‘Men That Cannot Control Their ‘Stick’ Lack Self Control’ – Iyabo Ojo Reacts To Davido’s Cheating Scandal

Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo has reacted to the cheating scandal rocking Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido. This is following the outrage stirred on social media over the cheating allegations levelled against the singer by two abroad-based women, despite being married to his long time girlfriend, Chioma.

Taking to his Instagram page to speak on the development, the actress, on Friday, stated that men who have a reputation to protect must guide and stay away from persons that have nothing to lose. She added that any man who allows the ‘stick’ between their legs to control them, lacks self control and must be prepared for the consequences that awaits them. The post reads: “If you have a reputation to protect, please guide it, protect it, never get carried away, and associate yourself with a person who has got nothing to lose. It never ends well.. be wise. “If there is not one person who is level-headed in your circle and can check you when need be, please ajust your circle….. be humble. Hidden secret of a womans heart: No woman wants to truly share a man, but some will allow it bcos of culture, religion, financial benefits, or sexual pleasures……. but deep down in a woman’s heart, she secretly desires to own the man all to herself, Note: some will accept their faith, while some will rather destory everything if they can’t achieve their goals…… be aware.. “Woman disobeyed God, so who is man? that you’re not mindful of woman? Woman have caused wars between warriors, kings, and nations, so who are you .. be informed. Man, the stick, btw your legs are not as strong as the word “MAN” sounds, if you lack self-control, then know your stick will have no respect for emotions, ….. your heart can never be prepared for the mistakes that await you…… be cautious.

‘You Are For The Streets’ – Sarkodie Reacts To Yvonne Nelson’s Abortion Claim

Popular Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie has reacted to actress Yvonne Nelson’s claim that he made her abort a pregnancy . Naija News reports this comes a few days after the thespian in her recently published memoir, “I Am Not Yvonne Nelson,” claimed that the Ghanaian rapper impregnated her and told her to abort the pregnancy.

‘He said no’ Yvonne detailed in a chapter of her book where she said “I wasn’t the only one responsible for the situation, so I called the man whose potent seed had germinated in me. His name is Michael Owusu Addo, a renowned Ghanaian musician who is better known as Sarkodie”. “Sarkodie was a budding musician with the potential to become one of the biggest artists in Ghana and beyond. At the time, however, the future looked uncertain, and his way through the maze of life still appeared too foggy to predict. Success was not guaranteed. He was still living with his mother and was not ready to carry a burden while he was being carried by his mother,” she added. Sarkodie, in a song titled ‘Try Me,’ said he wasn’t the one that asked for the abortion even though he wasn’t financially ready.

Toyin Lawani Threatens Debtors Showing Off, Reveals Plans For Them

Fashion stylist, Toyin Lawani has threatened to expose debtors showing off on social media. The controversial fashionista, in an Instagram post on Tuesday, called out people who are indebted to her but go off on social media to show off fake lifestyles.

She expressed anger over the behavior of some debtors towards people’s businesses, stating that they take businesses for granted. Toyin further said such debtors intentionally ignore every attempt to reach them, but come on social media to show off. She wrote: “People get mind sha, how can you be owing someone money and you will be posting lifestyle, he shock me, wow wow wow, I fit vex tag the person sef, what rubbish, you take peoples business for granted a lot.” A fortnight ago, the celebrity designer and her husband Segun Adebayo celebrated two years of love and friendship.

Video: I Am Not Your Mate, You Were In Secondary School When I Started Acting – Pariolodo Blasts Mr Latin

Yoruba movie veteran, Pariolodo, has publicly berated Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin, for refusing to help him in his time of need.

makeitupnews recalls that Pariolodo in a viral video had cried out for help over an incomplete residence and the necessity for a reliable means of transportation. A popular Nigerian clergyman, Pastor Gabriel Agbala, who helped actress Iya Gbonkan to secure her car and complete her residence had subsequently paid him a visit and helped in raising a worldwide donation of N6 million for him. In a new video making the rounds, Pariolodo expressed his disappointment and frustration towards Mr. Latin for neglecting him. He reminded him that he has been in the industry long before him, adding that he started his acting journey in 1976, while Mr Latin was still in secondary school. He said, “Mr. Latin you were in secondary school when I ventured into Nollywood, I’m not your mate.. I started acting in 1976.” He berated Mr. Latin for refusing to help him because he is not a member of the Theater Arts and Motion Picture Producers Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN). Pariolodo recalled how Mr. Latin allegedly abandoned Baba Ijesha because of his principles.

Ruth Kadiri Speaks On Splashing Millions On ‘New’ Lagos Mansion

Nollywood actress and producer, Ruth Kadiri has dismissed reports of buying a new house following a post on Facebook alleging the actress recently acquired a luxury home.

This comes after a controversial post accompanied with photos of the actress in her alleged ‘new home’ surfaced on social media with the caption “Congratulations to me. Ruth of Life.” Many of her colleagues even stormed the comment section with congratulatory messages. However, Ruth on Tuesday took to her Instagram handle to dismiss the claim, describing the Facebook page as a fake account. She also revealed that the house in question was used as a movie location and not owned by her. Ruth further revealed that her Facebook page is verified and also appealed to social media users to report the fake page. “This is a fake Facebook page, I do not own that house. It’s a film location. I do not post material things on social media. Please report that page. My Facebook page is verified,” she wrote.

Why I Have Been Supporting Various Causes For The Last 15 Years — 2Baba

Veteran Nigerian singer, Innocent Idibia popularly known as 2face Idibia has disclosed that he is passionate about positively impacting people. The singer stated that for the past 15 years, he has dedicated his time and resources to supporting different causes. 2face stated this during a breakfast chat with a select group of journalists.

He noted that his contributions to the society have gone a long way in creating a better Nigeria. The ‘African Queen’ singer stated, “In the last 15 years, I have— as an individual and through the 2Baba Foundation— devoted a tremendous amount of time, effort and resources to supporting various causes. “These causes have helped in promoting the well-being of our country and the welfare of our people. I reaffirm my commitment to the long walk towards a better Nigeria. I have been blessed to be in a position to make modest contributions and lend a hand to fellow human beings in need. I have been able to raise my voice on behalf of those who need to be heard, and build a nation where the government is responsible and takes the people as a priority.” Shedding more light on the projects he has been involved in, 2Baba said, “The ‘Vote Not Fight, Election No Be War’ campaign has been one of the most intense, impactful and gratifying. It has reached 62 million Nigerians and currently has 2,000 active youth volunteers across the country. “Two studies have linked the initiative to relatively more peaceful elections during the period.

Ex-COAS, Yahaya Pulls Out Of Nigerian Army

The immediate past Chief Of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has pulled out of the service of the Nigerian Army. Yahaya pulled out of the service in a short ceremony held at Mogadishu Cantonment popularly known as Abacha Barracks, Abuja on Saturday.

On Friday, Yahaya handed over to the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, at a handing over ceremony in Abuja. In his speech, Yahaya said he was leaving the Nigerian Army better than he met it, adding that the army made remarkable successes in the fight against insecurity. He said that the adversaries are currently in disarray across all theatres of operations, and charged officers and men to maintain the tempo. He said: “You must always conduct yourselves professionally in accordance with the ethics, customs and traditions. “You must continue to make deliberate efforts to improve your performance for heightened security, especially at this time of a new administration in our growing democracy. “I charge you all to re-double your efforts in supporting the incoming Chief of Army Staff to achieve even greater heights.” makeitupnews reports that Lagabaja took the baton from Lt.-Gen. Yahaya who had been in command of the Nigerian Army since May 2021.

EXCLUSIVE: Suspended Central Bank Governor, Emefiele Identifies Top Traditional Rulers, Army Generals, Judges As Accomplices Amid Corruption Scandal

Emefiele, who is said to be “cooperating with investigators” reportedly narrated how he gave money to monarchs, army generals and judges at some point or the other during his time in office. Godwin Emefiele, the suspended governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, who is currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) has identified some traditional rulers, Nigerian Army generals and judges as his accomplices, SaharaReporters learnt from DSS sources.

Emefiele, who is said to be “cooperating with investigators” reportedly narrated how he gave money to monarchs, army generals and judges at some point or the other during his time in office. The suspended CBN governor has been in detention along with Abdulrasheed Bawa, the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after both of them were suspended from their respective offices by President Bola Tinubu’s administration over corruption allegations and abuse of office. SaharaReporters on June 15 reported how Emefiele named Bawa as an accomplice in the Naira redesign scam that rocked the country some months ago. SaharaReporters had learnt that Emefiele and Bawa – both undergoing interrogation – were being quizzed on sundry issues including the Naira redesign scam. Giving SaharaReporters update on Wednesday, DSS sources claimed that Emefiele was “revealing a lot” and had named some top accomplices in his mismanagement of the country’s apex bank. “As per Emefiele, he is cooperating with investigators and revealing a lot. Emefiele corrupted and bribed almost every major traditional ruler, army generals, some judges and clerics,” one of the sources revealed. “Almost all the CBN directors are also being quizzed and they too are cooperating,” he added. SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Emefiele was suspended “sequel to the ongoing investigation into his office and the planned reforms in the financial sector of the economy,” according to a release by Willie Bassey, the Director of Information for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. On November 23, 2022, then-President Muhammadu Buhari alongside Emefiele unveiled new naira notes in denominations of N200, N500 and N1,000. Emefiele insisted that the old notes would cease to be legal tender from January 31, 2023. Addressing journalists after the event, Emefiele insisted that the move was not targeted at anyone as there were speculations that the move was pushed by the cabal in the Presidency and targeted at preventing Bola Tinubu, then-presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress from winning the February 25, 2023 election. The policy caused Nigerians untold hardship due to the scarcity of naira notes with the CBN unable to meet the demand for new notes. The policy led to a cash crisis and long queues at banks and ATMs. “Emefiele who is currently cooling his feet in the cell of the DSS is the reason why the EFCC chairman has been detained overnight. Emefiele who is cooperating with the DSS claimed that Bawa was the one who raised a memo to former President Muhammadu Buhari, asking that the Naira should be redesigned to stem money laundering during the 2023 election,” a top source had revealed to SaharaReporters. “Bawa confronted him that he (Emefiele) and the former Attorney-General of the Federation, Malami were the ones that came to him to raise the memo because they suspected Tinubu had warehouses stuffed with naira notes,” the source had added. In February and March, Nigerians were subjected to extreme difficulty with the Naira redesign and cashless policy due to the scarcity of the new Naira notes. To make matters worse, Emefiele had refused to heed a Supreme Court ruling which made the old notes legal tender till December 31, before former President Buhari distanced himself from the disobedience to the court order. SaharaReporters in February reported how the DSS attempted to arrest Emefiele, but the then Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, shielded him by providing soldiers to guard his residence and office. The DSS had said it intensified its investigations to arrest and prosecute Emefiele, on allegations of terrorism financing and fraud. SaharaReporters also in February reported that new court documents obtained from the DSS indicted Emefiele for funding “unknown gunmen” terrorising the Southeast region of the country. Giving SaharaReporters update on Wednesday, DSS sources claimed that Emefiele was “revealing a lot” and had named some top accomplices in his mismanagement of the country’s apex bank. “As per Emefiele, he is cooperating with investigators and revealing a lot. Emefiele corrupted and bribed almost every major traditional ruler, army generals, some judges and clerics,” one of the sources revealed. “Almost all the CBN directors are also being quizzed and they too are cooperating,” he added. SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Emefiele was suspended “sequel to the ongoing investigation into his office and the planned reforms in the financial sector of the economy,” according to a release by Willie Bassey, the Director of Information for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. On November 23, 2022, then-President Muhammadu Buhari alongside Emefiele unveiled new naira notes in denominations of N200, N500 and N1,000. Emefiele insisted that the old notes would cease to be legal tender from January 31, 2023. Addressing journalists after the event, Emefiele insisted that the move was not targeted at anyone as there were speculations that the move was pushed by the cabal in the Presidency and targeted at preventing Bola Tinubu, then-presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress from winning the February 25, 2023 election. The policy caused Nigerians untold hardship due to the scarcity of naira notes with the CBN unable to meet the demand for new notes. The policy led to a cash crisis and long queues at banks and ATMs. “Emefiele who is currently cooling his feet in the cell of the DSS is the reason why the EFCC chairman has been detained overnight. Emefiele who is cooperating with the DSS claimed that Bawa was the one who raised a memo to former President Muhammadu Buhari, asking that the Naira should be redesigned to stem money laundering during the 2023 election,” a top source had revealed to SaharaReporters. “Bawa confronted him that he (Emefiele) and the former Attorney-General of the Federation, Malami were the ones that came to him to raise the memo because they suspected Tinubu had warehouses stuffed with naira notes,” the source had added. In February and March, Nigerians were subjected to extreme difficulty with the Naira redesign and cashless policy due to the scarcity of the new Naira notes. To make matters worse, Emefiele had refused to heed a Supreme Court ruling which made the old notes legal tender till December 31, before former President Buhari distanced himself from the disobedience to the court order. SaharaReporters in February reported how the DSS attempted to arrest Emefiele, but the then Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, shielded him by providing soldiers to guard his residence and office. The DSS had said it intensified its investigations to arrest and prosecute Emefiele, on allegations of terrorism financing and fraud. SaharaReporters also in February reported that new court documents obtained from the DSS indicted Emefiele for funding “unknown gunmen” terrorising the Southeast region of the country.

Popular Nollywood Actor Found Unconscious In Lagos Hotel (Video)

A video showing the moment a man believed to be the controversial Nollywood actor, Uche Maduagwu was seen lying lifeless in a Lagos Hotel has surfaced on social media.

The man in the trending video lay motionless after he was alleged to have taken hard drugs. A staff of the hotel had raised an alarm over his condition as she shared a video of the person believed to be the actor unconscious on a hotel floor. Watch video below.

The video attracted several mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. While some insisted it was a prank, others condemned drug abuse. Valentine Charles wrote, “Na now them stop prank na now Uche know say he one do his own serious prank.” The video attracted several mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. While some insisted it was a prank, others condemned drug abuse. Valentine Charles wrote, “Na now them stop prank na now Uche know say he one do his own serious prank.” Leslie Power wrote, “Uche is a clown….it’s one of his attention-seeking ways.” Zeee know wrote, “Anything for clout.” Useful Herb wrote, “Don’t be surprised if he suddenly jumps up and strays dancing, he might be playing prank.” Eyi Cool wrote, “Unprofessional behavior” Soma Online store wrote, “Take him to the hospital now Anny Godswill wrote, “Have said before that it seems he has mental issues”.

Ayra Starr Replies Critics After Exposing Her ‘Pant’ During Performance At Athens Festival

Nigerian singer, Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr, has slammed critics making issues over her outfit at the Athens Music Festival.

Naija News reports that the singer who is widely known for rocking short outfits during performances made no difference at Athens. Ayra Starr was captured rocking a crop top with a short-wrapped mini shirt and many claimed she was exposing her pant in the outfit. Nigerian singer, Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr, has slammed critics making issues over her outfit at the Athens Music Festival. Travel to Gashaka Gumti National Park However, the ‘Rush’ crooner in a post via Twitter said the outfit was matching shorts and not just a pant as many assumed. She wrote: “These are literally matching shortssss, but amazing, you have seen pant! Congratulations, you have finally achieved something in your life" What I Did Before Making Barack Obama’s Music Playlist Meanwhile, Ayra Starr, has revealed what she did before appearing on former United States President, Barack Obama’s favourite music playlist. Naija News recalls that Obama shared his favourite music playlist for the year 2022 and it featured three top Nigerian singers. Grammy award-winning singer, Burna Boy alongside Ayra Starr and Rema made it to the 2022 favourite music list of the former US President. Speaking at a recent interview with NME, Ayra Starr recalled that she had prayed and hoped that her song will make Obama’s playlist someday. The 20-year-old singer, however, said it was shocking to see that the following morning after her prayer, the former president unveiled his playlist and her name was on it.

Photos: Former BBNaija Housemate Bags Doctorate Degree From US Varsity

Former Big Brother Naija Housemate, Emmanuel Umoh, has bagged a doctorate degree from a University in the United States of America. Naija News reports that the reality TV star made this known in a post via his Instagram page, alongside photos of the graduation ceremony.

According to the BBNaija Star, he has been conferred a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration. He further expressed appreciation to God for his latest achievement and dedicated the degree to everyone who had contributed to his success in life. Emmanuel added that he is grateful for the recognition and promises to continue breaking new barriers. He wrote: “Ladies and gentlemen, Allow me to reintroduce myself, My name is Dr. Emmanuel Umoh Jr…..

“Glad to officially announce that I have been conferred the degree of Doctor in Philosophy in Business Administration by the prestigious prowess university of Delaware, USA. “I’m grateful to God for everything I am today for how far he has brought me. This is yet another step to in my pursuit for greatness. “This is dedicated to everyone who has contributed to making me the young man I am today. “I am grateful for this recognition and i promise to continue to break new barriers. “Thank you once again and God bless you all”

Popular Skit Maker Reacts After Police PRO Calls For His Arrest

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has revealed why popular skit maker, Trinity Guy, should be arrested. Adejobi, who had previously warned skit makers who use pranks for a living to regulate them because they endanger Nigerian lives, posted the video on his Instagram account on Monday.

The Police spokesperson, who strongly condemned the video, urged people that have been affected by the skitmakers’ pranks to report him to the authorities. He said, “This doesn’t make any sense. I think the guy should have been arrested. “Those individuals who feel the heat and fear of the pranks should be reporting the pranksters as many of their pranks are criminals, immoral, and evil. These women have a good case against him.” Female Soldiers Assault Man, Force Him To Laugh Meanwhile, a video showing the moment two female Nigerian Army cadets were seen assaulting a young man has surfaced on social media. The trending video, which depicted the moment the young man was mercilessly slapped, went viral with netizens condemning the actions of the female soldiers. In the video, a female cadet from the Nigerian Army is seen slapping and smacking the victim, with other female and male cadets soon joining her to assault the terrified victim. He was further forced to smile at the camera, after he was beaten.

Nigeria Entertainment News Why I Mocked Peter Obi’s Court Case – Akpororo Spillss

Nigerian comedian, Akpororo, has said his statement about the ongoing court case of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, was taken out of context, adding he only described the Nigerian system and its corruption.

Recall, the comedian in a trending video had said that Obi who is currently in court contesting the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election was going to spend eight years in the process. Akpororo had in a comedy show in Abuja described President Bola Tinubu as healthy and intelligent and would be in charge for eight years, while noting that Obi will be in court all through Tinubu’s administration. He said, “I always say this and people say I’m crazy. But in the end, what I said will happen. Tinubu will be president for eight years. “Before he became president, his head, hands, and legs were shaking. But since he became the president, have you seen anything shake? “People mocked him on social media for his grammar but since he became the president, that man reads without looking at books. He is very intelligent. “I’m telling you how Aso Rock is. When they enter that place, they’re above witches and wizards. They become principalities. I’m a Christian, I am spirit-filled. If I tell you something, it will always come to pass. Nothing will happen to Tinubu, he will be president for 8 years. Tinubu did not give me any money. Is Peter Obi still in court? He will be in court for 8 years.” But addressing the negative feedback generated by his comment in an Instagram post on Tuesday, the comedian apologized for his joke about the LP candidate spending eight years in court. His apology followed mixed reactions from Nigerians who condemned the comedy video. Sharing a full video of the comedy show on his verified Instagram page, he wrote “make una no vex, no be wetin I mean be that, I dey try talk about Nigeria system and corruption. Na the full video be this.”

Why I Will Marry A Man Like Sylvester Madu, Who Is Selling Okirika – Nollywood Actress

Nollywood actress, Didi Ekanem, has expressed interest in marrying a man like her colleague, Sylvester Madu, who went viral online for selling second-hand clothes popularly known as Okirika.

makeitupnews reported that Sylvester a few days ago addressed fans who expressed surprise over his choice of earning a living. The actor while reacting after a video of him made rounds online, took to the video-making app, Tiktok to proudly show off his ‘business empire’ with multiple people selling various kinds of second hand goods. The movie star who went live while at his business location also described those who found his “hustle” strange, as foolish. Commenting on an Instagram blog, Didi Ekanam said she has so much respect for her colleague and he is the kind of man she will gladly marry. The thespian added she would be willing to join her partner in such kind of business knowing she can have peace of mind. She wrote: “I have so much respect for you sir… This is the type of man I can literally marry in a heartbeat and join him to hustle knowing that I can sleep well at night.” Meanwhile, popular Nollywood actor, Mcsmith Ochendo, declared he is currently a native doctor while reacting to a video of his colleague, Sylvester Madu, who was spotted selling second-hand clothes called ‘Okrika’. Reacting to the video, Ochendo, in what seemed like a joke, claimed he has turned to a native doctor and that people should leave Madu alone.

Iyabo Ojo’s Lover Places N5 Million Bounty On Man Who Wished Davido Death

Nigerian talent manager, Paulo, the lover of Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, has placed a N5 million reward to anyone who can find the location of a social media user that wished Nigerian singer, Davido, death.

makeitupnews earlier reported that a supposed fan of Burna Boy, with the Twitter handle, @Winco_3 while sharing a six seconds video of the singer’s concert on Saturday night in the Netherlands said Davido’s burial can’t be crowded as the concert. He wrote: “Even Davido burial that would be free can’t pack this crowd. Know your mate.” While quoting the tweet, Davido in a post via his Twitter page on Sunday questioned what he has done to the fan for wishing him death. Reacting to this, Paulo said, he would offer N5 million reward to anyone to help find the Twitter user’s location so he could explain the meaning of the post. Pauloo2014 wrote: “@davido is good to find this guy!!! What is this??? I’m putting 5M!! To find this guy location to just explain this tweet.” Responding to the post, the fan tackled Paulo for seeking public validation adding that he can easily be found and nothing would happen to him. Winco_3 wrote: “Paulo is funny. U day put 5m for my head lmao. Bald headed toothless man, using Igbo sense to decide people for public validation.

FG summons oil marketers, set to close equalisation fund

Following the deregulation of the downstream petroleum industry, the Federal Government has begun the process of closing down the Petroleum Equalization Fund, The PUNCH has learnt.

The move, it was gathered, was in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021. The PUNCH gathered the meeting held in Abuja between officials of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority and oil marketers on Wednesday deliberated on the closure of the fund. The officials and marketers discussed the reconciliation of the PEF accounts and plans to close it in the next one month. “The meeting was a consultation with the NMDPRA on implementation of the PIA, clarifications of various issues, applying for licences, quality issues and closure of the Petroleum Equalization Fund,” a former Chairman of Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, Tunji Oyebanji, told The PUNCH in a telephone interview. “Some people owe PEF and it also owes some people. There is a need for reconciliation to close out the account,” Oyebanji explained. Formed in 2021, NMDPRA encompasses a merger of three defunct regulatory agencies: Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, Petroleum Equalization Fund {Management} Board, and the Midstream and Downstream Divisions of the Department of Petroleum Resources. The National Controller of Operations, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Mike Osatuyi, also told The PUNCH that the Fund currently owes its members about N80bn. “We do not owe the Fund because before you lift products, you would have made deposits. But the Fund owes us N80bn which would be paid before the closure. The money piled up over some time but it has stopped piling up. The role played by the Fund has ended upon the full deregulation of the downstream sector as stated in the PIA,” Osatuyi said. He confirmed that IPMAN was also invited to reconcile its account with the Fund. “No need for the Fund again since we have deregulated. We don’t know when the money they owe us would be paid but it would be paid before the accounts are eventually closed. The process has started and our members have been invited,” he added. PEF was set up by Decree 9 of 1975 (as amended by Decree Number 32 of 1989 now chapter 352 of the Laws of the Federation). Its main function was to ensure price uniformity of petroleum products via the reimbursement of marketers for losses they incurred in trucking products from depots to their filling stations anywhere in Nigeria. A source in the Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria also confirmed that its members were invited for the reconciliation meeting. “We already know the closing of the Fund would happen, and they have told us that it has even closed. We are now at the stage where our members and other depot owners are being invited to reconcile the account. They informed us that the account would be closed in the next 20 days, starting from yesterday (Wednesday) when the meeting was held,” the source told The PUNCH.

How I Balance My Career As Nollywood Actor And Lecturer – Afeez Oyetoro

Veteran Yoruba Nollywood actor, Afeez Oyetoro, popularly known as Saka, has revealed how he balances his career as an actor and lecturer.

makeitupnews reports that the movie star, in an interview with PUNCH, said he has learnt to always make effective use of his time for productive things. Afeez also acknowledged the role of his wife in his successful career, stressing it is always best to marry someone that shares your vision. He said, “I teach and I am also involved in theatre but I have been able to manage my time. The time some of my colleagues use at the beer parlour, I use mine for other productive things. Secondly, most producers in Nigeria know that I am a civil servant and as a result, most of my shooting takes place on weekends or during the holidays. “Also, I have a very good wife who takes good care of me. I always tell people that the best thing that can happen to a man is for him to get a wife who shares in his vision. My wife and I understand each other very well so that there is no problem at home. I have rest of mind in all that I am doing, and I also have time to rest.” Speaking on which of his career path is more rewarding for him, Saka said both his acting and teaching careers are rewarding in different ways. He said, “Rewarding is relative. As a teacher, I feel fulfilled because a lot of people have passed through me and that is a lifetime value. I have been in academics for almost 30 years. Recently, I went somewhere in Abuja to see someone I lectured and I was treated well. So, being a lecturer is rewarding, and it might not (necessarily) be financial. Being an actor is also rewarding financially and I enjoy it. “I believe that both a teacher and an actor are the same. While the teacher is teaching in class, an actor is teaching outside the class. Now, in terms of the reward, acting is financially more rewarding. However, teaching is more valued. I can count a number of people that have passed through me and are doing well.”

Nigeria Entertainment News ‘My Pregnancy For Portable Was Planned, Not Mistake’ – Nollywood Actress

Nollywood actress, Akinyanju Omobolarinde, better known as Ashabi, has revealed her pregnancy for controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okiki, popularly known as Portable, was planned and not a mistake. Naija News reports that the upcoming actress made this known during an interview with PUNCH, stressing they have plans to get married soon and she has no issues sharing the singer with other women.

Ashabi also refuted the claims of snatching Portable from his other wives and babymamas, saying she is just a shareholder and cannot take care of him alone. The thespian added that contrary to what people think, she is not with the ‘Zazoo Zeh’ crooner for his money. Nollywood actress, Akinyanju Omobolarinde, better known as Ashabi, has revealed her pregnancy for controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okiki, popularly known as Portable, was planned and not a mistake. The Patagonia Desert- A 4k Aerial Film of Argentina Naija News reports that the upcoming actress made this known during an interview with PUNCH, stressing they have plans to get married soon and she has no issues sharing the singer with other women. Ashabi also refuted the claims of snatching Portable from his other wives and babymamas, saying she is just a shareholder and cannot take care of him alone. The thespian added that contrary to what people think, she is not with the ‘Zazoo Zeh’ crooner for his money. She said, “We have introduced our families and hope to get married soon. I am an entertainer and I have thought about getting married to him properly. I did not get pregnant by mistake. It was planned and I do not expect to have issues with any of his wives or other baby mamas. “I see some comments that I want to snatch Portable but I am not here to snatch anyone. I am just a shareholder and I cannot take care of him alone because I have my career and child. I also want to work more and be famous. “He (Portable) has done many things for me but what stands out the most is the care and support he gives me. I am not here for the material things. I have produced movies and made my millions before meeting him. I have been a self-sponsored student even before I met him. I have been carrying responsibilities way back.” Responding to critics who often describe Portable as rough, the actress noted that the singer is a caring and understanding partner who is different off the stage. She said, “One cannot judge his personality from his performance because that is what he does for a living and he has to put in his best and energy. As my man, he has always been calm and caring. He is always available when I want to talk to him and he is a great listener. Those are some of the things I like the most about him.”

EFCC detains AMCON official over N120bn fraud in Arik Air

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has detained the Receiver Manager appointed by the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria for Arik Nigeria Limited, Mr Kamilu Omokide, over alleged misappropriation and diversion of about N120bn.

Saturday PUNCH learnt that the EFCC detained Omokide alongside one Captain Samuel Caulcrick in connection with alleged illegal sale and tearing down of a $41m CRJ 1000 aircraft, which was operated by Arik Air. Documents obtained by our correspondent on Friday revealed that the detention of the two top executives was sequel to a petition written by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), who is a solicitor to Arik Nigeria Limited. The petition detailed how there had been alleged financial fraud and sales of assets worth over N120bn. The petition, addressed to the EFCC Chairman, and dated April 27, read, “We are solicitors to Arik Nigeria Limited (hereinafter referred to as “our client”), on whose behalf and specific instructions we write you. Our client operates an airline in the aviation industry by offering air transportation services for passengers and cargo in Nigeria and has been in business since 2006. “In compliance with an ex parte order of the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria appointed a receiver manager to manage our client’s assets due to its financial obligation to some banks. “Pursuant to the said ex parte order, the said receiver manager has been overseeing the affairs of our client’s assets pursuant from 2017 to date. In the course of running the airline business the receiver has engaged in financial mismanagement, diversion of monies, sales of assets and misappropriation of funds belonging to Arik Airline. The petition listed the details of the alleged diversion of money, sale of assets and misappropriation of funds.

I’m not with Portable for money, says fiancée

Akinyanju Omobolarinde, aka Ashabi, the fiancée of popular singer, Habeeb Okiki aka Portable, has said contrary to what people think, she is not with the ‘Zazoo Zeh’ crooner for his money.

Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, she said, “He (Portable) has done many things for me but what stands out the most is the care and support he gives me. I am not here for the material things. I have produced movies and made my millions before meeting him. I have been a self-sponsored student even before I met him. I have been carrying responsibilities way back.” Ashabi, who is also an actress, revealed that they plan to get married soon and she has no issues sharing him with other women. She said, “We have introduced our families and hope to get married soon. I am an entertainer and I have thought about getting married to him properly. I did not get pregnant by mistake. It was planned and I do not expect to have issues with any of his wives or other baby mamas. I see some comments that I want to snatch Portable but I am not here to snatch anyone. I am just a shareholder and I cannot take care of him alone because I have my career and child. I also want to work more and be famous.” Responding to critics who often describe Portable as rough, the actress noted that the singer is a caring and understanding partner who is different off the stage. She said, “One cannot judge his personality from his performance because that is what he does for a living and he has to put in his best and energy. As my man, he has always been calm and caring. He is always available when I want to talk to him and he is a great listener. Those are some of the things I like the most about him.” Also, she spoke about the movies she has produced so far. She said, “I produced my first movie, ‘Ato’ in 2020. I also co-produced another movie with Juwon Ayorinde titled ‘Iyanje’. I then produced a movie in 2022, ‘Side Chic’ followed by another one, ‘My Relative’, the same year. I also have a new movie about to drop. It is titled ‘Owo Sina.’

6 things to know about acting EFCC chairman, Mohammed Abba

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday night suspended the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, AbdulRasheed Bawa. The suspension is to allow for a proper investigation into his conduct while in office following some weighty allegations of abuse of office levelled against him by some stakeholders in the anti-corruption fight. Upon his suspension, Bawa was directed to immediately hand over the affairs of his office to the agency’s Director of Operations, Mohammed Umar Abba, who will oversee the affairs of the office of the EFCC Chairman. Here are six things to know about the acting EFCC chairman: 1. Mohammed Umar Abba was born on June 22, 1965, in Tudunwada Local Government Area of Kano State. 2. Abba bagged his first degree from Bayero University, Kano. He did his one-year national service at the old Anambra State Police Command and later got enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force. He attended the Nigeria Police Academy, Kaduna State, where he was commissioned in 1992. 3. CP Abba was seconded to the Commission in January 2016 to head the Counterterrorism and General Investigations, CTGI, Section at the Headquarters in Abuja. 6 things to know about acting EFCC chairman, Mohammed Abba 14th June 2023 Mohammed Umar Acting EFCC chairman, Mohammed Umar Abba By Adekunle Sulaimon President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday night suspended the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, AbdulRasheed Bawa. The suspension is to allow for a proper investigation into his conduct while in office following some weighty allegations of abuse of office levelled against him by some stakeholders in the anti-corruption fight. Upon his suspension, Bawa was directed to immediately hand over the affairs of his office to the agency’s Director of Operations, Mohammed Umar Abba, who will oversee the affairs of the office of the EFCC Chairman. Here are six things to know about the acting EFCC chairman: 1. Mohammed Umar Abba was born on June 22, 1965, in Tudunwada Local Government Area of Kano State. Related News 2. Abba bagged his first degree from Bayero University, Kano. He did his one-year national service at the old Anambra State Police Command and later got enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force. He attended the Nigeria Police Academy, Kaduna State, where he was commissioned in 1992. 3. CP Abba was seconded to the Commission in January 2016 to head the Counterterrorism and General Investigations, CTGI, Section at the Headquarters in Abuja. 4. He was appointed the Director of Operations of the Commission in 2017. 5. In 2019, he was promoted to the rank of Commissioner of Police. 6. On July 9, 2020, Abba stepped in as the Acting Chairman of the Commission, being the most senior operational officer when the former chairman, Ibrahim Magu, was suspended.

Yakasai, others knock Kano govt over demolished roundabout

Some indigenes and residents of Kano State have condemned the demolition of the historic Kano government roundabout by Governor Abba Yusuf.

Governor Yusuf reportedly ordered the demolition in the early hours of Wednesday, and he personally supervised the demolition, which took less than three hours. The said roundabout, known as the Kano Golden Jubilee Monument, was erected in the year 2017 to commemorate Kano’s attainment of 50 years as a state. Reacting to the development, former special adviser to former governor Abdullahi Ganduje, Salihu Tanko Yakasai, said the demolition broke his heart. Yakasai said once the NNPP-led administration loses the trust of the Kano people, there is no gaining it back. “I woke up to this madness by Abba Rusau; this really breaks my heart. What justifiable reason is there to demolish this monument that has become the symbol of Kano? “We’ve not seen any plans for a new Kano. We’ve not heard of ways to make Kano greater; all I’ve been doing since assuming office is vindictiveness, some justified, others not so much. Once you lose the goodwill of Kano, there is no gaining it back, even if you turn it to Mecca. .“The argument that the Kano Monument causes traffic is so baseball. There is huge traffic every day around 5 p.m. in different parts of Kano. Instead of solving the traffic situation in Kano, you can’t go about destroying a monument. While you’re at it, please destroy the Kofar Kabuga underpass constructed by Kwankwaso. It also causes traffic. Since we are all mad. “We were told the Kano Monument causes traffic, we were told it causes accidents, and we were told Ganduje used it to syphon funds. They don’t even know which argument to put forward in defending this madness. All of these can be addressed without demolition of the monument.” Also reacting to the demolition through his social media handles, the publisher of Daily Nigerian, Jafar Jafar, described the demolition as a “thoughtless decision.” According to Jafar, the monument was designed by a young female architect to commemorate Kano’s Golden Jubilee. “We must all condemn this thoughtless decision to demolish this monument, designed by a young female architect to commemorate Kano’s Golden Jubilee. “I support the ongoing demolishing of private buildings in schools, hospitals, and mosques, but not the wanton destruction of public monuments/buildings, simply because they were built by Ganduje. I do not like the politician in Ganduje, but I like some of his projects as a governor.” Another commentator, Abdullahi Mohammed, said the historic roundabout “was the brainchild of the sub-committee on the monument, headed by a renowned Kano-born architect, and endorsed and approved by the main committee of 51 prominent Kanawas, chaired by the late Prof. Umar of blessed memory and co-chaired by then deputy governor of Kano state, H.E Prof. Hafiz Abubakar.

BREAKING: Tinubu suspends EFCC chair, Bawa

The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has indefinitely suspended the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, AbdulRasheed Bawa, from office.

He said this is to allow for a thorough investigation into his conduct while in office following “weighty allegations ” of abuse of office against him. This was contained in a statement by the Director of Information, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Willie Bassey, on Wednesday. Bawa was, however, directed to immediately handover to the Director, Operations in the Commission pending the conclusion of the investigation. The statement read, “President Tinubu has approved the indefinite suspension from office of AbdulRasheed Bawa, CON, as the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to allow for proper investigation into his conduct while in office. This follows weighty allegations of abuse of office levelled against him. “Mr Bawa has been directed to immediately handover the affairs of his office to the Director, Operations in the Commission, who will oversee the affairs of the Office of the Chairman of the Commission pending the conclusion of the investigation.”

Arise TV interview: Sirika lied about Air Peace, says COO

The Chief Operating Officer, Air Peace, Toyin Olajide, has stated that the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, lied about some of the claims he made on Air Peace during his Sunday interview on Arise Television. The ex-minister, while praising Ethiopian Airline, stated that Air Peace leased ‘two’ Boeing 777 aircraft on a monthly lease fee of $250,000, parked the aircraft for several months and incurred losses of $19 million while all the aircraft engines and landing gears became due for replacement when the airline were ready to fly.

Sirika went on to ask, “who does that?” He stated that Ethiopian Airlines would never do that. Responding to this, Olajide in a statement said, “this is a blatant lie as we have three and not two Boeing 777 aircraft which were never leased or rented, but were purchased outrightly by the airline. “Air peace never incurred such a loss, we never paid rentals contrary to his lies. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority can attest to the purchase and ownership of the Aircraft by Air peace.” The former minister also said that the airline stopped flying to Dubai because it lacks capacity. The COO of Air Peace also described this as “another stark lie.” According to her, Air Peace never stopped the Dubai operations because of lack of capacity. She said, Airpeace commenced operations into the UAE in July, 2019, but in October 2022, the UAE Government announced a total visa ban on Nigerians.“Neither Emirates nor Air Peace is operating the Nigerian/UAE route since the ban. The persisting non-issuance of visas and the accompanying inconveniences necessitated the suspension of our Dubai operations from November 22, 2022 till date. “For the former minister to ascribe the suspension to ‘lack of capacity’ is not only shocking but also shows how keen he is to disparage an airline that has defied all the commercial odds and hostile environment placed on its path to continue to serve our nation proudly. “How could an airline that placed a firm order for 13 brand new E2-195 aircraft, a firm order of 15 Boeing 737 Max 8 & Max 10, with over 30 aircraft already in its existing fleet be accused of lacking in capacity? “How can an Airline that stood up for the entire nation during the Covid-19 outbreak, and embarked on rescue operations worldwide, evacuating Nigerians from far away China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India, UK and South Africa during the Covid-19 lockdowns be accused of lacking capacity?,” Olajide added. She, however, urged the general public to disregard the comments made by the former Minister of Aviation against Air Peace during the interview on Arise Television. She added,“We take serious exception to a situation where Air Peace is being misrepresented in the public sphere, causing wrong perceptions about our brand.”

Democracy Day: Tinubu hails MKO Abiola, promises to ease subsidy removal pains

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, hailed the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola. He described the late businessman who died in suspicious circumstances after his election was annulled by the late Gen Sani Abacha, as the symbol of democracy. Tinubu, who acknowledged the hardship being faced by Nigerians in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal, said his administration will “reward” their sacrifices with “massive investment” in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that will improve their quality of life.

The President who said he identified with the pain of Nigerians argued that the temporal discomfort was necessary to save the country from going under. “I feel your pain. This is one decision we must bear to save our country from going under and take our resources away from the stranglehold of a few unpatriotic elements,” Tinubu said in his maiden Democracy Day address to Nigerians as President. In his inaugural speech on May 29, the President stated that subsidy can no longer justify its ever-increasing costs in the wake of drying resources. Therefore, it had to go. The PUNCH reported that the aftermath of Tinubu’s announcement was the increase in petrol pump price from N195 to N537 nationwide, alongside an ancillary price increase. Addressing the aftermath of the move, he said, “It is for this reason that, in my inauguration address on May 29, I gave effect to the decision taken by my predecessor-in-office to remove the fuel subsidy albatross and free up for collective use the much-needed resources, which had hitherto been pocketed by a few rich. “I admit that the decision will impose an extra burden on the masses of our people. Painfully, I have asked you, my compatriots, to sacrifice a little more for the survival of our country. “For your trust and belief in us, I assure you that your sacrifice shall not be in vain. The government I lead will repay you through massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that will improve the quality of lives.” Speaking of the rule of law, the President said his administration will not condone conflicting and illegal orders that undermine Nigeria’s democracy. He also described the bill he signed into law on June 8 for the harmonisation of the retirement age for judicial officers as one of many policy reforms to come. “For Chief MKO Abiola, the symbol of this day, in whose memory June 12 became a national holiday, democracy is eternal. “It is about the rule of law and vibrant judiciary that can be trusted to deliver justice and strengthen institutions. It has become imperative to state here that the unnecessary illegal orders used to truncate or abridge democracy will no longer be tolerated Judges retirement age “The recent harmonisation of the retirement age for judicial officers is meant to strengthen the rule of law, which is a critical pillar of democracy. The reform has just started,” he said. President Tinubu described the February and March elections as a true testament of Nigeria’s democratic journey, adding that the current legal contestations of the results are the “beauty of democracy.” He said “This year, we held the seventh in the cycle of elections that have become sacred rituals of our democratic practice in this dispensation since 1999. “That the polls were intensely contested is in itself positive evidence that democracy is well and alive in our land. It is only natural that even as those who won and experienced victory in the various elections are elated and fulfilled, those who lost are disenchanted and disappointed. “But the beauty of democracy is that those who win today can lose tomorrow and those who lose today will have an opportunity to compete and win in the next round of elections.” “Those who cannot endure and accept the pain of defeat in elections do not deserve the joy of victory when it is their turn to triumph. “Above all, those who disagree with the outcome of the elections are taking full advantage of the constitutional provisions to seek redress in court and that is one of the reasons why democracy is still the best form of government invented by man,” Tinubu added. Reminiscing on the 1993 struggles that ushered in a civilian government in 1999, the President venerated the Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, Alfred Rewane and Maj-Gen Shehu Yar’Adua who were silenced by the military junta saying “They gave their yesterday for the liberty that is ours today.” President hails Abiola “We can easily recall the sacrifice and martyrdom of Chief MKO Abiola, the custodian of the sacred mandate that was so cruelly annulled. “He sacrificed his life in unyielding, patriotic defense of the ideals of democracy as symbolized in his choice, by his fellow countrymen and women, as their duly-elected President. “There was an easier choice for him. It was to forgo the justice of his cause and opt for the path of ease and capitulation in the face of the tyranny of power. To his eternal credit and immortal glory, Abiola said no. He demonstrated the time-tested eternal truth that there are certain ideals and principles that are far more valuable than life itself,” said the President. Therefore, he urged Nigerians not to take the liberty they now enjoy for granted as it was obtained through great sacrifice. “The point is that we must never take this democracy for granted. We must forever jealously guard and protect it like a precious jewel. “For, a people can never truly appreciate the freedoms and rights democracy guarantees them until they lose it.” He pledged his administration’s commitment to diligently fulfill every component of its electoral pact with the people – the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda. “We shall be faithful to truth. Faithful to equity. And faithful to justice. “We shall exercise our authority and mandate to govern with fairness, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to always uphold the dignity of all our people,” the President concluded.

IPOB opposes alleged ear surgery for Nnamdi Kanu

The Indigenous People of Biafra has warned the Federal Government and the Department of State Services against any plan to subject its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to an ear surgery while in custody.

IPOB’s Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, who said this in a statement on Sunday, claimed that the alleged surgery was a plot to eliminate Kanu. Powerful said, “IPOB completely rejects any ill-conceived surgery on our leader, Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB, who has been illegally and unconstitutionally detained in DSS dungeon for two years without charge. We reiterate that he should be released to his personal physicians who will perform the prescribed ear surgery on him. “We want to draw the attention of IPOB Worldwide, all lovers of freedom and lovers of Biafra to the dangerous plans to neutralise Mazi Nnamdi Kanu through ear surgery by the enemies on DSS medical team. “It’s obvious that DSS has intentions to eliminate our leader through this ill-conceived ear surgery. That’s why they refused to allow Nnamdi Kanu access to his personal and trusted physicians. “Therefore, we reject any DSS or Nigerian government sponsored-surgery on our leader while he is still being detained illegally in solitary confinement. “It’s true that our leader requires urgent ear surgery from the injury the Nigeria agents inflicted on him when he was kidnapped and tortured in Kenya. However, such surgery will not take place while he is still inside DSS dungeon. What will happen if he develops any medical complications during or after the surgery in the detention facilities? Nnamdi Kanu must be unconditionally released as the courts ordered or released on medical grounds to attend to his health.”

Betara, Gagdi step down, Presidency backs Christian Senate president,

The Presidency on Sunday explained its decision to back a Christian as a Senate President. It explained that Nigeria could not afford to have a Muslim as a Senate President at this time having produced Muslims as President and the Vice-President.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who said these at a dinner with lawmakers across party lines in Abuja on Saturday night, noted that the party came up with the consensus ticket of Senator GodsWill Akpabio as Senate President and Jibrin Barau as Deputy in the interest of the stability of the country. Shettima said this as two aspirants for the position of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aliyu Betara and Yusuf Gagdi, were reported to have stepped down. Explaining the position of President Bola Tinubu, the Vice-President said Nigeria could not afford to have a Muslim as a Senate President since both the President and VP are Muslims, stressing that the President of the Senate should be a Christian. The PUNCH had reported the uproar over the same faith presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress which featured Tinubu and Shettima in the run-up to the February 25 presidential poll. Having won the election, parliamentarians and other stakeholders had been clamouring for the balance of power and inclusivity, insisting that a Christian must be included in the nation’s top power hierarchy. In response to this, the APC’s National Working Committee zoned the Senate President to the South-South and nominated Akpabio, a Christian, as the preferred candidate and Senator Jibrin Barau from North-West for Deputy Senate President. Similarly, the party nominated Tajudeen Abbas (Kaduna/North-West) for Speaker; and Benjamin Kalu (Abia/South-East) for Deputy Speaker. However, some aspirants for the Senate Presidency and the Speaker have continued to insist on contesting for the positions in open defiance of the zoning arrangement announced by the ruling party in early May. The recalcitrant contestants including Senators Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara West), Orji Kalu ( Abia North) and Osita Izunaso ( Imo West), and Sani Musa from Niger State, said they would not step down for the party’s consensus aspirants for the two senate leadership positions. But validating the zoning arrangement at the dinner, the Vice President attributed the APC’s decision to President Tinubu’s administration’s desire to foster inclusivity in the interest of the nation. Senator Shettima said, “Here we are with a Muslim president and a Muslim vice president in a multi-ethnic, multi-religious polity like ours. I was a child of circumstance. “Equity, justice, and fairness demand that the number three citizen of this country should be of the Christian faith. What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. But most importantly, we should make deliberate efforts to take inclusivity in governance. Shettima further appealed to the lawmakers to consider the interest of the country above that of their pockets. He said, “This is a young nation where every community will like to have fair representation on the dinner table of their kinsmen. “Politics is about perception, politics is about optics. I want to appeal to you, I want to appeal to your conscience. There is stability and inclusivity and togetherness in this nation that supersedes the depth of our pockets, stability of our pockets. “Under the current dispensation, the worst, the most incompetent southern Christian is better than the most puritanical northern Muslim for the presidency of the Senate. We are talking about the sustainability of the nation; the nation is at a crossroads.” The Vice President submitted that some parts of the country felt excluded from the previous administration as the president, senate president, speaker and others were of the Muslim faith, adding it would be wrong to have a repeat of such a situation in the current government. He said, “Number one, two, three, four, and five all from the same faith for God’s sake, we can’t do that. I am ready to kneel and beg my colleagues in the Senate for the sake of the nation. This is for the survival of this nation. I am even going to talk to a senator tonight just for the sake of this nation.” The consensus candidate of the party, Senator Akpabio noted that the lawmakers were willing to work for the stability of the country. Akpabio said, “Vice President, sir, we have committed ourselves to your administration alongside President Bola Tinubu to ensure the stability of Nigeria.” In his comment, Senator Barau reiterated the president’s commitment to the progress, unity, and stability of the country. He assured that the 10th Assembly would commit itself to the values of unity and peaceful co-existence of the nation. The Director-General of the Stability group, Senator Ali Ndume, noted that the group was assured of votes from 80 lawmakers but currently has assurance from 73 senators. Meanwhile, Emeka Nwala, the Chief Press Secretary to Senator Kalu, noted that Yari and Kalu were still in the race and not backing down. In the same vein, the media consultant to Senator Izunaso, Kehinde Olaosebikan, noted that his boss couldn’t back down in the last days, especially knowing that he is the best man for the job. He said, “We have not stepped down and we are not stepping down. Sen Izunaso is the best among them, he will win. Nigeria deserves the best. It’s about service to Nigeria. “We are not talking about being a running mate to someone. We are talking about him being the Senate President. I’m not aware if a decision has been made on a running mate with Yari.” Speaking on the number of lawmakers on his side, he said they have several people on their side but reeling out figures wasn’t an assurance of getting people’s votes. Efforts to get comments from Senator Yari’s camp proved abortive as phone calls made to the Assistant Director General of his campaign team, Senator Abdul Nengi failed. In a new development, the Joint Task – 10th Assembly, a coalition of members-elect of the 10th House of Representatives across party lines, has said two leading contenders, Aliyu Betara and Yusuf Gagdi, have stepped down for the APC consensus speakership candidate. The Tajudeen Abbas/ Benjamin Kalu Joint Task Campaign Office made the claim in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday. The development is coming ahead of plans by the G-7 to announce its final resolution on the speakership race on Monday (today). The group includes the incumbent Deputy Speaker Ahmed Wase; the Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, Yusuf Gagdi; Chairman, the House Committee on Appropriations, Aliyu Betara; Chairman, House Committee on Water Resources, Sada Soli; Chinedu Ogah, Miriam Onuoha, and Sani Jaji. The Joint Task’s statement was titled ‘Disregard claims that Tinubu wasn’t aware of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas’ adoption by APC…Rt. Hon. Abbas expresses readiness to win on the floor on Tuesday…as Betara, Gagdi step down for Abbas.’ The group was refuting reports that Tinubu did not expressly direct the lawmakers to vote for Abbas and Kalu during his meeting with the members-elect last week. It partly read, “It has come to the attention of the Joint Task – 10th Assembly that some aspirants for the Speakership of the 10th House of Representatives claimed that the President/Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, never mentioned the name of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas was his preferred candidate for Speaker, but the President only said he aligned with the position of the All Progressives Congress National Working Committee on the zoning arrangement. “It is pertinent to mention that the so-called G-7 no longer exists as key members of the forum such as Rt. Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, Rt. Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, Rt. Hon. Makki Yalleman and Rt. Hon. Raheem Tunji Olawuyi, among others, have since dropped their speakership ambitions and declared support for the Abbas/Kalu ticket. “It is worthy to note that Betara and Gagdi announced that they stepped down for Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas today, Sunday June 11, 2023 after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. “As of Sunday, June 11, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (Ph.D.) has secured the endorsement of the overwhelming majority of members-elect across the eight political parties in the six geopolitical zones, and he is ready to compete on the floor of the House and take the mantle of leadership of the 10th House come Tuesday, June 13, 2023.” The campaign organisation stated that the APC NWC, on May 8 “consulted with the President before reaching that resolution.” The Abbas/Kalu group added, “Therefore, it is preposterous to claim that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not aware of the adoption of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas as the Speaker. We urge the public, especially the media, to disregard such claims.” Neither Betara nor Gagdi could be reached as of press time on Sunday night to confirm if they had stepped down from the speakership race, and for whom. In the meantime, the Coalition of Northern Groups has raised concerns about plans to allegedly arrest and intimidate northern aspirants for the National Assembly principal offices. In a statement on Sunday by CNG spokesperson, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the group said the elements who were hatching the evil plans were “bent on smearing the good relationship of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the North”. Suleiman, in the statement, disclosed that the widely speculated plot involved the introduction of a suspicious voting system to track the NASS voting patterns as well as a plan to block members-elect opposed to the candidacy of Akpabio, from gaining access to the NASS complex on the day of the inauguration. Meanwhile, Betara an Gagdi, on Sunday night withdrew their candidacy to support the zoning arrangement of the APC. Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this at the end of closed-door negotiations between President Bola Tinubu and both lawmakers which held at Tinubu’s Asokoro residence on Sunday evening. He told journalists that President Tinubu was pleased with the gesture of Aliyu Betara and Yusuf Gadgi to place the interest of the party above their personal ambitions. Flanked by the Betara and Gagdi, Shettima said “Rt. Hon Betara and Gadgi have graciously accepted to step down and endorse the candidature of Tajudeen Abbas for the speakership of the Federal House of Representatives. “The President was quite touched by their gesture because what binds us together is superior to whatever that divides us. We are one big APC family and together, we shall cross the Rubicon on Tuesday. We cannot thank them enough for their sacrifice and we want to commend the roles played by the Chief of Staff to Mr. President, His Excellency the Governor of Niger State, by the leadership of the party here represented by the Deputy National Chairman (North). I think our party members will breathe a sigh of relief.” Therefore, the Vice President urged other contenders such as the current Deputy Speaker, Ahmed Wase, Sada Soli and Aminu Jaji to emulate the gesture. “We call on the other candidates such as Rt. Hon. Wase, Hon. Sada Soli and Rt. Hon. Aminu Jaji, to also see reasons to channel their candidacy to Abbas so that as a family, we can create a better future for our dear nation,” he said.

The supreme sacrifice that nurtured democracy : MKO

Across the length and breadth of the country, Nigerians of voting age, came out to elect Chief Moshood Abiola on June 12, 1993, who despite running alongside a fellow Muslim, garnered sufficient votes to win the presidential poll. In a dramatic twist however, the military government cancelled the election, sparking violent skirmishes nationwide, which culminated in the arrest, imprisonment and eventual death in mysterious circumstance of Abiola five years later. In this piece, DIRISU YAKUBU examines the significance of June 12 in the nation’s political history

Some have described it (June 12) as the biggest singular event, trailing perhaps only the attainment of independence in 1960. On June 12, 1993, 14 million Nigerians came out to exercise their civic responsibility and they did so with relish. Everywhere, Nigerians in their numbers craved an end to military dictatorship and were patient enough to ensure General Ibrahim Babangida’s maradonic transition programme to democracy eventually came to fruition. They were wrong! The phased transition programme, which took the form of diarchy, had already seen elected governors sworn-in at the various states, with the presidential election left to send the military back to the barracks. In his usual crafty disposition, gap-toothed Babangida, working hand-in-gloves with some civilian collaborators had disqualified the leading presidential candidates, Mallam Adamu Ciroma of the National Republican Convention and Shehu Yar’ Adua of the Social Democratic Party. As it were, the reasons advanced for their disqualification rested on allegations of fraudulent electoral manipulation in the primaries conducted by the two parties. Their disqualification would later pave way for the emergence of billionaire businessman and philanthropist, Bashorun Moshood Abiola for the SDP and Kano-based businessman, Bashir Tofar for the NRC. Both men were friends of IBB; a development the retired general complained bitterly about in his conversation with veteran journalist, Dan Agbese. As captured by Agbese in his brilliant biography of the Minna-Born General, titled, “Ibrahim Babangida: The Military, Politics and Power in Nigeria,” IBB recalled sharing with his trusted allies his worries that the standard bearers in the two-party system he foisted on the nation were his friends. “I told him (Tofa) in the presence of about 13 of his colleagues. I advised him not to seek election, I didn’t support him. He was not a winning candidate,” Agbese quoted the self-styled former military president as saying. As it were, Abiola was certainly not in the league of his NRC’s counterpart, having made himself popular with financial donations to worship centres (mosques and churches inclusive), sporting events as well as sponsorship of financially-handicapped children in elementary, secondary and higher institutions of learning across the land. Tofa, who had picked a southern Christian, Sylvester Ugoh, as his running mate was tipped by many pundits to clinch the grand prize just as Abiola’s decision to run on a joint ticket with a fellow Muslim, Babagana Kingibe, was labelled insensitive. But despite the religious plurality of the Nigerian State, Abiola was coasting home to victory when the election was annulled by General Babangida, on the advice of Arthur Nzeribe-led Association for Better Nigeria. The annulment sparked violent protest across the nation as democracy advocates, the media, civil society organisations among others, put their lives on the line in demand for the announcement of the result of the exercise. Unable to stand the heat, the military dictator “stepped aside” and handed over to London-trained lawyer, Ernest Shonekan, as head of the Interim National Government, who barely a few months in the saddle, was shoved aside by General Sani Abacha. There are unverified claims that Abacha had promised to restore Abiola’s mandate but with no visible commitment to deliver on that pledge, if ever he made one, Abiola took his destiny in his hands by declaring himself the President of Nigeria. Events that followed would culminate in the death of Abiola in 1998 in questionable circumstances after the dark-goggled General had joined his ancestors a year earlier. The man who succeeded Abacha, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, inherited a pariah state. The International community, having ostracized Nigeria and impose a legion of sanctions against her during the bloody rein of Abacha, rendered Abubakar with no choice than to find ways of righting the wrongs collectively inflicted on Africa’s largest nation by the duo of Babangida and Abacha. The military for the first time, agreed that the South-West whose son, Abiola, was not only denied his mandate but had his wife, Kudirat killed in broad day light by suspected agents of the state and died himself while in government custody, should be allowed to produce an elected President. They brought in the civil war hero, General Olusegun Obasanjo, who would go on to win the election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party in 1999 and repeated the feat four years later in 2003.

Okei-Odumakin wants June 12 campaigners’ reunion

As Nigeria marks the 30th anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election widely believed to have been won by the late MKO Abiola, a sociopolitical activitist, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, has called for a reunion of all pro-democracy activitists, who battled the military over the annulled election.

Okei-Odumakin, alongside the late human rights lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi, Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana, Frank Kokori, among others, led protests attempting to force the hands of the military junta to free Abiola from detention and hand him his electoral victory. In a statement on Sunday titled, “June 12: An activist as President,” Okei-Odumakin said while it was good that Bola Tinubu, one of the champions of democracy, had become President, other activists who confronted the military to demand democracy deserved being recognised as well. She said, “On June 12, there should be a healthy reunion of erstwhile June 12 activists. The one in Aso Rock and those in other rocks. “This is germane, since the annulment of June 12 election results was the worst kind of rigging to ever occur in Nigeria. “Bola Tinubu was a National Democratic Coalition member. What NADECO did was to ask Abacha some uncomfortable questions. “He had to escape through the NADECO route when he was being asked for his life as an answer. Others were served the same compliments. “Yet, the story today is not what Tinubu did or failed to do. I just reflected on the ‘others’. Where are we? Where are the others who have not rested and not turned political moguls? Why has Tinubu attained the heights alone? “Did he walk right and the other chieftains walked wrong or they walked right and he changed path, that one could not follow the other?” Okei-Odumakin said the gathering she craved was not targeted at “any juicy appointments but to rise in duty and in dignity to make offerings of the mind.” Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has urged Nigerians to keep faith with democracy despite setbacks experienced in the country’s democratic sojourn. In a statement to commemorate the 2023 Democracy Day, the governor hailed the resolve of Nigerians to work collectively for the advancement of democratic ideals. He said, “As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, it is imperative to underscore the unwavering resolve of Nigerians to work collectively for the advancement of democratic ideals in our nation. “Though we have experienced setbacks and challenges as a democracy along the way, I applaud the indomitable Nigerian spirit because we have continued to trudge on and demand a more transparent, just and fair system. This is even as our faith in the merit and relevance of democracy grows stronger.”