In the wake of  Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) suspending Foreign Exchange (FX) supply to Bureau De Changes (BDCs), six banks in nine months of 2021 produced N145.6billion revenue from exchanging FX. 

The six banks in earlier nine months of 2020 had created a sum of N47.16billion from exchanging the FX market. 

The six banks are Sterling bank Plc, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, Wema Bank Plc, Guaranty trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), Access bank Plc and United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA). 

For example, Sterling Bank announced N4.75billion from FX trading nine months of 2021 from N128million revealed in nine months of 2020, while Wema Bank developed its FX trading income by 47% to N207million nine months of 2021 from N141 million in nine months of 2020.

Union Bank of Nigeria announced N3.44billion FX trading income nine months of 2021, an increase of 51.05 percent from N2.28billion announced in nine months of 2020. 

Tier-1 banks also benefitted massively from FX exchanging pay the period with Access bank announcing a net FX exchanging gain of N86.81billion nine months of 2021, 587 percent expansion from N12.63billion revealed in nine months of 2020. 

United Bank of Africa detailed 78.8 percent increment in FX trading income to N35.56billion nine months of 2021 from N19.88billion in nine months of 2020, while GTCO developed its FX tradingg gain to N14.88billion nine months of 2021 from N12.10billion revealed in nine months of 2020. 

The Central Bank had in July this reported that it has finished the deals of FX to BDC administrators, expressing that the equal market has turned into a conductor for illegal FX flows of currency. 

The national bank had additionally declared that it will likewise at not approve applications for BDC licenses in the country. 

Analysts communicated that the suspension of FX to BDC administrators decidedly affected on banks worth of FX exchanging, focusing on that the change of Naira to N410.8 (selling rate) against the Dollar additionally added to trading income. 

The Governor, Central Bank, Mr. Godwin Emefiele in February expressed that naira deteriorated at the authority market to N410 against the dollar. 

Emefiele said the drop in raw petroleum income and the related decrease in foreign portfolio inflows essentially impacted the stock of unfamiliar trade into Nigeria. 

He said, "In order to adjust for the decrease in the supply of foreign exchange, the naira depreciated at the official window from N305/$ to N360/$ and now hovers around N410/$."

Talking with THISDAY on the turn of events, investigator examiner at PAC Holdings, Mr. Wole Adeyeye said the volume of FX exchanging banks expanded in the midst of the CBN suspension of FX to BDCs. 

He stated that clients needing FX for Basic Transport Allowance (BTA), among other legitimate exchanges engaged prompting an increase in generated income during that period. 

“A lot bank customers who transact foreign business and, seeking for Personal Travel Allowance (PTA) drive volume of FX trading in the banking sector. Besides, the adjustment of FX by CBN also impacted on income generated by banks,” Adeyeye.
Also speaking, the Vice President, Highcap securities, Mr. David Adnori, said the fee charged on FX income increased in the period as banks recorded hike in flow of transactions.

“Bank customers who could have accessed FX from BDC operators were patronizing banks and that increases fees they were collecting from collecting. Banks were also trading FX which is expected to increase income generated in the period.”

He clarified further that increasing foreign reserves implies the apex bank can meet all legitimate transactions channeled through banks. 

The CBN had said that parallel market represented less than one percent of FX transactions and should never be used to determine Nigeria’s dollar exchange rate.
However, some banks recorded decline, while some losses amid the FX devaluation of the naira.

Top tier 1 banks like Zenith Bank and GTCO recorded decline, while UBA recorded loss in the period under review.
Zenith Bank in nine months of 2021 recorded 25 per cent in foreign currency revaluation gain to N15.42 billion from N20.57billion reported in nine months of 2020, while GTCO’s Foreign currency revaluation gain dropped by 28 per cent to N15.48billion in nine months of 2021 from N21.62billion in nine months of 2020.

In addition, UBA reported foreign currency revaluation loss of N11.2 billion in nine months of 2021 from N9.23billion reported in nine months of 2020.
Adnori added that: “a weaker naira also increases Nigerian banks’ risk-weighted assets related to their foreign currency loans, putting negative pressure on their capital metrics, but, the banks hold good capital buffers.”

Senator Ali Ndume has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately sign or issue an Unexplained Wealth Order, as a way of reinforcing the battle against corruption. 

Ndume stated this in Ibadan while conveying the 2021 Distinguish Leadership Lecture Series, coordinated by the University of Ibadan. The lecture topic was discussed was: The Unexplained Wealth and the Fight Against Corruption in Nigeria', was held at the Trenchard Hall of the college. 

Ndume, who is the Chairman of Senate Standing Committee on Army, likewise encouraged Buhari to persuade the National Assembly to pass the Proceeds of Crime Bill on schedule “regardless of bickering on the management of the proceeds recovered”.

The senator said there was a need for a closer look to be taken at instances of corruption “most especially, those occasioned by public officers who are in trust of public wealth." 

He said, “Our crusade against this monster (corruption) should start from politicians, top public servants, civil servants down to local governments’ staff."

“For the perpetrators, it is not difficult to identify the tendencies exhibited by these officers; acquiring landed property in and outside the country, having fat bank deposits, buying expensive cars, or marrying so many wives.”

He said that the fight against corruption is the duty of the nation and its citizens.

“It changes our good culture, it breeds injustice and impunity, every citizen has a role to play.”

Ndume also called for the government to take tangible steps in protecting whistleblowers, calling for a whistleblower policy to be reexamined, highlighted that whistleblowers should be motivated by patriotism, not reward. 

He said that the whistleblower policy must be revisited; stressing motivation for whistleblowers shouldn’t just be the reward, but patriotism. Ndume also encouraged whistleblowers to report incidents on all levels of governance including locally, guaranteeing that they would be protected by law. 

Ndume lastly directed  anti-corruption agencies such as Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission, Economic and Financial Crime Commission and Department of State Security to take whistleblowers seriously, conducting investigations on whistleblowing reports, “however casual it may be”.

Mr Abdulrasheed Maina, former Chairman of the now defunct Pension Reform Task Team, (PRTT),  has been convicted and sentenced to eight years in jail for tax evasion by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

The court, in a judgment conveyed by Justice Okon Abang, found Maina guilty on all 12 counts. These charges were levelled against him and his organization: Common Input Property and Investment Limited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC). 

Justice Abang held that the essential ingredients of the offences contained in the charge, were proved beyond a reasonable doubt.

The court requested Maina and his company to restore about N2.1billion that was traced to their bank accounts. This sum is to be paid to the Federal Government, after which the company will be wound up. 

Furthermore, the forfeiture of Maina's two properties at Life Camp and Jabi areas of Abuja, to the government have been ordered along with the auction of his bulletproof vehicle and BMW 5 series.

Justice Abang highlighted that though the law empowered the court to sentence issue the maximum sentence of 14 years, the court was moved by Maina's plea for mercy in issuing the 8 year sentence. 

Mr Abdulrasheed Maina, former Chairman of the now defunct Pension Reform Task Team, (PRTT),  has been convicted and sentenced to eight years in jail for tax evasion by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

The court, in a judgment conveyed by Justice Okon Abang, found Maina guilty on all 12 counts. These charges were levelled against him and his organization: Common Input Property and Investment Limited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC). 

Justice Abang held that the essential ingredients of the offences contained in the charge, were proved beyond a reasonable doubt.

The court requested Maina and his company to restore about N2.1billion that was traced to their bank accounts. This sum is to be paid to the Federal Government, after which the company will be wound up. 

Furthermore, the forfeiture of Maina's two properties at Life Camp and Jabi areas of Abuja, to the government have been ordered along with the auction of his bulletproof vehicle and BMW 5 series.

Justice Abang highlighted that though the law empowered the court to sentence issue the maximum sentence of 14 years, the court was moved by Maina's plea for mercy in issuing the 8 year sentence. 

ADDRESS BY THE HON. MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND CULTURE, ALHAJI LAI MOHAMMED, AT THE LAUNCH OF THE DIGITAL SWITCH OVER (DSO) IN KANO, KANO STATE, ON TUESDAY, 2 NOV. 2021

Protocol

I am delighted to be here today for the launch of the Digital Switch Over (DSO) in Kano State. I want to most sincerely thank His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and indeed the people and government of Kano State, for their support and cooperation in making today's launch a reality. Please permit me to emphasize the fact that His Excellency's passion for the DSO Project is admirable and unparalleled. I have had occasions to discuss the DSO Project with His Excellency, and he has never left me in any doubt about his passion and commitment to the success of the project, especially in Kano State. His Excellency even invited me to address, in Abuja, members of his cabinet, as well as state and federal legislators from Kano State on the benefits of the DSO Project. Your Excellency, I thank you once again.

2. I also wish to commend all the stakeholders who have worked hard for the success of today's launch. They include the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the Digiteam, Broadcast Signal Distributors, Set-Top-Box Manufacturers, the Middleware providers - Inview and Renmore -, Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) and all members of the Ministerial Task Force on DSO, which I personally chair.

3. Let me take us through the recent history of our efforts at rolling out the DSO project across the country. Our last DSO launch was in Lagos on April 29th 2021, and it marked the beginning of the second phase of the DSO rollout. Since we launched the pilot programme of the DSO in Jos, Plateau State, on 30 April 2016, we have rolled out the DSO in the Federal Capital Territory, in Kwara State, in Kaduna State, in Enugu State and in Osun State. The journey may have been slow, but it has been steady and we will keep it so!

4. The Federal Government is vigorously implementing a comprehensive nationwide process of transitioning from analogue to digital television broadcasting, which is referred to as the Digital Switchover (DSO) project. The decision to transition from analogue to digital television followed a treaty that was signed at the Regional Radiocommunication Conference (RRC-06) in Geneva, Switzerland, on June 16, 2016 to usher in ‘all-digital’ terrestrial broadcast services for sound and television. This is aimed at creating a more equitable, just and people-centered Information Society, which would connect underserved populations and remote communities, thereby bridging the digital divide.

5. The key benefits of digital television broadcasting are:
- Wider choice in TV and radio channels;
- Improved picture, e.g. HD, UHD and High-Fidelity sound
- Greater flexibility with the potential for portable and mobile reception;
- Enhanced information services including the Electronic Programming Guide or enhanced ‘teletext’ services (with enhanced graphics);
- Potential for interactivity; and
- Increased market competition and innovation thanks to the potential arrival of new entrants at different levels in the value-chain, for instance new service providers, broadcasters, etc.

6. Additionally, the DSO process can enable a variety of competing service offers, improve digital service coverage even in remote places, and improve access to communication networks while acting as a catalyst for better management of spectrum resources. Due to bandwidth restrictions, analogue television only offers a small selection of programs and is therefore outmoded. The same transmission channel used to broadcast a single analogue program can carry a multiplex of up to 20 digital programmes of better quality. Thus, the DSO television platform, branded as FreeTV, provides users with over 60 digital channels, ranging from sports and music to movies and the latest headlines. Both DTT and DTH transmissions of FreeTV are readily available throughout the country.

7. In addition to the broadcast services, FreeTV offers Value Added

Services such as:

i) Enforcement & Collection of TV Licenses
ii) Premium PayTV channels
iii) Push Video on Demand
iv) Information Services, and
v) Audience Measurement.

8. The Federal Government is prioritizing the DSO project because it is critical to the post-Covid recovery and prosperity of the Creative Industry. The Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, working with its relevant agencies - NBC and APCON - has commenced the process of implementing Audience Measurement, which will go a long way in driving advertising spend to the DSO platform, thus helping the channels to fulfill their obligations to the Signal Distributors. We have also instituted a number of reforms, some of them necessitating amendments to the Broadcasting Code which we have since carried out, with a view to encouraging investments in the Broadcast Industry in particular and the Creative Industry in general. On Monday (yesterday), I received the good news that a Federal High Court in Lagos has thrown out the case brought by some busybodies challenging our power to amend the Broadcasting Code. This laudable judgement has cleared the way for investments to flow into the Broadcast Industry.

9. As I have always said, the absence of a world class audience measurement regime has resulted in under-investment in the sector, which is necessary to foster the growth of the industry, as the Advertising community continues to rely on subjective factors when making decisions on the content they want, as opposed to how many viewers the content truly attracts. Consequently, television platforms are subjected to renting out space on their channels to sustain their businesses, and content producers are at the mercy of sponsors, a development which, unfortunately, skews the authenticity of their creative output in favor of a few decision makers, instead of the millions of TV viewers. The existing model will never enable Nigeria’s Creative Industry to reach its full potential. It stunts the quality of the content that can be created and also limits the capacity of television platforms to invest in dynamic contents that consumers will be attracted to.

10. The Federal Government is also putting in place an Industry Framework that will ensure that content producers receive their just due for the value of the content they create, as well as provide objective guarantees to the Advertising community with regards to Return-On-Investment on media placements. This will then have the overall effect of guaranteeing greater spend by the Advertisers, who are all seeking to grow their market share. The Ministry, through NBC and APCON, has implemented a system to monitor the media purchases and ensure that advertising revenues are earned by the broadcasters in due time. The collaboration between NBC and APCON is to guarantee zero advertising debt for the broadcasting Industry.

11. I want to put on record that since I inaugurated a 14-member Ministerial Task Force in February this year to drive the DSO rollout
across the country, we have made notable progress. Following the approval from the Federal Executive Council and the release of 50% of
the outstanding payment, we have since disbursed part payment to all stakeholders who are being owed. We have also initiated the process to complete the payment and put the stakeholders in good stead to carry
out their obligations to the DSO project.

12. But I must say that, with the termination of subsidy, the funding of the DSO through the establishment and operation of a Public
Private Partnership (PPP) made of States and private equity is critical to achieving a faster rollout and introducing new investment into the sector, with shared infrastructure costs.

13. Let me also say that no meaningful DSO Project can happen unless Set-Top-Boxes or Decoders are widely available and affordable, and
some channels catering for children's programmes, sports and religion are encouraged to thrive. Those channels are also critical to the
success of the DSO, because they have the potential to attract many eyeballs to the DSO platform. Still talking about Set-Top-Boxes,
affordability is a key factor in making digital television available to all. Indeed, Set-Top-Boxes represent the very minimum entry point
in the world of digital television broadcasting. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure a reliable supply of low-cost STBs for purchase by the general public. I want to use this opportunity to implore state governments to be at the vanguard of providing Set-Top-Boxes to their people. This is because the provision of Set-Top-Boxes is a social
service that will take governance to the grassroots and bridge the information gap between the government and the governed, among other
advantages. For Kano State in particular, with a population of over 15 million peoples, governance will be revolutionized if each of the 2.4 million television households can have a Set-Top-Box.

14. Finally, I want to thank the NBC, Gospel Limited and Inview, which have worked in collaboration with the Kano State Government to
organize a technical empowerment training for 50 technicians and 50 dealers drawn from the 44 local government areas of Kano state. The 50
technicians have since been given starter packs for installation and activation of decoders. I am reliably informed that the NBC has also
conducted awareness training on the DSO for Information Officers of the NOA in the states and the local governments, and that about 500,000 decoders have been deployed to Kano by the Set-Top-Box Manufacturers, These are all very commendable efforts that will ensure that the good people of Kano State enjoy the benefits of
digital television, starting with the 24 channels that are coming on board in Kano state immediately after this launch.

15. On this note, Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you all for your kind attention.

Nigerian Comedian, Debo Adebayo, famously known as Mr Macaroni, on Friday expressed that he declined an invitation to meet with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. 

On Twitter on Friday, he expressed that he wouldn't visit the Vice President since he would have rather not mix with Nigerian politicians. 

A group of skit creators had on Wednesday visited the VP at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. 

The designation, which went under the aegis of the Nigeria Skits Industry Awards, was lead by its coordinator, Bimbo Daramola. 

Others in the group were Maryam Apaokagi, prominently known as Taaooma, Josh Alfred (Josh2funny), Ayo Ajewole (Woli Agba), Adebamiro Adeyanju (Mr Hyenana) and Adeoye Adeyemi Elesho (Yemi Elesho). 

In any case, fans have criticized content creators who went on the visit while others addressed Mr Macaroni's nonappearance. 

Talking on his nonappearance, Adebayo expressed that he wasn't content with Nigerian politicians,  which consequently spurred his refusal to honor the invitation. 

He said, “First, I do not think there is an association of skit makers. If there is, then I don’t know anything about it. And that would be fine because I am an Actor/Thespian first before the Tag “Skit Maker”.

“So I don’t think those that went to see the VP without me or anyone else meant to sideline me. I want to believe they were invited to see The VP by the organizers of an Award Ceremony the same way I was invited. The only difference is that I declined the invitation.

“The reason I declined is simple. As a citizen, I’m not happy with our leaders and I do not want to associate with them. It’s ok if others believe that sitting with the Govt will change certain things and decide to try it out. I don’t think they should be crucified for that.

“I have just seen too much to know that The govt sees and hears everything. They and their workers are always on the Internet. They know what we cry and complain about and they do nothing about it. So what will sitting down with them to tell them what they already know change?

“I don’t know what was discussed in that meeting as I wasn’t there. But I don’t believe those that went would go there to say anything other than demanding for better governance and leadership as we all have been doing all these while.” (sic)

The comedian added that if any politician wanted to meet, he would opt for a public place where members of the Press would be present. 

Grammy-winning Nigerian superstar, Wizkid, has received five nominations at the 2021 Soul Train Awards. Fellow artist, Tems, who Wizkid featured on his hit song "Essence" has also recieved four nominations. 

"Essence" is up for Song of The Year, Video of The Year, The Ashford and Simpson songwriter’s award and Best Collaboration.

Wizkid's additional nomination for Album of The Year, for Made In Lagos, while Tems' other nomination was  for Best New Artist.

It's been an eventful year for both artists. Wizkid celebrated the release of his fourth studio album while Tems has also featured Drake's album. 

What is Soul Train Awards?

The Soul Train Music Awards is an annual music awards  highlighting and honoring in African-American culture music and entertainment.

It is produced by the makers of Soul Train, the program from which it takes its name, and features musical performances by various contemporary R&B and soul music recording artists interspersed throughout the ceremonies. The special traditionally used to air in either February, March or April, but now airs the last weekend of November.

This year's award will hold on November 20, 2021 at the Apollo Theatre, and it will be hosted by Tichina Arnold and Tisha Campbell.

AN eighteenth century teapot originally made for a Chinese emperor has sold for £2.06million an auction. 

The blue pot was made at around 1740 for Emperor Qianlong and conveys his four-character mark. 

It was initially purchased from a seller in London by World War One official E.A. Parry — an lawyer by profession — and his wife Angela in 1925. 

The 6inch wide bronze is one of just three known models. 

The others are in exhibition halls in Taipei, Taiwan and the US. 

It was valued at £800,000 yet started an bidding war when it came available to be purchased yesterday and reached a bid of £1.7million in Mayfair, focal London. 

Charges took the general overall expense for £2.06million. 

It is shrouded in scenes of mountains and lakes just as blossoms, butterflies and insects. 

A representative for barkers Bonhams said: "This was a very rare, important and exquisite piece made to a commission from the Qianlong Emperor himself. I am not surprised that it achieved such a remarkable price.”

The purchaser is believed to be a Far East authority — and is the most recent illustration of rich ­Chinese collectors recovering the nation's lost legacy.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has said that the eNaira is more dependable than digital forms of money. 

According to its official site the recently introduced currency eNaira is defined as  "a Central Bank of Nigeria-issued digital currency that provides a unique form of money denominated in Naira. eNaira serves as both a medium of exchange and a store of value, offering better payment prospects in retail transactions when compared to cash payments. eNaira has an exclusive operational structure."

The CBN Director of Corporate Communications, Nnamdi Okwuosa, said this at the CBN Fair to enlighten stakeholders and the overall population in Abia and Ebonyi States. 

Okwuosa depicted the eNaira as a legal tender sovereign country and controlled by the Central Bank of Nigeria, though other cryptocurrencies are unregulated. 

He said, “Digital currency (eNaira) is more reliable than cryptocurrency which is not regulated.”

The fair, themed 'Promoting financial stability and economic development,’ gave a chance to partners and the overall population in the two states to comprehend the eNaira, shopper assurance, cash activities, installment framework the board, and improvement finance drives. 

He added that the CBN was continually looking out for dangers to Nigeria's monetary framework, placing it in at a vantage point that giving dependable financial counsel, adding that individuals "must listen to us.”

Okwuosa expressed that losing cash to con artists and unregistered monetary financial establishments will be curbed if individuals listen just to the bank and keep away from unregulated organizations.

As of November 3 2021, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control published figures on the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. The figures are as follows:

99 new cases of COVID-19;

Bauchi-24

Plateau-24

FCT-22

Lagos-9

Taraba-8

Kaduna-4

Edo-3

Kano-3

Bayelsa-1

Rivers-1

212,150 confirmed

203,524 discharged

2,899 deaths

Today’s report includes:

0 cases reported from Delta, Sokoto, and Zamfara

A breakdown of cases by state can be found via http://covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

Mr Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State, on Monday, said he has not gotten any greeting from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC regarding the Pandora Paper exposé. 

He additionally denied having responded to an invitation from the EFCC to him, expressing what is being circled online was not from him. 

In a press release by his office, Valentine Obienyem, on his behalf said a request which quoted him as asking  the EFCC to publicize their investigations did not emanate from him.

He said: “Obi is yet to receive the letter from the EFCC, which he read on social media like others.

“From what is circulating, the letter appears to have been sent to an office he is no longer part of and is yet to reach him.”

The statement asserted that Obi was a law-abiding citizen who willing to coperate with all security agences at any given time.

The United Kingdom has cautioned its residents against making trips to twelve states in Nigeria over frailty issues. 

This was uncovered in a travel advisory warning distributed by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). 

The UK government cautioned its residents of a high danger of abductions all through Nigeria for religious, monetary or political means.

Residents have been cautioned to avoid these twelve states; Borno, Yobe, Bayelsa, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Katsina,Delta, Rivers, Cross River, Zamfara, and Adamawa states. 

The FCDO likewise warned its residents against unessential travel to Bauchi, Kano, Jigawa , Niger, Sokoto, Kogi inside 20km of the line with Niger in Kebbi and Abia States individually. 

Part of the warning read: “Foreign nationals, including humanitarian workers, are likely targets for kidnap. Humanitarian hubs and humanitarian workers have been targeted during attacks in the North East, including Monguno, Borno State on 13 June 2020.

“The security environment in the North East has deteriorated since 2018 and there is a heightened risk of kidnapping of humanitarian and private sector workers.

“There are also reports that Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) have an active plan to kidnap foreigners. As well as in North-East Nigeria, extremist groups operate in some northern and middle belt states including Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Kogi, Kaduna, Niger and Adamawa states.

“If you are working or travelling in these States then you should be aware of the risk of terrorist kidnapping.”

The UK government, highlighting the level of insecurity in the country, also warned against attacks and killings in South-East regions.

“There have also been a number of attacks and targeted killings in the South-east and South-South regions of Nigeria, including in the states of Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Delta, Edo and Ebonyi. Some of these attacks have been on isolated roads and in remote locations, but there is a chance that they could occur in metropolitan areas."

The public authority encouraged those going to those areas to be cautious and follow local news sources for additional data, looking out for neighborhood curfews.

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, faces more legal trouble. Before a Federal high court in Abuja, an amended seven-count charge was files against Kanu by the Federal Government.

These new charges include treasonable felony and terrorism. They follow charges he has been since 2016.

The case, presided by Justice Binta Nyakowill commence on Thursday, October 21; the notice titled Federal Republic of Nigeria Versus Nnamdi Kanu with suit number: FHC/ABJ/CR/383/15, was served on Kanu’s lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor and that of the prosecution, Shuaibu Labaran.

The notice indicates that the court made fresh directives on the conduct of the proceedings throughout the case.

“This case will be transferred from the General Cause List to the hearing paper for Thursday 21st October 2021at 9 o’clock forenoon and will come on to be on that day if the business of the court permits or otherwise on some adjustment day of which you will receive no further notice,” the notice reads.

“If either party desires to postpone the hearing, he must apply to the court as soon as possible for that purpose and if the application is based on any matter of fact, he must be prepared to give proof of those facts.

“The parties are warned that at the hearing, they are required to bring forward all the evidence by witnesses or by documents which each of them desires to rely on in support of his own case and in contradiction of that of his opponent.

“The proof will be required at the hearing and not on a subsequent day, and parties failing to bring their evidence forward at the proper time may find themselves absolutely precluded from adducing it at all, or at best only allowed to do so on payment of substantial costs to the other side, and on such other terms as the court deems fits to impose.

“Parties desirous to enforce the attendance of witnesses should apply at once to the court to issue one or more summonses for the attendance of the witnesses required.

“It is indispensable that the application should be made so as to allow time for reasonable notice to the witnesses required.

“If the witness is required to bring books or papers, they must be particularized in the summons sufficiently to enable him to understand what is meant.

” Any party summoning a witness through the court thereby becomes liable to pay such witness reasonable sum of money to be fixed by the court for his expense and loss of time.

“The court may refuse to enforce the attendance of a witness unless such sum has been fixed and deposited in the court.

“If either party desires to use in evidence at the hearing, any book or document in the possession or power of the other party, he must give the other party, reasonable notice in writing to produce It at the hearing, failing which he will not be allowed to give any secondary evidence of its contents.”

The previous U.S. Secretary of State, Colin Powell, is dead. 

Mr Powell, 84, passed on of COVID-19 issues, his family reported. 

The family said Mr Powell had been completely inoculated against COVID-19. 

“We have lost a remarkable and loving husband, father, grandfather and a great American,” the family’s statement quoted by the BBC said.

“We want to thank the medical staff… for their caring treatment.”

Mr Powell, a previous military general, rose to turn into the primary African-American secretary of state, under President George Bush. 

As secretary of state, he turned into the most elevated positioning Black public authority to date in the nation, standing fourth in the official line of progression back in 2001. 

A profoundly adorned armed force official, he passed on the military in 1993 and committed opportunity to composing his self-portrayal. 

Mr Powell turned into a top military consultant to various driving U.S. government officials. 

As indicated by CNN, his public noteriety took off in the consequence of the US-drove alliance win during the Gulf War, and for a period during the 90s, he was viewed as a main competitor to becomr thr first Black President of the United States. 

In spite of being a moderate Republican, he, in 2008, embraced Barack Obama, a Democrat, for the U.S. administration.

The Gombe State Coordinator, National Youth Service Corps, Ada Imoni, has cautioned upcoming corps members against altering their uniforms, either by slim fitting, or making the trousers shorter.

Imoni settled on this decision on Monday in an assertion named, '2021 Batch 'C' Stream I Orientation Course', where she gave a few mandates to the upcoming corps members in the state. 

“Management of the scheme has observed the growing trend of defacement of the NYSC uniform and improper dressing by Corps members. In view of that, Prospective Corps Members are advised not to deface the uniform either by slim fitting, use of rubber band at the helm of the khaki trouser or cutting it to ‘three quarter’. They must be ready to be properly dressed for all occasions and function as leaders of tomorrow and role models to millions of youth in the country,” 

The statement also reminded all individuals to follow the COVID-19 conventions. 

"You are to likewise come ready to notice the COVID-19 security proportions of standard utilization of the facial covering, washing of hands under running water, and utilization of liquor based sanitizers. With severe adherence to the COVID-19 wellbeing measures, we can moderate the danger of transmission of the infection on camp," the assertion uncovered.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has caught 15 sacks of pangolin scales weighing 1,014.5kg with a worth of over N1.7 billion. 

The National Public Relations Officer, NSC, DC Joseph Attah, revealed two suspects were captured in possession.

“This criminality was not essentially a Nigerian thing, sadly some foreigners with active connivance of few Nigerians are bent on using our dear country as a transit route for illegal wild life trade,” he said.

He said a DNA test would be led on the scales to know which country the scales were from. 

He further said that the people who purchased these things were not Nigerians but rather from Asian nations and other internaional nations, expressing that Nigerians that were involved were tricked by cash to give a storage center where the parts could be put away.

“Today we are here to showcase the success story of the NCS’s ongoing crackdown on illegal wild life trade.

“You will recall that two months ago, NCS acting on credible intelligence provided by our international partners announced wild life seizure worth over N22 billion with arrested suspects currently facing prosecution.

“In the course of further investigation to arrest other members of the gang, we received another credible intelligence from the same international partner, Wildlife Justice Commission, and swiftly deployed our intelligence operatives with the Strike Force as a SWAT team.

“This led to the interception of One Mercedes Benz Bus with registration number BGT 256 LG along Kudirat Abiola Way Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos,” he said.

The CGC said that upon examination, the bus was found to contain the following: pangolin scales; 60kg, 35kg, by 54kg, 64kg, 66kg, 58kg, 50kg, 73kg, 61kg, 64kg, 92kg, 89kg, by 60kg, by 92.5kg totalling 1,009.5kg and one sack of Pangolin Claws by 5kg all totalling 1,014.5kg with a DPV of N1. 7 billion.

He named the two suspects already arrested in connection with the seizure as: Salif Sanwidi and Sunday Ebenyi, adding that they would be charged to court to answer for their crimes.

“For the avoidance of doubt, illegal wild life trade contravenes Section 63 “e” and “g” of CEMA Cap 45 LFN 2004.

“Nigeria is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. As responsible member of the global community, we cannot allow our nation to be used as a conduit pipe for illegal trade on wild life.

“We remain committed to the quarterly meeting with embassies of U.S., UK and Germany and welcome on board other International organizations that are joining the fray,” he said.

He commended Wildlife Justice Commission for their continued commitment to the course through the provision of credible and actionable intelligence, including technical aids.

“NCS appreciates this working synergy and looks forward for more,” he said.

VP Yemi Osinbajo says endeavors are in progress to extend the retirement period of teachers in Nigeria's public service from 60 to 65 years. 

Osinbajo ed this on Tuesday while facilitating the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Oluwabunmi Anani, Maltina Teacher of the Year, 2020 Winner, as a winner of the 2021 World Teachers Day festivity. 

Anani was went with on the visit to the Presidential Villa by Uzodinma Odenigbo, Head of Public and Government Affairs, Nigerian Breweries Limited(NBL). 

The VP said that there were additionally moves to utilize educators into the public assistance beginning from level 8 as against level 7. 

He said, “So, I think it is also important to reward teachers; the Federal Government, on its part, has been doing a bit of work in trying to improve a lot of teachers.

“For example, there is a policy now, though not a law yet; it is still in the National Assembly about moving the retirement age of teachers in the public service from 60 to 65.

“That’s an additional five years; then also looking at their remuneration.

“I think one of the questions that have arisen is when the teacher comes into the public service; in the past, they used to come in at Level 7, which is not the level that a graduate would come in.

“Part of the policy is that they should come in at Level 8; but of course, this has to go through various processes and all that.’’

Osinbajo said President Muhammadu Buhari was concerned about teachers and sought to improve the educational system and that the states had to play better roles in handling issues concerning primary and secondary education.

The Nigerian Senate has affirmed the designation of Alhaji Yahaya Muhammad (Yobe) as a member of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. 

This is regardless of protests that his curriculum vitae shows that he began school before he was conceived. 

Likewise, George Abang Ekungu (Cross River) was affirmed as the secretary of the EFCC. 

Others incorporate Luqman Muhammed (Edo); Anumba Adaeze (Enugu), and Alhaji Kola Raheem Adesina (Kwara). 

The affirmation of the ominees followed the thought and reception of a report of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes on the five candidates. 

Prior, introducing the report, the administrator of the council, Senator Suleiman Abdu Kwari (APC, Kaduna North) asked the Senate to affirm the candidates. 

Kwari, who said the chosen people were screened with no adverse security report on them, added that they were totally equipped for the work. 

In the interim, there had been a complaint by Senator Hassan Hadejia (APC, Jigawa) that the CV of the Yobe candidate demonstrated that he began school before he was conceived, however the delegate Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, who managed the whole, disregarded Hadejia's objection while the Senate continued to affirm his assignment through voice votes. 

SaharaReporters had reported that President Muhammadu Buhari on September 21 appointed the new members into the board of the nation's anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The President appointed George Abang as secretary of the board, while Lukman Mohammed, Kola Adeshina and Mohammed Yahaya were appointed as board members.

The Nigerian Communications Commission has reported the preclusion of anybody underneath the age of 18 from enrolling and possessing a SIM in Nigeria.

This is as indicated by the draft copy of the Telephone Subscribers Regulations distributed on the commission's site. 

The commission in adjusted guidelines just permitted persons over the age of 18 to haves SIMs. The guideline was made in accordance with the forces presented upon the commission by area 70 of the Nigerian Communications Act,2003. 

As per Section 57 of the Act, the NCC directed a Public Inquiry on the Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations, close by the draft SIM Replacement Guidelines and the draft Spectrum Trading Guidelines at its administrative center in Abuja on Tuesday. 

At the Public Inquiry, Telecoms monster, MTN voiced resistance to the order adding that the age ought to be 14 years. The NCC kept up with its position adding that the age limit would remain 18 years.

Inspector General Of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, Says The Nigeria Police Is Set To Enlist 20,000 Junior Cops. 

The IGP Alluded To This On Tuesday Evening When He Paid A Visit To Gov. Seyi Makinde Of Oyo State At The State Secretariat, Agodi In Ibadan. 

Baba Informed The Governor That Nigeria Police Fully Plans To Expand Its Strength As Far As Junior Cops' Enlistment. 

He Said It Had Solved Every One Of The Issues That Had Been Postponing The Enlistment Cycle, Adding That President Muhammadu Buhari Has Given Endorsement For The Enrollment. 

He Guaranteed The State Government That Each Local Government Region Would Profit From The Enlistment, Saying That The Selected Officials Would Serve In Their Particular Respective Regions After Training. 

The IGP Said That The Enrollment Exercise Would Not Just Extend The Limit Of The Power In Battling Wrongdoing, Yet In Addition Encouraged Its Local Area In Heightened Policing Methodology. 

Baba Said That His Visit Was To Interact With The Police Staff To Help Morale After The EndSARS Protest. 

He Said The Visit Was To Likewise Connect Some Different Partners On The Issue Of Community Policing, Which, As Indicated By Him, Is An Adopted Strategy Of Policing In Nigeria. 

“We Have Not Just Started Now; It Has Started As Far Back As 2004, But It Has Not Been Effectively Used By Both Government And Members Of The Public."

He Beseeched The Governor To Keep Supporting And Helping The Police. 

Reacting, Makinde Educated The IGP That The Police Command In Oyo State Had Been Making An Honest Effort, Helping Out Individuals Of The State And Any Remaining Security Offices. 

The Lead Representative Said That The Police Were Unfriendly When Amotekun Was Set Up, "“Because They Felt That Amotekun Came On Board To Take Up Their Jobs And Responsibilities.

The Lead Representative Utilized The Chance Of The Visit To Demand For The Foundation Of One More Mobile Force Squadron In Oyo Town, Promising That His Administration Would Give The Essential Framework To Its Take-Off. 

He Said The 72 Squadron In Ago-Are, Which Was Endorsed By The Previous IGP, Was Helping With Tending To Security Challenges In Oke-Ogun Pivot Of The State.

The Nigierian Center for Disease Control has released figures on the Covid-19 pandemic.

437 new cases have been reported as of 29th September 2021. 

Lagos-126

Rivers-76

Kwara-44

FCT-37

Edo-32

Kaduna-30

Anambra-22

Delta-22

Osun-12

Benue-7

Abia-6

Nasarawa-6

Kano-5

Ekiti-3

Plateau -3

Bayelsa-2

Ogun-2

Oyo-2

205,484 confirmed

193,482 discharged

2,701 deaths

The Nigierian Center for Disease Control has released figures on the Covid-19 pandemic.

437 new cases have been reported as of 29th September 2021. 

Lagos-126

Rivers-76

Kwara-44

FCT-37

Edo-32

Kaduna-30

Anambra-22

Delta-22

Osun-12

Benue-7

Abia-6

Nasarawa-6

Kano-5

Ekiti-3

Plateau -3

Bayelsa-2

Ogun-2

Oyo-2

205,484 confirmed

193,482 discharged

2,701 deaths

Nigeria has reported 81,413 associated cases of  cholera in the country with 2,791 recorded deaths. 

An epidiomology report gave by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) expressed that Cholera infection was active in 28 states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 2021. 

The states are Abia, Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ekiti, Enugu, FCT, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Osun, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Rivers and Zamfara. 

As per the NCDC, 15 states revealed 1,825 presumed cases over the most recent multi week. 

The states included: Zamfara (524), Bauchi (347), YobIt said there was a 38 percent decline in suspected cases in week 37 (1,825) contrasted and week 36 (2,955). 

It said there was a 38 percent decline in suspected cases in week 37 (1,825) contrasted and week 36 (2,955). 

The report said: “Zamfara (524), Bauchi (347), Yobe (302), Katsina (282) and Borno (139) account for 87.3 percent of 1825 suspected cases reported in week 37

“During the reporting week, 36 Cholera Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT) were conducted. RDT conducted were from Adamawa (18), Kaduna (11), Zamfara (2), Yobe (2), Abia (2) and Kwara (1).”

Of this, a total of 21 (58%) were positive by RDT

“A total of 10 Culture tests were conducted in Katsina (6), Adamawa (3) and Kaduna (1). Of this, two (20 percent) were positive.

“Of the cases reported, there were 55 deaths from Zamfara (19), Adamawa (7), Yobe (7), Jigawa (6) Katsina (5), Borno (5), Kebbi (2), Bauchi (2), and Kwara (2) states with a weekly case fatality ratio (CFR) of 3.0 percent,” it said.

The NCDC stated that cumulatively, as at September 19, 2021, a total of 81,413 suspected cases including 2,791 deaths

(CFR 3.4 percent) have been reported from 28 states and FCT in 2021.

The report stated that among the suspected cases since the beginning of the year, age group 5 – 14 years was the most affected age group for male and female.

Also, of all suspected cases, 50 percent are males and 50 percent are females.

In addition, the report said that three states of Bauchi (19,309 cases), Kano (11,783 cases) and Jigawa (10,758 cases), accounted for 51 per cent of all cumulative cases.

NCDC further said that 10 Local Government Areas across five states (Bauchi (4), Jigawa (2), Zamfara (2), Kano (1) and Katsina (1) have reported more than 1,000 cases.

The Nigerian Communications Commission says the October 31 cutoff time for Nigerian citizens to connect their National Identity Numbers to their Subscriber Identity Modules. 

It additionally said that Nigerians without NIN would before long be denied new driver's licenses and passports.

The official statement by the Nigerian Communications Commission read "statement read, “NCC has reminded and urged telecoms consumers to link their NINs with their SIMs before the expiration of the deadline of October 31, 2021 set by the Federal Government.”

It added, “Speaking during the live programme, Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Dr Ikechukwu Adinde, advised Nigerians to make use of the extension of the NIN-SIM integration exercise to October 31, 2021, to enrol with NIMC, get their NINs and link them to their SIMs.”

Adinde said, “Soon, people without NIN will be denied of necessary services that play vital roles in their lives including acquisition of driving licence, passport.”

ABUJA – The Senate on Tuesday passed a Bill to take on 112 as the toll-free number for crises, in the proposed Nationwide Emergency Communications Service. 

This followed the the Nationwide Toll-Free Emergency Number (Establishment) Bill, 2021. 

The Bill relied on a report by the Committee on Communications was introduced by Senator Biodun Olujimi in the interest of the Committee Chairman, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. 

Olujimi clarified that Clause 2 of the bill tries to build up the Nationwide Emergency Communications Service. 

She noticed that when set up, the Service would be responsible for organization, coordination and deployment of a consistent and solid start to finish framework for crisis needs all through Nigeria. 

Olujimi likewise uncovered that Clause 5 of the Bill was altered to vest the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) with the obligation of planning guidelines and rules for the operations of the Nationwide Emergency Communications Service. 

The administrator clarified that Clause 11 of the bill forbids the utilization of phones to put a bogus, pointless or vexatious call to the crisis number 112. 

Proviso 12 of the bill gives that, "a person who violates any of the provisions of this bill or the regulations is guilty of an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a penalty of not more than fifty thousand naira or in default to a term imprisonment not exceeding six months, and for each subsequent offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than two hundred and fifty thousand naira or, in default, to a term of imprisonment not exceeding one year.”

Also, new sub provisions (2), (3) and (4) were added in the bill with accommodate the blacklisting of any individual who disregards Clause 11 for a period not over about two months.

Below Are Figures On The Covid-19 Pandemic From The Nigeria Centre For Disease Control As Of 21st September 2021.

513 New Cases Of COVID1 9

Lagos-132

FCT-80

Rivers-70

Kaduna-43

Edo-40

Ondo-32

Delta-23

Akwa Ibom-21

Kwara-16

Gombe-12

Anambra-9

Benue-9

Kano-7

Oyo-6

Borno-3

Plateau-3

Bayelsa-2

Kastina-2

Ogun-2

Jigawa-1

202,704 Confirmed

191,370 Discharged

2,664 Deaths

Today's Report Includes:

Confirmed Case For Kaduna For 20th (29), And 21st (14), September 2021

Discharged Cases For Kaduna For 20th (22), And 21st (26), September 2021

0 Cases From Ekiti, Nasarawa, Osun And Sokoto States

A breakdown of cases by state via http://covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

Apple iOS 15 has been released and here are some features you may not know about according to Forbes!

5G 

Improved performance - Apple has quietly optimized system functions in iOS 15 to connect to 5G networks more quickly. Enjoy! 

Camera

Disable Night Mode - while Night Mode is great, it is also slow. If you want to disable it from automatically being enabled, in iOS 15 you can now do this by going to Settings > Camera > Preserve Settings and toggling Night Mode off. 

Improved Panoramas - just like the 5G improvements, you don’t need to do anything here. iOS 15 has improved camera algorithms to reduce distortion and noise 

QuickTake Zoom - handily, you can now swipe down from QuickTake to control the level of zoom — this is limited to the iPhone XR and newer though 

Find My

Erased iPhones - iOS 15 can now even find erased iPhones and will warn buyers of potentially stolen iPhones from the Hello screen. Take that, thieves! 

Gaming

Peaceful gaming -  adapt Apple’s major new Focus feature for gaming by going to Settings > Focus then tap the + button to select ‘Gaming’ where you can choose which alerts can and cannot interrupt you

iCloud

Temporary free iCloud storage - when you buy a new iPhone or iPad, iOS 15 will grant you unlimited storage space for up to three weeks so you can set up your device. I love this. 

Keyboard

Scan Text - in iOS 15 your camera can scan text automatically. Long press in any text field to see the ‘Scan Text’ button and your keyboard will be replaced by the camera viewfinder. Align the text, then tap ‘Insert’ to add it to your text field. 

Phone

Calls - iOS 15 provides a confirmatory alert when you mute or unmute yourself to avoid those embarrassing “You’re on mute!” group call outs 

Photos

Detailed Photo Information - in iOS 15 you can swipe up on any photo to see the EXIF data (shutter speed, location, device used, etc). A long overdue feature. 

Privacy 

Record app activity - off by default, go to Settings > Privacy > Record App Activity to get a 7-day summary of every app which accesses your mic, visits web domains, etc. This can then be exported to a JSON file. (Not available at release)

Email tracking - also off by default, navigate to Settings > Mail > Privacy Protection and enable Protect Mail Activity to block tracking pixels 

Apple’s VPN - dubbed ‘iCloud Private Relay’ this is a VPN for all intents and purposes and you can enable it by navigating to Settings > Profile > iCloud > Private Relay 

Reminders

Smart Lists - when creating new lists in iOS 15, you can now set rules based on date, time, location, flag and priority. 

Safari  

Customize UI - iOS 15 controversially moves the Safari address bar to the bottom of the screen. You can move it back to the top by tapping the ‘Aa’ button in the address bar and enabling the new ‘Show Top Address Bar’ option. 

Apply Wallpaper - open Safari, scroll to the bottom, click ‘Edit’ and ‘Enable background image’ to get a list of suggested options or tap the + button to add your own 

Security

Add Recovery & Legacy contacts - navigate to Settings > Apple ID > Password & Security > Account Recovery and select ‘Add Recovery Contact’ (Not available at release)

Spotlight

Homescreen searches - Spotlight now works from the home screen with a simple swipe down, thanks to Face ID. If you don’t use Face ID, you will be limited to web searches 

Text

Custom text sizes - navigate to Settings > Control Center < Text Size and add it. Now in any app, when you open Control Center you will find a Text button letting you specific font size specific to any app 

Timers

Improved Picker Menu - you can now tap on the timer to type a precise time with the keyboard. This will be a big time saver for some 

Translate

Face-to-Face mode - similar to Google Translate, in iOS 15 Translate now has a full screen mode allowing you to easily relay translations between two speakers 

Video

Vary playback speed - iOS 15 brings native playback speed control. Simply tap the overflow menu (‘...’) when playing a video to vary speed between 0.5x and 2x 

Wallet

Archive passes - another clever auto feature, iOS 15 will automatically archive expired passes and tickets. If you are nostalgic for a particular ticket, don’t worry, they are not deleted just moved from the main wallet 

Weather

Next-hour notifications - initially available in Ireland, the UK and US, they give you warnings if you are about to be caught out in the rain 

Widgets

Smart suggestions - long press on a widget stack and select ‘Edit Stack’. iOS 15 then provides the option to ‘Enable Widget Suggestions’. After a few days, iOS 15 learns your usage patterns to serve you its suggested widget first 

Below are some figures from Nigeria Centre for Disease Control as of 14th September, 2021.

387 new cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria;

Lagos-114

Rivers-91

FCT-32

Edo-31

Delta-28

Kwara-20

Bayelsa-18

Akwa Ibom-15

Oyo-10

Osun-8

Gombe-5

Plateau-5

Ekiti-4

Ogun-3

Kano-2

Kaduna-1

199,538 confirmed

188,427 discharged

2,619 deaths

Today’s report includes:

Four states with zero cases report: Abia, Nasarawa, Ondo, and Sokoto

1,700 recoveries reported for Lagos State from 11th September 2021 including community discharges

A backlog of 9 deaths reported from Lagos State

A breakdown of cases by state can be found via: covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

The Kano State Hisbah Board has held onto a truck stacked with 3,600 cases of beer covered with sacks of chicken feed. 

In a video, Commander General of the Board, Harun Ibn-Sina, and others were seen revealing the disguise as they uncovered a few boxes packed behind the packs of feed. 

The truck was said to have begun its journey from Kwanar Dangora to Kiru town in Kano State. 

This comes five days after the Islamic police seized two vehicles stacked with 5,760 containers of alcohol on the Kano-Madobi street. 

The Public Relations Officer of the board, Lawan Ibrahim-Fagge, had revealed this last Wednesday. 

The assertion cited the Commander¬¬-General of the board as saying that the culprits were caught by Hisbah authorities around 4am on Wednesday. 

"Hisbah board hdas prohibited the sale of beer in the state to avoid being intoxicated,” he said

Ibn-Sina added that the board would keep on supporting the battle against drugs and other inebriating substances among young people in the state. 

He recognized the endeavors of the Hisbah corps, volunteers and partners, for their responsibility, adding that the unwholesome practice had been a worry to the general public. 

The authority general said endeavors at freeing the general public of the threat of narcotics and different intoxicants would be supported. 

In spite of judgment from Nigerians, the Hisbah group has proceeded with its push for the Islamic plan in the North. They are likewise infamous for destroying loads of alcohol.

The organization, set up to implement Sharia law in certain states in the district, as of late positioned a prohibition on the utilization of mannequins, even in store. 

It likewise prohibited a fashionable hair styles, sagging of pants and playing of music at get-togethers by DJs,

A barber and his clients were additionally captured as of late for hair styles that were offensive to Islam. 

Additionally, in March 2021, Hisbah agents captured two men associated with sending obscene materials to a wedded lady. 

The suspects were followed and captured after the lady reported to the board.

Consistent with its announcement to rid Lagos of environmental nuisance, the State Ministry of Youth and Social Development has started ridding the streets of homeless and destitute people.

In an activity labeled "Salvage Operation" undertaken by a special group of the Rescue and Rehabilitation division of the Ministry, as a team with the Police, Man 'O' War and different volunteers, significant roads and markets in Mushin, Fadeyi, Yaba, Lekki and Sabo spaces of Lagos were visited. Beggars and other vulnerable people were rescued from sidewalks, underneath bridges, uncompleted buildings and other places unfit for human dwelling.

On this exercise, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Olusegun Dawodu said "“As a responsible and responsive government, the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led-administration will not fold its arms and watch the State become a haven for beggars.”

“Street begging is a social vice that we cannot afford to watch attain uncontrollable level before we act; otherwise, all the good plans and programs to transform our dear State would be adversely affected, which is same with street hawking.”

At the close of the exercise, the Head of Rehabilitation and Rescue Department, Mrs. Olutoyin Jaiyeola disclosed that about 128 persons, male and female, mentally challenged persons, destitute and beggars were rescued by the team from different areas of the State.

Nigeria Centre for Disease Control 

727 new cases of COVID19 Nigeria as of 9th September 2021

Rivers-257

Lagos-157

Edo-85

Imo-63

FCT-33

Delta-28

Kaduna-27

Benue-17

Akwa Ibom-13

Ekiti-13

Taraba-12

Bayelsa-5

Kano-4

Ogun-4

Oyo-3

Abia-2

Nasarawa-2

Plateau-2

197,773 confirmed

185,597 discharged

2,585 deaths

I WANT TO BE REMEMBERED AS A PRESIDENT WHO STABILISED NIGERIA, PRESIDENT BUHARI TELLS SOUTH EAST LEADERS

President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Owerri said that he would want to be remembered as the President who stabilised Nigeria in the area of security, economic prosperity and triumph over corruption.

The President, who spoke at a town hall meeting with South East leaders during his one-day official visit to Imo State, said with less than two years left in his eight-year tenure as President, security still remains a major priority for his administration.

‘‘If there is no security, there is nothing anyone can do no matter how much you try or the initiative you have.

‘‘Security is number one priority and then the economy. When people feel secure they will mind their own business,’’ he said.

The President told South-East leaders that while fighting corruption in Nigeria had become very sophisticated and difficult, he would continue to strive to leave a lasting legacy of integrity and accountability in the system.

‘‘Nobody can accuse me of having companies or mansions anywhere in the country and I thank God that I try to keep myself as clean as possible, so that I cannot be taken hostage.

‘‘I will do my best to ensure that Nigerians that try hard, succeed in their efforts,’’ he said.

On the forthcoming 2023 elections, the President reaffirmed his commitment to free, fair and credible polls, urging the leaders to honestly educate their constituencies on the need to hold their elected representatives accountable.

Acknowledging the resourcefulness and enterprising spirit of Igbo people, the President said:

‘‘The fundamental thing about the Igbo people is that there is no town you will visit in Nigeria without seeing the Igbos being in-charge of either infrastructure or pharmaceutical industry.

‘‘Therefore, it is unthinkable for me that any Igbo man would consider himself not to be a part of Nigeria.

‘‘The evidence is there for everyone to see that Igbos are in charge of Nigeria’s economy.’’

Noting that no country can make any meaningful progress without the development of infrastructure, the President expressed regret that successive governments at the Federal level contributed to the decay of critical infrastructure in the country.

He promised that the Federal Government would complete ongoing key projects in the South East, including the 2nd Niger Bridge as well as the railway lines and routes linking the region with other parts of the country.

‘‘I firmly believe that when you get infrastructure right, Nigerians will mind their own businesses,’’ he said, adding that as a group, the Igbos stand to benefit more from the ongoing development of infrastructure in the country because ‘‘they are more enterprising.’’

President Buhari had earlier commissioned four projects executed by Governor Hope Uzodinma, including the Naze/Ihiagwa/Nekede/Obinze link road, the Balloon Driven/Flood Control drainage at Dick Tiger Road, the Egbeada Bypass road and the New Exco-Chambers, Government House, Owerri.

Addressing Imo residents at the commissioning of Egbeada bypass named after a prominent son of the State, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President said he was very impressed with the level of work done by the State government.

‘‘I am very pleased with what I have seen and I assure you that I will support Imo State within the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,’’ he said.

In his remarks at the town hall meeting, Governor Uzodinma said Ndigbo believe in a united Nigeria predicated on ‘‘justice, equity and fairness.’’

He thanked the President for addressing the interests of Ndi Igbo through deliberate policy initiatives designed to give the people a true sense of belonging, including the ongoing construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge, among others.

Governor Uzodinma said the people of South East would remain grateful to the President for approving the establishment of a Naval Base in Oguta Local Government Area of the State, adding that as time unfolds, the economic benefits of the base would manifest.

The Governor also commended the President for strongly supporting the appointment of two prominent Igbos into two key international organisations-Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, Assistant Director-General of Health Emergency Intelligence, World Health Organisation (WHO).

In his remarks, the President-General, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prof. George Obiozor assured the President of the continuous support of Ndigbo.

‘‘Ndigbo are committed to Nigerian unity and there is news for those trying to push us out of Nigeria.

‘‘Ndigbo in Nigeria are like fish in the ocean and no matter how rough the storm is, it cannot drive the fish out of the ocean.

‘‘Mr President, it is in this context, that we see a new dawn in your distinguished presence in Igbo land and believe that on your return to Abuja the significance and substance of this visit will form new foundation of a platform for meaningful dialogue on critical issues of concern to the Igbo nation,’’ he said.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 9, 2021

World football–overseeing body, FIFA, on Wednesday furnished the Local Organizing Committee with a last approval to arrange the maiden edition of the Aisha Buhari Invitational Women's Tournament, also called the Aisha Buhari Cup. 

The six-country invitational is being coordinated to pay tribute to the name and Office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr (Mrs) Aisha Muhammadu Buhari. 

In a letter dated eighth September 2021 and endorsed by Gordon Savic, Head of Qualifiers and International Matches, the world body noted it has authorized the fifteenth – 21st September show-stopper that holds at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena and Agege Stadium in the City of Lagos, and including has Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, Morocco and South Africa's 'A' Women groups.

“In accordance with article 7 of the regulations, FIFA is happy to provide official authorization for this women’s tier 1 tournament…we hereby remind the participating teams that the Laws of the Game must strictly be applied to these tier-1 matches.

“Finally, we would also like to draw your attention to the contents of FIFA’s circular no.1735 of 1st October 2020. The strict application of the FIFA’s Return to Football – International Match Protocol (IMP), or an equivalent protocol of your confederation compliant with the said Protocol, is required.”

With this authorization, all is now clear for the commencement of the six-nation showpiece starting on Wednesday, 15th September with the clash between nine-time African champions, Super Falcons and the Female Eagles of Mali at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.

Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called for collaboration and shared methodology by specialists internationally in curbing financial crime which, he noted, is a worldwide scourge as no country is spared from its destructiveness. 

Bawa expressed this in his feature address introduced at the 38th Cambridge International Symposium on Economic Crime, themed, "Financial Crime-Who pays and who should pay?" coordinated by the Center for International Documentation on Organized and Economic Crime (CIDOEC), Jesus College, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (UK). 

As per him, financial crimes are unlawful demonstrations perpetrated for private benefit, “affect the vital structures of global economies, causing significant damage to the Global Financial System and depriving developing nations of.”

EFCC representative, Wilson Uwujaren, said the EFCC supervisor additionally said developed nations are not resistant to the scourge, which has "magnified with the proliferation of cyber-crimes which threaten the stability of global financial institutions.”

Talking on the new typologies of economic crimes like the development of digital currencies, Bawa said this "portend a far greater danger to the world economy as criminals now elect to transact or receive illegal monies (such as ransom money) for cyber-attacks in Cryptocurrencies with Bitcoin and Ethereum as the most commonly used medium of these exchanges. 

He recognized the decision of topic which he said offers a stage to question the difficulties of financial violations. "As the victims of crime continue to suffer globally from the effects of financial crimes, either directly or indirectly as part of a social system, the determination of who pays or who should pay becomes a critical measure of the criminal justice system in place,” he said.

He underlined the objectives of a fair-minded juries in guaranteeing that he "perpetrators of acts and not the victims pay for their crimes.”

Bitcoin encountered its most unpredictable days of this current year as the cost of the cash fell by $9000 to around $47,200 today. The price crash comes only a couple of hours after El Salvador turned into the primary nation to authoritatively take on it as legal tender, the first in a 12-year history. 

As per the Bloomberg Galaxy Crypto Index, the worth of the coin went down over 10% throughout an hour soon after it went over the  $50,000 bar. The coin lost as much as 19% a couple of trading hours after. 

Talking on the crash, Stephane Ouellette, Chief leader and fellow benefactor of FRNT Financial revealed to Bloomberg that the explanation might be muddled as "the market remains far more opaque and global than most if not all other notable asset classes.”

She despite how noticed that the most likely explanation might be "Secret selloff". 

Subject matter authorities agree, regularly the authentic justification such selloffs may just be found after a huge period. Bitcoin is famous for its instability however the speed with which it had recovered as of late and plunged in the previous hours has shocked many. 

El Salvador in the blend… 

Latin American country, El Salvador turned into the first country in history to acknowledge bitcoin as legitimate tender after tits acquisition. El Salvador's leader, Nayib Bukele, tweeted that he's buying the dip.

President Bukele later said that 150 new coins were added and that the nation presently holds 550 Bitcoin. He vowed to purchase "significantly more" 

Following this, the public authority's Bitcoin wallet, Chivo reported that it will give a boost to its reception by giving clients $30 pre-loaded worth of the money per enrollment with a Salvadoran public ID number. 

analysts accept that this move had a critical bounce back on the coin which rose to more than $52,000 (practically 75% up since late July). Clients on Twitter and Reddit were sharing plans to purchase $30 worth of Bitcoin altogether today to check El Salvador's Bitcoin law happening. 

Other digital forms of money partook in a comparative ascent in costs today following the meeting by bitcoin. As indicated by CoinMarketCap, they are encountering comparable crashes right now. Cardano has lost with regards to 15% worth today; Dogecoin 20%, Ether, the second-biggest advanced resource, likewise dropped from $3,900 to about $3,000 in a couple of hours. 

Possibly a short time… 

A few pundits accept that the abrupt ascent and fall of computerized money might be attributable to luck. The El Salvador event is an oddball.

Some others say that Bitcoin is experiencing another "September stroke". Information accumulated from Bloomberg shows that September is the solitary month when Bitcoin has neglected to convey positive returns for the beyond 10 years. 

The token has fallen during the long stretch of September for something like six of the past 10 years, losing over 6% by and large. 

We make certain of the present occasion. Regardless of whether the coin will satisfy its awful spell may be demonstrated by time.

States that have destroy alcoholic drinks can no longer reap the benefits of Rivers state Value Added Tax (VAT), governor Nyesom Wike has said. 

During a statewide broadcast after the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) inability to get a stay-of-execution to prevent Rivers from gathering VAT from businesses in the state, Mr Wike indicated his triumph would influence states' with low income. 

Rivers State had the second largest Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in 2020, as indicated by a report acquired from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). 

Mr Wike negatively alluded to northern states ruled by Sharia law and losing millions from the destruction of alcoholic beverages, while these states benefit from VAT from liquor consumption from different states. 

He said he knew that the Rivers state government choice to gather VAT would prompt issues for a portion of these Sharia-consistent states. 

"Naturally, states with ethically restrictive social policies with economic implications may be adversely affected for now,” Mr Wike said.

Over the years, the Hisbah police (enforcers of Sharia law) have destroyed millions of bottles and cans of alcoholic drinks as consumption of alcohol is considered a sin in Islam.

Kano-based distributor of alcoholic drinks, John Simon, lamented how he lost over N35 million to the Hisbah police after they destroyed thousands of his alcoholic drinks in November last year.

Niger State Government has declared the suspension of all weekly cattle markets across the state as a feature of measures to abridge the rising instances banditry and kidnappings, compelling September 1, 2021. 

The Secretary to the State Government, Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, additionally said  on Tuesday, that any vehicle conveying cows into the state should show a Way-bill and proof of beginning where cattle were bought and their objective. 

The State had additionally restricted the offer of petroleum based goods in jerry cans or some other containers at filling stations and activities of trucks conveying timber.

He said usage of motorcycles in Minna and environs are just permitted from 6am to 6pm. 

Matane further said all fuel stations were not permitted to sell  more than N10,000 to a vehicle at a time. 

He likewise guided filling stations to be watchful of vehicles or bikes coming for multiple buys. 

It was additionally accumulated that the restriction on bikes would be stretched out to regions where banditry and kidnappings are frequent.

These actions came five days after the State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, pledged while getting the Tegina Islamiyya Children at the Government House in Minna that he would set up vital measures to manage the hoodlums in the state. 

The SSG said: "Government is aware of the inconveniences the measures would cause the people, but the decision was taken in the overall interest of the State.

Prohibition on deals of used garments 

“Government is still contemplating on the ban on hawking and supply of loaves of bread with cartons on motorcycles and the sales of cardigans, popularly known as Sweater.

“It is believed that those guys conceal guns in the bread while they are suppliers of sweaters to bandits,” the source said.

Measures excessively rigid 

However, a Minna-based Civil Society Organization, the Blue Resolution Initiative, said the actions were too severe except if the public authority was prepared to give choices to pad the difficulty the majority may confront. 

The President of the drive, Mohammed Danjuma Abubakar, said; "even small scale businesses that are trying to thrive will die because the owners close around 10pm.

“The ban on movement of motorcycles in Minna is not ideal. And for markets, no attack has taken place in any markets. So the livelihood of many rural people is also at a stake.”

The United States has honored a Nigerian, Air Vice Marshall Mohammed Aminu Yakubu, for his commitment to the battle against fierce fterrorism. 

On Monday, the Commander, United States Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa, General Jeffrey Harrigian gave Yakubu "The Legion of Merit" granted by the 27th US Secretary of Defense. 

While introducing the honor, Harrigian said Yakubu significantly further developed Nigeria–US military relations, which caused an expansion in United States backing to Nigeria in the battle against vicious radicalism during his residency as Defense Attaché. 

He added that AVM Yakubu additionally organized with different US government organizations for the primary visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to the US, just as the first-since forever visit of a Nigerian Chief of Defense Staff to the US Africa Command in Germany. 

He said Yakubu's promotion and authority were instrumental in the securing of the A-29 Super Tucano airplane being accepted on Tuesday by the Nigerian Air Force. 

He added that Yakubu's predominant exertion, exceptional administration, and individual drive think about extraordinary credit himself, the Nigerian Air Force, and his country. 

The United States clarified that the Legion of Merit is one of its military's most esteemed honors regarding exceptional help and accomplishment. 

"The Legion of Merit decoration was approved by Congress in 1942 to grant individuals from the Armed Forces for astoundingly commendable lead and exceptional help," the United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria clarified.

The Naira has further fallen since  Monday, sliding to a new low of 527 against the dollar at the equal market. 

The Naira , which has been on a descending pattern lately, tumbled to 524 against the dollar on Friday from 522/$1 on Thursday. 

At the Investors and Exporters' window, the naira, notwithstanding, fortified to 411.63/$1 on Monday from 412/$1 on Friday, as indicated by FMDQ Group. 

The naira had fortified to 506/$1 on August 4 subsequent to plunging to 525/$1 at the equal market on July 28, a day after the Central Bank of Nigeria halted unfamiliar trade deals to Bureaux de Change.The naira broadened its decay on Monday, sliding to an untouched low of 527 against the dollar at the equal market. 

THE Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, has dropped the national cut-off mark.

Every one of the country's tertiary establishments is now approved to fix its admission cut-off mark.

The decision was announced by the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu at thr 2021 policy meeting. 

As of now, colleges, polytechnics and schools of instruction have sent their different cut-off marks to JAMB. 

ehTe Registrar of JAMB Prof. Is-haq Oloyede said a few institutions, for example, University of Maiduguri proposed 150, Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto proposed 140, Pan Atlantic University proposed 210, University of Lagos 200, Lagos State University190, Covenant University190, Bayero University Kano, 180. 

The deadline for submissions for cut-off marks is October 29, 2021.

On the matter on the deadline for admissions, they couldn't concede to the December 31, 2021 cutoff time for every single public institution or January 31st 2022.

Partners likewise took on the 2021 admissin rules, which give that all applications topart time or full time programs for degree, NCE, OND, and others should be posted distinctly through JAMB. 

The gathering supported that for Direct Entry, DE, the greatest score a competitor can introduce is 6 and the base is 2 or E, as legally necessary. 

Talking on other affirmation models, he said the applicants particulars should be transferred on CAPS and suggested by the foundation, JAMB endorses and the applicant acknowledges the proposal of admission.

He said if applicants did not accept their offers, the institutions  can change the applicant subsequent to advising JAMB. 

Additionally endorsed were the rules that each establishment is at freedom to admit applicants dependent on its own base score.

The gathering additionally settled that each institution  ought to keep up with its own base score as endorsed by the approach meeting. 

As indicated by the partners, the 2021 affirmations will be directed distinctly through CAPS, no organization is permitted to accept applicants without their particulars being uploaded on CAPS. 

Oloyede further revealed that for 2021/2022 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME, the board is presenting two new subjects: Computer studies and physical and health education, bringing to a total of 25 subjects.

Prison inmates, visually impaired and foreign candidates have been exempted from sitting for post UTME exercise.

Talking on the 2020 affirmations, Oloyede said out of the 956,809 spaces in the 962 advanced education foundations in the country around 600,000 have so far been admitted. 

While saying there are numerous spaces that have not been filled in a few courses because of absence of qualified candidates, Oloyede said private colleges in the nation only admitted  36,381 applicants  out of the 120,938 spaces accessible to them. 

Minister of Education, Adamu, praised JAMB for presenting utilization of National Identification Number, NIN, in the enrollment process for UTME. 

Addressed by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Sonny Echono, the pastor said the utilization of NIN definitely diminished assessment misbehavior in the 2021 test, adding that the West African Examination Council, WAEC, will likewise follow comparative way by taking on required utilization of NIN. 

“I am enthused  that the last examination recorded the lowest the lowest cases of examination irregularities in the history of the Board because those who will normally have exploited the weak links through biometrics infractions had been effectively check-mated  with the introduction of NIN by JAMB.. . 

“It is gratifying  that the WAEC has decided to follow the path of using NIN to curb examination malpractices. The Ministry is presently considering other ways of using using the NIN to uncover some other admission irregularities and all perpetrators including their collaborators in the institutions would be made to face the consequences. “

On unlawful admissions being led by some tertiary organizations, the priest communicated worries that the public authority's mandate that all admissions ought to be done through JAMB's Central Admissions Processing System, CAPS, is being abused. 

He guided JAMB to outfit government with the rundown o said institution for important disciplines. 

“It is saddening that despite the clear directives at previous policy meetings some institutions still illegally admitted candidates outside CAPS. I consider such act as a direct affront on the system and appropriate sanctions shall be applied on those found to have been in such disruptive act.

“Similarly, any institution that issued admission letter to candidates outside CAPS will be punished for such gross indiscipline and fraud.

” The consequence of admissions conducted outside of CAPS  is grievous. It subjects the candidates to gloom future as nemesis of illegal admission awaits them at the completion of study when it will be impossible to take full advantage of the acquired certificates.

“As a demonstration of our resolve, I have directed JAMB to bring forward for appropriate sanctions, the list of all institutions involved in the violation of the directive of government which was was personally conveyed by me at the 2018 policy meeting in Gbongan, Osun State.”

State Governor of Edo State , Mr. Godwin Obaseki announced that residents will no longer be allowed to access most institutional buildings and facilities without evidence of Covid vaccinations. These facilities includeo public and private places such as banks, event and worship centres.

The State Governor said that this precaution was necessary to protect residents and would be enforced by security agencies. 

According to Obaseki, “Beginning from the second week of September 2021, large gatherings, as well as high traffic public and private places will only be accessed by persons who have proof of taking at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccination. People who have not yet been vaccinated at all will depend on remote access to these gatherings.

“From the second week of September people may not be allowed to worship in churches and mosques without showing proof of their vaccination cards at the gates.

“Similarly, people will not be allowed at event centers, receptions or parties, without showing proof of their vaccination cards.”

“People will not be allowed to access banking services from the middle of September 2021, if they are not vaccinated.

“We have made adequate arrangements with security agencies to prevent anybody who doesn’t have vaccination cards to access any of these places. We are doing this to protect our citizens and all these measures will remain until the pandemic passes away,” Obaseki stated.

Obaseki said his administration would continue to strictly enforce all non-pharmaceutical measures to contain the pandemic in the state, adding that activities to mark Edo’s 30th year anniversary had been scaled down significantly in compliance with COVID-19 protocols.

He said the new regulation was not to create hardship on the people but to protect their lives and livelihood while the pandemic lasts, assuring citizens that the “vaccine is available and free for all. We will not abandon you at this time of the pandemic.”


“In Edo State, the data is very clear, as we have collected 6,306 samples, with 203 confirmed cases and four deaths in the third wave. 96 percent of all confirmed cases are those not vaccinated and 100 percent of deaths are those not vaccinated; it shows the importance of vaccination.

“The pandemic has come to stay as it is clear that, intermittently, other waves will occur. As such, it is wise for us all to embrace vaccination as a way of surviving this pandemic.

“For us in the state, we have decided to push for vaccination, and within the next one year, we are focusing on vaccinating 60 percent of our citizens to enable us build herd immunity against this pandemic.”

The Governor noted that the current phase of the vaccination campaign would be driven by various stakeholders and strategic groups to increase access to the vaccines, because.

According to him, the pandemic does not respect persons or status.

“We have 84 vaccination centers across the State; some are mobile while others are fixed as the list will be made available soon.

“We call on Edo citizens to support the launch and vaccination exercise kicking off today, as I encourage everyone to get vaccinated, as this is the only way we can save lives and livelihood, as well as return to our normal lives.

“In this launch today, we have two sets of vaccines being dispensed; the Moderna and AstraZeneca vaccines. We are taking the vaccine seriously but we will not shut down Edo State,” he noted.

The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Greg Oko-Oboh, who deliver a lecture titled, “COVID-19 vaccination, a fighting chance,” said the State is 8th out of the 36 States of the federation with the new infection.

The family of Igor Oleksandrovych Vovkovinskiy, the official tallest man in America have confirmed his death. He was 38 years old and passed from heart disease. 

Vovkovinskiy, who was originally from Ukraine, died at the Mayo Clinic Hospital Saint Marys Campus in Rochester, New York.

His mother shared the sad update on Facebook along with some photos.

Vovkovinskiy relocated to the US 30 years ago for medical intervention to treat a tumor pressing against his pituitary gland, this was believed to have been the cause of his impressive height. 

He reportedly spoke to his older brother, sister-in-law, and other relatives just before his death.

Svetlvana Vovkovinska said: “Igor was glad to see them, and although it was difficult for him to speak, he tried to joke about his nephew Andriy, whether he had learned the Ukrainian language in a month in Ukraine."

Vovkovinskiy was crowned as America's tallest man back in 2010, while on the Dr Oz show. He was also labed as America's tallest living person by Guinness World Records.

He managed to beat the previous record by just a third of an inch. The previous record was held by a sheriff's deputy in Virginia.

At the time he said: “It feels so good to finally have proof that I am the tallest man in America,” he said at the time.

“Everyone is always asking me if I’m certain that I’m the tallest and I was never able to prove it. Now that I have this certificate to hang on my wall, I could finally show it!”

His immense height made it difficult to perform everyday tasks, like finding a desk or getting in and out of a car.

He dreamt of becoming an attorney and completed a two-year degree from Rochester Community and Technical College, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.

He also  raised $16,000 (£11,500) for specially made shoes after his feet grew to a size 26 and caused him pain and discomfort.

Vovkovinskiy said: “I’d like to do simple things like maybe go window shopping at a mall.

“I haven’t done that in about four years. Maybe walk my dog, go fishing.

He made the move to America when he was just six years old and was already standing six-foot tall as a child.

His family initially thought he would only stay in the country for a month.

His health deteriorated over the past few months and he struggled to walk.

Oleh Ladan, his older brother, told the Star Tribune, he would "rather lived a normal life than be known."

“He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, occasional fishing and traveling, and helping the Ukrainian Army in any way he could,” his obit read.

He is survived by his brother, niece, nephew, stepsister and mother.

His memorial service will be held on Saturday.

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Arrests 37 individuals for Alleged Internet Fraud

The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on 20th August 2021, arrested 37 suspected internet fraudsters.

The suspects were arrested at Ibadan and Oyo town, Oyo State following intelligence on their alleged involvement in internet fraud.

The suspects include Kehinde Emmanuel Ayoola, Adewale Adeparosi Samson, Adeniran Tijesunmi Ayobami, Abiodun Olamide, Olaoye Afolabi Bolarinwa, Ajibade Sodiq Ayodeji, Babalola Opeyemi David, Fatunbi Gboluwaga Oludotun, Abdusalam Mojeeb Ololade, Taiwo Emmanuel Olaoluwa and Oyewole Oyewunmi Fred.

Others are Akinboade Fatai Jimmy, Oyewole Samod. Others are: Ishola Akinyemi Labayo, Ayinde Oluwasegun Ridwan, Oladokun Abdulkadri Akolade, Adebayo Dare Basit, Adebayo Tola Kudus, , Oladeji Joseph Popoola Samuel Ayomide, Oladoja Oluwaseun Peter, Olakunbi Feranmi Ayodeji, Khalid Mohammed, Salimon Sodiq and Oparemi Ayomide James.

The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

As of 23rd August 2021, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has reported 565 new cases of Covid-19 in Nigeria. The figures are as follows:

Lagos-205

Rivers-73

Ondo-63

FCT-53

Oyo-53

Ekiti-37

Delta-24

Edo-20

Benue-12

Bayelsa-6

Kwara-6

Osun-6

Ogun-5

Adamawa-2

187,588 confirmed

168,818 discharged

2,276 deaths

Today’s report includes:

A backlog of cases from Benue state reported on the 17th (7), 18th (1) and 19th (4) of August 2021

Seven states with zero cases reported: Cross River, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Nasarawa, Plateau and Sokoto

A breakdown of cases by state can be found via covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

How welll do you think Nigerian leaders are handling the pandemic?

The Peoples Democratic Party has appealed to the All Progressives Congress reduce hardship on Nigerians by abandoning planns to re-implement toll gates. 

The appeal was signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in Abuja, on Sunday. contained in a statement titled, ‘Toll Gates: Stop Imposing More Hardship on Nigerians, PDP Tells APC,'

The PDP labeled the intention by the APC-led government to mount toll gates on major Nigerian roads as “a downright act of wickedness against the suffering masses.”

Ologbondiyan said, “Our party, after an extensive consideration, insists that the move to return the toll gates to allow APC interests to further fleece already impoverished Nigerians, is offensive, vexatious, inflammatory and as such should not be contemplated under any guise whatsoever.

“The party invites Nigerians to recall that the PDP administration dismantled the toll gates 18 years ago in order to ease the burden on the people as well as end the corrupt regime of operators.”

While rejecting the move, the PDP further said, “APC’s decision to impose levies on the highway, even after it had increased the pump price of fuel to an extortionate N165 per liter, further confirms that APC is a heartless party that is out to fleece and impose hardship on the people to benefit its leaders.”

The PDP maintains that the APC possess large financial resources at its disposal, making the toll booths unnecessasary and unjustified.

This, the PDP said, is especially as the administration has not been able to account for the over N1.4trn allocated for works in addition to over N120 billion collected from Nigerians as motor vehicle license in the last six years.

It also noted that “the Buhari Presidency has not taken any step to recover the over N25 trillion reportedly stolen by APC leaders in various revenue generating agencies including the NNPC, NEMA, NPA, FIRS, NIMASA, NDDC, NHIS among others, where culprits are merely ‘eased out’ instead of being prosecuted.”

In response, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Yekini Nabena said, “The PDP should go back and study how to play opposition politics because they will remain in opposition for a long time.

“The decision to re-introduce toll gates is an economic decision. In most developed and developing countries of the world there are toll gates. Money generated from them is used to maintain the roads. We all know what Covid-19 has done to economies around the world.”

President Buhari has signed the controversial Petroleum Bill into law.

The president signed the Petroleum Industry Bill 2021 into law on Monday. He signed this from his home as he is under the five days quarantine as required by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 after returning from London on Friday August 13. The President assented to the Bill in his determination to fulfill his constitutional duty.

The ceremonial part of the new legislation will be done on Wednesday, after the days of mandatory isolation would have been fulfilled.

The Petroleum Industry Act provides legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian petroleum industry, the development of host communities, and related matters.

The Senate had passed the Bill on July 15, 2021, while the House of Representatives did same on July 16, thus ending a long wait since early 2000s, and notching another high for the Buhari administration.

As of 15th August, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has released new figures for Covid-19 cases in Nigeria. 

541 new cases of COVID19 Nigeria;

Lagos-242

Akwa Ibom-94

Enugu-48

Oyo-48

Anambra-34

Rivers-19

Ogun-17

Ekiti-15

FCT-9

Kwara-7

Abia-5

Delta-2

Niger-1

182,503 confirmed

167,132 discharged

2,219 deaths

Today’s report includes:

• Six states with zero cases reported: Gombe, Nasarawa, Ondo, Osun, Plateau and Sokoto

A breakdown of cases by state can be found via covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

After purportedly delivering crystal meth to Australia, a Nigerian man and his Thai girlfriend were captured in Bangkok. They were intercepted and captured on Friday evening  attempting to make a shipment at a private mail drop-off point. 

The Nigerian man was recognized as Obimma Anthony and the Thai lady is Marisa Noipitak. The pair were captured by police at the drop-off point with a bundle that contained Buddhist monk offerings  and a hanging frame that were covertly being utilized to conceal drugs.
 
Officials were tipped off about the couple by the Airport Interdiction Task Force at Suvannabhumi Airport after they got a dubious package on August 4. Authorities blocked the bundle en route to Australia and looked through it to discover was filled with monk offerings including a Buddhist priest pillow all loaded with crystal meth, totalling 490 grams. 

At the point when police arrested them, they searched the couple's homes. Anthony's home in Samut Prakan region and Marisa's loft in Bang Kapi. In Anthony's home, they discovered 89 grams of crystal meth, 82 grams of cocaine, and 35 grams of heroin and in Marisa's condo, they discovered 985 grams of crystal meth. 

The Nigerian man and his Thai girlfriend  are presently being held by the Narcotics Suppression Division 3. They have been charged with illegal drug possession and the police are investigating the case further.

A Yola Chief Magistrate Court II, managed by Magistrate Japhet Basani, has convicted and sentensed a Numan-based businessman, Ali Yakubu Numan, to a two and a half year prison term for calling Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri 'Father of all thieves.’

Numan was sentenced on Wednesday to two-year prison term with choice of N50,000 fine for utilizing defamatory language against Fintiri. He was additionally sentenced to half year detainment without alternative of fine for disturbance of public peace.

The Governor pictured

The businessman, who portrayed Governor Fintiri as A thief and father of all thieves,’ was remanded  in jail  following his arraignment for defamation by the Attorney General of Adamawa State. 

In administering looking into the issue on Wednesday, Magistrate Basani said that the court showed up at the decision after it saw the man as guilty of the two charges brought against him by the arraignment. 

Numan had, on the11th, twelfth, thirteenth, seventeenth, twentieth and 29th July 2021, composed and distributed  insulting proclamations in Hausa and Fulfulde dialects on his Facebook page against the governor.

He portrayed Governor Fintiri in the publication as "a thief and father of all thieves in Nigeria" who took indomie, spaghetti and many billions of naira from state coffers. 

A Yola Chief Magistrate Court II, managed by Magistrate Japhet Basani, has convicted and sentensed a Numan-based businessman, Ali Yakubu Numan, to a two and a half year prison term for calling Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri 'Father of all thieves.’

Numan was sentenced on Wednesday to two-year prison term with choice of N50,000 fine for utilizing defamatory language against Fintiri. He was additionally sentenced to half year detainment without alternative of fine for disturbance of public peace.

The Governor pictured

The businessman, who portrayed Governor Fintiri as A thief and father of all thieves,’ was remanded  in jail  following his arraignment for defamation by the Attorney General of Adamawa State. 

In administering looking into the issue on Wednesday, Magistrate Basani said that the court showed up at the decision after it saw the man as guilty of the two charges brought against him by the arraignment. 

Numan had, on the11th, twelfth, thirteenth, seventeenth, twentieth and 29th July 2021, composed and distributed  insulting proclamations in Hausa and Fulfulde dialects on his Facebook page against the governor.

He portrayed Governor Fintiri in the publication as "a thief and father of all thieves in Nigeria" who took indomie, spaghetti and many billions of naira from state coffers. 

A Yola Chief Magistrate Court II, managed by Magistrate Japhet Basani, has convicted and sentensed a Numan-based businessman, Ali Yakubu Numan, to a two and a half year prison term for calling Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri 'Father of all thieves.’

Numan was sentenced on Wednesday to two-year prison term with choice of N50,000 fine for utilizing defamatory language against Fintiri. He was additionally sentenced to half year detainment without alternative of fine for disturbance of public peace.

The Governor pictured

The businessman, who portrayed Governor Fintiri as A thief and father of all thieves,’ was remanded  in jail  following his arraignment for defamation by the Attorney General of Adamawa State. 

In administering looking into the issue on Wednesday, Magistrate Basani said that the court showed up at the decision after it saw the man as guilty of the two charges brought against him by the arraignment. 

Numan had, on the11th, twelfth, thirteenth, seventeenth, twentieth and 29th July 2021, composed and distributed  insulting proclamations in Hausa and Fulfulde dialects on his Facebook page against the governor.

He portrayed Governor Fintiri in the publication as "a thief and father of all thieves in Nigeria" who took indomie, spaghetti and many billions of naira from state coffers. 

A Yola Chief Magistrate Court II, managed by Magistrate Japhet Basani, has convicted and sentensed a Numan-based businessman, Ali Yakubu Numan, to a two and a half year prison term for calling Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri 'Father of all thieves.’

Numan was sentenced on Wednesday to two-year prison term with choice of N50,000 fine for utilizing defamatory language against Fintiri. He was additionally sentenced to half year detainment without alternative of fine for disturbance of public peace.

The Governor pictured

The businessman, who portrayed Governor Fintiri as A thief and father of all thieves,’ was remanded  in jail  following his arraignment for defamation by the Attorney General of Adamawa State. 

In administering looking into the issue on Wednesday, Magistrate Basani said that the court showed up at the decision after it saw the man as guilty of the two charges brought against him by the arraignment. 

Numan had, on the11th, twelfth, thirteenth, seventeenth, twentieth and 29th July 2021, composed and distributed  insulting proclamations in Hausa and Fulfulde dialects on his Facebook page against the governor.

He portrayed Governor Fintiri in the publication as "a thief and father of all thieves in Nigeria" who took indomie, spaghetti and many billions of naira from state coffers. 

Over 31 legal counselors from the northern part of the Nigeria have shown interest in defending the controversial Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, who was as of late suspended regarding a $1.1m fraudulent scheme including fraudster, Ramon Abbas otherwise called Hushpuppi. 

This was revealed on Wednesday by Barrister Bappah Salisu, who spoke on the behalf of the 31 lawyers from 19 Northern States. 

As indicated by the assertion, the legal advisors chose to offer the free legal services of Abba Kyari following a call by the Coalition of Northern Groups which requested that the fundamental human rights of the troubled police supervisor should be ensured. 

The Northern Group had settled on the decision following a prosecution by a court in the United States of America after the disclosure of Abba Kyari's connection with Hushpuppi. 

Talking progressing by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to remove Kyari to the United States, the gathering of legal advisors said the FBI didn't follow due process and breached international protocol. 

“We would raise questions involving the possibility of breaches to Kyari’s fundamental rights entrenched in Articles 6 and 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Right which essentially state that every individual shall have the right to liberty and to the security of his person and every individual shall have the right to have his cause heard.

“This comprises: the right to an appeal to competent national organs against acts of violating his fundamental rights as recognized and guaranteed by conventions, laws, regulations and customs in force.

“The right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court or tribunal; the right to defence, including the right to be defended by counsel of his choice; the right to be tried within a reasonable time by an impartial court or tribunal”, the group added.

Twitter has said that it anticipates Nigeria lifting the suspension on its service after negotiations 

The Federal Government restricted Twitter on June 5 after the website erased a post from the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari's account. 

More than two months after, the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, the interpersonal interaction site would be permitted to work in Nigeria soon. 

“The ban on Twitter will soon be lifted as we are getting close to reaching full agreement. We have agreed on some areas, hopefully in the next few days or weeks we will conclude,” the minister said.

Responding, US-based Twitter affirmed it as of late met with the Nigerian government to examine the boycott and how to determine the matter.

“Our aim is to chart a path forward to the restoration of Twitter for everyone in Nigeria,” it said in a statement obtained via AFP.

“We look forward to ongoing discussions with the Nigerian government and seeing the service restored very soon.”

The four significant air terminals in Nigeria situated in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano were not planned as international facilities, the Federal Government said on Tuesday. 

Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, said this was the reason the offices had been set up for concession, adding that the air terminals were working below expectations. 

Sirika revealed this at a stakeholders' online webinar during his presentation on Nigerian Airport Concession Strategy. 

In June the Federal Government had set up the Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano air terminals for concession for at least 20 years. 

It gave the clarification in a report on often posed inquiries about air terminal concession delivered by the Federal Ministry of Aviation. 

In a record on the situation with the roadmap/public private association projects concession of air terminals made accessible to our journalist, the public authority named the air terminals/parts that were up for concession. 

They incorporate the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos: worldwide and load terminals; and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja: global, domestic and freight terminals. 

Others incorporate the Port Harcourt International Airport, Port Harcourt: worldwide, homegrown and load terminals; and Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano: global, homegrown and freight terminals. 

Talking on the goals of the concession project at the online course on Tuesday, Sirika said, "The airports in Nigeria are currently operating in a suboptimal environment, most notably due to factors that will have to be improved as part of the public private partnership programme.”

He expressed that there was a pressing requirement for foundation investments and modernisation as all air terminals required ifunding in runway support, navigation aids just as terminal support.

The minister said, “There is relatively low asset utilisation due to the limited opening hours of other smaller Nigerian airports; lack of terminal capacity as the airports fall short of gates, stands and check-in desks.

“The airports have not been designed as international hubs but operate separate international and domestic terminals.”

On transactions, advisors for the task, Sirika named them to incorporate Infrata, Dentons, Proserve, Ciena, and Templars, portraying them as legitimate firms that would inform the Federal Ministry regarding Aviation. 

He said the concessionaires would give the venture needed to overhaul the current terminals, assume control over the new terminals and keep up with them over a period of time dependant on the monetary appraisal of every transaction.

The four significant air terminals in Nigeria situated in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano were not planned as international facilities, the Federal Government said on Tuesday. 

Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, said this was the reason the offices had been set up for concession, adding that the air terminals were working below expectations. 

Sirika revealed this at a stakeholders' online webinar during his presentation on Nigerian Airport Concession Strategy. 

In June the Federal Government had set up the Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano air terminals for concession for at least 20 years. 

It gave the clarification in a report on often posed inquiries about air terminal concession delivered by the Federal Ministry of Aviation. 

In a record on the situation with the roadmap/public private association projects concession of air terminals made accessible to our journalist, the public authority named the air terminals/parts that were up for concession. 

They incorporate the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos: worldwide and load terminals; and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja: global, domestic and freight terminals. 

Others incorporate the Port Harcourt International Airport, Port Harcourt: worldwide, homegrown and load terminals; and Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano: global, homegrown and freight terminals. 

Talking on the goals of the concession project at the online course on Tuesday, Sirika said, "The airports in Nigeria are currently operating in a suboptimal environment, most notably due to factors that will have to be improved as part of the public private partnership programme.”

He expressed that there was a pressing requirement for foundation investments and modernisation as all air terminals required ifunding in runway support, navigation aids just as terminal support.

The minister said, “There is relatively low asset utilisation due to the limited opening hours of other smaller Nigerian airports; lack of terminal capacity as the airports fall short of gates, stands and check-in desks.

“The airports have not been designed as international hubs but operate separate international and domestic terminals.”

On transactions, advisors for the task, Sirika named them to incorporate Infrata, Dentons, Proserve, Ciena, and Templars, portraying them as legitimate firms that would inform the Federal Ministry regarding Aviation. 

He said the concessionaires would give the venture needed to overhaul the current terminals, assume control over the new terminals and keep up with them over a period of time dependant on the monetary appraisal of every transaction.

While New York Governor Andrew Cuomo completes his last two weeks in office after announcing his resignation on Tuesday, the New York State Assembly's impeachment investigation concerning the Cuomo will propably be concluded soon. 

The Assembly's Judiciary Committee has given Cuomo a Friday cutoff time to present any additional proof and statements of defense as the board investigates claims of sexual harrassment against Cuomo and abuse of state funds and resources. Regardless of whether it pushes ahead with impeachment, few administrators are resolute that impeachment is a fundamental step to keep Cuomo accountable and bar him from campaigning for office once more. 

"The impeachment investigation does not stop automatically just because the governor resigned. It can continue. We have not heard anything on that yet," New York state Sen. Andrew Gounardes told NPR, adding he believes the investigation should move forward.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie has not given reports on the examination since Monday, however the chamber's Judiciary Committee is as yet scheduled to meet one week from now to review documents. 

Heastie delivered a proclamation Tuesday saying that Cuomo's choice to venture down was the right decision. 

"The brave women who stepped forward were heard. Everyone deserves to work in a harassment-free environment. I have spoken with Lieutenant Governor [Kathy] Hochul and I look forward to working with her," he said.

Heastie's office didn't react to a request for input when inquired as to whether the impeachment and investigation procedures will proceed. 

There is a sense of urgency among legislators 

While legislators are standing by to hear the following stages from Assembly authority, there is a desire to move quickly to consider Cuomo accountable.

"We are lacking a lot of sunlight in this process," Assembly member Yuh-Line Niou said about Cuomo's resignation. "We still owe it to the victims of the governor's predatory behavior to actually have a full accounting of what happened, even if he's no longer in power. We definitely should be feeling urgency." 

An investigation by New York Attorney General Letitia James found that Cuomo sex sexually harrassed somewhere around 11 women and fought back against one representative who opened up to the world about her experience. Be that as it may, the Assembly's simply investigating claims of sexual offense. It's likewise analyzing reports of other alleged abuses of power, including whether Cuomo abused government funds for his book deal There is additionally another state investigation concerning why a great many nursing home deaths from COVID-19 went unreported under Cuomo. 

Cuomo has apologized for his activities however called the sexual harrassment claims "false" and said the investigation has been "politically motivated." He has likewise denied there was an undercounting from getting nursing home patients who died  of COVID-19. 

"We still have to account for all of his misdeeds while he was there," Gounardes said.

Niou, a Democrat, added that she and a considerable lot of her partners are additionally tired of Cuomo's endeavors to keep away from any responsibility. At the point when Cuomo declared he was leaving, Niou was in an Assembly hearing on eviction and housing, and said she and her associates high-fived and celebrated when they heard the news. 

Cuomo's troubles could go beyond impeachment

Impeachment of a sitting governor in New York has just happened once — William Sulzer, who impeached in 1913 — so there is minimal point of reference for the process. In any case, in the fallout of Cuomo's resignation, officials are gauging another part of indictment: They could cast a ballot to ensure Cuomo is banned from campaigning for office once more. 

Impeachment is not the lone way Cuomo could in any case be held responsible. A criminal action by one of Cuomo's assistants who says the lead representative groped her has effectively been instituted against him, and it's conceivable he could in any case face civil cases also, Michelle Simpson Tuegel, a women's' rights lawyer, told NPR. 

The lawyer recognized that citizens and legislators are tired of impeachments, however she said if officials decide not to push ahead with the impeachment process for political reasons, it would be a "cop-out."

Top Nollywood actor, Rich Oganiru, has passed on weeks after news of his failing health was made public. 

Fourteen days prior, a video of the late entertainer, looking sickly, lying in bed and looking for monetary help, surfaced on the web. 

The video, shared by one of his associates, was inscribed, “Please, everyone should reach out before he dies."

The Owerri-born entertainer passed on Tuesday, subsequent to being sick for quite a long time without funds.

Nollywood Acting Career

His career spanned over than twenty years as he has featured in more than 300 motion pictures like

‘Queen of Hasso Rock’, ‘Wasted Effort’, ‘Pay Day’, ‘Lacrima’, ‘Stoneface in Love’, ‘Givers Never Lack’, ‘His Majesty’, and ‘Yellow Fe Rich Odichinma Azu vet,’.

Others are ‘My Destiny’, ‘Battle Of The Rich’, ‘Political Control’, ‘Touching Love’, ‘Total Control’, ‘Last Confession’ among others.

In 2012, the Nollywood entertainer was captured for supposedly killing his significant other in Abuja. 

He denied the claims and maintained his innocence. 

Following the occurrence, his career plunged, and he never entirely got back to the business. 

Prior to his demise, 

 he was the Corporate Marketing Consultant to the Abuja Chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.

He was also an Evangelist at the Davidical Order Ministry.

Covid-19 Update in Nigeria as of 8th August 2021.

471 new cases of Covid-19

Lagos-219
Akwa Ibom-102
Ondo-37
Oyo-33
Kwara-19
Rivers-16
Ekiti-15
Delta-14
Ogun-7
FCT-5
Niger-2
Edo-1
Katsina-1

178,086 confirmed
165,763 discharged
2,187 deaths

States with zero cases reported (6): Gombe, Kano, Osun, Plateau, Sokoto and Kaduna

Visit covid19.ncdc.gov.ng for more information.

One of the new Big Brother Naija: Shine Ya Eye housemates, JMK, has revealed that she abandoned her call to bar so that she could be on the show.

JMK made this known while discussing with Angel, as the duo was trying to get acquainted with each other, following the addition of JMK and three others on the show.

According to JMK, she forfeited her call to bar because of the show as she had to choose between both. She said that since her result came out very well, she’ll be able to do her call to bar later but BBNaija was an opportunity that couldn’t wait.

She said, “It was tough for me and I was losing it. It was between what my parents would think obviously; ‘After you spend six years and you did not make your call to bar?’ Then, there was me trying to make a decision for myself."

“The opportunity that comes with this is huge.  I’m not saying law school is not important but this is huge. So if I can have it both ways, why should I leave one for the other?

“It’s not like the call to bar is running. If I didn’t go now, I’ll not come to Big Brother again.”

JMK also said “I don’t know. I feel like if I wasn’t meant to be here, I wouldn’t be.”

A YOUNG crypto trader who displayed his wealth on Instagram has been shot dead in the driver's seat of his red Porsche Boxster. 

Shooters released a hail of bullets on 19-year-old Wesley Pessano Santarem as he passed through the Brazilian city of Sao Pedro da Aldeia. 

Chilling video film recorded the outcome of the daytime shooting on August 4 shows Wesley still steering the ship of his vehicle with his white T-shirt blood soaked. 

There is a noticeable bullet twisted in his neck. 

The killing comes as gangs are progressively focusing on purported "Instagran Influencers" such as Bitcoin traders after they parade their abundance via web-based media. 

In spite of being only 19-years of age, Wesley had obviously made a fortune as a digital currency trader and investor for three years. 

On Instagram, he flaunted  his riches and costly way of life to his 133,000 followers in addition to a YouTube channel with 15,600 subscribers where he gave trading tips. 

His last Insta post was a photograph of him sitting on the red Porsche — in which he was shot — as he flicks through wads of money. 

Filled with BULLETS 

As per reports, Wesley, who lived in the close by city of Cabo Frio, was heading to the beautician's to get a haircut when he was attacked. The killing occurred before witnesses who said the killers were driving a silver Volkswagen Voyage. 

Cops say Wesley took somewhere around four shots, including one to the head. 

Wesley's friend was going in the front seat at that point and was harmed in the shooting. 

He was taken to emergency clinic in Cabo Frio while Wesley's body was taken for an after death assessment. 

The harmed man's identity has not been released.

The police have not uncovered the executioners' identity or their motive for the crime.

Man City made £100m offer for Jack Grealish on Friday; Grealish's move would overshadow Paul Pogba's 2016 exchange to Manchester United and become greatest in English football history.

Jack Grealish will go through a Manchester City clinical on Thursday in ahead of his proposed £100m move from Aston Villa. 

City presented their proposal on Friday and it is perceived Villa will allow Grealish to leave for the Premier League champions. 

The move would address the greatest exchange in English football history, breaking the past record held by Paul Pogba who rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016. 

Grealish, who was offered a drawn out reprieve in the wake of playing for England at Euro 2020, has been preparing with his Villa colleagues in London the entire week and was  with the group on Wednesday. 

Estate offered Grealish a better than ever contract recently, notwithstanding him marking a five-year bargain last September. 

Grealish is a Villa institute graduate and has shown up for the club, scoring 32 objectives.

Abba Kyari is the suspended commissioner of police who faces allegations by the FBI in regards to his relationship with notorious fraudster, Ramon Abbas, aka Hushpuppi. The disgraced commissioner has since has deleted a controversial Facebook post explaining said relationship with Hushpuppi. The post was edited twelve times before deletions. 

In the wake of these allegations, Mr Kyari's Facebook post appeared hasty, claiming the fraudster paid him N300,000 for the services of a tailor. 

The scandal reached a head when the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, had a court order issued for Mr. Kyari's arrest. The Nigerian Police Force have since set up a panel to probe his relationship with Hushpuppi.

As the controversy deepens and police began probe, Mr Kyari began the alteration of the Facebook version of his statement to further include another money-related case he handled involving Hushpuppi and removed the tailor connection bit.

The Facebook post read: “Nobody demanded or collected any money from Abbas Hushpuppi. He can be interviewed publicly in the presence of world media by the people holding him to confirm this,” he said in the oft-edited post before removal.

“He also called for another case in June 2020 and complained about a financial transaction with a second person whom he said his friend sent 8 million naira to and pleaded for his friends money to be recovered.

“He sent transaction slips and other evidences to prove their case against the person, all these can be verified from the Hushpuppi since he is still in custody.

“And it can be verified from person who collected the 8 million naira from Hushpuppi’s friend whom they complained about is alive and is in Nigeria.

“Generally what ever investigation steps/tactics that is being taken in most cases especially on the parties in this type of case from January to June is not for public consumption. This is the true story.”

Gloria Igberaese and Muyiwa Folorunsho, a Nigerian couple, have been proclaimed wanted by the Interpol over allegations of a multi-million dollar investment fraud. 

The suspects are said CEOs of Divergent Enterprise working organizations like Landlagos, PorkMoney, Hyberfactory and Porkoyum, among different organizations that they purportedly used to defraud a great many Nigerians in a large number of Ponzi plans connected to them. 

In one case, the couple, whose online media presence acquired them the titles "Bonnie and Clyde," purportedly duped financial investors out of N1 billion.

“These funds were however diverted to personal use, including for the purchase of luxury properties and foreign citizenship,” victims said in a January 21, 2021, petition to federal authorities.

The warrants for their arrest were separately issued by the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court. They are wanted for obtaining money under false pretence and stealing. 

“He is wanted by the police for the offence of obtaining money under false pretence, stealing and diversion of fund,” a notice issued by the Intepol section of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos said along with physical descriptions. 

“If seen, arrest and hand over to the nearest police station or to the office of the commissioner of police Interpol Section Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex Alagbon Ikoyi Close, Lagos,” the documents further said.

In 2019, the couple's former employees accused them of fraud, creating a toxic work environment and deducting salaries unfairly over trivial issues.  They have since come under heavy scrutiny on Twitter. 

One of the alleged former employees identified as Ada accused the couple of defrauding clients and keeping their married status from public space.

However, in their defence, they denied ever mistreating any staff member.

“For those who are unhappy with my perceived treatment of them while working for me, I sincerely apologize, and I do hope that over time, as you venture into creating businesses of yours that you get to understand why some things however unpalatable are totally necessary if one is to survive as a business owner in Nigeria,” she wrote. The couple also denied all allegations of corruption.

They were declared wanted following a petition filed by Chijioke Ukaegbu and other victims. Intelligence research firm Sylnam Strategies coordinated the petition against the suspect.

The latest addition to the Fast and Furious franchise, Fast and Furious 9 has supposedly been leaked online before its official release. Its star-studded cast, featuring: Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Jordana Brewster, Chris Bridges (aka Ludacris), Nathalie Emmanuel, Helen Mirren and Charlize Theron has made it a highly anticipated movie. It also features other A-list celebrities such as John Cena, Cardi B and Ozuna.

Fast and Furious 9's plot is centered around Dom and Letty being summoned, halting their quiet life with their son. They are asked to foil a dangerous scheme and are met with the usual action, drama, luxury and high speed chases. This movie however, features rocket launch to space. It was scheduled for release on August 5th but is somehow now available to download and stream on torrent sites in HD.

Online platforms are currenltuy flooded with searches for the movie.

Two Nigerian competitors will be running in the semifinals of the ladies' 100m subsequent to Blessing Okagbare and Nzubechi Grace Nwokocha qualified from their separate heats Friday in Tokyo, Japan. This is the first time since 2012.

Nwokocha needed to run another individual best of 11.00 seconds to qualify for the semifinal round in her introduction at the Games. 

The 20 year old has likewise moved into fifth in the Nigeria record-breaking list behind Okagbare (10.79), Glory Alozie (10.90) Mary Onyali (10.97) and Damola Osayomi (10.99). 

The Nigeria-based competitor who ran 11.09 seconds to get her qualification for the Olympics in March at the MOC Grand Prix in Lagos will anyway have to make further history by breaking the 11 seconds boundary as the fifth Nigerian lady to do so in order to join Onyali and Okagbare as debutants who ran right to the finals. 

She has been assigned to run from lane nine in the third semifinal round heat with the fastest woman alive, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica, Daryl Neita of Great Britain, Teahna Daniels of the USA and individual African, Muriel Ahoure of Ivory Coast. 

While Nwokocha qualified for her first semifinal round, Okagbare will be running in her third since she made her presentation in the occasion at the 2012 Olympics in London. The 32 year old ran 11.05 seconds to win her initially round heat. 

She has been assigned to the first semifinal heat alongside two heavyweights of the event, reigning champ Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica who ran 10.82 seconds to win her initially round warmth and Great Britain's Dina Asher-Smith, the 200m best on the planet two years prior in Doha, Qatar who ran 11.07 seconds to come second in her first round heat. 

The 2008 Beijing Olympics Long Jump silver medalist will be in real life at precisely 11.15 am Nigerian time on Saturday.

Renowed actor Wentworth Miller, famous for his lead role as Michael Scofield in the Prison Break Series, is sharing details the autism diagnosis he was given over the past year. 

 In an Instagram post, Miller, 49, explained that his initial self diagnosis of autism was followed by a formal diagnosis.  

He said: “This isn’t something I’d change. No. I get - got - immediately being autistic is central to who I am. To everything I’ve achieved/articulated,” Miller wrote.

He also thanked those who “gave me the extra bit of grace + space over the years, allowed me to move thru the world in a way that made sense to me whether or not it made sense to them.”

Miller has openly spoken about appearing in the  TV series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” As an openly gay man, he announced his preference to no longer play straight characters. a

“I’d like to tell — to watch — more stories where gay characters are informed by their struggles, but not defined,” he said, according to Entertainment Tonight.

“Not getting sacrificed so straight characters can enjoy some kind of epiphany. I don’t think that’s too much to ask,” he said, according to Entertainment Tonight. “It’s so important queer audiences — queer kids — see stories that don’t center suffering. See us empowered, in positions of authority. Moving through the world with purpose. Confidence. Dignity. It makes it easier to imagine those things are available to us in real life too.”

Nigeria's Central Bank (CBN) has halted the sale of foreign exchange (FX) to Bureau De Change (BDC) administrators in the country. The registration of new foreign exchange institutions has additionally been halted according to Governor Godwin Emefiele during a monetary policy meeting in Abuja.

This decision has been met with debate and controversy between economists, monetary policy experts, and other Nigerians on social media.

For what reason is Nigeria ending the sale of forex? 

BDCs initially were set up to get a weekly supply of FX from the CBN for forward deal to retail end-clients, that is, individuals who required $5,000 dollars or less. 

It was noted by the MPC that the foreign exchange vendors had started illegally trading millions of dollars in exchange per transaction. 

According to Emefiele,  the CBN gets around 5,000 new monthly applications for Bureau De Change registration as they keep making enormous benefits to the detriment of the average Nigerian, who experienced the "dollarisation" of the Nigerian economy as a result of BDCs.  

The Central Bank of Nigeria likewise accused BDC administrators of illegal activity such as money laundering. 

“They have turned themselves away from their objectives,” Emefiele said. “They are now agents that facilitate graft and corruption in the country. We cannot continue with the bad practices that are happening at the BDC market.”

The CBN will henceforth channel weekly allocations of dollar sales to commercial banks to meet legitimate FX demands. The banks will be monitored to provide forex for the legitimate use of Nigerians.

“We will deal ruthlessly with Nigerian banks that deal with illegal BDCs and we will report foreign organisations patronising them,” Emefiele said, adding that they are mandated to sell forex to every customer.

Evaluating the expected effect; Good or terrible move? 

Some have applauded the CBN for finishing the careless sale of foreign money to BDC administrators, ending their rule over the economy.

Nonetheless, there are worries that huge number of Nigerians working at the 3,000+ BDC administrators in the nation will be tossed into the all around enormous joblessness pool because of the boycott. 

“It’s not a bad decision in itself but it’s bad for the times we are in,” said Kelechi Opara, an economist and Market Insights Officer at MMS Nigeria. “This isn’t the time to close businesses. We are talking about unemployment and more people are about to be thrown into the same labour market.”

Opara added that instead of an outright ban, the CBN could “go the extra mile” to properly profile and monitor every BDC operator they license, to ensure a working system void of corruption.

“Even with the move, there’s no assurance that commercial banks will not become a supply chain in the BDCs market. The CBN should assume fulfill its regulatory role and create an enabling environment for legal businesses to thrive.”

As commercial banks settle to adjust to the CBN directive, the ban is likely to put more pressure on the Nigerian naira in the parallel/black market – where forex is traded unofficially – in the immediate term.

Due to the low inflow of U.S. dollars into the Nigerian economy, banks struggle to give foreign currency to their customers on demand. 

Although the situation should improve with the CBN channelling its weekly allocation to lenders, doubts exist over their capacity to replace BDCs in serving the huge demand for forex in Nigeria’s import-dependent economy. 

“Getting dollars could become even more difficult than what we have now,” Opara said, noting that this is likely to push more companies and business people actively in need of dollars to the black market, further adding pressure on the naira.

Following the CBN’s announcement, the local unit fell by ₦1.00 or 0.20% to close at ₦505 per $1 on Tuesday, from ₦504 on Monday. This is according to data recorded on abokiFX.com, a website that collates the parallel market rates in Lagos.

Over the long term, the central bank’s effectiveness in disbursing foreign currency to retail users through the banks – if the new system is sustained – will dictate how the exchange rate at the parallel market will vary from the official rate of ₦410/$1.

For freelancers, remote workers, and remittance recipients that get foreign currencies through banks, the increased quantity of FX in the hands of lenders bodes well for their demands, except for the high fees banks charge on remittances. 

“If banks will be the sole seller of forex to the retail users, then the CBN has to do something about their high remittance charges so as to avoid people rushing to the black market,” Opara added.

The opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics will begin on Friday 23rd July 2021. It will be conducted before a nearly empty stadium due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This year's Olympics has been fraught with controversy.

Though the venue is a stadium with  68,000-capacity. only a few hundred spectators comprising officials and dignitaries, including Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, French President Emmanuel Macron and US First Lady Jill Biden with the emperor will officially declaring the Games open.

The gathering of over 11,000 athletes in Japan for  the Olympics has triggered fears that it could be a super-spreader event.  Overseas fans have been banned for the first time ever along with strict corona virus measures. Athletes have also been turned away after testing positive for COVID-19. 

Dancers perform around the Olympic rings under a fireworks display during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by Andrej ISAKOVIC / AFP)

Athletes, support staff and media are subject to strict Covid-19 protocols, including regular testing and daily health checks. 

Nigeria’s delegation parade during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP)

US First Lady Jill Biden arrives for the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by Leon Neal / POOL / AFP)

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito (C) attends the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by STR / JIJI PRESS / AFP) / Japan OUT

Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka holds the Olympic Torch before lighting the flame of hope in the Olympic Cauldron during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by HANNAH MCKAY / POOL / AFP)

The opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics will begin on Friday 23rd July 2021. It will be conducted before a nearly empty stadium due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This years Olympics has been fraught with controversy.

Though the venue is a stadium with  68,000-capacity. only a few hundred spectators comprising officials and dignitaries, including Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, French President Emmanuel Macron and US First Lady Jill Biden with the emperor will officially declaring the Games open.

The gathering of over 11,000 athletes in Japan for  the Olympics has triggered fears that it could be a super-spreader event.  Overseas fans have been banned for the first time ever along with strict corona virus measures. Athletes have also been turned away after testing positive for COVID-19. 

Dancers perform around the Olympic rings under a fireworks display during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by Andrej ISAKOVIC / AFP)

Athletes, support staff and media are subject to strict Covid-19 protocols, including regular testing and daily health checks. 

Nigeria’s delegation parade during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP)

US First Lady Jill Biden arrives for the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by Leon Neal / POOL / AFP)

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito (C) attends the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by STR / JIJI PRESS / AFP) / Japan OUT

Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka holds the Olympic Torch before lighting the flame of hope in the Olympic Cauldron during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, at the Olympic Stadium, in Tokyo, on July 23, 2021. (Photo by HANNAH MCKAY / POOL / AFP)

Greek-Nigerian professional basketball player, Giannis Sina Antetokounmpo directed his group, Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 NBA Championship where they went head to head against Phoenix Suns. Antetokounmpo scored 50 points in a series, securing 105-98 Game 6 triumph that finished the Bucks' 50-year title dry spell and established his heritage among the pantheon of Milwaukee Bucks' greats. 

The last time the Bucks won a Championship was in 1971 when Abdul Kareem Abdul-Jabbar drove them to their first championship. 

Antetokounmpo, the two time MVP, ended the game with perhaps the most impressive stats in NBA Finals history – 50 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks. He turns into the seventh player in NBA history to score 50 or more points in a Finals game. He likewise represented 47.6 percent of Milwaukee's points on Tuesday night which is the fourth-most noteworthy in a Finals game in the shot-clock era. 

Michael Jordan and Elgin Baylor are the lone players to record a higher rate during that range. Because of his performance all through the series, Antetokounmpo was named Finals MVP.

On his win, and in accepting his award, Antetokounmpo said: “I want to thank Milwaukee for believing in me, thank my teammates.  They played hard every freaking game. I trusted this team. I wanted to do it here in this city, I wanted to do it with these guys, so I’m happy. I’m happy that we were able to get it done.”

“No matter whatever you feel, when you feel down, when things look like it might not happen for you, you might not make it — your career might be basketball, it might be anything — just believe in what you’re doing. Keep working. Don’t let nobody tell you what you can’t be and what you cannot do.

“This should make every person, every kid, everybody around the world believe in their dreams,” he added.

“I want to thank Milwaukee for believing in me, thank my teammates,” said Antetokounmpo after accepting the Finals MVP award. “They played hard every freaking game. I trusted this team. I wanted to do it here in this city, I wanted to do it with these guys, so I’m happy. I’m happy that we were able to get it done.”

“No matter whatever you feel, when you feel down, when things look like it might not happen for you, you might not make it — your career might be basketball, it might be anything — just believe in what you’re doing. Keep working. Don’t let nobody tell you what you can’t be and what you cannot do.

“This should make every person, every kid, everybody around the world believe in their dreams,” he added.

Pictured: Giannis Antetokounmpo 

Nigeria identified its first monkeypox case in 30 years in 2017.

Since September 2017, Nigeria has been encountering the biggest monkeypox flare-up. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has revealed an total of 466 suspected monkeypox cases from 30 states. 

Of this, 205 have been affirmed in 18 states. 

During the initial a half year of 2021, Nigeria has seen 13 affirmed monkeypox cases from five states Delta (3), Bayelsa (2), Lagos (4), Edo (1), Rivers (3). No deaths reported so far. 

8 cases were reported in 2020.

The NCDC Director-General, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, spoke in Abuja on Tuesday after the agency had registered 59 suspected cases of monkeypox, with 15 confirmed. 

After a Nigerian national arriving in the USA tested positive, Dallas County Judge, Clay Jenkins, assured that: “While rare, this case is not a reason for alarm and we do not expect any threat to the general public,” Jenkins, said in a statement by Dallas County’s health department.

With the continued wearing of masks aboard flights and in the airport it the risk of spreading monkey pox via respiratory droplets are low.

Ihekweazu further stated that an outbreak would only be declared if there is a large enough cluster of reported cases constituting an emergency. t

Monkeypox, an uncommon zoonosis that happens irregularly in forested spaces of Central and West Africa, is an orthopoxvirus that can cause lethal ailment. The illness manifests symptoms like human smallpox (eradicated since 1980), though human monkeypox is less severe. The infection is self-limiting with symptoms ordinarily subsiding within 14–21 days. Treatment is supportive. The infection is communicated through direct contact with blood, organic liquids and cutaneous/mucosal sores of a tainted creatures (rodents, squirrels, monkeys, dormice, striped mice, chimpanzees among others rodents) Secondary human-to-human transmission is limitedd yet can happen by means of openness to respiratory drops, contact with contaminated people or  materials.

Popular Nigerian actress, Tonto Dikeh, has expressed her gratitude for her new husband, Prince Kpokpogri on social media. 

She wrote that having him as “my head and as a father to my son has been one of my secret prayers.”

The above caption was of a video showing her husband at her son King Andre's graduation ceremony, She shares her son with ex-husband Churchill Olakunle.

Tonto Dikeh wrote, “The rush of emotions is truly beautiful. Having a man stand with me as MY HEAD and as a father to my son has been one of my secret prayers.

“I’m grateful Lord for bringing my family this far and your continuous show off of love on us. If happiness was a person, it’s me KING TONTO.

“When I thought he had done too much, Jesus did it again. He made all things beautiful in his time. INDEED JESUS IS REALLY TAKING CARE OF ME.

“If this isn’t God, then who is it? He turned my mockery into gladness. He turned A MESS INTO A MESSAGE. Halleluyah!!!

“Weldone Jesus, I see you!!!

“I ADORE YOU @kpokpogri @kingandre_dikeh and all our kids. Thank you to MY HUSBAND.”

Lewis Hamilton was the victim of numerous racially charged attacks during, and after his controversial win in the British Grand Prix, as announced by a joint statement by Formula One, the FIA and his Mercedes team. 

The seven-time champion won a race that saw title holder Max Verstappen, Red Bull driver, lose the race after hitting a wall.   

Hamilton was hit by a 10 second punishment yet proceeded to dominate the race, closing the gap, and wining in only 8 points.  

Formula 1 and other overseeing bodies have joined to show their support for Lewis Hamilton after the online bigoted maltreatment the Mercedes driver got in the wake of the British GP. 

Red Bull, whose driver Max Verstappen smashed out of Sunday's race after a lap-one impact with Hamilton, said they were "disgsuted and and saddened" by the resulting abused focused on the seven-time best on the world. 

Bigoted messages including 'monkey emoticons' and other racial slurs were sent as comments to a post by the Mercedes team on Instagram observing Hamilton's Silverstone achievement. 

Hamilton won his home Silverstone race for a record-broadening eighth time in spite of gathering a 10-second punishment for the lap-one impact with Verstappen, his title rival.

Acclaimed Nigreian actress Kate Henshaw celebrated her golden jubilee, turning 50 today, on 19th July 2021.  She joined the Nollywood scene in 1993 and has since starred in over 50 movies.

She posted some celebratory photos and captioned: “Never would have made it this far without the King of Kings…

“The laughter and joy in my life testifies of His goodness and mercy over me….. I am highly favoured!! This I know.

“Who am I that thou art mindful of me?? My glory and the lifter up of my head.

“Not that I am perfect O Lord but that you favoured me and the enemy did not triumph over me…. Alleluia.”

What is your favorite Kate Henshaw movie?

US rapper Lil Durk, real name Durk Derrick Banks, and his girlfriend, India Cox,  have been involved in a shoot out in their home in Atlanta, Georgia. 

According to police, “several unidentified individuals” entered around 5:14 a.m. Sunday.

During the break-in, “the suspects and the residents exchanged gunfire,” the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said in a statement. Neither Banks nor Cox were hurt during what authorities have described as an “aggravated assault/home invasion incident.” (TMZ appears to have first reported on this break-in.)

Lil Durk, 28, and late rapper King Von were both accused of involvement in a February 2019 shooting outside an Atlanta restaurant. Banks was charged with attempted murder and aggravated assault, among other charges, court records show.

King Von, born Dayvon Bennett, was killed last November after being shot outside an Atlanta nightclub. Police said that two groups of males started to argue with each other outside the Monaco Hookah Lounge early November 6 when their dispute “quickly escalated to gunfire.”  Bennett was 26.

Despite his legal woes, Banks’s music career has skyrocketed. He and Lil Baby officially released their long-awaited collab, The Voice of the Heroes, on June 4, bringing along Meek Mill, Travis Scott, Young Thug, and Rod Wave for their 18-track album. Banks and Lil Baby were also in DJ Khaled’s “Every Chance I Get” video, which dropped in early May.

The 28-year-old has had 33 songs in the US Hot 100 chart so far this year, more than any other artist, according to Billboard.

A video has surfaced online of against unite office, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, endeavoring to oust Nora Olumide Johnson, a previous mistress and personal secretary of more than 30 years to billionaire businessman, Mike Adenuga, from her home. 

In the video, Johnson could be seen sobbing as she begs Adenuga to let her be. 

"Mike Adenuga, leave me alone. What have I done? He said I stole money, the money I didn’t steal because I want to break up. 30 years I gave my life to Adenuga yet he wants to drive me away from this house. This house that I built. How many houses did I have? What did he do for me? He didn’t do anything for me. No husband, no children. I am finished," She said sobbing. 

In an appeal to the EFCC recently, Adenuga, had through its lawyer, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), accused others Johnson and others of conspiracy, forgery, stealing and obtaining money under false pretence.

Adenuga in the request said he had through Worldspan Holdings Limited, one of his various organizations, directed his bankers, BNP Paribas, Paris on December 7, 2013 to close two of its accounts, the $300,000 balance moved to the current account of Conoil Producing Limited. However, in opposition to the directive, Johnson the principal defendant and another, the fifth defendant, purportedly gave a later directed the bank that the said balance be wired to DSL Nominees Limited record in China for their own benefits. 

Adenuga as indicated by an online paper, Nigerian Lawyer, additionally claimed that at some point somewhere in the range of 2018 and 2020, the principal defendant, along with others, took different monetary forms in naira and other currencies, in what might be compared to $350,000 around one billion naira (N1billion). They also falsified invoices on the purchase of vehicles, inflating air ticket fares and then some. 

By virtue of that and others, Justice Liman, the managing judge, Federal High Court, Lagos, requested the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to claim all property possessed by Johnson, including her private building, all, yet one of which she had purchased between April, 2001 and February 2010 and froze her ledgers on February 16, 2021. 

Johnson, in denying every one of the claims contained in the appeal and asserted that at no time in 2013 was she directed by Adenuga or Worldspan to move the affirmed $300,000/close any accounts nor did she take part the transfer.

Johnson kept up with that she was never questioned for any supposed redirection of $300,000 from 2013 till she left her work in 2019 and further expressed that she was never associated with supposed taking of a ghost $350,000 in the range of 2018 and 2020. 

She guaranteed on oath that Adenuga planned the ghost claims to scare and abuse her since left a 30-year  affair with him, for her true serenity. She further committed to a 13 section further testimony that she taught her direction to document an application for stay of execution just as for releasing the sets of the court, which was done and served to the prosecution.

“However, on March 17, 2021, I was suddenly asked by an EFCC officer via telephone call to come to the Commission’s office immediately. I informed the officer who called me that I had a pre-scheduled medical appointment for March 17, 2021 and that I would come to their office on the scheduled date, being March 18, 2021.

“The EFCC officer then told me that he and his fellow officers were coming to my house to pick me up and take possession of my house as there is a court order to that effect. The EFCC officers kept true to their threat as 30 minutes later they got to my house with Police officers, tried to eject me from my house, that they were taking possession of the house, despite the service of the application of the motion for stay on the EFFC.”

In the petition, her lawyers, M.J. Partnership; Solicitors, said: “Our client worked for over a period of 30 years approximately, as confidential secretary to Dr. Adenuga starting from her appointment at Devcom Merchant Bank Limited in 1990. However, irrespective of which of Dr. Adenuga’s companies our client’s salaries were paid from, our client at all times worked personally in the office of Dr. Adenuga all through the period she worked in his organization receiving various cash gifts in foreign and local currencies from Dr. Adenuga

“She handled many sensitive matters for Dr. Adenuga and at no point during her work as confidential secretary was she accused of any financial crime or misdemeanor whatsoever. She rather performed her role as confidential secretary to the best of her abilities,” the lawyers stated and urged the Commission to protect the rights of the accused from the frivolous criminal allegations.

Justice Allagoa in his judgment delivered on July 15, 2021 refused to grant the prayers of Ms Johnson and ordered that their motion be hereby set aside. The honourable court also stated that the order of Justice Liman stands in all its ramifications and that the EFCC are entitled to take possession of all that property subject to the order of judge Liman on 16th day of February, 2021.

e-Money has declared that they are incorporating with the Polygon Network in Q3, 2021. As of late, the acknowledgment of cryptographic money installments and blockchain innovation has been dramatically expanding all through online platforms and physical assets, setting the requirement for more stablecoins in different currencies. e-Money has effectively filled that hole with their European stablecoins. 

The European stablecoins eEUR, eCHF, eSEK, eNOK and eDKK gave by e-Money will be accessible on the Polygon Network, empowering more users to join the organization utilize their local currency to work with exchanges. 

These stablecoins are additionally interest bearing, showing that the interest acquired on the basic resources is reflected in the token's value, permitting token holders to make monetary profits. Moreover, quarterly reviews by Ernst and Young will ensure the integrity, transparency and straightforwardness of e-Money stablecoins, guaranteeing Proof of Funds. 

Martin Dyring-Anderson, e-Money CEO and Founder, said: “We are very excited to integrate with the Polygon Network to bring e-Money’s compliant European digital currencies to a broader audience. We believe Polygon users will benefit from having European stablecoins rather than just USD-denominated stablecoin options. This integration will enable e-Money to interact with real-world economies and DeFi applications, thereby expanding our user base and strengthening our position as a leading issuer of trustworthy stablecoins.”

The combination of e-Money's European stablecoins will give a critical expansion to Polygon's variety of stablecoins. It will likewise work with quicker reconciliations with European curencies searching for local currencies for the business sectors they work in. 

The administration of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has requested the temporar closure of the establishment this month over the resurgence of COVID-19 on the college grounds. 

This choice was reached at an emergency Senate meeting on Wednesday. 

Students have additionally been instructed to move out with their possessions by 12.00 noon  on Thursday, July 15, 2021. 

The Senate directed the remainder of the semester ought to be conveyed virtually from 26th July 2021. 

The college on Tuesday had declared in an explanation on its site that the organization was being affected by an unexpected third wave of the Covid.

“The University of Lagos Medical Centre wishes to inform all members of the University of Lagos Community about what appears to be the start of a potential 3rd wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Lagos State,” it said.

“The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu, in his press statement issued on July 11, 2021, stated that since the beginning of July there has been a steep increase in the number of daily confirmed cases, with the test positivity rate going from 1.1% at the end of June 2021, to its current rate of 6.6% as at the 8th of July 2021. This is with a concurrent increase in the occupancy rate at Lagos State isolation centres.

“The University of Lagos community has also been affected by this potential 3rd wave, with an increase in the number of patients presented to the University of Lagos Medical Centre with flu-like symptoms which are similar to COVID-19.

“The Medical Centre hereby assures all members of the University community, that all necessary actions in line with the Federal and Lagos State Government guidelines have been taken regarding this potential threat in our community

“The Medical Centre will also return to providing EMERGENCY ONLY SERVICES during this period, in order to protect all members of the community from potential infection within the facility. The Medical Centre Emergency Contact line: 09095879781 remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

The homeless in Ibadan have apparently gotten back to Mokola roundabout and different spots where they at first in the city before they were relocated by the Oyo State Government. 

A significant number of the homeless were spotted at the roundabout their youngsters were playing a few days after the state government moved them to a facility.

The homeless' representative, Sagire Yusuf disclosed to Vanguard News that his kin didn't dismiss the government's proposal to take them off the streets. He however did say that their freedom was restricted at the facility.  

“My people are complaining that their freedom is restricted. Why some people have not gone is because they are blind and they need assistance before they can go there. But, they promised to go there tomorrow.

“As for those people you saw at Mokola, that’s where they live. People know them there. That’s where they get money. That doesn’t mean they don’t want to go. The state government has done well for us by providing necessary facilities,” he said. 

It was discovered that the homeless are concerned that they may starve when the state government quits giving food to them. 

Yet, at significant roads and intersections where they had remained for quite a long time, church congregrants and pedestrians frequently go there with nourishment for poor people. 

SaharaReporters prior detailed that Oyo State Government had initiated the departure of the homeless from certain pieces of Ibadan, the state capital, to a resettlement facility. 

As per the public authority, the departure of the homeless people from the Jemibewon region to a resettlement faciilty in Akinyele began on Tuesday, June 15, 2021. 

Homeless people, throughout the long term, had been living around shanties on Jemibewon Road in the Sabo space of Ibadan, which is a Hausa/Fulani settlement in the city. 

The government, however, recently said it had commenced evacuation of the beggars to the newly built Akinyele Resettlement Cent

UEFA has affirmed the away goals rule, which has been in use since 1965, will be nullified from European competitions, with the change being instituted on schedule for the 2021-22 season. 

The away goals rule has been utilized for over 50 years, yet will at this point will not be used to determine knockout matches in UEFA club competitions including the Champions League and Europa League. 

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin clarified the standard presently "runs counter to its original purpose" and expressed his conviction that it prevents groups from playing attacking football. 

Why has the rule been abolished? 

The away goal rule has been in use since the 1965-66 season, when it was utilized in the Cup Winners' Cup. 

Many have been supporting for its expulsion from UEFA club competitions with previous Arsenal supervisor Arsene Wenger and Atletico Madrid lead trainer Diego Simeone having been against it. 

Their contention was that the rule restricted those playing at home, particularly in the first leg of knockout ties, and that scoring goals from received points in twofold. 

 UEFA's official statement  on the disuse of this rule emphasized the reality there has been a decrease in home successes, and goalss, in UEFA club competitions. 

The statement read: "Statistics from the mid-1970s until now show a clear trend of continuous reduction in the gap between the number of home/away wins (from 61%/19% to 47%/30%) and the average number of goals per match scored at home/away (from 2.02/0.95 to 1.58/1.15) in men’s competitions."

UEFA president Ceferin said " The impact of the rule now runs counter to its original purpose as, in fact,  it now dissuades home teams - especially in first legs - from attacking, because they fear conceding a goal that would give their opponents a crucial advantage."

"There is also criticism of the unfairness, especially in extra time, of obliging the home team to score twice when the away team has scored. It is fair to say that home advantage is nowadays no longer as significant as it once was.

"Taking into consideration the consistency across Europe in terms of styles of play, and many different factors which have led to a decline in home advantage, the UEFA Executive Committee has taken the correct decision in adopting the view that it is no longer appropriate for an away goal to carry more weight than one scored at home."

"There is additionally analysis of the shamefulness, particularly in additional time, of obliging the host group to score twice when the away group has scored. Most would agree that home benefit is these days no longer as huge as it used to be. 

"Thinking about the consistency across Europe as far as styles of play, and various variables which have prompted a decrease in home benefit, the UEFA Executive Committee has taken the right choice in receiving the view that it is not, at this point proper for an away objective to convey more weight than one scored at home." 

What will happen now if the scores are level? 

UEFA has reported that, as is normal in numerous elite level football competitions across the world, if the scores are as yet level over a two-legged knockout tie there will be two 15-minute times of additional time. 

Should the groups score similar number of goals, or if no further goals are scored, during additional time, a penalty shootout will occur to figure out which group will go through to the following round. 

The away goal rule has prompted some important moments in knockout ties, especially in the Champions League, in the past.  

Tottenham's 3-2 success over Ajax in Amsterdam saw them advance to the last of the opposition in 2018-19 through away goals, having additionally beaten Manchester City by a similar strategy in the quarter-last. 

When will the rule change happen? 

The removal of the away goals rule will become possibly the most important factor and will be set up for the beginning of the 2021-22 mission. 

Qualifications for the 2021-22 Champions League has effectively started, with two preliminary round matches having effectively occurred. 

Kosovan club Prishtina face Andorran side Inter Escaldes in the second leg of their starter tie, and apparently the away goals rule will now not be applied to that return leg, because of happen on June 25, with Prishtina right now 2-0 ahead on total. 

A UEFA articulation read: "Following the recommendation of the UEFA Club Competitions Committee and the UEFA Women’s Football Committee, the UEFA Executive Committee has today approved a proposal to remove the so-called away goals rule from all UEFA club competitions (men, women and youth) as of the qualifying phases of the 2021-22 competitions."

What contests will be influenced? 

UEFA has expressed that all UEFA club competition, including men's, ladies' and youth competitions, will embrace the rule change. 

That implies the Champions League, Europa League, Women's Champions League, UEFA Youth League, UEFA Super Cup and the recently framed Europa Conference League will all be influenced.

Photos have been leaked of Tecno's unlreased phone model. They featured images if the upcoming  flagship Tecno Phantom X. Tecno has announced that pre-order is available for the phone from  15th to 29th June with the phone possibly launching in July. 

LAGOS – The Lagos State section of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned its individuals who are have been associating with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to halt from this time forward or face the results of their activities. 

The gathering additionally promised to enact its secret examination to check the cases that a few forerunners in the gathering in the state have been getting monetary gains from Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, previous legislative head of Lagos and APC public pioneer. 

Segun Adewale famously known as Aeroland, a previous state executive of the PDP, who was suspended by his ward section on Monday, had asserted that 99% of PDP pioneers in Lagos state are moles in the gathering who have been supposedly getting cash from Tinubu. 

He said: “I am the only PDP leader who has not received any bribe from Tinubu. They have been collecting bribes from him, despite claiming to be PDP leaders.  Ninety-nine per cent of PDP leaders in Lagos are collecting money from Tinubu. Only one percent of us are committed and they hated us”.

Taofik Gani, the Publicity Secretary of the gathering, in any case, said the onus lies on Aeroland to back up his case with proof. 

“He who asserts must prove. If a chieftain of the party made the claim that some party leaders are collecting money from APC, that means he has evidence to back up his claim.

“I believe any chieftain of the party who is disturbed by this can take him up. I will only advise that people should watch what they say because this is same thing that is affecting this country now as a result of the bad image some people created for this country in 2015 when they wanted to wrest power from the PDP.”

However, there may be elements of truth in the claim and so, this party is admonishing any leader or party member who may have been affected by this allegation to desist forthwith as we shall have our own undercover investigation activated immediately.  

“You are either a member of Lagos PDP or not. We don’t want those spreading one leg in PDP and the other in APC in our midst”.

LAGOS – The Lagos State section of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned its individuals who are have been associating with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to halt from this time forward or face the results of their activities. 

The gathering additionally promised to enact its secret examination to check the cases that a few forerunners in the gathering in the state have been getting monetary gains from Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, previous legislative head of Lagos and APC public pioneer. 

Segun Adewale famously known as Aeroland, a previous state executive of the PDP, who was suspended by his ward section on Monday, had asserted that 99% of PDP pioneers in Lagos state are moles in the gathering who have been supposedly getting cash from Tinubu. 

He said: “I am the only PDP leader who has not received any bribe from Tinubu. They have been collecting bribes from him, despite claiming to be PDP leaders.  Ninety-nine per cent of PDP leaders in Lagos are collecting money from Tinubu. Only one percent of us are committed and they hated us”.

Taofik Gani, the Publicity Secretary of the gathering, in any case, said the onus lies on Aeroland to back up his case with proof. 

“He who asserts must prove. If a chieftain of the party made the claim that some party leaders are collecting money from APC, that means he has evidence to back up his claim.

“I believe any chieftain of the party who is disturbed by this can take him up. I will only advise that people should watch what they say because this is same thing that is affecting this country now as a result of the bad image some people created for this country in 2015 when they wanted to wrest power from the PDP.”

However, there may be elements of truth in the claim and so, this party is admonishing any leader or party member who may have been affected by this allegation to desist forthwith as we shall have our own undercover investigation activated immediately.  

“You are either a member of Lagos PDP or not. We don’t want those spreading one leg in PDP and the other in APC in our midst”.

BARCELONA, June 23 - British- born U.S. technological tycoon John McAfee was found dead by suspected suicide in a Barcelona jail after the Spanish high court approved his extradition to the United States on tax evasion charges.

McAfee's attorney, Javier Villalba, said the anti-virus application creator was found hanging; the anguish caused by his 9 months of captiviry driving him to suicide.

During a court hearing last month, McAfee, 75, said that given his age, he would spend the remainder of his life in prison whenever sentenced in the United States. "I am hoping that the Spanish court will see the injustice of this," he said, adding "the United States wants to use me as an example."

McAfee had lived for quite a long time on the run from U.S. officials, a portion of that time on board a megayacht. He was arraigned in Tennessee on tax evasion charges and was charged in a cryptocurrency fraud case in New York. 

He was apprehended on Oct. 3 at the Barcelona air terminal as he was on a trip to Istanbul with a British visa, a Spanish police source said.

McAfee worked for NASA, Xerox and Lockheed Martin prior to dispatching the world's first anti-virus 1987. He sold his product organization to Intel (INTC.O) in 2011 and not, at this point had any association in the business. The program actually conveys his name and has 500 million clients around the world. 

Spain's high court said on Wednesday it consented to extradite McAfee to the United States. The provincial equity division affirmed that a U.S. man matured 75 anticipating removal was discovered dead in his cell on Wednesday. Jail specialists were examining the reason for death. 

McAfee actually had freedoms to claim his conviction yet couldn't stand additional time in prison, Villalba said. 

"This is the result of a cruel system that had no reason to keep this man in jail for so long," Villalba said. U.S. investigators will probably ask the adjudicator regulating the tax avoidance case to excuse charges due to McAfee's demise. 

McAfee said in 2019 that he had not paid U.S. annual taxes for a very long time for philosophical reasons. That year, he left the United States to stay away from preliminary, generally living on a megayacht with his wife, four enormous canines, two safety officers and seven staff. 

He offered to assist Cuba with avoiding a U.S. exchange ban utilizing cryotocurrency and looked to run for U.S. president for the Libertarian Party. 

McAfee, who said in 2018 that he had fathered 47 children, lived in Belize for quite a while. He escaped after police looked for him for addressing in the 2012 homicide of a neighbor. They at last said he was not a suspect. 

He met his wife, Janice McAfee, when she solicitated him as a prostitute while he was on the run, he said. 

Janice McAfee said in a post on Twitter on Sunday, "Now the U.S. authorities are determined to have John die in prison to make an example of him for speaking out against the corruption within their government agencies... There is no hope of him ever having a fair trial in America."

McAfee was a productive user of Twitter, where he had 1 million followers, and other web-based media. 

He posted an obscenity bound video on YouTube in 2013 that derided the trouble of eliminating the product that bore his name from PCs. 

A number of cryptocurrency backers around the world on Wednesday posted tweets of condolence. In his last public tweet on June 18, McAfee wrote: "All power corrupts. Take care which powers you allow a democracy to wield."

As of 23 June 2021, there have been 44 new cases of COVID-19. The breakdown is as follows:

Lagos-32

Rivers-8

FCT-2

Plateau-2

167,375 confirmed

163,917 discharged

2,118 deaths

Today’s report includes data from 3 states with 0 cases reported: Imo, Kano, and Sokoto

A breakdown of cases by state can be found via covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

Facebook is making it much simpler to purchase products while you scroll through photographs of your secondary school classmates. Indeed, Instagram Shops and Facebook Marketplace currently exist, can shop on WhatsApp as well.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg reported three internet business refreshes that are coming to Facebook items: Shops on WhatsApp and Marketplace, Shops Ads and Instagram Visual Search. 

“More than 1 billion people use Marketplace each month, so we’re making it easy for businesses to bring their Shops into Marketplace to reach even more people,"  Zuckerberg wrote in a Facebook post. At the point when clients see a shop on WhatsApp, they'll have the choice of talking with a business prior to purchasing something. 

At its F8 gathering recently, Facebook uncovered updates to WhatsApp for Business — beforehand, it could require a long time to set up a business account, however now, organizations can join in only a couple minutes. Despite the fact that WhatsApp has in excess of 2 billion worldwide clients, just around 175 million individuals message with WhatsApp Business accounts every day for things like client assistance. Since Facebook has been pushing online business on stages like Instagram, it's a good idea that this drive will grow to WhatsApp as well. 

The rollout for Shops in WhatsApp will begin soon, and Shops stock in Marketplace is accessible now for Shops in the U.S. with on location checkout. 

The following component, Shops Ads, expects to give a more individualized shopping experience dependent on individuals' individual shopping propensities. Zuckerberg said, "We're dispatching the capacity for a business to send customers to where you will be destined to make a buy dependent on your shopping conduct." Starting now, AR Dynamic Ads are accessible in the United States — organizations like Huda Beauty and Laura Mercier are utilizing these promotions to allow clients to test lipstick conceals with AR prior to making a buy. These AR take a stab at encounters are made accessible through API incorporations with Modiface and Perfect Corp. Recently, Pinterest worked together with ModiFace to dispatch an AR eyeshadow take a stab at. 

Over on Instagram, an AI-based Visual Search highlight will carry out for testing in the coming months. 

"A ton of shopping disclosure starts with visual revelation, right, so you see something that you believe is marvelous. And afterward, you know, possibly you need to see different items that are that way, or you need to sort out some way to get that item," Zuckerberg clarified. "What's more, this is the kind of issue that AI can truly assist with." 

Utilizing this AI, individuals will actually want to transfer their own photographs — even ones they haven't presented on Instagram — on discover comparative things. Facebook isn't the primary organization to utilize this innovation — see Cadeera, Donde Search or Stye.ai, for example. Be that as it may, carrying this innovation to significant stages may change the manner in which we shop, which is by all accounts Facebook's present objective.

Agents of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, working at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA, have on Thursday revealed large amounts of foreign currency transported by an Ethiopian Airlines. 

Security sources at the air terminal disclosed that three enormous bundles, were found after the airplane had offloaded the load and left at about 2pm. 

The source included that the officials on duty, comprising Aviation Security, AVSEC, Customs and SSS operatives, swiftly alerted the EFCC operatives who arrived at the scene and removed the currencies. 

We suddenly saw the arrival of heavily armed security personnel including police, Customs officers, EFCC officials and others.

“When they arrived, they cordoned off the area and started evacuating the bags of the money from the terminal.

“The EFCC operatives came with money counting machine and started counting the cash from about 2pm up to about 6 pm. The seizure is huge,” said the source.

Four-time grandslam Champion, Japan's Naomi Osaka won't play at Wimbledon this year.However, she intends to return on schedule for the Tokyo Olympics. 

The four-time Grand Slam champion will invest energy with loved ones having additionally opted out from the French Open in May. 

At that point, Osaka, 23, said she would be taking a break from tennis subsequent to encountering depression and anxiety.

The world number two says she is "excited to play before her home fans" in Tokyo. 

Osaka was fined $15,000 (£10,570) for not participating in a press conference following her initially round match at Roland Garros. 

Grand Slam coordinators said she could face removal from the competition should she will not participate in media obligations. 

Be that as it may, the player pulled out from the competition the next day, saying she expected to secure her emotional well-being. 

"When the time is right I really want to work with the Tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press and fans," she added at the time.

Wimbledon's chief executive Sally Bolton had earlier revealed the All England Club (AELTC) had been in contact with Osaka's team and was actively looking at ways to improve its media operations.

"We have started a consultation," she told BBC Radio 4's Today Programme.

"Of course, that consultation needs to include not just the players, but the media and all of those engaged in that space."

Wimbledon tournament director Jamie Baker said on Wednesday that he had told Osaka's entourage that the phone lines were always open to discuss any issues that might arise.
 

Nigerian entertainer, Omiyinka Olanrewaju, prevalently known as Baba Ijesha, was on Wednesday summoned at a judge court at Yaba, Lagos State. 

The entertainer is being tried over charges of decent treatment of a child, defilement of a Child, sexual assault by penetration, attempted sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault.

Mr Olanrewaju was brought into the premises of the justice court around 12 early afternoon, and close by different suspects. 

He was limping and apparently shaking – an appearance which proposes an poor medical care.

Not long after his appearance, he was charged before P.E Nwaka, a Magistrate at the Yaba justice court. 

Olanrewaju plead not guilty to all counts.

The judge noticing him showing signs of uneasiness in the witness box asked “Are you okay? Do you want to sit down? Give him a chair to sit on,” the magistrate said.

Giving his submission, the prosecutor in the matter, S.A Adebesin told the magistrate that information had been filed before the High Court on the matter by the state prosecution.

Following the submission, the counsel to the defendant, Kayode Olabiran made a fresh application for the bail of Mr Olanrewaju.

Supporting the application for bail for his customer, Mr Olabiran said the entertainer has stayed in police guardianship since one of the bail conditions is yet to be met. 

“On May 17, the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary, the NBA and the police took an initiate to decongest jam-packed cells across the State. My client was one of the beneficiaries and the conditions given are two sureties, one must be a blood relation and another surety not less than level 16 in the Lagos State government civil service.

“The elder brother to the defendant has appeared as a surety and we have paid the N500, 000 bail bond to the account of the Lagos State government but we have not been able to get level 16 officer to stand as surety,” Mr Olabiran said.

“The level 16 officers are afraid of being issued a query and a level 16 is an Assistant Director and upward, they are scarce commodities.

“We are applying for bail on a compassionate ground and in the interest of justice,” Mr Olabiran said, urging the magistrate to consider the visibly ill health of his client 

Mr Nwaka said he can't allow the accused bail on the grounds that there are signs that the case will begin at the High court. 

This is a situation of a lack of jurisdiction, because once a case is filed at an upper court, the lower court, being the magistrate in this case, ceases to have jurisdiction over the same matter.

“I have carefully considered the application of the counsel to the defendant seeking bail for the defendant and the opposition by the counsel from the DPP.

“Since there are indications that the matter is before the high court and the defendant will appear before the court, no bail can be given.

“The defendant must be accorded full medical attention by the authorities pending his arraignment at the high court,” the magistrate said.

Mr Nwaka adjourned the matter till July 13.

Khloe Kardashian, 36-year-old reality star has been looking into hiring a surrogate mother to have a second child with Tristan Thompson – with whom she already has three-year-old daughter True – and has admitted the process has been difficult so far.

Pictured: True Thompson and parents Tristan Thompson and Khloe Kardiashian. 

Khloe spoke as she live-tweeted Thursday’s episode of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians”, which documented part of her journey.

She said: "It's just scary like, hearing a lot of those things, I'm like, 'Oh my gosh.' Kim just made this seem so seamless and maybe for her, it really was, I think she's way less micromanage-y than I am.”

Her mother Kris, 65, also told cameras on the show that Khloe feels “overwhelmed” by the process.

She said: "The process seems a little bit overwhelming for Khloé, and honestly, Kim always made it seem so easy and really never shared some of these things with me, so I'm as surprised as they are to hear some of the challenges.

"I think that if Khloé had her way, she would obviously want to carry her own baby because I think that pregnancy is so amazing and I know how much she enjoyed it, and was obsessed with having True, but I'm just happy that there's an alternative."

What are your thoughts on surrogacy?

Olamide's most recent single 'Rock' is the main single from his impending collection 'UY Scuti' which is set to drop this June. 

Nigerian craftsman Olamide has delivered his most recent single "Rock" with the going with music video. The track is quick to be included on his impending collection which is expected to be delivered on June 14. The 10-track project, named UY Scuti after one of the biggest known red stars, is the development to his 2020 collection Carpe Diem which incorporated the raving success, "Limitlessness" highlighting Omah Lay, just as a few other remarkable craftsmen including Bella Shmurda, Phyno, Bad Boy Timz, Peruzzi and Fireboy DML. 

"Rock" is a smooth and coquettish minimal number that stays consistent with Olamide's particular sound. It's absolutely a smooth jam you'll have rehashing again and again on your different playlists – trust us. 

Portraying the track in his own words, Olamide says that, "The tune is saying my woman doesn't need to do an excessive amount to dazzle me — I love you as of now." He proceeds to add, "It's communicating what a person would sing to a young lady to give her certainty. I'm telling the ladies out there that, if a man really adores you, you don't need to get carried away to satisfy him." 

The music video, coordinated by the skilled Nigerian producer and music video chief, Clarence Peters, is a murky mashup of seriously arranged scenes, disco-propelled colors and what has all the earmarks of being a hurricane relationship really taking shape between notable artist Soliat Bada and Olamide himself. The visuals precisely depict both the exotic energy and wicked expectations passed on in the verses of the actual track. 

Talking about his forthcoming twelfth studio collection and how he came to pick its strange title, he says, "I picked UY Scuti for the title since this venture is route greater than anything I've at any point done previously." He finishes off by saying, "From the imagination, the measure of work that went into the task, the cycle, it's simply another Olamide inside me."

President Muhammadu Buhari could confront impeachment procedures if the security summit to be held by the House of Representatives neglects to advance the security condition in the country.

Dachung Bagos (PDP, Plateau), who represents Jos South/Jos East government constituency of Plateau State, said the security summit is to be coordinated by the House is the last chance for the President. 

He said this while showing up on a Channels TV Sunrise Daily program on Thursday. 

On Wednesday, the House introduced an exceptional impromptu council, led by the Speaker of the House, Femi Gbajabiamila. The ad-hoc group will put together a security highest point between May 24 and 28. 

Mr Bagos said if the summit neglects to yield the required changes, the officials will require the resignation of the president or denounce him. 

“After this last resort with this summit, if nothing is done by the executive, after some months, we will call for the resignation of the president. We have the power to impeach the president.

“…. So this is like the last resort, we are taking it seriously. We know the discussion we had to make. We know how members were being talked to.”

He added that “We can assure Nigerians that this summit, the National Assembly will hit the gavel and tell the president if he cannot protect lives of Nigerians, he should let someone else do it”

On Tuesday, the House had a leader meeting during which 12 goals were reached including putting together the summit.

It is hazy if Mr Bagos' assertion has the expansive help of the legislators. The decision party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), controls the two offices of the National Assembly. 

The president has challenged the House in past endeavors to consider him responsible for general frailty in the nation, remembering a greeting by the House for the repercussions of the Zabarmari killings in 2020. He had said he would go to the gather by the legislators yet later declined to. 

As the security condition in the nation declines with April seeing more than 239 individuals killed and 44 kidnapped. Besides, states like Niger and Yobe have seen an expansion in terrirists ssuming control over domains.

Around 1,200 Nigerians have signed an online petition to prevent the release of famous Yoruba entertainer, Olarewaju Omiyinka, after purportedly defiling a minor. Until further notice, the objective is for the endorsers to reach 1,500. 

The entertainer, famously known as Baba Ijesha, was captured a week ago, after it was reported by the minor's adopted mother ― a comedienne, Princess ― that he attacked the young lady when she was seven years of age. 

At the point when the entertainer was arrested last Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, said there was generous proof against the entertainer as he was caught in the on Closed Circuit Television. 

The PPRO further expressed that  "Based on preliminary findings, the suspect started sexually assaulting the victim since she was seven years old. The suspect confessed to the crime and was also captured by a CCTV camera in the house of the complainant.”

It has also been disclosed by a senior police officer that the actor may be released on Friday. The source said due to the ongoing strike by members of the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria, courts had ceased sitting and the suspect could not be detained indefinitely without trial.

Pictured: The accused.

Dr Yolanda N George-David, who signed the petition, said it is embarrassing to know the Nigeria Police Force is trying to grant the actor bail.

“We seek full justice for the young child. It is embarrassing to know Nigeria Police Force is trying to grant Olanrewaju James Omiyinka bail today at Panti Police station, Lagos state, Nigeria.

“I want to remind the Nigeria Police Force that Section 218 of the Criminal Code Act provides that any person who has unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under the age of thirteen is guilty of a felony and is liable to imprisonment for life with or without caning. This law should be excise and thorough investigation is required with evidence already been submitted by the child guidance,” she wrote.

The foster mother of the minor also stated she entrusted her child in the care of Baba Ijesha and noticed a change in the child's behavior. 

The child started failing in school, I paid for private lessons and when I told my family, they told me we should pray, maybe it is spiritual. But I kept on saying that something is wrong, this child has changed.

“My friend talked to the child again to know what was going on, she told us what happened, I was shocked… I called the CCTV company to set a camera, we asked everybody to go out and stay in a neighbour’s house, she (the victim) was afraid, we said she should calm down…

They told me we should pray, maybe it is spiritual. But I kept on saying that something is wrong, this child has changed."

Militants of slamic State-sponsored group of Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), once referred to as Jamā'at Ahl as-Sunnah lid Da'wah wa'l-Jihād, have shown various models of armored tanks and operational hilux vehicles captured from the Nigerian army.

As per ISWAP in an explanation located by Sahara Reporters, the vehicles were caught on Sunday when the militants assaulted a Nigerian Army area at 156 Battalion around Borno state.

Several soldiers were killed as the gunmen attacked the military camp and set it on fire. 

The militants then released photographs of two brand new Isotrex Legion MRAP captured from the convoy delivering them to the Nigerian Army Base at ‪Mai‬nok.

Boko Haram and its offshoot, Islamic State West Africa Province, have killed thousands and displaced millions in Northeastern Nigeria.

33 soldiers were also recently executed when two bomb laden vehicles smashed into a military convoy in Wulgo. 

The suicide bombers were identified as Abu Bakr al-Siddiq and Bana Jundullah. 

In February, around 20 troopers were likewise murdered in Malari, Borno State by the militants.

On 28th April 2021, Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Benin Zonal Office, in  an operation code-named 'Erinle,' arrested 34 alleged internet fraudsters in Owo, Ondo State.

Amazon has closed designs to open its African head quarters in South Africa with a land venture of over R4 billion. 

Experts in Cape Town said Amazon would involve another advancement in River Club, an excellent segment of the city, neighborhood media investigated Wednesday. 

The 15-hectare package of land will cost R4 billion and incorporate two areas. Specialists said the main region of 60,000sqm will possess various layers of improvement; while the second part of 70,000 will hold Amazon central command in Africa. 

"The advancement is visualized to happen in stages, with development set to occur more than three to five years," Cape Town city authorities said in an explanation. 

More than 5,000 direct development occupations and 19,000 aberrant positions are required to be made because of the move, Business Tech announced. 

Amazon has had its web designing monster AWS in South Africa for quite a long time, however its fundamental online business administrations have not been accessible anyplace on the mainland. 

The declaration comes seven days after Twitter picked Ghana as the area for its first African office and head quarters.

The Federal Government is presently investigating how a Nigerian stowaway boarded a Lagos-Amsterdam trip on Monday.

His body was found under a KLM flight that arrived in Amsterdam on Monday. 

Effectively the Dutch specialists have dispatched an examination concerning the man's identity and reason for death after he was found inside a wheel curve. 

"We are researching the disclosure of mortal remaining parts in the setting down stuff of a plane from Lagos (Nigeria)," the Dutch police power composed on Twitter. 

The man, who is thought to have been a stowaway, died of hypothermia apparently because of loss of oxygen. 

The occurrences of stowaway are not new in Nigerian aeronautics with young people taking dangerous moves to hide in varying compartments of of airplanes. 

On April 2, 2017, another stowaway was found on a Lagos-London Med-View Airline flight however though he survived the more than six hour trip to London Gatwick, he was captured. 

Inside the time frame, another stowaway was captured on an Arik Air Lagos to Benin flight. Examination uncovered that the young fellow thought the plane was going abroad. 

A source at the air terminal said specialists are as of now investigating how the man found his way past security to board the flight. 

The South-West Regional Manager the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Victoria Shin-Aba said examination is continuous on the occurrence. 

She said, "We are attempting to examine it whether it is from here (Lagos Airport) or elsewhere. We are attempting to discover through the CCTV and this is continuous." 

Representative of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Police Command, Olayinka Ojelade said he has not been informed on the episode as he just continued at the order as PPRO.

As of 21st April 2021, 65 new cases of COVID 19 have been reported in Nigeria. The breakdown is as follows:

Lagos-41
Kaduna-6
Kano-3
Rivers-3
Plateau-3
Akwa Ibom-2
Imo-2
Oyo-2
Edo-1
Bauchi-1
Osun-1

65 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;
Lagos-41
Kaduna-6
Kano-3
Rivers-3
Plateau-3
Akwa Ibom-2
Imo-2
Oyo-2
Edo-1
Bauchi-1
Osun-1

Below is a review of  the Netflix movie "Namaste Wahala," a Nigerian/ Indian comedy film based on an interracial relationship.

(Review by HeavyNG)

I expected “Namaste Wahala” to be a disaster even before I watched it.

I have three reasons for this: One, it’s on Netflix and I have never watched anything romantic and good on Netflix; two, it’s an Indian production which meant it would be a Zeeworld movie; three, the hype on Twitter resembled what I saw about “Wedding Party 2” (a disaster) and “Chief Daddy” (an unwatchable piece of junk). So I began watching “Namaste Wahala” with a suspicious eye, overly critical, ready to pounce at an error or weakness.

I was disappointed. The movie didn’t bomb. To rub it in, the movie actually flew. Well, not the scintillating flying we saw with the “Living in Bondage” sequel, nor the giddy flying we saw with “Merry Men 2”. This Hamisha Daryani Ahuja-directed movie was a hop, another hop, a high jump, flapping of wings, then moments in the sky, swimming in air, clobbered by winds and the elements but going all the same with everyone who cares about the movie having their heart in their mouth, fearing for the fall that never was.

Namaste Wahala: The Cliches and other jerks

“Namaste Wahala” is a story of love at first sight between a Nigerian lady who is also a lawyer Chidinma (Didi) played by Ini Dima-Okojie and an Indian man Raj who is also an investment bank played by Ruslaan Mumtaz. Everything about the story is cliched. The girl’s father doesn’t approve and the boy’s mother will rather lose an arm before she allows her son to marry a woman who can’t cook “Chole Bhature”, “Aalloo Paratha”, etc.

Of course, both characters are the only child of their parents. Also, of course, both of their parents have candidates for their children to marry. And, of course, they ended up together.

This is not the worst issue with this movie because nothing is completely new on the screen – every great movie derives its power from its execution (and we have seen worn-out stories told with powerful execution). One easy way to sell a story is by having strong supporting characters. “Namaste Wahala” failed in this regard. At least 50% of the time.

The character of Angie played by Anee Icha is a piece of overdramatic personae that could have benefitted with a deeper thought in the hands of the writer and director. She loves men too much (or let’s say the truth: she loves prick too much), she flaunts this attribute but expects to find true love and settle down today-today and live happily hereafter. She is too loud, too forward, insensitive, and full of energy that didn’t advance the cause of the story nor its aesthetics.

The character of Angie was a distraction and a bad one. A character who is in our face all the time but doesn’t make us laugh, think, or empathize is a waste of characterization.

The character of Raj’s friend played by Koye “K10” Kekere-Ekun was okayish but the portrayal was terrible. A better actor would have done big things with the character.

Then comes Preemo played by Osas Ighodaro who is unduly rude, tactless, and annoying.

Sigh, there is the cameo of M.I Abaga. Fun, zero. Importance to the story, zero. Just misplaced vibes from a co-producer who wants the credit for his ego.

There are a couple of scenes without substance like the above and Anee Icha is in most (if not all) of them.

And there are a handful of promising scenes that ended up being lines of missed opportunities. One that stood out for me is the encounter between Didi’s mother played by Joke Silva and that of Raj’s mother played by Sujata Sehgal with their children in the background. I expected a brimstone of statements full of philosophical insights on culture, family, relationship, love, loyalty, and parenting. Or two or three of these. But the women merely parried insults and just scratched the surface.

The strengths of Namaste Wahala

The biggest strength of the movie is the pace. One moment Didi and Raj are seeing for the first time, the next scene they are in a relationship, then there is trouble. Water-tight, no time to beat around the bush or to overflog any aspect of the story’s development. Just moving. If Ahuja plays chess, she is an attack-minded player. Moving the pieces, weaving an attack towards the opponent’s king.

The second strength is the storyline of Jane. This one is popular on the Nigerian stage. A big man’s son batters a woman and she can’t get justice because she has no one to fight for her. Didi and her friend Leila played by the director of the movie take up this case and the batterer played by Frodd backed by his father’s affluence and a corporate system that shields high-profile crooks, is getting away with murder until Didi pulls a shocker.

Jane gets justice and Frodd losses money plus a slap in the face from RMD. I believe he got away rather too easily but the point is that there is another substory to the plot and we can revel in the catharsis of seeing on-screen justice that eludes us so much in reality.

Another subplot is between Didi and her father, Ernest, played by RMD. They are at loggerheads over the way law should be practiced, money should be made, his legacy, and, in extension, the person she chooses as her man – he should be a lawyer and a Nigerian or just Somto played by Linda Ejiofor‘s husband Ibrahim Suleiman.

And these struggles and tension between father and daughter are basically what saved the movie and lend it a backbone. You can fault many things in the movie, even the love affair between Raj and Didi on the grounds of its over-romanced and too-familiar ideas but you cannot fault this father-daughter struggle. You may say it wasn’t elaborated and it is rather resolved easily but in defense of this, there is something bigger at play: the tight-knit and pacy nature of the film.

Damijo is a big actor who carried his roles with class towards legendary finishes, and Dima-Okojie is a spirited actor who makes light work of roles that many of her peers would struggle to portray. If Ini Dima-Okojie and RMD weren’t in this movie, if their roles were not played by good actors, if there was no conflict between the two that preceded Raj’s love and carries more force, the movie may end up terrible.

But it didn’t bomb; in lieu of this, it flew, not to the high-heavens but far above the stuff we see on Iroko TV, on cinemas on Valentine’s day, on Zee World, on Telemundo, and the likes.

Popular audio streaming app Spotify has announced that it will soon launch in Nigeria.

This announcement was made on Spotify's official twitter account.

“We launch in 80+ new markets over the next few days. See you soon Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nigeria #SpotifyStreamOn”

Are you looking forward to the release?

Popular Nigerian musician Banky W and his Nollywood actress wife, Adesua Etomi have announced the birth of their on their respective Instagram pages with photos from a maternity shoot. 

Banky's caption read as follows:

"Happy birthday to my lady, my love and Purpose Partner,

My world, my wife and Baby Mama.
I didn't think it was possible for you to be more beautiful than you already were... but I was wrong.
Because you're not just beautiful, you're strong.
You're grace and favour personified, and you're so much more.

Words cannot properly express how grateful I am for you, how much I love you, or what we've been through.
I'm thankful that you're mine
And that God made everything beautiful in His time
He turned our tears into triumph, and our loss into laughter
He's changed our lives forever, here's to the next (and best) chapter
Nothing I can say or do can top what He gave us
My baby had a baby and he's everything we prayed for

@adesuaetomi
Happy birthday "Mama Zaiah"
I love you SCATTER."

Below are Covid-19 case updates in Nigeria as of 11th February 2021.

938 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Lagos-236 FCT-123
Plateau-92

Benue-63

Katsina-53

Oyo-50

Osun-45

Kaduna-43

Edo-33 Ogun-31

Ebonyi-31

Akwa Ibom-30

Kano-26

Gombe-18

Bauchi-16

Delta-12

Imo-11

Cross River-10

Rivers-10

Niger-5

143,516 confirmed

118,012 discharged

1,710 deaths

How do you think the Nigerian government is handling the pandemic?

Following the intrusion of Professor Wole Soyinka's Abeokuta home by herders and their cows, the Noble Laureate, yesterday, chastised Ogun State Police order for lying about the incident. In an explanation he actually endorsed in Abeokuta, Soyinka said, "Cattle imperialism under any guise is an obscenity to humanity." 

He vowed to begin an interaction of public sensitisation on the need to kill open grazing and encouraged the police to join the initiative.

Soyinka also drew the consideration of the Federal Government to the need to focus on steers carts following the revival of the railroads. “I grew up with the regular sight of those practical conveyances. It is time to bring them back.”

The most distressful part of his new ordeal with cows and herders was that it had made a most undesirable distaction from the everyday ongoing plight of Nigerians. 

One has to take time off to deal with distortions and fake versions, while students are being reportedly waylaid and killed and/or kidnapped in Ondo and farmers are being slaughtered in my own state. In short, the killings continue, even as panels are being launched to enquire into immediate past human violations,” he said.

“For those who truly seek details of the Ijegba incident, I hereby affirm that I was never physically attacked, neither did I attack any cows. The cows and herders did, however, attack my property – and not for the first time.

“The police need to be very, very careful, learn to be straightforward with public information. Failure to adhere to that obvious, basic form of conduct means that the public will lose total confidence in security agencies and constantly bypass them in times of civic unrest, no matter how trivial or deadly. How on earth could the police claim that cattle did not invade my property? It was. My grounds men knew the drill and commenced the process of expelling them.

“Fortunately, I was then driven out and was able to lend a hand by vehicle manoeuvring. Both cattle and herdsmen were flushed out of my property.

Once they were outside the gates, I came down from the vehicle and beckoned the herdsmen to come over. At first, they pretended not to understand, then, as I approached, fled into the bush. We thereupon “arrested” the cows, confining them to the roadside, while I sent my groundsman, Taiye, to the police to come and take over. Since they took rather long in responding, I summoned a replacement and proceeded to the police station. On the way, we met a detachment, turned around, and together we returned to the scene of the crime. The police wanted to commence combing the bush for the fugitives but I stopped them – what was the point? Keep the cows, I advised, and the owner will show up. Of course, that owner eventually did.

“I thoroughly resent the police version, which suggests that the cows never invaded my home: the home is not just a building; it includes its grounds. And it was not a stray cow, or two or three. It was a herd – we have photos, so why the lie? It is so unnecessary, unprofessional and suspiciously compromised. The police suggest that I have nothing better to do than to go accosting cows on the public road – to what end?

“If the police demand proof, the next time such an invasion takes place, I warn that there will be no lack for cadaver affirmation and the police will be officially invited to join in the ensuing suya feast. So please, let us get serious!

“Getting serious means seeking with a sense of urgency, ways of terminating mayhem, impunity, and the homicidal culture being imposed on us through some near cultic business minority who just happen to trade in cattle. It means not giving up on peaceful solutions, but also being prepared for the worst. Those of my line of thought has been working on various ways of sensitizing the nation to the very real and imminent danger issuing from this cattle aberration."

Soyinka observed that the cattle and herdsmen menace challenges Nigeria as a cohesive entity and as communities of free individuals, committed to the dignity of existence.

Similarly, Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, yesterday, sent a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, urging him not to misconstrue the current outcry for justice and equity over the atrocities committed by herders in Nigeria as a war against the Fulani race.

In the letter titled: “Appeal to act before herdsmen drag Nigeria into a civil war,” dated February 8, 2021, Governor Ortom also pointed out the concerns in certain quarters over what he called inequalities in appointments, which he said creates the perception that the president is not being fair to all Nigerians.

Ortom said: “Your Excellency, these security challenges have assumed new dimensions where the now emboldened assailants and armed herdsmen daringly enforce their will on legitimate owners and occupants of ancestral lands.

“There are many areas of concern over the Federal Government’s actions and inactions, including the widely discussed concern over inequalities in key appointments. These have reinforced the perception that the administration is not fair and just to all Nigerians.”

The governor, however, expressed gratitude to the President for the many institutions established by the federal government in Benue as well as the deployment of the military to ensure security in the state.

On the herders’ issue, Ortom recalled the several letters he had written to the president drawing his attention to “the murderous activities” of some groups claiming to be representing the Fulani.

According to him, “These groups and their leaders have also boasted that Nigeria belongs exclusively to them.

The letters alerted you on several challenges and called for the arrest and prosecution of the leaders and proscription of the organisations in question.”

Continuing, the governor stated: “We are alarmed that, rather than being censored, these leaders and organisations have been emboldened and have intensified their atrocities. They have received encouragement in the process through various actions and inactions by the Federal Government, including the following:
(i) Open Visa Policy, which has promoted an unprecedented influx of Fulani herdsmen carrying sophisticated and prohibited weapons into Nigeria.

(ii) Non-compliance with the ECOWAS protocol on transhumance; (iii) Swift condemnation of any perceived or real threats on Fulani while maintaining silence over their atrocities and admonishing victimised host communities to accommodate their oppressors and learn to live at peace with them;

(iv) The failure to arrest, disarm and prosecute armed herdsmen and Fulani militia; (v) Disarming other Nigerians who have licensed weapons; (vi) Continuation of open grazing and support for grazing reserves, stock routes, cattle colony and Ruga despite nationwide acknowledgement that this practice is unviable; and that ranching is the global best practice for livestock production; (vii) The non-implementation of the National Livestock Transformation Plan, despite its approval by the National Economic Council and its acceptance by pilot states.”

While noting the devastation their activities have caused in Benue and other parts of the country, Ortom said: “This ugly situation has caused devastation across the country. In Benue State, 19 of 23 Local Government Areas have been affected by Fulani herdsmen attacks, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Benue people who are now living in Internally Displaced Person Camps and host communities across the state.

“The total number of Internally Displaced Persons currently in the Camps in Benue State is 483,692 persons.
“Returning these Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes has been impossible as herdsmen continue to attack, kill, maim and rape those who return. The Federal Government is also yet to redeem the pledge made on 15th May 2018 by Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo to contribute N10 billion to Benue State towards the reconstruction, rehabilitation, reintegration and resettlement of displaced persons.

“The failure of the IDPs to return to their ancestral homes to resume normal farming activities, together with the impact of climate change, has posed a serious threat to national food security, as evidenced by rising food prices.

“Sir, we all remember the wise counsel of Nigeria’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, the late Alhaji Maitama Sule, when Northern Leaders Forum visited you as the President-elect in 2015.

He said, inter alia ‘…With justice, you can rule Nigeria well. Justice is the key. If you do justice to all and sundry (and I say all and sundry) if you’re going to judge between people, do justice irrespective of their tribe, religion or even political inclination. Justice must be done to whosoever deserves it.’

“Mr. President, this call for justice is the heart cry of every patriotic Nigerian. It is not a call against the Fulani race or any other ethnic group, but a call to make Nigeria work for every Nigerian in line with the Oath of Office we took as leaders and your pledge to be a President for all Nigerians and to be for everybody and for nobody. Unfortunately, you seem to be tilting towards the Fulani at the expense of other nationalists.”

Ortom cited leading voices that had spoken against atrocities of Fulani herders, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Sa’ad, who he said had acknowledged that seven or eight of every 10 kidnappers arrested in Nigeria were Fulani.

“This is not a good testimony,” he added. “More so, the consequences this image has cast on the Fulani tribe should be corrected now.”

While emphasizing that he has nothing against the Fulani, Ortom further stated that these are not sentiments directed against Fulanis, who are indigenous to Nigeria and have been living at peace with other Nigerians.

“Testimonies abound in that regard. For example, my wife and I were accommodated by a Fulani man while in school at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Till date, we are still very good family friends and he visits me occasionally in Benue.

“This point underscores the pain we all have had to go through to understand the tragedy where armed herdsmen from Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Niger, Cameroon and other neighbouring countries are pushing the whole country to the precipice.

“While addressing the Nigerian community on Tuesday, April 19, 2019, in Dubai, You also blamed these foreign herdsmen for the attacks on Nigeria.

“Mr. President, as a major stakeholder in the Nigeria project, I have a responsibility to raise these major concerns and to offer some recommendations towards addressing them.

“A Ranching policy in Nigeria will provide an avenue for both crop farmers and those involved in animal husbandry to increase production using modern technology. This is the only way out of ending farmers/herders conflict;
(ii) Direct the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to enforce Prohibition of Open Grazing Laws passed by various states of the federation;

(iii) Abolish Open Visa policy and direct relevant security agencies to ensure full compliance with the ECOWAS Protocol on Transhumance;

(iv) The Federal Government should immediately pay compensation to families killed and those whose properties were destroyed by the herdsmen in various communities across the country;

(v) Condemn the atrocities perpetrated by armed herdsmen; arrest and prosecute the leadership of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore and other Fulani Socio-cultural groups who have consistently admitted to the wanton killings and destruction of communities across the country.

(vii) License Law-abiding Nigerians to carry weapons in self-defence;

(viii) Ensure justice, fairness and equity in all issues relating to public safety and security;

(ix)Support the resettlement and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons as a result of herdsmen atrocities in all States of the country.”

Concluding, he said: “Your Excellency, I am writing to you as a patriot who is concerned about your reputation and the fate of our dear country. I am imploring you, once again, to rise to the challenges of these times to avert the country’s drift to anarchy and disintegration, a situation that sycophants and praise-singers might be unwittingly shielding from you.

“In 2015, Nigerians enthusiastically welcomed your return as a leader with a reputation for uprightness, fair-mindedness and integrity. The current situation is raising doubts in the minds of many Nigerians who had believed in you.

“Mr. President, your compatriots are looking up to you to act fast to redress the situation.”

The cost of Bitcoin is as of now under huge tension at the primary working day of the week, in the midst of record sell-offs located at the steadily changing monetary resource. 

What you should know: As at press time, Bitcoin exchanged at $35,129.26 with a day by day exchanging volume of $84.3 billion. It is down 14.61% for the afternoon. 

Bitcoin market esteem currently remains at $653.2 billion. 

It has a circling supply of 18,596,881 BTC coins and a maximum. supply of 21,000,000 BTC coins. 

Such misfortunes staggered numerous crypto brokers and speculators who overleveraged on the predominant bullish pattern in the Bitcoin market. 

While some crypto investigators are stating that markets will disregard it, others appear to accept that the finish of the current Bitcoin rally is near (or surely, that it is now here). 

The bearish pattern winning at the bitcoin market is generally ascribed to a lot of benefit taking in play on the record that "“Bitcoin realized profits are at record highs. Yesterday alone, the total net realized a profit of all coins moved on-chain was $5.5 billion."

Whats your take on cryptocurrency?

The Nigerian government through its Ministry of Education has said the January 18 date for schools to continue isn't final. 

The public authority said another date may be reported relying upon the country's COVID-19 cases. 

The Minister of Education, Adamu, gave the clue on Monday in Abuja, at the joint public instructions of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19. 

The PTF in December 2020 had requested schools in the nation to stay shut until January 18. 

Mr Adamu stated, 

When we decided on that date, it was just a target toward what we are working on.

“’Of course we are keeping it in view and looking at what is happening in the society and then it is supposed to be subject to constant review.

“’Even today at the PTF meeting, we looked at the rising figures and thought we should probably take another look at it. On the Jan.18, 2021 date for schools resumption, we are reviewing it,

He also added that the issue was considered at the PTF meeting hung on Monday and the service would take it up on Tuesday. 

The quantity of dynamic instances of the viral disease continues to flood for as long as couple of days, a circumstance that has become worry to the public authority and the populace. 

While the nation is yet to obtain any vaccines against the infection, specialists have kept on encouraging Nigerians to stick carefully to the securely conventions prior illustrated by the WHO and NCDC to shorten its spread.

Do you think schools need to resume?

Most of us have been utilising Whatsapp and are accustomed to it. However, in light of its proposed and invasive new privacy settings, many seek a more secure alternative. Signal is the next best thing. 

Truth be told, Signal is the main most famous application in the Apple App Store at the present time, contrasted with WhatsApp at number five and Telegram at number three. 

On the off chance that you are pondering moving to Signal, the uplifting news is, the application is similarly as simple to utilize, and it has a desktop form as well. Even better, you can voice and video call on Signal, and calls are generally start to finish encoded, which implies nobody can get to them—even Signal itself. Gathering calls are restricted to five, so Signal can't swap Zoom yet for huge video meetings, however it's fine to address loved ones. 

Right off the bat, download from appstore. 

Whenever you have done that, you can make a record. Basically open the application on your cell phone, select Continue and allow permissions. You at that point need to enter your telephone number, after which point you'll get a check code, which you need to go into Signal. You would then be able to set up a profile picture and name, just as a PIN (more on this later). 

On the off chance that you need to utilize Signal on desktop, you'll need to connect your computer through your telephone application. It's truly simple to do. Go to your cell phone application's Signal Settings > Linked gadgets > Link New Device and utilize your camera to check the QR code on desktop. This will set Signal up on the desktop. 

Communicating is as simple as on Whatsapp. Simply tap the pen symbol in the upper right-hand corner and you are all set. You can look through your contacts utilizing the search bar at the top. 

Additional Signal settings 

For additional security and protection, go to your Signal Privacy settings. There you can set up or change a PIN—Signal's future methods for IDing you rather than just by telephone number. It allows ust as a screen lock to utilize biometrics, for example, Touch ID or Face ID to open Signal. Like WhatsApp you can permit or deny Read Receipts as well. 

It's likewise simple to move your group chats from other applications to Signal!

Signal may take some getting used to, but its surely worth the move!

Thirty-five-year-old Mrs. Comfort Innocent, has admitted that she trafficked young women from Nigeria to Italy through Libya for prostitution. 

Innocent, who was captured by the police in Ogun State, said her husband, who lived in Italy, received the women. 

She added that she had been in the business for quite a while. 

The suspect was captured on December 22 regarding the kidnapping and trafficking of two underage young ladies. 

Her capture followed a report by Oluwaseun Aduratola and Sakirat Fasasi, occupants of Siun town in Obafemi Owode Local Government, who told criminologists at Owode Egba Police Station that the suspect snatched their little girls – Blessing Aduratola, 15 and Hasisat Fasasi, 16. 

The moms grumbled that the suspect was very nearly trafficking their girls to Italy through Libya where they would be forced into prostitution. 

The Divisional Police Officer for Owode Egba Division, Mathew Ediae, drove a group of criminologists to capture the suspect. 

Do you think human trafficking is an issue that plagues Africa?

Police representative Abimbola Oyeyemi, who uncovered this in an assertion, said the suspect had admitted during cross examination to being a human trafficker, who had been in the business for quite a while. 

Abimbola, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), cited the suspect as saying that her husband, who is situated in Italy, gets the young ladies, while she remains in Nigeria recruiting young women and girls and sending them to Italy in transit Libya. 

He said the two young ladies the suspect kidnapped were taken to Kaduna State, from where they would be moved to Libya, adding that they had, notwithstanding, been saved in Kaduna State by the police. 

Official of Police Edward Ajogun has coordinated that the suspect be moved to the Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Labor Unit of the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for additional examination.

Professor Itse Sagay (SAN), Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), has prompted President Muhammadu Buhari and Inspec­tor General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, to permit civillan Nigerians to bear guns to secure themselves. 

Talking solely with Daily Independent in Lagos, Sagay, who said the Federal Government was overpowered by different security challenges bedevil­ing the country, for example, Boko Haram rebellion, banditry, kidnapping, herders at­tacks and others, added that Nigerians should be permitted to shield themselves when assaulted. 

As per him, unpro­voked assaults particularly on towns by crooks will drasti­cally diminish in the nation if the networks are permitted to arm themselves with weap­ons to safeguard themselves. 

Contrasting present day Nigeria with his energetic days, Sagay said the degree of inse­curity today is unprecedent­ed, adding that the country observes remarkable measure of carnage, de­struction of properties and relocation of individuals from their local homes and business environments.

Do you believe it necessary for Nigerian civilians to bear arms?

“The country has become so dangerous. All sorts of things are happening nowa­days. You have kidnappers, bandits, Fulani herdsmen, Boko Haram. The reality is that there is nowhere that is safe in the country. Traveling by road today is a very risky endeavour that one will hard­ly try. So, there is total insecu­rity in the country.

“I don’t know what has gone wrong, why our people have become so violent and savage. Individuals no lon­ger feel safe outside his own house. I am not even sure that one is absolutely safe in his own house.

“What I will like to suggest to the government is that they should allow ordinary Nigeri­ans to carry arms. Everybody who wants to carry arms as a form of self-defence should be allowed to do so. This is necessary so that when these bandits and miscreants attack them, they will know that the person they attacked has the capacity to defend himself.

“All these restrictions on owning weapons should be lifted. Let the generality of the public be allowed to own weapons, especially in all those villages where they are being massacred. Their men should be given weapons so that when the attackers come, they will also be given a chal­lenge which may discourage them in future.

“We have had causes where bandits attacked villages but the people are powerless to de­fend themselves. By the time the security agents come in, the attackers had left. They will look for a quiet time and launch another attack. That will stop if the people have the capacity to defend them­selves.”

While absolving President Muhammadu Buhari of blame, Sagay said any other government would have been overwhelmed as nobody could have envisaged the torrents of attacks happening in all parts of the country.

“Let me say this, there is a tendency to blame the president, but it is not the president’s fault. I am not a sociologist but the way I see it, it is society developing in the wrong direction. It has nothing to do with the gov­ernment.

“Of course, it could have something to do with the level of poverty, unemployment and so on. But you can see that it is everywhere, both in urban and rural areas. Are Zamfara, Taraba, Yobe not rural areas? We can say that the urban youths are unemployed, what is the excuse of the youths in the rural areas? So, it is as if there is some sort of virus that has simply developed.

“Truly, the government is overwhelmed because no government will envisage an attack like these from every direction. It’s as if all the mis­creants from different genres and denominations have held a conference where they agreed that they should tor­ture and torment the country at the same time.

“So, it’s difficult and it is not the fault of the government. It is the time that we are in. Any other government would have been in a dilemma over this matter. It’s so overwhelming! We don’t have enough security forces to cope with all these”, he said.

Mike Ejiofor, a former Direc­tor-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Sun­day similarly advised President Buhari to change the service chiefs, stating that this would lead to progress in stabilizing the country.

He said, “I expect that Mr. President should take Nige­rians by surprise, change the service chiefs; and Nigerians, their attitude to security agen­cies, should change too.

“I think by the change of tactics, equipment, attitude, service chiefs, and approach­es, we’d make some progress, I believe this very strongly.”

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Smart Adeyemi, on Monday said the National Assembly and the Ministry of Aviation were thinking about banning flights from the United Kingdom, the United States and different nations with high rates of COVID-19. 

Adeyemi, who expressed this in a meeting with one of our journalists in Abuja, said a choice on the issue would be declared one week from now. 

The Federal Government's arrangement may not be detached with pressures on it to stop spread of Covid by prohibiting flights from countries with high rates of the infection. 

President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof Innocent Ujah, said travelers from the UK and the US were increasing COVID-19 cases in Nigeria.

The NMA president stated, “Government knows that they (travellers from the UK and the US) are the ones responsible for increase in cases and the results have shown that and government knows what they should do.”

Despite the fact that the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 had on Thursday implemented new requirements on travelers from the UK and South Africa, departures from the two nations were not restricted. 

The PTF just opened registers for travelers from the two nations in view of deadlier strains of Covid found there. 

It, be that as it may, said there were no new strains of the infection in Nigeria. In any case, there are fears that travelers who got phony COVID-19 outcomes might have brought the new infection into the nation. 

As per worldometers.info, as of 6:55pm on Monday, the US had recorded 19,589,952 COVID-19 cases with 341,332 passings. 

The UK had 2,329,730 COVID-19 cases with 71,109 passings. Sweden had 396,048 cases with 8,279 recorded. 

As of Sunday, Nigeria had recorded 84,414 instances of the infection with 1,254 passings. In any case, passings from the infection have expanded pointedly since the subsequent wave began a month ago. 

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control had said after a drop in the passing rate from September to November, it went up to 74 this month. 

Adeyemi said the National Assembly and the Federal Government were worried about the second influx of COVID-19. 

He expressed that the joint National Assembly Committees on Aviation, the Aviation Ministry and offices in the area had been holding standard gatherings in the previous few days on the issue. 

He said the gatherings were truly examining potential effects of the proposed boycott and other related issues. 

Adeyemi said, “We are still trying to study the situation so as to know the appropriate steps to take. It is a very sad situation no doubt.

“The National Assembly and the Aviation Ministry are looking at what really should be done on the call to ban some of the flights coming in,  not only from the United Kingdom,  but also other countries where the pandemic spreads are more severe.

“The National Assembly Joint Committee on Aviation is discussing with the Ministry of Aviation and we are looking at what can be done and the right steps to be taken.

“COVID-19 is of great concern to everyone and it has been proven that it is real. Nigeria as a country has been able to contain the situation because our people are very conscious of the protocols.

“The fact that we are experiencing the second wave is a concern. So,  the ministry and the National Assembly are considering an outright ban of flights from the pandemic prone countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, the Asian countries,  Sweden, among others.

“We have been studying the situation. We would arrive at a conclusion in the next few days. We are looking at the figures, the rate of infection, the manner of infection and government response.

“We are studying the implications of the outright ban of flights and whether it would be of any importance to the containment of the virus.

“We have protocols for visitors arriving in Nigeria which we make sure are being strictly observed. Notwithstanding, in the next few days, we would know what to do.

“The Senate and the House of Representatives committees on Aviation,  the Ministry of Aviation,  and all the agencies under the ministry have been engaging in regular meetings over the situation.

“By next week, we would come up with a definite conclusion on whether there would be an outright ban of flights from the affected countries or the next  steps to take.”

When contacted, the Director, Public Affairs,  Ministry of Aviation, James Oduadu, said a possible flight ban had to be in tandem with neighbouring countries.

He said, “If Nigeria is going to do a flight ban, it will be in alliance with our neighbouring countries. I assure you that we are monitoring the situation very closely. The government will not do anything that will affect the health of Nigerians.

“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority released a notice to air operators two days ago on some passengers coming in from the United Kingdom and South Africa. Apart from that, I am not aware of any ban on flights. At the moment, I am not aware of any flight ban. The situation may change tomorrow, but currently, I am not aware.”

An aviation consultant, Mr Olumide Ohunayo, said that he was not in support of any ban on flights as long as the guidelines set by the NCAA were still adhered to.

He said, “What the government has done is to increase surveillance and strict observation of passengers. The protocols are still the same. That of the United Kingdom and South Africa is 96 hours. You are also required to have a fly permit.

“Although people are clamouring for a total ban of flights. I am not in support of the total ban. In order to ensure that the airlines comply, an additional fine of $3,500 has been imposed on airlines on each passenger that violates the protocol. I think these guidelines  are good for now and we have to increase surveillance.”

The spokesman for Dana Air, Mr Kingsley Ezenwa, asked the government to continue to enforce  COVID-19 protocols.

He said, “The best thing should be the enforcement of protocols. A flight ban could hurt the economy at this point in time. For us, we are still keeping to the protocols 100 per cent. From the entrance of the airport to the final boarding and onto the aircraft, the protocols are still there. Travellers are to use hand sanitisers on the flight.”

How do you think the Nigerian Federal Government is handling the COVID-19 pandemic?

The official site of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has gone down as Nigerians battle to acquire their National Identity Number (NIN). 

The site has been down since Monday. 

Citizens assembled at an enrollment office in Lagos Monday as inhabitants battled to enlist for the NIN. 

This followed a mandate by the public authority for Nigerians to interface their NINs to their media transmission SIM cards inside about fourteen days. 

That cutoff time has now been extended by at least three weeks, as per a NCC articulation. 

NIMC had closed down its Lagos place, refering to an enormous number of individuals combining there who would not adhere to the COVID-19 conventions. 

The group had raged the NIMC office at Alausa, Ikeja, attempting to beat the cutoff time for the linkage of their sim with the NINs.

Nigerian Government on Monday mandated closure of all schools till eighteenth of January, 2021. 

This became necessary after the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in the nation. 

The director of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, said this at a press preparation of the team in Abuja. 

Mustapha said schools in the nation are to stay closed till declared date to empower new measures to produce results. 

“The PTF on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Education expects that schools would have vacated from the 18th December 2020 and remain closed till at least the 18th of January, 2021 to enable the measures introduced to take effect,” Mustapha added.

The government also directed that persons above the age of 60yrs and/or with comorbidities to stay at home and avoid crowded areas.

“Also all non-essential travels; both domestic and international during this holiday season are seriously discouraged.

The Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, on Monday asked the recently sworn-in administrators of the 11 nearby government zones in the state to pay attention to security of lives. 

Pictured: Gombe State Governor, Yahaya Inuwa

Yahaya said the country was having difficulty in resolving security issues.

 “As you are all aware, Nigeria is facing the worst security challenge in its history.  We must therefore put in place necessary measures to protect the lives and property of our people.

“I call on the new chairmen to ensure that any measures taken are fully implemented and sustained in order to ensure the security and wellbeing of the lives and property of the people,” he said.

While urging the council chairmen to justify the trust of the people, he called on them to ensure equitable distribution of resources.

The Chairman of Billiri LGA, Mrs Margaret Bitrus, stated her commitment to improve the condition of living of the people in her area. Bitrus, who is the only woman among the newly inaugurated council bosses, said, “I look forward to embarking on developmental projects with key focus on women of the local government and the state.”

The Cross River State Government on Wednesday, annihilated houses purportedly possessed by two associated pioneers with grab groups distinguished as Akanene Sunday Ifa and Impoikana Bassey Etim, all from Obot Akara, Akwa Ibom state, IgbereTV reports. 

The State Security Adviser, SSA, (South) Leo Nyambe on Wednesday, December 16, driven a group of security offices to pulverize the houses in Asabanka town, Akpabuyo Local Government Area of the state. 

The gangs are supposed to be behind the kidnapping of Dr Vincent Maduka, a Consultant Cardiologist with the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital. 

Dr. Maduka was snatched on Thursday, December 11, outside his home at Eta Agbo format in Calabar.

The administration of the Coalition of Northern Groups, CNG , has moved to Katsina town in order to push for the rescue of hundreds of kidnapped students still currently being held hostage.

CNG authorities would join different individuals from Jigawa, Kano and Katsina as a result of protests to secure the swift and safe release of the students,

Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, CNG spokesperson,said on Thursday that the protest, hashtagged #Bringbackourboys which will commence in Katsina on Thursday, " is required to continue to Daura to register the current worries with Mr President." 

Driven by its Board of Trustees Chairman Nastura Ashir Shariff, the CNG is now in contact with guardians of the students to guide them through this period.

Suleiman said ” it will be unreasonable to expect any northerner and well meaning Nigerians to fold their arms and watch the North, a significant component of the country abandoned to the mercy of bandits,  murderers and kidnappers.”

“The police in Katsina is seen in a massive reinforcement around the state which calls for caution on the part of authorities against attempts at surpressing legitimate protests that will be conducted peacefully,” he said.

Do you think the government and security forces are doing enough to rescue the students?

The Chinese video sharing app TikTok, gained noteriety this COVID-19 season as the majority of us have been confined to our homes with only our gadgets to entertain us. Videos from the app have since gone viral, being shared across a multitude of other social media platforms such as Whatsapp, Facebook and Instagram. Below is the official TikTok approved list of its most popular Nigerian celebrities!

1) Don Jazzy

2.) Iyabo Ojo

3.) Mr. Macaroni

4.) Tacha

5.) Yemi Alade

6.) Toke Makinwa

7.) Tiwa Savage

8.) Korede Bello

9.) Regina Daniels

10.) Mercy Johnson-Okojie

Are you a fan of TikTok?

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday said he will not give into ultimatums for him to take certain actions.

Iin a statement delivered by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity said the president refuses to make any decisions out of fear at a time Nigeria is battling with internal unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The speech read as follows:

“The Presidency responds to the recurring threats to the corporate existence of the country with factions giving specific timelines for the President to to do one thing or another or else, in their language, “the nation will break up.

“This is to warn that such unpatriotic outbursts are both unhelpful and unwarranted as this government will not succumb to threats and take any decision out of pressure at a time when the nation’s full attention is needed to deal with the security challenges facing it at a time of the Covid-19 health crisis”.

“Repeat: this administration will not take any decision against the interests of 200 million Nigerians, who are the President’s first responsibility under the constitution, out of fear or threats especially in this hour of health crisis”.

Below is a statement by Prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda. This is on the conduction of an investigation into Nigerian Security Agencies and crimes committed.

Pictured: Fatou Bensouda

"Today, I announce the conclusion of the preliminary examination of the situation in Nigeria.

As I stated last year at the annual Assembly of States Parties, before I end my term as Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court ("ICC" or the "Court"), I intend to reach determinations on all files that have been under preliminary examination under my tenure, as far as I am able. In that statement, I also indicated the high likelihood that several preliminary examinations would progress to the investigative stage. Following a thorough process, I can announce today that the statutory criteria for opening an investigation into the situation in Nigeria have been met.

Specifically, my Office has concluded that there is a reasonable basis to believe that members of Boko Haram and its splinter groups have committed the following acts constituting crimes against humanity and war crimes: murder; rape, sexual slavery, including forced pregnancy and forced marriage; enslavement; torture; cruel treatment; outrages upon personal dignity; taking of hostages; intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population or against individual civilians not taking direct part in hostilities; intentionally directing attacks against personnel, installations, material, units or vehicles involved in a humanitarian assistance; intentionally directing attacks against buildings dedicated to education and to places of worship and similar institutions; conscripting and enlisting children under the age of fifteen years into armed groups and using them to participate actively in hostilities; persecution on gender and religious grounds; and other inhumane acts.

While my Office recognises that the vast majority of criminality within the situation is attributable to non-state actors, we have also found a reasonable basis to believe that members of the Nigerian Security Forces ("NSF") have committed the following acts constituting crimes against humanity and war crimes: murder, rape, torture, and cruel treatment; enforced disappearance; forcible transfer of population; outrages upon personal dignity; intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population as such and against individual civilians not taking direct part in hostilities; unlawful imprisonment; conscripting and enlisting children under the age of fifteen years into armed forces and using them to participate actively in hostilities; persecution on gender and political grounds; and other inhumane acts.

These allegations are also sufficiently grave to warrant investigation by my Office, both in quantitative and qualitative terms. My Office will provide further details in our forthcoming annual Report on Preliminary Examination Activities.

The preliminary examination has been lengthy not because of the findings on crimes – indeed, as early as 2013, the Office announced its findings on crimes in Nigeria, which have been updated regularly since. The duration of the preliminary examination, open since 2010, was due to the priority given by my Office in supporting the Nigerian authorities in investigating and prosecuting these crimes domestically.

It has always been my conviction that the goals of the Rome Statute are best served by States executing their own primary responsibility to ensure accountability at the national level. I have repeatedly stressed my aspiration for the ability of the Nigerian judicial system to address these alleged crimes. We have engaged in multiple missions to Nigeria to support national efforts, shared our own assessments, and invited the authorities to act. We have seen some efforts made by the prosecuting authorities in Nigeria to hold members of Boko Haram to account in recent years, primarily against low-level captured fighters for membership in a terrorist organisation. The military authorities have also informed me that they have examined, and dismissed, allegations against their own troops.

I have given ample time for these proceedings to progress, bearing in mind the overarching requirements of partnership and vigilance that must guide our approach to complementarity. However, our assessment is that none of these proceedings relate, even indirectly, to the forms of conduct or categories of persons that would likely form the focus of my investigations. And while this does not foreclose the possibility for the authorities to conduct relevant and genuine proceedings, it does mean that, as things stand, the requirements under the Statute are met for my Office to proceed.

Moving forward, the next step will be to request authorisation from the Judges of the Pre-Trial Chamber of the Court to open investigations. The Office faces a situation where several preliminary examinations have reached or are approaching the same stage, at a time when we remain gripped by operational challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, on the one hand, and by the limitations of our operational capacity due to overextended resources, on the other. This is also occurring in the context of the pressures the pandemic is placing on the global economy. Against this backdrop, in the immediate period ahead, we will need to take several strategic and operational decisions on the prioritisation of the Office's workload, which also duly take into account the legitimate expectations of victims and affected communities as well as other stakeholders. This is a matter that I will also  discuss with the incoming Prosecutor, once elected, as part of the transition discussions I intend to have. In the interim, my Office will continue to take the necessary measures to ensure the integrity of future investigations in relation to the situation in Nigeria.

The predicament we are confronted with due to capacity constraints underscores the clear mismatch between the resources afforded to my Office and the ever growing demands placed upon it. It is a situation that requires not only prioritization on behalf of the Office, to which we remain firmly committed, but also open and frank discussions with the Assembly of States Parties, and other stakeholders of the Rome Statute system, on the real resource needs of my Office in order to effectively execute its statutory mandate.

As we move towards the next steps concerning the situation in Nigeria, I count on the full support of the Nigerian authorities, as well as of the Assembly of States Parties more generally, on whose support the Court ultimately depends. And as we look ahead to future investigations in the independent and impartial exercise of our mandate, I also look forward to a constructive and collaborative exchange with the Government of Nigeria to determine how justice may best be served under the shared framework of complementary domestic and international action."

What are your opinions on this investigation?

Notable for her work in the notorious documentary "Sex for Grades," Kiki Mordi has been accused of taking credit for the award winning documentary. Investigative Investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker, and writer Kiki Mordi was accused by fellow writer Ruona Meyer for taking credit for the award winning documentary she starred in undercover.

In 2019, in the wake of many complaints, BBC Africa Eye sent Kiki Mordi as an undercover journalist posing as a student at the University of Lagos and the University of Ghana. 

The 13-minute documentary featured Mordi being harrassed by university lecturers for sex in exchange for good grades. 

Kiki has since won awards such as an Emmy Nom, OkayAfrica's 100 Women 2020 List, and MTV EMA Changemaker, to make reference to a couple. 

Pictured: Kiki Mordi

Kiki has since debunked the accusations and given an account on Twitter to how the documentary came to be. 

"Yesterday started with orchestrated and lightning speed accusations from people who blocked me. I was trending for hours and I hadn’t gotten ONE mention. Why? Because I won the @ICFJ Award for Storytelling.

Let’s do a bit of storytelling shall we?

#SexForGrades is not a glamorous story, none of you – not even Ruona who – knows the horror that we faced investigating both in Ghana and in several states in Nigeria, or even during post production in London.

When I came on board, I didn’t even know I was going to end up being the reporter and lead investigator. I was just happy to help. This story is personal to me. I was happy to play my small part. I didn’t hustle or apply or pitch or beg for this position.

I just kept proving how useful, brilliant and professional I was. My hard work should never erase another’s, everyone worked hard, everyone delivered.

But if you claim to fight erasure, you will not speak on my experiences because you have no idea. You weren’t there.

This was a secret project, none of the people working outside of Sex For Grades within the BBC knew what we were working on. They just knew that they always saw me in the office at some point, till midnight sometimes & then they wouldn’t see me for sometime and then I’d be back.

If you weren’t in the inner circle you could never speak on what happened. So first things you must know is Ruona knows nothing. She wasn’t in any room. She used to work for the BBC and she was asked to leave. Fin.

The biggest question everyone has been asking is “who pitched the story” and while I’m just a freelance investigative journalist, I can tell you who for free because the answer is online….

You guys did.
After the last Africa Eye Project, the most comments BBC received was that the next investigation be on sexual harassment. I said this on Twitter, in my interviews, on the actual film. I never hid this from anyone & I certainly never stole anyone’s story or credits.

1st phase of research was already on going when I joined. There were leads already and infact I was one of the leads (another funny story)
Most of the other journalists were staff. So do you see how wild it is to accuse me of coming from outside to steal a BBC’s staff story?

The truth is, all of my contribution can’t simply be summarized in the end credits page. I know the work I did and I’m so darn proud of it. I can say the same for other journalists as well. ALL OF THEM! The ones that worked in Lagos, Benin, Accra and cities I can’t mention.

I saw a thread by a colleague of mine, Oge, that you guys have attributed to me. I can sense that there are real emotions but I can’t respond to accusations I wasn’t named in. I can’t depend on people on Twitter who have zero idea to draw lines and expect me to answer to that.

This has always been about exposing the culture of Sex For Grades, not awards & recognitions. It was dangerous work, not everyone wanted their face on it.
#SexForGrades is an award winning doc owned by BBC, any “proceeds” go to the BBC. Which I assume they use to pay their staff.

Again I’m just a freelance journalist, I don’t have access to hog proceeds

If you have more questions I can guarantee the answer’s in the film. Watch it & share with your loved ones

But you can also email the BBC, they have such an open door policy

And congratulations to me on my Michael Elliott Award for African Storytelling

P.S other members of the team have continued to apply for and win awards and it gives me butterflies in my tummy. I love a winning team."

The Lagos State Government says the utilization of private premises as mortuaries, embalmment focuses or internment locales isn't permitted in the state. 

This was contained in an assertion named, 'Burial prohibited on residential premises – LASG’Entombment disallowed on private premises – LASG' on Wednesday. 

The assertion cited the Executive Secretary of Lagos State Law Reform Commission, Mrs Ade Adeyemo, as saying that ban was to forestall the transmission of transmittable diseases in the State. 

While taking note of that "it is an offense to use residential premises as morgues, embalmment centres or burial sites”, Adeyemo stressed that the Commission is tasked with the onerous responsibility of updating and reviewing laws that address immediate and peculiar needs of Lagosians at every point in time.

She said, “The Law Reform Commission is saddled with the responsibility of reviewing and reforming laws with a view to effecting necessary changes to make them more modern, fair, just, efficient, accessible and bring them in consonance with the prevailing social and moral values of society.

“In this regard, the Commission, after review, found it expedient to ensure that the Lagos State Public Health Law was expanded to include present-day disease outbreaks like the Ebola, Lassa fever and other communicable diseases.”

It was also stated that "there are procedures to be taken in order to eliminate all anomalies and repeal, review and reform obsolete, spent and unnecessary laws which at a time were necessary but as the State evolves, they become inapplicable because they do not fit the prevailing situations and circumstances”.

The Federal Investigation Agency on Wednesday said it had captured a Nigerian public holding six phony international IDs of the United Nations in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. 

As per ARY News, the Nigerian resident had visited the Turkish Embassy in Islamabad a few days ago and applied for the visa on the phony UN identification and distinguishing proof. 

Document Photo 

During the check cycle, the consulate found the records fake. 

Following up on the data gave by the Turkish Embassy, the FIA’s anti-human trafficking wing apprehended the Nigerian citizen.

The FIA, with the suspects true identification records, directed a strike at a raid arranged in F-8 area in Islamabad and recuperated six phony UN passports and seven IDs. 

His accomplice, Pakistani national agent, Afzal Chaudhry was additionally captured by the FIA. 

The FIA authorities said their cell phones had been sent for forensic analysis while they examined details of their bank accounts transactions and assets within the country.  

Prior in January, five people had been gotten by the Civil Aviation Authorities for attempting to load onto a trip with phony and fake identifications and documents. 

As indicated by subtleties, the caught people had been attempting to fly out of Pakistan to Malaysia.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria's previous minister of finance, has guaranteed Nigeria and other African nations of admittance to COVID-19 vaccines as from the end of January through the principal quarter of 2021, an explanation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday. 

The assertion cited Mrs Okonjo-Iweala as uncovering this at a private meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama in Abuja. 

“As long as one person has it in the world, no one is safe. And that is why poorer countries, lower middle-income countries like Nigeria, need to get it as quickly as possible," she was cited as saying. 

Mrs Okonjo-Iweala is at present the African Union Special Envoy on activating global financial help for the mainland battle against COVID-19 and Nigeria's contender for the Office of the Director-General of the World Trade Organization. 

She uncovered that the worldwide activity included the World Health Organization, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), GAVI and the global network, to get vaccines conveyed to developing and more unfortunate nations, in an inexpensive and rapid way.

As indicated by her, the Pfizer immunization and the AstraZeneca one were as of now being haggled with the goal that helpless nations don't need to remain in a line behind rich nations. 

The previous account serve portrayed Africans as favored, for not having a similar frequency pace of COVID-19 like different mainlands, however cautioned African countries against lack of concern. 

Mrs Okonjo-Iweala reviewed that a stage called the COVAX office had been created with 186 nations ready, saying that the side keen on serving the helpless nations had 92 nations, for which assets have been raised to attempt to get the antibodies to them rapidly. 

"Along these lines, the Pfizer antibody, the AstraZeneca, those are being haggled now with the goal that helpless nations don't need to remain in line behind rich nations.

Pictured: Mrs Okonjo-Iweala.

How do you feel about the COVID-19 vaccine?

Starting from first quarter of 2021, all land related transactions in Lagos State will be conducted online, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu unveiled on Wednesday. 

This arrangement is to quicken the process getting approvals on land matters and create an enduring business-driven property development market in the State. endorsements ashore matters and make a suffering business-driven property advancement market in the State. 

Sanwo-Olu revealed this at the first edition of the Real Estate Marketplace Conference and Exhibitions organised by Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), with the theme: “Unearthing real opportunities in Real Estate.

The State's Department of Lands has apparently established the necessary infrastructure and arrangements for a smooth change to the online platform.

At the point when the electronic stage is at long last dispatched, there will be no requirement for candidates looking for Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), study and building plan endorsements to actually submit paper archives for authorisation. All documentation and installments will be finished by candidates from the solace of their homes. 

Sanwo-Olu said the new improvement would achieve fast turnaround time in land exchanges and lift private financial specialists' trust in arrangement of home possession model that will address shortfalls in lodging. 

He stated: “We have improved on our GIS solution to accelerating land matters in Lagos. From the first quarter of next year, we will be launching an online platform on which all land transactions will be done. When the project kick-starts next year, there will be one-stop shop for all transactions relating to land, including Governor’s approval on CofO, and building approval by Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

“We have given our commitment on this, because of the need to improve the turnaround time from when people submit their requests for approval and the time the authorisation is completed. We cannot afford to disappoint private investors and applicants seeking real time approval. We are raising our capacity, so that we can respond to the requests and discharge them.”

The governor also charged inhabitants and property engineers applying for endorsements to quit compromising and cutting corners.

Sanwo-Olu said his organization was focused on giving mass lodging plan that would address insufficiency in lodging, calling attention to that the foundation of LASRERA was essential for the transition to re-form uprightness in lodging business sector and gain certainty of private engineers working with the Government to understand the State's lodging need. 

The lead representative additionally nagged the requirement for monstrous recovery of properties in territory a piece of Lagos, charging land financial specialists and private engineers to redirect their venture to revamping terrain and reallocating abundance from the business. 

He stated: "I need to charge the land speculators that, everyone needs not form in Sangotedo or Ibeju Lekki. Release us to territory and start recovery of the resources in that piece of Lagos. Thusly, we would reallocate abundance and making open doors for our residents." 

Extraordinary Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the meeting was held with a target to getting partners property business in contact with applicable government organizations and address bottlenecks hindering property exchanges. 

The AirPods Max are joining the AirPods and AirPods Pro in auditory line. As should be obvious on the photograph, Apple is delivering its first over-ear earphones under the AirPods brand. 

The wireless headphones have a noise cancelation feature and cost $549. With this item, Apple contends with Sony's and Bose's remote earphones — the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose 700. Pre-orders start today and they'll ship on December 15.

This isn't the organization's first over-ear headphones as Apple acquired Beats in 2014. Apple has since releasesd new Beats earphones in the course of recent years. For example, a year ago, Apple delivered the Beats Solo Pro, remote earphones that highlight Apple's H1 chip and cost $300. They likewise have active noise cancelation.

The AirPods Max come in various shadings — silver, space grey, sky blue, pink and green. They are foldable and come with a Smart Case. When stored in the case, the headphones enter an ultra low power state. Apple guarantees 20 hours of battery life.

Would you consider purchasing Apple's newest Airpods?

Voting in Ghana's mainstream political race reached a conclusion on Monday night at 1700 GMT. 

The survey is viewed as a seen as a nearby battle between President Nana Akufo-Addo and his long-lasting adversary John Mahama, competing to lead the nation since quite a while ago saw a signal of security in a disturbed area. 

Different surveying stations saw many electors arranged to pick a president among 12 up-and-comers and individuals from parliament for 275 voting constituencies.

The political decision official started counting the votes and are running against the 24-hour time span they provided for report the official champ. 

A sum of 38,000 surveying stations were set up to be utilized by the nation's 17 million citizens. 

The nation's appointive bonus had reexamined the elector library in front of the surveys to eliminate suspected outsiders who might have casted a ballot illicitly. 

The resistance, driven by Mahama party later asserted some of qualified electors were rejected off the rundown. The EC later denied this. 

A November overview by the University of Ghana put Akufo-Addo ahead with 51.7 percent of help, while Ghanaian surveyor Ben Ephson assessed the occupant would accumulate 52.6 percent.

Pictured: NDC's John Mahama and NPP's President Nana Akufo-Addo

Activists, yesterday, moved to make good on their announcement to continue the EndSARS protests, setting off new concerns. 

This came a month and a half after the peaceful #EndSARS protests fell into violence. 

Stressed that there could be a rehash of the commotion, President Muhammadu Buhari cautioned, yesterday, that while residents were at freedom to openly protest,, such scope did exclude demonstrations of hooliganism. He expressed that anybody that would hide behind legal and tranquil protests to perpetrate wrongdoing would be punished. 

President's admonition came as police in Lagos, Cross River, and Ogun states found a way to forestall the protests.

In October, protests against police brutality and violence by the now defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (labeled #EndSARS), were organized across Nigeria and the world. Following the supposed shooting by troopers at the Lekki scene of the protests, some irritated residents spoke against the shooting, causing more devastation of lives and property. 

President Buhari cautioned against the second flood of the protests while announcing open the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2020. 

Buhari, who spoke virtually, praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their endeavors at quickly reestablishing lawfulness in different states during what he depicted as "the large-scale criminality” that resulted in the wake of the #ENDSARS fights. 

However, despite threats, protesters hit the streets of Osogbo, the Osun State capital, demanding the release of all detained protesters and the unfreezing of their accounts by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The dissidents accumulated in the Ogo-Oluwa territory of the town and walked to the Osun State House of Assembly. 
The protesters gathered in the Ogo-Oluwa area of the town and marched to the Osun State House of Assembly.

The placards read: “We are not fighting for any political party,” “#End bad judiciary in Nigeria,” “#End fake judicial panel of inquiry in Osun,” “Unfreeze all the frozen accounts,” ”We are Nigerian youths,” among others.

In Lagos yesterday, soldiers were stationed at the Lekki tollgate, Opebi, Alausa, and Ikeja areas to forestall the planned protests.

The placards read: “We are not fighting for any political party,” “#End bad judiciary in Nigeria,” “#End fake judicial panel of inquiry in Osun,” “Unfreeze all the frozen accounts,” ”We are Nigerian youths,” among others.

In Lagos yesterday, officers were positioned at the Lekki tollbooth, Opebi, Alausa, and Ikeja territories to hinder the arranged fights. 

Scores of troops were seen watching the Ikeja, Opebi, Ojota, and Lekki tollbooth regions, the focal points of the October fights, in a demonstration of power to hinder mass social occasion. 

It was accumulated that security specialists were sent in the particular areas at 12 PM dependent on intel the police got. On Sunday, the Lagos State Police Command had said it would oppose any arranged dissent, parade or assembling in the state. 

On Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, had said the order would not permit any show under any pretense. 

The Lagos Police Command, yesterday, stated, in spite of viral recordings via web-based media, no #EndSARS protest was arranged at the Lekki cost court on Monday. The Guardian reporter who likewise checked exercises at the Lekki cost square at the hour of recording this report additionally didn't observer any dissent or assembling as cops monitored the cost door. 

The police representative said the police would manage people with the aim of organizing any new dissent that could prompt the breakdown of peace in the state. 

The statement read: “The attention of the Lagos State Police Command has been drawn to a viral video of a protest at Lekki Tollgate, Lagos State, purported to have been staged on 7th December 2020. The Command wishes to debunk the fake video that has been circulated to create tension and destabilise the security network in the state. The video was one of the viral videos released during the recent violent #EndSARS protest before the Lekki Tollgate plaza was set ablaze by the violent protesters on October 21, 2020.

“The command, therefore, urges the general public to regard the video as baseless and mischievous. The Command also wishes to appeal to the general public to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses as the police are prepared to deal decisively, within the ambit of the law, with any act of lawlessness that could lead to the breakdown of law and order in the state.”

One of the viral videos showed a group of angry protesters at the Ladipo Police Station in Matori Road, Papa Ajao, Lagos with the youths demanding an end to bad governance and SARS.

MEANWHILE, the police have again arraigned an #EndSARS protester, Eromosele Peter, for alleged felony and breach of peace.

Peter, who was arrested at his house on November 7, was arraigned before a Yaba Magistrate’s court.

On November 17, the Magistrate Court in Yaba had granted him bail in the sum of N1 million and two sureties who must be family members. The court also rejected a request by the police to detain Eromosele for another 30 days to enable them to conclude investigations.

Eromosele is accused of providing financial aid to those who participated in the #EndSARS protest. During another arraignment, the three-count charge against him reads, “That you Eromosele Peter and others now at large on November 7, 2020, at about 0900hrs at Allen Junction, Ikeja, in the Lagos Magisterial District did conspire amongst yourselves to commit felony to wit provoking breach of peace and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

“That you Eromosele Peter and others now at large on November 7, 2020, at about 0900hrs at Allen Junction Ikeja in the Lagos Magisterial District did, Provoke Breach of Peace by offensive publication.

“That you Eromosele Peter and others now at large on November 7, 2020, at about 0900hrs at Allen Junction Ikeja in the Lagos Magisterial District did, conduct yourself in a manner likely to cause a breach of the Peace and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 168 (I) (d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.”

The case has been adjourned till January 11, after the police asked for 30 days to finish their investigations.

In Cross River State, the state Police Command issued a statement to announce it was aware of the plan for another #Endsars protest in Calabar and warned that participants would be dealt with according to the law.

The statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Irene Ugbo, noted that it received intelligence that some individuals under the guise of EndSARS had planned to embark on a protest on Monday (today) to cause another mayhem in the state.

The statement warned: “We wish to draw the attention of the general public against any gathering, procession or protest in Cross River as some unscrupulous individuals or group of persons are planning to embark on another similar destructive and fierce END SARS protest that left wanton destructions in the state.”

It added that the Command had actionable intelligence that certain individuals or groups had concluded plans to entice and lure citizens, especially youths, into their planned protest, which is proposed to commence on Monday in the State.

“Consequently, the Command wishes to reiterate that the memories of the government of Cross River State, private entrepreneurs and security families still lament losses recorded during recent ENDSARS protests which were highly condemned,” he added.

The Command warned parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from being used for any act, gathering, or protest capable of causing mayhem in the state.

MEANWHILE, the police and other security operatives in Ogun State, yesterday, deployed officers to prevent the protest in the state.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said the Command would not tolerate any form of protest as the country was just coming out of the aftermath of the #EndSARS protest.

He said residents had been warned to caution their children because misguided elements were planning to foment trouble in the guise of protest.

“You cannot build something on nothing. You cannot stage a protest against an outfit that is no longer in existence. SARS has been disbanded and there is no reason for anybody to be canvassing for a protest against an outfit that is no longer in existence,” Oyeyemi said.

Inhabitants of Zabarmari, Borno State have attacked the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, over his remarks on the grim murder of more than 43 rice farmers in the community, saying he should apologize.

Pictured: Garba Shehu

A previous Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association in Zabarmari, Mallam Hassan, said it was somewhat lamentable for the president's representative to make such utterances. 

Shehu had said in a meeting with the BBC World Service, on Monday, that the killings happened on the grounds that the ranchers "did not get clearance from the military before they went to the rice fields."

He had said the public authority was stressed that 43 blameless ranchers were butchered, yet that occupants ought to keep away from places that might be risky. 

As per Daily Trust, responding to Shehu's cases, a previous Chairman of Rice Farmers Association in Zabarmari, Hassan, stated, "The dead deserve respect; Malam Shehu should have reserved his comments because of the tense situation. We have never collected any clearances from the military or any security operatives. We have been farming in these areas since when I was a child; these places are not far from Maiduguri.

"We have never been exempted from farming. We planted our seedlings during the rainy season and took care of the fields up till this moment without taking any permission from anyone."

Another occupant, Abdullahi Yahaya Ali, stated, ""It is the responsibility of the government to provide security for us, but we are left helpless. We are surprised that someone living in Abuja would come out and discredit us; he should apologise to us instead of trying to justify the killings.

"We are not going to allow these people to change the narratives; they have failed, so he needs to tender an apology to all of us, the relations of the victims," he said.

The Chairman of the Civil Society Organisation in Borno State, Ambassador Shehu Ahmed, said the statement credited to Garba Shehu was uncalled for.

"For the past eight months, these people have been farming. I think it would have been better for him to have kept quiet. What he said was like accusing the dead of exonerating the government."

As of November 30 2020:

145 new cases of #COVID19Nigeria;

Lagos-49 FCT-34

Kaduna-34

Plateau-11

Oyo-7

Bayelsa-5

Taraba-4

Sokoto-1

67,557 confirmed 63,282 discharged 1,173 deaths.

Staple Christmas jingles like "Deck the Halls" and "Joy to the World" are acceptable and all, yet there's nothing quite like a pop track to bring in the Chrismas cheer! However, with endless artists having released with numerous Christmas albums, which ones are the most elite? 

From Britney to Destiny's Child to Ariana Grande to the Queen of Christmas herself Mariah Carey, here are the best 10 pop XMas tunes ever!

10. "Every Day Is a Holiday" — Katy Perry

9. "Underneath the Tree" — Kelly Clarkson

8. "Christmas Tree" — Lady Gaga

7. "8 Days of Christmas" — Destiny's Child

6. "Mistletoe" — Justin Bieber

5. "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays" — *NSYNC

4. "My Only Wish (This Year)" — Britney Spears

3. "Last Christmas" — Wham!

2. "Santa Tell Me" — Ariana Grande

1. "All I Want For Christmas Is You" — Mariah Carey

MISSING ANY CHRISTMAS HITS?

Nigerian music artist, Burna Boy has for the second time straight, recieved a Grammy Award nomination.

In the nomination list for the 63rd yearly Grammy Awards delivered yesterday, oneself acclaimed African goliath got an assignment with his new album, 'Twice As Tall'. The 29-year-old artist was selected in the 'Best Global Music Album' classification close by Antibalas (Fu Chronicles), Bebel Gilberto (Agora), Anoushka Shankar (Love Letters), and Tinariwen (Amadjar).

His previous, African Giant, was likewise assigned at the 62nd Grammy Awards for 'Best World Music Album', which he lost to Angélique Kidjo. Burna Boy's 'Twice As Tall' collection is his fifth studio album.

The 15-track collection was released in August. The 63rd Annual Grammy Awards will air on January 31, 2021, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. A few weeks back, the Recording Academy reported the class once known as 'Best World Music Album' would be known as 'Best Global Music Album.'

What is your favorite song on the album?

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has suffered a miscarriage of second child with Prince Harry in July, said the Duchess in an interview to the New York Times on Wednesday. 

The Duchess composed that she "felt a sharp issue" while getting her one-year-old child Archie prepared one morning, and in a flash detected that "something was wrong." Hours after the fact she was admitted to clinic with her better half close by when the unsuccessful labor was affirmed. 

The couple, while "wet from tears," understood that the best way to start to recuperate is to ask each other "Are you OK," she composed. 

Markle referenced the misfortune and agony many have looked during the COVID-19 pandemic and encouraged individuals to ask how their friends and family feel. 

In January, the British illustrious family permitted Prince Harry and Markle to move away from regal obligations. The couple now live in the U.S. province of California with their child.

As the world grieves the demise of football's famed player, Diego Maradona, numerous individuals are additionally honoring his vocal help for the Palestinian cause. 

The previous Argentinian player and World Cup champ passed on Wednesday from a coronary episode at only 60 years of age, following long stretches of medical issues. 

His demise came fourteen days in the wake of being delivered from a Buenos Aires emergency clinic following mind a medical procedure. 

Maradona has been hailed as an enemy of settler, anti-imperialist, left-wing socialist, who has supported progressive movements.

He considered as a real part of his companions the late Venezuelan pioneer Hugo Chavez, Cuba's late President Fidel Castro, and Bolivia's Evo Morales. 

He was seen time and again going with Chavez, wearing an "enemy of George Bush" shirt. 

He proudly upheld Palestine, even subsequent to hanging up his football boots. 

Hamas representative Sami Abu Zuhri tweeted his sympathies to Maradona's family and fans over the world. 

"We are so tragic for the demise of perhaps the best footballer, 'Maradona', who is known for his help of the #Palestine cause," he composed. 

In 2012, Maradona portrayed himself as "the main fanatic of the Palestinian public". 

"I regard them and identify with them," he said. "I help Palestine with no dread." 

After two years, throughout Israel's late spring hostile on the blockaded Gaza Strip that executed in any event 3,000 Palestinians, Maradona communicated his shock and censured Israel. 

"What Israel is doing to the Palestinians is shameful," he said in a proclamation. 

After a year, reports flowed that Maradona was in exchanges with the Palestinian Football Association over the chance of instructing the Palestinian public group during the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. 

In July 2018, he met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas during a short gathering in Moscow, again emphasizing his long-standing help for Palestinians. 

"In my heart, I am Palestinian," he told Abbas as he grasped him in a clasp that was transferred on his Instagram page. 

In the very year, Maradona communicated his assessments on the US's function in Syria, which was in its seventh year of common battle as President Bashar al-Assad combined his authority over most of the nation. 

"You don't have to go to college to realize that the United States erase Syria out of existence," he said.

Do you agree with Maradona's sentiments?

In mid November, 2020, Nigerian artist, Wizkid's third studio collection, 'Made In Lagos' appeared at No. 80 on America's chief chart, the Billboard 200. For Wizkid, this was his second appearance on the chart after 'Sounds From The Other Side' appeared at No. 107. 

In late November 28, 2020, Nigerian hotshot saw his album, A Better Time debut at No. 170 on similar diagrams. This was Davido's first appearance on the charts, however his silver-certified single, 'Fall' has been on a couple of charts including the Billboard Digital Song Sales Charts. 

Truth be told, Davido has been on more Billboard charts than any Nigerian musician. 

This follows Burna Boy's album, Twice As Tall which appeared at No. 54 on the Billboard 200. Every one of these specialists continue in the strides of King Sunny Ade who saw two of his albums debut in the Billboard 200 during the 80's.

Are you a Wizkid, Burna Boy or Davido fan?

The founder of the Tesla, Elon Musk has recently broken a record previously held by Microsoft, originator, Bill Gates, to become the world's second-most richest individual. 

Information recovered from the Bloomberg billionaire index shows the 49-year-old Musk's total assets is currently fixed at $128 billion, driven by one more flood in Tesla's offer cost. 

Musk has picked up $100.3 billion to his total assets simply in 2020, the most by anybody in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index – a positioning of the world's 500 most richest individuals. 

What you should know: Musk is the CEO of Tesla, a creator of electric vehicles. The California-based organization sells electric vehicles. He's likewise CEO of Space Exploration Technologies, a rocket producer tapped by NASA to resupply the space station 

His abundance gain is to a great extent credited to Tesla, the electric vehicle automaker, which has increased 500% in 2020 and has gotten by a wide margin the world's most important automaker on the planet, notwithstanding it creating far not exactly Volkswagen, Toyota, or General Motors. 

About a fifth of the vehicle organization's offers is possessed by its Chief Executive, Elon Musk, and different insiders. 

Tesla was established in 2003 by a gathering of architects who needed to demonstrate that individuals didn't have to bargain to drive electric – that electric vehicles can be better, speedier, and more enjoyable to drive than fuel vehicles. 

Today, Tesla manufactures all-electric vehicles as well as boundlessly adaptable clean energy age and capacity items. Tesla accepts the quicker the world quits depending on petroleum products and moves towards a zero-discharge future, the better. 

Tesla remains the main significant carmaker to have a tremendous actual presence on the planet's second-biggest economy. With the electric-vehicle creator's dispatch of another manufacturing plant in China in 2019 and, the start of its Model Y models prior this year, speculators might need to keep holding.

The UK parliament on Monday discussed an appeal looking to force sanctions on Nigerian Government authorities associated with the killing of peaceful protesters in Lekki on October 20. 

For over 60 minutes, Members of Parliament denounced the violence at the Lekki Tollbooth in Lagos and demanded that Nigerian authorities ought not appreciate in the UK the freedoms they deny their residents at home. 

The Minister for Africa was missing from the procedures however his delegate said that he will anticipate the result of the legal boards of investigations into the shooting. 

Work is underway to consider how a global corruption sanction regime could be added to the government’s armoury,” a representative for the Minister for Africa, James Duddridge, said.

“This government will continue to press the Nigerian government and its security services to uphold human rights and the rule of law, to investigate all incidents of brutality, illegal detentions and the use of excessive force and to hold those responsible to account.

“We will closely monitor the judicial panel of inquiries and continue to advocate for investigations into police brutality. The government will consider its options as the panel’s work progresses.”

A particularly revealing moment came when an MP urged his government to place sanctions on Nigerians who flee to the UK with ill-gotten wealth, citing Nigeria’s former military ruler Yakubu Gowon’s alleged looting of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“We need to stop those who are profiting from the wealth of that great nation and hiding it here. Some people will remember when General Gowon left Nigeria with half the Central Bank, so it is said, and moved to London,” the MP said. “We know that today, even now in this great city of ours, there are sadly some people who have taken from the Nigerian people and hidden their ill-gotten gains here.”

The appeal, begun by Silas Ojo, collected in excess of 220,000 signatories, crossing the 100, 000 imprint required for a request to be bantered by the officials. 

Early a month ago, a great many Nigerians rioted, requiring a finish to police brutality and extra-legal killings by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). 

Fights in Lagos turned grisly on October 20 when troops fired protesters in Lekki and Alausa, slaughtering in any event 12 individuals, as per Amnesty International.

The fight between the government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has declined as no date has been fixed for resumption of arrangements by the two gatherings. 

With this turn of events, there is no end as far as anyone can tell for the goal of issues that prompted the extended nine-month-old strike by ASUU. The association protested to compel the government to address its interests about compensation, working conditions, procured recompenses and outdated framework, among others. 

Likewise, in the midst of disturbances by associations in government colleges for an area explicit compensation installment stage, the Minister of Labor and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has kicked against different innovation driven installment stages. He said any such gadget must line up with the current Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). 

The Permanent Secretary to the Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Sonny Echonu, told THISDAY in Abuja at the end of the week that the waiting strike is inappropriate and pointless, as all the fighting issues have been settled aside from one. 

Yet, ASUU National President, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, in a meeting yesterday, blamed the perpetual secretary's cases. 

He likewise cautioned that the national government's helpless treatment of the mechanical emergency could prompt another rush of cerebrum channel, adding that as of now, Ethiopia has enlisted more than 200 Nigerian educators. 

Echonu said reason is relied upon to win as the general public interest will be the core value in settling the modern contest.

“The government is working very closely. We are very concerned and the president is very concerned about this protracted strike, which to so many of us is unnecessary. We believe there are other ways of getting things done.
“There’s a shared acceptance of so many of the issues and we are at a point that very quickly and soon, it will be resolved. There’s only one issue in contention, really. The other issues have either been resolved or there have been some kind of compromise that worked out.

“We believe that reason will prevail and the overall national interest will be the guiding principle in coming to a quick resolution. I can assure you that work is going assiduously in this.

“Only two days ago, the ASUU executives were at the ministry to meet with the minister for certain consultations and we felt we needed to tell them exactly what our positions are.
“We will look at the overall interest of the Nigerian people. We know that we also operate in a context of government playing out different segments even in the university setting.

“We have four different unions making demands and we have to balance this. We understand the peculiarities of ASUU and we believe the members are patriotic enough to know when to call it quits and what to call a compromise,” he added.
Reacting, Ogunyemi told THISDAY that pending issues such as withheld salaries of members by the Account General of the Federation and announcement of negotiating teams, among others, have not been resolved.

He said government is eager to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) “with low-priced countries of yellow skin while the nations universities are treated with disdain.”
He added that a second aspect of brain drain on the nation will have a crippling effect on the academia and the entire nation.

According to him, Ethiopia has already engaged about 200 Nigerian professors.
He said: “That is not entirely correct. I can say we are talking but none of our issues have been addressed to a logical conclusion. 

ou should have asked him (Permanent Secretary) whether they had paid salaries of our members that government withheld. You should have asked him whether they have paid the (EAA) Earned Academic Allowance that they promised to pay. You should have asked him whether they have announced the negotiating team that they promised to announce. You should have also asked him whether they have presented the visitation panel.

“So, what our members are saying is that if each time we go on an action like this, government will make promises and sign memorandum of action and they will keep it for the next two weeks, two or even three months and will promise we will get revitalisation. They will say EAA will be paid because we have agreed on the framework of payment. After that, they will go to sleep. Our members are saying that this time around, they don’t want promises. They want action. So, there is a difference between saying we have addressed all the issues and we have delivered on all of the issues.

“The key word here is to ask them what they have delivered concretely and when they delivered it. So, at this point, can we tell our members to go back to classes when their salaries have been withheld? 

Can we tell them to go back to classes when the Accountant General took most of their salaries and have refused to remit? When government has taken steps to cripple our union? When government is taking steps to stall our progress? So it is not enough to say they have addressed the issues. Each time government says “we have addressed”, it means we have talked about this.

“Our members want government to deliver on its promises so that no one will blame us again next year and say we are back again in strike after how many months. There has to be stability in the system so that private universities will not bask over our students because they are happy we have crisis. If not because of public universities, I can assure you that most of the private universities will be shut. But we are expecting solution between public universities and the government. So it is not about we have talked or we are talking. It’s about we have delivered.

“Our members want to see that government has not just delivered but has satisfactorily delivered. Yes, we are talking on various levels and until we see the results of those discussions, our members cannot go back to the classrooms,” he said.

On the issue of patriotism and national interest, which the federal government said will be the guiding principle in resolving the strike, Ogunyemi said: “Everything ASUU is doing is informed by patriotism. Every time government officials say they are working in the interest of the nation, we always remind them where they have placed education in the interest of the nation. If they prioritise education, they will have no reason to attack ASUU.

Education is the driver of progress in everything in life. This country is aspiring to develop. They are talking of local content. They said we should look inward. How can you say we should look inward when you are treating your scholars as if they are irritants, as if they are nonentities and hoodlums? We want to remind them that each time they talk about interest of the nation, that they don’t love this country more than Nigerian scholars.

“If not for patriotism, our members would have abandoned universities and flee to better countries where they will be better treated. Do you know the number of African countries looking for Nigerian professors? A few months ago, Ethiopia came to recruit 200 professors from Nigeria. I don’t want to talk of South Africa. Go to Ghana, Egypt, you will see them there. We treat our scholars with discontent. 

ach time they step out, they are highly valued and highly priced. The government is eager to sign MoU with low priced countries of yellow skin, but their universities where they should draw the partnership they are looking for, they have treated with disdain. No country in the world does that.

“Universities are incubating centres for innovation, creativity, and development. So, if anybody thinks that ASUU does not love this country, that person should be interrogated to define the concept of patriotism. ASUU members are great patriots and deserve all the respect the nation can accept them.

“I totally disagree with the permanent secretary. Everything ASUU is doing is in the interest of the nation. If we allow our universities to collapse, I can assure you that the children of the poor will suffer and the nation will pay dearly for it. We are yet to recover from the brain drain experienced. I don’t think they should allow us to suffer the second aspect of brain drain. But we can understand if the ruling class does not care if universities should collapse.”

Meanwhile, ASUU also yesterday denounced the Twitter account, registered in its name, which asked students of public universities to prepare for resumption as a positive outcome is expected from the union on Wednesday.

Ogunyemi described the information as fake news, saying that the union does not operate any Twitter account.

“Those people are impersonators, they are impostors. They are using that Twitter handle and other Twitter handles to create confusion. So, we don’t know anything about the Twitter handle and we never said what they are attributing to us.
“That is not the way we share our information; we have a way of sharing our information and that is why we are advising our friendly media to always double check with us anything they are in doubt of. ASUU will never say any such thing on Twitter,” he added.

Ngige Rejects Multiple Payment Platforms for Universities

Ngige opposed multiple payment platforms for the various unions in the universities, saying that having such multiple technology-driven payment platforms is being discouraged globally.
A statement yesterday by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Nwachukwu Obidiwe, said Ngige spoke in Abuja when the immediate past President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Mr. Samson Ugwoke and his successor, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, visited him.

Ngige told the SSANU delegation that the federal government will look into the payment system as demanded by SSANU and the Non-academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU).
He, however, added that any of such systems must have a “handshake with IPPIS and other payment system in use by the federal government as having such technology work in silos is being discouraged even globally.”

On his part, Ugwoke commended Ngige for the seasoned and dispassionate approach he has been handling trade disputes.

He said: “We are here to present the new president of SSANU and ask that you extend the patriotism, friendship and understanding which I enjoyed to my successor. Your understanding of various challenges facing Nigerian workers operating under different unions, the patience and transparency with which you mediate, reawaken hope in us that government is committed to the welfare of workers.”

On the controversial IPPS payment platform, he informed the minister of SSANU’s alternative, the University General Peculiar Payroll Payment System( UGPPPS), which it developed in conjunction with the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU).
He, however, said the union would reconsider its position if IPPIS would be updated to accommodate the peculiarities captured by UGPPPS.

A prominent #EndSARS protester, Deji Adeyanju, has filed an action against a legal counselor, Kenechukwu Okeke, before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for "acts unbecoming of a legal professional." 

The appeal dated November 11, 2020, was likewise upheld by a testimony recorded at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, sitting in Abuja. 

The action against Okeke was in regard to the action he filed against 50 #EndSARS campaigners under the before a Chief Magistrates Court in Abuja, for their supposed parts in the fights, which he said brought about the plundering and devastation of property. 

For case initiated on Monday compliant with segments 88, 109(a), 110(1)(c) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, Okeke listed noticeable people including protestors and social media influencers as the litigants. 

The attorney claimed that his properties were decimated during the uproar, noticing that the litigants ought to be dealt with over his misfortune. 

Those recorded as litigants incorporate artist Damini Ogulu otherwise known as Burna Boy, David Adeleke prevalently known as Davido, Folarin Falana, otherwise known as Falz; online media comics, Debo Adebayo otherwise known as Mr Macaroni, and Maryam Akpaokagi otherwise known as Taoma. 

He additionally recorded a few activists, including Adeyanju, Aisha Yesufu, Feyikemi Abudu, Olorunrinu Oduala, Pamilerin Adegoke, Japhet Omojuwa, Ayo Sogunro and others. 

Following Adeyanju's appeal, the LPDC stated, "Okeke of Gana Street, Maitama, Abuja, is needed to reply to the charges contained in the assertion/affirmation which goes with this application and that such request be made as the advisory group will think right." 

Whenever saw as liable, the LPDC may suspend the attorney from the bar for in any event one year.

The controversial Ex Parte request by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to freeze the records of 20 high profile people associated to the #EndSARS protests. 

Numerous Nigerians, particularly young people have taken to online media to denounce the move by the Zenith Bank. 

Contentions have followed the ex parte request acquired by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to freeze the records of 20 people and an association connected to the #EndSARS lobby. 

Numerous Nigerians particularly young people have taken to online media to denounce the move by the zenith bank. 

Contentions have followed the ex parte request acquired by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to freeze the records of 20 people and an association connected to the #EndSARS lobby. 

Numerous Nigerians particularly young people have taken to online media to denounce the move by the zenith bank. 

Additionally, youth representatives at the Lagos legal board,  expressed their support of the #EndSars movement by boycotting the board's meeting last week.  

The Lagos Judicial Panel suspended its sitting till November fourteenth since individuals couldn't shape a majority. 

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja approved the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to freeze the records of 20 #EndSARS proponents with quick impact. 

The accounts in question  are with Access Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, Fidelity Bank, First Bank, United Bank for Africa, and Zenith Bank. 

This request on October 20, was allowed by Justice Ahmed Mohammed. 

Among those influenced are Bolatito Racheal Oduala, Chima David Ibebunjoh, Mary Doose Kpengwa, Saadat Temitope Bibi, Bassey Victor Israel, Wisdom Busaosowo Obi, Nicholas Ikhalea Osazele, Ebere Idibie, Akintomide Lanre Yusuf, Uhuo Ezenwanyi Promise and Mosopefoluwa Odeseye. 

 Adegoke Pamilerin stated, “My account has been frozen for over 2 weeks. Apparently CBN froze my account before they got a court order. Nigeria My Country, where the big and mighty do as they wish."

The court allowed the banks to freeze forthwith all exchanges on the 20 records on the rundown attached to the CBN's application as Exhibit An and all other financial balances of the litigants and respondents for a time of 180 days forthcoming the result of examination and request right now being led by the Central Bank of Nigeria. 

Many have denounced the move, portraying it as an endeavor to prompt a second influx of #EndSARS dissents the nation over. 

Popular TV host, Frank Edoho, @frankedoho tweeted, “So this useless government is freezing the account of #EndSARS protesters. Young people came out peacefully to implore the leaders to terminate a section of the police responsible for murders and their response is to freeze accounts? This government contains old fools.”

Also, PDP Candidate for Lagos East Senatorial District, Babatunde Gbadamosi said, “Freezing the accounts of organisers of a peaceful protest is ECONOMIC TERRORISM by the CBN. Does Godwin Emefiele sanction the brutality of SARS?”

Activist Lawyer, Inibehe Effiong said, “Free advice to #EndSARS protesters whose bank accounts have been frozen: Before you go to court or take any legal action, apply for and obtain the CTC of the ex-parte motion with the affidavit and other processes filed by the CBN Governor.

@EiENigeria said, “The Nigerian government wants us, when faced with official actions with which we disagree, to obey and submit without daring to object. Case in view: seizure of passports, freezing of accounts by CBN, continued arrests of #EndSARS protesters, blame game, etc. #EnoughIsEnough”

Investigative journalist, @fisayosoyombo said, “The freezing of @Gatefieldco’s Journalism Fund account by @myaccessbank & Godwin Emefiele’s @cenbank is a disguised attack on press freedom. Because they funded journalists to cover police brutality stories? Did Gatefield start supporting public-interest journalism yesterday?… CBN has now become so idle that it’s most pressing mandate is chasing the court for an order to freeze the accounts of 19 individuals and a company that supported the #EndSARS movement. But ask them to strengthen the naira against the dollar and it’s mission impossible!

@ayosogunro said, “With every passing day, there is more reason for #EndSARS protest. Along with the original issues, now we protest against: #LekkiMassacre and #oyingbomassacre, freezing of protester’s bank accounts, seizing of protester’s passports, the unconstitutional ban on protests.

What are your thoughts on protesters' accounts being frozen?

The disturbing footage of Nigerian security officials opening fire on peaceful #EndSARS protestors has shocked the world. As a result international organization, Amnesty International. 

Outstanding questions

While the evidence collected by Amnesty International through on-the-ground interviews and open source research points to military involvement in the killings at Lekki Toll Gate on 20 October 2020, there are still many questions that need answered.

Who ordered the killings?

Why was the light at the toll gate switched off before the attacks on protesters?

When will there be accountability for these killings?

The authorities must answer these questions immediately, end the killing andexcessive use of force against peaceful protesters across the country and commit to implementing their demands for police reform and accountability for police brutality.

Photo from the Lekki Toll Gate Massacre.

An total of about 6,000 planned corps members  from different establishments of higher learning in Nigeria will be activated for the 2020 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Batch 'B' direction practice this month. 

Chief General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Shaibu Ibrahim unveiled this in Jos, Plateau State capital, yesterday during a pre-direction course workshop coordinated for partners. 

He stated, “We are prepared to deploy 6,000 corps members to participate in the 2020 Batch B exercise. We have gone round the country to ensure that the camps are also ready. We are going to merge those who suspended their orientation in March to also participate for the forthcoming National orientation exercise.”

Ibrahim said that NYSC the board had set up all COVID-19 conventions in an offer to contain the pandemic in order to diminish network transmission in the camps the nation over. 

As per him, the NYSC the board was ready to guarantee severe consistence to the rules in the entirety of their exercises, including the issuance of authentications of National Service to corps individuals that have effectively finished their public help. 

He said that the NYSC was resolved to address developing difficulties in the impending direction practice which he said educated the association regarding the workshop with the subject 'Advancing a powerful Operational Strategy in the Management of Camps in the Context of COVID-19." 

He stated, "We have been interfacing with the important bodies, for example, the official team on COVID-19 (PTF), NCDC and state Ministries of Health on methods of guaranteeing sheltered and effective of the direction course. I am satisfied to report that all our direction camps have been readied and re-displayed with the affirmed wellbeing conventions. 

"Along with our accomplices, we will develop further procedures that will, in addition to other things, ensure the wellbeing of corps individuals, camp authorities and different individuals from the camp network all through the term of the Orientation course

As Democratic candidate Joe Biden inches closer to the US presidency, questions have started to rise regarding his net worth.

Compared to his rival, Biden does not own as much wealth as the incumbent US President Donald Trump. Forbes assessed his wealth in 2019 when he announced his intention to run for the US president’s office.

According to Forbes, Biden's net worth is approximately $9 million.

The publication calculated the former vice president’s net worth in 2019 by looking at his property portfolio which is $4 million. While the democratic party candidate has cash and investments worth $4 million, he also has $1 million from the federal pensions he has received.

The UK-based Daily Star reported that before taking public office, Biden used to be a lawyer and professor. He was later elected to the US Senate for the state of Delaware and served as the vice president for former president Barack Obama before making a bid for the presidency.

Biden became the youngest senator to be elected in the US when he made run for the public office for the first time.

According to Daily Star, the former US vice president used to say he was the “poorest man in Congress” when he had a starting salary of $42,500 per year.

As Democratic candidate Joe Biden inches closer to the US presidency, questions have started to rise regarding his net worth.

Compared to his rival, Biden does not own as much wealth as the incumbent US President Donald Trump. Forbes assessed his wealth in 2019 when he announced his intention to run for the US president’s office.

According to Forbes, Biden's net worth is approximately $9 million.

The publication calculated the former vice president’s net worth in 2019 by looking at his property portfolio which is $4 million. While the democratic party candidate has cash and investments worth $4 million, he also has $1 million from the federal pensions he has received.

The UK-based Daily Star reported that before taking public office, Biden used to be a lawyer and professor. He was later elected to the US Senate for the state of Delaware and served as the vice president for former president Barack Obama before making a bid for the presidency.

Biden became the youngest senator to be elected in the US when he made run for the public office for the first time.

According to Daily Star, the former US vice president used to say he was the “poorest man in Congress” when he had a starting salary of $42,500 per year.

Following the discovery of COVID-19 palliatives in the homes of various Nigerian governors and leaders, the Federal Government is stated that it never issued frther mandate in regard to distrubution.

Since Wednesday a week ago, several reserves have been looted of palliatives in the wake of the #EndSARS protests.

Other the central government, groups such as the Private Sector Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) and others had additionally contributed food and non-food aid items which never reached the targeted beneficiaries.  

Following the looting of these items, some state governments have given reasons as to why said palliatives were never circulated

There has been a stunning quietness from the administration and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Social Development and Disaster Management on whether the wares "found" were really stored by the state governments or not. 

People and gatherings had over the most recent seven months criticized the President Muhammadu Buhari-drove APC government over the COVID-19 palliatives said to have been given to states. 

Zahra Buhari 

Yet, one of Buhari's daughters, Zahra, on Sunday lined up with Instagram stories that said the revelation of undistributed COVID-19 palliatives in stockrooms the nation over by youth uncovered that her dad was not the issue of Nigeria. 

She reposted that the disclosure indicated that her dad really put forth attempts to pad the impacts of the Covid pandemic on Nigerians. 

"Since individuals affirmed that Buhari appropriated enough palliatives across the country, it is clear Buhari isn't our concern," the post stated

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, was additionally called out for supposedly siphoning the palliatives. 

She is currently observed as "a legend of sorts" as individuals honored her via online media. 

Her service had at the tallness of the Covid pandemic said it had dispersed grouped food things to states for ahead circulation to the most weak populace however the case was rebuked by many saying they didn't profit by the motion. 

Endeavors to talk with the pastor on Sunday were not effective as her phone line was not interfacing. 

She was at this point to react to an instant message too. 

States on the safeguard 

In any case, with the progressing demolition and taking at stores and different spots, some state governments have given explanations saying they couldn't circulate the plundered palliatives given to them since they were anticipating leeway from Abuja. 

In Osun for example, the Secretary of the state's Food and Relief Committee on COVID-19, Bayo Jimoh, on Friday, said the plundered things at a stockroom in Ede town gave by CACOVID were not accumulated, but instead saved for the banner off of the official dispersion. 

The Commissioner for Information in Plateau State, Dan Manjang, on Saturday, likewise rejected that they accumulated the palliatives plundered by gangsters and different residents at different stockrooms. 

When reached, Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, Head of Media, the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF), vowed to return to our reporter. 

A source at the NGF secretariat said an official proclamation may be given soon on the issue. 

'They stored alleviation materials' 

Yet, trustworthy sources in Abuja said it is inside the purview of state governments to circulate palliatives given to them to the focused on bunches with no outer impact or mandate. 

One of the sources near the government who would not like to be named, stated, "We truly don't have any desire to get gives together with the states since this is a difficult second for all. 

"Yet, to put any misinformation to rest, there was never when the Presidency or the service of philanthropic issues stated, state lead representatives ought not appropriate the palliatives given to them until a specific time," he said. 

Another source stated, "The mediations were intended to help the helpless whose occupation was influenced by the lockdown and hence it isn't reasonable to state that such gifts ought not be shared. 

"I don't think if any administration official either at the Presidency or anyplace will ask lead representatives not to disperse such intercessions. 

"Obviously a few of us know that Plateau State for example, got its gift a couple of days back however a few states got theirs months prior," he said. 

"The order was that states ought to quickly appropriate the great to the most helpless not to keep them," another source said. "Thus, if a few states kept the items this long; perhaps they have an alternate explanation; I am stating that they accumulated what they got," he included. 

Day by day Trust reports that in certain states, a few inhabitants were given noodles or a little amount of rice for the sake of COVID-19 help at the tallness of lockdown. 

Numerous Nigerians were stunned in the wake of seeing the quantum of grouped food things including rice, pasta, sugar, oil, Semovita and different grains being trucked away from stores in certain states. 

Other than stores where COVID-19 materials were kept, the hooligans regardless of sexual orientation, strict or political influences are additionally unleashing destruction on vital spots having a place with state governments or its organizations. 

In Plateau, Osun, Lagos and Adamawa, the punks yesterday scoured government stores, places of unmistakable legislators, conventional pioneers and prestigious characters looking for COVID-19 products. 

We hailed - off circulation since – CACOVID official 

An individual from the CACOVID guiding council, who favored obscurity to evade encounter with the state lead representatives disclosed to Daily Trust that: "Unfortunately the legislative heads of the states are intentionally misleading public displeasure at corporate associations that willfully gave these things to assist them with enhancing the enduring of poor people. 

"The inquiry we should pose to the lead representatives is, would they say they are not mindful that the media had differently announced the hailing - off of the appropriation in their states? What next after the banner off? 

The authority said the scenes that exuded from the attack of distribution centers in a few states as they viewed on TV may have imperiled the praiseworthy battle against COVID-19, as the majority were seen dismissing the security conventions while trucking endlessly palliatives. 

"How might we clarify that similar things that were conveyed even to probably the farthest focuses in this nation like Borno State have been circulated by the state while others stand by? 

"The following inquiry is for the media to pose to the states that have appropriated whether they required another endorsement after the banner off" 

The CACOVID council part said the gifts were done in accordance with some basic honesty including that "At CACOVID, we have a generally excellent administration structure and we have any semblance of PriceWaterCoopers (PwC), a legitimate review firm as a major aspect of that cycle to guarantee observing and assessment." 

On August 6, CACOVID officially reported the banner off of a cross country conveyance of multi-billion naira food palliative and other alleviation things to moderate the unfriendly impacts of the novel Covid pandemic on weak Nigerians. 

CACOVID head and CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), Zouera Youssoufou said with the declaration in Lagos, the alliance partitioned the appropriation utilizing the six geo-political zones and the conveyances were hailed off all the while across states. 

We're attempting to discover what occurred – CBN 

In the interim, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said it is examining the non-conveyance of the CACOVID palliatives. 

The zenith bank had taken guardianship of the financial gifts from the altruists during the warmth of the pandemic and the lockdown. 

The acting Director of Corporate Affairs at CBN, Mr Osita Nwanisobi said on phone: "We are attempting to get data from the states to know precisely what occurred. 

"The CACOVID is a CBN-drove activity as a team with the private area. In the event that you see what has occurred, these are things that have just been given to the states for them to convey to the majority. 

"We are as yet attempting to get the numbers. CACOVID additionally has its media activities. It's anything but a CBN undertaking. It is private-area driven. Yet, we are attempting to get the numbers," he expressed. 

First Bank 

There were ongoing remarks via web-based media ascribed to the MD/CEO of First Bank, Dr Sola Adeduntan, who purportedly expressed in a shut WhatsApp bunch known as the "Sigmites" that the palliative materials were just conveyed in September and early October. 

Sigmite is an abbreviation for individuals from the most seasoned socio-magnanimous understudies' association known as Sigma Club, University of Ibadan. 

First Bank has neither given any counter-articulation to deny the announcement ascribed to the overseeing chief as at the hour of this report. The Head, Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability/Media and External Relations of the bank, Ismail Omamegbe, was at this point to restore a phone call by one of our journalists. 

On October 3, CACOVID had requested of the Edo State Government over supposed misappropriation of food palliatives worth over N465 million by an individual from House Representatives from the state. 

The alliance said it had dispatched food palliatives to Edo State to cook for 36,295 family units simply like for different states for circulation however was frightened to see the legislator on state TV appropriating the staples guaranteeing he got them without response to CACOVID as the supplier. 

It has been reported that the State Governments had appropriated about 38 trucks of palliatives.

Exploitation of mines of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is presently getting worldwide attention due to the viral hashtag, #CongoIsBleeding which highlights ongoing child slavery, deadly conflicts and corruption as a result of multinational companies' attempts to extract minerals. 

The hashtag was created in the wake of the Nigerian #EndSARS protests in order to take advantage of the energy sweeping the world in the fight against police brutality. In the last fortnight, #CongoIsBleeding has entered the moving records in a couple of areas including Ghana, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Belgium, France and South Africa. 

Famous people from Africa and outside including NBA star Serge Ibaka, have taken to Twitter to draw mindfulness and look for help. So what precisely is going on in the Democratic Republic of Congo? 

The nation has the world's most productive cobalt mines, delivering about portion of the world's used cobalt. The metal is a mineral utilized in making lithium-particle batteries just as attractive prepares in telephones, workstations among others, so risks are that you are perusing this on a gadget that was halfway framed by the mines of the Congo. 

The rewarding idea of cobalt mining implies that all endeavors to guarantee creation can coordinate the interminably versatile worldwide interest are placed in. The east of the DRC, where the mines are found, is thusly home to almost 40,000 child workers burrowing for the minerals that would inevitably be used by Apple, Google and other goliath organizations. 

Worldwide advancement master Siddharth Kara has composed broadly on the topsy-turvy connection between cobalt creation in the DRC just as what the mineral way to tech goliaths. In 2018, Kara composed that "kids were working 12-hour days, some for just $2 every day, burrowing and pulling sacks of cobalt-rich rocks, in a disordered scramble for the massively significant ware." 

These are the least fortunate of Congolese with almost no security net and are helpless before taThe nation has the world's most productive cobalt mines, creating about portion of the world's used cobalt. The metal is a mineral utilized in making lithium-particle batteries just as attractive prepares in telephones, PCs among others, so risks are that you are perusing this on a gadget that was mostly shaped by the mines of the Congo. 

The worthwhile idea of cobalt mining implies that all endeavors to guarantee creation can coordinate the interminably flexible worldwide interest are placed in. The east of the DRC, where the mines are found, is consequently home to almost 40,000 kid workers burrowing for the minerals that would inevitably be used by Apple, Google and other monster partnerships. 

Worldwide improvement master Siddharth Kara has composed widely on the topsy-turvy connection between cobalt creation in the DRC just as what the mineral way to tech goliaths. In 2018, Kara composed that "youngsters were working 12-hour days, some for just $2 every day, burrowing and pulling sacks of cobalt-rich rocks, in a turbulent scramble for the tremendously significant ware." 

These are the least fortunate of Congolese with practically no wellbeing net and are helpless before taThe nation has the world's most productive cobalt mines, creating about portion of the world's used cobalt. The metal is a mineral utilized in making lithium-particle batteries just as attractive prepares in telephones, PCs among others, so risks are that you are perusing this on a gadget that was incompletely shaped by the mines of the Congo. 

The worthwhile idea of cobalt mining implies that all endeavors to guarantee creation can coordinate the everlastingly flexible worldwide interest are placed in. The east of the DRC, where the mines are found, is hence home to almost 40,000 kid workers burrowing for the minerals that would in the end be used by Apple, Google and other goliath companies. 

Worldwide improvement master Siddharth Kara has composed widely on the deviated connection between cobalt creation in the DRC just as what the mineral way to tech monsters. In 2018, Kara composed that "kids were working 12-hour days, some for just $2 every day, burrowing and pulling sacks of cobalt-rich rocks, in a riotous scramble for the tremendously important product." 

These are the least fortunate of Congolese with almost no security net and are helpless before taThe nation has the world's most productive cobalt mines, creating about portion of the world's used cobalt. The metal is a mineral utilized in making lithium-particle batteries just as attractive prepares in telephones, workstations among others, so risks are that you are perusing this on a gadget that was halfway framed by the mines of the Congo. 

The worthwhile idea of cobalt mining implies that all endeavors to guarantee creation can coordinate the endlessly versatile worldwide interest are placed in. The east of the DRC, where the mines are found, is thusly home to almost 40,000 youngster workers burrowing for the minerals that would in the end be used by Apple, Google and other monster companies. 

Worldwide improvement master Siddharth Kara has composed widely on the topsy-turvy connection between cobalt creation in the DRC just as what the mineral way to tech monsters. In 2018, Kara composed that "youngsters were working 12-hour days, some for just $2 per day, burrowing and pulling sacks of cobalt-rich rocks, in a disorderly scramble for the enormously significant product." 

These are the least fortunate of Congolese with practically zero security net and are helpless before taThe nation has the world's most productive cobalt mines, creating about portion of the world's used cobalt. The metal is a mineral utilized in making lithium-particle batteries just as attractive prepares in telephones, PCs among others, so risks are that you are perusing this on a gadget that was mostly shaped by the mines of the Congo. 

The worthwhile idea of cobalt mining implies that all endeavors to guarantee creation can coordinate the endlessly flexible worldwide interest are placed in. The east of the DRC, where the mines are found, is thusly home to almost 40,000 kid workers burrowing for the minerals that would in the long run be used by Apple, Google and other monster partnerships. 

Worldwide improvement master Siddharth Kara has composed widely on the awry connection between cobalt creation in the DRC just as what the mineral way to tech goliaths. In 2018, Kara composed that "youngsters were working 12-hour days, some for just $2 every day, burrowing and pulling sacks of cobalt-rich rocks, in a clamorous scramble for the immensely important ware." 

These are the most unfortunate of Congolese with practically no security net and are helpless before tawho are generally degenerate government workers or even agitator powers. This carries us to issues related with another mineral, coltan, which has prompted weakness in a similar eastern area of the DRC. 

Coltan is compositely not quite the same as cobalt yet it is likewise utilized in making tech item like capacitors. East Africa is wealthy in coltan, with the DRC and its neighbor Rwanda probably the biggest makers of the mineral. 

Congo's administration is neither willing nor fit for guaranteeing the security of the lives and property of its kin in the coltan-rich towns. This implies that non-state entertainers, explicitly rebel powers from Rwanda and Uganda, plunder, torment, assault and slaughter Congolese in these spots all in the mission to benefit from coltan produce. 

For quite a long time, global organizations and European nations have gained coltan despite the way that the monies they pay don't go into bettering the lives of helpless Congolese. Moral contemplations are not permitted to impede colossal benefits. 

Congo has additionally blamed Rwanda and Uganda for doing next to no to stop rebel attacks into the DRC. In 2012, a Congolese priest, Lambert Mende Omalanga, noticed that "200 to 300 revolutionaries were enlisted in Rwanda so as to be invaded in the DRC." 

These incredibly bleak pictures of cobalt and coltan creation in the DRC don't make it into the features, maybe because of how worldwide sensibilities have gotten used to wars and difficulty in that nation. Regardless, the #CongoIsBleeding a mission in diligence and expectation that something positive may at long last start to unfurl.

Two weeks after #EndSARS protests against police brutality started, president Muhammadu Buhari has finally addressed the issue. 

Much to the dismay of Nigerian citizens, and the world at large, Buhari's address offered little reassurance and empathy. It was filled with thinly veiled threats to protesters as overall tone of the speech appeared rather oppressive, he alluding to security forces smothering any future protests. 

“In the circumstances, I would like to appeal to protesters to note and take advantage of the various well-thought-out initiatives of this administration designed to make their lives better and more meaningful, and resist the temptation of being used by some subversive elements to cause chaos with the aim of truncating our nascent democracy,” Buhari said.

“For you to do otherwise will amount to undermining national security and the law and order situation. Under no circumstances will this be tolerated,” he added.

Most outstandingly, the president's speech which was pre-recorded, made no notice of the massacre at Lekki Toll Booth Oct. 20 when Nigerian security officials opened fire at unarmed and peaceful protesters. The shootings injured many and left several dead. The president's choice to totally discard the Lekki shootings from his address was in accordance with the military's refusal pf any wrongdoing notwithstanding graphic footage which showed otherwise. 

'

Pictured: Protesters and Police in Ikeja.

Do you feel President's Buhari's address was tone deaf?

TV Continental (TVC) station in Ikosi-Ketu is apparently ablaze by some unknown individuals.

This was revealed by witnesses and occupants, who shared footage on October 21. 

Gunshots have also been confirmed to have been heard.

Prior to the fire 

In the interim, Morayo Afolabi Brown, who secures the program 'Your View' on TVC, uncovered during the live show that a few people were at the entryway of the TV station, attempting to compel their way into the premises. 

TV Continental (TVC) station in Ikosi-Ketu is apparently ablaze, as some hooligans purportedly assaulted the structure. 

This was revealed by certain occupants, who shared recordings via web-based media today, October 21. 

It shows up some security agents are on ground to check the harm, as inhabitants affirmed they heard shots. 

Prior to the fire 

In the interim, Morayo Afolabi Brown, who secures the program 'Your View' on TVC, uncovered during the live show that a few people were at the entrance of the TV station, attempting to force their way into the premises. 

This happened in a matter of seconds before the live program ceased broadcasting. 

Then, Brown Kabiti, Morayo's husband, communicated his feelings of dread and nervousness on his Facebook page over the occurrence. 

He stated, "As I go to watch Your View toward the beginning of today; I go in tears, dread, and tension. God, my family unit is honest. Kindly ensure my own."

In other news, the Head Office of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has been set on fire by individuals who attacked the premises, chased out the employees before setting the offices ablaze. 

Firemen were dispatched to control the blaze.

All vehicles in the premises were additionally set on fire.

Staff individuals in Apapa region are presently rushing for wellbeing as they sought shelter at the shoreline. 

Senior supervisor, Corporate and Strategic Communications, NPA, Jatto Adams has not reacted to calls as at press time. 

In the interim, The Guardian accumulated that the Warri Port is likewise under seige as the entryways are presently bolted with tires consumed around the port.

In the wake of footage showing numerous casualties reportedly gunned down by the the Nigerian Army, the army has denied sending troopers to assault #EndSARS dissenters who amassed at the Lekki Toll Plaza and other parts of Nigeria. 

The Nigerian Army by means of its official Twitter handle posted arrangement of screen captures of such reports and labeled them "Counterfeit NEWS". 

Backstory 

Protesters have been at the area for about fourteen days, closing down the cost door in a tranquil dissent of police ruthlessness, while requesting the rejecting of the famous unit of the Police, Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS), and various changes in the Police Force. 

Recently, the Lagos State Government had given a 24-hour time limit after viciousness broke out in a few areas in the state, as hooligans captured the dissent to torch police headquarters, attack honest residents and annihilate properties. 

The Nigerian Army is yet to reveal a strong official statement to expose the charges leveled against the establishment.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in a live broadcast has also come forth to deny any shootings by Nigerian security forces despite the viral footage depticing the contrary.

What are your thoughts on the handling of this case?

• A series of protests are occurring accross the US after a grand jury opted not to charge the police officers involved for the controversial killing of Breonna Taylor. She was shot and killed while sleeping as Louisville police carried out a no-knock warrant and raided her home. 

• Protesters have gathered in their masses in ever major US city chanting: “Say her name! Breonna Taylor” and “No justice, no peace.”

• In the midst of these protests, two police officers in Louisville were shot, suffering non-fatal injuries. A suspect is believed to be in custody.

• Former Louisville police officer Brett Hankinson faces three felony counts of first-degree wanton endangerment. None of the other officers involved in the fatal shooting were indicted. No homicide charges related to Taylor's murder were issued/

• The Louisville mayor announced a curfew in anticipation of the Taylor announcement. Mayor Greg Fischer issued an on-camera statement saying he hoped Cameron’s announcement would be met with “a peaceful, lawful response like we have seen the majority of the past four months.” Fischer announced the city would observe a curfew for the next three nights, from 9pm to 6.30am.

• Senator Kamala Harris said Taylor and her family “deserve justice yesterday, today and tomorrow”. Asked about the indictment, the California senator said she had not yet had the chance to fully review the indictment.

• Kentucky’s attorney general, Daniel Cameron, denied that the search warrant carried out at Breonna Taylor’s home was a “no-knock warrant”. Cameron claimed the police officers involved in the fatal shooting of Taylor identified themselves before entering the apartment. Cameron said that information was corroborated by a witness. But according to a 911 call placed by Taylor’s boyfriend shortly after she was shot, he did not know the shooters were police officers. “I don’t know what’s happening,” Kenneth Walker said in the call. “Somebody kicked in the door and shot my girlfriend.”

•  

There has been a huge uproar around the GoFundMe campaign launched for disqualified Big Brother Naija Season 5 Housemate, Erica Ngozi. Less than 3 hours after her disqualification, $9,000 had already been raised. 


Below is a comment on the GoFundMe.

Comrade Deji Adeyanju @adeyanjude tweeted: “They have opened a Go Fund Me for disqualified Big Brother house mate -Erica yet they insult those who hold Govt accountable. My generation is acting unaware of all the troubles & suffering in the country. It’s like we want to suffer for 600yrs.”

What are your thoughts on this subject?

As can be seen from different angles, Novak Djokovic was depicted hitting a spare ball which injured the throat of a line judge. The 17-time Grand Slam champion, was  therefore disqualified from the US Open Sunday night.

The blunder was in frustration to having his serve broken by 20th seed Pablo Carreno Busta. Djokovic in response hit a spare ball with his racket directly into the throat of a line judge who then fell onto the floor.  

After rushing to her aid, and a discussion with officials, Djokovic was disqualified from the tournament. 

A statement from the USTA stated Djokovic was disqualified for “hitting a ball with negligent disregard for the consequences."

Djokovic clearly didn’t intend to hurt anyone, but the ball was hit in anger and the umpire of the match said he was left with “no other option."

Djokovic has since issued an apology on Instagram.

Home Alone (1990) is a Classic Christmas movie known and loved universally. Many a Christmas seasons were probably marked by watching the comedic childish shenanigans of "Kevin" in this movie. 

This week, "Kevin" the child star of the film announced he turned 40, much to the shock of many fans. 

He tweeted: "Hey guys, wanna feel old? I'm 40. You're welcome."

Have you seen this movie?

Home Alone (1990) is a Classic Christmas movie known and loved universally. Many a Christmas seasons were probably marked by watching the comedic childish shenanigans of "Kevin" in this movie. 

This week, "Kevin" the child star of the film announced he turned 40, much to the shock of many fans. 

He tweeted: "Hey guys, wanna feel old? I'm 40. You're welcome."

Have you seen this movie?

President Buhari's nephew, Mamman Daura's departure from Nigeria to the United Kingdom in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic has attracted mixed reactions from Nigerian citizenry. 

His departure is a hot topic as March 2020's restrictions are still in place on international flights with allowance made for only flights on essential duties.

The reasons's behind this departure remain unknown though it has been speculated that he left for health reasons. A source close to the family claimed claimed that Daura's departure was unrelated to COVID-19.

“It is impossible that a man, who is over 80, would have breathing problems on Friday and the family would wait for five days before flying him abroad in an emergency. A man having breathing problems on Friday would not attend a public funeral on Tuesday,” the family source told NAN.

A few Nigerian politicians have died from COVID-19, including President Buhari’s chief of staff, Abba Kyari, who died in April 2020.

Former Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Lagos senator Bayo Osinowo and other politicians in the country had died from the virus.

What are your thoughts on Nigerian politicians' seeking medical care abroad?

Muharram is the first month of Islamic calendar which is ten or twelve days shorter than the Gregorian calendar followed by the West. Also known as Al Hijri or Arabic New Year, the Islamic New Year is celebrated on the first day of Muharram.

In India, if the crescent moon is sighted on Thursday evening, Al Hijri 1442 or Islamic New Year will be celebrated on August 21. Muharram is considered a holy month by followers of Islam, next only to Ramadan, since it was in this month that Allah saved the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. To thank Allah for saving them, Prophet Musa observed a day’s fast on the tenth day of the month.

Later, in 622 CE, it was in the month of Muharram that Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina. Hijra Anniversary of the Holy Prophet is marked in this month. It was in Medina that he learnt from the Jews about Prophet Musa and his followers fasting on Ashura, tenth day of Muharram and decided that he would observe a fast too both on the ninth and tenth day of Muharram.

With Islamic New Year or Al Hijri 1442 just around the corner, here are some WhatsApp messages, Facebook status, quotes and SMS to wish your family and friends and boost their faith on Muharram 2020.

Credit: Hindustantimes

Rising star, igerian singer-songwriter Fireboy has dropped his second studio album titled "Apollo." It is a 17 track album featuring pre-released songs like  “ELI,” “Tattoo,” and “New York City Girl.” D Smoke, Wande Coal, and Olamide are also featured. Link to listen available below. 

On the album, Fireboy said: This album is about evolution, growth, love, and pain. Gratitude to God for blessings. Gratitude to everyone who worked with me on this album; gratitude to my team (YBNL/EMPIRE), my family, and the kings who blessed this project with their presence.

His first album, released last year, titled "Tears, and Goosebumps" was hit and "Apollo" is expected to follow in its footsteps. Click here to listen.  Album art below! Include your thoughts in the comments!

Mark Zuckerburg, CEO of Facebook has been announced as a centibillionaire: someone who is worth at least $100 billion. He managed this feat as a result of Facebook shares surging. Currently, only Jeff Bezos of Amazon and Bill Gates of Microsoft are worth more.

Facebook was co-founded by Zuckerberg in while attending Harvard University in 2004. His biggest asset is his 13% stake in the company.  

Zuckerburg reached centibillionaire status after Facebook's stock climbed 6.5% after the launch of "Reelz" a clone of TikTok, an internationally popular app video. This launch came on the heels of President Trump's threats to ban Chinese owned TikTok.

Nicki Minaj has announced she is expecting her first child with her husband Kenneth Petty. The pair married in 2019. 

She announced her good news via Instagram by posting photos from her marternity shoot with the captions: “#Preggers” andLove. Marriage. Baby carriage. Overflowing with excitement & gratitude. Thank you all for the well wishes.”

On her marriage Minaj said:“I didn’t think it would be as refreshing and calming as it is. Even if you’re not married, when you have someone that feels like your soulmate or someone who understands you, it just makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.”

Infamous Hushpuppi, accused of internattional fraud has been extradited to USA. His lawyer, Gal Pissetzky, maintains that his client is not a fraudster but rather has legitimate businesses mainly in real estate.

He was arrested in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, by the Dubai Police along with 12 others for allegedly stealing 1.6 billion Dirham (N168 billion).

He was transferred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States on charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering, among others.

In addition, it is alleged that Hushpuppi attempted to steal£100m (N48.4bn) from English Premier League football club.

A portion of the affidavit for this charge reads:“Abbas and others further conspired to launder hundreds of millions of dollars from other fraudulent schemes and computer intrusions, including one scheme to steal £100 million (approximately $124 million) from an English Premier League soccer club.”

If convicted, Hushpuppi faces up to 20 years in jail.

Legal counsel for Hushpupppi stated that he is “Absolutely not guilty of (the) charges they are accusing him of,” adding, “(he) was running a legitimate business and a very legitimate Instagram account and did not take part in any scam or fraud.”

 “He’s an entrepreneur. He has real estate involvement … (he’s) an Instagram personality. He was promoting brands and that’s how he was very legitimately making his money.”

Raymon Abbas, aka Hushpuppi

Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajuiba has announced the dates for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE)  for: August 4 to September 5, 2020.

“As soon as we conclude WAEC, we will take NABTEB and NECO,” he said.

This comes after the federal government announced the“safe reopening” of schools in Nigeria, allowing  students in final years (Primary 6, JSS 3, SS3) to begin exam preparation. 

“The idea is we have a month from now till August 4, so the states who are willing should make their schools available for their children to revise,” he said.

According to him, “the new WAEC date is part of our discussion with stakeholders which includes National Centre for Disease Control(NCDC) and Nigeria Union of Teachers tomorrow.”

“We are continuing registration for NECO, for those who have not concluded registration, please try to complete your registration.”

Due to coronavirus spread, the federal government announced the closure of schools on March 19 which postponed all examinations  especially WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB; exams needed in order to enter tertiary institutions. 

Following the arrest of popular Nigerian fraudster known as Hushpuppi in Dubai, it has been announced that he will be extradited to the United States. His colleague, Olalekan Jacob Ponle also known as Woodbery was captured and will also be extradited. 

They are charged with defrauding a total of Dh1.6 billion (about N169 billion) over 1.9 million people mostly believed to be Americans. 

In the raid, tems worth N15.845 billion (Dh 150 million) were seized. In addition, 13 luxury cars worth N2. 640 billion (Dh 25 million), 21 laptops, 47 smartphones, 15 memory storage devices, 5 external hard drives and 800, 000 emails of potential victims were also recovered from the gang.

Their arrest in an operation codenamed "Fox Hunt 2" came after about four months of painstaking investigations into their activities., during which their social media activities were monitored by the highly trained police unit.

The video posted by the Dubai Media Office said their police were able to track the locations of the suspected fraudsters using their social media activities.

The Dubai Police said the Hushpuppi and his gang specialised in hacking corporate emails and then send fictitious messages to the clients of the companies whose email accounts they have hacked to redirect financial transactions and bank details to their own accounts.

Media reports said most of the victims of Hushpuppi’s gang’s criminal activities are United States citizen and that the Federal Bureau of Investigation is interested in extraditing members of the gang to the US.

In May, the United States Secret Service said in a memo that fraudsters were targeting American states. Their operations, the Secret Service said, was traced to Nigeria.

A California-based cybersecurity firm Agari said on Tuesday, May 19, that “some if not all” of those who committed the fraud are part of a Nigerian fraud group Scattered Canary.

35,000 Almajiri children have been evacuated by the Kaduna State Government. They were relocated to  h17 states and neighbouring countries.

Hajiya Hafsat Baba, Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development in Kaduna State stated:

"This is crucial because apart from COVID-19, some of the Almajiri had skin diseases and other ailments that need to be treated before reuniting them with their families.

Although enrolling the children into school is the responsibility of the ministry of education, the ministry of human services is currently assessing the state of Tsangaya schools across the state.

We want to determine their proximity and suitability for enrolling some of the Almajiri living close to such schools where they will acquire both Quranic and western education."

Kaduna, has also received more than 1,000 Almajiri from other states.

Baba explained that the measure was part of the state government’s efforts toward ensuring that all children received both Quranic and western education under the care of their parents.

This effort was in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) who are documenting, counselling, and providing basic healthcare to the Almajiri children.

The commissioner said that the government would continue to take delivery of every Almajiri indigenous to the state and would continue to engage Islamic teachers as parts of community engagement.

She added the ministry would equally continue engaging traditional leaders and relevant stakeholders in communities for them to understand that the children need to be taken care of by their parents.

Gov. Nasir El-Rufa’i had recently warned that parents who enroll their children into the Almajiri education system stand the risk of prosecution and up to two years jail.

El-Rufai said that all the Almajiri pupils repatriated from other states of the country would be given all the opportunity they deserved to grow and develop.

“We will continue to take delivery of every Almajiri pupil indigenous to Kaduna state for rehabilitation, treatment and enrollment into formal school nearest to where their parents live,” the governor said.

ALABAMA, USA —  A noose was found inside the garage of Bubba Wallace, the only black driver of NASCAR, a racing organization. The noose historic symbol of racial oppression and violence against African Americans, symbolizing the lynchings and hangings of African Americans in the past. The Justice Department is investigating this and acklowleged the gravity of the incident.  

Thos follows the banning of the Confederate flag by NASCAR from its events on the recommendation of Wallace this month. The Confederate flag is also another historic symbol of African American oppression in the USA.

In a statement on Monday, Jay E. Town, the United States attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, said federal officials were “reviewing the situation surrounding the noose that was found in Bubba Wallace’s garage to determine whether there are violations of federal law.”

“Regardless of whether federal charges can be brought, this type of action has no place in our society,” Town said.

“This will not break me,” Wallace said in a statement on Sunday night. “I will not give in nor will I back down. I will continue to proudly stand for what I believe in.”

Richard Petty, the celebrated driver whose racing team employs Wallace, said Monday that he was “enraged” by what had happened in Alabama.

“The sick person who perpetrated this act must be found, exposed and swiftly and immediately expelled from NASCAR,” Petty said. “I believe in my heart this despicable act is not representative of the competitors I see each day in the NASCAR garage area. I stand shoulder to shoulder with Bubba, yesterday, today, tomorrow and every day forward.”

The federal inquiry is being conducted in parallel to one that NASCAR opened on Sunday. Steve Phelps, the NASCAR president, said Monday afternoon that officials “don’t have a lot of answers at this moment.”

Nineteen year old Black Lives Matter activist, Oluwatoyin Salau was one of two bodies in a homocide investigation in Tallahasse, Florida. 

Salau’s body was discovered by police Saturday night, along with the body of 75-year-old Victoria Sims, according to a statement.

49-year-old Aaron Glee Jr. was taken into custody, but charges against him are unclear; Glee lives on the road near where the bodies were found.

Their deaths come amid numerous recent high-profile killings of Black people, including George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and the massive global protests sparked in their wake. ( Taylor, was shot eight times by police while asleep in her bed, at home).

In the hours before she went missing, Salau had tweeted about being sexually assaulted by a man who gave her a ride and shelter in his home.

Out of safety concerns, and in an effort to gather more data, the World Health Organization temporarily halted tests on hydroxychloroquine in its Covid-19 drug trials.

“It’s important to continue to gather evidence on the efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine,” WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan said at a press briefing in Geneva. “We want to use it if it’s safe and efficacious, reduces mortality, reduces the length of hospitalization without increasing adverse events.”

After President Trump boasted of the drug as an effective treatment the WHO commitee decided to halt trials. It has recently been published that the drug may be linked to an increased risk of death and heart issues. 

“It’s important to continue to gather evidence on the efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine,” WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan said at a press briefing in Geneva. “We want to use it if it’s safe and efficacious, reduces mortality, reduces the length of hospitalization without increasing adverse events.”

The studies may resume if data warrants, Mike Ryan, head of the WHO’s health emergencies program, said at a briefing. There’s no signals from the Solidarity trials that indicate any problem and the decision was made out of an “abundance of caution,” Ryan said.

This decision will be reviewed. Thoughts on the popular anti-malarial drug curing Covid-19?

After the video went viral, a Amy Cooper, a New York  woman has apologized for her false report to the police. The altercation occurred in a park after the African- American man approaced her requesting she follow park guidelines and put her dog on a leash. After several threats to the man, the woman made a hysterical to the police stating that "there was an African American man threatening her life."

In an interview, Christian Cooper said he came across Amy Cooper while bird-watching.  He started to record after she refused his request and began threatening him, almost strangling her dog in the process. 

"At some point, she decided, 'I'm gonna play the race card,' I guess," Christian Cooper told NBC New York.

The video shows Christian Cooper asking Amy Cooper not to come any closer before she called the police in the moments that followed.

America has a history of police brutality against African Americans, as seen with the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Sandra Bland, Eric Garner, and more recently George Floyd who was suffocated in broad daylight. African Americans have also been lynched by white supremists as seen in the horrific video killing of Ahmaud Arbery.

Christian Cooper said: "We live in an age of Ahmaud Arbery where black men are gunned down because of assumptions people make about black men, black people, and I'm just not going to participate in that," he said, referring to a case in Georgia where a black man jogging through his neighborhood was pursued by two white men and shot to death. The men said they believed he was a burglar, and one opened fire in self-defense."

Amy Cooper's apology: "I sincerely and humbly apologize to everyone, especially to that man, his family. It was unacceptable and I humbly and fully apologize to everyone who’s seen that video, everyone that’s been offended…everyone who thinks of me in a lower light and I understand why they do.

When I think about the police, I’m such a blessed person. I’ve come to realize especially today that I think of [the police] as a protection agency, and unfortunately, this has caused me to realize that there are so many people in this country that don’t have that luxury."

Amy Cooper has since been put on an administrative leave following the event. 

Several similar events have been captured on video. A woman nicknamed "Barbeque Betty was featured calling the police on a gathering of African American's having a barbeque in the park. "Permit Patty" also appeared to call the police on a young African American girl selling bottles of water. Though list of viral videos featuring these racial undertones is alarming, it is good that these prejudices are exposed for some semblence of justice to be served, rather than being swept under the rug.  

Amy Copper, Christian Cooper video below. 

https://www.today.com/video/central-park-confrontation-between-white-woman-and-black-man-goes-viral-83900485581

Muslims world wide have been cautioned to pray home instead of visiting mosques this year in celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Celebrants are also advised to only share gifts and food with members of their households.

Virtual gathertings on platforms such as Skype and Zoom are recommended for streaming religious sermons and connecting with loved ones to mark the celebration. 

Though these are tough and unprecedented times, safety should be the number one priority.

Members of all faiths are encouraged to pray for these times to pass soon, and also to pray for the health of essential and frontline workers woldwide.

Muslims world wide have been cautioned to pray home instead of visiting mosques this year in celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Celebrants are also advised to only share gifts and food with members of their households.

Virtual gathertings on platforms such as Skype and Zoom are recommended for streaming relgious sermons and connecting with loved ones to mark the celebration. 

Though these are tough and unprecedented times, safety should be the number one priority. 

Tecno has released an upgrade to the Spark 4 device — Tecno Spark 5. This entry-level smartphone embodies specifications that are a notch higher than its predecessor in the ‘Spark’ series. As usual, it retains the sleekness which comes with most TECNO smartphones.

This post takes a look at the full specifications of the Spark 5 device. And in relevant places, highlights the upgrade made from the Spark 4.

In case you’re feeling motivated, here’s a compreh

Tecno Spark 5 Key Specifications

• DISPLAY: 6.6-inch IPS LCD, 720 x 1600 pixels (266 PPI)
• OS: Android 10; HIOS 6.1
• PROCESSOR: Octa-core MediaTek Helio A22 (12 nm)
• RAM: 2GB
• ROM: 32GB Built-in Storage, With Memory Card Support
• REAR CAMERA: 13MP + 2MP + 2MP + QVGA Quad
• FRONT CAMERA: 8MP
• 4G LTE: YES
• Fingerprint Sensor (Rear): YES
• BATTERY: 5000mAh Non-Removable Li-ion

Tecno Spark 5 Display and Design

The Spark 5 comes with a 6.6 inches display which is just a bit larger than the 6.54 inches that accompanied the Spark 4. The design on the rear of the device was retained. However, with a slight rearrangement of the camera and flash positions.

A fingerprint sensor remains present at the strategic location on the rear of the device. That can be easily reached with the index finger.

Software and Processor

This device runs on the Android 10 operating system. Obviously an upgrade from the Android 9.0 (Pie) that came with the TECNO Spark 4.

It also boasts of an Octa-core MediaTek Helio A22 Processor, with a processing speed of 2.0GHz. This seems just okay for an average user of an entry-level device like this one.

Camera

As is recent practice with Transsion Holdings smartphones, the Infinix Spark 5 comes with 3 rear cameras. These cameras are pegged at 13MP, 2MP, and 2MP on resolutions. The Spark 4 device does better in this aspect.

The front of the device has an 8MP camera. Which is pretty much what was available before now.

TECNO Spark 5 RAM and Storage

As its RAM, the Spark 5 device has a 2GB RAM which isn’t very impressive looking from an upgrade perspective. However, lightweight smartphone users might find this very sufficient to use without experience performance lag.

Users have 32GB to store videos, documents, and other files. This comes with an external memory card support.

Battery

Tecno Spark 5 does quite well in this regard with a 5,000 mAh battery capacity. Hence, you can add this to our list of TECNO phones with big batteries. For context, this is higher than the 4000mAh that comes with the Spark 4.

TECNO Spark 5 Price in Nigeria

The Tecno Spark 5 device sells for at least N48,800 Nigerian Naira. The device is expected to be available for purchase later in May.

Are these specs enough for you to ditch your Spark 4 device and upgrade to the Spark 5? What do you think should have been improved upon? Will you purchase the Tecno Spark 5 when it launches in Nigeria?

Source:dignited.com/

Zayn Malik, former One Direction member, 27, and his super model girlfriend, Gigi Hadid, 25, are rumoured to be expexting a baby together! Gigi is allegdely 5 months pregnant. The couple, who are quarantined together, are said to have had a gender reveal party! 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend masks and face coverings to be worn in public. Here is how to make the best mask from home supplies. 

**Please note that social distancing is still necassary even wearing a face mask. Standing 6 feet apart is advisable. 

If you choose to make your own mask at home, a bedsheet, T-shirt, with no stitching or a bandana are recommended materials. The thicker the fabric, the better. Avoid fabrics with large holes. Hold fabric to the light to check that it is tightly woven. The newer the fabric, the better. 

Secondly, layer your mask. Multiple layers of fabric are better than only one. More layers means less space for viral particles to enter through. You may also use different kinds of fabrics for each layer. Most tightly woven fabrics such as polyester, nylon and spandex are best for the layer that goes directly over your mouth.The t-shirt, bandana or bedsheet should go on the outer layer. 

Placing filters made up of tissue or coffee filters, or cotton blend fabrics between layers is also ideal.

Lastly, your mask should cover your nose and mouth and should be washed thoroughly after each use. Refrain from touching your face and mask while out, and only remove your mask by untangling the tie. Avoid touching the portion that covers your hand and face and wash your hands after removal. 

A Los Angeles judge has approved Adele's request for details of her £140million divorce with ex-husband Simon Konecki to be kept secret.

The couple split up in April 2019 after 8 years and a son together. Adele, 31, and Simon Konecki, 45, did not sign a prenup.

Custody of their child, Angelo, seven will be shared. Other details such as “financial, sales or other confidential business information” will not be available to the public, while those who require access will be forced to sign an NDA. One source said: “Hollywood divorces can drag on for years and become extremely ugly. Adele and Simon clearly don’t want that.” “They are both committed to keeping the details as private as possible for the sake of their son. They are trying to work out their issues.”

Konecki has supposedly been given a Beverly Hills mansion worth £6.9million mansion in Beverly Hills. It has been rumored that the couple lived separate lives with Adele preferring LA and her ex-husband preferring the UK. Adele has also been rumoured to be dating British grime artist Skepta and is set to release an album this year. 

Over the past six months, Adele has also undergone a weightloss and style transformation, losing seven stone in all. 

Do you think pre-nuptial agreements are necessary?

Infinix is set to launch two more phones after the recent release of the Infinix S5 Pro. Its upcoming models are set to have cutting edge camera and battery capabilities. In

Infinix Note 7

LCD: 6.95-inch 1640x720px LCD

Selfie Camera:6MP punched-in

Main cam: 48MP

Two additional Cams: 2MP dedicated macro and 2MP depth sensor and dedicated sensor for low light

Chipset: MediaTek Helio G70 chipset with octa-core processor

RAM and Storage: GGB of RAM and 128GB of expandable storage.

Battery: 5,000mAh battery with acceptable 18W fast charging

OS: X OS over Android 10.

Infinix Note 7 Lite

Same camera and battery capacity as above model. Slower 10W charging.

LCD: 6.6-inch 1640x720px LCD

Selfie Camera: 8MP selfie camera punched-in.

Chipset: MediaTek Helio P22 chipset

RAM and Storage: 4GB of RAM and 128GB of expandable storage.

Prices and launch dates have yet to be announced. 

On Twitter, The Federal Government of Nigeria called on Tesla Inc, an American and energy company owned by Elon Musk to supply Nigeria with ventilators to support its coronavirus patients.

This request was made by the offical twitter handle of the Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning.  It was inresponse to a tweet by Tesla Inc stating it had ventilators available to ship for free. Tweets below.

“We have extra FDA-approved ventilators. Will ship to hospitals worldwide within Tesla delivery regions. Device & shipping cost are free. Only requirement is that the vents are needed immediately for patients, not stored in a warehouse. Please let me or @Tesla know.” 

The Federal Government then responded saying that Nigeria needed about 100-500 ventilators to assist with the rising cases of coronavirus in the country.

“Dear @elonmusk @Tesla, Federal Government of Nigeria needs support with 100-500 ventilators to assist with #Covid19 cases arising every day in Nigeria,” the Ministry of Finance posted.

Other countries such as Ukraine also made similar requests to Tesla.

Do you think it was in bad form for the Federal Government to make such a request?

On Sunday, March 22, 2020, Atiku Abubakar former vice president of Nigeria and 2019 Presidential Candidate for PDP revealed that one of the sons has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Under directives of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Atiku disclosed his son had been has transferred to the Gwagwalada Specialist Teaching Hospital in Abuja for isolation and treatment.

Governor of Bauchi State, Mohammed Bala came into contact with Atiku's son and has gone into self-isolation. The two met in Aero Contractors aircraft where they shook hands and chatted. Although Mohammed has not shown any symptoms though he is awaiting test results. 

According to the NCDC, as of March 23, 2020, by 10:35 am there have been a total of 36 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria. Out of which are 33 active cases, 2 persons discharged and one recorded death. Nigeria’s first COVID-19 death was recorded to be a 67-year-old male who returned to the country following medical treatment in the United Kingdom. NCDC reported that he had underlying medical conditions such as multiple myeloma, diabetes, and was currently undergoing chemotherapy.

Most of the cases reported in the West African country were gotten either by returning Nigerians or foreigners. Nigeria has therefore placed travel restrictions on 15 countries with a high prevalence of the global pandemic, suspended its visa on arrival policy and shut down all airports in the country to international flights.

Both federal and state authorities in the country are also taking measures in response to the rapid spread of COVID-19 by shutting down schools, prohibiting large public gatherings

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has released guidelines for self isolation in the midst of the Corona virus pandemic.  

SELF ISOLATION GUIDANCE FOR NIGERIA

Guidance for self-isolation in Nigeria

*Close contact: contact within one metre with a confirmed case
As Nigeria responds to an outbreak of COVI9-19, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control offers
this guidance for self-isolation.

WHAT DOES SELF-ISOLATION MEAN?

Self-isolation means strictly staying at home or identified accommodation, away from situations
where you mix with family members or the general public, for the period of 14 days. This
means any situation where you may come in close contact with others (face to face contact
closer than 2 metres i.e. 5 feet).
If you are unsure if you should be in self isolation, or if you do not know where you can go,
please contact NCDC for free on 080097000010

WHO SHOULD SELF-ISOLATE?

● All returning travelers from high risk countries with ongoing community transmission
● Anyone who has been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19
If you have not been in contact with someone who has been infected with COVID-19, your risk
of getting COVID-19 is very low.
This is a stressful period, but taking these measures will help protect you, your family, and all of Nigeria from COVID-19.

HOW WILL I MOVE FROM MY ARRIVAL POINT IN NIGERIA TO MY PLACE OF SELF-ISOLATION?

● If arriving the country, ensure that you are picked up by ONLY one person; you should
avoid use of public transport by plane, bus, train or car.
● Do not sit in the co-drivers’ seat (maintain at least 1 metre between yourself and the
driver)
● Ensure adequate ventilation throughout your trip
● Avoid contact with the driver
● You should not travel across states in Nigeria during the self-isolation period either by
plane, train, bus or car

How will I be monitored during self-isolation?

For travelers and contacts of confirmed cases, you are required to provide your name, next of
kin, physical address and telephone contact to the relevant health authorities. These details will
guide our surveillance teams in monitoring you while under self-isolation for 14 days.

On living with others

As much as possible, please stay in one room. You should limit your contact with people. You
should avoid having visitors to your home, but it is okay for friends, family or delivery drivers to
drop off food without having physical contact with you.
If you are in a home where the other residents have not travelled (e.g. your home / flat, student
accommodation), minimise close contact with the other residents by avoiding situations where
you may have face-to-face contact closer than 2 metres (5 feet). The other household residents
and or flat mates do not need to self-isolate provided these precautions are followed.
You should not share plates, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, pillows or other
items with other people in your home. After using these items, you should wash them
thoroughly with soap and water or place them in the dishwasher for cleaning.

What should I do for effective self-isolation?

If you are under self-isolation, you are advised to observe the following prevention and control
measures:
● Stay in a well-ventilated room away from other people such as family members with
separate hygiene and toilet facilities
● If you are working, ensure you work from home during the entire duration (14 days)
● Ensure that you have adequate food, water, hygiene provisions and appropriate medical
treatment for any existing medical conditions while in self-isolation
● Ensure that you have the necessary communication facilities e.g. mobile telephone to communicate with family members and other people while in self-isolation
● Always wash your hands with soap and water regularly or use an alcohol-based hand
rub
● Cover your nose and mouth with disposable tissue when coughing and sneezing. Throw
away used tissue into the dustbin or burn it and wash your hands immediately with soap
and water or an alcohol-based hand rub
● Stay away from pets as there is a chance that humans can pass the disease to them

● Avoid sharing toothbrushes, utensils, dishes, drinks, towels, clothes or bed linen with
anybody in your home
● Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs/handles, bedside
tables, bedframes and other bedroom furniture daily with regular household
disinfectant or soap
● Clean and disinfect bathroom and toilet surfaces at least once a day with regular
household disinfectant or soap
● If you develop any symptoms of acute respiratory infection, including fever, cough, sore
throat and difficulty in breathing, please call for immediate help on the NCDC toll free
line 0800 9700 0010

What happens if I do not comply with self-isolation?

If a person is suspected to have breached the guidelines, NCDC and the state surveillance teams will work closely with the individuals to ensure that they understand their obligations. They will also be helped to appreciate the importance and seriousness of self-isolation under the current global COVID-19 pandemic threat.

What should I do to keep my spirit up while in self-isolation?

Your emotional and mental health is important. Sometimes one could feel stressed or lonely
when under self-isolation:
● Talk to other members of the family about the COVID-19, understanding this disease will
reduce anxiety
● Reassure your young children using age-appropriate language
● Think about how you have coped with other difficult situations in the past and reassure
yourself.
● Keep in touch with family members and friend via telephone, emails or social media
● Stock plenty of materials to keep your mind occupied such as books, movies etc.
● Ensure you have a television, cable and internet connectivity in your room (this is
optional)
● Exercise regularly in your room
● Ensure that you drink at least 8 glasses of water every day to keep hydrated
● Eat all your meals in a timely manner
● Ensure you take adequate rest

What happens when I complete the 14 days of self-isolation?

If you are a contact of a confirmed case: After completion of the 14 days of self-isolation
without symptoms, the surveillance team will formally discharge you from follow up and you
will be free to go about your usual activities.
A certificate of completion of self-isolation will be issued to you by the surveillance team.

If during your 14-day self-isolation you develop symptoms of COVID- 19 such as:
● Cough
● High temperature (fever)
● Shortness of breath (or difficulty in breathing)
● Or general feeling of unwellness,
avoid self-medication rather contact NCDC Connect Centre immediately

Do you believe self isolation is necessary?

Though no case of COVID-19 has been recorded, the NYSC orientation has been suspended nation wide as a precautionary measure according to Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim, Director General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

It was also noted that camp activities were also similarly sustended during the Ebola virus endemic.T

The management of NYSC had suspended the ongoing orientation exercise in all camps nationwide early on Wednesday.

The statement relesed is below:

“Sequel to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, which led to the cancellation of the national sports festival, management of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme wishes to announce the suspension of the on-going orientation course for the 2020 Batch “A” stream 1 corps members.

“Therefore, the corps members shall be posted to commence their primary assignments forthwith, while they shall be invited back to the orientation camps when the situation improves, just like it happened a few years ago when the nation was confronted by the Ebola virus threat. Management wishes to state that no corps member or camp official has contracted the virus.”

SHOULD MORE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES BE TAKEN BY NIGERIAN AUTHORITIES?

International Women's Day fell on a Satuday this year. This observance on March 8th dates back more than 100 years.

International Women's Day sheds a spotlight on the plight of the woman. It can be traced back to the various civil rights and labor rights movements in the 20th century in Europe and North America. 

The day was first observed by in Russia in 1913 where members of a women's movement peacefully protested World War I. By the end of World War II, countries world wide adopted March 8 in acknowledgement of women's rights, achievements, and equality. 

International Women's Day is given a theme every year by the United Nations -- this year's is "I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women's Rights," which focuses on equality and human rights for all women and girls.

Tell a woman in your life how much you appreciate her!

It has been revealed that the Adeyemi Oyetade, Nigerian Amassador to Sweden and Norway has helped facilitate the deportation from of Nigerians from Norway. Oyetade, stationed at the Nigerian Consul in Norway has been collaborating with foreign goverments to ensure the deportation.

This is especially worrying since Nigerians in the Diaspora have complained that Nigerian embassies and Consuls have proven unhelpful turning a blind eye to their plights.

Titi Festos, a Nigerian previously living in Norway since 2016 disclosed to Sahara Reporters that he was framed and deported by Norwegian Police. Festos disclosed that he was denied aid when he approached the Nigerian commission in Oslo, Norway which lead to the confiscation of his documents.

Recently, 12 Nigerian ladies trafficked to Lebanon for slavery have been left stranded by the Nigerian embassy when they ran there for help.

They are still stuck in Lebanon with no hope of how to return home as the embassy has refused to help.

As it stands, they are at risk of being re-captured by their traffickers and even killed for disclosing their secrets.

In this new case, a Nigerian, Abimbola Omolara Samuel, who has been living in Norway since 2013, is at risk of being deported as the Nigerian ambassador, Oyetade, has issued all document to fast-track her deportation to Nigeria.

Samuel, married with two kids, is afraid of losing her children, husband and business due to the deportation.

She said that the Norwegian Government had agreed to issue her required document to continue her stay in the country but it required the validation of Ambassador Oyetade, which has not been forthcoming.

Narrating her ordeal, she said that she had a meeting the Norwegian Government and Oyetade where the ambassador identified her as a Nigerian and promised to facilitate her stay in the country but he backtracked after the meeting and issued travel documents for her to be deported.

“We were called into a meeting in Bergen (Norway) with the consular from Nigeria and three police officers.

“At the meeting, we got a good connection and I explained that I can’t leave my man and kids to go to Nigeria to file for a family reunion from there when I have my family here in Norway. He understood me and right in the meeting in front of the police, he promised that he would help me.

“Since I went to the meeting with my husband and two girls, the discussion was centred around applying for a reunion from Norway. We got good information about how we should do it and the meeting ended. We contacted our lawyer and we began the process.

“When I was to finalise the application, unknowingly to me, the consul general had gone behind our back to issue my deportation and travel documents to the police,” the woman narrated.

She lamented that if deported, she had no place in Nigeria and would not be able to unite with her family.

She berated the ambassador for failing to protect and assist Nigerians within his jurisdiction.

“What this means is that I have to leave where I have stayed for many years. I have to leave my house and family and stay in Nigeria where I have no father and mother or place to stay.

“Consular Adeyemi Oyetade in Stockholm, Sweden, has in his own way made it possible for the Norwegian Police to send me back to Nigeria. 

“He put us in a situation where we all will be harmed and to think that this man occupies a position where he should help Nigerians,” she added.

Samuel and her husband are calling on the Nigerian Government as well as Nigerians in the Diaspora to look into her case and compel the ambassador to retract the travel documents he issued and stop her deportation as she has not committed any offence during her stay in the country for seven years.

Grammy Award winning American rapper, Lil Wayne has revealed that he is 53% Nigerian.

In an interview on "Drink Champ" he disclosed he took a DNA test on to find out his geneology.

Lil Wayne said: “Shout out to Nigeria, I did my 23me, kind of like ancestry.com and my shit came back like 53% Nigerian. Yeah, me and my mum need to have a talk!” 

This conversation was his reference to Nigeria he made in his hit song "A milli."

Wayne has previously expressed his wish to visit Nigeria in an interview. This comes on the heels of the slew of Hollywood stars such as Cardi B, Jidenna, Future and Blac Chyna visiting Nigeria last year!

A student journalist and editor of a newspaper at Gateway Polytechnic in Abeokuta has been arrested by the Department of State Services for allegedly publishing articles criticising President Muhammadu Buhari.  

According to his representation, Human rights lawyer, Mr Inibehe Effiong: a campus newspaper known as “GAMPOSA Trumpet” in November 2019, the newspaper published an article titled, “President Buhari does not believe in Nigeria,” written by Apostle Alfred Tseye-Okotie. This article stated Buhari's regime did not have good intentions for Nigeria.

In a second article titled, “Will EFCC investigate Chief Bola Tinubu?” it was implied that the EFCC would not act on the petition it received concerning the alleged cash-laden bullion vans seen in Tinubu’s Lagos home on the eve of the 2019 general elections.

In a third article written by Femi Adeyeye in October 2019 titled, “Sowore, An Equal Opportunity Offender”, the newspaper wrote positively of Sahara Reporters Publisher, Omoyele Sowore, who had been detained by the DSS for allegedly planning a revolution against the government.

In a statement later, Effiong said, “Late on Friday, January 24, 2020, I was alerted that my client Mr Ayoola Babalola, a courageous student activist and young journalist, was arrested and charged to court for allegedly publishing certain articles in a Campus Newspaper called GAPOSA Trumpet in which he served as the editor.

“Babalola recently graduated from the Gateway Polytechnic located in Sapaade, Ogun State, where he read Mass Communications.

“The articles which were deemed critical of President Buhari, APC Leader, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the EFCC also led to the dismissal of a lecturer of Gateway Polytechnic who served as the producer of the campus newspaper.”

Effiong alleged that Babalola was arrested on Thursday in Abeokuta by the DSS and taken before a Magistrate Court on Friday.

“His appeal to the DSS for him to be allowed to contact me as his counsel was rebuffed. Mr Babalola was only able to contact me through a third party from the Ibara Maximum Prison in Abeokua where he was remanded by the court,” the lawyer said.

He said Babalola was arraigned on six counts bordering on alleged incitement, conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace and others for allegedly publishing critical articles against President Buhari.

It was stated that Babalola had informed his lawyers of the plans of the DSS to arrest him even before the actual arrest happened.

The Spokesman for the DSS, Peter Afunaya, neither responded to calls nor a text message on Saturday.

“I condemn this despotic and needless actions by the SSS. It is a shame that at a time the country is battling serious security challenges, the DSS rather than protect Nigeria, is paranoid about any form of criticism against the Buhari regime,” Effiong said.

Ivory Coast tests first person in Africa for coronavirus

The infamous Wuhan Corona Virus that first spread in China December 2019 claiming over 80 lives has been detected in Ivory Coast. 

The invdividual suspected to have the virus is a student who arrived from China and is the first person to be tested on the African continent. 

According to Ivory Coast's Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, the 34-year-old student who arrived in Abidjan from Beijing was said to have been coughing, sneezing and experiencing difficulty breathing, 

The student has currently been quarantined and is under medical observation. It is believed the student could be suffering from pneumonia and not the Corona Virus- the results of the test have not yet been processed.

Michel Yao, WHO Africa emergency response program manager, said the agency had advised health ministers in the region to activate standard flu screening at airports for passengers coming from mainland China.

More than 2700 coronavirus cases have been confirmed, prompting countries around the world, including Nigeria to upgradescreening at airports, especially for travelers arriving from Wuhan in China where the outbreak began in December.

Aviation authorities in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, said airlines operating in its airspace should update crew members on how to handle sick passengers on board their aircrafts.

Pilots must report such cases to health officials on landing while also encouraging sick travelers to seek help before leaving the airport, Nigeria's Federal Airport Agency said in a statement.

Kenya, whose national carrier Kenya Airways, operates nonstop flights from Nairobi capital to Guangzhou, has also begun screening passengers arriving from China at its airport, according to local media.

Coronavirus are a large group of viruses that are common among animals, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In rare cases, they are what scientists call zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans. The viruses can make people sick, usually with a mild to moderate upper respiratory tract illness, similar to a common cold.

Symptoms include a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and infected persons may have headaches and maybe a fever, which can last for a couple of days.

Several United States troops were apparently injured during a 16 milssile attack last week on an airbase in Iraq. This news comes in the heels of the Pentagon initially stating that there were no casualties.  A US military official told CNN that 11 service members had been injured in the attack.

"While no U.S. service members were killed in the Jan. 8 Iranian attack on Al Asad Air base, several were treated for concussion symptoms from the blast and are still being assessed," the US-led military coalition fighting ISIS in Iraq and Syria said in a statement Thursday.

There have since been several theories put forth as to why the casualties were first not disclosed and the motive behind the attack.

About thirty people were killed by bandits in Babban Rafi village in the Gummi Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday. In a separate attack, two further health wordes were killed on the same day at Makosa village in the Zurmi Local Government. 

Lawali Suleiman and Aliyu Mohammed, were the names of the health workers on duty administering polio vaccine at the time of their murders. They were allegedly killed because they refused to give up their belongings to the bandits. 

A witness, Mallam Musa Ibrahum, who narrowly barely escaped, gave an account of his experience on with the bandits in Babban Rafi. In the early hours of Tuesday, the bandits, arrived on motorbikes, armed with AK-47 rifles and began shooting. Some individuals who ran into the neighboring bush for refuge were chased and killed by the bandits. 

On Wednesday, Governor, Bello Matawalle, at the 2020 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Gusua, the state capital, issued a directive for the bandits to surrender. The governer, as part of a peace intiative, granted amnesty to kidnappers who released about 427 hostages last year.  

There have been increasing incidents of these killings and kidnappings and according to Usman Nagoggo, Commissioner of Police, no less than  6,319 murders had been committed in 2019.

But the governor, as part of efforts to solve the problem, in August last year, granted amnesty to repentant bandits, who released no fewer than 427 hostages after embracing the peace initiative of the state government.

The Airline of the Future!

http://flyjet.africa/

FlyJet Africa are a luxury commercial flight chartering company that allows you to cut travel costs to African countries.  

Book with FlyJet Africa for affordable flights during peak travel dates throughout the year without having to pay the exorbitant amount commercial airlines charge.

FlyJet offers premium services and assures passenger safety. Chartered planes are flown only by seasoned pilots and crew members.

Website: http://flyjet.africa/

Emeka Ihedioha has officially been sacked by the Supreme Court as governor of Imo state with Hope Uzodinma announced as winner of the March 9 election.

Ihedioha was first declared winner of the election by The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Uzodinma, then came forward to challenge this declaration. 

Here are the intial INEC poll results: Ihedioha, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP):  273,404 votes; Uche Nwosu, Action Alliance: 190,364 votes; Ifeanyi Ararume, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA):114,676 votes; Uzodinma, All Progressives Congress (APC): 96,458 votes

The Supreme Court, on Tuesday, unanimously declared Ihedioha was not the true majority vote winner. 

Below is an excerpt from the judgement read by Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, announding Ihedioha's certificate to be revoked. 

“The votes due to the appellant, Hope Uzodinma and the All Progressives Congress (APC) from 388 polling units were wrongly excluded from scores ascribed to them,” she held.

“It is hereby ordered that Emeka Ihedioha, was not duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the said election. His return as the elected governor of Imo state is hereby declared null and void and accordingly set aside.

“It is hereby declared that the first appellant (Uzodinma) holds the majority of lawful votes cast at the governorship election held in Imo State on March 9, 2019, and has satisfied the mandatory constitutional requirement.

“It is hereby declared that first appellant, senator Hope Uzodinma is the winner of the governorship of Imo State held on March 9, 2019.

“The certificate issued to the first respondent (Ihedioha) is hereby withdrawn. It is hereby ordered that the certificate of return shall be be issued to the first appellant, senator Hope Uzodinma, forthwith and he should be sworn in as the governor of Imo state.”

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has denied the presence of Boko Haram and Islamic State for West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists in any part of Nigeria. The denial yesterday followed the rumoured take-over of towns in Borno by members of the sect.

Acting Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, stated “Boko Haram is not holding any inch of our territory. They have been pushed down to the island between Nigeria and neighbouring Chad and Cameroun and that is where they come from to attack soft targets. The insurgents have been decimated and decapacitated,” 

“Abductions are one of the tactics used by terrorists all over the world to raise funds. The troops have to tread carefully because any wrong movement could lead to the annihilation of the captives. So it is a complex situation which we must be careful of,” he disclosed.

He also assured Nigerians of their safety during the festive season: “You are very much aware that as the year draws to an end, historical antecedents of ember months and the Yuletide indicate that unscrupulous and criminal elements within the society may take advantage of the festive season to perpetrate criminal and atrocious activities."

“The armed forces and security agencies are not oblivious of public apprehension about these tendencies. Therefore in this regard, it becomes necessary to reassure the public that the armed forces and security agencies are working assiduously towards making the Yuletide a safe season.”He maintained that tremendous results had been recorded across all the geopolitical zones in the ongoing joint internal security operations in the last three months.

On Operation HADARIN DAJI in Zamfara, Nwachukwu submitted: “The gallant troops have, within the last three months, neutralised several bandits in fierce combats and arrested 389 others. The rampant cases of kidnapping have been significantly reduced with 1,048 victims rescued and 48 suspected kidnapers arrested.”

Regarding the Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba, the spokesman said over 32 offensives on armed herdsmen, militia gangs and suspected kidnapping camps led to the destruction of 82 kidnappers’ dens, arrest of over 266 bandits as well as seizure of one illegal arm manufacturer and three gun-running kingpins among other feats in other operations across the federation

The Federal Government has yet to announce the date for the repoening of the Nigerian border to its neighbouring countries.  In an excercise named Operation Exercise Swift Response, security agencies closed borders in August. 

There have been mixed reactions to the border closure with some labelling it positive while some assert that it conflicts with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

Mariam Katagum, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment stated there had been meetings with Benin Republic and Niger for negotiation on border reopening. 

She said one of the fallouts of the meeting was the setting up of a joint border patrol team made up of security personnel from customs , airforce and other security agencies .

The minister said the decision to reopen the border would be based on recommendations from the patrol team on whether Niger and Benin Republic have complied with trade protocols .

She said, “ We had the strategic meeting with the three countries and what we agreed with our neighbors is to activate a joint border patrol and that border patrol comprising the customs , all the security agencies and ensure to try to follow the actual protocol laid by ECOWAS .

“ The committee met on November 25 and it is only when that committee is certain that all the countries are respecting the ECOWAS protocol that they will recommend a day for the opening of the border .”

The Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Richard Adebayo, said that the ministry is currently carrying out a review of the country ’ s trade policy as well as the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan to reflect current economic realities .

He also said that the automotive policy is being reviewed , adding that a meeting would be held with stakeholders in the auto sector on January 28 to get their input to the policy .

He said after the stakeholders ’ meeting , the executive would present a bill to the National Assembly for the policy to become law .

Naira Marley, Ruler of the Marlians, has unveiled his tracklist for his long awaited EP tited ‘LOL’ (Lord Of Lamba).

Release is set for December 18th and pre-order on December 13th. Tracklist below!

,

Are you a Marlian?

See Tracklist Below:-

1. Tingasa – NM x Cblvck (beat by killertunes)
2. Tesumole – NM (beat by Rexxie)
3. Mafo – NM (beat by Rexxie)
4. Isheyen – NM (beat by Rexxie)
5. Oja [Challenge Version] – NM (beat by Rexxie)
6. YanYanYan – NM x Mayorkun (beat by studio magic)

On Wednesday Aisha Buhari Nigeria’s First Lady, called for the resignation of Mallam Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity.

Mrs. Buhari issued a statement in which she accused Shehu of meddling in her family's affairs among other accusations.

She wrote: “In saner climes, Garba Shehu would have resigned immediately after going beyond his boundaries and powers.” 

Mrs. Buhari further claimed Shehu had “shifted his loyalty from the president to others who have no stake in the compact that the president signed with Nigerians on May 29, 2015 and 2019”.

She further accused Shehu being instructed by Mamman Daura,  the President's cousin, to declar there would not be the Office of the First Lady, a development she said embarrassed her husband.

Shehu was also accused of releasing the viral video in which she had a heated exchange with the Daura family and added that his allegiance was to no one. 

In light of these accusations, the Nigerian public is divided in their support of Aisha Buhari, with some stating her affairs should not be aired to the public as is a proponent of the Social Media Regulation Bill.

Do you think Aisha Buhari needs some intervention?

There has been a recent uproar over the the Hate Speech Bill which has passed its second reading in the Senate. The violation of this bill if it is passed could result in a death sentence.

Former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, shared his position on the Hate Speech Bill: “I am surprised that this bill has resurfaced. There is no basis for this now. We are developing; we should be allowed to develop. If we make mistakes people can be cautioned. If somebody goes off you have the right to call him to say, ‘no, we don’t want this.’

“Unless people are able to express themselves, those in government or in authority will not know what is happening in the country.”

“If somebody makes hate speech, put him in the gallows and not shoot him. It is crude and out of tune with the 21st century reality. It could have happened, may be some 300 years ago, but not now.”


“But today, the country is better for it (media),” he said.
He challenged the media to remain strong and focused on what Nigerians wants, maintaining that the nation can only succeed if we allow unfettered freedom without death threat or N10 million fine, which he said sounded silly.

A leader of the protest the bill, Henry Shield, also admonished lawmakers for not adopting “progressive bills” like the healthcare bill of the United States and other bills of note that would address the challenges facing Nigerians.

“We insist that the monstrous social media bill and its evil hate speech counterpart have no place in any democratic society, let alone a fledgling democracy like ours. We believe that the bills are satanic and must be totally withdrawn by the ninth Senate with immediate effect.

“As constituents and citizens alike, we believe that the proposed bills suggest that you lawmakers are anti-people and unwilling to either understand the sufferings of Nigerians or even take any meaningful step to mitigate them.

“We, therefore, hope that you will listen to the unanimous voice of Nigerians that these bills have no place in our democracy and must be forever banished to the trash can.”

Do you think this bill is infringin on the human rights of Nigerians?

Skin bleaching products and services have been gaining more popularity recently. Seasoned Nollywood actress took to her social media to disparage parents who used such products on their children, highlighing the adverse effects such a practice would have in the future. 

Bleaching children should be a punishable offense, do you agree?

Driving with the aid of Google Maps using mobile phones is a serious traffic offence according to Ayuba Gora, FCT Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC.)

Gora also stated that the use of mobile phones in general while driving is forbidden by law as it could lead to accidents. He also added that corps would also begin installing speed limiting devices into vehicles and especially adviced commercial vehicle operaters to comply.

“We will embark on massive checks of vehicles without this device soon and arrest those that disconnected the devices from their vehicles. “It is very important that all vehicles should have the device installed in their vehicles.

“The required speed limit for commercial vehicles even on the highways should not exceed 90 km/hr for buses and taxis. “By doing this today, we are simply reminding motorists that they must drive with care and observe traffic rules and regulations in order to make the job very easy for all of us.

“If you are arrested this period, you will not just pay fines but must be taken for emotional evaluation test in the hospital to ascertain your mental fitness before we let go,” he said.

Gora further urged the public to dial 122 or 112 to report unsual behavior and accidents on the roads.  

Mr Gora also discredited speculation that the speed limiting device damaged the engine or interfered with fuel supply. 

“Once the vehicle reaches a predetermined top speed, the computer steps in and restricts the flow of air and fuel to the engine and even the sparks that cause combustion. “Either way, the vehicle will be unable to exceed the top speed as determined by the car’s manufacturer.

“The problem we have with the operators of these vehicles is that, when a speed limiting device has been installed, they tamper with it. In the process of tampering by disconnecting, it leads to a problem.” 

Do you think Google Maps should be banned while driving?

Suspected internet fraudsterm Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, has been ordered to be remanded in prison custody by The Federal High Court in Lagos.

On Monday, shortly after Mompha was arraigned before Justice Mohammed Liman the order was given on the urging of the prosecutor. Mompha is charged with 14 counts bordering on fraud, money laundering and running a foreign exchange business without the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

In regard to these charges, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission alleged that Mompha procured one Ismalob Global Investment Limited and retained in its bank account an aggregate of N32.9bn between 2015 and 2018.

The EFCC said Mompha “ought to have reasonably known that the money formed part of proceeds of unlawful act, to wit: fraud.”

The prosecuting counsel for the EFCC, Rotimi Oyedepo, said Mompha acted contrary to Sections 5 and 29(1)(c) of the Foreign Exchange Monitoring and Miscellaneous (Provision) Act Cap F34 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and he was liable to be punished under Section 29(2) of the same Act.

When the charges were read to him, Mompha pleaded not guilty.

The defence counsel, Mr Gboyega Oyewole (SAN), said he was not opposed to the application for the trial date but said he had already filed a bail application for his client and served same on the prosecution.

The prosecution confirmed that it had been served with the bail application but said it required time to read and respond to it.

Justice Liman adjourned till Friday to take arguments on the bail application and for trial to commence.

Nigerian Nobel Laureate and renowed dramatist Wole Soyinka opens up about his battle with prostate cancer. 

In an interview with BBC, 85 year old Soyinka revealed he was diagnosed with early stage prostate cancer in 2014 while on a routine check up. He metioned being treated with an advanced technology known as ‘proton therapy," describing the treatment as an ‘easy ride although uncomfortable."

Expaning further, he said “It hadn’t yet gotten to the stage where it was non-reversible and so (the doctor) gave us a number of guidelines. I say us because he wanted to make sure that my wife made sure that I followed it. He sensed that I wasn’t going to be a very good patient. So he spoke to her most of the time rather than me,”

”There is no disease in the world any human being needs to be ashamed. I don’t see why people need to go to Canada, Europe to receive treatment which is affordable in this nation, it is a shame."

”The options I compared to other treatment I know about and I have seen in operation. Mine for me was an easy ride, uncomfortable in many ways but it is painless.”

Five years later, Prof Soyinka is in good health after a successful treatment stating that he spends a lot of time outdoors and is conscious of his health. 

He was interviewed by  BBC Life Clinic's Charles Mgbolu who met him at his village in Ogun state in south-west Nigeria.

Soyinka makes a point about the unnecessay practice of Nigerians traveling abroad for medical trearment, do you agree?

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has issued a warning against the use of fireworks during the upcoming festive season.

On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Command, ASP Yusuf Mariam, stated "In our bid to ensure safety during the Christmas/New Year celebration, the FCT Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that the ban on the use of fireworks (popularly known as knock out) within the FCT is still effective, hence, residents should desist from using them."

“It is pertinent to note that, all Divisional Police Officers have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the ban on the use of fireworks within the FCT. We urge parents to prevail on their wards to restrain from using fireworks as all violators will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly."

Do you think this ban is necessary?

Over a year ago, the Central Bank of Nigeria issued a mandate for vendors to remit a statutory charge of N50 on POS transactions. This charge was marked for tax and stamp duty provided the transaction exceeded N1,000. 

Since the mandate, most vendors have silently programmed the tax onto their POS systems, automatically charging their customers.This is done because of the general belief that the usage of POS machines are to the sole benefit of the customer, therefore they were to bear the tax which was too high for they the vendors to absorb.

Various supermarket owners and petrol station attendents futher justified the passing off of the tax, asserting they could not bear the cost of the taxes as their profit margins were already narrow. 

Though it is estimated that the current total of tax collected could be in the billions, it is believed that the continuation of the collection of this tax could have adverse effects in the Central Bank of Nigeria's cashless policy plans.

Nigerian consumers aware of this tax, have stated they would rather pay in cash even at the inconvenience of first withdrawing from an ATM as long as they circumvent means N50 POS tax. 

Vendors report there has been a general increase in cash payments since the introduction of this tax with some customers stating they would be willing to pay via POS if their consent to pay the tax was first sought. 

It has been rumoured that though this tax may not be removed, the N1,000 on POS transactions limit may be increased.

Do you think this tax should be rubbished?

On Wednesday, The House of Representatives called for the abolishment of ‘acceptance fees’ paid by students admitted to various institutions in Nigeria.


Leading the debate, Emeka Chinedu said this practice limited the poor's access toto tertiary education and that “predatory admission policies being enforced by tertiary institutions, particularly the requirement for payment of non-refundable acceptance fees as a condition precedent for admission”.

Chinedu added that “it should bother the lawmakers that his state’s Imo State University charges N70,000 as acceptance fee.”

“Other institutions like the University of Ibadan charge 35,000; University of Lagos, 20,000; Ahmadu Bello University, 30,000; Lagos State University, N20,000; University of Uyo, 25,000,”

He was unanimously backed by his colleagues in his move to abolish this practice.

The House of Representatives also mandated the House Committee on Tertiary Education and Services “to investigate the admission policies and practices of tertiary institutions in the country as they relate to the charge of acceptance fees in order to remove all obstacles to accessing tertiary education in the country.”

Vice Chancellor of the University if Ibadan, has pledged to comply with the directive thoough not in agreement with its abolition.

He said the amount accruing to the University of Ibadan, for instance, in a year is not enough to fund the university in a month. “Therefore, the school has to look for alternative means to source for funds”.

“Someone has to take up the bill,” he said. “We have to make up our mind on what we really want. You can’t even run a creche without funds. In a year, we spend at least N200 million on our clinic contactors. Add this to electricity bill and diesel, then you’re talking of over N800 million.

“What the university is getting for overhead is less than N100 million. So where do you think the remaining N700 million will come from? Unless you want to close down the whole university,” he added.

Should this acceptance fee be abolished?

Gordon Sondland, the US ambassador to the European Union testified to working with Ukraine at US President, Trump's request.

Sondland testifies before the House Intelligence Committee [Andrew Harnik/AP Photo]

Washington, DC - A top US diplomat told the House impeachment inquiry on Wednesday that he worked with Rudy Giuliani, President Donald Trump's personal lawyer, on Ukraine at the "directions of the president", and that "a quid pro quo" with Kyiv did take place.

Gordon Sondland, the US ambassador to the European Union, said that although Trump never directly told him what he wanted Ukraine to investigate, Giuliani's instructions "reflected President Trump's desires and requirements".

"I know that members of this committee have frequently framed these complicated issues in the form of a simple question: Was there a 'quid pro quo?' As I testified previously, with regard to the requested White House call and White House meeting, the answer is yes," Sondland said.

The "quid pro quo" (Latin for "a favour for a favour"), he said, involved a White House visit for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in exchange for Kyiv announcing it would pursue investigations into Trump's political rival, Joe Biden, and a now-debunked conspiracy theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US presidential election.

"Mr Giuliani was expressing the desires of the president of the United States, and we knew that these investigations were important to the president," Sondland said.

Sondland is sworn in to testify before the House Intelligence Committee [Andrew Harnik/AP Photo]

Sondland's bombshell testimony comes at a pivotal moment in the Democrat-led House's impeachment proceedings now in the midst of the second week of public hearings.

The inquiry is centred on a July 25 phone call between Trump and Zelenskyy in which the US president asked the new Ukrainian leader to launch an investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter, who had served on the board of Burisma, a Ukrainian gas company. There is no evidence of wrongdoing by the Bidens.

Sondland said he was one of three top Trump officials asked "at the express direction of the president" to work with Giuliani, despite their reluctance to do so.

"We did not want to work with Mr Giuliani. Simply put, we played the hand we were dealt. We all understood that if we refused to work with Mr Giuliani, we would lose an important opportunity to cement relations between the United States and Ukraine. So, we followed the president's orders," Sondland said.

Trump has denied any wrongdoing in his dealings with Ukraine, repeatedly saying there was "no quid pro quo". He has labelled the inquiry a "witch-hunt", and has attacked several witnesses who have testified.

On Wednesday, Trump uncharacteristically read from a notepad as he told reporters Sondland's testimony exonerated him. 

"I said to the ambassador in response, I want nothing. I want nothing. I want no quid pro quo. Tell Zelenskyiy, President Zelenskiy to do the right thing," Trump said referring to a select portion of Sondland's testimony.

Trump also said he did not know Sondland "very well".

"I have not spoken to him much. This is not a man I know well. He seems like a nice guy though," Trump said.

'Everyone was in the loop'

During his testimony, Sondland gave the committee emails and text messages that he said show Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former National Security Adviser John Bolton and other senior officials were fully aware of what Sondland was telling Ukrainian officials.

"They knew what we were doing and why," Sondland said. "Everyone was in the loop. It was no secret."

A State Department spokeswoman told Reuters News Agency on Wednesday that Sondland "never told Secretary Pompeo that he believed the president was linking aid to investigations" of Trump's political opponents.

"Any suggestion to the contrary is flat out false," Reuters quoted the spokeswoman as saying.

Sondland said Giuliani told him, Energy Secretary Rick Perry and Ambassador Kurt Volker - who were charged by the president with talking to Ukraine - that "the president wanted a statement from President Zelenskyy committing Ukraine to look into corruption issues."

He added: "Giuliani specifically mentioned the 2016 election, including the DNC server, and Burisma as two topics of importance to the president."

The Department of Energy in a statement said Sondland's testimony "misrepresented" Perry's interactions with Giuliani and the instructions he received from Trump.

"As previously stated, Secretary Perry spoke to Rudy Giuliani only once at the president's request," said Shaylyn Hynes, the Department of Energy press secretary. "No one else was on that call. At no point before, during or after that phone call did the words 'Biden' or 'Burisma' ever come up in the presence of Secretary Perry."

The House Intelligence Committee hearing with Gordon Sondland [Doug Mills/AP Photo]

Sondland also confirmed that he held a five-minute cellphone call with Trump from Kyiv in which another witness to the call, embassy aide David Homes, said he discussed Zelenskyy's readiness to open the investigations Trump wanted.

"The White House, which has finally shared certain call dates and times with my attorneys, confirms this," he said. Sondland said "I do not recall" whether he and the president discussed the investigations on that call, but added he did not dispute Holmes.

"Actually, I would have been more surprised if President Trump had not mentioned investigations, particularly given what we were hearing from Mr Giuliani about the president's concerns," Sondland said.

Sondland said that by September he had become concerned that $391m in US security aid to Ukraine had become "jeopardised" by a White House "log jam". As a result, Sondland said he pushed a senior Ukrainian official to move forward with the investigations Trump wanted in order to release the aid.

"We tried our best to fix the problem while keeping the State Department and the NSC closely advised," Sondland said, referring to the National Security Council.

Trump is joined by Sondland as he arrives at Melsbroek Air Base in Brussels, Belgium [File: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP Photo]

Democrat Adam Schiff, who is leading the House inquiry, said Sondland's testimony so far "goes right to the heart of the issue of bribery as well as other high crimes and misdemeanours", citing the core elements in the US Constitution that justify impeachment of a president.

"The veneer has been torn away" from the White House and State Department's efforts to block the congressional investigation, Schiff said.

Sondland had previously provided 10 hours of closed-door testimony to the House inquiry, which he later amended after other witnesses came forward with specific information about his role in the controversy. He was far more forthcoming in public on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress repeatedly questioned Sondland's testimony for his "presumption" that security aid to Ukraine was being withheld in exchange for a promise from Zelenskyy to investigate Biden.

"It became clear to all of us that President Trump was not very interested in engaging. He wanted Giuliani to handle it," Sondland said.

Sondland said the only direction he could recall from Trump was in a short phone call in which the president said there was "no quid pro quo".

"No one told me that the aid was tied to anything. I was presuming that it was," Sondland said.

Analysts said Sondland's testimony was explosive and may offer a turning point for the impeachment investigation.

"Sondland is in some trouble. He has already corrected his testimony once after it was contradicted and now it has been contradicted again," said Barb McQuade, a professor of law at the University of Michigan.

"He still maintains that he didn't know that Burisma meant Biden, but he now admits that there was a quid pro quo, that Trump directed it, that Giuliani was running the negotiations and that he told Pence about it on September 1," McQuade told Al Jazeera. "The facts are coming into focus. The statements by Trump and others to deny a quid pro quo seem like consciousness of guilt."

Gene Rossi, a former federal prosecutor now in private practice at Carlton Fields law firm in Washington, DC, said Sondland exceeded expectations.

"He threw the president under the bus," Rossi said.

Ukrainian officials worried about aid

The impeachment inquiry also heard from Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Laura Cooper and Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale on Wednesday.

Cooper told the House committee her staff began receiving email inquiries from Ukrainian officials about the status of the US military aid as early as July 25, the day of the Trump-Zelenskyy call.

Trump's Republican allies in the House have argued that there could have been no pressure applied on Zelenskyy in the July 25 phone call because Ukrainian government officials did not yet know that military aid had been suspended.

Cooper told the inquiry her staff received two emails from the State Department on July 25 indicating Ukraine embassy officials and members of Congress were asking about the aid and knew about the White House hold on it.

"Specifically, the Ukrainian staff asked, 'What was going on with the security aid,' " Cooper said.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Laura Cooper testifies before the House Intelligence Committee [Julio Cortez/AP Photo]

Once her staff learned the aid had been put on hold, Cooper said she and other defence officials advocated vocally within the Trump administration for release of the aid.

"The Ukrainians are on the path to being able to provide for their own security but they will still need US allied support for some time," Cooper told the House Intelligence Committee.

"They need that support in terms of tangible support as well as political and diplomatic support," Cooper told the inquiry.

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert at the White House's National Security Council, and David Holmes, a political affairs officer at the US Embassy in Kyiv, are scheduled to testify before the impeachment inquiry on Thursday.

[aljazeera.com]

Do you think this is evidence is enough to get Trump impeached?

According to the 2019 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange , 514 million dollars was contributed to the U.S. economy in 2018 by 13,423 Nigerian  international students studying in the US

This data ranks Nigeria as 11th country of origin with the most foreign students studying in the US for the 2018/19 school year. 

Nigerians make up 1.2 per cent of the total number of 1,095,299 international students in the country.

 5,689 of the Nigerian students are at the undergraduate level, 5,274 at the graduate level, 367 at the non-degree students, and 2,093 on Optional Practical Training (working to acquire experience and training in their field of study).

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria is the only African country in the top 20 places of origin for international students in the U.S.

China holds the top position with 369,548 students, followed by India with 202,014, South Korea (52,250), Saudi Arabia (37,080), and Canada rounding out the top five with 26,122 students.

According to the report, international students account for 5.5 per cent of the total U.S. higher education population.

The UK, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Ireland, China, Australia, Costa Rica, and Japan were study destinations for American citizens, hosting an average of 18,000 students each.

South Africa occupies the 11th position on the table as host to 6,001 American students in 2017/18.

“We are happy to see the continued growth in the number of international students in the United States and U.S. students studying abroad,” said Marie Royce, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs.

That $514 million could better serve the Nigerian economy, don't you agree?

2019 has been Burna Boy's year! His album, African Giant, has made ripples since its release and gained him a nomination in the Best World Music Album Category for the 62nd Grammy Awards.The nominees in this category consisted of albums who had at least 51% playing time.

Born Damini Ogulu, Burna Boy characterises his sound as Afro-fusion with heavy inflences from Fela Kuti, one of Nigeria's greatest musicians. 

African Giant Album Art

The winner is set to be announced on January 26, 2020.

Presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, Tiwa Savage, Banky W., and many more have since taken to social media to  congratulate Burna Boy on nomination.
 

Well deserved, dont you think?

There have been a lot of speculation about Apple's upcoming iPhone model set to be released in September 2020. Below are some of the features to possibly expect!

• iPhone 12 could be Apple's first quad-camera (four cameras) phone with a wide, ultra wide, 2x telephoto and ToF cameras which capture depth more accurately.
• It may resemble the iPhone 5 with its flat sides.

• The notch at the top of the display may get even smaller different screen sizes possibly available; small 5.4inch and a larger 6.7inch screen.

   

Credit: PhotoArena

These are not the only features which may be added!

Will you be purchasing the iPhone 12?

On Tuesday, the Nigerian Customs Service and Murtala Mohammed Area Command (MMAC) disclosed the seizure of N68.9 million worth of frozen meat and poultry at The Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA). These products were said to have been smuggled through the airport in otder to bypass the border closure by the Federal Govrernment.

Upon interception of a South African Airways flight, 40 cartons of frozen poulty were retrieved while 104 cartons appear to have been abandoned at on the terminal tarmac. 

Seized Cartons

According to Adewale Adeniyi, the Controller of MMIA: “On the night of 10th November, 2019, following the discharge of cargo from a South African Airways flight 5A060 from Johannesburg, our Tarmac operatives intercepted a consignment which were indicated as perishables, and are therefore qualified for pre-release at the cargo wing."

“The officers requested to sight the items before transferring them. Though the airway bill described the goods as fresh vegetables, the contents were later discovered to be assorted frozen products. In all, there were 40 cartons, including Beef, Pork and Fish fillets. It became obvious that the importers through his agents have prepared a pre-release documentation purporting the imports to be fresh VegeTables with the sole intention to evade the import prohibition order."

“At about 00:05 hrs, the following morning another consignment of 104 cartons comprising pork meat, beef and turkey was seen abandoned inside 4 Dollies close to Gate 13. The Total Duty paid value of the two seizures is N68.9million."

“The tarmac seizure is coming on the heel of other seizures recently made at the Cargo Wing. This clearly points to a possible shift of strategy by smugglers. With the border drill making it a nightmare for smuggling operation at the borders. Intelligence has suggested that our airports are now being considered as options.”

Adeniyi further added that “Though, the commands are distinct administratively, we are still connected in our operations, since the tarmac in the International wing Services the cargo operation in the other command. It is therefore imperative for us to create a close working environment to ensure that criminals do not exploit divisions to perpetrate their business. I am glad to inform you that the close working relationship nurtured a smooth take-off of the new Command."

“To ensure effective coverage of the tarmac, we conduct joint surveillance of the Tarmac Area, an action that resulted into the seizures, for which we are briefing you today,” Comptroller Adeniyi explained.

Comptroller Oyama of the Cargo section also said her command had intercepted 23 bags of stun guns, military uniforms and 25 packages of drones.

Is the Nigerian border closure yielding sufficient results?

On Monday, Professor Tam David-West Nigerian academic, author, and former Petroleum Minister passed away on Monday 11th November at University College Hospital Ibadan.

David-West was born in Buguma, Kalabari, in what is now Rivers State. He received his higher education at the University of Ibadan (1956–1958) and earned a BSc degree at Michigan State University (1958–1960), an MSc degree at Yale University (1960–1962), and a PhD degree at McGill University (1964–1966). 

In a 2018 interview, he describes his time at Yale: “I was the president of International students in Yale,” “When we had independence, the international students in Yale held a party for Nigeria. I was very proud of Nigeria.”

In 1969, David-West went on to become a consultant virologist and senior lecturer at the University of Ibadan where he was then promoted to professor of virology in 1975.

He also wrote numerous books and articles, some of which appeared in scholarly journals such as Journal of Pathology and Bacteriology (1966), Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (1973), Intervirology (1974), and Journal of Hygiene (1974). 

David-West also wrote two books about Buhari: Who Really Is General Muhammadu Buhari and The Sixteen ‘Sins’ of General Muhammadu Buhari? 

 “I must mention that General Buhari was kept in the dark about both projects,” David-West said. “I only informed him some two weeks to the launching. I don’t have to consult him to tell the truth about him.”

As a critic, David-West criticized the ‘unconstitutionality’ of the advisory council established by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2010, and he voiced caution against government unreservedly opening its doors to United States intelligence.

Despite their long-standing friendship, David-West had also openly criticised Buhari.

 “First, you (Buhari) were accused that you wanted to Islamise Nigeria and it is completely false,” he said. “If you now allow different states in different parts of the country, to establish special places for ranching, would people not say it is a means of establishing colonies for Islamic groups?”

Their frienship however, remained in tact after these comments. 

Presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina jas stated: “The president believes Mr David-West’s contribution to the economic and political architecture of Nigeria and his clear reasoning, wisdom and guidance through all the transition phases to democracy will always be remembered and respected."

President Buhari has since described David-West as his friend and “a brilliant virologist” who “had an indomitable spirit, stood resolutely by whatever he believed in, and was in a class of his own.”

He was a multi-faceted man who served Nigeria well.

An intestinal disease known as gastroenteritis has spread through Lagos infecting 117 people according to Commissioner for Health, Dr. Akin Abayomi, though the figure could be higher due to unreported cases. Out of the 117 reported cases, 107 are said to have been treated and discharged. 

Gastroenteritis is a bacterial or viral infection causing the inflammation of the stomach and intestines.  Its symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, weakness and abdominal pain. 

Dr Abayomi stated: “Patients with gastroenteritis come down with severe acute watery diarrhea and profuse vomiting. Those infected with micro-organisms causing the disease show signs and symptoms within 12 hours to one week after ingesting contaminated food or water. The disease affects both children and adults and can kill within hours if untreated,” 

In addition, consuming uncooked seafood, unwashed fruits and vegetables or shellfish from estuarine waters, can also leave you prone to gastroenteritis infection. Washing dishes and utensils and cooking with contaminated water also leads to this disease. 

The micro-organisms that cause gastroenteritis are the same ones that cause typhoid fever, cholera and certain viral diseases.

The recent rains and floods which are carry germ-filled waste are said to have contributed significantly to this epidemic. Swimming or walking through flooded areas leaves individuals open to this disease and others. 

The health commissioner also stated that “following the report of these cases, Rapid Response Teams at the affected LGAs led by the Medical Officers of Health were activated, stool specimen were collected for laboratory test to confirm the micro-organism causing the vomiting and diarrhea while surveillance have also been scaled up in communities within the affected LGAs to stop the spread of the infection. 

“The results of laboratory tests will be published once the source pathogen is identified.”

Some of the worst hit areas are Lagos Island, Ajeromi, Apapa, Mushin and Ikeja.

The Lagos state government is also sensitizing members of the public about the disease, while harping on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation.

Abayomi advises that you wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating; cook food thoroughly; dispose waste material properly, avoid open and indiscriminate defecation and keep water containers clean. 

“Citizens must ensure proper disposal of waste and ensure they avoid possible backflow connection between water and sewer system. 

“It is important that citizens wash hands with soap and running water thoroughly especially after defecation, before eating or food preparation and when they have been in contact with a sick person or touch any item or surface that may have been contaminated”, Abayomi says.

An intestinal disease known as gastroenteritis has spread through Lagos infecting 117 people according to Commissioner for Health, Dr. Akin Abayomi, though the figure could be higher due to unreported cases. Out of the 117 reported cases, 107 are said to have been treated and discharged. 

Gastroenteritis is a bacterial or viral infection causing the inflammation of the stomach and intestines.  Its symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, weakness and abdominal pain. 

Dr Abayomi stated: “Patients with gastroenteritis come down with severe acute watery diarrhea and profuse vomiting. Those infected with micro-organisms causing the disease show signs and symptoms within 12 hours to one week after ingesting contaminated food or water. The disease affects both children and adults and can kill within hours if untreated,” 

In addition, consuming uncooked seafood, unwashed fruits and vegetables or shellfish from estuarine waters, can also leave you prone to gastroenteritis infection. Washing dishes and utensils and cooking with contaminated water also leads to this disease. 

The micro-organisms that cause gastroenteritis are the same ones that cause typhoid fever, cholera and certain viral diseases.

The recent rains and floods which are carry germ-filled waste are said to have contributed significantly to this epidemic. Swimming or walking through flooded areas leaves individuals open to this disease and others. 

The health commissioner also stated that “following the report of these cases, Rapid Response Teams at the affected LGAs led by the Medical Officers of Health were activated, stool specimen were collected for laboratory test to confirm the micro-organism causing the vomiting and diarrhea while surveillance have also been scaled up in communities within the affected LGAs to stop the spread of the infection. 

“The results of laboratory tests will be published once the source pathogen is identified.”

Some of the worst hit areas are Lagos Island, Ajeromi, Apapa, Mushin and Ikeja.

The Lagos state government is also sensitizing members of the public about the disease, while harping on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation.

Abayomi advises that you wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating; cook food thoroughly; dispose waste material properly, avoid open and indiscriminate defecation and keep water containers clean. 

“Citizens must ensure proper disposal of waste and ensure they avoid possible backflow connection between water and sewer system. 

“It is important that citizens wash hands with soap and running water thoroughly especially after defecation, before eating or food preparation and when they have been in contact with a sick person or touch any item or surface that may have been contaminated”, Abayomi says.

Ghana is the place to be this December, and below are flyers for some much anticipated events!

Will you be in attendance for any of the above? #DecemberinGhana

Sam Adurogboye, spokesperon of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, has announced that the operating license of Dana Air will be suspended. 

This is suspension is apparently the first step to an investigation of the airline and is a response to the Senate's directive for the NCAA to ban the airline. 

It should be noted that the on June 3, 2012, a Dana Air aircraft carrying 153 people crashed in Lagos killing all aboard.

Is it high time Dana Air was banned?

Director-General of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, has warned corps members against defacing the NYSC uniform.

This warning was issued during Ibrahim's uncheduled visit to an NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp on Wednesday. He also warned that those who defaced their uniforms would be severely punished.


In addressing prospective corps members, the Director-General stated: “Our uniform is our brand. As such, you must dress properly.’’ Ibrahim also cautioned them against embarking on unauthorised journeys, saying, “it is what kills our corps members most. It is not insecurity but death as a result of road traffic accidents.’’

“If you want to travel within Nigeria, it is only the state coordinator that can permit you. If you apply and it’s not granted, stay put. “If you want to travel outside the country, it is only the D-G that can approve your journey, if not granted, don’t move an inch."

The Army General, who went round the camp for inspection, commended the state coordinator, Mrs Bona Fasakin, for bringing newness to the camp kitchen.

Should NYSC members be punished for  defacing their uniforms?

Thirty five aides of Nigerian Vice President Osinbajo are said to have been sacked by President Buhari. 

Osinbajo is said to have employed more aides than Buhari, with some appointed in 2017 while Buhari spent a 130 non-consecutive days in England. Prior to the dismissals, Osinbajo was said to have employed 53 aids while Buhari had 25. Osinbajo is also said to have had more aides whose appointments were never made public; as they were not paid from with government funds.

There is rumored to be tension between Buhari and Osinbajo as Buhari failed to transfer presidential power to Osinbajo before his recent travels. These dismissals are also said to be a ploy to dilute Osinbajo's power ahead of upcoming 2023 elections. 

A presidential source stated: “It is true that many of VP’s aides were given termination letters last night. However, I cannot confirm the exact number because it was not done in public. But you know it is political."

“Some of those dismissed are those who have been made redundant since the VP’s duties have been reduced and some of the social investment programmes have been put under other ministries.”

What do you think was Buhari's motive behind these dismissals?

On Monday, Chief of Staff to President Buhari, delivered a bill to Buhari who is currently in London on an unofficial visit. The bill amended the Deep Offshore (and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contract) Act; a photo posted by Kyari captured the moment.

Buhari, who is scheduled to be in London for two more weeks, did not transfer power to his Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, before his departure from Nigeria. This therefore requires all documents requring his signarure to be delivered to him.

The Deep Offshore (and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contract) Act was recently enacted by the National Assembly, and in a tweet, Buhari thanked them for making this "long overdue" enactment.

Buhari had earlier empasized the urgent need to review the fiscal terms for deep offshore oil fields during his 2020 Budget Presentation Speech before the National Assembly. He stated that these amendments need to be made to reflect current realities. 

What are your thoughts on this event? Below are some reactions on Twitter. 

The current closure of Nigerian borders has rejuvinated the agricultural business in the country. Rice is one of Nigeria's staple foods and according to the the Minister for State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mustapha Shehuri, rice farmers are smiling all the way to the bank. 

“They are smiling to the banks with the impressive sales they have recorded and this opportunity has created more jobs, not only in rice production but also livestock and other commodities,” he said. In addition, Shehuri also revealed that the federal goverment has implemented policies to boost production of rice. 

The government’s Anchor Borrowers Programme, has is also said to have yielded results in rice production in spite of its initial challenges. 

The Central Bank of Nigeria stated: “the programme thrust of the Anchor Borrowers Programme is provision of farm inputs in kind and cash (for farm labour) to smallholder farmers to boost production of these commodities, stabilise inputs supply to agro-processors and address the country’s negative balance of payments on food.”

According to the Agricultural Minister:“We look at agriculture as an enterprising business and we assure Nigerians of better jobs from the type of growth that will result from it,” he also assured farmers that equipment would be sold to them at 50 per cent discount "to support and make farming equipment accessible to local farmers in order to achieve food sufficiency and economic growth."

“We will ensure that the equipment and farm inputs procured by the ministry get directly to the people they are meant for (farmers) because they are the bedrock of government investment designed to achieve the government’s policy of economic diversification and growth through the agricultural sector,” he said.

A "Game of Thrones" spinoff is in the works folks! Titled "House of the Dragon," the show will be set 300 years before "Game of Thrones" and will be centered on the rise of theTargaryen reign in Westeros. It will be a ten episode series featuring on HBO; the date has yet to be announced!

Initially there were five "Game of Thrones" spinoffs proposed; they may all be coming to our screens in an order chronological to the storyline's timeline. 

The franchise is based on author George R.R. Martin's book "Song of Ice and Fire." Martin, along with Ryan Condal, co-created the Game of Thrones series.

Read the books to find out the plot the new series may adopt!

Are you looking forward to this premiere?

Below are photos of the ‘International Wing’ at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano. Much needed improc

Saad Hariri resigned as Lebanon's PM, submitting his resignation to the President, after days of anti-goverment protest by Lebanese protestors. 

After unparalled protests sent the nation into a standstill, Hariri stated he had reached a "dead-end."  

Hariri says he has reached a "dead-end" after unprecedented protests paralyzed the country.

There had been violence and economic harship in the nation with banks being closed for ten straight days. On Tuesday, members of the Hezbollah attacked a camp by the anti-goverment protestors.  

Protestors took to the streets in celebration after the delivery of Hariri's resignation.

The will of the people yielded results. What are your thoughts?

Information Minster, Lai Mohammed, has stated The Federal Government's intention regulate the social media realm.

At a press conference Mohammed stated: “It has reached a level that the government may just no longer fold its arms and allow this to continue.” 

This statement comes weeks after the government clamped down on hate speech with an increased amount of fines dispensed. 

Though social media is plaugued with the circulation of false information which misleads the public, it has also been said that this action may be a scheme by the goverment to silence its critics.

Are you for or against this social media censorship?

The introduction of the Integrated Personnel Payment Information System (IPPIS) by the Nigerian Federal Government has still been met with some reluctance by university staff. With the deadline (October) up for all ministries, departments and agencies of government to enrol, the goverment has issued a warning. 

This policy, established by President Buhari's regine, directs all individuals who reciieve salaries from Consolidated Revenue Funds should join by the end of October 2019. This initiative is aimed at saving costs by ensuring transparency, accountability and probity with specific objectives..Ahmed Idris, Accountant-General of the Federation stated that the reluctance of members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)  to enrol was an in a “open endorsement of corruption”.

 According to him: “It is a known practice all over the world that employees are entitled to their salaries and wages as at when due. That notwithstanding, there is nowhere employees dictate to their employers as to how he or she should be paid as being dictated by ASUU.”

ASUU President, Prof Biodun Ogunyemi 

The President of the ASUU, Prof Biodun Ogunyemi, affirms the unions reluctance to enroll stating to the Senate on Monday that “the IPPIS is a scam as it creates more problems than it solves.”

Ogunyemi also stated  ASUU members across different universaties had reservation about this imposition of this system, also adding that IPPIS would undermine universities’ autonomy and infringe on academic freedom.

“One of the biggest challenges of IPPIS is that it poses a great threat to our national security. The system is not strategic for a sovereign nation in a world system where almost all countries are vulnerable to sabotage by international cyber criminals and states.

“Once such sabotage happens, the entire country would be plunged into confusion and dysfunction. This has happened before and can happen again.

“It will constitute an impediment in the way of the ability of the universities to provide staff for new programmes as well as replace staff. This is because new staff members cannot be paid salaries until they are enrolled into the IPPIS database, which will take months to actualize.

“The IPPIS system only recognises staff members that are on permanent and pensionable appointments. Universities are universal in outlook in terms of recruitment of staff and student intake.

“The introduction of IPPIS is not backed by law. The Union’s position is that there are extant legal provisions and negotiated agreements arising from the nature and peculiarities of Nigerian universities, which make IPPIS unnecessary and inapplicable to the universities.’’.

“The objectives include centralisation of payroll systems of the Federal Government, facilitating easy storage, updating and retrieval of personnel records for administrative and pension processing.

Ogunyemi said “the proposed forceful enrolment of staff of universities in the IPPIS would amount to subjecting the universities to the direction and control of Office of Account General of the Federation ( OAGF) with respect to the payment of staff remuneration, salaries and wages.

“It should be noted that IPPIS is not a home-grown initiative; rather it is a prescription of the World Bank.

“Its ultimate consequence is to create anarchy and therefore, retard the growth and development of Nigeria’’.

He said that if the government wanted to curb corrupt practices through the payroll and personnel management, the best pathway was to make the Governing Councils work.

“The exercise of the power of the Visitor, in respect of the visitation exercise as explicitly stated in law which ASUU has continued to advocate, should be activated.

“Nigerian universities have capacity to develop their own platform in place of IPPIS with different levels of control which can be accessed periodically to assess compliance with the regulations on transparency and accountability by each university’’, he said.

In his remark, Lawal said:“we are all in this together and we believe that the Nigerian education sector especially the tertiary needs serious support.

“We know that you have made some sacrifices and that you have put in your best with the little given to you.

“The legislature is always prepared to take necessary steps to ensure that the tertiary institutions remain open and functional.

“I’m happy that you have made your point and I’m also happy that the federal Ministry of Finance is thinking of addressing the issues as well.

“I will like to know how they intend to do it. I’m meeting with the Minister of Finance to tell us what exactly is to be done because we do not want any strike’’.

Do you agree with the ASUU?

After 11 individuals were rescued from a supposedly religious rehabilitation centre in Zaria, Kaduna state, 15  additional persons were rescued from another center on Yola in a raid by the police.

The rescued were said to have been found in dehumanizing conditions according to Suleiman Nguroje, the Deputy spokesperson."They were being chained, humiliated, victimised, subjected to unnecessary torture. They were in chains for 24 hours without feeding and medication." 

Arrested were man and his three sons who are said to have been running the center. The victims were found in a one-room apartment not even suitable for up to three persons. They are said to be within the ages of 22 and 46 with two being teenagers. 

Have these centers and their deplorable conditions always existed or is this a new trend?

Following complaints from transgender male consumers, Proctor and Gamble have announced their decision to remove the feminine logo from the packaging of its top sanitary product brand "Always." 

In June 2019, transgender activist Ben Saunders reportedly contacted "Always" via Twitter, questioning the use of the feminine logo on the packaging. Furthermore, another activist, Melly Bloom, who also complained via Twitter, asked why it was ‘imperative’ to have Venus, the goddess of beauty and love on the products.

Proctor and Gamble has since pledged to remove feminine signs on their "Always" products in order to accommodate transgender and non-binary consumers.

New packaging is set to be relased December 2019, and distributed worldwide by February 2020.

What are your thoughts?

Over charges of noise pollution, a new generation church in Nnewi, Anambra State has been sealed off in Magistrate Court proceedings presided over by Emekwue AC.

The church leadership which was sued by the Director of Environmental Health Services and the Nnewi North local government area and as a result, the church was given 10 days to relocate or have its officials face jail time.

The church was said to have mounted amplifiers and numerous loud speakers which caused excessive noise, disturbing the peace of the neighbourhood at all hours of the night. Witnessess testified that the church often even held  disruptive night vigils between 11pm and 4am.

In a charge number NMC/10c/2019, the church was prosecuted on two count charges under the public health laws of Anambra state.

The prosecution characterized the churche's activities as ‘prejudicial to man’s health’, which is punishable under section 21 of the public health laws of Anambra state 2006.

The church was also accused of failure to comply with terms and requisition of abatement notice referenced No: 00000896 served on it.

This action is  punishable under sections 8(1,4b) and 9(1,2) of the public health laws of Anambra state.

Online registeration for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has been announced today, on Monday 21st October 2019 Via Twitter. Prospective 2019 "Batch C" Corps Members are eligible to sign up from now until Friday, 1st November 2019.

Below are step by step instructions for the registeration process provided by management.

1. Visit the online registration portal address: www.nysc.org.ng

2. For first-time applicants for the first time, click on “Mobilization Batch A, 2019”

3. If you have registered previously and did not complete your Registration or Submit, do not create a new account instead click on “Login Here” to continue your registration with your previous Username and Password.

4. The revalidation link is only for those mobilized in 2018 Batch “C” and previous Batches, but did not go to the Orientation Camp.

5. It’s not allowed to register by proxy. You must appear in person for thumbprint at the registration centre.

6. Apply for Name Correction on your dashboard.

On Wednesday October 16, 2019 a fire ravaged a market in Onitsha, Anambra, causing many people to lose their lives and livlihoods. The fire occured when a petrol tanker hit some buildings, spilling its contents and sparking a fire. The exact number of casualties still remain uncelar.

The fire apparently raged for hours before attempts were made by the Federal Fire Service to extinguish it. It has been said that firemen at Asaba, Delta State, headed to the market shortly after the fire was reported but were caught in heavy traffic at the Niger Bridge. It has been alleged that the firemen were also attacked with stones and stopped from accessing the scene by an agry mob. 

Many graphic images of the destruction caused by the preventable fire have since been circulated, 

The Controller General has stated stated that  “With the procurement of new state-of-the-art firefighting trucks distributed to the 12 zones of the service across the nation, the FFS is always ready to respond to fire outbreaks and other emergencies across the nation."

He also added: “It is worthy to note that similar situations in recent past in Sokoto, Uyo, Minna, Ibadan, Osun and Lagos were prevented from escalating to a major disaster by the fire service.”

He said the support and cooperation of Nigerians were needed by the FFS in saving lives and property during fire outbreaks.

It has also been speculated that this fire was no accident. Thoughts?

According to Aisha Buhari, First Lady of Nigeria, Mamman Daura, President Buhari's eighty-something year-old relative, truly runs the Presidency. Mamman Daura and his daugher have also been illegally living in the presidential villa for over three years while also granting interviews. Aisha Buhari states that Daura is the head of a ruthless "cabal" that has usurped her husband's presidential power. 

After rumours recently emerged that the predisent intended to take a second wife, a newly installed minister, Mrs. Buhari quickly returned back to Nigeria from the UK. She has also disclosed that she is often tormented by Duara and his daughter in their home. There has also been a video released featuring Mrs. Buhari shouting in their shared home. The following is her statement surrounding the video: "The person in that video was me. The event happened in the villa under the supervision of my security officers right behind me if you look at the video. But they failed to do anything about it because it was Mamman Daura’s daughter Fatima who shot the video. So, both me and the security, our hands were tied to do anything. And it continues up till today.” 

Mr. and Mrs. Buhari

Daura's daughter, Fatima Daura has also come forward to BBC to characterize that Mrs. Buhari as violent and destructive, once using a metal chair to crack open a mahogany door. She stated: “There are even other clips that have not been released. I will send them to you to see how she was insulting the security and how she drove them away saying who are they protecting and calling them bloody idiots. It’s all on the video clip."

Mamman Daura and President Buhari in the UK (Daily Nigeria)

The affairs of the Presidency appear to be in disarray upon closer inspection with Aisha Buhari having speaken out against the alleged cabal since 2015.The president has since been maintaining silence. According to his wife, his hands are tied and he has long lost control of his administration.

This saga is especially alarming to the Nigerian public as family drama has no place in the Presidency. It is also especially alarming that a man who was never formally elected, allegedly holds the presidential power and lives in the presidential home!

Your thoughts?

In a bid to minimize the impact of corruption, President Muhammadu Buhari has instructed agencies to sell all assets seized from officials, the money be deposited into the Treasury Single Account. This development follows a meeting between Buhari and the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption at the State House in Abuja. 

The assets to be sold are comprised of seized assets belonging to Nigerian officials who could not justify their ownership.

The president stated: "Let's see who will now take back the money from the treasury, and give back to those people, as was done in the past,"

He also commended the commitee for the "major sacrifice they've made in accepting the assignment to serve the country" annd added that "Some of the elite won't trust" them and that they "will be alienated, no matter how close you are to them."

Chairman of PACAC, Professor Itse Sagay applauded Buhari's efforts : "We congratulate you for being a star of the anti-corruption struggle in Africa. You attach a lot of importance to the fight against corruption, and we have tried to achieve the aims you had in mind when you established PACAC."

According to him, the committee trains, builds capacity of anti-corruption agencies, and has helped to develop a programme of non-conviction assets recovery, which is recording great successes.

PACAC made some recommendations to the President, in order to move the anti-corruption war many steps forward.

They include re-establishment of the jury system for criminal cases in the country; setting up of a judicial commission on corruption in the judiciary, to be headed by retired judges under the auspices of National Judicial Council, passage of Proceeds of Crime Act by the National Assembly, the setting up of a Presidential Truth and Restitution Task Force and a closer look at the cost of governance to weed out all vestiges of corruption.

Viral claims that President Buhari is set to marry a second wife have been denied by Presidential Spokesman Femi Adesina.

Sadia Umar Farouq

On the 11th October, Buhari was alledgedly set to marry Sadia Umar Farouq, the currrent Minister for Humanitarian Affairs Disaster Management at the presidential villa. This is a newly created department and Farouq is apparently not currently even in the country. In a tweet on Friday via her handle, @Sadiya_farouq, she is currently in New York promoting a UN campaign against poverty. 

This rumor was supposedly sparked by unknown sources close to the presidency and has been trending under  #BUSA19 and #BUSA2019 on twitter. Speculators have also asserted that this wedding accounted for the prolonged absence of the First Lady, Aisha Buhari, at the presidential villa. She is currently on a trip to the United Kingdom.

President Muhammadu Buhari has violated the Police Act by secretly extending the service of his nephew and  Personal Chief Security Officer, Abdulkarim Dauda Daura.

Nigeria’s Police Act states that an officer is expected to retire from service after 35 years or when he attains the age of 60. The Act does not exclude an officer who has not attained the age of 60 but has served for 35 years from retirement.

Dauda, police commissioner was to retire this year, having enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Officer on January 1, 1985. The president however, extended his service to May 13, 2023 — two weeks to the expiration of the president’s term; by then, Dauda would have served for 38 years.

The memo authorizing the violation reads: “The President and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and Chairman and Chairman Police Council has graciously approved the extension of service of CP Abdulkarim  Dauda to 13th May, 2023 when he would have attained sixty (60) years of age. COMPOL INFO-TECH only and amend your records please.”

The memo was signed by Usman Alkali Babe, the Assistant Inspector-General in charge of Police Force Secretariat, where the memo emanated from.

Mr Dauda’s promotions from chief superintendent of police to commissioner were also subject of controversy.

A ranking police officer who spoke to DAILY NIGERIAN in confidence said, “the speed he got to commissioner from chief superintendent just between 2015 and 2019 is unprecedented in the Nigerian Police Force. The promotions were illegal. They only gave him favours because he is related to the president.”

Dauda was exposed in March via leaked audio befging former chairman of Police Service Commission, Mike Okiro, to expedite the promotion of former police spokesperson, Moshood Jimoh.

In the same audio, Mr Okiro told him, “even your own, Even your own, I am putting you for CP“. Dauda was still a deputy comissioner at the time and barely four months after, he was decorated by the president as a police commissioner.

Spokesman for the Nigeria Police Force Frank Mba could not be reached for comment on this matter as he away in Awka for a training, and therefore his lines are “hardly reached”.

On Wednesday, President Muhammadu Buhari hotsted a meeting with newly constituted Presidential Economic Advisory Council (ECA) in Abuja. 

After the meeting, Buhari debunked the statistical data on Nigeria published by the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and Amnesty International. He claimed the data was inaccurate and stated he had tasked the (ECA) to devise accurate information gathering techniques. 

The World Bank and IMF have highlighted the deficits Nigeria faces in relation to its Gross Domestic Product. Other institutions such as the World Poverty Clock labeled Nigeria as the World Poverty Capital. 

Buhari also rejected statistics regarding the high unemployment rate and poverty released by the National Bureau of Statistics, a government agency.

The statistics regarding the human rights records which was released by Amnesty International have also been rejected by the government.

In a series of tweets, the president stated:

"We must domesticate our policies to reflect our local realities. While we very much welcome the cooperation and support we are getting from our friends abroad, it is important to make it clear that Nigeria can only truly move forward with homegrown solutions,” 

“This must extend to data collection as well. Today, most of the statistics quoted about Nigeria are developed abroad by the World Bank, IMF and other foreign bodies. Some of these statistics are wild estimates that bear little relation to the facts on the ground."

“We can only plan realistically when we have reliable data. As a government we are taking very serious steps to improve the quality of data available for policymaking, and today I charged the Presidential Economic Advisory Council to prioritize the collection of Primary data,” 

Nigeria's most popular transgendered female, Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, has opened up about his childhood in a question and answer session with his fans on social media. By the same regard, the Nigerian Government has also issued a statement warning the public to be wary about Bobrisky and possible health risks. 

Identifying as female on social media but make in passport, Bob Risky's identity is particularly controversial, Some states in Nigeria hold strict policies aginst the LGBT community. In Kano, for example, an individual of the “male gender who acts, behaves or dresses in a manner which imitates the behavioural attitude of women shall be guilty of an offence and upon conviction, be sentenced to one-year imprisonment or a fine of N10,000 or both”.

According to Bobrisky, in childhoodm he always had the full support of his mother: When I was small, I used to behave like a girl. So, my dad asked my mum why I was behaving like a girl and she said that was how she saw me. She said that is how I am and that nobody should judge me because I was still very small.” 

"So after my secondary school, I opened up to my mum that I would love to be a woman. At that time, my mum used to have plenty boyfriends. So, after I told her, she said I should be whoever I want to be and she would never judge me. After she died, things were a bit harder again because there was nobody to open up to." 

Watch the video here

https://twitter.com/i/status/1181220687341608961

After the "Sex for Grades" expose by BBC, The Foursquare Gospel Church has asked Prof Boniface Igbeneghu, Senior lecturer at the University of Lagos to step down as Pastor. 

In a documentary released today, Africa Eye with sponsorship for BBC released footage capturing lecturers soliciting sex from students in exchange for grades and other academic favors. Lecturers from University of Ghana and University if Lagos were investigated, Professor Prof Boniface included.

Boniface was captured praying with the undercover journalist for an extented period of time before requesting to kiss her and then embracing her against her protests. He then also advises her to be "obedient" in exhange for his help. 

A statement by The Foursquare Gospel Church is as follows: “The attention of the leadership of The Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria has been drawn to a video clip trending on social media platforms titled “Sex for grades: Undercover in West Africa Universities- BBC News,”    

“Wherein a lecturer in University of Lagos named Dr. Boniface Igbeneghu also described as a pastor in Foursquare Gospel Church was allegedly involved in sexual misconduct with some female students of the university.

“The general public is hereby informed that as a holiness and Bible-believing Church, we do not condone such heinous and unscriptural act among our ministers."

“We totally dissociate ourselves from the purported conduct of Dr. Igbenoghu and promise to take appropriate measure as soon as the ongoing investigation is concluded. 

“Meanwhile, the pastor in question has been asked to step down from all ministerial assignments.'' 

The University of Lagos has also distanced itself from Boniface and according to BBC: “Unilag told us it dissociates itself from the alleged behavior of Dr. Boniface and that it has a zero tolerance policy towards sexual harassment." 

Erigga finally released his long anticipated album of 18 tracks and it houses collaborations with so many prominent acts including M.I Abaga, Zlatan, Ice Prince, Victor AD, .

What do you think?

Tributes have been pouring in after the announcement Isaac Promise's death by his American football team Austin Gold. Aged 31, it was announced he passed on Wednesday evening, the cause of death not specified.

Austin Bold have since posptponed their game on Saturday due to the news. The club's chairman, Bobby Epstein, said: 'The greatest loss a team can suffer is not on the scoreboard, it's the death of a fellow teammate.'

Promise was capped three times by the Nigerian Super Eagles and was captain of the Under-23 side which won a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing OIympics.

Promise made his senior national team debut in 2009, but only played three games and scored one goal.

Before passing away, he had several stints across Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the United States.

Promise played for 12 years in Saudi Arabia and mostly Turkey, which is where he played alongside former Premier League player Anton Ferdinand at Antalyaspor.

Room-mates at the Turkish club for the 2013-2014 season, Ferdinand posted on Instagram: 'I'm in shock... you was my room mate at Antalyaspor RIP Isaac Promise rest well bro my prayers are with your family and friends at this time.'    

Amber Guyger, Dallas police officer who fatally shot her unarmed neighbour last year has been found guilty of murder. It was an emotion end, as the victim, Botham Jean's ,brother hugged Guyger in a gesture of forgiveness. 

The victim's mother Omar Villagranca in an interview disclosed that she did not mirror her son's forgiveness stating: "What he did today, was remarkable, and he did it all on his own," she said. "What Brandt did was to cleanse his heart towards Amber … I do not want it to be misconstrued as a complete forgiveness of everybody."

The victim's mother also stated that multiple Texan agencies, including Guyger, shared the blame for the murder of her son.

Jean Botham's brother hugging the convicted Guyger in forgiveness.

Although she could have recieved up to 99 yearsm Guyger was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder. She will be eligible for parole after five years. There has been a lot of backlash with the general agreement that she recieved too lenient a sentence.

Dallas Police Chief Renee Hall said she is launching an internal investigation into issues revealed during the trial – including allegations of tampering with evidence and protecting Guyger.

"I acknowledge that there are things that we need to change. There are areas of concern that we need to address," Hall said.

There was another usual moment in court. Judge Tammy Kemp hugged the Jean family then also walked over and hugged Guyger and gave her a bible to take with her to prison.

The Jean family attorney says they would like to see legislation passed in Botham's name to give police officers additional training. They say if Guyger reacted differently, he might be alive today.

But this isn't the end for Amber Guyger either. Her attorneys are considering filing an appeal.

Today is National Boyfriend Day! Tips below on how to spoil him today, this weekend and as long as you both shall live! And on Valentine's day, maybe he will return these favors!

1. The obvious: cook him a nice meal/ or order one/ or take him out on a date and pay. Those work too.
2. Watch a sports game with him without complaining or distracting him.
3. Send him cute selfies of yourself or of you guys together!
4. Give him some space to decide how he wants to spend the day.
5. Take him on a walk/drive for some bonding time.
6. Take him out for drinks, alcoholic or or virgin cocktails work!
7. Write him a love letter.
8. Buy him a teddy bear, chocolates and some flowers. 

"The Year of Return" is an initiative by the Ghanaian President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. It marks the 400th year anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the United States in 1619. This year long event celebrates African resilience and unity by inviting individuals of African decent from the United States and worldwide to Ghana. Scheduled activites include: spiritual pilgrimages, business and investment meetings, concerts; in short, just the witnessing the general display of Ghanaian culture! This initiative allows decendants of past slaves to reclaim their birthright as 75% of slave dungeons and castles on the West African coast were built in Ghana.  It is also open to any who wish to have a unique, curated Ghanaian experience.

Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives and the Black Caucus in Ghana marking The Year of the Return.

Schedule of events. Please visit yearofreturn.com and visitghana.com for more..

Schedule of events. Please visit yearofreturn.com and visitghana.com for more..

Will you be in attendance?

In Commemoration of Nigeria's 59th year of independence, Donald Trump, President of the United States has addressed a congratulatory letter to Muhammadu Buhari, Nigerian President. See Letter Below!

President Donald Trump (L) and President Buhari (R) at the White House in April of 2018 (Presidency.)

"Dear Mr. President,

On behalf of the American people, I extend our warmest greetings and congratulate you on the 59th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.

Nigeria is among our strongest partners in Africa. We share common goals of expanding trade and growing our economic relationship. We are allies in the global battle against terrorism, and we want to see Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa driven out of the region and other insurgencies like them dismantled.

The United States welcomes efforts by your administration to diversify opportunities for your talented, creative, and hardworking people to the benefit of both our countries, Africa, and the world.

I am pleased that following our meeting last year, our Vice Presidents are also building on our longstanding history of cooperation. I wish the people of Nigeria continued success as you mark another year of independence.

Sincerely,

Donald J. Trump"

The crispness of this phone's camera, along with the sleekness of its design will be sure to turn heads your way! It has a variety of features guaranteed to elevate the photo taking experience for professionals and amateurs alike!

Designed with the needs of photography enthusiasts at its heart, itel’s selfie series continues to deliver the best Android and selfie experience that gets better with time. The new smartphone comes with an array of upgraded features that delivers a solid experience to users, including an AI Selfie Camera, but there are lots of things that you should know if you’re planning to pick up and start shooting with the itel S15 Pro today or anytime soon.

The the AI cameras are its distinguishing feature with both  front and rear camera having artificial intelligence, such as scene recognition, to portrait, and night modes. The device boasts of a 16MP front camera and and  8MP triple rear camera. 

The camera is not its only amazing feature, it has the first itel model  with a 6.1" Waterdrop FullScreen display and a stunning gradient finish a available in purpele. 

Its 3000mAh battery is also capable of going 3 days on a single charge.  There’s also storage of 32GB ROM which is expandable up to 128GB and 2GB RAM. Other additions include a fingerprint sensor, Dual 4G internet connectivity, a facial recognition unlock, and more.

 You can find the itel S15 Pro in phone retail stores for N29,500.

Lagos State Governer Mr Joe Igbokwe made his dedication to the state known as he lead the much needed clean up of the filty McGregor Canal. Do you applaud his effort?

It has been quite the eventful week in the Big Brother Nigeria house with viewers and housemates on edge. Firstly with the eviction of Cindy from the house and then with the heated argument between Mercy and Tacha!

Cindy Okafor’s stay ended as she became the 17th housemate to be evicted.  She joined the show four weeks after it kicked off alongside Joe, Enkay, Elozonam and Venita.

The second heated event between Tacha and Mercy occured with Tacha as instigator when she berated Mercy for being late to the group task meeting as she was showering. Mercy did not take kindly to Tacha's insults and gave as good as she got, if not more! 

The exhange turned violent on both parts, with the remaing housemates eventually intervening after watching and laughing from the sidelines. 

There have been several reactions online from fans over this fight!

On Wednesday night, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari met with Bill Gates American business magnate, and Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, in New York.

The trio met during the 74th United Nations General Assembly in the United States.

The Twitter of the Nigerian government @NigeriaGov, stated that Buhari commended the contributions of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Aliko Dangote Foundation to humanitarian and developmental arenas in Nigeria.

Vice President Yemi Osinbanjo is ready to waive his constitutional immunity and undergo trial in order to clear his name of allegations over N90 billion he is alleged to have recieved for election funding from the Federal Inland Revenue Service in 2019.

Via Twitter on his verified handle, @ProfOsinbajo, the VP stated: “In the past few days, a spate of reckless and malicious falsehoods have been peddled in the media against me by a group of malicious individuals. The defamatory and misleading assertions invented by this clique hadmostly been making the social media rounds anonymously.“I have today instructed the commencement of legal action against twondividuals, one Timi Frank and another Katch Ononuju, who have put their names to these odious falsehoods. I will waive my constitutional immunity to enable the most robust adjudication of these claims of libel and malicious falsehood."

Vice President Yemi Osinbanjo

Timi Frank, former deputy national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Monday claimed the alllegations against Osinbanjo had to do with the N90 million from past elections, and not upcoming 2023 elections.

Frank also challenged Osinbanjo to sue him in court for the supposed falsehoods against him rather than taking to media to deny them.

He further urged Osinbajo to resign "so as not to influence the judiciary as well as use
public funds to pursue the case as a sitting vice president."
 

Social media was ablaze with allegations Wednesday evening as Nigerian users alledged their debit cards had been charged fraudulently by their Bolt app. It was also presumed that the app could have been hacked. Multiple individuals came forward online to state that their cards had also been wrongly charged, and advised the public to remove their credit card information from the app. 

Bolt, one of the most widlely used cab hailing services in Nigeria, has since issued a statement denying any such activity on their part, affirming that they had not been hacked. They stated that they did not store card information, suggesting the issue was possibly a "glitch" with their payment partner or bank. 

Patrons of electronic services are right to be vigilant over the dissemination of their personal information. Cybercrime via the hacking of websites to access user information has overwhelmed many sites in the past, Facebook included!

Below are some tweets that sparked the discussion. 

On Monday, President Muhamadu Buhari, in an address to the United Nations Climate Action Summit announced plans for Nigeria to aid in the effort to curb climate change. It was stated that Buhari's administration and the Federal Government "will mobilise Nigerian youths towards planting 25 million trees to enhance Nigeria’s carbon sink."

President Muhammadu at the UN Climate Change Summit of 74th UNGA in New York on Monday. IG photo/Buhari Sallau

The theme of the ecological summit was “A Race We Can Win. A Race We Must Win” and according to a Femi Adesina, a presidential representative, Buhari also disclosed that other plans to reverse the effects of climate currently underway.

Adesina said Buhari shared the sentiment expressed by the UN Secretary-General that the world was on the verge of climate catastrophe, noting that “undeniably, Climate Change is a human-induced phenomenon.”

Buhari said, “It is in this regard that I wish to reiterate Nigeria’s commitment to its obligation under the Paris Agreement, the aspirations enshrined in our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and ensure a resilient future that mainstreams climate risks in our decision making.

“I want to announce that the Government of Nigeria will develop a more robust sectorial action plan, and expand the scope of our Sovereign Green Bonds in line with our intended upward review of Nigeria’s NDC’s towards the inclusion of the water and waste sectors by 2020,” he said.

The president also said the country would issue a Green Bond for irrigation and construct multi-purpose dams for power, irrigation and water supply.

“We will strengthen solid and liquid waste management systems to attract more private sector investors.

“We will take concrete steps to harness climate innovative ideas by including youths in decision making processes as part of our over-all climate governance architecture.
 

President Buhari has also apparently embarked on diversification of Nigeria's energy sources from dependence on gas-powered system to hydro, solar, wind, biomass and nuclear sources.

The president said the country was progressively working to realize 30 percent energy efficiency and renewable energy mix by 2030, saying this is envisaged to lead to 179 million tons of carbon dioxide reduction per annum by 2030.

“In addition, our Administration intends to develop a shelter belt across 11 States of the Federation spanning a distance of 1,500 km and 15km across through the Great Green Wall initiative.

“Furthermore, the Federal Government has commenced the implementation of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Programme in Ogoniland, to recover the carbon sink potential of the mangrove ecosystem of the one thousand square kilometers (1,000 KM2) polluted site in the affected area.

“I should also inform the summit that our Government has introduced Climate Smart Agricultural Practices to unlock Seventy-Four (74) Million tons of carbon dioxide per annum, through relevant technologies, advocacy and best practices,” he added.

President Buhari also noted that the Lake Chad Basin, which used to be a region of productivity, food security and wealth for an estimated 40 million citizens living around the Chad Basin, had shrunk significantly from its original size due to Climate Change.

America’s oldest dictionary, Merriam-Webster is also officially adding "they" to its online dictionary as a nonbinary pronoun. This follows in the steps of Associated Press, who recognized it two years ago.

What is "nonbinary," you say? A non-binary person is someone who does not identify as exclusively a man or a woman. Simply, someone who is non-binary may feel like a mix of genders, or like they have no gender at all.

A chart depicting various nonbinary identities.

Supporting its decision, Merriam-Webster,  asserted that "they" as a singular pronoun has been in use since the 1300s, referring to a letter by Emily Dickinson written in 1881, which uses  "they,""theirs," and even "themself" to refer to an individual of unknown gender. 

Merriam-Webster also stated that the usage of "you" as a singular pronoun wasnt always considered to be grammatically correct either; that this use was adopted out of necessity, establishing itself in casual conversation unti its status was formally accepted. 

That being said, Merriam-Webster acknowledges that its new recognition of the usage of "they" does differ much from how it has commonly been used, even in previous centuries. In the past, the singular they has referred to “a person whose gender isn’t known or isn’t important in the context.” For example, you would probably say “Tell each person that they are responsible for cleaning up their own trash,” rather than “Tell each person that he or she is responsible for cleaning up his or her own trash.”

Now, however, we use "they" to describe a person who simply doesn't identify as either male or female.

The new entry for the word "they" it now reads: “used to refer to a single person whose gender identity is nonbinary.”

Just like that, it is now acceptable to use "they" as a singular pronoun in formal writing!

What are your thoughts on this development?

The woman who paid $100,000 towards R. Kelly's bail has been notified she will not be refunded even though R. Kelly is currently behind bars over additional sexual assault charges. 

Listing herself as a "friend," the bail was posted by Valencia Love in February after R. Kelly could not pay his bail. He was arrested for over ten counts of aggravated sexual assault. The fresh charges are also of sexual assault, some against under-age girls. With R. Kelly having been refused bail over these new charges, he is currenly in jail awaiting trial. For this reason, Love sought a refund of her $100,000.

In a document filed requesting her refund, she stated that she was unaware of the federal investigations that resulted in these new allegations and as R. Kelly is incarcerated, her money should be returmed.

According to legal procedure, the bail money would be refunded once the ongoing case in Chicago is concluded, though this exact date remains unclear. Alternatively, the bail money could actually be used instead to pay Kelly’s legal fees, and according to Love that is the intended use for the money once it is refunded. 

 In a statement to the Chicago Sun-Times, Love stated  Kelly has already paid her back the $100,000 and also that “He wasn’t able to get to his money because it was the weekend and he was the only one who had access to his account. It was basically a loan”, she said. As for her efforts to get a refund from the court, she added: “Why is it such a big deal? He’s already locked up. Why can’t the bail money be returned?”

Love's motion was denied on the grounds that there was no legal precedent, it was also stated that the papers she signed when posting the bail clearly mentioned that the money may not be returned.

ON TUESDAY: Nigerian strikers Peter Olayinka and Victor Osimhen outshone the other Nigerian players competing in the Champions League in the games on Tuesday, 17th September.

Peter Olayinka (Inter Milan 1 Vs 1 Slavia Prague)

Nigerian striker Peter Olayinka scored for Slavia Prague in the 63rd minute. Inter Milan were able to equalize in time to share the points.

Olayinka, however was the star of the game, able to challenge the Inter Milan defence. 

Victor Osimhen (Ajax 3 Vs 0 Lille) 

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, in his debut match, played well but could not score.  

Paul Onuachu (Red Bull Salzburg 6 Vs 2 Genk)

Nigerian Striker Paul Onuachu was the only Nigerian player on the field, with his compatriat, Stephen Odey absent.

Onuachu was brought onto the field half way into the second half but had minimal ball contact. 

Tinder aside, here are some dating apps Ghanaians are using to find love!

Ghana Love

Many married couples have endorsed this site!

www.ghanalove.com

Mingle2

Uniqe site geared towards matching Christians.

www.mingle2.com. 

Topface

Users from all over Ghana use Topface. 

www.topface.com 

Mature Attractions

For the mature seeking companionship and long-term lovers.

www.matureattractions

Sweedy

It is Ghana’s first Premium online dating app available on Google Play.

Give any of these a try and drop your feedback!

Other top rated Apps include:

A landing permit has finally been granted by South Africa to Air Peace Flight B777, allowing it to evacuage the over 300 Nigerians fleeing from the recent increase in Xenophobic attacks in Sourth Africa. 

Godwin Adama, Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, confirmed this news via phone interview with News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday.

This is in regard to a complaint by the Managing Director of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema, who stated the refusal of South Africa to grant the landing permit made it impossible for the flight to leave Lagos at 1a.m. on Tuesday for Johannesburg to transport the second flight of Nigerians.

Allen also said “I do not know why they were denied the landing permit. I think it is an airline operational issue. They did not get it yesterday; but they told me that it came late yesterday (Monday)."

"We are still really working on the number (320) to see how we can fill up the airline capacity with anyone that is readily available.

“We have more than enough to fill the aircraft, the delay has also helped us because as we call names to board we see some people cleared at the last minute.

“We may not even be able to take all of them who are hopeful,” he added.

Adama, Nigeria's Counsel General to Johannesburg stated that the evacuations were being carried out according to directives by the Nigerian government.

Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari has constituted an Economic Advisory Council (EAC), a replacement for the Economic Management Team (EMT). It is said that this newly constituted team will be reporting directly to and advising the president on economic matters.

Femi Adesina, Presidential spokesperson, released the following list of appointees by the President Buhari:

1. Prof. Doyin Salami - Chairman

2. Dr. Mohammed Sagagi - Vice-Chairman

3. Prof. Ode Ojowu - Member

4. Dr. Shehu Yahaya - Member

5. Dr. Iyabo Masha - Member

6. Prof. Chukwuma Soludo - Member

7. Mr. Bismark Rewane - Member

8. Dr. Mohammed Adaya Salisu - Secretary (Senior Special Assistant to the President, Development Policy)

Adesina further added that topics to be addressed by the coucil include: fiscal analysis, economic growth and a range of internal and global economic issues working with the relevant cabinet members and heads of monetary and fiscal agencies."

"The EAC will have monthly technical sessions as well as scheduled quarterly meetings with the President. The Chairman may, however, request for unscheduled meetings if the need arises."

Nigerian musician Majek Fashek's manager has come forward to disupte rumors circulating regarding the artist's death. 

Majek Fashek pictured with his manager Umenka Uzoma. 

Umenka Uzoma, his manager, posted a video on Fashek's Instagram on Sunday from a outsiden a hospital in London updating viewers on Fashek's status. He refuted the rumors, and entreated fans and sympathizers to pray and donate towards Fashek's recovery.

Click below to watch the video

https://cdn.vanguardngr.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/VID-20190916-WA0001.mp4

Listed below are the best night clubs in Lagos! Decor, Music and Atmosphere are unmatched. 

1. Club Quilox 873, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos-State.

 2. Escape Address: 234B Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

3. Club 57 Address Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

4. Cubana Address: 1090 Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

5. Rumors: Address: 15A Oduduwa Way, Ikeja, Lagos.

The increase of Value Added Tax (VAT) from 5 to 7.2% by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Thursday has been met with controversy.

The president of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Dame Olajumoke Simplice, stated the increase was long overdue, as Nigeria's VAT is still currently one of the lowest in the world, and the lowest in the ECOWAS subregion.

In the past, The International Monetary Fund (IMF) encouraged Nigeria to increase its VAT, the revenue to be directed into developmental projects and budget funding; Simplice also echoed these sentiments stating that funds also be used for developmental projects.

Conversely, the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association have stated that the VAT increase would lead to closure of many businesses.

Taiwo Oyedele, the Head of Tax and Corporate Advisory Services at  PricewaterhouseCoopers, predicted the VAT rate would shrink Nigeria's GDP growth and income of Nigerians who had to absorb these increments. Oyedele also stated that people were likely to resort to tax evasion to sidestep this increase. 

The Director-General of NECA, Mr Timothy Olawale, noted: “If this new VAT rate is implemented, the purchasing power of the citizens would have been reduced, sales of goods and services will reduce and inventories for business will be high and could lead to closure of businesses that ought to be supported by government in reducing unemployment rate that is currently alarming."

 “Furthermore, the benefits of the recently signed national minimum wage of N30,000 would be neutralised by the proposed increase in the VAT, further reducing the purchasing power of the citizens, leading to increase in prices of goods and services. It will result in upward movement of the inflation rate, and further contraction of the economy.”

Though Olawale conceded that "additional VAT revenue will help reduce budget deficits, reduce government debt and fund social services especially at sub-national level," he also stated that the VAT increase should have not have been applied universally but rather be dependent on financial ability, or limited to luxury or ostentatious goods.

All in all, the recent VAT increase has not been received positively as it is predicted to have a negative outcome on the pockets of Nigerians as a whole. 

The Judgement of the Presidental Election Peitition Tribunal over the the 2019 victory of President Muhammadu Buhari has been criticized by The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria.

The petition, originally filed by Atiku Abubakar, candidate of the Peoples Democtatic Party challenged Buhari's right to Nigerian Presidency, inquiring as to whether Buhari did indeed possess a secondary school; an educational requirement by law.

 The tribunal endorsed President Buhari's Nigerian Military certificate, stating was higher than a secondary school certificate qualifying him for the position.

A statement released on Wednesday bu the HURIWA read:"We are not surprised that the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal has wrongly confirmed the overwhelming perception of most critical-minded Nigerians that nothing good will ever come out from the current contraption we call the Nigerian judicial system."

"The Nigerian system as it is currently constituted is dysfunctional, is compromised, is tainted politically, is populated and driven physically by people with the wrong mindset who are not patriotic, who are not committed to the real essence of justice as it should be.”

The group further said, “It is inconceivable that the judiciary would close its eyes to the fact that there are lingering debates and argument strong enough to disqualify one of the candidates which are the exact whereabouts of the secondary school certificate.

“If the constitution says you need at least a (secondary) school certificate, what the constitution means is that the secondary school certificate is the minimum benchmark."

“Secondly, we are highly disappointed in the first instance by the dismissal of the application that was filed by the petitioner seeking to get the Supreme Court's nod to compel INEC to allow the petitioners to supervise the server.” 

Bitcoin x Ghana.

Before we delve into the title, here is some light information on Bitcoin for the unfamiliar.

Although paperless and striclty digital, Bitcoin is like any other currency. But unlike other currencies, it can be transmitted globally, instantly and at a lower rate. Bitcoin allows you to "be your own bank," meaning you have complete control over your funds; no sudden dedections. It is money that exists online; not to be confused with the online banking apps offered by banks.

Firstly, in order to trade in Bitcoin,you will need a unique Bitcoin address (similar to a bank account number) which can be generated for free by downloading wallet software from bitcoin.org or coinbase.com. Coin base is recommended here for the conversion to local currency. It works via connection with a current bank account.

If you would prefer not to use a bank account, LocalBitcoin.com is a good alternative for local trading. Here, Bitcoin can be exchanged with cash, face to face, or through PayPal. 

LocalBitcoin.com and BTCGhana.com are also currently facilitating the conversion of Bitcoin to the Ghana Cedi through Mtn Mobile Money, Tigo Cash, and Airtel Money.

Advisory: if you are going to be trading large sums of money via Bitcoin, you will need to first ensure a thorough understanding. A suggestion would be to Google how to encrypt and backup your wallet and take it from there. 

Hours away from the announcement of a new iPhone,credible source, Analyst Ming- Chi Kuo, has come forth to reaveal the features it will not have.

The iPhone 11 will:

• Not support Apple pencil input.
• Not charge over USB-C.
• Not support bilateral wireless charging, meaning you willl not be able to wirelessly charge Qi -enabled such as the AirPod case on the back of the phone. 
• Not feature large batteries for bilateral wireles charging; it has been confirmed that Apple ditched this feature due to technological issues. 

According to Kuo, the new iPhone allegedly will feature:

• 5.8-inch and 6.6-inch models of the iPhone 11 Pro which will have g\fast charging 18W power adapter with USB-C connector.
• Lightning connectivity for all three models.
• 6.1-inch iPhone XR 2 will have a 5W USB-A charger.
• New colors introduced for all models. 

On Monday, Coordinator Laden Baba, of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kano state disclosed that eight foreign trained Nigerian graduates were denied access to registeration, due to their inability to defend their degrees with consistent and complete documents. 

He also stated that a number of the graduates were lacked basic speaking skills and clearly had not even recieved any formal education but had somehow illegally obtained certificates stating otherwise in Kano and its surrounding areas. 

Pictured: Batch B Closing Ceremony, Kano.

Furthermore, Mr Baba added: “This will undoubtedly require urgent action by the government and good people of Kano in collaboration with the dogged security agencies in the state to checkmate this ugly trend that will affect us negatively."

It was also revealed that out of the 1,700  of 1293 corps members posted to Kano had been registered and undergone training modules for skill acquisition. 

Mr Baba further advised the corps members to contribute immensely towards the development of the state and country.

1. Jay Jay Okocha

2. Nwanko Kanu

3. Mikel Obi

4. Rashidi Yekini

5. Finidi George

6. Segun Odegbami

7. Taribo West

8. Sunday Oliseh

9. Stephen Keshi

10. Daniel Amokachi

At the Open Final on Saturday at 4pm, Serena Williams and Bianca Andreescu will face off.

Serena Williams who is seeded 8th in the world advanced on Thursday with a win over Elina Svitolina, Number 5 seed.

Bianca Andreescu labored to her 7-6(3), 7-5 victory over Belinda Bencic coming back to win in the last five games.

The face off will be a repeat of last month's Rogers Cup Final won by Andreescu when Williams retired with a back injury.

Here's a look at the Open final by the numbers:

23: Grand Slam titles for Serena, who would tie Margaret Court at 24 with a win.

0: Grand Slam titles for Andreescu, who is playing in her maiden Slam final and lost in the first round of U.S. Open qualifying in 2018.

6: U.S. Open titles for Williams. A win would give Serena seven and break a tie with Chrissie Evert.

101: U.S. Open match wins for Serena.

Nicki Minaj annouced her imminent retirement from music via Twitter. 

She stated: “I've decided to retire & have my family. I know you guys are happy now." The latter sentence refers to the hate mail she has been recieving, suggesting that she should have children because time was not on her side. 

In past interviews, Nicki has expressed her love for children and her wish to become a mother, stating that she would marry first though, however. Rumor has it that she and her long time boyfriend Kenneth Petty have acquired a marriage license, so children may not be far off. 

The halls of Nicki's decade long rap career have been truly decorated: with ten Grammys, five MTV music awards and a Guiness World Record for the most entries by a female solo artist on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. She was also acknowledged this year as the first female rapper to officially sell One Hundred Million albums and singles. 

Let's face it though, is Nicki truly permanently retiring from music? Perhaps she will she make an explosive return like Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Childish Gambino, or basically every high profile rapper at one point within the last decade!

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, national leader of All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a statement on the death of his cousin and former Head of Service in Lagos State, Alhaji Rafiu Babatunde Tinubu, 75, who passed after a brief illness.

Alhaji Rafiu Tinubu

Bola Tinubu’s statement reads as follows: “It was with a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing away on, Wednesday, September 4, 2019, of my first cousin and eminent member of our highly-respected family, Alhaji Rafiu Babatunde Tinubu, son of Dr. Abdul Hameed Saka Tinubu."

“The memory of this distinguished public servant, passionate Lagosian and patriotic Nigerian popularly known simply as RAB by all and sundry will ever remain fresh in my mind particularly because of the critical role he played in helping to lay a firm foundation for the success of my administration during my two-term tenure as governor of Lagos State between 1999 and 2007."

“Coming into office as governor from the private sector, I knew that I needed a Head of the State Civil Service who I could trust and who would help forge a harmonious relationship between my administration and the public service on which the success of any government depends to a significant extent. Nobody at that time could fit the bill as perfectly as Alhaji Rafiu Babatunde Tinubu."

“As a family member, he would understandably desire nothing but the success of my administration. But much more than that, he had the requisite intellectual grounding as well as public service managerial experience, rising from the lower rungs to the upper echelon of the Lagos State Public Service between 1978 and 1999."

“With a Bachelor’s (B.A) and Master’s (M.A) degrees in Political Science from the prestigious Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA, he joined the Lagos State Public Service in June 1978 after a teaching stint at the Department of Political Science of the then University of Ife between 1974 and 1978."

“Before his appointment as my administration’s first Head of Service (HOS) in 1999, Alhaji Rafiu Tinubu had served with dedication and distinction in various administrative positions both in the State Civil Service and Local Government Service over a period of two decades."

“His experience and dexterity in the complex politics of the public service was of tremendous value to my administration and helped to gradually build and sustain a cordial working relationship between the political class and the bureaucratic machinery of the public service."

“I recall that at the inception of my administration, there was a protracted labour crisis between the government and the public service as a result of the new minimum wage of N7, 500.00, which the state was unable to pay at the time due to the near insolvent state of its finances."

“Alhaji Tinubu’s experience and wise counsel played a crucial role in enabling us go through that difficult period and forge a relationship of mutual trust, confidence and respect by both parties especially as the capacity of our administration to meet our welfare obligations to workers systematically grew as a result of our far-reaching reforms."

“His advice helped us greatly in appointing a team of highly capable, experienced and dedicated Permanent Secretaries who played indelible roles in our administration’s success in laying a solid foundation for the continuing transformation of Lagos."

“At the same time, we commenced during his tenure as HOS, the reorganization, reequipping and transformation of the Lagos State Public Service to the pride of place it occupies in Nigeria’s public administration today."

“Alhaji Rafiu Tinubu was particularly passionate about recruiting new, talented hands into the Service, which commenced with the employment of 5000 fresh graduates into the civil service in Y2000 popularly known as the millennium staff. It is gratifying that these have today risen to critical managerial positions in the Service."

“The late Rafiu Tinubu came, saw and gave his very best to the development of the Lagos State Civil Service, Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. I condole with his wives, his children, the extended Tinubu family, all his loved ones as well as the government and people of Lagos State on this sad loss."

“I pray that his soul rest in perfect peace with his creator (Amin).”

In the midst of its ongoing recruitment of 10,000 constables, The Police Service Commission issued a statement warning prospective candidates who applied as constables to ignore a list of candidates initially posted by the National Police Force.

Police Service Commission Spokesman Ikechukwu Ani, discredited the list which contained shortlisted applicants invited for a medical screening on 9th to 14th September. The list was said to have been compiled solely by the Nigerian Police Force, with no involvement from the Police Service Commission.

Ani further advised applicants who took part in the aptitude on August 3rd to standby for the authentic list to be released and assured that the recruitment process would be merit-driven and transparent, in line with the Public Service Rules and Federal Character principle.

He also stated that “(The commission) will resist any attempt to sabotage its efforts in this direction. Applicants are, therefore, advised not to panic or despair as all their interests will be adequately protected.”

It was learned that Alhaji Musiliu Smith, a retired Inspector-General of Police, was shocked to hear the news of the release of the results though he is being accused of colluding in the release of the NPF's list. 

Fearing reprisal attacks, South Africa has closed down its embassies and diplomatic missions in Lagos and Abuja. This decision comes as a result of the string of attacks and looting against Nigerians and other foreigners in Johannesburg South Africa.  Five people were killed and 189 arrested in what has been characterized as a xenophobia driven unrest targeting foreign owned businesses.

The operation of foreign owned businesses such as the Nigerian arm of MTN have also been disrupted after some of its branches were also targeted.

Citizens of other countries such as Zambia, Kenya, and Ethiopia were also targeted.

Nigeria has also pulled out of the World Economic Forum conference set to be hosted this week by South Africa; the nation also plants to withdraw its ambassador.

As a further result of the violence, Zambia has also withdrawn from a friendly match against South Africa.

Several internationally recognized Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy and Tiwa Savage have also openly condemned the violence in South Africa

Fearing reprisal attacks, South Africa has closed down its embassies and diplomatic missions in Lagos and Abuja. This decision comes as a result of the string of attacks and looting against Nigerians and other foreigners in Johannesburg South Africa.  Five people were killed and 189 arrested in what has been characterized as a xenophobia driven unrest targeting foreign owned businesses.

The operation of foreign owned businesses such as the Nigerian arm of MTN have also been disrupted after some of its branches were also targeted.

Citizens of other countries such as Zambia, Kenya, and Ethiopia were also targeted.

Nigeria has also pulled out of the World Economic Forum conference set to be hosted this week by South Africa; the nation also plants to withdraw its ambassador.

As a further result of the violence, Zambia has also withdrawn from a friendly match against South Africa.

Several internationally recognized Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy and Tiwa Savage have also openly condemned the violence in South Africa.

Zambian university set sign outside South African Embassy on fire. 

Each of these bars have signature cocktails and delicious meals/ fingerfoods!

1. Bloombar, Osu

2. Skybar, Airport Residential

3. The Honeysuckle Pub: Osu, Labone, East Legon

4.Sai Wine and Champagne Cafe, Labone

5. Republic Bar, Osu

6. Champs Sports Bar, Ring Road

7. Venus Lounge and Bar, Osu

8.The Piano Bar, Teshie

9. AMPM, Airport Residential

10. Fire Fly

11. Shisha Lounge, Osu

As part of a reenergized effort to curtail the funds and activites of the Boko Haram, The Nigerian army arrested four suppliers to the insurgents along the Maiduguri road on Tuesday.

Among the items siezed wer: diesel disguised as palm oil, bread, grain, motorcycle spare parts, and marterials to be used in the manufacturing of Improvised Explosive Devices. These items, along with the vehicles belonging to the suppliers were subsequently destroyed. 

 Major General Olusegun Adeniyi stated that there was a ban on the sale of petrol and other commodities in order to halt the insurgent access. Certain commercial vehicle operators even went as far to modify their tank capacities to 200 liters in order to sell petrol to insurgents for N245. 

“There are no petrol stations in the Sambisa Forest, Algarno, Baga and Gwoza; the logistics sustaining the insurgents is coming from Maiduguri, Damaturu and other settlements," he disclosed. 

Officials stationed at checkpoints apprehended four vehicles enroute to deliver large amounts of supplies to the insurgents. 

The Nigerian public were cautioned to abstain from facilitating the insurgents with the threat of prosecution and the seizure and destruction of their vehicles and other property.

Flyers included!

1. Afronation Ghana: 27th - 30th December 2019. 

Laboma Beach, Accra.

The biggest urban music beach festival in Europe returns to Africa! Third wave of performing artists to be announced. For more info visit: https://afronationghana.com/

2. Afrochella:  28th December, 2019

Location:El Wak Sports Stadium, Accra. 

Festival Celebrating African Culture with Music, Fashion and Art. 

Location and line ups to be announced! For more information visit: https://www.afrochella.com/ or email info@afrochella.com

3. Little Havana 4: 26th December 2019

Location: Little Acre, Aburi

All white Cuban themed Party!

Stay tuned to @littlehavanapremium on instagram for more details.

5. Detty Rave 3: The Homecoming -27th December 2019

dettyrave.com.

By Mr. Eazi: An electrifying concert featuring African artists. Line up and location to be announced.

6.Tribvl Africa: Jungle Fever- 24th December 2019

Legon Botanical Gardens, Accra

https://tribvlafrica.com

Movement curated by young Africans promoting African culture through music, art, fashion, food and dance.

7. The Village GH: 15 Dec 2019 and 5 January 2020

Launched last December The Village is the only 360 interactive Ghanaian cultural experience. 

Experiences include: Interactive cultural Installations, Local drinks and snacks, Gift Shop, Local Games, Body Art: Adinkra symbols, Traditional Wear: Try on traditional Ghanaian attire including Batakare, Kente, Densinkran, Curated Exhibitions by local artists,  AfroBeats Paint and Sip

8.The Garden Party- Date and flyer TBA

Polo Beach Club, Accra

@thedaypartygh- instagram

9. PinexGinja: 24th December

PineXGinja, the ONLY Jamaican-themed party in Accra, Ghana. Bashment Central. 

Twitter: PinexGinja

10. Drip Glow in the Dark Party: 24th December 2019

Details to be announced on Akwaauk.com

Upcoming Events by Akwaaba Group Below:

Karaoke has caught on like wildfire in Accra. Each of these events are a hit (whether or not you participate!) Go on, and judge each performance over some drinks. 

Each venue has great ambience, cocktails and fingerfoods/meals! Each a must-visit on any given night!

Tuesday Evenings: Republic, Osu

Wednesday Evenings: Honeysuckle, Labone

Thursdysay Evenings: Starbites, Airport Ciry

                                     Shuga, Labone

Friday Evenings: Champs Sports Bar, Ring Road

Saturday Evenings: Honeysuckle, East Legon

                                 Honeysuckle, Osu

                                 Smoke 'n' Barrel, Labone

                                 AMPM, Villagio, Airport City

Sunday Evenings: Kikibee's, East Legon

Feel free to check out their social media!

MUST VISIT BEACHES IN GHANA.  

What is your ideal beach made of?
Serenity, greenery, turtles, cleanliness, surfing, bonfires, live music, festivals, souvenirs etc. The list below captures all this and more!

1. Cape 3 points Western Region
2. Busua, Western Region
3. Axim, Western Region
4. WInneba, Central Region
5. Elmina, Central Region
6. Keta, Volta Region
7. Gomoah Fetteh, Central Region
8. Ada, Greater Accra
9. Kokribite, Greater Accra
10. La, Greater Accra
11. Stay tuned for more details on each location!

Rampant looting and destruction of of foreign-owned businesses in Johannesburg

Nigerian government to take action to protect its citizens in Nigeria 

In the wake of the recent string of attacks on immigrants from other African countries, South Africa prepares to host leaders from across the continent For the World Economic Forum in Cape Town on September 4th. Also upcoming for South Africa is a scheduled state visit by President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria, whose nationals are being specifically targeted in South Africa. 

Violence broke out in Johannesburg Sunday, September 3rd and has currently spread. It has caused the destruction of more than 50 businesses owned by Africans from countries such as Nigeria and Somalia. Aside from the looting, shops and cars were also set ablaze.

The Nigerian government issued a statement on Twitter denouncing the continuing attacks on Nigerian nationals and businesses in South Africa, stating that it is taking measures to  ensure the safety and protection of its citizens.

This is not the first report of violence against African migrants in South Africa. In 2008, 60 people were killed while 50,000 for from their homes. In 2015, seven people also died in violence. Migrants are perceived to be threats to  these migrants are seen as threats 2 South African job and government aid 

Politicians, South Afrcan and Nigerian, alike have also spoken out against the violence. Conversely,  South African president Cyril Ramaphosa is yet to issue a public statement.

Similarly, South African truckers also began a strike, protesting against foreign truck drivers. 120 of these South African truckers in the Kwazulu-natal province were arrested for the possession of weapons, blocking roads, and also in connection with some attacks on trucks.

Zambia has also issued a warning to its truck drivers to stay out to avoid the country.

Zimbabwe also noted that trucks on the Zimbabwean side of the South African border have queued, reluctant to cross due to the unrest. 

Companies such as Anglogold Ashanti Limited, American PLC and Absa Group Limited have limited operations in South Africa this week. 

All in all, xenophobic comments in South Africa can also traced back to the ruling African National Congress who have in the past made statements against migrants. Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba also drew criticism for his frequent tirades on undocumented migrants. 

Real Madrid were one of the biggest spenders in Europe this summer as Zinedine Zidane added some serious talent to his underperforming squad.

Eden Hazard was the main arrival for an initial £90m, while Luka Jovic, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo all arrived for over £40m.

There were several other star names linked with big-money moves to the Spanish capital.

Here’s four that couldn’t quite make a deal happen.

Christian Eriksen

Christian Eriksen never really came close to securing his much desired move to Real Madrid.

The Dane invited the Spanish side to make an offer for him when he expressed his wish for a “new challenge” after losing the Champions League final in June.

Real’s attention was clearly elsewhere though, and Mauricio Pochettino can breathe a sigh of relief - until January.

Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United target Bruno Fernandes was expected to complete a last-gasp blockbuster move to the Bernabeu on deadline day.

However, despite ESPN’s claims, the Portuguese has remained at Sporting Lisbon, having even broken down in tears during pre-season.

Expect a European giant to come back in for him in January.

Neymar

Real and Barcelona spent the summer fighting it out for Brazilian superstar Neymar.

Neither rival managed to get their hands on the PSG trickster though.

Barca always looked the more likely to hand him a return to Spain, with Lionel Messi even pushing the club to land his signature.

Paul Pogba

Another Premier League midfielder who hinted he wanted to test himself elsewhere earlier in the summer, Paul Pogba has remained at Old Trafford.

The 26-year-old was also linked with a return to Juventus, but they also appeared to get nowhere close to tempting United to sell him.

Reports in Spain suggest Los Blancos will have another go at signing him next summer.

Barcelona have until midnight to make any more transfers as they still hunt Neymar and Express Sport has the latest news, gossip and rumours.

Barcelona transfer news LIVE - September 2

• Barcelona have ended their pursuit of Neymar for this summer and will return in 2020.
• Juventus want to sign Ivan Rakitic from the Catalan giants.
• Lionel Messi sent Neymar a text message to try to secure the Brazilian’s signing.
• La Liga clubs have until midnight (11pm UK) to make any last-minute transfers
• Barcelona midfielder Rafinha has joined Celta Vigo on a season-long loan.

TOP TEN TRANSFERS 

With the transfer window shut, here's a look at the top ten most expensive transfers of the summer transfer window.

La Liga sides lead the way with the top three signings, and four out of the top ten. 

1) Joao Felix - Benfica to Atletico Madrid - $136.3m [£112.9m]

2) Antoine Griezmann - Atletico Madrid to Barcelona - $129.8m [£107.6m]

3) Eden Hazard - Chelsea to Real Madrid - $106.8m [£88.5m]

4) Harry Maguire - Leicester to Manchester United - $96.5m [£79.96m]

5) Nicolas Pepe - Lille to Arsenal - $86.8m [£71.9m]

6) Romeu Lukaku - Manchester United to Inter Milan - $84.4m [69.9m]

7) Lucas Hernandez - Atletico Madrid to Bayern Munich - $82m [£67.9m]

8) Matthijs de Ligt - Ajax to Juventus - $81.8m [£67.7m]

9) Frankie de Jong - Ajax to Barcelona - $78.8m [£65.3m]

10) Rodrigo - Atletico Madrid to Manchester City - $75.5m [£62.5m]

TRANSFER WINDOW CLOSED

Ivan Rakitic will stay at Barcelona until the end of the year at least, as the deadline for European clubs to sign players has now passed. 

Barca spent a reported £230million in the window, but failed to acquire their main target - PSG star Neymar.

They forked out £108m for Frenchman Antoine Griezmann, while allowing Malcom to leave for Zenit St Petersberg in a £37m deal. 

Neymar exit would have been terrible

Several PSG stars would have left the club if Neymar was sold this summer, according to legendary former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

“I think that he is one of the best players in the world and I am happy that he is staying at PSG,” said Wenger. “Because when you lose one of your two or three best players in the world, the law in our world is that the following year you lose the other.

“It is very difficult to have players who make a difference, even when you have a lot of money. When you have them, you must keep them.

“When you want to keep a player, it is better to convince him how important you are to him, rather than to give him zero chance to leave.”

Done Deal - Icardi signs

PSG have completed the signing of Inter Milan star Mauro Icardi.

The Argentine international will join on a season-long loan having been frozen out by San Siro boss Antonio Conte.

PSG will have the option to make the deal permanent for £59million. Reports add that Icardi will earn £140k per week plus £1.8m in bonuses.

Icardi: "I am going to give my heart and soul to help my new team go as far as possible in all the competitions. PSG has become a stronghold in world football... I thank PSG for their confidence in me."

The group stage draw streamed live on Thursday separates the 32 teams into eight groups of four.

Contenders

Pot 1

Liverpool (ENG, holders)
Chelsea (ENG, UEFA Europa League winners)
Barcelona (ESP)
Manchester City (ENG)
Juventus (ITA)
Bayern (GER)
Paris (FRA)
Zenit (RUS)

Pot 2

Real Madrid (ESP) coefficient 146.000
Atlético Madrid (ESP) 127.000 
Borussia Dortmund (GER) 85.000 
Napoli (ITA) 80.000
Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) 80.000
Tottenham Hotspur (ENG) 78.000 
Ajax (NED) 70.500
Benfica (POR) 68.000

Pot 3

Lyon (FRA) 61.500 
Bayer Leverkusen (GER) 61.000  
Salzburg (AUT) 54.500
Olympiacos (GRE) 44.000 
Club Brugge (BEL) 39.500 
Valencia (ESP) 37.000
Internazionale Milano (ITA) 31.000 
GNK Dinamo (CRO) 29.500

Pot 4

Lokomotiv Moskva (RUS) 28.500 
Genk (BEL) 25.000 
Galatasaray (TUR) 22.500 
RB Leipzig (GER) 22.000 
Slavia Praha (CZE) 21.500 
Crvena zvezda (SRB) 16.750 
Atalanta (ITA) 14.945 
LOSC Lille (FRA) 11.699

Draw procedure

• The 26 teams given direct entry to the group stage are joined by the six winners of the play-off ties

• The teams are split into four seeding pots. Pot 1 consists of the holders, the UEFA Europa League winners and the champions of the six highest-ranked nations. Pots 2 to 4 are determined by the club coefficient rankings.

• No team can play a club from their own association, with the exact draw procedure to be confirmed before the ceremony.

• The draw also establishes the groups for the UEFA Champions League path of the UEFA Youth League.

Match dates

Matchday one: 17/18 September

Matchday two: 1/2 October
Matchday three: 22/23 October
Matchday four: 5/6 November
Matchday five: 26/27 November
Matchday six: 10/11 December

UEFA awards

The following award winners will also be announced during the draw ceremony:

UEFA Men's Player of the Year
UEFA Women's Player of the Year
Goalkeeper of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League season
Defender of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League season
Midfielder of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League season
Forward of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League season

Notes

Club's coefficients are determined EITHER by the sum of all points won in the previous five years OR by the association coefficient over the same period – WHICHEVER IS THE HIGHER.

The draws are provisional and are subject to the outcome of ongoing investigations and/or legal proceedings and final confirmation by UEFA.

UEFA.COM

The Blaugrana defender discussed his former Brazilian team-mate, who has been linked with a Camp Nou comeback

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique says he would like to see Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar return to La Liga champions Barcelona.

The Brazilian forward wants to leave PSG and has been linked with a move back to Barca, two years on from his world-record €222 million (£200m/$246m) transfer.

Real Madrid have also emerged as a possible destination for Neymar before the transfer window shuts on September 2, but Blaugrana centre-half Pique would be happy if the 27-year-old returned to Camp Nou.

• Australian responds to question about recent fine.
• Controversial 28th seed facing suspension by ATP.

Nick Kyrgios delivered a focused performance with a sprinkling of controversy in his US Open first round match. Photograph: Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

Nick Kyrgios has accused the ATP of being corrupt in the aftermath of his US Open first-round win over American Steve Johnson at Flushing Meadows.

The tennis firebrand was asked what he thought about being fined a record $US113,000 ($A167,000) for his spectacular meltdown in Cincinnati this month.

“The ATP is pretty corrupt anyway. I’m not fussed about it at all,” he said in a development that will almost certainly force the governing body of men’s tennis to suspend the Australian, having already said it was considering such a move.

“I was fined $113K for what? Why are we talking about something that happened three weeks ago when I just chopped up someone first round of a US Open?”

US Open officials had given Kyrgios the green light to play the final grand slam of the year despite tennis chiefs continuing to weigh up whether or not the temperamental talent should be suspended for his latest outburst in Cincinnati.

The ATP offered no time line around when it would make any decision on Kyrgios’s fate when quizzed on the eve of the Open, which started on Monday.

Believed to be the biggest fine in the sport’s history, Kyrgios was slapped with separate penalties for an audible obscenity, ball abuse, verbal abuse towards the umpire, leaving the court and four counts of unsportsmanlike conduct during his explosive second-round loss to Karen Khachanov.

In addition to the fines, the ATP said it was “looking further into what happened during and immediately after the match to see if additional action is warranted under the Player Major Offence section of the code and that could result in an additional fine and/or suspension”.

But the 24-year-old was unrepentant after progressing to the second round at Flushing Meadows.

“Have you ever sworn at someone before?” he countered at a journalist. “... You’re not an elite athlete.” Asked if he was saying it was acceptable for elite athletes to swear, he said: “No, I’m just saying people get frustrated. It happens.”

Earlier, Kyrgios delivered heaps of brilliant shotmaking and a sprinkle of controversy in his 6-3, 7-6 (7-1), 6-4 win that put him into a second-round meeting with Frenchman Antoine Hoang, who beat Argentine Leonardo Mayer.

Kyrgios was laser-focused for the first half of the match as he deployed a lethal mix of monster serves, stinging forehands and smart net play but nearly unravelled when he got agitated over a fan who interrupted his ball toss.

The 28th seed was serving at 4-4 in the second set when a woman trying to get to her seat entered his line of sight during his serve, at which point an annoyed Kyrgios asked aloud if she was alright.

Kyrgios then looked to the chair umpire who said he could not have prevented the interruption because he did not see it since he was focused on the players. But a clearly perturbed Kyrgios was not happy with that explanation and following a verbal exchange was given a code violation warning for an audible obscenity.

After Kyrgios held serve to go 5-4 up he resumed his back-and-forth with the umpire on the changeover at which point a clearly annoyed Johnson asked his opponent when he was going to “play fucking tennis”.

Kyrgios, who has repeatedly got in trouble for on-court actions and is known for his short temper, did not let the incident affect his sublime play as he settled right back down to business.

The Australian blitzed Johnson in the second set tiebreak where he showed his lighter side when he broke into a little dance after chasing down a dropshot he sent back for a brilliant crosscourt winner and a commanding 6-0 cushion.

“It was pretty clean,” Kyrgios said of the tiebreak. “I knew it was an important set. If he got that set the match could have been different and we’d still be playing right now.”

Johnson, who was being thoroughly outplayed, did manage to finally earn his first break to get to within 3-1 in the third set but Kyrgios relied on his massive serve to carry him over the finish line.

Kyrgios was all business from the outset and when he held at love in his first service game for 1-1, he soaked up the first of many “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie” chants inside Louis Armstrong Stadium on the night. The Australian controlled the match with his serve as he won 88% of his first serve points and saved three of the four break points he faced.

Three persons were confirmed dead and 69 others injured in an accident involving a Dangote Cement Plc’s truck and a Bus Rapid Transit vehicle on Tuesday at the Ogolonto area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the truck, which was laden with 45 tonnes of cement, suffered brake failure around 10.30am and skidded into the BRT lane, and crushed the bus with number plate LSR 228 XS.

Our correspondents gathered that the truck was heading for Ikorodu, while the fully loaded BRT was heading for the Lagos Island, when the accident occurred.

It was gathered that while the BRT driver, Samuel Akpochi, and a bus trainee died in hospital, a female passenger died on the spot.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the injured passengers were taken to the Ikorodu General Hospital and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja.

An eyewitness, who identified himself simply as Wale, said one of the passengers died at the  Ikorodu General Hospital, adding that other injured passengers were taken to different hospitals.

He stated, “These truck owners want to maximise their returns. They don’t care what happens to an overloaded truck. From what the officials said, the truck conveyed 45 tonnes of cement, way beyond its capacity.

“Many people were evacuated from the wreckage alive but suffered severe injuries. I’m convinced that many may not be able to walk again. They have all been taken to the Ikorodu General Hospital.

“If those in authority can regulate the operations of trucks on our roads, the country will have less carnage every year.”

Another eyewitness, who identified himself simply as Chinedu, noted that it was a horrible sight as some people were busy stealing the victims’ phones and money rather than rescuing them.

“The situation was horrible. I thought the people, who gathered at the scene, were going to rescue the victims, but they went there to steal and as soon as they were done removing phones and money from the victims, they disappeared.”

One of our correspondents observed that scavengers were busy parking some of the broken parts of the bus and the truck.

Scene of the accident

PUNCH Metro learnt that the rescue efforts coordinated by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, also involved officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps and the police.

The Director-General, LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that all the passengers on board the BRT vehicle were injured, adding that investigation would be conducted to determine the factors responsible for the accident.

He said, “A Dangote truck loaded with cement suffered brake failure and had a head-on collision with a Primero blue mass transit bus with number plate LSR 228 XS, which was conveying 40 seated and 20 standing passengers.

“All the passengers on board suffered injuries with one female passenger losing her life and the BRT driver suffering life-threatening injuries with his leg decapitated. Recovery operations are ongoing.”

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bala Elkana, who confirmed the death of three persons, noted that 32 injured passengers had been taken to hospital.

“Three people died in the accident. We have moved 32 people, who were injured, to hospital for treatment,” Elkana stated.

The Public Relations Officer, Primero, Cletus Okordolor, who confirmed the accident, noted that it was a sad day for the company.

He said, “Two of our busmen died in the accident, the driver and a trainee, who was on the shadow run. The bus conveyed about 70 passengers. It has been a sad day for us.

“We have successfully moved all the victims to the General Hospital in Ikorodu and those whose cases are critical have been moved to LASUTH. The bus driver and the trainee died in the hospital while receiving treatment, while a female passenger died on the spot of the accident.

“The bus was coming from Ikorodu and heading for the Island, while the Dangote truck was coming from Mile 12 and heading for Ikorodu. The driver of the truck slept off and veered off the service lane and came into the BRT corridor and crashed into our bus.”

Dangote Group’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr Anthony Chiejina, expressed sadness over the accident, noting that the truck was owned by one of Dangote Cement’s distributors.

Chiejina said the company had commenced investigations into the accident.

He said in a telephone conversation with one of our correspondents, “We are saddened by  this unfortunate accident involving a BRT bus and our distributor’s. We sincerely commiserate with those affected by the accident and members of their families.

“Dangote Cement is working with the distributor to ensure appropriate medical response for the victims.”

Etim Ekpimah and Oluwatosin Omojuyigbe- Punch.ng

GOOGLE has replaced their daily doodle with a commemoration to singer Cesária Évora on what would have been her 78th birthday, but who is Cesária Évora, who was often known as the “Barefoot Diva”?

Cesária Évora has been honoured by Google in their daily doodle, on what would have been her 78th birthday. She was known as the “Barefoot Diva” and “Queen of Morna”, and to close friends “Cise”. She was born in Mindelo, Cape Verde and died on December 17, 2011 in Sao Vicente, Cape Verde.

Who is Cesária Évora?

Cesária is a famous Cape Verdean singer, beginning her career in the 1960s, first performing on Portuguese cruise ships and on local radio, before being noticed by a producer.

She was born to parents Justino da Cruz and mother Dona Joana.

Cesária had a difficult start to life, with her father - a part-time musician - dying when she was just seven years old.

She was placed in an orphanage at the age of 10, as her mother could not cope with six children.

When she was 16, she was persuaded by a friend to sing in a sailors tavern.

Cesária grew up at a famous house in Mindelo which housed famous singers from the 1940s to the 1970s.

She was invited by Cape Verdean singer Bana to perform in Portugal, and once there was discovered by producer Jose da Silva and invited to record in Paris.

There, she recorded the single Ausência which was released as the second track of the soundtrack of the film Underground (1995).

Her first album, La Diva Aux Pieds Nus, found her international success when it was released in 1988.

Stefflon Don has come out to deny the rumours spreading around that her relationship with Burna Boy has crashed.

The London based rapper took to her Instagram stories on Tuesday, August 27, 2019, where she shared a post debunking the news of a breakup. She revealed that the videos in circulation of Burna Boy and Princess Shyngle are from the past. She prayed for people to give it rest as there was no trouble in paradise.

"Old videos. Please let it rest, we good over here. Thanks," she wrote. She went on to share a photo of Burna Boy and herself during a video call.

Since Burna Boy revealed that he and Stefflon Don had officially become a pair, their relationship has become the talk of many including fans and critics. However, we've admired how they have remained affectionate towards each other...plus the PDA is top-notch.

The music star made this known during an interview with Ebro on his show 'Beats1' on Hot 97 FM in the United States of America. The On-Air personality wanted Burna Boy to clarify his relationship status with Stefflon Don and your favourite singer couldn't help but blush as he responded.

On a more serious note, that's my wifey. If you wanted a wifey, she's like the most perfect person with that perfect description. Unfortunately, she's mine now..." he said.

We first got to know and see this beautiful relationship get to the public a few months ago when Burna Boy shared a video of Stefflon Don and himself all cuddled up.

"He told me I was going to be his wife" - Stefflon Don speaks on when she first met Burna Boy.

The London based rapper made this known while granting an interview with Los Angeles radio station, Power 105.1. According to her, she missed her flight while on a trip to Ghana and decided to attend a show where Burna Boy performed.

"I met him in Ghana. I was in Africa for a show then I missed my flight, he had a show where he performed and I went to the show and the rest is history baby. He told me I was going to be his wife and you know how boys always talk shit, but I didn't remember he said that but he told me and I was like wow," she said.

She also said that Burna Boy told her people would soon see her wearing an engagement ring.  

By Odion Okonofua- Pulse.ng

Japanese wearing traditional African attire welcomed President Muhammadu Buhari to their country on Monday.

President Buhari is in the Asian country to attend the Seventh Tokyo International Conference on African Development.

The TICAD7 will take place in the City of Yokohama from August 28 to 30.

Photos of Buhari’s welcome party was shared by his New Media aide, Bashir Ahmad on his verified Twitter handle.

Buhari was also seen in the company of the Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyema and the Nigerian Ambassador to Japan, Mohammed Gana Yisa on his arrival in Japan.

Pungch.ng

Spoilers ahead for Power Season 6. Almost every season of Power has included the death of major and seemingly essential characters. Which means that heading into the "Final Betrayal," as Starz is calling the final season, all bets are off. Still, it's a shock for fans to learn in the Power season 6 premiere that Angela died from Tommy's shot at Ghost. And not just because Tommy (Joseph Sikora) snapped and tried to kill his BFF or that any hopes of the series ending with Angela (Lela Loren) and Ghost (Omari Hardwick) living happily ever after together are completely dashed. It's a gut punch mostly because this character death is precisely what fans were promised wasn't going to happen.

Turns out that it was all about semantics. If you flash back to September of last year, you'll remember that most fans assumed Angela was gone for good in the Season 5 finale cliffhanger. It sure looked like Angela was dying in Ghost's arms in the stairwell of that Queens high school when the episode faded to black and PowerTwitter was was lit on fire with the hottest Angela and Jamie takes.

Kemp quickly took to Instagram to settle up with fans, posting a pic that read "Angela Is Not Dead" and then captioning the picture with the line "Stop the debates." Rightfully, most viewers dropped it, figuring it meant that Angela would somehow survive the gunshot wound. Kemp smiles sneakily when asked why she lied to her fans. "I didn't lie," she tells Bustle. "She wasn't dead," Kemp adds with a shake of her head.

Technically, she's right. Angela was breathing all the way up until the first scene of Season 6, when she's being rushed into surgery. She doesn't die until hours later, when her death is triple confirmed by Saxe (Shane Johnson) when he unzips her body bag in the morgue (which was totally unnecessary, by the way), lest you were thinking the show could rely on the unofficial rule of TV deaths: if there's no body on screen, a character can always come back. Alas, this doesn't seem to be the case with Power's final season.

But it did make for an epic cliffhanger, which is why Kemp adds that her team also shot an official death scene meant for Season 5 but decided not to use it. Now that Angela is actually gone, things are going to really go off the rails, something Kemp seems to be looking forward to fans seeing. Before this season's end, expect bodies to drop left and right. "The dominos fall," Kemp teases, adding that Season 6 is "definitely one of the bloodiest seasons yet."

"We've had some pretty bloody seasons, but the people that die this year are going to be more emotional for our audience, some favorites. It's dark, but [the season] is also funnier than ever. It's both things. We knew we were driving to the end."

It's bittersweet to see Angela go, even though most fans have been  wishing and hoping for this moment since the series' inception. It does set the season up for greatness, though. Sikora  says of losing Angela, "As Joseph I was disappointed that I wouldn't see my friend as much. As Tommy, I wasn't so much rejoicing as much as I thought it evened the playing field with Ghost and that we could start to grow back together. Obviously that's not necessarily what Ghost feels. But Tommy's reality is a skewed reality, Tommy doesn't adhere to the morals or the ethics of most human beings."

Loren says that she knew for a couple seasons that her character wouldn't make it till the end, which made filming bittersweet. She tells Bustle that her favorite season to film was Season 5, given that she got to work with actors she never shared scenes with before. Remember that for almost five seasons, Angela was usually seen at work, having sex with Ghost, or being chided by her sister Paz (Elizabeth Rodriguez), but in Season 5 she got to interact with Naturi Naughton's Tasha, Sikora's Tommy, and even Tariq (Michael Rainey, Jr). "It was strange bedfellows and mix and match," she says.

But you never forget your firsts. Loren adds that many of her favorite scenes are from Season 1. "I am from Northern California, so moving to New York City [to film Power] was like a whole different level. Like getting to do all of those scenes on the library steps or underneath the whale in the Museum of Natural History [in Season 1, Episode 2]." From those early scenes to the bitter end, Angela Valdes has been the contentious heart of the series. Without her, who knows how this "final betrayal" is going to play out.

By Karen Fratti- Bustle.com

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare has expressed shock and sadness over the sudden death of veteran national female football player, Ifeanyichukwu Chiejine.

The minister said this in a statement by the Director of Press in the ministry, Mrs Blessing Lere-Adams, in Abuja on Friday.

Dare described the ex-international as a fearless heroine that threaded where few dared.

In a condolence letter signed personally by the minister and delivered to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dare said her leadership qualities was worth emulating by Nigerian youths.

He said she was determined to succeed in her chosen profession despite challenges.

Chiejine captained Nigeria to the inaugural FIFA U19 Women’s World Championship in Canada in 2002

She was also a part of the squad that won the African Women’s Championship that year.

Dare said: ”Ifeanyichukwu Chiejine was taken from us too soon, her life was spent striving for excellence in sports. She was a heroine, who went where most only dream of.

“She won firsts for herself and laurels for her dear country. Our youth must learn great lessons from her life that dreams can come true. Nigeria owes her a great debt of gratitude.

“On behalf of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, I wish to condole with the immediate and extended family of the deceased.

”I also extend my sympathies to her former teammates, coaches and colleagues, who may feel irreparable loss by her demise. To the NFF, I say accept my sympathies.

“May God grant her eternal rest and comfort her family and the entire Nigerian football fraternity,” the minister wrote.

She played for Nigeria women football league clubs like Pelican Stars, Flying Babes FC, Confluence Queens and FCT Queens.

She also represented Nigeria at three FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1999, 2003 and 2007 and was the youngest player at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup in the United States.

By Wale Odunsi- dailypost.ng

The senator who was sacked by an election tribunal has assured his supporters that he would be victorious at a higher court.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Dino Melaye (PDP, Kogi West) was sacked by the election tribunal in Kogi.

While reacting to the decision on his Twitter handle, Mr Melaye said he would get judgment at the appeal court.

“No cause for alarm at all. Even if it went my way they will still go to the Appeal Court. Our mandate cannot be taken. We will get judgment at the Appeal Court,” he wrote.

The controversial lawmaker also restated his desire to contest the Kogi State governorship election in November.

“There will be fresh election in Kogi West because I will be Governor. For my Senate mandate no shaking,’’ he wrote.

The Kogi State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja on Friday nullified the election of Mr Melaye.

Delivering Judgment, the three-member panel led by Justice A. O. Chijioke unanimously held that the election was shrouded in controversy and marred by widespread malpractices.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Melaye scored 85,395 votes to defeat APC opponent, Smart Adeyemi, who polled 66,902 votes.

Dissatisfied with the outcome of the election, the APC candidate filed the petition challenging Mr Melaye’s declaration by INEC as the winner of the election.

Mr Adeyemi hinged the petition on three grounds of irregularities, overvoting and non- compliance with the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).

The panel said only a fresh election would settle the disputes that emanated from the conduct of the election.

The panel, therefore, ordered INEC to conduct a fresh election for the senatorial district within 90 days.

Mr Melaye is, however, expected to continue in office until the appeal or supreme court determines the case.

Mr Melaye was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2007 to represent Kabba/Ijumu Federal Constituency.

The outspoken lawmaker served two terms and later contested and won election as a senator representing Kogi West in 2015.

He contested the February 2019 senatorial election and was declared the winner by INEC.

By Nasir Ibrahim and Agency Report- premiumtimesng.com