Exclusive Reports - MC Oluomo returns to Nigeria

Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, has returned back to Nigeria after he traveled out of the country following a violence which saw him stabbed in the neck.

The Chairman of the Lagos chapter of National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, was stabbed during a campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress, APC, at Skypower Ground, GRA Ikeja, Lagos.

MC Oluomo was immediately rushed to Eko Hospital where he received treatment before he was flown out of the country.

SPORTS - Jonny signs permanent deal with Wolves

Wolves announced the permanent signing of Jonny Otto for a joint club-record fee of £18 million ($24 million) on Thursday after the defender spent the first half of the season on loan at Molineux.

The 24-year-old Spaniard has played 22 times for Wolves this season, scoring once, with the club sitting seventh in the Premier League.
"Wolves have signed Jonny Otto on a permanent transfer after a successful loan spell," said a statement on the club's official website.

"The Spaniard has agreed a permanent deal at Molineux until 2023, having spent the first half (of the) season on loan from Atletico Madrid."
"I'm really happy to continue to be involved with the team," Jonny said. "I am very happy here. The truth is that it was very easy to decide."

The left-back, who has three caps for Spain, began his career at Celta Vigo, making more than 200 appearances, and joined Atletico last summer.
He never made an appearance for Atletico, however, immediately heading to Wolves on loan.

Jonny joins Adama Traore as the club's record buy. Traore moved from Middlesbrough for £18 million in August.

Via Pulseng

Exclusive Reports - Boko Haram: I will be willing to investigate the military hierarchy – Atiku Abubakar

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has said that his government would be willing to investigate the military hierarchy as a way of tackling the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East, if elected.

Abubakar said this at a town hall meeting tagged: The Candidates, organised by the MacArthur Foundation in collaboration with NTA and DARIA media on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said that his government would not hesitate to deal with any senior officer who failed in his duty after being adequately funded by his government.

We cannot continue to accept that kind of situation whereby commanders lose lives, lose equipment to terrorists and then nothing happens to them, he said.

The PDP presidential also said that he would be willing to investigate the report of Amnesty International indicting the military on allegations of genocide.
He stressed the need for government to invest more in education and health sectors as well as to bring in more private investors to compliment governments programmes in the health sector.
He said that if re-elected he would resend a bill to the National Assembly to prosecute any government at any level that managed education funds.

Asked if he would accept the outcome of the forthcoming presidential election if he lost, Abubakar said that why not, if the election is credible?
On the issue of farmers and herdsmen clashes, Abubakar said there was need to enlighten the herders on feeding lots.
There is need for extensive public sensitisation of these herders to adopt this solution to minimize this crisis, adding that this would not only reduce the crises, as it would also increase their income.

On the allegation that he paid less tax, Abubakar said what he paid was his personal income tax, while his companies paid their taxes also to government.
He added that there may be mistake in the privatisation done under his eight years when he was vice president but the programme was a success.

His Running Mate, Mr Peter Obi, said that the PDP government invested heavily in the power sector but that APC government had not invested anything in the sector.
If you say that the PDP spent $16 billion and there is no power, it is not true, Obi said.


Via Pulseng

#VoteLikeABoss - INEC Honours Tuface Idibia, Others

The 2019 general elections will be for young people who constitute 81 per cent of registered voters, the Independent National Commission said in Abuja on Tuesday.

The chairman of INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, stated this during an election summit for youths, where popular musicians were given awards for helping to mobilise youths to register for the elections.

Among those given awards were ace musician Innocent Idibia (Tuface) and Ambassador Ketil Karlson, Head of European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS.

While commending Tuface and others for mobilising youths to participate in the voter registration, the INEC boss urged them to continue to tell them to collect their Permanent Voter Cards.

Exclusive Reports - Director Lee Daniels Speaks Out About Jussie Smollet Attack; ‘Jussie, You Are My Son’

Lee Daniels spoke out about the alleged racial, homophobic attack on Empire star Jussie Smollet that occurred early Tuesday in Chicago. Smollett, 36, had arrived in Chicago Monday night. He was on his way to get something to eat at 2 a.m. when he was allegedly attacked.

Sources tell WENN.com two masked men recognized Smollett from his role as openly homosexual singer/songwriter Jamal Lyon on Empire , and shouted, "Aren't you that f**got Empire n**ger?"

Police claim the suspects began beating Smollett and poured bleach on him, before tying a rope as a noose around his neck.

Smollett drove himself to the hospital. He was discharged in "good condition" after receiving treatment for minor injuries including a cracked rib.
"It's taken me a minute to come to social media about this because, Jussie, you are my son," an emotional Daniels said in a video on his Instagram page on Tuesday.
Daniels, who is openly homosexual, captioned the video,
"We got this @jussiesmollett," alongside a rainbow flag and two Black power symbols.
Daniels added: "You didn't deserve - nor anybody deserves - to have a noose put around your neck; to have bleach thrown on you; to be called 'die fa--ot, ni--a,' or whatever they said to you. We are better than that. You are better than that. America is better than that. It starts at home."

Smollett, 36, is in Chicago to film the upcoming season of Empire . Daniels is the creator and director of the scripted TV series.


Via Sandrarose

R&B Singer/Songwriter James Ingram Dies At Age 66

Grammy-winning musician James Ingram has died at age 66. His death was announced by his close friend, actress Debbie Allen on her Twitter page on Tuesday, Jan. 29. No cause of death was given.

The two-time Grammy-winning singer/songwriter and music producer is best known for his platinum-selling duets such as "One Hundred Ways" with Quincy Jones,
"Baby, Come to Me" with Pattie Austin, and "Yah Mo B There" with Michael McDonald.
He began his career in 1973 with the band Revelation Funk. He later played keyboards for Ray Charles.

Before becoming famous in his own right, Ingram's younger brother, Phillip Ingram, hit the top of the charts as a member the '70s R&B group Switch.
In 1981, Ingram was tapped by composer Quincy Jones to sing the lead on "One Hundred Ways" off Quincy's jazz album The Dude. "One Hundred Ways" earned Ingram his first Grammy Award.

Ingram went on to work with other established superstars, including Donna Summer, Anita Baker, Nancy Wilson, Natalie Cole, Kenny Rogers and more.
In 1984, Ingram scored three Grammy nominations for his duet with Patti Austin, "How Do You Keep the Music Playing" ; "PYT (Pretty Young Thing" , for Michael Jackson, a top 10 single which he and Quincy co-wrote, and his track "Party Animal" .
In Oct. 1990, Ingram scored a No. 1 hit with the love ballad "I Don't Have the Heart" , from his It's Real album.

Ingram also teamed up with vocalist Linda Ronstadt with
"Somewhere Out There" , a top 10 hit in the US and the UK.

Via Sandrarose

Exclusive Reports - Paris Jackson Looks Completely In Love As She Holds Hands With BF Gabriel Glenn

Paris Jackson’s romance with bandmate Gabriel Glenn is heating up! See the PDA here, which is also Paris’ first photo in public since she slammed reports that claimed she checked into a treatment center.

Paris Jackson , 20, was the image of health as she strolled down West Hollywood’s Melrose Avenue hand-in-hand with boyfriend Gabriel Glenn on Jan. 29! Both lovers were smiling wide and even synchronized with their alternative outfits, as Paris wore a bohemian fringe vest, elephant crop top and beaded jewelry. Her beau matched the casual vibe with a grungy Nirvana shirt. They’re not just SO’s but also bandmates for The Soundflowers, so it makes sense that they’d naturally sync. See their sweet PDA below!

This is the first time Paris has been seen in public since a Jan. 15 report from People claimed she checked herself into a treatment center to focus on her physical and emotional well-being. “After a busy year of work engagements that took her all over the globe, Paris decided that she needed to take some time off to reboot, realign and prioritize her physical and emotional health,” a source close to Michael Jackson’s daughter told the outlet. “She checked herself into a treatment facility to aid in her wellness plan and is looking forward to coming out of this revitalized and ready to tackle the exciting new projects that await her.”
Within a day the news got back to Paris, who it turned out had just unplugged from her phone and social media. She posted a message to Instagram that read: “The media is exaggerating per usual. Yes i’ve taken a break from work and social media and my phone because it can be too much sometimes, and everyone deserves a break, but i am happy and healthy and feeling better than ever!” Paris even teased “new music” from her and Gabriel that’ll arrive soon — it looks like the lovers took a break from band rehearsals to go on the shopping date pictured below!

Paris Jackson enjoyed a date with boyfriend and bandmate Gabriel Glenn on Jan. 29, as the two strolled down Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood, Calif.
Paris has been rumored to be dating her bandmate since Aug. 2018, when they were photographed kissing and cuddling at The Soundflower’s second live show ever! Yup, we ship these two.


Via Hollywoodlife

#BBNAIJA2019 - Few more days to Audition, Call For Auditions

Do you have what it takes to be a housemate?

Are you attending the auditions?

 Which venue is closest to you.

So have you got what it takes to be a Big Brother Naija Housemate?
Come audition on the 1st and 2nd of February 2019 at one of the following cities:
- Lagos
- Calabar
- Port Harcourt
- Abuja
- Warri
- Ibadan
- Enugu
- Benin

Exclusive Repost - Onnoghen: Lawyers ask NBA to derobe Malami, Danladi Umar, others

lawyers under the aegis of Lawyers In Defence of Democracy and some civil society groups opposed to last Friday’s suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen,by President Muhammadu Buhari ,took to the streets of Abuja, yesterday to register their grievances.

Before pouring into the streets,the protesters marched to the national office of the Nigerian Bar Association,NBA,and the American Embassy, in Abuja to register their displeasure over the president’s action.
The developement caused traffic gridlock in some major streets of the Central Business District area of the FCT,thus giving the police personnel deployed to monitor the situation tough time to control.

The co-converner of the coalition on the aegis of National Interest Defenders,Barrister Ikenga Ugochinyere, addressing the protesters at the protest areas, described the day as one that marked the beginning of civil action by Nigerians to reclaim the country from the grip of political barbarians and buccaneers “who have treated our constitution with disdain, our principles of Constitutional governance with scorn and our democratic ethos with contempt and derision.”

He explained that:” Today marks the day the Nigerian people are willing to show the world and particularly those who dare us that our faith is unwavering, our resolve unflinching and our commitment to salvaging our country is unshakable
“We have gathered here today from far and near because we believe that in troubled and uneasy times like this, the hope of the people lies in those who see something wrong and revolt against it actually and not just verbally. Hence to everyone here , I say to you, you are the hope and the conscience of Nigerians; the bearers of the consciousness of the citizenry who cannot be cowed and the heroes whose names history will forever remember for standing up successfully against a rampaging dictator. We shall not stop until we recover all that we have lost.”

He alleged that” President Muhammadu Buhari relied on and used a forged and fictitious Tribunal Order to purport to suspend the Chief Justice of Nigeria and appoint a factional Chief Justice while knowing that the Order was forged and fictitious.
Nigerians will recall that the Petition served on the Code of Conduct Bureau against the Chief Justice of Nigeria was received by the Bureau on the 9th January, 2019.”


Ugochinyere,reading a prepared speech at the event, said:”The purported Tribunal Order on which the President claimed he relied upon is also dated the same 9th January, 2019. The Motion on Notice seeking the same prayers as the purported Motion Exparte is dated 10th January, 2019, the Charge filed was dated 10th January, 2019 while the statement of the Chief Justice of Nigeria in answer to the petition was on the 11th of January, 2011.”
He added:” From the above dates, it will appear clearly that upon receipt of the Petition, the first action of the Bureau was to file a Motion Exparte asking that the Chief Justice should leave office and that Justice Tanko Mohammed be sworn in even before commencement of investigation into the matter, even before the Chief justice was approached to make a statement and even before charges were filed against him.
But this was not the case.
“Our sources inform us that there was actually no exparte motion filed on 9th January, 2019 in the Tribunal. What we have been informed that happened was that following the several orders of the Federal High Court, the FCT High Court and the National Industrial Court all of which the Tribunal claimed to have overruled on its last sitting on 22nd January 2019 and the order of the Court of Appeal on the 24th January, 2019 directing the Tribunal to stay proceeding, the Presidency directed that the Motion Exparte be filed and backdated and put in the file of the Tribunal and an order drafted immediately and served on the President immediately.
” Our source says the entire processes of the filing, hearing and granting of the order of the Tribunal were started and ended from Thursday 24th January, 2019 to Friday 25th January, 2019.
“Elementary knowledge of law teaches that when the jurisdiction of any Court or Tribunal is challenged, it cannot take any other steps until it rules that it has jurisdiction. How then can the Chairman of the Tribunal claim to have granted the Order removing the Chief Justice on 23rd January,2019 when on 22nd January he already set down for hearing a motion challenging his jurisdiction and also a motion on notice for the same purpose as he purportedly granted in the Exparte.

“As far as there was a motion challenging the jurisdiction of the Tribunal, it had absolutely no jurisdiction to hear any other motion let alone grant same without first dispensing with the Motion challenging its jurisdiction.
“Anything done by a Court or Tribunal without first deciding on whether it has jurisdiction or not is ultra vires, unlawful and done without requisite jurisdiction and cannot stand. The Presidency could have only gotten the Tribunal Chairman to do this by drawing the leash they have on his neck which is the criminal charge filed against him at the Federal High Court. That charge is now their weapon they utilize to get the Tribunal Chairman to do anything and everything they want, no matter how despicable.

“The President has viciously, brutally, ferociously and gruesomely violated the Constitution which he swore to uphold. This is an act that amounts to gross misconduct and it most certainly warrants his removal of office. The National Assembly should as a matter of urgency, national importance and patriotism commence without any delay the impeachment process of the President.
These political invaders rejoice for they say they have conquered the media.”
Speaking further,he said:” They rejoice for they say they have conquered the security agencies and can get them to do anything, they rejoice for they say they have conquered the INEC, they rejoice for they say they have conquered the judiciary, our last hope! They rejoice for they say they now knock on the door of our last symbol of democracy, the Parliament, which they will pull down its door if we do not open the gates and hand the Chambers over to them! Nothing is sacred to them anymore.

“Nothing is consecrated! Nothing is sacrosanct! They rejoice on the sweat of citizens and the blood of our heroes past. They bring nothing but pain and anguish, they hold no promise of peace and progress. Everything for them is for bread, everything for them is power.”
He told the protesters:”Fellow compatriots, I implore you this day, stand firm for we shall overcome. We shall recover our country. They have judged us wrongly. They have misjudged the strength of our character and our resilience. They shall realize that the power of the people is mightier than the people in power. They have desecrated our judiciary! They have violated our last hope! They have defiled our temple of justice. With a stolen order, with a forged paper they hurriedly invaded the sanctuary, but we shall not let them.
“We call on the Nigerian Bar Association and the National Judicial Council NJC today to answer us. Should we let this impunity stand? Should we all go home and wait till it is our turn to be consumed by this behemoth? We kept quiet while the media fell! We kept while the Civil Society was overrun! We kept quiet when Deji Adeyanju was sent to Golgotha in Kano Prisons. Gani Fawehinmi (may his soul rest in peace) will be wondering what type of law we practice in Nigeria today. ”


Continue Reading Vanguardngr

Runtown Wins Legal Battle As Court Issues Restraining Order Against Eric Many

Nigerian musician, Runtown has won a legal fight between him and his former label after a 7-month legal tussle.

After a 7-month legal tussle, the Federal High Court Abuja on Friday 23rd January passed a judgement in favour of Runtown restraining his embattled record label, Eric Many from interfering in his affairs, Vanguard has reported.

In the judgement passed by Justice O.A Musa, it was ordered that the restraining order placed on Runtown from performing be immediately suspended while Eric Many was also restrained from enforcing the suspended orders of the court.

Runtown and his label, Eric Many led by billionaire businessman, Okwudili Umenyiora have been in court since 2018 when his contract expired.


Via Tori.ng

Femi Otedola - DSS Gave Me The $500,000 Lawan Collected As Bribe

Femi Otedola , a billionaire businessman, has alleged that the Department of State Services (DSS) gave him the $500,000 he offered to Farouk Lawan, a former lawmaker.
This he disclosed today in front of a judge of the federal capital territory high Court, Apo, Angela Otaluka.

Lawan, who was chairman, the house of representatives committee probing the multi-billion naira fuel subsidy fraud, was accused of collecting money from Otedola, after he promised to remove Zenon Petroleum and Gas limited, his company, from the list of oil companies allegedly involved in the fuel subsidy fraud in 2012.

The attorney-general of the Federation (AGF) however charged him to court for allegedly receiving a bribe
Otedola said the money was given to him by the DSS to set a trap for Lawan after he wrote a petition against him.
He said the $500,000 was a part payment of the $3 million demanded by Lawan, which was eventually given to him under the supervision of the DSS.

Otedola said he petitioned the DSS immediately Lawan demanded the bribe.
“ Lawan said he was going to exonerate my company after giving him the money, security cameras were mounted in my living room to capture the exchange of money between me and the defendant,” Otedola said.

“ The video is with the DSS, the money was given to him in two tranches $250,000 each.”
The judge, however, adjourned the matter till March 8 for the continuation of cross-examination of the prosecution witness.


Via Naijanews

SPORTS - Nigerian star signs professional contract with Arsenal

Nigerian youngster James Olayinka has signed his first professional contract with Premier League giants Arsenal as the club announced.

The 18-year-old midfielder became a key player for our under-18s side last season, and since then he’s stepped up to feature prominently for our under-23s and he hopes to follow the footstep Alex Iwobi and Bukayo Saka into the first team squad.

Olayinka has been with Gunners since 11-year-old reacts after penning the new contract as he told ther Arsenal.com : "It is a great feeling. I have been here for about 11 or 12 years now, so to finally get to this stage is a dream come true.
''It is a proud moment for me and my family''.

"Yeah, it’s been a long journey and there’s been ups and down, but to get to this stage is a testament to the hard work. I’m happy that the club have rewarded me with a contract.
Olayinka was a member of Arsenal U18 squad that faced Chelsea in the final of last season's FA Youth Cup and he has he has featured in the Premier League 2, EFL Trophy, U18 Premier League and FA Youth Cup this term.


Via Fcnaija

Actress, Funke Akindele-Bello shares first photos since welcoming her twin boys

Delectable Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele-Bello who welcomed a set of twin boys late last year, stepped out Monday, for her first official engagement and she looked stunning.
The actress glowed in the photos which are her first since she welcomed her set of twin boys – a news that had many of her fans and colleagues elated.

FAB welcomed a set of twins with her husband in the US and at the time, the actress who stylishly praised God on her Instagram story, wrote,

“Thank you Lord. Oluwa e tobi (God is great), I am now being called a new name.”

Exclusive Reports - Lagos lawmakers call for Governor Ambode’s impeachment

Reports say 28 out of the 34 members of the House of Assembly called for Ambode’s impeachment, while 6 others demanded for his resignation.
Members of the Lagos state House of Assembly have called for the impeachment of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

According to Premium Times, 28 out of the 34 members of the House of Assembly called for Ambode’s impeachment, while 6 others demanded for his resignation.
The lawmakers reportedly made the call following the Governor’s alleged refusal to present the 2019 budget before the House.

Punch also reports that Ambode sent the budget to the lawmakers in December 2018, instead of laying it before them by himself.

House Speaker reacts
The report states that the House Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa called for calm, saying the Governor needs to be given a fair hearing.
Obasa also gave Ambode seven days to appear before the House.
The Speaker said “The attorney general, finance commissioner and commissioner for budget and economic planning that ought to have advised the governor did not do so.
“The most important thing is that we should let the people know that a budget that has yet to be approved was being spent, which was why we could not attend to the governor on the budget on Monday 21, January.

“We must give them a fair hearing to come and explain what happened.
“The point has been made that there must be something before the House before you can commence expenditure. We want to call on the governor to come within a week to explain himself along with the governor.

“We can start gathering signatures for impeachment. We can wait till another time.”
The Deputy Speaker, Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni had earlier raised an issue in the House alleging that the 2019 budget was already being implemented.

Premium Times reports that there has been mistrust between Governor Ambode and the lawmakers following his failure to secure the Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial ticket.
Ambode lost to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the anointed candidate of the party, at the primaries in 2018.

Via Pulseng

Exclusive - Cardi B, Myself and Offset Are ‘Back On’ But not ‘Fully’ Back Together Yet

Cardi B and Offset are “back on”, but they’re still not officially a couple yet. A source close to Cardi told HollywoodLife EXCLUSIVELY that she’s been pretty much won over by
Offset’s persistence. “Cardi B is such a strong person on the outside, but on the inside she’s actually a really emotional girl,” our source told us.

“Cardi is slowly starting to let Offset in more and more, but she’s going in cautiously. Offset really broke Cardi’s heart, but at the end of the day, Cardi really wants to make this work, and she does feel like
Offset is putting in the effort and work.”

As of right now, Cardi and Offset are still in that nebulous region between being back together, and seeing each other casually. “Cardi is telling friends that they’re ‘back on’, which basically means she considers herself spending time with him and is getting closer to fully being a couple again,” our source went on to say. “Cardi is telling friends however, they are not fully back together yet. Cardi knows a love like that doesn’t come around often and especially since they have a child together, she wants to be with him.”

Right now, Cardi’s schedule and performance calendar is so booked up, that her primary focus is giving her fans the best possible experiences. “Cardi has been working really hard lately — more so than ever,” our source added. “She’s excited for a Vegas residency and feels that will even help take her to the next level as an artist. All of the details are still being worked on, but of course she cannot wait to perform there for her fans.”


Via Hollywoodlife

Exclusive - Seven Months After The Death Of XXXTentacion's, Girlfriend Welcomes Their Son

Seven months after XXXTentacion was shot dead, the rapper’s son has been born. Jenesis Sanchez, XXXTentacion’s girlfriend, gave birth on Saturday to baby boy Gekyume Onfroy.

The birth was announced on Saturday evening by XXXTentacion’s mother, Cleopatra Bernard.
Gekyume’s name is derived from a word the rapper created before his death. His family defined it as meaning “a different state” or “next universe of thought”.

The 20-year-old rising star, whose real name was Jahseh Dwayne Onfroy, was fatally shot in June in Florida in what authorities said was a robbery attempt. Four men were indicted by a grand jury on suspicion of first-degree murder and armed robbery.

XXXTentacion’s sophomore album debuted at No1 on the Billboard charts last March. In December, a posthumous album also reached No1.

Exclusive - Beautiful Nigerian teacher reveals what she does to encourage her students study more

A beautiful Nigerian teacher, identified as Theodorauju Igwemadu has revealed what she does to motivate her students to study more.
According to her facebook bio, Theodorauju is a Teacher at GTC Nkpor at PPSSC Anambra State.

Sharing her style on Facebook, she wrote;
RIGHT FROM WHEN I WAS DOING MY TEACHING PRACTICE. I LEARNT TO REINFORCE MY STUDENTS WITH GIFTS.
THEN I WOULD GATHER FRUITS IN SEASON, ESPECIALLY COCOA PODS, YEA! KIDS LOVES LICKING THE SEEDS.

IMAGINE HOW THEY WOULD BE CLAMOURING TO ANSWER MY QUESTIONS AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE LESSON.
I HAVE BROUGHT IT TO MY PRESENT SCHOOL.
I PRODUCE SNACKS FOR THE SCHOOL’S PRODUCTION UNIT, SO I ALWAYS MAP OUT SNACKS AND DRINKS FOR MY CHILDREN’S REINFORCEMENT.
YOU NEED TO SEE EVEN HOW THE LEAST AMONG THEM IS ALWAYS STRIVING TO PROVIDE A CORRECT ANSWER.

THE GIFTS ARE SO LITTLE, BUT THEY ALWAYS WANT TO HAVE THEM.
IT MAKES THEM READ MORE AND LEARN MORE.
I’M OUT TO PRODUCING THE NEXT GENERATION OF READERS, LEADERS AND COMPETITORS.
I’M A TEACHER.
A HOME ECONOMIST!
AND I LOVE MY JOB.


Via Yabaleftonline

Chef Chioma’s cooking show, Checkout how Davido advertised for bae

Chef Chioma’s cooking show preview is set for tonight, and her boo,Davidotook to his Instagram page to advertise the program.As we all know, Davido is the most followed Nigerian celebrity onInstagram, and making the and advert for his bae is surely a bigone.Advertising for his bae,

Davido wrote;
Who’s ready for @thechefchi Show !! Preview showing at @theo2london 2nite ! 👩🍳😍

The Chef Chioma’s cooking show is highly anticipated by many fans,and according to Davido, they’vealready signed a strategic Partnership and sponsorship contractwith Dunes Center Abuja, for the cooking show. His post last year reads;Who’s ready for @thechefchicooking show???!!!#NewdealAlert powered by Dunes… coming to a screen near you!!! I don turn manager oo…..Today we signed a strategic Partnership and sponsorship contract with Dunes Center Abuja@dunesAbuja for “The Chef ChiShow”First endorsement and cooking showCongratulations to Chef Chi (Chioma) @thechefchi

EXCLUSIVE REPORTS - PDP rejects acting CJN

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked Ibrahim Muhammad to quit as the acting chief justice of Nigeria (CJN). President Muhammadu Buhari replaced Walter Onnoghen with Muhammad on Friday, citing the false assets declaration charges filed against him.

 In a statement on Saturday, Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP spokesman, said Muhanmmad is “allowing himself to be used by despotic forces in their bid to truncate our hard-earned democracy.” “Justice Walter Onnoghen is still in charge as the chief justice of Nigeria,” he said. “The PDP therefore charges Justice Tanko to note that he is allowing himself to be used by despotic forces in their bid to truncate our hard-earned democracy.


 “It is also imperative for Justice Tanko to agree that, having allowed himself to be used to desecrate the hallowed temple of justice, his oath of office and oath of allegiance, the only option left for him is to quit the bench. “The PDP reminds Justice Tanko of his membership of the panel set up by the National Judicial Council (NJC), which on March 14, 2018, forced Justice Obisike Orji to quit the bench and go on a compulsory retirement, for allowing himself to be sworn in as the Acting Chief Judge of Abia State without the statutory recommendation of the NJC. “From Justice Tanko’s first illegal assignment, which is the swearing-in of election tribunal Justices for the forthcoming elections, Nigerians can now see the raison d’etre for his illegal appointment.



 This action is in itself a nullity and we caution the said justices to be reminded of the popular maxim that something cannot be built on nothing. “Nigerians can recall that the PDP had always alerted that President Buhari is bent on removing Justice Onnoghen so as to replace him with a pliable CJN that would help him uphold his rigging plots and achieve his self-succession bid, having realized that he cannot win in any free and fair electoral contest.” Ologbondiyan said it is not strange that Buhari wants to “subdue the country’s democracy and subvert the rule of law”.


“The PDP invites the world to note that when Nigerians were in the trenches for this democracy, General Muhammadu Buhari, as he was then known, was in cahoots with the last dictator against the will the people,” he said.

[MUSIC DOWNLOAD] Simi - Ayo Mp3

X3M music diva, Simi comes through with a brand new blissful tune titled “ Ayo“.

The talented singer and vocalist who recently tied the knot with Adekunle Gold and presently on her honeymoon vacation at Cape Town, South Africa serves us with a mid tempo jam tagged “ Ayo “. This is her first solo single for 2019 after the release of “Promise” with Adekunle Gold.

“Ayo” means (Joy) and it was produced by Legendury Beatz. Listen and Enjoy below
DOWNLOAD

Ex Minister of Finance, Okonjo Iweala Reveals She's Ready To Become World Bank President

Nigeria’s former Finance Minister and ex Vice President of the World Bank, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, says she’s ready to assume the number one position of the institution.

Mr. Jim Yong Kim, who was re-appointed World Bank President for a five-year term on July 1, 2017, has announced that he will be stepping down from the role on February 1, 2019, and Okonjo-Iweala says she’s ready to succeed him.

“If the right person were to nominate, and if the circumstances are right and people feel I can do the job, yes”, Okonjo-Iweala told CNN’s Richard Quest on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, when the question regarding her readiness for the job was posed.

“I know that, because I contested the last time in 2012, and many people were asking that question. It is a shareholder’s decision and they have to decide how they want it. Someone has to nominate,” she said.
When Quest asked if she has declared her candidacy, Okonjo-Iweala said; “No, I have not declared my candidacy. You asked a hypothetical question and I answered it fairly. I’m very happy right now, and I just want you to know that I’m enjoying life for a change for a portfolio of what I like.”

I Don't Wear Pants Anymore - Nollywood Actress, Nazo Ekezie Says As She Reveals She is Single & Searching

Nollywood actress, Nazo Ekezie has disclosed she no longer wear pants due to the high demand of underwear by ritualists.

She disclosed this to Sunnewsonline. She said;
“I might sound cliché but I don’t wear pants anymore. I’m not going to joke with my destiny, and if I’m taking my clothes off anywhere, my underwear is going straight into my bag.”
She also spoke about being single, available and searching for a man.

“I’m single and available. I am looking for someone who fame doesn’t entice or affect. I want someone who would be patient enough to know me and not look at me from the movie angle. I would love someone who sees me as Nazo and not as an actress all the time.
“Right now, I seriously want to be in a relationship. I want to be with someone I love, someone who loves me as me, but not as an actress or movie star.

I want to be with a person that actually knows me, a person who loves me and willing to relate with me as Nazo and not as an actress. That one is so important. I’m not looking out to marry a (Aliko) Dangote but my man needs to be comfortable. He has to be able to provide for me,”

Big Brother Naija 2019 - Ebuka reacts to aspirant putting their photos side-by-side with the show’s logo

Media personality and Host of the Big Brother Naija Show, has reacted to pictures of ‘aspiring contestants’ putting their pictures side-by-side with the Big Brother Logo, soliciting for support when the Audition hasn’t even started.

This came after a Twitter user inquired; @dstvnigeria pls did you guys give out information for people to start attaching their pictures with the BBN logo and solicit for support Cos I’ve been seeing a lot of that? @africamagictv @Ebuka
Ebuka responded thus; “Like, are your followers the ones auditioning? Or you think if auditions were done on social media that wouldn’t have been specifically announced? I don’t get”


Continuing he wrote; “In fact, you’re probably even doing yourself more harm. A major element of Big Brother is secrecy and surprise but you think announcing your intentions on social media is a bright idea… Toh!”

A user then replied; “They probably thinking if they even get voted in to the #BBNaija house. More followes = more votes.”

Then Ebuka responded; “If the organizers wanted people with followers on the show, they know exactly where to get them. More than half the housemates last season had less than 1000 Instagram followers on the day the show started.”

Wande Coal celebrate his mother's birthday as he share her photo

Nigeria singer Wande Coal recently took to his Instagram page to share a lovely picture of his good looking mother.

The singer posted the photo in commemoration of his mum’s birthday. In the photo, the singer’s mother was spotted in a lovely native attire as she posed for the camera.

Wande Coal shared the photo with a simple caption expressing his love for his sweet mother.

He posted the photo with the simple words:
“Mama’s  Day! ”

DMW Boss, Davido reacts to President Buhari's suspension of CJN Walter Onnoghen

Nigerian Singer, and father of 3, Davido has reacted to President Buhari’s suspension of embattled Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen.

President Buhari has since replaced him with Justice Tanko Muahammad who will now serve as the acting CJN. (Checkout here)

Davido in his response said, ‘we can’t allow this nonsense. Democracy, we are in trouble’.

APC warns the Igbo - Atiku will use and dump you if he's elected

The All Progressives Congress (APC) says the Igbo will not gain anything if Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is elected.
The ruling party said this in reaction to the endorsement of Atiku by Ohaneze Ndigbo.
The Anambra state government has since distanced itself from the endorsement of the PDP candidate.

Speaking with journalists on Friday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, Lanre Issa-Onilu, APC spokesman, said the ambition of the PDP candidate does not enjoy the support of most people of the south-east.
“With a few members of Ohaneze falling for Atiku’s antics, it has now become clear that the purported endorsement of Atiku’s presidential ambition does not enjoy the support of most of the Igbos,” Issa-Onilu said.

“One of such proofs is the statement by the Anambra state government’s dissociating the state from the dubious endorsement of Atiku contained in the equally disputed communique.
“It would now seem that few people in Ohaneze are trying to misrepresent the interest of the Ndigbo and we wonder whether these people are part of Atiku’s friends that he has promised to make rich as a cardinal policy of his government?
“Many questions beg for answers. Besides the deceitful restructuring promise, what else do the Igbo stand to gain from an Atiku presidency? Nothing!
“Could it be that Atiku and the PDP’s restructuring rhetoric is selective and bespoke for specific audiences? The answer is yes! Atiku’s restructuring rhetoric is simply a convenient, simplistic and populist gimmick aimed at whipping up and exploiting perceived sentiments ahead of the 2019 elections.”

The spokesman said Nigerians should be wary of “Atiku and his PDP ilk who in their desperate quest for power are ever ready to play fraudulent political games and parade themselves as ethnic champions to the gullible.”
“Atiku has refused to speak on the nature of the restructuring that he is cashing in on. But little wonder because he is transactional in nature. Atiku has no plan for this country and he is not pretending about it,” he said.
“He has said it clearly and on many occasions that he is seeking power to be able to sell off national assets to make his friends and himself rich. There is no doubt that Atiku only intends to use and dump the Igbo people.
“Ndigbo should not forget that it was during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku as vice that Nigeria’s political history witnessed the frequent manipulated changes to the Senate Presidency and setting of Igbo brothers against one another for political gains.

“Without playing to the gallery, the President Muhammadu Buhari-led APC administration has pursued a deliberate policy of probity, inclusive governance and national spread in the allocation of our national resources and developmental projects across the country.”
Issa-Onilu said the APC remains the most sincere political platform working to ensure better inclusion of all geo-political zones in the country.

“Their antecedents does not synchronise with the image they now purport which is dangerous. They are latter-day converts on the issue of restructuring who hitherto occupied public offices and did nothing on the issues of restructuring,” he said.
“They have now regrouped to exploit the issue of restructuring in furtherance of their selfish political interests.”

President Muhammadu Buhari appoints acting MD for NDDC

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Prof . Nelson Braimbraifa , as acting Managing Director for the Niger Delta Development Commission .

This was contained in a statement issued by Mr Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity , in Abuja on Friday.

“ The President , following a Federal Executive Council resolution , has equally vested the supervisory role of the commission in the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs , as well as approved the dissolution of the extant board , ’’ he said .

Adesina revealed that the president also approved the appointment of Mr Chris Amadi ( Finance and Administration ) and Samuel Adjogbe ( Projects ) as Acting Executive Directors of NDDC.
He added that the appointments take immediate effect .

Via Punchng

Ijaw Youth Council - Onnoghen's suspension is desperation taken too far

The Ijaw Youth Council has described the suspension of Chief Justice of Nigeria , Justice Walter Onnoghen by President Muhammadu Buhari as a coup against the nation ’ s democracy and rule of law .

IYC, in a statement signed by its President , Eric Omare , on Friday said the suspension of Justice Onnoghen and subsequent appointment of Justice Tanko Muhammed as the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria is a show of desperation and lack of respect for the rule of law .
Omare said, “ This is desperation taken too far and the IYC in the strongest terms condemn this display of impunity by President Buhari . This is the height of lawlessness and the greatest threat to democratic rule in Nigeria . The IYC call on President Buhari to immediately reverse this illegal , despicable and undemocratic decision .

“ We also call on Nigerians and all lovers of democracy , all over the world to rise up and defend our democracy in Nigeria . Anti -democratic forces who truncated democracy in the past must not be allowed to truncate democracy again . ”
The umbrella body for Ijaw youths worldwide posited that President Buhari lacked the power to suspend the former CJN and called for the immediate reversal of the decision .

According to the statement , “ This is a coup against democracy and the rule of law . Nigeria is under a constitutional democracy that is governed by the rule of law and the action by President Buhari lacks foundation in law .

“ President Buhari lacks the powers to suspend the Chief Justice of Nigeria without the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and It is even unthinkable to suspend Justice Onnoghen in the light of the multiple valid and subsisting orders of the National Industrial court , federal high court and the court of appeal which bars the Code of Conduct Tribunal from going on with the trial of Justice Onnoghen.

“ President Buhari claimed to have acted pursuant to an order of the CCT made on the 23rd of January , 2019 , however , from the records of proceedings of the CCT , no such order was made . The pending motions are yet to be taken hence it is surprising for the President to be relying on a non-existing order . ”

Via Punchng

Super Eagle Coach, Gernot Rohr says to Victor Moses; You are free to come back but we have more wingers now

Gernot Rohr, Super Eagles Coach, says Victor Moses can return to the Super Eagles whenever he wants but he should be ready to work hard for a place in the team.

Rohr made the comment on the sidelines of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) game between MFM FC and Rangers International FC.
“Victor Moses is a player with lots of quality but stopped playing for the National team after the World Cup. We have to respect his decision not to play again,” the coach said on Wednesday.

“if he wants to come back to the team, it is okay but he must show a lots of motivation, he must show that he is fit to play for the team because we have other players playing well in his position now.

“Moses has to be strong to come back to the team because we have more options on the wings now like Samuel Kalu, Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi and Ahmed Musa. All these players are on his wings.
“Victor Moses comeback is a good news for us.”
Rohr said he would present the fittest team in the last match of the AFCON qualifiers against Seychelles and the friendly match against Egypt.
“We will invite the fittest players for the AFCON qualifiers against Seychelles and the friendly match against Egypt. The best of them will play the match,” he said.

“With the level at which some of the players are now in their different clubs, I believe they should turn that form to the national team.
“For the local based players the ones that are good among them will surely be invited to the team. I regret that the league had a long break after the last season which affected the fitness of the players.
“But now that the league is on, myself and my assistants are here to watch out for the outstanding ones that can make the team.”

Via Thecable.ng

Exclusive Reports - Sagay: Obasanjo is president-general of Nigeria

Itse Sagay, chairman of presidential advisory committee against corruption (PACAC), says former president Olusegun Obasanjo is suffering from power withdrawal syndrome.The constitutional lawyer said Obasanjo does not portray himself as a former president of the country.

Sagay said unlike his contemporaries, Obasanjo lacks respect, dignity, restraint and decorum.In reaction to Obasanjo’s latest criticism of President Muhammadu Buhari, Sagay said: “We have had a number of former heads of state, namely Gowon, Shagari, Babangida, Abubakar Salami and Jonathan. All of these have exerciseddiscretion, restraint and self-discipline in relation to their successors, but not Obasanjo.”He said Obasanjo sees himself as the president-general of Nigeria for life, hence his “meddlesome” streak.

“It strikes me as a case of one who has neverrecovered from the loss of power,” Sagay saidin a statement released on Tuesday.“By his meddlesomeness, rude and uncouth attitude towards later heads of state, it is clearthat he is addicted to a substance called ‘power’, and is angry and resentful towards any other person exercising it.“The truth is that Obasanjo has never recoveredfrom his power addiction and in his own mind, heis the President-General of Nigeria for life.“Obasanjo believes that he can break all rules and ethics but it is a crime for others to even appear to follow his footsteps in that regard.“He is a man who is not conscious of a sense of wrongdoing and is probably unaware of the long list of depredations trailing his footsteps.

“The man is not just immoral, he is worse; heis amoral, i.e., he lacks a sense of right or wrong. Obasanjo is now an old man. It is now imperative that he learns to exercise some discretion and restraint in his public statements.“His bombastic, false, misleading and destructiveoutbursts, are not befitting of a so-called Elder Stateman, even more less of a former president.”

Via Thecable

Tinny Entertainment PR Reveals The Reason YCEE And Other Artistes Left The Record Label - Azeez Olalekan

TINNY Entertainment was undoubtedly one of the leading Record Labels in Nigeria with a handful of talented acts signed under it. The label is owned by Mr Timilehin Arokodarepopularly known as Small TINNY, the label housed amazing entertainers such as YCEE, BELLA, Dapo Tuburna, Damilare and few others.

In an E-mailed chat with the Tinny Entertainment PR, Lekan Azeez aka Calypse, he said; Last Week the front liner of the label YCEE made it publicly known, via a tweet, that he is no longer signed to the music label, in response to a fan who asked if he was still with the label.

According to the unknown PR Azeez; In truth, YCEE had terminated his contract with the label since September 2018, as well as, Bella, Dapo Tuburna and Damilare, who all terminated their contracts with the label, leaving TINNY Entertainment with no artiste to manage.

For over eighteen months, I was the label’s PR (and held the record of the longest served member of staff) I handled the label’s social media platforms, distribution and promotion of content; and trust me, in my almost two-year stay at the label, I lost count of how many staff members came and went.

 There was an instance where the label’s CEO returned from the UK and sacked ten of his staff members, leaving only the gate man and myself.  One other time, a new staff member was employed on Monday and was sacked on Friday. Let’s say, Boss TINNY, as I always referred to him was a ruthless boss with high demand for excellence and little or no regard for his staff. 

It’s no surprise at all that all his artistes up and terminated their contracts with him at the same time.

The artistes’ angst with the label had started long ago and only intensified in January 2018 during the YCEE Juice Concert in London. YCEE and Bella had had issues with the label’s CEO while they were all in London; and as punishment, the management had abandoned the talents in the UK, leaving them with no means to take care of themselves or even return home. I will not go into the details of how the talents were able to survive their stay in the UK.

The issue was later resolved but not too long afterwards, trouble brewed again in the camp when the label could no longer handle the management of her four artistes concurrently.

Not a day went by without a complaint from one of the artistes demanding the status of their career and their brand direction. I remember this time when Dapo Tuburna, in indignation, sent an angry mail to the label’s CEO demanding to know the way forward as regarding his music career, while pointing out that the label was not holding up their own end of the contract; stating he funds his own distribution and promotion most of the time, despite having signed to a label as prominent as TINNY Entertainment. Damilare on the other hand, never stopped complaining about how the label did not have time for him and how the distribution and promotion of his releases were not properly funded by the label. He was signed in 2017 and had only two singles and a video to show for it.

Established artistes often have a key-man clause in their contracts, which allows them to leave for another label if both parties, the label and the artiste, come to a mutual agreement to part ways. I think, that was the case with YCEE. For upcoming artistes, dropping out may be better than being stuck in a contract with a corporation that cares more about the bottom line than having the conviction to stick with artistes, even if they do not see immediate returns.

Source - Viatrends Blog

Exclusive Report - Senator Dino Melaye regains freedom then sues IGP

Dino Melaye, senator representing Kogi west, has regained freedom after over two weeks in detention.

On Friday, a high court in Abuja granted bail to the lawmaker on health grounds.
In his ruling, Yusuf Halilu, the judge, said Melaye should be allowed to attend to his health as he could not be arraigned on a stretcher or on his hospital bed.

Halilu ordered the senator to present three sureties who reside and have properties in Abuja, emphasisng that one of the sureties must be the clerk of the national assembly who would write provide a letter attesting that Melaye will always be available for trial.

After fulfilling his bail conditions, Melaye filed a suit against the inspector-general of police (IGP), seeking that the police do not arrest him.

Via Thecable

ROTIMI AMAECHI - Ex-President, Obasanjo forced me into exile yet he is comparing Buhari to Abacha

Rotimi Amaechi, director general of the reelection campaign of President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday recollected how he went into a 10-month exile in Ghana in 2006 when ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo was in power.

Narrating his experience, Amaechi tackled Obasanjo for saying President Muhammadu Buhari had returned Nigeria to the “Abacha era”.
Obasanjo said this at a press conference in Abeokuta, Ogun state, on Sunday.
But Amaechi asked Nigerians to make comparison and discover the truth.
“Honestly I had decided at the campaign rally that because there were too many speeches, I would say very little,” he said.

“But in view of what is going on in the country, I need to make one or two sentences, proceed from that to statements.

“Sometime in 2006, I was chased out of this country by a PDP-led federal government. I went into exile in Ghana. I was in Ghana for 10 months. I was expelled from the party, PDP until I became a governor. And when I became a governor, I told them I did not want to belong to PDP again. They met me and apologised and readmitted me into PDP.”
He asked Nigerians to compare the administration of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to what obtains currently and decide which is closer to Abacha’s government.
“I’m comparing which one falls into an Abacha’s government and which one falls outside Abacha’s government,” he said.

“I was a governor in 2013, 2014, 2015—I had no security. A PDP-led government had chased my CSO and my ADC away. My ADC ran to London, my CSO was put in an underground cell. A major who was in my convoy was also put in underground cell. I was left without security.
“They should tell us one governor that is left without security today.”
The former governor accused the PDP of being experienced in rigging elections, citing the south-south region as example.

“PDP knows that we’re all in PDP and that in the south-south they don’t do elections. We write results, no voting,” he said.

“So which one is close to Abacha? The PDP one or the one where we’re saying people’s votes must count? The problem we have in the country is that we’re clearly showing them that it is no longer business as usual. No more rigging.
“There will be no rigging by God’s grace this time. INEC must perform its responsibility to protect our votes, so that the president that emerges will be the people’s president.”

Via Thecable

Exclusive - ASUU asks FG to release N50bn to end strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has asked the federal government to show proof of earned allowance payment before it ends its strike.

Biodun Ogunyemi, ASUU president, said this in Ibadan, Oyo state capital, ahead of the union’s meeting with the federal government.

The union asked the federal government to immediately pay N50 billion out of the outstanding allowance as a sign of commitment to resolve the industrial strike.
On November 4, members of the union embarked on indefinite strike following government’s failure to implement the agreement reached in November 2016.

“The Nigeria’s ruling class does not see education as a priority but prefer to create new education colonies of private educational institutions which cannot meet the needs of the Nigerian children,” Ogunyemi said.

“We want them to pay immediately N50 billion as a sign of commitment this quarter and for the next three quarters government can pay N50 billion in each quarter. So, our members have rejected the N20 billion proposed by the government, which it promised to spread over two quarters in 2019.

“Our members have insisted on the release of at least N50 billion in relation to earned academic allowances which the government has an outstanding of N105 billion.
“Our members are saying that even if the government is releasing N20 billion, let it be stated clearly that it is only for ASUU members. And the balance which you promised to pay in four installments, attach timelines to the balance and figures.

“In 2017, this government promised to mainstream the earned academic allowances into the budget so that we won’t be coming to talk about arrears. If government had done that and included it into the 2018 Budget we would not be talking about arrears now.
”Our members are saying government should take steps to mainstream it into the 2019 budget and that is not late because the National Assembly and executives are still working on the budget.”

Exclusive Reports - Court stops EFCC from arresting Fani-Kayode, Odumakin

An Abuja federal high court has barred the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from arresting or detaining Femi Fani-Kayode and Yinka Odumakin.

Fani-Kayode, former minister of aviation and Odumakin, spokesman of Afenifere, had filed a N20 million suit against the commission over their claim that the commission was plotting to arrest Walter Onnoghen, chief justice of Nigeria (CJN).

EFCC had denied the allegation and threatened them with a suit. The commission also invited them for questioning.
The duo had gone to the court to prevent their arrest.

In his ruling on Monday, John Tsoho, the presiding judge, asked the EFCC to stay action pending the determination of the application on notice.

Chukwuma Machukwu-Ume, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), filed an ex parte application on behalf of the duo, informing the court that they had gone into hiding due to the threat by the anti-graft agency to arrest them.

“The spokesman of the EFCC, Mr Tony Orilade, was alleged to have made the threat to arrest them publicly at a conference where he represented the EFCC chairman,” Machukwu-Ume said.
“He said they are doing everything possible to arrest these two gentlemen just for speaking their minds.

“The EFCC is established to pursue corruption and not comments made by Nigerians, expressing themselves.”

The judge said he was satisfied that the duo have made out a case for the court’s intervention and adjourned the matter till February 4.
“Accordingly, the respondents are restrained from either arresting or detaining the applicants on grounds of the applicants’ public statements pending the determination of the application on notice,” Tsoho said.

Exclusive Reports - Real reason Buhari refused to debate with Atiku – APC

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has declared that it would be demeaning for President Muhammadu Buhari to engage Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar in a debate on the same stage.
Addressing a press conference Sunday evening in Abuja, APC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated that debate is meant for those that are seeking power.

The spokesman disclosed that Buhari was already engaging with the public through several other platforms which are considered more important and meet APC’s interest.
He said: “The president doesn’t have to give any reason at all for not attending that debate. The debate is just one of the several platforms that are available for our candidate to engage with the public, we cannot exhaust all the platforms. So we pick the platforms that are most impactful and we are the ones in the position to determine which platform we want to use.
“To debate with who? That is an insult, that the president will come debate with who? The debate the president is having is what he did that morning in Niger state. The people of Niger state can look forward to a brighter future. The people of this country, everywhere they go can see development, they can see projects going on. So these are the debates that the president is already engaging with public.

“So, that particular debate may be important and I think it is important to people who are seeking power, not for somebody who has a lot speaking for him already. So, for us in APC, the debate as a fantastic idea it is, it is just one of the several options for our own candidate to engage with the public. There are many platforms we have used, there are many platforms we are still going to use and there are many we may not use. It is up to us to chose the platforms that will serve own interests.

“Don’t forget, just few days before this debate came, the president was live for two hours with Nigerians discussing his projects. Beside him was the Vice President of this country, talking about his projects and having very important debate over those policies and projects with Nigerians, with people having unfettered access and opportunity to make calls to him, to seek clarifications and ask questions. That for us is what our candidate needs. That for us is more important.
“That gives us the opportunity to say we are different. We are not in the same class with Atiku and the PDP to come share the same stage with people who ruined this country. To talk about what?

“The same people who started several projects and they became conduit pipes and the APC government has come in, fixing all these projects one after the other. The same party complaining about the fact that we are completing projects. Is that the party you want us to stand on the same stage to debate with. Don’t take Nigerians for granted. We are not in the same class.”

Exclusive - Court grants Dino Melaye bail

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama, Abuja has granted bail to Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye currently being held in a police health facility in Abuja.

In a ruling on an application by the by his lawyer, Mike Ozekhome (SAN) Justice Yusuf Halilu granted bail to Melaye on health ground.
Justice Halilu was of the view that the Senator must be healthy to stand trial.
According to Ozekhome, since the Senator cannot be arraigned on the stretcher or on his hospital bed, he should be allowed on bail to attend to his health

The judge asked him to produce three sureties, one of whom must be the Clerk of the National Assembly, who must undertake to produce him when he is to be arraigned in respect of a charge already filed against him.
The judge said the other two sureties must be owners of properties within the Abuja metropolis.

Atiku Abubakar revealed the reason US is backing him

Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), says the United States is in support of his presidential bid.
Atiku, who visited the country for the first time in 13 years, said this in an interview with VOA. The interviewer had asked: “Are you convinced that the United States government is in support of your candidacy?” and he responded: “yes.”

Asked to explain further, Atiku said: “There is no doubt because the United States is ready to support any country that is practicing democracy.”
He dismissed the reports that the US refused to grant him visa for over 10 years because he was linked to a corruption case.
“The whole thing is about misinformation… for a very long time they, have been lying to them (Nigerians); I tried to explain to them but they refused to listen. And I hope now people are going to understand.”
He said he visited the US because they decided to issue him a visa, adding that he would not have made it if they had declined his visa request.

“And now they have issued it to me and I am here. I’m having some positive discussions with some of the officials,” he said.
“I was in the Congress and I had discussions with some high ranking Congress men and Women about Nigeria and how Nigeria intends to improve her relationship with the United States of America.”

Louisville Airport to be renamed after Muhammad Ali

Louisville in Kentucky is set to rename its airport after late boxing legend Muhammad Ali, who was born in the city.The announcement came just a daybefore Ali would have turned 77. The boxing legend who was born inLouisville, Kentucky, on Jan 17, 1942, died in 2016 at the age of 74.The new name of the airport will be Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, officials announced on Wednesday.

In a statement posted on social media, the airport said its board “voted meaningfully” to recognise his legacy as a Louisvillenative by renaming the airport in his honour. The airport’s three-letter location identifier – SDF – will not change“Muhammad became one of the most well-known people to ever walk the Earth and has left a legacy of humanitarianism and athleticism that has inspired billionsof people,” said Mayor Greg Fischer in a press release from the board.

“It important that we, as a city, further championThe Champ’s legacy, and the airport renaming is a wonderful next step.”Lonnie Ali, his widow, said she was proud of the board’s decision.“Muhammad was a global citizen, but he never forgot the city that gave him his start,” she said in the statement.

Ali died at the age of 74, aftera decades-long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was buried in a private ceremony in Louisville, after his coffin passed by thousands of well-wishers in the city’s streets.

Exclusively - Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin set to wed again

Bieber and Hailey Baldwin set to wed again, and this one will belavish, unlike the first which was very private.The couple plan to have their second wedding during the weekendof March 1, which also happens tobe when Justin Bieber will turn 25.

They also added that the wedding ceremony will be held in Los Angeles instead of Canada, where Justin’s family live, due to the unpredictable weather.Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott havealready received a “Save the Date” email from the Biebers inviting them to their second wedding, which will be a religious affair since the first one wasn’t.According to TMZ sources, this is the third batch of “Save the Date” invites the Biebers have sent, but they intend to follow through this time.You will recall that the pair got engaged in 2018, and unconfirmed reports revealed that they secretly tied the knot sometime in September 2018.

The couple reportedly held a secretand private rite at a Marriage Bureau in New York City.In July 2018, Justin Bieber shocked the world when he proposedto Hailey Baldwin during a vacationtrip to the Bahamas.TMZ reports that the singer poppedthe question at a Bahamas resort before which family and friends were asked to put down their photos so he could propose.Justin Bieber’s dad also conformed the happy news when hetook to his Instagram page to announce the good news, gushing about how happy he was about themove by his son.

Femi Otedola to acquire the upstream of Forte Oil

Femi Otedolais set to acquire the upstream business of Forte Oil Plc.and its power generating business Amperion Power Distribution Company Limited.The company made this known in anotice to shareholders published by the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

According to the company, shareholders had last year authorised a restructuring that will see Forte Oil sell its upstream andpower businesses, as well as its downstream business in Ghana AP Oil&Gas Ghana Limited.

“A public tender sale process was commenced to attract interested potential investors to participate in the divestment opportunity,” the notice reads,Adding, however, that a review of the process showed low interestfrom investors, especially for Amperion Power which was priced lower than the company expected.Otedola, who is also the company’s chairman has thereforeindicated interest in the divestment opportunity through a designated vehicle.

Shareholders will at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on February 7 vote on whether to allow the chairman participate in the divestment opportunity.Otedola had last year sold his 75 percent stake in Forte Oil’s downstream business. When the company announced the sale, ForteOil explained the chairman’s decision was to enable him pursue business opportunities in refining andpetrochemicals.