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Abuja-based popular public relations practitioner, Alex Nwankwo popularly known as AlexReports has poured encomiums on his mother-in-law and renowned woman of God, Evangelist Immaculate Ezenwoye as she marks her birthday. 


AlexReports describes his mother-in-law as the best anyone would wish to have, saying Evangelist Ezenwoye has turned a precious mother with extraordinary caring heart. 


In a felicitation message on Sunday to the mother-in-law, AlexReports said over the years when their parts crossed when he asked for her daughter's hand in marriage, Evangelist Ezenwoye has consistently demonstrated the spirit of a mother, offering the family the needed support through thick and thin. 


According to him, "My dear mother-in-law who is now my personal mother is a woman who embodies peace, love and kindness. She is a lover peaceful atmosphere and she commits everything within her power to ensure there is peace everywhere she goes. 


"She has had reasons to mediate and bring peace in some seemingly knotty situations in her social cycle, church, family and what have you. 


"Her counselling and motherly wisdom had also come handy which has greatly made her children's marital homes a model and example of stability, mine inclusive. 


"On behalf of my beautiful wife, her daughter and my beloved children, I wish her the very best life can offer", he said. 


AlexReports also prayed God to give the celebrant long life and good health as she continues her evangelical work, turning men to God and ministering to desolate hearts.


The committed Christian mother has been receiving encomiums from his children, relatives and church colleagues across the world.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Neveah Limited, Ibidapo Lawal has marked his birthday amidst floodgates of felicitations from family, friends and associates. 


His birthday coincides with Nigeria's 63rd anniversary as an Independent country from British colony. 


Mr. Lawal's friends have taken to various media platforms, including social and conventional to salute him on his special day. 


They have poured praises on him, describing him as a consummate yet humble leader, who despite his level in the world of business maintains a mien of humility and easily relates with his staff and associates. 


One of such associates is Abuja-based PR expert, Alex Nwankwo who said, "I join friends and allies to congratulate one of our country's finest and dogged business managers, Sir Ibidapo Lawal who has surmounted several obstacles to rise to global limelight. 


"His business interest, Neveah Limited has today become a pride of the nation, driving a new frontier employment generation, taking the Nigerian market to the world and harnessing untapped potentials underneath the country's regional and geographical landscapes. 


"Eloquent testimony to the fact that Neveah Limited is breaking bounds is its recent feature in Financial Times' list of the fasted growing companies in Africa.


"This uncommon milestone came after an assessment conducted by Financial Times in collaboration with Statista which seeks to identify the fastest, predominantly organically, growing companies across Africa. 


"I am proud to identify with the great brain behind this project. In behalf of Amity Global Network, I felicitate with Sir Lawal at the occasion of his birthday and pray for greater achievements in coming years", he stated. 


The celebrant has expressed gratitude for the loads of congratulatory messages, praying God to grant them their heart desires.

Ilebaye, has been crowned the winner of the Big Brother Naija All Stars season.


The show host, Ebuka Obi Uchendu, announced her as the winner during the show finale on Sunday


She won the N120 million cash prize and other prizes from the sponsors of the show.


The finalists were, Ceec, Mercy, Ilebaye, Adekunle, Pere and Cross.


Earlier, Cross, Pere, Adekunle, Ceec were evicted from the show.

 

The organised labour, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have rejected President Bola Tinubu’s N25,000 Provisional wage increment for the average low-grade worker.


Naija News had earlier reported that Tinubu in his October 1st message announced that the increment of the salary is to cushion the effect of the removal of the petrol subsidy.


The organized workers also rejected the government’s proposed six months of Provisional wage increase and the N15 million additional Conditional Cash Transfer for vulnerable households


Tinubu in his nationwide broadcast on the occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary said: “Based on our talks with labour, business and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation. For the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional Twenty-Five Thousand naira per month.


“Commencing this month, the social safety net is being extended through the expansion of cash transfer programs to an additional 15 million vulnerable households.”


According to Vanguard, organised labour in their meeting with the Federal Government asked for 100 percent of the current minimum wage.


Labour also insisted that the provisional wage should be for all workers and that it will not be limited to only six months but rather be running till the new minimum wage is approved next year.


The organised labour also insisted that the Conditional Cash Transfer for the poorest and vulnerable people should be increased to N25,000 and not the N5,000 the previous administration was paying.


After many hours of horse trading, the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who is leading the government delegation at the meeting has to break, to go and consult with the President on the new demands


Gbajabiamila was accompanied by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong.

Nigerian comedian and actress, Kie Kie, erupted with joy and showcased her dancing prowess when her husband surprised her with flowers and a teddy bear while she was on a movie set.

In the video, Kie Kie can be seen engaged in conversation with a few people just moments before the door unexpectedly swung open.

Balloons, flowers, and a large teddy bear were brought into the room and presented to Kie Kie, who continued to feign surprise and danced with delight.

The video’s caption indicated that her husband had orchestrated this surprise for her while she was on a movie set.

Numerous individuals have taken to the comment section of the post to express their thoughts regarding Kie Kie’s reactions to the unexpected gifts.

See some reactions below:

blackbeauty22.7: “‎This woman Dey call kie kie no Dey always get shame at all she don’t know that she is getting old see how she is doing like small pikin.. I love u sha.”

Sharon Odinaka: “‎Me I want HARMONIE as my friend too oh he is so sweet.”

Queenie: “‎kiekie is the wrongest person to surprise because she will surprise and shock you with her childish act at the same time.”

BeeOrah1: “‎Harmonie is a very nice friend. I wish for a friend like him for myself.”

Dunni stitches: “‎Na woman wey dey supportive them day suprise. When I watch kiekie’s interview I know say she be wife material 10000000 yrds.”

ID_KEYS: “‎I Dey try Dey reason how this kiekie Dey serious because I never see one video make she Dey serious?”

fhavour: “‎kie kie na vibes who saw the moment where she was gave the teddy bear lap dance.”

Azubuike Hope: “‎No dull moment with this woman, love your energy joor.”

Video below:

Radio, television, theater, and arts professionals are planning to cease their activities as part of a nationwide industrial action scheduled to commence on October 3, 2023.

This information was communicated through an announcement of an indefinite nationwide strike issued by the Radio, Television, Theatre, and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU). The notice was signed by the General Secretary of the union, Comrade A. Akpausoh.

The decision to take this action follows a recent meeting of the National Executive Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), held on September 26, 2023. During this meeting, it was resolved that all affiliates of these congresses should participate in a nationwide indefinite strike action, which will commence on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, and is expected to be comprehensive.

“In other words, there shall be no operations in our sectors throughout the period of the action.



“Consequently, all our state councils and chapters across the nation are hereby directed to mobilize our members for effective implementation of the strike action.



“Also, all Vice Presidents in their various zones are being requested to monitor full compliance of the directive.



“Remember, ‘He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it,”
 the Union said.

Evangelist Dr. Chinedum Obue and his wife celebrated a significant milestone on September 17, 2023, as they dedicated their long-awaited twins in Enugu. The event drew a diverse crowd, highlighting the couple’s faith and divine favor.

Evangelist Chinedum Obue, also the Chairman of Newstead Makmond Company LTD, shared their journey to parenthood. He mentioned how sponsoring a church crusade last October opened doors for them, including the blessing of having children.

The dedication ceremony attracted prominent church leaders, transcending denominations. It was attended by family, friends, and dignitaries from various sectors, including political figures such as Hon. Anthony Nwankwo and Hon. Livinus Nze Anike.

Nollywood Veteran Chief Imo Comedy served as the Master of Ceremony, adding entertainment to the event.

Dr. Chinedum Obue emphasized his company’s commitment to providing affordable housing and land opportunities in the South East and Abuja, underscoring the company’s mission.

Throughout his journey, Evangelist Chinedum Obue has been a dedicated evangelist, spreading the Gospel across denominations and nations, with evident signs of God’s presence and power.

The birth of their twin boys marked the culmination of their faith journey, drawing well-wishers from around the world to the dedication and thanksgiving event in Enugu.

Their story is a testament to the enduring power of faith and commitment to serving God. Congratulations to Evangelist Dr. and Mrs. Chinedum Obue on their double blessing!

In the most recent episode of “Tea With Tay,” Temisan had a conversation with Beverly Osu, an actress who revealed her initial aspiration to become a Reverend sister but was later expelled from the convent.

During the interview, Beverly Osu shared insights into her early life, discussing her time as a student at a convent school and the subsequent expulsion due to her enthusiastic involvement in various creative endeavors.

She also talked about her journey in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, and her unwavering determination to one day stand on the prestigious Oscars stage.

Reflecting on her past, Beverly reminisced about her experience on Big Brother Africa, recounting her audition, her time spent in the house, and the aftermath of the show.

In a moment of candor, she opened up about her upbringing, emphasizing the love within her family despite the challenges they faced.

Beverly revealed that her parents separated when she was around 8 or 9 years old, resulting in a fractured family.

She discussed how the decision to live with her mother was made, even though she initially wanted to stay with her father.

Beverly also touched on her rebellious teenage years, which eventually led to her expulsion from the convent school, although she maintained that she was merely enjoying her adolescence and actively participating in various school activities.

WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:

Justice Nancy Maldonado has upheld Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Gilbert’s decision to order Chicago State University to release President Bola Tinubu’s records to Atiku Abubakar.

This ruling was made on Saturday, September 30, as per the District Court of the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. President Tinubu’s attempt to prevent the release of these documents through an appeal has been unsuccessful.

Consequently, Chicago State University (CSU) is now set to release relevant non-privileged documents on Monday, October 2. The deposition by CSU is scheduled for Tuesday, October 3.

In her 33-page ruling, Justice Maldonado affirmed the decision:

 “The court overrules President Tinubu’s objections to Magistrate Judge Gilbert’s recommended ruling and therefore adopts the ruling in full.

“Mr Abubakar’s application is therefore granted.

“In light of the pending Supreme Court of Nigeria deadline, represented to the court as October 5, 2023 and based on CSU’s representations that it is ready to comply with the discovery requests and produce a witness, the court sets an expedited schedule for completion of discovery.

“Respondent CSU is directed to produce all relevant and non-privileged documents in response to requests for Production Nos-1 through 4( as narrowed by Judge Gilbert and adopted here) in Mr. Abubakar’s subpoena by 12.00p.m(noon) CDT on Monday October 2, 2023. The Rule 30(b)( 6) deposition of CSU’s corporate designee must be completed by 5.00pm CDT on Tuesday October 3, 2023.

“Given the October 5, 2023 filing deadline before the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the court will not extend or modify these deadlines”

Atiku’s request for an officially verified copy of Tinubu’s diploma certificate will not be fulfilled by CSU, as they have stated that diploma certificates are merely ceremonial and that they do not keep records of students’ certificates, not just for Mr. Tinubu but for all students.

Therefore, they cannot authenticate it without having a copy of the original certificate.

The primary documents that CSU will provide on Monday are the ones certified by Jamar Orr and were presented at the Nigerian Tribunal on July 6th, which are already in the public domain. These documents include Tinubu’s admission letter to the school and his academic transcripts.

Additionally, Jamar Orr, the individual who certified these documents, will give an oral deposition on Tuesday. During this deposition, he will solemnly confirm that he certified the documents that were submitted at the Tribunal.

A prominent drug trafficker, who had been sought after for his involvement in attempts to smuggle illegal drugs to the United Kingdom, was the most significant among the arrests made by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during a series of operations resulting in the confiscation of four tons of illicit substances in the previous week.

Obiorah Chigozie Samuel had been a wanted fugitive since September 15, 2023, when authorities intercepted a shipment of 1.5 kilograms of high-potency cannabis (skunk) hidden within flour that was bound for London, UK. This seizure occurred at the SAHCO export facility at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos. Additionally, his accomplice, Nworah Adaugo Precious, was apprehended.

Ironically, Obiorah was captured on Thursday, September 28, when he personally attempted to transport another 2 kilograms of skunk, concealed within cartons, to the UK via the same airport. During questioning, Obiorah admitted that he had been involved in the illicit drug trade after previously being engaged in the sale of shoes in Lagos.

Furthermore, in various locations throughout Nigeria, NDLEA operatives achieved significant successes. In the Federal Capital Territory, on Friday, September 29, authorities intercepted a container truck carrying 1,188 kilograms of skunk concealed under toothpaste cartons. The driver, Amafan Fattison, aged 28, was taken into custody. In Bayelsa, on Wednesday, September 27, 432 kilograms of skunk were discovered inside an abandoned J5 bus along Saipem Road in Opolo, Yenagoa. The vehicle was also impounded for further investigation.

In Kano, a 70-year-old man named Ado Mai Unguwa was arrested on Saturday, September 30, with 143.2 kilograms of skunk in Dindere village, Tofa Local Government Area. On the same day, NDLEA operatives in Enugu recovered 110.6 kilograms of the same substance from a locked shop at Aria new market.

In Lagos, on Saturday, September 30, NDLEA officers raided the notorious Idi-Oro drug hub in Mushin, seizing 212.5 kilograms of cannabis sativa linked to a wanted drug lord. Additionally, NDLEA officers in Kwara state confiscated 104 kilograms of skunk from a Toyota Camry in the Offa area of the state. Furthermore, a 25-year-old Chadian, Mohammed Ibrahim, was apprehended at Mafa checkpoint in Borno state on Monday, September 25, with 11.8 kilograms of the same substance.

In Plateau, the state police command cooperated with NDLEA by transferring four suspects and 1,978 kilograms of cannabis that had been confiscated from them to the state command of NDLEA. In Cross River, NDLEA operatives seized 40,000 ampules of pentazocine injection from two suspects, Fajulugbe Adeshola Temitayo (aged 35) and Nnaorji Agwe Solomon (aged 54), at Mobil by MCC Road in Calabar.

Additionally, in Kogi state, NDLEA officers arrested a 25-year-old suspect named Ifeanyi Odoh on Wednesday, September 27, with 59,867 pills of opioids, including Tramadol, and 4.03 kilograms of cannabis sativa in the Idah area.

The War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy initiatives continued across the nation during the past week. Activities included an advocacy visit to Prof. Lateef Babatunde Ayeleru, the Director/CEO of Nigeria French Village in Badagry, Lagos, by the Seme Special Area Command of NDLEA, as well as WADA awareness lectures at institutions such as Ar-Rahmania College of Health Sciences in Minna, Niger state, Pentecostal Academy in Aba, Abia state, and a sensitization lecture for students and staff of the School of Nursing in Eket, Akwa Ibom state.

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the officers and personnel of various NDLEA commands, including MMIA, Lagos, FCT, Bayelsa, Borno, Kogi, Kwara, Cross River, Borno, and Enugu, for their outstanding work in both reducing drug supply and addressing drug demand reduction efforts.

One of the major entertainers in the city of Abuja, Osazee Samuel Aikhionbare popularly known as MC Papi and Mallam Shuaibu is set to set the nation's capital in flame with his first ever epic comedy show, tagged "The Set Time".


Being spearheaded by MC Papi Entertainment in collaboration with House of Structure, the event holds on Oct 29 at Transcorp Hilton hotel Abuja with the Theme " The Set Time".


MC Papi is one of the popular faces in the Abuja entertainment landscape and has been in the business for a number of years.


This is also the first time he is holding a major show in the city of Abuja. 


An outstanding MC, comedian and event anchor person, he is one of the popular faces in the Capital Comedy Club show which holds every Sunday at the Hustle 'n' Bustle Abuja. 


The upcoming jaw-dropping comedy show of MC Papi, who prides himself as Abuja King of Network will attract high profile veterans.


They include, Kenny Blaq, Dan D'Humorous, Shortcut, MC Bob, Sarkin Dariya, Chuks D General, Koboko Master, MC Casino, MC Monica and more. 


Music will be provided by Magnito, Styl Plus and Soundboi BME.


Ticket price ranges from regular which stands at 7k to platinum which goes for N2m and is available online as well as Transcorp Hilton hotel, Hustle n Bustle and Genesis Cinema.


Residents of Abuja and environs are urged to come out in their large numbers to take advantage of this comedy show to ward off environment-induced stress around them.

The Africa Advancement Forum and Africa No Filter are pleased to announce their strategic partnership for the upcoming 2023 Africa Advancement Forum. The event is set to take place on the 15th of October at the esteemed Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria. Under the theme "Africa Unleashed: Shaping a New Trade Paradigm," this forum aims to propel Africa towards greater economic development through innovative trade strategies and collaborations.

The Africa Advancement Forum has been a pivotal platform for fostering dialogue and driving positive change in Africa's economic landscape. It brings together prominent leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, intellectuals, and influencers from across the continent and beyond. This year's event promises to be an exceptional gathering, offering a unique opportunity for stakeholders to collectively shape Africa's destiny.


Africa No Filter, as a strategic partner, brings its expertise in amplifying African voices, empowering narratives, and challenging stereotypes to the table. It advocates for Better Representation of Africa across global media and other storytelling platforms. The organization's commitment to promoting a nuanced and authentic narrative about Africa aligns perfectly with the Africa Advancement Forum's objective of showcasing Africa's vast potential and opportunities. 


At this year’s forum, Africa No Filter will be facilitating a discussion themed “Challenging Global Perceptions about Africa,” which will bring key media players and policymakers to discuss the need for and possible impact of a positive African narrative on its business and economic landscape. The forum will explore innovative strategies, policies, and investments that can drive sustainable economic growth, foster intra-African trade, and strengthen Africa's position in the global market.

Through engaging panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions, the Africa Advancement Forum will facilitate thought-provoking conversations on various topics, including: 


1. Enhancing regional integration and trade facilitation across Africa.

2. Leveraging digital technologies for inclusive trade and e-commerce.

3. Fostering public-private partnerships to drive investment and innovation.

4. Promoting sustainable and responsible trade practices.

5. Empowering African entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for global competitiveness.

6. Elicit engaging conversation about Africa's perception and how that shapes trade and empowers SMEs across the continent 

Together with Africa No Filter, the Africa Advancement Forum aims to ignite the collective imagination, foster collaboration, and inspire actionable solutions to shape a new trade paradigm for Africa. This partnership will enhance the impact of the event, providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives to contribute to Africa's economic advancement.

Dr. David James Egwu and Moky Makura, Executive Directors of Africa Advancement Forum and Africa No Filter, are pleased to invite stakeholders, media partners, and the general public to join us at the 2023 Africa Advancement Forum and be a part of the transformative discussions, network with industry leaders, and witness the birth of a new era for trade in Africa.

For more information about the Africa Advancement Forum and to register for the event, please visit www.advancementforum.org, Whatsapp or call +2348071160088

#####



About Africa Advancement Forum:

The Africa Advancement Forum is a premier platform for fostering dialogue, driving change, and advancing Africa's economic growth. The annual event brings together leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, intellectuals, and influencers to discuss critical issues and collaborate on innovative solutions.

The Forum runs as an Africa focused platform that creates space for the discussion of key prospects and strategies that aims to influence the growth and advancement of the continent.


About Africa No Filter:

Africa No Filter exists because many stories about Africa still lazily revolve around the single story of poor leadership, poverty, corruption, disease, and conflict. These stories fail to portray the other more progressive side of Africa and collectively perpetuate the narrative that Africa is broken, dependent and lacks agency. The result? Harmful stereotypes that continue to paint a rigidly negative picture of the continent, despite the massive strides we are making. Our mission at Africa No Filter is to shift these stereotypes because they impact the way the world sees Africa and how Africa sees itself. Through research, grant-making, community building and advocacy, we support storytellers to help shift the stereotypical narratives about Africa one story at a time. Our funders are Ford Foundation, Bloomberg, Mellon Foundation, Luminate, Open Society Foundations, Comic Relief, the Hilton Foundation, and Hewlett Foundation.





The African Fashion & Arts Award (AFAA) has begun her annual PRESS CONFERENCES ACROSS AFRICA. This year, the Media Tour is scheduled for the EAST AFRICA, to TANZANIA, KENYA and RWANDA on the 6th, 10th and 13th October 2023 respectively.


The Founder and President of AFAA, Mr. Kingsley Amako in an interview about her forthcoming 3rd anniversary of AFAA to be held in Abuja, Nigeria on the 1st - 3rd December 2023 at the ABUJA CONTINENTAL emphasised the need for the fashion and art creatives to be empowered, rewarded and celebrated. He added that AFAA seeks to use fashion and Arts which is all encompassing as a driving tool for economic development, while creating opportunities and platforms for emerging fashion entrepreneurs, Musicians, Creative Visual Artists, models, Painters, Sculptors, Writers, Poets and Podcasters.

Amako, when asked the reason for the tour stated that it is the organisation's practice since 2021 in South Africa, 2022 in Cairo Egypt and 2023, Three (3) East African countries. He shared that over 65% of the African 1.4billion population is made up of youths between the creative ages of 12-35 years and that fashion and arts remains the most viable and potentially the creative industry vertical generating the most revenue enough to effect a significant change on the continent's GDP. He argues that despite the continent's attention shift from oil to tech, the textile and apparel industry remains the second largest revenue generating sector in the world's developing economies, second to agriculture.


While speaking about the need for investments in the fashion and arts industries, Amako recognised the AFAA2023 official Key Sponsors to be ABUJA CONTINENTAL renowned for its luxury and creativity. As a prestigious event destination and a distinguished member of the continental Hotels family, Abuja Continental, standing as a beacon of opulence and creativity, reflecting its unwavering support for AFAA 2023 and PASHIONE, a Social - Commerce platform that addresses the problem of unequal access to African fashion brands.


To achieve the Africa we desire, the right amount of awareness and sensitization has to be made for the relevant government, public and private sector organisations to consider for investment. The African Union, African Development Bank, AfCFTA, AFREXIMBANK, Bank of Industry and the list goes on and on, have declared keen interest in the creative industry however the emerging entrepreneurs in the fashion and arts sector seem to think that this is only for the Music and film industries. AFAA wishes to change this narrative through these Press conferences across Africa and the Award ceremony in December.


He identified the following as benefits of AFAA’s mission in Africa to encourage talent development and skill acquisition for self-reliance, create job opportunities for the over 13 million African graduates annually, improve the continents GDP, attract Foreign Direct investments (FDIs), promote intra-African trade and business relationships, influence the distribution and trade policy reviews, contribute towards women and youth empowerment, promote peace among nations, influence african youths for less or zero security threat, contribute towards poverty eradication with the capacity building training sessions through the AFAA masterclass and mentorship symposium, to promote export for FX and to strengthen several nations economy from high patronage of home grown, provision of market information, access to markets and suppliers, promotion of entrepreneurial activities and the channelling of funding to entrepreneurs and SMEs/MSMEs.

Mr Amako in his summary mentioned that the Fashion and Arts industries identified as the sector employing the most women and youths in the continent and the sector that completes the value chain from the Farm to the finished apparels. The industry globally is expected to double in the next 10 years, generating up to US$ 5 trillion annually. This presents a tremendous opportunity for Africa at various levels of the value chain, from design to production to marketing.

Acknowledging the role of modern technology, AFAA 2023 have considered a topic on the infusion of technology in fashion and arts as part of the AFAA masterclass and mentorship symposium.


For sponsorship and participation opportunities in AFAA-2023, kindly visit www.afaawards.org call/whatsApp +2347055445987 and follow our social media handles @afaawards Road2AFAA

“The future is ready for African innovation and creativity” Kingsley Amako




 

By Franklin Onwubiko


Lagos, Nigeria - GSS Security has emerged as the Security brand of the year 2023 at the Southern Awards ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria. The prestigious award recognizes excellence, professionalism, and outstanding contribution to the society. The award has been greeted with excitement and enthusiasm, not only by the staff and management of GSS Security but also by stakeholders in the security industry.


The Chairman of the company, Architect Chukwudi Ezenwa, has been commended for his uncommon strides in taking the company to enviable heights. The award is a recognition of his leadership, vision, and strategic direction, which has positioned GSS Security as a leading player in the security industry in Nigeria.


Architect Ezenwa has been recognized as one of the most innovative and dynamic business leaders in Nigeria. Under his leadership, GSS Security has undergone significant transformation, resulting in an expansion of its services, increased revenue, and improved operational efficiency. The company has also been able to establish itself as a trusted brand in the security industry, offering a wide range of services to clients across various sectors. With its headquarters in Awka, Anambra State, the company has fully established branches in Lagos, Abuja, Portharcourt, Enugu and Imo.


Commenting on the award, Architect Ezenwa expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Southern Awards for recognizing the efforts of GSS Security. He stated that the award was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff and management of the company, who have worked tirelessly to deliver world-class security services to clients.


"We are humbled and honored to receive this award, which is a recognition of our commitment to excellence, innovation, and service delivery. We are proud of the team at GSS Security, who have worked hard to ensure that we remain a leading player in the security industry in Nigeria. This award is a challenge for us to continue to raise the bar, to innovate and create new solutions that will support the security needs of our clients and the society at large," Architect Ezenwa stated.


He also reiterated the company's commitment to providing top-notch security services, adding that the company would continue to leverage technology to provide cutting-edge security solutions to clients. He emphasized that GSS Security's success was as a result of the company's emphasis on staff training and development, quality service delivery, and customer satisfaction.


The Security brand of the year award has further solidified GSS Security's position in the security industry in Nigeria. The award is a reflection of the company's relentless pursuit of excellence, professionalism, and innovation. It is also a testament to the company's commitment to providing top-notch security services to clients, which has earned it the trust and loyalty of a wide range of clients across various sectors.


GSS Security's success under the leadership of Architect Ezenwa has been widely acknowledged in the security industry in Nigeria. The company has won several awards, including the Best Security Company in Nigeria in 2018 and 2019. The company has shown remarkable growth and expansion, extending its services from Anambra state where its headquarters is situated to Lagos, Abuja, Phorharcourt, Enugu and Imo states and providing security services for major events in Nigeria.


The Chairman of the Southern Awards, Mr Kachi Kachikwu commended GSS Security for its commitment to providing quality security services to clients. He noted that the award was well-deserved and a recognition of the company's contribution to the security industry in Nigeria. He also praised Architect Ezenwa for his leadership and vision, which has transformed GSS Security into a leading security brand in Nigeria.


"GSS Security has been a trailblazer in the security industry in Nigeria, offering innovative services and delivering quality security solutions to clients. The Security brand of the year award is a well-deserved recognition of the company's commitment and dedication to providing top-notch security services to clients. We congratulate Architect Ezenwa and his team for their outstanding achievement," said Mr Kachikwu.

Nigerian singer, Ọlawale Ọlọfọrọ, aka Brymo, has described his sex-for-music request from female colleague, Simisola Kosoko, simply known as Simi as an “artistic pursuit”


Brymo sparked controversy after he revealed in a voice note he posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he demanded a sexual relationship from Simi in lieu for a music collaboration.


This didn’t sit well with Simi’s husband, singer Adekunle Gold, who warned him to “stay away” from his wife and “stop disrespecting” his family.


However, in a recent interview with TVC, Brymo defended his sexual advances towards “Tiff” singer describing it as “an artistic pursuit.”


He said, “One day I was somewhere and I met Adekunle Gold, I was just like, ‘Oh! Gold.’ The first time I was ever meeting him. And he requested a collaboration… When he came to me, I just said flatly, ‘Oga, I’m not doing any collaboration right now.’


“Two weeks after, Simi came. I didn’t know they [Simi and Adekunle Gold were together]. I’m sure you all know about Falz. He took the fall that I was supposed to take. I was the target… But I’m a smart guy.


“When I saw her [Simi], I said no features except I am laying with the woman I am working with so it can really be intense. Did she not sleep with Adekunle Gold? Is that not why the music is extra good? But she said no, and I was like okay, bye-bye and then she left.


“She wasn’t the only one I proposed it to. But guess what? I’ve made music with seven women. I didn’t sleep with anyone of them.


“After that incident, I’ve recorded songs with four women. We didn’t even have that [sexual] conversation at all. We just made music. So, it wasn’t about me asking for sex for collaboration. No, no, it wasn’t about that. For me, it was an artistic pursuit.”

 

A sidelined bandit kingpin was responsible for the abduction of female students of Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State, it has emerged.


According to a report by Daily Trust, it was learnt that the kingpin took the decision to abduct the female students in order to vent his anger for being sidelined by the various negotiating teams dispatched by the federal government to find a lasting solution to the spate of kidnapping and killings in Zamfara.


The newspaper was told that while the various teams engaged with different groups of bandits, that of the alleged kingpin that abducted the female students was not approached; hence his decision to also prove his mettle.


He, therefore, led his supporters to the hostel near the university and adjoining houses, during which they abducted an unspecified number of students and locals.


It was gathered that the university was attacked by the bandits in the early hours of September 21, during which the female students were shepherded to the bushes.


Few of them have been rescued so far, while the rest are yet to be found.


This is even as the group that abducted them is yet to publicly ask for ransom, a clear departure of how the bandits operate, which is asking for a certain amount of money hours or few days after perpetrating the act.


Over the years, Zamfara is the worst hit by banditry activities in the North West as there are dozens of groups perpetrating the crime and holding hundreds of people in their custodies.


While some of the groups are very strong, having the capacity to wreak serious havoc like destroying communities after killing and maiming people, others indulge in sundry crimes.


One week after the latest incident, the total number of students kidnapped by the terrorists from the university has not been verified as neither the federal government nor the Zamfara State Government spoke on what actually happened.


If anything, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara had accused the federal government of secretly negotiating with bandits in the state without his knowledge, even though he did not directly create a nexus with the abduction at the university.


But the federal government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fired back, accusing the governor of politicising security.


However, Governor Lawal, through his spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the information minister should have conducted a thorough investigation before discrediting the Zamfara State Government.


“We sought clarification from the federal government regarding the sneaky negotiations with bandits carried out by some of its agents without recourse to the state government and heads of security agencies in the state.


“We have facts and evidence of what transpired between the agents of the federal government and the bandits during the negotiations in several places across Zamfara.


“The Zamfara State Government respects protocol and established authorities. We would not come out in the media to start exposing the names of the federal government agents involved in the covert dialogue with bandits.


“We want to clarify that those individuals leading secret negotiations with bandits in Zamfara are politicising insecurity, not the state government,” he said.


The spat between the federal and Zamfara governments came to the fore after the latest inglorious abduction of the female students in the university.


Before then, credible sources had said there were at least three different teams working to restore peace in Zamfara at the instance of the federal government.


“One of the teams was dispatched from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). There is another team working at the instance of the Ministry of Defence, and the third one was dispatched by the presidency,” one of our sources said.


Efforts to hear directly from the presidency, the NSA office and the defence ministry did not yield fruits as at press time, but credible sources around the government said that indeed, negotiations were ongoing.


The Premium Times had reported that top government officials told them that at least seven leaders of the terror gangs responsible for the abduction and killing of thousands of residents and the displacement of tens of thousands of others in Nigeria’s troubled North West attended secret meetings with at least two individuals believed to be representatives of the Nigerian government.


The online newspaper said that two security sources who requested anonymity for safety and authorisation purposes, said the largest meeting with the bandits was held in Fankama, a community in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.


“One of our sources, another soldier, gave their name as Ado Aleiro, Yusuf Yellow, Masume, Alhaji Bandi, Alhaji Kabiru, Goma Tashin Like (which is his nickname), and Idi Muwange,” it stated.


In one of the videos of the meeting that went viral, Aleiro was seen sitting alongside other leaders of the insurgents.


Aleiro is a self-confessed serial murderer. In a BBC documentary on banditry, Aleiro boasted that he didn’t abduct but killed people.


He led several terrorists on a killing spree in mostly rural communities. He has also been blamed for the brutal killing of 60 people in Kadisau, a community in Faskari Local Government.


Yellow is reportedly Aleiro’s cousin but controls a separate group of terrorists.


He was accused of carrying out a number of kidnap-for-ransom operations, including the abduction of over 80 people, mostly children and women in Tsafe early this year.


‘FG’s terrible negotiations responsible for Gusau mess’


Speaking on the matter, Professor Usman Yusuf, a former executive secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and secretary of the Chief of Defence Staff Action Committee (CDSAC) that negotiated the release of the remaining 23 abductees of the ill-fated Abuja-Kaduna train passengers, said the terrible approach by the federal government was responsible for the abduction of the girls.


Speaking on Trust TV’s Daily Politics programme on Thursday, he said, “This is the first mass abduction after the one in Birnin Yauri. There has been a lull of over a year, and all of a sudden, we have this. It is very depressing; it is disheartening for anyone who is a parent, anyone who is a human being.


“Why are we having this incident again, nine and half years after Chibok? The government and security agencies have learned nothing. This is the first abduction from a federal university, in the home of the minister of state for defence,” he said.


Asked if he was aware that federal government’s negation teams emanated from the Office of the NSA, presidency and the Ministry of Defence, he said, “I don’t know where they are from. They are all over the place. What are they going there to do?”


Asked what could be the motivation for the visits he said, “I don’t even know. They went there. These committees were there even before this abduction. And their mismanagement of negotiations led to this. So, it is not that they went there to help rescue these people like we went there to help rescue these train abductees.”


Asked where the exact problem is, Professor Yusuf said, “There are former governors, ministers and groups of people, the Fulani from the North East going into Zamfara for all the negotiations.


“There is no coordination at all. They go to the forest and we are told that these guys have come. It takes time to earn trust from these bad guys in the forest. People come from Abuja and they sit down, and the other person you didn’t go to thinks you have given these guys money.


“All these misguided and disjointed negotiations are what caused the abduction of the Zamfara university girls. The person that went and took those girls felt slighted; he felt he was not consulted and he did this nonsense.


“You do not know the environment, you did not ask, you did not talk to people and you keep going to the forest. Gandhi said whatever you do for me without me is against me,” Professor Yusuf said.


When probed to give his thoughts on why different stakeholders were trooping to Zamfara to resolve one problem, Professor Yusuf said, “Tell me, where were all these people all these four to five years during Buhari’s time? President Buhari never opened his mouth and said no negotiations. At least, it was in public; it is just his body language, and the people around him said ‘no negotiations.’


“Where were they? All of a sudden, because they see that the new sheriff in town is more open to discussion, they started going. Some even go to the Villa and claim that the president directed them to take charge. Nobody invited us. Nobody directed us. The government was against us, but we thought and felt, and still feel that it is our duty and responsibility because it is our people. Nobody needs to tell you to go and do the right thing.”


On what happened to the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabo’s action committee, which he served as secretary, he said, “We presented it (report on various negotiations) to our principal (Irabor) and I am sure he presented it to all the relevant people.


“We worked together with the State Security Service (SSS) to get these 23 people out. It was beautiful to see all the services: the Air Force, Navy, Army and the SSS all working together to achieve a goal. That’s how it needs to be.


“But now, it looks like they want to reinvent everything. These messy negotiations are responsible for this. I would ask them to retrace their steps, evaluate what is being done and see how you can build on it.”


 

Justice Rosemary Oghoghorie of the Federal High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State , on Thursday, September 28, 2023 convicted and sentenced four internet fraudsters commonly known as ‘Yahoo boys’ to one year imprisonment each, without an option of fine.


A statement shared by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Saturday, listed the all-male convicts, whose ages fall between 20 and 28 years, as: Abdullahi Saidu Momoh, Godwin Boman Emmanuel, Samuel Godfrey Orudu and Anunobi Kyrian.


“They were jailed after pleading guilty to separate charges, all bordering on criminal impersonation and obtaining by false pretences.


” One of the separate charges reads: “That you, Abdullahi Saidu Momoh “M”, sometime in 2022, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court did fraudulently present yourself variously as Andrew Smith, Theo Hutchraft, Jjchang Wook on the Social media platforms; Instagram/Facebook to Sondry Rissell, Peggy Grabner with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence to wit: Identity theft and impersonation, contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act”, the statement said.


Based on their “guilty” pleas, Counsel to the EFCC, Khamis Mahmud , prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.


However, defence counsels: Innocent Eze, Francis Ezike and Cyprian Afahanam, sued for leniency for the defendants.


Justice Oghoghorie, however, sentenced all the four defendants to one year imprisonment each, without an option of fine.


Orudu and Kyrian’s sentences are to run concurrently. The court also ordered Kyrian to restitute the sum of $500( Five Hundred United States Dollars) and Orudu the sum of N2,000, 000. (Two Million Naira only) to the Federation Account. The court also ordered that items recovered from the convicts be forfeited to the Federal Government.


The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre started on August 29, 2023 when they were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Commission at Akwa Ima Estate in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for internet- related offences. They were prosecuted and convicted.


In another vein, the Uyo Command arraigned the duo of Joseph Akadu Asukwo and Emmanuel Ekenedilichukwu Armstrong before Justice Maureen Adaobi Onyetenu of the Federal High Court, sitting in Uyo Akwa Ibom State.


While Asukwo was arraigned on a three- count charge bordering on criminal conversion and stealing to the tune of N12, 993, 600.00 (Twelve Million, Nine Hundred and Ninety-Three Thousand, Six Hundred Naira), Armstrong was arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on fraudulent impersonation, forgery and criminal diversion to the tune of $108, 762.5 (One Hundred and Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Sixty Two United States of American Dollars and Five Cents).


The defendants pleaded “not guilty” when the charges were read to them separately, and in view of their pleas, Counsel to the EFCC, Farida Bukar, prayed the court to fix a date for trial and for the defendants to be remanded at the Uyo Correctional Centre.


However, defence counsel, Michael Ishadu attempted an oral bail application, which did not succeed.

Justice Onyetenu remanded the defendants at the Uyo Correctional Centre, and adjourned the matter to October 26, 2023 for the hearing of bail applications.


“Asukwo was arrested for alleged criminal diversion of a company( Aimhye Integrated Concept Limited)’s funds, to the tune of N12, 993, 600.00 (Twelve Million, Nine Hundred and Ninety-Three Thousand, Six Hundred Naira only) while Armstrong was arrested on June 22, 2023 at Captain Iniobong Avenue at Osongama, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for suspected online criminal activities,” the statement said.

The police in Anambra have arrested and detained a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Aniebonem, and five other persons for allegedly belonging to the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB).


Director of information, MASSOB, Chris Mocha, said this in a statement made available to journalists in Akwa on Friday.


The statement indicated that Mr Aniebonem and five others were arrested on Wednesday, September 27, by the anti-kidnapping unit of the Nigeria police at Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area (LGA), Anambra.


Mr Mocha said that three persons had earlier been arrested when the police raided the group’s office along Awkuzu/Otuocha road, Ifitedunu, Dunukofia Local Government Area of the state, on Monday, 25 September.


The statement noted that Mr Aniebonem, who works at St Patrick’s Cathedral Church, Awka, hails from Ifitedunu town, and got involved when he visited the state criminal investigation department, Awkuzu, on account of his in-law.


Mr Mocha said that the priest had gone for Sylvester Dinyelu, his 87-year-old in-law who was arrested by the police to seek the reason behind his arrest and possibly secure his release considering his age.


He said instead of briefing the priest on reasons for Mr Dinyelu’s arrest, the police arrested the reverend father on the suspicion that he too might be a member of the movement.


Udebunu Anachuna, driver of the priest who drove him to the station, was equally arrested alongside Christian Ifeji, Johnson Anagor and Kanayo Madu on the same allegation.


Mr Mocha said that a similar development occurred in Onitsha when one Mathew Ani was also arrested on Tuesday, September 26, on allegation of belonging to the Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB).


He said that the random arrests by police need to be checked as their actions are against the principles of the right of free association and movement of the citizens as contained in the Nigerian constitution as amended.


“We have just engaged the services of our lawyer to ensure the early release of the men, including the 87-year-old man,” Mr Mocha said.


The police command public relations officer, PPRO, in Anambra, Tochukwu Ikenga (DSP), confirmed the arrest and detention when contacted.


“Our operatives working on reliable information, raided their office along Oyeagu Ifitedunu road on Monday, September 25.


He said that a lot of incriminating items and unpatriotic materials showing the movement’s disloyalty to the Federal government were found there.


“Temporarily, the case is still under investigation as I talk to you,” he further disclosed.

 

The political camp of the presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, has spoken on the protest against Minister of Works, David Umahi, by workers of the Ministry.


Daniel Bwala, a former aide to Atiku, in a post on his X handle, said Umahi must have learnt a lot from the face-off with the workers, adding that Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, will also witness protest against his actions if he fails to jettison dictatorial attitude common with Nigerian governors .


The Borno-born Bwala said Umahi must have learnt that Nigerians are tired of nonsensical behaviour.


He tweeted: “The minister of works must have learned these from the workers’ union:


“Dictatorial Governors are the problem of Nigeria.


“There are rules and regulations which govern governance, not whims and caprices.


“You may dominate a tribe, you cannot dominate all tribes.


“There is a big difference between states and the federation.


“Nigerians are getting fed up with nonsensical behaviors.


“Even civilians, when they are in power long enough, behave like the military.


“The next (ex-governor) minister to encounter protest and resistance is the FCT minister. That’s why we advised PBAT not to appoint ex-governors as ministers.”


PlatinumPost reports that during the week, Umahi had prevented some staff from gaining access into the ministry for coming to work late.


Aggrieved by the action of the former governor, the workers began a protest in front of the ministry and blocked all entry points into the ministry.