with the way we handle things as professionals, though, money is also a big factor.

“There are other things that are attached to film making which we need to look at to move the industry forward,” she added.

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PASTOR ARRAIGNED FOR STEALING CHURCH’S $90,000, N4.5M.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, on Monday, arraigned a pastor of the Living Faith Church (Winners’ Chapel), Afolabi Samuel, for allegedly stealing $90,000 and N4.5m belonging to the registered trustees of the church.

Samuel, who is an accountant and the church’s treasurer, was arraigned before the Lagos State Special Offences Court on two counts of conspiracy and stealing.

It was gathered that the pastor and one Blessing Kolawole, an employee of the Covenant University, who is currently at large, conspired and dishonestly stole the money and converted the same to their personal uses.

In the petition to the EFCC dated June 26, 2019, and signed by Chioma Okwuanyi and Co, legal practitioners, Samuel, who was employed in the account department of the church to maintain proper records of funds, allegedly connived with Kolawole and others to take advantage of their position as the church’s treasurer and worker at the university, respectively.

The petition read in part, “The duo started carrying out various acts of breach of trust and fraudulent commission of unconscionable economic crime and sabotage by unlawfully diverting to their private use the church’s money in Pastor Samuel’s custody without the permission of the church.

“The duo continued doing so until sometime in December 2018 when they ran out of luck and all their secret acts of economic sabotage and financial crime of fraudulently tampering with the church’s money were revealed.

“When confronted by the church, Pastor Samuel, who lives around the church on Raji Oba Street, Akowonjo, Lagos, admitted to committing the act and even voluntarily made a written confession where he detailed how they had been stealing from the church.”

The EFCC prosecutor, S. O. Daji, said Samuel committed the offences sometime on September 24 and December 31, 2018, in Lagos.

According to him, the offences contravene sections 278, 285 and 490 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State No. 11, 2011.

The presiding judge, Justice Mojisola Dada, remanded him at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter till December 10, 2019, for the hearing of the bail application.

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DELTA STATE TO HOST SECURITY SUMMIT FOR SOUTH SOUTH.

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The office of the Inspector-General of Police in collaboration with the Delta State Government has scheduled a one-day security summit for stakeholders in the South-South Geo-political Zone.

Date:Tuesday November 26, 2019
Venue: Event Centre, Okpanam Road, Asaba
Time: 10. 00 a. m Prompt

The summit with the theme “Strategic Partnership for Effective Community Policing.” will discuss among other issues current security situation in the South-South Region, including Kidnapping, Armed Robbery, Cultism and Arms Proliferation.

Participants invited to attend the summit include the Governors of the six states of the South South zone,Traditional Rulers, members of the National and State Houses of Assembly, members of the Nigeria Police and other Security Agencies, members of the State Executive Councils and Chairmen of Local Government Councils from states in the Geo-political zone.

Other invited participants include, the representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Civil Society Organizations, Executives of National Union of Road Transport Workers, National Council of Women Society, National Youth Council, Miyetti Allah, NUJ, Christian Association of Nigeria, President-General of Community Associations, Vigilante groups and top government functionaries.

Signed:
Chiedu Ebie
Secretary To Delta State Govt./ Chairman, Organizing COMMITTEE

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TIMI DAKOLO RELEASE NEW ALBUM.

Popular Singer, Timi Dakolo has officially release the yuletide album title “Merry Christmas Darling “.

The album is a compendium of past Christmas songs that stir up nostalgia from past Christmas memories.

The ‘Merry Christmas darling album has 11 tracks compiled featuring various Artiste like Emeli Sande, Kenny G, Eric Benet, The Eben voices of Gabon Choir and Laura Bretan.

The singer, had actually given us a taste of what to expect a few weeks ago when he released the first single of the album, “Merry Christmas Darling” featuring Emeli Sande.

Watch video below.

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Delta State: Gov. Okowa been sued over DESTMA appointment.

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A legal practitioner Omemiroro Ogedegbe Esq, who also doubles as a human rights activist has stated that Cdr Azubuike Idah (Rtd) is unqualified for the office of Director General, Delta State Traffic Management Authority
(DESTMA).

This statement was revealed through a summon before the Ughelli High Court Judicial Division, with suit No. UHC/171/019, where the Delta State governor , Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was dragged to court over the purported Appointment of Cdr Azubuike Idah Rtd as DG DESTMA .

Also joined in the originating summons, as 2nd, 3rd and 4th
Respondents, are Delta State House of Assembly, Delta State Traffic
Management Agency (DESTMA) and Cdr Azubuike Idah (Rtd), respectively.


In the said affidavit to support his originating summons with Suit No.
UHC/171/019 before the Ughelli High Court Judicial Division, Mr. Ogedegbe is
seeking a declaration that the purported appointment of Azubuike Idah as
DESTMA Director General by Governor Okowa without confirmation of the
Delta State House of Assembly is “a breach of the provisions of Section 12(1)
of the DESTMA Law, 2013 CII4 2013 No. 00 which states that “there shall be a
Director General of the Authority (DESTMA) who shall be appointed by the
Governor subject to the confirmation of the House”.

Furthermore, the human rights activist and Legal practitioner averred, in
another relief for “A declaration that the appointment of the 4th respondent
(IDAH) as Director General of the 3rd respondent (DESTMA), without the
required ten (10) years cognate experience in traffic management, is a violation
of Section 12 (3) of the Delta State Traffic Management Authority Law, 2013.
Section 12 (3) of the law states that “The Director-General shall be a
University/HND graduate with at least 10 years cognate experience in Road
Traffic Management or other related matters”.

He further submitted that Mr. Idah was appointed Head of Operations of
DESTMA in 2013 and does not possess the requisite 10years cognate
experience in road traffic management or other related matters to qualify his
elevation to the office of Director General.

He is therefore seeking “An Order of Court squashing the appointment of
the 4th respondent by the 1st respondent for non-compliance with the Delta
State Traffic Management Authority Law”, as well as “An Order of perpetual
injunction restraining the 1st respondent from carrying out any such
appointment into the office of the 3rd respondent (DESTMA) without a
confirmation by the 2nd respondent (DTHA).

The matter has been fixed for hearing on the 28th November 2019 at the
Ughelli High Court.

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ALLEGED MASKED ARMED ROBBER ARRESTED, OTHERS RAN.

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A boy residing at Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, Chinedu (surname withheld) has been apprehended by the vigilante group of Onicha-ugbo.

The suspect, Chinedu was caught while the other two gang members whom he had mentioned to be from Igbodo and Ugbodu escaped.

It was gathered that the boy was arrested while robbing with his gang members.

The suspected robbers had masked like Fulani bandits along the road, dispossessing innocent commuters of their belongings at gun point.

During questioning with the alleged arrested robber, he disclosed that he is serving under his auntie as a restaurant attendant.

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PDP CANDIDATE DIRI , OTHERS, TELLS INEC TO DECLARE HIM WINNER OF THE BAYELSA ELECTION.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has said that he won the Saturday Gubernatorial election in the State.

Diri called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare him winner of the election.

Senator Diri, who made the call on Monday while briefing newsmen in Yenagoa, said that the results monitored by his party’s situation room in the eight local government areas, showed in clear terms that he won and should be declared the governor-elect of Bayelsa state.

The PDP governorship candidate who announced 98,582 as the total figure scored by the PDP said the APC got a total of 55,903 in the election.

Giving a breakdown of the figures, he said the PDP scored 4,096 in Brass local government area, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) got 2,525.

According to him, the PDP polled 9,903 while the APC had 7,976 in Ogbia, while in Southern Ijaw, the PDP scored 12,225 and APC got 9,542.

Senator Diri who announced that in Yenagoa, the PDP polled 21,165, said the APC scored 15,560, while in Sagbama, the PDP got 60,339 and APC had 7,831.

He further explained that the PDP polled a total of 21,381 in Ekeremor, while the APC scored 8,780.

Also in Kolokuma/Opokuma, he noted that the PDP had 12,110 and APC 6,659 while in Nembe, PDP polled 24 and APC
had 908 votes.

He maintained that it was illegal for the APC to have contested the governorship election because of a subsisting court judgement and urged INEC to disqualify the APC, which is a major contender in the exercise.

He stressed that he did not contest the election against the Candidate of the APC, David Lyon, who was returned winner by INEC as the party had already being disqualified by the court before the election.

The PDP’s agent, Chief O.O. Osusu, said there were two subsisting court judgements before the conduct of the November 16 Governorship election, stressing that it was wrong for the APC to be on the ballot.

In separate speeches, governorship candidates of the Green Party, Eniye Zidougha, APGA, Fayeofori Bob-Manuel, Okiah Jones of Masses Movement of Nigeria as well as several other guber candidates who spoke, lampooned INEC for declaring the candidate of the APC, Chief David Lyon winner.

According to them, despite obvious irregularities including the use of the Nigerian Army to intimidate voters and subvert the will of the people, the electoral body still went further to announce the results.

The aspirants therefore, challenged INEC to produce the court order which cleared the APC to participate in Saturday’s governorship election.

He questioned the use of returning officers from one particular university at the collation center who they noted were influenced by the APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomole to rig the polls.

They also berated the Army for its interference in the polls to favour the APC and called on the electoral umpire to declare Senator Douye Diri of the PDP as winner of the governorship election held on 16 November, 2019.

The Chairman of Ogbia local government area, Hon Ebinyon Turner recalled his ordeal in the hands of soldiers of the Division 6 of the Nigerian Army who arrested him and other party members during the election.

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GOVERNOR REACTS AS APC WINS KOGI AND BAYELSA ELECTION.

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Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has described the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa and Kogi States as historic and a watershed.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Director-General for Press Affairs to the Governor, Abdullahi Bego.

He said, “Governor Mai Mala Buni, who has been following the governorship elections in Bayelsa and Kogi States since people began piling to the polling stations to cast their votes on Saturday, has described the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the two states as historic and a watershed.

“The governor congratulates His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR and the APC for the massive endorsement that the people of Bayelsa and Kogi states gave the party and the trajectory of the APC-led leadership under the president.

“Governor Buni heartily rejoices with Governor-Elect David Lyon and with the people of Bayelsa State for proving that change was possible and that Bayelsa is poised for meaningful socio-economic progress after having been left behind for many years under successive PDP-led administrations.

“The governor also rejoices with Governor Yahaya Bello for his re-election in Kogi State. He describes the victory of the APC in Kogi as an endorsement of the policies and values of the party and the work that Governor Bello has started to move the state forward”.

As former national secretary of the APC, Bego added that “Governor Buni salutes the electorate in the two states for their resilience and active participation in the elections despite pockets of untoward incidence, describing the voter participation in the two states as testament to the growth and flowering of democracy in the country.

“Buni also commends the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for holding their own feet to the fire to ensure that the elections have been conducted successfully.

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STOP GOING FOR TREATMENT ABROAD – LUTH CMD.

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The Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Chris Bode, has implored Nigerians to stop travelling abroad to treat health-related challenges, saying the hospital is equipped to world standard.

Bode spoke during the visit of the Rotary Club in Ogun and Lagos states to the hospital.

The club also donated a playing court to the children ward in the hospital during the visit.

The CMD said the hospital was recognised for excellent medical services.

He said, “LUTH that was known for strike before is stabilised with committed and dedicated staff. Currently, we are proud of equipment which can compete with other hospitals locally and abroad. That is why we are telling Nigerians not to go abroad for their health challenges again. For instance, we have a cancer centre that is well equipped, where more than 100 patients are treated daily.”

The District Governor, Rotary International District 9110, Dr Jide Akeredolu, said the club was ready to render humanitarian services to Nigerians through the hospital.

Akeredolu added that the donation of the playing court by the Ikate Rotary Club was to encourage children who were recovering from illness in the hospital.

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APC AWAITS BUHARI’S APPROVAL FOR NEC MEETING.

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The proposed National Executive Council meeting of the All Progressives Congress earlier slated for Friday is still uncertain as President Muhammadu Buhari’s has yet to give his consent.

But the national caucus meeting will still hold on Thursday as proposed, on Monday night.

According to Article 12.5 of the APC constitution, members of the national caucus include 10 members of the National Working Committee, past and present presidents and vice-presidents, current presidential and vice-presidential candidates of the party as well as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Others are the past and present Senate presidents and their deputies, and past and present speakers of the House of Representatives and their deputies, among others.

A member of the NWC, who spoke in confidence with journalists after their meeting in Abuja on Monday, said the committee reviewed the governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states and commended the leadership of the party.

“We reviewed the progress made so far in our electoral fortunes and gave ourselves a pass mark but not without noting some areas that we need to improve in future elections. We did our best and the result is there for everyone to see.”

Asked if the NWC set agenda for the NEC meeting, he said that would only come up at the national caucus meeting where such issues would be addressed.

Another source, however, told journalists that the NWC would at the caucus meeting present financial books of the party to stakeholders for review before presentation at the NEC meeting.

“We are also going to set agenda for the NEC meeting at the national caucus meeting. That will serve as the preparatory ground,” the source added

The APC National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa-Onilu, refused to comment on the outcome of the NWC meeting on Monday.

“Yes, we met but the issues are not for public consumption,” he simply said.

He, however, confirmed that the national caucus meeting would hold on Thursday while the NEC meeting “is tentative” without giving reasons.

But a source within the top hierarchy said the NEC meeting was still in doubt because the President’s consent had not been sought.

“The President just returned from abroad; so the leadership of the party needs to meet him and know his schedules to know the time that will be most convenient for him. It is an important meeting that the president and vice-president have to be in attendance since it is the first in a while,” the source added.

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PHOTOS: OSINBAJO HOSTS ROBOTICS ENGINEER ADEKUNLE.

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Monday hosted Silas Adekunle, robotics engineer and co-founder of Reach Robotics, inventors of the world’s first Augmented Reality gaming robot.

Adekunle announced the shutting down of the company in September.

See photos from the visit:

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EX-UEFA CHIEF PLATINI SLAMS VAR AS LOAD OF CRAP.

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Former UEFA president Michel Platini has slammed the use of VAR technology, the introduction of which he has always opposed, as a total nightmare, in an interview on Italian television.

“It would take half an hour to explain why it doesn’t solve problems,” the former France international told the “Che tempo che fa” late-night talk show on Rai on Sunday.

“It shifts them. I’m against VAR. I think it’s a load of crap and unfortunately, we will not go back.”

The 64-year-old has always been against the use of VAR which he refused to consider after he became UEFA chief in 2007.

European football’s governing body has now also introduced the use of the video replay technology in this year’s Champions League.

Meanwhile, the former Juventus star believes he could still play a role in football after his four-year suspension from the sport ended in October.

At 64, I have the opportunity for one last adventure, but I have no room for error and I have to think about it,” he said.

A triple Ballon d’Or winner, Platini had been expected to succeed Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016 but fell spectacularly from grace a few months earlier.

The former France captain was suspended by world football’s governing body in 2015 over a controversial payment of two million Swiss francs (1.8 million euros, $2 million) that he received from Blatter.

Platini has always insisted he did nothing wrong.

“At FIFA, they did not want me as president,” he continued.

“I wanted to defend football and I was the only footballer who could become FIFA president.”

Platini added that he no longer had any contact with either Blatter or current FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

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BREAKING: BAYELSA GOVERNOR ELECT, LYON SIGHTED WITH GOVERNORS AT ASO ROCK.

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Bayelsa State Governor-elect, Mr David Lyon, has arrived at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

His mission is unknown, but it is believed he wants to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari to express his happiness and gratitude over the outcome of Saturday’s governorship poll.

Lyon, who arrived in company with the Minister of State (Petroleum Resources), Mr Timipre Sylva, was sighted going to the office of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Abba Kyari.

Kebbi State Governor, Mr Atiku Bagudu, and the Jigawa State Governor, Mr Mohammed Badaru, were also sighted with Lyon.

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SENATE REJECTS HATE SPEECH BILL, SAYS IT’S A SENATOR’S IDEA.

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Worried by the spate of criticisms that have greeted the Hate Speech Bill which passed first reading last week, the Senate has distanced itself from the proposed legislation.

The acting spokesperson for the red chamber, Senator Godiya Akwashiki, told journalists in Abuja on Monday that contrary to widespread impression, the bill was not the idea of the ninth Senate.

He said it was solely being sponsored by the Deputy Chief Whip, Sabi Abdullahi, based on his conviction.

Akwashiki described as unfortunate, the statement credited to the Peoples Democratic Party, which insinuated that the bill was a Senate bill, skewed to make the alleged third term ambition of President Muhammadu Buhari possible.

He maintained that the fate of the bill would be determined on the floor of the Senate after a robust debate by senators.

Meanwhile, the ex-spokesperson for the Senate who sponsored the bill insisted at a news briefing on Monday that his proposed legislation is aimed at achieving peace in the country.

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TANKER EXPLOSION: EIGHT KILLED, OTHERS INJURED.

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No fewer than eight persons have been confirmed dead in Felele, Lokoja along Lokoja-Abuja Highway on Monday morning as a result of an accident which involved a petrol tanker and other vehicles.

Many vehicles including tricycles, popularly called Keke Napep were also burnt as a result of the fire while many people were also injured

It was gathered that the driver of the petrol-laden truck had lost control of the vehicle.

Eyewitnesses disclosed that all the vehicles and tricycles were knocked down by the tanker and the content of the tanker leaked which led to the fire outbreak.

It was reported that men of the fire service rushed to the scene to put out the fire. Also, most filling stations around the area have been shut down while men of the fire service have remained on the scene to prevent the spread of the fire.

Also, the officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps were also on the ground to evacuate casualties and take the injured to the hospital in Lokoja.

The First Information Report obtained from the FRSC in Lokoja on Monday stated that the accident “occurred around 0850hrs on November 18, 2019 at Felele along Lokoja-Abuja road as a result of brake failure on the part of a white-coloured petrol-laden tanker with registration number JEG141XA DAF.”

It was gathered that the tanker ran into four tricycles, two motorcycles, three cars and a bus.

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I WILL STRONGLY CONSIDER TESTIFYING IN IMPEACHMENT PROBE – TRUMP.

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President Donald Trump on Monday said he is “strongly” considering answering a challenge from opposition Democrats to testify in his own impeachment investigation.

After the speaker of the lower house, Nancy Pelosi, upped the ante by suggesting that Trump come forward to tell the “truth,” the Republican president said he was keen.

Pelosi suggested “that I testify about the phoney Impeachment Witch Hunt. She also said I could do it in writing,” Trump tweeted.

“Even though I did nothing wrong, and don’t like giving credibility to this No Due Process Hoax, I like the idea & will, in order to get Congress focused again, strongly consider it!”

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BUHARI CONGRATULATES BAYELSA GOVERNOR -ELECT.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Bayelsa State governor-elect, Mr David Lyon, saying that his victory at Saturday’s poll was “impressive.”

A State House statement by his media aide, Mr Femi Adesina, said” President Buhari also commends APC supporters in particular and Nigerians in general in the State who exercised their civic rights in a peaceful manner, notwithstanding the pockets of unrest recorded in some locations.”

The statement said Buhari sympathised with families who lost loved ones during the poll.

‘Violence during elections vitiates our commitment to demonstrate to the world and upcoming generation that we are a people capable of electing leaders in a peaceful and orderly manner”, the statement quoted him as saying.

It added, “He notes that while officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies did their best within the ambit of the law to ensure free, fair and credible elections, it is unfortunate that pockets of unrest, mostly sponsored by desperate politicians, were recorded during the poll.

“The President looks forward to working with the incoming government to improve the lives of the people in Bayelsa State, while ensuring the security of lives and property of all citizens.

“President Buhari urges Governor-elect Lyon to carry other divergent interests along in the next phase of governance, imploring those not satisfied with the outcome of the poll to seek redress through the constitutionally established channels.”

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PASTOR ALLEGEDLY ARRESTED FOR SELLING LAND TO DIFFERENT PEOPLE.

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The Gateway International Church led by Pastor George Izunwa, in conjunction with Mr. Obed Wosu a community chief, Ordered the arrest of one Pastor Charles over a land Dispute which was alleged to have been sold by Mr. Obed Wosu.

According to reports, it was alleged that the large Piece Of land which is Located at Rumuosi, Portharcourt, was said to have been sold by Mr Obed Wosu’s Community rulers to Pastor Charles who in turn sold the pieces of lands to several individuals.

It was also gathered that the gateway international church along with Mr. Obed WOSU Went to the IGP Monitoring team In Abuja Where they Ordered The Arrest Of Pastor Charles By The IGP Monitoring Team Office In Aluu, Since Monday, 11th November 2019, Without any bail conditions.

Meanwhile, it was revealed that there are Law Suits In Two Customary Courts In Choba And Etche, both in rivers state.

It was also gathered that the Community Chiefs Are Suing Mr. Obed Wosu and the gateway International Church In Choba Customary Court and PASTOR CHARLES Ibiba Oghu Suing Mr. Obed Wosu And Gateway International L Church In Another Court.

At the time of filling this report, the Church has cleared the land and destroyed some of the buildings which is owned by the individuals who bought the land from Pastor Charles Ibiba Oghu.

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FUTA SUSPENDS SIX STUDENTS FOR BRUTALISING MATE.

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The Federal University of Technology, Akure, has placed six students of the institution, who were allegedly involved in beating a female undergraduate to a pulp, on an indefinite suspension.

The sanctioned students are Olaniyi Popoola, Faith Oluwadare, Jessica Nandi, Emmanuella Ajuwon, Taiwo Emmanuel and Cecilia Alao.

The assault on their fellow student reportedly occurred at one of the students’ hostels outside the campus of the institution.

It was gathered that the students had on Saturday pounced on the victim for allegedly gossiping about one of them, while the other five decided to teach her a lesson by beating her mercilessly.

One of the students recorded the assault and posted it on the Internet.

In the video that went on viral, two of the students were seeing slapping and whipping the victim, who was begging them to leave her alone.

A source said the brutal assault landed the victim in hospital, where she was treated and later discharged.

“The victim was accused of gossiping about one of the female students in the hostel. So, the accuser invited her friends, a male and four females, to deal with the gossip. That was how they started beating her,” the source said.

FUTA said in a statement on Sunday by its Deputy Director of Corporate Communications, Mr Adegbenro Adebanjo, that the six students had been suspended indefinitely, while an investigation into the incident had begun

The university declared that it would not tolerate indiscipline or any act that contravened its rules and regulations, and vowed that the errant students would not go unpunished.

The statement read in part, “Following the ugly incident of bullying of a female student by some students and as a result of preliminary investigation, the students have been placed on an indefinite suspension with effect from Monday, November 18, 2019.

“As a servant of God consequence of their suspension, they are precluded from all academic-related activities indefinitely and barred from the university and its precincts forthwith.

“At the conclusion of the ongoing investigation, the full weight of the law of the university, as contained in the handbook and oath of matriculation, which all the students were made to sign and subscribe to, will be visited on those found culpable.”

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WHY WE’RE AT WAR WITH OBASEKI —AIRHIAVBERE.

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A chieftain of the APC in Edo, Gen. Charles Airhiavbere, explained on Sunday that a faction of the ruling All Progressives Congress is at loggerheads with Governor Godwin Obaseki because the governor has “refused to listen to voice of reason.’’

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Benin, Airhiavbere, a former soldier turned politician, said Obaseki “lacked interpersonal skills” needed to make the difference in the exalted office.

The party chieftain said the governor had resorted to “use of raw power” in dealing with his political associates, a development, he said, had alienated many APC stalwarts in the state.

Edo State is billed for governorship polls next August, in a high-stakes election expected to be characterised by back-stabbing, violence and betrayal.

Airhiavbere, who ran for party ticket against Obaseki in 2016, said “APC would never know peace in Edo” with the way the governor was relating with other members of the party.

“The struggle is all about a governor who lacks interpersonal relationship skill; who is vindictive and repelled by the presence of his party members and without provocation, resorts to anger and pugnacious display of raw power.’’

Airhavbere said that Obaseki had “failed to fulfill his electoral promises” and had “refused to embrace dialogue, consultation, negotiation and compromise.”

“This is a governor who believes in all ramifications that he is above the people and who has suddenly become a tyrant.

“We cannot fold our arms and watch helplessly. With these traits, it is obvious that the governor was never psychologically and emotionally prepared to be a leader.”

Airhiavbere said it was because of these issues that “authentic members” of the party came together on November 13 to abolish the Edo Peoples Movement and suspend the governor, his deputy Philip Shaibu and the Secretary to State Government, Mr. Osarodion Ogie.

He said the suspension was also to send a signal to Obaseki that it was not going to be business as usual in the countdown to upcoming governorship election.

“Edo is the only APC state in the South-South and we are not ready to lose the state,” Airhiavbere said.

He noted that APC members remain loyal to the National Chairman of the party, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, assuring that “everything would be done to protect the party from people bent on destroying it.”

But reacting to the latest developments in the APC, the Edo Commissioner for Information, Mr. Paul Ohonbamu, said the intra-party crisis was “a battle for dominance and liberation between the national chairman of the party and the governor.”

He described the purported suspension of Obaseki and other people from the party as “an exercise in futility.”

The commissioner said that Airhiavbere and his group were being “used to embarrass the governor,” stressing that the governor was elected by the people and that the “disgruntled APC members” lacked powers to suspend him.

He recalled that the South-South Vice-Chairman of the party, Mr. Elias Enag, had since described the suspension as null and void.

Ohonbamu described Obaseki as a “beautiful damsel of democracy’’ who is being sought by many political parties.

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BREAKING: INEC DECLARES APC WINNER OF BAYELSA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission has declared the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, David Lyon, winner of the November 16 Bayelsa governorship election.

Returning Officer, Prof. Faraday Orumwense, Vice-chancellor, University of Benin, announced at the INEC Collation Centre in Yenagoa, that the APC polled 352,552 votes while the PDP scored 143,172.

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SOUTHGATE TO BRING STERLING BACK FROM ENGLAND EXILE.

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Gareth Southgate is set to bring Raheem Sterling back from his brief England exile in Sunday’s Euro 2020 qualifier against Kosovo as he seeks to end the controversy over the Manchester City star’s row with Joe Gomez.

Sterling was dropped for Thursday’s 7-0 rout of Montenegro after clashing with England team-mate Gomez in the Three Lions’ training base canteen.

It is believed Sterling was unhappy with Gomez following an altercation with the Liverpool defender during City’s Premier League defeat at Anfield last weekend.

Although Sterling was left out of the Montenegro game as punishment for his attack on Gomez, Southgate has confirmed the winger will return for England’s final Group A fixture.

Sterling and Gomez left with a scratch under his eye after the incident, are said to have patched up their relationship, but the centre-back was jeered by England fans at Wembley when he came on as a substitute against Montenegro.

Both Southgate and Sterling expressed their support for Gomez and criticised the booing supporters, with the England manager reportedly comforting the shocked 22-year-old and his family after the match.

Now Southgate could include Gomez against Kosovo in a show of support for the Liverpool player.

With England already guaranteed to qualify for Euro 2020 in first place in their group, Southgate already planned to make changes, although he is keen to ensure England finish with a win as they eye a top-six seeding in next year’s tournament.

“We will make some changes, for sure, but the seeding in the group could be critical and we know it’s a big night for the Kosovans,” Southgate said.

“It’s a shame for them that they’re now out of this part of the qualification, although they’ve still got the play-offs in which I think they’ll be a huge threat in that format.

“The enthusiasm for the game is high and we want to finish the group with as many points as we can.”

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson could return following a one-match ban, while Southgate has to decide whether to keep faith with Ben Chilwell ahead of Danny Rose at left-back.

Harry Kane may have scored a hat-trick against Montenegro but it was Leicester’s Chilwell who was named England’s man of the match following a fine display in which he provided three assists in the opening 24 minutes.

“Ben, I liked the hunger in his game, the enthusiasm to get forward,” Southgate said.

“The whole team pressed well but he also pressed well from that full-back position, got into overlaps, his quality of delivery was excellent.”

Although England has cruised through their qualifying group, Southgate believes the 2018 World Cup semi-finalists still have room for improvement as they chase a first major title since 1966.

“There were a couple of chances we conceded that just shouldn’t happen, so that’s still part of our game that we’ve got to improve upon,” he said.

“If we are to be a team that is going to challenge seriously, although we’re young, we’ve got to manage games well.

“We’ve got to make sure that, although we’re such a fantastic attacking threat, the rest of the team is right as well. There are things we’ve got to be better at.”

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U-23 AFCONY OUSTER: FANS WANT IMAMA SACKED.

Nigerians have slammed the national U-23 side’s inability to qualify for the 2020 summer Olympics in Tokyo after failing to beat South Africa in their last Group B game.

The U-23 side recorded one win, a draw and a loss at the ongoing U-23 AFCON in Egypt which also doubles as the Olympics qualifier.

Nigeria lost their first match of the competition 1-0 to Ivory Coast before defeating Zambia 3-1 in their second group game needing a win against South Africa to secure passage to the semi-finals.

Ivory Coast topped the group with six points after defeating Zambia by a lone goal in the other group game with South Africa finishing second with five points, Nigeria is third with four points while Zambia finished the group with a point.

Reacting to the team’s failure to reach the semi-finals, Abenasports on Twitter said it is a shame how local coaches have failed to prove themselves with the job assigned to them.

“Flying Eagles failed, Golden Eaglets fumbled and now Dream Team VII. Shame!! Local coaches can’t prove themselves.”

Kenoke Atuegwu has called for the sack of the team’s coach, Imama Amapakabo.

“How can a coach perform woefully at three different tournaments? This is not coincidence; the man is bang below average and should be sacked immediately they come back from Egypt! This is too much to bear, and having in mind the Olympics is every four years, so it is till 2024.”

“Imama has set the worst record in the history of Nigerian football. He successfully crashed Nigeria out of three tournaments within a space of four weeks; WAFU, CHAN and U-23 AFCON,” commented Temitayo Ojotayo.

Afolabi Obe also called for the coach’s sack, “This is sad, Nigerians have just lost 70 percent interest in the next Olympics, probably one of the slim chances we had for a medal. Imama should not go near any national football team again.”

With the loss, Nigeria will not be represented in the football event of the Olympics after the Super Falcons also failed to book a spot.

Nigeria won a bronze medal at the last Olympic Games in Brazil.

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OSIMHEN’S WORTH TRIPLES VALUED BETWEEN €40M AND €50M.

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Lille forward, Victor Osimhen’s value has increased three times more than the actual price he was purchased by Lille in the summer.

According to a research by The International Center for Sport Studies, the stock of the Nigeria international has risen thrice more than his original value in just three months at the club since joining from Belgian side, Sporting Charleroi.

Osimhen, who joined Lille for €12m, has been valued between €40m and €50m, making him the second most expensive player in the club behind French international Jonathan Ikone,, who is valued between €70m – €90m.

The CIES figures was confirmed in a tweet by LOSC Actualité.

“After three months of competition, CIES has re-assessed the values of the LOSC players. Jonathan Ikoné is still the most expensive player in the squad (70-90M €) but Victor Osimhen saw his value triple in just three months (40-50M € ).”

Osimhen has scored nine goals in 17 appearances in all competition for the French side.

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DELTA STUDENTS TO START RECEIVING BURSARY PAYMENT.

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The Delta state Government has said Delta students studying in various Institutions of Higher learning will start receiving payments of Bursary  for the 2018/2019 Academic session.

This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary  of the Delta state Bursary and Scholarship Board, Mr Sunny Orishedere while  flagging off the payment of the 2018/2019  Bursary to students of Delta State.

He stated that it has become a tradition for the  Bursary and Scholarship Board to perform the formal flagging off ceremony, which announces the commencement of the payment of the Bursary to Delta  state students.

He also apologised on the delay in the commencement of the payment of the Bursary saying it was due to irregularities discovered during verification  and screening on the lists sent to the Board by the various institutions of learning across the country.

Orishedere said twenty four thousand, one hundred and seventy nine applied for the 2018/2019  Bursary adding that after a thorough screening seventeen thousand, one hundred and sixty nine students qualified to receive payments.

He also revealed that the report of the verification was submitted to the state Executive Council, adding that upon approval by the State Exco, part of the funds were released last week to commence payment.

He stated that Governor Okowa is interested and passionate  about the welfare  of the Delta State  Students, assuring that all students qualified for the payment would be paid accordingly.

Mr. Orishedere pointed out that Delta state was the only state in the country, that is still maintaining the full payment of Bursary to students of higher institutions of learning, adding that the state Government has also initiated other scholarship programs such as the best graduating student and first class Scholarship to encourage  and  assist students.

Orishedere also said ” the board has been fully digitalized in line with the CBN directive and the appropriate staff have also been trained on the procedures so as to commence payment this week.”

He further revealed that the payment would be done on first come, first serve basis, as student whose institutions were cleared earlier would receive their payment first. 

Also Speaking, the National President of the National  Association of Delta state students  ,NADESSTU, Comrade   Saturday Godwin  expressed appreciation to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration for having the welfare of  the students in mind.

He commended the Governor  for being consistent with the payment of bursary to Delta state students .

Comrade Godwin solicited the assistance of the state  Government in addressing some of the challenges facing the Association.

Present at the flag off ceremony was the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on student’s matters, Comrade Jerry Ehiwario and also the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student’s  matters, Comrade Osadume Francis.

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1100 WOMEN BENEFICIARIES CURRENTLY ONDERGOING VOCATIONAL TRAINING.

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Elizabeth jack-Rich aid foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization with mission to alleviate poverty in Africa especially Nigeria. Has kicked started training of one thousand one hundred women in several vocations.

Correspondent Emmanuel report that the training is to help alleviate poverty among Nigeria women while distinguishing themselves in various capacities.

The program was launched days ago with 500 women benefiting in FCT Abuja in fulfilment of the Elizabeth jack-Rich aid foundation’s assertion that “when you train a woman, you train a family”.

The excitement of 600 women beneficiaries, across the 23 Local Government Areas in rivers state knew no bounds in the city of port Harcourt. As they join and commence training on life skills and crafts in various values in the ongoing two-week vocational/entrepreneurship training and empowerment program for 1100 women.

The ongoing vocational training and empowerment scheme for women was undertaken in collaboration with NNPC/ Belema oil joint venture & Belema aid foundation.

Belem oil’s managing director, Pedro Diaz observed that the training and starter pack were a tool to financial freedom while charging the women to leverage on the opportunity given to them.

In her passionate and caring nature, Dr Elizabeth Jack-Rich who has since risen up to the challenge of touching life and putting smiles in the faces of indigent women and youths through self-funding programs told journalists that awards await the three best participants in the training. She urges participants to take the exercise seriously while assuring that more persons will be trained in the next phase of the programme next year.

Founder of Elizabeth Jack-Rich Aid foundation attended the epoch-making event accompanied by Dr Caroline Pritheesh, a philanthropist and managing director of Elin group limited, Comedian Ayo Makum popularly known as A.Y, actor Uchemba William among others all of whom expressed delight over the initiative and encouraged the women to be resilient, make good use of the opportunity and never ever give up.

The areas of training in the ongoing vocational training and empowerment scheme for women includes catering, makeup, fish farming, computer appreciation, hair dressing, tailoring among other things.

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INTER MILAN COACH CONTE UNDER POLICE PROTECTION.

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Inter Milan coach Antonio Conte is receiving police protection after a threatening letter containing a bullet was sent to him through the post.

According to Corriere Della Sera, former Italy and Chelsea manager received the anonymous threatening letter containing a bullet in recent days.

Serie A club Inter Milan later said in a statement to Italian news agency Ansa that “the letter arrived at the club and not personally to the coach”.

“In relation to the news published today, Inter Milan states that Antonio Conte did not personally receive any threatening letters and, consequently, he did not go in person to file a complaint,” the club statement said.

“It was the club that received a letter and, as is the practice in this kind of situation, it contacted the competent authorities.”

An investigation has now been launched while Conte is receiving police surveillance outside his home and at Inter’s training ground, Gazzetta Dello Sport reported.

Meanwhile, Conte’s wife Elisabetta Muscarello wrote on social media: “For the record: the story of the bullet is a hoax!”

Conte joined Inter in the summer and the Italian outfit are currently one point behind his former club Juventus at the top of Serie A.

The 50-year-old led Juventus to three consecutive Serie A titles from 2012 to 2014 before taking over as Italy national coach.

He also spent two seasons at Chelsea, winning both the Premier League and the FA Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Conte took over from Luciano Spalletti, who led Inter to a fourth-place finish last season.

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BAYELSA: JOURNALISTS RESCUED FROM DROWNING AS BOAT CAPSIZE IN NUN RIVER.

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A boat conveying journalists across flooded parts of Sampou community on Nun River in Kolokuma Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State capsized and threw the four occupants into the water.

The boat was carrying four journalists covering the governorship elections, including its correspondent.

The journalists were returning from the polling station when the incident happened and left the victims submerged.

The timely intervention of sympathisers rescued the journalists whose mobile phones, cameras and recorders were drenched.

A stretch of about 200 metres along the road leading to polling unit 4, Ward 6, where the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Douye Diri, voted was flooded, compelling the journalists to resort to local canoes to cross.

The flood had delayed the setting up of polling stations across the flooded community to about 10.16 a.m, two hours behind schedule.

The flood submerged many parts of Amasoma, Yenagoa and parts of Sagbama, a development that displaced some polling stations.

Diri, who voted at about 10.35 a.m. observed that the elections were peaceful in his area but regretted that he got reports of electoral fraud, violence in Nembe, Opolo and Enewari, among others in the state.

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FRSC, DSS APPREHEND PRODUCERS OF FAKE NUMBER PLATES.

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The Federal Road Safety Corps and the Department of State Services have tracked down the producers of fake number plates in the country.

The Corps Public Education Officer, Mr Bisi Kazeem, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday in Abuja.

It was gathered that the Corps Marshal, FRSC, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi, had ordered an investigation into a particular plate number in Kano.

The number plate has the inscription of “Chip Whip” purportedly for a member of the Kano state House of Assembly.

Kazeem said that both agencies have apprehended some syndicates in Kano and Kebbi States in connection with the production of illegal number plates including the fake Kano ‘Chip Whip’ number plate.

According to Kazeem, upon sighting the illegal number plate, the Corps Marshal, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi immediately directed the Kano state Sector Commander, Mr Zubairu Mato, to collaborate with security agencies to fish out the syndicates involved in producing fake number plates in the state.

“Consequent upon the directive, DSS Kano State was intimated and immediately swung into action to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to book.

“On Tuesday 12th November 2019, DSS raided the following areas in Kano State; Sabon Gari, Kofar Ruwa, Gidan Boss (Kofar is a Mazugal) Kofar Wambai (Yan Robobi) and Naibawa Zaria road.

“At Sabon Gari, a suspect was arrested and subsequently charged to court for the production of fake number plates.

“The suspect was apprehended while digging the ground to hide the illegal number plates in his possession to evade arrest,” he said.

Kazeem noted that in a similar operation, the Corps arrested some syndicates at the Dodaru market, Gwandu Local Government Area of Kebbi State who specialised in selling illegal number plates to motorcyclists.

“The suspects were arraigned on Friday before the Chief Magistrate Court 1 Birnin Kebbi. The accused pleaded not guilty but were remanded in prison custody by the Chief Magistrate till 28 November 2019 when the case will be represented for hearing.

“The Corps Marshal who expressed satisfaction with the fruitful synergy among the agencies thanked the Director General of DSS, Mr Yusuf Bichi, for the prompt professional response deployed to arrest the suspects.

“He, therefore, called on all Nigerians who have vital information about any individual involved in the illegal act to provide such to the Corps for necessary actions.”

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SIBLINGS USE EFCC NAME TO EXTORT MONEY FROM FRAUDSTERS.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ibadan zonal office, Oyo State, has arrested two brothers for extorting money from Internet fraudsters with a promise to shield them from being arrested by the commission.

The siblings – Olatunji Joe Beyioku (35) and Oluwayomi Beyioku (37) – were arrested in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, on Friday during a sting operation.

EFCC operatives had embarked on discreet investigations into the activities of the suspects who claimed to be spy police officers with the rank of deputy superintendent of police and ‘assisted’ the commission with information on the whereabouts of Internet fraudsters within the town.

The zonal office of the commission in a statement on Friday said it was discovered that the suspects only exposed those who failed to meet their demands while making millions of naira sabotaging the commission’s efforts.

The statement read in part, “A search conducted on the younger brother’s palatial residence along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway suggested that they may be living far above their means. Items found in the multi-million naira building also raised suspicion of the brothers’ possible involvement in other forms of criminal activities.

“Items recovered from them include two cars; Honda Accord Crosstour and a Mercedes Benz GLK and different brands of mobile phones and charms.”

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9TH ASSEMBLY WILL GIVE BUHARI ALL ITS SUPPORT – AHMAD LAWAN.

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The President of the Nigerian Senate, Ahmad Lawan on Friday maintained that President Muhammadu Buhari will continue to receive the backing of the National Assembly in order to move the country forward.

According to Lawan who spoke in Akure, the Ondo State capital while meeting with the state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, the members of 9th National Assembly are ready to give their all to the growth of the country irrespective of their political leaning.

Lawan alongside some principal officers of the Senate and the senators from the state were in the state to visit the ailing senator representing the Southern Senatorial district of the state, Nicholas Tofowomo.

Recall that Tofowomo as well some chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party were involved in an auto crash two months ago.

During a stopover at the Government House to also visit Governor Akeredolu who is equally recuperating from an undisclosed ailment, Lawan assured Nigerians that the 9th National Assembly would ensure a better country.

“We will continue to give legislative support to the Federal government to improve the situations in the country.

“Our political Parties platform notwithstanding, we are working for the betterment of the country. Party affiliation doesn’t matter. This 9th assembly is one united family.

He appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the present administration as efforts are on to ensure that the dividend of democracy gets to every citizenry.

According to him, the present administration is working assiduously to ensure the security situation, economy, and employment opportunities improve for the betterment of Nigerians.

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SARAKI REACTS AS GUNMEN ATTACK GOV SEYI MAKINDE.

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Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki has called for peaceful and credible election ahead of Bayelsa and Kogi State governorship election on Saturday.

Saraki said this while condemning the attack on Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State in Kogi State on Friday.

It was alleged that some gunmen arrived the Suitorial Hotels, Lokoja, along Stadium Road, where the Governor and some members of the PDP Campaign Council were lodged at about 12.50 p.m., shooting sporadically.

It was gathered that the hoodlums scaled the fence of the hotel and attempted to gain entrance.

Reacting to the development on his Twitter page on Saturday, Saraki wrote, “Elections should not be a war, and political affiliations should never silence the voices of reason and peace. We must rise above party affiliations to roundly condemn the scale of violence we are seeing in Kogi State.

“There is no democratic victory borne through loss of lives as citizens strive to exercise their constitutional rights to elect the leaders of their choice. No one wins, only our beloved nation Nigeria loses.

“I call on those responsible for ensuring a safe and free election to do all it takes to see that today’s elections in Kogi and Bayelsa States are peaceful and credible, and not a scene of intimidation, violence and blood bath.

“May God guide and protect our fellow Nigerians in Kogi and Bayelsa States today.”

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BAYELSA POLL: THUGS KILL INSPECTOR, 15 PERSONS ON DANGER LIST.

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A riot police officer (name withheld) posted from Asaba, Delta State, has died due to gunshot wounds following a shooting at King Koko Square venue for an aborted Peoples Democratic Party rally in Ogbolomabiri, Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on Wednesday.

The police inspector was said to have been hit by bullets after suspected PDP and the All Progressives Congress thugs reportedly engaged in a gunfight at venue for the rally.

It was learnt that the body of the deceased officer had since been deposited at the Nembe General Hospital.

His colleague identified as Ododomu was lucky as he survived the attack, although sustained a gunshot wound to the leg.

Also, two other policemen are critically injured and are battling to survive.

There were indications on Friday that some people were still missing, with unconfirmed reports saying thugs ripped open the stomachs of their victims and threw them into the nearby river.

A security source said medical personnel had been battling to save the lives of the victims at the Specialist Hospital and Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa.

The source said, “As of Friday, 39 of the wounded have been discharged.

“Also, 47 are still on admission with 32 at the FMC and 15 still battling for their lives at the Specialist Hospital.”

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ANOTHER FUEL TANKER EXPLODES AT LAGOS -ABEOKUTA OLD TOLL GATE, TWO DIE.

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Two people have been confirmed dead after a petrol tanker exploded at the old toll gate end of the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, around Sango, Ogun State.

It was learnt that the fire started around 12.05am.

The spokesperson for the state fire service, Muinat Adeleke-Ashimi, who spoke for the acting Director, Margaret Adeseye, said two bodies were found around 4am.

She said, “The petrol tanker skidded off the road, which resulted in the fire. Our men arrived at the scene at 12.14am.

“The fire was extinguished around 4am when two casualties were found — a male and a female.

“We are presently damping the fire.”

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MAN CITY LOSE APPEAL TO CAS OVER FINANCIAL FAIR-PLAY INVESTIGATION.

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Manchester City has lost their appeal against the decision of UEFA to refer the English champions to its adjudicatory chamber over alleged Financial Fair Play violations, the Court of Arbitration for Sport said on Friday.

City reacted angrily when they were referred to the adjudicatory chamber of UEFA’s club financial control body by its investigatory chamber in May.

The club said it would appeal to CAS, but the sports court dismissed their initial appeal, saying on Friday that City had not “exhausted the legal remedies available to it prior to the appeal”.

It means City have failed in their attempt to stop UEFA from investigating the allegations they5 supplied false financial information, with CAS saying their appeal was “inadmissible”.

The investigatory chamber had also recommended that City be sanctioned by UEFA.

The investigation into City is based on leaked emails published last year by German magazine Der Spiegel as part of “Football Leaks”.

Possible punishments include a suspension from the Champions League, a transfer ban or a fine.

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STOKES DOESN’T WANT TO CAPTAIN ENGLAND.

Ben Stokes admitted on Friday he is not interested in captaining England in the future.

Stokes has emerged as one of the most charismatic and exciting England stars for decades, but the all-rounder isn’t keen to shoulder the extra responsibility of the captaincy.

After playing a key role in England’s historic first 50-over World Cup victory earlier this year, Stokes also shone in the Ashes series against Australia.

He currently serves as deputy to Test skipper Joe Root but doesn’t believe he would thrive as the team’s leader.

“That’s not an aspiration of mine. It’s just not one of those things I’m desperate to do,” Stokes told the BBC‘s Today programme.

“I’m very happy at the moment being the vice-captain, we’ve got a great leader in Joe.

“You never know how you handle the pressure of being England captain unless you do it. Being the Test captain of England — so much pressure comes with it.

“It’s a huge burden to carry because everything falls back on you, especially if it goes bad, and you never know how you’ll handle that pressure until you walk out onto the field as England captain.

“So I’ve got no idea how I’d handle it if I did it but, as I say, it’s not an aspiration of mine.”

Stokes, 28, is on tour with England in New Zealand at present as he looks to finish a memorable year on a high note.

While he doesn’t like the idea of being a captain, when he eventually retires, Stokes would welcome a coaching role.

“I guess there always comes a time when you have to start seriously thinking about it and I always say I’d love to be a coach in the future,” he added.

“I can’t ever see myself just completely disconnecting myself away from the game as some people have.

“But I’m still only 28, I have got plenty of years in the tank hopefully. But I’d love to stay in the game somehow and if that was as a coach i’d would love to do that.

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SOUTH AFRICA LAWMAKER ASSURES BURNA BOY OF SAFETY AS LOCAL ARTISTES KICK AGAINST HIS PERFORMANCE.

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South African opposition politician, Julius Malema, has assured Nigerian singer, Burna Boy, of his safety during his performance at the African Unite Concert scheduled to hold on November 24 in the country.

Via his verified Twitter handle, Malema, who is the founder of Economic Freedom Fighters and legislator said that he was looking forward to being entertained by Burna boy and that there was “no mascot” who can stop him from performing in South Africa.

Malema tweeted, “Looking forward to receiving and being entertained by my brother @burnaboy here at his home called South Africa. There’s no mascot that can stop him from performing, he’s one of our own and we will protect him. We must resolutely oppose regionalism led by political illiterates.”

It would be recalled that earlier this week, South African rapper, AKA Worldwide had resurrected an old spat with Burna Boy which started from the recent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa. He demanded an apology from Burna Boy before he comes to perform in South Africa.

During the Twitter spat in September, Burna Boy had urged black foreigners living in SA to defend and protect themselves against the attackers. In a now-deleted tweet, he also told AKA to have enough security around him whenever they met.

“Ek se … @burnaboy all we want is an apology. We know 🇿🇦 is not perfect. But we took you in as our own before you reached these levels. You say you are an AFRICAN GIANT, prove it (sic),” tweeted AKA on Thursday.

Meanwhile, some local artistes have written to South Africa’s Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, to demand that the minister stop Burna Boy from performing in the country.

According to OkayAfrica, the artistes under the Tshwane Entertainment Collective told the minister saying, “We first inquired to the minister and to the department to say, what is this all about? How is this happening? How are you guys supporting this? Then further to that, we asked how are you supporting an event that8 also includes… so not only are you failing us with funding but you are also supporting an event that includes an artist who has threatened violence to fellow South African artists.(sic)”

Burna Boy has yet to react to the development.

See tweets:

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WIKE RELEASES N137MILLION TO NYSC MEMBERS.

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Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has announced the release of 132 Million for the payment of monthly allowances for Corps Members serving in the state.

Speaking during a Courtesy Visit by the Governing Council of the National Youth Service Council (NYSC) at the Government House Port Harcourt on Friday, Governor Wike said the payment process has been activated by his administration.

“We have released N132 million for the payment of the allowance for corps members serving in the state”, he said.

He further informed that funds have been released for the construction of drainage, completion of the 5000 capacity auditorium, 3000 mattresses and 1500 double-bunk beds for the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp at Nonwa.

He said: “The corps members are serving the interest of the state. We are only investing to enhance their performance.

“We have released funds for the construction of internal roads, drainage, 1500 double-bunk beds and 3000 mattresses at the Permanent Orientation Camp.”

He assured that the 5000-seater auditorium at the Permanent Orientation Camp will be delivered to the NYSC Governing Council in May 2020.

He urged the NYSC management to work out the issue of security at the NYSC Orientation Camp with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.

“Rivers State Government will give all the required support to ensure the NYSC carries out their responsibilities to the people of Rivers State”, he said.

Acting Chairman of the Governing Council of NYSC, Mrs Binta Muazu appreciated Governor Wike for his investments in the NYSC.

“We were at the Permanent Orientation Camp and we saw the construction of a massive 5000 capacity amphitheatre. We want to be part of the Commissioning of that facility..

“You are constant in the payment of monthly subvention to the NYSC and we are happy with the promise to release the allowances of Corps members”, she said.

She said the generosity of Governor Wike to the NYSC is outstanding.

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SAHA SAYS CRISTIANO RONALDO IS AN ‘ANIMAL’, NOT NORMAL.

Former Manchester United striker, Louis Saha hailed Juventus superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo as an ‘animal’ in football.

Saha, a former teammate with Ronaldo during their time at Man United also said that the Portugal captain was ‘not normal’ because he works harder than all of his teammates in training.

Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon D’ Or winner, has been impressive for both club and country so far this season.

The 34-year-old is among the 30-man shortlist for this year’s Europe top individual prize alongside Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk.

The former Real Madrid star scored a hat-trick in Portugal’s 6-0 victory over Lithuania in a 2020 Euro qualifier encounter on Thursday night but Saha now believes that Ronaldo is more than talent.

“Cristiano was just an animal. I don’t know if you can say that he was a human! You could see from when he was 18 or 19 that this guy was not normal.

“These players who have all the ability recognise that it’s also about working harder than anyone – not just talent. The top seeds in tennis don’t hit the ball better or have better technique; no, they work harder than anyone, and Cristiano did that,” Saha told FourFourTwo.77

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ODUMOSU, EDGAL BECOME LAGOS, OGUN CPS.

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The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu has ordered the immediate redeployment of seven Commissioners of Police.

They include acting CP Olusegun Odumosu who was posted to Lagos, Imohimi Edgal who is now the CP in charge of Ogun State command and Nkereuwem Akpan as CP, Cross River State.

Others are Kenneth Ebrimson, Akwa Ibom State; Habu Ahmadu, Kano State; Lawal Jimeta, Edo State and Philip Maku, Bauchi State Command.

The force spokesman, DCP Frank Mba in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, said the IG tasked the officers to ensure “the consolidation and improvement on the gains of their predecessors in the areas of public safety and crime-fighting.”

Adamu also directed the new Commissioners of Police to work with relevant stakeholders in adopting “aggressive, uproactive and community-based crime prevention strategies to combat crime in their areas of responsibility.”

In addition, Adamu admonished the citizens of the affected states to accord the CPs maximum cooperation to ensure they succeeded in the realisation of their mandate.

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SOCIAL MEDIA: NO GOING BACK ON REGULATION – FG.

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The Federal Government says it will not rescind its decision to regulate social media.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, said this on Thursday during a courtesy call on him by the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers in Abuja.

Mohammed said, “Let me say, straight on, that the intense debate that has been generated by our announcement is a welcome development.

“The fear of stifling free speech or muzzling the media is totally unfounded. We have no such plan. As we speak, people are on the social media criticizing the administration. We have no problem with that.

“But our concern has to do with the abuse of the social media by those who are bent on spreading fake news and hate speech, and the dangers inherent in that for our national peace and unity. No responsible government will sit by and allow fake news and hate speech to dominate its media space because of the capacity of this menace to exploit our national fault lines to set us against each other and trigger a national conflagration.”

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OSINBAJO SPEAKS ON NIGERIA YOUTH, SAYS THEY ARE BLESSED.

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Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on Thursday said Nigeria was blessed with an energetic and resourceful youth population that could partner global technology giants to excel in any field.

He spoke in Abuja when he received a group of Chinese technology entrepreneurs at the Presidential Villa.

The delegation was led by the co-founder of AliBaba Group, Mr Jack Ma, on a visit as part of the Nigerian Government’s move to promote technological innovation among youths in the country.

Ma, who is the richest man in China, is said to have a net worth of $38bn.

Osinbajo stated, “Nigeria represents an incredible opportunity and potential, and we had spoken a few minutes ago about how Nigeria will, in another two decades or so, become the third largest in terms of population in the entire world.

“The largest segment of that population are young people, under 25, who will be over 60 per cent of that population.

“This is exciting time for us and we are really happy that you are here and I know the young people and lots of businesses and entrepreneurs are looking forward to your interaction with them later today.

“I think you will find very energetic, very creative group of young men and women and older men and women who are increasingly interested in entrepreneurship, especially digital entrepreneurship.

“So, the potential is tremendous, it is an incredible potential that we have. So, we are at a point, and your coming is very strategic, in our trajectory and in the progress of our country.

“I think, it is a very important moment and what we are seeing – a lot of entrepreneurship, a lot of young people who are very actively engaged in the digital economy at various levels.”

The VP seized the opportunity to speak on the efforts by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to uplift the youth of the country.

He cited the case of the N-Power Programme, saying, “We started a job programme for young people called N-Power where we engaged half a million young people.”

“We wanted to build the E-frastructure to make this happen, so we gathered a group of young entrepreneurs, so they put together the system which enabled us to engage the half million people.

“We pay them online, we teach them online, we put materials in open portals for them so that they can actually access these portals. They also have equipment (like the one I have) which helps them to train as extension workers for farms. They also work as teachers, so, we train them also using these open portals and all others and it proved to be tremendously successful.”

Ma spoke well of Nigerian youths, admitting that he admired their resourcefulness.

He also said he had always dreamed of visiting Nigeria.

Ma spoke more, “We flew 15 hours into Nigeria and we are excited. This trip is to try to understand Africa more. We came to Africa four years ago and our plan is to visit four, five countries in every trip. My personal target is to try and visit every country in Africa in 10 years and support Africa.

“Nigeria is a great country with a large population, very strong economy, excellent young people with excellent innovations. And this is a country I have looked forward to visiting a lot and I think our team today realised our dreams meeting you, the ministers.”

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US CONSIDERS VISA BAN FOR VIOLENT BAYELSA POLITICIANS.

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The United States Consul General, Claire Pierangelo, has said the US government could impose a visa ban, among other punitive measures, on perpetrators of violence in the coming Bayelsa State governorship election.

Pierangelo said despite the difficult terrain, the US would mobilise observers to the state to ensure a free, fair and transparent process.

She urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to be objective and operate without pressure and intimidation, adding that security agencies must also avoid interfering with the process.

The envoy, who spoke during a briefing on Wednesday at the US Consulate General on the Victoria Island, Lagos State, said she had already spoken to the leading political actors in the state, adding that the US was committed to ensuring a peaceful election in Bayelsa on Saturday.

She stated, “I recently returned from Bayelsa as part of my first trip to the Niger Delta region since assuming my role as the consul-general.

“In all of my public and private engagements with key stakeholders, I expressed the US expectations regarding an electoral outcome that reflects the will of the people of Bayelsa.

“We will be out there in the field observing the election. I am aware that many other foreign and international organisations will also be on the ground in Bayelsa.

“We will work closely with our colleagues and partners in the international community to promote a credible process that will benefit the people of Bayelsa,” she added.

While urging security agencies to provide a safe and impartial environment for residents to exercise their franchise, Pierangelo insisted that voter intimidation, vote buying and violence would not be tolerated.

She asked that women, the youth and people living with disabilities should be encouraged to participate.

“We call on all candidates and their supporters to reject election-related violence. The US and the international community will be watching the election closely in order to deter potential instigators of violence or those who seek to undermine the democratic process,” she added.

The consul general said if presented with verifiable evidence of election violence, “the US could impose a visa ban on those indicted.”

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HOENESS SET TO END AN ERA AFTER TRANSFORMING BAYERN MUNICH.

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Having transformed Bayern Munich into one of Europe’s strongest clubs, then been jailed for tax evasion, Uli Hoeness will bring the curtain down on a glorious 40-year reign at the German giants when he steps down as club president on Friday.

Hoeness will officially stand down at Friday’s annual general meeting having nominated Herbert Hainer, a former CEO of sportswear firm Adidas, to succeed him, but he will stay on the club’s supervisory board for at least four more years.

Since the 67-year-old joined club management after retiring as a three-time European Cup-winning player four decades ago, Bayern has dominated the Bundesliga and been crowned kings of Europe two more times.

“I think that someone like Uli Hoeness will never stop, he’s got a Bayern heart, so he will always stay connected to us,” said Bayern captain Manuel Neuer on Wednesday.

He hands the reins to Hainer with Bayern Munich in rude health, generating 750 million euros ($825 million) in turnover and reported profits of 52 million euros.

The club has a vast army of 300,000 members and over 1,000 employees, while their Allianz Arena stadium has been paid off.

It is a far cry from his first day as a club manager on May 1, 1979, following a career-ending knee injury, with Bayern carrying debts of seven million Deutschmarks (around 3.5 million euros in today’s currency).

After two hours at his desk, Hoeness says he “went home, because there was no work”, but his relentless drive and recruitment of top players in the coming years has yielded 24 German leagues and 14 German Cup titles.

“Bayern is unimaginable without you,” wrote in a tribute Germany legend Franz Beckenbauer, who Hoeness replaced as club president in 2009.

“The club would not be what it is today.”

However, the fire still burns in Hoeness’ belly, as proven last Sunday morning when he rang a talk show on German television to berate pundits criticising Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic.

Bayern is seeking a new coach since Niko Kovac was relieved of his duties a fortnight ago and Hoeness will no doubt have a say in who replaces interim coach Hansi Flick.

Ajax coach Erik ten Hag, Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel — both of whom have said they will not leave their respective clubs this season — and ex-Bayern coach Pep Guardiola are reportedly on the shortlist.

Hoeness, the son of a butcher, rose to fame for transforming Bayern into a global brand as a millionaire businessman who bounced back despite a spectacular own goal which landed him in jail in 2014.

The black mark on his legacy is the 21 months he served in prison following his 2014 conviction for evading at least 28.5 million euros ($31.5 million) in taxes.

It spoke volumes for his fearsome reputation that few in the German media questioned whether it was morally right for someone convicted of tax evasion to again run Germany’s biggest club.

Sure enough, Hoeness was re-elected Bayern president by members in November 2016, true to his parting words two years before when he insisted “it’s not over”.

Never one to take a step backwards and quick to start quarrels with anyone who criticises Bayern, Hoeness “wanted to bring Bayern to the top, at any price”, he says, and apart from “my tax history” he says he has “not made many serious mistakes”.

As for his future, Hoeness says he will only think “about that on Saturday, when I wake up” at his luxury home on the shore of Lake Tegernsee in rural Bavaria, but will never be too far away from his beloved Bayern Munich.

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FORGIVE YAHAYA BELLO, AISHA BEGS KOGI PEOPLE.

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First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has said Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State was unable to pay salaries because of the verification exercise that was organised for civil servants in the state.

Mrs. Buhari said since the verification exercise ended, all civil servants on the government’s payroll had been receiving regular salary.

The President’s wife, therefore, asked the people of the state to forgive Bello if any of them was negatively affected, urging them to forget what they once suffered.

Aisha said this at the All Progressives Congress rally in Lokoja on Thursday, shortly after Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, had knelt down before the crowd, asking them to forgive their governor.

Addressing the crowd, Mrs. Buhari said, “Let me refer back to Kaduna State governor’s speech where he had to kneel and say the people should forgive and forget.

“Also, my husband used to emphasise on salaries. It took a while before the Kogi salaries could be settled after a long time of verification.

“But this time, vote for him for continuity of payment of salary on time.”

Mrs. Buhari subsequently invited the governor to the podium, saying, “I want Yahaya Bello to talk to you about timely payment of salary.”

Addressing the crowd, the governor said, “We have been paying on time. “The civil servants can attest to that.

“Your Excellency, you directed, you supported and we cleared the salary arrears and we shall continue to pay on time.”

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COZA PASTOR WINS BUSOLA IN COURT.

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The rape case filed against Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo by Busola Dakolo at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has been dismissed.

The court sitting at Bwari, Abuja on Thursday dismissed the case against the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly Senior Pastor on the ground that it amounts to injustice, and an abuse of judicial process. According to the ruling, the case is empty and purely sentimental.

The presiding judge, Justice Oathman A. Musa, said the case was aimed more at cruelty than obtaining justice.

The court also awarded costs of N1,000,000 against Busola Dakolo and held that the fine should have been 10 times more because the court’s time was wasted.

It was reported that Busola Dakolo, wife of popular musician, Timi Dakolo, had dragged before a Federal Territory High Court in Abuja, Biodun Fatoyinbo, Senior Pastor, Commonwealth of Zion Assembly, COZA over allegation of rape.

She accused the cleric of raping her when she was still a teenager.

She told the court that the pastor forcefully pushed her until she fell on the couch close to the front door of her house, after which he pinned her to the couch, undressed her, “caressing her body, fondling her breasts, exposing his genitals to her glare, forcing a bottle of soda (Krest) down her throat, thereby making her breathing difficult, all the while covering her mouth to muffle her screams, and thereafter threatened her life”.

Mrs. Dakolo, in the suit filed on her behalf by her lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi and Co of Law corridor, demanded that the court declare that the pastor’s denial of his alleged acts contained jointly and/or severally through a press statement he released on June 28, 2019, had caused her continuous emotional distress and amounted to intentional infliction of emotional distress on her.

She told the High Court that the rape had adversely affected her marital sex life and demanded a letter of apology from Fatoyinbo to show remorse action.

However, in a preliminary objection filed through Fatoyinbo’s team of lawyers led by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Iziyon, the cleric, maintained that Busola’s suit was frivolous and statute-barred.

He argued that all the reliefs Busola sought against him in the suit marked CV/2817/18, were not grantable.

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KIDNAPPED TRAFFIC MARSHALL KILLED.

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A Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency (KASTELEA) marshal, who was kidnapped last month along Birnin-Gari Kaduna highway, has been killed by his abductors.

The marshal, PM ll Hamza Abubakar Mahuta, was ‎reportedly abducted on October 16 while travelling to Birnin Gwari to spend the weekend with his family members.

It was gathered that, after the abduction, his abductors demanded N5 million as ransom. ‎

‎Sources in Birnin Gwari told our reporter that the body of the marshal was yet to be recovered from his killers as they only informed the family members on phone.

A family source, who did not want to be named confirmed the death of the late marshal, which he said was revealed to them Thursday evening by his killers.

“Hamza was my relation and we got the news of his death yesterday (Monday) around 5:30 pm after the family paid N500,000 ransom to his abductors. We were told they killed him nine days ago but they kept calling that until the ransom is paid before they will release him.

“The kidnappers lied that he was alive until after they collected the ransom before they said he (Hamza) was killed but you know they will not release his corpse,” he said.

When contacted, KASTELEA’s Assistant General Manager, Public Affairs, Joy George Zemo, said she could not comment on the issue for now because they were trying to get details of the issue.

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SUPER EAGLES CAPTAIN ECHOES SUPPORT FOR COACH ROHR.

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Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa has maintained he has no problems with coach Gernot Rohr’s selection following the teams’ 2-1 victory over Benin Republic in a 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, qualifier clash on Wednesday.

The Super Eagles had to fight from a goal down, as the Squirrels opened scoring at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Stephane Sessegnon latched on a defensive error to make it 1-0.

Victor Osimhen made it 1-1 from the penalty spot, shortly before half time.

Samuel Kalu grabbed the winner, with a fine solo goal.

Musa, who came on in the last five minutes of the encounter against Benin, said he was just happy to be back in the team after recovering from an injury.

“As I said at the pre-match conference, I am just happy to be back in the team,” Musa told reporters in his post-match press conference in Uyo.

“It is normal for the manager to select the players that played against Brazil.”

Meanwhile, echoing what Musa said, Rohr praised his captain’s attitude, saying the former Leicester City star is a ‘good captain’.

“Let me add to what he said, this man is a good captain-pointing at Musa.

“He told me before the game to start the same team that started against Brazil.”

Nigeria will now take on Lesotho on Sunday in their next match.

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IBRAHIMOVIC LEAVES LA GALAXY, REVEALS NEXT MOVE.

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LA Galaxy striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has revealed his next move after he mutually parted ways with the club on Wednesday.

The former Manchester United star also thanked LA Galaxy for making him feel alive again after a two-year spell at the MLS club.

In a tweet on his official Twitter page on Wednesday night, Ibrahimovic said: “I came, I saw, I conquered. Thank you @lagalaxy for making me feel alive again. To the Galaxy fans – you wanted Zlatan, I gave you Zlatan. You are welcome. The story continues…Now go back to watch baseball.”

Ibrahimovic scored 52 goals in 53 starts and registered 17 assists for Galaxy.

The Swedish striker joined the club from Manchester United in March 2018.

He has also drawn interest from AC Milan and Bologna in recent weeks.

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SHOOTING DISRUPT BAYELSA PDP RALLY, ONE KILLED OTHERS INJURED.

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One person was killed on Wednesday in Bayelsa State after violence erupted during the Peoples Democratic Party’s campaign for Saturday’s governorship election.

It was gathered that the incident, which happened at Nembe-Ogbolomabiri in the Nembe Local Government Area, also left several persons injured.

The deceased, whose identity was given as Simon Onu, was said to be the driver of the outside broadcast van of the state-owned radio station in Yenagoa.

Some members of staff of the radio station confirmed the death of the OB van driver.

The violence broke out about 24 hours after two policemen were said to have been killed by gunmen at a checkpoint at Otuogidi in the Ogbia LGA.

Heavy shootings were said to have rocked the King Koko Square venue of the PDP rally at Nembe-Ogbolomabiri as yet-to-be-identified armed men opened fire shortly after party supporters gathered and were waiting for dignitaries to arrive.

Governor Seriake Dickson and the PDP standard-bearer, Senator Douye Diri, were among party leaders that were to address the crowd.

The campaign visit to Nembe LGA was said to be the last rally by the PDP before the governorship poll on Saturday.

A source said, “Some boys threatened in Nembe yesterday (Tuesday) that they would not allow the PDP to hold their rally today (Wednesday).

“Everyone ran in different directions when they started shooting.”

However, the state PDP in a statement by the National Vice Chairman, South-South, Emmanuel Ogidi, said, “We have lost five persons and I saw the picture of a policeman who was injured. The Federal Government should take action immediately.

Also, the Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Butswat, did not answer calls to his mobile phone.

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VIEWERS DISS ‘POOR’ TV COVERAGE OF NIGERIA-BENIN MATCH.

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Nigerians have expressed displeasure over the quality of television broadcast of Nigeria versus Benin Group L opener of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Wednesday.

Many Nigerians, who took to the social media to complain, lamented that the cameraman found it difficult to focus in the direction of the ball in the first half.

They also faulted the inability of the TV stations that aired the game to show action replays.

Few minutes after the game ended, #ShameOnNTA became one of the trending hashtags on Twitter in Nigerian category.

One of them, @Sopein1 said, “Referee blew the whistle, Nigeria’s commentator did not hear, he just saw movements. So, he said ‘I am believing that’s the end of the match’.”

“This is an absolute disgrace. I’d rather not watch the game,” Wale Agbede added.

“They just exposed themselves to the world and other continents through the shameful live broadcast between Nigeria vs Benin. No wonder they could not show ordinary NPFL,” @dkuti82 said.

@tweetmankind said, “Watching the Super Eagles game doesn’t make me feel like this is 2019, it’s looking like some 1999.”

Billy Ope also tweeted, “According to the match commentary crew, (Alex) Iwobi’s still playing at Arsenal. No replay of the second goal for Nigeria yet. No bar displaying the time played or scoreboard on screen.”

“A smartphone gives better pictures! Just get the angles right! For your information, you did not show the match. You showed grass and stands,” Tony Bekederemo tweeted.

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HATE SPEECH BILL IS DANGEROUS TO JOURNALISM PROFESSION – HOD.

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Head of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, Dr Edith Ugochi Ohaja, has described the proposed bill seeking to place death penalty on anyone convicted of hate speech as a time bomb on the journalism profession in Nigeria.

Ohaja said she could not believe that the National Assembly is deliberating on a bill that provides for capital punishment for the expression of opinions, and described it as a total misplacement of priorities.

It was reported that Senator Sabi Abdullahi representing Niger North Senatorial district on Tuesday sponsored a private bill to tackle hate speeches and other social media related contents, considered antagonistic to the interest of Nigerian society.

The lawmaker, who was Senate Spokesman in the 8th Senate and now Deputy Chief Whip, wants the National Assembly to establish a Commission with administrative structures to deal with hate speeches in Nigeria.

The bill titled: “National Commission for the Prohibition of Hate Speeches (Est., etc) bill, 2019 (SB. 154)” passed its first reading on Tuesday.

However, speaking with journalists in an interview in Aba on Wednesday, Ohaja challenged journalists in Nigeria to rise to the occasion and prove that the ever vibrant Nigerian Mass Media that stood firm during the Gen. Sani Abacha-led military regime is still alive to defend justice, truth and human rights.

She said: “This is a country where rampaging herdsmen, bandits, kidnappers and terrorists seem to be treated with kid gloves. One would have called this a misplacement of priorities if the move wasn’t so sinister and it speaks to the baseness of the current National Assembly. By reviving this bill and seeking to set up a whole agency for so-called hate speech, the government is no longer hiding its dictatorial inclinations.

“Besides the social media, blogs and citizen journalism websites, the traditional media remain the platforms for publicising people’s expressions of opinions and helping them to gain traction. So they will be prime targets or those whose views are publicised in them will be.

“I don’t know the full provisions of the bill but I imagine there will be punitive fines against corporate bodies, like the media, that are seen as fora for the dissemination of “hate speech. The sad thing in Nigeria is that the media have not been robust enough in withstanding the tyranny of the present regime. Perhaps, the revival of this bill will serve as a wakeup call to them that the government is trampling on everyone’s rights and eroding freedom of the press.

“In fact, this might be the time for the media to redeem their image by championing the resistance against this kind of move and other obnoxious policies of this government. In the time of Abacha, they did it. Hopefully the recent years of questionable democracy have not turned them into a hopelessly complacent and conniving lot.”

Ohaja continued, “The level of ineptitude, sectionalism and other multifarious failings of the government are constantly drawing public ire and that is why the government is desperate to muzzle free expression of ideas and opinions.

“And the hypocrisy is glaring because it is the executive arm of government and the judiciary it has kept under its thumb that will decide what is hate speech and who to prosecute. Nigerians from all walks of life and all levels of society should resist the passage of this bill because it will kill what is left of our fledgling democracy.”

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ROAD PROJECTS: WE HAVE NOT DONE ENOUGH – MINISTER.

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The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, says the Federal Government has not done enough on road projects.

She said this yesterday while briefing State House reporters after the Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

She said: “We have a lot of roads in the country but not every road you see is a responsibility of the Federal government. The major arterial roads are the ones that are the responsibility of the federal government. Majority of the roads in the country are within the purview and responsibility of States as well as local governments.

“Have we done enough? No, not yet, that is why we are trying to do more including raising special funds to make sure that roads and such other infrastructure are being addressed.”

She said in the past two years, the government had issued Sukuku bonds. “In 2017, it was for the construction of 25 roads. In 2018, 23 roads and there is also another one that is being processed.”

Responding to a question on a statement recently credited to the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, that his ministry could not get all funds required to fix roads, Ahmed admitted that the government had not implemented the budget 100 percent.

She, however, stated that the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing as well as the Ministry of Transportation always got priority attention whenever funds were released for capital projects.

According to her, although the fiscal space is tight and resources limited because revenues are “on the performing”, when there are resources and funds to release, “the highest proportion goes to Power, Transport, World and Housing.”

She said her ministry planned to release up to N900bn for capital expenditure by December.

She said N650bn had been released since President Muhammadu Buhari ordered the release of N600bn for capital expenditure in October when he submitted the 2020 budget to the National Assembly.

Ahmed said the FEC approved a memo on additional capital increase of 3,230 shares for Nigeria at the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development.

She said Nigeria held 16, 187 shares at the IBRD prior to this period in the largest development bank in the world owned by 189 member countries, adding that the total value of the shares was $50.6m.

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OSINBAJO DID NOT PRAY FOR PRESIDENT’S DEATH IN ANY CHURCH – AKANDE.

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Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo’s spokesman, Mr. Laolu Akande, has denied allegations that his principal visited a parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God where he and other congregants allegedly prayed for the death of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Akande, who is the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity (Office of the Vice-President), said this in an article published in reaction to columnist, Dr. Festus Adedayo’s opinion piece.

Adedayo had, in an article published on Sunday in several online platforms (not goldennationblog) titled, ‘The Trials of Brother Osinbajo,’ said he received information that Osinbajo, who is a Senior Pastor with the RCCG, had, in a gathering with members of the church, prayed for the death of the President when the latter was away on medical leave.

The columnist said a confidante of Buhari, who was at the gathering, informed the President of Osinbajo’s “sinister plan,” hence the breakdown in the relationship between Buhari and Osinbajo.

In his reaction, however, Osinbajo’s spokesman challenged Adedayo to state where the alleged prayer session took place and the date.

Akande wrote, “He (Adedayo) claimed that the Vice President, together with some Redeemed Church ‘accomplices,’ gathered to pray at some place unstated in his home state of Ogun, at a date that was not indicated, for the purpose of interceding for the VP to become President, and by extension, hoping for, or seeking the death of the President.

“So, where exactly in Ogun State did this prayer session take place, and when? Was it in a church, in which case there would likely be an audio recording?

“Who are the prominent pastors or other persons involved that can testify to what transpired — what are their names?

“Who is the ‘strong Buhari ally’ who made a surprise appearance at the gathering and brought the story back to Mr. President?.

“If, as Adedayo claims, the VP has been hounding and haranguing this Buhari ally since then, why is it so difficult for him to cry out and publicise his strange discovery?”

Akande also rubbished claims by Adedayo that Osinbajo, as acting President, had an ulterior motive when he sent the name of the then acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen, to the Senate for confirmation.

He wondered how Osinbajo would have wanted Onnoghen to sack Buhari.

“Who primed Onnoghen to package Buhari inside a judicial casket during the 2019 elections? And to whose benefit?

“If, for any reason, the Buhari election was nullified by the judiciary, how would that benefit his running mate, since they contested on the same ticket?” Akande asked.

The Vice-President’s spokesman said it was unfortunate that some elements were being sponsored to drive a wedge between Osinbajo and Buhari.

There have been reports about a friction between the President and the Vice-President in the last three months.

So far, the President had reduced the responsibilities of his deputy and had also sacked 35 of his aides.

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4 SENTENCED TO DEATH FOR KIDNAPPING, ARMED ROBBERY, OTHERS.

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Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of a Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, yesterday sentenced four men to death for kidnapping the traditional ruler of Iba Kingdom, Oba Goriola Oseni.

Duba Furejo, Ododomo Isaiah, Reuben Anthony, and Yerin Fresh, were arraigned before the court on October 24, 2016, by the Director of Public Prosecution, on an eight count charge of conspiracy, murder, attempted murder, armed robbery and kidnapping

The defendants on July 16, 2016, were said to have also murdered a security guard, Sunday Okanlawon, a commercial motorcyclist, Joseph Okeke and also robbed the monarch’s wife of her mobile phone before shooting her several times during the kidnapping.

They pleaded not guilty to the offences. However, the prosecution tendered several exhibits to argue their case.

The state called seven witnesses to prove their case against the defendants The trial judge said she found all the convicts guilty of the charges against them.

Delivering the verdict, the court sentenced the defendants to death for causing the death of Sunday Okanlawon and Joseph Okeke.

“I hereby sentence the offenders to life imprisonment for shooting the Olori of Abosede Goriola, conspiracy to murder 10 years, conspiracy to commit kidnap 10 years each’’. For armed robbery, the convicts bagged life imprisonment and 21 years imprisonment for kidnapping. The monarch was abducted and kept in captivity for about three weeks before he regained freedom.

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ATIKU SPEAKS ON ANTI HATE SPEECH BILL.

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The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general elections, Atiku Abubakar, has said that the bill being conceived by the National Assembly to tackle hate speeches and other social media related contents is an abuse of legislative process.

In a statement, the former Vice President said the bill is one which will violate Nigerians’ constitutionally guaranteed right to Freedom of Speech.

He stated that the bill sponsored by Senator Sabi Abdullahi is obnoxious, adding that the lawmakers should rather make laws to tackle pressing domestic challenges across the country.

“Atiku Abubakar wishes to sound a note of caution to those now toying with the idea of an Anti Hate Speech Bill, with punishment for supposed Hate Speech to be death by hanging. The contemplation of such laws is in itself not just hate speech, but an abuse of the legislative process that will violate Nigerians’ constitutionally guaranteed right to Freedom of Speech.

Atiku urges those behind this Bill to awake to the fact that Nigeria’s democracy has survived its longest incarnation, because those who governed this great nation between 1999 and 2015 never toyed with this most fundamental of freedoms. It is prudent to build upon the tolerance inherited from those years and not shrink the democratic space to satisfy personal and group interests.

Freedom of Speech was not just bestowed to Nigerians by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), it is also a divine right given to all men by their Creator. History is littered with the very negative unintended consequences that result when this God given right is obstructed by those who seek to intimidate the people rather than accommodate them.

We should be reminded that history does not repeat itself. Rather, men repeat history. And often, to disastrous consequences.

Nigeria presently has too many pressing concerns. We are now the world headquarters for extreme poverty as well as the global epicentre of out-of-school children. Our economy is smaller than it was in 2015, while our population is one of the world’s fastest growing. We have retrogressed in the Corruption Perception Index of Transparency International, from the position we held four years ago, and our Human Development Indexes are abysmally low.

It therefore begs the question: should we not rather make laws to tackle these pressing domestic challenges, instead of this Bill, which many citizens consider obnoxious?

Again, Atiku cautions that we must prioritise our challenges ahead of the whims and caprices of those who do not like to hear the inconvenient truth. Stop this folly and focus on issues that matter to Nigerians.”

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BREAKING: NAVY RESCUES ABDUCTED OFFICERS.

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There are indications that four immigration officers, who were abducted by pirates on Monday morning along Bonny waterways in Bonny LGA, Rivers State, have been rescued.

The immigration officers were rescued on Wednesday morning during what was described as a surprise raid by the Navy and the maritime component of the Joint Task Force in Niger Delta codenamed ‘Operation Delta Safe’.

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BBNAIJA: MERCY, IKE UNDER ATTACK OVER RAUNCHY PICTURE.

Big Brother Naija, 2019 winner, Mercy has come under attack over her recent picture with lover, Ike.

Mercy on Monday shared a picture on her social media pages exposing her butt while sitting on Ike’s lap.

The picture has since generated comments from Nigerians on social media.

Nollywood veteran actress, Joke Silva condemned Mercy’s outfit in the picture.

Joke Silva questioned why the reality show winner was scantily dressed while her boyfriend was fully covered.

She wrote: “I really don’t get this picture, the lady half exposed the man fully clothed….do we get the implication?”

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RIVERS ASSEMBLY APPROVES MTEF 2020 TO 2022.

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The Rivers State House of Assembly has adopted the Medium Term Expenditure Framework 2020 to 2022 sent by Governor Nyesom Wike to the House.

This followed a debate on the documents presented during Tuesday plenary.

Governor Wike in a letter addressed to the House urged the lawmakers to consider the MTEF for adoption.

The MTEF contains the fiscal revenue projection, as well as the expenditure profiles and parameters which the 2020 budget is anchored on.

In the same vein, the Rivers State House of Assembly has given first reading to Rivers State contributory health protection program bill sent to the house by governor Wike for consideration and passage into Law.

The bill proposes to establish a, “Contributory Health Protection Program to ensure that residents of the state have access to effective, quality and affordable healthcare services, pursuant to the promises by the state government to improve the health and living conditions of residents of the state”.

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JUDGE GIVES EFCC ULTIMATUM TO EXTRADITE FORMER MINISTER FROM THE UK.

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A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has given the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission until March 2020 to have a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke extradited to Nigeria from the United Kingdom.

The commission had in November 2018 filed a 13 count charge of money laundering against the former minister accusing her of unlawfully taking into her possession the sums of $39.7m and N3.32bn with which she allegedly bought choice properties in Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt in Rivers State, while she was in office as Minister of Petroleum Resources.

At the resumed hearing of the suit, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu threatened to strike out the money laundering case should the anti-graft agency fail to produce the defendant in court by March 2020.

The prosecuting counsel, Mister Faruk Abdullah, had earlier on pleaded with the judge to adjourn the case indefinitely on the grounds that the EFCC was facing challenges in its bid to extradite the defendant from the United Kingdom.

Missus Diezani has been in the United Kingdom facing corruption investigations since 2015 when she left office as minister.

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UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA GETS NEW REGISTRAR

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The University of Abuja, on Tuesday, appointed Malam Yahaya Mohammed, as the new Registrar of the University to oversee its affairs for the next five years.

Mohammed was the Deputy Registrar (Administration) of the institution before his elevation as the Registrar.

The new Registrar is a 1987 graduate of Public Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and has a Masters degree in Public Administration from the University of Abuja.

He joined the institution in 1990 and rose through the ranks.

Mohammed said while taking over that he would key into the vision and mission of the University for the development of education in the country.

The former Registrar, Mrs Rifkatu Swanta, while handing over to Mohammed called on the management and staff to support him in order to succeed.

The new Registrar, a member of many professional associations, was born in 1964 and hails from Kogi.

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POLICE RESCUES KIDNAPPED CHILD, ARRESTS THREE SUSPECTS.

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The Kano State police command’s Anti-Kidnapping Team, Operation Puff Adder has rescued another 11-year-old boy kidnapped in Kano, Muhammed Ya’u and sold in Onitsha, Anambra.

This was contained in a statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abdullahi Haruna and issued to Newsmen on Tuesday.

According to the police spokesman, Ya’u was kidnapped in 2014 at PRP Quarters in Kano metropolis by one Paul Onwe and his wife Mercy Paul and sold the victim to one Ebere Ogbodo at the sum of N200,000.

“In continuation of the Command’s effort to rescue the children kidnapped from Kano to other parts of the country, between 05/11/2014 to 08/11/2019, the command’s Anti Kidnapping Team of Operation Puff Adder carried out another rescue operation.

“During the operation, one Muhammed Ya’u ‘m’ 11 years old kidnapped in the year 2014 at PRP Quarters in Kano, was successfully rescued at Onitsha in Anambra State.

“The victim was kidnapped by Paul Onwe and Mercy Paul’ and sold to Ebere Ogbodo ‘at the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000) and renamed as Chinedu Ogbodo,” Haruna said.

He said all the three suspects were currently under investigation while effort was being intensified to rescue more kidnapped children.

“The Command is using this medium to thank the good people of the state for their support, patience and efforts in fighting all forms of crime and criminality in the state,” he added.

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EZE EYES BULGARIAN LEAGUE TITLE WITH PLOVDIV.

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Locomotiv Plovdiv defender, Stephen Eze, says they are ready to fight to overtake leaders Ludogrets at the top of the league table.

Ludogorets welcome second-placed Plovdiv to the Stadium Ludogorets Arena, in a top of the league clash on Saturday, with Eze stating that they are ready for the challenge.

Plovdiv have won 11 out of 16 games this season, but are six points behind the leaders.

Reacting to his team’s 2-0 win over 13th placed Botev Vrasta, the giant defender says they have enough motivation to face the defending champions.

“Another victory in the bag with 2-0 against Botev Vratsa, we continue our domination on the table with just six points behind the leaders Ludogorets! Lot more to come and we are ready for the challenge,” he wrote on Instagram.

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NFF OFFICIALS CANNOT INFLUENCE MY SELECTION – EAGLES COACH.

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Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr has said he would not allow officials of the Nigeria Football Federation to influence the choice of players to be invited to the national team.

He said this on Tuesday while responding to questions concerning the new conditions to be included in his contract.

NFF president, Amaju Pinnick, had on Monday said the Franco-German coach would be mandated to reside in Nigeria and monitor domestic league match before he would be handed a contract extension.

But Rohr said he invited players based on merit, explaining that he was not bothered about the mood of officials when selecting his team.

Only Enyimba defender Ifeanyi Anaemena made Rohr’s 23-man squad from the domestic league after replacing Bryan Idowu for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches.

Rohr said, “I know he (Pinnick) sometimes has a different opinion like me but then, it is football. I never accept it to make a choice coming from the officials; my choice is the choice of sports arguments only, to take the best players.

“Unfortunately, we could not take more players from the local league because they did not play, so it was difficult for them to be fit.

“I know that some people cannot be happy about my choice but I can tell you it is my choice, it is always honest.”

While emphasising that he was determined to get the Eagles qualify for Cameroon 2021, he said, “I have to work, the contract is not a problem. I think by the end of the year, I will discuss with the NFF. No distraction for me, but it’s time for us to have a new project to win the next AFCON, we need to be at the next World Cup as well.”

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SUPER EAGLES COACH AND CAPTAIN TARGETS TO WIN AGAINST TRICKY SQUIRRELS.

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Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr and captain Ahmed Musa say the national team are prepared for a tough game in their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Benin Republic.

Nigeria and Benin will meet in their Group L opener of the 2021 AFCON qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Wednesday (today).

“We enjoyed ourselves against Ukraine and Brazil, but (today) game will be different,” Rohr said at a news conference at the Ibom Le Meridien Hotel and Resort on Tuesday.

“African football is a bit difficult, Benin Republic are doing fine at the moment. I hope today’s (Tuesday) training will be enough for us.”

According to Musa, the players have resolved to ensure that Nigeria grab three points in their match against Benin

He said, “We don’t have a choice. We have to play. Our last two games were good. We will only put our attention in this game the way we did in the friendlies.

“We all know that we have to win the first game. We all know that this is important. We’ll talk to ourselves to ensure that we go out to show what we have.”

Benin coach Michel Dussuyer, said his team were eyeing a positive result in Uyo.

He said, “We know here are great African champions, third in the last AFCON. They have a large squad with players who play at the highest level. We know the gaps in potential.

“We’re here to defend our chances on the field, if we’re disciplined. We already have some experience of playing for the big teams. We’re going to play a game with ambitions.”

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COURT ORDERS FAKE POLISH COMPANY BURNT DOWN.

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A Federal High Court sitting in Awka, Anambra State, has ordered the destruction of fake shoe polish confiscated in some markets in Onitsha.

The court presided over by Justice I. B. Gafai said the 1,600 tins of fake Kiwi polish worth about N42m should be destroyed by burning.

In addition to the destruction of the fake products, the court ordered the seizure of the property of the importers and awarded N2m against them.

The counsel for Asco Investment, Mr Tagbo Anaeto, described the faking of genuine products as a great economic sabotage as it was an infringement on the trademark of registered owners of Kiwi products.

Anaeto expressed gratitude to the judiciary for the order and the steadfastness of the Chairman of Asco Investments, Chief Sam Anyanwutaku, to wipe out fake products from the markets.

He said, “It is an ongoing exercise. We are in every market to fish out fake Kiwi products, especially markets in Onitsha.

“Those involved in the illegal act do so under the cover of a company and we are happy that the court has directed the Standards Organisation of Nigeria to sanction them appropriately.

“We are also happy that the fake products are no longer as prevalent as they used to be as the people involved are beginning to realise that Asco Investment are unrelenting in fighting the fake Kiwi polish importers.”

Anyanwutaku commended the judiciary, security agencies and the foreign manufacturers of the products for supporting the efforts of his company to wipe out fake Kiwi products from Nigeria.

“It is only few people that still engage in it and we hope to completely wipe them out soon. In the past, majority of the Kiwi polish in Nigeria was fake, but through our efforts, the problem has reduced considerably,” he added.

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SENATE SUMMONS NNPC GMD.

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The Senate on Tuesday summoned the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mr. Mele Kyari, to appear before its Committee on Petroleum Resources, over the spate of pipeline vandalism across the country.

The Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, stated this after the chairman of an ad hoc committee on the explosion that rocked NNPC pipelines in Rivers and Lagos States recently, Senator Ibrahim Gobir, presented his report on the floor of the Senate.

The report had indicted unnamed officials of the NNPC, Nigerian Pipeline and Storage Company and those of the firm securing the facilities of allegedly conniving with vandals to sabotage the nation.

It specifically alleged that some of the officials were aware of the Komkom pipeline leakage in Rivers State, two days before the explosion but delayed in taking necessary action.

The President of the Senate wondered why officials of government would be conniving with criminals involved in vandalising oil pipelines.

He said those involved should be sanctioned, arrested and prosecuted after a thorough investigation.

Lawan directed the Senate Committee on Petroleum (downstream) to invite the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) with a view to ensuring a review of security measures for pipelines in parts of the country.

He also said the National Assembly will amend the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency Act to prevent the activities of pipeline vandals that leads to explosions and deaths.

Lawan said: “Our Committee on Petroleum (downstream) should invite the NNPC with a view to know what they have been doing over the years to secure the pipelines; what measures are in place and whether there is need to review these agreements.

“This is a multi-billion dollar industry. People consciously do these things, it’s not an accident. Those who are caught in the fires or who come to scavenge are the ones who end up losing their lives. This is not acceptable.

“There must be sanctions, somebody will have to pay the price and of course, after these resolutions are sent to the executive, our committee must follow it up.

“When we have to amend the NOSDRA Act, this is something that we have to do expeditiously. We should do it because it will help in preventing or minimising the reoccurrence of these criminal acts.”

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BREAKING: APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, OTHERS SUSPENDED.

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Indications emerged Tuesday evening that the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has been suspended by the party in Edo State.

A source who broke the news to journalists disclosed that a vote of no confidence was passed on him by the State Excecutive Committee of the party.

Also affected is the state Secretary of the party, Lawrence Okah. It will be recalled that Okah, had earlier been suspended by the party until his eventual removal earlier Tuesday.

Details remained sketchy as at the time of filing this report.

A source hinted that it may not be unconnected with his running battle with his successor and “political godson” and current governor of the State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

His suspension is being seen as a test of political might by the state party machinery believed to be in firm control of the party in the state, and loyal to the governor.

A source disclosed that Oshiomhole, in order to serve Obaseki the “Ambode treatment” has convinced Pastor Osagie Iye-Iyanmu, Obaseki’s opponent in the governorship elections of 2016 to cross over to APC and promised the party’s ticket.

However, with the suspension of Oshiomhole, it remains unseen what this would portend in the days to come.

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VIDEO: I NOW SMOKE WHEN I WANT TO – TEKNO.

Nigerian singer, Augustine Miles Kelechi, popularly known as Tekno, took to his Instagram page @teknoofficial on Tuesday, thanking God for “the grace to quit smoking weed.”

The singer in a video posted to his IG Stories said, “Oh God, I use this medium to say thank you.

“I pray and I say I’m grateful for giving me the grace to quit smoking weed.

“I smoke when I want to, but I don’t have to smoke weed to be alright.”

On September 24, 2019, Marvin Records boss, Don Jazzy, had announced via his Twitter handle celebrating one year of quitting smoking.

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KOGI GOVT. PLANS TO SHIFT ELECTION TO TWO WEEKS- PDP.

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The Kogi State Peoples Democratic Party Campaign Council on Tuesday accused the All Progressives Congress and the Kogi State Government, under Governor Yahaya Bello of engaging in moves to shift the November 16 governorship election in the state by two weeks.

The Deputy Director Public Communication of the Campaign Council, Mr. Austin Okai said the alleged plot to shift the poll was because of the strong public opinion polls and the general feelings of the APC members, that Bello who is the APC Kogi State governorship candidate will be beaten to the third position in the election, if INEC goes ahead to conduct the election.

He appealed to INEC not to concede to any unholy moves allegedly by the APC that will jeopardise the expectations of the people of the state, against installing good governance.

According to him, the teeming supporters and voters across the state have travelled from far and near, to enable them elect the candidate of their choice as the next governor of Kogi State, and cannot afford to be disenfranchised.

He enjoined INEC to go ahead with the election billed for Saturday, to usher in a new brand administration into Kogi State.

But INEC through the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, had said that anyone planning to disrupt Saturday’s governorship elections in Bayelsa and Kogi States would need to use an atomic bomb if he is to succeed.

He spoke during an interview on Nigeria Info 95.1FM Abuja which was monitored by journalists.

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WE WERE GIVEN N1M NOT TO PROTEST AGAINST SOWERE TODAY- GROUP.

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Convener of a coalition of civil society groups under the aegis of Concerned Nigerians, Deji Adeyanju has claimed that the group was offered N1m by government sympathizers not to hold today’s sit out against the continued detention of Omoyele Sowore.

He spoke at the ongoing protest metres away from the DSS Headquarters at Aso Drive.

Adeyanju said, “We were offered one million Naira at gunpoint with a promise for more for us not to hold this rally. Those who gave us this money know themselves, we also know those who gave us the money.

“We will not compromise, if those who gave us the money don’t come and collect it back today, we will give it to Femi Falana SAN to defray Sowore’s legal costs.”

The protesters are currently conducting their protest peacefully under the watchful eyes of DSS operatives and soldiers from the nearby Guards Brigade.

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AUBA’S CAPTAINCY QUERIED BY GUNNERS STARS.

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A number of Arsenal players have reportedly questioned the decision to hand the club captaincy to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Earlier this month, Granit Xhaka was stripped of the skipper’s armband as a result of his angry outburst towards supporters who cheered his substitution against Crystal Palace.

While it has been suggested that the Gabon international is a welcome replacement, The Athletic claims that the appointment of the forward has been queried by some of his teammates.

The report says that there are concerns over Aubameyang’s links to AFTV, an unofficial Youtube channel which focuses on the Gunners.

Aubameyang has liked a number of posts on the account, which some players and staff feel has contributed to the negativity at the Emirates Stadium.

As a result of having just over 18 months left on his contract, Aubameyang is also being linked with a future exit from the Premier League outfit.

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BREAKING : COURT DISQUALIFIES APC DEPUTY GOV. FROM GUBER POLLS.

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The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday disqualified the Bayelsa State deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Biobarakuma Degi, from participating in the forthcoming Saturday, November 16, 2019 governorship poll in the state.

Justice Inyang Ekwo said this while delivering judgment in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1101/2019 instituted by the Peoples Democratic Party and others.

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NIGERIANS REACTS OVER SUPER EAGLES COACH’S CONTRACT EXTENSION.

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Football fans have given their assessment of the performance of Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr 40 months after his appointment.

The debate emanated over the delay in the renewal of the 66-year-old’s coach’s contract by his employers– the Nigeria Football Federation.

Rohr took charge of Nigeria in August 2016 and his contract is expected to expire after the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

While some said the coach deserved to have his contract renewed, others argue that the coach has not done enough to get an automatic renewal.

However, NFF president, Amaju Pinnnick, said the coach’s contract would be renewed once he accepts to scout for players within the Nigeria Professional Football League.

“Rohr’s contract is due for renewal in June and we don’t have any issue with him at the moment. We are going to domesticate Rohr in Nigeria and domesticate him to our league, that’s just it,” Pinnick said on Monday.

But some critics, who opposed Rohr’s contract extension, accused the coach of poor outings at the 2018 World Cup and 2019 AFCON.

They also alleged that the coach was yet to help any local player’s growth.

One of the fans, Ademuyiwa Fagbemi, said, “ Late Stephen Keshi didn’t have the quality of players he (Rohr) has at his disposal and he won AFCON, with even home-grown players like Mba, Mohammad Gambo and others. It’s been three years and he is yet to win any tournament.”

“People are saying he has done well, what did he do? He draw Brazil, we have beaten them before. He won bronze at the last Nations cup, that has been achieved before by Amodu Shuaibu. Yet, all these coaches have short time to achieve these,” another fan, Amos Ayomide added.

However, the coach’s ability to make Nigeria qualify for the 2019 AFCON and 2018 World Cup, including the present quality of the team were major points raised by Rohr’s fans, who canvassed for the coach’s contract extension.

Olubode Adesomoju, said, “ He (Rohr) did enough for a contract extension. He is so good in players’ selection. He is not biased in this area. He has the highest winning streak since he took over.

“We were able to qualify for major tournaments with some games to spare. He qualifies us without the use of calculators. He should be given an extension.”

Edwin John said, “Compare the team Rohr is currently handling with other national teams like CHAN Eagles, U-23, U-20 and U-17 and solve the puzzle.”

Tim Macfensy added, “He deserves an extension. He has discovered so many talents. He just needs more time to build a formidable team.”

“He has done well, look at the brand of football we play now compared to the era of Keshi and co and look at the quality of players he has brought into the team. I think Rohr deserves a new contract,” David Akobo added.

Michael Kushimo argued that “the presence of Rohr has made it easier for players of Nigerian descent to switch allegiance, because they know his team selection will be based on merit.”

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SUPER EAGLES: TROOST, EKONG, CHUKWUEZE, SEVEN OTHERS EXPECTED IN THE CAMP.

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Nine players are still expected in the Super Eagles camp in Uyo ahead of the 2021 AFCON qualifier against Benin Republic in Uyo on Wednesday.

Coach Gernot Rohr earlier asked the players to arrive in Uyo at least 48 hours to their qualifying duel against the Squirrels on Wednesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

The spokesman for the Nigeria Football Federation, Ademola Olajire, said the nine players are expected to arrive Tuesday (today) morning.

Those expected are defenders William Troost-Ekong, Ifeanyi Anaemena and Abdullahi Shehu, midfielders Mikel Agu and Joe Aribo, and forwards Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Paul Onuachu and Emmanuel Dennis.

Upon their arrival, they would join their Eagles teammates in training at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Others who have arrived in the Eagles camp and trained at the Ibom Le Meridien Hotel and Resort on Monday evening are captain Ahmed Musa, goalkeepers Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi and Maduka Okoye, defenders Kenneth Omeruo, Chidozie Awaziem, Olaoluwa Aina, Jamilu Collins and Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, midfielders Alex Iwobi, Ramon Azeez and Wilfred Ndidi, and forwards Samuel Kalu and Victor Osimhen.

Also, Rohr has called up Enyimba defender Ifeanyi Anaemena for the qualifiers against Benin Republic on Wednesday and Lesotho on Sunday.

Olajire said, “Anaemena was drafted in to replace Russia-based left back Bryan Idowu, who submitted his international passport for renewal and the document is not ready for him to travel to Nigeria for the encounter.

“He was impressive for the Eagles B in their 2020 African Nations Championship qualifier against Togo at the Agege Stadium last month, and has also been a key player for Enyimba.”

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CHRISTIANO RONALDO MIGHT FACE 2 YEAR BAN.

Juventus may have beaten AC Milan on Sunday night, but it wasn’t a great evening for certain Cristiano Ronaldo.

Last week, he was substituted during Juve’s Champions League match against Lokomotiv Moscow with the score still level at 1-1. The Old Lady went on to win 2-1.

And it was a similar story against Milan.

Ronaldo was replaced by Paulo Dybala in the 55th-minute with the score still 0-0.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner didn’t look happy to be subbed as he muttered something under his breath in the direction of Maurizio Sarri and walked straight down the tunnel.

But, once again, Sarri’s controversial decision was vindicated as Dybala scored the only goal of the game in the 77th-minute.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo didn’t seem too interested in whether his side would go on to win the match.

That’s because Sky Sport Italia – per Football Italia – then confirmed that Ronaldo had left the Allianz Stadium before the match had even finished – in the 87th-minute to be exact.

And, apparently, that could land him in big trouble.

According to former Italian footballer Antonio Cassano, Ronaldo could be facing a two-year ban – a ban that he was threatened with himself.

“Did he leave before the end of the game?” Cassano asked on the Italian television show Tiki-Taka, per AS. “You can’t do that because there is an anti-doping control.

“I had to go back to the stadium urgently to avoid two-year ban.”

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MESSI WILL STAY FOR ANOTHER FIVE YEARS – BARCELONA’ PRESIDENT.

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President Josep Maria Bartomeu has predicted that Lionel Messi will remain as Barcelona’s “leader” for another five years.

Due to a release clause in his contract, Messi is able to end his long-term association with the Catalan giants in the summer.

However, Bartomeu feels that the 32-year-old, who netted another hat-trick for the Spanish giants at the weekend, has the characteristics to stay at Camp Nou until at least 2024.

Bartomeu is quoted by Sky Sports News as saying, “Surely it will be the wish of all parties, if he feels strong and ambitious, to extend this contract indefinitely.

“Ultimately it is he who must decide. He has earned the right to decide when he will stop playing football. But like he said a few weeks ago, he wants to finish his playing career at Barcelona.

“Over the next two or three seasons, our leader will continue to be Leo Messi. There’s no doubt that he is still young, still strong. He is still ambitious. So Leo Messi will still play with us for the next two, three, four or five years. I have no doubts about that.”

Messi has previously been linked with a return to boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys.

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ANOTHER TANKER EXPLOSION IN LAGOS, SCHOOL RAZED BY FIRE.

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Residents of the Pipeline Road, Ipaja, Lagos State, were shaken on Monday after a Mack tanker conveying 33,000 litres of suspected stolen Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) exploded in front of the Honeyland Schools.

Three vehicles and some property were burnt in the inferno before the intervention of emergency management workers from both the state and federal agencies.

It was gathered that the tanker was being driven out of the pipeline area when an electric wire fell on it.

A spark from the wire was said to have ignited a fire, which led to the explosion around 3am.

It was learnt that the hoodlums, who vandalised the pipeline, had successfully driven six fuel-laden tankers away from the community without any incident, but the seventh tanker exploded and caused the inferno.

Residents lamented over the complicity of security agents and oil workers, claiming that a Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation hose was used to syphon the fuel from the broken valve into the tankers.

Three burnt cars were counted at the scene, while the carcass of the tanker was abandoned in the middle of the road.

The cars, it was gathered, belonged to taxi drivers at the Ipaja motor park.

Two plastic drums of water in a house beside the scene were melted by the heat of the fire.

The scene was cordoned off by security officials.

A former Chairman of the Ipaja motor park, Saliu Mustapha, whose Toyota Picnic was burnt, said the vandals were heavily armed.

Mustapha stated, “Some loaded tankers had already gone with fuel. This tanker was the last. However, the tanker ahead of it mistakenly ran into a wire across the road, snapping it in the process.

“That was how the wire fell on this tanker, which was following closely behind. There was a spark and then an explosion.

“People wanted the driver to get to the main road to reduce the damage to property, but the fire was too much and everybody ran away.

“When security operatives attempted to apprehend the driver, he brought out a gun and threatened to shoot anybody who came near him.”

He noted that aside from his vehicle, a Toyota Camry and Hyundai car were also burnt.

The driver lamented that his source of livelihood was gone and wondered how he would survive.

He added, “The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps officials were around when the hoodlums came. They said they could not face those boys because of their sophisticated weapons.

“I have come to the conclusion that there is no security in this country. We don’t have any security.”

Another eyewitness, Oladokun Idowu, said the vandals had been coming to the community for the past three days.

He explained that they were backed by some men, who appeared to have military training.

Idowu stated, “There was power supply at the time the fire started. We called the fire service and they extinguished it. We don’t know the owner of the burnt tanker. It does not even have a number plate.

“The government is to blame for what is happening. If the government had brought soldiers here, this would not have happened without anybody challenging the vandals.”

However, a volunteer emergency worker told journalists that the truck had a number plate, which was removed by some persons.

The official, who refused access into the restricted area for safety consideration, said the number was embossed in certain parts of the truck.

A distant camera shot of the truck, however, revealed that the owner could be a member of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, as the union’s sticker was conspicuously pasted by the passenger’s side.

The spot were visited where the pipeline was vandalised and the NSCDC and NNPC officials working there.

The NNPC hose alleged to have been used for the operation was still on the ground as two men battled to fill the dug up area with mud.

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SENATE REJECTS NPF BUDGET FIGURES.

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The Senate has said the documents supplied by the Nigeria Police Force during the budget defence did not indicate that the NPF had an accurate figure of its personnel.

The revelation, according to the official twitter handle of the red chamber, @NGRSenate, was made known by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Haliru Jika.

Jika spoke while presenting the report of his committee to the Senate Committee on Appropriation.

He told the Chairman of the appropriation committee, Senator Barau Jibrin, that the confusion made his panel members to have a meeting with the Chairman, Police Service Commission, Musiliu Smith.

He said the panel also held meetings with the representatives of the accountant general of the federation and the minister of police affairs.

Smith, according to the report, was said to have told the lawmakers that the Nigeria Police Force headquarters was in a better place to say the exact figures of its personnel.

The report added that the Minister of Police Affairs, Mohammed Dingyadi, told the Senate panel that the recruits were not on the police payroll.

He said that as students, they would only be qualified to be on the payroll after their training.

Jibrin, the report added, expressed dissatisfaction, saying, “If the lawmakers conducted an investigation, it will be discovered that all figures provided by the police will not be correct.”

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DUFIL EMPOWERS 40 PUPILS WITH SCHOLARSHIPS.

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Dufil Prima Foods, makers of Indomie Noodles, has lifted 40 pupils from four schools in Ado-Odo council of Ogun State with N4 million scholarship.

The pupils were from Iganmode Grammar School, Ansar-ud-Deen Comprehensive College, Iju Ebiye High School, and Sango Ota High School. The 10 best pupils in JSS 3 in each of the four schools got 100,000 each.

Officials of the Ministry of Education and the Oloruba of Oruba-Ota, Oba Wadudu Ajani Dehinde witnessed the cheque presentation at Iganmode Grammar School.

Dufil’s Public Relations and Events Manager Tope Ashiwaju said the gesture was necessitated by the need to boost education and safeguard the future.

Iganmode Junior Grammar School Vice Principal Ismail Salako stressed the need to invest in quality education to and building a better and productive society.

Oba Dehinde said: “It is indeed an intervention to promote quality education; this will go a long way in boosting the morale of the pupils and motivate others.”

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OBASANJO SAYS SICKLE CELL VICTIMS NEEDS EMPATHY.

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Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo has stressed the need for more collaborative efforts to foster better education and awareness about sickle cell diseases.

Speaking in Lagos at the grand patron of the First African Congress on Sickle Cell Disease, ACSCD, Obasanjo emphasised the fact that every sickle cell sufferer has a unique story behind the pain they go through therefore, need empathy and not sympathy.

The 3-Day conference was organised by Dr. Sickle Cell – Center for Sickle Cell Disease in association with Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation and supported by World Health Organisation, Federal Ministry of Health amongst other sickle cell foundations across Africa.

In his welcome address, the co-chair ACSCD Congress, Dr. David Ajaere said the burden of sickle cell disease cannot be overcome by any single organisation or individual. “it takes an hoslitic approach whereby partnerships are forged between organizations and relevant stakeholders with aligned interest and vision in a bid to overcoming sickle cell disease in Africa.”

The Director for WHO, Africa region, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti who was represented by Prof. Jean-marie Dangou, Coordinator of Non-Communicable Disease Primary Prevention and Integrated Management stressed the need for setting priorities for National, regional and global SCD prevention and control programme.

The King of Kabaka of the Buganda kingdom in Uganda who was represented at the congress by his Minister of Health, Dr. Prosperous Nankindu also threw insight on the fight against sickle cell disease in Uganda and how they have successfully made Ugandans more aware of sickle cell management by educating them on the need for genotype screening before marriage.

The Chief Executive Officer, National Marrow Donor Programme/Be The Match, Dr. Randal Mills also stated that a cure for sickle cell disease exists.

He further mentioned that access to curative bone marrow transplant requires partnership at all levels.

The founder of MMAWT Legacy initiative and First Lady of Sokoto State, Mrs Maryam Tambuwal said “Separate those who abuse drugs from those who take prescription drugs and do not stigmatize warriors by calling them drug addicts”.

President of Vicar Hope Foundation and First lady of Abia State, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu said Sickle cell disease is mainly an African problem adding that stakeholders on the African continent should lead efforts to eradicate it.

The ACSCD International Coordinator, Amb. Eddie Resphanto stated the need for a collective voice on sickle cell disease in Africa.

Also speaking, Prof. Nosa Bazuaye said that the University of Benin Teaching Hospital has since 2017, successfully carried out 9 Bone Marrow Transplants on persons with SCD despite obstacles and limited resources.

He added that there is hope on the future of sickle cell research in Africa if other countries could ensure they make use of the power of the collective voice.

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MUSA, IWOBI AND NDIDI ARRIVES SUPER EAGLES CAMP.

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Nigeria captain and Al-Nassr winger Ahmed Musa, Everton forward Alex Iwobi and Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, as well as nine other players, are in camp.

The three-time African champions will take on the Republic of Benin in their opening Group L 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Wednesday.

On Monday afternoon, Musa, who missed the Super Eagles friendly against Brazil last month, arrived in Uyo, along with Iwobi, Ndidi, Maduka Okoye, Jamilu Collins and Ramon Azeez.

Also in camp are Chidozie Awaziem, SemiAjayi, Ola Aina, Kenenth Omeruo, Samuel Kalu and Ikechukwu Ezenwa.

Lokomotiv Moscow defender Brian Idowu has withdrawn from the game owing to passport issues and has been replaced with Enyimba’s Ifeanyi Anaemena. 11 players are still expected at the Super Eagles camp.

After their encounter with the Squirrels, Nigeria will travel to Setsoto Stadium to tackle Lesotho in their second group match on Sunday.

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COURT OF APPEAL RESERVES JUDGMENT IN OGBORU’S SUIT.

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The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja on Monday reserved judgment in the appeal filed by the All Progressives Congress and its candidate Great Ogboru against the election of Ifeanyi Okowa as Governor of Delta.

A five-member panel of the appellate court led by Justice Uzo Ndukwe-Anyanwu, reserved judgment to a date that would be communicated to parties shortly after all counsel adopted and argued their brief of argument in the appeal.

Respondents in the appeal are Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Peoples Democratic Party and Independent National Electoral Commission.

Ogboru and his party, APC are seeking to upturn the decision of the Delta State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which returned Okowa for a second term as governor of Delta State.

INEC had declared Okowa and PDP winner of the March 9 governorship election in Delta State, haven garnered majority of the lawful votes cast in the election.

But the appellants in 37 grounds of appeal filed by their counsel, Nicholson Ichekor, asked the Court of Appeal to set aside the entire judgment of the tribunal on the grounds that the tribunal erred in law when it dismissed their appeal for lacking in merit.

The three-man panel led by Justice Suleiman Belgore, had in September dismissed Ogboru and APC’s petition against the return of Governor Okowa on grounds that the petitioners failed to prove the cases of irregularities and malpractices claimed in their petition.

However, in the appeal against the decision of the tribunal, Ogboru and APC argued that the lower court erred in law when it relied on the issue of over-voting instead of allocation of votes as canvassed in their petition to dismiss their petition.

The appellants in urging the court to nullify Okowa’s election claimed that in some polling units, the total number of votes cast at the election exceeded the total number of voters who were accredited to vote, adding that there was non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act in relation to accreditation of voters.

However, in response to the appeal, Okowa and the PDP urged the Court of Appeal to dismiss Ogboru and APC’s appeal for being incompetent and unmeritorious.

In their brief of argument by Mr Damien Dodo, SAN, and Mr Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, for Okowa and PDP respectively, the respondents submitted that the appellants failed to prove their allegations of over-voting and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

The respondents claimed that they have led cogent, credible and reliable evidence to show that they won the governorship election held on March 9 in Delta.

They submitted that the appellants, on the other hand, failed to prove how their claims of over-voting and non-compliance substantially affected the results of the election.

In adopting his brief of arguments, PDP’s lawyer, Kehinde SAN, faulted the claim of the appellants which they said was based on the smart card reader report.

“Regardless of the fact that the total number of accredited voters recorded on the smart card reader report is less than the total number of votes cast on the election day, the appellants have failed to prove their allegations of over-voting.

“The reliance of the appellants on the smart card reader report is fatal to their case and this Honourable Court is humbly urged to so hold and resolve this issue in favour of the 2nd respondent” Kehinde submitted.

In addition, the senior lawyer argued that appellants’ case at the tribunal was one of over-voting and noncompliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act on accreditation.

PDP further claimed that appellants failed to prove their allegations of over-voting and noncompliance with the Electoral Act polling unit by polling unit.

“The appellants failed to prove that the allegations of over-voting and non-compliance with the Electoral Act substantially affected the result of the election”.

In an attempt to prove their case, the appellants called a total of twenty (20) witnesses and tendered a total of 4, 523 documents in evidence during the trial.

In defence of the petition, the 1st respondent called seven witnesses and tendered 94 Exhibits, while the 2nd respondent called three witnesses and tendered six Exhibits.

The 3rd respondent did not call any witness, but tendered two Exhibits.

But the tribunal in a unanimous judgment dismissed the petition for being incompetent and lacking in merit.

According to the panel, the petitioners failed to prove any of the grounds upon which the petition was brought against Governor Okowa.

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GROUP URGES BUHARI TO REINSTATE OSINBAJO’S SACKED AIDES.

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Following the recent sacking of some presidential aides, a group under the auspices of the Nigerian Youths Alliance, has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to reinstate the presidential aides that were recently sacked .

Thirty-five presidential aides attached to the office of the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, were sacked by the Presidency last week.

To this end, the chairman of the group, Mr Akinsiji Ololade, who stated this on Monday in Akure, the state capital, said the action of the President was allegedly targeted at the youths because most of the victims were youths.

According to him, there was a need for all pro-youth groups in the country to rise up against the action of the Presidency.

He said, “While we as a group respect the constitutionally guaranteed right of the President to hire and fire, but it is most unfortunate that the purge is deliberately targeted against the youths, who, as the President himself has repeatedly acknowledged, are the true agents of the change movement that brought him to power.

“Considering that the Presidency has not hinted that the sacked aides committed any specific offences, it is therefore safe to say the young men and women relieved of their job today were thrown out because President Buhari, who himself first became President at a young age of 40, can no longer hide his distaste for youth political emancipation.

“We admit that age or being youthful is not the only criterion for participating in governance. But every nation that has attained greatness knows that it takes a combination of the wisdom of the old and the energy and know-how of the young to drive a country towards everlasting prosperity.

“It therefore beats imagination how the Buhari led government that constantly mouths ‘sustained prosperity’ hopes to deliver sustainability in both programs and policies when it drives away youths who are the true owners of the future.”

Ololade urged the President to allow youths in his administration, saying most developed countries of the world, had youths as leaders and the Nigerian government should not discourage the youths from participating in governance.

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NYSC RELEASES PROPER DRESS CODE FOR CORP MEMBERS.

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Following the dismissal of two Ebonyi corps members for improper dressing, the leadership of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has released guide and photos for proper dress code for the scheme.

In a statement posted on its official Twitter handle on Monday, November 11, the scheme said its director-general, Brig Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim, is concered about the negative perception of the Scheme’s dress code.

The Director General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim
expressed dismay at the defacing of the NYSC’s outfit.

He warned that those who do this will be dealt with.

The DG also assured that the scheme would not trample on the rights of members warning that they should stick to the dress code which has been the same since 1973 when NYSC started.

This, he said, arises mostly from some corps members’ disobedience to the dictates of the code.

He therefore noted that the NYSC has maintained one dress code which was devoid of ethnic, religious or gender biases since 22nd May, 1973 when it was established.

He stressed that the dress code,was and still is – depending on the activity – a pair of khaki trousers and shirt; crested vest; white vest; a pair of white shorts; a pair of zebra – stripped socks; a pair of jungle boots; a pair of canvas; belt and fez cap.

According to the DG: “Any other dress code, contrary to the officially sanctioned one will not promote the course of decency.” NYSC says no skirts, slim-fitted trousers, baggies and other improper style.

The statement added: “The Management observed with dismay the defacing of the NYSC uniform by some Corps Members by reshaping their khaki trousers, making them skin – tight which unduly exposes their curvatures, particularly the female Corps Members. Some others in the name of religion turn the pair of trousers issued to them into skirt.

“It is apt to state that NYSC does not issue hijab as part of the dress code. Rather, the Scheme permits the use of white hijab which must not be more than shoulder length and must be tucked into the uniform. The policy of allowing hijab which does not deface the NYSC uniform is not new as it has been there.

NYSC’s dress guide came just days after two members of the scheme currently undergoing a 3-week orientation course for the 2019 Batch C Stream 1 in Ebonyi, were dismissed from the orientation camp for refusing to wear trousers.

The two corps members Okafor Love Obianuju with registration number EB/19C/0523 and Odji Oritsetsolaye (EB/19C/0530) were seen in camp wearing skirts in place of the white shorts required of them. The ladies, who stood their ground, stated it was against their faith to wear trousers and were subsequently dismissed.

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LIVERPOOL BEATS MAN CITY, SALAH, MANE SCORES.

Liverpool struck a potentially decisive blow in the Premier League title race as victory over reigning champions Manchester City at Anfield opened up an eight-point lead at the top of the table.

The confrontation between the two domestic superpowers had been billed as a defining moment in Liverpool’s 30-year quest to land the title – and this outcome leaves them with a commanding advantage over Leicester City in second place.

Liverpool took the lead after only six minutes when Fabinho flashed a 25-yard drive past keeper Claudio Bravo, deputising for injured Ederson, the goal given after a video assistant referee check for handball against Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Manchester City were threatening in possession but Jürgen Klopp’s team are ruthless in attack, as proved when Mohamed Salah doubled their lead six minutes later, heading in at the far post from Andrew Robertson’s superb cross.

Raheem Sterling missed a headed chance and Sergio Agüero saw a shot deflected on to the post as City tried to find a foothold but it was all over six minutes after the break when Jordan Henderson’s pinpoint delivery lured Bravo into a critical moment of hesitation and Sadio Mané headed in.

Bernardo Silva pulled one back with 12 minutes left but it was too late for City, who will rue not making the most of their plentiful possession and opportunities as they now lie nine points off the top in fourth place.

Guardiola was fuming at the final whistle, appearing to thank referee Michael Oliver sarcastically before leaving the pitch, shortly after being enraged when another penalty claim against Alexander-Arnold was waved away.

Liverpool, meanwhile, celebrated a victory that gives them a real hold at the Premier League summit.

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SUPER EAGLES TO ARRIVE NIGERIA TODAY.

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Super Eagles players are expected to arrive in Nigeria on Monday (today) ahead of their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Benin Republic in Uyo.

Samuel Kalu and Kenneth Omerou arrived on Sunday.

Nigeria open their campaign for a place in Cameroon 2021 by welcoming the Squirrels of Benin Republic to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Wednesday.

After the Benin clash, the team will fly to Maseru on Friday for the Day Two clash against the Crocodiles of Lesotho at the Maseru-Setsoto Stadium on Sunday.

Nigeria welcome back skipper Ahmed Musa from injury, with defenders Omeruo, Abdullahi Shehu and Bryan Idowu, as well as midfielder Mikel Agu.

France-based utility player Kalu also returns after missing the prestige friendly against Brazil.

Goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi is called for the first time since the 2019 AFCON in Egypt – first choice Francis Uzoho is out for several months after his horrific injury against Brazil.

Senegalese official Issa Sy has been appointed by CAF for the qualifying match between Nigeria and Benin Republic in Uyo.

Sy will be assisted by compatriots Nouha Bangoura (assistant referee one), El Hadji Abdoul Aziz Gueye (assistant referee two) and Fatou Thioune (fourth official).

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BREAKING: AKPABIO WINS IN APPEAL, COURT ORDERS RERUN IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

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The Court of Appeal sitting in Calabar has ordered a rerun in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State where Senator Godswill Akpabio lost to Senator Christopher Ekpenyong in the February 23, 2019 senatorial election in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.

Akpabio, who is currently the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the election, had gone to the Court of Appeal to challenge the decision of the election petition tribunal to declare the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ekpenyong, winner.

The court ordered a rerun in Essien Udim within 90 days.

Details later.

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GENEVIEVE RECEIVES SYMPATHY FROM FILMMAKERS OVER DISQUALIFICATION OF LIONHEART.

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It is no longer news that Nigeria’s first-ever film entry for the Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars (international feature film category), Lionheart, produced by Genevieve Nnaji, was disqualified during the week.

Lionheart was yanked off as it predominantly features English dialogue. The disqualification was based on one of the academy’s rules which states that, ‘An international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion picture produced outside the United States of America with a predominantly non-English dialogue track’.

The development soon elicited a lot of discourse online as Nnaji and some movie critics expressed dissatisfaction at the Oscars.

In a chat with journalists on Sunday, a popular actor and director, Paul Obazele said, “I quite empathise with Genevieve on her ambition to get an Oscar. It is the ambition of every filmmaker. But in my opinion, inasmuch as she wants that, it’s not what we should be bothered about. It’s a personal thing, not a national issue.

“How successful has Nollywood been? There are (reportedly) more than 180 million Nigerians; we have not been able to capture 10 per cent of this. We are killing ourselves to get involved with the white man in his own thing in his country. Oscar is for America. What have we done to develop Nollywood that is our own? What have we done to maximise what we have? We tell ourselves lies. I want to live the white man’s life but the white man has created his own rules of engagement. Why do we want him to turn it around to suit us?”

The actor also stated that Nollywood had yet to live up to its potential. He said, “Once upon a time, Nollywood was described as a phenomenon because we were able to beat the odds. We conquered the idle ground. We told our stories and got the world to listen to us.

“Today, we are being forced to listen to their things. We have not been able to defend our cultural heritage and we’ve not been able to tell our own stories in our own way. Let’s first conquer Nigeria because every day, Nollywood nosedives. The pirates are having a field day and there are no investors coming in.”

Another top filmmaker, Lancelot Imasuen, said the disqualification was a huge embarrassment. He stated, “My position is that the category is for ‘foreign language’. This means that films in other languages other than English.

“Lionheart is a very beautiful and high-quality film with good sound and pictures. It also has an ‘African’ and ‘Nigerian’ storyline.

“The Oscars’ committee should be held responsible and blamed for the embarrassment, not Genevieve Nnaji. I’m sure Genevieve didn’t beg them to pick her film. There are lots of films in other languages that are of high quality, so they know why they did that. They have caused global embarrassment for Nigeria. But in a way, it is good for Genevieve. For every disappointment, there is a gain. The film is now getting a lot of attention, so she has, at least, gained something from this saga.”

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BUHARI MOURNS TAME DAVID-WEST.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed “deep sorrow” over the death of Prof Tam David-West.

He described ‘the indomitable Tam David-West’ as “friend and ally.”

State House statement conveying the President’s condolence, reads, partly, “Professor Tamunoemi Sokari David-West, 83, was a consultant virologist of national and international standing.

He served as Commissioner of Education in the old Rivers State, Minister of Petroleum and Energy under the Muhammadu Buhari military regime, and Minister of Mines, Power and Steel under Gen. Ibrahim Babangida regime.”

It quoted Buhari as saying, “He had an indomitable spirit, stood resolutely by whatever he believed in, and was in a class of his own.

The statement, which was signed the President’s media aide, Mr Femi Adesina, recalled that David-West was an academic and author of many books.

“He commiserates with the David-West family, the people of Buguma, Kalabari Kingdom of Rivers State, the academia, and all those who loved ‘the forthright Tam David-West.’

“President Buhari prays that God will rest the soul of the committed nationalist, urging all those who believe in the ideals he espoused to approximate same, for the betterment of Nigeria, and humanity in general”, it added.

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LACAZETTE DEFENDS EMERY IN EPL.

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French striker Alexandre Lacazette has leaped to the defence of under-fire Arsenal manager Unai Emery saying fans were being fickle in criticising him after not praising him when they were on a good run last season.

The pressure on the 48-year-old Spaniard grew with a 2-0 defeat by Leicester on Saturday, leaving the Gunners with just one win in their last six Premier League games and eight points off fourth place and a Champions League qualification spot.

Emery has also had to deal with the fallout from Granit Xhaka’s emotional outburst towards supporters when he was substituted against Crystal Palace a fortnight ago. The Spaniard eventually stripped the Swiss international of the captaincy.

Lacazette, though, said while the players’ confidence had dipped the present international break gives them a chance to recharge their batteries ahead of their game at home to struggling Southampton on November 24.

“Last season when we were unbeaten in 20 games in a row nobody said anything about the coach or manager,” said Lacazette.

“We miss confidence and we need the international break.

“I hope we are going to come back well. We want to be top four, of course.

“Now we are nine points behind Chelsea and Leicester and it is going to be hard, but everything is possible in football.”

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NAIRA MARLEY TO RELEASE SEXTAPE TONIGHT.

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Naira Marley has announced to his fans that he would release his sextape tonight, by 7pm.

He also added that any lady that would like to feature in his next sextape should DM him.

https://twitter.com/officialnairam1/status/1193870238351314945?s=19

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FANS MOURN KEHINDE OF “LIJADU SISTERS”.

Fans of Kehinde Lijadu were thrown into mourning on Saturday when the news of her death filtered in.

Kehinde, the twin sister of Taiwo of the Lijadu Sisters fame, died aged 71.

The news which has gone viral was announced by one Charlimo Imoloame, who claimed to be Taiwo’s friend.

Imoloame told journalists, “I have spoken to Taiwo about four times today. (It is) very sad.”

Although the Lijadu sisters who made waves in the early 70s have fizzled out of the entertainment scene, tributes have continued to pour in for the deceased.

Also reacting, flutist and ex-president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, Tee Mac Iseli, mourned Kehinde with a touching tribute on his Facebook page.

He wrote “Kehinde Lijadu left us and sings in heaven now. She and her sister, Taiwo and myself were born the same year.

“We created good music together for two years 1970-72 with my band TEE MAC an Afro Collection. May she rest in perfect peace!”

One Berkley Jones Ike wrote “She called me and I am still in outer denial but gum smacked. Devastated! Although she explained that she’s been unwell for a while since her son passed on a couple of years ago.”

Churchill Omoleme also wrote “Very Painful to me, as your fan and namesake. I am deeply touched. I remain your fan. Take courage dear. May her soul rest in perfect peace. I have tears running down my streams.

Another twitter user, SugarAndSpice @MsSpice007, wrote “Awwwwww the Lijadu sisters. God rest her soul…I absolutely love their voices!!!

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HALIMA DONGOTE APPOINTED AS GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS.

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Leading African business conglomerate, Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), has appointed Halima Aliko Dangote as its Group Executive Director, Commercial Operations.

Halima Aliko Dangote returns to the Group after serving on secondment in several capacities across two of its Business Units over the last five years as well as serving as a Trustee of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the conglomerate, a statement from the company on Monday read.

Until this appointment, Halima has served as the Executive Director of Dangote Flour Mills where she remarkably led the turnaround of the business from loss in turnover to a profitable status – a feat derived from consistent high performance over time, it noted.

Previously, she served as Executive Director of NASCON, a manufacturer of salt, seasonings and related consumer products, which are enjoying huge patronage among consumers. She continues to serve as a Non-Executive Director of NASCON, the company stated.

“Halima is the president of the Board of The Africa Centre in New York, a uniquely focused centre providing a forward-looking gateway for engagement with Africa, while encompassing policy, business and culture. She is a Board member of Endeavour Nigeria, and is also a member of the Women Corporate Directors (WCD).

“She has over 12 years of professional experience and has held several executive management roles.

“In her new role, Halima will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of the Dangote Group’s customer strategy to drive customer growth, improve customer relationship management, enhance customer experience and increase long term customer value,” the statement added.

It also stated that Halima will also be responsible for the implementation of the Group’s shared services strategy with specific oversight for the following functions – Commercial, Strategic procurement, Administration and Branding & Communications.

“Halima, who has a strong passion for women empowerment, holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Marketing from the American Intercontinental University, London, United Kingdom and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Webster Business School, United Kingdom.

“She has attended a number of high profile leadership development programmes including: the Programme for Leadership Development (PLD) at Harvard Business School; Executive Development Programme at Kellogg School of Management; Finance and Accounting for Non-Financial Executives at Columbia Business School.

“The Dangote Group, which recently emerged as the Most Admired African Brand and the Most Valuable Brand in Nigeria for the second consecutive year (2018 – 2019) is actively involved in manufacturing cement, sugar, salt, flour, poly-products as well as logistics, oil & gas and real estate,” it further stated.

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OKOWA PREACHES UNITY TO MARK 2019 EID-EL-MAULUD CELEBRATION.

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Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has sued for unity among Nigerians to enable the country surmount its myriad of challenges.

He made the appeal while congratulating Muslims on the occasion of the 2019 Eid-el-Maulud to celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, urging the citizenry not to despair.

In a statement yesterday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, the governor implored the faithful to “pray particularly for a peaceful and united Nigeria”, advising them to use the celebration for sober reflection and supplicate for peace and unity in the nation for an all-round development.

According to the governor, “Muslims should use the period to reflect on the challenges bedevilling the country and to share with one another, whatever means of sustenance they have, to spread the virtues of peace, love and charity which Holy Prophet represented.”

He added: “Muslims should also follow the exemplary leadership of Muhammad by promoting and ensuring peaceful co-existence within the society. And should eschew ethnic, political and religious tendencies in all their dealings, but work towards building a secure and prosperous nation where peace, justice and equity should reign.”

Okowa pointed out that the commemoration of the birth of the prophet should regenerate faith and unity among Nigerians.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate all Muslim faithful on the occasion of the celebration of Eid-el-Maulud, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. It is a clarion call on all adherents of Islamic faith to rededicate themselves to upholding the admonitions of the Holy Qur’an in their personal lives and in their relationships with others,” he stated.

The governor noted: “It is imperative that Muslims and indeed, all Nigerians, (should) use the opportunity of the celebration of the prophet’s birthday to reflect on his teachings and live a life of piety, prayer, honesty, selflessness, charity, tolerance and good neighbourliness,” adding: “As we continue to build on our Stronger Delta vision, we will continue to partner our Muslim brothers living in the state by promoting the welfare of all citizens while ensuring the protection of lives and property.”

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UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT SACKS EIGHT LECTURERS FOR ALLEGED SEX OFFENCES.

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The Akwa Ibom State University said it had terminated the appointments of eight lecturers for alleged involvement in sexual harassment and extortion.

The institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eno Ibanga, said this while briefing newsmen on the activities lined up for the 4th and 5th combined convocation at the institution’s main campus in the Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of the state.

He said some of the cases were in court, adding that 10 students involved in cultism were also caught by the management of the institution.

Ibanga alleged that the affected students were caught with a mini coffin, red clothes and axes while they were on their way to an initiation ceremony.

The VC, who noted that all the cases were thoroughly investigated before disciplinary actions were taken against the culprits, said the university was doing its best to instil sanity among lecturers and students.

He said, “The appointments of the eight lecturers have been terminated by the university bordering on sexual harassment and extortion. As we speak, a notorious one is on the ground and the person will not go scot-free.

“Some of the cases are still in court. I swore to run an institution that can stand the test of time and we are doing our best to bring sanity to the institution,”

He said 2,000 graduates would be awarded degrees, certificates and prizes during the convocation scheduled for Friday.

The number, according to him, is made up of 920 graduating students for the 2016/2017 academic session and 1,080 for the 2017/2018 graduating year.

Ibanga added 41 of the graduating students would be awarded first class degrees in various disciplines.

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CAN BLAMES NYSC FOR EXPELLING CORP MEMBERS WHO REFUSED TO WEAR TROUSERS.

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The Christian Association of Nigeria has criticised the National Youth Service Corps for expelling two corps members who refused to wear trousers or shorts for religious reasons.

Two female corps members – Okafor Love Obianuju, with call-up number EB/19C/0523; and Odji Oritsetsolaye, with call-up number EB/19C/0530 – were expelled from the 2019 Batch C Stream 1 in Ebonyi camp over the weekend.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday, however, the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the CAN President, Rev. Adebayo Oladeji, said the two ladies should not be victimised for holding on to their faith.

Oladeji noted that the Nigerian Law School denied Firdausa Al Jannah Amasa from being called to Bar in 2017 because she refused to remove her hijab, but the institution had since retraced its steps.

He said the NYSC also ought to be more tolerant.

The cleric said, “The fundamental rights of the people as regards religion must be respected.

“And that is why, a few months ago, when some Muslim women were protesting over the wearing of hijab at the Law School, we refused to speak against it because it is their right and thank God, they won it.

“We are appealing to the leadership of the NYSC to revisit the matter.

“In this country, religious right is an inalienable right that must be respected. They must allow the people to practise their religion.

“If our government agencies have no regard for the way people worship God, then it means they are satanic. Any system that does not respect religion is satanic.”

The CAN spokesman advised the affected corps members to go to court, citing the way the Muslims sued the Nigerian Law School over the hijab controversy.

“We advise the victims of that injustice to go to court and challenge their expulsion by the NYSC,” he added.

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COMMERCIAL SEX WORKER STABBED TO DEATH OVER PRICE CONFLICT.

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Men of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested one Babatunde Damilare for allegedly stabbing a commercial sex worker, one Elochukwu, to death in the Surulere area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Bala Elkana, said in a statement on Sunday that Damilare and Elochukwu had engaged in a fight over the amount to be paid for her service when the suspect used a knife to stab her in the neck.

He stated that Elochukwu died on the spot, adding that homicide detectives had arrested Damilare and would charge him.

Elkana stated, “On Wednesday, November 6, 2019, around 11pm, the Surulere Police Station received information that a commercial sex worker, identified as Elochukwu, engaged her customer, Babatunde Damilare, in a fight over the price of sex at the Edo Inn, No. 17 Atan Street, Empire, Surulere. During the scuffle, the said Babatunde Damilare picked a knife and stabbed Elochukwu in her neck, which led to her death on the spot.

“The suspect was arrested by homicide detectives led by the Divisional Police Officer, Surulere, CSP Adebayo Adeoya. The corpse of the deceased was evacuated and deposited in the Mainland Hospital morgue, Yaba, for autopsy. An investigation is ongoing. The suspect will be charged.”

In another development, a 35-year-old man, Bunmi Adeyemi, has been arrested for allegedly defiling a five-year-old girl in the Bariga area of the state.

Elkana said the suspect had confessed to the crime, adding that the victim had been taken to the Mirabel Centre for examination and treatment.

He said, “On Tuesday, November 5, 2019, around 4.15pm, the Bariga Police Station arrested one Bunmi Adeyemi, 35, of No. 8 Alhaji Alake Street, Bariga, for defiling a five-year-old girl. The suspect was arrested by a team of detectives from the Family Support Unit and has confessed to the crime.

“The victim was taken to the Mirabel Centre in Ikeja for treatment and forensic examination. The command’s Gender Unit has taken over the investigation and the suspect will be charged.”

Also, operatives of the Operation Crush unit of the command have arrested six suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity for terrorising the Bariga area of the state.

Elkana said the suspects, who were allegedly responsible for a series of murders and armed robberies in Bariga and environs, were arrested following sustained monitoring.

He added that the suspects had been on the wanted list of the police for the murder of one Fashola in the Pedro area.

Elkana said, “On Saturday, November 9, 2019, around 8.15pm, operatives of the Operation Crush arrested one Fatai Nofui, aka Itape, 28, and one Qudus Kazeem, aka, Bobo. The suspects were arrested in Ebute in Bariga, following sustained monitoring. They are members of the Aiye Confraternity with allegiance to their leader, one Mohammed, alias Obama, in Bariga. The gang is responsible for a series of violent attacks, armed robberies and murders in Bariga and environs.

“They are on the police wanted list for the murder of one Fashola on Sunday, November 3, 2019, in the Pedro area of Bariga. Exhibits recovered from them include an axe, an HTC phone, one Nokia phone, and one Itel phone that they snatched from one Amusa Bukola.

“Investigation led to the arrest of four other members of the gang, Muiyis Saraki, alias Bosingwa, 23; Lucky Sunday, 27; David Okpa, alias Na God, 29; and Taye Balogun, alias, Gbalagbala, 24. Investigation is ongoing and the suspects will be charged.”

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MINISTER SHOWS CONCERN OVER RECENT FIRE OUTBREAK IN MARKETS.

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The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, has expressed concern over the repeated cases of fire outbreaks in markets around the country.

She said this while commiserating with those who lost their property and goods worth millions of naira in the fire that gutted parts of Balogun and Dosunmu markets in Lagos recently.

The minister said the recent fire outbreaks were a source of great concern to government.

The minister, in a statement, said she felt saddened by the unfortunate incident describing it as a huge loss to Lagos State and the nation as a whole

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Ukah Frowns At Slow Pace Of Work On School Projects In Delta.

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Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, has cautioned contractors handling school projects in the state to be up and doing as the state government will no longer tolerate unnecessary delays in the completion of projects.


The commissioner gave this warning at Emore Grammar School, Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area, when he led officials of the ministry to inspect the 24 class rooms, laboratories and offices, among others, built by the state government.

After inspecting and seeing the number of students in each classroom in the school, Chief Ukah expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of the completion of the new project, adding that after three visits to the school, no significant progress have been made by the contractor.

He instructed relevant officials of the ministry to do a valuation of the extent of the work done already to enable the state government to take a decision on the project.

The commissioner said that he will do everything possible to ensure that outstanding works on the project are concluded within weeks so that the students can continue with their academic activities in a very conducive environment.

Chief Ukah warned other contractors handling school projects in the state to strictly abide by the terms of their contracts or risk the revocation of such contracts.

The commissioner stated that the state government will not treat defaulting contractors with kids gloves stressing that henceforth, punitive actions will be taken against such contractors.

The Principal of the school, Mr. Lawrence Efidhere, represented by the Senior Teacher, Mr. Ezekiel Oki, conducted the commissioner and his team round the school.

In an interview, the Head Boy of the school, Oghenekaro Ogheneafituwo, and the Head Girl, Jennifer Ogbe, thanked the commissioner and his team for the inspection and commended him for his determination to see that the project is completed.

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PRESIDENT TRUMP RELOCATES FROM NEW YORK TO FLORIDA.

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U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he will be making Palm Beach, Florida, his permanent residence instead of his Trump Tower apartment in New York City.

He has owned the Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach since 1985 and has spent more time there during his presidency than at his penthouse apartment on Fifth Avenue in New York.

My family and I will be making Palm Beach, Florida, our Permanent Residence,” Trump said on Twitter.

“Despite the fact that I pay millions of dollars in city, state and local taxes each year, I have been treated very badly by the political leaders of both the city and state,” he said, referring to New York.

A life-long New Yorker, he was raised in the city’s Queens borough and later moved to Manhattan.

Trump Tower serves as both his residence and the headquarters of the Trump Organization, his real estate company.

“As President, I will always be there to help New York and the great people of New York. It will always have a special place in my heart!” Trump said.

Trump, a Republican, has feuded with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo, both Democrats.

“Good riddance. It’s not like @realDonaldTrump paid taxes here anyway. He’s all yours, Florida,” Cuomo said in a tweet.

De Blasio said on Twitter: “Don’t let the door hit you on the way out or whatever.”

He filed to change his primary residence in late September in Palm Beach County Circuit Court, the New York Times reported.

He is running for re-election in November 2020 and, if he wins, would make the White House his home until January 2025.

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GOVERNOR MAKINDE STOPS N6.5BN CIRCULAR PROJECT.

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The Oyo State Governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, has issued a stop work order in respect of the construction of the Ibadan circular road project awarded in May 2017.

The governor, who paid a visit to the site of the circular road, off the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, said that the road was meant to connect the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to the Ibadan-Ife Expressway.

He said that work should stop with immediate effect.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, quoted Makinde as deploring the discouraging pace of work at the site, during the inspection tour.

He said, “Basically, what we saw was not encouraging. The agreement was signed in 2017, almost three years now but the work done so far was at 5 per cent or 5.5 per cent.

“Also, this was a concession of about N6.5bn for a 32-kilometre road. We just felt we need to pull back a little bit, look at things holistically and then take a decision in order to move forward.”

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FG CONSTRUCTING LOW – COST HOUSE’S – FASHOLA.

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The Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has said the Federal Government is currently constructing affordable homes in 34 states of the Federation.

Fashola, who disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday, also announced that at least one federal road project was being constructed in each of the 36 states of Nigeria.

The minister said while many of such roads had been completed, others were under construction and new ones were being planned.

He said, “We are delivering on our agenda for housing provision by aggressively and sustainably pursuing the model National Housing Programme, which will turn out acceptable and affordable houses for Nigerians, and with a lot of associated economic opportunities.

“Construction is ongoing in 34 states, most of which are largely completed, and will soon be offered for sale to the public, while also simultaneously planning the second phase in those states that have provided us with land.”

Fashola, who spoke through the Minister of State for Works and Housing, Abubakar Aliyu, noted that in the works sector, the Federal Government had also embarked on rehabilitation of roads across the country.

He said, “The effective, efficient and timely movement of people, goods and delivery of services are imperative for socio-economic growth and sustainable development.

“I am pleased to report in this regard that there is at least one federal road under construction in each of the 36 states and the FCT.

“While many have been completed, others are still under construction and new ones being planned. We are also repairing, building and rehabilitating many other roads under our Federal Road Maintenance Agency.”

He said that the government was mindful of the fact that urban settlements offered multiple opportunities and noted that this could not be attained without proper planning.

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FIRE RAZES GSM MARKET IN MAIDUGURI.

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Dozens of shops and property worth millions of Naira were destroyed in a Thursday night fire at the Maiduguri GSM market.

The fire started at about 8:00 pm and lasted for several hours before it was extinguished through the fire servicemen, security personnel and members of the community.

The market popularly called “Kasuwar Jagol,” is located at Post Office area of the metropolis, providing business spaces to thousands of traders and artisans in the area.

The spokesperson of the Borno Fire Service, Ambursa Pindar, who confirmed the incident, said that the service deployed five fire-fighting vehicles to the scene of the fire.

Pindar said that the service would conduct assessment to ascertain the extent of damage.

An eye witness, Abdulrahman Tahir, said the fire started at one of the shops and engulfed other shops in the market.

Tahir, a cell phone vendor, lamented that a number of traders lost their goods to the fire.

He, however, said that he successfully retrieved his goods by the rapid response of the fire service men and security personnel who put out the fire

Armed security personnel were deployed to the market to guard against looting by hoodlums.

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NIGERIANS SHOPS IN GHANA CLOSED UP AGAIN.

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Members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association on Thursday closed shops owned by Nigerians in Kumasi, the Ashanti Region, Ghana.

The traders closed the foreign-owned shops in a continuing operation against foreigners engaging in retail business in the country.

The traders cited Ghanaian laws to justify their action, insisting that they were left with no choice than to move into the markets and lock the shops up themselves because the law enforcement agencies failed to enforce the law.

It was reported that the activities of the foreign retailers flouted section 27 of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act 865.

That law stipulates that the sale of goods or provision of services in a market, petty trading or hawking or selling of goods in a stall at any place must be reserved for Ghanaians.

This is not the first time that the shops of Nigerians in Ghana would be closed over this same law. The same operation had been carried out in July.

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NOTORIOUS KIDNAPPERS ARRESTED, EIGHT PERSONS RESCUED.

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Operatives of the Kaduna Police Command have arrested a notorious kidnapper and rescued eight victims, including a 13-year-old boy between Tuesday and Thursday in separate operations in the state.

The incidents took place at Rigasa in Igabi Local Government Area of the state and another one at Narayi, in Chikun LGA of the state.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Yakubu Sabo, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, said the arrest of the notorious kidnapper led to the rescue of the eight victims in the kidnappers’ dens in different locations in the state.

According to police spokesman, the suspect, who’s name is given as Mustapha Ibrahim, is assisting police investigation while other gang members are on the run.

Sabo also said that the operatives of the command unearth bandits camps at Maguzawa and Gurguzu Forests in the state and had a fierce gun battle with the bandits, many whom he said, escaped with gunshot wounds.

The police chief said, “On 29/10/2019 a combined teams of Police Operatives from Rigasa, Nariya Divisions and personnel of the Command’s operation department acting on reliable tip off, swung into action and succeeded in arresting a suspected notorious kidnapper one Mustapha Ibrahim of Daura Road Rigasa Kaduna red handed, with a kidnapped victim one Abubakar Aminu a 13 year old boy of Maraban Rido Village Chukun L.G.A Kaduna State on his way to deliver the victim to his gang members.

“The suspect subsequently led the operatives to rescue two other victims in their criminal hideout namely: Ismaila Hussaini, Hussaini Umar both residing at Ado-Gwaram area of Rigasa Kaduna.

“The suspect is helping Police investigation. The Command is currently on the trail of other gang members for possible arrest and prosecution.

“In addition to the above success, the Operatives of the Command in continuation of the current onslaught against all identified Bandits Camps in the State, the operation at Maguzawa and Gurguzu Forests recorded another milestone yesterday, 31st October 2019 with the successful rescue of another set of five kidnap victims after storming some bandits camps at about 0130hrs and engaged them in a fierce gun duel.

“While the suspected bandits escaped with bullet wounds, the following captives were successfully rescued by our Operatives. They are: Sada Abdullahi, Maimuna Umar Sharif, Ismail Umar Sharif, Aisha Umar Sharif, Husaini Umar Sharif all adult of Nariya Village Chukun L.G.A Kaduna State.”

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OPERATION POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION TO BEGIN TODAY.

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The Defence Headquarters has said Operation Positive Identification, which will begin on Friday (today), is meant to flush out “foreign combatants infiltrating borders and conducting attacks.”

The acting Director, Defence Information, Col Onyema Nwachukwu, in an interview with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, said the exercise would focus mainly on bandits and criminal elements.

Nwachukwu said this just as a human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), sued the Nigerian Army, its Chief of Army Staff and the Attorney-General of the Federation, praying for an order stopping the Operation Positive Identification by the army.

But the Chief of Army Staff, Let-Gen Tukur Buratai, who appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on the Army, defended the operation, saying any means of identification would be accepted during the exercise.

Early in September, the Nigerian Army had said that it would embark on Operation Positive Identification. On September 25, the Nigerian Army, in a statement by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col Sagir Musa, said the operation would be extended nationwide to “check out for bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers, ethnic militia, cattle rustlers as well as other sundry criminals across the various regions of Nigeria.”

The acting Director, Defence Information, Col Onyema Nwachukwu, in the interview with newsmen noted that the operation was to fish out foreign attackers, bandits and fighters.

Defending the exercise, the acting director of defence information said the operation was first conducted in the North-East.

According to him, Operation Room Assessment, which the military conducted in the North-East after Operation Positive Identification, led to the arrest of top Boko Haram commanders. He said this made the military to see the need to extend the OPI to other regions.

He said, “Operation Positive Identification was first of all conducted in the North-East of Nigeria. What actually led to that operation was because there were sleeper cells of the Boko Haram and the Islamic State West African Province members that infiltrated the populace.

“For instance, during one of the combat operations with the insurgents, the military found a brand new mobile phone on a dead terrorist and also the receipt of the phone which had just been obtained from a market. This means that he had bought that phone and had been in town just days before he returned to the forests to meet the terrorist commanders. So, such instances give us the intelligence that the Boko Haram members infiltrate the towns in the North-East.

“So it was a successful operation in the North-East as several Boko Haram commanders and members were arrested and many weapons recovered. That operation was not all about the army; other services of the military and other security agencies partook in it.

“We adjudged the operation as successful in the North-East and it was decided that such operation should be extended to other theatres of operation such as the North-West and North-Central, where we have had issues of foreign combatants infiltrating our borders and encroaching on our country and conducting attacks on Nigerians who live on the fringes of these borders.

“We have had encounters with these infiltrations through forests in Zamfara, Sokoto and others being used as enclaves in the North-West. So we decided to extend the operation to other regions so as to address these cross-border criminals.

“The evaluation we did was that Operation Positive Identification would be extended to the North-West and North-Central regions because of its successes in the North-East. The operation involves all the security agencies, both those who are involved in the kinetic and non-kinetic operations.”

But a human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), asked a court to order the stoppage of the operation.

The suit marked FHC/L/CS/1939/2019 was filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos on October 25.

According to Falana, the planned nationwide operation scheduled to start from November 1 (Friday) and end on December 23, 2019, by which Nigerian citizens will be required to move about with means of identification is unconstitutional, illegal, null and void.

He argues that the planned operation violates his right and that of other Nigerian citizens to liberty, “as encapsulated in Section 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as Amended and Article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, (Cap A10) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

He filed along with the suit an order seeking an interim injunction restraining the three defendants from going on with the plan pending the hearing of the substantive suit.

In a supporting affidavit filed along with the suit, Falana recalled that on October 8, 2019 the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai, disclosed that Operation Positive Identification, said to be ongoing in the North-East theatre of Boko Haram insurrection, would be extended to cover the entire nation.

He said the operation required Nigerian citizens to move about with legitimate means of identification such as the national identification card, voter registration card, driving licence and passports or other valid official identification.

Falana argued, through his lawyers, Mrs. Funmi Falana and Taiwo Olawanle, who filed the suit on his behalf, that by virtue of Section 215 (3) of the Constitution, the Nigeria Police Force “has the exclusive power to maintain law and order and secure public safety and public order in the country” and not the army.

He contended that going by section 217(1) of the constitution, the Nigerian President could only deploy the armed forces for the suppression of insurrection and acting in aid of civil authorities to restore law and order.

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BREAKING: ANOTHER FUEL TANKER FALLS IN ONITSHA.

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Another tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) fell into a ditch along Onitsha/Enugu expressway in Onitsha on Thursday.

The tanker was said to be coming from Benin, Edo State and was heading towards Enugu when it fell into the ditch near the Chipex filling station close to Zik’s roundabout.

An eyewitness said the driver lost control of the vehicle following suspected brake failure.

The content of the tanker spilled into the culvert and police had cordoned off the area.

The firefighters had already arrived at the scene of the incident and the police had advised residents of the area to stay clear in order to prevent any disaster.

The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. John Abang also arrived at the scene for the spot assessment.

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OPERATION SHOW YOUR LICENCE BEGINS IN LAGOS – FRSC.

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Sector Command, says it will commence “Operation Show Your Driver’s Licence” from Nov. 4, as part of efforts to enforce collection of abandoned licences in its offices.

In a statement on Thursday in Lagos, DRC Olabisi Sonusi, the Acting Sector Public Education Officer, quoted the Sector Commander, Mr Hyginus Omeje, as saying the exercise will last for two weeks.

Omeje said that any driver caught without a valid licence would pay a N10, 000 fine.

“The special patrol is aimed at addressing the high incidences of driving without valid driver’s licence in Lagos.

“It will last for two weeks as most motorists who applied for driver’s licences never cared to collect them.

“Consequently, we have a total of 61, 221 uncollected permanent driver’s licences across the state offices,’’ Omeje said.

Omeje frowned at the attitude of driving without a valid licence, reiterating that it was the only legal document that permitted anyone to drive on Nigerian roads.

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NON SPORTING ACTIVITIES BANNED IN NNAMDI AZIKIWE STADIUM.

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Enugu State Government has banned non-sporting activities at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium Indoor Sports Hall, Enugu.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Vitus Okechi said this on Thursday in an interview with newsmen in Enugu.

He said the ban became necessary to enable the state government to rehabilitate the hall.

Newsmen reports that the stadium, located on Ogui Road, Achara, Enugu is a multi-purpose stadium and the home stadium of Enugu Rangers.

The stadium which has the capacity to accommodate 22,000 sports spectators, is named after the first president of the Republic of Nigeria, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.

According to Okechi, a lot of work needed to be done in the Indoor Sports Hall.

“Some of the facilities, such as the leaking roof needs to be mended. It is unfortunate that the Indoor Sports Hall has been used for religious purposes and others. Within a short time, it will be used for the purpose it was built,” the commissioner said.

The commissioner, therefore, directed the stadium manager not to allow the hall to be used for non-sporting activity.

“That hall is purely for sports and nothing else.”

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GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU MOURNS LAGOS FORMAL GOVERNOR.

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed sadness over the death of the first Military Governor of the State, Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson (rtd).

Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described the late Gen. Johnson as a complete gentleman and officer.

A dedicated Lagosian, Brig. General Johnson contributed immensely to the development of Lagos state in particular and the nation in general.

Governor Sanwo-Olu recalled General Johnson’s time as the first Military Governor of Lagos State from May 1967 to July 1975, when the late administrator brought visible infrastructural development to the state.

He said: ‘‘Although General Mobolaji Johnson has gone to be with his Lord and Creator, the memories of great accomplishments he left behind will linger on forever. One remembers how the late General Johnson’s administration worked with other seasoned professionals to establish five Government Colleges and Housing Estates, which were commissioned by the then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, within one year of his administration. This, to me, is the hallmark of service and has remained a benchmark for successive administrations in the state.’’

Sanwo-Olu, who described the late Gen Johnson as a man of vision with a mission to see a modern Lagos evolve, noted that the vision had started to manifest in what we see today as every successive administration strives to build on the developmental structure and foundation of good governance laid by late Gen. Johnson.

The Governor reminded Lagosians that the best way to immortalise the deceased is to ensure that good governance spreads to every facet of the society.

’We must ensure that the people enjoy the dividend of democracy. Development must touch the lives of the people directly. This is the best way to immortalise the late Mobolaji Johnson because this is virtue he lived for,’’ Sanwo-Olu stated.

‘’On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos state, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family of late Brigadier General Mobolaji Johnson.’’

Mobolaji died on Wednesday, 30th October, 2019,at the age of 83.

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FIVE ARRAIGNED FOR ALLEGED N8.7M FRAUD.

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The Police in Osun, on Wednesday arraigned five persons at the Federal High Court, Osogbo, for alleged N8.7 million fraud.

The Defendants are Adedeji Taiwo, Seun Oladunoye, Olawale Idowu, Ojo Olatunbosun, and Oladayo Oluwafemi.

The prosecutor, Mr Muyiwa Ogunleye, a Principal State Counsel, had told the court that the accused persons committed the offence sometime between February and March, at Adebam-Busayo Trading Complex, Ayetoro area, Osogbo.

Ogunleye, said Taiwo, Oladunoye, Idowu Olatunbosun and Oluwafemi, all conspired and defrauded Adebam-Busayo Trading Store of a total sum of N8.7 million.

“The accused happened to be workers of the trading store before their antics were discovered by the management of the company and their arrest effected,” he said.

The Prosecutor said the offence contravened sections 1(A) (B) (2) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Related Offences Cap 8, Vol.1, 2006 and 421, 383; and punishable under Section 390 (9) of the laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

The defendants had pleaded not guilty to the eight-count charge against them.

Justice Peter Lifu, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N10 million and two sureties in like sum each.

Lifu said the sureties, who must be resident within the court’s jurisdiction, must also have evidence of tax payments.

He further ordered the sureties to present three passport photographs, attached with affidavit of means; and should have their addresses verified by the court.

The judge ruled that one out of the sureties of each defendant must be a civil servant on grade level 14, while the other should be a close relation of theirs.

The case was adjourned till Dec. 4 for hearing.

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AMBODE’S BUS PROBE: COURT ADJOURNS HEARING.

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A Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has adjourned hearing till November 20, 2019 in a suit filed by the immediate past Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode to stop the state House of Assembly from probing him over the 820 mass transit buses purchased by his administration.

Justice Y.A. Akinsanya ordered Ambode and the lawmakers to maintain the “status quo” pending the hearing of the suit.

The adjournment followed a request by the lawmakers’ lawyer, Adenike Osinowo, for time to study Ambode’s suit and file appropriate response.

Osinowo said the court processes were served on her, late on Tuesday.

She said, “We were served the Motion on Notice very late (Tuesday) and we shall be opposing the motion.

“We shall be asking the court for a date to regularise our processes.”

While adjourning for hearing, Justice Adesanya directed the parties to the case to maintain the status quo.

The judge on Tuesday declined hearing an ex parte application by Ambode’s lawyer, Mr Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), to make orders of injunction against the lawmakers.

Rather than entertain the ex parte application, Justice Adesanya directed the ex-governor to put the defendants on notice and adjourned for hearing.

In the suit, Ambode urged the court to restrain the lawmakers “from compelling the claimant, in any manner whatsoever, to appear before the defendants pursuant to the resolution passed by the defendants on August 27, 2019 or any other resolution passed in respect of the subject matter of this suit”.

He urged the court to declare that “it is not lawful for the defendants to represent or continue to represent to the public that the claimant, Akinwunmi Ambode, procured 820 buses in breach of budgetary approval”.

In his statement of claim, Ambode accused the lawmakers of deliberate misrepresentation of facts, contending that contrary to their claims, “the procurement of the 820 buses was captured in the 2018 Appropriation Law which was duly approved by the House”.

He said, “In Section 1 of the bill, the 1st defendant (House of Assembly) authorised the total budget for the year 2018 to be N1,046,121,181,680, comprising the sum of N347,038,938,872.00 only and N699,082,242,808.00 only as the recurrent and capital expenditures, respectively.

“Part of the items authorised by the bill under Capital Expenditure was: ‘LAGBUS Public Transport Infrastructure; part financing of 820 buses’ which was Item 8 under Schedule 1- Part C of the bill.”

He added, “Having prescribed the manner of withdrawal of funds in Sections 3 and 4 of the 2018 Appropriation Law, it was unconstitutional for the House to attach another condition in Section 9 of the law for further approval to be sought before incurring any expenditure on the purchase of the buses.”

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CORRUPTION IS AN EMBARRASSING TOPIC IN NIGERIA – BUHARI SAYS IN RIYADH.

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President Muhammadu Buhari in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday described corruption in Nigeria as an “embarrassing topic.”

He was responding to a question if Russia had become the new best friend of Africa during a panel discussion on the second day of the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh, where he reiterated government’s resolve to actualise his promise to reduce poverty in Nigeria.

The President said Russia had remained a committed development partner to Nigeria.

“Those who focus on the progress of developing countries would see what Russia right from its days as the Soviet Union had done for us. We will never forget that. We went over our civil war with the help of Russia and since then politically and economically, the Russians have been helping Nigeria in so many ways,” he said.

A statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as saying that Russia was ‘‘visibly helping’’ Nigeria in all the priority areas of his government – security, economy and the fight against corruption-, for which he is grateful.”

The statement read, “On anti-corruption, the Nigerian leader described corruption as an ‘‘embarrassing topic’’ for developing countries, highlighting measures by the Nigerian government to eliminate corruption through lawful enforcement and preventive measures.

‘‘Those who are following our administration’s efforts on accountability at all levels will notice that we have made some progress. We have recovered hundred millions of dollars from people who took them out of the country and the economy.

‘‘We have recovered assets and given directive that they should be sold and the money returned to government coffers. We have also created a treasury single account where all government monies and revenues go into a single account so that we can trace how they go out.”

Meanwhile the President on Wednesday held talks with King Salman in Riyadh, on the sidelines of the second day of the conference.

At the event, both leaders expressed commitment to deeper partnership for the development of both countries.

Shehu said Buhari and the Saudi monarch reviewed aspects of cooperation between both countries and agreed to advance cooperation in the areas of oil and gas, given the similarities of both countries as big producers of the commodity.

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OSINBAJO PRESIDES OVER NEC MEETING.

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday presided over the monthly National Economic Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The vice president, by the provisions of Nigeria’s Constitution, is the Chairman of NEC.

The NEC meeting, held monthly, deliberates on the coordination of the economic planning efforts and economic programmes of the various levels of government.

The meeting is traditionally held on Thursdays, but this month’s meeting was shifted to Tuesday.

The council comprises the 36 state governors, the governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, minister of finance, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and other government officials, as well as agencies whose duties hinge on the economy.

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CUSTOMS SEIZES PRODUCTS SMUGGLED THROUGH SEAPORTS.

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The Nigeria Customs Service has announced the seizure of 34 containers of rice smuggled through the Tin Can Island port.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Hameed Ali (retd), disclosed this in Lagos on Tuesday.

One container of rice was concealed with spare parts, he disclosed further.

He said in addition to the 34 containers of rice, the service also intercepted 11 containers of unregistered pharmaceutical products, two containers of used tyres, one container of used clothing and four containers of refined vegetable oil in retail packs, bringing the total to 52 containers of seized contraband.

Ali put the Duty Paid Value of the seized goods at N2.7bn.

He attributed the seizure to the recent closure of the land borders which according to him had prompted importers of banned items to route them through the seaports.

He said, “Specifically we are aware that the partial closure of the land borders has resulted in the diversion of some cargoes back to our seaports.

“While we welcome this development which no doubt will boost revenue, improve our trade facts and figures and sustain our diversification efforts, we have also recorded a number of seizures of unwholesome products which otherwise would have been smuggled through the borders.

“Realising that there may be a possible backlash to the closure of the land borders, I directed all seaports and airports to beef up surveillance and intercept any illicit and prohibited consignment for which attempt for their smuggling may be made through these entry points.

“This decision was made considering that those consignments may have been paid for and the importers will devise entry means to ensure they are delivered to their warehouses in Nigeria.”

It was gathered that the consignment of rice originated from Thailand.

Ali added that some of the rice had expired while others were about to expire.

Rice importation, both through the sea and land is prohibited.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has not issued Form M since 2015 for the importation of rice through the seaport, therefore any foreign rice in the country is smuggled, the Customs CG said.

Ali said he had directed a full investigation to bring all those connected with the importation to justice.

Commending the Tin Can Island Command of the Customs, Ali said N286.7bn had been generated as revenue by the Command from January to date.

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BREAKING: FG TO REGULATE SOCIAL MEDIA ACTIVITIES- LAI MOHAMMED.

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The Federal Government on Tuesday said it was working on how to inject sanity into social media which it said was currently out of control.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, disclosed this at a press conference in Abuja.

Mohammed said no responsible government would sit back and allow such activities capable of setting the country on fire to continue unchecked.

“It has reached a level that the government may just no longer fold its arms and allow this to continue,” he said.

The minister also said no amount of attacks or criticism would stop the government from implementing the tougher sanctions for broadcast stations who breach the nation’s broadcast code especially as it concerns the dissemination of fake news as well as inciteful and divisive comments which were approved by President Muhammadu Buhari recently.

He assured stakeholders that responsible journalists have nothing to fear as the government’s intention is not to gag the media.

He said the intention of the government was to restore sanity to the nation’s airwave.

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TRUCK RAMS INTO SEVEN VEHICLES, NINE HOSPITALISED.

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No fewer than nine persons have been hospitalised after a truck rammed into seven other vehicles on Njaba bridge along Owerri/ Orlu Expressway.

Uju Onwudiwe, who represents Njaba constituency at the State House of Assembly confirmed the accident while moving a motion on the floor of the house.

She called on Governor Emeka Ihedioha to repair the Njaba bridge as a matter of urgency.

The lawmaker said that she cried when she got to the scene of the incident.

She said that the accident could have been averted if the damaged bridge had been repaired .

She said, “Mr Speaker and my colleagues, you need to see what happened at Njaba bridge. That accident would have been averted if the damaged bridge had been repaired.

“As a lawmaker and as a mother I am very concerned. It could have been any of us. As I speak, nine persons are still hospitalised and others have gone. I also urge that the cars be removed from the roads before hoodlums hijack them.”

While urging her colleagues to support the motion, she said that lives should not be politicised.

Eddy Obinna( Aboh Mbaise ) who spoke against the motion said that the road could not be given speedy attention because of paucity of funds.

He reminded the house that the legislature had declared a state of emergency on all roads in the state.

The Speaker, Collins Chiji, who presided the plenary said that nobody was opposing the motion.

The motion scaled through when it was put to a voice vote by the Speaker.

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NIGERIANS WILL PRAISE FG ON BORDER CLOSURE – LAGOS LAW MAKER.

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A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Victor Akande, says Nigerians will praise the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government later over the closure of the nation’s land borders.

Akande, representing Ojo Constituency 1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, made this assertion in an interview with the newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos.

The lawmaker, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and LASIEC, said that the closure had security and economic benefits to the nation.

Akande said: “It is more beneficial to close our border than to allow it open for now.

“Nigerians might not understand this now, maybe because of the little pains it has brought; but the positive effects that will soon follow will make Nigerians praise the President for doing so.

“Security of our country is key and germane; if this step is not taken now, it may be difficult to control the movement of people, arms and ammunition into the country and win the war against insurgency,” he said.

The lawmaker urged Nigerians to be patient with the government, saying that the continued closure was in the best economic and security interests of the nation.

“We need closure also to battle problems of unemployment in the country. Our appetite for foreign goods and services is to our detriment.

“We create jobs for citizens of the countries where these foreign goods are coming from while our teeming youths do not get work to do.

”As long as our local goods are not patronised, it is a death sentence to employment opportunities in our country.

“The border closure will make us look inward and see what we can do for ourselves and even go back to agriculture. Nigerians will praise the government later for this step,” he said.

According to him, the closure will help put the nation on the path of economic growth and development through the revival of local industries.

“We will have a sense of self-sufficiency. It is an avenue for us to develop. People are cultivating and producing rice everywhere now which is good for us,” he said.

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PAYROLL IS A SCAM – ASUU TELLS SENATE.

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The President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, on Monday, told the Senate that the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System of the Federal Government was nothing but a scam.

Ogunyemi, who addressed the leadership of the red chamber shortly before the meeting ended behind closed doors, said forcing ASUU members into the system would destroy the education system in the country.

He said the IPPIS as currently structured, was a violation of the university autonomy as enshrined in Section 2AA of the Universities Miscellaneous Provisions (Amendment) Act 2003.

He also said that forcing the university lecturers to get captured in the payroll system would take away the powers of the governing councils of the various universities.

He disclosed that the system would automatically discourage the lecturers from performing at optimal levels because they would be shortchanged with the system.

He said, “It is noteworthy that, contrary to the law expressly backing the governing councils of each federal university to exercise full control over the finances of the universities, IPPIS lacks constitutional backing.

“It is not supported by any Act of the National Assembly.

“The proposed forceful enrolment of staff of universities in the IPPIS will amount to subjecting the universities to the direction and control of Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

“This is in respect of the payment of staff remuneration, salaries, wages, allowances, etc.

“The OAGF has no constitutional or legal backing to so direct the affairs of universities, the latter being creations of statutes via the Acts establishing the universities.

“This is also the case with the OAGF, with payments made to the staff of the federal universities through IPPIS.

“Neither the constitution nor any Act of the National Assembly confers such powers on the OAGF.

“The OAGF has been very clear about the status of IPPIS, that it is a policy of government, backed by a Presidential directive.

“This statement reinforces the position of ASUU on IPPIS that IPPIS is not backed by law and cannot therefore, be used in whatever guise or circumstance to override laws and constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Allowing the implementation of IPPIS in the university system would be tantamount to the OAGF committing grave illegality, which would lead to anarchy within the system.

“Technically speaking, IPPlS is a scam; It creates more problems than it resolves to buttress:

“The AGF claims that the goal of IPPIS is to engender transparency, accountability and probity in government expenditure.

He said, “One of the biggest challenges of IPPIS is that it poses great threat to our national security.

The President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, pledged that the National Assembly would work towards resolving the issue.

He said, “I’m meeting with the Minister of Finance to tell us what exactly is to be done.

“We’ll start with you today and then we’ll invite the government’s side so that they can tell us what they are doing.”

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LAGOS STATE GOVERNOR TO REHABILITATE 60 SCHOOLS.

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Lagos State Governor
Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given the nod for the rehabilitation of 60 public schools across the state.

In a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mr. Kayode Sutton, the Education Commissioner, Mrs. Folasade Adefisayo told workers of the ministry in an interactive session that 10 schools would be rehabilitated in each of the six education districts.

However, Mrs Adefisayo said the repairs would take off after due process is followed by all parties involved.

She said the government was poised to intervene in three major areas – teacher training, the curriculum, and infrastructure.

She said the rehabilitation was part of the Sanwo-Olu administration’s transformation plans for the education sector to rank Lagos public schools as number one nationally and groom children who can compete globally with requisite skills for future jobs.

Mrs Adefisayo also spoke of plans to align the school curriculum with 21st century realities – using technology platforms to teach, assess, test and reinforce learning in conjunction with the private sector and development partners.

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BREAKING : HOLLYWOOD LEGEND EVANS DIES AT 89.

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Legendary Hollywood movie mogul Robert Evans, who oversaw 1970s classics “The Godfather” and “Chinatown,” has died aged 89.

A larger-than-life figure, Evans was known in Tinseltown both for saving Paramount Pictures by greenlighting a string of hits, and for his tabloid lifestyle including cocaine addiction and seven marriages.

Evans’ death was confirmed to AFP Monday by his publicist, and by a second person close to the producer. No details were immediately available.

Evans took over as Paramount’s head of production in 1966 aged just 36, ushering in a highly successful era for the studio including “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968) with director Roman Polanski, followed by Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Godfather” (1972).

Evans earned an Oscar nomination — his only Academy recognition — for personally producing “Chinatown” (1974), again with Polanski.

Born the son of a New York dentist in 1930, Evans was a partner in a clothing company before moving to Los Angeles where he began his film acting career.

He appeared in the 1957 movie version of Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises,” despite the author’s protests.

Darryl F. Zanuck, head of 20th Century Fox at the time, reportedly insisted that the handsome Evans remain in the film by declaring “The kid stays in the picture” — later the title of Evans’ autobiography and a documentary about his life.

After a string of poorly received acting roles, Evans quickly switched to producing. He left Paramount in 1975, before returning to moderate success in the 1990s.

He is survived by his only son Joshua.

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REP BLAMES SHIPPING LINES, ASK NPA TO RELOCATE.

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The lawmaker representing Yagba-East/Yagba-West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency of Kogi State, Mr Leke Abejide, has called for the relocation of the Nigerian Ports Authority from the First Gate of the Apapa Port, as part of the measures towards reducing the gridlock in the area.

Abejide, at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, noted that the gridlock in Apapa had lasted four years and four months.

The lawmaker listed three steps that should be taken to remove the gridlock, one of which is the relocation of the NPA from the gate.

He said, “l have a different view of the solution currently used to address the current gridlock at the Apapa and Tin Can (Island Port). l have suggested this to the House, before the House standing committee was constituted.

“AP Moller Terminals/TICT/WACT must Automate their Terminal Delivery Order, which will be connected to their gate of entry and exit. What this means is that once you have TDO to load, there is no need for any human contact along the road or at the gate for such a truck to go in and load.

“It should be a constant movement for trucks with valid tickets uninterrupted. Once the truck driver gets to the gate, he only needs to place the ticket at the gate and it is automatically opened for entry. Any truck without a valid ticket (TDO) has no reason to even come near the port area after discharging its empty containers at Shipping Line Empty Containers Bay, which is 100km away from the port.

“Finally, my appeal to the Federal Government is to give priority to road constructions, especially those within the ports, and to be handled by tested construction companies as Julius Berger to handle Creek Road linking Tin Can Island, with a mandate to deliver within two months to avoid the trauma that port users pass through on the road where the nation earns its second-largest revenue.

“NPA has no business doing at the gate called First Gate at Apapa. If the port is under concession, they should allow the concessionaire to take charge and also automate the gate for uninterrupted movement of trucks in and out of Apapa Port.”

He said, “It is about four years and four months that Apapa Port turned into a nightmare as a result of the gridlock firstly caused by MAERSKLINE/APMT system hacking. I want to tell you that if there is a breakdown in the entry and exit of Iaden tucks for just a minute, the kind of gridlock that will arise will be unprecedented, not to talk of their system that went down for almost six weeks or more. You can guess what the situation would be like. It would be chaotic as it is now at Apapa.

“As a result of this, more vessels arrived while the previously discharged containers could not be moved out due to APMT/MAERSK system breakdown container to pile up and up.”

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I HAD MY 2 DEGREES IN PRISON – FORMER INMATE.

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A former inmate of Nigeria Correctional Service in Enugu State, Mr Adenyi Theophilus, said he attained both his first and second degrees while in prison.

Adeniyi in Enugu said that he was sent to prison on awaiting trials in 2010 over a communal case that he did not commit but was looped into in trumped of charge.

According to him, on March 2011, the then Controller of Prisons (CP) Alhj. Mustapha Attah informed the inmates about the approval to establish a study centre of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in the prison.

“We were surprised because we didn’t believe that there can be a University inside the prison.

“The CP encouraged those that have O’level results to enroll into the institution and that prisons will pay 50 percent subsidy of the institution fee.

“It wasn’t easy to raise money from prison to pay for the balance of the school fees and also bought other reading materials,” Adenyi said.

The former inmate, who hailed from Nkanu East in Enugu State, added that the trauma of being in prison was enough to discourage someone but with perseverance and hard work he was able to conquer.

“My motivation was that my destiny was in my hands and nobody can make me be whatever I want to become tomorrow apart from God.

“Another motivation was the fact that my O’level result will not give me a better job when I leave prison.

“The staff of the correctional centre also helped the inmates with motivational talks most especially the psychology department,” he said.

He said that in 2015, among the 25 inmates that registered, he was the only one that was able to complete his courses and graduated.

Adeniyi said that his plan was to graduate with a first class degree but he was proud to finish with 2.1 in Peace, Conflict and Strategic Studies.

“It is a record no inmates have been able to break across the prisons of the federation.

“The institution gave me an award with a sum of N50,000 and that helped me to enroll for my masters immediately that same year.

“Presently I am through with my Masters degree and running my PhD programme in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) after leaving the prison,” he said.

According to him, on Oct. 5, 2015, after 5 years and 6 months of awaiting trials, I was discharged and acquitted and not convicted.

He further urged and advised inmates to make sure they enrolled in the secondary and higher institution available in the correctional centre.

“There are more to life, than smoking narcotics and living a bad lifestyle because being in prison is not the end of life.

“I advise them to imbibe the habit of reading to acquire knowledge that will help them when they get out of prison.

“Today, instead of doing the wrong thing while in prison, I have written a book and three poems,” Adenyi disclosed.

While commending the federal government for renaming the Nigeria Prisons Service with correctional centre, he also urged governments at all levels to support the correctional centres with funds and other facilities that would help reform inmates.

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APC FILES PETITIONS AGAINST NJC.

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The ruling All Progressives Congress(APC) has given notice that it would file a petition before the National Judicial Council (NJC) to challenge the judgement of Court of Appeal in Calabar, Cross Rivers state capital.

The Court of Appeal in its judgement has upheld the declaration of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which gave Certificate of Return to Senator Albert Akpan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner of the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District election.

The APC in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Mallam Lanre Isa-Onilu described the judgment as strange as it claimed that it “was delivered in blatant disobedience of the directive of the President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa who had disbanded the appeal panel and constituted a new panel, eight clear days before it determined the appeal filed by the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Hon Bassey Etim, the Party’s senatorial candidate in the 2019 National Assembly election in Akwa Ibom.”

Onilu further revealed that the party legal department would in due course submit a formal petition to the NJC over the judgment which it dismissed as a travesty.

The statement further read in part: “We will not join issues with the strange “judgement” because as earlier stated, the panel of justices that decided the case and delivered the strange “judgement” was disbanded by the President of the Court of Appeal before the panel began sitting.

“It is even more confounding that the members of the panel had been transferred out of the jurisdiction of this matter. We wonder why a member of a disbanded panel became so interested on a matter before another panel that it had to sit and read out a”judgement” purportedly on behalf of other members of a non-existent panel. We ask, what exactly was at stake?

“We state clearly that any judgment given without jurisdiction is illegal and a nullity.

“The Party urges the Court of Appeal to set aside the strange “judgement” and fix a new date for the hearing of the appeal de novo. In the meantime, it is important that the NJC takes decisive actions to call to order the disbanded justices of the Appeal Court sitting in Calabar. Their actions are strange, alien and dangerous to our judicial system.

“Section 246(3) of the 1999 Constitution, empowers the Court of Appeal as the final law court on National Assembly elections in Nigeria. So our contention is while the power of final decision on petitions arising from National Assembly election rests with the Court of Appeal, proceedings must be conducted by a properly constituted court with due regard for fair hearing.

“We shall pursue the cause of justice on this matter, including filing a formal petition against the members of the panel before the NJC, to logical conclusion.”

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BIG BROTHER NAIJA SEASON 4 WINNER, BUYS A HOUSE.

Big Brother Naija season 4 ‘Pepper Dem’ reality show winner, Mercy Eke a.k.a ‘Lamborghini’ has bought a four bedroom flat apartment in lekki, Lagos State.

The excited reality TV star, took to her instagram page @official_mercyeke to share the good news as well as a video captioned.

“I stepped out of the house today as a tenant and returned as a house owner.

“Thanks to Victoria Crest Home for making this possible.”

On the other-hand, she was accompanied by ex BBNaija housemate turned lover, Ike as she received a key with the inscription “Just got our key” amidst friends and well-wishers.

Billionaire wife, Uchechi Okonkwo has served an update on Big Brother Naija winner, Mercy’s new four-bedroom duplex which many first thought was a gift.

According to Real Estate mogul, Kennedy Okonkwo’s wife, Uchechi, Mercy bought the four-bedroom duplex which she described as “the best decision”.

She wrote;“Congratulations Babygirl, buying yourself a house, the best decision and I am super proud. Mercy Lambo on the 1000Landladies train and moving”.

Newsmen reports that the ‘Queen of Highlights’ Mercy was crowned the winner of the reality show on Sunday Oct. 6, after 99 days in the house and went home with 60 Million worth of prizes.

It is also reported that this winning makes Mercy the first woman to win the Big Brother Naija reality show since inception.

The light hearted diva made the top two with her show best friend, Mike Edwards, who emerged first runner up.

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FIVE FILLING STATIONS SEALED IN CROSS RIVER.

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The Department of Petroleum Resources has sealed five filling stations in Cross River State for selling petrol above the government approved price of N145 per litre and other offences.

DPR Operations Controller in Cross River State, Mr Philip Awolu, disclosed this to newsmen in Calabar on Sunday.

The intensified surveillance across the state was led by Mr Sir Cham Musa-Mohammed, Head of Operations of DPR in Calabar.

Awolu said that the filling stations were sealed for cheating the public in violation of stipulated rules guiding operations in the petroleum sector.

“During the week, my officers visited 51 filling stations in Northern Cross River and out of that, 48 were active while 3 of them were not having petrol.

“Out of the 51 stations visited, five were sealed for selling above the pump price of N145 per litre, others closed for under dispensing and other offences,” he said.

The Operations Controller said that notices had been given to marketers who had not regularised their filling stations to do so and get their operating licenses or face sanctions.

“When we deployed our officials to the field, we sensitised the public on the need to have a licence before they can set up a filling station.

“As part of our activities, we hope that in a short while, all filling stations operating in the state would come forth and register for their operating license,” he added.

On the distribution of the product from the Calabar depot, Awolu said that there was the availability of the product that would serve the state pointing out that there was no need for panic buying.

“The only challenge we have is in the Northern part of the state because of the distance, that is why some of them are still selling above the pump price.

“We keep advising them not to sell above the pump price. We know their challenges; the distance from Calabar and the bad road.

“They are supposed to be part of the Petroleum Equalisation Fund sponsored by the Federal Government to cushion the effect of transportation fare of the petroleum product. As it stands, they are not part of that regime.

“From the side of government, we are thinking of making a report to the government to help them enjoy some subsidy in the transportation of the product to Northern Cross River,” he said.

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ANYAOKU SUPPORTS BUHARI ON BORDER CLOSURE.

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A former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, on Saturday called for support for the recent closure of Nigeria’s land borders by President Muhammadu Buhari, saying it could promote a homegrown policy and boost the economy.

Anyaoku, made the call at the 2019 Investiture of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria in Lagos.

He explained that the country would experience a positive turnaround in its economy if Nigerians curb their appetite for imported goods.

“We should support our foreign border closure by President Muhammadu Buhari and its ultimate importance to the home grown policy,” newsmen quoted the elder statesman to have said.

Anyaoku added, “It is clear that the abundance variety of Nigeria’s natural resources and our large population constitute adequate phases for the country’s economic prosperity, if the federal and state governments can show a determination to provide the necessary policy and practical support.

“And also, if our citizens can be persuaded or even coerced through regulation into curbing their appetite for imported, rather than locally produced goods, there will be a tremendous turnaround in the economy.”

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SEX SLAVERY: NIGERIA GIRLS TRAPPED IN OTHER AFRICAN COUNTRIES – MRAKPOR.

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No fewer than 10,000 girls from Delta State are trapped in Mali and other African countries engaging in forced labour and used as sex slaves.

Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Peter Mrakpor, disclosed this at a symposium organised by the Ministry of Justice for NYSC Corps Members on Human Trafficking and Illegal Migration on Saturday in Asaba.

Mrakpor, who is also the chairman of Delta State Task Force on Human Trafficking and Illegal Migration, urged the corp members to join hands with the agency and other relevant government agencies to create adequate awareness among youths and corps members.

He said the high rate of incidence of human trafficking and other forms of crimes against humanity had been attributed to the collapse of morals and respect for dignity and sanctity of human life.

Mrakpor decried the dangerous journey through the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea for “greener pasture” abroad.

He said, “Over 10,000 girls from Delta State alone are trapped in Mali and other African countries engaging in forced labour and used as sex slaves.

“Therefore, I’m calling on the corps members as well as all well-meaning Nigerians, NGOs, faith-based organisations, traditional rulers and community leaders to join hands in fighting human trafficking.

“You don’t have to travel out of the country to be successful; it is a mindset.

“We have a growing economy that provides lots of opportunities”

The Justice commissioner lampooned some parents for their complicity in encouraging the illicit trade and illegal migration by selling landed properties to support their wards to travel out illegally.

The President of the NYSC Gender Vanguard and Charity CDS, Muonyililo Ikechukwu, expressed their preparedness to work with the task force in creating awareness against the malaise, especially among corps members.

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PHOTOS : OSINBAJO RECEIVES AWARD AT UNILAG ALUMNI DINNER.

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was the Special Guest of Honour at the 50th anniversary of the University of Lagos Alumni Award Dinner.

Osinbajo was honored with the Golden Jubilee Recognition Award presented to him by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Also at the event were the governors of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; and Dr. Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State.

The event was held at the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos.

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N584M DISBURSED BY FAYEMI FOR GRATUITIES AND LOANS.

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The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has disbursed a whopping sum of over N584 million as gratuity,
car and housing loans for pensioners, state civil servants, secondary school teachers and local government workers in the state.

While Distributing the cheques to the beneficiaries at a ceremony held at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti, Fayemi said the gesture was in fulfilment of his vow to prioritize workers’ welfare and ensuring that the senior citizens had maximum enjoyment during their retirement years.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, Fayemi stressed that the welfare packages for workers and retirees were pointers to the determination and commitment of his administration aimed at improving and prioritizing the lots of the people.

Benefiting from the largesse are core civil servants who were given N103.7 million as car loans and N85 million as land and housing loans.

Local government workers got N40 million as car and housing loans while secondary school teachers were lifted with N103.4 as car loan and N52.5 million as housing loans.

State and local government pensioners received N100 million each as their gratuities.

The Governor said: “This administration has been consistent with this process of paying gratuity and releasing loans to our civil servants.

“The approved sum for the land/housing loans will be disbursed to 700 beneficiaries at sum varying from one hundred thousand to five hundred thousand depending on grade levels and purpose.

“By the special grace of God, we are determined to sustain this trend, even better than what we are doing at the moment.”

The Governor said that core civil servants were getting car and housing loan cheques for the second time within 2019, revealing that a total of N55 million cheques were distributed in the first month of the year.

Dr. Fayemi in consonance with his good governance agenda also agreed on the payment of gratuity on the basis of “First to Retire, first to be paid” with a directive to the Pension Transition Arrangement Department at the State and Local Government to adhere the transparency policy.

The Governor who noted that some retirees were owing Housing Loans Board to the tune of N324 million as at September, 2019, directed that anyone with less than four years to retire from service would no longer be availed the opportunity to access government loans.

He added that anyone whose net pay was less than 50% of his/her gross salary would be disqualified from taking loan, this the governor said would make the loans board financially viable in discharging its responsibilities.

Dr. Fayemi solicited for the cooperation, commitment, dedication and prayers to actualize the promises of his administration to Ekiti workers and the people of the State.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Adeleke Oladele, gladly revealed that the loan would go a long way in ameliorating his plight with a plea to the state government to sustain the development.

A benefiting pensioner, Mr. Segun Adelusi, said retirees had never had it so good in the history of the state lauded Governor Fayemi for rescuing many of them from post-retirement hunger and poverty.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the State Head of Service, Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi, commended Governor Fayemi for his commitment to his electioneering promises in prioritizing the welfare of workers in spite of meager resources accruing to the State.

Mr. Ajayi who charged civil servants to respond diligently to the gesture by performing their duties efficiently and effectively mentioned that “as at today 336 retirees had collected their gratuities which had long overdue”

He said: “This is indeed a cause for happiness in the Civil Service system of the state. The government vowed to put smiles on the faces of the people and that is being achieved today.”

The State Chairman of Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Elder Ayo kumapayi, who applauded the governor for the gesture, said the release of N100 million monthly to defray gratuity arrears has increased the rays of hope of pensioners in the state.

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JUMIA’S BLACK FRIDAY TO BEGIN 8 NOVEMBER.

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Nigeria’s leading e-commerce firm, Jumia Nigeria, has called on all sellers on its platform to prioritize offering the best deals and quality products during its upcoming 4-week Black Friday campaign, starting from November 8.

The company gave the charge in Lagos on Saturday while restating its commitment to selling only genuine and quality products on the platform.

It said it also aimed at giving consumers an unrivalled shopping experience as the year nears its end.

Omolola Oladunjoye, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, had while addressing the sellers during the company’s Annual Sellers’ Conference held in Lagos recently, urged the sellers to align with the company’s quality control process by uploading correct images that correspond to the packages that are eventually delivered to consumers.

She emphasized that selling of good, quality and genuine products on the platform is consequently tied to the sellers’ revenue.

“If you listed a sub-par products on the Jumia platform and a consumer discovered it after a purchase, the product will be returned to the seller and the consumer will be refunded 100%. “What this means for you as a seller is zero revenue. But as a business, that’s not the kind of experience we want to give our consumers. The satisfaction consumers derive from buying genuine products has good implications on your revenue too,” she said.

Jumia also offered a free masterclass to the sellers on how they can make their products attractively competitive for consumers, especially during the Black Friday campaign billed to hold from November 8 till November 29, 2019.

“You need to start thinking of the deals that will attract and appeal to our consumers. We have shared with you data on some of the fast moving products on the platform. “One strategy to drive sales during Black Friday is to make as many deals as possible available and ensure your prices become relatively cheaper than competition,” Salma Bencherif, the Chief Marketing Officer at Jumia Nigeria noted.

Similarly, seven sellers were also rewarded with award plaques across several categories such as: Top Sales Award of Excellence; Jumia Commercial Sales Award; Jumia Top Rated Seller Award; Jumia Lifetime Seller Achievement Award; Quality Award of Excellence; Referral Winner; and Assortment Challenge Winner.

It will be recalled that the Annual Sellers’ Conference holds a few weeks before the company’s annual Black Friday campaigns.

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FG ANNOUNCES PLAN TO SANCTION TRADE UNION, LABOUR REACTS.

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Organised labour on Friday commended the decision of the Federal Government to sanction trade unions that had failed to submit details of their yearly audited accounts to the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Newsmen reports that Labour and Employment Minister, Chris Ngige, on Thursday said the government will sanction many trade unions that have failed to submit their audited accounts in the past 10 years.

The union leaders, in separate interviews with newsmen in Abuja, noted that such conduct negated the Trade Union Act which stipulated a stringent annual submission of audited accounts for unions.

The Secretary-General, Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Mr Alade Lawal, said that the law on the rendition of account was very clear adding that there was no need for any union to be reminded to file its reports.

“The law on the issue of rendition of account is very clear. The minister is just reiterating what is contained in the law and as legal bodies, I don’t think we need to be reminded of what the law says.

“If we condemn government for failing to do things right, I don’t think we should also be caught in the crossfire of non-rendition of account.

“As far as we are concerned, we are up to date; we have filed our returns for 2018 and we are progressing with that of 2019.’’

The National President, Nigeria Civil Service Union, Mr Lawrence Amaechi, said that the non-rendition of account was an offence and should not be taken lightly.

“The minister is right because, at the end of every year, you have to render account with the office of the Registrar of Trade Unions.

“Any union that doesn’t do it is supposed to be de-registered. So the minister is right,’’ Amaechi said.

According to him, the minister had wanted to de-register some trade unions.

“I am in support of doing the right thing; let unions go and do their rendition.

“At the beginning of a new year, you file in for the previous year.

“Your auditors should audit your account; when they give you a certificate, you should submit same at the office of the Registrar of the trade union.’’

President of the Trade Union Congress, Mr Quadri Olaleye, also echoed Amaechi, declaring that the union was “solidly behind the minister”.

“The union is not against the minister’s pronouncement. Under normal circumstances, unions are supposed to submit their accounts as at when due.

“If there is any union that has not been submitting account, such union should face the consequences.

“We at TUC frown at that and we have encouraged everybody to submit the audited accounts as at when due.

“If anybody should be having outstanding, it should not be more than 2018.

“By now, if the minister has unions that have not submitted their audited accounts for 10 years, let him take action on that; we are not averse to correction,’’ he said.

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VISUALLY CHALLENGED PROFESSOR, WINS INNOSON’S N8.8M.

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Prof. Jibrin Diso, a visually impaired Professor of Education at Bayero University Kano (BUK) on Friday received a car worth N8.8 million won through a raffle draw.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Mr Ernest Umakhihe, during the hand-over of the car in Abuja, said Diso’s emergence as winner was God’s doing.

Narrating how the visually impaired university don won the luxury SUV, Umakhihe explained that he led a delegation of 700 participants of Joint Planning Board and National Council on Development Planning for a meeting in Asaba, Delta State.

He said that after the two days meeting, a familiarisation tour was undertaken to Innoson Vehicles Motor (IVM) plant at Nnewi to see the level of commitment of the company to manufacturing industry towards the nation’s economic diversification.

He stated that as a show of appreciation for the visit, the Chairman of the company magnanimously donated a brand new IVM Ikenga model vehicle to the delegation.

The permanent secretary said there was confusion regarding how the owner of the car could emerge among 700 participants.

According to him, in order to determine ownership and ensure transparency, the council decided to use a raffle draw where Diso emerged winner. He added that it was God’s involvement for the visually impaired person to emerge winner in ‘699 no and one yes’, “the professor was lucky to pick the yes and he won’’. Umakhihe congratulated the winner of the vehicle and also thanked IVM for the support to the national economic development.

He reiterated government’s commitment and determination to support and encourage the local industries through implementation of the local content’s policy in ensuring patronage of “Made in Nigeria’’ products.

Responding, Diso thanked the ministry and IVM for the donation and described his emergence as winner as an act of God.

He said he was grateful to God who made it possible for him to partake in the national assignment where he had opportunity to participate in the raffle draw and later won. “I also thank God for making me visually impaired and then gave me the opportunity to turn my disability to ability. “I must also state it clearly that it is not easy for a visually impaired person to become a professor in this country because of several challenges,” he said.

Diso, who said he other people living with disability not to relent or discouraged to contribute their quotas to the development of the country.

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GHANA MINISTER SAYS THEY NEED NIGERIA MORE FOR BUSINESSES.

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The Ghanaian deputy minister of Trade and Industry, Carlos Ahenkorah has said that Ghana’s Trade and Economics needs Nigeria more than Nigeria needs Ghana for its economic survival.

This was in response to the declaration of Ghana’s Trade Union to boycott Nigeria’s products in retaliation to the action of the Nigerian federal government to close its land borders with neighbouring countries including Republic of Benin in the west, Chad and Cameroon in the east and Niger in the north.

“The best way to solve this problem is not to pay Nigeria back or have some countermeasure, but coach them into understanding that look, we are all losing, and we need you, we need each other. But I can tell you without blinking an eye that economically, trade wise, we need Nigeria more than they need us.

“If our gargantuan transformation agenda is going to work, we need markets to offload our products. This off-takers cannot be blocked.” Mr Ahenkorah said in a television show.

The minister also stated that a country like Nigeria can not be intimidated by any of Ghana’s Trade sanctions since they are the better recipient of African products.

In a similar development,Ghanian’s largest local beverage manufacturer, Kasapreko Company Limited, has reported it has lost $2 million in revenue since the closure of Nigeria’s borders. The company is the producer of Alomo Bitter, a product widely consumed by Nigerians.

In response to Nigeria’s Federal Government decision of the closure of its borders due to smuggling activities, the Greater Accra Regional Secretary of Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), David Kwadwo Amoateng on Ghana’s Adom FM morning show claimed that Dangote cement had taken over Ghana’s market while local ones from GHACEM are suffering.

In protest, he said: “Let’s boycott Nigerian products as payback to their government’s action. How can we be slaves in our own country?”

The President of GUTA however said; “Nigeria recognises that it is not been bound by any protocol that is signed. It also showed that the ECOWAS protocol that we here adore so much is not sycophant…Nigeria is showing the way that we have to clear the mess that the ECOWAS protocol has brought to bear.”

Also, Republic of the Niger traders have lamented the effect of Nigeria’s borders closure on their business performance, saying they are angry at the decision.

A Niger trader, speaking in a Deutsche Welle (dw) short documentary said “In the name of Allah, this closure of the Nigeria border is causing the most possible harms. The business that allows traders to earn their daily living has gone to a standstill.

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BISHOP OYEDEPO ACQUIRES NEW HELICOPTER.

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Founder and Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church, an organization with one of the largest networks of about 11,000 branches in 65 countries has acquired a brand new helicopter.

This is in continuation of his quest to ease movement while reaching large numbers of people in his evangelical work.

This acquisition is especially unique as it is the first time he will buy an aircraft with his personal resources.

The previous aircraft including the only one presently in the Church inventory, a Challenger 605 with registration N633WM (World Mission) which was acquired at a cost of $25 million were all acquired by the Church through Dominion Aviation Center.

Speaking at a gathering of pastors recently, Bishop Oyedepo announced that the aircraft which had arrived Nigeria could fly from Lagos to Maiduguri or from Lagos to Abuja and back to Lagos without a need to refuel.

Investigation also reveal that the aircraft is still in a Lagos seaport undergoing clearance after which it will be brought to the Church’s hangar for assemblage.

It is also gathered that the helicopter could be of Italian origin and produced by the Leonardo Helicopters (formerly Agusta Westland).

In particular it could be either the Trekker or GrandNew series as these have capacity for covering a long range before the need for refueling.

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PRESIDENT BUHARI RETURNS TO ABUJA AFTER SUMMIT IN RUSSIA.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to the country after a three-day visit to Sochi, Russia.

The President left the country on October 21 to attend the Russia-Africa summit alongside over 30 African leaders.

The summit which was well attended by other world leaders focused on exploring and expanding opportunities in security, trade and investment, science and technology, and gas production.

President Buhari on October 23, held bilateral talks with President Vladimir Putin of Russia where both leaders agreed to put Nigeria-Russia relations on a fast track, and pursue the completion of partially completed and abandoned projects initiated by both countries.

They also agreed to start new infrastructure projects and expand trade and investment, security and military cooperation.

In statements made by both leaders, Nigeria and Russia will work together to improve efficiency of Nigeria’s oil sector, which is the backbone of the economy, in a way that will see to rehabilitation of epileptic oil refineries through establishment of framework for a joint venture between Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Russia-based leading oil company, Lukoil.

NNPC and Lukoil will work towards the prospection of oil in deep offshore.

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BREAKING: MAINA TO BE REMANDED IN NCS

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of a former chairman of Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina, in the Nigerian Correctional Service’s centre pending the determination of the case.

Justice Okon Abang gave the order on Friday following an application by the prosecutor, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Maina’s son, Faisal, is also being arraigned in the same court on a separate but similar charge.

At the time of filling this report, his case had not been called.

The judge adjourned the matter till October 30 for commencement of trial.

He was arraigned on a 12-count charge bordering on “money laundering, operating fictitious bank accounts and fraud.”

Justice Folasade Giwa-Ogunbanjo had on Tuesday ordered the temporary forfeiture of 23 property linked to Maina.

The judge gave the order following an ex-parte motion filed by the EFCC.

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BEAR WITH US ON CLOSING OF BORDER – OSINBAJO

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has on Friday begged Nigerians to bear with the government over the closure of the border with neighbouring countries.

Osinbajo speaking at the ongoing town hall meeting which coincide with the National Festival of Arts and Culture, NAFEST in Edo State, said the border closure is in the interest of the country and local producers especially farmers.

He also said that government closed the borders because “we want our neighboring countries to begin to take us very very serious.”

Osinbajo was responding to the question by the Vice President of Edo market women, Mrs. Christiana Omokaro who cried to him about the high cost of rice and other foodstuffs in the market.

She also asked the VP to look at the epileptic state of power supply in the country.

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EX SCHOOL SUPERVISOR, SENTENCED FOR DEFILING 2 YEAR OLD PUPIL.

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An Ikeja domestic violence and sexual offences court has sentenced Adegboyega Adenekan, a school supervisor, to 60 years imprisonment for child defilement.

Sybil Nwaka, the presiding judge, handed down the sentence after convicting Adenekan of a lone-count charge of defiling a two-year and 11-month-old pupil.

Adenekan had pleaded not guilty to the charge the Lagos state government filed against him.

But while delivering her verdict, Nwaka described Adenekan, as “wicked, conscienceless and an animal who is not worthy of walking on the streets of Lagos”.

“I hereby sentence Adegboyega Adenekan to 60 years’ imprisonment. This is the sentence of the court,” the judge held.

Nwaka said schools should not only be interested in economic gain but the welfare of pupils.

“Schools should not cover up teachers who sexually abuse children. Parents should not be carried away by aesthetics of schools. This case may just be the tip of the iceberg as a lot of our children are suffering in silence,” she held.

“Parents should be bold enough to confront teachers and school management because a lot of our children are suffering in silence.

“I advise or recommend that the education and social welfare ministry workers should visit schools randomly to give them a check.”

Seven witnesses, including the pupil and her mother, testified for the prosecution, which closed its case on March 14.

The defence called five witnesses

The victim had told the judge how she was defiled by the 47-year-old supervisor of the school.

At the time the incident happened in 2016, Adenekan was at the Victoria Garden City (VGC) branch of the school.

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VIDEO : ADOPTION SCENE OF KIDNAPPED JUDGE REVEALED

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The abduction scene of a Federal High Court Judge, Abdul Dogo in Akure, the capital of Ondo state has emerged on social media

The Federal High Court judge serving in Akure, Ondo State, Justice Abdul Dogo, was on Tuesday abducted by gunmen.

Dogo was said to have been abducted along with his driver at Ibilo/Isua Akoko axis, a border area between Ondo and Edo states while on their way from Abuja to Akure.

Barely 2 days after abduction, a video has emerged where people who witnessed the abduction could be seen explaining how the exercise took place to security operatives.

According to reports in the video, It was a targeted attack and all occupants inside the car of the High Court Judge were abducted.

However, the family of the victim has been contacted by the kidnappers who are demanding for a N50m ransom.

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TWO-STOREY BUILDING COLLAPSE AGAIN IN LAGOS.

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12 days after the collapse of a three-storey building at Magodo Phase 1 Lagos, another two-storey building has collapsed at Ojuelegba area of Lagos on Thursday evening.

Journalists who visited the scene at No 7, Rufai Street, Ojuelegba, said no live was lost in the incident which occurred at about 8:55 p.m. on Thursday.

Some of the residents, who spoke with NAN, said that virtually all the inhabitants had vacated the building before the crash but still had some of their belonging inside the building.

The tenants said the building actually started collapsing gradually since Oct. 18.

Mr Emeka Anozie, one of the residents, said when a window from the back flat collapsed around 7 p.m, he alerted all the remaining tenants who were busy removing their belongings to come out, adding that the entire building collapsed few minutes later.

Newsmen also learnt that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) had on March 25, 2019 marked the building and warned the residents and the landlord to vacate the premises.

It is also learnt that LASBCA also served another notice to the landlord on May 21.

The Director-General, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said he immediately mobilised his team and other safety agencies to ensure protection of lives and properties in the area. NAN reports that environment and safety officials of the Lagos State Government have commenced demolition of the collapsed building.

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FUNNYBONE ANNOUNCES MOM’S DEATH.

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Famous stand-up comedian, Stanley Chibunna, popularly known as ‘Funnybone’ has lost his mother.

Funnybone broke the sad news on his Instagram page, sharing a portrait of his deceased mother.

He said though he was pained he cannot question God on the sudden death of his mother. He declared he will rather praise God for he knows best and he leaves all to Him.

“Speechless… I am pained but I leave it all to you Lord. You alone knows best and I cannot question you. In every situation we give praise. I will miss you forever Nnem” he concluded.

This was followed by series of condolence messages from top celebrities like Yaw, Kennyblaq, 9ice, Buchi, Kelly Handsome, Mc Shakara, Oge Okoye, Ice Prince and Seyi Law, among others.

They all prayed that God will grant him and other family members the grace and strength to bear the lost.

Aside being a comedian, funnybone is also one of the casts in a popular TV comedy series titled ‘Squatterz’.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4A2opEA51M/?igshid=1fhtergyaef6l

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334,500 WOMEN IN 9 STATES, RECEIVES EMPOWERMENT FROM DANGOTE.

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Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Foundation and Africa’s richest man, yesterday flagged-off a micro-grant scheme in Sokoto to empower and lift 23,990 poor and vulnerable women out of poverty across the 23 Local Government Areas in the state.

In another gesture, Dangote, fresh from a recent donation of two student hostels to the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, kicked off the Sokoto phase of a scheme targeted at empowering 774,000 women (1,000 women from each of the 774 Local Government Areas across Nigeria), at the cost of N10 billion. So far, the sum of N3.345 billion has been disbursed by the ADF to 334,500 women across Kano, Jigawa, Kogi, Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Lagos, Niger and Nasarawa States.

The President/CEO of Dangote Industries Limited, ranked the 6th most charitable person in the world in 2018, was accompanied by the Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, (represented by the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera), executive management of the Dangote Group, top dignitaries and traditional rulers in the State.

Speaking at the event, Dangote welcomed all to the official flag-off ceremony and disclosed that, “In Sokoto we are empowering 23,990 women, including those in the IDP camps in Rabah LGA. 1,000 vulnerable women were selected in each of your 23 LGAs. However due to the displacement of the community in Rabah, we have also included all eligible women in the IDP camp, totalling 1,990 women for Rabah LGA.”

Addressing the Governor in his remarks, he said, “The Micro-grants programme is one component of the Economic Empowerment pillar of the Aliko Dangote Foundation. We will provide the 23,990 vulnerable women identified by your selection committee, with a one-off, unconditional N10,000.00 cash grant to boost their household income. This we believe will help reduce their vulnerability and meet their livelihood needs.’’

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KOGI GUBER: INEC SAVES N300m FOR COMBINING ELECTION.

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The Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu said the commission will save N300 million for scheduling to hold governorship and senatorial elections in Kogi consecutively.

The Chairman stated this on Thursday during the 2020 Budget defence before a Joint senate and House of Assembly committee on INEC.

Yakubu said the idea came when INEC was served a court order which nullified the senatorial election in Kogi West.

“We decided to combine the two elections after realising a margin of N300 million. So, voters in Kogi West will now have two ballot papers and 2 boxes during the election. “We have saved the cost of adhoc staff, observers, media and other logistics of conducting two elections, independently,” he said.

The INEC boss, also said that the commission will combine governorship in Bayelsa with supplementary election in 6 places, in Brass local government area.

Responding to a query on why the INEC almost in every budget defence is caught with expenditure outside budget envelop, Mahmud responded that they work under sheered pressure to carryout some electoral process that couldn’t have been possible if they waited for budgetary allocations.

“Its very hectic time for us, it was almost impossible for us to conduct election in 2018 without spending outside the budget envelop,” he said.

He cited the issue of bye elections and supplementary elections as some of the reasons that forced the commission to resort to extra budgetary spending.

“It’s something I don’t want to say, but from 2015 to 2019, on an average, one National Assembly member died every month, and we must conduct election to replace them,” he said.

The chairman of the senate committee, Senator Adamu Aliero, commended the INEC chairman for saving N300 million

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NANS: TAMBUWAL NOMINATED AS BEST GOVERNOR IN NIGERIA’S EDUCATION.

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Sokoto state Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has been nominated by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) for its public service, meritorious award as the best performing governor in Nigeria in the education category between the year 2015 to 2019.

The national president of the association, Comrade Danielson Bamidele Akpan, stated this while presenting the nomination letter to the governor at Government House Sokoto.

He disclosed that the said award presentation ceremony is scheduled to hold on November 17th at the International Conference Center Abuja.

The NANS president, therefore, applauds the giant strides of governor Tambuwal in education and human capital development especially the construction of the ultra-modern library and sixty offices in the state university.

Comrade Danielson Bamidele Akpan thanked the governor for including youths in governance and appealed to him to appoint more into various positions in government.

Responding, Sokoto state governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, while welcoming the National President and his team to the state, urged the Nigerian youths to brace up for the challenge of leadership by believing in themselves.

Tambuwal, however, challenged them to go through the due electoral process to take their rightful position, saying leaders in the country should continue to see Nigerians as one family for the progress and development of the nation.

Governor Tambuwal stressed the need for the devolution of power rather than the restructuring of the country.

He, therefore, called for the review of the country’s revenue sharing formula as provided for in the constitution.

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EFCC RE-ARRAIGNS EX-INEC CHAIRMAN.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday re-arraigned the former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Maurice Iwu before the Federal High Court in Lagos over an alleged fraud of N1.23 billion, bail.

The EFCC re-arraigned the former INEC boss following the reassignment of his case file to Justice Nicholas Oweibo from Justice Chuka Obiozor, who sat as a vacation judge when Iwu was first arraigned.

Professor Iwu was docked before the new judge on a four-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering.

According to the anti-graft agency the accused person committed the offence in the build-up to the 2015 general elections in which President Muhammadu Buhari defeated then incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

The EFCC also alleged that Iwu aided and concealed the total sum of N1.203 billion, which was said to be proceed of unlawful act.

The anti-graft agency further claimed that the accused person had between December 2015 and March 27, 2015, used his company, Bioresources Institute of Nigeria (BION) Limited, whose account with number 1018603119 domiciled in Untied Bank of Africa (UBA) Plc to launder the money.

The EFCC also alleged that Professor Iwu and a lawyer, Victor Chukwuani retained the sum of N407 million, said to be proceed of unlawful act, in Bioresources Institute of Nigeria (BION) Limited’s Account No. 1018603119 domiciled in the United Bank for Africa Plc.

The offences according to the EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo are contrary to sections 18(a),15(2) (a) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011 as amended and punishable under Section 15 ( 3) of the same Act”.

The former INEC boss, however pleaded not guilty to all the counts.

He was then allowed by Justice Oweibo to continue to enjoy the terms of the bail earlier granted to him by Justice Obiozor.

The bail conditions included: N1 billion with two sureties in like sum, one of the sureties must own a landed property in Lagos.

While the other must be a professor or a civil servant not below Grade Level 16.

The judge had further held that the sureties must furnish the court with the statement of their bank accounts, showing a minimum balance of N1 billion.

The court stated, “The first surety shall be resident in Lagos State and shall transmit his land use as evidence of ownership of property in Lagos State and furnish the court with evidence of payment of tax from three years prior to today.

“As proof of address the defendant shall furnish the court with his statement of account with any bank in Nigeria with passport photograph. The bank shall depose to the photograph as true identity of the account holder.”

“The defendant and sureties shall provide two of their recent passport for court record. The defendant shall cease all manner of communication either directly or by proxy with any of the witness the prosecution might call in this matter.

“The second surety must be a civil servant in the state within the grade of level 16 or a professor in any of the universities in Nigeria. The second surety shall provide proof of tax for three years prior to today.

The judge has fixed November 25 for commencement of trial.

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NAIRA MARLEY’S TRAIL AJORNED, LAWYERS QUARRELS IN COURT.

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Thursday’s proceedings in the trial of musician Naira Marley for alleged credit card fraud was abruptly cut short as a quarrel ensued among lawyers over space to sit in the small courtroom.

The trial judge, Justice Nicholas Oweibo, was forced to adjourn the case till December 11 and 12, 2019 in the heat of arguments among lawyers.

The Federal High Court in Lagos where the trial is taking place has serious challenges over space, as the courtrooms are generally small.

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MELAMI BEGS SENATE FOR 2.5 PERCENT OF RECOVERED LOOT.

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Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has urged the Senate panel to approve 2.5 per cent as commission for those involved in the recovery of looted assets.

Malami made the appeal on Wednesday during the 2020 budget defence before the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Right and Legal Matters.

He said, “May I humbly disclose that we are progressively making vital recovery of our looted funds stashed abroad.

“However, let me affirm that the legal procedural requirements for these recoveries are altogether tasking and cumbersome.

“Besides, most times we have to engage the services of well-grounded lawyers and consultants to effect recovery which were promptly deposited at Federal Government treasury.

“To smoothen our operations in this regard, it was deemed expedient to establish an Asset recovery unit in my office.

“So far, their efforts are quite salutary even in the face of zero requisite commission from recovery.

“I would like to reiterate my earlier request to the effect that about 2.5 per cent of recovered looted money should be earmarked to the asset recovery unit to service logistics, operational cost, payment to private lawyers and consultants.”

He also said that beneficiaries of N150bn judgement debt owed by the Federal Government were mounting pressure on the ministry to pay the money.

Malami said the ministry was compelled to take inventory and explore avenues to judgement debts that were hydra headed to the ministry.

“This has arisen because it was only in 2017 that the sum of N10bn was disbursed for the payment of judgement debt as appropriated.

“As it stands, the sum of over N150bn remains unpaid, prompting beneficiaries of this sum to keep mounting pressure on the ministry” he said.

He requested the Senate committee to intervene on the long standing vex issue by appropriating the sum of N30bn to the ministry annually to mitigate the challenge to forestall possible friction, accrued interests and unwanted litigations arising from failure to effect the payment.

Malami further sought the support of the federal lawmakers on the proposed establishment of the Administration of Criminal Justice Commission.

The AGF said, “The spectre of crimes and criminality in our entity and the near absence to address seeming loopholes, contradictions and ambiguities in the Administration of Criminal Justice informed the passage by the National Assembly of the famous ‘Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015’.

“This Act has since been in force, and my Ministry now operates administration of Criminal Justice Department.

“We have empanelled the Administration of Criminal Justice Committee to work closely with the Department.

“Members of this committee are the foot soldiers for monitoring and implementation of Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 in Nigeria.”

Earlier, the chairman of the committee, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, said the judgement debt profile was a matter of concern to the country.

He said the Senate was aware of the challenges facing Ministries, Departments and Agencies and promised necessary interventions to address them.

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BAYELSA GUBER: POLITICIANS ARE UNDER SERIOUS SURVEILLANCE – DSS.

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The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed that politicians from the two leading political parties, the All Progressive Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State, have been placed under security watch and surveillance over movement of heavy arms ahead of the November 16 governorship election.

The State Director of DSS, Ishaku Yusuf made this known on Wednesday during the election seminar organized by the Nigerian Police Force led by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 5, D.P. Yakadi for political party chairmen and other stakeholders in the state.

Yusuf said those under security watch were politicians that have been identified as having the capacity of instigating violence during elections in the state.

“On the issue of identification, those intending to perpetuate violence and other crimes during the forthcoming election have been put under security watch and their homes under surveillance,” he said.

Yusuf, however, observed that the poor attitude and attendance of representatives of political parties to the security seminar showed the poor readiness of parties for the elections.

“Another worry I have for the election, is the fact that we have 45 political parties listed for the election but 10 is in attendance here. It shows the security agencies are more ready than the owners of the elections,” he added.

Speaking during his lecture, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5, Mr. D.P. Yakadi, identified various factors that could lead the coming elections into violence and advised critical stakeholders, including the Media, Political Parties and the INEC to step up preparations and work against corrupt tendencies.

Yakadi assured the stakeholders of the preparedness of the Zone under his watch for the election.

“Unemployment and poverty are some of the key factors that are responsible for election violence in Nigeria; another factor is get rich syndrome, loss of societal values compared to what was attainable in olden days; another factor is proliferation of fire arms, easy access and consumption of illicit drugs.

“We are here today to discuss with you how we can have free, fair and credible election on the 16 November, 2019. The increasing problem of violence in our politics today is a source of security concern.The stakeholders meeting organized by the Nigerian Police Force today is centred on the need to create a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the forthcoming Bayelsa governorship election.

“INEC should ensure that Bayelsa governorship election meet and satisfy international best practices, they should regularly partner with the security agencies, and create a conducive environment for all stakeholders to ensure credible election in Bayelsa state.

“INEC management should show commitment to ensure that presiding officers, polling agents and other election officials are honest in discharging their duties, by understanding their rules in the election processes. INEC should ensure that adequate logistics and administrative processes are put in place before the day of the election to avoid delay as Bayelsa state is about 70% water,” he added.

In his speech, the Administrative Secretary of the INEC in Bayelsa State, Mr. Edwin Enabor, announced that the smart card readers to be used during the poll are undergoing charging, and assured that there would be no card reader failure during the poll.

Enabor, however, said in cases of card reader failure, over 2,500 card readers have been borrowed from River State.

Meanwhile, foreign envoys from the European Union and the United States of America (USA) have met separately with the flag bearers of the APC, Chief David Lyon and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Douye Diri over the need for peaceful conduct of the Governorship election.

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47 PEOPLE ARRESTED OVER ROBBERY.

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The Police Command in Nasarawa State has said that it has arrested 47 persons suspected to be involved in kidnapping and armed robbery in the last three weeks.

Mr Bola Longe, its Commissioner, who paraded the suspects on Wednesday in Lafia, said that 38 of them were suspected kidnappers, while nine were suspected armed robbers.

He attributed the success in the fight against crime in Nasarawa State to the tireless efforts of the personnel of “Operation Puff Adder,” an initiative of the Inspector General of Police.

Longe explained that those arrested included two women believed to be supplier of arms to the suspects, while one was said to be their cook.

He said that six firearms and 24 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the suspects.

Also recovered from the suspects were three motorcycles, N53,700, a laptop computer, mobile phones and assorted charms, he said.

Longe alerted members of the public to the new tactics of the criminals which included threats and intimidation through telephone and text messages.

“The criminals order their victims to pay huge sums of money or be arrested and killed. The command appeals to members of the public not to succumb to such threats.

“Such threats should be reported to us for quick action,” he said.

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WE HAVE NOT SEEN GOV OBIANO AFTER THE FIRE INCIDENT – ONITSHA FIRE VICTIMS

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Victims of last week fire incident in Onitsha, Anambra State on Wednesday said the governor, Chief Willie Obiano was yet to visit the market barely a week after the incident occurred.

The traders and landlords also said the major disaster took place at the Ochanja market as earlier reported in the media.

Speaking to newsmen at the market, leader of the victims, Anthony Okonkwo said it was only the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige that had visited them since the incident happened.

He said while they received a million naira support from Ngige, a beggar by the name Ajebo gave them N3,000.

He regretted that people were playing politics with this issue, warning those who were involved to desist or risk the wrath of God.

He said, “It was not the Ochanja market that was gutted by fire. It was only two adjoining shops on the Emordi, Amobi and Zik Avenue that were affected.

“We are surprised that our governor has not visited us since the incident occurred. Those who are playing politics with the disaster are feeding him with lies.

“Only Dr Chris Ngige and one beggar by the name Ajebo had given us financial support. While Ngige gave N1m, the beggar gave us N3,000.”

Earlier, the Onitsha Local Government Area Chairman, Emeka Asonya, pledge to ensure details of those who truly lost their goods and property in the inferno were properly documented for necessary assistance.

He also promised construction of four boreholes at strategic points in the market to forestall future recurrence as well as ensure those who were renovating their shops did not lack water.

“I’m challenged that some of the traders have already rebuilding their destroyed shops. That’s the resilient spirit which is peculiar with the Igbos.

“You are free to make use of the water from the borehole when completed at no cost. Our prayers is that such incident will never happen again,” he said

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ATIKU’S SON, OTHERS NOMINATED AS COMMISSIONERS.

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Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has forwarded a list of 23 commissioner nominees to the State Assembly for screening and confirmation as commissioners.

Prominent among the commissioner designates is Adamu Atiku, the first son of Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Abdullahi Prambe, Secretary of the Adamawa State chapter of the PDP also made the list.

Aminu Iya-Abbas, Speaker of Adamawa House of Assembly read out the governor’s letter during plenary on Wednesday.

Atiku’s loyalists, Ibrahim Mijinyawa and Umaru Daware who both defected from the All Progressives Congress to the PDP shortly after they resigned their posts as commissioners under the administration of former Governor Jibrilla Bindow also made it to the list as commissioner nominees for Yola North and Fufore local government respectively.

Others are Mohammed Umar (Madagali), Elijah Tumba (Michika), Dr. Ishaya Dabari (Michika), Sunday Mathew (Mubi North), Prof. Isa Abdullahi ( Mubi South), Hassan Kaigama (Maiha), Dr. Umar Garba ( Hong), Lami Patrick (Gombi), Usman Diyajo (Girei), Mustapha Jika (Yola South), Sanusi Faruk ( Toungo), Bappa Isa ( Ganye), Aloysius Babadoke ( Jada) and Shuaibu Audu ( Mayo Belwa).

Also on the list are Iliya James (Demsa), Dishi Khobe ( Numan), Justina Nkom (Lamurde), Wilbina Jackson (Guyuk) and Adamu Titus (Shelleng).

Prior to Wednesday’s list, Governor Fintiri had . as Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General out of exigency because there are legal appeals involving the state.

Speaking on the list, the House Committee Chairman on Information, Mr Japhet Kefas, said no date has been fixed for their screening.

“The house will decide next week on a date for their screening,” Kefas said.

The house had on Tuesday approved the list of 40 Special Advisers for the governor.

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WE WILL STICK TO DEADLINE ON 2020 BUDGET DEFENCE – GBAJABIAMILA

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila has said the house would stick to the deadline of Oct. 29 given to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to conclude their budget defences for 2020.

Gbajabiamila said this while addressing newsmen on Wednesday.

Remember that the house, on October 10, suspended its plenary sessions to focus on the timetable set up for the 2020 Appropriation Bill aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s budget cycle was returned to the January-December calendar year.

According to the timetable, the house gave a deadline of Oct. 30 till Nov. 5 for submission of budget reports by MDAs.

“We have had a great outing and are trying to meet the deadline without sacrificing the thoroughness of the budget defence.

“We can do both at the same time. We can get back to the January-December cycle and at the same time have a fact thorough, comprehensive budget defence process.

“We are trying to see if we can beat before the deadline; we are sticking to that deadline.”

Responding to questions on former house members who are now ministers, asked to just “take a bow” and some of the meetings holding behind closed doors, the speaker expressed confidence in the competence of the committee chairmen and the process of the budget defence.

“I have absolute confidence in the committee chairmen; they were carefully selected based on their background, experience, knowledge and passion.

“If you see things like you have expressed, there will be reasons and genuine verifiable reasons as well.

“Budget process is an open thing; there is transparency, accountability but if there are one or two occasions there were closed-door or private meetings, there might be implications.

“It could be security implications or things that are necessary for the cohesion of the process itself and for the country.
“I might not be able to preempt because I have not spoken with the chairmen but it is information I will take and talk to the chairmen and find out why the meeting was in closed-door,” Gbajabiamila said.

Earlier, at a public hearing on the 2020 budget, Gbajabiamila said the National Assembly’s commitment was to return the country’s budget to the January to December cycle for proper implementation.

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FRSC OFFICERS ARRRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY KILLING A PASSENGER.

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The Edo State Police Command, on Tuesday, arrested two officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps for the murder of a passenger in a cab on the Agbor, Benin road.

The officers were identified as Francis Igboh and Samson Alolade.

The police said efforts were on to apprehend two other FRSC officers involved in the incident, Joseph Onolade and Sunday Ogi.

The deceased, identified as Mr Odion Omafo Samuel, 36, had boarded an Audi 80 car being used as a cab and was travelling in it with the driver when the FRSC personnel flagged down the vehicle on the Owuahe Hill, Agbor Road, Benin on Monday.

The police spokesman in the state, DSP Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the incident.

“Our operatives from the homicide section of the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department, police headquarters, Benin City, are investigating the case. It is a case of murder,” he said.

Journalists gathered that the Head of the Abudu outpost of the FRSC, Mr Ogbemi Olu, was invited and quizzed by investigators at the command headquarters.

The Public Relations Officer for the Edo Sector Command, FRSC, Edoma Bajack, declined comments on the incident, saying, “I cannot give you any information on that.”

The Sector Commander, FRSC, Anthony Oko, also refused to comment on the incident when contacted.

“I cannot comment on what I do not know. The police in Abudu are handling it,” he simply said.

The deceased was said to have aided the taxi driver to resist alleged extortion attempts by the FRSC officers.

It was gathered that in the midst of the altercation between the officers and Samuel, the driver fled the scene and left his passengers at the mercy of the FRSC men, who allegedly descended on Samuel and chased him into a nearby bush, where he was beaten to death.

Sources said the deceased’s body was then abandoned as the FRSC men jumped into their vehicle and sped off.

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FATHER, ARRESTED FOR BEATING SON TO DEATH

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A resident of Maikunkele in the Bosso Local Government Area of Niger State, Ibrahim Mohammed has been arrested by the police for allegedly beating his nine-year-old son to death.

The suspect was arrested by a team of policemen attached to the Paiko Division following a report by one Abubakar Adamu of Yidna village in Paiko.

It was gathered on Tuesday that the deceased, who was rearing cattle for his father, was allegedly beaten to death for mischief.

It was also learnt that the suspect flogged his son with a cane until he died from the continuous beating.

Mohammed who was full of regrets over the incident, said he had no intention of killing his son, adding that he was only trying to correct him when tragedy struck.

“My son had not been honest with me on issues; I got angry with him and lost my temper when I was beating him. Unfortunately, he died. I am really sorry for what I did,” he stated.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Muhammad Abubakar, who confirmed the incident, said the suspect had been charged.

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BREAKING: MULTIPLE ACCIDENTS IN OTEDOLA BRIDGE.

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Accidents involving several vehicles have halted traffic flow on Otedola Bridge in Lagos.

According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency, the accidents involve up to “ten vehicles including a containerized truck, a ‘pickup’ and a high capacity bus as well as several cars.”

The accidents affected motorists heading towards Berger.

LASTMA advised motorists to use the CMD Road from Secretariat bus stop to connect Berger bus stop pending further updates on the traffic situation on the road.

As of the time of filing this report, LASTMA reports that casualties were still trapped in the ‘pickup.’ However, emergency services were said to be on the ground.

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DSS ARRESTS MORE WORKERS IN UI

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The management of the University of Ibadan on Tuesday handed over four more members of staff of its Distance Learning Centre to the Department of State Services for questioning over alleged examination malpractices at the centre.

The Director of Communications of the institution, Mr Olatunji Oladejo, told journalists that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Idowu Olayinka, had given a directive that the DLC officials be thoroughly investigated

Oladejo said, “The university’s zero tolerance for any form of examination malpractice is very important to the management.

He disclosed that the management asked the DSS to whisk away four non-teaching staff in the centre adding that they are not UI lecturers but workers in the centre.

He also said the exercise will continue until all the culprits are brought to book.

Recall that the VC, Prof. Olayinka, had last week ordered the arrest of six workers in connection with the issue.

They were said to have been released on bail on Monday after spending five days in the DSS custody.

When asked about the identities of the latest suspects, Oladejo said the DSS would prefer not to release their names in order not to jeopardise the ongoing investigation.

The non-teaching staff members are now 10 under the DSS investigation.

They were accused of smuggling scripts to students writing examinations, fabrication of Computer Based Test results; falsification of clearance, mostly for students who had disciplinary cases, among others.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Academic Staff Union of the university had said no single academic staff was involved in the examination malpractices.

The Chairman, UI ASUU, Prof. Deji Omole, while reacting to some newspaper reports said those arrested by the DSS were members of non-academic staff in the technical unit of the DLC.

Also, the Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities, Mr Wale Akinremi, told journalists that he had yet to have details of the affected members of staff.

Omole, while reacting to some newspaper reports, said those arrested by the DSS were non-academic staff members in the technical unit of the DLC.

Omole berated the Director of Public Communications of the University, Olatunji Oladejo, who some papers attributed the story to, for allegedly misinforming the public.

Omole maintained that the academic staff had not been linked to the fraud and no one should drag them into it.

The ASUU boss stated that the union was not against punishing anyone linked to the fraud.

Omole added that ASUU had a standing committee on ethics and standard dealing with ethical and unethical issues.

He said it would not take it lightly when its members were wrongly accused.

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LAGOS STATE: NSC PROBSES ALLEGED BRIBERY

The Nigerian Correctional Service has begun investigations into allegations of drug abuse, sodomy, bribery, and pimping in Ikoyi Custodial Centre, Lagos.

The Controller-General, Ja’afaru Ahmed, said on Tuesday that a panel had been set up to establish the authenticity of the report, identify and bring the culprits to book.

The CG, in Abuja, stated that the service was willing to work with the general public as well as relevant stakeholders in the justice sector to actualise the policy objectives of transforming the Nigerian Correctional Service into a modern reformatory institution that operates in line with best international practices.

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NATIONAL ASSEMBLY : CCB CONTRACTOR TO BE PROBED

The National Assembly Joint Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions on Tuesday asked anti-graft agencies to probe a contractor who abandoned a project since 2015 after collecting N1.5bn mobilisation fee.

The contractor was said to have abandoned the construction of the headquarters of the Code of Conduct Bureau in Abuja which is still at foundation level after four years.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Senator Ayo Akinyelure, who presided over the joint session, stated this when the CCB, Code of Conduct Tribunal and the Public Complaints Commission, appeared at the federal parliament to defend their 2020 budgets.

He wondered why neither the management of the CCB nor any other agency of government had raised the alarm on the abandoned project.

He said, “The Federal Government paid N1.5bn to a contractor in a bid for the nation to have a befitting headquarters for the Code of Conduct Bureau in the Federal Capital Territory. As of 2015, the project was still at the foundation stage and nothing has been done since then.”

Akinyelure said, “We want you (CCB) to furnish us with the project details, and if any refund has been made by the contractor. We expect the relevant anti-corruption agency to have started the probe of the contractor before now”

The lawmakers described as alarming the revelation by the CCB Chairman, Mohammed Issa; and the Chairman of the CCT, Danladi Umar, that they had not received any capital vote since 2018.

They unanimously agreed that the three anti-graft agencies should enjoy 100 per cent funding from the federation account.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Akinyelure said, “Considering the current complaints about poor revenue accruable to the Federal Government, the budgets of the CCB, CCT and the PCC should be on first line charge under statutory transfers.

“We are going to communicate that to the Executive so that whatever is approved for them would be released to them 100 per cent so that they could do their work effectively. We need to do this to show Nigerians that we are serious about corruption war in this country”

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PRODUCE LAI MOHAMMED OVER ALLEGED N2.5BN NBC FRAUD – COURT TELLS ICPC

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A Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday gave a final warning to the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission to produce the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, as a witness in the ongoing trial of the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission , Ishaq Modibbo Kawu and two others alleged to have misappropriated the N2.5billion meant for the Digital Switch-Over project of the Federal Government.

Justice Folashade Ogunbanjo-Giwa said the minister and one other were the two remaining witnesses in the trial of Kawu, Pinnacle Communications Ltd, Lucky Omoluwa, and Dipo Onifade in the 12-count charges preferred against them by the ICPC over the switch-over project.

Justice Ogunbanjo-Giwa warned that failure of the ICPC to produce the minister and a bureau de change operator, who had already missed previous summons, at the next adjourned date, would result in the closure of their case.

Earlier, prosecution counsel, Ephraim Otti informed, the court that the bureau de change operator was not in the country and the minister was not available.

He therefore asked for adjournment of the case.

Reacting, defence lawyers, Akeem Mustapha (SAN), Jovi Oguejiofor and Ama Etuwewe (SAN), opposed the application for adjournment.

The court adjourned the case to December 3, 4 and 5 for the prosecution to call its remaining witnesses.

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FCC INVESTIGATES RECRUITMENT SCANDAL

The Federal Character Commission (FCC) says it is aware of recruitment scandal in ministries, departments and agencies of government in the country.

FCC Secretary, Mohammed Tukur, during the 2020 budget defence session of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs yesterday, said the commission had launched an investigation into the alleged secret recruitment by some agencies.

Interogated by the committee’s chairman, Senator Danjuma La’ah whether the commission was aware of the recruitment scandal, Tukur answered in the affirmative.

He assured that the commission would avail the committee necessary information about its findings.

Senator La’ah later told journalists that the affected agencies would also be invited for questioning as soon as investigations were concluded.

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ABACHA LOOT: FG DISBURSES $103.64m TO THE POOR

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The Special Adviser to the President on Social Investments, Mrs Maryam Uwais, has said that the Federal Government has been channelling the recovered Abacha loot and the International Development Association /World Bank credit towards programmes and policies designed to address the plight of poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

Delivering an address on Monday at the training on illicit funds, the Presidential aide said from August 2018 to October payment cycle, the total amount disbursed from the Abacha loot was $76,538,530 and $27,099,028 from the IDA credit.

Uwais, who said the funds, which were specifically being disbursed to beneficiaries of the National Cash Transfer Programme, a component of the National Social Investment Programme, noted that the gesture was positively changing the fortune of many Nigerians.

She said the decision to distribute the Abacha loot and the IDA funds to poor and vulnerable Nigerians, who were mined from a National Social Register, collated by the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office, was reached by the Swiss government, the World Bank and the Federal Government.

This, she said, would help to ensure that the funds were well utilised and not diverted to private pockets, as was the case in the past.

“In December 2014, a Swiss judge gave a forfeiture order to the effect that the money ($322.5m) recovered from the family of late General Abacha would be returned to Nigeria, one of the conditions being that the World Bank would be involved in monitoring the disbursements.

“Presumably, this was as a consequence to the opaqueness that surrounded the application of recovered funds,” Uwais said.

She said efforts to tackle poverty in Nigeria must also take into consideration the basic and peculiar needs of the people.

The Presidential aide expressed regret that there were millions of Nigerian citizens who never felt the presence of government in their lives, adding that many of them had continued to struggle to eat one meal a day.”

Uwais listed key achievements of the Cash Transfer funded with the Abacha loot and IDA loan facility to include enrolment and payment of 620,947 beneficiaries across 29 states.

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POLICE UNCOVERED EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS WITHIN INEC PREMISES

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The Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit of the Nigeria Police Force has said the unit recently recovered an explosive material from the premises of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Owerri, Imo State.

The command said the 80mm Mortal Bomb was evacuated to the EOD base in the state, noting that three IEDs were also recovered from the BUA Cement Company premises in Okpella, Edo State on October 1, 2019.

“On August 16, 2019, technicians from EOD base, Owerri, recovered an 80mm Mortal Bomb on INEC premises, Umuguma, Owerri South Local Government Area, Imo State.

The UXO was however evacuated to EOD base, Owerri Storage Magazine.

“On August 27, 2019, around 8.30pm, EOD in conjunction with the FCT Police Command recovered 50 cartridges of commercial high explosive and 100 pieces of electric detonator at El-Rufai Motor Park, Nyanya, Abuja. Two suspects were apprehended and that matter is being investigated,” the command stated.

The police unit disclosed these in Lagos on Monday while receiving two mobile detection systems donated by the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration, Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence.

The EOD Commissioner of Police, Maikudi Sheu, said the equipment (two special vehicles) would assist the command in intercepting explosives being smuggled into the country.

He said, “We need to fortify the entry and exit points of our country with the provision of these two vehicles. They will go a long way to help us detect materials that are illegally coming into our country. It will help us to put an end to the nefarious activities of these criminals.

“We are starting with two. We will discuss with the Inspector-General of Police to know how best to deploy these vehicles. When we do that and see how effective they are, then we will have to procure more to be able to cover other borders.

“I urge all participants to ensure effective use of the equipment and utilise the knowledge to be acquired from this training to enhance our national nuclear security.”

The Senior Advisor, US-DOE/NNSA/NSDD, Bryceon Shulman, said the gesture was an attempt to form a long-lasting partnership with Nigeria in the fight against trafficking in radioactive materials.

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RAPE ALLEGATION: RONALDO’S DNA MATCHES EVIDENCE

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Juventus star, Cristiano Ronaldo’s DNA matched evidence collected in the rape case against him in America, according to a report from English tabloid ‘The Sun’ .

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was accused by American citizen Kathryn Mayorga of rape last year, which she claims took place in a hotel room in Las Vegas in 2009.

The criminal case, which has since been dropped, was widely publicised, with the 34-year-old Portuguese forward protesting his innocence on social media following the accusation.

Among the 100 emails sent between police and criminal prosecutors in America, Las Vegas detective Jeffrey Guyer said that “DNA is back and is a match”, referring to the Juventus star.

The Bianconeri vowed last year to support Ronaldo and discredited the claims, suggesting that he is a professional.

Last month the Portuguese star told British media personality Piers Morgan that he was embarrassed about the allegations and protested his innocence once again.

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PRESIDENT BUHARI, OTHERS DEPART TO RUSSIA TODAY TO MEET WITH PUTIN

President Muhammadu Buhari departs Abuja Monday to attend a three-day Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi, Russia, October 23rd – 25th, with focus on exploring and expanding opportunities in security, trade and investment, science and technology, and gas production.

During the summit, President Buhari will meet with President Vladimir Putin of Russia to further strengthen relations in security, trade and investment, and building partnership that will enhance Nigeria’s huge gas potential, following Russia’s remarkable success in gas exportation.

The summit, which will be attended by African Heads of States , will bring fresh perspectives on some global issues and challenges like nuclear technology, energy development, digital transformation, environment, technical security, mining and steel, education, agriculture, infrastructure and development strategies.

An African Business Forum, which will bring together African and Russian business leaders, will be held during the event to enhance Russian investments in Africa, and promote African business interest in the host country.

President Buhari will be accompanied by Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State and Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State.

Others on the trip are: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo, Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite and Minister of State, Petroleum, Timipre Sylva.

The President and his entourage will return to the country after the summit.

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ABDUCTED ACP RESCUED, SUSPECTS ARRESTED.

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Two male suspects have been arrested in connection with the abduction of a Corp, Musa Rabo, who was traveling along the Kaduna road over the weekend.

The officer was successfully rescued yesterday evening by a combined team of Police operatives from Kaduna, Niger and Zone 7 Command Headquarters Abuja, backed-up by members of the elite Special Forces of the NPF.

Investigations revealed that the officer who was travelling in his civil dress, with his private vehicle without escort or any special security got into the hands of the hoodlums.

Further investigations revealed that Musa was not targeted as a Corp which led to the opportunistic penetration by the hoodlums who ply the Kaduna expressway.

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JAMB SAYS 527,815 SPACES NOT FILLED

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board said 527,815 admission spaces into tertiary institutions were not utilised in the 2018/2019 admission year.

The board said there were 143,338 spaces not filled in universities, while 52,735 were not utilised in polytechnics. For Colleges of Education, there were 319,405 spaces and 12,337 spaces in Innovation Enterprise Institutions.

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MAN DIES WHILE JOGGING IN LAGOS

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A yet-to-be-identified man collapsed and died while jogging on Sunday morning on the WEMCO Road, in the Ogba area of Lagos State.

Newsmen gathered that the man collapsed due to suspected cardiac arrest and efforts by the people around, who rushed to his rescue, proved abortive as he died on the spot.

In the footage of the incident made available to journalists by an eyewitness, the lifeless body of the man, who wore a Chelsea jersey and a white pair of trainers, was seen lying on the pavement as rain fell on it.

An eyewitness, Ayobami Adedeji, disclosed that the man started gasping immediately he fell on the pavement, but efforts to get emergency responders to the scene proved abortive.

He stated that the man could have been saved if a medical expert had responded to him on time, adding that he died despite the cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed on him.

Adedeji said, “I was jogging in the morning along the WEMCO Road, Ogba, around 6.30am, when I suddenly heard people shouting behind me. When I looked back, I saw a man lying on the floor and people started gathering to attend to him.

“I knew it was an emergency, so I moved closer and saw the man gasping; the people who rushed to his rescue and I did a cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedure by applying pressure to his chest, because it was obvious that he had suffered cardiac arrest while jogging. The man struggled to regain consciousness, but unfortunately, he didn’t and he died.

“I was fortunate to have my phone on me, so I called the emergency lines for over an hour but nobody showed up. I called the 747 and was told that responders were coming, but when we didn’t see them, I called again and the lady, who picked the call, started apologising. I became angry and started shouting at her that the emergency unit at Alausa was not far from the WEMCO Road and it was Sunday morning and there was no traffic anywhere.”

When contacted, the General Manager, LASEMA, Dr Oluwafemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said the man suffered suspected cardiac arrest while jogging, adding that his remains had been evacuated to the mortuary.

He urged Lagos residents to consult their doctors before embarking on any strenuous exercise to prevent health problems.

Oke-Osanyintolu said, “The man suffered suspected cardiac arrest; when we received the call, we contacted the SHEMU to evacuate the corpse. The corpse has been evacuated. We are appealing to everybody who wants to do exercise to endeavour to do the basic tests to ascertain their fitness.

“They should also talk with their doctors on the type of exercise they can be involved in. We also appeal to Lagosians to use the facilities provided by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to take good care of their health.”

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NCC ASKS MTN TO STOP 4 NAIRA CHARGES FOR USSD.

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The Federal Government on Sunday ordered the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to halt the planned imposition of N4 per transaction charge subscribers by MTN.

Communications Minister Ibrahim Pantami, who gave the directive yesterday through a statement by his media aide, Uwa Suleiman, also urged the NCC to look for ways of bringing down the cost of data and illegal deductions of airtime by service providers.

It was learnt that the proposed charge is for the use of Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) used for banking services.

USSD is a Global System for Mobile (GSM) communication technology used to send text between a mobile phone and an application programme in the network. Applications may include prepaid roaming.

Dr. Pantami said MTN should stay action on the matter for proper briefing.

The statement reads: “The attention of the Federal Ministry of Communications has been drawn to the viral text message allegedly sent by the Mobile Network Operator MTN Nigeria and other Mobile Operators notifying subscribers of a four naira (N4:00) charge per 20 seconds on USSD access to banking services from the 21st of October 2019.

“The office of the Minister of Communications, Dr. Isa Pantami, is unaware of this development and has hereby directed the sector regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) ensures the operator suspends such plans until the Honourable Minister is fully and properly briefed.”

But a telecoms industry source said there was nothing new in the practice of the providers collecting the charge.

According to the source, the banks, through their chief executive officers, acting under the aegis of Body of Bank CEOs, came together and mandated the operators to start deducting charges since the transactions primarily run through their infrastructure.

The source said that other firms have since been implementing the mandate, adding that while MTN planned to charge N4 per transaction, one of the operators charges N4.50.

“It was in the spirit of transparency that MTN decided to notify its subscribers ahead of its implementation,” the source said, wondering why the banks, after purportedly ceding the responsibility to the telcos, still want to double charge the subscribers.

On the need to reduce the cost of data, the minister urged the NCC and the service providers to ensure downward review in prices and improve quality.

Besides, he urged them to curtail illegal deductions of subscribers’ data by service providers.

The minister gave the advice at a meeting with NCC management on the progress made in the implementation of the Short-Term Performance targets set for it.

He said concern that “with the prevailing high cost of data in Nigeria, the citizens still do not enjoy value for money as subscribers’ battle daily with illegal deduction of data, poor Quality of Service (QoS), among others.”

Pantami noted that the steps taken so far in the sector were in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s directives to ensure that all agencies operate effectively and efficiently to meet the yearnings of the people.

A statement by his aide reads: “Dr. Pantami also reminded NCC that as a regulator, their major priority should be protecting the interest of Nigerians and urged them to uphold professionalism and diligence in the discharge of their official responsibilities.

“The commission also tabled challenges of the operators, which includes vandalism of telecom infrastructures, inadequate power supply, right of way, hooliganism, multiple taxations, among others, and used the opportunity to call for the swift intervention of the minister to address the issues.

The minister also directed Galaxy Backbone, a government-owned Information Technology service provider, to think out of the box, leverage on the advantage it has as a government-funded entity to deliver effective and efficient services to Nigerians, and, in turn, attract more revenue for the government.”

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NASS PROMISES ADEQUATE FUNDING FOR NIGERIA ARMY.

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The Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Sen. Ali Ndume and the House of Representatives counterpart, Mr Abdulrazak Namdas, have promised to ensure adequate funding for the Nigerian Army in the 2020 budget.

They made the promise on Saturday in an interview with newsmen during the Passing Out Parade (POP) of 78 Regular Recruits Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna State.

They said that the army needed to be adequately funded to be able to effectively tackle the prevailing security threats in the country.

Ndume, who agreed that the N100 billion proposed for defence in 2020 budget was inadequate stressing that the committee on army was looking at how to help to enhance the funding.

He said that the national assembly was aware of needs of the army that needed to be provided to enable its personnel to perform their duties effectively.

“We are going to do something despite the fact that the resources are scarce but security is first and everybody has agreed to that.

“We are looking at the budget critically to place our priorities right so that the right things will be done first.”

Namdas said that the joint committee had embarked on fact finding tour to army formations across the country and realised that the army had challenges.

According to him, they are really on ground, they have done so much and now that the National Assembly is considering the budget we can appropriate for the army.

“We will see how we can be able to adjust and see how that can be able to cope with the challenges at hand,” he said.

Namdas also disclosed that a motion to provide for special funding for the armed forces was currently being considered on the floor of the House of Representatives.

He added that the armed forces could not be adequately funded only by the budget, adding that there was need to look beyond the budget to finance the operations of the armed forces.

“That motion has been taken and we are looking to it and by the special grace of God, even after the budget we will look for special funding for the armed forces generally,” he said.

The Depot Nigerian Army on Saturday graduated a total of 4832 regular recruits who would be deployed to various formations of the army.

Similarly, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin, urged the graduating soldiers to always uphold the oath of allegiance they had taken to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

Olonisakin also tasked them to display total loyalty while pledging that the prevailing security challenges would soon be over through the commitment of the military.

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OBASEKI HAILS ADEBUTU ON NEW TRADITIONAL TITLE

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Goodwin Obaseki has congratulated Sir Adebutu Adebunkunola Kesington on the conferment of the Odole Oodua title on him by the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

The Governor, in a statement, said Kesington, the brain behind the popular Baba Ijebu lotto, among other business enterprises, is deserving of the honour on account of his impact on society.

The conferment of the chieftaincy award was held today, October 19, in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

According to the Governor, “I congratulate Sir Adebutu Adebunkunola Kesington on the conferment of the chieftaincy title on him by the great stool of Oduduwa. He is deserving of the honour because of his illustrious achievements and his impact on millions of Nigerians.

“To merit the title, Odole Oodua, Kesington has done a lot as a businessman and a philanthropist. He steps in the shoes of the likes of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who held the title in the past.

“The Odole Oodua works with the Ooni to rally descendants of Oduduwa across the world for peace, unity and progress of the Yoruba race. I am sure the choice of Sir Kesington is well deserved and I pray he contributes to the Ooni’s quest to bring growth and development to the Yoruba race.”

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147 INMATES EVACUATED IN KADUNA REHABILITATION CENTRE

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Kaduna State Police Command on Saturday raided another youth rehabilitation centre popularly called Malam Niga’s Rehabilitation and Skill Acquisition Centre and evacuated 147 inmates at Rigasa Community of Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The police stormed the centre located at Kwanar Gurguwa in the community ‎in the early hours and took away the inmates to Mando Camp.

Newsmen gathered that the State Governor Nasir El’rufai was at the venue during the raid.

The founder of the centre, Lawal Yusuf Muduru, was arrested and taken away by the police for questioning.

‎ Reporters who visited the State Pilgrims Hajj Camp at Mando where the inmates were kept under the care of the State Ministry for Human Services and Social Development reported ‎that police men were stationed at the camp as details of the inmates were taken by officials of the ministry.

Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development Hafsat Baba who was at the camp told said “The number of inmates evacuated from the centre were 147 in total among them 22 females while four were foreigners from Niger and Cameroon. We also have under age among the inmates and those who are mentally not stable. We have contacted a psychiatric doctor who will come to examine them,” she said.

She further added that details of the inmates were taken even though she said they are waiting for directives from the State government on the next line of action.

Majority of the inmates were drugs addicts who were taken to the centre for rehabilitation and also to learn skill acquisition such as carpentry, welding, computer training etc.

The Police Command Public Relations Officer DSP Yakubu Sabo confirmed the raid but said the state Governor Nasir El-Rufai paid an impromptu visit to the centre alongside the police and discovered that the inmates were not kept in good condition.

He said some of the inmates about seven of them also alleged to have been sexually abused by other inmates at the centre, saying they are undergoing examination.

The police spokesman also said that the founder of the Centre is under police custody answering questions even though he claimed to have licence to operate but that investigation is ongoing.

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DRUG ABUSE:BUHARI RECEIVES COMMITTEE REPORTS

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday received the report of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Elimination of Drug Abuse at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The advisory committee, which was constituted by the president on December 11, 2018, is chaired by a former Military Administrator of Lagos state, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa.

Other members of the committee included the wives of the President and Vice President, Hajiya Aisha Buhari and Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo.

The committee is saddled with the responsibility of working toward reducing the level of drug abuse in the country.

Marwa had in January during an official visit to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Alhaji Musa Bello, disclosed that over 14 million people in the country were actively abusing drugs.

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OKOWA CHARGES NEW APPOINTEES ON COMMITMENT TO DUTY

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, has said that his administration will continue to reinvigorate governance in the state through the appointment of qualified people to strategic positions.

This was disclosed at the swearing-in of 11 Permanent Secretaries and the inauguration of the Boards of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rural Development Agency (RDA) and the Direct Labour Agency (DLA).

The governor charged the appointees to provide fresh ideas to support the state government in consolidating the achievement of the state.

He also said everyone should continue to build a strong foundation for the economy.

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KOGI STATE: DEPUTY GOVERNOR IMPEACHED

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The Kogi State House of Assembly has impeached the embattled Deputy Governor, Simon Achuba.

His impeachment followed the submission earlier in the day of the report of the committee set up by the state chief judge, Justice Nadir Ajana, to investigate an allegation of gross misconduct against the former deputy governor.

Leader of the House, Hassan Bello Abdulahi, representing Ajaokuta state constituency who announced the decision of the House, said Achuba stands impeached after careful consideration of the report of the John Bayeshea committee submitted earlier on Friday.

He said the report was received, studied and deliberated upon and a unanimous decision was arrived at to impeach Achuba and “he therefore stands impeached.”

The seven-man committee headed by John Bayeshea submitted the report to the Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly, Mathew Kolawole on Friday, in a brief ceremony after which the House went into a closed door session where the report was considered and deliberated upon.

The committee was set up in August following allegations of gross misconduct leveled against the Deputy Governor when he accused Governor Yahaya Bello of withholding his salaries and imprests since 2017 — an allegation denied by the government during hearing by the committee.

The Director General, Media and Publicity to the Kogi State Governor, Kingsley Fanwo, also accused the embattled Deputy Governor of attempting to set the state on fire.

Fanwo alleged that Achuba was orchestrating violence and incitement against the governor and the government of Kogi State.”

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FG AND LABOUR REACHES AGREEMENT OVER NEW MINIMUM WAGE – KEYAMO

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The Federal Government and organised labour on Thursday finally agreed on the percentage increase on the consequential adjustment in workers’ salaries as a result of the new minimum wage of N30,000.

As the meeting reached an advanced stage, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, tweeted from the venue that both parties had reached an agreement, but he did not give details.

The tweet read, “After some delicate negotiations (with both ministers as conciliators), the government and labour have finally reached an agreement on the consequential adjustment of other wages following the implementation of the enhanced minimum wage of N30,000. We are working on the communiqué.”

In a statement, the President of the Trade Union Congress, Quadri, and the Secretary General, Musa-Lawal Ozigi, confirmed the peace pact, commending the Federal Government and labour for their patience while the National Minimum Wage negotiations lasted.

The statement read, “We commend the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr Folashade Yemi-Esan, and her team for their sincerity. Though they argued that the government could not afford to meet our earlier demand of N30,000 minimum wage across board because of the economic situation in the country, we made them understand that some people could not be more Nigerian than others. If we are tightening our belts, government should also do so.”

The secretary of the JNCSNC, Alade Lawal, also confirmed the figure to our correspondent through a text message after confirmation on what was agreed with the FG was sought from him.

He said both parties agreed on 23.2 percentage increase for workers at grade level 07; 20 per cent for those at grade level 08; 19 per cent for workers at grade level 09; 16 per cent for those on levels 10 to 14; and 14 per cent for workers at grade levels 15 to 17.

The meeting was still going on as of the time of filing this report (12.56am) on Friday.

The agreement did not come easy as negotiations between both parties collapsed several times in the last six months.

The agreement came 182 days after President Muhammadu Buhari signed the new minimum wage into law.

After the necessary legislative processes at the National Assembly, Buhari signed the 2019 New National Minimum Wage Bill into law on April 18, 2019.

Thursday’s meeting was slated to begin at 7pm but more than one hour after the labour team, led by the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Ayuba Wabba, and the government team had taken their seat, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, and Keyamo came into the conference room.

Present at the meeting were the General Secretary of the Trade Union Congress, Musa Origi; NLC General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja; Chairman of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, Simon Anchaver; Secretary of the council, Alade Lawal; the President, Nigeria Union of Civil Service, Amaechi Lawrence; and the union’s General Secretary, Issa Aremu.

On the government side were the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi-Esan; acting Chairman of the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, Ekpo Nta; and the Permanent Secretary in the labour ministry, William Alo.

Ngige reminded the gathering that the future of the country must be given consideration in the negotiations.

He said if the country became broke because of personnel cost, it would suffer the consequences.

The leader of the government team, Folashade Yemi-Esan, said since Wednesday’s meeting adjourned around 2am on Thursday, members of the government team had not rested because of the enormous work given to it for an agreement to be reached at the Thursday meeting.

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BREAKING: ANOTHER FUEL TANKER GUTS WITH FIRE IN ONITSHA

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Days after several lives were lost and buildings destroyed due to a fuel tanker fire at Upper Iweka Road in Onitsha, Anambra State woke up to another fire disaster at Omagba, also in Onitsha.

Newsmen reports that the fire incident involved another fuel tanker and that it happened in the early hours of Friday morning along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway by Bessoy filling station, Onitsha.

Police Commissioner, John Abang, who confirmed the incident, said that men of the fire service responded faster to the fire incident than they did on Wednesday

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POLICE PARADES 17 SUSPECTS IN JOS

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The Plateau State Police Command on Thursday paraded 17 suspects for crimes ranging from unlawful possession of firearms, kidnapping, armed robbery and culpable homicide.

The Command stated this through the Commissioner of Police in the State, Isaac Akinmoyede while addressing journalists at its headquarters in Jos the state capital.

The Police also said different kinds of exhibits were recovered from the suspects which include; arms and ammunition as well as assorted charms.

Akinmoyede said, “In pursuance of the objectives of Operation ‘Puff Adder’, the command was able to arrest 17 suspects involved in different heinous crimes.

“On 26th September 2019, at about l6:00 hours, SARS operatives of the command arrested a five-man gang who specialized in snatching cars and robbing a Point of Sale (POS) operators in Jos and its environs.

“Search conducted at their residences led to the recovery of two foreign-made pistols, and one locally-made revolver pistol, eleven 9mm live ammunition, one Peugeot 406 car with registration No. DKA 944 86.

“During interrogation, the suspects confessed that in September 2019. they robbed a POS operator at Kufang Miango road, Jos and in the process, they shot their Victim.

The Police boss said the suspects have also confessed to robbing and killing one POS Operator at Dadin-Kowa and that they also shot one woman in her POS shop in Zarmaganda.

He added that the command had called victims and they volunteered statements and confirmed the robbery incidents in their shops, and investigation is still in progress.

Also speaking on unlawful possession of firearms, the Police Commissioner said, “On 6th October, 2019, at about 19:10 hours while the operatives of ‘A’ Division were on stop and search at the Apollo Crescent in Jos, they stopped a tricycle with Reg. No. JJN 77] WT, PT No. 18374 for a random search, immediately the tricycle stopped, its occupants took to their heels.

“The police operatives then chased them and were able to arrest one of the occupants – one Jonathan Hosea of Kampala, Off Rukuba Road, Jos. When he and the tricycle were searched, the following exhibits were recovered; a locally made single barrel pistol, a cartridge and seven different types of handsets.

He said efforts have been intensified to arrest other occupants of the tricycle who are at large to face the full wrath of the law.

In the case of a notorious kidnapper and armed robber, the CP said, “On 17th August, 2019, at about 00:21 hours, one Ibrahim Ali Kuru of Lare village, Bogoro LGA of Bauchi State together with seven others broke into the house of one Laben Fidelis Danladi of Ungwan-Rina village in Shendam LGA of Plateau State.

“They kidnapped Danladi to an unknown destination and demanded a ransom of N2, 000,000 only. A ransom of one million, two hundred thousand naira was paid before the kidnappers released the victim on 20th August, 2019.

“Intelligence received led to the arrest of lbrahun Ali Kuru whom the victim identified as the leader of the gang that kidnapped him. Investigation has been completed and the suspect shall be charged to court soon.

The Police Commissioner also said, the Command has recovered firearms and ammunition in Wase LGA and other persons were arrested for crimes ranging from armed robbery, culpable homicide in Bassa, Jos South and Jos North LGAs.

Meantime, the Commissioner of Police said the command has charged 54 vehicles for offences ranging from unauthorize use of tinted glasses, unnumbered vehicles among others.

He said the command is doing everything possible to ensure the success of Operation ‘Puff Adder’ in order to keep the state safe for law-abiding citizens to carry out their lawful duties without any iota of fear.

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BAUCHI GOVERNOR WARNS EMIRS AGAINST CONNIVING WITH HOODLUMS

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The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has warned traditional rulers in the state against conniving with criminals, vowing to remove anyone found wanting.

He gave the warning when he received members of the State Council of Traditional Rulers led by the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Adamu, at Government House, Bauchi.

The governor lamented that the state had experienced attacks in Toro, Dass, Alkaleri and Ganjuwa local government areas, leading to loss of lives.

He also said security measures had been put in place to prevent a recurrence.

Mohammed said, “We call on you to fear God in your capacity as leaders because we all are your followers. We’ve heard the story of what is happening in other places like banditry in Zamfara State and what even happened to some traditional rulers there.

“I want to use this opportunity to beg you, our Emirs, to warn all those under you, those criminals and bandits who attack and kill people and steal their property, connive with traditional rulers like village heads, district heads and even Emirs, to change.”

Adamu said the visit was to commend the governor for some of the programmes and projects his administration had so far embarked upon.

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BUHARI SYMPATHIZES WITH ONITSHA FIRE VICTIMS.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of a mother and her child as a result of an oil tanker accident in Onitsha, Anambra State.

Reacting to the incident on Wednesday, President Buhari, in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and publicity, Garba Shehu, said: “I am profoundly touched by the sight of the charred remains of an innocent mother and her child who are victims of this tragedy.

“I also extend my sympathies to other victims of the explosion whose houses, shops and other property were destroyed in the mishap.” he said.

The resident also explained that, “while I express sadness over this tragedy, I must at the same time call for urgent action on the part of those concerned to stem these frequent fatal disasters on public roads.”

“I call on the Ministry of Transport, the Federal Road Safety Commission and other stakeholders to urgently address the issue of safety standards in the country, with a view to stemming the embarrassing frequency of these tragedies”, the President added.

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AISHA APPRECIATES BUHARI FOR HER NEW AIDES.

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First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has expressed appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for the approval of six aides to her office.

Mrs. Buhari expressed her feelings on Wednesday when she received wives of governors who visited her at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Those appointed are Dr. Mairo Al-Makura, Special Assistant on African First Ladies Peace Mission; and Mr. Muhammed Albishir as Special Assistant on Organisation of African First Ladies for Development.

Also appointed are Mr. Wole Aboderin, Special Assistant on Non-Governmental Organisations; and Mr. Aliyu Abdullahi as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity.

Others are Zainab Kazeem, Special Assistant on Domestic and Social Events; and Funke Adesiyan, Personal Assistant on Domestic and Social Events in the office of the First Lady.

The appointments take immediate effect.

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NIGER STATE LOOSES FOUR GOVT WORKERS IN A CAR ACCIDENT.

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Four Staff of the Niger State Ministry of Lands and Housing have been confirmed dead, following a motor accident which occurred on Wednesday evening along Mokwa-Batati road in Mokwa local government area of the state.

The Federal Road Safety Corps unit command in the area confirmed the accident to journalists via telephone communication.

He says the crash involving a Trailer and a Honda Civic car took place just after Batati village, after a heavy downpour.

The four staff of the State Ministry of lands and housing were said to be on their way to Mokwa when the accident happened.

They were confirmed dead at the spot where the accident occurred

According to a report by the Ministry’s Head of Information, the victims are Ibrahim Audu, Abubakar DANJUMA, BABAN KOGI and Idris Jibrin.

As at the time of filing this report, the remains of some of the victims have been claimed by their relations for burial.

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GOV. OBIANO SYMPATHIZES WITH FIRE VICTIMS FAMILIES, DECLARES ASSISTANCE BY GOVT.

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The Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano has sympathized with the family of a woman and her child who was burnt to death in a truck accident in Onitsha, the state capital.

Governor Obiano has directed owners of properties affected by the tragic accident, including shop owners, to report at the Conference Room of the Secretary to the State Government on Monday, October 21, 2019, to see how the Anambra State Government can assist them.

The accident occurred on Wednesday when a tanker laden with premium motor spirit, popularly known as petrol, fell into a ditch and began to spill its contents. A ball of fire resulted from this incident and quickly spread.

Men of the Anambra State Fire Service arrived at the scene with their equipment but were unable to quench the inferno as the angry mob on the scene prevented other fire trucks, including one from neighbouring Asaba in Delta State, from getting to the scene.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information & Public Enlightenment Don Adinuba, said that a panel will be set up immediately to determine the cause of the accident, why the firemen could not put out the fire and how the condition of the victims can be ameliorated.

The governor also prayed for the repose of the souls of the woman and child who died in the accident. The Anambra State Government will assist their families in their burials.

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CROSS RIVER : FIRST BANK BRANCHES SHUT DOWN OVER ALLEGED DEBT.

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The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in Cross River State has sealed all branches of First Bank in Cross River over tax defaults.

Newsmen gathered that the sealing which took place on Wednesday, was at the instance of a Special Court (Revenue) order in Cross River State.

In a suit No: MSC. NO. HC/SCT/MSC/BIR/02/2019 between the applicant (Cross River State Board of Internal Revenue) and the First Bank of Nigeria Plc, the court ordered the sealing of the Bank.

The bank was said to have owed the Cross River State Government accumulated tax revenue of over 211 Million Naira from 2005 to 2010.

The order was signed by the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Michael Edem and Ekpo E. Archibong, the Chief Litigation Officer.

The order stated that the Motion Ex-parte was filed and dated the 25th day of September 2019 in pursuant to the provision of Section 104 of the Cross River State Revenue Administration Law 2011.

The court ordered that the bank’s goods, Chattels lands, premises, bonds and securities be seized for non-payment of N211, 094, 450.00 (Two Hundred and Eleven Million, Ninety-Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty Naira).

The amount was the outstanding tax liability which was supposed to have been paid under the back duty Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) deductions, Business premises, Development levy and Withholding tax (Excluding Interest), liabilities for the period of 2005-2010.

Patience Vouda Egwu, Esquire, the Head Enforcement and Monitoring Unit of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service was the duly authorised person to execute the warrant against the Bank for non-payment of the amount.

The court further stated, that the First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Calabar being the Distrainee shall pay the outstanding tax liability amount of N211, 094, 450 into Cross River State Revenue Account, using Code: 1203000000/401007F and the sum of N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) only is being awarded as cost.

The order dated 3rd day of October 2019 and 20 branches of the bank in Cross River State were affected with Calabar having over 12 branches. Sadly, customers who visited various branches were stranded as the red ribbons were used in sealing the bank and the Court order pasted all over the premises prevented them from assessing their money.

A customer who gave her name as Mary while speaking with our correspondent said, “I just arrived now to deposit money and I discovered the place was sealed and locked. I don’t know what to do because I don’t want to carry this money back – it is dangerous following the period we’re in”.

Another customer who did not give his name said, “I came here to withdraw money to buy things from the Watt Market for my shop, only to find out that the bank is sealed, I don’t know what to do. I tried using the ATM, but it was sealed too.

“I am running out of stock. If this is true, a big bank like First Bank should not be owing tax in any form.”

Efforts to speak with the General Manager of the Bank proved abortive as no one was allowed into the bank premises.

Security personnel at the gate of one of the branches told our Correspondent that, “As I came to work this morning, I saw the people from the CRSIRS sealing the office. I don’t know what is going on and our main oga has gone out too”.

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KEYAMO GIVES DETAILS OF NLC MEETING WITH FG, REVEALS NEXT ACTION.

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The Minister of Labour and Employment (state), Festus Keyamo, has given an update on the proposed industrial action by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, over the minimum wage agreement with the Federal Government.

Keyamo, who was present at the meeting on Wednesday night, said the organised labour and representatives of the Federal Government were still discussing over the minimum wage.

Recall that Labour had resorted to the strike option from Oct. 17 if the government failed to reach a consensus with it on Oct. 16 over the consequential adjustments of the minimum wage.

Keyamo noted that the union and government will continue their meeting on Thursday to iron out grey areas regarding implementation of new minimum wage.

He however, urged Nigerians to disregard report that “Labour has reached an agreement of a 20% and 13.5% consequential adjustments for workers on Grade Levels 7- 14 and 15- 17 respectively.”

Keyamo on his Twitter page wrote: “Kindly ignore the trending story that the Federal Government has agreed with Labour a 20% and 13.5% consequential adjustments for workers on Grade Levels 7- 14 and 15- 17 respectively. As you can see, we are still discussing this minute.

“It’s past 2am and both sides (labour and government) have decided to adjourn the negotiations to continue by 7pm later today, Thursday, October 17th, to iron out some outstanding grey areas.”

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GOV. OKOWA EXPRESSES HEARTBREAK ON ONITSHA FIRE SCOURGE.

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Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has said the images, he has seen out of the Onitsha fire were heartbreaking.

A loaded tanker on Wednesday spilled its content on the road at Upper Iweka Road in Onitsha. The spillage led to a fire incident that resulted in the death of some people and the destruction of several buildings and business premises in the commercial centre.

It was reported that men of the fire service couldn’t put out the fire when they arrived on the scene due to a faulty valve.

Reacting to the incident, Okowa via his verified Twitter handle. Said :

“The tragic images coming out of Onitsha of the raging fires are truly heartbreaking. As neighbours, Delta State will stand with our brothers and sisters in Anambra State at this difficult time and will give them our full support as they recover from this terrible incident.”

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KOGI POLLS: GOV. BELLO’S CHIEF OF STAFF RESIGNS

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Less than one month to the Kogi governorship election, Chief Edward Onoja, Chief of Staff to Gov. Yahaya Bello, has resigned his position.

This was contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Folashade Arike who named former Director General (Protocol), Abdulkareem Jamiu as the new Chief of Staff to the governor.

Onoja resigned to enable him emerge as running mate to the governor who is seeking reelection on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC).

Onojo emerged as running mate to Gov. Bello as a result of the rift between the governor and his deputy, Elder Simon Achuba who is currently facing impeachment proceedings.

“Consequent upon the resignation of the former Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, Chief Edward Onoja, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has approved the appointment of former Director General (Protocol), Pharm. Abdulkareem Jamiu as Chief of Staff to his Excellency.

“His Excellency has also approved the appointment of Dr Gabriel Ottah as DG Protocol to His Excellency.

Dr Gabriel Ottah had been appointed to replace Jamiu as new DG Protocol.

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NUJ CONGRATULATES OSAHOR AS HE BAGS NEW APPOINTMENT

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council, has congratulated Mr Paul Osahor JP, of the State Ministry of Information on his appointment as a permanent secretary in the Delta State Civil Service.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Council Chairman, Michael Ikeogwu and Secretary, Churchill Oyowe.

They expressed confidence that the appointment would further motivate the creative best in Mr Osahor for effective service delivery.

The NUJ, said the appointment was well deserved and a reward for hard work, dedication and zeal at giving verve to information service delivery in the state.

The council, while also congratulating other appointees on their elevation to the peak of their career as civil servants, thanked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for extending his appointments to the civil service and Post Primary Education Board.

The council particularly commended the governor on the ground that testimonies from some of the appointees indicated that they did not lobby but rather, 5⅝merit was considered in the appointment.

It also urged the governor to maintain the tempo in subsequent appointments, arguing that it would help to build a resilient and re-oriented civil service in the state .

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YOUR LEADERS MUST BE ACCOUNTABLE. OMO-AGEGE TO NIGERIANS

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Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege, on Friday, called on Nigerians to be ready to hold their leaders accountable to ensure good governance.

Omo-Agege made the call in Abuja at the 10th Annual Independence Lecture titled: “Social Contract and Leadership in Nigeria: Experience and Prospect.’’

The event was organised by The Change We Need Nigeria Initiative (TCWNNI).

The lawmaker, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Otive Igbuzor, noted that “when leaders are not checked and are not held accountable by the people, the natural thing for them is to please themselves.

“This translates to expropriation of the commonwealth and a tendency for some leaders to see their personal interest as the interest of the people they govern.’’

According to him, another famous Greek thinker, Aristotle, also supporting this, noted: “For man, when perfected, is the best of animals, but, when separated from law and justice, he is the worst of all.’’

He said that social contract in politics is an unspoken bargain between government and the people where the former is obligated to deliver good governance and the latter, loyalty and total acceptability of the authority upon which government operate.

Mr Anthony Sani, Secretary General of Arewa Consultative Forum, corroborated that social contract is all about responsibility and obligation.

According to him, the present leadership in the country seems determined to remove sand bags on the path of socio-economic development.

“One way it is doing this is the fight against corruption which is the mother of all challenges,’’ he said.

Sani added that the government was also tackling the insecurity in the country in order to make it secure for everyone.

He, however, urged government to continue to encourage responsibility and inspire inclusiveness through sense of participation.

Spokesperson for Afenifere, Mr Yinka Odumakin, said there was need to have a binding contract between various nationalities in the country so that everyone can live together in peace.

The convener of the event, Dr Cosmas Ilechukwu, said that “social contract furnishes the fundamental principle for legitimisation of any government.’’

He said the core thesis of the social contract theory was that government exists at the behest of the people for the protection and promotion of the general well-being of the people.

Ikechukwu, who is also the General Overseer, Charismatic Renewal Ministries, said the constitution contains the tenets of social contract theory, which if paid attention to, would ensure common good for the people in general.

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ADESINA SAYS BUHARI, NOT MARRYING A SECOND WIFE.

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The Special Adviser on Media and publicity to President Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina, has dispelled the viral claim that Buhari is getting a second wife.

Social media reports had claimed that Buhari would get married on Friday to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq.

Adesina noted that the rumour was a deceptive manoeuvre by those who fabricated the news, noting that the news was far from the truth.

Buhari on Friday observed the weekly two raka’at jumaat prayer at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Among those that joined him at the jumaat prayer were presidential aides, some cabinet ministers and former governor of Zamfara, Abdulaziz Yari as well as Senator Kabir Gaya.

The jumaat prayer however witnessed unprecedented number of faithful.

They seemed to have stormed the Villa mosque to confirm the authenticity or otherwise of the social media reports claiming that President Buhari would have wedding fatiha for a second wife.

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BUHARI’S 2020 BUDGET CANNOT TACKLE ECONOMIC ADVERSITIES – PDP NATIONAL CHAIRMAN

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The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, has said President Muhammadu Buhari’s proposed 2020 budget cannot tackle Nigeria’s economic adversities.

He disclosed this on Friday in Abuja, during the inauguration of the Bayelsa and Kogi states Campaign Councils, ahead of the November 16 governorship elections in the two states.

Secondus also cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against rigging the elections.

“The voodoo budget presented by the President this week clearly shows the regime’s inability to tackle the nation’s economic adversities.

” Your Excellencies, against these backdrops, I urge you to see your assignment as a challenge to save our democracy, to save our country and to save these two states.

“Nothing encapsulates the APC’s insensitivity to the groaning of Nigerians than their determination to increase their pain through extensive taxation, vat and toll gates.

“We are aware that APC has chosen the option of violence knowing what awaits them at the ballot box,” Secondus said.

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WAEC APPOINTS NEW REGISTRAR

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The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the appointment of Mr. Pateh Bah as its new Registrar.

A statement issued by the Council’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr Abiodun Aduloju, explained that Bah’s tenure is till September 2024.

Bah, from The Gambia, succeeded Dr Iyi Uwadiae, whose tenure expired on October 1.

Mr. Peter Bah

The new Registrar, a graduate of Commerce from Pune University, Maharashtra, India, worked in the public sector in education, sports and culture in Banjul (1990-1991) before he joined WAEC on October 9, 1991.

His 2002 appointment as Personal Assistant to the Registrar/CEO led to his transfer to Accra, Ghana, headquarters of WAEC, where he rose to the rank of Principal Assistant Registrar in 2010 before he went back to The Gambia, on the request of WAEC board of directors, to Head the country’s National Office (HNO).

Bah, was The Gambia HNO for nine years (2010-2019), two of which was in acting capacity.

The statement noted that Bah, who was sanctioned as Registrar last March, has wide experience in education, quality assurance and technical training.

It reads: “Bah’s appointment as Registrar was ratified by Council – the International Governing Board of WAEC – at its 67th annual meeting in Freetown, Sierra Leone, in March 2019.

“Mr. Bah has made appreciable contribution to the development of education. He was a member of the Governing Boards of the Gambia Technical Training Institute and the Gambia National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority. He has served as Chairman, Audit Committee of the International Association for Educational Assessment (IAEA). He is currently the Treasurer of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) and a member representing Africa on the Board of Trustees of the IAEA.”

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PRESIDENT BUHARI IS NOT MARRYING ANOTHER WIFE TODAY – DELE MOMODU

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A former presidential candidate and Publisher of the Magazine, Dele Momodu, has reacted to the rumour making the rounds that President Muhammadu Buhari was set to wed a second wife on Friday (today).

Reports says the rumour emerged from the Aso Rock that president Buhari will be getting married in a very quiet ceremony to Sadia Umar Farouq, the current Minister for Humanitarian Affairs Disaster Management.

This is following the continued absence of the current First Lady, Aisha who has been out of the Presidential Villa since her trips to Saudi Arabia and UK.

According to a source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said Ms Farouk is a very close friend of Buhari and the Villa cabals love her.

But reacting to the claim, Momodu said there would be no such wedding between Buhari and Farouk.

He tweeted, “I have been inundated with calls, and social media is a wash, about the news of the President’s impending wedding fatiha tomorrow; let me disappoint the rumour-mongers that nothing of the sort is happening tomorrow, according to my own impeccable sources… Fingers crossed…”

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NAVY, RELEASES LIST OF SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS.

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The Nigerian Navy has released list of successful candidates in the 2019 recruitment interview held in Lagos between July 29 and Aug. 27, 2019.

Navy Director of Information, Commodore Suleman Dahun, announced this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Commodore Dahun said the list could be accessed online at www.joinnigeriannavy.com.

Dahun aslo said the successful candidates would report for training in two batches at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) Onne, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He also added that NNBTS Batch 29 A would report on Oct. 18, while NNBTS Batch 29 B would report to camp on May 8, 2020.

He however directed the shortlisted candidates to report to camp with two navy blue PT shorts, two white round neck vests, one pair of white canvas, and one pair of brown canvas adding that this will facilitate their successful training.

He also listed others items as; two pairs of black trousers, two white long sleeve shirts, two black ties, one pair of black shoe and three pairs of white long socks.

Dahun revealed that the candidates are also to come with one pair of national dress, originals and photocopies of credentials, BVN print out and one set of cutlery.

He therefore warned that candidates who report four days after the indicated dates would not be allowed into the training premises.

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THREE – STOREY BUILDING COLLAPSES, INJURES THREE.

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The Director-General, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, has confirmed that a three-storey building at Sharks Squad on Lekki Expressway, collapsed at about 7:14 p.m on Thursday.

He told journalists that the collapsed building is situated at the Sharks Squad, LASEMA, enroute Kingdom Hall street, Abijo, along Lekki-Epe expressway.

He said the collapsed three-storey building was under construction, while three people had been rescued.

“The three people sustained various degrees of injuries and they have been treated and discharged,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.

Osanyintolu said there was no death recorded, while officials were still working and monitoring situation at the site.

He, however, said that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABSCA), as well as the Ministry of Solid Material Testing Agency And Physical Planning had been informed for further investigation.

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TROOPS RESCUES ABDUCTED SCHOOL GIRLS.

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The Operation Thunder Strike, has on Thursday morning, rescued students of Government Day Secondary School Gwagwada in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The students were said to have been kidnapped on October 3.

The troops in three different operations also killed four bandits, wounded many others and recovered arms and ammunitions all in Kaduna State.

The Deputy Director, Army Public Relations Officer, 1 Division Headquarters, Colonel Ezindu Idima on Friday disclosed that the troops who were on routine patrol in the general area in Chikun LGA received information from a reliable source that some bandits terrorizing the Abuja-Kaduna highway have attacked some students on their way to school and abducted them.

According to him, “Troops immediately swung into action and gave the bandits a hot chase. On sighting the troops, the bandits engaged them in a firefight but had to surrender to the superior firepower of the troops.

“Following the firefight , one of the bandits was neutralised while the rest scampered into different directions of the forest with gun shot wounds and all the students abducted by the bandits have been rescued safely and re-united with their families.”

Idima noted that items recovered from the bandits include one AK47 rifle with seven rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and a pump action gun with ten cartridges.

He also assured that the troops are currently combing the entire forest in search of the bandits.

In a related development, troops also dealt decisively with the bandits in an ambush at Soho Gaya in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State at about 10 am Thursday morning.

Idima disclosed that during the ambush, two bandits were neutralized while one riffle was recovered.

“Additionally, at about 10:45am Thursday troops pursued bandits into one of the forests in Chukun Local Government Area of Kaduna State and during the pursuit, one of the bandits was neutralized while two AK 47 riffles, one pump action and three Magazines were recovered.”

He attributed the success recorded to have boosted up troops morale who expressed enthusiasm in sustaining the onslaught against the bandits and other criminal elements within the Division Area of Responsibility.

However, he conveyed the commendation of the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Faruk Yahaya on the efforts of the troops and urged them to continue to pursue and neutralize bandits in 1 Division Area of Responsibility.

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SHOOT ANYONE WHO BLOCKS MY CONVOY – GOV. UMAHI TO ADC

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has ordered his Aide-de-camp (ADC) to shoot any person or group that blocks his convoy in any part of the state.

He also ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of all those involved in a recent incident where his convoy was blocked at Onicha Local Government Area of the state adding that the order was in accordance with the law.

Umahi disclosed that his action was prompted by some youths, who during a wake-keep at about a few minutes after 12am on Saturday, mounted a road block.

He said the blockade stopped the convoy of the governor, who was returning to Abakiliki from Uburu, his home town at about that time.

The event was a wake-keep in honour of an indigene of the area, billed to be buried same Saturday.

The Governor speaking after the incident, said it was criminal to block the road by the boys.

He also banned wake-keeps and other such ceremonies after 10 pm across the state.

He further detailed his security aides to ensure that all the culprits are identified and made to face the law.

According to him, “Yesterday night, I was coming back around midnight. When we got to Onicha, they blocked the road.

“Even with the litany of army and police and everything, they did not want to open the road. Then I said they should arrest all of them, but most of them ran away.

“All of them will go to prison. So they have to identify them, bring them here and we will prosecute them to show example.

“And I want it to be announced that henceforth, no wake-keep should pass 10pm.

“If you must pass 10pm, take written permission from the chairman of the local government and both the chairman and the person that requested it will be held responsible if any problem occurs.

“My problem is not that they blocked the Governor but my worry is that, what if it were a smaller person that was passing, who had no army and police, they would have robbed the person. That’s what it means.

“Any other time, the ADC should order for a shoot. It is against the law to block the Governor, and if anyone should be killed in the process, it is in accordance with the law, “he said.

Reports says some persons have been arrested in connection with the incident.

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EFCC DISCOVERS HIDDEN MONEY IN INEC OFFICE

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Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday took away four ‘Ghana-must-go’ bags suspected to contain money from the Zamfara office of INEC.

Journalists gathered that the operatives were at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Gusau in continuation of its investigation over alleged non payment of ad hoc staff who conducted the 2019 general election.

Eye witnesses told newsmen that the EFCC operatives arrived the office around noon with heavily armed personnel and ransacked the facility for close to two hours.

The eye witnesses further told journalists that all the four bags and some documents were allegedly recovered from the office of the accountant.

Some INEC Officials who were earlier arrested by the EFCC were brought along during the two-hour search and were afterwards taken back into custody.

A petition to the EFCC by Abdullahi Nasiru, one of the ad hoc staff, had alleged that they were shortchanged by INEC to the tune of over N80 million in the allowances paid to them after the general election when compared to what was paid ad hoc staff in other states.

The EFCC operatives and INEC officials refused to respond to questions from newsmen after the search.

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95 GRADUATES WITH FAKE CERTIFICATES REVEALED – NYSC DG

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The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has uncovered 95 graduates with fake certificates from Nigeria and foreign universities.

Speaking during the 2019 Batch ‘C’ pre-mobilization workshop on Wednesday in Minna, the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim, said the affected persons were handed over to security agencies during the last orientation exercise.

The NYSC boss, said 65 out of the affected graduates were from universities in Nigeria, while 30 were from other West African universities.

“Regarding fraudulent certificates, we have apprehended 65 fake students from universities in Nigeria and from other West African universities, we have arrested about 30. We have handed them over to the police for prosecution,” he said.

According to him, some tertiary institutions in Nigeria still engage in the sale of Degree and HND certificates and Statement of Result to unqualified persons in a bid to ‘‘smuggle them in for NYSC’’.

He also lamented that the act was threatening the credibility of the NYSC mobilization process and has implications.

“It is worrisome to note that some unscrupulous persons still indulge in the sale of Degree and HND certificates and Statement of Results to unqualified persons. It has also been observed that names of unqualified persons are included in the Senate/Academic Board approved list uploaded on the NYSC registration portal by some corps producing institutions.

“It is quite unfortunate that some corps producing institutions are still in the habit of uploading part-time and over-aged graduates for mobilization. This is one of the challenges we are out to tackle headlong, this attempt in some quarters to threaten the credibility of the process.

“Acts such as presentation of fake academic credentials and attempts to smuggle names of unqualified persons into the mobilization lists submitted by some corps producing institutions are condemnable and will continue to face stiff resistance from the scheme,” he pointed out.

He threatened to blacklist any institution caught in the act.

The Director-General also said the pre-mobilization workshop is organised to draw a roadmap for the eradication of all observed anomalies as well as enthronement of integrity in the mobilisation process, adding that the workshop will also come up with more strategies to curb fraudulent practices and enhance the efficiency of the mobilization process.

Also speaking, the Director of Mobilization, Mrs. Victoria Ango, decried the scourge of fraudulent enrolment of foreign-trained graduates for national service.

“It is sad to admit here that on the local scene, issues such as deliberate enlistment of over-aged and part-time graduates, mischievous mobilization of graduates of unapproved courses through cross-matching with approved departments and suspicious insider connivance to hack and upload unqualified persons have not yet abated,” she noted.

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LECTURER SUSPENDED FOR SEXUAL HARRASMENT

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A lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Dr. Samuel Oladipo, has been suspended by the management of the institution following his indictment in the second stream of the BBC Africa Eye video titled: “Sex for Admission.”

Reports says he was caught for demanding sex from an undercover admission seeker in exchange for a place in the school.

Oladipupo is the second lecturer to be suspended by the university a week over the sex for mark saga.

The first lecturer to be suspended was Dr. Boniface Igbeneghu of the Department of European Languages and Integrated Studies, Faculty of Arts, who was caught in the first part of the 30 minutes video titled: “Sex for Grades” also aired by BBC African Eye. He was also caught demanding sex from an undercover journalist.

The Vice-Chancellor of UNLAG, Prof. Ouwatoyin Ogundipe, confirmed the suspension of Dr. Oladipo by the university management adding that he will face a panel.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; wife of the President, Aisha Buhari; and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have called for the prosecution of the lecturers indicted in the documentary, while calling for the cleansing of the system.

Gbajabiamila, while reacting to the scandal in a series of tweets, lamented the damage caused by sexual assaults to young people in the society.

He tweeted, “The revelations in the @BBCAfrica #SexForGrades documentary bring to the fore (the) despicable practices that have victimised too many young people, denied them their sense of self-worth and left them with psychological wounds that often never heal.

“These revelations call for a moment of reckoning, not only for those lecturers, whose abuse of their positions and the trust of their students have been caught on tape but (also) those who are still hiding in the shadows.

“Our higher institutions, where this culture of abuse has been allowed to thrive, must also acknowledge their responsibility and act to put an end to these shameful practices. We owe our children that much.”

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GOV. OKOWA SAYS HIS DAUGHTER DESERVES APPOINTMENT AS SPECIAL ASSISTANT.

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has said his daughter, who was appointed as Special Assistant to the Governor on Girl Child, deserved the appointment.

He said this on Tuesday in Asaba, while addressing the issue of appointments into his cabinet for his second term in office.

The governor said that contrary to the rumours that he had appointed two of his daughters, he had only appointed one of his daughters into his cabinet and that she deserved the position.

He said, “I want state residents to know that I did not appoint two of my daughters. Only one was appointed as S.A. to Governor on Girl Child and she rightly deserved it.”

Okowa added, “We are trying to cut down our appointees this time around, obviously the number of appointees will be less than what we have in my first tenure.”

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AAUA FINAL YEAR STUDENT SWEPT BY FLOOD

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A student of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, was swept away by flood in the town on Monday.

The victim, who was identified as Doyinsola Boluwade, was said to be a final-year student of the Department of Religious and African Studies in the institution.

It was gathered that the victim was swept away by flood while she was going to her place of residence during a downpour.

“The non-stop rainfall brought tragedy upon the university town on Monday evening when an undergraduate was swept away to an unknown destination by flood at a canal very close to her place of residence,” a source said.

Confirming the incident, the landlord of the victim, Mr Ademola Elemukona, said he narrowly escaped being swept away as he climbed a cocoa tree when the flood was getting uncontrollable.

“Many people thought I had been swept away by the flood, but I thank God that I survived it,” he stated.

The Head, Media and Protocol Unit, AAUA, Mr Victor Akinpelumi, also confirmed the incident.

He said a search party had been organised by the school management to locate the student, but as of the time of filing this report, she had yet to be seen.

“The water level is very high and we don’t have professional divers, who can enter the river. But we have contacted the National Emergency Management Agency and some other agencies to assist us find her. As I am talking to you, we are at the scene of the incident seeking solutions,” Akinpelumi said.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Gboyega Adefarati, who visited the scene of the incident, warned the residents to stay away from the canal.

In his reaction, the monarch of the town, the Alale of Akungba, Oba Sunday Ajimo, called on NEMA, the federal and state governments to come to the aid of victims of the flood, which he said destroyed some properties.

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MY ADMINISTRATION IS WORKING ON UGHELLI-ASABA ROAD – GOV. OKOWA

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has said his administration is working to accelerate the completion of Ughelli-Asaba dual carriage way to accommodate heavy traffic from warri port.

He said this in his quarterly media interaction with newsmen yesterday.

The governor said when he assumed office in 2015, one of his priorities was to complete the Ughelli-Asaba road.

He stated that currently his administration is working round the clock to complete section C of the road from Ossissa to Asaba between November 2019 and April 2020.

Okowa also said he is hoping that when the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Ports Authority, dredges the second part of the Escravos Bar, there will be more ships coming into Delta State, and the roads to convey the people, goods and services to and from the port.

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SENATE PRESIDENT SPEAKS ON COMMITMENT TO PARTNER WITH FEDERAL GOVERNMENT.

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President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan has said the public, as well as the private sectors need a reliable Budget cycle that is predictable, and reliable for planning and execution of their fiscal and financial policies and programmes.

He said this on Tuesday at the presentation of the 2020 budget by President Muhammadu Buhari, to the National Assembly and the senate.

Senator Lawan, on behalf of his colleagues, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, welcomed the president and members his entourage to this first Joint Session of the 9th National Assembly for the presentation of the 2020 Budget Estimates.

He stated that as representatives of the people, they are assembled to listen and receive the fiscal plans for the year 2020, for the people that they represent.

He told the president that today marks another day of exercising the constitutional obligations and mandates by both the Legislature and the Executive as provided in Section 81 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.

He disclosed that the function being the first in the 9th session of the National Assembly, makes it more significant as both the Legislature and the Executive have demonstrated readiness and commitment to work together in order to pass the 2020 Budget in a good and desirable time.

In his speech, he said the National Assembly, and the Executive must work together to ensure the realization of important objectives in the country.

He also read that the National Assembly after the receipt of the Budget Estimates will swing into swift action, to start work adding that bith Chambers of the National Assembly have constituted their Committees, and are ready to start processing the Budget estimates.

He also told the president that the National Assembly will treat the 2020 Budget Estimates with the same commitment or even more adding that they will also be guided by the legislative requirement of a thorough scrutiny.

He also said the 9th National Assembly has shown capacity, commitment and willingness to treat legislative matters that will impact on the lives of citizens with dispatch and every sense of urgency.

He reiterated the National Assembly Committees readiness to receive the Honourable Ministers and other heads of government agencies for the defense of the Budget estimates of the various MDAs.

He therefore urged all MDAs to appear before the Committees for the defense of their Budget estimates within the month of October.

Lawan said their Committees will be expected to conclude their work on Budget defense within October, this year, adding that the subsequent necessary legislative work will be carried out in November and December, leading to eventual passage before the end of this year.

He also told the president that recently, the Senate passed its Legislative Agenda and the House of Representatives will pass its Legislative Agenda soon adding that the agendas are separately treated, but the objectives and goals are the same.

He also pleads with the Federal Government to provide enhanced security for protection of lives and property of Nigerians.

He also charged the government to create and sustain employment opportunities for teeming youths; taking Nigerians out of poverty to prosperity and sustainable development.

He posited that the implementation of the Budget is as important and vital as the passage of the Bill, probably even more, noting that their Committees will work assiduously to undertake oversight to ensure proper and timely execution of the programmes and Government projects.

He therefore assured the president of the readiness of the members of the 9th National Assembly to partner with his administration to achieve all the goals and targets of taking Nigeria to the Next Level of development and prosperity.

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2020 BUDGET: PRESIDENT BUHARI PRESENTS APPROPRIATION BILL.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has on Tuesday presented the 2020 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly.

The president stated that investing in critical infrastructure is a key component of the fiscal strategy under Budget 2020 Proposals.

Presenting the budget, he said an aggregate sum of N2.46 trillion (inclusive of N318.06 billion in statutory transfers) is proposed for capital projects in 2020.

He also stated that the 2020 capital budget is N721.33 billion (or 23%) lower than the 2019 budget provision of N3.18 trillion, adding that it is still higher than the actual and projected capital expenditure outturns for both the 2018 and 2019 fiscal years, respectively.

President Buhari also revealed that Budget 2020 allocations for some MDAs announced includes:
Works & Housing – N262bn, Transportation – N123bn, UBEC – N112bn,
Defence – N100bn, Agriculture – N83 bn, Water – N82bn, Niger Delta – N81bn, Education – N48bn, Health – N46bn,
NEDC – N38bn, SIP – N30bn, FCT – N28bn,
Ministry of Education: N48bn, UBEC: N112bn.

However, NEDC with N38bn and NDDC with N81bn also have education subhead in their breakdown to complement education in the 2 regions.

President Muhammadu Buhari also disclosed that the Federal Government has increased the budgetary allocation to the National Human Rights Commission from N1.5 billion to N2.5 billion stressing that the 67% increase in funding is done to enable the Commission to perform its functions more effectively.

He also said the Budget 2020, is based on new VAT rate stating that increased revenues will be used to fund education, health and infrastructure.

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SPEAKER RECEIVES VOTE OF CONFIDENCE FROM GOVERNMENT.

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The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a vote of confidence on Speaker of the House Hon. Mudashiru Obasa for his tenacity of purpose in piloting affairs of the House in the ninth Assembly.

The members of the Assembly took their turns to pour encomiums on the leadership in Lagos, during plenary following a motion moved by Hon. Tunde Ibraimoh representing Kosofe 2 under matters of urgent importance.

He noted that the executive arm of government could not have achieved within 100 days without the support of the legislative arm of government.

In her comments, Hon. Mojisolaoluwa Alli Macaulay representing Amuwo Odofin constituency 1 commended the Speaker for reposing confidence in her adding that, “Confidence reposed in me has given me Energy to propel more”.

She described the Speaker as a person who has reservoir of legislative knowledge who ensured that the 11 newly elected members were integrated promptly through proper training.

Hon. Soluble Hakeem described the Speaker as a unique, principled and reliable person adding that without the legislative arm of government there can be no democracy.

Deputy Speaker of the House Hon. Wasiu Eshilokun, said that the Assembly is performing its functions very well and that the performance of the House is rubbing off on the leadership of the House.

He enjoined members of the House to continue to brace the trail in the performance of their legislative functions in the 9th Assembly.

Majority Leader of the House Hon. Sanai Agunbiade attributed the accomplishment of the executive to the support of the Legislature, adding that the speaker still needs to work more which is the reward for hard work.

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BBNAIJA-MERCY RECEIVES 30M CHEQUE AND SUV

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Days after the end of Season Four of Big Brother Naija, operators of the franchise, Multichoice, has disclosed that Nigeria has the biggest and best Big Brother House.

The CEO of Multichoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, said this during the press conference to present winner of the reality television show, Mercy Eke, her gifts – a brand new N25m Innoson SUV and a cheque of N30m.

The presentation took place today Tuesday, at the Multichoice office and venue of the Big Brother House in Ilupeju, Lagos.

Mercy, who made history by becoming the first female winner of Big Brother Naija, thanked organisers and sponsors of the event. She also thanked her family and fans.

“I’m overwhelmed, I’m lost for words,” she said.

When asked about her plans, Mercy however, disclosed that she was going to push her fashion brand, M & M. She also disclosed that controversial housemate Tacha who was evicted when they fought remained friends.

Managing Director of Multichoice, John Ugbe, thanked everyone involved in the production which trended globally on Twitter.

He disclosed that the owners of the Big Brother brand, Endemol, visited the Big Brother House in Lagos.

“Endemol came in to inspect (the house) and they gave us feedback. One, we have the biggest Big Brother House in the world. But maybe bigger is not best. But we have the best Big Brother House in the world.”

Another record which Ugbe revealed was that the show had “50 million votes in the final week.”

In attendance were the other BBNaija finalists – first runner-up, Mike, second runner-up, Frodd, Omashola and Seyi – as well as Ike. Also present at the event were Channel Director: Africa Magic, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, Senior Marketing Manager, Bet9ja, Olufemi Osobajo, Head of Corporate Communication, Heritage Bank, Fela Ibidapo-Obe and Managing Director of Innoson Motors.

Twenty six housemates had competed for the reality tv show which was theme ‘Pepper Dem’ which ended on Sunday evening after 99 days.

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NUJ BOSS MAINTAINS HIS COMMITMENT TO WEED OFF QUACKS.

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the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo has said he would continue in his quest to weed off journalism profession of quacks.

He said this while speaking to journalists on arrival at the Asaba International Airport, ahead of the biometric capturing of journalists in Delta State, as part of their NUJ registration’s requirements, which commences tomorrow, 8th of October, through 12th October 2019.

The National President of NUJ who landed the Asaba Airport at exactly 3:50pm on transit to Awka in Anambra State for a programme, was received at the Asaba Airport by the Vice Chairman of NUJ Delta, Comrade Patrick Ochei and other members of the State Working Committee.

He asserted that the years of treating the issue of quackery and lack of professionalism were gone.

The NUJ boss, also commended the Delta State Council of NUJ, led by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu for showing leadership competence and partnering with the national body for the biometric exercise.

Speaking on the purported election of the national Exco of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), which was billed to hold in Port-Harcourt yesterday, Isiguzo said nothing of such happened.

He therefore advised SWAN members and those seeking election into the group’s NEC to allow the constitution of the Union to prevail, adding that he would continue to stand on procedures.

Isiguzo who maintained his stand on professionalism, advised his colleagues at all levels to report only the truth at all times as a way of exerting their relevance and earning respect for the profession.

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BORNO RECRUITS HUNTERS TO COMBAT BOKO HARAM

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The government of Borno State has embarked on massive recruitment of hunters to assist the military in the fight against Boko Haram.

It was gathered that the hunters, who are believed to poses supernatural powers are better equipped to complement the efforts of the Civilian Joint Task Force and the military.

Remember that in 2013, some hunters mostly from the north-east were deployed in the counter-insurgency fight that assisted in the reduction of the capacity of the Boko Haram insurgents.

The example of the successes recorded at that time also informed the decision to engage more hunters, this time even from outside the state and region to assist the military in the fight against the insurgents.

A source close to the Borno State government confirmed to journalists yesterday, that the move to deploy the hunters has the endorsement of the government.

Reports also revealed that the government is willing to provide the hunters with Dane guns, swords and any other working tool as they may need them for their operations.

It was also learnt that the outfit would be under the hierarchy of command and control in the counter insurgency theatre of war as established in the north-east.

The traditional hunters are required to swear an oath of allegiance using the Qur’an.

The recruitment of the hunters is said to have continued to increase in the past two weeks, mostly brought in from outside Borno State at night.

The hunters, it was learnt would be deployed to northern Borno, where the insurgents arguably control swaths of territory along the Lake Chad Basin.

When contacted, spokesman to the Borno State Governor, Malam Isa Gusau, said although he could not speak on the matter, given its security nature, what he could confirm was that Governor Babagana Zulum ‘‘decided to aggressively combine both conventional and unconventional approaches to address the Boko Haram crisis.

“As you know, Borno has for ten years been faced with a desperate situation and with the consent of key stakeholders that include elders and traditional rulers, Governor Zulum decided to aggressively explore every lawful means necessary to put an end to the insurgency.

The governor will continue to support our armed forces. He has, as you are aware, increased the monthly allowances of civilian JTF, hunters and vigilantes involved in fighting the insurgents.

The governor has also acquired and deployed close to 200 surveillance vehicles to fight the insurgency and he is doing more. He is combining the coercive means with massive investment in education, jobs creation and social protection’’.

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APPLY FOR NIGERIAN NAVY DIRECT SHORT SERVICE NOW – OSAHOR TO DELTANS.

The Delta State Director of Information, Paul Osahor JP, has urged Deltans to apply for the Nigerian Navy Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC).

This was contained in a statement he signed made available to newsmen.

He said the Course 27 has commenced on Thursday October 3, 2019 and will close on Wednesday November 14, 2019.

He encouraged Deltans to apply once online, at www.joinnigeriannavy.com adding that the application is free of charge.

Osahor also stated that applicants must be holders of B.Sc, BA, HND, LLB, and BL, B.NSc and RN/RM or their equivalents stressing that membership of professional bodies is an added advantage.

He also said applicants must possess NYSC discharge or exemption letter.

The information boss disclosed that Applicants must be single adding that Male applicants must not be less than 1.68 metres tall while female applicants must not be less than 1.65 metres.

He said the date and time of a qualifying aptitude test, will be placed on the website in due course.

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SARKODIE WINS INTERNATIONAL AWARD, RELEASES NEW VIDEO.

Popular Ghanaian rapper, Michael Owusu Addo, popularly called Sarkodie, has again made the nation proud after winning another big international prestigious award.

The 2019 BET Hip Hop was held at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Georgia, United States, on Saturday, October 5, 2019.

The artist was announced the first winner of BET’s Best International Flow act at the 2019 BET Hip Hop Awards.

LCongratulations to @Sarkodie for winning #BETHIPHOPAWARDS2019 #BESTINTFLOW 👏👏👏👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/57sdCy5KP8
— Vū-Mē App (@Vumeapp) October 6, 2019

The Ghanaian born rapper, reigned over Nigerian rapper; Falz, the Bad Guy, Ghetts from the United Kingdom, Kalash from France, Female rapper; Little Simz from the UK, South African hip pop prodigy; Nasty C, Tory Lanez of Canada and others.

Claimingthe award, the Tema-based rapper in his acceptance speech dedicated the award to his beautiful daughter, Adalyn Owusu Addo (Titi).

He also used the opportunity to urge the world to visit Ghana as part of the Year’s return celebrations.

“I just want to say thank you to the Almighty God. To family, this one is for my lil girl Titi…. I think Africa has always had it and it is about that time. This year is the Year of Return and I will urge each and every one of you here to take a trip back home.”

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FCCPC COMMENDS THE MANAGEMENT OF AMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY

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The Federal competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has hailed the management of Amadu Bello University, over terminating the employment of 15 staff and demotion of a staff.

This is contained in release signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Babatunde Irukera.

The statement stated that the Offences by the affected staff is bordered on corruption and sexual harrasment.

The FCCPC revealed that the disciplinary actions is followed by investigations on established unsolicited and unwelcomed sexual advances and behaviors towards members of the school community.

The commission however lamented that these conducts have negatively skwed academic outcomes in a manner that violates the rights of target of behavior and victimizes others who are invariably indirect victims.

It also stated that a fair and just educational community is vital for members of the community adding that the commission is keen to ensure that students, as consumers should be afforded with necessary protections both on campus and off campus.

The commission also advices educational institutions to pursue aggressive and open initiatives to ensure the heradication of harrasment, corruption and other social vices.

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FEC TO HOLD EXTRAORDINARY MEETING TODAY

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The extraordinary meeting of the Federal Executive Council earlier scheduled for Saturday would take place today Monday, by 12 noon.

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said the FEC meeting is to put finishing touches to year 2020 budget.

He also noted that the budget would be presented to the National Assembly by 2pm on Tuesday.

According to journalists, the Senate had received an official communication from President Muhammadu Buhari to present the 2020 Appropriation bill before a joint session of the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The request, which was dated October 2, 2019 and addressed to the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, was read at the plenary on Thursday.

Also, the Senate, after a long debate on Thursday, approved all the 16 recommendations contained in the report of the National Assembly joint Committee on Finance and National Planning, on the 2020-2022 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper.

Also, the Senate, after a long debate on Thursday, approved all the 16 recommendations contained in the report of the National Assembly joint Committee on Finance and National Planning, on the 2020-2022 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper.

The Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, said the development had paved the way for President Muhammadu Buhari to submit the 2020 budget.

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Bayelsa state Government mock Adam Oshiomhole

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Governor, Rt. Hon. Seriake Dickson challenge the National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress,  Adam Oshiomhole that he lacks adequate knowledge on David Lyon, the party flag’s bearer for the governorship election .

The Governor made the statement 24 hours after he was criticised by Oshiomhole for using “unsophisticated language” against Lyon.

The governor also dismissed Oshiomhole’s vow that APC will take over Bayelsa state after the election.

He said these on Friday during a chat with journalists at the end of the 3rd annual conference of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, held at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

Dickson had accused the oil companies in the state of outsourcing terrorism to Lyon by awarding him pipeline security and surveillance contracts.

Dickson also added “My good friend Oshiomhole knows that the APC cannot win Bayelsa in a free and fair election.

“They can’t win any ward in Bayelsa.
“None.
“They have never won any election except intimidating people, manipulating electoral body.

“He knows that.
“He is my good friend.
“I disagree with his views.
“I believe he doesn’t know his candidate enough.
“But in the coming days and weeks, I believe he will get to know the person he has allowed to be the flag bearer.

“Since 2015, we have been dealing with extreme violence and abuse of power by the leadership of the party that has the centre.

“We expect that the elections would not be as violent as the previous ones.

“The people of Bayelsa can be trusted to vote for a candidate they believe has the experience, a candidate that they believe understands the issues, a candidate that will continue with the massive development that has come to stay in Bayelsa.”

The Governor, Appreciating GOCOP for inviting him to the event, Dickson said: “I am here to thank and appreciate you all for the good work you are doing in deepening our democracy.

“You cannot have democracy without a vibrant media.

“All of us who are running government, especially in this era of social media, it is not easy.

“Just from the anonymity of the laptop or even a cell phone, headlines are made and issues are raised, and God help you if you are in a state like Bayelsa where the social media is one of the busiest.

“Everybody is commenting, criticising.

“As inconvenient as this age of social media  clearly is, it is nevertheless primary  to the sustenance and developing and also to make more intense in our democracy.”

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PDP challenges Presidency

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The people democratic party challenges the Presidency to speak out on the reported arrest of President Muhammadu Buhari’s best known confidant, Nasir Danu, who was recently alleged for passport scam and money laundering at the Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom.

The statement was made known by Kola Ologbondiyan, National publicity secretary of the people Democratic Party through a press release yesterday.

This is in addition to apprehensions on why he was caught in the public space while allegedly ferrying stolen currencies for persons said to be close to the Presidency.

The party says the Muhammadu Buhari Presidency must also speak out on this huge scandal and allegations, that Danu has been in the business of connecting the close relations of the President with many oil contractors for alleged underhand deals through which billions of naira get frittered.

The PDP also notes that, this is beside allegations of him being in a scandalous contracts running into billions of naira from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, among other government agencies.

The party also cautions the Buhari Presidency to perish the thoughts of concealing this scandal as it is already in the public domain with Nigerians demanding for investigations.

Therefore, the party charges the Buhari Presidency to immediately order an open investigation into the matter and expose those in this scandalous racket.

Saying that, Nigerians can now further see how the Buhari Presidency stinks. Our party therefore insists that for a government that always orchestrates claims of integrity and zero tolerance for corruption, it is behoves on the Presidency to come clean as well as order an investigation into this huge allegation.

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Government Will Continue To Partner With NUT – Okowa.

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Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has said that the state government will continue to partner with teachers because of the enviable roles they play in the upbringing of children in the society.

The governor, represented by the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, stated this in his office in Asaba yesterday Thursday when the state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Delta State wing, Comrade Titus Okotie, led members of the Executive Council on a courtesy visit.

He said that the partnership will be in such a way that teachers will be proud of their profession as they will be celebrated from time to time as an appreciation of their contributions to the educational development of the children.

Governor Okowa disclosed that the annual Teachers Award ceremony, initiated by his administration, will hold this weekend as a way of encouraging them to strive to do better in their chosen profession.

According to the governor, it is because of the importance attached to the teaching profession that his administration insisted that the 1000 teachers recently employed by the state government had relevant educational qualifications.

While acknowledging the fact that more teachers are needed in the education sector, he said that efforts will be stepped up to get more National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to be deployed to schools to bridge the shortfall.
The governor promised to look into some of the issues raised by the union as it affects its members promising that necessary actions will be taken to resolve them as quickly as possible.

Earlier, Comrade Okotie enumerated the giant strides recorded in the education sector since the governor was elected and thanked him for his all-time commitment and support to the union in carrying her teeming members along.

He conveyed the goodwill of the National Leadership and Elders Forum of the union and revealed their decision to bestow on him a National Award at an appropriate time which will be communicated in due course.

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Nigeria Army Troops tour Sambisa

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In continuation of its onslaught on Boko Haram, the Nigerian Army has embarked on a victory tour around recaptured communities.

The gallant troops were pictured enjoying a smooth sail from Sambisa to Damboa and Alagarno, all in Borno state.

In one of the photos which has gone viral on social, the troops showed ingenuity, displaying tactical engineering to improvise a fording raft.

They were seen moving deep into the swamps of the Borno/Yobe forests to smoke out the remnants of the criminal BHT/ISWAP elements

This comes after the troops of sector 3 supported by the air task force (ATF) to repel an attack on Gubio in Gubio local government area of Borno state.

They neutralised two suspected insurgents and recovered one gun truck, two AK-47 rifles and one anti air craft gun.

At least 50 civilians held hostage were reportedly rescued during the encounter.

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Police arrest 1,151 high profile suspects in two months

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The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu, has said a total of 1,151 high profile suspects had been arrest across the country between September and October, this year.

The police chief also disclosed that within the period, 228 firearms of various descriptions, calibres were recovered.

His revelation came as he warned political actors in Bayelsa and Kogi State to be mindful of their actions ahead of the forthcoming governorship elections in the two states, warning that anybody found to have taken actions that breach peace would be held by the police.

Adamu, speaking at a meeting he held with senior police officers at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, vowed that the Nigeria Police under his watch would “continually emplace strategies that are potent enough to deal with the emerging trends of crime.”

According to him, of the number 470 were armed robbery suspects; 216 kidnap suspects,335 suspected cultists, and 130 were murder suspects.

“Aside from this,231 kidnapped victims have been safely rescued and reunited with their families while 75 stolen vehicles were also recovered from criminal elements,” he also revealed.

“We are determined to attain this mandate within the dictates of rule of law, uncompromising respect for human rights, and best global policing practices,” he said.

Declaring the meeting open, he said: I am again pleased to note that the national crime profile of the country continues to decline in relation to the previous quarters. This trend is indicative of the effectiveness of our policing strategies which are based on community partnership practices, application of cutting-edge policing technologies and crime management solutions, the engagement and integration of intelligence-led policing standards to our functions at all operational and investigative levels, and an enhanced inter-agency collaboration orientation.

“In furtherance to these, the trust gap between the citizens and the Police have been significantly narrowed and the bond to fight and reclaim our communities from the criminals who are our common enemies has been strengthened. In addition, the commitment and capacity of the Nigeria Police to re-dominate the public space and deny criminals the liberty to manifest their heinous crimes has been appreciably boosted.”

“In consequence, between August 2019 to date, a total of 1,151 high profile suspects have been arrested nationwide. These include 470 armed robbery suspects; 216 kidnap suspects,335 suspected cultists, and 130 murder suspects,” he explained.

He added:” Furthermore, 228 firearms of various descriptions and calibre were recovered in various police operations across the country within the same period. Aside from this, 231 kidnapped victims have been safely rescued and reunited with their families while 75 stolen vehicles were also recovered from criminal elements.”

We are challenged by these achievements to sustain our tempo. This calls for constant re-evaluation of the dynamics of crime and the re-alignment of our strategies accordingly. In so doing,” he said.

Speaking further, the police boss said he was aware “that there are still some security challenges which currently require our professional attention and which will constitute part of our discourse during this Conference.”

”In this context, I encourage you all not to relent, but to roll up your sleeves with renewed vigour in the fight against crimes in the country,” he charged personnel of the Force.

“The Nigeria Police under our watch, will not only continually emplace strategies that are potent enough to deal with the emerging trends of crime, but we are also determined to attain this mandate within the dictates of rule of law, uncompromising respect for human rights, and best global policing practices. In this regard, it will be recalled that I have at various fora confirmed our determination to adopt less-lethal approaches and equipment in our policing duties. This is with the intention of ensuring that the sacred lives of the citizens whom we swore to serve and protect are not endangered in the line of our duties,” he reiterated.

Going further, he said: ”I am again pleased to note that the national crime profile of the country continues to decline in relation to the previous quarters. This trend is indicative of the effectiveness of our policing strategies which are based on community partnership practices, application of cutting-edge policing technologies and crime management solutions, the engagement and integration of intelligence-led policing standards to our functions at all operational and investigative levels, and an enhanced inter-agency collaboration orientation.

“In furtherance to these, the trust gap between the citizens and the Police have been significantly narrowed and the bond to fight and reclaim our communities from the criminals who are our common enemies has been strengthened.

”In addition, the commitment and capacity of the Nigeria Police to re-dominate the public space and deny criminals the liberty to manifest their heinous crimes has been appreciably boosted.”

He vowed that: “The Nigeria Police under our watch, will not only continually emplace strategies that are potent enough to deal with the emerging trends of crime, but we are also determined to attain this mandate within the dictates of rule of law, uncompromising respect for human rights, and best global policing practices. In this regard, it will be recalled that I have at various fora confirmed our determination to adopt less-lethal approaches and equipment in our policing duties. This is with the intention of ensuring that the sacred lives of the citizens whom we swore to serve and protect are not endangered in the line of our duties.”

”It is in furtherance to this that I initiated actions towards the acquisition and deployment of electro-muscular disruption technology-based weaponry which is commonly known as Taser or Stun Guns for low-risk police operations.

“This is with the intention of addressing public concerns on the misuse of firearms by the Police with its attendant consequences on lives and effect on the attainment of our community policing vision,” he explained.

He said, “special training is being organised for the Special Units of the Police including the Police Mobile Force, Special Forces, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Anti-Robbery detachments, Anti-Kidnapping Squads and the Criminal Investigation Operatives.”

”This is with the intention of equipping them with the right orientation for policing in the 21st Century and to align their operations within the expectations of the law and the citizens,” he explained.

“In order to situate our vision in this regard to the standards of democratic policing, which is hinged on the protection of fundamental human rights, it is considered expedient that Force Order 237 which defines our Rules of Engagement (RoE) be reviewed, standardised and simplified,” he said.

Adamu said he was delighted to announce that “with the support of our local and internal partners, we have successfully completed the process of reviewing the document.”

He later proceeded to launch the Revised Force Order 237 (RFO) which he noted, was not only comprehensive and modernised but simplified for ease of comprehension by all members of the Force.”

He spoke on the forthcoming governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states:

”The upcoming elections in Kogi and Bayelsa States will again put our professionalism and doggedness to test.

“Let me seize this opportunity to assure all citizens and stakeholders, including the international community of our determination to work with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in creating a conducive and enabling environment that will guarantee the peaceful conduct of the elections.

“While assuring law-abiding citizens and stakeholders of their safety during the elections, let me warn all political actors who may want to adopt undemocratic and illegal means to achieve their aspirations to bury such thoughts now or be prepared to face the consequences, as they will be identified, isolated and made to face the wrath of the law.

”Therefore, parents and guardians are strongly advised to caution their children and wards not to allow themselves to be used to undermine the democratic process in the two states.

“Politics is a game and it should be driven by service – orientation, patriotism, and overriding national security interest rather than unrestrained narrow and desperate individual considerations.

“All political actors and stakeholders are, accordingly, admonished to play the political game in accordance with the law and democratic norms.”

Speaking also to the personnel on policing role during yuletide, he said: “The year is gradually running down and as the lead internal security agency, I must remind you all of your critical role in protecting and strengthening the security architecture in your Commands towards ensuring that anticipated security threats are presented in the most professional manner.

“While this shall form part of our discussion at this meeting, my charge to you is to return to your Commands and evolve strategies and implementation plans that will be based on the broad framework to be reviewed here today and submit your End of the Year Security Operational Plans to my Office through the Deputy Inspector General of Police in-charge of Operations.

“To complement your efforts, I can assure that we shall soon re-launch and deploy a new fleet of patrol vehicles under the Safer Highway Scheme to highways and other identified vulnerable points in your commands.”

He said he was encouraged by the commitment of the personnel to duty and determination to work with his leadership vision.

“Overall, I am encouraged by your commitment to duty and your determination to align with my leadership vision in relation to the adoption of community-led and intelligence-driven policing standards in the attainment of our internal security mandate.

“The idea is directed at preventing crime before it is manifested or developing and deploying our unique capacity to detect and mitigate such should they become manifest.

”In this regard, I recognise and commend the commitment of the Commissioners of Police in Katsina, Zamfara, Kano, Niger and the Kaduna States who have been providing quality professional leadership and making great sacrifices for their commands in the war against bandits, kidnappers and other heinous criminals.

“There efforts have stabilised the security situation in their Commands to a commendable level,” he said.

IGP Mohammed Adamu particularly commended “the efforts of the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Danmallam Mohammed, and the State Anti Kidnapping Squad for their professionalism, dedication to duty and for imbibing the doctrines and practice of intelligence-led policing.“

“CP Danmallam has been exceptional in his ability to key into our policing vision of utilising actionable technical intelligence towards preventing and cracking several high-profile crimes in his Command. Through this, he has succeeded in proactively arresting several terror elements, kidnappers and armed robbery syndicates with significant recovery of firearms.

“I encourage you all to use this forum to undertake professional peer review and draw on the strategies and experiences of these officers towards strengthening your operational efficiency. This represents the major objective of a forum of this nature.

”On our part, we shall continue to provide the requisite guidance, logistics, broad strategies, and other forms of professional support that will motivate you and your personnel to sustain your sense of commitment to duty. It is in furtherance to this that we have approved the establishment of a Nigeria Police Skills Acquisition Centre (SAC) in Kaduna State to equip serving and retiring officers with vocational and business skills they can utilise in their post-service lives.

“I can assure that more welfare-oriented policies shall be emplaced in due course with a view to addressing concerns that distract serving personnel from optimal professional service delivery,” he said.

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EFCC Hosts Anti-Corruption Novelty Match

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Ibrahim Magu, the acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,EFCC has called on Nigerians to ensure they get rid of corruption in all ramification.

He gave the charge on Saturday September 28, 2019 during an inter agency novelty football match between EFCC Kaduna Zonal Office and Kaduna State Traffic and Environmental Enforcement Agency, KASTELEA at the Kaduna Township Stadium.

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The match which is the first of its kind among government agencies, is part of activities to commemorate Nigeria’s 59th Independence anniversary, and strengthen the existing collaboration in the fight against corruption.

Magu who was represented by Mailafia Yakubu, the Zonal Head, Kaduna Office of the EFCC, said the war against graft was not one that should be left to EFCC alone, but a collective one by all Nigerians.

In his response the General Manager/ CEO KASTELEA Colonel A.Z. Ahmed (rtd) expressed his gratitude to the Commission for choosing his agency as one of it’s collaborators.

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UNITY BANK HEAD OFFICE GUTS WITH FIRE

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There has been a fire incident at the Head Office of Unity Bank Plc on Victoria Island, Lagos, on Monday morning.

Videos posted on social media by witnesses showed parts of the building on fire with the flames spreading to at least three floors.

According to the bank, there was no casualty or loss of lives in the fire and observations as of 8:48 am showed that it did not affect the banking hall or “other strategic business areas”.

The fire which started early in the morning has been brought under control by officials of the fire service, the bank said in a statement on Twitter.

The cause of the fire has yet to be identified.

Several people have expressed solidarity and support for the bank, which is listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and has more than 200 branches across the 36 states of the country and the FCT.

The bank on its part thanked the agencies and volunteers that helped battle the fire.

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DELTA STATE GOVERNMENT TO INAUGURATE NEW BOARD MEMBERS.

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The Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa will on Tuesday, inaugurate the Chairman and members of the Delta State Post Primary Education and Waste Management Boards.

This is contained in a statement signed by the secretary to the state Government, Mr. Chiedu Ebie.

According to the statement the Post Primary Education Board has Chief Mrs.Christiana Etaluku as Chairman, Evang. Anthony Arimiche Nzuwuogwu member, Mrs.Eunice Agozi-member and Mr.Venture Oyiborhoro-member.

The statement also revealed that board members of the Delta State Waste Management includes
Hon.Emmanuel Bazim Chinye Chairman, Hon.Mofe Edema member, Mr.Jude Onya member and Mr. Daniel Ighedo member.

He also stated that the appointees, their families and other guests are to be seated by 8:30am for the ceremony.

The inauguration ceremony of the Board members will take place at the Unity Hall, Old Government House, Asaba.

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NUJ CONGRATULATES OKOWA ON TRIBUNAL VICTORY.

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has congratulated the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on his victory at the tribunal delivered today in Asaba.

The council in a statement signed by its Chairman,  Michael Ikeogwu and Secretary, Churchill Oyowe,  said the victory is a reaffirmation of the confidence vote passed on  him by Deltans at the April 2019 gubernatorial poll.

According to the statement, the tribunal judgment further strengthened the  saying that the judiciary is the last hope of the common, adding that if it had been otherwise, the wishes of the people of Delta State would have been truncated.

The council appeal to the governor to reciprocate the judgment by remaining people-oriented in his programmes and activities of building a Stronger Delta.

The council used the opportunity to congratulate Comrade Kingsley Azuh on his reappointment as Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Special Duties.

The reappointment,  the council noted, is a confirmation of the confidence the governor has in Comrade Kingsley Azuh to deliver on assigned role and responsibility.

While thanking the governor for the appointment of Comrade Azuh, popularly referred to as the Life Chair’, the council expressed confidence in his ability to continue to be worthy ambassador of the NUJ in Governor Okowa’s administration.

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Chelsea vs Liverpool: Reds face tough test in London

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Liverpool travel to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea a in the Premier League this afternoon.

The crunch clash kicks off at 4.30 p.m. with Jurgen Klopp’s side hoping to maintain their perfect start.

The Reds have won five marches out of five so far in the league and remain top of the table.

Man City piled on the pressure with an 8-0 home win against Watford on Saturday but Liverpool have a chance to restore their five-point cushion.

Both Chelsea and Liverpool suffered defeats in their last outings in UEFA Champions League against Valencia and Napoli respectively and would be looking to bounce back in the Super Sunday clash.

It is worthy to note that Chelsea have won just one of their last nine Premier League meetings with Liverpool (D5 L3), beating them 1-0 in May 2018 thanks to an Olivier Giroud strike.

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VILLAGERS PROVIDING SHELTERS FOR BOKO HARAM TERRORIST.

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The Nigerian Army has raised the alarm saying some villagers in the North East are providing shelters for both the Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the country.

Specifically the army listed Maiduguri, Damboa, Gajiram, Monguno, Damasak, Biu, Gwoza Dikwa, Benisheikh, Ngamdu, Bama, Gamboru, Konduga, Gajigana and other smaller towns all in Borno State as communities that habour the insurgets. Others are Damaturu, Gujba, Buni Yadi, Buni Gari, Gashua, Kanamma, Yususufari, Goniri and Kukareta towns in Yobe State.

The Army has therefore warned those involved in the act if sabotage to desist from doing so or have themselves to blame.

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR)  has pledged to collaborate with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) to find practical solutions to insecurity confronting the country.

the army has called on the public to continue to report all suspicious persons to its I-report platforms provided to tackle insurgency and other criminal activities.

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations in charge of Operation Lafia Dole, Colonel Ado Isa, who made this known said: “Following military’s unrelenting onslaught on the BHT/ISWAP hideouts, along the Lake Chad region and Northern Borno, credible information reaching the headquarters of Theatre Command OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE (OPLD) indicates that some of the surviving criminals are seeking refuge in the homes of some unscrupulous individuals in some parts of Borno and Yobe states.

Colonel Ado added that “These fugitives have been escaping and taking refuge in the residence of some persons in Maiduguri, Damboa, Gajiram, Monguno, Damasak, Biu, Gwoza Dikwa, Benisheikh, Ngamdu, Bama, Gamboru, Konduga, Gajigana and other smaller towns all in Borno State. Others, have also run to Damaturu, Gujba, Buni Yadi, Buni Gari, Gashua, Kanamma, Yususufari, Goniri and Kukareta towns in Yobe State, among others.

“While we are making concerted efforts to trace and fish out the fleeing criminals, it is important to inform and warn all those harbouring the fleeing fugitives to report or hand them to the troops of OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE immediately. Failure to do that would attract severe consequences.

“The Theatre Command Operation LAFIYA DOLE wishes to enjoin all well-meaning Nigerians, especially those residing in the aforementioned areas, to report any suspicious and strange faces in their communities.

Colonel Ado also charged the publics to encouraged themselves and report any suspicious persons through the army I-report platform on www.army.mil.ng or our toll free short code 193 (using any network), or any of the following special phone numbers dedicated for reporting BHT/ISWAP activities: +2347017222225, +2348077444303, +2348099900131 and +2349060005290.”

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BAUCHI JOURNALISTS TO BE TRAINED ON ICT- NITDA

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said it is set to train journalists in Bauchi State on Information Communication Technology (ICT).

The Chairman, Bauchi State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Ibrahim Goje, disclosed this on Thursday, during the opening ceremony of a three-day training on gender equity, safety and gender sensitive reporting.

He said the training was organized by women journalists in the state chapter of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in collaboration with Norwegian Union of Journalists.

Malam Goje said the union has discussed with the agency on the training and it has given approval to conduct the training soon.

He also disclosed that over 250 journalists in the state were recently trained on ICT by the union in collaboration with Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP) Bauchi.

The NUJ boss commended the National Association of Women Journalists for organizing the workshop.

He also promised that the NUJ would continue to work with NAWOJ to build capacity of media practitioners in the state.

Responding, the state NAWOJ chairperson Mrs Bulak Afsa explained that the workshop was aimed at updating the knowledge of her members on safety and gender sensitive reporting adding that the workshop would also provide opportunity for women journalists to discuss problems affecting their profession and build their capacity.

Also, the special guest of honor who is the Chairman, caretaker Committee of Bogoro local Government, Mr Iliya Habila, advocated hazards allowances and insurance scheme for working journalists in the country pointing out that they face risks in the discharge of their duties.

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Ag-HoS RESUMES OFFICE, RECIEVES HANDOVER NOTE

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The acting Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Dr Folashade Yemi-Esan, has on Thursday resumed duty after receiving a 153-page handover note from her predecessor, Mrs. Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita.

A statement on Wednesday night in Abuja, signed by the Director of Information, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Mr. Willie Bassey, said the removal of Mrs Oyo-Ita was to conclude on the investigation being carried out by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Director, Information, Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHoCSF), Mrs Olawunmi Ogunmosunle, in a statement yesterday, disclosed that the new HoCSF finally took over at 6.40pm adding that Mrs Yemi-Esan and Mrs Oyo-Ita met briefly in the morning yesterday before the final handing over later in the evening.

The statement also disclosed that “Dr Yemi-Esan in her remarks acknowledged the hard work and dedication to duty of the outgoing Mrs Oyo-Ita and promised to build on her achievements.

“There is no reinventing the wheel. I will only build on the sound foundation and structure which she has left behind because government is a continuum.” she said.

In her hand over speech, Mrs Oyo-Ita said her four years in office as the HoS was eventful.

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Zenith Bank to commence Delta’s Principals’ Cup

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The 2019/2020 edition of Zenith Bank Delta Principals’ Cup football competition will officially kick off in the state on Monday, September 30, 2019.

Addressing a press conference in Asaba yesterday, the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, disclosed however, that the preliminary stages of the competition, which is in it’s 4th edition, will hold from Monday, September 23, 2019 to Friday, October 11, 2019 in all local government areas of the state.

According to Chief Ukah, the zonal stages of the competition will take place across 10 centres in the state between Wednesday, October 16, 2019 and Monday, October 21, 2019, while the quarter final encounters will hold on Wednesday, October 30, 2019.

The semi- finals will be played on Monday, November 4, 2019, just as the 3rd place match and the finals will take place on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

The commissioner stated that as another veritable way of encouraging participation in sports, the state government is to give cash awards to all schools that come out tops in each local government area.

He used the medium to appreciate Zenith Bank Pls for its efforts towards identifying with the state government to promote school sports in the state.

About 850 private and public secondary schools have so far registered to participate in this year’s edition of the competition.

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CBN TO SUSPEND CASHLESS POLICY – HOUSE OF REP

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The House of Representatives have directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to suspend the recently reintroduced cashless policy in the country.

The directive was issued on Thursday, at the plenary of the lower legislative chamber.

The house said the policy will lead to a significant decrease in credit extension by Nigerian money deposit banks.

The lawmakers also emphasized that the policy will have negative impacts on small and medium enterprises noting that they are the engine room for the growth of the economy.

Recall that in a circular released on Tuesday, the CBN had directed all deposit money banks in the country to charge 3% processing fees for withdrawals and 2% for deposits of amounts above N500, 000 for individual accounts.

The circular also said Corporate account holders will be charged 5% processing fees for withdrawals and 3% for deposits of amounts above N3 million.

The directive from the CBN was, however, criticised by some Nigerians for various reasons.

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CROSS RIVERS PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT BUILDING FENCES COLLAPSED.

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Fences of Cross River State Property Development and Investment Limited (CROSPIL) have been demolished by unknown persons suspected to be thugs.

The incident occurred at about 7pm on Wednesday and lasted for few hours.

An eyewitness, who refused giving his name to newsmen, but claimed to be a tenant in one of the affected buildings, narrated that a group of men came to the CROSPIL and demolished the fences including the ones dividing the government establishment and private buildings.

Also demolished were fences dividing CROSPIL and it neighbours at No 1 Bishop Maynagh Avenue, State Housing Estate, Calabar.

CROSPIL is Corporate Headquarters of Cross River State Property Development and Investment Limited established in 1969 under the name Cross River State Housing Corporation by the then South Eastern State Government, Edict No 14 of 1969 and was amended by the South Eastern State Housing Corporation amended Edict 1972 and the statutory corporation amended provision Edict of 1977.

The Corporation headquarters was commissioned in 1973 custodies over 5, 000 lands and housing documents of state government and individuals and the organization overseeing State Housing Estate, Federal Housing Estates, Ikot Ansa phase 1, 2, 3, Anansa Estates, Premier Housing Estate, Orange Resort Estares, Akpabuyo, Ikom Estates phase 1, 2, 3, 4, Ogoja Estates amongst others.

A staff of CROSPIL, who pleaded anonymity for fear of being sacked told newsmen that on the 2nd of September, they were in the office when they heard a loud noise of siren and they all came out to receive the guest who turn out to be the State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade.

“When we saw him, we were so happy that our Governor had visited us and good things are coming but when he addressed us, we wept. He asked us to quit the place within seven days because he was going to annexed the place and other places for establishment of an Academy for training of artisans for fabrication.

“We are fully aware that he bought some property for the establishment of over a fifty bedrooms hotel and the annexing of the CROSPIL and other property including Federal Mortgage, and other private property was for that use” he alleged.

“The Governor gave us seven days to quit the place nut there was no adequate arrangement to quit to, We are worried because we are custodian of land registry. in fact, research works about land and houses are done here, if you have a house or your parents or grandparents have houses in the State and you wants to know the history, it’s only here that such information can be obtained.

“The Geographical Information Agency which Governor Liyel Imoke digitalized has since stop functioning and it’s only here that information about land matters and houses are found, lawyers come here for title documents and other matters.

“In fact, it is the only registry we have in the State, all the estates are under us, Akpabuyo Estates has over 451 tenants, their documents are kept here. In case of litigations, documents for such activities are found here and if this is distorted, it means the state is finished and the consequent is great.

“We are not bothered about relocation but we are bothered about the registry, once they are distorted, it means people documents would not be save any longer. Public document that suppose to be kept in perpetuity because it could be call upon anytime would not be there any longer.

“These properties are under different mortgages and we are custody of its document. Former Governor have houses here, this place is the heart of the state, it is not designed for that fabrication, it is a distortion of the original plan, it is a premier estates, we are keeping a registry of every important instrument, by moving out, it will distort information, we have over 5, 000 document belonging for people”.

The workers insisted that if government want to quit them, they will not want rental apartment, the reason is that this Government do not pay rents in the State, “CUDA had been thrown out of their rental apartment, and local government service commission had been ejected due to non apartment of rents, Institutes for Management and Technology (IMT) office in Calabar had been sealed, because of government have not paid rents, the IMT Computers and other accessories are inside.

“At Hens Building at the Murtala Mohamed Highway, the Land Lord has just thrown out government agency for not payment of rents. We don’t want to be in that kind of problem. We are not against the Governor taking over the place but let him purchase a place for us.

“How do you chase people out of their Corporate Headquarters, in an attempt to take over? During monetization exercise, we use our fixed assert to build six flats to enable us use the facility to obtain loans as collateral and yield profit. These are all here.

“However, the adjoining land belonged to Federal Mortgage Bank has been annexed to that property without cause to the Federal Mortgage. The house is under construction and it’s a four storey building, and its only one plot, the all the fences have been broken without reference to the owner” a staff alleged.

“The other plot with building belongs to a company, the fence has been broken and was about to be annexed to the building and he promised to refund the money to the owner but yet to done so” a source further alleged.

At outside, there is proposed 4 storey building, they have decked the 2 so that they can do the 3rd floor and Governor Ayade has asked them to stop work because he want to pay the owner who is in Lagos off.

“We have not been served with letters; it is only words of mouth, no letter at all. Seven day has expired and the fences have been broken, we don’t know what next but the entire place have been expose to security risk, the place has been compromised because from the gate you can site the entire place, we are getting worried.

“This fabrication and science academy of government Ben Ayade has no backing of the law as the State House of Assembly has not make any law on it’ the workers alleged noting that the State has an Institution of Technologic and Management in Ugep which is not functioning, we have the University of Technology, what is all these.

When contacted, the Managing Director of CROSPIL, Eno Obongha said “As a civil servant, I am to be seen and not heard, the Governor has given me an instruction and I owed him a duty to implement it to the later”.

Speaking on phone with journalists, the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of land and Housing, Mary Omaji said, “Did Governor give any instruction or they are insinuating that Governor give such instruction. Anyway, I have not seen any letter, it is only when I see a letter or directive from the Governor, then I believe such thing.

“I don’t think Governor would have asked them to quit without making adequate provision, I don’t think so. And until we have definite instruction from him, they can’t be saying that.

“I don’t know anything about the broken fence, CROSPIL may be in position to say how the fences were broken, I don’t know about that. There is no directive from the Governor, people are saying a lot of rubbish, everywhere, he wouldn’t have given such directive.

“The Governor may be there for routine inspection, he inspect the whole State, he inspect the State Secretariat, he inspect project, you understand, he may have gone there for inspection but not to tell them to pack. The majority of workers there are junior staff, they cooked up stories and that is what we are trying to avoid,” she said.

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LASPOTECH : 66 PROGRAMMES ACCREDITED SO FAR

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The Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Ikorodu has said it had secured 100 per cent accreditation of all the 66 programmes in the institution.

The Polytechnic Spokesman, Mr Olanrewaju Kuye, explained that the approval of the accreditation was given by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), following the 2019 accreditation recently.

Kuye revealed that the schools in the polytechnic include School of Agriculture, School of Communication and Liberal Studies, School of Engineering and School of Environmental Studies.

He also listed the School of Management and Business Studies, School of Pure and Applied Sciences and School of Technology.

“The Polytechnic successfully secured 100 per cent accreditation of all the programmes.

“The approval also includes the institutional accreditation, as the exercise covers all the schools and departments in the polytechnic,’’

“In all, NBTE approved 66 programmes for the institution to admit students for the 2019/2020 academic session, ‘’ he said.

Also, The Rector of the polytechnic, Mr Samuel Sogunro, assured the public that the institution’s management would remain committed to its vision in providing world-class educational services, using competent personnels and modern facilities.

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NIGERIA MARKETS ARE OVER FLOODED WITH SUBSTANDARD PRODUCTS – FG

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has raised alarm over the increased influx of substandard products taking over Nigerian markets.

This was disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer of Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Babatunde Irukera, in a sensitization programme in Ibadan on Wednesday.

He urged consumers to always insist on quality products adding that the most important thing to accomplish in the seminar, is to educate consumers about their rights with respect to quality.

“Essentially, it seems in our market today, quality is an option and substandard products as well as services the second option. “You can get into a market where somebody ask if you want original or Taiwan, or something else. That is not really the law. Consumers must have quality. ‘So, presenting you with quality or otherwise is not even an option. This is all FCCPC supposed to do and some of the most important people for that are students as well as educators. “So that we can begin from inculcating and re-cultivating the culture of quality across board,” he said.

According to him, the most important thing for the enforcement of rights is the people’s demand for their rights.

He also stated that a very important aspect of nation building is taking the message to the grassroots and the right audiences.

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UWADIAE TO BOW OUT AS WAEC REGISTRAR.

The Registrar of West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Dr Iyi Uwadiae, has revealed that he will bow out as registrar to the council on September 30, 2019, after serving in that capacity for seven years.

The Edo State indigene said this on Wednesday while holding a telecast valedictory interactive conference from the headquarters of WAEC in Ghana with journalists and WAEC officials from Ghana, Gambia and Nigeria.

The WAEC boss, a mathematician and an alumnus of University of Benin, Nigeria, joined WAEC Nigeria in 1985 as an assistant registrar and rose through the ranks to become Head of National Office from where he was appointed as the 12th registrar in 2012 to succeed another Nigerian, Alhaja Mulikat Bello.

Uwadiae, however refused to mention his successor, saying though already appointed, the person would be officially announced later.

Speaking further, Uwadiae said even though the office is tasking and demanding, he had no regret whatsoever in his entire service life with WAEC.

According to him, WAEC -unlike government- has a culture of continuity in programmes adding that projects execution must be completed before embarking on new ones.

“we don’t abandon existing projects for a new one and we also work as a team at all levels in WAEC and this culture has been greatly helping the organisation,” he stressed.

While listing the completion of 15-year-old headquarters office complex in Ghana, the incorporation of schools and candidates from neighbouring francophone countries like Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Mali into the conduct of WAEC exams, deployment of advanced technology mechanisms against exam malpractice, introduction of February/March WAEC diet in Nigeria, training collaboration with teachers and school administrators, improved staff welfare and the full adoption of council’s exams by Liberia government as parts of the achievements recorded during his administration, Uwadiae noted that the efforts have really yielded good results.

He, therefore urged member countries to always meet their financial and technical supports to the council, noting that this will enable them perform better.

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STOP KILLING YOUNG GIRLS IN PORT HARCOURT–NHRC CRIES OUT

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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the recent killings of young girls in hotels in Port Harcourt, Rivers State and other parts of the country.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, on Wednesday, said the recent complaints of several attacks on women in hotels are worrisome.

He lamented that the extermination of right to life is the mother of all human rights violations, which cannot be tolerated by any decent society.

Mr. Tony also described as unfortunate the idea of some people taking laws into their hands by targeting women they term as prostitutes and killing them at will.

He also charged the perpetrators of the evil act to desist from such inhumane act.

He therefore called on the Rivers State Police Command to intensify efforts to stem the tide, stressing that those involved should be apprehended and made to face the law.

Recall that yesterday, some young ladies in over 74 groups, took to the streets of Port Harcourt and other strategic places, protesting over the serial killing of young ladies in hotels.

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AIR PEACE CHAIRMAN HONORED FOR PATRIOTISM.

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The Chairman of Air Peace Airlines, Allen Onyema, has been honored by the House of Representatives for his show of patriotism.

The Chairman was invited to appear before the House today, in recognition of his generous decision to put his airplanes for use, to return Nigerians who were being attacked In the wake of the xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

The speaker of the house of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila stated that the House is honouring Onyema for his level of patriotism displayed so far noting that the House will recommend him to the federal Government for further honour.

He also disclosed that as at the present moment, Onyema has lifted over 498 Nigerians from South Africa, stressing that his planes have returned to South Africa to airlift more returnees to Nigeria.

The speaker also described the air peace chairman’s motivation and gesture as spontaneous stating that it was to mitigate the hardship being faced by Nigerians in South Africa.

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SUPER EAGLES TO MEET BRAZIL IN OCTOBER 13.

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The Brazil Football Confederation will Play Its second ever friendly match against Nigeria Super Eagles in October.

The statement is contained in an announcement released and confirmed by the Brazil Football Confederation yesterday.

The announcement stated that by taking on Nigeria, after their third-place at the 2019 AFCON, the Brazil team is hoping to get in shape for the South American zone’s 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

While the Super Eagles are still blowing off steam, it has been confirmed that they have another high-profile friendly coming up against Brazil.

The statement also revealed that the friendly is set to take place at the National Stadium of Singapore on October 13.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are expected to avenge the 3-0 loss they suffered in 2003.

Recall that in 2003, Brazil and Nigeria met for a friendly that ended 3-0 in favour of the South Americans.

” Now, not only will the Super Eagles be preparing for the 2021 AFCON qualifiers through this second meeting, but they will also be looking to revenge that 16-year-old loss they suffered”. The statement reads.

Also, reports have shown that it is exactly one week since Nigeria took on Ukraine in an international friendly that ended 2-2.

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TINUBU & ETHIOPIA PRIME MINSTER RECEIVE’S AFRICA DEMOCRACY AWARDS.

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The National Leader of the All Progressive Congress, Bola Tinubu and the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, have been awarded with an African Democracy Award.

Abiy Ahmed (Prime Minister of Ethiopia)

The award was conferred on them at the 4th African Political Summit and Diamond Awards in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopia capital yesterday.

A statement on Tuesday said they were recognised for their efforts to grow democracy and good governance on the African continent.

Also, The award was presented as highlight of a conference on Campaign Financing and Elections in Africa, an initiative of the Association of Political Consultants in Africa.

According to the president of APC Africa, Kehinde Bamigbetan, the award serves to recognise and encourage icons of democracy and good governance in Africa.

He also stated that It has been their culture to celebrate those political figures who have done a lot to promote democracy in their respective countries.

Bamigbetan said Tinubu was recognised for his commitment to democracy and human rights describing him as an outstanding leader who had done a lot to strengthen democracy, human rights, press freedom and peace in East Africa.

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FEMALE YOUTHS PROTEST OVER KILLING OF GIRLS IN HOTELS.

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A huge number of women today, have marched to the Government House in Port Harcourt this morning, protesting over the killing of young women in hotels within the state.

The women stated that everybody deserve the right to life, including prostitutes, and should not be killed in such a gruesome manner.

The women, who were spotted dressed in black attires, called for an end to the ugly trend happening to women in the state.

Recall that reports have shown that at least no fewer than eight young women have been murdered in different hotels within the last two months.

Also remember that last week Friday, Rivers Female Youths protested to the State Police Command, demanding stronger measures to protect women against the recent serial killing of women in the state.

The Female Youths who displayed placards with different inscriptions decried the obvious targeting of women by suspected serial killers operating in the state.

Some Female protestants

Some of the placards read: “Hotel owners must be accountable and be responsible for their guests”, “She could be your sister, daughter, wife or friend”, “There is no life without women”.

Convener of the protest march, Soibi Ibibo Jack said that the female youths are at the State Police Command to demand stronger measures by the Police to apprehend the killers.

She also said once apprehended, the killer must be made to face the full weight of the law, irrespective of his/her political or social status.

Also Speaking, Peace Pepple from Opobo-Nkoro said as the Police works to secure women, there is the need for everyone to be careful.

Bidemi Edward-Odoi suggested the arrest and strict interrogation of affected hotels managers to compel others to the security of their hotels seriously.

The Rivers State Police commissioner Represented by DCP Chuks Enwonwu said that the Police is working with other security agencies to secure the lives of women and other residents.

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FIREBOY DML, RELEASES NEW VIDEO “KING”.

Nigerian fast rising artist, Fireboy DML is out with a new video entitled “KING”.

The video accompanied and brilliantly executed by TG Omori, has Fireboy DML serenading his lover in different settings —from sitting in a flashy car to literally fighting in a boxing match for her love.

In the video, Fireboy DML reminded his lover that he will fight for her, but won’t beg for her love.

Alternating between Yoruba and English, he also asks to be treated like a king in the video.

One favourite thing about Fireboy DML is his lyrical prowess which was a strength he played on the video “King”.

The artistic and creative arts in the video is very engaging, and makes the song more enjoyable to listen.

The music “KING” was produced by XYZ.

Watch the official video for king below

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UPDATE: DELTA GOVERNMENT TO SPEND OVER 1 BILLION NAIRA ON FEDERAL ROADS IN THE STATE.

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The Delta State Government has said it is set to spend over N1 billion to rehabilitate the degraded Federal roads in the State.

This was disclosed yesterday following the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State.

During the SEC meeting, the council said the federal roads to be rehabilitated by the Delta State Government are the Benin-Sapele Road; the Benin-Onitsha Road; and, the Agbor-Abraka-Eku Road.

The State Executive Council said it has also approved the construction of the 2.3km Benekrukru Road in Warri South West local government area of the state.

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PRESIDENT BUHARI SACKS PRESIDENTIAL PANEL CHAIRMAN.

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The chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP), Mr Okoi Obono-Obla, has been on Tuesday sacked by president Muhammadu Buhari.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, and made available to State House correspondents in Abuja.

According to the statement, The panel was established in August 2017 by the then Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, to investigate specifically mandated cases of corruption, abuse of office and similar offences by public officers.

Obon-Obla was earlier suspended as the chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel on the Recovery of Public Property, over alleged certificate forgery.

Mr Okoi Obono-Obla,

He is also under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The president has also dissolved the panel and ordered the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, to immediately take over all outstanding investigations and other activities of the SPIP.

In a statement, Adesina said President Buhari thanked all members of the dissolved panel for their services adding that the President looks forward to receiving the final Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission’s (ICPC) report on the ongoing investigations of the dissolved panel’s Chairman.

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AGENCIES UNDER ME ALWAYS FOLLOW DUE PROCESSES – OSINBAJO

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Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, has said all agencies under him always follow due procedures in the award of contracts and other critical matters in the country.

He disclosed this while reacting to reports that President Muhammadu Buhari has directed Osinbajo to henceforth seek approvals for agencies under his supervision.

The spokesman to the Vice-president, Laolu Akande, described as “false” insinuations, that due procedures were not strictly being followed by the vice president.

Akande suggests, falsely, that agencies under the supervision of the Vice President do not normally comply with established rules where presidential approvals are required.

He, however, did not deny that a memo was sent to the vice-president on Monday, directing him to get presidential approvals for the agencies he chairs, as exclusively reported by the media.

“This is obviously misleading and aims only to plant seeds of discord in the Presidency while attempting to create unnecessary national hysteria” the statement reads.

He disclosed that Osinbajo is the chairman of the governing boards of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the National Boundary Commission (NBC) and the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA).

He also said Osinbajo is the chairman of the board of directors of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), a limited liability company owned by the three tiers of government.

The statement also reveals that the vice-president chairs the National Economic Council (NEC), a constitutional body made up of state governors and key federal government officials, as well as the National Council on Privatisation (NCP).

“Depending on the particular scope of activity in question, agencies may require management approval only, at the level of the Director General or Chief Executive Officer. In this category falls the great majority of their day-to-day activities”

“However, other activities, or procurements, with value exceeding a certain threshold, require Board approval. These may get to the agency Board chaired by the Vice President. In a few cases where Presidential approval is required, the Director-General must seek such approval from the President, through the Vice President. These rules have always guided the activities of statutory agencies and the ones under the Vice President’s supervision have always been so guided”

He noted that the agencies concerned are established by law adding that the Vice President has always insisted on due compliance with the enabling statutes and other established regulations.

He also explained that reports saying in the first term of the Buhari administration, agencies of government have not been complying with the provisions (of getting final approvals from the President) is false adding that the attempt to suggest the Vice President’s complicity in such irregularities is simply reprehensible and mischievous .

He disclosed that the Vice President remains committed to the service of his fatherland and will continue to do so despite the purveyors of fake news.

He therefore warned media organizations, as gatekeepers to uphold truth, balance, fairness and objectivity in their reportage, adding that precision reporting and professionalism should be their watchword at all times.

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GHANA IMMIGRATION SET TO DEPORT 25 NIGERIAN PROSTITUTES.

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The Ghana Immigration Service is set to deport 25 Nigerian ladies arrested over prostitution in the Bono East Region of the country.

The Regional Commander of Immigration Service Department in the Bono East Region, Chief Superintendent Enoch Annor Abrokwa, told journalists that the girls will be deported to Nigeria as soon as the process is completed.

He said the arrest followed directives to security personnels to rid the region of unlawful elements by the Minister of the region, Hon. Kofi Amaokohere.

Chief Superintendent Abrokwa, also said there was a renewed campaign to weed out foreigners engaged in unlawful acts in the territory, stating that the prostitutes were arrested in the Nkoranza South and Kintampo South of the region by officers of the Immigration Service and the Ghana Police Service in the area.

According to him “Our men raided some notorious spots in the towns around 12a.m and 3a.m on the fateful day and picked about 25 prostitutes, all Nigerians”

At the time of their arrest, the Immigration officer revealed that none of the girls had in their possession, any valid form of identification.

He echoed a strong warning to foreigners illegally residing in the region saying,” I want to use this opportunity to warn all foreigners in Bono East Region, who do not have appropriate documents to start packing, because the Immigration Service will come after them.”

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GOV. OKOWA LAUDS TEAM DELTA, FOR EMERGING VICTORIOUS AT NATIONAL YOUTH GAMES.

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Delta State Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has today, congratulated “Team Delta” for emerging victorious at the 5th National Youth Games (NYG) which was held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

While congratulating the team, Governor Okowa praised them for their doggedness and determination.

He also said their dedication and commitment culminated in its victory at the 5th edition of the games.

Governor Okowa attributed the success of the team to the huge investment of Delta State government in sports.

He also disclosed that “Team Delta”, emerged victorious at the competition after winning 41 gold, 32 silver and 31 bronze at the National Youth Games competition in Ilorin.

The governor was spotted having a photograph with the team and its technical members.

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PRESIDENT BUHARI SET UP NEW EAC TO REPLACE EXISTING EMT.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has constituted a new Economic advisory council (EAC) to replace the current Economic management Team (EMT) .

This was revealed by the Special adviser to the President on Media and Publicity Mr. Femi Adesina yesterday,

Adesina stated that the EAC will advise the President on economic policy matters, including fiscal analysis, economic growth and a range of internal and global economic issues, working with the relevant cabinet members and heads of monetary and fiscal agencies amongst others.

He also said the advisory council will replace the current Economic Management Team (EMT) and will be reporting directly to the President.

Adesina said the EAC will have monthly technical sessions as well as scheduled quarterly meetings with the President, stressing that the Chairman may however request for unscheduled meetings if the need arises.

He said members of the EAC includes

  1. Prof. Doyin Salami – Chairman
  2. Dr. Mohammed Sagagi – Vice-Chairman
  3. Prof. Ode Ojowu – Member
  4. Dr. Shehu Yahaya – Member
  5. Dr. Iyabo Masha – Member
  6. Prof. Chukwuma Soludo – Member
  7. Mr. Bismark Rewane – Member
  8. Dr. Mohammed Adaya Salisu – Secretary, (Senior Special Assistant to the President, on Development Policy).

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STOP ISSUING UNAUTHORIZED STATEMENTS IN MY NAME – GOVERNOR DICKSON TO PDP LEADERS.

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Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, has issued a warning to leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) against unauthorized use of his name as Chairman of the party’s Governors Forum to issue statements.

This is contained in a statement signed by the chief press secretary to the governor, Fidelis Soriwei.

He condemned in strong terms unacceptable conduct of using his name without seeking his clarifications and consent to make comments on national issues.

The governor said while he was reputed for making comments on sensitive national issues, it was odd and criminal for any person or group of persons to make attributions to him in statements he did not authorize.

While warning those behind the deplorable act to desist forthwith, governor Dickson stressed that to avoid misrepresentation, it was a conventional standard for him to be consulted on all statements .

He therefore directed that every statement from the forum must be personally authorized by him.

He said: “It has come to my attention that some members of the People’s Democratic Party are using my name to issue statements without seeking my consent and approval especially on issues involving the PDP Governors Forum.

Everyone knows that I am capable of taking positions on national issues. Cowards should not hide under my name and that of the forum to make statements. I have always made statements on issues that I am passionate about without any fear.

“I condemn in very strong terms any tendency to willfully use my name to issue statement without my consent. It is reprehensible, condemnable and must stop forthwith.

“Henceforth all statements emanating from the PDP Governors Forum must be authorized personally by me.” the governor added.

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GOV. OKOWA CHARGES NIMC ON PROPER REGISTRATION OF ALL CITIZENS.

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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has told the National Identity Management Commission(NIMC) that proper registration and documentation of all Nigerians will help the state and federal government to plan effectively and improve security in the country.

He stated this while receiving officials of the National Identity Management Commission(NIMC) in his office yesterday, in Asaba, the Delta State capital, as part of activities to mark the National Identity Management Commission’s day.

Governor Okowa told the commission that everyday should be a National Identity Management Commission’s day.

He also said it is his fervent hope that the NIMC would continue to work to ensure more Nigerians are properly registered emphasizing that with a comprehensive database of all citizens, sustainable development policies across the board will be developed.

“It is my fervent hope that NIMC will continue to work to ensure that more Nigerians are properly registered, so that with a comprehensive database of all our citizens, we can develop sustainable development policies across the board”. He added.

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DAMMY KRANE ARRIANED OVER ALLEGED THREAT TO LIFE DEFAMATION.

Popular Nigerian composer, singer, and a performer, Johnson Oyindamola, popularly known as Dammy Krane on stage, was on Monday arraigned by the Police, before a Lagos Magistrate’s court sitting in Igbosere, over allegations of threat to life defamation.

Dammy Krane

The Afro-pop Singer was docked on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, threat to life defamation, and conduct which caused a breach of peace against him by the police.

Dammy Krane was said to have threatened the lives of staff and members of the betting company, Merrybet Gold Limited, on July 29, 2019.

He also released a song in which he accused the firm of breach of contract.

The prosecutor, Inspector J .I Enang, told the court that the musician threatened a sport betting company, Merrybet Gold Limited, accusing the company of owing him by posting an audio and video, on the internet.

Inspector Enang said the defendant attended a game show sponsored by the betting company but lost.

The singer was said to have, however, demanded some money for appearing on the show. But that the firm disagreed, insisting that the sum was only given to winners.

According to reports, The embittered musician subsequently went on Cool FM radio where he said the betting firm owed him money and breached a contractual agreement.

Dammy Krane was alleged to have threatened public peace when he posted an audio and video message on Cool FM 96.9.

According to the Prosecutor , “Oyindamola and others at large on July 29, 2019, at Cool FM in Lagos, conspired with others at large to commit felony to wit: Conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and threat to life.

Oyindamola and others at large on the same date, time and place, threatened the life of the staff of Merrybet Gold Limited,” he said.

The Prosecutor also said the offences committed are punishable under Sections 301, 411 and 168 (d) of the Lagos State 2015 criminal law.

The 27-year-old defendant (Dammy Krane) pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge against him.

Also, The defendant’ s counsel Mr Adebayo Oniyelu, urged the court to grant him bail in liberal terms, as he is a first time offender adding that
he would be produced whenever he is needed.

He said, “we humbly apply for the bail of the defendant, Section 35 (5), states that an accused person is still presumed innocent until proven guilty.

“He is a well known and a popular musician, if granted bail, he would be made available. He has been in police custody since Friday 13, September,” Oniyelu added.

The prosecutor Enang In his response to the bail application, said he was going to oppose the bail, as the offence is a national issue.

When Chief Magistrate Afolashade Botoku, asked to know the nature of the offence of the defendant, Enang said it is an international issue that is all over the media.

The defendant’ s lawyer, however, told the court that the defendant and the complainant had a disagreement over a breach of contract.

“The defendant, performed for the complainant and he was being owed the sum of N1million, and when he demanded for it, the next thing we saw was his arrest.”

The company’s lawyer, Mr N. Anachebe, who was holding brief, for the company, said, ” the defendant posted audio and video messages on his Instagram page claiming that the company was owing him, he was asked to pull it down, but he refused.”

After listening to parties in the matter, Magistrate Botoku asked, if the crux of the matter was defamation, she said if so, it should be a civil matter.

Anachebe, responded that “a case of defamation can be both criminal and civil”.

However, the Magistrate granted him bail in the sum of N50,000, with one surety in like sum and adjourned the case till October 11, for mention.

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FIDELITY BANK’S STAFF, ARRESTED BY EFCC FOR ALLEGEDLY STEALING 137 MILLION NAIRA.

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Mr. Olumide Agbabiaka,

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibadan zonal Office, has arrested a sales agent with Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Olumide Agbabiaka, for allegedly stealing N137million belonging to a customer.

This was contained in a statement signed yesterday by the commission’s spokesperson, Mr Tony Orilade in Ibadan.

Mr. Tony said Agbabiaka’s arrest was due to a petition filed by the bank’s Regional Security Officer and the Cluster Control and Compliance Manager.

He said it was alleged that the suspect suppressed, diverted and stole the money from a customer’s personal corporate account in Ibadan.

He also said the offence was committed by the alleged suspect between January 2017 and July.

He said the suspect, who was the account officer attached to the customer, had been visiting the business premises of the victim weekly to collect cash, adding that the suspect was to remit same to the customer’s accounts, domiciled in the bank’s branch.

He said the suspect, instead of depositing the money at different times, remitted only a portion lamenting that in many occasions the suspect had diverted the whole sum to his personal use.

“In order to cover its criminal acts, the suspect, according to the petition, would rather issue fictitious bank slips to deceive the customer that he truly deposited the sums. “This continued until the customer reviewed the statement of his account and reconciled same with the cash collection register,” he said.

Mr. Tony also disclosed that Agbabiaka’s alleged fraudulent deeds were later discovered prompting the bank to put up the petition against him.

“So far, the EFCC investigators have established a prima facie case of diversion and stealing against the suspect. “Further investigations also revealed that he had used the suppressed sums to build houses, purchase cars, invest in fixed deposits and insurance policies,” he added.

Orilade said the suspect also gave part of the stolen money to people around him as friendly loans.

He said that some of the items had been recovered and registered as exhibits, adding that Agbabiaka would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

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KOGI STATE: SSG TESTIFIES AGAINST DEPUTY GOVERNOR ON GROSS MISCONDUCT

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Kogi State Deputy Governor,
Elder Simon Achuba,
Secretary to the Kogi State Government (SSG),
Mrs Folashade Ayoade-Arike

A panel set up to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against Kogi State Deputy Governor, Elder Simon Achuba, has commenced its hearing in Lokoja.

The Secretary to the Kogi State Government (SSG), Mrs Folashade Ayoade-Arike, on Monday entered the witness box to testify at the panel hearing, investigating the allegations on the deputy governor.

The SSG said the Deputy Governor last attended the state Exco meeting in August 2018 even when the state government was up to date with his salaries and other benefits.

Others that testified included the Acting Director (Treasury), Office of the Accountant General, Mr. Elijah Ebinemi, who presented before the panel, evidence of alleged salaries/allowances payment, to the embattled deputy governor.

The certified true copies of the said payment were said to have covered between 2016 and 2017 respectively.

The SSG under cross-examination by lead counsel to Achuba, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), among others alleged that the state deputy governor last turned up at the weekly state executive council meeting, in August 2018.

She also said she was incompetent to issue a query to the deputy governor, as he is her boss.

The SSG stated that while it is not under the schedule of the Office of the SSG to pay the salary of the deputy governor, all workers of the state, including the deputy governor and his aides, have however been paid “up-to-date”.

Also, Under cross-examination by Mr. Anthony Adeniyi, lead counsel to the state government, Itopa, the cashier in the office of the deputy governor, explained that allowances and other monies, including imprests are paid directly into the bank accounts of those concerned.

It is important to know that the committee has two months to conclude its investigation on the Deputy Governor.

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NDOKWA ASSOCIATION IN AMERICA TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIP FOR NDOKWA STUDENTS.

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The Ndokwa Association in America foundation , has said the association will be giving scholarship award to each Local Government Area in Ndokwa nation.

The local government areas to benefit from this scheme are Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani local government.

The association said it will be giving the sum of $500 per students  towards tuition payment adding that the money will be disbursed to the university’s/polytechnic’s bursary office on behalf of the students.

According to the association, the candidate must be an Ndokwa indigene by Parentage (Father or Mother), the candidate must be enrolled in an undergraduate degree or HND program in any higher institution in Nigeria.

The association also said selection of candidates for the scholarship programme, will be based on need and merit adding that the application period is from July 15 to October 16 of each year.

Still on the criteria for eligibility, the Association also said the student must maintain an average grade point (A.G.P.) of 2.5 in a 4 point Scale and 3.0 in a 5 point Scale adding that  Each applicant shall accompany his/her application with   recommendation letters
, a letter from an academic adviser at the student’s school,
a signed or notarized identification letter by a Justice of  Peace (JP) from his/her Local Government Area.

They also said each recipient must notify Ndokwa Association in America of any internship /Industrial Training during the academic year.

The association also disclosed that recipients must provide his/her transcript for the previous semester before receiving the award money for the current semester.

Recipients will be selected and announced in the first quarter of the  school year and the scholarship award follows thereafter.

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ICPC SEIZES 12 PROPERTIES BELONGING TO NFF OFFICIALS.

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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has seized no fewer than 12 properties belonging to top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF).

The officials affected are President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick and 2nd vice president of the football body, Shehu Dikko.

Newly officials indicted by the investigation are Head of NFF Technical Committee, Ahmed Yusuf, and NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi.

Investigation by newsmen on Sunday showed that the NFF president, Pinnick owned a majority of the properties, with one of them situated in the London, United Kingdom.

According to a breakdown of the properties seized, in a document obtained by Sports Extra, shows that Pinnick owns six, Sanusi has three, and two belong to Yusuf, all of the NFF.

Report has also revealed that details obtained on Dikko’s seized properties were sketchy.

Officials of the ICPC earlier seized one of his properties, located on 1, River Benue Close, Maitama, Abuja, on Friday morning.

The document showed Pinnick’s properties seized as a mansion located at 2C Layi Ajayi Bembe Street, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos; a bungalow located at 3, Oritsejafor Close, GRA, Warri; Brownhill Event Centre located at Plot 6/7 ELF Road, Ogunmu-Warri, Warri Central, Delta State.

Also, other Pinnick’s properties seized by the anti-graft agency are a bungalow located at First House, 3rdStreet, DDPA Housing Estate, besides Delta Broadcasting Service, Asaba, Delta State; an apartment at Regents Plaza, 8 Greville Road, North Maida Vale, London NW6 5HU, UK; Plot 1805 Cadastral Zone A10 Maitama II, Abuja vide Right of Occupancy dated 15/05/2019 with file no. DT 64003.

The document also listed Sanusi’s seized properties as the house beside the Mosque of Alheri School, off Tsafe Road, near Guiwa Low-cost Housing Estate, Sokoto; Plot 8001 Cadastral Zone E08 vide offer letter dated May 15, 2019 with file number KW30584; and a property at 6A, Tangier Street, off Sudan Street, Zone 6, Abuja.

The two seized properties belonging to Yusuf, according to the document, are a bungalow located at First House on Prison Yard Road, off David Mark Road, Minna, Niger State; and another bungalow located at Bosso Estate, behind State Government, Orphanage Home, Minna, Niger State.

Sources in the anti-corruption agency told journalists that the investigation may extend to other officials of the NFF with suspicious properties.

When contacted,
the spokesperson of the ICPC, Rasheedat Okoduwa, debunked reports on social media that seals on Pinnick and Dikko’s houses had been removed.

Dikko’s house was sealed on Friday morning, before officials of the ICPC again proceeded to seal Pinnick’s mansion in Park view Estate, Lagos, in the afternoon.

She said, “Our work is still ongoing. We have seized those properties and other ones. The full list on Dikko’s seized properties will be made available today (Monday). The one for Pinnick and two other characters are already available. But our investigation is ongoing.

Both Dikko and Pinnick’s sealed properties remain seized. If the seals are removed, those that did that are not our officials. We are investigating something about them. What they have is in excess of what they have earned.”

Okoduwa also debunked reports that President Muhammadu Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, was influencing the ICPC’s investigation

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WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO CREATE A NEW OYO STATE.

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Governor, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has challenged his political aides to be committed to the efforts of his administration.

The Governor made the demand in Ibadan, on Sunday in his closing remarks at the end of a two-day executive retreat organised for members of his cabinet and senior aides.

Governor Makinde was quoted in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa, saying: “For our permanent secretaries and political office holders, it still remains ‘soldier go, soldier come’ but the barrack remains.

“How many governors have you seen their backs? You will see the back of this government too. But your commitment to the success of this administration must not waiver.”

Governor Makinde further stressed the need for political appointees and top officials of the state civil service to work in harmony, to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

He also added that collective responsibility must be the watchword for success to be achieved.

He gave the assurance that the civil servants would be empowered to do their jobs but not without accountability.

The governor said, “We are making a pact with you that the current administration will empower you. We will give you those responsibilities. We will give you the authority to carry them out but we demand from you accountability.

He therefore appealed to everyone to work with him in order to create a new prosperous Oyo State together.

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NGF to Import holistic approach towards Insecurity in the North.

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The Northern Governors Forum (NGF) on Thursday said it has decided to import a holistic approach to tackle some challenges in the northern region of the country.

The Governor of Plateau state, Mr Simon Lalong, who is also the chairman of the forum stated this at the end of the NGF emergency meeting in Kaduna yesterday.

Lalong said the governors discussed issues of common interest, particularly development of the Agricultural sector; being the economic live wire of the region.

He added that the forum National Livestock Transformation Programme was meant to provide a mechanism for peacefull dialogue and reconciliation in crisis communities in order to have a harmonious and mutually beneficial region.

Speaking further, Lalong explained that, the current challenges of insecurity, which seems to be persisting despite concerted effort by all tires of government, was also deliberated upon at the meeting.

He therefore revealed that the forum adopted the Livestock Transformation plan which includes modernising pastoral activities.

He also encouraged states not included in the pilot scheme to endeavour to join as soon as possible.

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NNPC FIRE DISASTER : 7 PERSONS INJURED, 3 TANKERS DESTROYED.

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Following the incident of fire that gutted the Apata Ibadan depot of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the incident has left seven persons injured and three petroleum tankers destroyed.

An eye witness attributed the cause of the fire outbreak to an electrical surge.

Recall that yesterday evening, fire gutted the loading point of the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company Limited, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Apata Ibadan, Oyo State.

A driver of one of the affected tankers said: ”I was there when one of the tanker drivers was removing his battery and using another truck’s battery to kick start his truck. It was when he put the battery and was hitting the head of the battery, trying to fix it that fire sparked from the battery and the next thing we saw was a pillow of fire, trapping everyone available. ”

The fire was two hours later put off by a team of the Oyo State Fire Services and men of the NNPC fire fighters.

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Delta state: Ukah Tells Principal, School Heads to partner with PTAs & CDUs

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Principals and School Heads in public schools in the state have been charged to partner with the Parents Teachers Association (PTAs) and Community Development Unions (CDUs) to ensure that students settle down quickly for the new academic session.

The Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, gave the charge during the continuation of his monitoring of resumption of schools in Ika South and Ika North East Local Government Areas yesterday.

Chief Ukah expressed surprise that on the second day of resumption, there was still low turnout of students in some schools even when it had been announced that there would be a welcome back test for the students on the first week of resumption.

He therefore charged the School Heads and Principals to make sure that the welcome back test is administered to the students which should form part of their continuous assessment and should not be doctored by them.

The commissioner asked the Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs), Principals and School Heads to device a means they would use in communicating with the parents of the students through the PTAs and Community Development Unions so that they can employ the services of town criers in their communities to bring to the awareness of the parents why their children should return quickly back to school.

Chief Ukah said his ministry had lined up a lot of programmes for the 2019/2020 academic session which he said would bring about the continuous development of the basic and secondary education sub sector of the state..

The schools visited by the commissioner were Omumu Mixed Secondary School, Omumu Primary School, Ime-Obi Secondary School, Igumbor Otiku Secondary School, Ogbemudien Model Secondary School, Alasi Primary School, Owa Model Secondary School and Owa Model Primary School all in Ika South and Ika North East Local Government Areas.

The Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Chief Patrick Ukah, gave the charge during the continuation of his monitoring of resumption of schools in Ika South and Ika North East Local Government Areas yesterday.

Chief Ukah expressed surprise that on the second day of resumption, there was still low turnout of students in some schools even when it had been announced that there would be a welcome back test for the students on the first week of resumption.

He therefore charged the School Heads and Principals to make sure that the welcome back test is administered to the students which should form part of their continuous assessment and should not be doctored by them.

The commissioner asked the Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs), Principals and School Heads to device a means they would use in communicating with the parents of the students through the PTAs and Community Development Unions so that they can employ the services of town criers in their communities to bring to the awareness of the parents why their children should return quickly back to school.

Chief Ukah said his ministry had lined up a lot of programmes for the 2019/2020 academic session which he said would bring about the continuous development of the basic and secondary education sub sector of the state..

The schools visited by the commissioner were Omumu Mixed Secondary School, Omumu Primary School, Ime-Obi Secondary School, Igumbor Otiku Secondary School, Ogbemudien Model Secondary School, Alasi Primary School, Owa Model Secondary School and Owa Model Primary School all in Ika South and Ika North East Local Government Areas.

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Burna Boy refunds $100 Ticket to a boring Fan during a live Concert, asked fan to leave the show.

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Nigerian sensational singer, Burna Boy, on Tuesday refunded a hundred dollar ticket price to a fan who he noticed wasn’t vibing to his performance during his concert.

the incident happened during the Atlanta stop of his ‘African Giant’ tour.

In a viral video, while Burna Boy was performing, he noticed a fan standing in front of the stage was not swaying to the music.

Burna Boy, took a break from the energetic performance and called out the fan. He went on to refund the hundred dollar ticket price to the fan.

He also asked a bouncer to escort the fan out of the venue saying, “Your face is not encouraging.”

Also, the event, recorded in a now-viral video, has since generated mixed reactions from fans of the ‘Anybody’ singer.

While some applauded Burna Boy for correcting the negative vibe the fan put out, others reprimanded the singer for humiliating a fan who came to enjoy the show.

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WE MUST NOT FAIL NIGERIANS – BUHARI TO MINISTERS.

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President Muhammadu Buhari has reminded the newly inaugurated ministers, of the need to keep in mind, the oath they took three weeks ago.

He spoke yesterday in Abuja at the opening of the inaugural meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) which later continued behind closed doors.

“As a government, our focus must remain that of selfless service. The safety, security and prosperity of Nigeria’s 200 million people are our responsibility. We must not fail them,” Buhari added.

The president used his opening remarks to explain the reasons for the creation, merger, and split of ministries, saying that the decision was taken to boost efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery in the country.

Recall that the president had created six ministries, which included Works and Housing led by Babatunde Fashola, with Abubakar D. Aliyu as minister of state.

The remaining ministries are Power, with Sale Mamman as the main minister, and Godwin Jedy-Agba as minister of state; Aviation, headed by Hadi Sirika, Special Duties and International Affairs, headed by George Akume, Police Affairs headed by Maigari Dingyadi, and Humanitarian and Disaster Management, headed by Sadiya Umar Faruk.

“In the recently concluded elections, the majority of Nigerians who voted for us gave us a clear mandate:

(A) to enhance the security of lives and property across the entire country, (b)to create a diversified and inclusive economy that will bring prosperity to all, and (c) to install governance and accountability in our systems and processes, thereby eliminating corruption. Therefore, all ideas and projects that will contribute to achieving these goals shall be foremost in our deliberations.

“Furthermore, we split the ministry of power, works and housing and ministry of transportation and aviation to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our infrastructure delivery programmes and projects. On security, keeping in mind the need to improve on our achievements we created the ministry of police affairs whose purpose is to oversee the development and implementation of strategies that will enhance Nigeria’s internal security in synergy with other security and intelligence agencies. This will include supporting the re-establishment of civil authority in the liberated areas of the north east.”

He added, “We also created a new ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs. This ministry will manage key projects and initiatives of the presidency.

The president also said the minister’s role will include coordinating multi-agencies and inter-ministry functions as designated by the President.

He also noted that he has instructed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to draft a schedule of ministerial responsibilities for his review and final approval.

Making reference to his speech at the recent retreat, president Buhari said the ministers must work in harmony with each other, adding that Communication and team work are the trademarks of success.

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APC Delta state Hails The Courage of the Presidential Election Petition Panel.

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The All Progressives Congress, Delta State salutes the uncommon display of courage by the Chairman and members of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal Panel. In fact, they have written their names in gold in view of the fact that despite the media trial of the petition by PDP and its emmissaries of rift, they were not dettered in doing justice in accordance with the law.

In the course of the hearing of the petition, some media houses threw caution to the wind and deeply engaged themselves in media trial of the petition and Mr. President. But today, the mandate given freely given to Mr. President by Nigerians have been re-affirmed by the Tribunal.

APC, Delta State has also used this opportunity to thank Nigerians for the support they have given to Mr. President so far. Nigerians have once again shown that they made no mistake in voting for His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari.

Signed

Ogheneluemu Sylvester Imonina, Esq.,
Publicity Secretary, APC, Delta State.

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WE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY SOUTH EAST GOV’S BAN ON CATTLE MOVEMENT – MIYETTI ALLAH

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The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Southeast zone, has said they have no issues over the the position of the South east governors on how to control herders and farmers misunderstanding in the southeast .

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Awka, Anambra State capital, on Wednesday, the South East zonal Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Giddado Sadiq, said it was a welcome development, since the governors were Chief Security of their respective states and took the measure to solve them.

Recall that South East Governors had in a meeting held in Enugu last week with enlarged stakeholders, among other things, banned movement of herdsmen and their cattle from one state to another, saying it was a source and point of conflict between farmers and the herders in the region.

The meeting was also resolved to restrain the movement of cattles and herdsmen from community to communities across farmlands, as well as banned herdsmen who move about with AK 47 guns and cutlasses.

Speaking On the ban of herders from using guns and other sophisticated weapons, Sadiq said the MACBAN equally placed a ban on it, adding that such is against the constitution of the country.

The MACBAN zonal boss further announced that cattle menace committee in Anambra state has embarked on data capturing of cattle breeders in the state for safety and peaceful coexistence with farmers in the region.

He said the data capturing is to ensure that all herders in Anambra state and their locations are known stressing that this will help for easy identification and tracking whenever the need arises.

He also explained that they have a cattle menace control committee in Anambra, Peace and security committee in Enugu, cattle resolution committee in Ebonyi, and other measures in Abia and Imo states respectively.

Speaking further, Alhaji Sadiq said These committees adopted different measures that will enhance peaceful coexistence of farmers and herders.

He also said with these measures in place, once there is a former complaints of the destruction of cattle or farmlands, the committee will access and evaluate the level of damages done, then the person or persons involve will pay adequate compensation to those whose cattle or farmlands were affected.

He said but if the person involved is not identified, the leadership of Fulani or President-General/traditional ruler of the community will pay as required.

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Delta Govt To Revisit 2015 Suspended Employment in 30 Days.

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The Delta State Government has directed the Head of Service and the Civil Service Commission to look into the 2015 suspended employment and identify the qualified Deltans who participated in the process.

He gave the directives in a meeting he held today with the Delta State Executive Council of the Nigerian Labour Congress which has Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku as it chairman.

During the meeting, the Governor announced that the civil service employment that was suspended in 2015 will be revisited within the next 30-days.

Okowa asserted that qualified Deltans who participated in the process will only be eligible for the employment.

He gave the directives in a meeting he held today with the Delta State Executive Council of the Nigerian Labour Congress which has Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku as it chairman.

During the meeting, the Governor announced that the civil service employment that was suspended in 2015 will be revisited within the next 30-days.

Okowa asserted that qualified Deltans who participated in the process will only be eligible for the employment.

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Don’t move your Cattles across South – East says Ohanaeze Ndigbo to Miyeti Allah.

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The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council worldwide, have vowed to make sure every erring pastoralists caught moving with cows from one Community to the other in any part of South-East, will taste the full Weight of the Igbo people.

The group gave this warning in a press statement signed and made available to journalists by the President General of the group, Okechukwu Isiguzoro.

Isiguzoro, said their attention was drawn to the comments of the President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Abdullahi Bodejo, that South-East Governors and Ohanaeze wanted to divide Nigeria over the pronouncement of ban on herdsmen.

He therefore said the Miyetti Allah group should be held responsible for the breakdown of peace in South Eastern part of the country.

He further stated that rearing of cattle remains a private business and he charged Miyetti Allah to adhere strictly to the rules of the South-East Governors, on the ban of pastoralists movement of cattle by foot.

The OYC however, asked Miyetti Allah Kautel Hore, leadership to tender an unreserved apology to the South-East Governors or face arrest for using hate speech and provocative remarks capable of truncating peaceful environment in the South-East.

The statement reads: “Our attention is drawn to the vituperations and misguided comments of one Abdullahi Bodejo, the President of Miyetti Allah Kautel Hore, over his wild but bogus claims, that Fulani is the largest ethnic groups and every Governor in Nigeria especially the South-East should carve out an area for the Fulani in their respective States to settle and raise their cows.

“That South-East Governors and Ohanaeze want to divide Nigeria over the pronouncement of ban on herdsmen conveyance of cattle by foot, and the war declared on erring pastoralists caught up trespassing from one Community to another by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide is unacceptable, and Miyetti Allah Kautel Hole President claims that our bushes don’t belong to Igbos.

“We wish to categorically state, that Fulani tribe is one of the few minority ethnic groups in Nigeria, irrespective of their dominance over some ethnic groups in the North.

“it’s on record that Igbos are found in all the clans across 774 LGAs of Nigeria, and a future credible census will put an end to the bogus claims of Abdullahi Bodejo, with Igbos all over Nigeria,we have never ascribed to carving out Land demands from the host Governors outside South East, or using threats and hate speeches to acquire lands for our businesses.

“Rearing of cattle remains a private business and should adhere to the strict rules of South-East Governors on the ban of pastoralists movement of cattle by foot, and wish to remind Miyetti Allah that the bushes forests and farmlands belongs to Igbo speaking people of South East and erring pastoralists caught up moving with cows from Community to Community from Monday 9/9/19, will taste the full Wrath of Igbos, and Miyetti Allah should be held responsible for daring peace-loving people of South East.

“South-East Governors and Ohanaeze will never bring policies that will divide Nigeria, but the recent 1700 forests guards in Enugu, had panicked Miyetti Allah Kautel Hole leadership, and soon the nefarious activities of the murderous herdsmen masquerading as pastoralists had been put on check with the recent ban on herdsmen by South-East Governors.

“We have finalized arrangements for the five South-East State house of Assemblies to enact laws on the ban on open grazing so that full weight of the law will descend on any erring pastoralists caught up trespassing from one Community to Community.

He therefore said Miyetti Allah Kautel Hole leadership should tender an unreserved apology to the South-East Governors or should be arrested for hate remarks capable of truncating peaceful environment in the South East and provocative wish to remind Miyetti Allah that the bushes forests and farmlands belongs to Igbo speaking people of South East and erring pastoralists caught up moving with cows from Community to Community from Monday 9/9/19, will taste the full Wrath of Igbos, and Miyetti Allah should be held responsible for daring peace-loving people of South East.

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New minimum wage: FG to meet JNPSNC ON 16th September.

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By Louis Osagu :

Negotiations between the Federal Government and the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) on the new minimum wage has again been rescheduled to hold on September 16.

Recall that the last negotiation between the government and the JNPSNC, was scheduled to hold on 4th September but was later postpone to 16th.

The General Secretary to JNPSNC, Mr. Alade Lawal, confirmed to journalists on Tuesday in Lagos that the meeting was rescheduled at the instance of the officials.

The organised labour and the Federal Government have been in conflict over the implementation of the new minimum wage which was signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari on April 18, 2019.

Lawal said negotiations between the government and the JNPSNC, representing labour in the technical committee, was set up to negotiate the consequential adjustment of workers’ salaries.

He also said as a result of this, the new minimum wage, had been broken down due to unresolved differences in their proposals.

While the Federal Government proposed 9.5 per cent salary increase for employees on grade levels 07 to 14 and five per cent for those on grade levels 15 to 17, labour is demanding 30 per cent increase for officers on grade levels 07 to 14 and 25 per cent increase for grade levels 15 to 17 respectively.

Responding to journalists, President of the NLC, Ayuba Wabba, said the congress would support any position taken by the JNPSN on the new national minimum wage.

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DELTA STATE TO COMMENCE JOB CREATION SOON – ERIC EBOH

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By Stanley Anamali :

The Delta State Chief Job and wealth creation Officer Prof. Eric Eboh, has said the 2019/2020 programmme cycle of Delta State Government’s job creation programme will soon commence.

He disclosed this in a plan and implementation guideline meeting in his office to flag off the 2019/2020 STEP, YAGEP and GEEP cycle.

Still speaking, Prof. Eboh added that the programme is open to unemployed youth between 18-35 years of age.

He also said the minimum qualifications for the programme is WAEC/SSCE, adding that degree or Hnd holders must have their NYSC discharge certificates or letters of exemption.

He therefore encouraged the youths to be ready for the programme as this will make their lives a better one.

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Ghetto Love: Wizkid teases fans with another new single.

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BY: LOUIS OSAGU

While We’re still waiting on the release of “Joro” For the past year, Wizkid has again start teasing the release of his fourth studio album, Made In Lagos.

As far back as June, he announced his first official single of 2019, “Joro” and while we’re still waiting on that one, he tease another single: “Ghetto Love”.

It has been nearly a year since we got any new single from Wizkid. Given this, you can imagine fans’ frustration when teasers seem to come more frequently than the actual music. We know, however, that whatever song he release will end up being worth the wait.

While sharing the song’s cover art on instagram, Wizkid also tagged Killertunes and Kel P — two of the most talented Nigerian producers.

He also shared a short clip of himself in Made In Lagos merch, with a crowd cheering in the background.

The date of release of the song “Ghetto Love” is yet to be release to the public — seeing as we’re still waiting for the previously teased “Joro”.

But we’re super excited, and still can’t wait to finally get an official single from one of the biggest afropop star.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2Jq-0wJNB2/?igshid=l2137hkfimtz

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Nigeria qualify for Olympics as the first Africa Team.

Nigeria Basketball team D’Tigers have successfully booked their slot into the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after win over host China 83-76 to confirm their place as the best ranked team in Africa on Sunday at the FIBA Basketball World Cup. 

This marks Nigeria third consecutive Olympics appearance after they made their debut at the London 2012 Olympics before returning to the big stage at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro as the ruling African champions and finishing 11th. 

Their celebrations at the end of the game were not just about winning for pride but because they will have to bypass the Olympic Qualifying Tournament next year, taking the direct route to Tokyo 2020.

Just after the win, Nigeria’s Farouq Al Aminu reflected on the achievement so far, “I remember when I joined the team in 2012, we said we did not want to miss any Olympics. It is a beautiful feeling. It is amazing.”

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Burna Boy: Dropping Gum Body Video Tomorrow.

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On the massive album record “African Giant” Burna Boy is set to drop the official video of “Gum Body” featuring Jorja Smith tomorrow .

A statement he made today on Twitter after his reaction last week towards the xenophobia attacks that leaps on Nigerians residing in South African.

Before this, Burna Boy has been on a masterful press tour, pushing his career and it’s strongest single, “Anybody“.

For his latest effort towards this project, the afro-fusion star has also meet with Vevo to perform “Anybody” and “Collateral Damage” few weeks ago.

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APC: President Muhammadu Buhari 100 days in Office.

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By Louis Osagu:

President Muhammadu Buhari’s first 100 days in office has been rated high without any fear of prejudice.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole stated this in an interaction with journalists in Abuja during the weekend.

Oshiomhole who outlined some areas which President Buhari’s achievements in 100 days is evident, said the president has been fast enough to cover many areas.

He said: “Everything is about comparism. Because in 2015, after a hundred days we did not have a federal cabinet, the President had not appointed ministers.

“This time in hundred days, from my interaction with a number of Ministers, even the budget for 2020 is already being prepared. Ministers have been assigned to their various Ministries.

“They have already started the process of taking over and trying to understand the challenges.

“So even that alone shows a remarkable departure if you compare what the President has done in 2019 to what he has done in 2015.

“Even the current issues in South Africa, the prompt manner in which the President reacted and took bold steps sent a clear message to South Africa that we are not about to accept Nigeria being humiliated in their businesses. I think the bold step he has taken is refreshing.

“The President has been engaging various groups. Recently, he was talking to the Nigeria Society of Engineers, several professional groups, reminding all of us that we have our role to play in the Nigeria project.

Speaking further, Oshiomhole said as a Party (APC), they have every access to the President in order to share with him whatever they want to do.

Oshiomhole also pointed out that President Buhari also organized a retreat for Ministers immediately they were appointed, stressing that the retreat was not about entertainment but an avenue to discuss about Nigeria and the administration’s choices of policy in general

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.

DON’T RETALIATE AGAINST SOUTH AFRICANS – ADEBOYE BEGS NIGERIANS.

BY: LOUIS OSAGU

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has urged Nigerians not to retaliate against South Africans and their businesses in their country.

During the week, it will be recalled The revered man of God, admonished Nigerians on his social media handles to eschew violence and retaliation against perceived enemies.

Delivering his sermon at about 11:00 p.m at the September edition of the monthly Holy Ghost Service, held at the Redemption Camp along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Adeboye pleaded, “I beg you in the name of God, don’t retaliate against South Africa.”

The septuagenarian thereafter recalled his experience as a student of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka just before the start of the Civil War.

He noted that only a few South Africans were fomenting trouble, stating that an average citizen of the country is decent.

Adeboye further averred that Nigerians were relocating to countries like South Africa in search of jobs since they were not available in their country.

The death cleric , therefore, warned Nigerians against reprisal attacks for the sake of their countrymen who are still resident in South Africa

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IMPLEMENT MASTERPLAN TO CONTROL EROSSION – TUC URGES FAYEMI.

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By: Stanley Anamali

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ekiti State, has appealed to Governor Kayode Fayemi to work on implementation of the erosion control masterplan drawn for the state at its creation in 1996.

Commiserating with the victims of the recent flooding, especially workers and students of Ekiti State University, TUC urged the governor to prepare a new masterplan for Ado Ekiti capital city if none had been provided to rescue the situation in the past.

Chairman of the TUC in Ekiti state, Com. Sola Adigun, who led other leaders of the council on inspection of some of the areas affected including, Onala, Emirin, and Oke Ureje, Polytechnic road among others expressed shock at the level of devastation caused by the flood.

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ekiti State, has appealed to Governor Kayode Fayemi to enforce implementation of the erosion control masterplan drawn for the state at its creation in 1996.

Commiserating with the victims of the recent flooding, especially workers and students of Ekiti State University, TUC urged the governor to prepare a new masterplan for Ado Ekiti capital city if none had been provided to rescue the situation in the past.

Chairman of the TUC in Ekiti state, Com. Sola Adigun, who led other leaders of the council on inspection of some of the areas affected including, Onala, Emirin, and Oke Ureje, Polytechnic road among others expressed shock at the level of devastation caused by the flood.

He said, ” The level of this devastation appears unprecedented. This is unarguably heightened by the reality of climate change responsible for the rise in water level. Unfortunately, the attitude of our people such as building on waterways, indiscriminate dumping of waste in drainages compound this challenge.”

“Government must now put up a standard master plan for the state capital and enforce the existing one if there is. We can not continue to indulge ourselves in our attitude towards the environment, nor continue to take the clement nature of our environment for granted, otherwise, we are all doomed by its consequences.”

Adigun commended Fayemi for his prompt visit to the areas and relief materials worth millions of naira for the affected EKSU students.

While calling on other agencies to complement the efforts of the state government, also calls for the mobilisation of experts to save the Ureje Bridge from total collapse.

The TUC chairman stressed the need for urgent dredging of the Ureje River and other Rivers prone to overflow their natural cause, pleading with the Federal Government to provide financial support for the state.

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GUNMEN KIDNAP UNIVERSITY PROF ALONG AUCHI ROAD.

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A University don, Prof. Gideon Okedayo of the department of Mathematical Science, Ondo State University of Science and Technology, OSUSTECH, Okitipupa has been abducted by unknown gunmen this recently.

Confirming the ugly incident, One of the union leaders in the institution, Comrade ‘Dayo Temola said Okedayo was kidnapped along Auchi road in Edo State on Thursday.

According to a statement he issued and sent to newsmen in Akure, Temola called on his abductors to release him unconditionally.

Temola therefore called on Government and relevant security agencies to fast track his unconditional release.

He added that “We further add that the security agencies on our road should be proactive and go beyond routine check and harassing of innocent citizens but rather become a terror to this ravaging men of underworld.

Reports from the family members said that the kidnappers were yet to open lines of communication with them on payment of ransom.

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NIGERIAN MONARCH BAGS DOCTORATE DEGREE FROM EAU.

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BY: STANLEY ANAMALI

Baale of Oki Kingdom, High Chief Adedayo Badeyemo OKI, has been conferred with honorary doctorate degree by the European American University in the commonwealth of Dominican.

He was awarded the degree during the 10th convocation ceremony held at the University of Lagos recently.

Speaking at the conferment ceremony, the Head, All Africa Operations Coordinator, Dr Josephine Egbuta said that Chief Badeyemo was honoured for his public leadership and peaceful coexistence and community development.

present at the ceremony were captains of industries, academic professionals, religious leaders, and traditional leaders.

Meanwhile, a senior lecturer at Aldersgate University Philippines, Dr. Cole delivered the key note address. He spoke on “Nigeria as an emerging Economy”.

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PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS LAUDS GOV. OBASEKI FOR APPOINTMENT INTO CIVIL SERVICE.

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BY: LOUIS OSAGU

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo state has been applauded by the National Council for physically Challenged persons for his affection for persons living with disabilities in the state.

The coordinator of the group, Mr Gerry-Boi Omokhodion, gave the commendation during a solidarity rally held across major streets in Benin City, to show support for the Obaseki-led administration.

Omokhodion said that since the emergence of Governor Obaseki, the employment of persons with disabilities has continued to grow in geometrical progression when compared to previous administrations in the state.

He also explained that the National Council of the Physically Challenged is an affiliation of the International Disability Alliance and has presence in 774 Local Government Areas, 36 states and the Federal capital (FCT).

He maintained that the governor has been able to reposition the state in different facets despite limited resources.

On the ongoing renovation of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Omokhodion noted that on completion, the stadium would motivate persons with disabilities who engage in sporting activities.

He therefore appealed to Obaseki to domesticate the disability bill in the state to promote and protect equalisation of opportunities of human rights for persons with disabilities.

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NICKI MINAJ, BOWS OUT OF MUSIC

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Sensational rapper, singer and song writer, Nicki Minaj has surprised her fans by announcing her retirement from music saying she was going to focus on her family henceforth.

Nicky, a 36-year-old music artist, is popularly known for hits like “Super Bass” and many other hit tracks to her credit.

The music celebrity is engaged to a music executive producer , Kenneth Petty, and she recently said her wedding is in the cards, coming up in months.

According to Nicky, “I’ve decided to retire & have my family,” tweeted the wildly successful rapper raised in the New York borough of Queens.

“I know you guys are happy now,” she continued. “To my fans, keep reppin me, do it til da death of me, X in the box – cuz ain’t nobody checkin me.”

Minaj’s profanity-laced lyrics, skin-baring music videos and unique, animated flow first catapulted her to fame in 2010.

In August, she appeared in rising star Megan Thee Stallion’s song “Hot Girl Summer.”

In June 2019, she released a single titled “Megatron” and said she had a new studio album in the works, which would be her fifth video album production.

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KOGI GUBER RACE: NO REFUND OF MONEY TO ASPIRANTS – OSHIOMHOLE

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By Stanley Anamali :

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole has dashed the hope of a possible refund of money to aspirants, who bought the party’s ticket for the governorship election in Kogi State but lost the primary.

He disclosed this to journalists after holding a meeting with the 16 aspirants who purchased the party’s nomination form to contest the primary election in the state.

Oshiomhole said the party is not going to change its tradition by refunding their money even though the party has not received any request for refund by aspirants.

Reports has shown that The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) has named a three-man appeal committees for the primaries conducted in Kogi and Bayelsa states.

The Kogi’s Indirect Primary Appeal Committee members include :Senator Abdulahi Umar Yandoma (chairman), Hajia Amina Muhammed (secretary) and Tony McFoy (member).

On the other hand, Members of Bayelsa Direct Primary Appeal Committee are Shuaibu Aruwa (chairman), Edith Newman Amadi (secretary) and Abdul Malik El-Yakub (member).

While briefing journalists, Oshiomhole said it was not the first time the party was conducting primaries and has a tradition, which has to be maintained at all times.

He also Said out of the 16 aspirants that bought the nomination and expression of interest form at the cost of N22.5 million, seven of them were not cleared to participate in the exercise for various reasons while Nine others, including Governor Yahaya Bello, were cleared.

At the end of the primary conducted by a committee led by Jigawa State Governor Badaru Abubakar, Bello was declared winner and the APC governorship candidate for the November 16 governorship election.

Oshiomhole added: “This afternoon, we had extensive conversation as APC family to talk through issues arising from the Kogi State governorship primary, which was conducted last week.

“I am sure that you know some of those who participated or attempted to participate in the process. They are men and women who, by any criteria, can be said to be fit and proper persons to govern a state. But as you know, in democracy, if you have 16 angels, as we had, seeking the mandate of the people to produce just one person as governor, it means that 15 angels will not get it.

The APC Leader announced that all those who lost out in the process have assured the party that they will not challenge the outcome of the exercise in court, but will work for the success of the party during the election.

In attendance, all the governorship aspirants that bought nomination forms, including those cleared and those not cleared, except Admiral Usman Jibrin were present.

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ZIMBABWEAN’S EX PRESIDENT, MUGABE DIES AT 95.

By: Stanley Animals

Zimbabwe former President, Robert Mugabe, has been announced dead after battling with serious illness.

The death of the former president was announced by the current president of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday morning.

President Mugabe, who led Zimbabwe with an iron fist from 1980 to 2017, died at the age of 95 according to the death announcement.

According to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mugabe was an icon of liberation, a pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the emancipation and empowerment of his people.

He also said Mugabe’s contribution to the history of Zimbabwe and the continent will never be forgotten.

Speaking on the public announcement, president Emmerson said, Mugabe had been battling ill health which led to his humiliating fall from office in November 2017 adding that his stamina had seeped away rapidly.

He also revealed that the former president was hospitalised in Singapore for months for an undisclosed ailment.

Recall that The former political prisoner turned guerrilla leader, who swept into power in the 1980 elections after a growing insurgency and economic sanctions which forced the Rhodesian government to the negotiating table.

While In office, he won international plaudits for his declared policy of racial reconciliation and for extending improved education and health services to the black majority.

Also, The violent seizure of white-owned farms, turned Mugabe into an international pariah — though his status as a liberation hero still resonates strongly in most of African countries.

All along, the Mugabe regime was widely accused of human rights violations and of rigging elections.

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Xenophobia Attacks: A wake-up call to develop Nigeria

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By Louis Osagu:

A Delta Born Social Media Activist, Former President Students Union Government Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-uku & the National President of Urhobo Youths Leadership Initiative, Comrade Martins Akpore has described the attack on Nigerians in South Africa as barbaric, satanic, callous, inhumane, dastard and deliberate.

Speaking to newsmen on the incidence yesterday, Comrade Martins said the barbaric and lacklustre attitude of the South African government to the incidence which the whole world can see as displayed in some video clips of the attacks even before the eyes of their policemen “has reinforced the perception that the attack was deliberate and supported by its highest level by the government of South Africa.”.

According to Martins, “this call for sober reflection by all citizens, leaders, politicians and those in government on the need to urgently address the issue of underdevelopment, systems failure, corruption, lack of accountability and maladministration that have worsen the country’s economy which has led to the continuous migration of our citizens in the quest for greener pasture.

He went further to say, the Nation is blessed with the needed Natural Resources to make Nigeria the land of our dreams but leadership failure as kept us in this unfavourable predicament.

While applauding the Federal Government of Nigeria for the action taken so far, a more drastic action should be employed and “made clear to South Africa in clear terms, that Nigerian lives and properties matters to us”.

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Asaba & Warri: Shoprite Dennied Of Gaining Access To The Malls.

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By Stanley Anamali:

The tension generated following the spontaneous reactions from Nigerians as a result of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians by South Africans, and for fear of reprisals attacks, the Shoprite and MTN outlets in Warri and Asaba, Delta State, on Wednesday, was shutdown for security reasons.

The Shoprites in Asaba, initiated by the state government in 2015, stands conspicuously in the Delta Mall, Asaba in Oshimili South Local Government Area & Effurun near Warri in Uvwie Local Government Area.

The Shoprite which is usually a beehive of activities on a daily basis, was taken over by stern-looking armed security operatives took over the premises on Wednesday with about 5 Amoured Personnel Carrier (APC) strategically position to weed off possible threat.

Besides the armed security men pacing around the premises, no one was granted entry into the entire mall housing the Shoprite and other stores which were tightly under lock and key.

Front view of Asaba Mall

The media gathered that sales representatives, who had resumed early for the day’s work, were prevented from accessing the facility as they were politely asked to return home to await further briefing.

The management of the Shoprite, it was gathered, promised to open for sales after the current tension across the country subsides.

Checks around the twin city of Warri and Effurun also revealed that MTN service outlets were shut and slammed with padlocks.

The MTN office located near Ginuwa junction was also locked.

The security agents, comprising soldiers and mobile policemen manning the Shoprite, would not respond to enquiries on the obvious reason they were drafted there.

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BAYELSA: SENATOR DIRI WINS PDP GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY RACE.

BY: LOUIS OSAGU

Senator Douye Diri has won the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary for the Bayelsa State governorship election, slated for November 16, 2019.

Diri emerged the candidate of the party, (PDP) after poling 561 votes to beat his closest rival Mr. Timi Alaibe, who got 365 votes in the primary election held on Tuesday at Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Announcing the result, Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba State, who is the Chair of the Party’s Electoral Committee for the State, said Mr Keniebi Okoko came third with 142 votes.

He also said twenty one (21) governorship aspirants contested to be the candidate of the party for the State’s gubernatorial poll.

Remember that senator Diri was a member of the House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019, where he represented the people of Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency of the State.

He was later elected as Senator representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District during the 2019 general election.

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KOGI PRIMARIES: GUNMEN INTERRUPT VOTING PROCESS, INJURE MANY.

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By Stanley Anamali:

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary election which held in Lokoja, Kogi State capital yesterday, at the Lokoja Confluence Stadium, ended with sporadic shooting by unknown gunmen.

The race was closely contested by former governor, Capt Idris Wada, his younger brother, Musa Wada, son of former Kogi Governor, Ibrahim Idris, and Senator Dino Melaye.

Others in the contest are Aminu Abubakar Suleiman, Joe Erico Ameh and Victor Adoji. Four other aspirants earlier cleared for the primaries reportedly stepped down from the race Monday night.

According to reports, over 2,500 delegates from across the 21 local government areas participated in the exercise to elect the flag-bearer of the party for the November 16 governorship election in the state.

The accreditation of delegates had been followed by five minutes address of the delegates before the commencement of the actual voting.

After voting and sorting out of voting materials commenced, some unknown people heavily armed stormed the stadium and started shooting sporadically.

An eye witness said the shooting started from outside the stadium but they later gained entrance into the main bowl of the stadium, firing several gun shots into the air.

Delegates, aspirants, journalists and even some security men had to run for their dear lives as they could not withstand the situation.

Several people were injured following the sporadic shooting as they tried to make their way out of the venue to avoid being killed.

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South Africa President Condem xenophobia Attack

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President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday condemned a wave of xenophobic violence which spread across several parts of South Africa.

Attack on businesses run by “foreign nationals is something totally unacceptable, something that we cannot allow to happen in South Africa,” Ramaphosa said in a video address diffused on Twitter.

“I want it to stop immediately,” said Ramaphosa, adding that there was “no justification” for the violence.

South African authorities have been struggling to contain a nationwide surge of anti-foreigner sentiment that upswing in Johannesburg on Sunday.

Mobs descended on business hubs and townships in various parts of the country, looting dozens of shops and torching trucks driven by foreigners.

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Nigeria Deputy Senate President Appoint Legal Aid

Depute Senate President Ovie Omo Agege yesterday appoints Barr. Mathew Omonade as the new Senior Special advicer on constitutional and legal matters.

As a lawyer and a social crusader, Barr Mathew is also a critic with intriguing personality until his appointment, he was the first coordinator for Senator Ovie Omo Agege and President Muhammadu Buhari Campaign organization for the Ughelli North Constituency in the 2019 General election.

Speaking with Golden Nation Team this morning through a telephone conversation, Barr Mathew confirm the appointment while expressing his gratitude for the distinguish Senator Ovie Omo Agege for making him work again in his cabinet.

Barr. Mathew is a prime example of legal practitioner with a high taste for excellence and a colossus for the legal society.

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Falcao joins Turkey’s Club for three years

Colombian forward Radamel Falcao signed for Galatasaray from Monaco in a three-year free transfer deal, the Turkish side said late on Monday, adding that the striker would be paid 5 million euros each season.

Falcao left Atletico Madrid after two seasons in 2013 to join Monaco for a club record 60 million euros. After spending the next two seasons on loan at Manchester United and Chelsea, he returned to Monaco in 2016 and led them to the Ligue 1 title in 2017, netting 67 goals in 101 appearances for the club.

Ahead of his landmark transfer to join Turkish champions Galatasaray, Monaco had refused to extend the 33-year-old’s contract, which was due to expire in one year.

After Monaco’s victory against Sampdoria earlier this month, Falcao signalled that he would consider possible transfer offers.

“I have one year left and the club has not offered me an extension. I am evaluating the offers that I have been offered,” he told reporters after the match.

Monaco has given the green light to Falcao’s free transfer after earlier signing French striker Ben Yedder from Sevilla for 40 million euros.

Last season, Falcao scored 15 goals in 33 appearances for Monaco, as the club finished 17th, narrowly escaping relegation.

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How To Tackle Insecurity in Nigeria – Ex Commissioner Of Police

Lawrence Eko Alobi . Retired commissioner of police of the federal capital territory (FCT) police command,

STORY BY: LOUIS OSAGU

In an interview by Jacob Segun Olatunji of Nigeria Tribune held on September 1st 2019, with the retired commissioner of police of the federal capital territory (FCT) police command, Lawrence Eko Alobi on security challenges facing the country.

When asked about the argument about Nigeria having state and local government police?

The retired commissioner of police said in a statement that “Community policing cannot work in Nigeria for now. Why because there has not been that trust between the police and the public. Most Nigerians don’t trust the police. Community policing is anchored on the principle of partnership. The public should partner with the police within their locality and neighborhood; but the point is that you can only partner with somebody that you trust. If you don’t trust somebody, then, you cannot partner with the person. Even in business, it is when you trust somebody that you can share agreement and other stuff. Now, the public has no trust in the police.

So, the police should do everything it can to build that trust. And that trust can only be built through democratic policing. Democratic policing is policing of the people and their norms and values. The democratic norms are the human rights, the rule of law, accountability and policing based on the need of the people. The police should be seen as servants who are ready to offer service to the people and add value to their well being.

Adding that, It was when the colonial masters came on board that the police was established and grew to what it is today. The colonial masters wanted the police to only protect colonial interests and not the interest of the people. And that was why people like the late Chief Anthony Enahoro and some of them who were fighting for our independence were arrested and put behind the bars. So, that colonial mentality is still there. The citizens see the police as agent of the government against the people; and when the military came on board, that mentality continued. So, even today, they still see the military and police as agents of government against the people and it is only when the people begin to see the police as their own police that they can begin to accept them and build confidence in them. That is when we can be talking of community policing. And that can only be done when the police carry out their functions in line with the democratic norms and values.

As I said earlier, the rule of law has to be obeyed. They also have to put policing in line with human thought. They have to know that the rights of the citizens are not being abused; that the rule of law is being upheld and respected. That will also encourage the people to become friends with the police.

So, the police need to be re-orientated to know that their duty is to serve the interest of the public and that they are not there to brutalise.

Therefore, community policing can work when that trust has been established between the public and the police. You can then have confidence to give the police information. Right now, people are even afraid to give information to the police, because they are afraid they might go and divulge it to the criminals and the criminals will then come after them. That is the mentality. But this can be erased, if the police train their men in the capacity of the democratic policing where they are to know that they are there to serve the people and that in serving them, they carry their duties in line with democratic norms and values. There should be no abuse of human rights, extortion; and the rule of law will be upheld to the citizen.

What about state police? What is wrong in having that?

CP Lawrence (RTD) also opine that, the idea of state police cannot be achieved for now, because we have not been able to have that Nigerian consciousness; we are not patriotic. Look at what is happening. If some state governors will have the power to have their own police and their arms allocated? Most states in Nigerians are not even viable. Some of them cannot even pay the salary of their teachers and workers. And you know policing is capital intensive. How do you procure arms and all the equipment the police will need for effective operations and pay salaries and allowances?

So, it will be a disaster if we should have state police in the country for now. He suggested that we are not ripe for state police .

Reasons One, the states are not viable. Two, the issues of the mentality, ethnicity, political recognition and others are there. The governors would want to abuse their powers. It is only when we develop that consciousness of being patriotic that we can have state police. Anywhere you are in Nigeria, your interest will be protected, not because you belong to a particular group or religious background. Until we have been able to establish that consciousness, we can’t have it. The Nigeria Police Force is one of the institutions that help our political stability. If the police is fragmented to various states, it will create problem, because we have not developed that patriotic spirit. So, it [can be done] when Nigeria develops that spirit and when our politicians have also developed real democratic culture and are ready not to abuse their powers by seeing themselves as emperors. You know they can tell the police to do anything and they will do it. I have seen some cases of when some politicians approached some commissioners of police to do certain things that were not lawful in their favour and they refused. The next thing they would say is that the commissioners should be transferred. It is when our politicians are able to abide by democratic norms and values and are ready to serve the people and ensure that there is no particular interest that we can do all that. They should also be ready to promote the unity and security of the country. They should be talking about how to promote peace and security, not going about looking for how to retain power and remain as governors and senators.

What is your take on the current spate of insecurity in Nigeria and what do you think is the way out?

I think when our politicians have been able to adapt to democratic culture and norms and know that leadership is all about service and what will promote the service of the people, that is when peace and unity can abide. That will also help the citizens to have confidence in their government; a government that is ready to create conducive environment for the people and put job creation in place, a government that will check corruption. All these will generally minimise the problem we are having. That is when we can be dreaming of having state police in Nigeria; it is not now.

Actually the current insecurity in the country is very alarming, disturbing and all our security agencies should be concerned and take measures on how to resolve it. We have alarming cases of kidnapping for ransom, banditry, herdsmen attacks and all sorts of things

My worry is that the Nigeria Police which is supposed to be the principal agency in charge of internal security has been weakened as a result of being starved of funds, not having the training required of the personnel to function optimally and are not being motivated. Again, now there are other services like the military whose personnel are taking over the police functions. And the military men are not trained as law enforcement agents.

the insecurity in Nigeria is a great concern to all of us and it should be tackled head on now. That is why I am appealing to Mr. President once again that he should kindly assent to the Police Trust Fund Bill currently before him which was passed by the Eighth National Assembly. If Mr. President assents to that bill, it will go a long way in helping the Nigeria Police Force in addressing its multi-faceted problems, because policing a nation like ours is capital intensive. And the government has other competing needs like road, transportation, education health, infrastructural and so on to contend with. So, this trust fund will help in providing alternative source of funds for our police. If the police only rely on allocation from the government now that the economy is going down, the naira is going down, the situation will be disastrous very soon.

I think that bill, if the president assents to it, will be a great milestone in solving the growing insecurity in Nigeria, because then, the police will be able to be well funded.

Again, policing and law enforcement is technology-driven. It requires knowledge which can be acquired through capacity building. Capacity training will need funds. Technology also requires funds to procure modern equipment. Drones and many other types of equipment require adequate funding. Police can then apply all these to help them key into their functions and policing. When the personnel are properly trained, they acquire knowledge and it will add value to their performance. So, I think funding is a critical thing. The police should also make themselves trust worthy to the citizens. If the citizens can trust them, it will go a long way for members of the public to volunteer useful information to them. Right now, the generality of the public doesn’t have trust in the police and the police have to work hard to ensure that they regain that lost glory and trust, so that they can be effective; so that they can build the relationship between the public and the police. The public can then come out and assist the police with necessary hints that can aid prevention and detection of crimes in our society.

Another problem is the issue of appointment of the police leadership; that is the appointment of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The tenure is not guaranteed. The IGP can just be removed by the president any time and anyhow. I think the tenure of the IGP should be statutory. It should be fixed to be at least four or five years so that the IGP can have short term, midterm and long term plans to implement. When that is done, the removal of the IGP would not just be at the whim of the president. The appointment, tenure and retirement of the IGP should be based on the confirmation by two-third majority of the Senate. The Senate should be involved in that. Also, police reform should be geared towards building the capacity of the personnel

When our police officers go for peace-keeping engagements outside the country, they always excel. They rated one of the best in the world. But at home, the story is always different.

Also, there is this negative perspective against the police. This animosity started right from the colonial era to the military era and this has also been carried on to this democratic dispensation. To correct this, the police should also train their personnel in democratic policing, which will enable their men to abide by democratic norms and values.

So, training, funding and motivation are important. Some of the men, in their barracks and offices, are not in favorable conditions. Also, the manpower of the police is grossly inadequate. In fact, as of today, we are told that we are about 200 million people and the strength of the police is about 400,000 and we have people retiring. People die in the line of duty, just like that incident that happened in Taraba State recently where police men were killed.

So, the strength is grossly inadequate compared to what the United Nations (UN) approves; that one policeman should police at most 400 persons. Look at the disparity; 400,000 policemen policing at least 200 million persons. I am happy that recruitment is on-going and I think it should be continued. The police should have adequate manpower and strength to give what is needed. The police are overstretched. No policeman works less than 12 hours a day. They are overstretched and that is not in line with our labour law. The labour law says eight hours; but then, because of our shortage of manpower, policemen do more. So, I think there should be increase in manpower so that they will be able to meet the security needs of the citizens. The security agencies should work in synergy, because we are serving the same government, the same Nigeria citizens. They have the same objectives. They should synergise and work together. They should have synergistic relationship. They should be harmonious and they should collaborate and corporate with one another. There should be no issue of rivalry, because no one agency can do it all. They need each other to work. They need unity in their actions. They should do things together, have joint training, joint operations and so on. They should also make it a point of duty to lecture their men. There is no superior among the security agencies. They should have the same mentality. Some feel that they are superior to other security agencies. That is why we have this issue of clash and ego. There should be no need for pulling trigger on each other like what happened in Taraba. So, I think they society actually needs to see that they have a police force that are to ensure security

Is the Taraba Killing not a wrong presentation of our nation’s security agencies?

Actually, this is a serious threat to our security, because the police and the Army are critical agencies that are responsible for internal security. Section 213 of the constitution provides that the Army is supposed to be the head of the police and also the Section 4 of the Police Act says that the police can be engaged in military operation within and outside the country.

Is the development not a dangerous signal to members of the public?

The Army and the police are to work together in synergy. The two of them are critical government agencies that are supposed to be responsible for security of the people of Nigeria. Section 2 of the Police Act also states functions of police, including monitoring of the Army. Section 217 provides that the military can perform the duty of the police and Section 4 of the Police Act provides for the function of the police, which includes that the police shall maintain law and order and also carry out military functions in and outside Nigeria. The military is also supposed to aid the police. But now, it seems the military wants to perform the functions of the police. That is why you see the clash and envy.

Policing function is different from military function. So, the government should come out with a strategy where the military will not have reason to clash with the police. They should all work together, because they are serving the same country, the same government and for the same purpose. If the Army and police in particular are fighting, it is dangerous for our country and it is not healthy for our democracy. They should work, cooperate and do everything together for the benefit of the citizens. If security agencies that are supposed to protect us are killing each other, then, where lies the hope of the common man? So, I think the police, Army and other security agencies should work in harmony, because they are serving the same goal for the security and safety of the country.

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President Buhari Held Bilateral Meeting With JIBC alongside Toyota Tsusho

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Story by Louis Osagu:

On Friday August 30th 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari held investment talks with the top officials of the Japan Bank for international cooperation and Toyota Group at the margins of the Seventh Tokyo international conference on African Development (TICAD7).

led by the Deputy Governor Japan Bank for international cooperation, Mr Nobumitsu Hayashi indicate it’s interest in supporting projects in which Japanese companies are involved in Nigeria.

The Bank also indicate it’s interest on oil & gas alongside investment in infrastructure.

At the meeting with Toyota Tsusho, a part of the Toyota conglomerate, President/CEO of the group Ichiro Kashitani also indicated his interest in sectors like energy, health care and automobiles saying ‘ Toyota would be delighted to have it’s presence all over Nigeria.

Kashitani said Toyota Tsusho wishes to build an advance medical diagnostic center in which would foreclose the need for Nigerians travelling abroad for medicine diagnosis.

President Buhari also urged the group to also consider setting up a car assembly plant in Nigeria. Noting that the economy had the capacity to asborb the investment for positive returns.

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TANKER EXPLOSION: ONE KILLED OTHERS INJURED IN ABUJA-KADUNA EXPRESSWAY.

Story By: Stanley Anamali

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed the death of one person while 10 others were injured in a petrol tanker explosion at the Abuja-Kaduna expressway

The Director General of NSEMA, Alhaji Ahmed Inga, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna on Saturday that the incident occurred at about 10:30 pm on Friday night which resulted in the burning of several vehicles.

He said they received a report from Suleja Desk Officer, that there was a tanker explosion and many people were affected.

Alhaji Inga Said they cannot give the actual number of people that lost their lives, adding that they will confirm that during an assessment.

He also confirmed that the report from Suleja Desk Officer, says one person died in the incident while Many people were injured and several vehicles were completely burnt.

He said that firefighters from the State Fire Service in conjunction with their counterparts in the Federal Fire Service were able to bring the fire under control around 4:30 am on Saturday morning.

Inga said the corpse of the deceased had been deposited in the morgue at Umaru Musa Hospital, Sabon Wuse, while those injured were also receiving treatment at the same facility.

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TARABA STATE : CP TO INVESTIGATE KILLING OF CATHOLIC PRIEST

Story By: LOUIS OSAGU

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu, has given marching orders to the Commissioner of Police, Taraba State Command to investigate the killing of Rev. Father David Tanko who was killed recently by unknown gunmen on his way to Kofai, Amadu Village in Taraba State.

Adamu expressed deep concerns over the recent incidents of attacks on clergymen in some parts of the country and has directed Commissioners of Police in all the States of the Federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to pay special attention to the clergy and increase security around worship centres nationwide.

The IGP has further directed the DIG in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to provide additional forensic and other investigative assets to the Taraba State Command to aid investigations into the incident.

Meanwhile, the IGP enjoins the people to be calm and render maximum support to the Police in the bid towards unravelling the perpetrators of the crime, their motives and circumstances surrounding the unfortunate killing of the Priest.

He reassures the nation that the perpetrator(s) of the wicked act will not go undetected and unpunished.

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KOGI APC : Bello Best Option For The Party – Dr. Bolufemi Rotimi

Story by: Stanley Anamali

A chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Dr. Bolufemi Rotimi has described the victory of Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, at the party’s primary election as the best candidate for the party

He asserted that Bello’s victory at the primary election held in Lokoja, the state capital would make it easy for the APC to win the election.

Dr. Rotimi, who is also a business tycoon, while hailing the resounding victory in a statement, said the governors overwhelming and unprecedented victory had given credence to his exemplary leadership quality.

According to him, the delegates of the party voted for Bello because of his excellent performance in the last three and half years as the governor of the state.

He also said the governor had excelled in the area of agriculture, security, health and civil service reform, which had put the state in a vantage position for continuous development.

Rotimi, however, lauded the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC for putting in place impartial screening and appeal committees that prepared the stage for the conduct of the primary election.

Speaking further, Rotimi said the national leadership of the party has demonstrated leadership and transparency in the conduct of the primary election that has been adjudged as one of the best in the country.

The business mogul also hailed the doggedness, commitment and pragmatic contributions of the Chief of Staff (COS) to the governor, Chief Edward Onoja, to the victory of the governor.

He however plead with the other contestants to place the interest of the party as number one so that they can come together as one indivisible family for the victory of APC in November.

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OPC to join Partisan Politics If Restructuring Fails

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After 25 years of existence, Otunba Gani Adams, the national coordinator of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), says the socio-cultural group may join partisan politics if restructuring fails.

The 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo (Adams) of Yorubaland, said this on Thursday, August 29 while speaking at the OPC’s 25th anniversary in Lagos.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland lamented that the Call for restructuring, had been defeated repeatedly, leaving the OPC with little or no choice than to restategise

Adams added that the OPC would keep using its cultural mileage to negotiate on behalf of Yorubas; but added that if all entreaties fail, it might end up adopting militancy as the last option

 Lamenting on the call for restructuring, which he said is the OPC’s ultimate aim, had been defeated repeatedly, leaving the organization with little or no choice than to restategise so as to improve the living standard of its over six million members nationwide, especially in the south-west.

He said without mincing words, “let me say categorically that the next few months will determine whether we will remain politically neutral or partisan.

Legit.ng gathers that Adams recalled how in 1994, the OPC started with nine members in Mushin, with the aim of restoring the mandate of MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the 1993 presidential election. He said despite claiming the lives of 2,500 martyrs, the struggle had achieved little so far.

“Do not forget that what gave birth to OPC was struggle for the re-validation of June 12, 1993 election. From there, we went to demand for the total restructuring of the country.

“The most recent irreducible for those who have followed this restructuring, is for government to implement the recommendations of the National Conference convened by administration of Goodluck Jonathan.

“It is in light of this that I say that in the next few months, if there is no tangible evidence that this country will be restructured, then OPC will become partisan.

“We are still keeping the details to our chest. However, with a membership of over 6 million, even if its members of the legislature at the federal and state levels that we are able to produce, we will be in position to influence what happens in government at all levels.

“Time for ‘siddon look ‘ is over.”

Adams also lamented over the persistent kidnappings and ritual killings across the south-west. He, however, expressed confidence that the OPC’s standing army is up to the task.

He said the group would keep using its cultural mileage to negotiate on behalf of Yorubas; but added that if all entreaties fail, the OPC might end up adopting militancy as the last option.

Aare Adams issued the stern statement in a reaction to the killing of Funke Olakunrin, the daughter of Reuben Fasoranti, leader of Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group

Adams described the death of Olakunrin as an invasion of the peaceful atmosphere of the south-west region.

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U.S Immigration Deport Harvard University Freshman

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U.S. officials deported Ajjawi, a 17-year-old Palestinian resident of Tyre, Lebanon, Friday night shortly after he arrived at Boston Logan International .

Before canceling Ajjawi’s visa, U. S. immigration officers subjected him to hours of questioning — at one point leaving him for hours to search his phone and computer — according to a written statement by Ajjawi.

University officials are currently working to resolve the matter before classes begin on Sept. 3, Harvard spokesperson Jonathan L. Swain wrote in an email.

“The University is working closely with the student’s family and appropriate authorities to resolve this matter so that he can join his classmates in the coming days,” he wrote.

Harvard both employs immigration lawyers at the Office of the General Counsel and staffs the Harvard International Office. Both groups work to resolve visa-related problems like Ajjawi’s. Ajjawi wrote that he has been in contact with HIO Director of Immigration Services Maureen Martin.

Ajjawi wrote that he has also contacted AMIDEAST, the non-profit organization that awarded him a scholarship to study in the U.S., which is now providing him legal assistance.

A State Department official declined to comment specifically on Ajjawi’s case as visa records are confidential under U.S. law. U. S. Customs and Border Protection spokesperson Michael S. McCarthy wrote in an emailed statement that CBP found Ajjawi “inadmissible” to the country.

“Applicants must demonstrate they are admissible into the U.S. by overcoming ALL grounds of inadmissibility including health-related grounds, criminality, security reasons, public charge, labor certification, illegal entrants and immigration violations, documentation requirements, and miscellaneous grounds,” McCarthy wrote. “This individual was deemed inadmissible to the United States based on information discovered during the CBP inspection.”

Ajjawi wrote that he spent eight hours in Boston before he was required to leave. Upon arrival, Ajjawi faced questioning from immigration officials along with several other international students. While the other students were allowed to leave, Ajjawi alleges an immigration officer continued to question him about his religion and religious practices in Lebanon

.The same officer then asked him to unlock his phone and laptop, and left to search them for roughly five hours, Ajjawi alleges. After the search, the officer questioned him about his friends’ social media activity.

“When I asked every time to have my phone back so I could tell them about the situation, the officer refused and told me to sit back in [my] position and not move at all,” he wrote. “After the 5 hours ended, she called me into a room , and she started screaming at me. She said that she found people posting political points of view that oppose the US on my friend[s] list

Ajjawi wrote that he told the officer he had not made any political posts and that he should not be held responsible for others’ posts.

“I responded that I have no business with such posts and that I didn’t like, [s]hare or comment on them and told her that I shouldn’t be held responsible for what others post,” he wrote. “I have no single post on my timeline discussing politics.”

The officer then canceled Ajjawi’s visa, informed him he would be deported, and allowed him a phone call to his parents.

Though Ajjawi’s situation is rare among Harvard undergraduates, in 2017 four graduate students faced similar challenges due to a then-effective travel ban instituted by the Trump Administration. Those students eventually entered the U.S. after weeks and months in limbo, and the University warned international students not to leave the country.

University President Lawrence S. Bacow also waded into the national debate over immigration policy earlier this year. In July, he penned a letter to United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and acting United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin K. McAleenan to share his “deep concern” about the federal government’s approach to immigration policy.

Bacow’s letter specifically cited visa challenges Harvard affiliates like Ajjawi face, in the form of both delays and denials.

Ajjawi, who has since returned home to Lebanon, wrote that he is in touch with a lawyer and hopes to resolve his visa issues so he can arrive this week before classes start next Tuesday.

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Yobe State: Senate President honored as the “Mukkadam of Nguru “

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The Senate President, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan was accorded with a rousing reception during his visit to his country home of Gashua in Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State yesterday.

Before arriving his country home in Guasa, Lawan made a stop over at the headquarter of Nguru, Machina and Karasuwa Local Government Area to say thank you to his constituents in Yobe North Senatorial District.

In each of the three Local Government Area he made a stop, Lawan was received by an enthusiastic crowd as he was also honoured with a traditional chieftaincy tittle at the palace of the Emir of Nguru as the “Mukkadam of Nguru ” yesterday.

This is the first home coming of Lawan since his emergence as President of the ninth Senate.

Breaking : President Buhari Arrived Japan

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President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived Japan on Monday ahead of the 7th Tokyo International Conference on African Development.

President Buhari travelled along with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Geoffrey Onyeama, Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State and Nigerian Ambassador to Japan Amb. Mohammed Gana Yisa.

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Electricity Tariff Increase Has Not Been Approved

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The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) says no tariff increase has been approved by the commission yet.

In a statement, Usman Arabi, NERC’s General Manager, Public Affairs, however, said it was still consulting with stakeholders.

He said that the commission wished to notify the public that no tariff increase had been approved by the commission contrary to the impression in some quarters.

“However, the commission in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities enshrined under the Electric Power Sector Reform (EPSR) Act, shall continue to undertake periodic reviews of electricity tariffs in accordance with prevailing tariff methodology.

“In all instances of such reviews and rule-making, the commission shall widely consult stakeholders and final decision shall be taken with due regard of all contributions,” he said.

Arabi said that the commission wished to provide guidance that the minor review implemented by the commission was a retrospective adjustment of the tariff regime released in 2015

He said that this was to account for changes in macroeconomic indices for 2016, 2017 and 2018, “thus providing certainty about revenue shortfall that may have arisen due to the differential between tariffs approved by the regulator and actual end-user tariffs,” he said.

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FG Plans To Deliver 1m Houses Per Year

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The Federal Government on Saturday promised to address housing deficit by delivering one million houses per year to close the 17 million shortfall by the year 2033.

The Minister of State, Works and Housing, Mr Abubakar Aliyu disclosed this in Abuja on Saturday during an inspection of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) mass housing project in Zuba, Federal Capital Territory.

Aliyu said the government has decided to improve on current construction of 100,000 houses per years in order to meet the basic needs of the people.

“The production now is low; we are constructing 100,000 houses per year and we hope to improve it by constructing one million houses per year in order to close the gap of 17 million to 20 million housing deficits by the year 2033.

“We will provide enabling environment to attract investors into the sector to help solve the problem of housing deficit in the country and to achieve the government goal by 2033,’’ he said

Aliyu also assured that the problems associated with acquisition of lands would be addressed.

Speaking on the Zuba project, the minister said it was designed specifically to address the huge housing deficit for the medium and low income earners.

He said the project which was to be completed by August was delayed because of the rainy season.

The minister assured that the government would deliver the project as soon as possible.

“We will ensure that the project is completed soon, because it is one of our primary focuses. That is why it is our first point of call after inauguration ” he said.

Also speaking he said that, the project was among many others spread across the country by the federal government.

Mr Umar Gonto, Acting Managing Director, FHA reiterated government commitment to ensuring that the common Nigerians have access to affordable housing.

Mr Gonto said that the houses were designed for low-income earners both in the public and private sector as well as the self employed once they meet up with the criteria.

Mr Ibrahim Shuaibu, the Project Manager who took the minister round the site said the 764 housing units is at 75 per cent completion stage. While the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, the housing project is located near the Zuba model market, the Zuba spare parts market and the FCT College of Education. (NAN)

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Buhari approves license for online radio, TV stations

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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved wide ranging reforms in the broadcasting industry, including the licensing of online radio and television stations

According to a statement by Mr. Segun Adeyemi, Media aide to the Minister of Information and Culture, the initiative is to bring sanity to the industry.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, disclosed it in Abuja on Friday when he received members of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) on a courtesy visit, was responding to a request made by BON for the review of the Broadcasting Code.

“I just want to use this opportunity to inform you that Mr. President has actually already approved a review of the Broadcast Code that is going to take care of many of the issues you have already raised here.

“In particular, the President has approved that Web TVs and radio stations, including foreign broadcasters beaming signals into Nigeria, will be licensed because we must bring sanity into this industry.

“Mr. President has also approved a wide range of reforms in the industry which, at the appropriate platform, I will let you know,” he said.

The Minister, who promised to carry along members of BON in the review of the Broadcasting Code, restated the commitment of the present administration to free media.

“I have said it on many platforms that this administration is not

about to gag the press. No!

“But we will appeal to the press to please self-regulate for the sake of this country and also for the sake of the industry itself,” he said

Mohammed also appealed to BON to partner with the government in the promotion of peaceful co-existence and cohesion to engender progress and national development

“Today, if anybody listens to what is being said on some radio or television stations, you will think that this country is at war or that Christians actually cannot live with Muslims or that there is a dichotomy between the North and the South.

“I think we need to appeal to you to use your platforms for the unity and cohesion of the country,” he said.

Acting Chairman of BON, Sir Godfrey Ohuabunwa, said the re-appointment of the Minister was deserved because he brought life and great innovation to the broadcast industry during the first tenure of the administration.

He pledged the readiness of BON to key into the government’s agenda, especially the fight against fake news.

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Full List Of Nigerians Named In Massive Fraud, Money Laundering In US

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US authorities have announced charges against 80 people, most of them Nigerians, in a wide-ranging fraud and money laundering operation that netted millions of dollars from victims of internet con jobs.

On Thursday, federal prosecutors unsealed the dozens of indictments after 17 people were arrested and taken into custody in Los Angeles and elsewhere in the United States.

Most of the remainder of those indicted were believed to be in Nigeria, the US Justice Department said.

statement from the Justice Department reads:

“A 252-count federal grand jury indictment unsealed today charges 80 defendants, most of whom are Nigerian nationals, with participating in a massive conspiracy to steal millions of dollars through a variety of fraud schemes and launder the funds through a Los Angeles-based money laundering network.

“The indictment was unsealed after law enforcement authorities this morning arrested 14 defendants across the United States, with 11 of those arrests taking place in the Los Angeles region. Two defendants were already in federal custody on other charges, and one was arrested earlier this week. The remaining defendants are believed to be abroad, with most them located in Nigeria.

“The indictment alleges that the 80 defendants and others used various online fraud schemes – including business email compromise (BEC) frauds, romance scams, and schemes targeting the elderly – to defraud victims out of millions of dollars. According to a criminal complaint also unsealed today, co-conspirators based in Nigeria, the United States and other countries contacted the lead defendants in the indictment – Valentine Iro, 31, of Carson, and Chukwudi Christogunus Igbokwe, 38, of Gardena, both Nigerian citizens – for bank and money-service accounts that could receive funds fraudulently obtained from victims. Once members of the conspiracy convinced victims to send money under false pretenses, Iro and Igbokwe coordinated the receipt of funds and oversaw an extensive money-laundering network, according to the 145-page indictment.

“The indictment and criminal complaint allege that Iro and Igbokwe, who were among those arrested this morning, were involved in schemes resulting in the fraudulent transfer of at least $6 million in fraudulently-obtained funds – and the overall conspiracy was responsible for the attempted theft of at least an additional $40 million.

“The fraudsters targeted victims in the United States and across the globe, including individuals, small and large businesses, and law firms. Some of the victims of the conspiracy lost hundreds of thousands of dollars to fraud schemes, and many were elderly.

“This case is part of our ongoing efforts to protect Americans from fraudulent online schemes and to bring to justice those who prey upon American citizens and businesses,” said United States Attorney Nick Hanna. “Today, we have taken a major step to disrupt criminal networks that use BEC schemes, romance scams and other frauds to fleece victims. This indictment sends a message that we will identify perpetrators – no matter where they reside – and we will cut off the flow of ill-gotten gains.”

“Today’s announcement highlights the extensive efforts that organized criminal groups will engage in to perpetrate BEC schemes that target American citizens and their hard-earned assets,” said Assistant Director in Charge Paul Delacourt of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Billions of dollars are lost annually, and we urge citizens to be aware of these sophisticated financial schemes to protect themselves or their businesses from becoming unsuspecting victims. The FBI is committed to working with our partner agencies worldwide to continue to identify these cyber criminals and to dismantle their networks.”

“Iro and Igbokwe essentially were brokers of fraudulent bank accounts. According to the indictment, Iro and Igbokwe collected bank accounts, fielded requests for bank account information, provided that information to co-conspirators around the world, and laundered the money obtained from victims – all of this in exchange for a cut of the money stolen from victims of the various fraud schemes.

“If a bank account with a specific business name was required to trick a business-victim into making a payment, Iro and Igbokwe often coordinated with “money mules” to open accounts that could receive funds obtained, according to court documents. In addition to making the fake business name mirror the name of a legitimate company, members of the conspiracy routinely filed fictitious business name statements with the Los Angeles County Registrar/Recorder’s Office that were presented to banks when the fraudulent accounts were opened.

“Once a victim deposited funds into a bank account or a money services account, Iro and Igbokwe allegedly coordinated with others to further launder the funds. Members of the conspiracy sometimes wired funds to other bank accounts under their control; in other cases, they simply withdrew funds as cash or negotiable instruments such as cashier’s checks.

“When stolen funds were withdrawn as cash, the defendants frequently used illicit money exchangers to move funds overseas, generally avoiding transferring the funds directly through banking institutions, the indictment alleges. To do this, Iro and Igbokwe coordinated the transfer of a victim’s funds from a fraudulent bank account they controlled to U.S. bank accounts belonging to illicit money exchangers. Those money exchangers, in turn, used a Nigerian banking application to transfer other funds in naira (₦), the currency of Nigeria, from Nigerian bank accounts they controlled to the Nigerian bank accounts specified by Iro and Igbokwe. This method was used to transfer millions of dollars to Nigerian co-conspirators without directly transferring funds overseas. The indictment alleges that Jerry Ikogho, 50, of Carson (who was taken into custody on Sunday), and Adegoke Moses Ogungbe, 34, of Fontana, were among those who served as illicit money exchangers for the conspiracy.

“Each of the 80 defendants named in the indictment is charged with conspiracy to commit fraud, conspiracy to launder money, and aggravated identity theft. A number of the defendants also face substantive fraud and money laundering charges.

“Additionally, Iro, Igbokwe, Ikogho, Ogungbe and three other defendants –Izuchukwu Kingsley Umejesi, 30, of Los Angeles, Tityaye Marina Mansbangura, 33, of Palmdale, and Obi Madekwe, 31, of Nigeria – are charged with operating illegal money transmitting businesses. Ogungbe and Mansbangura were also among those arrested this morning, and Umejesi is a fugitive currently being sought by authorities.

“Iro, Igbokwe and Chuks Eroha, 39, face additional charges for attempting to destroy their phones when the FBI executed a search warrant in July 2017. Iro also is charged with lying to the FBI in an interview conducted during the search. The complaint alleges that, when the FBI arrived to conduct the court-authorized search at Iro’s apartment in Carson, Iro broke his phone in half, while Igbokwe and Eroha threw phones from a bedroom window of the apartment. While Iro claimed he previously had broken the phone during an argument with his wife, the complaint details how the FBI was able to determine that the phone was operational until seconds after the FBI knocked on Iro’s apartment door to execute the search warrant. Eroha is believed to have fled to Nigeria shortly after the FBI executed the warrant.

“The charges contained in the criminal complaint and indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

“This investigation is being led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

“The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the United States Department of State provided substantial assistance during the investigation.

“Several agencies provided support during today’s takedown or during the investigation, including the United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and the California Franchise Tax Board.

“Many of the FBI’s Legal Attachés provided assistance throughout this investigation, as did the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs, and foreign authorities around the world. In particular, the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office thank the National Crime Agency in the United Kingdom and the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Osnabrück, Germany for their contributions.

“This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anil J. Antony and Joseph B. Woodring of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section.

“The FBI in 2017 issued a report on the rise of BEC schemes, and published a recap of 2018’s Operation WireWire, which was an international effort to disrupt international BEC scams. An FBI public service announcement that warns of the dangers of BEC schemes encourages businesses to “trust but verify.”

Below is a full list of Nigerians who were named in the scam list.

1. VALENTINE IRO, aka “Iro Enterprises,” aka “Valentine Obinna Iro ,” aka ” Obinna Iro ,” 16 aka ” Obinna Nassa,”

2. CHUKWUDI CHRI STOGUNUS IGBOKWE, aka ” Christogunus C. Igbokwe,” aka ” Chris Kudon ,” aka “Atete ,” aka “Still Kudon ,”

3. JERRY ELO IKOGHO , aka “J Man,”

4. IZUCHUKWU KINGSLEY UMEJESI, aka ” Kingsley Umejesi, ” aka “Armeni an Man,” aka “Kingsley LA,” aka “I zuking Aka Aku ,”

5. ADEGOKE MOSES OGUNGBE , aka “P & P Motors,” aka “Pp, ”

6. ALBERT LEWIS CATHEY, aka “Alb, ” aka “Abert Jag,” aka “Al,”

7. TITYAYE MARINA MANSBANGURA, aka “Tityaye Igbokwe ,” aka “Marina Mansour,” aka “Marina Mansaray,” aka “Marina Tityaye Mans Bangura,”

8. CHUKWUDI COLLINS AJAEZE, aka “Thank You Jesus”

9. EKENE AUGUSTINE EKECHUKWU, aka “Ogedi Power,” aka “Power,”

10. CHUKS EROHA, aka “Chuks Nassa Iro,” aka “Nassa,” aka “Prince Chuddy,” aka “Nurse Chuddy,”

11. COLLINS NNAEMEKA OJIMBA, aka “Collins Emeka Ojimba,” aka “Ojimba Collins,” aka “Charly.Africa,”

12. FNU LNU, aka “Xplora G,”

13. UCHENNA OCHIAGHA, aka “Urch Agu,” aka “Advanced Mega Plus Ltd,”

14. NNAMDI THEOJOSEPH DURU, aka “Duru Theo Joseph Nnamdi,” aka “Williams High School,” aka “Ifytyns,”

15. ERICSON UCHE OFORKA, aka “Oforka,” aka “Eric Oforka,”

16. MARK IFEANYI CHUKWUOCHA, aka “Mark Iheanyi Chukwuocha,” aka “Chukwu Mark,” aka “Markife,”

17. AUGUSTINE NNAMDI, aka “Nnamdi Augustine,” aka “Jazz,”

18. CHIEMEZIE CHRISTOPHER CHILAKA, aka “Fanta,”

19. CHARLES OHAJIMKPO, aka “Giggs,” aka “Ryan Giggs,” aka “Charles,”

20. STANLEY UGOCHUKWU UCHE, aka “Ugo Law,” aka “Uche Stanley,” aka “He is risen.Happy Easter!,”

21. CHIKA AUGUSTINE ODIONYENMA, aka “Tony Augustin Odionyenma,” aka “Chika Tony,” aka “CTA Finance Source Intl,”

22. PASCHAL CHIMA OGBONNA, aka “Chima,” aka “Paschal,”

23. SAMUEL NNAMDI ONWUASOANYA, aka “Sammy Lee Nnamdi,” aka “Onwuasoanya Samuel Nnamdi,” aka “Enugu Ogo,”

24. MACWILLIAM CHINONSO CHUKWUOCHA, aka “ChiBoy,”

25. EMMANUEL ONYEKA UZOKA, aka “Emmanuel Mansion,” aka “Mansion,” aka “Son of God,” aka “Ezirim Uzoma,”

26. JOSHUA ANIEFIOK AWAK, aka “Joe Awk,” aka “Kwee Tin Law,”

27. GEORGE UGOCHUKWU EGWUMBA, aka “George Ugo,” aka “Ugo Aunty Scholar,”

28. UCHECHUKWU SOLOMON EZIRIM, aka “Uche Nwanne,” aka “Uche Ezirim,”

29. AUGUSTINE IFEANYI OKAFOR, aka “Zero,” aka “St.Austine,” aka “Austine,” aka “Ifeanyichukwu Okafor,”

30. FNU LNU, aka “Okay Sam Mal,” LESLIE N. MBA, aka “Mystical,” aka “Nwachinemere Leslie,”

31. OGOCHUKWU INNOCENT IKEWESI, aka “Ogoo UK,” aka “Innocent Ikewesi,”

32. EMMANUEL UZOMA OGANDU, aka “Nwachinaemere,” aka “Uzoma,”

33. AMARACHUKWU HARLEY ANYANWU, aka “GodisGod,” aka “War B,”

34. BRIGHT IFEANYI AZUBUIKE, aka “Bright Bauer Azubuike,” aka “Ifeanyi Jnr,”

35. EMEKA MOSES NWACHUKWU, aka “All Man,” aka “Omalitoto,” FNU LNU, aka “Donatus Izunwanne,” aka “Izunwanne Donatus Chibuikem,” aka “Deworlddonmax,”

36. CHINWENDU KENNETH OSUJI, aka “Father,”

37. EUSEBIUS UGOCHUKWU ONYEKA, aka “Ugo UK,” aka “sly19 sly,”

38. CHIDI ANUNOBI, aka “Anunobi Chidi,” aka “Chidioo,”

39. ANTHONY NWABUNWANNE OKOLO, aka “Eric West,” aka “Erci West,” aka “Code,”

40. OBINNA CHRISTIAN ONUWA, aka “Papa Chukwuezugo,” aka “Obinna Onuwa Abala,” aka “Obyno Abala,”

41. CHIJIOKE CHUKWUMA ISAMADE, aka “Mr CJ,” aka “CJ,”

42. LINUS NNAMDI MADUFOR, aka “Madufor Nnamdi,”

43. CHRYSAUGONUS NNEBEDUM, aka “Cris,”

44. UGOCHUKWU OKEREKE, aka “Blade,” aka “Kingsly Cris,” aka “Okereke Ugochukwu,”

45. FIDEL LEON ODIMARA, aka “Fiedel Odimara,” aka “Ndaa,” aka “Dee Dutchman,”

46. KINGSLEY CHINEDU ONUDOROGU, aka “OBJ,”

47. DESSI NZENWAH, aka “Desmond Sage,” aka “Des Nzenwa,” aka “Saga Lounge,”

48. CHIMAROKE OBASI, aka “Chima Russia”

49. JAMES CHIGOZIE AGUBE, aka “Smart,” aka “Smart Agube,” aka “Smart Chigozie Agube”

50. CHIMAOBI UZOZIE OKORIE, aka “Omaobi,” aka “Mobility,”

51. OGOCHUKWU OHIRI, aka “Ogomegbulam Ohiri,” aka “Ologbo,”

52. KENNEDY CHIBUEZE UGWU, aka “Kennedy David,”

53. IFEANYICHUKWU OLUWADAMILARE AGWUEGBO, aka “B$$ IFF¥,”

54. VICTOR IFEANYI CHUKWU, aka “Ifeannyi Soccer,” aka “Vic Chux,”

55. CHIDI EMMANUEL MEGWA, aka “Cantr,” aka “Canta Jr.,”

56. PRINCEWILL ARINZE DURU, aka “Arnzi Prince Will,” aka “Arinze,”

57. DESMOND IWU, aka “Desmond Chigozie Iwu,” aka “Lalaw,” aka “Odo Desmond,”

58. ONYEKA VINCENT CHIKA, aka “Chyco,” aka “Chika Ejima,” aka “Vincent Chika Onyeka,”

59. IFEANYI KINGSLEY MEZIENWA, aka “Ifeanyi Ali,” aka “Ifeanyichukwu Mezienwa,”

60. VICTOR UCHENNA AGUH, aka “Orch Sod,” aka “Uche SP,” aka “Rich Homie Urch,”

61. KEVIN AMARACHI ESHIMBU, aka “Humble,” aka “Humble Amarachukwu,” aka “Dato Humble,”

62. VITALIS KELECHI ANOZIE, aka “Kelechi Vitalis Anozie,” aka “Kelechi Anozieh,” aka “Pastor Kel Anozie,” aka “Pastor Kc,” aka “Choice,”

63. WILLIAMS OBIORA AGUNWA, aka “Don Williams,”

64. GEORGE CHIMEZIE DIKE, aka “Chimekros,” aka “Slim Dad…No…1,”

65. MUNACHISO KYRIAN UKACHUKWU, aka “Muna,”

66. NWANNEBUIKE OSMUND, aka “Osmund Nwannebuike,” aka “Olivite,” aka “Nikky Bro.,”

67. CHIDIEBERE FRANKLIN NWANGWU, aka “Frank Chidi,” aka “Franklin Nwangwu,” aka “Agogo,”

68. DAMIAN UCHECHUKWU AJAH, aka “Uche Ajah,” aka “Ajah Damian Uchechukwu,” aka “Uchechukwu Demian Ajah,”

69. EMEKA P. EJIOFOR, aka “Ejiofor Emeka,”

70. LAWRENCE CHUKWUMA UBASINEKE, aka “Ubasineke Chuks,” aka “Chukwuma Ubasineke,”

71. CHINEDU BRIGHT IBETO, aka “Doggy,” aka “Doggy Lucino,”

72. VALENTINE AMARACHI NWANEGWO, aka “Satis,” aka “Satis Amarachi Satis,”

73. EMMANUEL CHIDIEBERE DIKE, aka “Emmanet,”

74. JEREMIAH UTIEYIN EKI, aka “Uti,” CHINAKA DAVIDSON IWUOHA, aka “Tmrw Afrika Will Wake Up,” aka “Cookie,” aka “All Africa Media Network,”

75. CHIMA DARLINGTON DURU, aka “Kajad,” aka “Kajad Jesus,”

76. IKENNA CHRISTIAN IHEJIUREME, aka “Piper,” aka “Am Happy!,”

77. OBI ONYEDIKA MADEKWE, aka “Odu Investment,”

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Tribunal Sacks Dino Melaye As Senator, Orders Fresh Election


The Kogi State National Assembly and State Assembly Elections Petitions Tribunal has sacked Dino Melaye as the Senator representing Kogi West senatorial district.

This was in a judgement delivered on Friday by a three-man panel led by Justice Anthony Chijioke.

The tribunal in a unanimous judgment ordered fresh election in the senatorial district.

Senator Melaye of the  Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was declared a winner in the February 2019 National Assembly election but Senator Smart Adeyemi of the All Progressives Congress (APC) approached the tribunal and challenged Dino’s victory.

Adeyemi cited irregularities, over voting and non-compliance with the electoral acts as his reasons for challenging the election outcome.

The tribunal in a unanimous judgment on Friday, therefore, upheld Senator  Adeyemi’s ground and ordered for fresh election in the senatorial district.

Melaye in a reaction has however vowed to appeal the ruling. He noted that he is confident in the Appeal Court.

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Bose Portable Home Speaker With Google Assistant and Alexa Support Launched, Promises 360-Degree Sound and Deep Bass

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The new Bose offering features three passive radiators, a high-excursion driver, and a proprietary deflector.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Bose Portable Home Speaker comes with an IPX4 rating
  • It promises 360-degree audio dispersion with a clear sound output
  • The device can also be used as a part of a multi-room system
The Bose Portable Home Speaker comes in Triple Black and Luxe Silver colour options

Bose has added a new product to its portfolio of smart home devices – the Bose Portable Home Speaker. The new Bose device boasts of Alexa and Google Assistant support, and promises 360-degree sound dispersion with deep bass output. The Bose Portable Home Speaker weighs just over 1kg and comes in two colour options – Triple Black and Luxe Silver. The Bose smart speaker is claimed to last around 12 hours on a single charge and employs the company’s proprietary voice pick-up system to execute commands received as voice input by Google Assistant or Alexa.

The device also supports AirPlay 2 as well as Spotify Connect, allowing users to enjoy their Spotify playlist on the go. The Bose Portable Home Speaker has been priced at $349 (roughly Rs. 25,000) and will be up for grabs starting September 19. However, details about its region-wise market availability, including India, are yet to be officially disclosed. Bose will sell a charging cradle separately that will set buyers back by $29 (roughly Rs. 2,000).

The new Bose offering employs the company’s own acoustic package to deliver a superior audio experience. The smart speaker features physical buttons on the top for functionalities such as the proprietary mic-off feature for disconnecting the microphone, thereby eliminating the risks of being heard or recorded.

There are buttons for conventional playback controls, power on/off, volume, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Bose Portable Home Speaker works in tandem with the Bose Music app that brings a few added functionalities to the table. The device can also be paired with other Bose smart speakers and soundbars to create a multi-room system.

he company has also promised to roll out new features via a software update that will allow users to pair the Bose Portable Home Speaker with a Bose SoundLink speaker for synchronised, voice-controlled audio output. The new Bose device features an anodized aluminium enclosure that houses three passive radiators, a high-excursion driver, and a proprietary deflector to produce clear sound and disperse it evenly in all directions. The Bose Portable Home Speaker is also claimed to be water-resistant and comes with an IPX4 rating for protection against accidental liquid spills, splashes, and rain.

More than $1 million in cocaine was found hidden in boxes of bananas at three grocery stores

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Bricks of cocaine were found stashed in boxes of banana shipments at three grocery stores in Washington state on Sunday, CNN reports.

The drugs totaled more than $1 million and were packed with ordinary produce.

“We’re still trying to determine where it all came from. That’s under investigation. We do know it was all shipped from a central warehouse, but we don’t know where it originated yet, so that’s a work in progress,” said Sgt. Ryan Abbott with the King County Sheriff’s Office, which oversees the city of Woodinville.

According to Abbott, employees at a Safeway in Woodinville, about 20 miles northeast of Seattle, spotted brown paper inside one of the boxes. They discovered the drugs — almost 50 pounds of it, and with a street value of $550,000 — when they looked further.

Cocaine was also found at Safeway stores in Bellingham and Federal Way.

“We see cocaine out here, but we don’t see this large amounts and we don’t see it in Safeway and we don’t see it in banana boxes,” Abbott added.

But banana shipments have been used to peddle cocaine before. About $18 millionworth of the drug was found hidden within bundles of bananas being donated to Texas prisons last year, and in April, German authorities found a record haul of cocaine stashed in crates at six branches of a supermarket chain.

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President Muhammadu Buhari Release Ministerial Portfolio

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BREAKING: Supreme Court strikes out Atiku, PDP’s appeal

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The Supreme Court has strikes out an appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, challenging a ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which held that they failed to file a response to an application by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The APC’s application before the tribunal had prayed for, among others, the dismissal of the appellants’ petition. Giving the ruling on Tuesday, the apex court’s five-man panel, led by Justice Dattijo Muhammad, held that the appeal was statute-barred.

Meanwhile, the apex court has said it will return later on Tuesday to deliver its ruling on another appeal by PDP and Atiku seeking access to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s server.

The petitioners’ lead counsel, Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), while challenging the June 24, 2019 ruling of the tribunal, told the apex court that his clients were still within time to access the server and make use of the evidence to be extracted from it.

He said the 180 days meant for the tribunal to hear and determine the case had not lapsed.

However, the respondents: INEC, represented by Yunus Usman (SAN); President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by Wole Olanipekun and the APC, represented by Charles Edosomwan (SAN), opposed the appeal and urged the apex court to dismiss it.

They maintained that granting the prayer sought by the appellants would be of no utility value as the presentation of evidence at the tribunal had closed with the final argument before the tribunal fixed for Wednesday.

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Corruption Probe: EFCC Agents Raid Ambode’s House

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Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have commenced a search of the Epe residence of former Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode.

The EFCC says it has received a petition against Ambode and is investigating him for alleged corruption.

EFCC agents raided his residence in the Epe area of Lagos early on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 after receiving a petition against him.

“Yes, we received petitions regarding the governor, and we are investigating,” EFCC spokesperson, Tony Orilade, told TheCable.

The raid comes just two weeks after media reports linked Ambode to the sum of N9.9 billion frozen in three bank accounts by a federal court.

Justice Chuka Obiozor of the Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the freezing of the accounts belonging to the Lagos State government on Tuesday, August 6, 2019.

The EFCC had filed an ex-parte application before the court to freeze the accounts pending the conclusion of investigation and possible prosecution of Adewale Adesanya, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Chief of Staff to Ambode.

In an affidavit deposed to by Kungmi Daniel, an EFCC operative, the N9.9 billion in question is domiciled in three banks: First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Access Bank and Zenith Bank.


The EFCC said there was a huge inflow of a total of N9,927,714,443.29 from the state accounts into the FCMB account opened on September 17, 2018.

Adesanya and other signatories to the FCMB account are accused of making fraudulent transfers from the accounts of the Lagos State Government and dissipating the funds.

In response to media reports that linked Ambode to the frozen accounts, his media aide, Habib Aruna, said the frozen accounts were used for the administrative operations of the Lagos government and never for personal use.

He noted that the accounts have been operated by previous and present administrations to ensure smooth operations of government activities.

“The former governor was not and will never be involved in any unauthorized use of government property and resources,” the statement read.

Aruna said Ambode is entitled to some deserved rest without the unwarranted attacks on his well-earned reputation as a former governor.

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Taraba Killings: DHQ Panel Commences Full Sitting Today

The joint panel set up by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) to probe the killing of policemen by soldiers of 93 Battalion, Takum, Taraba State would commence full sitting today in Jalingo, the state capital.

The Rear Admiral IT Olaiya-led panel is expected to receive submissions from parties who witnessed the shooting.

Available videos of the shooting are also expected to be tendered while video evidences are also expected to be tendered before the panel.

A source close to the panel told THISDAY last night that the panel, whose sitting was extended by two weeks in view of the enormity of work before it, would look at some of the trending video evidence of the killings.

THISDAY gathered that intelligence agencies, notably the Department State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) handled the phone-tracking that revealed the hundreds of chats between kidnap suspect, Alhaji Hamisu Bala Wadume and an army captain in charge of the checkpoint where the shooting took place and a senior police officer who had extensive communications with the suspect.

The panel, which had so far received preliminary evidence and submissions would commence full sitting in Jalingo today.

It is also expected to receive witness submissions from the security operatives around the scene of the shooting and those who are directly connected with the shooting as well as civilian witnesses within the area on the fateful day.

Admiral Olaiya-led panel would also ascertain where the directives and order to fire at the policemen emanated from and weapons removed from the 93 Battalion armoury and whether they were duly registered as required before removal and the bullets discharged before return to the armoury.

“The panel has concluded preliminary investigation and will now commence full sitting. The evidence before the panel is enormous and that is why the sitting is extended. The full sitting will commence today.

“Witnesses are now expected to tender evidence. The intelligence services are also to tender tracked phone call evidence before the panel and further submission from the army and police,” the source said.

According to the source, the panel would also ascertain “who gave the directive to pursue the policemen, who fired the shot that killed the policemen and the weapons used, details of the inventory and how they were moved from the armoury and their state on return to the armoury”.

The killing of the detectives had drawn wide condemnations from Nigerians. The policemen, who had arrested a kidnap kingpin, Alhaji Hamisu Bala Wadume and placed him in handcuffs and manacles, had come under a hail of bullets from soldiers along Ibi-Jalingo Road while taking the suspect to the Taraba State Police Command in Jalingo.

The Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) operating from the office of the Inspector-General of Police was led by ASP Felix Adolije.

Other members of the team included Inspector Mark Ediale, Sergeants Usman Danzumi and Dahiru Musa and a civilian while others sustained gunshot wounds.

The DHQ panel has a representative each from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Airforce, the Nigeria Police, Department of State Service (DSS) and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

Over 20 army and police personnel were arrested over the killing while over 200 phone chats between the kidnap suspect and army and police personnel were tracked.

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BBNaija: Frodd Allegedly Tried To Forcefully Have Sex With Esther

One of the contestants of the reality TV show, Frodd was called into the Diary room after he tried to forcefully have sex with his fellow housemate and love interest, Esther.

It all started after the Saturday night party. Frodd and Esther had danced their hearts out, whispering love words to each. They giggled and threw themseleves at each other as lovers would do.

Afterwards, everyone retired to their bed to catch some sleep. Frodd who was apparently high on alcohol and love, jumped on Esther’s bed, pulled his boxers halfway and attempted to have sex with her without her consent.

Shocked by his action, Esther pushed him away and warned him seriously, stressing that she was not playing with him. 

He replied saying how come she still has plenty energy as he thought she was constipated.

This caught the attention of Big Brother who immediately ordered him into the Diary room.

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Enugu Airport Runway to be closed by August 24

The runway of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, will be closed for major repairs on Saturday, August 24, according to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

There is no date yet for the reopening but the chief spokesperson for the organization, Henrietta Yakubu, said yesterday that stakeholders would be duly informed when the runway would be reopened.

The planned closure is coming three months after the immediate past Minister of State Aviation, Hadi Sirika, said the airport would be closed down over the state of the runway.

The former minister had said that the airport would be degraded for international operations because the runway length is not ideal for such operations.

Mrs Yakubu confirmed yesterday that the closure was aimed at resolving the existing safety and security concerns to flight operations.

The general manager said the closure of the runway would take effect by 12 a.m. on August 24.

Mrs Yakubu said FAAN remained committed to its core values of safety, security and comfort of the airport users in the country.

Meanwhile, the management of Air Peace has commended the Federal Government for the decision to close the Enugu International Airport for proper repair and maintenance of the airport’s runway.

The airline’s Chairman, Allen Onyema, who made the commendation in a statement issued to newsmen in Lagos, said the runway had been giving stakeholders serious safety concerns.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Air Peace is fully and totally in support of this decision. Though the decision will affect the travelling public.

“However, the airline, place the safety of the flying public, our crew and equipment above any commercial benefits.

“The government should go all out to put everything in place, within the period of the closure, that will make the airport rank among the best international airports in the country.

“We plead with the federal government to make the airport a 24 hours flight operations airport by improving the night landing infrastructure,” he said.

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I spend $40,000 on weed every month – Mike Tyson reveals

American Boxing legend and cannabis fanatic, Mike Tyson has revealed he spends $40,000 on weed every month.

Speaking on the Hotboxin’ podcast, as reported by The Mirror, Iron Mike revealed just how much weed he smokes each month. 

He said: ‘What do we smoke a month? Is it $40,000 (£33k) a month? It’s $40, yeah, $40,000 a month.’ 

Former NFL offensive tackle Eben Britton, Tyson’s co-host on the podcast, then revealed: ‘We smoke 10 tons of weed at the ranch a month.

The former world heavyweightchampion owns a 40-acre cannabis ranch close to California’s Death Valley, which he opened after the US state legalised weed. 

The 53-year-old also has his own school for prospective weed growers at the ranch called ‘The Tyson Cultivation School’. 

According to Wealthy Gorilla, Mike Tyson’s net worth is estimated to be only $3 million. Back in the day, he had accrued over $300 million dollar throughout his career, but ended up losing it all.

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Nigeria Army, Opens Application For Short Service Commission

The Nigeria Army wish to inform the general public about the application into the Short Service Commission (SSC 46/2020) & Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC 25/2020) .

According to the Nigeria Army twitter post, applicants are to summit only one registration and the exercise closes 28th September 2019.

Interested applicants, are to visit the e-application portal of the Nigeria Army (www.nigerianarmyms.ng ) for proper guild on how to register for the exercise.

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The Nigeria Army Arrest a Soldier In Abia State.

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The Nigerian Army on Saturday announced that a soldier who allegedly shot dead a commercial motorcyclist in Abia State has been arrested.

Ajayi Johnson was identified as the soldier who fatally shot Chimaobi Nwaogu of Umuokereke-Ngwa, Obingwa Local Government Area, on Wednesday.

Mr Johnson, a lance corporal, was said to be away without official leave when the incident occurred near a military base in Ohanze community, according to a spokesperson for the 82 Division, Aliyu Yusuf.

Witnesses accused the soldier of opening fire after Mr Nwaogu allegedly failed to pay a N100 bribe at the military checkpoint.

The development angered Nigerians, being the latest in a string of frequent attacks by soldiers on civilians or other security agents. Last week, soldiers in Edo State reportedly shot dead a member of a local vigilante and freed suspected robbers in his custody. Military authorities there said the victim was mistaken for robbers, according to the Punch newspaper.

Separately, a presidential inquiry is underway after troops of the Nigerian Army shot dead three police officers in Taraba State and freed a suspected kidnapper. The Army said its troops mistook the officers for kidnappers but the Police accused the assailants of “criminality”

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu visited the Abia community on Friday and promised residents that justice would be served in the matter.

“The death of this young man is extremely painful and cannot go in vain,” the governor told the residents. “This is my position and this is the position of the government and people of Abia State.”

People of the community have also demanded the removal of the military checkpoint, saying it had worsened rather than improve their security.

“The soldier has since been arrested and detained. Disciplinary procedure is in progress. He will be tried according to extant military law and if found culpable will be dismissed and handed over to the civil police for prosecution,” Mr Aliyu, a colonel, said in a statement.

“The Nigerian Army deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased.”

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The atmosphere in Semarang Jawatengeh province of indonsia.

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The atmosphere in Semarang Jawatengeh province of indonsia.

See the surprise

The current situation just occurred now in the Semarang region of Indonesia.

Tekno Features Zlatan In ‘Agege’, Launches Record Label

Afro-Pop singer and dancer, Augustine Kelechi, popularly known by his stage name, Tekno, has released the video of his buzzing single, Agege.

Featuring the Zanku master, Zlatan, the visual for the Club banger was shot by TG Omori and produced under Tekno’s new music label, Cartel Music.

The music video was released days after the Chief Executive Officer of Made Men Music Group (MMMG), Ubi Franklin announced Tekno’s departure from his label.

Tekno left MMG after the expiration of his five-year contract to start his own record label – Cartel Music.

Ubi Franklin made the announcement of Teckno’s departure from MMMG on his Instagram page.

He also eulogising Tekno as a talented singer.

Read Ubi Franklin’s post on Tekno below…

https://www.instagram.com/p/B00crxaJsgG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

*COZA rape accusation : distract Nigerians from Federal Government RUGA Initiative for Fulani Herdsmen.*

story By : *OSAGU LOUIS*

It has become imperative to draw the attention of all well meaningful Nigerians to the epidemic in the name of RUGA settlement which has been intiatied by the Federal Government as plans to provide lands, building, equipments and durable material to fulani Herdsmen across the country.

This was made available to Press Men by Comrade Martins Akpore who doubles as the National President of Urhobo Youths Leadership Initaitive and a Former President Student union Government SUG at his Lagos Residence.

He reminded Nigerians of the implications of the current plans RUGA which Implementations have began by the Federal Government of Nigeria to provide settlement forcefully even against the rejection of the initiative which has caused different Media uproar and reactions early last year by Nigerians both within and in diaspora.

President Muhammad Buhari

He also made a comment on the recent social media RAPE outcry which was revealed against COZA Pastor after over 19 years ago has once again deviated the attention of all Citizens, Leaders, Stakeholders and all Sundry from the cruise which may be associated with the Federal Government RUGA plan.

Nigerian economy was already grappling with enough crises in education, infrastructure, human capital development, health and other social vices which required urgent attention and the Federal Government should instead look towards reviving them.

Martins went further to point out that, this act was capable of precipitating crisis and jeopardizing the unity of the country, stating that the agenda was “sectional and clannish “

It is therefore pertinent for all Nigerians to stand steadfast and join in the call to reject this “Cattle Colony” until the Federal Government completely halts it’s implementation

National insecurity: NUJ leaders storm Umuahia.

By : Ass Adeleke

Nigeria Union Of Journalist (NUJ)

Over one hundred State and National officers of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ have converged in Umuahia, the Abia State Capital to brainstorm on issues affecting the pen profession, members and national security.

The Union has charged the Federal Government to rise up and take pragmatic measures in addressing the current state of insecurity in the country.

The National president of NUJ Comrade Chris Isiguzo, gave the charge at the opening ceremony of the National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting of the union held in Umuahia, Abia State.

Comrade Isiguzo, stated that, the spate of wanton killings and Kidnapping in the country is worrisome and called for urgent attention to put the ugly development to an end.

The NUJ Boss, noted that it was the duty of a responsible government to provide adequate security for lives and property of the citizenry.

He also said there is need for more cooperation between state governments and security agencies to tackle the state of insecurity which he said is crippling the nation’s growth and development.

According to Isiguzo, the welfare and safety of journalists must be given Paramount priority by both government and owners of Media Organizations so as to enable them deliver optimally.

Comrade Isiguzo lamented a situation whereby journalists were not paid their salaries as at when due while the necessary tools to work with were not also made available thereby, subjecting them to untold hardship.

Ealier , Comrade Isiguzo had appreciated Abia State Government for hosting the meeting. He also called for the building of a modern press centre for the Abia State Council of NUJ.

In his remark, the Governor of Abia state , Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, commended NUJ for it’s pivotal roles at ensuring sustainable peace and unity of the country.

Dr. Ikpeazu who was represented by his deputy, Mr Use Oko Chikwu, said that Abia State had a very wonderful collaboration with security agencies, adding that such had made the state, one of the most peaceful in the country.

He said Nigeria needed the services of Journalists at this moment stressing that Journalists must do away with divisive reports, promote works that would engender peace and development.

The governor promised that his government would continue to do everything possible to promote the welfare of Journalists in the State.

*DELTA STATE: YOUTHS CRIES OUT OVER COMMISSIONER’S LIST NOMINATION,*

Story By : OSAGU LOUIS

Comrade. Martins Akpore

Comrade Martins Akpore, video from facebook

The recent released of the commissioner’s list for nomination by the Delta State Governor, has raised the anger of various Youths making them ask , “when” will the youths be included in the appointment list.

Comrade Martins Akpore, former President, Student Union Government (SUG) of the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-uku , and the National President of Urhobo Youth Leadership initiative. {UYLI} took to his Facebook page in a live video expressing his concern and dissatisfaction towards the act of neglecting the youths when it comes to appointments of commissioners in the state.

Comrade Martins also stressed that, the youths have been the backbone of every striving nation and it will be of more progress if the youths are being given the equal opportunity to serve in the government.

Comrade Martins added that, majority of the youths are graduates from different schools and universities and they are filled with different creative talents and creative mindset to ‘Do’ what is supposed to be done and that they should be giving such opportunity to demonstrate their leadership skills and ideas towards the development of the State. Adding that, the youths are being used during election by these politicians to achieve their aims and Victory but when it comes to appointment, the youths are being neglected which makes them feel worthless and unrecognised in the state.

DELTA ASSEMBLY: Oborevwori Reelected As Delta Speaker, As Ochor Ochor Emerges As Deputy

By: LOUIS C. OSAGU

Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori

Pics Inset: L -R Christopher Ochor Ochor, Front View of Delta State House of Assembly, Asaba

The immediate past Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, representing Okpe Constituency has been reelected as Speaker of the 7th Assembly in Delta State.

Taking over the saddle of leadership after oath of office, he quickly declared to work harder in the interest of prosperity and development of the State.

He acknowledged the cordial support and relationship of the Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa with the House of Assembly.

The two times favoured Speaker, also appreciated Members elect of the House for their show of solidarity and reposing of impeccable confidence in him to carry on.

Also elected to Deputize him is the Honourable Member representing Ukwuani Constituency, Hon. Ochor Chris Ochor.

Ochor who is a former Member and former Director Services of DESOPADEC , was also reelected to replace Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi who previously held the office.

Omu Anioma Celebrates Birth Of Grand-Son With Exceeding Joy. Names Him ‘Dike’

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Story By: Patrick Ochie

Mr and Mrs Afamefuna Dunkwu-Okafor, and son ‘Dike’

Engulfed with joy, Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu could not hold back emotions while celebrating the birth and naming of her long awaited grandson, today in Benin city.

The Omu who visited Benin city in company of Omu of Obior, HRM Omu Onyebuchibe Okonkwo, including her functionaries to name the baby, was fabulously received by the boy’s parents, Mr and Mrs Afamefuna Dunkwu-Okafor, his maternal grand parents and well wishers.

Not hiding her visible excitement, Omu Anioma also showered the grandson with lots of gifts.

Meanwhile, the newest grandmother has named her grandson DIKE, meaning ‘the powerful one, brave and victorious fighter’.

She thereafter, prayed for the already favoured baby to be great in life, to conquer territories and be known for good and truth.

The naming ceremony was conducted by the boy’s uncle who is a pastor, and apart from Dike, he was also named ‘Etinosa, David, Chukwuemeka, Adimabua Dunkwu-Okafor’.

The naming ceremony was unprecedented, as the boy’s grandmother, Omu Martha Dunkwu adorned the whole environment with colours and glamour. Apart from her retinue of accompanists, her old friends in Benin, including the former GM of the Observer Newspapers, Mr. Nelson Alegimhene, and the boy’s father’s childhood teacher and guardian, Sir Henry Ohiokhuaoboh were present.

However, the highly elated boy’s father, a lecturer with the University of Benin, Mr. Afamefuna Nnebuisi Dunkwu-Okafor, equally could not hold back his emotions as his wife, friends and colleagues were roundabout him to celebrate with him in his moment of joy.

The naming ceremony could best be described as a royal event, spiced with Anioma and Bini cultural intricacies. The guests, including family members were adequately entertained.

Shola O’Neil: My Near-death Encounter with Blood-thirsty Men of Edo SARS.

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story by: Bigpenngr

The Nation’s Southsouth Regional Editor, Shola O’neil, was recently at the receiving end of extreme brutality at the hands of some men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad popularly known as SARS. He shares his near-death experience.

I had heard so much about the bestiality and madness of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police Force, but nothing prepared me for the harrowing encounter with the mad team of SARS I met in Edo State on Monday, June 3.

I had crossed paths with dozens of policemen at checkpoints and several other SARS teams on that day, but these men who operated around Okada Junction in Ovia Northwest Local Government Area, outdid all the craziness I had encountered – by miles – both in coarseness, savagery and ferociousness.

It was supposed to be a routine stop-and-check. It happened between Okada Junction and Ogbemudia Farms on the Ore-Benin highway. It was about 2:15pm, and the sun was shining brightly. It was a beautiful Monday afternoon. They commandeered the car I rode in to ‘park there’, besides a red Mercedes Benz C-Class hatchback, which front number plate was hidden.

The first indicator that it was not going to be another ‘open your booth’ and ‘bring your particular (or party cola)’ emerged when one of the men, a brutish burly young man, dresses in black jean and top with SARS inscribed on the back, asked the driver of the vehicle why a parcel in the car looked like hard drug.

“This thing (parcel) be like SK (Skunk Weed),” he said as he picked up a laptop on the floor of the front seat, and then ordered everyone in the Toyota Corolla car to disembark.

Turning to the owner of the laptop, a young man in his early to mid-20s, he asked for the (computer) receipt and demanded to know what the man does for a living. He (names withheld) said he was a student of Afe Babalola University, and on his way to Warri, Delta State.

Rather than be placated, the response seemed to anger the ‘officer’, who looked to be the youngest member of the team. “Do you think you can intimidate me with any school?” he countered. “You are telling me you are a student, as if you are the first student. I am also educated, I have my OND, and education is education; school is school. I can read and write, that is what education is all about.”

“Besides,” he continued, his voice a few decibels louder, “where is Afe Babalolo University located? Wherever it is, you cannot use that to intimidate policemen on duty,” Officer OND thundered, much to the surprise of the young man, who meekly replied that the school is in Ado-Ekiti. The other passengers exchanged worried looks.

Turning to the student again as he tried to open the screen of the laptop, the raging officer asked what the young man had in his mouth (braces). When the student told him what it was, Officer OND asked him why he would have steel in his mouth.

He shifted to the lone female passenger in the car, and ordered her to unsling her waist-bag and hand it over to him. She quietly obliged him, her hands shaking. Officer OND went about his job with inexplicable menace and anger, as he flipped threw out the lady’s stuffs: sanitary pad, tissue papers before seizing her mobile phone.

It was then my turn. He asked for my phone, which I handed to him. “Open it”, he ordered. I quickly obliged him, and handed it back to him.

He snatched the phone from me and started walking away as he went through my call log, chats, emails messages and other applications. I suggested that I would feel a lot better if he searched the phone in my presence. My position was informed by past personal and stories of third parties encounters with men of the force, who would plant evidence on people in order to extort huge sums of money from them.

The ‘highly educated’ OND officer could not stomach my temerity; he turned round swiftly and asked who I was to tell him how to do his job: “Who are you to tell me how to do my job or anything?” He thundered, as he unleashed a rash of slaps on my face before I could even answer.

I was dazed, literarily! The violence was unexpected. He poured invectives on my family and me as he unleashed further blows. I could only ask what I said to warrant such attacks, as I tried (mostly in vain) to evade the rain of blinding blows. His railing and insults attracted his colleagues and other people at the scene.

I have met policemen with different mentalities and temperaments at checkpoints across the country, and my experience is that there is usually at least one sane and reasonable one among any team. But this was different; every one of them seemed crazy, in their own peculiar ways.

The first one that came picked up a tree branch lying nearby and let it fly on my head. “You de fight police officer?” he thundered. The impact brought darkness over me; flashes of stars flew over my head. He continued to scream at me as he clubbed me. Passengers at the scene tried to explain to the new entrant that that wasn’t what happened, but he didn’t care.

Passengers tried to extricate me from the rain of blow and clubs, still Officer OND and his colleague were not in the mood to let go, despite the pleas. He drew his weapon – AK-47 rifles with double magazines taped together – and ordered them to make way so he could fire. His eyes were bloodier than crimson. Bile rose from my stomach into my mouth; I tasted my own fear. My mind told me to run, but I could not will my body to; I was too stunned (or scared) to move.

The loud click as Officer OND removed the gun’s safety catch, forced the peacemakers to abandon me, for their own safety. I was alone and face to face with death. Everything started moving around me – slowly, my tormenter was mouthing more profanities; I see his lips move, but I could not hear a thing.

I heard the lady with the waist bag sobbing and muttering ‘Jesus! Jesus! Jesus! I stared into the muzzle of the gun, helplessly, my heart racing.

As if from nowhere, a very calm gentleman dressed in cargo shorts and white t-shirt materialised between me and the messenger of death. I had seen him disembark from his car minutes earlier, following orders from the officers.

“You cannot do this”, he told the policeman. “You can’t just shoot an unarmed man like this in presence of everybody, including this lady,” the man pleaded in a voice laced with authority. Time stood still. After what seemed like eternity, the trigger-happy cop relaxed his grip on the weapon; his right index finger hovered around the trigger for fleeting seconds, then he slowly withdrew it. His puckered lips were still twitching as he slowly returned the safety catch.

Amidst the drama, another member of the team drew his weapon and warned onlookers not to attempt to record the madness. “Make anybody video make I see, if he nor go see fire! I know say una de like video, but try it and see!”

Nobody dared. Besides, it was pointless because they already took the mobile phones of everybody, and no one would risk their lives to confront the lunatics at that point.

But the intervention of the gentleman brought about some calm and attracted the attention of a tall lanky member of the team. Although raggedly dressed like the others, he appeared to have control over the others. They stepped back as soon as he stepped in. Up till that moment, he had watched the whole drama with a sardonic smile on his face.

Meanwhile, another member of the team smeared his palms in engine oil, slowly walked towards me and wiped it on my chest, just to, in his words, “prove to you (me) that you cannot argue with SARS men on the road”.

It was the least of my torments. I was helpless and totally humiliated as he left greasy stains on my brown T-shirt.

Another one, a ghoulish dark and scrawny fellow, joined the fray. Though not as big as his colleagues, he was no less dreadful; his face was dark and menacingly sallow.

The oddly cop spoke in smattering English laced with heavy Bini accent; his breath stank and he was dreadful. He slapped me, grabbed and pulled my face towards his mouth. As his lips parted, they revealed tobacco (?) blackened incisors. I tried to pull away, but he wouldn’t let go, but kept shouting: “I just wan bite him nose; na him nose I wan bite comot so that he go de fear SARS.”

For the umpteenth time the peacemaker, who came in silver colour Toyota Corolla, was my saviour, as he gently stepped in again and asked the biter to let go.

All my electronic devices and those of other passengers were confiscated. They took my MacBook and the student’s HP laptop and deposited everything in their Benz. I was asked to return to the back seat of the corolla and wait for further directives.

As I sat with other passengers in the car waiting, Officer OND came back to me and said: “You get luck say day never dark, if not I for fire you and throw you for corner of road and nothing will happen. It is not the first time and it won’t be the last. Go and thank your stars.” His tone left no one in doubt that it wasn’t a vain threat.

Ten minutes later the driver signalled for me to come face a panel. There were three of them inside the Benz: the head of the team, the nose-biter and club-wielder. First they asked me to unlock my phone and my laptop. They painstakingly went through files on my computer and phone, but found nothing incriminating; all they saw were half-written articles.

As they slowly realised that I was a journalist, the team leader asked for my ID card. When he saw it, he said: “Why didn’t you say that you are a journalist when all these started?” I wanted to tell him that his team didn’t give me the chance to speak, and to ask if there are different sets of rules for journalists, but my nerve wasn’t up to it and I wasn’t prepared to face another bout of pummelling. Also, the peacemaker had left. So I simply told him that the officer neither asked nor gave me the chance to say anything.

The ‘OC’ shook his head ruefully and said ‘this is a misunderstanding”. He then started speaking to me in Bini, after realising where I was from. Ironically, Usen, my father’s hometown, was just a few kilometers from where would have been the scene of my shabby death.

“Police and journalists are colleagues and are supposed to work together,” he said. “This is an unfortunate incident and it was caused by misunderstanding.”

He then personally handed to me all the items taken from the car, including those of other passengers, before stretching his hand for a handshake of peace. I had no choice; I shook the devil’s hand.

As I left the scene with my bloodied nose, swollen head, bloodshot eyes and broken bones, I recoiled. I replayed the drama, and I thought of how easily they could have shot me and labelled me “armed robber killed in shootout with policemen.”

I thought of the countless times I had in the course of job covered similar parades, and wondered if I had helped the police to cover-up extra-judicial killings of innocent Nigerians.

After several days, I was able to contact the Edo State Police Commissioner, Mr Dan Mallam on Thursday, who unlike his men on the highway, was very civil and calm, as I narrated my ordeal. He listened patiently the three-minute telephone chat. He sounded genuinely angered and apologised.

“Let me tender my unreserved apology for this sad incident,” he said after a brief pause, “It is quite unfortunate that in spite of our best efforts, there are some unscrupulous elements that are determined to bring disgrace to the force.”

“I want to assure you that we will unearth the identities of all those involved and you will see what we will do to them.”

“We have told them that no SARS officer has right to check telephones and computers on the highway or anywhere; it is against the directive of the Presidential Committee on SARS Reform and the directive of the Inspector General of Police,” CP Mallam added.

His words were soothing, but the numbing pain in my head, the blood in my eyes and the swell on my left eyes persist. I am taking medications for the pains, the swellings are going down, and blood is clearing from my eyes. I still have nightmares of the experience; still battle flashes of the trauma, and the scar on my psyche will not heal – not in a very long time.

Sadly, none of the men had any form of identification on their outfits; even the registration number on the vehicle they used was redacted. But the CP assured me that would not hinder the force from fishing them out.

Anioma Association USA, Georgia Chapter set to Conduct Free Healthcare in Ndokwa Area of Delta State

By: Michael Chukwunonso Odiah.

Anioma Association USA, Georgia Chapter.

Anioma Association USA Incorporated, Georgia Chapter, a socio-cultural organisation of progressive Anioma indigenes and friends resident in the State of Georgia, today announced that its 2019 annual medical mission to Anioma, Delta State will commence on Friday 21 – Saturday 22, June, 2019 at the Kwale General Hospital, Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Delta, from 9.00am to 4.00pm daily with focus on children, youths, adults and the elderly.
The Chairman of the medical mission committee, Dr. Sunny Nkemdiche, made this known in a press statement recently. He said that “the two-day free medical outreach being organised in collaboration with Anioma Medical Professionals Forum and with supports from others partners in America and Nigeria, is one of the many programmes of Georgia Chapter of Anioma Association USA designed to complement government efforts in the provision of quality healthcare for people at the grassroots and the development of Anioma, Delta State, Nigeria”.
Nkemdiche disclosed that the area of emphasis for this year’s medical mission will be on: health education on nutrition and hygiene, general health check, consultation, treatment of malaria, arthritis, diabetes, blood pressure, dental care, vision screening, distribution of drugs including pediatrics medication, de-worming tablets and corrective eye glasses etc.
The convener of Anioma Medical Professionals Forum, Dr. Alexander Awunor enjoined residents of Ndokwa with health challenges to take full advantage of this opportunity particularly the elderly by coming out on time for treatment by medical experts at no cost. He said that his team of medical personnel in Nigeria is ready to synergize efforts with their colleagues from United States to cater for the medical need of people at the grassroots in Ndokwa area of Delta State.

In the same vein, the programme coordinator, Mr. Godfrey C. Osakwe, said that appropriate arrangements have been made to ensure a seamless healthcare delivery for resident of Ndokwa at this year’s medical outreach. “In fact we are targeting a minimum of 3000 patients within the first day of the programme with the possibility of an increase”. Accordingly, we are calling on well-meaning citizens within and outside Ndokwa area of Delta State to support this noble programme for the health benefits of people at the grassroots and Delta State in general” Osakwe declared.
The annual medical mission which began in 2018; with Asaba hosting the inaugural edition for Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency has continued to generate interest among the people with huge success records, as free consultation, drugs and corrective eyes glasses are distributed to all and sundry across the four local government areas that made up of Aniocha/Oshimili.
The Medical Outreach was introduced with the primary objective to promote the basic health needs of people at the grassroots and to help alleviate the health challenges of residents within Anioma region, in Delta State. The association has as its long term objective, the establishment of Mobile Clinics with state of the art equipment for community free healthcare services in Anioma and Delta State in general and the establishment of functional primary health centres within Anioma communities and environs in years to come.

Signed
Godfrey C. Osakwe
Programme coordinator,

Rivers APC group joins ‘Oshiomhole must go’ crusade

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PORT HARCOURT – RIVERS Unity House, RUH, an All Progressives Congress, APC, interest group in the state has joined growing calls for removal of Adams Oshiomhole as National Chairman of the APC.


APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole

RUH Convener, Kingsley Wali, who in Port Harcourt, expressed the body’s dissatisfaction with Oshiomhole’s conduct, alleged that the former Edo state governor was responsible for 96% of the challenges APC faced over the 2019 general elections.

Wali said: “It is natural, in politics, that whenever there are losses, people have to be held accountable. Just like if the party enjoys decent measure of victory, it will obviously point out those who made it possible and then compensate them.

Resign now, Dep. Chair tells Oshiomhole(Opens in a new browser tab)

“I have been consistent with the position that Oshiomole is 96 percent responsible for the problems APC had. It boils down to nothing but somebody feeling that he knows everything and no other person is smarter than him.

“I think the reasonable thing to do is for APC as a party to ask Oshiomole to vacate the seat. If we insist on understanding or characterizing the Next Level slogan of APC, the kind of attitude Oshiomhole exhibited cannot be in tandem with the President’s vision on Nigeria.”

“Of what is a party Chairman who doesn’t take any form of criticism; once even if it is one councillor in Karadamuda or Akassa, that says something about him, he replies in the same measure.”

“I worry because where we are heading for might not be too nice. Like Alhaji Shuaibu said, all it take for the PDP to control the National Assembly is two seats or six or seven stubborn APC senators.

“It is a done deal And the same man is there threatening hell fire and brimstone about how APC will not do any business with PDP. In 2019, you still see the other party as party of enemies? Who does that?”

He noted that it would be delusional of the APC to claim victory in the last elections, going by the loss suffered in areas under its control before now.

“Let’s not demean ourselves that we won the Presidency. What about the governorship seats? Did we gain more senatorial seat now that we did in 2015? No. So if you look at it properly, APC lost in this last election.

“We are just lucky that the profile of the President got us to where we are today that we control the Presidency”, Wali highlighted.                      #

www.goldennationblog.com

Breaking: Obasanjo, 393 others aboard Ethiopia airline escape crash

Lagos – Disaster was averted at Murtala Mohammed International Airport on Wednesday as 393 passengers, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, escaped air crash,

Olusegun Obasanjo

Other prominent Nigerians in the Ethiopian airline passenger aircraft, Boeing 777-300, included the Director General of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) Amb. Ayoola Olukanni.

Also in the plane was Prof Samson Tunde Adebayo, the Director of Ports Inspection, National Agency For Food And Drug Administration And Control (NAFDAC) as well as scores of Nigerians and other nationals.

The passenger aircraft, ET-901, had departed the Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa, at about 9:10 a.m., Ethiopian time; 7 a.m Nigerian time.

A NAN correspondent, who was among the passengers, reported that the almost 5-hour flight from the Ethiopian capital to Lagos had been smooth until the pilot attempted to land at the Murtala Mohammed International airport.

Rather than landing on the first touch line of the runway, the pilot over short it, due to rain and heavy wind, landing on the third touchline.

NAN reports that on realising this, the pilot quickly maneuvered the plane back air, flying out of the Lagos airport.

After hovering between Lagos and areas suspected to be in Ogun, causing panic in passengers and crew members, the plane finally landed in Lagos airport, some 20 minutes after the initial false landing.

The atmosphere in the air bus upon landing was replica of what is obtainable in some Nigerian worship centres, as many passengers broke out into worship songs and clapping, while some fell to their knees in prayer.

Officials of the NCAA were unable to confirm the incident as the General Manager, Public Relations of the agency, Mr Sam Adurogboye, said there was no report of any incident in Lagos so far while the General Manager, Public Relations, Accident Investigation Bureau, Mr Tunji Oketunbi, said he had not received any incident notification from any airline.

NAN checks from the Control Tower also gave the same report.

What Ambode told Buhari about his Lagos legacies(Opens in a new browser tab)

But the Duty Manager and Chief Customer Service (Nigeria) of the airline, Mr Otori Otan, told NAN that if the pilot had continued taxing down after landing on the third touch line, he would have overshot the runway.

“But this is an experienced pilot. He realised this immediately.

Air Peace, NAPTIP partner to curb human trafficking in Nigeria(Opens in a new browser tab)

“Fortunately, the distance between when he realised the situation still permitted him to take off and renegotiate landing,” Otori said.

He added that the incident was not out of place, while confirming that the wind obscured the pilot’s vision.

Otori also disclosed that most of the aircraft that flew out of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport had to fly against the mid day heavy wind.

“These things happen. That is where the sophistication of the aircraft and experience of the cabin crew members come in.

How Buhari inaugurated 5.7km Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road in Lagos(Opens in a new browser tab)

“The aircraft is one of the best you can have around and we are fortunate to have pilots who know their onions ” he said.

Furthermore, Mr Ikechi Uko, Media Consultant to Ethiopian Airline, confirmed that the aircraft had a “missed approach” while about landing due to poor visibility caused by inclimate weather.

“The aircraft thereafter made an air return before it proceeded to land successfully .”

He said the pilot’s effort was in line with the Safety and Recommended Practices (SARPS) in aviation

Obasanjo and Olukanni had both attended a Stakeholders Dialogue on Continental Trade and Strengthening Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) which ended on Tuesday in Addis Ababa. (NAN)

Budget : Blame yourself not national assembly, Dogara tells Buhari

Vanguardngr.com

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has said that President Muhammadu Buhari should blame himself and not the National Assembly for the delay in the passage of of the 2019 budget which was signed into law on Monday.

Dogara said since President Buhari assumed office, he ‘has been unable to present budget on time. His first budget was the 2016 budget, which was submitted on December 22, 2015, exactly nine days to the end of the fiscal year.’

He also said: ‘The minimum time the National Assembly requires to pass budget is three months. But he presented it just nine days to 2016’ and that ‘what Nigerians didn’t know and the President won’t say is that the Executive through the various ministries continued to propose additional projects to be included in the 2018 budget even as at April and May which further delayed the passage of the 2018 budget. These were communicated officially and if anyone is in doubt the letters are there with the dates they were written and received. But here’s Buhari blaming the National Assembly.’

Buhari scores Sarake, Dogara low in patrogism(Opens in a new browser tab)

Dogara in a statement on Tuesday lamented that: ‘President Muhammadu Buhari a few days ago, in his usual characteristics of self righteousness, and buck passing blamed tardiness in the passage of budgets by the National Assembly for the delay in the completion of projects across the country by his government.

‘To be precise, the president said, “If the National Assembly takes seven months to pass a budget, then we should be commended for the much that we have achieved, and can still achieve. I personally feel very disappointed. I spoke with the leaders of the National Assembly on the issue that seven months is a long time to work on a budget.”

Alleged budget padding: Dogara slams Tinubu(Opens in a new browser tab)

‘Even though buck passing and blame game is not new to Buhari as it is now his stock in trade; in the past few days and weeks, there is no day that passes without the President blaming others in a desperate move to exonerate himself from any blame or failure of the Executive under his leadership to execute projects across the country.

Budget: NBCC calls for immediate announcement of ministers(Opens in a new browser tab)

‘In fact, very recently, Buhari blamed all his predecessors for failing to build infrastructure. And I wonder why? It was the general consensus that the former employees didn’t perform as expected and that was why Nigerians hired him for a job he has sought for four conservative time but here he is blaming the same people he replaced. If you are the boss of ” Nigeria limited”, what will you do this employee?

‘Some weeks ago, he even blamed the media for failing to showcase his achievements. “ I’m very disappointed with the Nigerian press. They didn’t give this government the credit of the go back to land programme,” he said on 26 October. Time and space would not permit me to list all his “blamings”.

‘However, it is disingenuous for President Muhammad Buhari to blame the National Assembly for his government’s inability to implement budget and execute projects that affect the lives of Nigerians in the last three years.

‘To set the record straight, this is a President who, from inception of his government didn’t show any sign that he was well prepared and ready for the job he sought for four times in 16 years and for which we voted for him.

‘For instance, it took him six months, yes six months not six weeks to form his cabinet. It also took him two years to appoint board chairmen for most government agencies. This is was his greatest undoing and was principally responsible for plunging Nigeria into recession because activities in Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government were brought to a half for the period since civil servants could not take decisions due to absence of political heads in a country where public sector spending drives the economy. At a point, he even said he was happy working with civil servants because ministers or politicians were noise makers because “they are only there to make a lot of noises”, he told a French television station in September 2015.

‘Now, after three years, with election in three months, the President is at it again, exonerating himself from apparent failure of his government thereby throwing the blame right at the doorstep of the legislature. But facts don’t lie and they could be stubborn and here are the facts:

‘Late budget presentation

‘Since his assuming office, the president has been unable to present budget on time. His first budget was the 2016 budget which was submitted on December 22, 2015, exactly nine days to the end of the fiscal year.

‘The minimum the National Assembly requires to pass budget is three months. But he presented it just nine days to 2016.

‘Again, the 2017 budget was presented on December 14,2016, just 17 days to the end of 2016.

‘The earliest he presented budget was on November 7, 2017 which was the 2018 appropriations bill. It was less than two months to the end of the year.

‘However, his ministers refused to appear before National Assembly committees to defend the budget for five months thereby delaying the passage.

‘It was after the leadership of the National Assembly sought the President’s intervention on March 16, 2018 that the ministers reluctantly appeared before the committees, an exercise that takes at least one month to complete. See link here https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.thecable.ng/buhari-directs-mdas-to-immediately-defend-2018-budget-proposals/amp.

‘In fact , some of them who felt they were super ministers sent in their permanent secretaries.

‘What Nigerians didn’t know and the President won’t say is that the Executive through the various ministries continued to propose additional projects to be included in the 2018 budget even as at April and May which further delayed the passage of the 2018 budget. These were communicated officially and if anyone is in doubt the letters are there with the dates they were written and received. But here’s Buhari blaming the National Assembly.

‘Violation of Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007

‘Since the inception of the Buhari administration, it has been in constant violation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act which stipulates that budgets should be presented in early September. The wisdom or import of the FRA is that the National Assembly will have at least three full months to work on the budget bill.

‘Intact, the Executive admitted its failure and inability to abide by the law on August 24,2018 when former minister of Budget and National Planning, now minister of finance, Zainab Ahmed disclosed that the Federal government will present the 2019 budget in September in a bid to restore the budget circle from January to December but here we are in November without the budget estimates before the lawmakers. See link https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/fg-to-submit-2019-budget-in-september-267246.html.

‘Buhari’s Failure/Refusal to assent to budget submission Bill

‘In a bid to address the issue of late budget presentation and passage, the National Assembly passed a constitutional amendment bill that requires the President to submit the Appropriation Bill not later than 90 days to the end of the financial year but unfortunately, very unfortunately, the president has vetoed the bill.

‘Veto of National Assembly Budget Office Bill

‘In an effort to improve institutional capacity of the Parliament to process and pass budget expeditiously, the National Assembly Budget and Research Office (NABRO) establishment Bill was passed into law. It was loosely modelled after the American Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Again, President Buhari has also vetoed the Bill.

‘Lack of Adequate Consultation

‘Under a Presidential system of government like ours where the doctrine of separation of powers and principles of checks and balances are well enshrined in our constitution, wisdom presupposes that the Executive at all time engages the legislature on all issues that requires legislation in order to have their buy in even before it is presented to the parliament formally.

‘The three President’s before Buhari, from 1999 -2015, Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’adua and Goodkuck Jonathan despite their failings sustained this tradition which is necessary for a harmonious relations between the Executive and the Legislature and smooth running of government. Under this, it is expected that the President meet with the leadership of the two chambers (Body of Principal Officers including members of the opposition) and brief them on the details of the budget and key projects he would want to execute. They, in turn would brief their colleagues while the MDAs will then engage the committees over sighting them in pre-budget session. President Shehu Shagari used to hold such meetings monthly.

‘Doing this, would have helped in reducing the time it takes to pass the budget because even before it is presented, the MPs would have been well informed about it and their inputs taken into consideration at the preparation stage by the various MDAs. Unfortunately, this too has not been done in the last three years.

“National Assembly Not A Rubber Stamp Parliament”

‘The National Assembly has repeatedly challenged the Executive to approach the Supreme Court to seek interpretation on the constitutional powers of the legislature over budget, but up to now, they have failed to do so. Until then, the judgement of the Federal High court in FHC/ABJ/CS/259/2014 delivered on March 9, 2016 which was not appealed by either parties stands.

‘This is what his lordship Hon Justice Gabriel Kolawole said in delivering judgment in the suit by Femi Falana SAN “the National Assembly was not created by drafters of the Constitution and imbued with the powers to receive ‘budget estimates’ which the first defendant is constitutionally empowered to prepare and lay before it, as a rubber stamp parliament. The whole essence of the budget estimates being required to be laid before Parliament is to enable it, being the Assembly of the representatives of the people, to debate the said budget proposals and to make its own well informed legislative inputs into it.’

Single Protester Takes to Streets of Abuja to Voice for Action as Nationwide Demonstrations Loom

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In a recent development in Abuja, a Nigerian man was captured in a video protesting alone on the streets of Wuse 2. The man, seen carrying a flag with the words “Hunger dey” and shouting “Enough is enough,” expressed his dissatisfaction with the current economic situation.

This protest comes amidst calls for nationwide demonstrations scheduled for August 1, as various groups and individuals seek to address the prevailing economic challenges faced by many in the country.

For more details, you can watch the video posted by Lindaikeji’s Blog Official.

DTHA Retreat: Speaker Guwor Commits to Staff Development and Legislative Efficiency

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Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has assured Management and Staff of the State Legislature of sustained efforts towards building the capacity of the workforce.

Rt Hon Guwor who gave the assurance, while declaring open a two-day retreat for management staff of the State Assembly, said the retreat, with the theme: “Towards Effective Collaboration For Delivering The Legislative Agenda of the 8th Assembly”, is to further promote efficiency and ensure optimal results in the implementation of the recently unveiled Legislative Agenda of the 8th Assembly.

The Speaker stated that the 8th Assembly, under his leadership, is committed to a successful implementation of the Legislative Agenda, a policy thrust put together to achieve enhanced peace and prosperity in Delta State in synergy with the MORE Mantra of the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

Guwor who harped on the need for all hands to be on deck in the actualization of the vision, emphasized the importance of training and retraining of staff in the Legislature, even as he urged participants to take advantage of the retreat to align, strategize and brainstorm on the task ahead.

“The Legislative Agenda is now a public policy document. Consequently, all activities of the House are expected to align with the Agenda. Therefore, it is pertinent to bring to speed the team of management to align with the Agenda”, he said.

The Speaker promised that the leadership of the Assembly, in partnership with the Executive, will continue to place staff welfare, training and development, as a priority.

“As bureaucrats, we recognize that your duties are not only strategic but core and central to the smooth operation and success of the Legislature. I believe this Retreat will enhance your capacity for more effective and efficient service delivery.

“I am always happy to share in moments such as this because it provides an avenue to cross-fertilize ideas for the general good of the administration of the House”, Guwor stated.

The Speaker, who commended Governor Oborevwori for his visionary leadership in the state, also lauded the Management team of the Assembly, led by the Acting Clerk of the House, Mr Otto Aghoghophia for their relentless effort in the discharge of their duties.

Acting Clerk, Otto Aghoghophia, had in opening remarks, expressed optimism that the retreat will sharpen and broaden the knowledge of the management staff in engendering quality service delivery.

He said “This Retreat was designed to bridge the gap of Management understanding of the Legislative Agenda of the 8th Assembly. This is crucial because of the role played by Management in the Legislature.

“Therefore, the thematic focus for interrogation during this Retreat will elicit robust interchange of ideas that will make the key objectives to be achieved”, saying that the central aim is to reorient Management’s focus to work in tandem with the Legislative Agenda of the 8th Assembly.

The Acting Clerk commended the leadership of the Assembly for granting approvals for the training of all categories of staff in the State Legislature and assured them of their commitment to assigned duties.

“It is my firm belief that this Retreat will be a rewarding experience and will make us more knowledgeable, committed, reliable and dependable in service delivery.

“On behalf of the Management and staff of the Delta State House of Assembly and the Commission, I wish to convey our heartfelt appreciation to Mr Speaker and the Leadership of the 8th Assembly for the approval and prompt release of Funds for the 2024 training of staff.

“Again, it must be put on record that since the evolution of Management Retreat by the Delta State House of Assembly, it has been unbroken.

Sir, be rest assured that the Management and staff of the Assembly will continue to support and work with you to achieve your goals embedded in the Legislative Agenda of the 8th Assembly”, Aghoghophia assured.

The head of a team of resource persons from the African Parliamentary Resource Center, APRC, Mr John Mutu, paid glowing tributes to the leadership of the Delta State Assembly for training the workforce, stressing that the House is indeed ahead of so many State Houses of Assembly.

“I must commend the leadership of the Delta State Assembly for its efforts to strengthen the capacity of the staff and Management. This commitment has been demonstrated by training and retraining of the workforce. Delta is indeed ahead of many other states in Nigeria”, Mutu stated.

Some participants interviewed, also expressed gratitude to the Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor and his team for the retreat which they said will no doubt inspire and motivate them in the discharge of their duties.

The opening ceremony was attended by some Principal Officers and members of the house.

Police Raid Big Daf Hotel in Ughelli: Owner Arrested, 23 Teenage Girls Rescued from Human Trafficking

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In a significant development, the Delta State Police Command has successfully apprehended Chioma Edafe, a 36-year-old woman from Umuogbezea Community in Imo State. Edafe was running a hotel in Ughelli where teenage girls were being exploited as sex workers. The operation led to the rescue of twenty-three young girls who had fallen victim to this heinous crime.

The police are also actively searching for another individual named Chinyere, who was responsible for trafficking these teenagers from the East to the aforementioned hotel for forced prostitution.

According to SP. Bright Edafe, the State Police Public Relations Officer, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, acted upon credible information received by the Command regarding the activities of Chinyere. It was discovered that Chinyere specialized in trafficking women from the East to Ughelli for the purpose of prostitution. In response, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi assigned DPO Ekpan, CSP Aliyu Shaba, to act swiftly on the gathered intelligence, locate the hotel, and apprehend the suspect.

The police successfully located one of the victims on July 15, 2024, approximately at 7:00 PM. Although the victim’s name is withheld for their protection, she bravely disclosed the illegal activities orchestrated by the suspect, Chinyere, whose full surname is currently unknown, and who remains at large.

According to the victim’s testimony, Chinyere enticed the teenagers with enticing job offers at restaurants, falsely claiming that they would be working as salesgirls in Delta State. One of the teenagers revealed that she was deceived into leaving her parents from Abia State, with the promise of working as a salesgirl in a bar, earning a monthly salary of ₦30,000. However, upon their arrival in Ughelli on July 12, 2024, they discovered the horrifying truth. They found themselves surrounded by other teenagers, all of whom were naked, and were informed that they had been brought there for prostitution. The victims courageously refused to comply, resulting in their immediate expulsion from the hotel.

Based on this crucial information, a combined team of surveillance officers swiftly stormed the ‘Big Dafe Hotel’ located on Ughelli/Patani Road. They successfully apprehended Chioma Edafe, the 36-year-old hotel owner, along with thirty-five other individuals, twenty-three of whom were teenage girls. However, the main suspect, Chinyere, is still at large, prompting a serious manhunt by the authorities.

The Delta State Police Command urges the public to report any distressing situations promptly. If you have information or require assistance, please contact your local police division or call the following control room numbers: 08036684974, 08114895600, and 08025666914.

We commend the Delta State Police Command for their unwavering commitment to combatting human trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Let us all remain vigilant and united in the fight against such abhorrent crimes in our society.

Education Minister Sets 18 as Minimum Age for Tertiary Admissions

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In a significant development, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has recently announced a ban on admitting candidates under the age of 18 into tertiary institutions across the country. The announcement took place during the 2024 policy meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

During his speech, the minister emphasized that the Federal Government is currently considering adopting 18 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into universities and other tertiary institutions. This move aligns with the existing 6-3-3-4 system of education.

Furthermore, the minister highlighted that the Ministry of Education is working on providing alternative options for those who are unable to secure admission into tertiary institutions. Specifically, the ministry aims to introduce skill-based programs to primary school students.

This decision by the Minister of Education marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to tertiary education admissions, aiming to ensure that students are adequately prepared and equipped for the challenges that lie ahead.

Gridlock Paralyzes Asaba: Economic Activities, Residents, and Travelers Face Setbacks

In a recent development that has caused great distress for residents and travellers alike, serious gridlock has brought the Abrake Market Road, Asaba-Onitsha Expressway, and Ezeneyi Junction to a standstill. The capital of Delta State, Asaba, has become a no-go area for road users due to the alarming gridlock situation.

The consequences of this major traffic jam have been far-reaching and have affected various segments of society. Travellers, businessmen and women, residents, and others relying on this vital road for economic activities have been severely impacted. The gridlock has disrupted the smooth flow of transportation, leading to delays, frustration, and a hindrance to daily operations.

Moreover, the economic activities in the area have taken a hit as this road serves as the only connection between Asaba and Onitsha, two neighboring states. The inability to traverse this road freely has caused a significant setback, impeding trade and commerce between the two regions.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, we reached out to the Delta State Commissioner for Highways and Urban Roads, Comrade Izeze Reuben Rume Yakubu Esq, who shed light on the steps being taken to address the issue. He stated, “As usual, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has always intervened in federal roads to ameliorate the sufferings of commuters who are primarily residents in the state, as well as commuters passing through Delta.”

The Commissioner further expressed confidence in Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to finding a solution, saying, “I believe in His Excellency that in the next couple of weeks, he will receive a firsthand report on the situation. He has already instructed the Ministry to assess the extent of the damage at these bad spots, and hopefully, we will have the report this week. We are evaluating the necessary funding and measures required to address the situation promptly. Governor Oborevwori, as he has done in the past, will take preventive measures to minimize the suffering of commuters until the federal government can intervene.”

As residents and travelers eagerly await relief from this distressing gridlock, the hope remains that the necessary actions will be taken swiftly to restore smooth traffic flow and alleviate the hardships faced by the affected individuals and businesses.

Note: This news article aims to provide a neutral and simple account of the serious gridlock situation in Asaba, Delta State, emphasizing the challenges faced by residents and travelers. The inclusion of the Delta State Commissioner’s statement highlights the government’s commitment to finding a resolution.

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